Alaska is dotted with small towns that have plenty old world charm, like Skagway, a popular tour stop-off. The gateway to the Klondike, Skagway is famous for being the town at the centre of the Gold Rush, and the picturesque streets are brimming with history, from the architecture to the museums to the bustling night-life which is still reminiscent of the boomtown crowds, with plenty of bar-room pianos tinkling away into the night. Nestled in the mountains, Skagway is the perfect gateway for hiking trips through the impressive natural landscape.
Any nature lovers travelling to Alaska will want to see the world-famous glaciers and fjords, and most escorted tours will include the chance to cruise past these immense natural structures. Many cruise ships take in the impressive Hubbard Glacier, Alaska’s only advancing glacier. Cruising alongside its five-mile face is an experience you are unlikely to forget. There’s also Glacier Bay, a national park with tidewater glaciers and dotted with scenic coastal islands. Here, it’s the marine life that’s thriving, so aim those binoculars downwards and look out for any sprays of water that might betray the presence of a humpback whale.
If cruising past is not enough and you want to get a little closer to the wildlife, then a trip to the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Centre, on the shores of Turnagain Arm, could be just the thing for you. The centre houses orphaned animals in the process of being rehabilitated. It is open to visitors so you can get right up close to the moose, musk ox and bears housed there.
Alaska is the ideal picture-perfect region for nature enthusiasts with a taste for the wild. With its sprawling mountain ranges, glittering glaciers, rocky coastal shores and an abundance of arctic wildlife, your Alaskan escorted tour will ensure you get the most out of your trip, from hiking with your expert guide to fishing freshwater salmon, high-powered adventure to low-key cruising, fine dining to campfire roasts, and all with accommodation and travel included. All you need to do is pack your camera, plenty of warm clothes and lots of film. Alaska awaits!
]]>But there is an alternative to waiting until next year for those who need a little pick me up. The Canary Islands make an excellent destination for sun seekers throughout the autumn and winter, due to their year round warm climate. Even in the middle of December, the islands bask in sunshine with temperatures reaching at least 20ºC on average. Lanzarote, as the eastern most and driest of the seven islands, has its fair share of clear blue skies and sun.
The size of the island makes it easy to negotiate, which adds to the popularity of Lanzarote car hire for many visitors. And with lower rental costs and petrol costs as well, driving around the island is probably the best way to see it. Nor is there a shortage of sights worth visiting. The number one attraction is the volcano park at Timanfaya, but only slightly less popular are several other places designed by a locally born artist that are well worth a visit.
Such as the Jameos del Agua and the Cactus Garden, both creations of César Manrique. So influential was this native artist that the whole way in which tourism has been developed was shaped by his vision for Lanzarote. As a result, there are no advertising billboards nor tall buildings on the island. Uniformity has been created by using whitewashed walls and volcanic stone, even in the construction of most Lanzarote hotels.
These constraints have left the island in a pristine state, with very little to spoil the views from any of the main resorts or out in the countryside. And the natural landscapes that make the island so unique are unblemished and unchanged from how they looked a hundred years ago. One of the few areas where there has been rapid change recently, is in the newest resort of Playa Blanca. And even here, where many of the best Playa Blanca villas can be found as holiday accommodation construction still follows the same principles of low rise buildings and whitewashed walls. Add to this the many gorgeous beaches that Lanzarote has dotted around its coastline and it is easy to understand why the island continues to attract many thousands of visitors each year.
]]>
Located in southern Peru, nestled high on a mountain ledge, Machu Picchu attracts thousands of visitors every day. This ancient Incan structure is mysterious, spiritual and surrounded by breathtaking beauty. One of the most popular activities for people traveling in Peru is to trek the Inca Trail to the incredible sights of Machu Picchu.
People who go trekking the Inca trail to Machu Picchu experience various types of landscape from lush river valleys, high desert plains to the amazing Andean tropical rainforest. Visitors have the opportunity to explore numerous Incan sites, each of which was built by this primitive, but highly intelligent civilization.
Incans-Master Artisans
The Incans constructed cities over 500 years ago, using architectural techniques so precise, that the structures remain largely intact in spite of earthquakes and storms. Trekking the Inca trail, you’ll get the opportunity to observe huge stones that fit together as nicely as the pieces of a jigsaw puzzle. Some of the structural walls contain a type of mortar to hold the stones in place, but other walls contain stones so precisely cut, not even a thin piece of paper could fit between them.
The Inca’s unique plumbing system included cutting channels through the stone to divert mountain spring water to every residence and to the terraced fields of crops they farmed. Incans built the cities according to the geological lay of the land and a network of roadways connected them. However, why this civilization chose to build a city almost 9,000 feet above sea level remains a mystery.
Machu Picchu
Trekking the Inca trail to Machu Picchu is no easy task and experienced hikers advise travelers to begin getting into shape at least two months in advance. Climbing steep pathways and carrying 30-pound backpacks in a high altitude environment presents a daunting challenge. Yet, somehow the Inca’s who constructed Machu Picchu found a way to carry stones that weighed up to 60 tons in these same conditions.
With no known draft animals or evidence of machinery to mine and relocate the materials, the construction of Machu Picchu is a true mystery. Containing well over 100 structures, the lost city includes agricultural and industrial complexes, homes, temples and public meeting areas. There is no known record to clarify why the Inca’s built Machu Picchu and what determined their reasons for choosing this location.
Some speculate that the site was built as a royal fortress for an emperor. Some believe the city was a military stronghold, while others presume Machu Picchu to be a tribute to the Inca sun god. Each of these theories present a realistic possibility, but it is likely that we will never know for sure. Nevertheless, in spite of the intellectual prowess of this civilization, they mysteriously disappeared within a century’s time.
The Pilgrimage to Machu Picchu
Though locals were aware of the hidden city, Machu Picchu was unknown to the world until American historian Hiram Bingham explored the site in the early 1900’s. Since then, hundreds of thousands have made the trek high into the mountains to experience the wonders of this amazing place. Some believe that Machu Picchu is surrounded by a geological magnetic field. The structures remain undamaged after hundreds of years and many visitors claim to have felt strange vibrations in the stones.
Various guided tours are available for trekking the Inca trail to Machu Picchu. Individuals have the option of boarding trains and shuttle buses to the main entrance or spending up to a week hiking and camping in the area. The best time of year to visit is between April to October, before the start of the rainy season. It is necessary to make arrangements months in advance as the destination is very popular and limited to no more than 500 visitors per day.
]]>
Below you will find my top 5 picks for the best backpacking adventure in the United States.
#5 – Appalachian Trail
From Georgia to Maine, the Appalachian Trail is a classic place to go backpacking. It is steeped in history and the Appalachian mountains are both beautiful and inspiring. It is also one of the safest places for hiking in America with clearly marked trails and signs for scenic views, lodging, and camping. Whether you decide to visit for a week, or if you intend to thru-hike the entire trail, a backpacking adventure here will leave you with a lasting memory.
#4 – Glacier National Park
Located near the border of Canada in the state of Montana is one of the most pristine areas of wilderness left in the United States: Glacier National Park. This vast 1 million acre land reserve is home to hundreds of unique species of animals, and backpacking here will allow you to experience the west the way that Lewis and Clark did. The park contains two different mountain ranges and over 100 named lakes. It is a place that every outdoorsman and nature lover should see at least once in their life.
#3 – Grand Canyon
Considerably one of the most notable geographical features on Earth, people from all over the world travel to the Grand Canyon to witness it’s awe-inspiring beauty. But many people don’t take the opportunity to explore possibly the best part of the Canyon, it’s interior. One amazing sight that cannot go without mention are the blue green waters of Havasu falls. There’s no doubt, a backpacking adventure in the Grand Canyon is one of the best in the United States.
#2 – Yellowstone National Park
When it was first signed into law in 1872, Yellowstone was the first national park in the entire world. Across the over 2 million acres of the park lie more than 1,100 miles of backpacking trails. With geothermal hot springs and over 300 geysers, Yellowstone has one of the most unique landscapes on Earth. There are many amazing natural wonders worth exploring on a trip here, all of which will provide for an exciting backpacking trip.
#1 – Yosemite National Park
Yosemite is one of the biggest habitat sections in the Sierra Nevada supporting a wide variety of different plants and animals. Over 3 million people travel to this awe-inspiring park located in Central California ever year. There are over 800 miles of trails here, many of which are the most challenging you’ll find in the western hemisphere. From single day hikes to multi-day backpacking adventures, Yosemite National Park is the perfect place to explore the great western wilderness. Check out this related article for more information: Backpacking in Yosemite.
Well there you have it, 5 of my favorite backpacking trips in the United States. All of the places we looked at today are an exciting place for an adventurous vacation.
]]>The Nile River was pivotal to the ancient Egyptian civilization and still plays a vitally important role in the region. It was and still is used to carry commercial goods to the towns and cities on its banks. It allows civilization to thrive in the notorious Sahara desert, which would otherwise be inhospitable. Some of the many cities located on the Nile include Luxor (formerly known as Thebes), Cairo, Giza, Aswan, and Khartoum.
Cruises on the Nile river will allow you to see some of Egypt’s most awe-inspiring sights from the comfort of a cruise cabin. The Nile River is the world’s longest and traveling down this historic river is an unforgettable experience. There are many different companies and many different ships that offer Nile River cruises. Today we’re going to look at two of the most popular.
Oberoi Philae Nile River Cruise
Considered one of the most luxurious ships cruising the nile, the Oberoi Philae Cruise allows you to view the Nile from a well-conditioned cabin. Each cabin contains a unique old-world charm, along with private balconies for witnessing this amazing region. The Oberoi Philae with its 54 charming cabins, boasts old-world charm, yet provides all the modern amenities you could ever need.
Stays on the Oberoi Philae are booked for 7 days / 6 nights or 5 days / 4 nights depending on your schedule and preference. The most notable destinations you will visit on this ship include the Karnak and Luxor temples,both of which are over 3000 years old. You will also have the opportunity to see the famous valley of the Kings, the temple of Edfu, and the Philae temple.
The Oberoi Philae is definitely one of the nicest nile river cruise ships available to travelers. It has won the Conde Nast Traveler, best Five Star Cruiser in Egypt, and the most environmentally friendly cruise ship on the Nile. It’s easy to see why this nile river cruise is one of the best.
Sonesta Moon Goddess Nile River Cruise
Sonesta is renowned for their immaculate fleet of ships, all of which are rated 5 star and offer for a luxurious vacation. The Sonesta Moon Goddess is one of the most popular and it features comfortable accomodations comparable to the classiest resort. There are 49 quaint cabins on the Moon Goddess, each featuring a private telephone, mini-bar, flat screen television, and private balcony.
Dine on freshly prepared authentic Egyptian cuisine and enjoy the wonderful entertainment that comes standard on the Oberoi Philae. At sun-down this riverboat becomes a floating amusement park with a discotheque, full bar,and comfortable lounge.
While traveling on the Moon Goddess you will visit classic Egyptian locations like the Temple of Kom Ombo which served the two gods Sobek and Haeroris. You will also visit High Dam, the Temple of Philae, Karnak, and Luxor, all of which served important roles in ancient Egyptian culture. There’s no doubt about it, taking a nile river cruise on the Moon Goddess will be one of the most memorable experiences of your life.
These are just two of the many amazing boats that operate on the Nile river. There are many more accomodating ships worth checking out. No matter which one you choose, taking a nile river cruise will be an exciting, adventurous trip and one you’ll be sure to remember.
]]>Backpacking in South America is one of the best ways to experience all the sights, sounds, and culture of the country. With so many different regions, deciding where to take your backpacking trip can be a challenge. Below you will find a few of the most popular destinations for backpacking South America:
Machu Picchu – Peru
Located on a mountainside overlooking the Urubamba Valley of Peru, Machu Picchu is one of the most traveled tourist destinations on Earth. Built around 1450 AD this iconic Incan estate was left abandoned less than 100 years later upon the arrival of the Spanish Conquistadors to the region. It was largely unknown to the rest of the world until being discovered in 1911. It has been a highly traveled tourist destination ever since.
Trekking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu will require a few different things, most importantly a permit if you plan to follow the Inca trail. Because of the sites popularity permits are limited to 500 per day for visits via the Inca trail. However, you may consider following the Lares Trek which doesn’t require permits and offers equally impressive sights along the way. No matter which path you plan to take, Machu Picchu is one place you don’t want to miss.
Igauzu Falls – Argentina & Brazil
Located on the border of Argentina and Brazil lies one of the most spectacular sights you will ever get the opportunity lay eyes on: IgauzuFalls. Considered a wonder of the natural world, Igauzu Falls is found in a perfectly preserved ecosystem protected by both the Argentine and Brazilian governments.
Backpacking through the surrounding jungle will allow you to catch many different viewpoints of the falls. Because the area around the falls is protected, it’s the perfect place to explore the unique landscape and wildlife of the region. Although pictures don’t do this place justice, bring your camera anyway as you’ll be sure to capture an array of spectacular photos.
Torres Del Paine – Chile
Offering some of the most varied terrain in the world, Torres del Paine contains steep mountains, beautiful lakes, bright green forests, and ancient glaciers. Everywhere you go in the park, one central feature will stand out: the Paine Massif. These initimidating granite spires stand out overlooking the region and dominating the landscape of Torres del Paine.
There are several different traditional routes for trekking and backpacking in the park with over 10 campsites located along the way. All of these routes will allow you to experience this awe-inspiring Chilean landscape. Choosing one just comes down to how long you’d like to stay in Torres del Paine. This is one of the most popular areas for backpacking in South America and it’s easy to see why.
Tierra Del Fuego – Argentina
Located at the southwestern tip of South America, Tierra del Fuego National Park is Argentina’s only national park on the coast. The park is a paradise for outdoor sports like climbing, fishing, kayaking, and of course backpacking. With its amazing scenery, including forests, mountains, and glaciers the region is very similar to the Torres del Paine.
The park is loaded with many unique adventures to choose from including the frightening ice caves of Alvear Glacier. A popular destination for people trekking in Argentina, the Ice Caves were carved by water flowing underneath the glacier. This is no doubt one of the most unique experiences you will ever find, and a trip into the caves will leave you with a story to tell for years to come. You definitely don’t want to miss this place while backpacking in South America.
These are just a few of the exciting places to visit while backpacking in South America. It will be hard to see all of these places in just one trip. However, no matter which one you choose, you’ll be left with a lasting memory and a story to tell for years to come.
Many travelers dream of one day taking an East African Safari. People from everywhere are drawn to the unspoiled landscape, remarkable wildlife, and friendly culture of Africa. There is nothing more exhilarating than driving through the savannah and seeing where the world’s most wild animals call home. Just imagine seeing herds of elephants, fierce lions, and speeding cheetahs as you rumble through the African wilderness. Being on the edge, in an unspoiled wildlife reserve is somehow very appealing to people. A luxury east African safari could be just what you need to feed your appetite for adventure.
Kenya and Tanzania are two of the most popular destinations for enjoying an east African safari. The Serengeti National Park in Tanzania and the Masai Mara in Kenya attract crowds of tourists every year. The annual migration from the Serengeti to the Masai Mara is a truly spectacular sight where over two million wild animals cross over in search of better grazing grounds.
Serengeti National Park
Masai Mara
The Masai Mara is a large game reserve and is considered a continuation of Serengeti National park. It is located in the south-western region of Kenya and is well known for its large population of Big Cats. People from all over the world travel here to embark on a Kenya wildlife safari and witness the animals which call the Masai Mara home. This includes, Wildebeests, Zebras, Rhinos, Lions, Leopards, and Cheetahs just to name a few. This is one of the best places for an east African safari because the game wardens here patrol regularly to protect the wildlife from poachers.
When you go on an east African safari, you’ll be traveling in undeveloped areas, isolated from the modern world. Being prepared will help ensure both the safety and comfort of your trip.
First, the climate can be very hot during the day and very cold at night. You will want to bring loose fitting, light colored clothes and sturdy hiking boots or walking shoes. It is also recommended that you bring some high quality sunglasses and a wide brimmed hat to protect yourself from the sun. All of these things will make your east African safari much more comfortable and enjoyable.
Safety is another major concern while traveling here. However rare it may be, connecting with nature comes with the inherent risk of animal attack. So, don’t get out of your vehicle to get a closer look at a pride of lions! Use your binoculars if you want a better view. Always listen to your guide. He is there to educate you, but he will also help you avoid any dangerous situations.
The right frame of mind will allow you to have the best safari experience possible. Realizing that the local people here live a much different lifestyle than our own will go a long way. They are very in touch with nature and their lives revolve around the conservation of their land. Photography is the best way to capture the essence of these animals but it’s very important to never get too close. Not only does it put you in danger, but it also upsets the natural balance between man and beast.
Taking an east African safari will leave you with memories that you’ll never forget and provide you with a unique insight to a place so very much different from our own.
]]>From the city of San Miguel on the central coast, down to the southern tip of the island, there are a series of reefs and shallow coral formations that make Cozumel a paradise for scuba divers. There are more than a dozen specific sites for diving, each with their own unique attributes. The most popular of these are the Columbia, Palancar, and San Francisco reef as well as Chankanaab Lagoon. There is no shortage of options when taking a scuba diving trip to Cozumel.
The abundant marine life here, which display a myriad of vibrant colors make scuba diving in Cozumel an unforgettable vacation. The waters here are extremely clear and coral reef formations go on for miles. In most places, you won’t have to submerge more than 40 feet to experience the unique sights this place has to offer. Explore underwater overhangs and caves, follow along one of the many coral reefs, or experience the huge variety of fish that call this place home. All of these things are what make Cozumel an exciting place to dive.
The Mystical Cenotes of Cozumel
If you’re an avid adventurer and you’re looking for an exciting excursion you may consider doing some cenote diving. Cenotes are deep water filled sinkholes that held great spiritual significance to the ancient Mayans who believed they were the entrance to the underworld. Diving in these deep and mysterious underwater caves makes for an adventure that few people ever dare to attempt. Cozumel is in close vicinity to a variety of cenotes and many scuba divers travel here just to explore these frightening caves.
If you’re new to the sport, don’t worry. As long as you have the spirit and desire, you can learn to scuba dive, and there’s no better place to do it than Cozumel. Instructors will teach you all the safety procedures and proper techniques for diving, and be there every step of the way to help you have an enjoyable experience.
Overall, Cozumel is one of the most popular scuba diving destinations in the world. There is no shortage of dive shops or tour operaters here, and choosing one will just come down to personal preference. Make sure to plan your trip well and book with a company that you feel comfortable with. Because of the sports popularity in this area it’s not uncommon to be diving with 20 or more people. However, even with crowds of divers, Cozumel offers some of the most breath-taking sights around, and it’s easy to see why so many people visit here.
]]>
Very few people will ever see the harsh and beautiful landscape of Antarctica. Surrounded by the Atlantic, Pacific and Indian oceans, Antarctica lives in complete isolation from the rest of the world. The closest land mass to this massive icy continent is South America. The best way to experience this mystical and wondrous place is on an antarctic cruise.
Only the most adventurous travelers make the journey to this daunting and dangerous environment. The human population here consists of approximately 5000 scientists who live in specially constructed shelters and rely on generators to fulfill their technological needs. They live as pioneers, studying the important role this continent plays on our planet. In addition to these brave men and women, each year, about 25,000 adventure-seeking visitors cruise to Antarctica.
Why would anyone want to come to such a desolate, frozen land? Well, ask anyone who has ever taken such a voyage and invariably you’ll get an answer similar to the following. An Antarctic cruise is a unique adventure to one of the most barren and remote landscapes on Earth, and witnessing its massive beauty is both memorable and rewarding.
The incredible white continent is so quiet and pristine, it has a noticeable spiritual effect on one’s psyche. Like no other place on earth, you can enjoy the tranquility while watching whales swim gracefully in the icy waters or seeing thousands of adorable penguins frolicking around in their natural habitat.
Tours of Antarctica are provided by about twenty different companies that specialize in polar tours. Specially designed vessels are used to navigate these dangerous waters where icebergs wait everywhere for the unsuspecting boat. No matter which company you choose you can bet your ship will feature a reinforced hull fitted with an ice cutter, which as its name implies, can cut through even the thickest blocks of ice.
So which company has the best antarctic cruise ship?
One of the premiere Antarctic tour providers is Quark Expeditions who have been providing cruises to Antarctica since the company was founded in 1991. Their highly trained crews will educate, entertain and feed you as you set forth on this once in a lifetime adventure.
Amongst their fleet of ships is the “Kapitan Khlebnikov“, a nuclear powered, state of the art, Ice Breaker. The ship accomodates 112 passengers and a crew of 70. This Antarctic cruise ship features everything you’d find at a classy resort, including private baths, comfortable beds, and large viewing windows. Also on-board you will find a heated pool, exercise room and a fully qualified doctor. Experience breath-taking views of the antarctic coast while sipping champagne from the comfort of a private suite.
Most antarctic cruises are scheduled for the warmer Atlantic summer (November to March). Most trips to the Antarctic Peninsula originate in Ushuaia, Argentina. Others with the Ross Sea region depart from Australia and New Zealand. No matter where you start, ending up at this amazing continent is something you’ll never forget.
For more information about taking a cruise in Antarctica, visit these websites:
Polar Cruises – Visit Antarctica on their featured ship the Polar Star.
Antarctica Abound – Cruises to the last great wilderness on Earth.
Norwegian Cruises – Everything You Need To Know About A Norwegian Cruise
]]>Tramping, the New Zealand term for hiking, offers for an authentic and exciting New Zealand adventure. Wildlife in this country developed in isolation from the rest of the world, giving birth to an incredible biodiversity and leading the way for its unique flora and fauna. There is no better way to see all of these things than to load up a backpack and set out on a trekking expedition.
New Zealand has thousand of hiking trails set up to allow easy access for trekkers, as well as almost a thousand back-country huts that are maintained by the government supplying shelter to weary hikers. These walking tracks make New Zealand an ideal place for trekking and it’s no surprise that the country gets a steady stream of travelers from all corners of the globe.
If you do decide to take an adventure holiday in New Zealand, these are a few of the places that will provide you with a rewarding and memorable experience.
Abel Tasman National Park
Perched on the north end of the South Island, this is one of New Zealand’s smallest national parks, but what it lacks in size it more than makes up for in excitement and adventure. The most popular trek is the Abel Tasman Coast Track, a 32 mile trail that takes you along the New Zealand coast. The park is also home to the Abel Tasman Inland Track, which is a less well known but incredibly beautiful path taking you along the coast and deep into the forest.
Tongariro Alpine Crossing
This a much shorter track, spanning just over twelve miles, but taking you around Mt. Tongariro, the volcano that gives this track its name. This terrain has been described as moon like, and the three active volcanoes here ensure that you’ll return home with a lasting memory. This can be done as an independent hike, but like most of the great New Zealand trails, you can easily arrange a guided tour to make sure you experience everything this park has to offer.
Milford Track
Famously called “The Finest Walk in the World” the Milford Track is roughly thirty miles of the most untouched and beautiful terrain in New Zealand. It is one of the most popular trekking destinations in the country, and for good reason. The trail takes you over wetlands, past mountains and across lands that make you think that you’ve crossed into JRR Tolkien’s Middle Earth. The region of the country is highly regulated, ensuring everyone gets the opportunity to witness its extreme beauty.
Of course, this is just a small sample of all the places to see and explore while traveling to this country. Over 30% of the land mass is under some degree of protection so there is no shortage exciting destinations to explore while trekking in New Zealand.