As our friends at REI Adventures close their chapter on international trips, we are happy to see them continue with a full program of domestic USA trips and know that they will be continuing their dedication towards conservation and responsible travel. If you were booked on or were looking into one of the international REI Adventures that no longer exists, we are here for you and urge you to take a look at Wilderness Travel’s extensive program of active, international trips. To give you a flavor of the type of trips Wilderness Travel offers, we have selected 10 sample journeys below that will bring you delightfully authentic travel experiences, the camaraderie of a small group of like-minded travelers, expert Trip Leaders, and award-winning itinerary design!
Wilderness Travel was founded over 40 years ago on the philosophy that travel can be a tremendous source for good in the world, and we’ve been inspired by our adventurers and other travel companies like REI to maintain that commitment to sustainable tourism. As we prepare for the post-COVID era of travel, we feel a tremendous responsibility to protect the places we visit, and have worked hard to ensure our trips are as sustainable as possible. Not only do we offset all carbon emissions for all our land-based trips, we also partner with local conservation groups and support local schools on a great many of our journeys, as well as make a point to work with local guides and as many family-owned restaurants and hotels as possible. All of these people are very much looking forward to your visit and in light of the pandemic have implemented extra safety protocols to make your visit as safe as possible.
Tour du Mont Blanc
The TMB is one of the “Great Hikes of the World,” that circles Mont Blanc, the highest mountain in the Alps. We’ve honed this classic to perfection with impeccably designed hiking days crossing three international borders on foot and exploring seven gorgeous valleys that radiate into France, Italy, and Switzerland. Most departures have up to three guides who bring wonderful esprit to the adventure.
Camino de Santiago
For centuries, the Camino de Santiago has guided pilgrims on their journey—our exquisitely planned route features the best parts of this iconic hike. We’ll celebrate the history and traditions of the trail as we stroll the streets of medieval Léon, visit a Benedictine monastery, and conclude our adventure with a barefoot walk at Finisterre.
The Dolomites
The Dolomites of South Tyrol is unquestionably one of the most beautiful and picturesque mountain ranges of the world. The region is full of jaw-dropping towers, spires, and pinnacles—all surrounded by lush grass valleys, brilliant turquoise lakes, and small villages straight out of a fairytale. We have two different hiking adventures to choose from, with overnights in welcoming hike-in lodges.
Highlands and Islands of Scotland
From the beautiful forest and hills of Glen Affric, to the surprising turquoise waters of Luskentyre Beach on Harris, to the dramatic rocks of the Black Cuillin, it is hard to pick a favorite among all the hikes on our Highlands and Islands of Scotland adventure. Learn about local traditions from a master tweed weaver on Harris, sample products at an artisanal distillery, and savor wonderful locally sourced meals. This trip is a wonderful introduction to the many delights of this magical corner of the world.
Iceland
Iceland is such a diverse island that we have multiple adventures that explore the natural wonders of northern Iceland, the mystical Westfjords region, and the iconic waterfalls of southern Iceland. Experience Iceland’s dramatic landscapes shaped by glaciers, volcanoes, and waterfalls with your own group, or join one of our departures!
The Inca Trail
We’ve perfected the absolute best way to experience Peru’s iconic sites. Our trek gives us 5 full days on the trail (most companies rush through in 4), so we can enjoy remote Incan sites while avoiding the crowds, and we enter majestic Machu Picchu from the Gate of the Sun—the original entrance used by the Incas. We top off our adventure with a night at the stunning Sanctuary Lodge, the only accommodation just steps from the ruins.
Patagonia
Patagonia is an extraordinary landscape of granite towers, massive glaciers, and beautiful forests. Wilderness Travel has been exploring and sharing its wonders for four decades, and we’ve crafted four different journeys in this extraordinarily beautiful region, with dramatic hiking and special access to renowned estancias and enchanting lodges.
Costa Rica
If you’re looking for an active getaway in a more tropical climate, look no further than Costa Rica. In lush cloud forests you can enjoy wonderful activities like ziplining and hiking, and you’ll have a chance to take a dip in the cool waters beneath waterfalls. And while you’re reveling in the landscapes of Costa Rica, you’ll also be introduced to some of its colorful wildlife in Tortuguero National Park, which protects more than 50,000 acres of lowland forest, mangroves, and tropical beaches on Costa Rica’s Caribbean coast.
New Zealand
Soaring, snowy mountains, soft sandy beaches, dripping wet rain forests, and icy-blue glaciers are some of New Zealand’s incredibly diverse landscapes that make it one of the world’s most wild and remote destinations—and the ideal escape. Unplug and recharge on one of our four hiking journeys that take you along the best portions of “Middle Earth’s” iconic Great Walks and hiking trails—including a new adventure on the south portion of the Te Araroa! We’ve also incorporated an exciting blend of sea kayaking, helicopter rides, private boat tours, cultural encounters, and world-class wine tasting. With a population of less than 5 million and a laid-back, friendly Kiwi culture, New Zealand’s trails are wide open and ready for exploration!
Trekking near Everest
Trek in the world’s greatest mountain realm with expert Sherpa guides. We’ll visit Buddhist monasteries including Tengboche, hike to beautiful Sherpa mountain villages, and enjoy spectacular Everest views. Our trips stay in welcoming Sherpa-owned lodges or have full-service camping.
Can’t find what you’re looking for? We offer more than 200 journeys around the world—reach out to our Area Specialists who are happy to help find the perfect trip that’s right for you.
