Travel From Phnom Penh to Bangkok

Having emerged in recent decades as two of the most alluring destinations in Southeast Asia, Cambodia and Thailand now attract travelers who come to enjoy their tropical scenery, electric nightlife, delicious local food and awe-inspiring historical sites. On this trip, travelers will make their way from Phnom Penh to Bangkok over the course of five days, while staying in hostels and partaking in an exciting array of activities. From biking through the Cambodian country to visiting the largest religious monument in the world at Angkor Wat to visiting the ancient ruins of Sambor Prei Kuk, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the journey creates ample opportunity to engage with Cambodia’s rich culture. In Thailand, travelers will get the chance to take in Rong Kluea, a bustling trade center between the two countries, as well as the vibrant nightlife of Bangkok.

This is a five day trip, costs $247 and is a G Adventures’ 18-Thirtysomethings trip geared toward young, budget minded travelers. G Adventures is a sustainable, small-group tour company that has been leading travelers for 35+ years. They have been pioneers in community tourism, and their trips directly benefit the local communities they visit. They have a responsible travel effort called G For Good and partner with the nonprofit Planeterra, dedicated to ensuring communities touched by tourism benefit from it. They were rated one of CATALYST PLANET’s  8 Best Sustainable Travel Companies.

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See the Best of Uganda and Its Mountain Gorillas

Embark on a once-in-a-lifetime wildlife encounter in the heart of East Africa with this adventure. This trip takes the traveler deep into the lush rainforests of Uganda, one of the few places on Earth where one can come face-to-face with both endangered mountain gorillas and wild chimpanzees in their natural habitats. This experience requires a moderate fitness level, as the travelers will be hiking through thick jungle terrain, at times steep and muddy, especially during gorilla tracking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. The trek can last several hours, depending on the location of the gorilla families, but the reward is unforgettable, seeing as the traveler can sit as close as a few feet away from a silverback and his family, watching them interact in a way that feels deeply human. In Kibale Forest National Park, known as the “primate capital of the world,” one can track troops of playful chimpanzees swinging through the canopy. Along the way, expect sightings of other primates, colorful birds, and lush tropical flora. Additionally, this trip includes visits to Queen Elizabeth National Park, where game drives may reveal elephants, lions, hippos, and more. A boat safari along the Kazinga Channel offers a peaceful way to observe wildlife gathering at the water’s edge. This journey is more than simply a safari–it is a profound exploration of connection, conservation, and awe.

This 10-day trip costs $3,590 per person. The trip is led by Follow Alice–an adventure travel company known for its ethical, community-centered approach to tourism. Founded in 2014 after cofounder Reto climbed Kilimanjaro with local Tanzanian guide Chris, Follow Alice was born out of a shared passion for exploration and cultural connection. Today, all of their guides are local, and 70% of each trip’s cost remains within the local economy, supporting sustainable travel as well as empowering communities.

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Experience Life as a Mongolian Nomad

Mongolia is known for its beautiful and varied landscapes, nomadic culture, and rich history. This trip takes travelers from the Mongolian capital of Ulaanbaatar through the Mongolian plains, from steppes to the Gobi desert by horseback or oxcart to the realm of 21st century nomads. Within Gorkhi-Terelj National Park, nomadic families continue to live in gers, a round, portable dwelling, ride horses and make their own garments. The group will experience these parts of life in the steppes living with a local host family and get a taste for nomadic life on the Mongolian plains. Travelers will visit a natural history museum to learn about the natural environs, hike through sand dunes, listen to Mongolian throat singing, and visit monastery ruins while immersing themselves in a different way of life.

This is a 14 day trip and costs $3,349. This trip is led by G Adventures, a sustainable, small-group tour company that has been leading travelers for 35+ years. They have been pioneers in community tourism, and their trips directly benefit the local communities they visit. They have a responsible travel effort called G For Good and partner with the nonprofit Planeterra, dedicated to ensuring communities touched by tourism benefit from it. They were rated one of CATALYST PLANET’s 8 Best Sustainable Travel Companies.

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Conserve Oceans and Sea Turtles in Zanzibar

As an island off the coast of Tanzania, Zanzibar is known for its crystal blue waters and stunning beaches. As a crossroads of Arab, Indian, and African cultures, the island has a distinct culture shaped by rich cuisine, historic architecture, and centuries of trade and exchange. With a variety of marine life and reefs, Zanzibar is also home to numerous species, including endangered sea turtles. With the threats of ongoing urban growth and waste management problems, sea turtle populations on the island are under pressure. Volunteers will work alongside marine biologists in the town of Matemwe to help boost marine life populations and protect the local coastal environment. Working in hatcheries and releasing newly hatched turtles into the ocean, volunteers will learn about the species and sustainable ways to protect it. They will also engage with the community, providing environmental education classes, assisting in women empowerment projects, and attending cultural workshops. Additionally, volunteers can participate in dive activities, including learning to identify fish and dolphin behavior, participating in underwater clean-ups, and potentially earning a PADI diving certificate (depending on the duration of the trip). During their free time, volunteers can relax at the beach and take part in snorkeling activities across the island. They can also immerse themselves in cultural experiences, including cooking with local families or exploring historic Stone Town. As the central city of Zanzibar, Stone Town is home to a variety of museums and artisan workshops, including the home where Freddy Mercury, of Queen, was born. On the weekends, participants can explore mainland Tanzania, visiting the Serengeti National Park for game drives or hiking Mount Kilimanjaro. 

This is a minimum 1-week and maximum 12-week trip that costs $655 for one week, led by IVHQ, a volunteer travel company with 338 projects in 50 countries, rated #1 Volunteer Travel Company by Go Overseas 7 years in a row. It is a cost-effective option with some programs as low as $20 per day with accommodation and meals included. They are a Certified B Corporation, 100% carbon neutral and every project aligns with a UN Sustainable Development Goal.

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Volunteer to Help with Costa Rica’s Beach Conservation

Costa Rica has one of the most diverse ecosystems in the world, hosting about 5% of the world's total biodiversity; it is home to 12 microclimates, with access to two oceans. No one would run out of places to visit: From beaches, mountains and volcanoes to tropical jungles, forests and more, few nations have so much of the world. Costa Rica is home to more than 800 miles of coastline. Many argue that the best ones are in the regions of Nicoya and Guanacaste. With only 25% of its terrain protected, the rest of its land requires observant protection and conservation through its reserves and national parks.

On this trip, volunteers are divided into four platforms where they can assist an area’s sustainability. Assignments may include trail maintenance, light construction, beach cleanup, day patrols, contributing to ongoing research, hiring new researchers, and smoothing the way for English-speaking visitors.

This is a minimum 1-week and maximum 4-week trip (with additional weeks available) that costs $845 for one week, led by Maximo Nivel, a Latin America-based travel company that offers volunteer travel opportunities, Spanish immersion, study abroad and gap year programs in Peru, Costa Rica and Guatemala.

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Roam Southern Europe, from Dubrovnik to Corfu

Southern Europe is characterized by medieval castles dotting the coastline, old villages full of spirit, and the brilliant waters of the Mediterranean Sea. On this trip, travelers get the chance to explore these vibrant cultures and beautiful natural environments through Fort Lovrijenac in Dubrovnik, a great stone embedded in rock overlooking vivid blue waters, take in views of the beautiful, mountain-wrapped fjords of the Kotor Bay, and the historic St. Tryphon Cathedral in Montenegro. Experience a blend of Ottoman and Soviet influences in the architecture of Tirana, Albania, and learn about bees and honey production on the stunning Grecian island of Corfu. Between UNESCO World Heritage Sites and beautiful scenery, this trip will offer ample opportunities to explore these locations independently and relax in these unforgettable environs.

This is an 8- day trip and costs $1,103 This is a G Adventures Roamie trip, a hostel-based trip style geared towards 18-35 year olds looking to explore iconic destinations through an immersive, and wallet-friendly experience. G Adventures is a sustainable, small-group tour company that has been leading travelers for 35+ years. They have been pioneers in community tourism, and their trips directly benefit the local communities they visit. They have a responsible travel effort called G For Good and partner with the nonprofit Planeterra, dedicated to ensuring communities touched by tourism benefit from it. They were rated one of CATALYST PLANET’s  8 Best Sustainable Travel Companies.

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Explore Egypt

Check out Cairo, the capital of Egypt, a beautiful city placed right on the Nile River. Travelers can explore Cairo’s beautiful historic houses, art, and local artisan stores. While here, visit Al-Muizz Street, the world’s largest open-air museum for Islamic monuments. Travelers can also try koshary, a national Egyptian dish consisting of brown lentils, spicy tomato sauce, and more delicious flavors. Then, travelers will head to explore one of the world’s greatest sights, the Pyramids of Giza and the Great Sphinx. Here travelers will have time to explore and take stunning panoramic photographs of the vast dunes and deserts. Kayak on the Nile’s steady waters off of Aswan, and stop to visit the unique Nubian Village. Here, travelers have the opportunity to sit with a local family, try traditional foods, and hear fascinating stories. Explore other grand temples before sailing along the Nile in a private Egyptian felucca, a wooden boat with a canvas sail. Participate in a tradition that is thousands of years old, as travelers will sleep on the boat deck and view the clear night skies. Travelers will say goodbye to the boat crew and explore the largest religious building ever constructed, the Temple of Karnak. Taking over 2,000 years to build, travelers will explore the iconic Avenue of Sphinxes and the Great Temple of Amun. Continue to explore more royal burials, temples, and tombs before heading to the beach town of Hurghada. Travelers will have the day to explore the shores of the Red Sea by walking along the coastline or relaxing among the many shops in the marina. For the adventurous travelers, take a submarine excursion or go scuba diving in the famous sea. Relax and enjoy your last night, before departing on the final day. 

This is a 9 day trip that costs $1,995 led by Under30 Experiences, which caters to solo travelers and adventurous young adults ages 21-35, but they don’t enforce a strict age limit. They are a small team that loves sustainable travel by supporting local communities in an eco-friendly way. The company was founded 10+ years ago by co-founders Matt Wilson and Jared O’Toole. They were rated one of CATALYST PLANET’s 8 Best Sustainable Travel Companies.

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Volunteer to Teach English in Peru

Peru is a nation famed for its archaeological sites, ancient history, and culinary traditions, with Cusco being the beating heart of cultural experiences and heritage. Yet many people in the country still struggle to learn English, which is essential for academic and professional development - particularly in the tourism and business industries. As volunteers, travelers will teach English to kids, teens, and adults who are unable to pay for lessons, elevating communities out of poverty by providing them with more diverse opportunities. Travelers will teach in after-school programs, community centers, and local military facilities, assisting with lesson planning, teaching, and tutoring. To assist volunteers in their work, they will receive basic training in teaching English as a Second Language. 

In their free time, volunteers can explore Cusco’s markets, cobblestoned streets, and visit the archaeological ruins in the Sacred Valley. Additionally, on weekends, they can visit the ruins of Machu Picchu, the capital city of Lima, or the Amazon rainforest in the north of the country. 

This is a minimum 1-week and maximum 4-week trip (with the option to add additional weeks) that costs $735 for one week, led by Maximo Nivel, a Latin America-based travel company that offers volunteer travel opportunities, Spanish immersion, study abroad and gap year programs in Peru, Costa Rica and Guatemala.

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Explore Guatemala

Take a scenic adventure to Lake Atitlan, the deepest lake in Central America, located in Guatemala. Travelers will explore Indigenous villages and booming volcanoes that live along its shores. Hop on a water taxi and journey through the crystal clear waters to take a swim at Tzankujil National Park. Head over to San Juan La Laguna to learn about native traditions that are still practiced there today. Learn about the production of cacao and traditional dyeing techniques, and then hear about the conservation of endangered stingless bee species at the sustainable bee farm Xunah Kaab. Take a tour of Antigua, where its title of being an UNESCO World Heritage Site, is proven through colorful streets and stunning architecture. Then travelers will hike the Picaya Volcano, one of the three active volcanoes in the country. As Picaya is the most active of the three, travelers can encounter hot spots, steam vents, and solidified lava fields. As travelers reach the summit, enjoy gorgeous views of the Caldera Lagoon and three other adjacent volcanoes, Auga, Fuego, and Acatenango. Travelers will relax the next morning before departing from Guatemala City on the final day. 

This is a 5 day trip that costs $1,245 led by Under30 Experiences, which caters to solo travelers and adventurous young adults ages 21-35, but they don’t enforce a strict age limit. They are a small team that loves sustainable travel by supporting local communities in an eco-friendly way. The company was founded 10+ years ago by co-founders Matt Wilson and Jared O’Toole. They were rated one of CATALYST PLANET’s 8 Best Sustainable Travel Companies.

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Discover Quito and the Galápagos Islands

Explore Ecuador’s beautiful capital of Quito, where each traveler will uncover fascinating history through a guided tour. This capital is home to one of Spanish America’s best-preserved historic centers, making Quito a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site. Travelers will view the Virgin Mary statue, the nearby equator line, along with other geographic landmarks. Travelers will explore the beautiful Galápagos Islands, just 600 miles off of the coast of Ecuador. Travelers will be given the opportunity to take a speed boat to two different islands, Santa Cruz and San Cristóbal island. Spend time visiting popular places, such as the Charles Darwin Station, a conservation center showcasing giant tortoises and groundbreaking Galapagos research, Manzanillo Ranch, a highland reserve where giant tortoises roam freely among lush vegetation, and Tortuga Bay beach, a pristine white-sand beach famous for marine iguanas and turquoise water. While on the islands, visit the interpretation center and hike to Cerro Tijeretas (Frigate Bird Hill) where travelers will scope out two different tropical bird species, also nicknamed “pirates of the sky”. Travelers will visit El Junco, the largest freshwater lake in the Galápagos Islands. Here, explore the scenic trails that surround the crater rim before going into the town of San Cristobal. Using locally grown products, enjoy a homemade cup of coffee by one of the oldest coffee farm families nearby. End at Lo Loberia where travelers will enjoy the beautiful views of the most beautiful beach in the Galápagos Islands. Travelers will discover playful sea lions, vibrant tropical fish, and captivating white sand beaches. 

This is an 8 day trip that costs $2,795 led by Under30 Experiences, which caters to solo travelers and adventurous young adults ages 21-35, but they don’t enforce a strict age limit. They are a small team that loves sustainable travel by supporting local communities in an eco-friendly way. The company was founded 10+ years ago by co-founders Matt Wilson and Jared O’Toole. They were rated one of CATALYST PLANET’s 8 Best Sustainable Travel Companies.

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Explore Jordan’s Stunning Landscapes

Explore Jordan’s beautiful scenery and famous historic sites. Unfold the history in Amann, the capital city, with a guided walking tour to the Citadel. Here, view the archeological site that is supposedly one of the world's oldest continuously inhabited places. Explore the well-renowned Temple of Hercules and ancient walls to the Roman Theatre. Stay in a tent that night in Wadi Rum, one of the most beautiful deserts in the world, for an authentic historical experience. Explore the desert further by taking a jeep tour through the deserts, with viewings of colorful and vibrant rocks and sands. Walk through canyons and spot ancient inscriptions on the walls from the camel caravans. Afterwards, enjoy an authentic Bedouin dinner that may feature traditional slow cooked meats, spiced rice, and flatbreads. Head to Petra, where each traveler will explore The Lost City, founded by the Biblical Nabataean around 2,000 years ago. Travelers will learn that The Last Crusade and Indiana Jones were recognized for using Petra’s most beautiful tombs, the Treasury. Travelers will then see the Dead Sea, the saltiest and lowest point on earth. Here, travelers will have the opportunity to experience effortlessly floating in this sea. After this, explore the religious Mount Nebo in Madaba, where Moses was able to view the Promised Land before his death. These sites will leave each traveler with an abundance of religious and historical knowledge that is special and symbolic to Jordan. 

This is a 7 day trip that costs $1,495 led by Under30 Experiences, which caters to solo travelers and adventurous young adults ages 21-35, but they don’t enforce a strict age limit. They are a small team that loves sustainable travel by supporting local communities in an eco-friendly way. The company was founded 10+ years ago by co-founders Matt Wilson and Jared O’Toole. They were rated one of CATALYST PLANET’s 8 Best Sustainable Travel Companies.

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Discover Croatia

Croatia is a  unique and amazing destination where travelers will become familiarized with the Mediterranean lifestyle. Travelers will start their adventures in Split, a quaint and charming city known for its laid back vibe, despite its location being a vacation hotspot. Learn about the rich history aspect, that dates back over a thousand years. Travelers will learn about the influence of the Romans, Illyrians, and Slavic cultures that shaped Split’s unique and personal style. While in this city, travelers will have the opportunity to learn how to make homemade soparnik, a traditional Croatian dish, similar to a Croatian pizza or Kale pie. Then, begin island hopping on a private tour boat through the Adriatic islands of Brač, Hvar and Šolta. Here, travelers will explore the unforgettable ocean views, while having the opportunity to snorkel and swim at many of the scenic pitstops. Take a ferry to another island known as the Emerald Isle, Korcula. This city brings a medieval feel through Gothic-Renaissance style churches, red rooftops on buildings, and empowering cathedrals. Head into Dubrovnik, widely known as one of the best preserved medieval cities in the world. Explore the city while soaking up all of its historical wonders while visiting places like the St. Blaise Church and Renaissance Sponza Palace. Walk around Dubrovnik’s old town, where the enclosed ancient walls still stand, dating back to the 13th century. Once the guided trip is over, there is the option between staying longer or heading back for your final departure.

This is an 8 day trip that costs $3,395 led by Under30 Experiences, which caters to solo travelers and adventurous young adults ages 21-35, but they don’t enforce a strict age limit. They are a small team that loves sustainable travel by supporting local communities in an eco-friendly way. The company was founded 10+ years ago by co-founders Matt Wilson and Jared O’Toole. They were rated one of CATALYST PLANET’s 8 Best Sustainable Travel Companies.

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Explore Albania

Albania’s capital city, Tirana, has captivating history and modern architecture.Take a stroll through the Pazari i Ri Market and the nearby Blloku district to see its famous and renowned post-communist transformation. Explore a UNESCO Heritage Site in Berat, popularly known as the “City of a Thousand Windows.” Here, travelers will walk down cobblestone alleys, ancient churches, and Ottoman-era architecture. This architectural era will give each traveler the incredible viewing of terracotta roofs, large windows, and wooden balconies that cascade down the city’s hillsides. Travelers will then head to the beautiful Albanian Riviera. While here, experience vast mountain passes, coastal views, and olive groves. After eating fresh seafood at a beachfront restaurant, head to the final destination of Dhermi. Here, take a private boat tour to explore hidden beaches and perfectly clear waters. Take a swim and/or snorkel in Pirates Cave, where you will hear about local stories and legends. Each traveler can participate in stand-up paddleboarding and kayaking or simply enjoy the beach and relax with its stunning views. Plan to hike at Gjipe Canyon and down to Gjipe beach. Different sites are offered as the hike goes on, from dramatic limestone carvings, to a secluded cove with golden-colored sand. Travelers will explore the sites for the afternoon and enjoy time out in the gorgeous waters and coastlines. Before leaving, take one last chance to absorb any more historic knowledge in Tirana. As travelers leave Albania, everyone is sure to leave with unforgettable memories and a whole new group of friends made along the way.

This is a 7 day trip that costs $1,495 led by Under30 Experiences, which caters to solo travelers and adventurous young adults ages 21-35, but they don’t enforce a strict age limit. They are a small team that loves sustainable travel by supporting local communities in an eco-friendly way. The company was founded 10+ years ago by co-founders Matt Wilson and Jared O’Toole. They were rated one of CATALYST PLANET’s 8 Best Sustainable Travel Companies

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Discover South Korea

Travel to South Korea, a captivating country filled with fascinating culture and history, modern technology and lifestyles, and exciting attractions and sites. Head to Seoul, South Korea’s capital, where ancient architecture and monuments meet the future with Starfield COEX’s large shopping mall and technological progress across the city. Travelers will try new cultural cuisine like Korean fried chicken, ox bone soup, flavorful kimchi. Travelers will learn about the war between North and South Korea, when visiting the Korean Demilitarized Zone (DMZ). Become surrounded by history as travelers stand on The Bridge of Freedom, a monument that stands as a reminder of conflict and the past exchange of prisoners. Through pivotal historic events, travelers will learn how the cultures surrounding South Korea grow in strength and acceptance towards past tragedies. The next few days, travelers will take guided tours through several different locations. Walk through Bukchon Hanok Village and Gyeongbukgung Palace, where their origins date back several centuries ago. In these stunning places, travelers will wear traditional Korean dresses to add authenticity to this unique experience. Visit the traditional Korean houses called honak, known for primarily being made of wood. Then, walk through the Jeonju Hanok village and the Seohakdong Artists Village, grown through tradition, history, art, and creativity. Here, travelers will be able to find cute shops, crafty souvenirs, and delicious and local food. In Busan, travelers will also have the opportunity to take a Taekwondo class with a local master who will teach the original Korean fighting styles. While still in Busan, walk through the city’s beautiful and energetic nightlife. 

This is a 9 day trip that costs $2,295 led by Under30 Experiences, which caters to solo travelers and adventurous young adults ages 21-35, but they don’t enforce a strict age limit. They are a small team that loves sustainable travel by supporting local communities in an eco-friendly way. The company was founded 10+ years ago by co-founders Matt Wilson and Jared O’Toole. They were rated one of CATALYST PLANET’s 8 Best Sustainable Travel Companies.

Take a Tour through El Salvador

Take a tour through El Salvador where each traveler will become acquainted with the beautiful, rich, and historic country. In the main city San Salvador, walk through charming streets and plazas while scoping out the outstanding architecture of buildings like the National Palace and different churches and cathedrals. Head into Cerro Verde National Park in the Apaneca Lamatepec Biosphere Reserve and become surrounded by breathtaking views of cloud forests and the “Window to Nature” pathway. These views are filled with authentic and colorful biodiversity like unique species of birds and rare kinds of mammals. Explore the popular Flower Route (Ruta de las flores), a famous trail that directs you through alluring mountain villages and coffee plantations. Journey through different villages to learn new things and each community's way of living. Stop in the town of Apaneca, known for comforting and cozy feeling streets, destined to make everyone feel right at home. Visit the Nahuizalco village, where local artists create beautiful products like furniture, ornaments, hats, and other accessories. Then, bask in the sun and perfect turquoise-watered beach, El Zonte, along the Pacific Coast of El Salvador. The adventure seekers have the opportunity to try surfing while others are able to relax and soak up the sun and beautiful environment. On the last day, visit one more extraordinary site, Devil’s Door. Here, take in the breathtaking views of two cliffs, Cerro El Chulo. From this one viewpoint, travelers will experience remarkable views of the capital, Pacific Ocean, Lake Ilopango, and the Saint Vincent Volcano. Later that afternoon, private transportation will take you to the airport for the final departure. 

This is a 5 day trip that costs $1,095 led by Under30 Experiences, which caters to solo travelers and adventurous young adults ages 21-35, but they don’t enforce a strict age limit. They are a small team that loves sustainable travel by supporting local communities in an eco-friendly way. The company was founded 10+ years ago by co-founders Matt Wilson and Jared O’Toole. They were rated one of CATALYST PLANET’s 8 Best Sustainable Travel Companies.

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Experience Oaxaca During the Day of the Dead

Oaxaca, Mexico, is a vibrantly rich region known for Indigenous heritage, lively markets and deep artistic traditions. Become immersed in Zapotec and Mixtec Indigenous vendors where you will see hand-crafted woven blankets, shawls, and traditional margarita flowers. Experience delicious and authentic Mexican food at a local restaurant, where flavors of different moles, tlayudas, and chapulines, will leave each traveler highly satisfied. Experience Dia De Los Muertos (Day of the Dead, November 1st) when visiting two markets, Benito Juarez Market and 20 de Noviembre Market. Each traveler will meet the artisans and vendors along with exploring all that the markets offer, including cultural foods, colors, and communities. Later in the day, explore a local cemetery of Pantheon where Day of the Dead traditions are all around. Experience the meaning of the holiday, when communities celebrate and honor their loved ones that have passed away. Each traveler will be surrounded by close communities and families illuminated by many candles and vibrant marigold flowers. Here, families create “ofrendas” to welcome the spirits of their loved ones into the atmosphere. While here, witness the children’s celebration of Day of the Dead where families come together to specifically honor the lives of lost children. These bittersweet traditions are recognized as a significant and profound annual tradition throughout cities in Mexico. Each traveler will learn more about sacred religious centers of the Zapotec communities, when visiting the Mitla ruins. Learn more about the Zapotec community and their religious traditions through beeswax candle making and weaving demonstrations presented by local families. Before returning to Oaxaca, each traveler will learn how this Indigenous group intertwined ideas of spirituality and faith into everyday lifestyle choices. An example of this that each traveler will experience is shown through their practices of compact farming villages that are located in the heart of plazas and catholic churches. 

This is a 4 day trip that costs $1,795 led by Under30 Experiences, which caters to solo travelers and adventurous young adults ages 21-35, but they don’t enforce a strict age limit. They are a small team that loves sustainable travel by supporting local communities in an eco-friendly way. The company was founded 10+ years ago by co-founders Matt Wilson and Jared O’Toole. They were rated one of CATALYST PLANET’s 8 Best Sustainable Travel Companies.

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Walk the Nar-Phu Trek in Nepal

Step into a hidden world of dramatic gorges, ancient Tibetan culture, and soaring Himalayan peaks on the Nar-Phu Valley Trek–a remote and unforgettable curated journey. Nestled north of the Annapurna region and just south of the Tibetan plateau, this unconventional trek leads the traveler through the untouched valleys of Nar and Phu, where time seems to stand still. Designed for adventurous trekkers with a moderate to high fitness level, this trek demands stamina for high-altitude hiking (up to 17,388 feet at Kang La Pass) and multi-day walking. However, the rewards are extraordinary: towering icefalls, secluded stone villages, and centuries-old monasteries such as Tashi Lhakhang, a spiritual sanctuary blessed by the 8th century saint Padasambhava. The traveler will also pass through dramatic landscapes including the narrow Phu Gorge, vast alpine plateaus, and pristine river valleys rarely seen by outsiders. Unlike more traveled routes, the Nar-Phu Trek offers a raw and authentic Himalayan experience–minimal crowds, genuine cultural encounters with Tibetan-speaking communities, and the feeling of true wilderness. The journey is both physically demanding and deeply spiritual, ideal for those seeking not only stunning scenery but also inner reflection and connection. Take a journey on this immersive trek into one of Nepal’s best-kept secrets–where the mountains are high, the people are friendly, and the paths are the traveler’s way of discovering something new.

This 16-day trip costs $2,590 per person. The trip is led by Follow Alice–an adventure travel company known for its ethical, community-centered approach to tourism. Founded in 2014 after cofounder Reto climbed Kilimanjaro with local Tanzanian guide Chris, Follow Alice was born out of a shared passion for exploration and cultural connection. Today, all of their guides are local, and 70% of each trip’s cost remains within the local economy, supporting sustainable travel as well as empowering communities. 

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