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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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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Visit the Serengeti

Embrace a journey to the legendary Serengeti, one of the world’s most celebrated wildlife destinations. This adventure is designed for all fitness levels, as most exploration is done via guided safari drives and optional nature walks that require only light to moderate exertion. The Serengeti is a place of raw natural beauty and epic wildlife encounters. Witness the Great Migration, one of nature’s most awe-inspiring spectacles, as over a million wildebeest and zebras cross vast plains in search of fresh grazing. Along the way, expect thrilling sightings of Africa’s Big Five–lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhinoceros. One of the most iconic landmarks is the Seronera Valley, known for an abundant predator population and dramatic game viewing. Another highlight is Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, often included as a stop on the journey. This massive volcanic caldera shelters a rich variety of wildlife within its steep walls, offering a unique and breathtaking safari experience. With luxurious camps and knowledgeable guides, this trip ensures both comfort and immersion for the traveler. The trip is ideal for nature lovers, photographers, and anyone dreaming of connecting with the untamed rhythms of the world.

This 5-day trip costs $2,695 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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Conserve Oceans 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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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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Adventure in Southern Africa

This trip, a tour of three countries in Southern Africa, begins in Zimbabwe, a trading hub known for its gold and iron exports. Here, travelers will see Victoria Falls, part of the Zambezi River and one of the world's seven natural wonders. They will have the opportunity to go whitewater rafting, bungee jumping, or go on a helicopter ride. Next, travelers will cross into Botswana to the town of Kasane. They can go on a wildlife safari along the Chobe River or visit Chobe National Park. Then, the group will visit the village of Gweta and camp out in hopes of seeing wildlife. The next stop on this trip is Maun, the tourism capital of Botswana for its safaris. Travelers can ride in a Mokoro, a traditional canoe for shoreline views. Travelers will then see the western part of Botswana, the town of Ghanzi in the Kalahari Desert, before ending the trip in Namibia. Travelers will spend the last part of this trip in the city of Windhoek, Namibia’s cultural hub.

This is an 8 day trip and costs $918. It 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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Meet the Gorillas and Chimpanzees in Uganda

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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Escape to Everest Base Camp

Take a journey to an awe-inspiring place: Everest Base Camp. This 15-day trekking adventure through the heart of the Himalayas is designed for those with good physical fitness and a sense of adventure. This high-altitude journey winds through Nepal’s Khumbu region, taking you past iconic landmarks such as the Hillary Suspension Bridge, the spiritual Tengboche Monastery, and the bustling Sherpa capital of Namche Bazaar. With its prayer flags, yak caravans, and dramatic mountain vistas, each stop offers a rich blend of culture and natural beauty. The highlight is reaching Everest Base Camp at 5,364 meters–an unforgettable experience where trekkers stand in the shadows of the world’s highest peak. Along the way, you’ll witness the towering peaks of Ama Dablam, Lhotse, and Nuptse, and enjoy panoramic views from the famed Kala Patthar, one of the best vantage points for Mount Everest itself. Unique cultural touches, such as staying in traditional tea houses and interacting with local Sherpa communities, add depth to this once-in-a-lifetime journey. This trek is best suited for those who can handle long days of hiking (4-8 hours per day), high altitudes, and challenging terrain, but the reward is an epic, soul-stirring adventure that will leave you transformed.

This 12-19 day trip costs $1,790 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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Search for Gorillas in Uganda

East Africa’s Uganda is considered one of the most beautiful countries in the world, and is home to many mountainous and forested national parks, as well as the largest freshwater lake on the continent. This trip begins in Uganda's capital Kampala, called “the city of seven hills”. Kampala is the largest city in the country and its financial and economic center. Next, travelers will visit Lake Bunyonyi, a “place of many little birds.” Lake Bunyonyi is known for its green terraced hills and twenty-nine islands. From here, travelers can go on a guided mountain gorilla trek in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. After this, travelers will return to Lake Bunyonyi to enjoy the area and have the chance to go on a motorboat tour, a bird-watching walk, rent a canoe, or simply go swimming. Travelers will then travel to the Kalinzu Forest Reserve, adjacent to Queen Elizabeth National Park, where they can go on a boat cruise around Crater Lake. Before a last stop in the city of Jinja, travelers will get to visit Lake Mburo National Park and visit a tea plantation and boat safari on Lake Mburo. The group will then cross the equator and get to see how water moves differently on each side as they visit the city of Jinja, known as the adventure capital of East Africa. In the city, travelers can go Mabira Forest mountain biking, Nile River kayaking, bungee jumping, or Jinja river rafting. 

This is a 9 day trip and costs $2,334. It 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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Adventure in Alaska

Alaska, the last frontier, is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, including vast glaciers, towering mountains, diverse wildlife, and breathtaking landscapes. It's a top destination for outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing. The 49th state is also home to rich Indigenous cultures, like the Aleut, rich history, and prime spots to witness and experience Northern Lights. The journey begins with a drive through the iconic Seward Highway on the Kenai Peninsula. In Kenai Fjords National Park, travelers will hike the Harding Icefield Trail and enjoy a scenic boat cruise through the fjords to see glaciers and marine life. In Talkeetna, participants will learn about local flora, take a scenic flight over the area, and visit the Iditarod Sled Dog Museum. Denali National Park offers stunning sights, including moose, bears, and caribou.  

This is an eight day trip and costs $2,699. 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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Venture Through the Serengeti

Tanzania is a country in Africa known for its wildlife and culture. Thirty percent of the country is made up of national parks, with the city of Arusha being its safari capital On this trip, travelers will experience the Serengeti National Park, famed for its wildlife spotting and safaris, explore the Ngorongoro Crater, and visit Zanzibar, an island off the coast of the country known for its pristine water and cultural traditions. This trip is for travelers interested in experiencing Tanzania's wildlife, outdoor activities, and coastal areas. While visiting the Serengeti National Park, travelers will partake in a three-day wildlife safari in which they will visit Ngorongoro Crater, a conservation area that is known for having Africa’s best wildlife viewing. In Serengeti National Park, travelers will experience multiple game drives, where they can spot iconic wildlife across the savannah. Travelers will also have the chance to  descend to the crater floor, where they will experience a separate ecosystem created in the crater that contains grasslands, swamps, forests, and Lake Makat. Travelers will then pass by Mount Kilimanjaro on the way to Dar es Salaam before spending the last few days of the trip in Zanzibar. The island is a crossroads of African, Arabian, and Indian cultures with pristine beaches, crystal-blue water, and diverse cuisine. During their time in Zanzibar, travelers can join a sailing trip, relax at the beach, or go snorkelling. In Stone Town, Zanzibar’s cultural and historical hub, travelers can explore the winding alleyways, visit antique shops, and purchase artisan works such as tinga-tinga paintings, cloths, and copper trinkets. 

This is a 9-day trip that costs $2,399. 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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