wilderness travel group

You are using an outdated browser. Please upgrade your browser or activate Google Chrome Frame to improve your experience.

Trip Styles

• Destinations

Hiking and Trekking Tours

Join us for a hiking adventure you'll never forget!

All Inclusive, Expert Led Hiking Excursions Across the Globe

Immerse Yourself in Wilderness and Be Inspired

Award Winning Hiking Tours in the USA and Beyond

Find Your Ideal Wilderness Vacation

306 Trips Meet Your Criteria

Welcome to Wildland Trekking

Four key factors set us apart from other adventure and hiking companies.

All Inclusive Trips

Wildland hiking tours allow guests to focus 100% on the hiking experience. We provide all gear, meals, transportation, professional guides, permits, fees and much more!

Small Groups

Our hiking trips are always small group adventures, typically 4-12 people per trip. Join a personalized trekking vacation that prioritizes quality of experience above all else.

World-Class Destinations

Our trip diversity allows you to enjoy the world's inspiring landscapes in a variety of ways and at different times in your life, and we hope you'll sample them all!

The Best Guides in the Industry

These extraordinary men and women have the ability to turn a great get-away into an unforgettable, inspiring - and sometimes truly life changing - adventure.

Check out the current list of discounted tours

Save on a discounted tour.

Interested in enjoying one of our premier adventures, and saving 15-25% on the cost? See our list of discounted hiking and backpacking tours. Often these trips are coming up fast and require some flexibility with scheduling, but if one works for you it can pay off. Feel free to call us at 800-715-HIKE (4453) with any questions!

World-Class Hiking Destinations

We operate premier hiking tours all over the USA from the deserts, to the canyons, to the mountains, to the seashores and beyond. We also operate internationally to life-list destinations like Kilimanjaro, Iceland, the Alps, Peru, Patagonia and more world-class hiking destinations. View all destinations

Alaska Hiking and Walking Tours

USA Hiking Vacations

Alps Guided Treks

Global Hiking Vacations

Bryce Hiking Tours

Utah Hiking Tours, USA

Canadian Rockies Hiking Tours

Canada Hiking Tours

Canyonlands Hiking Tours

Death Valley Hiking Tours

California Hikes & Tours, USA

Grand Canyon Hiking Tours

Arizona Hikes & Tours, USA

Iceland Hiking Trips

Olympic Hiking Tours

Washington Hiking Tours, USA

Patagonia Hiking Tours

Peru Hiking Tours

Rocky Mountain National Park Hiking Tours

Colorado Hikes & Tours, USA

Smoky Mountains Guided Hikes

North Carolina Hikes, USA

Tetons Guided Hikes

Montana and Wyoming Hikes & Tours, USA

Yellowstone Hiking Tours

Yosemite Hiking Tours

Zion National Park Hiking Tours

For people who love to hike and travel, Wildland has something for everyone.

Guided Backpacking Trips

Camping Hiking Tours

Inn-Based Hiking Tours

Hut to Hut Trekking Tours

Day Hike Tours

Portered Treks

Llama Treks

Ski/Snowshoe Tours

Women's Adventure Trips

Guides Choice Trips

Family Friendly Trips

Paddle & Hike

National Park Tours

Highly rated on.

For us quality of experience is only second to safety.

We are committed to providing world-class trekking experiences for our guests that go way above and beyond the mass-produced tours so common today.

The Mt. Rainier Inn trip with Wildland was perfect. The Inn was comfortable; the guide was an expert in his field; the pacing was just right to accommodate all those on the trip; the scenery was ideal. If you can go please do.

Why Join a Guided Hiking or backpacking Tour?

10,000+ people join our guided hiking tours and backpacking trips annually, and there are many reasons so many people make this choice.

Reserve A Trip

Trained Guides

Hiking with an experienced, trained guide helps to maximize the safety and enjoyment of your trekking adventure. This is especially true if your trip is in an unfamiliar area, which guided trips often are.

Everything Included

A specific hiking or backpacking trip may be on your "life list" and you don't want to purchase all the gear and equipment to do a single trip. In this situation going with a guide service where everything is included provides a tremendous benefit.

Knowledge & Learning

Some guests are most interested in learning as much as they can about the area(s) they're hiking through. Guides can bring places to life by sharing stories, knowledge, observations, context and personal passion.

Convenience

We handle all the trip planning and on-the-ground logistics. This service takes the burden of planning almost entirely off your plate. Additionally you can travel light and have everything waiting for you.

Learn from Experts

Some guests are new to the outdoors, backpacking, hiking, and/or camping and prefer to go with experts to learn best practices from professionals. Guided trips are an excellent way to get started.

A Perfect Combination

For most guests it's a combination of some or all of these reasons that they join guided hiking tours and backpacking trips. Whatever your reason is, we're ready to help you create the experience of a lifetime.

Explore with our Expert Hiking & Backpacking Guides

For the last 15+ years Wildland has been awing guests with the professional and inspiring service our exceptional guides and staff provide. The secret sauce to our award winning trips is our staff (guides, managers, adventure consultants, drivers and more) who are deeply passionate about wilderness, about adventure, and about sharing those loves with others.

Hermit Loop Backpacking Trip

Hiking and Backpacking Guide

If you want to truly experience the grandeur and thrill of walking through the Grand Canyon, the 4 day Hermit hiking journey is the best way to achieve this once in a lifetime experience. Our guide Josh was first rate and managed our hiking group with skill and flexibility!

— Michael A.

Choosing the Right Hiking Trip

Choosing the right trip is a key ingredient for enjoying your hiking vacation. We offer backpacking trips, horse/llama/porter supported hikes, inn-based hiking tours, basecamp hiking tours and day hike tours. For guests looking to challenge themselves and travel deep into the backcountry, a backpacking trip is the best choice. Some people want to explore the backcountry but without heavy backpacks, and for those folks we recommend horse/llama/porter supported trips. Inn-based and basecamp tours are multi-day hiking vacations that showcase the best hikes and highlights of an area and are either inn-based or camping-based, and are great for families, couples, and solo travelers. And, finally, day hikes with an award winning hiking tour company like Wildland are an exceptional way to maximize a short amount of time at one of America’s amazing national parks.

When and Where to Hike

For desert hiking destinations like Joshua Tree and Death Valley, the best seasons are spring, fall and winter. In mountain destinations like Yellowstone, Iceland, the Pacific Northwest, the Alps and others, the best seasons to hike are late spring, summer and early fall. Some destinations are great year round, regardless of whether they are in the desert or mountains; examples are Grand Canyon, Sedona, the Smoky Mountains, Yosemite, Yellowstone (ski and snowshoe tours), Peru, and Ecuador. Winter is, generally, the most underrated season for hiking and backpacking tours in many areas, as it’s a spectacular time of year to hike but largely skipped over by many people.

When choosing your next destination, it’s important to consider more than just the time of year. You can call us 7 days a week at 800-715-HIKE (4453) to speak with our Adventure Consultant Team.

The Latest from Instagram

Follow @wildlandtrekking

Explore Your World!

Travel with Wildland Trekking

wildland Wires

Sign up to receive our exclusive Wildland Wire emails and stay up to date with Wildland Trekking's promotions, discounts, contests, outdoor tips and tricks, trip reports and more!

Suggested companies

Kensington tours, sea the city jet ski, good life expeditions.

Wilderness Travel   Reviews

In the Tour Operator category

Visit this website

Company activity See all

Write a review

Reviews 4.8.

Most relevant

"Absolutely fantastic experience with…

"Absolutely fantastic experience with this travel company! From start to finish, everything was seamless. The itinerary was well-planned, accommodations were top-notch, and the guides were knowledgeable and friendly. Highly recommend for anyone looking for a memorable travel adventure!"

Date of experience : April 02, 2024

Wilderness Travel: Great! But Always Room for Improvement

We've taken five trips with Wilderness Travel (WT). That in itself is a review and recommendation. WT is great! But there's always room for improvement. Consider adding/planning more customized trips for those who want more flexibility than what is offered on fixed itineraries; eg. Raja Ampat offers nothing but snorkeling for 12 days. Must be other things to see and do. Trip leaders can make or break a trip. Keys to successful leadership are a passion for the place and subject matter with an equal measure of love for sharing it with the people/group on the trip. Some have it; others aren't as good at connecting with the people. Keep looking for great leaders and winnow out the ones that don't have their hearts in it.

Date of experience : May 11, 2019

Reply from Wilderness Travel

Thank you so much for your review, Spencer! At Wilderness Travel we try to set a very high bar for ourselves, and feedback like yours helps us continue to push that bar higher. Your suggestion to add more customizable trips is a great one. We are constantly expanding our Private Journey collection where the trip, activities, and accommodations can be customized to meet the interests of the private group. When logistics allow, we are also adding more and more hiking trips where we are able to offer two daily options (longer and shorter hikes). We could not agree more about the importance of our Trip Leaders to our adventures! When people ask what sets our trips apart, we always start by speaking about our Trip Leaders, who are an incredible group of individuals. We have very high standards for the leaders we hire, and as you mentioned—we look not only for leaders with deep subject matter expertise, but also those who are also truly passionate about sharing their country and knowledge with our travelers. Thank you again for taking the time to give us such thoughtful feedback and helping us continue to strive for excellence! We appreciate it and hope to welcome you on trip #6 soon!

Patagonia, Iguazu, Buenos Airles

We recently enjoyed a 3 week trip to Argentina & Chile. Two weeks was arranged through Wilderness Travel. Our focal point was Patagonia and the hotels, transfers and guides were very good. Patagonia was spectacular and Wilderness guided some good decisions, such as staying at Estancia Christina for 2 nights instead of one. The hotels were uniformly high quality. One part of the Patagonia hiking that could be improved is having a variety of hiking options. Our first day hike was more ambitious than some members of our foursome was expecting. We also did a two day trip to Iguazu Falls. We had the most outstanding guide of the entire trip. This is someone who loves sharing what he is most passionate about, and is a true naturalist. We had multiple trips to Buenos Aires since it's the transporation hub and no matter where your ultimate destination is you are always going back through Buenos Aires. The city is so spread out it's hard to get a sense of it if you are only there for one or two days.

Date of experience : March 27, 2020

Dream trip to Africa

My dream of going to Africa came true, I waited for it for 3 years, all I had to do was go to the Wilderness Travel website, choose the trip I was interested in and they took care of the rest. When I landed in Africa I felt something that cannot be described, I was so happy. I can definitely say that Africa changed me, I discovered something in myself that I didn't know and I found myself. Thank you once again Wilderness Travel, you made my dream come true, I recommend everyone to use their services.

Date of experience : September 30, 2023

Trip exceeded all expectation!

The Indochine Tour not only met our expectations but far exceeded them. Our guide, Matthew, was extremely knowledgeable and you could tell he loved what he was doing, and the local guides shared stories of their respective countries and provided us with experiences only availed to smaller groups (there were 7 of us). This was our second trip with Wilderness Travel and will certainly not be the last. Love Wilderness Travel! And the accommodations were first rate!!

Date of experience : January 02, 2020

Best way to see Africa imaginable

We have traveled extensively and at all levels in Africa, and despite having done high end tent camping safaris previously the one we experienced with WT is the one we'll remember. You really couldn't imagine anything more beautifully organized, well thought through, and staffed by the most knowledgeable and genuinely warm guides we have ever had the pleasure to meet. Five stars isn't enough. WT is in a class by itself.

Date of experience : May 01, 2019

That is wonderful to hear, Mark. Thank you so much for your feedback. We are thrilled we could show you Africa through our eyes :)

A Small Group tour that focuses on regions outside the usual cities.

A small group tour where you get to know everyone and learn a lot about the country from the guide. The tours focus on the countryside or more extreme adventures and mostly ignore the usual big-name cities. The guides work hard to make the trip enjoyable for everyone, even when plans change due to weather or other local conditions.

Date of experience : March 23, 2019

Thanks, Keith! We have always aimed for more intimate, "off the beaten path" adventures so we are delighted to hear that.

All of the off ship tours were extra &…

All of the off ship tours were extra & this was an expensive trip to begin with. Have been on other trips where only exceptional tours are extra. The ship itself & all the people on it were wonderful.

Date of experience : July 30, 2019

Thank you, Elaine, for your feedback. We are so glad that you enjoyed your experience on our recent Special Event: Total Solar Eclipse Cruise. Please note that almost all of our Wilderness Travel small ship adventures include shore activities at no additional cost. However, for this particular departure, we were subject to the procedures of the cruise company itself, which did not include extra excursions in their costs. We completely understand your points above and do appreciate your reply. Overall, we felt that this particular boat was the best choice for our plans in the region, and we're so glad that you enjoyed the ship and those onboard. We hope to welcome you to another Wilderness Travel trip in the near future!

Hiking in Cornwall: A typically wonderful WT trip.

This Cornwall trip was my third WT trip in the UK and all of them have been first rate. The guides are gems, full of good cheer, incredible local knowledge, and uncommon generosity. Richard Bell designed this trip and has it planned to the finest detail. The schedule is wonderfully mixed, with cultural sessions blended in with the hiking. My wife especially appreciated the fact that we stayed 3-4 nights in each hotel. The coastal scenery is stunning. Our other WT trips were equally well-planned, beautiful and comfortable. We are signed up for two more next year!

Date of experience : September 23, 2019

We are so happy you enjoyed your time traveling with Richard! It is such a treat to see Cornwall through his eyes and we are delighted we were able to share that with the two of you.

We traveled to the Galapagos for a…

We traveled to the Galapagos for a 15-day cruise among the islands aboard the three-masted schooner "Mary Anne" . Everything about the trip was amazing. Wilderness Travel coordinated and arranged all details, which were flawless. They were also helpful in arranging additional stay for us prior to the group arrangements. They were always available to answer questions. Truly excellent!

Date of experience : July 02, 2019

We are so happy to hear you enjoyed your time in the Galapagos! They really are spectacular islands and we've found they are best experienced when you can relax and not worry about the logistics.

Amazing Morocco

Amazing Morocco It was an amazing trip where we were able to see varied geography and cultures from the Medina of Fex to the Sahara Desert to the High Atlas Mountains to the large city of Marrakech and to a seaside town of Essouria. Two highlights for us were riding camels and staying in a tented camp in the Sahara and four-wheel backroading in the High Atlas Mountains. We were also able to see how Berber Nomads lived. The entire trip was so fun and interesting and we had a truly amazing guide, Mohammed. This was definitely a 5-star trip!

Date of experience : May 24, 2019

Mohammed really is a gem, isn't he? We are delighted to hear you enjoyed your time exploring this spectacular country. We hope to have you back for another 5-star adventure in the near future!

We have gone on 3 very diverse trips…

We have gone on 3 very diverse trips with Wilderness travel - a safari, hiking in Patagonia and a cruise to Antarctica via Polar Latitudes. Each was a great experience from the pick up at the airport to the drop off at the very end. All the leaders were experienced, personable, and knowledgeable in their fields. We were treated with courtesy and kindness. Travel was punctual, and we always knew what to expect. The trip planning was easy and the personnel responsive to our emails, texts and phone calls. We won’t think twice about traveling again with Wilderness Travel!

Date of experience : April 02, 2019

This is music to our ears, Pam! Thank you so much for the feedback.

A diverse cultural experience

A diverse cultural experience with a taste of 5 countries. Mostly easy hiking, but poles should be required and travellers should learn how to use them before they begin this trip.

Date of experience : October 01, 2019

We have traveled with Wilderness Travel…

We have traveled with Wilderness Travel on some 20 trips starting in 2010. We have always found their office staff able to answer our many questions and to provide information to enable us to prepare for our travel. Their guides are always exceptional and their trips are always well organized. We plan to continue our travels with them.

Date of experience : March 13, 2019

Thank you for the kind words! Your feedback is invaluable to us, especially because you have traveled on so many of our trips. We look forward to welcoming you on more adventures in the future :)

Always a great experience

We have been on multiple trips with Wilderness Travel and have always had great experiences. The guides are knowledgeable, friendly and go out of their way to make sure your trip goes smoothly. Many of our trips have been centered around hiking and we've always felt the itineraries were well thought out and appropriately challenging.

Date of experience : July 06, 2019

Our Trip Leaders really are the best of the best, and we put a tremendous amount of thought into our itinerary design so that is wonderful to hear, thank you so much!

Can't Wait to do another Tour with Wilderness!

This was my second tour with Wilderness and it outdid all my expectations.We had an amazing tour guide who taught us about every aspect of Costa Rica. He chose restaurants and hotels with personal care. Each lodge gave great service and hospitality and the food was terrific.

Date of experience : April 09, 2019

Thank you so much for your kind words, Joan. We are thrilled to hear about your experiences in Costa Rica and we can't wait to exceed your expectations again on the next adventure!

Wilderness travel folks thought of…

Wilderness travel folks thought of everything we would need and lots of extras we were surprised by that made our trip even more enjoyable. The staff and guides are the very best in terms of their knowledge and commitment to making the trip unforgettable. Our trip was absolutely amazing in every respect.

Date of experience : February 26, 2020

I have traveled with several travel…

I have traveled with several travel companies and Wilderness Travel ALWAYS comes up as my number one travel company. The guides are knowledgeable, helpful, and experts in the history and customs of each place. I have found the guide truly "makes" the trip by introducing such a first hand depth of immersion into the city or country. A true appreciation makes each trip not only an adventure, but also a lifelong remembrance of the local people we have met.

Date of experience : April 01, 2019

Rudrick - you're far too kind! We couldn't agree more that high quality Trip Leaders are the key to unforgettable experiences. We're so glad you've enjoyed joining us on these adventures as much as we have enjoyed planning them :)

Our trip was excellent in every respect…

Our trip was excellent in every respect - trip leader, local guides, drivers, staff at estancias. Obviously, a great deal of effort was spent on planning the hikes and other activities, travel, accommodations. Our trip leader Rob Noonan and all the guides educated us in every aspect of Buenos Aires and Pataonia - history, geology, meteorology, flora and fauna. The hikes were strenuous, but we could set our own paces, so, even I, at age 74, was able to complete all the hikes without overtaxing myself. A trip that was good for the mind and body - what else could you want?

Date of experience : March 10, 2020

Fantastic Experience

I've been on several trips with Wilderness Travel (Belize, Patagonia, Galapagos) and look forward to many more in the future. I've had extremely positive experiences with the office staff when signing up and the trips themselves have been exemplary, once-in-a-lifetime adventures. The Galapagos was a real dream come true - if you get the chance don't hesitate to go! WT has amazing guides, unique lodgings, they've got it all.

Date of experience : December 17, 2018

North America

Alaska Tours & Cruises

Answer the call of the wild.

You don’t have to travel far to feel a world away on our journeys in Alaska. Explore remote coastlines of pristine forests where wildlife abounds. Bald eagles soar overhead, enormous brown bears roam the shores, and whales, orcas, and porpoises fill the sea. The historic yachts we use can navigate into small bays where the big cruise ships can’t go, creating the ultimate Alaska experience.

All Trips to Alaska

Cruise Collection

Alaska’s Inside Passage

From $6,750

Alaska: Journey to Sitka

From $8,000

Alaska: Exploring Glacier Bay

From $7,750

Exploring the Aleutian Islands

From $8,995

Experience Alaska

REVIEWS FROM OUR CLIENTS

All-in-all, the trip was amazing—the trip of a lifetime. The crew did a wonderful job and the kayaking and hiking was great (although I could have done more, but do realize that sometimes the boat just has to travel!). And we were really fortunate to have a great group of guests that all got along.

This was the best trip ever. Hiking, kayaking, glaciers, bears, whales, sea lions—magical! This happily did not resemble a cruise ship and we loved the adventure!

An amazing trip. We seemed to have Alaska’s Inland Passage all to ourselves, sharing it only with an array of whales and mountain goats plus bears and sea lions. The scenery was gorgeous; the crew knowledgeable and enthusiastic. We enjoyed gourmet cuisine at every meal. This is absolutely, positively the ideal way to travel!

Fabulous trip. The itinerary brings the Inside Passage ‘up close and personal.’ The crew, one and all, are professional, capable, and fun to be around.

Would do it again in a heartbeat. Great boat, crew, and fellow travelers. Excellent food.

This was by far one of the best things I’ve done in my life. The itinerary made the most of the stunning wildlife and landscapes in Alaska and it was supported by a passionate crew whose enthusiasm was infectious. I’d recommend this trip to anyone and everyone!

Fabulous experience, the trip of a lifetime. Enjoyed every second of it. And the food was over-the-top wonderful, as were the wines.

This was a fabulous way to travel the Alaskan Inside Passage, a wonderland of beauty and inspiring vistas. The crew really made the trip memorable and I cannot say enough wonderful things about them. We saw so much wildlife everywhere we turned and spent one serene day kayaking with humpback whales that was a once-in-a-lifetime experience. It just could not have been better.

One of the best, most memorable trips ever! The crew of three were very compatible, interactive, and efficient, and they encouraged intimacy among all eight passengers. Gourmet food, so much information, and knowledge about the area! Experience of a lifetime!

This is the only way to really experience Alaska and meet its people. The food was incredible, the boat a classic, and our naturalist was wonderfully knowledgeable, whether we were kayaking, hiking, or whale watching! It was a magical and soulful way to see the Inside Passage just as John Muir saw it.

One of our best trips ever, and the ship’s chef is unbelievably skilled! Our Trip Leader was always helpful, friendly and knowledgeable. An absolutely marvelous trip.

The food was absolutely outstanding—it was like dining every day in a three star restaurant. Captain Bill is an wonderful guy with great stories. He was able to navigate the many icebergs and got our small vessel right to the head of the Dawson Glacier!

We enjoyed this trip very much. Its intimacy with the landscape and wildlife was everything I had hoped for and more. The crew was incredibly personable and knowledgeable.

The food was amazing, staff’s knowledge incredible, and we saw many amazing things! I would definitely recommend this trip to anyone wanting to travel in this area.

Talk to an Expert

Our North America Specialists know every detail about our Alaska trips. 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!

Wilderness Travel Review (2024): Not For The Budget-Friendly?

Calling all adventure lovers! Whether hiking an active volcano or discovering wildlife on an African Safari, Wilderness Travel has much to offer. In my experience, planning an adventure trip is best-done solo, so what are the benefits of booking a group trip?

Venturing into the wilderness ushers in feelings and experiences that can't be matched. Whether you want to go scuba diving in the Great Barrier Reef or trek through the mountains of Nepal, adventure travel offers lifelong memories. 

Over the past decade, I've dabbled in many heart-racing activities. From snorkeling with stingrays and jumping out of an airplane to surfing with sharks and trekking active volcanoes, exploring the wilderness is one of my favorite pastimes. 

In general, I plan my trips myself. It offers me freedom and flexibility that is unmatched. 

Wilderness Travel claims to be a leader in the adventure travel industry, boasting small group and private journeys. So, is this adventure company worth it for budget travelers? Let's take a look at the type of wilderness vacations on offer!   

What is Wilderness Travel?

Offering more than 200 small group and private tours,  Wilderness Travel  is pinned as a pioneer in the industry.

Having been around for over 40 years, this company offers active travel experiences in more than 75 countries worldwide. This travel company is proudly owned by its founder, Bill Abbott.

Having been in business since 1978, Wilderness Travel offers trips tailored to varied interests and abilities. The range of experiences makes it an ideal option for seasoned travelers and those just starting. 

Here are some of the different options Wilderness Travel Company has to offer: 

• Hiking and trekking
• African safaris 
• Events and expeditions
• Cultural trips 
• Small ship cruises 
• Family trips 
• Private journeys 

My Initial Impressions

At first glance, Wilderness Travel boasts a lot of variety. 

From top-tier destinations like the Maldives and Europe to classic adventure locations like the Galapagos and Latin America, you can find everything from polar expeditions to Pacific vacations. You can search for the trip type, which helps narrow down the process if you need help determining what you're looking for. This feature can be handy if you're not 100% clear about what adventure you're after. 

Additionally, you can determine your trip based on what type of activity you're interested in doing. Some of the most popular activities include: 

• Wildlife and natural history 
• Snorkeling 
• Small boat and yacht cruising

After investigating further, I discovered a handful of the most popular adventure trips. Initially, I was shocked at the prices, varying around $4000 - $5000+ for a 9-day trip. 

These experiences are tailored to travelers seeking an all-inclusive experience. Here is a handful of the best-seller experiences, the prices, and trip duration: 

• Inca Trail to Machu Picchu (9 days) - $5995 
• Everest Lodge to Lodge (14 days) - $4395 
• Namibia Safari Expedition (14 days) - $9995 
• Snorkeling in Raja Ampat (12 days) - $6695 
• Galapagos Yacht Adventure (10 days) - $8995 

One important factor to keep in mind is that the prices do not include airfare. You can find the detailed list of what's included in the base trip cost in the trip's "Detailed Itinerary."

How to Book a Trip With Wilderness Travel

The Wilderness Travel website boasts an easy-to-use format with various sections to book a trip. 

For travel inspiration, you can simply search in the " Our Trips " section or search directly in the "Find a Trip" section. 

If you opt for the latter option, you'll have to enter the following details: 

• Trip type (journeys by rail, cruise collection, small group adventures) 
• Activity (archaeology, culinary, eclipse, sea kayaking) 
• Trip level (easy, moderate, challenging) 

Although the price range can be relatively high, you can find discounts in the "Special Offers" section on the drop-down menu. This is the most suitable option for budget travelers seeking an experience with Wilderness Travel. With hefty discounts ranging between $500 and $1000 per person, It's a steal for budget-conscious explorers. 

Various deal options are available for 2024 adventures, topped with early-bird and safari extension discounts. 

Key Features

Wilderness Travel boasts a simple, straightforward layout, and the drop-down menu makes navigating the site easy. You'll find resources and a travel blog to be the most helpful among the top features. 

You can get more information about this adventure travel company on the resources page. You can answer all your questions about choosing a trip, reserving a place, and find helpful links there. 

Referral Program 

A referral program also allows you, "the referrer," and your friend, "the referee," to get a $100 credit. If you're a budget traveler who's planning a wilderness  vacation trip with friends , this is a pocket-friendly offer that's worth noting!

Travel Blog 

Wilderness Travel boasts a travel blog page where you can immerse yourself in fellow travelers' narratives. Book a trip with this company, and you may also get to share your personal experiences and photography on the travel blog! 

Here are some of the top traveler stories: 

• Visiting the mountain gorillas of Uganda 
• A cultural journey in North India 
• Unique desert adventures in Egypt and Jordan 
• Tracking polar bears in Churchill 

Cancellation/Refund Policy

The Wilderness Travel Company's cancellation policy varies depending on the type of trip. Here is the standard cancellation fee schedule: 

• Up to 91 days before departure: No charge 
• 61-90 days before departure: 25% of trip cost
• 46-60 days before departure: 50% of trip cost
• 45 days or less: 100% of the trip cost

What People Are Saying About Wilderness Travel

Most travelers are pleased with the amount of depth and information provided by the guides. People praise the well-planned routes and how the trips steered clear of the typical tourist trail. 

Travelers are happy with the top-quality accommodation, food, and services available too. Wilderness Travel reviews state that these tours are most popular among adults rather than younger travelers. 

Other visitors tend to talk about the high prices and how it's not accessible for those on a tight budget. When you must factor in airfares on top of the base trip cost, it's entirely out of range for backpackers or budget-conscious travelers. 

Benefits & Drawbacks

Booking a trip with Wilderness Travel boasts many benefits, from the detail-oriented tour guides and unique routes to the tasty cuisine and high-end accommodation. 

This is an ideal way of meeting new friends and adventure-loving travelers, especially in small group trips. It's highly agreed that this adventure travel company offers some of the globe's top wilderness adventures for adults. 

The major disadvantages are the cancellation policy and the high prices. 

If you're looking for a pocket-friendly trip, you won't find it here. The trip base costs don't include airfares, meaning you'll have to set aside extra money. 

Other adventure travel companies that offer similar services include  G Adventures  and  Intrepid Travel .

Is Wilderness Travel Worth It?

Wilderness Travel is a suitable choice if you're looking for an all-inclusive, well-planned experience. With experienced guides and unique routes, you don't have to fret over the planning process. 

If you're interested in meeting like-minded travelers, this is one of the top adventure travel companies. On the other hand, there may be better choices than Wilderness Travel if you're looking to  save money while traveling . With high prices and costs that don't include airfares, you might save for months or years.

Our Rating: 3.4/5

• Knowledgable tour guides 
• High-quality food and accommodation 
• Immersive experiences with like-minded travelers
• Unique routes and activities 
• Cancellation policy 
• Base costs don't include airfares 

Wilderness Vacations and Beyond! 

Now that you know more about Wilderness Travel, you can start to craft your ideal travel experience for you, your family, and your friends.

Disclosure : Pilot is supported by our community. We may earn a small commission fee with affiliate links on our website. All reviews and recommendations are independent and do not reflect the official view of Pilot.

Satisfy your wanderlust

Get Pilot. The travel planner that takes fun and convenience to a whole other level. Try it out yourself.

Trending Travel Stories

Discover new places and be inspired by stories from our traveller community.

Related Travel Guides

Intrepid Travel In-depth Review: Are their tours any good? [2024]

G Adventures: Is It Worth the Money? Our Honest Review

Touristlink Review: Great platform for travelers, or nah? [2024]

EF Go Ahead Tours Review 2024: Are their guided tours worth it?

Trafalgar Tours Review [2024]: Are they worth it?

Tourradar Review: Should You Use the Booking Site for Tours?

Make the most of every trip

You won’t want to plan trips any other way!

The trip planner that puts everything in one place, making planning your trip easier, quicker, and more fun.

Get Daily Travel Tips & Deals!

By proceeding, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use .

The 10 Best Group Travel Tour Companies for 2023

Caroline Morse Teel

Caroline Morse Teel is the Managing Editor for SmarterTravel Media. Follow her adventures around the world on Instagram @TravelWithCaroline.

Travel Smarter! Sign up for our free newsletter.

For those truly epic, once-in-a-lifetime destinations, you want to leave your itinerary to the experts. Whether your dream is to see the Big Five on an African Safari, trek tall mountains, explore European cities, or something even wilder, a group tour is the easiest way to do it.

However, picking the wrong group tour company is the quickest way to ruin your trip. Make sure you choose a tour company that aligns with your goals and travel styles. Do you want an intimate group tour or do you prefer to make lots of new friends in a big group? Does the price line up with what you like (luxury vs. budget)? Is the itinerary going to all the places you want to see? 

We’ve done the research and found the very best group travel tour companies for 2023 for every type of traveler.

Best Overall Group Travel: Exodus Travels

With trips on every continent, Exodus Travels covers anywhere on this planet that you could possibly want to go, from popular destinations like the Amalfi Coast to well off-the-beaten path adventures like Tajikistan. This award-winning group travel company boasts thousands of repeat customers who sign up for trips year after year (97% of past participants would recommend Exodus Travels to a friend). 

These small group tours operate with only around 12-16 people, and always feature experienced local leaders who can give you a unique insight into your destination. Exodus Travels caters to any type of travel style, including trips broken down by type of activity (think walking, cycling, multi-adventure, winter, or cultural) as well as type of traveler (family, age group, etc.). There are curated collections (coastal, “away from it all”, European wilderness, and trips of a lifetime) to inspire you, as well as self-guided options for when you want all the benefits of a group tour planner without the actual group. Looking for that special safari? Exodus Travels just partners with the African Wildlife Foundation to create carefully curated luxury adventures that go above and beyond the standard safari. 

Exodus Travels tours work for almost any budget, with options that range from affordable to premium. 

Top Trip: Explore under-the-radar Europe by foot on Exodus Travels’ Lakes & Mountains of Slovenia walking tour .

A Taste of the Sweet Life in Slovenia

Best Adventure Group Travel: World Expeditions

World Expeditions has been taking adventurous travelers to remote locations all over the world ever since its first group trek through Nepal in 1975. Today, World Expeditions offers active itineraries on every continent. Intrepid travelers can opt for trips themed around mountaineering, rafting, cycling, hiking, and more. 

World Expeditions aims to leave communities and places where they operate tours better than they found them. Trips are created using the company’s Thoughtful Travel Charter as a guideline, which emphasizes respect for the environment, sustainability, having a positive impact on local communities, protecting wildlife, and more. 

World Expeditions’ trips are capped at just 16 people to provide a good experience for participants, and there are no single supplements for solo travelers willing to share a room with someone of the same gender. 

Top Trip: Summit Africa’s tallest mountain on a fully-supported trek up Kilimanjaro on World Expeditions’ eight day trip up the beautiful Lemosho Route . 

Best Budget Group Travel: G Adventures 

For travelers on a budget, G Adventures offers cheap group tours that make dream destinations accessible to nearly anyone. (Think: sailing the Galapagos for just $1,124 , criss-crossing India’s Golden Triangle for $559 , or spending 8 days in Bali for less than $800.)

G Adventures is one of the best tour companies for solo travelers as well, as most trips don’t have a single-supplement. You can choose to share a room with another G Adventures solo traveler, or pay extra to have your own space.

G Adventures keeps costs down by opting for cheaper hotels and local meals, and making certain activities optional (for an additional cost). Pick your travel style—options range from “basic” to more luxe tours run in partnership with National Geographic. Family tours, local living tours (featuring homestays), and wellness-focused tours are also available. 

Top Trip: G Adventures’ China Express trip is a great way to see the highlights of China if you’re short on both time and budget. 

8 Trending Destinations to Visit in 2023

Best Educational Group Tours: EF Go Ahead Tours

When you really want to learn about a destination, consider a group trip with EF Go Ahead Tours . EF is the world’s largest private education company, and the Go Ahead Tours arm capitalizes on the company’s relationships with local educators, historians, and tour guides to create group trips that take you deep into a destination. 

These small group tours generally cap at 38 travelers, and feature unique educational experiences. For a bucket list trip, EF Go Ahead Tour’s special event tours are particularly enticing, as they offer behind-the-scenes access to tough-to-plan trips like Oktoberfest in Munich or Cherry Blossom season in Japan. 

Intimidated by solo travel? EF Go Ahead Tours is a great option for solo travelers, since it offers designated trips for solo travelers , where everyone is traveling alone, making it less intimidating.  

Top Trip: Bring the tastes of Italy home with you on EF Go Ahead Tours’ Food & Wine: Piedmont & Tuscany tour (operated in partnership with America’s Test Kitchen), where you’ll learn how to make local dishes. 

Best Responsible Group Travel: Intrepid Travel

Looking for a responsible group travel operator that focuses on bettering the communities and destinations they visit? Intrepid Travel is the world’s largest travel B Corporation, a certification for companies doing good. 

Intrepid Travel’s tours focus on sustainability, diversity, inclusion, and sustaining communities. The company has its own charity, The Intrepid Foundation , which has donated over 7 million dollars to over 130 community organizations. 

Intrepid Travel’s small group tours attract a wide range of travelers, but they are especially great for younger travelers, as they have a large number of trips designed for people aged 18-29 . (Other trips, including family-focused trips, are geared toward any age.)

Top Trip: Experience unforgettable wildlife encounters on Intrepid Travel’s Premium Uganda & Rwanda trip which includes time with the mountain gorillas of Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. 

The 10 Best Sites to Book a Cruise

Best Private Group Travel: Kensington Tours

Whether your group consists of just two people or involves taking the entire extended family, Kensington Tours will take all the hassle of planning out of the equation. This private group operator creates personalized trips and itineraries tailored to your preferences, while their experts handle all the logistics and bookings. 

Plans are entirely flexible, and can even be changed while on the trip on a whim. Need some inspiration? Browse Kensington Tours’ travel ideas , to get some ideas for your next adventure. 

Top Trip: Sail around the stunning shores of Croatia and the Dalmation Islands on a private luxury catamaran on Kensington Tours’ fully customizable tour . 

Best Polar Group Travel: Chimu Adventures

Whether you’re headed north to the Artic or south to Antarctica, Chimu Adventures has the perfect polar group trip for you. Chimu Adventures has some of the most variety for polar trips, with options to fly, cruise, or a combination of both to get to your destination.

For an ultra-unique Antarctica trip, Chimu Adventures offers cruises departing from Australia or New Zealand (most Antarctica trips depart from Argentina). Can’t stay long? Book one of Chimu Adventures’ scenic flights to Antarctica , which fly as far as the south pole in one spectacular 16-hour day.

Chimu Adventures is one of the cheapest group trips to Antarctica, with rates starting under $5,000.

Top Trip: If you’re pressed for time (or simply don’t have the stomach for the Drake Passage), Chimu Adventures’ Antarctica Fly Cruise will get you to the ends of the earth quickly and smoothly.

Program These Numbers Into Your Phones Before Traveling Internationally

Best Group Tours for Solo Travelers: For the Love of Travel

Group tours can be a great way to meet new people, but they can sometimes skew on the older age range. If you’re between 25-39 and a solo traveler looking to meet new people, you’ll love For the Love of Travel . All participants on the trips are between 25-39, and according to the company, 80 percent are solo travelers—so you’ll make friends fast. Hoping to meet someone who will be more than just a friend on your next trip? Trips include a balanced number of “gal and guy spots” to ensure an even balance of genders within groups (and of course, non-binary genders are always welcome). 

For the Love of Travel offers weeklong (or longer) international trips as well as shorter weekender trips to nearby destinations like Mexico or Denver—perfect for people without a lot of vacation time.

Top Trip: Sleep in a glass igloo under the Northern Lights, go sledding with huskies, and warm up in traditional saunas on For the Love of Travel’s Lapland tour , already booking dates for 2024.

Best Biking Tours Group Travel: DuVine Cycling

Biking through the rolling hills of Italy or across the mountain roads of Chile sounds like a dream, but the logistics seem daunting (especially if you don’t want to haul all your own stuff from point-to-point). Enter: DuVine Cycling , a luxury small group tour company that specializes in bike trips. 

With trips across Europe, Latin America, Africa, Asia, and the United States, DuVine Cycling is a cyclist’s dream. Choose from all-biking trips or mix things up with a cycle and sail bike tour or a multi-sport adventure —no matter what, everything is included, from luxury boutique accommodations to top-quality name brand bikes. 

Top Trip: DuVine’s Holland Bike Tour promises “tulips, windmills, beer, and cheese”—what more could you need?

Best Luxury Group Travel: Abercrombie & Kent

Abercrombie & Kent has been delighting discerning travelers since 1962. Today, they take travelers on unforgettable adventures across over 100 different countries and all seven continents. Although Abercrombie & Kent’s trips are pricey, they encompass once-in-a-lifetime experiences like private jet tours around the world or luxury chartered cruises .

There are trips designed for solo travelers and families , and the small group journeys max out at around 14-18 guests.

Top Trip: Swim with whale sharks in the Philippines, feed proboscis monkeys in Malaysia, and photograph wild tigers in India on Abercrombie & Kent’s Wildlife Safari: Around the World by Private Jet trip , already booking dates into 2024.

Book Your Stay With SmarterTravel Hotels

For independent explorers who don’t want to miss out on these amazing destinations, book your hotel stay for a great rate with SmarterTravel Hotels .

You Might Also Like:

We hand-pick everything we recommend and select items through testing and reviews. Some products are sent to us free of charge with no incentive to offer a favorable review. We offer our unbiased opinions and do not accept compensation to review products. All items are in stock and prices are accurate at the time of publication. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission.

Top Fares From

Don't see a fare you like? View all flight deals from your city.

Today's top travel deals.

Brought to you by ShermansTravel

Porto to Lisbon: 7-Nt, Small-Group Portugal...

Indus Travels

Greenland: Luxe, All-Incl. 11-Nt Exploration Small-Ship...

Swan Hellenic

Ohio: Daily Car Rentals from Cincinnati

Trending on SmarterTravel

Natural Habitat Adventures

Conservation through exploration.

• Canada Polar Bear Tours
• Southern Africa Safaris
• East Africa Safaris

U.S. National Parks Tours

Alaska Adventures

Canada & the North

• Galapagos Cruises & Tours
• Mexico & Central America Adventures

South America Adventures

Asia & Pacific Adventures

Europe Adventures

• Antarctica & Arctic

Adventure Cruises

• Easter Island
• Falkland Islands
• French Polynesia
• High Arctic
• New Zealand
• South Africa
• South Georgia Island
• Svalbard/Spitsbergen
• United States
• African Safari Wildlife
• Birds & Butterflies
• Whales & Marine Wildlife
• Active Expeditions

African Safaris

• Climate Change Departures
• Cultural Immersions
• Easier Adventures
• Fall Foliage

Family Adventures

• Great Migrations
• Hiking & Trekking Adventures
• Kayaking Adventures

New Adventures

• NHA's Most Popular Adventures

Photo Expeditions

• Private Custom Adventures
• Rain Forest Tours
• Sailing Adventures
• Snorkeling Adventures
• Wildflower Season
• Women-Only Departures

Nature News

Get your new catalog of the world's greatest nature journeys, women in the wild, make it private, daily dose of nature.

Trips by Region

Polar Bear Tours

Meet the King of the Arctic roaming its wild tundra home on the edge of Hudson Bay in Churchill, Canada

Intimate wildlife adventures featuring uncrowded private reserves and remote luxury bush camps

Galapagos Tours

Meet unique and amiable wildlife up close on expertly guided small-group explorations in the Enchanted Isles

Get close to brown bears, explore Denali and see abundant marine life by private boat in Kenai Fjords & Prince William Sound

Look for wolves in Yellowstone, gape at the Grand Canyon, hike Glacier's alpine heights, watch the sunrise in Acadia...and more!

Watch whales, heli-hike in the Canadian Rockies, see icebergs calve in Greenland, witness the northern lights

Explore the wild side of Europe as we leave big cities behind to explore less-discovered natural wonders

Mexico & Central America Tours

Ecotourism adventures with gray whales, monarch butterflies, sea turtles, scarlet macaws & more!

From the Amazon to the Andes, from the Pantanal to Patagonia, explore this continent's amazing biodiversity 

View endangered pandas, tigers, orangutans, pygmy elephants, rhinos, koalas & other wildlife

Antarctica & Arctic Journeys

Commune with penguins, puffins and polar bears in the most remote wilderness areas on the planet

Small-ship expedition voyages to the ends of the earth: explore polar regions, Amazon, Alaska & beyond

Photography Expeditions

For avid photographers of all ability levels, with coaching from an expert naturalist–photographer guide

Women's Adventures

Led by Nat Hab's top women Expedition Leaders, these departures have a special focus on the contributions of women in our destinations

Discover, explore and have fun in nature as you build lifelong memories across generations!

Check out our newest trip offerings and first-run adventures all around the world!

Your Nature & Adventure Travel Experts

Our innovative partnership with wwf.

Get Weekly Updates

Our weekly eNewsletter highlights new adventures, exclusive offers, webinars, nature news, travel ideas, photography tips and more.

Request Your 2024/2025 Catalog

Discover the World's Best

Nature Travel Experiences

Together, Natural Habitat Adventures and World Wildlife Fund have teamed up to arrange nearly a hundred nature travel experiences around the planet, while helping to protect the magnificent places we visit and their wild inhabitants.

Send Me Travel Emails

Our weekly eNewsletter highlights new adventures, exclusive offers, webinars, nature news, travel ideas, photography tips and more. Sign up today!

Look for a special welcome message in your inbox, arriving shortly! Be sure to add [email protected] to your email contacts so you don’t miss out on future emails.

Send Us a Message

Have a question or comment? Use the form to the right to get in touch with us.

We’ll be in touch soon with a response.

Refer a Friend

Earn rewards for referring your friends! We'd like to thank our loyal travelers for spreading the word. Share your friend's address so we can send a catalog, and if your friend takes a trip as a first-time Nat Hab traveler, you'll receive a $250 Nat Hab credit you can use toward a future trip or the purchase of Nat Hab gear. To refer a friend, just complete the form below or call us at 800-543-8917. It's that easy! See rules and fine print here.

We've received your friend's information.

View Our 2023 Digital Catalog

View Our 2024/2025

Digital Catalog

Thanks for requesting access to our digital catalog. Click here to view it now. You’ll also receive it by email momentarily.

Questions? Call 800-543-8917

Have a question or comment? Click any of the buttons below to get in touch with us. Hours Mountain Time

• 8 am to 5 pm, Monday - Friday
• 8 am to 3 pm on Saturday
• Closed on Sunday

Wilderness Travel

24 Trips match your criteria (1 - 20 shown)

Hiker's Journey to Machu Picchu

Cusco, Machu Picchu, Ollantaytambo, Sacred Valley

• Exhilarating day hikes and charming hotels—no camping!
• Hike to remote Inca sites, visit families in Quechua villages
• Explore magnificent Machu Picchu, with an overnight right at the ruins
• Enjoy a traditionalpachamanca, a Peruvian feast

Cultural, High Adventure, Hiking & Walking, Local Immersion & Homestays, Transformative

Pyramids to Petra

Abu Simbel, Alexandria, Amman, Aswan, Cairo, Dead Sea, Jerash, Jordan Valley, Luxor Temple, Montreal, Petra, Pyramid of Giza, Sphinx, Temple of Karnak, Valley of the Kings, Valley of the Queens, Wadi Rum

• 5-day Nile journey aboard a luxury vessel
• Explore the Great Pyramids and Abu Simbel, see Petra by candlelight
• Enjoy the desert silence of Wadi Rum with an overnight at a delightful tented camp
• Special visits to the tombs of Tutankhamun and Queen Nefetari, considered the most exquisitely decorated tomb in Egypt’s Valley of the Queens

Cultural, Religious

Hiking the Faroe Islands

• Discover the Faroes’ most stunning coastal and mountain hikes and rich seafaring heritage Sample Faroese cuisine, including superb fresh-caught fish Sip beer at the oldest brewery on the islands Meet artisans, enjoy dinner with a local family Welcoming hotels and guesthouses, with many hikes right out the front door!

Hiking & Walking, Nature & Wildlife

Treasures of Japan with South Korea

Busan, Hiroshima, Kanazawa, Kyoto, Osaka, Tokyo

• Visit sacred Shinto shrines and ancient Buddhist temples
• Stroll through the Peace Memorial Park at Hiroshima
• Spend a full day in Gyeongju, South Korea, with a visit to Bulguksa Temple, a World Heritage Site
• View Matsue’s architectural treasures, including a perfectly preserved medieval castle and a 250-year-old samurai house
• Watch a master potter create distinctive pastel-glazed ceramics in Hagi

Cultural, Small Ship Cruise

Botswana Wildlife Safari

Chobe National Park, Maun, Moremi Wildlife Reserve, Okavango Delta, Victoria Falls

• Mobile camps set up exclusively for our groups, located in prime spots for spectacular wildlife viewing
• Two nights mid-trip in a beautiful lodge for a change of pace
• Small groups—maximum 10—and expert Trip Leaders with you the entire safari
• Private riverboat and canoe journeys, two spectacular charter flights that eliminate long drives
• Custom-built 4WD vehicles for just 5 passengers—and guaranteed window seats

Nature & Wildlife, Safari

Adventures in Wales

Brecon Beacons, Caernarfon Castle, Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, Snowdonia, Snowdonia National Park

• Hike the best trails of the Pembrokeshire Coast Path
• Meet scholars, weavers, climbers, and historians
• Enjoy historic hotels and a home-cooked dinner with a Welsh family
• Savor meals with fresh local ingredients, including Gower mussels and Welsh lamb
• Discover historic Caernarfon Castle and the ruins of Tintern Abbey

Cultural, High Adventure, Hiking & Walking, National Parks, Nature & Wildlife, Trekking & Expeditions, Religious

Compare with Wilderness Travel

View all tour company comparisons

Pagan Festivals of Sardinia

• Attend Sardinia's wildly colorful cultural festivals, with dancing, music, parades, and costumed participants
• Enjoy hikes leading to archaeological sites, including Tharros, dating from 800 BC, and Tomba di Giganti S’Ena è Thomes, a burial from the Bronze Age
• Meet cheesemakers, artisans, learn culinary secrets, taste robust wines

Cultural, Education / Learning, High Adventure, Hiking & Walking, Local Immersion & Homestays, Festivals & Special Events

Hiker’s Journey to Bhutan

Bumthang Valley, Punakha, Thimpu

• Hike and explore the ethereal Bumthang region, spiritual center of this Himalayan kingdom
• Attend a wildly colorful Buddhist tsechu festival
• Meet artisans, farmers, Buddhist pilgrims, and red-robed monks
• Climb the ancient trail to the cliff-perched Tiger’s Nest monastery
• Overnights in deluxe hotels and welcoming lodges

Cultural, High Adventure, Hiking & Walking, Festivals & Special Events

Sign in  to see which companies give additional savings to Travelstride Members (it’s free)

Want a tailor-made trip instead?

Your trip, your way, planned by an expert:.

• You choose budget, destinations, activities, transport & lodging type
• Expert designs the itinerary for you, and once approved, takes care of logistics

Similar top rated trips

Wilderness travel reviews & ratings, outstanding cultural adventure.

I have taken 13 trips with WT, most recently a marvelous adventure in Viet Nam and Cambodia. Always difficult to name a favorite since their trips offer such a great...

Some of the most memorable experiences I've had

We’ve taken nearly a dozen trips with this outfit and they are first rate. Some of the most memorable experiences I’ve had. Their guides are exceptional (except one!...

Consistently Excellent

I love traveling with Wilderness Travel! My husband and I look forward to their catalog every year to see what new adventures they have cooked up and our bucket list...

WT has an incredible staff

Inca Trail Trip: One of the top experiences of my life. WT has an incredible staff that is knowledgable, fun and accommodating. Everything is scheduled perfectly so ...

trips were amazing!

Traveled to Botswana 2015 and Peru in 2018 with WT,...

See all Wilderness Travel reviews

Related Trips & Tours

Similar companies.

Always Find the Best

On Travelstride you can find 24 trips to Wilderness Travel and more than 20,000 trips worldwide ranging from budget to luxury and private guided to group tours and everything in between. Only on Stride can you find and compare expert-planned trips from 1,000+ tour operators, cruise lines and local experts. Read traveler and professional reviews so you can confidently find your perfect trip.

Wilderness takes you on an unrivalled journey through a collection of the world’s most iconic wild destinations.

19.2228° S, 22.7779° E

WE ARE WILDERNESS

Discover Earth's ultimate, untamed places

As the world’s leading conservation and hospitality company, we are the proud custodians of our planet's most significant wild places, each chosen to be part of our Collection for a specific purpose and all linked to protecting the land and life that exists there.

Our destinations are vast, remote and untamed, and represent true wilderness. With access to over 6 million acres of private land, we offer intimate wildlife encounters and experiences that will leave you changed forever.

We have recently rebranded from Wilderness Safaris to Wilderness, with a complete new look and feel. However, to our core we are still the same company with the same ethos.

Our Iconic Destinations

Our custom-designed journeys

Tailor-made itineraries for every traveller

We’re excited to take you on a journey to experience sights and sounds found nowhere else on Earth. Unique scenery, wildlife, and cultures are waiting to be revealed, and we at Wilderness can’t wait to share them with you. Our custom-designed journeys are intended to inspire but can be tailor made to suit your every need. It’s time to let your safari dreams run wild.

Experience real, raw nature

TRAVEL WITH PURPOSE

Why travel with Wilderness?

Our accommodation is both luxurious and authentic. We promise unrivalled comfort and exclusivity while staying true to the vibrant soul and spirit of each, unique destination. Our private game viewing areas have limits on guest numbers, meaning fewer vehicles and people, with more intimate and up-close encounters with wildlife in their natural habitat.

Iconic wild destinations

By being one of the first in each place we operate, we have access to Earth’s most significant wild places. Each Wilderness destination offers a whole new world of environments, habitats, cultures, sights and sounds for you to discover. Join us as you explore our Collection of diverse and varied safari experiences.

Best wildlife experiences

Ready yourself for a true wilderness immersion - untamed, unfenced and unpredictable. Go beyond game drives and discover nature on walks, boats, hot air balloons and more. While thrilling wildlife encounters are guaranteed, education is central to the Wilderness experience. Here in the habitats of wild animals, we stay respectful of their space, keeping your safety our top priority.

Industry-leading guides

Meet guides with an uncommon ability for understanding, finding and explaining wildlife. Our guides are encouraged to hone their interests to answer any need, quirk or obsession. So whether you’re a family, photographer, big-cat enthusiast or avid birder, you’ll find a guide to relate. We also hire locally, benefiting the communities we operate in and providing the best knowledge of the wild.

Immersive architecture

Camps shouldn’t just be beautiful. They should gently immerse us in nature, unlocking all senses. Our placement of camps is an exact science, offering wildlife experiences that are as exceptional from your deck as on a game drive. With no more than 12 suites per camp, spread over hundreds of acres, and built using the lightest possible footprint, we enjoy our areas peacefully and respectfully.

Cultural exploration

Each camp honours its area's cultures and traditions. Over 90% of staff come from local villages, sharing their history and cultures with guests of all ages. Elevated traditional dishes make mealtimes exciting, while textiles and art are also sourced from communities. Some of our destinations also offer the opportunity to further immerse yourself in nearby villages and ongoing research projects.

Seamless trusted travel

We’ve been trusted by guests across the globe to create safe travel adventures since 1983. Our industry-leading safety and logistics support, Wilderness24, gives you instant on-the-ground assistance for anything and everything that might arise. And our private charter airline Wilderness Air will get you to our remote camps safely. Talk to our experts about putting together your dream journey.

Shared impact

We were among the pioneers of conservation hospitality, with the two halves of our business feeding in to one significant whole. On the one hand, we invite guests to experience life-changing moments in nature. On the other, we’re committed to doubling the wilderness we help protect by 2030 – all thanks to our three core impact pillars: Educate, Empower, and Protect.

DESTINATIONS

Architecture.

Our impact ethos

Our journeys change lives. Not just yours but also those of our staff, communities, and the ecosystems we impact. We restore wilderness through low-volume high-value conservation tourism. Our purpose is a shared one. To ensure upliftment of local communities with help from guests, partners, donors, governments, and researchers. Our ambitions are bold. Our model is responsible, sustainable, inspiring.

Two brands. One purpose.

It’s wild out there. Go prepared.

To celebrate the planet and its people with a range of gear inspired by nature and made from waste. Wilderness & Sealand. From surf to safari. From mountains to marsh lands. The urban wilderness just got more conscious. Gear up with this limited edition collection available in a variety of sizes and three distinct colour ways to suit every kind of wild.

Let’s plan your next journey

When we say we’re there every step of the way, we mean it, literally. From planning the perfect circuit, to private inter-camp transfers on Wilderness Air, and easing you through Customs. We’re with you on the ground, at your side, 24-7, from start to finish. Ready to take the road less travelled? Contact our Travel Designers to plan an unforgettable journey.

Need some inspiration?

Be inspired by the latest news from Wilderness. Subscribe to our newsletter.

• Log In Sign Up
• Group Programs
• Resource Hub
• Packing List
• Physical Short Form
• Basecamp Facilities
• God’s Creation
• Financial Aid
• Basecamp Blog
• Prayer Blog
• Trip Resources

Wilderness Trek

Transformational wilderness adventures, in the beginning there was camp. then came wilderness trek., if you liked summer camp, but are looking for a deeper, more intimate experience, then wilderness trek is for you..

We use adventure as a spiritual catalyst in order to help teens, young adults, and families grow into the people God calls them to be. We introduce People From All Walks of Life and Fitness Levels to the wonders of God’s creation in order to help them become lifelong followers of Jesus Christ. In terms of creature comforts and man-made features, we are The Opposite of Camp . In terms of getting close to God through the natural beauty and wonders of His creation, it’s An Experience With No Equal .

What is at stake?

Teens and screen time.

The average American teen now spends almost 8 hours a day staring at a screen!

Studies show that even a 90-minute walk in nature helps decrease symptoms of depression.

Inside too much!

The average person now spends 93% of their time indoors.

Social Benefits

Studies show that even 4 hours in nature improves mood, confidence, and pro-social behavior.

Group Treks

Group Treks are our 5-6 day backpacking adventures that we have offered since 1976. These Treks are perfect for helping any group grow in community, faith, and leadership. They are ideal for youth groups, churches, families, scout troops, sports teams, colleges, or any group of friends looking for an exciting adventure they won’t soon forget!

• Backpacking – Northern New Mexico
• Backpacking – Colorado Mountain Peaks (18+ only)

Family Adventures

• Pack and Paddle

Are you looking for a family backpacking trip or an outdoor adventure? We have those too! Our family outdoor adventure trips can include activities like backpacking, hiking, or rafting. Family trips can take place in New Mexico, Colorado, or Utah! We take care of all the details for you and include one of our guides to lead your trip. We plan all the activities and itineraries of your trip, provide all your gear, pack your meals, and make sure your family can enjoy an adventure of a lifetime without the stress of planning your outdoor adventure.

• Ideal for: Families or groups of multiple families 
• Group Size: 4-12 people
• Dates: between June 17-August 2, 2024
• Packages: 4-5 days
• Starting at: $4,000 for 4 people & $515 per additional person

Faith based adventures since 1976.

Challenge. connect. experience. grow..

Life is crazy. That is why we offer a variety of exciting outdoor adventures and courses that will challenge you spiritually and physically while giving you opportunities to connect with others. There is no better place to escape the distractions of this world and experience what it means to be a true disciple of God’s Word than in the wilderness surrounded by His natural creation with other believers.

Our exciting outdoor adventures offer much more than your average mountain-top experience. We focus on growing each participant in the skills needed to be lifelong followers of Jesus Christ through a wide variety of experiences in outdoor settings in Northern New Mexico, Colorado, Utah, and Texas.

Want to see what it’s like?

Enthusiastic. Energetic. Inspiring. And SUPER Fun.

Our staff is made up of experienced and fun wilderness guides who are also serious about your safety and spiritual growth. Each day they demonstrate their passion for serving Jesus Christ through leading by example with a cheerful demeanor in all surroundings. All of our staff are trained in both wilderness travel and spiritual leadership, ensuring your experience on and off the mountain are unmatched.

Change lives

Enable Transformational Encounters.

In today’s world, being a teenager is more difficult than ever… which means outdoor ministries like Trek are needed now more than ever.  

Your financial support helps teenagers “disconnect to reconnect” and unplug from the pressures of this world. A Trek trip may be the only way some find quiet and stillness and find the Lord their Shepherd leading them to “…rest in green meadows, …beside peaceful streams” (Ps 23 NLT).

Provide more God encounters to more people through adventure… donate today. 

Stay in the know!

• Skip to main content

Wilderness Inquiry

Share the adventure!

We're happy to answer any questions you have!

• Name * First Last
• Comment or Question(s)? *
• Subscribe to News and Updates
• Are you a robot?
• Email This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

AFFINITY GROUP TRAVEL

Affinity travel opportunities with wilderness inquiry.

At Wilderness Inquiry, we’re passionate about creating inclusive spaces no matter a person’s race, gender, or ability. We recognize that participation in outdoor recreation often feels unwelcome towards specific populations due to the discriminatory nature of societal institutions and systems, as well as financial, social, and personal barriers to access. These barriers particularly impact individuals who are Black, Indigenous, or a Person of Color (BIPOC)*, folks who identify as LGBTQ+, people with disabilities, and women. We believe that the power of community and shared experiences can bring about transformation and help dismantle inequitable systems. By expanding our collective sense of belonging in the outdoors, we seek to create opportunities and experiences where everyone can enjoy the holistic benefits of the outdoors safely, together. 

*BIPOC: This term is used as an umbrella to describe folks who identify as Black, Indigenous and People of Color. We acknowledge that race and ethnicity are nuanced and recognize that racial identities are not limited to this term.

Deaf, DeafBlind, and Hard of Hearing Trips

Deaf, DeafBlind, and Hard of Hearing (DDBHH) trips are for DDBHH people who want to connect with the community and meet other DDBHH people! These affinity trips provide full access to American Sign Language (ASL) and a safe space for DDBHH people to express themselves. Trips are led by individuals who identify as DDBHH and/or communicate in ASL. Traveling with Wilderness Inquiry is an excellent opportunity to share your experiences and learn outdoor skills in an inclusive affinity space.

Special Notes 

• There is at least one DDBHH family member
• All family members know ASL
• The DDBHH adult trips are for DDBHH participants only
• June 19-23: Boundary Waters Base Camp Family Canoe & Hike
• July 11-14: Apostle Islands Base Camp, Kayak, and Yoga
• July 24-28: Boundary Waters Base Camp Adventure
• August 7-11: Boundary Waters Canoe Area Paddle Adventure

LGBTQ+ Trips

LGBTQ+ affinity trips have been designed by and for LGBTQ+ individuals, including Wilderness Inquiry Outdoor Leaders. On these trips you'll experience the freedom to engage with nature on a deeper level among the safety and openness of the affinity space. Whether you're new to outdoor recreation or a seasoned adventurer, you'll feel welcome on this Wilderness Inquiry program.

• Family trips are open to all family members whether or not every family member identifies as LGBTQ+ 
• Adult trips are for LGBTQ+ identifying adults only
• June 20-23: Apostle Islands Family Paddle and Hike
• July 18-21: Apostle Islands Base Camp and Kayak Tour

Neurodiverse Trips

Neurodiverse affinity trips are designed for people who have intellectual or developmental disabilities (Down Syndrome, autism, traumatic brain injuries) or otherwise identify as neurodiverse. These trips connect participants to nature, strengthen social inclusion, and support access to the health and wellness benefits of the outdoors. Participants are safely and respectfully supported by a team of staff and volunteers to facilitate a successful, immersive outdoor experience. Wilderness Inquiry is dedicated to supporting this program with co-leaders who identify as part of the neurodiverse community and are eager to share their passion and love for the outdoors.

• There is at least one family member who identifies as Neurodiverse
• caregivers/PCAs may also attend but it is not required
• Wilderness Inquiry will have volunteers providing additional support as needed
• June 13-16: Apostle Islands Base Camp and Kayak Tour
• July 10-14: Boundary Waters Base Camp Adventure

BIPOC Trips

This program is deeply intentional about bringing together members of BIPOC communities across multicultural backgrounds to share in collective experiences in the outdoors. On these trips, you can confidently immerse yourself in the wonders of nature with fellow participants and passionate trip leaders who all identify as BIPOC. This program is designed to provide wilderness travel opportunities for folks with all levels of individual experience and ability.

• To protect the affinity space, all participants attending a family program must identify as BIPOC
• If you're interested in supporting getting BIPOC outdoors, you can donate to the Support BIPOC Outdoors! champion fund
• September 4-8: Boundary Waters Canoe Area Base Camp Adventure

Women's Trips

Women's trips are designed to introduce and deepen the unique and meaningful benefits of time spent in nature within a safe space inclusive of all women. Whether you are looking for a camping trip or a lodge-based retreat, refresh your perspective, learn new skills, and create new bonds in a shared outdoor experience. These trips are available to all adults who identify as women of all backgrounds and abilities.

See Women's Affinity Trips Here!

Affinity Group Destinations and Trips

Known for its red sandstone sea caves, sandy beaches, picturesque lighthouses, and historic shipwrecks, the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore boasts a 22-island archipelago on the south shore of Lake Superior. There are also plenty of opportunities to hike, play on the beach, sightsee, camp out, and enjoy the rhythm of the world’s largest freshwater lake, Lake Superior.

Available Affinity Group Itineraries:

• Apostle Islands Base Camp and Kayak Tour
• Apostle Islands Base Camp, Kayak, and Yoga
• Apostle Islands Family Paddle and Hike

America’s premier canoe destination, the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness is one of the most accessible wilderness areas in the United States. Over one million acres in size, the Boundary Waters covers much of the Superior National Forest in northeastern Minnesota, where adventurers can paddle among towering pines in the home of moose, lynx, wolves, and bald eagles.

Available Affinity Group Itineraries

• Boundary Waters Canoe Area Paddle Adventure
• Boundary Waters Base Camp Adventure
• Boundary Waters Family Canoe and Hike

Lake Superior’s Isle Royale National Park is an island of wild creatures, unspoiled forests, refreshing lakes, and rugged scenery. Hike trails known for moose sightings, amazing stargazing from reduced light population, and visit one of the least frequented National Parks as you can only reach the island via boat or plane.

• Isle Royale Backpack  

Hike the best trails of the legendary Tour du Mont Blanc circuit and take in stunning views of Europe’s highest mountain! Crossing through the beauty of France, Italy, and Switzerland, the Tour du Mont Blanc is one of Europe’s most famous and beloved long-distance hikes.

• Tour du Mont Blanc 

Discover the Superior Hiking Trail along the North Shore of Lake Superior, showcasing waterfalls, rapids, and gorges as it winds through Minnesota’s Northwoods.

• Superior Hiking Trail Lodge-Based Hike and Explore

Voyageurs National Park is the less heralded but no less spectacular wilderness destination of northern Minnesota known for its waterfalls, hidden coves, and scenic waterways. Listen for the cry of the loon and the howl of the timber wolf, as you glide through the crystal clear waters of the North country’s big lakes. View ancient rock exposures, spectacular lake country scenery, abundant wildlife, and unmatched stargazing!

• Voyageurs National Park Paddle Adventure

Special Events

2024 asl day on the river.

Saturday, August 3, 2024 - 11:30 am - 4:00 pm - Hidden Falls Regional Park (North Gate)

Register to join Wilderness Inquiry for our 4th Annual ASL Day on the River! Members and families of the Deaf, DeafBlind, Hard of Hearing, and ASL users are invited to adventure in the heart of the Twin Cities. Explore the mighty Mississippi River up close and personal on a half-day guided canoe trip.

REGISTER HERE!

 new to outdoor recreation.

You don’t have to be “outdoorsy” or a camping expert to travel with Wilderness Inquiry!

A deep knowledge of or experience in the outdoors is not necessary for any of our trips - we provide all the planning, gear, and food and pair you with an experienced guide who can help you learn the basics in a supportive environment.

Frequently Asked Questions

BIPOC affinity trips have been designed by and for BIPOC folks, including Wilderness Inquiry Outdoor Leaders. We recognize families are often diverse where family members may not all share the same racial identities, however to protect the intention of the affinity group space, we are only allowing BIPOC individuals on our BIPOC affinity group trips, including family trips. If your family or family group has non-BIPOC family members, please visit our Families Together family trip offerings. 

***We recognize the term “family” means different things to different people. Whomever you consider to be a member of your BIPOC family is welcome to join you on this family program as long as they share a BIPOC identity.

LGTBQ+ affinity trips have been designed by and for LGBTQ+ folks, including Wilderness Inquiry Outdoor Leaders. Our LGBTQ+ family trips are open to all family members, whether or not every family member identifies as LGBTQ+. However, to protect the intention of the affinity group space, we are only allowing folks who identify as LGTBQ+ on our adult affinity group trips.

***We recognize the term “family” means different things to different people. Whomever you consider to be a member of your family is welcome to join you on this LGBTQ+ family program.

Financial circumstances should not be a barrier for you to experience these trips. Funding is available in the form of financial assistance for eligible individuals and families. Please fill out this form and we’ll follow up with more information and next steps: Financial Assistance For Individuals and Families

If you’re interested in helping support individuals or families who are experiencing financial barriers to participating in this program, you can make a donation to Wilderness Inquiry and 100% of your donation will go towards offsetting trip fees for affinity group participants.

Regardless of your individual skills or outdoor background, we believe everyone has gifts to contribute to group experiences. Your trip leaders will spend time helping you learn and practice camping and canoeing skills and help foster strength and kinship as a community in a way that feels supportive and welcoming of unique experiences.

All group gear will be provided by Wilderness Inquiry which includes tents, canoes, paddles, life jackets, cooking equipment, first aid kit, etc. You will receive a packing list upon confirmation of your registration. 

If you need personal gear items (sleeping bags, sleeping pads, rain jackets, etc) you can borrow them from Wilderness Inquiry. We are committed to removing barriers so that you are able to have a transformative experience in the outdoors. 

Food is crucial to community, culture, identity, health and wellbeing and sense of comfort. Having delicious, appropriate meals while camping can make a big difference in the overall enjoyment of an experience. We’ll work with you to ensure that the meals reflect our community's vibrant flavors. 

We take dietary needs, restrictions, and allergies very seriously to ensure food is safely prepared so there isn’t cross contamination. You will have an opportunity when registering for your trip to tell us any information you feel is important to know about your diet/food preference and we will do our best to accommodate your needs.

Wilderness Inquiry strives to put accessibility at the forefront of our programs so that individuals of all abilities, including people with disabilities, are able to participate in programs. If you or a member of your family has a disability, you will have an opportunity to confidentially share more during the registration process for your trip. A member of our team will connect with you further over the phone to make sure we are able to provide the appropriate support or accommodations you need to have a safe and rewarding experience on your trip.

The ability to swim is not required to participate in Wilderness Inquiry programs. All participants regardless of their swimming ability will be required to wear an appropriately fitted PFD (personal flotation device also called a "life jacket") provided by Wilderness Inquiry at all times while on the water. Participants who choose to swim while on a wilderness trip will be required to wear their PFD while swimming and a lifeguard trained Wilderness Inquiry Outdoor Leader will supervise.

Wilderness Inquiry staff are trained in well-proven and comprehensive safety policies, procedures, and risk management protocols. Staff are trained or certified in first aid, lifeguarding, vehicle driving safety, and canoeing and backcountry travel skills, as well as a repertoire of interpersonal, adaptive, group leadership, and social and emotional learning skills to provide support for a variety of different participants on programs. All this to say, the concept of “safety” or “feeling safe” is a relative term that means different things to different people in different situations. We recognize that new experiences in new places can stretch comfort zones which is why our programs are designed to be as inclusive and supportive as possible. You will be traveling with a group of people who have all agreed to join this adventure as a community unit, therefore you will work together with support from Wilderness Inquiry staff to make sure everyone feels as safe as possible on your adventure together.

• 9 Places Just Outside Moscow...

9 Places Just Outside Moscow to Experience Rural Russia

Moscow is a buzzing metropolis, but only a short car ride away from Russia’s capital are some tranquil getaways. From a boho art park to a literary museum-reserve to a riverside paradise—here are the best places for a short escape from the city that never sleeps.

Nikola lenivets art park.

Although rural Russia is not the first place you’ll go looking for contemporary art, Nikola Lenivets proves that otherworldly wooden installations scattered on a 650-hectare field can turn an abandoned village into a tourist mecca. Located only 220 kilometers (137 miles) from Moscow , this place is amazing in any season; however, in summer, visitors can test their gardening skills and create art objects.

Nikola Lenivets Art Park, Kaluga Region, Russia , +7 499 504-43-33

Abramtsevo Museum-Reserve

In the Abramtsevo Museum-Reserve , you’ll get a chance to see what life in a Russian 19th-century estate was like. The Abramtsevo estate, set against a backdrop of unspoiled nature, rose to prominence in the middle of the 19th century. The place used to have some celebrated owners and equally famous visitors: writer Sergey Aksakov bought the estate in the 1840s, and after his death, entrepreneur Savva Mamontov purchased it, turning it into an artist community. At different times, writers Nikolai Gogol and Ivan Turgenev , as well as artists Ilya Repin , Valentin Serov , and Mikhail Vrubel, among others, frequented Abramtsevo.

Abramtsevo Museum, Reserve, 1 Muzeynaya Street, Abramtsevo Colony, Moscow Region, Russia , +7 496 543-24-70

Sukhanovo Estate

Ever wondered what the estate of the Bolkonsky family from Tolstoy’s War and Peace looks like in real life? Located near the city of Vidnoe in the Moscow region, this land was the property of the famous Volkonsky family. The magnificent manor used to host dazzling balls; the mausoleum houses the bodies of Prince and Princess Volkonsky, and the overgrown garden is home to an elegant pavilion. Sadly, most structures have deteriorated, but it’s still a great place to explore on a sunny day.

Sukhanovo Estate, Vidnoe, Moscow Region, Russia , +7 968 529-60-60

Bykovo Estate

If you take a 40-minute bus ride southeast of Moscow, you’ll find yourself in the blemished but still beautiful Bykovo Estate. Designed by celebrated Russian architect Vasily Bazhenov, the place is known for its spectacular Gothic-style church . Stroll through the forested park, past the charming pondside rotunda and admire the neo-Renaissance Bykovo manor.

Bykovo Estate, Kolkhoznaya street, Bykovo, Moscow Region, Russia , +7 496 462-41-26

Gzhel Porcelain Factory in Turygino village

In Turygino village, you can explore the outdoors, go gift shopping, and learn about Gzhel porcelain—one of the most popular gifts people bring home from Russia. At the local Gzhel Porcelain Factory , you can buy original pieces with a signature stamp on them, admire the largest collection of Gzhel porcelain in Moscow and see the production of these legendary items.

JSC ‘Union Gzhel’, Turygino village, Ramensky district, Moscow Region, Russia , +7 906 055-23-57

Ugresha Monastery

This 16th-century monastery is worth a visit if only to see the tallest bell tower in the Orthodox world. A living representation of Russia’s history, legend has it that Russian saint Dmitry Donskoy founded it. Ugresha Monastery has been destroyed and rebuilt multiple times, and today, you can feast your eyes on the well-preserved buildings.

Ugresha Monastery, 1 Svyatitelya Nikolaya Square, Dzerzhinskiy, Moscow Region, Russia , +7 495 551-26-43

Istra River

Lush green forests and breathtaking river views are a two-hour car ride away from Moscow. With plenty of hotels dotting its banks, Istra River is a perfect place for a short retreat, complete with swimming, fishing, and Russian banya.

Istrinskoe Vodokhranilische, Moscow Region, Russia

Tchaikovsky House Museum in Klin

The nondescript city of Klin would have never become a tourist draw if it hadn’t been for the house museum of Tchaikovsky . Russia’s most famous composer spent his last years in this house, which became a museum right after his death. Surrounded by a lovely garden, the museum houses original interiors and personal belongings of the great composer, including a mechanical rooster and a cast of Anton Rubinstein’s hand.

Tchaikovsky House Museum, 48 Tchaikovskogo street, Klin, Moscow Region, Russia , +7 496 245-81-96

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.

Food & Drink

The best halal restaurants in kazan.

See & Do

Russia's most remote holiday destinations.

Russian Last Names and Their Meanings

Guides & Tips

A 48 hour guide to astrakhan, russia.

A Guide to Cautionary Russian Proverbs and What They Mean

Restaurants

The best halal restaurants in kaliningrad.

The Soviet Union’s Best Heart-Throbs and Pinups

The Mystery Behind Russia's Buddhist "Miracle"

Unusual Facts About the Soviet Union

Zhenotdel: The Soviet Union's Feminist Movement

A Soviet Pilot Went Missing in Afghanistan and Was Found 30 Years Later

Incredible Photos From the Longest Bike Race in the World

Culture trip spring sale, save up to $1,100 on our unique small-group trips limited spots..

• Post ID: 1601358
• Sponsored? No
• View Payload

• Skip to primary navigation
• Skip to main content
• Skip to primary sidebar
• Skip to footer

TravelAwaits

Our mission is to serve the 50+ traveler who's ready to cross a few items off their bucket list.

19 Unique And Fabulous Experiences In Moscow

• Destinations

Thinking of visiting Russia? When visiting such a famous city, one must, of course, visit the iconic landmarks first. Moscow has plenty of those, most of them in the center of the city, which is very well-planned for tourists. Once you’ve seen the sights that are on most travelers’ lists, it’s time to branch out and visit some of the lesser-known sites, and there are some fascinating places to see and things to do.

I know this list is long, but I just couldn’t help myself. You probably won’t have the time to see them all. But that’s okay. Just scroll through the list and choose what sounds the most interesting to you. Where possible, make sure to book in advance, as things can get crowded, especially during high season.

1. The Red Square, Kremlin, And Surroundings

Red Square (Krasnya Ploshad) is the heart and soul of Russia, and where much of the country’s history has unfolded. This is the most famous landmark in Moscow and indeed the whole country, it’s an absolute must-do! The square is always full of people and has a rather festive atmosphere!

Saint Basil’s Cathedral

This is the famous church with the rainbow-colored, onion-domed roof. The cathedral was commissioned in the 1500s by Ivan the Terrible and according to legend, the Tsar thought it was so beautiful, that he ordered that the architect’s eyes be cut out afterward, so he could never build anything more beautiful! He wasn’t called Ivan the Terrible for no reason!

Lenin’s Mausoleum

The “love-it-or-hate-it” of tourist attractions in Russia. A glass sarcophagus containing the embalmed body of Russian revolutionary, Vladimir Lenin. It may seem a bit bizarre to display the mummy of a person, but it has been there for almost half a century and the 2.5 million visitors who come each year, clearly feel the queuing and thorough body search are worth it, to be in Lenin’s presence.

Pro Tip: no photos and no loud talking are allowed inside the Mausoleum.

Eternal Flame

There is an Eternal Flame in honor of an unknown soldier on the left side of Red Square. The hourly changing of the guards is worth seeing.

The Kremlin is the official residence of the Russian president. You can see it from the outside, or you can take an excursion to one of the museums located inside. This is the biggest active fortress in Europe, and holds a week’s worth of attractions! Once behind the 7,332-feet of walls, there are five squares, four cathedrals, 20 towers, various museums, and the world’s largest bell and cannon to see. Worth a special mention is the Armory Chamber that houses a collection of the famous Faberge Eggs.

Pro Tip: You can only go inside the Kremlin if you are part of a tourist group.

2. Bolshoi Theatre

Bolshoi Theatre translates to “The Big Theatre” in Russian, and the building is home to both the Bolshoi Ballet and Bolshoi Opera — among the oldest and most famous ballet and opera companies in the world.

Pro Tip: It’s hard to get an inexpensive ticket, so if you’re reading well in advance of going to Moscow then try buying tickets on the official website . Last-minute tickets cost around $250 per person. If this is out of your budget, about an hour before a performance, you can try buying a ticket at the entrance from a reseller. Most can speak enough English to negotiate the price.

Tour the Bolshoi Theatre: You can take a group guided tour of the Bolshoi Theatre which focuses on the history and architecture of the theatre and behind the scenes. There’s an English language tour that lasts 2 hours and costs around $300 for a group of up to six.

3. Luxury Shopping At GUM And TSUM

Russia’s main department store, GUM, has a stunning interior that is home to over 100 high-end boutiques, selling a variety of brands: from luxurious Dior to the more affordable Zara. Even if shopping is not on your Moscow to-do list GUM is still worth a visit; the glass-roofed arcade faces Red Square and offers a variety of classy eateries. TSUM, one of the biggest luxury malls in town, is right behind the Bolshoi and GUM. It’s an imposing building with lots of history, and worth a visit just for its design and its glass roof.

4. Christ The Savior Cathedral

This is one of Russia’s most visited cathedrals and is a newer addition to the gorgeous array of Muscovite cathedrals, but don’t let its young age fool you. After perestroika, in the early 90s, the revived Russian Orthodox Church was given permission to build a cathedral on this site. It did the location honors and built the largest temple of the Christian Orthodox Church. The façade is as grand as you’d expect, but it’s the inside that will mesmerize you, with its domes, gold, gorgeous paintings, and decor!

The cathedral is located just a few hundred feet away from the Kremlin and was the site of the infamous Pussy Riot protest against Putin back in 2012.

Pro Tip: Bring a shawl to cover your hair as is the local custom.

5. Gorky Park

Moscow’s premier green space, Gorky Park (Park Gor’kogo) is the city’s biggest and most famous park. There is entertainment on offer here for every taste, from outdoor dancing sessions to yoga classes, volleyball, ping-pong, rollerblading, and bike and boat rental in summer. In winter, half the park turns into a huge ice skating rink. Gorky Park is also home to an open-air movie theater and the Garage Museum of Contemporary Art. There is also Muzeon Art Park, a dynamic contemporary space with a unique collection of 700 sculptures. It is located right in front of Gorky Park.

6. Sparrow Hills Park

If you take a walk from Gorky Park, along the Moscow River embankment, you’ll end up in the city’s other legendary park, Sparrow Hills. Although the park doesn’t offer as many activities as its hip neighbor, it has a great panoramic view of the city

Pro Tip: You can take a free walking tour to all of the above attractions with an English-speaking guide.

7. River Cruising

One of the best ways to experience Moscow, and see all the famous landmarks, but from a different angle, is from the Moscow River. Take a river cruise. Avoid the tourist crowds. There are little nameless old boats that do the cruise, but if you are looking for a more luxurious experience take the Radisson Blu cruise and enjoy the sights with some good food and a glass of wine.

8. Metro Hopping

Inaugurated in the 1930s, the Moscow Metro system is one of the oldest and most beautiful in the world. Started in Stalinist times, each station is a work of art in its own right. I’d recommend touring the stations between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. This way, you’ll be able to properly see it without the crowds. Ideally, I’d recommend taking a tour with a knowledgeable guide with GuruWalk, who will tell you stories of forgotten stations and how the history of the country is interconnected with the metro development. If going by yourself, then I definitely recommend checking out: Mayakovskaya, Ploschad Revolutsii, Kievskaya, Kropotkinskaya, Kurskaya, and Novoslobodskaya stations.

Visit the free Moscow Metro Museum: For real train enthusiasts, located in the southern vestibule of Sportivnaya station is a small free museum. Here you can take a peek into the driver’s cabin, see a collection of metro tokens from different cities, and see different models of a turnstile, traffic lights, escalator, and more.

9. Moscow State University View

In his effort to create a grander Moscow, Stalin had seven skyscrapers built in different parts of town; they’re called the Seven Sisters. The largest of these buildings and the one with the best view is the main building of the Moscow State University. Although this is a little outside the city center, the view is more than worth it.

10. Izmailovsky Market

Mostly known for the city’s largest flea market, the district of Izmaylovo is home to a maze of shops where you can get just about anything, from artisan crafts to traditional fur hats, handcrafted jewelry, fascinating Soviet memorabilia, and antiquities. It’s also one of Moscow’s largest green spaces. There are often no price tags, so be prepared to haggle a bit. Head to one of the market cafes for a warming mulled wine before continuing your shopping spree.

The History of Vodka Museum is found here, and the museum’s restaurant is the perfect place to sample various brands of the national drink.

Once you’ve covered the more touristy spots, Moscow still has plenty to offer, and the places below will also be full of locals! So for some local vibes, I would strongly recommend the spots below!

11. Moscow City

With a completely different vibe, Moscow City (also referred to as Moscow International Business Center) is like a mini Dubai, with lots of impressive tall glass buildings. Here is where you’ll find the best rooftops in towns, like Ruski Restaurant, the highest restaurant both in Moscow City and in Europe. Moscow City is great for crowd-free shopping and the best panoramic views of the city.

12. Tretyakov Gallery

Tretyakov Gallery started as the private collection of the Tretyakov brothers, who were 19th-century philanthropists. They gave their private collection to the government after their deaths. If there is just one museum you visit in Moscow, I recommend this one!

13. Tsaritsyno Museum-Reserve

Tsaritsyno was a residence of Catherine the Great more than two centuries ago. It became derelict during the Soviet era but has now been fully renovated. With its opulently decorated buildings, gardens, meadows, and forests, Tsaritsyno Park is the perfect place for a green respite in Moscow.

14. Kolomenskoye

A 10-minute metro ride from the city center is Kolomenskoe Museum-Reserve, where you can get an idea of what Russia looked like 200 years ago. You’ll find ancient churches (one dating back to the 16th century), the oldest garden in Moscow, and the wonderful fairytale wooden palace of Tsar Alexey Mikhailovich, father of Peter the Great.

15. Ostankino TV Tower

Built in 1967, Ostankino TV Tower was the tallest free-standing construction in the world at the time, it’s still the 8th tallest building in the world and the highest in Europe. It’s also the best observation deck, with a glass floor and 360-degree views. The speedy elevators take you 1,105 feet in next to no time.

Pro Tip: You need to book in advance; entrance is based on specific ticket times and the capacity is limited and only a certain number of tourists are allowed per day. Don’t forget your passport, you’ll need it to get through security.

16. Zaryadye Park

Zaryadye is a newly opened, landscaped urban park so new you won’t find it in a lot of tour guides. The park is near Red Square and is divided into four climatic zones: forest, steppe, tundra, and floodplains, depicting the variety of climatic zones in Russia.

These last three suggestions are a little quirky, but all are really worth checking out.

17. Museum Of Soviet Arcade Games

Release your inner child playing on 66 arcade machines from the Soviet era! What a great way to spend a couple of hours when tired of visiting museums and palaces. The staff speaks excellent English and are happy to explain how the games work.

18. Moscow Rooftop Tour

Take a 1-hour private Moscow rooftop tour with an experienced roofer. I can just about guarantee none of your friends will be able to say they’ve done it! For your comfort, I recommend wearing comfortable shoes. Take your camera, there are some amazing photo opportunities out there!

19. Sanduny Banya

This classical Russian bathhouse opened its doors in 1808 and is famous for combining traditional Russian banya services with luxurious interiors and service. If you enjoy spas and saunas, then you should experience a Russian bathhouse at least once in your life! Go with an open mind and hire a specialist to steam you as it’s meant to be done — by being beaten repeatedly with a besom (a leafy branch)! This is said to improve circulation, but is best done by a professional!

So there you have my list of things to do in Moscow. I could have gone on and on and on, but I didn’t want to try your patience! There are so many things to do in this vibrant city that you’ll definitely need to allocate several days for exploring.

Here are some other reasons to visit Moscow and Russia:

• 7 Reasons To Put Moscow On Your Travel Bucket List
• Russia 30 Years (And 30 Pounds) Ago
• Massive Mysterious Craters Appearing Again In Siberia

Born and raised in Sydney, Australia, before moving to Africa at the age of 21, Sarah Kingdom is a mountain climber and guide, traveler, yoga teacher, trail runner, and mother of two. When she is not climbing or traveling she lives on a cattle ranch in central Zambia. She guides and runs trips regularly in India, Nepal, Tibet, Russia, and Ethiopia, taking climbers up Tanzania’s Mount Kilimanjaro numerous times a year.