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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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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Baja: Whale Watching and the Sea of Cortez

Embark on an unforgettable journey to Baja California, Mexico, where the Sea of Cortez and the Pacific lagoons offer a rare blend of wildlife, adventure, and serenity. This women-only trip is perfect for curious, active travelers with a moderate fitness level who crave meaningful experiences–whether it’s kayaking in calm turquoise waters, snorkeling with sea lions, or locking eyes with a gray whale and her calf in Magdalena Bay. Baja’s stark beauty is unmatched: from the rich marine life of the Sea of Cortez–dubbed “the world’s aquarium” by Jacques Cousteau–to the red-hued Sierra de la Giganta mountains rising from the desert. The traveler will explore cactus-dotted trails, sleep under star-filled skies in camping tents, and enjoy the colonial charm of Loreto, home to a 17th century Jesuit mission in addition to peaceful beaches. This trip offers both soft adventure and quiet moments, ideal for those seeking connection–with nature, with a like-minded group of women, and with themselves. From whale-watching to cultural encounters, every experience is crafted for reflection, joy, and awe. Whether the traveler is a nature lover, photographer, or solo traveler seeking inspiration, this Baja adventure is a deeply rewarding escape into one of the planet’s most unique and untouched coastal ecosystems.

This 8-day trip is priced at $5,295 and led by AdventureWomen. All AdventureWomen trips are designed exclusively for and by women, aiming to empower women through travel. 

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Visit Buenos Aires and Patagonia

By visiting Buenos Aires and Patagonia on the same trip let’s you experience Argentina’s vibrant cosmopolitan culture and legendary tango scene, alongside some of the world’s most breathtaking landscapes of glaciers, mountains and wild open spaces. Start by experiencing Buenos Aires for two days, where each traveler is able to take a tour and explore the city's art, vibrant nightlife, and sport and music communities. After, take a local flight into Southern Argentina, where the Patagonia trek will begin. These long and intense hikes will bring unforgettable views, the first day including scenes of the stunning Laguna de los Tres. During these treks, travelers are expected to hike between 5-15 miles per day, with structured base camps and stops along the way. Travelers will be brought back into town, El Chaltén at the end of the hike. Here, travelers are encouraged to relax with a beer at a microbrewery or a hot chocolate with homemade cake. Move on to El Calafate and Perito Moreno Glacier, home to breathtaking views of Lake Argentina. These locations are perfect for stunning photography and diverse bird sightings, like flamingos, bald eagles, and condors. 

This is a 8 day trip that costs $3,295 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. This trip is specifically designed for people who are looking for intensive adventures, including strenuous and long hikes. 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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Hiking Utah’s Mighty Five

Utah, the Beehive State, is home to the mighty five national parks: this includes Arches, Bruce Canyon, Canyonlands, Capitol Reef, and Zion. These parks are renowned for their extraordinary rock formations, breathtaking landscapes, and opportunities for outdoor recreation like camping, hiking, photography, and more. There is much to see from the mighty five, from the hoodoos of Bryce Canyon to Canyonlands Green and Colorado Rivers. The trip will start by exploring Bryce Canyon National Park, known for its stunning rich red rock formations, hundreds of slender rock spires or hoodoos that dot the landscape. At Arches National Park, the group will explore geological landmarks such as Devils Garden, Landscape Arch, and Double O Arch. Onward to Canyonlands, where travelers can see the Petroglyphs created centuries ago by the Puebloan groups native to the region, and the towers of sandstone and fissures in the ground before heading to the Chesler Park Trail for some hiking. At Capitol Reef and Zion travelers will encounter more petroglyphs, canyons, and beautiful red rock formations while learning about the geology of these areas.This trip has some high altitude hikes and travelers should have moderate fitness level.

This is a 9-day trip and costs $2,024 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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Explore New Zealand’s South Island

New Zealand, Aotearoa in the native Maori language, is known for its stunning natural landscapes, mountain ranges, and diverse ecosystems. i This trip begins in Wellington, the capital of New Zealand. Before visiting Abel Tasman National Park, travelers can enjoy the city’s cafe culture and hidden bars. While in Abel Tasman National Park, travelers can enjoy beaches, take in views of granite cliffs, go kayaking, or go sailing. Travelers will then visit the town of Westport. From here, the group will drive down to Punakaiki for the Pancake Rocks trek, learning how these fascinating geological features were formed. Next, travelers will be taken to Franz Josef, a famous glacier that is approximately seven thousand years old. At Franz Josef, travelers can take a helicopter flight to see the glacier from above, hike, or kayak. Queenstown, the next stop on this trip, is a well-known adventure destination where travelers can go horseback riding, bungee jumping, jet boating, or enjoy a vineyard tour. From Queenstown, travelers will take a day trip to Milford Sound, one of the wettest places on Earth, with gorgeous mountains and an average of 182 millimeters of rain annually. Travelers will then return to Queenstown before departing to Tekapo, home to gorgeous blue water surrounded by mountains. After hiking and visiting Tekapo’s hot springs, travelers will then visit Christchurch. This is one of the largest cities in the country and is known as the Garden City. This trip’s last stop is Kaikoura, a destination for all things marine life. Here, travelers can go whale watching, kayaking, or hiking. 

This is a 16-day trip that costs $2,249. It is an 18-Thirtysomethings trip catering to travelers ages 18-39. The 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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Hike Bhutan’s Jomolhari Trail

Hiking the Jomolhari Trail is more than simply a trek–it’s a transformative journey. It invites hikers with a taste for adventure, an appreciation for culture, and a desire for inner stillness to step into a world where the mountains speak, and every footstep tells a story. This journey involves a high-altitude hike that combines Himalayan grandeur with deep cultural immersion. This 8-day adventure winds through pristine Alpine forests, glacial valleys, and pastures filled with yak, all with the 4.5-mile-high Mount Jomolhari as a constant backdrop. Along the way, visit ancient sites such as Tiger’s Nest Monastery, perched elegantly on a cliffside, and encounter remote villages where Bhutanese traditions remain beautifully intact. The trek reaches heights of nearly 1,640 feet and subsequently demands good fitness, making it ideal for those with hiking experience, a taste for adventure, and an appreciation for solitude. Bhutan’s unique approach to life, guided by Gross National Happiness (the official government’s way in which the country gauges life satisfaction, measured through virtues such as contentment and well-being), is evident in its untouched landscapes, spiritual depth, and warm-hearted locals. With expert local guides from Follow Alice, the traveler will gain insight into Bhutanese Buddhism, history, and ecology, sure to enrich every step. Limited tourism means fewer crowds and a more genuine connection with the land and people. Whether one is drawn by the serene environment, cultural richness, or the physical challenge, the Jomolhari Trail offers a rare, meaningful experience in one of the world’s most unaltered mountain kingdoms.

This 17-day trip costs $6,990 and 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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Explore the Best of Bhutan and Trek the Bumdra Trail

Discover the enchanting kingdom of Bhutan on a journey where travelers can trek the Bumdra Trail. This immersive trip combines cultural exploration with breathtaking trekking through pristine Himalayan landscapes. Travelers will visit iconic sites such as the majestic Paro Taktsang (Tiger’s Nest Monastery), perched dramatically on a cliffside and renowned for its spiritual significance and stunning views. The trek along the Bumdra Trail offers an exhilarating adventure, leading the traveler to the Bumdra Monastery, set at an elevation of about 12,467 meters. This serene monastery is a hidden gem, offering panoramic views of the Paro Valley and the snow-capped Himalayas beyond. The trail itself winds through dense forests, alpine meadows, and quaint villages, immersing trekkers in Bhutan’s natural beauty and vibrant culture. This trip is ideal for travelers with a moderate to high fitness level, as the trekking involves steep ascents and altitudes requiring good stamina and acclimatization. The rewarding views and unique cultural encounters make every step worthwhile. Whether the traveler wanders through ancient dzongs, samples local cuisines, or soaks in Bhutan’s peaceful vibe amid breathtaking landscapes, this trip offers an unforgettable blend of adventure and tradition.

This is a 12-day trip that costs $3,890 led by Follow Alice, a sustainable travel company offering adventurous small group tours that offer hiking, safari and cultural exploration across Africa, South America, Asia and Europe. The company was founded when cofounder Reno and his lead guide Chris climbed Kilimanjaro and made their dream a reality. All trips are led by local guides and 70% of all trip costs go back to the local community. They were rated one of CATALYST PLANET’s  8 Best Sustainable Travel Companies.

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Explore the Wonders of Iceland

If you wish to immerse yourself in an island adventure with awe-inspiring landscapes, a trip to Iceland is a good match. This journey is designed for any type of traveler, as the only fitness level required is that of a walker (easy to moderate). Iceland brings scenic drives, light hikes, and a host of optional activities. Travelers begin in Reykjavik, the vibrant capital of Iceland, where one can stroll through charming streets, visit local galleries, and savor the city’s renowned culinary scene. The trip will venture into the Golden Circle, a route that showcases some of Iceland’s most celebrated natural wonders. At Pingvellir National Park, travelers can even witness the rift between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates. Experience the power of Gullfoss—a majestic waterfall that cascades into a rugged canyon. There are also plenty of erupting geysers: one is Strokkur, in near proximity to the capital city, and the largest geyser in all of Iceland. There is another called Geysir, which is the most well-known in Iceland, and the name of which inspired what would become the name of all other ‘geysers’-- hot springs of water that at times send shoots of water into the air. Ranging in width from a column to a wall, the water must reach boiling temperature from their dormant base temperature in order to erupt. The journey continues on into the South Coast, where travelersl encounter the black sand beaches of Reynisfjara, the towering cliffs of Dyrholaey, and the stunning Fjadargliufur canyon. Additionally included on this adventure is Vatnajokull National Park, home to Europe’s largest glacier, and the surreal beauty of Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon, where icebergs can be found drifting serenely in glacial lakes. For optional activities, the traveler can go exploring in ice caves or hike on and around glaciers. This journey is perfect for those seeking a comprehensive Icelandic experience, touching all the great landmarks and sights on the island.

This 9-day trip is priced at $3,195.This 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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Walk the Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain Day Hike

Spend an unforgettable day hiking Peru’s awe-inspiring Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain, a natural marvel painted with vivid hues of red, gold, and turquoise by mineral deposits. Towering at over 16,500 feet above sea level in the Andes, this trek is perfect for adventurers eager to experience one of the world’s most surreal landscapes. This hike is moderately to highly challenging due to the altitude rather than the terrain. While the trail is not technically difficult, a good level of fitness and prior acclimatization to high altitudes is strongly recommended to enjoy the experience safely and comfortably. On the journey, travelers will pass through remote Andean villages, herds of Alpacas, and breathtaking vistas of snow-capped Ausangate Mountain, a sacred peak in Incan mythology and the highest in the Cusco region. The colors of Rainbow Mountain itself–believed to represent the energy of the Pachamama (Mother of Earth)--are a rare geologic wonder and the ultimate reward at the summit. If seeking dramatic scenery, cultural richness, and a true high-altitude adventure, the Rainbow Mountain day hike is the perfect andean escape.

This 1-day trip costs $270 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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Hike Peru’s Machu Picchu

On the Classic Inca Trail trip, travelers will follow a centuries-old path through the Andes before arriving at the region’s most iconic archaeological site, Machu Picchu. The trail winds through high-altitude grasslands, Incan ruins, and cloud forests. This trip contains two distinct parts: cultural exploration in Cusco and the Sacred Valley, and hiking the Inca Trail. While in Cusco, travelers can enjoy the old capital of the Inca Empire with a morning tour and immerse themselves in Peruvian culture. In the Sacred Valley, travelers visit traditional weaving cooperatives, explore the agricultural terraces, and walk amongst the landscapes of the Maras Salt Flats. The hiking portion of the trip follows the Inca Trail for several days, passing through alpine grasslands, stone stairways, and remote archaeological sites. Each day, participants hike uphill, with evenings spent at camp sites. Along the way, travelers may spot Andean condors, llamas, and alpacas grazing the highlands, while learning about Inca history and Peruvian culture. Highlights of the Inca Trail hike include the Dead Woman’s Pass and entering the Sun Gate into Machu Picchu on the last day. Hidden high in the Andes, Machu Picchu was built in the 15th century and sits dramatically atop a ridge, surrounded by jagged, rainforest-covered mountains and archaeological wonders. Travelers can explore the ancient city, walking through its temples, terraces, and ceremonial spaces. Participants should be in moderate to high physical condition, as the Inca Trail hike is strenuous and steep. 

This is an 8-day trip that costs $2,090 led by Follow Alice, a sustainable travel company offering adventurous small group tours that offer hiking, safari and cultural exploration across Africa, South America, Asia and Europe. The company was founded when cofounder Reno and his lead guide Chris climbed Kilimanjaro and made their dream a reality. All trips are led by local guides and 70% of all trip costs go back to the local community. They were rated one of CATALYST PLANET’s  8 Best Sustainable Travel Companies.

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Climb Kilimanjaro’s Rongai Route

The Rongai Route is Kilimanjaro’s most tranquil trail, approaching from the remote northern side near the Kenyan border. It’s ideal for trekkers seeking solitude, gradual ascents, and a more personal connection with the mountain. The route passes through unspoiled forest, moorland, and alpine desert, offering a peaceful alternative to the busier southern routes. Mt. Kilimanjaro is the world’s tallest free-standing mountain, and the highest peak in Africa, rising from tropical lowlands to icy glaciers at Uhuru Peak (about 3.7 miles). A journey through this route to reach the mountain has the traveler passing through five unique climate zones: Cultivation, Forest, Moorland, Alpine Desert, and Arctic/Glacial Zone. No ropes or specific fitness level required, but strong legs and stamina are essential. Luggage needed includes a daypack between 11-15 lbs with items such as water, snacks, personal items, and a camera. The other required luggage carrier is a duffel bag, which the traveler does not carry; instead, porters carry this bag, which will have the traveler’s gear, such as sleeping mats and any extra clothing. Hiking time lasts between 4-6 hours daily.

Early in the trek, the traveler passes through Chagga farming communities such as Nalemoru, where life follows traditional rhythms amid terraced banana and coffee farms. Though the climbers do not stay in the villages, the cultural backdrop adds depth to the experience. The final ascent begins just before midnight on summit night, when climbers set out under the stars to reach the peak by sunrise—a demanding but unforgettable push through lighter air and colder temperatures.

This is a 7-day trip that costs $2,300 led by Follow Alice, a sustainable travel company offering adventurous small group tours that offer hiking, safari and cultural exploration across Africa, South America, Asia and Europe. The company was founded when cofounder Reno and his lead guide Chris climbed Kilimanjaro and made their dream a reality. All trips are led by local guides and 70% of all trip costs go back to the local community. They were rated one of CATALYST PLANET’s  8 Best Sustainable Travel Companies.

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Climb Kilimanjaro's Lemosho Route

On this trip, travelers will summit  Tanzania’s Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s highest peak, the tallest free-standing mountain on Earth, and one of the Seven Summits. Kilimanjaro’s Lemosho route is ideal for travelers seeking a slow acclimatisation process and the opportunity to enjoy spectacular scenery across rainforests, alpine deserts, and volcanic plateaus. While the Lemosho route takes longer than other popular routes (7-8 days instead of the average 5-6 days), it offers a steadier pace up the mountain and the highest success rate among travelers summiting. Unlike the Machame and Marangu routes, this route is less crowded and offers more tranquil scenery before meeting up with the other trails. During the hike, travelers will explore pristine rainforests at the base of the mountain, before beginning the trek through volcanic plateaus, moorlands, and alpine deserts. Highlights of this trip include the Barranca Wall, a steep climb reportedly easier than it seems, the Kibo Crater, one of the 3 craters that make up the mountain, and the Lava Tower, a 300-foot lava pillar. Travelers should be in good physical condition and prepared to hike from morning until evening each day, including at high altitudes and in changing weather. While reaching the Uhuru summit is a daunting and exciting goal, the Lemosho route offers a scenic, less-traveled path and a gradual, well-paced ascent. 

This is a 7 to 8-day trip that costs from $3,050 to $3,350 led by Follow Alice, a sustainable travel company offering adventurous small group tours that offer hiking, safari and cultural exploration across Africa, South America, Asia and Europe. The company was founded when cofounder Reno and his lead guide Chris climbed Kilimanjaro and made their dream a reality. All trips are led by local guides and 70% of all trip costs go back to the local community. They were rated one of CATALYST PLANET’s  8 Best Sustainable Travel Companies.

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