Hiking & Walking Yoga, Meditation & Wellness Tours & Trip...

Hiking & Walking Yoga, Meditation & Wellness Tours & Trips

2,372 Hiking & Walking trips. Tours from 446 tour companies. 11,444 reviews. 4.7/5 avg rating.

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Yoga, Meditation & Wellness
21 Day Grand Tour Discover Real New Zealand
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By Real New Zealand Tours
Local Expert
Verified by Travelstride as locally operated and in the top of their field for customer reviews, local knowledge, and safety.
5/5 Excellent
40 reviews
Self-Guided / Independent Tour
Why we love them
They are dedicated to providing personalized, authentic, and sustainable travel experiences that showcase the best of their country.
Lodging level
Luxury - 5 star
Physical level
Easy
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Visits

Auckland, Christchurch, Dunedin, Fiordland National Park, Pacific Ocean, Queenstown, Rotorua, Tasmania, Wellington

Highlights

  • All inclusive tour package prepared by New Zealand based specialists so you sit back and relax
  • An exciting itinerary will be customised to suit you - let us help plan and perfect your dream vacation
  • We offer self-drive trips (rental car) we arrange all your accomodations, activities, attractions (you select) we book your car (fun, freedom, independence, flexibility) you set the pace each day or, select a private driver trip (fully guided) or, escorted coach tours (daily commentary).
  • Either way, you will have an awesome time on our wonderful 21 day Grand New Zealand Tour with Real New Zealand Tours.

Themes

Cultural, Cycling & Biking, Hiking & Walking, National Parks, Nature & Wildlife, Rafting, Kayaking, Canoeing, Relaxing Retreats, Small Ship Cruise, Train & Rail Journeys, Trekking & Expeditions, Yoga, Meditation & Wellness, Sailing, Golf

What travelers are saying

"Geoff helped my wife and I to put together an itinerary that customized to our particular interests and preferences. At the outset he asked us where we'd like to go and, after a small number of iterations, together we were able able to craft an itinerary that met our budget, touched on much of the places we wanted, and did not have us staying at a different resort each night. Before leaving for our trip we were given our itinerary and confirmation #'s/vouchers/contact #'s for all of our activities and hotels captured in an easy-to-use app that made it extremely easy to transition to the next point of our journey. He and his assistant were quick to respond to any questions we had along the way as well. Overall, we had a great stay and highly endorse Geoff and RealNZ for anyone planning a bespoke trip to NZ."

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Norway Active + self drive
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5/5 Excellent
53 reviews
Self-Guided / Independent Tour
Why we love them
As a regional tour operator with a mostly Scandinavian staff, they are deeply familiar with the northern landscape.
Lodging level
Premium - 4 star
Physical level
Strenuous

Visits

Bergen, Oslo

Themes

Cycling & Biking, Hiking & Walking, Trekking & Expeditions, Yoga, Meditation & Wellness

What travelers are saying

"My wife and I did the six day Lofoten Islands tour offered by 50 Degrees North. The tour is simple, they provided us a rental car, accommodations for two nights each at three Rorbuer hotels scattered across the islands, and a couple of scheduled day tours. Most of the time, we were on our own to see the islands at our own pace. The islands are stunningly beautiful, and the tour planning made our travels hassle free. They even scheduled lunch for us at an organic goat farm, which may sound a little strange for a vacation like this, but that is only because you haven't tasted the cheese. (Best lunch ever!) At our request, they altered the tour slightly so that we could begin the tour in Svolvaer and end it six days later at the airport in Leknes. We can't imagine a more complete tour of the islands in six short days."

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Patagonia Stunning Exploration
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By Across South America
Local Expert
Verified by Travelstride as locally operated and in the top of their field for customer reviews, local knowledge, and safety.
5/5 Excellent
65 reviews
Private Guided
Lodging level
Luxury - 5 star
Physical level
Moderate
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Visits

El Calafate, Los Glaciares National Park, Patagonia, Torres del Paine National Park

Highlights

  • Perito Moreno Glacier Exploration
  • Hiking & Estancia in the Upsala Glacier
  • Trekking & Horseback ride in Torres del Paine Chile

Themes

Birding, High Adventure, Hiking & Walking, Nature & Wildlife, Rafting, Kayaking, Canoeing, Relaxing Retreats, Trekking & Expeditions, Yoga, Meditation & Wellness, Photography

What travelers are saying

"I highly recommend Across South America for a memorable experience that is personalized for YOU."

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River Soul Journeys
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5/5 Excellent
81 reviews
Small Group Tour
Why we love them
They’ve been recognized by major travel publications for their pioneering adventure travel expertise that spans back to their founding in 1979.
Lodging level
Standard - 3 star
Physical level
Easy
Trip pace
Flexible schedule

Visits

Idaho, Lewiston

Highlights

  • Discover what we have always known and we create the time and sacred space to choose to take action in our lives in new and exciting ways
  • Serene riverside campsites will offer an incredible backdrop to enjoy morning yoga practice lead by a yoga therapist and teacher
  • Explore several of idaho's rivers and will include many exciting rapids
  • Enjoy ride in an oar-powered raft where a guide does all the work

Themes

Hiking & Walking, National Parks, Nature & Wildlife, Rafting, Kayaking, Canoeing, Relaxing Retreats, Transformative, Yoga, Meditation & Wellness

What travelers are saying

"I have travelled with ROW numerous times, including four trips on the Rogue River. Every trip has been wonderful and every person associated with ROW has been nice, knowledgeable, professional and fun. The Rogue is a great river and the trip is an excellent one for two people or a large group—and I have done both. I’ve taken both of my kids, one time each, and have organized groups of colleagues twice; most recently in 2019 when 14 of us gathered. The guides at ROW are great and help to make the trip very enjoyable. The scenery, lodging and the wonderful outdoors including warm air and refreshing water, make for a wonderful escape from the everyday routine. The fact that this trip offers beds and indoor plumbing is a nice benefit and allows those who have an aversion to camping a chance to see the wilderness. I have recommended ROW and the Rogue trip more times than I can count and my group has already reserved our trip for 2021. What are you waiting for?"

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Finding Your Bliss in the Land of Enchantment for Women
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4.4/5 Great
100+ reviews
Group Tour
Lodging level
Standard - 3 star
Physical level
Moderate
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Visits

Santa Fe

Highlights

  • Visit the Santa Fe Mountain Cloud Zen Center and enjoy a private painting class
  • Journey by coach to Ojo Caliente and marvel at incredibly colorful landscapes
  • Enjoy creative cuisine at unique restaurants

Themes

50 plus, Culinary & Wine, Cultural, Education / Learning, Hiking & Walking, Women Only, Yoga, Meditation & Wellness

What travelers are saying

"Our family of four, including two adult children, took the Bicycling: Day Trips to Paradise in Canada. This trip is entirely outsourced to the owners of the inn, there are no Road Scholar employees involved in the trip. Two of us have taken bicycle trips all over the world and the bicycling component of this trip was disorganized, haphazard and almost unsafe. We all filled out forms giving details regarding our bicycle fitting months before the trip. On the first day, the leader Stephen, went around the room and asked the same questions and said everyone would get fitted in the morning before we began the first ride. The morning brought a rack of bikes, all different types in various levels of readiness. There were road bikes, hybrid bikes, mountain bikes and e-bikes. The rides were all on paved surfaces and the mountain bikes were heavy and the additional suspension added weight. The bike I received had rust on the chain and rear sprocket. When I asked about it, was told they were waiting for another van to show up with tools and equipment. Once it arrived, they gave me the lubricant to spray on the rust. My wife’s bike would not shift into the high gear on the front sprocket. Instead of adjusting the derailleur, they suggested spraying it with lubricant. Our one son is over six feet and needed a larger frame bike, even though he detailed it in the bike form months ago, there was no bike to fit him. One of the guides, then went home and brought a larger bike that was a full suspension mountain bike for him. The bike was very heavy, hard to control on the road and he felt unsafe. After two days, one of the guides convinced Stephen that they could adjust a hybrid bike to fit him. Clearly there was no work done to prepare the bikes for the trip. Many of the bikes needed adjusting and all needed lubricant to function easily. For every day, there was a tray of snacks placed out for us to take along the ride. None of the bikes had any baskets or attached bags, so if you didn’t bring a small day pack, there was no way to carry the snacks. For lunch on the rides, they brought exactly one sandwich for each rider. Since most of us get hungry while doing a day of exercise, it would have been helpful to have a few extras. On one day, they ran out of sandwiches and one of the leaders that were riding with us did not get lunch. Do NOT take this trip if you are expecting it to be a bicycling trip. We have used VBT and Discovery Bicycle Tours many times over the past 25 years and they are excellent bike tour companies. Lastly, after sharing these details with Road Scholar after the trip, their response was weak at best. After doing the full reviews and having to call them, their response was to give us $200 credit after spending $8000 on this trip. Not only was that insulting, they assumed that I would take another trip with their organization."

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Signature Cities Vancouver & Victoria
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4.4/5 Great
100+ reviews
Small Group Tour
Lodging level
Standard - 3 star
Physical level
Moderate

Visits

Vancouver

Highlights

  • I like to spend much of the day exploring
  • Whether walking through historic neighborhoods at a moderate pace or out and about on a coach, I prefer to keep my days full
  • Stairs don’t bother me, and I love to keep up with the group

Themes

Culinary & Wine, High Adventure, Hiking & Walking, National Parks, Nature & Wildlife, Relaxing Retreats, Train & Rail Journeys, Yoga, Meditation & Wellness, Photography, Holy Land

What travelers are saying

"Our family of four, including two adult children, took the Bicycling: Day Trips to Paradise in Canada. This trip is entirely outsourced to the owners of the inn, there are no Road Scholar employees involved in the trip. Two of us have taken bicycle trips all over the world and the bicycling component of this trip was disorganized, haphazard and almost unsafe. We all filled out forms giving details regarding our bicycle fitting months before the trip. On the first day, the leader Stephen, went around the room and asked the same questions and said everyone would get fitted in the morning before we began the first ride. The morning brought a rack of bikes, all different types in various levels of readiness. There were road bikes, hybrid bikes, mountain bikes and e-bikes. The rides were all on paved surfaces and the mountain bikes were heavy and the additional suspension added weight. The bike I received had rust on the chain and rear sprocket. When I asked about it, was told they were waiting for another van to show up with tools and equipment. Once it arrived, they gave me the lubricant to spray on the rust. My wife’s bike would not shift into the high gear on the front sprocket. Instead of adjusting the derailleur, they suggested spraying it with lubricant. Our one son is over six feet and needed a larger frame bike, even though he detailed it in the bike form months ago, there was no bike to fit him. One of the guides, then went home and brought a larger bike that was a full suspension mountain bike for him. The bike was very heavy, hard to control on the road and he felt unsafe. After two days, one of the guides convinced Stephen that they could adjust a hybrid bike to fit him. Clearly there was no work done to prepare the bikes for the trip. Many of the bikes needed adjusting and all needed lubricant to function easily. For every day, there was a tray of snacks placed out for us to take along the ride. None of the bikes had any baskets or attached bags, so if you didn’t bring a small day pack, there was no way to carry the snacks. For lunch on the rides, they brought exactly one sandwich for each rider. Since most of us get hungry while doing a day of exercise, it would have been helpful to have a few extras. On one day, they ran out of sandwiches and one of the leaders that were riding with us did not get lunch. Do NOT take this trip if you are expecting it to be a bicycling trip. We have used VBT and Discovery Bicycle Tours many times over the past 25 years and they are excellent bike tour companies. Lastly, after sharing these details with Road Scholar after the trip, their response was weak at best. After doing the full reviews and having to call them, their response was to give us $200 credit after spending $8000 on this trip. Not only was that insulting, they assumed that I would take another trip with their organization."

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Sri Lanka Untouched Wildlife
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5/5 Excellent
20 reviews
Small Group Tour
Lodging level
Premium - 4 star
Physical level
Wheelchair Accessible
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Visits

Dambulla, Hikkaduwa, Kandy, Minneriya National Park, Mirissa, Negombo, Nuwara Eliya, Sigiriya, Yala National Park

Highlights

  • Go whale and Dolphin Watching off the Coast of Mirissa
  • Take a Scenic Train Ride from Nuwara Eliya to Ella
  • Track leopard in the Yala National Park
  • Witness the Sixth Greatest Wildlife Spectacle in the World

Themes

Birding, Climbing & Mountaineering, Cultural, Cycling & Biking, Education / Learning, Family Friendly, High Adventure, Hiking & Walking, Nature & Wildlife, Rafting, Kayaking, Canoeing, Relaxing Retreats, Safari, Trekking & Expeditions, Yoga, Meditation & Wellness, Photography, Festivals & Special Events

What travelers are saying

"We were really happy with all the arrangements that were made. Skyhaven Tours were planned out beautifully, and Lahiru, our tour planner, did a fantastic job with this itinerary. This was a relatively last-minute trip, and it all came together nicely. I would highly recommend this tour company."

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Sri Lanka Adventure Escape
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5/5 Excellent
20 reviews
Small Group Tour
Lodging level
Premium - 4 star
Physical level
Moderate
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Visits

Dambulla, Ella, Hikkaduwa, Kandy, Mirissa, Negombo, Nuwara Eliya, Sigiriya, Yala National Park

Highlights

  • See the World Heritage Rock Fortress at Sigiriya
  • Climb Adam's Peak
  • Discover the fascinating Caves Temple at Dambulla
  • Experience the one of the most scenic train journeys in the world

Themes

Birding, Climbing & Mountaineering, Cultural, Education / Learning, Hiking & Walking, Nature & Wildlife, Rafting, Kayaking, Canoeing, Relaxing Retreats, Safari, Trekking & Expeditions, Yoga, Meditation & Wellness, Photography, Scuba Diving, Festivals & Special Events

What travelers are saying

"We were really happy with all the arrangements that were made. Skyhaven Tours were planned out beautifully, and Lahiru, our tour planner, did a fantastic job with this itinerary. This was a relatively last-minute trip, and it all came together nicely. I would highly recommend this tour company."

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Highlights of Albania
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4.6/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Small Group Tour
Why we love them
They explore a place beyond the typical tourist traps and offer exciting activities that bring the “wow factor” intrepid travelers want.
Lodging level
Premium - 4 star
Physical level
Strenuous
Trip pace
Full schedule

Visits

Berat, Elba, Gjirokaster, Kruja, Tirana

Highlights

  • Travel through Albania while discovering its fascinating history and culture
  • Discover Butrint, one of the greatest archaeological sites in the Balkans
  • Stroll along UNESCO-Listed towns and visit hilltop castles

Themes

Cultural, Hiking & Walking

What travelers are saying

"Good accomodation and an excellent guide. Sagres has lots of nice restaurants and 3 beaches."

Trip dates & details
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New Zealand: The South Island
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4.6/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Group Tour
Why we love them
Their unique emphasis on immersive cultural experiences combined with active exploration with personalized cycling experiences.
Lodging level
Premium - 4 star
Physical level
Strenuous
Trip pace
Full schedule

Visits

Auckland, Christchurch, Queenstown

Highlights

  • Prepare to be dazzled by the staggering beauty of the South Island’s glittering lakes, lush forests, fertile farmlands, and alpine peaks.
  • Hike up a valley carved by the retreating ice of Franz Josef Glacier.
  • Spend a day at a wilderness resort, enjoying kayaking, canoeing, hiking—and perhaps strolling to a colony of glowworms.
  • Experience life on a working ranch and savor a home-cooked meal during a visit to a sheep and cattle station.
  • Sample local vintages during a wine tasting at a local estate.

Themes

Culinary & Wine, Cultural, Cycling & Biking, Hiking & Walking, Nature & Wildlife, Rafting, Kayaking, Canoeing

What travelers are saying

"This trip is unbelievably fantastic. Two of the best rides of my life, were on this tour. The guides were very good and this was just the start, when we met them, at the hotel in Cortina. Cortina was the site of the 1956 Olympics, and is a small pretty village. Nothing was open the two nights we were there, so probably bad timing. Hotel was a typical ski village hotel, good Italian/German food, and very comfortable. Second day of biking was up an old railroad spur that is now a ski trail about 15-20 K up to a mountain pass called Cimabanche Pass, which is beautiful. We rode up in a snow storm, then rain, then finally clear skies. This was the number two best ride of my life. Starting out from the hotel in Cortina, up the old spur, through single track bike trails, past babbling brooks, up to this fabulous mountain pass. This is now where the fun starts. Mostly downhill on paved roads very little traffic, at good speeds, through the most spectacular valleys you would ever see on a bike ride. Breathtaking. It had to end back at the hotel for a big dinner. The best ride of my life was the last biking day out of Merano. We were bused up 1500 K, about 85-90 miles to Lake Resia, high up in the Dolomites, then rode around the lake, down, back to Merano. High mountain peaks, many valleys,small towns, many grape growing farms, scenery, the best, and cool brisk weather. This was truly a great bike tour, one I will never forget. The trip is rated easy, but maybe easy/moderate is closer. The Hotel in Merano is excellent, middle of old town, modern, has a thermal bath, rooms were very good. The town of Merano is a must see if in the area, small, beneath the high mountains of the Dolomites, good restaurants, lots of tourists."

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Glaciers, Falls & Tango
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By Say Hueque
preferred
5/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Self-Guided / Independent Tour
Why we love them
They have extensive knowledge of Argentina and the surrounding region and their specialists have visited the destinations they send travelers to.
Lodging level
Standard - 3 star
Physical level
Easy
Trip pace
Full schedule

Visits

Buenos Aires, El Calafate, Iguazu Falls, Patagonia

Highlights

  • Tour both sides of Iguazú Falls’ majestic waterfalls and wander the national park split between Argentina and Brazil.
  • Walk alongside Patagonia’s Perito Moreno Glacier, one of Argentina’s cultural staples,in cosmopolitan Buenos Aires.
  • Best time to travel: From October to April

Themes

Cultural, Hiking & Walking

What travelers are saying

"Just wanted to take this opportunity to thank you and your team for a fantastic holiday in Argentina! We loved the country and the people. The highlights for us was Iguazu Falls, the wine tour & the little hotel in Mendoza and the Glacier trekking. The Glacier was amazing!!! All flights were on time and your guides were always there to meet and great. Please pass on a special thank you to Carla who looked after us in BA and kept in touch all through our travels. Thanks again to Lujan, who did a fantastic job putting it all together and we will recommend you and your company to all our friends & family."

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Tour du Mont Blanc Hotel Trek
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4.8/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Small Group Tour
Why we love them
With a huge range of trip styles and themes, they cater to basically every type of traveler out there- even those with super specific interests.
Lodging level
Standard - 3 star
Physical level
Moderate
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Visits

Chamonix

Highlights

  • Stay in a variety of small, friendly hotels and pensions
  • Walk in the shadow of Mont Blanc, the highest mountain in western Europe
  • Enjoy the spectacular scenery of this world-famous route
  • Three rest days to explore the alpine towns of Courmayeur, Les Contamines and Chamonix.
  • No camping

Themes

Cultural, Hiking & Walking

What travelers are saying

"Discover Costa Rica is a great itinerary, covering varied habitats around the country and staying 2 nights each at 6 centres. Their birdwatching specials are led by local experts who really know their stuff."

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Generous cancellation

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Greece Panorama Adventure
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By Greece Insiders
Local Expert
Verified by Travelstride as locally operated and in the top of their field for customer reviews, local knowledge, and safety.
5/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Private Guided
Why we love them
Designing original, innovative, and out-of-the-box travel itineraries and incredible personalized service.
Lodging level
Standard - 3 star
Physical level
Easy
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Visits

Acropolis, Akrotiri, Archaeological Museum of Athens, Athens, Epidaurus, Heraklion, Meteora , Mycenae, Olympia, Santorini, Thessaloniki

Highlights

  • Cook and have lunch with a local family in the Peloponnese
  • Visit the most important archeological sites of Greece
  • Experience a speed-boat Private Tour at the sandy beaches of Crete
  • Hike the Caldera of Santorini
  • End your trip with a cruise witnessing the most famous sunset of Greece

Themes

Culinary & Wine, Cultural, Education / Learning, Family Friendly, Hiking & Walking, Photography, Scuba Diving

What travelers are saying

"Normally, I don't feel like writing reviews, but I felt compelled to do it for Athens Insiders. I made the decision to travel to Athens in the summer of 2012 in order to avoid the commotion that was predicted to result from the Queen's jubilee. As usual, my work kept me busy right up to the last minute, so I ran out of time to do anything fun for my week-long trip. I learned about this young group of tour guides for Athens and its vicinity from a friend. I had a wonderful experience. I got in touch with Daphne, who gave me email recommendations for Athens attractions to see, inquired about my preferences for local cuisine, and then devised an itinerary for my trip. In addition to visiting the typical suspects in Athens (Acropolis, etc.), I also chose to travel to Delhi and spend a night at a campground there. And I had a great time, honestly. We visited the attractions when there were few visitors and spent the busiest times outside of Athens rather than being herded around like cattle. I was taken to incredible tiny eateries (the well-known tavernas), marketplaces, and other regional shops."

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13 trips exactly matchall of the the filters you selected. We are displaying some similar trips.
My selections:
Yoga, Meditation & Wellness

Hiking & Walking Reviews & Ratings

4.7/5  Excellent
11,444  Reviews
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Excellent
4,036
Great
953
Average
143
Disappointing
28
Terrible
16
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John Lamb

Apr 2024

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Highlights of Albania

Teddy is a knowledgable, professional and gracious leader. He is a joy to listen to and follow.

M

Margaret

Apr 2024

Written on

Highlights of Albania

Lovely country made welcome everywhere we went . Brilliant tour guide and good...

E

Elizabeth

Apr 2024

Written on

Highlights of Albania

The scenery is beautiful with all the mountains and trees. Lots of interesting old buildings and ruins. I especially enjoyed meeting a local family where we were giv...

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Hiking & Walking Tour Selection Trips

  • Make sure to bring your camera to photograph the diverse wildlife and beautiful scenery you'll see.
  • Check out 50+ tours to be in a group to explore the tours, but at a slower, leisurely pace.
  • Break in your hiking shoes you will be wearing for the trip well beforehand to prevent blisters.
  • Hiking tours vary in the fitness level required and there is a wide variety available to find what's right for you. However, it's always a good idea to start getting in shape beforehand by going on some local hikes or the gym to get your endurance up for your trip.
  • Apply sunscreen before your hike and reapply throughout. You have a better chance of being burnt the higher you go.
  • Research the weather in the area for the time of year you're going. Would you be okay doing the trip if it rains often?
  • Dress in layers, as the weather may change the higher up you go. Even in warmer climates, layers, especially fabrics that breathe well, help with sun exposure.
  • Bring a supportive backpack to carry your gear. Test the backpack out before to make sure it sits comfortably on your shoulders and back and doesn't rub.
  • Stock up on water and snacks to keep you fueled.
  • Check out the activity level and miles covered per day before picking a trip to make sure you will physically be able to handle it.
  • Be flexible. The weather cannot be predicted and your plans for the day may change.
  • Always a good idea to have a small personal first aid pack, though your tour guide will usually be well equipped. You never know if you'll need it for a fall or some other ailment.

Additional details

Best Time of Year to Plan a Hiking Tour

The best time of year to plan a hiking or walking tour depends greatly on the region, weather, and your preference. The tour companies on Stride offer  hiking and walking tours year-round, with many that specialize in winter hiking excursions. For instance, many national parks in the U.S. offer classic winter hiking routes, including The Grand Canyon, Joshua Tree, Yosemite National Park, and Yellowstone National Park, where you can snowshoe through a winter wonderland during the colder seasons.

In Morocco, you can experience the invigorating Mt Toubkal Winter Climb. You can also enjoy a Canadian Rockies Winter Adventure with action-packed outdoor itineraries guaranteed to impress. Don’t forget the enchanting winters in Scandinavia! If you’re lucky you will get a glimpse of the wondrous Northern Lights on your hiking trip.

Hiking and walking tours might be most common in the summer months, but those in areas that have hotter summers are perfect destinations for fall and spring travel (and will be less crowded in the off season). Again, the national parks and canyons in the U.S. are popular locations, especially Bryce Canyon and Zion National Park. Iceland is another top destination for fall and winter hikes.

Top hiking locations in Asia during the fall and spring seasons include Bhutan, China, Japan, and Indonesia. South and Central America also have frequented hiking and walking tours during these seasons to help stay cool from the summer heat! Costa Rica, Peru, Ecuador, and Nicaragua are among the most popular destinations.

If you are looking for hiking and walking tours during summer travel, there will be an abundance of options listed on Stride. Most locations that offer hiking during other parts of the year, also offer hiking tours during the summer season. Just make sure to prepare with adequate breathable clothing, sunblock gear, and plenty of water, especially in locations that are traditionally very hot in the summer.

Hiking tour packing list suggestions

What to pack for a hiking trip can depend on the time of year you are traveling, but overall, your packing list will look quite similar regardless of season. Some important must-pack items are as follows:

1. Hiking backpack - This is an important item to have to carry things you may need along your hiking tours (water bottles, sunscreen, layers, etc.). You could also have it double as a carry on depending on the length of your trip! 

TIP: Be sure to break in your backpack well before the trip. Don’t buy a shiny new one and leave the next day. The material will chafe and get uncomfortable very quickly. Give your pack and your back and shoulders plenty of time to get used to one another first!

2. Weather-appropriate clothing - Jacket, hat, gloves, rain shell, and thermal underwear. Depending on the season, your clothing items may vary. Jackets and layers are always recommended, however. It can still get quite cold during the dawn or dusk times in regions where hiking is popular, especially in the desert and national parks!

3. Sturdy Hiking boots or shoes - Depending on the physical level and terrain of your hiking or walking trip, you may need hiking boots and even poles or other hiking gear. Always check with your tour guide and/or company prior to any hiking trips to confirm what type of equipment might be needed. And similarly with the backpack: always break in your shoes! This will avoid blisters and rubbing - your feet will thank you.

4. Plenty of food - Always carry snacks! (You backpack will come in handy for this). Depending on the length of your hiking tour, you may need more or less sustenance.

5. Plenty of water - This is very important! Always pack ample drinking water on hiking and walking tours (better to have too much than too little). The general rule for adults is 2 cups (about 1/2 liter) of water for every 1 hour of hiking.

6. Sun Protection - Sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat. Even if the sun is not out, there is still a chance of sun exposure and sunburn, so keep yourself safe and comfortable by protecting your skin on hikes!

7. Illumination - Flashlight, lanterns, and headlamp. Depending on the region and time of year, lights might be helpful to bring on your hiking tour. Check with your tour guide and company to see what they recommend.

8. Navigation - Map, compass, and GPS system. Although most tour guides will be equipped with these items, it is always a safe idea to have them for your own personal use as well. If you ever partake in a self-guided hiking tour, these will definitely come in handy to ensure a safe and fun hiking trip.

9. First-aid kit - In case of any injury that might occur on the hiking trail, it is always smart and safe to have a first-aid kit on hand. Again, tour guides most often have these tools, so check with them to confirm prior to your walking or hiking tour.

What are the fitness expectations for hiking tours?

One of the significant benefits of choosing a hiking or walking tour on Stride is that you can find an option for any physical level, whether you are an avid and advanced hiker, or you prefer more casual, leisurely walking tours. Hiking and walking tours range from very easy to extreme on Stride. The majority of hiking tours listed (1,000+) are moderate.

Easy hikes consist of low elevation, low intensity, and shorter distances. Extreme hikes typically consist of higher incline, longer durations, and more vigorous routes and terrain. If you are interested in hiking and walking as only part of your holiday, you can find both easy and difficult physical level options that are paired with other excursions, however, it is the more extreme physical levels that are primarily focused on hiking and trekking alone.

See all Easy Hiking Tours »

See all Moderate Hiking Tours »

See all Strenuous Hiking Tours »

See all Extreme Hiking Tours »

Hiking vs. Trekking: What’s the difference?

When distinguishing between hiking and trekking, the biggest difference between the two terms is the intent and rigor. Hiking can range from easy to strenuous, but the primary intent is leisure, most prominently on man-made and marked trails.

Trekking, on the other hand, is seen as more intense, off-the-beaten-path type of hiking. Here trails are often less frequented, routes are more challenging, and travelers are more experienced, pushing their physical and mental capacity along with their endurance.

Trekking tours are more often focused primarily on the routes, many being paired with camping and multiple-day hikes and excursions. Make sure to clarify with your tour guide and company whether your trip is a trekking or hiking tour, to make sure you are adequately prepared!

Safety on Walking Tours

If you choose to embark on a hiking or walking trip, no matter what part of the world, we highly recommend a guided tour. Going on a hiking tour is one of the best ways to get up close and personal with a country and its natural sights. It also helps with safety. Walking tours often take travelers into isolated places where it may be hard to find help, and easier to get lost. By going on a guided hiking tour, it is guaranteed that you will be with an expert who knows the area well, and you will never be alone in case of an emergency. 

Preparation is also a big part of being safe on a hiking tour. If you are planning on visiting Nepal, for example, you should prepare with the right kinds of clothing, be realistic about the kind of endurance that may be required, and read up on the possibility of altitude sickness. 

Hiking Tours in South America

Most hiking and walking tours in South America emphasize its unique natural scenery. Patagonia, the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, and the Amazon rainforest are the most popular destinations offered.

Patagonia

Patagonia is a region comprised of Argentina and Chile. It is known for its beautiful natural scenery in the form of mountain ranges, glaciers, lakes and forests. In Argentina, Patagonia hiking tours note that Tierra del Fuego National Park and Los Glaciares National Park are a top attraction. While in Chile, most tours make sure to include Torres del Paine National Park. Most hiking tours through Patagonia involve lots of camping, exercise, and other outdoor excursions.

Peru & The Inca Trail

The Inca Trail is the trail taken in order to reach numerous ancient, archaeological sites in Peru. The most popular of which is Machu Picchu. The trail itself displays a beautiful array of natural scenery from cloud forests to mountain ranges. The journey to the top, although challenging, is proven to be well worth it with its stunning views of ancient ruins surrounded by lush greenery.

Because of its growing popularity among travelers worldwide, planning ahead is a must. The Peruvian government limits the amount of travelers on the trail each day, so make sure you book a tour to Machu Picchu far in advance.

The Amazon

Hiking tours of the Amazon Rainforest are most common in Brazil, which houses about 60% of this jungle. The Amazon is the largest and most biologically diverse tropical rainforest in the world. Because of its sheer size, taking a guided tour is always highly recommended. Guided tours provide insightful knowledge about this truly unique jungle and its inhabitants. They are also very aware of the terrain and always make sure to take the proper safety precautions.

Always Find the Best

On Travelstride you can find 2372 trips to Hiking & Walking and more than 20,000 trips worldwide ranging from budget to luxury and private guided to group tours and everything in between. Only on Stride can you find and compare expert-planned trips from 1,000+ tour operators, cruise lines and local experts. Read traveler and professional reviews so you can confidently find your perfect trip.

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