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Hiking & Trekking Tours & Trips in USA

From the granite cliffs of Yosemite to the twists and turns of the Grand Canyon, the United States is home to some of the most coveted trails in the world. Explore the icy slopes of Alaska or the volcanic peaks of Hawaii , the world is your oyster on a hiking adventure in the Land of the Free.

250+ Hiking & Trekking tour packages in USA with 3,610 reviews

• Hiking & Trekking

Hiking Utah's Mighty 5

Loved this trip, got to meet some awesome people and even got to do some hikes that weren't on the itinerary but were on my bucket list. All in all I couldn't of asked for a better trip

Hiking Sequoia, Kings Canyon, and Yosemite

Great way to travel and meet new people! Changes were made to the itinerary due to road/trail closures but it worked out in the best way. CEO adapted meals for vegetarian travelers in the group. I would book with them again!

• Walking Adventure

4 day Yellowstone and Tetons in depth tour from Salt Lake City Small Groups Tour

Yellowstone and Grand Teton 3 day tour - great trip and wonderful memories. We had a great guide (Haley Thomason). The trip was well organized and we got to see a good part of Yellowstone and Grand Teton.

• 5% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Hiking and Camping in Rocky Mountain National Park

Hiking and Camping in Yellowstone

• Christmas & New Year

USA – 8 Days Arches Canyonlands Antelope Zion Bryce Grand Canyon

National Parks Walk

Best of Lassen Volcanic Basecamp

Great experience. This may have been our guide's (Sassy) first official trip, but she did a great job. We all got along very well and Sassy handled some adversity with aplomb. Parts of the park at Lassen were inaccessible, but we managed to do and see a lot. One of our guests tested positive for Covid but we found creative and safe ways to make it all work. Meals were very good. I have booked another trip with Wildland.

• Mountain Hikes

Yellowstone Base Camp Tour

The Yellowstone Base Camp tour was excellent. We covered a wide variety of Yellowstone sites from the popular attractions to beautiful but less frequented locations. Our guides, Chris Rapich and Ed Cochran, were great. They provided a lot of information about the park and wildlife, made great meals and did everything they could to make this a memorable experience. I'd travel with them anytime.

7 Day Southwest National Parks Grand Canyon Camping Tour

This has been one of the best travel of our life. The landscapes are all breathtaking and all the activities are extraordinary. The only negative point is that this is a lot to do in 7 days and we would have like to spend more time in each national park.

USA – 5 Days Blue Ridge Parkway to Great Smoky Mountains

Rocky Mountain Immersion: Explore Yellowstone, Grand Teton, and Rocky Mountain National Parks

5 Utah National Parks in 5 Days Lodging Tour

Pacific Northwest: Whale Watching, Ecological Restoration, and Hiking in Washington's Cascade Mountains

If you have never seen the PNW before, do it with GIVE! This is such a meaningful trip right in GIVE's backyard. You will get to experience how beautiful Washington is while giving back to the environment and learning how to acknowledge\respect ancestral lands.

Classic Walks in Vermont

What people love about hiking & trekking tours in usa.

the best way to explore the vastness and glory of the Utah desert is by camping and hiking in small groups. I enjoyed this trip immensely, it was challenging enough but not too much. Our guide was a brave and resourceful powerful woman. I am planning my next trip with you already!

It was a great trip! GREAT leader!

Hiking & Trekking Tours

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Regions in USA

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US Walking & Hiking Tours

Backroads offers some of the best hiking vacations in the US, from towering awesome canyons in Arizona to crystalline waterfalls in Yosemite . Backroads is the leader in active travel. We’ve been running US hiking trips for decades. Our support style, route planning, hotels and cuisine are unmatched. Join us on a walking and hiking tour to discover the magic of active travel. Whether you like to hike a little or a lot, we’ve got an array of options. A spot on the trail is waiting just for you!

Alaska's Glaciers & Fjords Multi-Adventure Tour

NEW Couples, Friends & Solos

NEW Families with 20s & Beyond

Alaska's Kenai Easygoing Walking Tour

Couples, Friends & Solos

Alaska's Kenai Multi-Adventure Tour

Families with Teens & Kids

Families with Older Teens & 20s

Families with 20s & Beyond

Alaska's Kenai Walking & Hiking Tour

Arizona's Saguaro & Tucson Multi-Adventure Tour - 4-Day Getaway

Bend Oregon Multi-Adventure Tour

Crater Lake, Smith Rock & the Deschutes River

Black Hills & Badlands National Park Multi-Adventure Tour

Blue Ridge & Great Smoky Mountains Walking & Hiking Tour

NEW Women's Adventures

Bryce & Capitol Reef National Parks Walking & Hiking Tour

Bryce & Grand Canyon Multi-Adventure Tour

NEW Families with Teens & Kids

NEW Families with Older Teens & 20s

California's Palm Springs & Joshua Tree Multi-Adventure Tour

California's palm springs & joshua tree walking & hiking tour - 4-day getaway.

California's Yosemite Easygoing Walking Tour

California's Yosemite Multi-Adventure Tour

National Park's Giant Sequoias & Iconic Half Dome

California's Yosemite Valley Walking & Hiking Tour

California's Yosemite Walking & Hiking Tour

Charleston & Savannah Multi-Adventure Tour

Glacier & Waterton Lakes Multi-Adventure Tour

Glacier & Waterton Lakes Walking & Hiking Tour

Great Smoky Mountains Multi-Adventure Tour

National Park Adventures in Tennessee

Hawaii's Big Island Multi-Adventure Tour

Maine Multi-Adventure Tour

Maine Walking & Hiking Tour

Napa Valley & Sonoma Easygoing Walking Tour

Discover your next adventure.

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Guided Hiking Trips in USA & Canada

A guided walking trips in the USA or Canada is ideal for travelers who prefer the camaraderie of like-minded walkers from around the world and appreciate the local knowledge shared by expert local guides.

Your walking guide is with you from the time your guided walking trip commences until it concludes. Your guide will work tirelessly to tailor the trip to your interests while also ensuring your guided walking trip runs smoothly for the whole group. Their passion for their country, or the region you are walking through, helps bring to life the flora, fauna and history of their homelands.

On a guided walking tour you’ll share memories and laughs with travelers around the world who also appreciate the benefits of exploring the world on foot.

Discover the USA or Canada in an active way on our guided walking trips.

Trip Finder

Any destination, any activity, any travel style, any duration, any grading, advanced search, find your guided hikes trip.

Grand Canyon, Yellowstone and Rocky Mountain Trails

Activities:, introductory.

Great Alaska Adventure

Exploring National Parks of Western USA

Adventure touring.

Deserts and Canyons of the Southwest

Introductory to moderate.

Best of the West - San Francisco to Las Vegas

Hut to Hut in Wildflower Heaven

More about guided hikes.

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Grading Information

Popular guided hiking destinations.

British Columbia

Newfoundland

Guided hikes highlights.

Gros Morne National Park

John Muir Trail

Hike the Chilkoot Trail

Utah's National Parks

Yellowstone National Park

Unrivalled experience.

North America Active is a division of the World Expeditions Travel Group, who has been operating authentic and unique active and adventure holidays with a genuine focus on the paths less travelled since 1975.

We are the pioneers in designing groundbreaking itineraries across the globe, and many say our trips start where most others end.

As the leaders in responsible travel, we offer big adventures with a small environmental footprint.

While safety is core to how we operate, we’re also focused on the fun factor and suitably challenging you to feel that great sensation of personal achievement while enjoying the camaraderie of like minded travelers.

Quality Inclusions

Expect first-class and flexible support both on and off the trail. We've sourced the highest quality equipment and most authentic accommodations so you can enjoy a stress free guided walking trip in your chosen pocket of the US or Canada

North America Active is committed to responsible travel and true sustainability. It was a commitment formed when our parent company, World Expeditions, was established in 1975, and today, in the face of a multitude of threats to global environments and cultures, our commitment is stronger than ever. Over several decades we have honed our responsible travel philosophy and are continually assessing and improving initiatives that are practiced in the field to ensure that we are mitigating our impact to the smallest possible footprint. By joining a hiking or cycling tour, you too are making a concerted effort to minimize your impact when you travel. Learn more about our Thoughtful Travel policies and practices .

Frequently Asked Questions

what should i expect on a guided trip.

When you choose one of our guided trips, you’ll enjoy the company of an expert guide and a small group of like-minded travelling companions from around the world. The group size ranges from 4 to 12 participants depending on your chosen trip. Travelling in the safety and camaraderie of a small group is a great way to explore the North American wilderness. To sweeten the experience, our guides will do most of the camp set up/take down and all of the cooking for you. In fact, we’ve made arrangements on our backpacking trips to include food drops and/or additional support, allowing you to enjoy the stunning surroundings without the burden of carrying a lot of heavy camp equipment and group food.

? How fit do I have to be?

Fitness is an important aspect of our trips, with each itinerary carefully-graded for ease of selecting the trip that best suits you. Detailed information, including suggested pre-trip training, can be found in the trip notes and pre-departure information. We recommend that you familiarise yourself with the physical requirements of your trip and speak to our staff if you have any questions. View our trip grading system for more detail as to how we grade the activity levels on our adventures and the suggested physical preparation.

? Can I organise my own private trip?

If the specified departure dates are not suitable, or if you would like to vary the itinerary, we would be happy to develop a program to suit your travel interests. We regularly organise tailor-made holidays for families, groups of friends, schools and charities.

? What is included in my trip?

It is our aim to ensure that we incorporate as many inclusions as possible in your trip to minimise any out of pocket expenses while you are away. It is important that you refer to our trips notes for the exact inclusions. On most trips, all meals and arrangements are included from the start of the trip right through until the end.

? What is the camping like on camping based trips?

To capture the essence of your journey we have, wherever possible, selected campsites where we can enjoy the wilderness away from busy public campsites. Provincial and National Parks in Canada come with plenty of regulations in order to protect our precious ecosystems. All tents are provided on a twin share basis and solo group members will be matched up with same-sex tentmates, keeping our environmental footprint small and also reducing individual pack weight. If space is not an issue at campsites, we may be able to provide single tents for those who prefer not to share.

? What about the food?

Our trips generally include daily breakfast and many may also include lunch or dinner - please refer to the specific inclusions on the trip page of your chosen itinerary or download our detailed trip notes. We introduce you to restaurants that feature local flavours and traditional specialties unique to the region. Food is an integral part of any active travel experience - the many culinary delights are yours to savour. Where possible, we are able to cater to most dietary requirements, provided you let us know in advance.

? Are tips included in my trip price?

No, tips and gratuities are not included in the trip cost, unless listed under the trip-specific inclusions. Tipping is customary in the USA and Canada but is a completely personal thing. Guidelines are provided in our pre-departure information upon booking.

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• Trip Grading
• Suggested Training

Discovery & Cruising

These are our least demanding trips. These journeys of discovery and cruises involve little or no extended activity and are suitable for people with a basic level of fitness and good health. The itinerary may take place in remote areas (with basic facilities) and may involve long travel days on various types of transport. Sightseeing may be conducted on foot and all participants should be capable of carrying their own luggage from vehicle to hotel rooms. These adventures rarely involve camping.

These adventure tours may visit remote areas where facilities are often basic. Some of these trips involve camping or basic lodging. These adventure tours will sometimes involve long journeys and rough roads. Sightseeing and optional day walks are often included and these days may involve up to 5 hours of physical activity.

These trips involve trekking or walking, cycling, or paddling for up to five or six hours a day at a slow but steady pace and should never be misinterpreted to mean they are easy trips. Hikes are mainly on well-defined trails with undulating terrain and cycling is on mostly flat surfaces.

These trips involve a combination of what is described in our Introductory and Moderate levels. The emphasis is on introductory activity with some moderate components. Hiking trips typically require carrying a daypack only, but could involve carrying a pack of up to 20 pounds (9kg), depending on personal gear.

These adventures involve trekking, cycling, or paddling for up to 6 or 7 hours a day at a steady pace. Many moderately graded hiking trips involve the carrying of a daypack only, though some may involve carrying a backpack of up to 30 pounds (14kg), depending on personal gear. Hikers should be prepared for plenty of roots, rocks, significant elevation gain, wilderness camping, and potential variable weather conditions. Cyclists should be prepared for undulating terrain and some steep hills.

Moderate to Challenging

These trips involve a combination of what is described in our Moderate and Challenging levels. The emphasis is on moderate activity with some challenging components. Hikers should be prepared for very rugged off-trail hiking, significant elevation gain, wilderness camping, and to carry a pack weighing up 45 pounds (20kg), depending on personal gear.

Challenging

These adventures involve trekking, cycling or paddling in remote areas in variable weather conditions for up to 8 to 10 hours a day (possibly more subject to weather conditions and altitude). Hikers should be prepared for very rugged off-trail hiking, significant elevation gain, wilderness camping, and to carry a pack weighing up to 45 pounds (20kg), depending on personal gear.

These journeys of discovery and cruises are suitable for people with a basic level of fitness and good health.

Suggested preparation: Once or twice a week, we recommend you walk on undulating terrain for an hour, for at least 2-3 months prior to departure.

To enjoy these adventures, we suggest you are reasonably fit, healthy, have a moderately active lifestyle and have a positive attitude.

Suggested preparation: Two or three times a week, we recommend you walk on undulating terrain for an hour or more, for at least 3 months prior to departure.

Our introductory trips are not ‘easy’ trips and you will need a reasonable level of fitness and good health.

Suggested preparation: 30 minutes of aerobic exercise (either cycling or jogging) three times a week for 3 months leading up to your trip.

On these adventures you will need a good level of fitness and be in good health.

Suggested preparation: We recommend 45 minutes of aerobic exercise three times a week from a minimum of 3 months leading up to your trip. This can include swimming, jogging, hard walking or cycling. For hiking trips, hill or stair walking with a 15lb daypack is highly recommended at least once per week.

These adventures require a good level of fitness and be in good health.

Suggested preparation: 1 hour of aerobic exercise, three to four times a week and extended periods of exercise during the weekend. This can include swimming, jogging, hard walking or cycling. For hiking trips, hill or stair walking with a full day pack is strongly recommended at least once per week (or a 30lb pack for backpacking trips).

These trips require an excellent level of fitness and be in good health.

Suggested preparation: 1 hour of aerobic exercise, four to five times per week for three to six months leading up to departure. Hill walking with a full pack in variable weather conditions or on/off road cycling is essential.

On these adventures, you will need to be completely comfortable in adverse weather conditions, have an excellent level of fitness and be in good health.

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Walking & Hiking Tours in the United States

United states.

Reconnect with nature and gain a new perspective on one of our US hiking tours. Some of our favorite hiking destinations are here in our own backyard, with so much variety. H ike part of the world-famous  Appalachian Trail , walk the Continental Divide marveling at 12,000-foot peaks in the Rocky Mountains , or breathe in the fresh coastal air on  Monterey Bay Peninsula . 

Since 2003, Macs Adventure has been helping thousands of walkers and bikers experience the world around them. With the freedom to customize your own itinerary, and the knowledge that our team have the expertise to custom-make these tours to perfectly suit you, you can book your active vacation in the US with confidence.

United States Walking & Hiking Tours

Featured Tours - United States

Utah: Bryce and Zion

Appalachian Trail: Hiking the Berkshires

California Coast: Santa Cruz to Monterey

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Around since 2003, 21,000+ customer reviews, positive impact, follow us on social media.

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HIKING TOURS IN THE USA

While ryder-walker focuses on exploring the absolute best alpine experiences that international travel has to offer, we would be remiss not to also offer what we consider to be the best of the magical hiking in the united states, all of which happens to be in our company’s backyard in the desert southwest. whether exploring the soaring peaks of colorado or the mysterious canyons and desert vistas of arizona, utah and new mexico, you get the chance to experience some of our country’s most sublime and untouched wilderness.  .

Ryder-Walker’s guided Rocky Mountain High Life: Aspen to Telluride trek adventures high into the mountains of Colorado. 13,000 feet high! The home of Ryder-Walker’s office, these mountains have been close to our company for decades and offer hiking that rivals the best the Alps have to offer. The Colorado Rockies are a stunning mountain range with craggy peaks that rise above 14,000 feet, bohemian towns tucked into the mountains such as Crested Butte and Telluride , and high alpine lakes which are a truly brilliant blue. Our journey begins in Aspen, perhaps the most famous of Colorado destinations, as we explore beneath the brooding faces of the Maroon Bell mountains and enjoy the lively village at Aspen. From Aspen, we continue to Crested Butte, a mountain town centered around The Butte, a lone mountain that rises from the Colorado plains. To this day Crested Butte is Colorado’s best-kept secret . Finally, we journey to Telluride, the home of Ryder-Walker!

For self guided hikers that want to explore the vibrant mountains of Colorado we recommend our Telluride: The Switzerland of America hike. This route focuses on the area surrounding Telluride Colorado, unambiguously the most dramatic and wild section of the Colorado wilderness, and the home to Ryder-Walker and many of its guides. Visitors to this magnificent region will get to experience the same beauty and western charm that have kept us in the region for decades!  

Ryder-Walker’s trips through the desert southwest of America are some of our company’s in-house favorites, and explore the region where many of the guides spend their own vacation time! In both New Mexico and Utah we travel to all of our favorite locations in the desert. Whether they are hidden local haunts or world-class hiking destinations like Moab , the mystery and charm of the desert southwest are guaranteed to provide a profound experience – especially for those new to the stunning region. The southwest still hides many secrets, including ancient trails that lead to Anasazi cliff dwellings and hidden waterfall canyons

New Mexico: Santa Fe to Taos , which we also offer as a self guided hike, travels between the desert and the mountains in New Mexico. You get to enjoy the unique experience of leaving the desert trading city of Santa-Fe and wander upwards as the climate dramatically changes from rolling hills to the high mountains surrounding Taos. Santa Fe is a reason to visit New Mexico in itself, boasting world-class restaurants , art-crawls , and outdoor markets , Santa Fe truly feels like a gem of the wild west!

Sedona, Arches, & Canyonlands is our true desert trek that explores the heart of Utah’s national parks, including Arches, Canyonlands, and Bears Ears National Monument. Arches is an incredible testament to natural beauty with its twisting sandstone formations . Canyonlands include hundreds of miles of wandering canyons some of which are still only rarely explored. Finally, The Bears Ears National Monument is the United States’ youngest National Monument, which has been protected to preserve the historic remnants of the Anasazi people which are hidden deep within the ultra-remote desert that Bears Ears encompasses.   Every step in this alien landscape provides another surprise or delight. There is nowhere else on earth quite like Utah, and we strongly believe that it is important for every person to experience this truly different section of the US at least once in their life.

GUIDED TRIPS

Self-guided trips.

USA | New Mexico: Santa Fe to Taos

New Mexico and the phrase the “Land of Enchantment” are synonymous, and while the state of New Mexico is most certainly that, it is actually so much more. Stunning desert vistas, high alpine peaks of the most southern portion of the Rocky Mountains, charming adobe homes and dwellings, thriving art communities, and chilis are only the tip of the iceberg...

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Self-Guided Tour Date

The Heart of Redrock Country | Sedona, Arizona

Soaring spires painted red against a backdrop of snow- covered peaks and endless blue sky, characterize the magical desert scenery of northern Arizona. Our desert trek focuses on the quiet, off the beaten paths of Sedona, Arizona, a popular town with an established reputation for exquisite dining, inspired art galleries and a plethora of outdoor activities. For outdoor enthusiasts, the...

Rocky Mountain High Life | Aspen to Telluride

Majestic snowcapped peaks; golden aspen leaves; rolling alpine meadows; tumbling waterfalls and charming Victorian hotels beckon you to explore the Maroon Bells, Elk Range and San Juan Mountains of Colorado, home of Ryder-Walker Alpine Adventures. From bubbling hot springs and historic hotels, to scenic hikes and colorful towns, the Rocky Mountains offer an authentic flavor of the American West. Ryder-Walker’s...

Stunning desert vistas, high alpine peaks of the most southern portion of the Rocky Mountains, charming adobe homes and dwellings, thriving art communities, and chilis are only the tip of the iceberg in the 47th US state. You begin your journey in Santa Fe.  Santa Fe has, over the years, become the heart and soul of New Mexico’s thriving epicurean...

USA | Telluride Trek: The Switzerland of America

Majestic snow capped peaks, expansive alpine meadows, tumbling waterfalls, and charming Victorian hotels beckon hikers to explore the San Juan Mountains of Southwestern Colorado; home of Ryder- Walker Alpine Adventures. From bubbling hot springs and historic hotels, to the outposts of bank robbers and miners gone “mad”, Colorado mountains over a mother lode of scenic hikes and colorful towns. Ryder-Walker’s...

Colorado | Telluride Mini Trek

Majestic snow-capped peaks, expansive alpine meadows, tumbling waterfalls, a charming Victorian hotel and more beckon hikers to explore the San Juan Mountains of Southwestern Colorado; home of Ryder- Walker Alpine Adventures. From bubbling hot springs and historic hotels, to the outposts of bank robbers and miners gone “mad”, Colorado mountains offer a mother lode of scenic hikes and colorful towns....

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Award-winning hiking adventures.

From the wilds of New Zealand and Patagonia to the high trails of the Alps and Himalaya, our hiking and trekking journeys are designed for those who prefer a hearty hike over a scenic drive. Our expert Trip Leaders bring you across ancient trails, pilgrim’s paths, and into the world’s most spectacular alpine realms. Lace up your boots and join us!

What Makes Our Hiking Journeys Special?

• Award-Winning Hiking Itineraries — We’re honored to have been awarded the “Best Hiking & Walking Trips” by AFAR Magazine two years in a row! 
• Expert Trip Leaders — Our hiking guides bring insider knowledge (and fun!) to the trail and introduce you to special people and places you wouldn’t find on your own 
• Adventure With Comfort — From cozy inns to world-class hotels, chef-inspired trail cuisine to feasts in the finest restaurants 
• 45+ Years of Expertise — WT is a pioneering leader in adventure travel, bringing you immersive adventures and unique routes in the most fascinating corners of the world

Browse Hiking Trips by Region

Check out some of our most popular destinations or browse all we have to offer.

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Tour du Mont Blanc

France, Italy, Switzerland

From $5,795

Climb Kilimanjaro!

From $6,895

England Coast to Coast

Ultimate Patagonia

Argentina, Chile

From $11,595

Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

From $5,995

Everest Base Camp

From $5,595

Mont Blanc to the Mediterranean

From $7,395

Hiker’s Journey to Bhutan

From $7,095

Hiking Corsica and Sardinia

France, Italy

From $6,395

Trekking the Cordillera Blanca

From $4,995

Hiking Switzerland’s Via Alpina

Switzerland

From $7,295

Morocco: The High Atlas Trek

From $4,795

Browse by Trip Level

Easier: Level 1 & 2

Trips have short hikes on most days (1-3 hours) on paved or well-groomed trails, and modest elevation gain or loss.

Moderate: Level 3 & 4

Trips include full-day mixed hikes on most days (5-8 hours) with steeper trails, and greater elevation gain or loss.

Challenging: Level 5 & 6

Trips are for experienced hikers who enjoy multiple full-day hikes, rugged hiking terrain, and higher altitudes.

Talk to an Expert

Our Area Specialists know every detail about our hiking & trekking tours. They will be happy to answer any questions and help you choose the journey that’s right for you. Contact us to learn more or book your trip today!

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Enjoy some of the world's most beautiful landscapes at the speed of your own two feet..

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There’s something extra special about seeing someplace on foot the way you do on a walking tour, hiking tour, or guided trek. Maybe it’s the slower pace and the ability to actually admire sights you might just zip by in a car, bus, or train. Maybe it’s the easy opportunity for connections and conversations with local people. Or maybe it’s being out in the fresh air, enjoying and appreciating the natural setting of the location you’re visiting.

It’s probably some combination of all three that make walking tours, trekking tours, and hiking tours a popular way to travel. Whether you prefer an easygoing amble, a moderate hike, or a challenging summit, there are some great foot-fueled tours from hiking tour companies that explore famous locales and off-the-beaten-path spots all over the world. Here are my picks for the nine best travel companies offering walking tours and guided hiking trips.

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1. G Adventures

Small group tour specialist G Adventures  places a special focus on creating guided trips that benefit the destinations visited. The company offers a big range of hiking and trekking tours that let you experience iconic destinations in an active way . Many of these trips are physically challenging excursions, like the  Trans Bhutan Trail and trekking tours in places like  Nepal , Patagonia , and the  Alps . Hiking tours with G Adventures take you all over the world, too, from  Southern Iceland  and  Northern Greece  to  Alaska  and U.S. national parks.

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Tour descriptions feature a handy “Is this tour for me?” section that includes the physical rating, service level of accommodations, and visa requirements. Hiking and trekking tours can be filtered by budget, destination, and service and physical levels. And if this kind of travel is new to you, the G Adventures website has answers to commonly asked questions about its hiking and trekking tours, like the effects of altitude and where and how you’ll sleep. 

Quick Facts about Hiking Tours and Trekking Tours with G Adventures

• Average guided tour group size: 10 to 12 people.
• Price range: Pricing varies, with most tours in the $1,000 to $5,000 range.
• What’s included:  Accommodations, some meals, staff and guides.
• What’s not included: Pre- and post-trip airfare, some meals.
• Primary audience: Standard tours are open to adults and children ages 12 years or older when accompanied by a parent. Family Adventures are open to families with children between six and 17 years of age. The company also offers tours just for  18-to-30-somethings .
• Destinations: Africa, Asia, Central America, Europe, Middle East, New Zealand, North America, and South America.

2. Explore Worldwide

Adventure travel company Explore Worldwide  has four decades of experience leading immersive, once-in-a-lifetime trips featuring well-crafted itineraries, top local guides, small group sizes, and a commitment to responsible travel. More than 400 tour options take you to 120 countries on all seven continents. Explore offers a range of small-group guided walking tours and trekking tours in locations around the world . Expert guides lead the walks along the planned-out routes, and Explore takes care of elements like accommodations and luggage transfers.

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Walking tours are available at different activity levels so you can choose one that best matches your interests and physical abilities. Easy to moderate options in 2024 include a walking and wine tasting tour of Spain and Portugal , a walking holiday on the Amalfi Coast , and a walking tour of Jordan’s Spice Trails . More challenging treks and bucket-list-types of trips include  Kilimanjaro  and  Mont Blanc  trips. 

In addition to detailed information included in the description for each tour (activity level, information on accommodations and meals, daily itineraries, etc.), the active travel company also offers lots of insight about walking, trekking, and hiking tours in general on its website. You can find answers to  seven common questions about walking vacations and other advice and guidance. 

Quick Facts about Walking Tours and Trekking Tours with Explore Worldwide

• Average guided tour group size: 12 guests.
• Price range: Explore’s walking tours and trekking tours start at $530 per person and go up to $7,650, with most in the $2,000 to $5,000 range.
• What’s included: Accommodations, meals (number of meals vary by tour), tour excursions, leaders and guides.
• What’s not included: Flights to and from tour start/end points (there is an option to purchase them through Explore), some meals, gratuities, and optional excursions
• Primary audience: Solo travelers, couples, and friends who like small group travel and active vacations. Explore guests tend to range from 40 to 70 years of age; about 65% of attendees are female and about 65% are solo travelers.
• Destinations: Africa, Asia, Europe, Middle East, New Zealand, North America, and South America.

3. Intrepid Travel

In its more than 30 years in business,  Intrepid Travel  has taken guests on thousands of trips to all seven continents with a commitment to responsible travel. That means focusing on things like community-based tourism, animal welfare, diversity and inclusion, and climate change when planning trips and itineraries.

The company offers a range of walking tours that allow you to explore destinations on foot in a way that works best for you, e.g., walking, hiking, or trekking. Walking tours travel on defined tracks and smooth surfaces, and you don’t need any special equipment or preparation. Hiking tours take to trails, mountainsides, and other rugged terrain and make for a great in-between option. Trekking tours travel to remote destinations on challenging terrain that requires both specialized equipment and the ability to rough it. 

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Intrepid also offers creative alternatives to overcrowded trekking routes. For example, the 12-day Great Inca Road  trek avoids the highly popular Inca Trail to Machu Picchu and brings tourism to new communities along a less-traveled trekking route in Peru. Other good options for walkers, hikers, and trekkers include the company’s tours along  Camino de Santiago , treks to  Everest Base Camp  and  Kilimanjaro , and hiking tours of  U.S. national parks .

You can search trips by region and activity types, and tour descriptions include info on itineraries and inclusions as well as helpful sections labeled “Is this trip right for you?” and “Why you’ll love this trip” to assist with choosing the right adventure. There’s also a  FAQs section  that answers common questions about these kinds of tours and lots of  reviews  for firsthand traveler insight.

Quick Facts about Hiking Tours and Trekking Tours with Intrepid Travel

• Average guided tour group size: 12 people.
• Price range: Prices vary widely; the average price for a 12-day tour is $3,000.
• What’s included: Accommodations, transportation during the tour, most meals, included activities, leaders and guides, and all hiking permits.
• What’s not included: Airfare and travelers’ insurance.
• Primary audience: Tours attract all audiences; there’s an age minimum of 15.
• Destinations: Africa, the Americas, Asia, Australia and New Zealand, Europe, and the Middle East.

4. The Natural Adventure Company

Founded in the United Kingdom in 2009 by a pair of avid adventurers and explorers,  The Natural Adventure Company  aims to make walking holidays and cycling vacations financially accessible for travelers interested in exploring areas in a nature-focused way. Most of its tours are self-guided, with itineraries that include stays in small, locally owned accommodations and an emphasis on responsible tourism.

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Popular 2024 walking tours from the company include a self-guided tour of the  trails of the Albanian Alps , a self-guided journey along  Portugal’s coastal Fishermen’s Trail , and a privately guided walking holiday in Morocco . Newer offerings for folks who like to travel by foot range from self-guided walking tours in  the Balkans  and the  Swiss and Italian Alps  to a two-week guided tour of the  Corsica GR20 long-distance walking trail . 

Online tour descriptions include a day-by-day itinerary and information on what to expect in terms of everything from accommodations and meals to level of difficulty, terrain, and weather conditions. Reviews from past travelers and photo galleries provide further insight on the trips. You can search tours by destination or holiday type, then further filter by difficulty grade. All walking tours include accommodations, transport, luggage transfers, support from the tour company, and suggestions for food and activities. Some tours also include meals.

Quick Facts about Walking and Hiking Tours with The Natural Adventure Company

• Average guided tour group size: Most tours are self-guided. Guided tours tend to range from eight to 10 guests.
• Price range: Tour prices start at around $300 and average about $1,200.
• What’s included: Accommodations, transport, luggage transfers (as per itinerary), 24/7 phone support. Some tours also include meals.
• What’s not included: Air, train, or bus fare to the destination; connecting transfers; meals not mentioned in itinerary; travel insurance (required); and local tourist taxes.
• Primary audience: Participants on these tours tend to be active and outdoorsy, digitally savvy, and in their 40s and up. Most travel with a partner, but some travel with a family member, friend, or solo.
• Destinations: The majority of the company’s tours are in Europe, but it also offers tours in Africa, Asia, the Middle East, and South America. 

5. Exodus Travels

Exodus Travels  led some of the first group trekking trips through the Nepalese Himalaya more than 45 years ago, and today that legacy lives on. The company offers a range of walking and trekking tours  around the world led by experienced trekkers and local guides. Exodus operates in more than 100 countries and focuses on low-impact tourism and contributing to local communities. Walking and trekking tours are available at several different activity levels, from leisurely and moderate trips to challenging and extremely difficult treks.

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Tour groups often stay in locally owned accommodations, and the company’s guided (and self-guided) walking tours allow you to really connect with a destination at your own pace and with a low carbon footprint. Popular tour options include a walking tour of Italy’s Prosecco Hills , a classic trek along Peru’s Inca Trail , and an  Everest Base Camp trek . Newer walking and trekking tour offerings include a coastal walking tour in the French Riviera , a self-guided walking tour on Malta , and a walking excursion on Turkey’s Turquoise Coast . 

Tour descriptions detail daily itineraries and distances traveled each day, information about the local weather and terrain, and reviews from past participants. In addition to filtering the company’s walking and trekking tours by activity level, you can search trips by types of adventure (summits, coastal walks, etc.), price range, and destination. 

Quick Facts about Walking Tours and Hiking Tours with Exodus Travels

• Average guided tour group size: Four to 16 guests.
• Price range: Tours average $2,000 to $4,000 per person.
• What’s included: Accommodations, most meals, airport transfers in destination, services of a local guide, some gratuities, admission to any sites on the itinerary, and any specialized gear needed.
• What’s not included: Pre- and post-trip airfare, some meals, and some gratuities.
• Primary audience: Travelers who like to move. Tours with an activity level of one (leisurely) just require that you be healthy enough for a standard weekend walk. Moderate trips require a basic fitness level since there will be some walking at higher altitude and occasional longer/harder days. Challenging and tough tours require a high level of fitness and often previous experience. 

6. Boundless Journeys

When  Boundless Journeys  puts together its small-group travel tours, it aims to create trips featuring active itineraries, cultural encounters, and authentic experiences. Local guides bring destination-specific knowledge and insight to the tours, and the company has appeared multiple times among the Top 10 World’s Best Tour Operators in  Travel + Leisure ’s World’s Best Awards. The company’s hiking and walking tours allow you to immerse yourself in a destination by seeing it on foot. Local guides take you to the best trails and walking routes in the region. Accommodations are locally run hotels and inns, mountain lodges, and seaside resorts.

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The  Tour du Mont Blanc adventure rates as the company’s most-popular waking and hiking tour, taking you through the French, Italian, and Swiss Alps and stopping to admire sweeping vistas and small Alpine villages along the way. Other options include a walking tour of the lesser-known villages and coastline of  Italy’s Puglia region  and a tour that includes hiking along Japan’s Nakasendo Trail  (a historic inn-to-inn walking route linking Kyoto and Tokyo). Trekking tours are also available for a more challenging experience . 

Walking tour descriptions include detailed itineraries, the activity level of each trip, and a “What to Expect” section with a range of information about the destination and the tour. Tours range in duration from seven to 13 days and extensions are offered in certain destinations.

Quick Facts about Walking Tours and Hiking Tours with Boundless Journeys

• Average guided tour group size: Eight to 10 people.
• Price range: Depending on the length of the tour, location, and the type of tour, prices range from $4,895 per person based on double occupancy to $9,895. 
• What’s included: Accommodations, guides, all on-tour transportation, all activities noted in the itinerary, entrance fees, all or most meals.
• What’s not included: International flights to and from destinations, optional meals and activities.
• Primary audience: Boundless Journeys guests tend to be well-educated, well-traveled, active individuals; generally hail from North America; and range in age from 40s to 70s.
• Destinations: Asia, Europe, Latin America, New Zealand, and North America.

7. Backroads

Active travel outfitter Backroads  has been a force in adventure travel since 1979, leading walking tours, hiking tours, biking tours, and multi-adventure tours all around the world. The company offers more than 130 walking and hiking trip itineraries  that take you through rugged spots like  Alaska  and  Patagonia  and scenic locales like  Cinque Terre  and the  Cotswolds . Walking and hiking tours are offered at many different activity levels and for different kinds of travelers.

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Dolce Tempo tours  move at a more leisurely pace and are well-suited for novices to active travel. Some walking and hiking tours are available for families with older teenagers or kids in their 20s, while others are best suited for adults with a strong fitness level. Tours include almost everything, and accommodations range from casual hotels to more luxurious lodging options. Small group sizes make for a more intimate experience and guides help travelers find the best views and special spots along the way.

Quick Facts about Active Tours with Backroads

• Average guided tour group size:  Backroads hiking and walking trips average 16 guests with a maximum of 20 in the U.S.
• Price range: Prices vary depending on destination and trip length, starting around $2,999 per person double occupancy four a four-day trip.
• What’s included: Accommodations, most meals, trip leaders and guides, private guided tours at some sites, all gratuities at hotels and restaurants, special events (like wine tastings) mentioned in the tour itinerary, park and other entry fees, transportation during the tour, and baggage transfers and porterage.
• What’s not included: Airfare, alcohol, and trip leader gratuity.
• Primary audience: Participants range from couples, groups of friends, and solo travelers to families with older teenagers or kids in their 20s.
• Destinations: Africa, Asia, Europe, Latin America, Middle East, and North America.

8. Country Walkers

Walking tour company Country Walkers  took its first steps as a tour operator out of an old barn in Vermont in 1979. Today the company helps travelers explore the world on foot in destinations near and far, with a focus on authentic travel and local engagement. The company offers two types of experiences for travelers. Small-group guided walking tours take you beyond just the usual spots for hands-on experiences and connections with members of the local community. For self-guided walking tours, Country Walkers takes care of all the logistics and planning so you can explore at your own pace. 

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Local restaurants and small, family-owned or locally based accommodations are part of the equation no matter which option you choose, part of the company’s commitment to sustainable travel, responsible tourism, and the slow food movement. Tours are classified by activity level and range from anyone-can-do-it easy walking tours to challenging excursions where you’ll walk for miles each day, sometimes at high elevations. Each tour description includes information on daily mileage as well as reviews from past travelers to help guests choose the best fit for them.

Options in 2024 include self-guided tours of the  Portugal coast  and  England’s Cotswolds region  and guided walking excursions of  Italy’s Puglia coast ,  Greece , and  Norway’s fjords . Country Walkers offers a number of guest benefits, from the option to book air travel along with the tour to a referral program, plus options for solo travelers.

Quick Facts about Walking Tours with Country Walkers

• Average guided tour group size: About 18 people.
• Price range: Tours range from $2,098 to $8,798 per person, double occupancy.
• What’s included: Accommodations, most meals, and guides or access to assistance for self-guided tours.
• What’s not included: Airfare to and from the destination, airport car service. (You can choose to book a flight-tour combo through Country Walkers to get these and other add-ons.)
• Primary audience: Country Walkers’ main demographic is travelers ages 55 to 80. But the company also welcomes people traveling with their adult children and/or teenage grandchildren. 
• Destinations: Africa, Asia and South Pacific, Europe, Middle East, North America, and South America.

9. World Expeditions

World Expeditions  took its first group of trekkers to Nepal in 1975. Since then, it’s become a go-to operator for travelers interested in small-group active tours, responsible tourism, and “taking the path less traveled.” World Expeditions was the first operator to offer cycling holidays in India (1977) and China (1978) and trekking trips in Mongolia (1980), Tibet (1981), and Japan (1999), and is also the first to offer fully supported commercial treks along the entire length of the  Nepal section of the Great Himalaya Trail .

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The company believes that active outdoor travel helps people better experience a destination, no matter the activity level of a trip or age of a participant, and offers both  guided  and  self-guided  walking and trekking tours. On the guided excursions, expert local guides and adventurers enhance the trips with knowledge and expertise. Tours range in difficulty from introductory treks to highly challenging trips. Tour prices include the cost of accommodations, most food, and transport.

Among the company’s unique offerings are tours that help you explore the  Armenia Transcaucasian Trail and  Georgian Transcaucasian Trail  in the Caucasus Mountains. World Expeditions is one of the first operators to offer the option to trek selected sections of the long-distance Transcaucasian Trail in both countries, and you’ll be able to enjoy breathtaking vistas and cultural sites along the way.

Quick Facts about Walking Tours ands Trekking Tours with World Expeditions

• Average guided tour group size:  8 to 10 people (maximum of 16).
• Price range:  Upscale, price varies greatly (World Expeditions offers hundreds of itineraries ranging from a few of days to 150 days). 
• What’s included:  Services of an expert local guide, accommodations, private transportation, most meals, sightseeing and national park fees.
• What’s not included:  International flights, alcoholic beverages, tips and gratuities, and travel insurance.
• Primary audience:  Active travelers ages 40 to 65 and older.
• Destinations: Africa, Asia, Australasia, Europe, Middle East, North America, and South America.

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Reach altitudes of over 5000 m on a trek along the Manaslu Circuit, walking through...

Kilimanjaro & Serengeti Adventure

15 days from 6696.

Walk Western Australia's Kalbarri & Coral Coast

8 days from 3218.

Explore Western Australia on an easy 8-day walking adventure that will reveal the most...

Hike the Kangaroo Island Wilderness Trail

5 days from 1917.

Explore Kangaroo Island on a scenic 5-day adventure that follows the Kangaroo Island...

Walk Western Australia's Karijini & Ningaloo Reef

10 days from 2327.

Explore Karijini National Park on a 10-day hiking adventure that includes the chance to...

Patagonia: Torres del Paine Full O Circuit

11 days from 5900.

Trek the O circuit in Patagonia’s Torres del Paine National Park in Chile, on this...

Hike Tasmania's Tarkine Wilderness

6 days from 2156.

Hike the Tarkine region in Tasmania on a 6-day walking trip with inclusions like...

Thailand Hilltribe Trek

5 days from 528.

Travel to Chiang Mai and trek through northern Thailand to discover hilltribe culture,...

Everest Base Camp & Annapurna Circuit Trek

30 days from 2921.

Journey out from Kathmandu to the rugged Himalaya. Follow the footsteps of Hillary up...

Sapa Adventure

5 days from 423.

Trek through Vietnam's mountainous region in the north-west to experience hilltribe...

Hiking in the Grand Canyon: North & South Rims

5 days from 3110.

Discover the magnificence of the Grand Canyon on a 5-day walking adventure, exploring...

Walk Tasmania's East Coast

6 days from 2120.

Discover the best of Tasmania’s coastal walks. From Launceston to Hobart, see Freycinet...

Chiang Mai Temples, Bikes & Whitewater Rafting

4 days from 460.

On this active trip, you’ll go trekking in Chiang Mai, explore Thailand's lush jungle,...

Walk Western Australia's Kimberley

10 days from 3040.

Join this Kimberley adventure for 12 days of camping, walking and four-wheel driving...

Walk Tasmania's Bay of Fires

5 days from 1643.

Get out of town and explore the stunning Bay of Fires region up close on this five-day...

Hike the Great Ocean Walk

7 days from 2480.

Hike the Great Ocean Road on a seven-day walking adventure that will reveal the...

Walk Kakadu National Park

8 days from 3270.

Travel through the rugged landscapes of Kakadu National Park, Katherine and Litchfield...

Walk South Australia's Flinders Ranges

7 days from 2735.

Set off on a six-day adventure through the Flinders Ranges, joining a local leader and...

Borneo Expedition: Maliau Basin - Sabah's Lost World Trek

8 days from 1448.

Embark on a unique 8-day Expedition into the heart of Borneo’s Sabah – the Maliau Basin...

Hiking Washington's Olympic National Park

3 days from 2155.

Experience the very best of the Olympic Peninsula with a perfect balance of challenge...

Winter Hiking and Backpacking in Grand Canyon: Rim to Rim

Escape the crowds, see incredible views, sleep under the stars, check out waterfalls...

Annapurna Homestay Trek

5 days from 375.

Travel to Nepal and hike the Annapurnas. Travel from Pokhara to Tanting, trekking to...

Kathmandu Valley Trek

4 days from 365.

Travel to Nepal and visit Kathmandu for a spectacular Himalayan experience. Trek from...

Hike Vermont: Fall Foliage

5 days from 3285.

Hike through the vibrant colours of Vermont’s changing seasons on this trip exploring...

Hike New Hampshire's Appalachian Trail and Presidential Peaks

4 days from 1895.

Spend an incredible 4 days hiking the highest mountains in New Hampshire, the...

Hiking and Camping in Zion

3 days from 1560.

Experience Utah’s most famous national park as a standalone canyon country experience...

Hiking and Backpacking in Yellowstone

4 days from 1605.

See the best of Yellowstone on an Intrepid small group hiking and camping adventure...

Hiking and Camping in Joshua Tree

4 days from 1775.

Experience Joshua Tree’s surreal landscapes, cool oases, and famous Joshua Trees on a 4...

Hiking and Camping in Yellowstone

5 days from 2230.

See the best of this iconic national park on five spectacularly diverse, hand-picked...

Hiking and Backpacking Yellowstone's Bechler River Traverse

5 days from 2045.

Avoid the crowds and see the best of Southern Yellowstone National Park’s backcountry...

Hiking and Camping in Utah

6 days from 2360.

Experience Utah’s most famous national park destinations and see the best of Zion,...

Hiking and Backpacking North Carolina's Appalachian Mountains

3 days from 1070.

Discover great trails, incredible views, spectacular summits and more on a small group...

Hiking and Camping in Rocky Mountain National Park

5 days from 2090.

Set up camp on the edges of Rocky Mountain National Park and hike past highlights like...

Hiking and Backpacking Utah's Coyote Gulch

4 days from 1740.

Take a hiking trip through Utah’s Coyote Gulch in the United States and trek past...

13 Days From 3389

Explore the Kimberley on a 13-day walking adventure that includes the Bungle Bungle...

Trek the Larapinta Trail

7 days from 2259.

From Alice Springs, hike the highlights of the amazing Larapinta Trail, taking in...

Hiking in Yellowstone

5 days from 3830.

Enjoy the luxuries of a lodge and rustic dining each evening in different locations...

Hiking the Best of Great Smoky Mountains National Park

5 days from 3435.

Hike through the highlights of Great Smoky Mountains National Park, including a walk...

Hiking the Best of Yellowstone and Grand Tetons

5 days from 4125.

Looking for a hiking trip in Yellowstone National Park and Grand Teton National Park in...

Hiking Sedona's Red Rock Country

Discover the best of Sedona’s red rock country on this 4-day hiking adventure that...

Hiking the Best of Moab: Arches and Canyonlands

5 days from 3480.

Hike through the Arches and Canyonlands National Parks in Moab, Utah, exploring valleys...

Hiking the Best of the Grand Canyon

3 days from 1965.

Discover the very best of the Grand Canyon on this 3-day hiking adventure through Grand...

Walk Bruny Island & Tasmania's South Coast

6 days from 1917.

Discover the rugged beauty of Bruny Island on a Bruny Island 6-day hiking trip with an...

Popular walks, hikes & treks

Machu Picchu

Kilimanjaro Trek

Mount Toubkal

Everest Base Camp

Annapurna Ranges

Camino de Santiago

US National Parks

Walks, hikes & treks by region.

Australia walks & treks

New Zealand walks & treks

UK walks & treks

North America walks & treks

Europe walks & treks

Asia walks & treks

South America walks & treks

Middle East walks & treks

Walking vs hiking vs trekking.

Our walking trips will take you on defined tracks and over smooth surfaces – think the grasslands of northern Thailand, rice paddies in Mai Chau, and New Zealand's idyllic Queen Charlotte Track. There’s no need for fitness preparation or specialized equipment; just you, your comfortable walking shoes, and a healthy sense of adventure. And we promise there’s not a base camp in sight. 

Make your way up magnificent mountains, through concentrated bushland, and across rugged, countryside trails on our range of leader-led hiking trips. Harder and longer than a walk but less physically demanding than a trek, hikes are the perfect in-between for those who still want to thoroughly explore the great outdoors without all the fuss of proper equipment. 

Treks are often in remote destinations where the trails are barely visible, and the terrain makes it harder to traverse without specialized equipment. These treks range from tackling Kilimanjaro to testing your limits at Everest Base Camp and generally feature high altitudes and overnight stops with basic accommodation. Yep, say goodbye to showers and hello to unforgettable memories.

Intrepid treks around the world

Hiking and backpacking tours

Winter hiking and snowshoeing tours

Our small group walking tours , our small group hiking tours, our small group trekking tours, highlights of our walking, hiking & trekking trips.

Make the heroic climb to Nepal’s Everest Base Camp

Some destinations are simply more life-changing than others and Everest Base Camp might just be the most profound of them all. Boasting the world’s highest peak and the number one spot on every bucket list, this larger-than-life mountain range will have you challenging yourself in every way. But for the unbelievable views you’ll come across and the Himalayan culture you’ll be treated to, the trek to its base is worth it every time. 

Take in the epic vistas along the Camino de Santiago

The Camino de Santiago isn’t just an ancient pilgrimage route - it’s the spiritual journey of a lifetime. Whether you want to do a bit of soul searching, soak up centuries of history, swap stories with people from all over the world, or stare in awe at the picturesque panoramas along the way, this enriching trek will change you in the best way possible. And absolutely nothing beats the feeling of reaching Santiago de Compostela. 

Explore the Alaskan wilderness in Denali National Park

Step out of the city and into the wild in Alaska’s Denali National Park. Showing you just how talented Mother Nature really is, this national park will not only take your breath away but also refill your lungs with some of the freshest mountain air in the United States for the ultimate cleansing experience. Walk beneath snowcapped peaks, wander through rolling polar deserts, marvel at ancient glaciers, and watch as the northern lights illuminate the night sky. 

Uncover the spectacular scenery of the Dolomites in Italy

From small walks to larger hikes, and from easy routes to challenging treks, the Dolomites offer a little something for everyone. Promising to be an outdoor adventurist's dream, this jaw-dropping Italian mountain range is picture-perfect in every way from its enchantingly rugged scenery to the distinctive colours that play over the rocky peaks as the sun rises and falls. Easy to revel in the natural beauty all around you, this trip is one you don’t want to miss. 

Trek your way through the Annapurna Range in Nepal

Impressive? Check. Challenging? Check? Unforgettable? Check – the Annapurna Range in Nepal ticks all the boxes. Remarkably different from the neighbouring Everest region, this trek boasts the best of monolithic mountain scenery and Himalayan culture for views and experiences that will quickly fill up your camera roll. From forests full of flame-red rhododendrons to fiery sunsets against Machhapuchhare Mountain, your memories of Annapurna will last you a lifetime.

Hike the rugged terrain of South America’s Patagonia

If you want to reconnect with nature, do it by wandering the remote wilderness of Argentina and Chile on what is guaranteed to be an extraordinary adventure. Marvel at the glacial lakes at Laguna Torre, discover the wild beauty of Torres del Paine National Park, point out jagged and impressive mountain peaks, and spot brightly coloured flamingoes as they primp and preen before your eyes. There’s a reason why hiking in Patagonia is as good as it gets. 

Discover Cradle Mountain’s beauty one step at a time

Tasmania’s not short on spectacular scenery but the Cradle Mountain region in the state’s northwest is natural beauty at its absolute best. Set out on one of Australia’s most famous treks – the Cradle Mountain Overland Track – and make your way through groves of eucalyptus trees, lush rainforests, across alpine moors, and along brilliantly coloured lakes that won’t hesitate to take your breath away. 

Embark on a historic journey along Hadrian’s Wall

Whether you’re a history buff wanting to retrace the footsteps of Roman soldiers from 2,000 years ago or an outdoor enthusiast itching to explore the breathtaking Northumbrian countryside, a walking adventure along Hadrian’s Wall promises to speed up your heart rate and set your mind racing. Embrace the past with every step as you make the journey to historic ruins saturated in ancient stories and secrets. 

Our walking, hiking & trekking trip reviews

Walking & trekking essential info/faqs, do i need a covid-19 vaccine to join a walking & trekking trip.

Trips on or before 31 December 2022

If your Intrepid trip starts on or before 31 December 2022, you must provide proof of full vaccination against COVID-19.

If you are unable to be vaccinated for medical reasons, you may apply for an exemption. Exemptions will be assessed on a case-by-case basis. To apply, you must provide a medical certificate from a medical professional. 

Children under 18 are exempt. Children aged between 5 and 17 years old must provide proof of either vaccination, recovery or a negative COVID-19 test.

Trips from 1 January 2023 onwards

From 1 January 2023, Intrepid will no longer require travellers to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19 (excluding all Polar trips and select adventure cruises).

However, we continue to strongly recommend that all Intrepid travellers and leaders get vaccinated to protect themselves and others.

Specific proof of testing or vaccination may still be required by your destination or airline. Please ensure you check travel and entry requirements carefully.

Learn more about Intrepid’s COVID-19 policy

What is the range of walking & trekking holidays available?

Our walking & trekking tours span the gamut of active adventures from relatively easy, leisurely walks to multi-day challenges in high mountains. We offer a range of tours in the Himalayas, Kilimanjaro and the Americas, as well as plenty of classic hikes in Europe, the UK, and Australia.  

What are the types of walking & hiking holidays?

We predominantly provide two styles of walking & trekking holidays: 

Centre-based – this style of holiday spends all (or majority) of time in the centre of the action. Think Chamonix in the French Alps, Dobbiaco in the Dolomites or a rustic hotel in Yosemite Valley. Enjoy the comfort of the same room every day (as well as only unpacking once), and a selection of the best restaurants and other attractions in the neighbourhood. All you have to do is sit back and relax as we pick the best combination of walks available either directly from the foot of your accommodation, or just a short transfer away (often a public bus or train). To put it bluntly – you'll be fairly comfortable while experiencing the best walks and hikes going 'round.

Point-to-point – this style of holiday makes you walk from one place to the other, pretty much every day. However, we do throw in a rest day every now and then, depending on the region and the amount of hiking we need to cover on a daily basis. On point-to-point tours, you'll start in A and finish in B. Think about the Inca Trail, the Mount Everest Base Camp trek, the Hadrian’s Wall hike or the Mont Blanc Circuit. In most cases, we'll transfer your main luggage across to the next destination, so all you need to carry is the essentials (water, sun protection, waterproofs, extra layers, snacks and a camera). 

How safe are walking & trekking holidays?

The safety of our clients (you), staff (us), and all the people around us (our local friends and other trekkers) is our highest priority. This means we don't cut corners. Ever. All our leaders are adequately qualified, experienced, and insured so you don't need to worry about a thing. We only hike on well-settled trails and we follow local rules. Always. If the local authorities tell us it’s not advisable to walk certain trails then we won’t. If the weather is not looking good, we'll change our plans. If the trail is too busy, we'll turn around and hike elsewhere. It's as simple as that. We're all about staying safe, enjoying the best trails possible, and being flexible to achieve the best hiking experience for you. 

What is included in walking & trekking trips?

We include accommodation as per the itinerary, as well as transportation to and from trailheads and to all other included activities (note: this transportation is often public as that's the way we like to travel). We also include ALL hiking permits, whether it is in the Himalayas or the US National Parks. On top of that, we provide our highly qualified and experienced leaders to guide you throughout the trip.

What level of comfort can I expect on a walking & trekking holiday?

Most of our walking & trekking holidays are in the Intrepid Original standard, staying in small, authentic, and atmospheric 2–3-star hotels, using public transport where possible, and including all breakfasts, as well as some dinners and lunches depending on the travel destination. However, some of the trips are in the Intrepid Basix style – in most cases, these are trips featuring more remote itineraries such as in the Himalayas, Kilimanjaro, or Morocco. We then stay in either local guesthouses (or so-called teahouses in the Himalayas), or we camp. We often use private transfers on these trips too, as public transport options may not be available. Camping can be quite comfortable with spacious tents, clean water available, and where possible, a toilet tent set up. But we also want to make the experience as authentic as possible so you can always opt to camp under the stars. 

How sustainable are walking & hiking trips?

Sustainability is at the centre of everything we do, and walking & trekking holidays are no different. In fact, spending most of the time on your feet, scaling local trailheads is probably as sustainable as it gets. We also try to use public transport as much as possible and contract only small, family-run hotels and guesthouses. We also align our itineraries with local standards and follow all rules set up by local authorities. The hikes we choose are mostly a combination of the iconic trails (aka ones you don't want to miss) and the lesser-known ones, ensuring there's a little bit of everything. 

What to pack for walking & hiking trip?

All itineraries feature a packing list on the 'Essential Trip Information' document. Please read it carefully as it may contain trip-specific items you must bring. On a higher level, you always need to pack a backpack/day bag to accompany you on your daily walks, comfortable walking shoes or boots (depending on the trip), good trekking clothing (combination of lightweight and quick drying shorts, pants, short and long sleeve shirts), extra warm layers (sometimes even a down jacket) and waterproof gear. We also highly recommend bringing walking poles as these are very useful on steep ascents and long descents.  

Read more about what to pack your walking & trekking trip

Will I be required to carry my own luggage?

The short answer is no. Your main luggage is transported for you on point-to-point itineraries (often by porters, therefore it should be packed in a soft/duffle bag) and your luggage stays in your accommodation for all centre-based itineraries. However, you'll need to bring a small bag/backpack (around 25-30 litre capacity) to carry around all of your essentials (water, snacks, extra layer, waterproofs) when you're on the move.

Do I need any special insurance?

You will need to have insurance that will cover hiking and trekking in certain destinations up to a certain elevation (in the Himalayas, Peru, and a few other destinations that feature altitude hikes). But you won't need any special insurance to cover technical activities. However, to be 100% certain your cover is adequate for the trip you're doing, we suggest you talk to an insurer and present the planned itinerary of your chosen trip. 

How big are the group sizes?

The maximum group size is 12 people on the majority of walking & trekking trips, however, some itineraries may go up to 16 people. But, on average, there are 7-10 people on each departure. 

Are walking & hiking holidays suitable for solo travellers?

Absolutely! In fact, most of our customers are travelling solo, and there is no extra fee for doing so. One thing to note is that if are travelling solo, you'll be room-sharing with another solo traveller of the same sex. If you would prefer to have your own room, please speak to your booking agent as we're often able to accommodate this at an extra fee. 

What ages are the group holidays suitable for?

The minimum age on our walking & trekking holidays is predominantly 15 (on some itineraries we can accept a lower age – sometimes even 12, so please enquire at the time of booking). But there is no maximum age limit. We’ll accept everyone who’s keen and physically ready for the challenge (no screening form needed – we trust your own judgement), regardless of age. After all, age is really only a state of mind, right? 

Will I get altitude sickness?

On some of our hikes you will encounter high altitudes. When climbing above 2,800 metres (9,200 feet), it is common for travellers to experience some adverse health effects due to the altitude, regardless of your age, gender and fitness. It even happened to Sir Edmund Hillary!

There’s no real way to tell how your body will react to the rigours of altitude trekking, so it is important that you monitor your condition and discuss any prevailing symptoms with your guide. If you have any pre-existing conditions that could be exacerbated by high altitudes, be sure to get them checked out by a doctor before you leave.

But above all, try not to worry, most of our travellers shake off the effects of altitude pretty quickly and enjoy a safe and rewarding trek.

How fit do I need to be to go on a walking & trekking trip?

We have walks ranging from relatively easy to rather challenging. But no matter what degree of difficulty or distance you choose to walk, we recommend that you have a reasonable level of fitness to ensure that you get the most out of your walk or hike. Try to commit to some type of physical training program around six weeks before you depart. Here are some suggestions: Long walks: go on some long walks of 3-6 hours duration before you leave, wearing the boots you’re taking and carrying a small backpack to get comfortable with carrying your gear for long stretches. Aerobic exercise: running, distance cycling and the various aerobic classes offered at gyms (like pump, spin, zumba and circuit classes) all help to give you fitness and stamina. Strength training: doing body weight training like pushups, squats, dips, lunges, etc. helps to build up your muscle strength, which is needed for the steady climb up a mountain if you’re embarking on this type of hike (bootcamp sessions are perfect for this type of training).

Read more about walking, hiking & trekking

Nomadic Matt's Travel Site

Travel Better, Cheaper, Longer

United States Travel Guide

Last Updated: April 14, 2024

The United States isn’t a popular destination for backpackers and budget travelers. Most overseas tourists come here for a short vacation, visit one or two cities, and then head home. They usually stick to the big coastal cities or places like Disney.

And it wasn’t until COVID that Americans en-masse bothered to hop in their cars and explore their backyard.

The U.S. is massive country that lacks a lot of tourist infrastructure or good cross-country transportation. Hostels haven’t quite caught on, trains don’t go to many places, and we don’t offer working holiday visas to attract young working backpackers. In short, it’s hard to get around.

However, the United States has a lot to offer: stunning national parks, gorgeous landscapes, incredible and diverse culture, world-class music, and a variety of delicious cuisine that varies from region to region.

I think the U.S. is one of the best destinations in the world to road trip . I’ve done several multi-month road trips across the United States . While the coastal cities are fun, the U.S. really reveals itself in the middle and countryside (it’s much more affordable there too). It’s in the nooks and crannies of America that you get a sense of its quirks.

But even if you aren’t spending months visiting the country in a car, there’s still a lot you can do via train, bus, or plane.

This travel guide to the United States can help you navigate the country, save money, and get off the beaten path.

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on the United States

Click Here for City Guides

Top 5 things to see and do in the united states.

1. Explore New York City

The city that never sleeps is one of the greatest cities in the world. There’s nothing you can’t do or see and you’ll find every language and food from around the world here. From world-class museums and art galleries to innovative theater performances to unique restaurants to the expansive Central Park, you can fill a lifetime of activities here. You can take the ferry to Ellis Island, see the Statue of Liberty, hang with the hipsters in Brooklyn, see a Yankees game, and so, so much more. Check out my detailed guide for everything you need to do .

2. Visit the Grand Canyon

Words can’t describe how epicly beautiful the Grand Canyon is. It’s simply breathtaking. Most people just look out at the canyon from the overlook at the top, but its vast size and beauty are best appreciated with a hike down to the Colorado River so try to do that if you have time (make the time). The canyon itself is 6,000 feet deep, and you can find plenty of hikes to take you further into the canyon that will give you a chance to experience it in more detail. For a shorter hike, Grandview Trail to the first overlook at Coconino Saddle and back is only a couple of miles. If you have a whole day to spend and want to challenge yourself, try the 12.5 miles from Bright Angel Trail to Plateau Point. Just be sure to bring plenty of water!

3. Discover Austin

The warm weather, lively honky-tonks, funky house bars on Rainey Street, amazing walking and biking trails, tons of outdoor activities — Austin is great (I lived there for many years). You can always find great live music on 6th Street. On a hot day, Barton Springs pool is the perfect place to cool off, there’s always something to do, the food scene gets better and better, and everyone is very welcoming. It’s one of the best cities in the U.S., boasting a combination of nature, city, and delicious food. Be sure to binge on BBQ while you’re here!

4. Visit Glacier National Park

This is my favorite national park in the country. It’s home to gorgeous snow-topped mountains, a beautiful lake from which to admire said mountains, large glaciers, and hiking trails galore. It is one of the most mind-blowing places I’ve seen on my adventures. There are more than 700 miles of hiking trails in the park that provide everyone an opportunity to explore the landscape. Park rangers offer various programs and guided tours are also available. There are spots for fishing and additional trails for biking and horseback riding. (If you plan to visit multiple national parks while traveling throughout the United States, it’s worth it to get the America the Beautiful Park Pass, which costs just $80 USD and provides entry to all the national parks for a year.)

5. Drive the Pacific Coast Highway

The Pacific Coast is considered one of the most scenic landscapes in the world, offering sheer cliffs, forests descending to the shoreline, miles of beaches, and giant redwoods. The Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) runs 1,650 miles from San Diego, California to Seattle, Washington taking you from the warm, sunny beaches to the lush temperate rainforests of the Pacific Northwest. Highway 1 thorough California is one of the longest historic state highways in the country. The California portion alone route takes 10 hours without stopping but I recommend dedicating at least several days to enjoy all the great stops along the way.

Other Things to See and Do in the United States

NOTE: There’s a lot to do in the United States and you can spend months traveling around the country . I could write an entire book on the places to visit! This is just a list to give you some ideas. Be sure to check out some of my other articles and city specific guides (scroll to the bottom of this guide for links) for more suggestions.

1. Have fun in Memphis

Gritty and industrial, Memphis appears like its best days are behind it. But don’t let the rough exterior fool you — the city is home to some killer food and a vibrant blues music scene. It is a cool city with boisterous and friendly locals. I love the vibe here. There’s Graceland (Elvis’s home) for fans of the King, a big waterfront for walking, and the phenomenal Museum of Civil Rights (it’s huge, so don’t rush it!). The city is going through a big revival right now. To use a cliché, it’s a hidden gem as most people, to their detriment, skip over it.

2. Discover Asheville

Asheville is full of tasty craft beer, great restaurants, and plenty of outdoor loving residents. The beautiful Smoky Mountains are a short drive away, Asheville Botanical Gardens are right near the university, and the gigantic Biltmore estate (the largest privately-owned home in the U.S. and once home to George Vanderbilt) is on the outskirts of the city. (If you’ve ever seen Downton Abbey, that’s what the house is like!) The town has a lot of parks and there are a lot of beautiful biking and hiking trails that you can get to from the center of town.

3. Explore Redwood National Park

Along the Pacific Coast is Redwood National Park, a huge expanse of towering redwood trees filled with picnic areas, places to camp, and miles upon miles of hiking trails. Trails range from easy to strenuous, and there are many loops that head out to nearby beaches. The trees range from 200-240 feet tall. It’s utterly beautiful, awe-inspiring, and humbling in every way. Admission is free, though the three adjoining state parks (Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park, Del Norte Coast Redwoods State Park, and Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park) each charge $10 USD.

4. Explore Denver

Known as the Mile High City (the city is one mile above sea level), Denver offers a mix of outdoor ruggedness and big-city living. It has a huge craft beer scene, excellent restaurants (including, Sushi Sasa, one of my favorite sushi restaurants), a large international airport with lots of connections, and is close to the mountains. There are a lot of interesting museums, including the Denver Art Museum, Meow Wolf Denver, and the Clifford Still Museum. There’s plenty of art outside of the museums as well and there are walking tours available to show you around, if you prefer that to exploring on your own. It’s clean, lively, and the locals are incredibly friendly.

5. Get off-the-beaten-path in Natchez

I was surprised by Natchez . I didn’t know anything about it when it was recommended as a place to see historic 19th-century homes. These mansions were built by white plantation owners wanting to escape the summer heat and socialize with each other. As cotton became king, the houses became ever larger and more elaborate. Today, the homes are historic monuments you can tour while enjoying a view of the Mississippi River. It’s far off the beaten path and you’ll need a car to visit but it’s worth the trek.

6. Visit Savannah

Sitting on Georgia’s coast, Savannah escaped the wrath of the Civil War, allegedly because General Sherman thought it was too pretty to be destroyed. With streets lined with Spanish moss-covered oaks, large and inviting parks, and a bustling waterfront, Savannah is a wonderful place to experience the slow pace of the South. There are a number of interesting historical sites like the Bonaventure Cemetery and Factors Row. The city is full of small squares and sprawling parks where you can enjoy a stroll or a picnic. And nearby Tybee Island is a draw for many visitors due to its sandy beaches and slow pace of life.

7. Dive into Nashville’s music scene

Nashville is one of the fastest-growing cities in the U.S. It’s got a wonderful music scene (duh), a growing cocktail bar culture, and some world-class down-home Southern restaurants. There’s not a lot of “touristy stuff” to do here, but what makes this city one of my favorites are the music, the food, the wildly friendly people, and the positive energy the city seems to exude. When you’re here, plan to spend a few hours at the Tennessee State Museum. It goes into detail about the state’s history (and it’s more exciting than you might think!).

8. Catch some rays in sunny San Diego

I love San Diego. San Diego’s weather is almost always perfect, leading to a permanently happy population that’s friendly and outgoing and that loves the outdoors. From hiking, days at the beach, or running, people here love to get out and enjoy the sun. The downtown Gaslamp area — as well as the famous Pacific Beach — is full of trendy restaurants, bustling bars, and some seriously life-changing taco stalls.

9. Get tipsy in California’s Wine Country

California is home to some of the best wine in the world, and a visit to the Sonoma or Napa Valley shouldn’t be missed. While Sonoma is cheaper than Napa, both these destinations are meant for splashing out. Take a tour, book a cozy vineyard Airbnb, and enjoy a relaxing few days learning about the region’s wines. Tastings usually cost between $15-20 USD. If you go to Sonoma, check out Three Fat Guys winery. They have phenomenal reds.

10. Hike around Lake Tahoe

Lake Tahoe is impressive and beautiful. Ringed by tiny mountain communities, this is a terrific place for hiking and boating in the summer and skiing in the winter. For fun in the sun, be sure to spend some time lounging at Kings Beach. For hikes, check out the Rubicon Trail (16 miles/25.7 kilometers) or the Cascade Falls Trail (1.4 miles/2.2 kilometers). You can’t really go wrong here.

11. Anywhere in Montana

A lot has been written about how stunning Montana is, but words cannot do this state justice. To me, it’s the most beautiful state in the Union, filled with wondrous mountains and hills as far as the eye can see. It’s a nature-lover’s paradise and there is a huge craft beer scene here too, with tons of local breweries all around the state. If you want nature, good food, friendly locals, and just quiet, Montana is it!

12. Relax in Cape Cod

I spent a lot of summers on the Cape since I grew up in Boston. You’ll find plenty of small beach towns along the coast (Provincetown and Hyannis being the most famous but I also love Chatham, Falmouth, Wellfleet, and Brewster). There’s not a lot to “do” but if you’re looking for seafood, beaches, boardwalks, and that perfect family vacation, visit the Cape! Just avoid the weekends when it gets a little too crowded.

13. Explore Deadwood

Tucked away in western South Dakota, this town was famous during the Old West days (noteworthy enough to be the focus of the eponymous HBO series). Wyatt Earp, Calamity Jane, Wild Bill Hickok, and many other infamous gunslingers all spent time here. Sort of kitschy and re-created, it’s nonetheless a very cool place where you can experience a taste of the old frontier days. It’s also conveniently located near the Black Hills and Mount Rushmore so you can use it as a base for exploring the region.

14. Be surprised by Kansas City

I really loved this city, which features some of the world’s best BBQ and a lively downtown core. There’s a detailed and enlightening jazz museum here, as well as the eye-opening Negro Leagues Baseball Museum (that’s the actual name). This is yet another super underrated and under-visited destination.

15. Stay weird in Portland

Portland , Oregon is incredible. Here you’ll find an impressive food truck scene, cool bespoke bars and cocktail lounges, a craft beer scene that’s religion to residents, relaxing parks (including a peaceful Japanese garden), a vibrant art scene, and hiking in the nearby mountains. Portland is just an awesome city, especially in the summer when the weather is perfect and there are festivals and events galore.

16. Hike our national parks

America has 63 national parks as well as countless state and local parks. These parks highlight the best of the American wilderness. Yellowstone, Yosemite, Glacier, Zion, Byrce, the Smokey Mountains, Rocky Mountain Park, the Badlands — the list goes on. Make sure you visit as many national parks as you can to get a sense of the grand and diverse landscape that is the United States. You can use this government map to find a park near you! If you plan to visit multiple parks, get the America the Beautiful Park Pass, which costs just $80 USD and gets you free entry to all the national parks for a year.

17. Admire the architecture in Chicago

One of my favorite cities in the world, Chicago is full of amazing architecture, great parks, delicious and hearty food, and a fun nightlife. One of the best ways to see the city’s unique architecture is on a river cruise. There are multiple operators and prices start around $45. Don’t miss trying deep-dish pizza (it was invented here, along with stuffed-crust pizza) and seeing the iconic “Bean” sculpture in Millennium Park. Additionally, check out the city’s famous pier, aquarium, and waterfront park. The city also hosts one of the biggest St. Patrick’s Day celebrations in the country.

18. Enjoy Lively New Orleans

This French-influenced city has incredible seafood and Cajun cuisine and even better live music. A visit to New Orleans is a must for any jazz or blues fan. Live music is available seven nights a week. Frenchman Street is one of the best places to go (my favorite venue is the Spotted Cat). There are also tons of amazing walking tours that highlight the city’s unique culture and history (including ghost and voodoo tours). Nature lovers will enjoy wandering through the massive oak trees in City Park where you can also visit the city’s Botanical Gardens, which are open year-round. Admission is $12. Plus, there’s incredible independent bookstores, creole food, art museums, and the simply incredible and informative World War 2 museum. Don’t skip roaming the redone and revitalized Bywater district too. It’s a bit hipster. If you plan on celebrating Mardi Gras in NOLA , book early. Accommodations fill up fast.

19. Get some sun in Hawaii

Closer to Asia than the United States, Hawaii is America’s slice of South Pacific paradise. White sands beaches, clear blue water, tropical jungle, and great surf — Hawaii has it all! Don’t miss the otherworldly landscapes of Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park, the somber memorial at Pearl Harbor, and the hikes at Diamond Head and the Lanikai Pillbox Trail near Honolulu. There are a ton of opportunities for snorkeling and scuba diving where you get a chance to see manta rays, sea turtles, and plenty of colorful fish. Waimea Canyon and the Napali coast on the island of Kauai are places you can get up close and personal with the natural landscape. There are helicopter and boat tours or, if you’re up for a challenge, you can hike the iconic Kalalau Trail. Every island has its own vibe so, if you can, visit more than one.

20. Check out Boston

The birthplace of the revolution (and my hometown), no one leaves Boston disappointed. It’s a big city, but its lack of high-rises, as well as its cobblestone streets and brick buildings, give the city a small-town feel. The Freedom Trail, which covers all the main historic stops, is a must because it gives you a look at the city’s historic past. Be sure to lounge in the Boston Common and catch a Red Sox game at Fenway Park too (the city is big on sports).

21. Visit the nation’s capital

The country’s capital is home to many of the best museums in the country. And, given the large number of international embassy workers here, it’s unsurprising one of the most international cities in the country. You can find food from anywhere in the world thanks to all the embassies in the city. Plus, there’s a vibrant music and cocktail scene. Don’t miss the National Mall and all its monuments, the Holocaust Museum, and the various Smithsonian Museums (some of the best are the Air and Space Museum, the Museum of the American Indian, the African American Museum, the National Zoo, the Smithsonian Castle, and the American Art Museum). If you visit in the spring, you’ll get to see the cherry blossoms bloom along the Mall.

22. Learn about Mt. Rushmore

Completed in 1941, this historic monument in the Black Hills of South Dakota is a lot smaller than you expect, but it makes a good stop while driving. Originally, the indigenous Lakota Sioux inhabited this area, however, when gold was found in the hills, white settlers forcibly removed them from their homeland. At the Wounded Knee massacre, U.S. forces killed over 250 indigenous women and children. Decades later, Rushmore was built, much to the dismay of the local indigenous population, who consider the land to be sacred. Take a guided tour to learn more about this iconic monument’s complex and tragic history.

23. Be a kid at Disney World

Sure, it’s cheesy . Yes, it’s built for kids. True, it’s not authentic. But despite all that, Disney World is still a fun time and they have a lot of rides for adults too. I recently went back as an adult and there’s a lot to do there: they have some good restaurants, and Disney Springs has a fun nightlife. If you are in Florida, take a stop for a few days. Indulge your inner child. Tickets cost around $110 USD per day and go up from there.

24. Hike the Appalachian Mountains

Stretching the east coast of America, these mountains are almost 500 million years old and offer great hiking, camping, and trekking. For a multi-month adventure, hike the 2,190-mile (3,524-kilometer) Appalachian Trail which covers the entire mountain range and takes 5-7 months to complete. You can also do day hikes or weekend hikes of its various sections if you want a more manageable outdoor getaway.

25. Unwind in Put-In-Bay

One of the coolest, not-so-hidden places in the U.S. is this group of islands in Lake Erie. Widely known to Midwesterners (but unknown to most everyone else), South Bass Island is home to Put-in-Bay, where Midwest hospitality meets Caribbean vibes (you ride around in golf carts and bars have sand as floors). My favorite spot is Mojito Bay, an outdoor tiki bar with sand floors and swings for bar seats that offers up more than 25 different mojitos. These places get very wild on the weekends too.

26. Explore Maine

Tucked away up in the northeast, Maine evokes images of endless shorelines, wild forests, iconic lighthouses, and lots and lots of lobster dinners. It’s often overlooked yet it’s incredibly beautiful and perfect for a short road trip. Don’t miss trying lobster rolls (a regional favorite) and hiking in Acadia National Park. Portland has some great eateries (such as Duckfat and Eventide Oyster Co.) and picturesque historic lighthouses, including Maine’s oldest operating lighthouse, the Portland Head Light, which opened in 1791 when George Washington was president. Additionally, tiny Bangor is home to tons of breweries and Moosehead State Park is an incredible place to go hiking for a few days. And you can’t go wrong stopping in any of the quintessential New England fishing villages up and down the coast. Maine is one of the best states in the union!

27. Take a road trip

The only good way to see this vast and diverse landscape and the small towns that populate it is with a road trip . I highly suggest renting a car and driving across the U.S. It’s an amazing experience. I’ve done several coast-to-coast trips as well as regional trips around New England , California , and the South . It’s the best way to see the country and you can do it for under $50 USD a day.

For the best rental car deals, use Discover Cars .

28. Take a tour

You can find all sorts of amazing walking tours, bike tours, and food tours all around the country. They’re a great way to get an in-depth look at the city you’re in with the help of an expert local guide. Take Walks is my go-to walking tour company when I’m looking for something thorough and insightful (and fun). They can get you behind the scenes and are much more comprehensive than your average free walking tour.

For information on specific cities in the United States, check out these city guides:

• Austin Travel Guide
• Boston Travel Guide
• Chicago Travel Guide
• Hawaii Travel Guide
• Las Vegas Travel Guide
• Los Angeles Travel Guide
• Miami Travel Guide
• New York Travel Guide
• Philadelphia Travel Guide
• San Francisco Travel Guide
• Seattle Travel Guide
• Washington D.C. Travel Guide

United States Travel Costs

Accommodation – Hostels can be found in most major cities, though options are generally slim in the country. A bed in a dorm room with 4-6 beds usually costs between $35-55 USD per night. Rooms with more beds are marginally cheaper (they start around $25-30 USD per night). Private rooms are usually $75-125 USD. Expect prices on the higher end in bigger cities and during peak season. Free Wi-Fi is standard and most hostels also have self-catering facilities. Hostels with free breakfast are rare.

If you plan on camping, expect to pay at least $20-30 USD per night for a basic tent plot for two without electricity.

Cheap motels usually start around $60-75 USD per night and can be found along any highway. Expect basic amenities like TV, Wi-Fi, and AC. Some have pools.

Budget two-star hotels start at $90 USD per night. But, in major cities like NYC, LA, or Chicago, they start closer to $125 USD. The U.S. is very vast and prices fluctuate a lot depending on what region you’re in so check out the specific city guides listed above for more detailed information on accommodation. The United States is too diverse to pin down a specific number!

Airbnb is available around the country, with private rooms starting at $40 USD per night, though for good rooms, you’ll likely pay closer to $60 USD. For an entire home/apartment, expect to pay at least $100 USD per night. Prices in large cities are usually double. Again, there’s a lot of variation depending on where you’re going so check out the city guides for more specific prices!

Food – From seafood in New England to BBQ in the South to Tex-Mex and organic whole foods in the West to German influenced food in the Midwest, there is no singular food culture in the US. Every region has its own staples, which means you’ll never get bored of eating your way around the country.

Since the country is so big, prices for food vary a lot. What is $5 USD in Kansas is probably $15 USD in New York City. Below are some country averages but, if visiting a big metropolis/coastal city, add about 25% to the price.

Grab-and-go sandwiches usually cost around $10 USD while fast food costs $10-12 USD for a combo meal. Meals from food trucks will cost between $10-15 USD. Mid-range casual restaurants cost between $25-30 USD for a meal and drink. At some place a little nicer (think white table cloth), expect to spend at least $60 USD per person on dinner. Prices go up from there and the sky is the limit. Again, consult the city and destination guides for specific prices.

You can generally find takeout pizzas for around $10-15 USD while Chinese and Thai cuisine start around $10-12 USD for a main dish.

Beer is around $6-8 USD, a glass of wine is $8-10 USD, and cocktails start at $14 USD in most cities (about $20 USD in NYC though!). A latte/cappuccino is $4-5 USD and bottled water is $2 USD.

If you cook your own food, expect to pay about $60-80 USD per week for basic staples like rice, pasta, vegetables, and some meat.

Backpacking the United States Suggested Budgets

How much does it cost to visit the United States? Well, how much you spend largely depends on where in the United States you’re going to visit. For example, New York City is much more expensive than Memphis and San Francisco is going to hit your budget harder than Boise. The South is cheaper than the North and the interior states are cheaper than the coasts. The comparisons are endless! However, this overview can give you a basic look at what to expect based on your travel style and assuming you’re going to mix cheap and expensive destinations.

On a backpacking budget of $75 USD per day, you can stay in a hostel dorm, cook your meals, use public transportation to get around, limit your drinking, and do free activities like walking tours, hiking, and hanging out at beaches. If you plan on drinking, add another $10-20 USD per day. If you can camp or Couchsurf, you can likely get this down to $50-60 USD per day.

On a mid-range budget of $210 USD per day, you can stay in a private Airbnb or motel, eat out for most meals, enjoy some drinks, take the occasional taxi to get around, and do more paid activities like museum visits and food tours.

On an upscale budget of $350 USD or more per day, you can stay in a midrange hotel, eat out for all your meals, drink more, rent a car to get around, and do as many guided tours and activities as you want. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages – some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in USD.

United States Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

There are plenty of ways to save money when you travel the U.S. but it varies a lot by region (as I’ve been repeating). The general tips below can help you get started but, for more specific tips, visit my city guides.

• Take a free tour – Taking a free walking tour is the best way to get introduced to a new place, and most major cities in the U.S. have free walking tours. You get to see the main sights and ask all your questions to a local guide. Just be sure to tip your guide at the end!
• Take the bus – The cheapest way to get around the U.S. is by bus. Bus fares cost as little as $1 USD, though 2-3-hour journeys start around $30 USD. Between cities, the best companies are Megabus, Greyhound, and FlixBus.
• Redeem hotel points – Be sure to sign up for hotel credit cards before you go and use those points when you travel. This is especially helpful in big cities. Be aware that most hotels charge parking fees if you have a car.
• Get a U.S. Park Pass – This national park pass lets you into all the national parks for free so you don’t have to keep paying admission. The annual fee is $80 USD and it pays for itself after four parks.
• Cook – The United States has some of the cheapest groceries in the developed world, while eating out here can add up quickly once you factor in a tip and tax (which varies by state). Grocery shopping can about $60 USD per week and is way cheaper and healthier than eating out every day. Cook and save!
• Stay with a local – Couchsurfing lets you stay with a local for free, cutting your accommodation costs drastically. You’ll get to spend time with a local who can share their tips and advice while sharing your own travel stories and culture. You can also use the app to meet people for activities (coffee, museum visits, etc.) if you don’t feel comfortable staying with a stranger.
• Camp – Most campsites start around $20-30 USD per night for a tent — much cheaper than a hostel. You can use nps.gov to find campsites run by the National Park Service. You can also camp for free in National Forests or Bureau Land Management (BLM) lands (search for “dispersed camping” options). Just be sure to respect the environment and follow Leave No Trace principles when camping.
• Use city tourism cards – City tourism cards allow you to see a large number of attractions (and often include free public transportation) for one low price, usually $75–100 USD. If you plan on seeing a lot, these can save you a ton.
• Share your ride – If you have a car, taking on riders can be a way to lower your costs. On my first trip across the U.S., I offered rides to people I met in hostels. On another trip, I had friends and readers join me along the way. You can post ads on Craigslist and at hostels to find riders. This not only makes the trip more enjoyable but lowers your gas costs too. If you don’t have a car, you can use look for rides in the same places.
• Stay at roadside hotels – There are a plethora of cheap roadside hotels such as Motel 6 and Super 8 to the rescue. Rooms start around $60-75 USD a night (plus tax). They’re great when you’re traveling with someone and can split the cost.
• Find free museums and events – Inquire at tourism offices, use Google, or ask hotel or hostel staff for information about free events and museums. Many museums offer free or discounted admission times throughout the week.
• Get free water or free refills – If you order a drink, most restaurants allow free refills while you eat your meal or refills at a low cost. If you ask, tap water is usually provided for free.
• Save on gas – If you’re on a road trip, use the app GasBuddy to find cheap gas near you. Also, sign up for gas station loyalty programs as they can save you money on fill ups.

Where to Stay in the United States

Hostels are not all that plentiful across the United States yet. Generally, those that do exist are clean, social, and fun. You’ll find a lot of budget hotels wherever you go. here are some of my recommended places to stay around the USA (the cities guides will have even more suggestions):

• HI Hostel (Boston)
• The Revolution Hotel (Boston)
• HI Hostel (Chicago)
• The Arlo (Chicago)
• Banana Bungalow (Los Angeles)
• Hollywood Historic Hotel Los Angeles
• Hostel Memphis (Memphis)
• Hu Hotel (Memphis)
• Freehand (Miami)
• Hotel Ocean (Miami)
• HI New Orleans (New Orleans)
• Villa Convento (New Orleans)
• The Local (New York City)
• Heritage Hotel (New York City)
• ITH Adventure Hostel (San Diego)
• Old Town Inn (San Diego)
• The Green Tortoise (San Francisco)
• SW Hotel (San Francisco)
• The Green Tortoise (Seattle)
• MarQueen Hotel (Seattle)

How to Get Around the United States

City transportation – Most U.S. cities have public transportation, including metro systems and buses. Fares cost around $2-3 USD for a single journey, but there are usually packaged options for visitors. For example, you can get a 7-day unlimited MetroCard in New York City for $34 USD, which covers both buses and the subway system, while San Francisco offers a 7-day transit pass for $41 USD.

Outside of major cities, subways are rare. Some of the smaller cities have trams. Everywhere has a bus though and that’s usually the best way to get around.

Taxis – Taxis are metered with charges starting around $3 USD plus $2-3 USD per mile. This is one of the most expensive ways to get around, however, so I’d skip it unless you have no other choice.

Ridesharing – Uber and Lyft are generally cheaper than taxis and are the best way to get around a city if you don’t want to take a bus or pay for a taxi.

Intercity Bus – Taking the bus is one of the cheapest options for getting around the country, with fares as low as $1 USD if you book far enough in advance. Popular bus companies include:

A 4-5-hour bus ride from New York to Washington D.C. starts at $30 USD, while the 7-hour journey from Chicago to Detroit starts at $27 USD. Austin to New Orleans is around $54 USD. Booking early can save you upwards of 50% so try to plan ahead if you’re going to be taking the bus.

To find bus routes and prices, use BusBud .

Flying – Flying is your quickest option for long distance. You can occasionally find sales for as little as $100 USD so it’s worth it to check several websites ahead of time to see what deals are on. Post-COVID, fares are a lot higher than they were in the past. But if you find a deal, book in advance, or go off season, you can usually get a cheap fare. Sample one-way fares include San Francisco to Maui for $100-150 USD, Seattle to Austin for $85-115 USD, or New York to L.A. for $250 USD (round trip). However, prices can easily double if booked last minute.

For more information on how to find a cheap flight, check out this article .

Train – Amtrak is the rail provider for the United States, but it’s not the quickest or most affordable way to travel. They have routes all around the country ( here’s their route map ) and offer a cross-country pass for $499 USD. The USA Rail Pass gives you 30 days of travel over 10 segments, which averages out to around $50 USD per leg.

If you have a valid student ID you can save 15% on your tickets.

As for prices, A 20-hour train ride from Chicago to New Orleans costs around $110 USD, while a multi-day trip from New York to Los Angeles is around $280 USD. Book in advance to find the best deals. Shorter trips lasting 2-4 hours are usually under $40 USD.

Car rental – Roadtripping is a great way to explore the country, and car rentals can be found for as little as $35 USD for a multi-day rental. Renters need to be at least 21 years old. For the best rental car deals, use Discover Cars .

Hitchhiking – Hitchhiking in the United States is common and safe. Dress respectably, smile while making eye contact with drivers, and use a cardboard sign to tell people where you’re headed. Be prepared for long bouts of no pick-ups, especially if you’re traveling through more rural areas. Pack plenty of water and a light meal or two, like sandwiches and fruit. Hitchwiki is a great resource for additional hitchhiking tips.

When to Go to the United States

Since the United States is such a large country, the climate and temperature change drastically from coast to coast and from north to south.

The northern states have clearly defined seasons. In cities like Chicago, Boston, and New York, winter can bring heavy snowfall and more severe temperatures. Coastal areas like Seattle and Portland, Oregon, tend to be milder. Spring can start as late as May in the northernmost parts of the country, but this is a good time to visit because the weather begins to warm up and the busy tourist season hasn’t started yet. Summers are gorgeous and temperatures climb into the 80s°F (30s°C). It’s also the busiest time of year for tourism. Autumn is a wonderful time to visit the northern states because many parts of this region have a lot of trees. Temperatures have cooled, crowds have dwindled, and the changing leaves offer an something extra to enjoy.

The southern states have less defined seasons. In the southwest, winters tend to be dry and mild. In the southeast, temperatures are mild but places like and Memphis can be rainy. Spring is a wonderful time to visit this part of the country because temperatures are warm but not stifling. Summers get incredibly hot and humid in the southeast. In the desert areas of the southwest, like Las Vegas, temperatures can soar well above 104°F (40°C) on some days. Autumn cools things off across the southern states, but can also bring severe weather in the southeast. .

Ultimately, the best time to travel to the United States depends on where you’re headed and what kind of activities you’d like to do. Visit our city guides for more specific information on when to go.

How to Stay Safe in the United States

The United States is a massive country and “safety” changes a lot depending on where you go and what you do. Generally, the US safe place to travel around — even if you’re traveling solo.

Violent attacks tend to be confined to certain areas (especially where drug and gang violence are a problem). You may encounter petty crime, like theft, especially around popular tourist landmarks and in larger cities, especially on the west coast where theft is a much more common problem. Keep an eye on your belongings at all times, especially while taking crowded public transportation.

Gun violence and mass shootings tend to dominate headlines when they happen. However, the chances of it happening to you are slim. Do not let this discourage you from exploring the United States. The U.S. is very big and very, very diverse. And, due to this size, there is a lot of cultural (and political) variation. Despite what you hear, crime in America is low. (There was far more crime in the US in the 1990s!). For more information, read this post, “ Is it Safe to Visit the United States?”

If you rent a vehicle, don’t leave any valuables in it overnight. Take common sense safety measures and you’ll be fine.

Moreover, be sure to read about common travel scams to avoid here .

When hiking, always bring water and sunscreen. Be sure to check the weather before you depart and dress accordingly.

Solo female travelers should generally feel safe but all the standard safety cautions apply. For specific tips, I would read one of the many incredible solo female travel blogs on the web. They’ll give you tips and advice that I can’t.

If you do experience an emergency, dial 911 for assistance.

Always trust your gut instinct. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance protects you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

United States Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

United States Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on United States travel and continue planning your trip:

Where to Stay in San Francisco: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit

The 12 Best Things to Do in Chicago

The 5 Best Hotels in San Francisco

How to Experience Milwaukee Like a Local

The 7 Best Hotels in New York City

The 7 Best Hotels in Miami

Get my best stuff sent straight to you, pin it on pinterest.

• Where To Stay
• Transportation
• Booking Resources
• Related Blogs

10 Eco-Friendly Tour Companies You Should Know About

• Using eco-friendly, green tour companies is an excellent way to enjoy world travel while minimizing negative impacts on the environment and supporting local communities.
• G Adventures, Undiscovered Mountains, Byway Travel, Gondwana Ecotours, Experience Travel Group, Natural Habitat Adventures, Responsible Travel, AndBeyond, Seacology, and Intrepid Travel are some of the best sustainable tour operators available.
• These environmentally focused, green tour operators prioritize eco-friendly measures such as hiring local guides, tracking community profits, promoting flight-free travel, investing in clean drinking water systems, reducing carbon emissions, and partnering with conservation organizations.

Arguably, the greatest joy of travel is the opportunity to experience new sights, cultures, histories, and landscapes. Visitors will often spend months planning, booking tours, scouting restaurants, and scheduling in some needed downtime.

Not all travel is created equal, however. In fact, many of the most common travel practices today have a number of negative side effects on both the destination and the planet as a whole. So, how can travelers still enjoy the wonders of the world without harming it in the process? One of the best tips for environmentally friendly world travel is to use an eco-friendly tour company.

Many of the best eco friendly tour companies in the world offer all the same advantages as traditional tour groups but have also taken extra steps to ensure they hire locally and watch their product consumption, giving back to the community they draw their profits from. The tour companies below are some of the top-rated eco-friendly tour companies in the world, ensuring that responsible and sustainable travel is available for every adventurer.

Related: What Is Eco-Travel? Here's Every Type Of Eco-Tourism You Should Know About

G Adventures

When it comes to ecotourism, there are a variety of factors to consider, from wildlife welfare to carbon emissions. G Adventures believes that the key to addressing these issues and everything in between is community tourism. Whether leading guests as they watch penguins in Antarctica or exploring the most beautiful hiking trails through California’s Redwood National Park , the key to sustainable travel is leaving a positive impact on the community.

G Adventures achieves this by hiring only local guides and tracking how much of the money spent on a tour goes back into the communities visited. This dedication to ethical tourism, paired with the hundreds of tours available, makes G Adventures not just an exceptional eco-friendly tour company but one of the best tour countries available for world travel.

About G Adventures

• Tour Locations: 100+ Countries
• Eco-Friendly Measures: Partnered with nonprofit Planeterra , Locally Hired Guides, Track Community Profits from Tours, Partnered with Travel Without Plastic

Popular G Adventures Tour

• Tour: Las Vegas to San Francisco - Hiking Sequoia, Kings Canyon, and Yosemite
• Price: from $1,849/person
• Duration: 8 days
• Inclusions: Sequoia National Park, Kings Canyon National Park, Yosemite National Park, Entrance Fees, Camping Fees

Regardless of how visitors are exploring outdoor spaces, one of the best ways to promote eco-friendly travel is to follow the “Pack it in, pack it out” policy, also referred to as the “Leave No Trace” approach. This means that whatever comes into the park for an outing leaves with the individual who brought it, keeping parks free of trash and wildlife safe.

Related: Road Trip Worthy: Exploring The Most Scenic Drives Across The Southwest U.S.

Undiscovered Mountains

The French Alps are one of the most unique mountain destinations in the world and, like many mountain destinations, are often the victim of predatory tourism practices. Undiscovered Mountains , which specializes in the French Alps, has a variety of eco-friendly options for individuals and families looking to enjoy the mountain snow.

Undiscovered Mountains offers a variety of skiing, snowboarding, and mountain tour experiences, all with local guides and sources from local businesses. Paired with locally owned accommodation partnerships, Undiscovered Mountains is the eco-friendly key to touring the French Alps.

About Undiscovered Mountains

• Tour Locations: French Alps
• Eco-Friendly Measures: Locally Hired Guides, Partnerships with Local Restaurants and Hotels, Trees Planted for Each Guest

Popular Undiscovered Mountains Tour

• Tour: Ski Adventure Holiday - Orcières in the Alps
• Price: from $780/adult
• Inclusions: 7 nights in accommodation, 6-day ski pass, Leisure Pass, and Tree Planted to help offset the trip’s carbon footprint

Byway Travel

One of the most environmentally damaging aspects of travel is the process of arriving at a destination. Traveling by plane can leave a large carbon footprint before visitors ever arrive. For companies like Byway Travel in the UK, creating an unforgettable sustainable travel experience starts with eliminating this problem.

Byway Travel is among the best environmentally friendly tour companies in the world; it promotes 100% flight-free travel, also called overland travel, by offering some of the best tours in Europe, all organized without ever stepping foot on an airplane. By avoiding damaging plane rides, Byway Travel not only promotes low-impact travel but emphasizes the beauty of travel itself by incorporating transportation into the trip.

About Byway Travel

• Tour Locations: Europe (including Belgium, Denmark, Netherlands, Norway, France, Scotland, The UK, etc.)
• Eco-Friendly Measures: 100% Flight-Free Itineraries, Certified B-Corp

Popular Byway Travel Tour

• Tour: Avignon to the Rivieras
• Price: from $2,150/person
• Duration: 16 days
• Inclusions: London, Paris, Avignon, Marseille, Cassis, Nice, Menton, Alassio, Genoa, Turin

Planning a flight-free vacation? Keep the responsible travel going by booking through a sustainable platform like Fairbnb.coop . Fairbnb reinvests in the host’s communities by donating half of their commission to a social project close to the booking location.

Related: 10 Most Beautiful Eco-Tourism Destinations To Visit In The U.S. (& What To Do There)

Gondwana Ecotours

One of the most important things to be aware of when traveling sustainably is using tour companies that work with the local community. That principle is at the heart of Gondwana Ecotours ’ approach to tourism.

Based in New Orleans, Gondwana Ecotours is one of the best eco-friendly tour operators in the world, thanks to its widespread network of local partnerships. Whether travelers choose a local tour right in Louisiana or head to Rwanda on the other side of the globe, Gondwana Ecotours ensures local experts will be ready to assist.

If that weren’t enough, all of Gondwana Ecotours’ tours are 100% carbon neutral as of 2021 , a distinction established by Cooler, an emissions tracking organization.

About Gondwana Ecotours

• Tour Locations: Louisiana, Alaska, Argentina, Costa Rica, Norway, Rwanda, Tanzania
• Eco-Friendly Measures: Locally-Hired Guides, Carbon-Neutral Tours, Donations to Local Nonprofits

Popular Gondwana Ecotours Tour

• Tour: Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Adventure
• Price: from $1,500/person
• Duration: 5 days
• Inclusions: Lodging, All Meals, National Park Admission, Audio Tour of Kigali's Genocide Museum, Cultural Activities, Donation to Aspire Rwanda

The word “Gondwana” refers to a part of the ancient supercontinent Pangea . This one-ness represents Gondwana Ecotours’ goal to unify the planet through sustainable travel and bucket-list-worthy tours.

Experience Travel Group

While there are a variety of eco-friendly destinations all around the world , these locations will quickly disappear if travelers and tour companies alike aren’t willing to give back to the places they explore. For the last 20 years, Experience Travel Group has offered tours throughout Asia, emphasizing exactly that principle.

Guides who work for Experience Travel Group don’t earn a commission, keeping the focus purely on an immersive experience. What makes Experience Travel Group one of the best tour companies in Asia, and certainly among the best sustainable travel companies in the world, is its focus on less-traveled areas.

Experience Travel Group makes a conscious effort to avoid areas suffering from over-tourism and instead takes visitors through the undiscovered corners of Asia, creating a truly one-of-a-kind experience.

About Experience Travel Group

• Tour Locations: South Asia, Southeast Asia, Oman
• Eco-Friendly Measures: Avoid Over-Touristed Locations, Promote Local Businesses, Pledge to Cut Carbon Emissions By 50% by 2050, Investing in Clean Drinking Water Systems

Popular Experience Travel Group Tour

• Tour: Hidden Gems of Southern Thailand
• Price: from $5,700/person
• Duration: 15 days
• Inclusions: Round-Trip Flight from the UK, Bangkok, Chumphon, Hidden Island Tour, Khao Sok

Natural Habitat Adventures

The official tour company partner of the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) , there is perhaps no better way to travel while supporting wildlife conservation than by booking a tour with Natural Habitat Adventures , another one of the best ecotourism companies in the world.

Wildlife enthusiasts can choose from tours across nearly every corner of the globe with Natural Habitat Adventures. From US National Park Tours to Adventure Cruises and Photography Tours, there are a variety of ways to enjoy animals in their natural habitats.

Natural Habitat Adventures promotes responsible small-group tours that get visitors up close to their favorite wildlife, all while donating over $10 million to WWF to conserve natural habitats and protect endangered animals for future generations.

About Natural Habitat Adventures

• Eco-Friendly Measure: Partnership with WWF, Carbon Neutral Travel Company, Green Office Policies, Zero-Waste Tour Options

Popular Natural Habitat Adventures Tour

• Tour: Bears of Brooks Falls: A Photo Pro Expedition
• Price: from $10,395/person
• Duration: 6 days
• Inclusions: Anchorage, Brooks Falls, King Salmon Run Viewing, Katmai National Park

This Bears of Brooks Falls Tour is available only from September through October each year. Since the areas are closed to tourists for the season, this exclusive tour gives its 8-person group private access to this remote part of Alaska.

Responsible Travel

An activist company that has been promoting sustainable travel practices since 2001, Responsible Travel believes in unique holidays that benefit not just the traveler but the destination as well.

All of the tours offered by Responsible Travel have been carefully reviewed to ensure that profits will be reinvested into the community and that locals will benefit from the visitors. They have also taken measures to reduce the company’s carbon footprint, including carbon-countering practices and a variety of walking tour options .

With so many ways to do good and promote green travel, it’s no wonder Responsible Travel is widely considered one of the most eco-friendly travel companies operating today.

About Responsible Travel

• Tour Locations: 100+ countries
• Eco-Friendly Measures: Carbon Offset Practices, Individually Screening Holiday Packages, Trip-for-a-Trip Initiative , Accessible Travel Options

Popular Responsible Travel Tour

• Tour: National Parks Hiking Holiday in America (Walking Tour)
• Price: from $4,400/person
• Duration: 14 days
• Inclusions: Grand Teton National Park, Yellowstone National Park, Rocky Mountains National Park, Colorado Mesa Verde National Park, Grand Canyon National Park, Descent trail into Grand Canyon, Monument Valley, Las Vegas

Related: U.S. National Parks: 14 Road Trips To Explore The Best Of America's Natural Beauty

An African Safari is a bucket list item for many travelers around the world, and for good reason. The wildlife here is some of the most recognizable in the world, and there are a variety of wildlife hotspots across Africa for visitors to enjoy.

Travelers looking for the best African Safari will likely find their perfect match with the eco-friendly AndBeyond . With luxury tours across 11 African countries, as well as sustainable lodges in Africa, Asia, and South America, sustainable world travel is anything but ordinary.

Operating for over 30 years, AndBeyond prides itself on its sustainable practices, which range from investing in the local community to decreasing its tour and lodging footprint by building sustainable energy and water structures.

About AndBeyond

• Tour Locations: Africa, Asia, Indian Ocean Islands, South America
• Eco-Friendly Measures: Investing Back into Local Government, Sustainable Electrical Micro-Grids, Employs Locally

Popular AndBeyond Tour

• Tour: Safari Game Drive in Western Serengeti
• Price: Varies (see offers page for current packages and discounts)
• Inclusions: Local Tour Guides, Private Cars, Remote Serengeti Viewing Area Access, Personalized Experience Options

Related: Namibia's National Parks: 10 Best Places For A Safari In Africa

There is no denying that islands and their surrounding ocean waters are some of the most delicate ecosystems in the world. The nonprofit Seacology not only works to preserve these one-of-a-kind destinations but also offers exceptional ecotourism adventures so that travelers can enjoy these natural wonders responsibly.

This doesn’t mean that tourists will have to rough it on a Seacology tour. As one of the best sustainable tour companies in the world, Seacology has partnerships with green luxury resorts. During the day, tour group members will enjoy cultural sites, coral reefs, and lush rainforests, all without worrying about their impact on the environment.

About Seacology

• Tour Locations: Fiji, Borneo, Southeast Asia, Chile, Madagascar
• Eco-Friendly Measures: Grant Programs for Island Protection Projects, Island Ecosystem Conservation Projects

Popular Seacology Tour

• Tour: Seacology Expedition to Fiji
• Price: $2,310-$6,361/person
• Inclusions: Visit to Nukubalavu Village, Seacology Presentations, Snorkeling at Namena Marine Reserve and Somosomo Straits, Stay at Koro Sun Resort, Rainforest Hikes, Coastal Biking

Expeditions change regularly. To see upcoming expeditions, check the Travel page of Seacology’s website.

Related: 10 Most Beautiful Ecotourism Destinations To Visit In Europe (& What To Do There)

Intrepid Travel

Eco-friendly travel doesn’t have to be limiting, particularly for those booking a tour through Intrepid Travel . With tours on all seven continents (yes, even Antarctica!), there is no limit to where travelers can responsibly go.

Specializing in small group tours, Intrepid Travel has over 1,000 different tours available in over 100 countries around the world.

Whether taking guests island hopping through the Galapagos or on an epic journey around the Arctic Circle, sustainability is at the heart of Intrepid Travel. Carbon-neutral since 2010, this B-Corp-certified tour company is one of the best and most eco-friendly in the world.

About Intrepid Travel

• Eco-Friendly Measures: Carbon-Neutral Tours, B-Corp Certification, Community-Based Tourism, Intrepid Foundation Non-Profit

Popular Intrepid Travel Tour

• Tour: Western USA National Parks Loop
• Price: from $1,824/person
• Inclusions: Zion National Park, Bryce Canyon National Park, Monument Valley, Navajo Guides, Grand Canyon National Park, Kayaking at Lake Powell

Hiking through Southern Utah’s national parks is a strenuous activity. Pack appropriate hiking gear and read up on the hikes available in each national park to ensure a safe trip.

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• Trip Styles
• Destinations

Choosing the Best Hiking & Trekking Tour Company

• All Inspiration and Destinations
• Canadian Rockies
• New Hampshire
• New Zealand
• North Carolina
• Vancouver Island
• Washington State

Over the last decade and a half Wildland Trekking has been providing premier guided hiking and backpacking tours across the USA and the globe. With number one spots on 5 national park Trip Advisor pages; memberships in multiple industry associations; and a selection of treks in 54 national parks, 11 states and 13 countries, we know the hiking and trekking world intimately.

We’ve learned a tremendous amount since we started, and we want to share with you what to look for (and what to be aware of) when searching for the right adventure tour company for your next trekking vacation . Below we’ve listed nine categories to pay close attention to when making your selection.

9 Criteria For Selecting Hiking and Trekking Companies

1. online reviews.

In the twenty-first century, we are fortunate to have the help of fellow travelers in deciding which companies to travel with and which to avoid. Many customers have come before you, so take some time to hear what they have to say about the company you’re researching.

Positive Reviews

The company you choose to hike with should have overwhelmingly positive reviews. In general though, people are more likely to post a review of a negative experience than a positive one. It’s been said often that you can multiply the number of positive reviews by 10 for an approximate number of actual happy customers a company has produced. So for every 10 positive reviews, there are approximately 100 happy customers. If the company you’re looking at has many positive reviews, it most likely points to an even stronger level of quality than the reviews say directly.

Negative or Mediocre Reviews

Expect high-quality companies to have some negative or mediocre reviews. A hiking company can provide a wonderful service and still receive less-than-stellar feedback. One of the biggest reasons for this discrepancy is that the company itself cannot dictate the guests’ expectations. People bring a wide range of expectations with them on an adventure, and the experience may match up (or not) with those expectations depending on many factors. Some factors are simply uncontrollable — such as weather, bugs, wildlife (or lack thereof), the difficulty of hiking, other people, and more.

Reviews on Third Party Sites vs. The Company’s Website

There are two general categories of reviews: a) those posted to third-party review sites like Yelp , Google, Trust Pilot , Trip Advisor , and the Better Business Bureau; and b) reviews posted directly to the hiking company’s website, which are usually reviews of specific trips or tours.

We recommend using the third-party reviews to gauge the overall quality of a company, and a company’s website reviews to gauge the quality or unique characteristics of the individual trips.

2. Length of Time in Business

A newer company can provide a great experience, but the bottom line is it’s a much bigger gamble than going with a veteran, proven organization. Vacation time is precious and it’s no small thing to trust a trekking company with your valuable time off. We recommend looking for a company with at least 10 years of experience.

The length of time a company has been in business illustrates five key qualities:

• Safety : Over time, a company’s ethics and systems around safety will have consequences. The longer they are in business, the more refined and high quality these entities will become. Safety should always be a company’s #1 priority.
• Integrity : An organization cannot go very far without integrity. The longer a company has been successful in business, the more likely it is that they operate with integrity. Do they strive to deliver what they promised? Do they treat their staff fairly? Do they take responsibility for their mistakes and seek to make it up to the affected parties?
• Quality : In the “old days,” a company could go years providing low or poor quality experiences. But today, in our world of ubiquitous online reviews, businesses without good reviews won’t last long. Simply put, if a trekking company has been in business for a while, they will more likely provide quality trips.
• Dedication : Entrepreneurs start companies all the time, only to close them a year or two down the road. The longer a company has been in business, the more dedicated the owners and staff are likely to be. A decade-plus of operating experience is a very good sign in terms of the quality and integrity of the people behind the company.
• Resources : Some companies stagnate, but often, if they’ve been around for a while, they will have developed a greater amount of resources to provide their customers than a newer company. This is a very big deal when a hiking trip doesn’t go as planned and additional resources are needed, a guest needs to be evacuated, or last-minute changes are called for.

Top Rated USA Hiking Vacations

3. Quality of Gear

Hiking and trekking companies should provide high-quality gear from name-brand companies. Gear is important for both safety and enjoyment. A leaky tent, flat sleeping pad, not-warm-enough sleeping bag, or ill-fitting backpack can — at best — have a negative impact on your enjoyment, and — at worst — have an impact on safety.

Ask the company what brands they use, how often they turn over their gear, and if it’s cleaned after every trip. You can also look at the online reviews for mentions of the gear.

4. Quality of Meals

Meals, like gear, fulfill functions of both enjoyment and safety. Obviously, it’s important to get enough calories, but the meals should be delicious too. After a long hike in the rain or a cold night at camp, there are few things that can improve a group’s morale like a delicious, hot meal. Ask the hiking company if they use dehydrated meals or cook meals from real ingredients. If the trip includes restaurant meals, do they emphasize the quality of these restaurants in their promotional materials? What do prior guests say about the food in reviews?

5. Risk Management Policies

Risk management plan.

A good company will have an organized, documented set of risk management policies and procedures. At Wildland Trekking, we have this information organized in a field handbook. Other companies might have a field manual, or they might include their risk management plan in a greater employee handbook. Regardless of its form, this resource shows important aspects of the company’s approach to running their business:

• They are likely to take safety seriously.
• They are deliberately instructing their staff on how to manage risk.
• They are organized and proactive with their approach to risk management.
• They are likely organized and proactive in terms of maximizing professionalism in other areas.

Emergency Communication PLAN

Another important consideration of risk management is the company’s emergency communication plan and resources. For example, at Wildland Trekking, we send every trip out with an emergency communication device. Some companies do not do this, and from our perspective, that’s a red flag. Communication devices can include satellite phones or GPS texting devices like the Delorme InReach Explorer.  A cell phone is not a reliable tool due to lack of service in many areas – especially on hiking and backpacking trips.

Another aspect of the communication plan is that someone is available to handle calls or texts from the field. At Wildland Trekking, we have a 24/7 team that is (as the name implies) available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to help resolve issues that arise on trips.

6. Do They Employ Their Guides?

Quality hiking companies hire their staff as employees. Some trekking companies hire their guides as independent contractors so they can avoid expenses related to payroll taxes and employee protections like workers compensation insurance. It transfers the payroll taxes to the staff members, reducing overhead for the company. This structure is a red flag because the employees are not protected in terms of injury and liability. If a guide is not an employee of the company, they can even be sued – this is a significant and unfair exposure to place on a company’s vital team members.

Explore Your World with Award Winning Guides

7. Turnover of Staff

We recommend asking about a company’s level of staff turnover. Turnover rates can say a lot about a company; most importantly, if the turnover is low, the hiking guides are likely to be more experienced. If the turnover is high, then you are more likely to get a newer guide, which can be absolutely fine (everyone has to start somewhere!), but a chronically high turnover rate of 15+% annually can negatively affect quality.

8. They Charge a Respectable Price

You get what you pay for , as the saying goes. This is, from our experience, very true in the adventure travel world. Providing a high-quality trip is one thing; providing tens, hundreds, or thousands of high-quality trips is something else. To accommodate a volume of guests that makes a business viable requires a depth of staff and resources that can’t be sustained with bargain prices. If you want a great outdoor experience led by professionals with solid training and infrastructural support from a robust company, look for companies that charge a respectable cost per person. Avoid bargain companies and bargain booking sites.

9. Refund and Cancellation Policies

Refund and cancellation policies can vary dramatically. Joining a hiking tour often requires a deposit, and then, at some point, the final payment. Understand the terms and conditions of the company you are considering and make sure you are comfortable with them.

Top 5 Hiking, Trekking & Adventure Companies

1. the wildland trekking company.

2. Glacier Guides

They also offer rafting tours, fishing excursions, biking tours, and more. Bottom line is that Glacier is a must-visit national park, and as great as Glacier Guides are, it’s their home that makes these trips so amazing. We very strongly recommend booking a trip with them and exploring this extraordinary region, whether it’s on a backpacking trip, rafting tour, or cycling trip. Glacier National Park is on par with the other famous national parks in the USA like Yellowstone National Park, Grand Canyon National Park, Yosemite National Park, Great Smoky Mountains National Park, and Rocky Mountain National Park. Don’t miss it! (Photo from Glacier Mountain Guides)

3.  Exum Guides

Their staff is made up of dedicated, proud guides who love what they do and excel at it. Exum’s online reviews are fantastic, and their reputation is almost unequaled. If you’re interested in technical ascents in the Tetons and beyond (all of which require lots of hiking and trekking), Exum is a solid choice.

If your adventurous spirit is calling you to extend beyond hiking and trekking, and into the world of the vertical climbing, it’s difficult to do better than Exum Guides. (Photo from Exum Guides)

4. The Mountain Guides

With this company, visitors of all ages who want outdoor adventure can find an appropriate trip for their aspirations. If you’re interested in a “next level” adventure that takes you from the trails into the world of climbing, the Mountain Guides are a great choice. (Photo from The Mountain Guides)

5. Inn Walking

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Money blog: 'Extremely worrying' mortgage trend revealed in new report; a third of people make this mistake when booking their holiday - and how to avoid it

A third of travellers are making the same mistake when going on holiday, figures show. Read about this and all the latest consumer and personal finance news in the Money blog - and leave a comment or your money problem in the box below.

Thursday 16 May 2024 20:00, UK

• 'Extremely worrying' mortgage trend revealed by new government data
• Almost a third of travellers make this insurance mistake - here's what you need to know
• How much the price of packed lunches has soared - and the cheapest supermarkets to buy a healthy one
• Major firms release financial updates
• UK economy in safe hands 'whoever wins' election, top bank chief tells Sky News

Essential reads

• How much do buskers actually make - and what's it like?
• The best bank accounts for your kids
• Basically...  What is PIP - and what could government changes mean?
• How to make sure your car passes its MOT
• Cheap Eats:  Michelin-star chef reveals his top steals in London - including an unbeatable sub sandwich
• Money Problem: My workplace wants to pay us by the minute - what can I do?
• Best of the Money blog - an archive

Ask a question or make a comment

Landlords selling properties "represent the single biggest threat to renters", according to the UK's landlord association.

Government data shows 5,790 households were threatened with homelessness between October to December last year due to receiving a notice to end an assured shorthold tenancy (this ends a person's tenancy).

And the National Residential Landlords Association (NRLA) has said 45% have been left needing help because their landlord planned to sell the property in the second half of 2023.

Separately, data from Rightmove found that 50,000 rental properties were needed to bring the supply of rental homes back to pre-pandemic levels.

Ben Beadle, chief executive of the NRLA, said the only answer was to "ensure responsible landlords have the confidence to stay in the market and sustain tenancies".

He said it was "vital" the Renters Reform Bill, which is currently being debated in the House of Lords, "worked for landlords as well as tenants".

"Landlords selling up is the single biggest challenge renters face," Mr Beadle said.

Around 16% of high net worth shoppers have cut spending on luxury goods, research shows - with Burberry among the companies seemingly taking a hit.

Data from wealth management firm Saltus , which surveyed 2,000 Britons who had assets of more than £250,000, found 16.29% of respondents had cut down on their personal spending in response to the current high interest rate environment and/or the impact of the rising cost of living.

And 15.78%, said they had cut down on luxury items and designer clothes. 

Meanwhile, just 9.42% of respondents said the current environment had not impacted their lifestyle.

The figures follow data this week from designer store Burberry - which reported a 34% drop in annual operating profit.

Mike Stimpson, partner at Saltus, said high net worth individuals were having to "prioritise spending on essential costs including mortgages and supporting their families". 

"While this reduction is not limited entirely to personal spending on luxury items, it is inevitable that brands like Burberry feel the impact, although different businesses will clearly respond differently to these pressures," he said.

The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) is hiring 2,500 "external agents" to crackdown on "benefit cheats".

The extra staff will check millions of Universal Credit claims for accuracy as part of the government's new fraud plan.

Combined with the DWP's own internal agents tackling fraud, this will take the headcount to nearly 6,000 people.

In addition to this, the DWP is introducing a new civil penalty to punish fraudsters, and investing £70m into advanced data analytics to catch those who "exploit the natural compassion and generosity of the British people".

Work and pensions secretary Mel Stride, said: "We are scaling up the fight against those stealing from the taxpayer, building on our success in stopping £18bn going into the wrong hands in 2022-23.

"With new legal powers, better data and thousands of additional staff, our comprehensive plan ensures we have the necessary tools to tackle the scourge of benefit fraud."

With the new 15 hours a week free childcare funding coming into effect this week for children aged between 9-23 months, research shows grandparents still play a key role in helping with costs.

In April, all two-year-olds from eligible working families became entitled to 15 hours free childcare each week. 

And as of this week, eligible working parents of children aged between 9-23 months are also able to apply to claim the same from September.

The government plans to increase this to 30 hours a week from September 2025.

However, grandparents still play a key role and therefore are still likely to be called upon for help from parents, according to data from the finance firm SunLife .

Data shows that half of the UK's 14 million grandparents provide childcare for their grandchildren during the working week and this rises to 55% of those with grandchildren under the age of one.

On average, the UK's grandparents spend between 22-24 hours a week providing free childcare for grandchildren under three-years-old.

So how much are grandparents saving their families and what if they were paid?

Research suggests grandparents are saving parents around £250 a week in childcare costs on average - this means that collectively, grandparents are saving their families £96bn in equivalent childcare costs every year. 

SunLife's grandparent salary calculator, which uses the average pay for the many roles grandparents are taking to calculate what their "grandparent salary" would be, has also found that if grandparents were paid for the 22 hours a week they would receive an annual salary of £13,188.

Victoria Heath, chief marketing officer at SunLife, said it was   "no wonder" one in five grandparents felt their children would struggle financially without their help.

She said research showed that 13% of grandparents felt they were relied on too much for childcare, and 14% loved doing it but felt it was too much at their age.

"Having said that, most (59%) grandparents who do provide childcare say they love helping out, so it is likely they will still play a key role, because whether they are still 'needed' or not, they are certainly still wanted, and most are more than happy to do it," Ms Heath added.

How can you apply for the 15 hours free childcare?

To apply for the funding you'll need the following: 

• National Insurance number;
• Unique Taxpayer Reference (UTR), if you're self-employed;
• the UK birth certificate reference number of any children you're applying for;
• the date you started or are due to start work.

Then, you'll need to go onto the gov.uk website and start an application.

It usually takes 20 minutes to apply and once your application has been approved, you'll get a code for free childcare to give to your childcare provider.

Mortgage possession actions have continued to rise and are currently above the previous year's levels, according to data from the Ministry of Justice .

The latest data shows mortgage claims, orders, warrants and repossessions have continued their gradual upward trend and claims are at their highest since 2019.

When compared to the same quarter in 2023, mortgage possession claims increased from 4,035 to 5,182 - this is a rise of 28%.

Meanwhile, mortgage orders increased from 2,532 to 3,019, warrants from 2,636 to 2,881 and repossessions by county court bailiffs from 729 to 759.

Landlord possession claims also increased from 23,389 to 24,874 when compared to the same quarter last year.

Craig Fish, director at Lodestone mortgages and protection, told Newspage things "need to change and quickly before it's too late".

"Though this data makes hard reading and is extremely worrying, it's not unexpected due to the significantly higher interest rate environment in which borrowers now find themselves," he said.

And Ben Perks, managing director at Orchard Financial Advisers, said he was "concerned these figures will continue to rise". 

He told Newspage: "The Bank of England seems totally oblivious to the plight of the average mortgage borrower, but hopefully this data will kick their hesitancy to drop the base rate firmly into touch. The time to act is now."

Tesco has recalled its sandwich pickle over fears it may contain glass.

The supermarket has pulled its 295g jars of Tesco Sandwich Pickle with the batch code 3254 and best before date of 11 September 2025 due to the concerns of glass traces.

The Food Standards Agency has said on its website: "This product may contain pieces of glass which makes it unsafe to eat."

Last year, the supermarket chain had to recall pastry products, including sausage rolls and steak and ale pies, over fears they contained pieces of metal and plastic.

A Tesco spokesperson told Sky News: "We've been made aware that a specific date/batch code of Tesco Sandwich Pickle may contain small pieces of glass. Therefore, this product could pose a safety risk if consumed.

"Please do not consume this product and instead return any affected product to store where a full refund will be given. No receipt is required.

"Tesco apologises to our customers for any inconvenience caused."

By Ed Clowes, news reporter

The FTSE 100 has remained stable out of the gate this morning after hitting a record high on Wednesday as better-than-expected inflation data in the US raised hopes of an interest rate cut in September.

It's been a busy start to the day with financial updates from BT Group, Premier Foods, Sage Group, and easyJet.

We'll start with easyJet, after the airline announced that its chief executive officer, Johan Lundgren, would step down in January 2025.

Mr Lundgren, who has served as CEO since 2017, will be replaced by the carrier's finance boss Kenton Jarvis.

In a financial update on its performance throughout the first half of the year, easyJet reported slightly higher revenues than anticipated, while cutting its losses compared to the same period last year.

The airline's share price fell by 6% in early trading this morning.

Elsewhere, telecoms giant BT said it had completed a £3bn cost-cutting programme ahead of schedule, and announced a further £3bn in planned savings by 2029.

The company told Sky News that the planned reductions in spending would not lead to more job losses, after BT announced last year that it would eliminate 55,000 roles.

Incoming boss Allison Kirkby said she wanted the business to prioritise the UK, with some analysts expecting BT to look at the futures of its Italian, Irish, and American divisions.

And last but not least, one of Europe's largest sellers of Rolex watches has said that sales in the UK are still down because some tourists don't want to buy here "due to the lack of VAT free shopping".

Nice for some.

The price of a healthy packed lunch has soared by around 45%, according to new research.

A lunch of wholemeal bread and fruit is more expensive for parents to put together than less nutritious versions with chocolate spread and crisps, The Food Foundation charity has found.

Unhealthy lunches for the research were made up of white bread with chocolate spread instead of wholemeal with cheese, flavoured yoghurt rather than a plain, unsweetened version and snacks such as crisps as opposed to the four portions of fruit and vegetables incorporated into the healthy lunch.

And when it came to the cheapest supermarket to buy a healthy packed lunch, Tesco topped the list with a weekly cost of £8.56 as of this month.

Morrisons was the most expensive retailer, with the price of a healthy packed lunch per week coming in at £11.72, although this was down slightly from £11.80 in October.

The equivalent cost at Sainsbury's was £10.47, Aldi was £10.08 and Asda was £9.18.

Research also showed the largest price rise in recent months was at Sainsbury's, where customers have to spend 9% more than they did at the start of the academic year in September (£9.61) for the same packed lunch.

Shona Goudie, policy and advocacy manager at The Food Foundation, said, the government's stringent eligibility criteria to qualify for free school meals was "leaving hundreds of thousands of children" who are living in poverty "at risk of malnutrition".

"No one should be priced out of being able to provide healthy food for their children and retailers need to do more to support families to afford the food they need," she said.

By Bhvishya Patel , Money team

We spoke to three buskers to find out what it's like performing on the street in the UK.

Amir, 29, came to UK from Pakistan with passion for music

Amir Hashmi moved to the UK in 2022 to study, said he began busking in central London 10 months ago because "music was his passion".

"In Pakistan there are many problems so I decided to leave and move to London. I feel I can do better in London than my country," he said.

He said busking was now his primary income but at times he did jobs at warehouses to get by.

"I never started this for money, I started because it is my passion but now this is my main job as well," he said.

Amir, who often performs in the capital's Piccadilly Circus or along Oxford Street, said often he returned home with just £10-15 in his pocket after a day's busking.

He said: "Many times I sleep without food and sometimes I sleep on the floor of the road when I have no shelter.

"I don't have my own place to live but I have friends who often let me stay with them. They don't charge me any rent - they look after me.

"Sometimes I do private shows for income but it's very hard because the cost of living is increasing. If I go somewhere then most of the time I prefer to walk. I walk with my speakers and carry my gear."

Despite his financial struggles, Amir said he wanted to continue performing on the street as his "goal was to make people happy".

He said: "With busking, there is no stage and you can just start performing. Whenever I am performing, I connect with the people who have come to listen. If I feel people are not enjoying it, I change the song and try and make them happy."

Earlier this year, Amir recorded a song with Neha Nazneen Shakil, a Malayalam actress from India, who approached the singer three months ago in Oxford Street.

"I wrote that song 12 years ago and after all these years my song has been recorded now in London," he added.

Jade, 24, quit retail to busk

Jade Thornton, from Amersham, started busking in 2017 with a friend after leaving college at the age of 17 and quickly realised it was something she enjoyed doing and could make a living from.

She began doing it full-time at the end of 2018 but when the pandemic hit she described becoming "unemployed overnight" and having to take up retail jobs to support herself.

"I chose not to go to university - I just thought it wasn't for me so I went straight into some part-time retail jobs," she said.

"I take my cap off to anyone who does retail - it is one of the most gruelling jobs. People who do retail don't get nearly as much respect as they deserve. 

"Some of the customers I was facing were not that kind and I thought this is making me miserable, so I just thought 'if I don't leave now then when?'"

As the global economy slowly began to recover, she decided to leave retail and pursue music full-time in 2022.

"It is hard to switch off - I do busking but I am constantly messaging clients, writing set lists and learning songs," she said.

When it came to finances, Jade said there was no average to how much she could earn but it could fluctuate from £15-100 day-to-day depending on a number of factors.

"It relies on the time of month, whether the sun is out, if people have been paid, if Christmas is on the way or if Christmas has just passed," she explained.

The musician said she did struggle initially when she began busking but her parents were always supportive.

She said: "You obviously get a few questions from people asking 'are you sure you want to quit your job and sing on the street?'

"I lived at home for a long time and I'm grateful my parents could support me in that way because I know not everyone has that opportunity."

While performing outdoors is now Jade's full-time job, she said some months were more difficult to make money than others.

"If I'm being brutally honest in months like January and February it would be super difficult. This year I had enough gigs in December to cover me for January," she said.

"Last year from June-July and December I did not have to go busking because I got so many gigs through busking. I'm part of a lot of online agencies and I also do lots of pub gigs, weddings, birthdays and other events."

Jade noted though that the cost of living crisis had made things harder.

She said: "A few pub gigs I've had have been cancelled because they've had to rethink their strategies but if somebody cancels then I can just go out busking. There has been a slight dent when it comes to finances but that's from COVID as well - with COVID I was unemployed overnight."

The young musician went on to say she was "very grateful" when somebody did tip her and even small gestures like sitting, listening or just a smile were "currencies in themselves".

"It's escapism for me as a singer and then it's escapism for the audience as well," she added.

"Children also have such a great time listening to buskers and some may not have an opportunity for many reasons to go and see live music so if they can come across it in the street and that can spark something that's a wonderful thing to think I'm a little part of that."

Charlotte, 34, long-time busker

Charlotte Campbell, 34, who usually busks along the Southbank or in the London Underground, said she started busking during the 2012 London Olympics and while "busking used to be enough", more recently she has had to take on more gigs in the evening.

"A typical day is usually busking until around 6pm and then a gig in the evening - 8pm onwards," she said.

"I could still probably make a living from busking but I've taken on more paid gigs since the pandemic because everything became so uncertain. I think that uncertainty has just carried through now - that seems to be the way of life now."

The musician said tips for her CDs, which she puts on display during her performances, ranged between £5-10 and in the current cashless climate a card reader was "essential".

She said she pre-sets her card reader to £3 when playing on the Southbank and £2 when busking inside the London Underground "because people are rushing".

While she described her earnings as a "trade secret", she said the busker income had "definitely gone down" but this was due to a few factors - the pandemic, people carrying less cash and the cost of living crisis.

"Also, a lots of pitches have closed which means there are a lot more buskers trying to compete for one spot so all of those things have impacted my living as a busker," she said.

"I would say even though my income is primarily from busking I have had to subsidise it with more paid gigs than before. I just haven't felt as secure in my living from busking in the last couple of years.

"Most of the gigs I have are booked by people who have seen me busking so indirectly busking is my entire career- if I don't busk I wouldn't get the gigs I play in the evening. So directly and indirectly busking is my entire income."

In spite of uncertainty, she said it was freeing to be able to go out and perform for people in an intimate way.

"You are not up on a stage and there is no separation between you and them.  It's a really great connection you can make - I want to be able to hold onto that," she added.

Every Thursday  Savings Champion founder Anna Bowes  gives us an insight into the savings market and how to make the most of your money. Today she's focusing on children's accounts...

While the rates on adult savings accounts have risen and fallen over the course of 2024, the top rates on accounts for children have remained stable - but are pretty competitive once again, as other account rates have started to fall. 

And there are plenty of different types of savings accounts to choose from, from the tax free Junior ISA, to children's regular savings accounts, fixed term bonds and easy access accounts.

Those who are able to start saving for their children early, could significantly improve their financial health in the future – especially when taking compounding interest into consideration.

If you were to save £50 a month from birth, you could give them a gift of more than £17,250 at age 18, assuming a tax-free interest rate of 4.95% - which is currently the top Junior ISA rate available.

If you, your friends and family were able to gift a total of £9,000 a year to a child (the current Junior ISA allowance), at the same rate, you could give them almost £265,000 when they reach 18. 

Now that's a gift worth having!

Children have their own personal allowance, so for the majority there will be no tax to pay on their savings interest. 

However, parents should be aware that there may be a tax liability to themselves on the interest earned on any money they gift to their children, until they reach the age of 18. 

If the gross interest earned is less than £100 for each parent's gift, it will be treated as the child’s under a 'de minimis' rule. 

This means that provided the interest earned does not make the child a taxpayer, they will be able to offset this against their personal tax allowance, so it will often be free of tax. 

But if the interest is more than £100 for each parent's gift, then it will be treated as that parent’s interest for tax purposes and therefore they may need to pay tax at their marginal rate - if it takes them above their Personal Allowance and/or Personal Savings Allowance.

Gifts from any other family members or friends will not be viewed in the same way. Instead, any interest earned will be treated as belonging to the child themselves and therefore can be earned tax free if they are non-taxpayers.

The exception to this rule is on funds deposited into a JISA, Child Trust Fund or NS&I Premium Bonds.  The returns from these are tax free for all.

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9 places to nosh on bagels in southern Maine

From old-school spots to foodie favorites, there's a 'hole' lot to try.

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Bread and bagels at The Works Cafe in downtown Portland. Photo by Aimsel Ponti

From New York-style boiled bagels to Montreal-inspired wood-fired ones, there’s lots of great bagels in southern Maine and several shops have the accolades to back that up.

In 2023, Bon Appetit named bagels from Rose Foods and Rover Bagel among the best in the country.

Two years before that,  Food & Wine Magazine put Rover, Forage and Scratch Baking Co. on its list of best bagels in the U.S.

Whether you like yours toasted with cream cheese or as the bread for your breakfast sandwich, you can find plenty of styles and flavors from Biddeford to Brunswick.

BEACH BAGELS

The offerings at Beach Bagels include a French toast and marble bagel, and the cream cheese menu comprises spreads like strawberry, olive and honey walnut. Along with breakfast sandwiches, Beach Bagels has hearty breakfast options like omelets and pancakes. Best of all, you’re steps away from a beach stroll. Just don’t let the seagulls steal your bagel. Advertisement

WHEN: 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. daily WHERE: 34 Old Orchard St., Old Orchard Beach. beachbagels.yolasite.com ______________

Dutchman’s opened in 2022 as a pop-up housed at Nomad pizza in Brunswick’s Fort Andross building. It’s since become a permanent fixture there and uses the pizzeria’s wood-fired ovens to bake its bagels. The hand-shaped, honey-boiled bagels come in plain, roasted garlic, poppy and a bagel-of-the-day flavor.

WHEN: 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Thursday to Sunday WHERE: Fort Andross, 14 Maine St., Brunswick. dutchmans.me ______________

FORAGE MARKET

Making bagels at Forage Market involves a two-day aging process. The bagels are naturally leavened with wild yeast starter and baked next to a hardwood fire. There are usually five flavors available, including sesame and garlic. Breakfast sandwiches (including vegan options) are available. Forage also has a location in Lewiston. Advertisement

WHEN: 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday and Sunday WHERE: 123 Washington Ave., Portland. foragemarket.com _____________

MISTER BAGEL

There are 10 or so Mister Bagel locations in Maine, including South Portland and Falmouth. It all began with the Portland location, which was the first bagel shop to open in Maine. The late Rick Hartglass started Mister Bagel in 1977, and it is still a family business. Music fans will appreciate the breakfast sandwich menu, which includes The David Bowie (bacon, egg and American cheese), the Jimmy Buffett (egg with roast beef and cheddar) and The Lady Gaga (avocado, salt and pepper, with or without egg).

WHEN: 6:30 a.m. to noon Monday to Friday, 7 a.m. to noon Saturday and Sunday WHERE: 599 Forest Ave., Portland. misterbagelforestave.com ______________

At Rose Foods, the menu varies depending on the day, but there are usually six to eight flavors available. For example, should you pop in on a Friday, you’ll find a poppy and onion bialy (a cousin of the bagel that is not boiled). Rose Foods also makes a number of bagel sandwiches, including the Classic Nova with Nova lox and the Classic Whitefish. Advertisement

WHEN: 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. daily WHERE: 428 Forest Ave., Portland. rosefoods.me

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ROVER BAGEL

At Rover Bagel, you’ll find wood-fired plain, poppy, sea salt, sesame and everything bagels available most of the time, and the spread game here is strong with cream cheese options like lemon-thyme-honey cream and chili-garlic.

WHEN: 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. Wednesday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, 8 a.m. to noon Sunday WHERE: 10 West Point Lane Suite 10-204, Biddeford (Pepperell Mill). roverbagel.com

______________ Advertisement

SCRATCH BAKING CO.

You haven’t lived until you’ve experienced the line of devoted fans waiting for Scratch Baking Co. to open, especially on weekend mornings. Along with the popular Maine sea salt, plain and other everyday flavors, Scratch has a daily special bagel. There’s honeyed rosemary on Wednesday and jalapeno cheddar on Thursday. Scratch is also famous, at least to locals, for its P-Cheese spread. It’s a pimento cheese recipe made with cheddar, mayo, roasted red peppers and seasoning and was passed down to co-owner and head baker Allison Reid by her grandmother, Mern.

WHEN: 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. Wednesday to Saturday, 7 a.m. to noon Sunday WHERE: 416 Preble St., South Portland. scratchbakingco.com ___________

THE MAINE BAGEL

The Maine Bagel is a drive-thru with several breakfast and other kinds of sandwiches available. With a bagel list that features egg and bialy among the standards, the family-owned spot is the perfect place to stop on your way to Pine Point Beach. The Maine Bagel really shines with a dozen kinds of cream cheese spreads, including raisin-walnut, lox, strawberry, cranberry-nut and bacon-chive.

WHEN: 6:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tuesday to Friday, 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday. WHERE: 117 Route 1, Scarborough. themainebagel.com Advertisement

THE WORKS CAFE

The Works Cafe is an institution on the edge of the Portland’s Old Port. It opened in 1990 as Bagel Works before it changed its name in 2002. The original shop in this regional chain opened in Manchester, Vermont, in 1988, and there are 11 locations around New England, though just the one in Maine. Gone are the ’90s-era banana-walnut bagels and cold pizza cream cheese, but The Works Cafe is still a reliable place to grab a salt, multigrain or cinnamon raisin bagel, among others. The menu also has bowls, sandwiches and smoothies.

WHEN: 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily WHERE: 15 Temple St., Portland. workscafe.com

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