Hi everyone!
Just back from the Manaslu Circuit in Nepal, and I think for my next trip, I'd love a wilder environment. I'm considering a trek (two to three weeks) in Central Asia. Several agencies organize this kind of trip, and I was initially leaning toward Tajikistan, but after looking at travel photos, the landscapes seem very similar to the Alps, while Kyrgyzstan’s scenery looks more "exotic"—maybe closer to Mongolia? But these are just photos, and I’m struggling to get a real sense of it. I’d love to hear from people who’ve been to these destinations...
Thanks so much! :-)
It depends on where in each country, but in my opinion, Kyrgyzstan has landscapes more similar to the Alps, like in the valleys above Karakol, though it also has steppe-like scenery.
Tajikistan is more remote and less touristy than Kyrgyzstan.
Back from the Manaslu Circuit in Nepal, I think for my next trip I’d like a wilder environment.
Nepal still has plenty of wild regions—there’s no shortage of them. 😉
"When I saw the Hoggar Mountains, my jaw dropped. If you think of Bryce, or Canyonlands National Park, you're close, but the Hoggar Mountains are more spectacular." David Ball, Empire of sands
Hi there! Maybe, but it seems like agencies don’t offer many options (I only found one trip, in western Nepal, toward Lake Rara, but the route didn’t look very challenging, so I ruled it out). Since I’ll be traveling solo, I’d like to join a group, so I need to go through an agency.
There’s the Upper Dolpo, Upper Mustang, or Kanchenjunga, but it’s not cheap.
"When I saw the Hoggar Mountains, my jaw dropped. If you think of Bryce, or Canyonlands National Park, you're close, but the Hoggar Mountains are more spectacular." David Ball, Empire of sands
There are landscapes similar to the Alps in both Kyrgyzstan (Pamir Alay and Tian Shan) and Tajikistan (Fan Mountains), as well as in southeastern Kazakhstan (Tian Shan, Ala Tau). And there are stunning and/or more off-the-beaten-path landscapes in all three countries. If you're looking for more remote spots, generally speaking, Tajikistan has the least tourist infrastructure, while Kyrgyzstan has a higher density of tourists. But still, we're far from mass tourism once you step away from the main routes.
The trade-off is that you need to be more self-sufficient: in the Pamir, there are only a few isolated base camps, the population density is low, and except in the main valley bottoms, locals don’t have much in stock.
There are also interesting treks on the Chinese or Pakistani sides, but I haven’t tried them—the logistics are more complicated, especially in China’s Xinjiang, where it’s nearly impossible to travel independently.
In Tajikistan, as mentioned earlier, the landscapes that resemble the Alps are in the Fan Mountains (which I haven’t visited, by the way).
On the other hand, in the Pamir, it’s a whole different story. It’s extremely mineral—very similar to the landscapes in Ladakh, India, or northern Pakistan. I find it incredibly impressive, especially along the Wakhan Valley, with its lush green fields in the valley when cultivated, and then these massive, completely barren mountains.
Personally, this kind of landscape is my preference, which is why I have a huge soft spot for Tajikistan. But of course, that’s just a matter of taste.
For a better idea of what these landscapes look like, there are two photo galleries and quite a few articles with pictures on my blog in the Tajikistan section.
For a better idea of what these landscapes look like, there are 2 photo galleries and quite a few articles with photos on my blog in the section Tajikistan
... Thanks for the link. If I may ask for your opinion, out of the trips below offered by Terres d'Aventure (for example), which one do you find more interesting and scenic?
https://www.terdav.com/ps-tadjikistan#suggestions
Thanks a lot!
Not applicable in your case, since you want to go hiking in the Pamirs and not in the Fann Mountains (more alpine), and you're also not mentioning going to Uzbekistan.
...If I may ask for your opinion, which of the trips below offered by Terres d'Aventure (for example) seems the most interesting and scenic to you...?
Couldn’t have said it better than Willemspie—the itineraries they’re considering are mixed, with Uzbek cities and mountain circuits.
If you don’t want to go to Uzbekistan, there’s no option with this agency. On the other hand, if Uzbekistan appeals to you and you don’t want to see landscapes like the Alps, the one including Song Kol Lake is the only one with a more "Mongolian" vibe, but only in that area... and Issyk-Kul, in my opinion, isn’t great.
Qui boit l'eau d'une terre étrangère doit en suivre les coutumes (proverbe Mongol)
Ah, so the Fann Mountains won't be as much of a change of scenery, then...? I don’t mind heading to Uzbekistan after the trek to see some of the wonders of the famous Silk Road, even if trekking is my priority. I don’t know why, but the Pamir seems to be less offered by agencies and it’s also more expensive...?
As mentioned earlier, the hikes around Karakol are quite similar to the Alps... if you're looking for something "wild," you can find it, but you’ll need to "break away" from the classic Karakol treks to encounter fewer hikers. Either way, it doesn’t resemble the "Mongolian steppes"—these are alpine-style mountains.
https://un-tour-dans-le-sac.fr/randonnees-dans-les-montagnes-de-karakol/
I’ve also explored the area around Song Kol Lake, and wow, it’s a whole different vibe! Steppe-like landscapes, yurts, horses—we loved it. Some parts around Song Kol Lake are a bit "touristy" (though it’s all relative). But if you’re up for a little adventure, it’s easy to get off the beaten path.
https://un-tour-dans-le-sac.fr/trek-vers-le-lac-son-koul/
Ah, it's a tough call... I’d love to feel a bit off the beaten path, but I’ve heard Kyrgyzstan is more touristy than Tajikistan, which makes me a little nervous. Also, I’d rather sleep in a tent than a yurt because, from what I’ve read, yurts can get pretty crowded—hello snoring, I know how it goes from staying in mountain huts! So maybe Tajikistan fits my criteria better (stunning landscapes, challenging treks, camping, and wild nature...)?
Yeah, Kyrgyzstan is definitely more touristy than Tajikistan...
I don’t know Tajikistan at all, though, so it might be what suits you best. That said, keep in mind that tourism in Kyrgyzstan is still pretty low-key, and it’s easy to find yourself alone in the mountains camping wild with your own tent...
Agencies tend to recommend the Fan Mountains because they're much more quickly accessible from Dushanbe. The Pamir is remote and takes a long time to get to, not to mention it's tricky to combine with anything else.
Anyway, no guarantees on this analysis—it's just my take, worth what it's worth.
The Fann Mountains offer some really beautiful hiking, but you yourself mentioned at the start that you wanted something different, and you’ll find that in the Pamirs. I—and others who’ve replied here—have traveled and hiked in the Pamirs without going through any agency.
Yeah, it's tempting to go without using any agency, but traveling alone doesn't appeal to me, and I don't know who to go with. So apart from an agency, I don't have any ideas.
A local guide based in the Pamir might be a good solution, given what attracts you. I know there’s at least one independent guide in the Bartang Valley: Ibex Pamir Tourism: www.pamirtourism.com
There are also several possible contacts through the Khorog tourism office, "Pamir Eco-Cultural Tourism Association": pecta.tj > members
Note: There aren’t many trekkers in the Pamir, so it won’t always be possible to join a group if you have date constraints. Plus, trekking there is generally more expensive than in the north of the country because it’s harder to access, and local agriculture produces little—so they bring in supplies by truck from Dushanbe or Osh. That said, life in Tajikistan is still relatively cheap for us.
Otherwise, the Fan Mountains are less exotic than the Alps in terms of landscapes, that’s for sure, but they’re beautiful, and life with Tajik villagers is still quite immersive... I haven’t been back since the Samarkand–Panjakent road reopened. The upside of this reopening: you can easily combine the Fan Mountains with visits to cities like Samarkand. Possible downside: a few more tourists, but there were really very few before 2017!
Back from the Manaslu Circuit in Nepal, I think for my next trip I’d like a wilder environment. I’m considering a trek (two to three weeks) in Central Asia. Several agencies organize this kind of trip, and I was leaning toward Tajikistan, but after looking at travel photos, the landscapes seem very similar to the Alps, while Kyrgyzstan’s scenery looks more "exotic"—maybe closer to Mongolia...?
Beyond certain areas of Nepal (Naar-Phu, Upper Mustang, Upper Dolpo), Ladakh and Zanskar also offer landscapes that feel far removed from alpine settings for those looking for something different. There are plenty of French-speaking agencies offering treks in this region.
These areas share the trait of being very mineral-rich, as they’re trans-Himalayan.
Fabrice
S'exposer à l'Etranger lointain amène à mieux connaître et comprendre sa propre Culture.
hi,
well, why not... but I get the impression that most treks are in lodges or homestays—I’m looking for something more tent-based... though I’ll dig deeper into this option...
I’ve also considered Pakistan, but it’s as expensive as Dolpo—I’m not sure if it’s still about permits or complicated logistics...
... I said something silly—I’m seeing offers for under tents. Thanks for the idea, I’ll look into this option, it’s way cheaper than the Upper Dolpo, for example (but maybe there are more people there too...?)
Are you talking about Pakistan now? That's high mountain terrain, not the open landscapes you mentioned at first, except for Deosai. Pakistan is way less touristy than Nepal, and there are treks without any tourists. Also, in Pakistan, pretty much all treks are done camping.
I know they're different... but they both make me dream for other reasons. I also really like the "high mountain" vibes. The problem (same with Tajikistan) is that agencies can't guarantee trips will run in September because there wouldn't be enough participants (you need at least 4). That's the downside of less touristy destinations...!
Ladakh and Zanskar offer landscapes that are truly off the beaten path for those looking for something beyond alpine settings. There are plenty of offers from French-speaking agencies for treks in this region.
It seems like roads are being built everywhere in Ladakh and Zanskar. Plus, agencies now offer treks with 4x4 transfers, so they're far from being as wild as they used to be.
"When I saw the Hoggar Mountains, my jaw dropped. If you think of Bryce, or Canyonlands National Park, you're close, but the Hoggar Mountains are more spectacular." David Ball, Empire of sands
Sure, roads are improving and now even reach villages that trekkers used to praise as being in the middle of nowhere.
But road density per km² is still among the lowest in Ladakh and Zanskar.
And when a road is present, it’s not necessarily a major nuisance.
In August 2014, when I trekked in Zanskar from Pidmu to Photaksar, the road was already there from Kyupa La (between Lingshed and Sengge La). Yet, it wasn’t really bothersome—it stayed off the trail except on the southern slope of Sengge La. Plus, only one car passed all day. So, minimal noise disturbance.
True, this road has ruined the Yapola Gorge. But it’s not hard to avoid it. If you're heading south to north, from Photaksar, you can continue through the Askuta Gorge, which is just as impressive.
In the vastness of Zanskar, it’s not difficult to steer clear of the few roads that have been built. And creative agencies offer adapted itineraries.
Sure, we’re no longer walking on a centuries-old commercial route, but the landscapes haven’t suffered for it.
Fabrice
S'exposer à l'Etranger lointain amène à mieux connaître et comprendre sa propre Culture.
For Tajikistan, I’d recommend going with a local guide. It’s way more affordable than booking through a French agency like Alibert or Td’Av.
I did it myself last September—a 9-day trek in the Fann Mountains. Total change of scenery, pristine nature, and meeting local people. Feel free to DM me for more details and my guide’s contact info.
Hi Gabriella,
Did you end up doing your trek and where?
Were you there alone?
Could you possibly share the itinerary and travel tips with me?
Thanks,
Philippe
Uh, given the context... I don’t really see how I could’ve gone on any trip...
I was supposed to leave for Pakistan in July, but everything got canceled. So here I am... no trip to report back on!
I can confirm that apricot seems great.
This year, I'm hesitating, but if I go this autumn, I'll definitely use my credit with Qatar, and I'm not sure I'll have the budget next summer to go to Pakistan... Especially since I've already paid the deposit for that trip, so it would make more sense to stick to that plan.
Yeah, it's a shame to lose your deposit...
You could always trek in France, but it's not the same as going abroad😎
I still don’t know what to do—maybe a trek in the Pyrenees, or the Peaks of the Balkans... or something else. Gonna have to put my thinking cap on—it’s not easy finding a solo trekking idea that’s not too far away, just in case COVID comes back😄
... That’s another issue (a potential Covid resurgence). I’d be so gutted if I planned everything for a trip to Nepal in October or November (the only mountain destination that works this season) and ended up stuck at home—with another non-refundable deposit down the drain...!
At the same time, I’m itching to get far away again... I don’t know what I’ll do. I’ll wait a bit longer...
I can't help with Nepal or Pakistan, but in Tajikistan, if you're open to the idea, you can choose different locations and go on day hikes from your "base." That way, you can be there on your own, without an agency. The various bases are towns in the Fanns, not Penjikent. There are some shared or chartered transports to get from one "base" to another. Otherwise, yes, there are local agencies, but DIY isn’t a crazy idea.
It’s not a 100% practical guide, but the Odyssey-published guide on Tajikistan still gives tons of ideas.
... Thanks for this interesting lead, but it seems like it’d be better to go with at least two people so it’s not too dangerous. In the Alps I sometimes hike alone, but I always let someone know my route. I’d be really hesitant to venture alone in the mountains of Tajikistan...
I respect your choice, but just because you're going to a country ending in "-stan" doesn’t mean you’re at more risk than in France.
I’ve been to Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, and Tajikistan, but always on separate trips and without an agency. Combining Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan if your goal is hiking doesn’t make much sense.
Kyrgyzstan sees more tourists than Tajikistan, but it’s not Ibiza.
Tajikistan is more unknown and "wild" in the adventurous sense.
Above all, it’s a matter of choice.
Well, let's say if I break my leg hiking in Tajikistan, it still seems way more complicated than in the Alps because no one will worry if I don’t make it back by evening. That’s what would hold me back.
The Pamir is drier and different. Here too, the Odyssey helps you get an idea and choose. Combining both is possible, but you’ll obviously need enough time.
Thousands of people fall in their bathrooms or on the stairs every year.
No bathrooms or stairs in the wilds of Tajikistan...
I don’t think it’s any different in Nepal, Pakistan, or Kyrgyzstan...
The people you're staying with will worry if you're not back by evening.
It's not the same country and context, but this happened to me in Armenia with a family when I came back very late due to transport issues and getting a bit lost...
The people you're staying with will worry if you're not back by evening.
yeah, but this doesn’t apply to backpackers who are camping in the mountains. As for accidents on trails or roads, if you get injured and need surgery, it’s still pretty complicated in Tajikistan...
Back in 2015, I was there with a friend who fractured her collarbone and hand after a bike fall. We weren’t in some remote valley—we were on a fairly major road less than 100 km from the capital. We had to figure out how to get a taxi to Dushanbe, and from there, after two exams at two different hospitals, the most reasonable option was an emergency flight home. When we got our insurance company on the phone, they immediately told us, "If you can make it to Dushanbe airport, we’ll handle the rest, but beforehand, we have no contacts on the ground—you’re on your own." And this was with Inter Mutuelles Assistance, not some small, sketchy agency...
Bonjour à tous,
Je pars le lundi 3 août pour ma toute première grande randonnée en itinérance : le GR223 de Coutances au Mont Saint-Michel, sur 6-7 jours (~18-22 km/jour), en solo.
Je cherche des conseils de gens qui connaissent bien ce tronçon (Coutances → Regnéville-sur-Mer→ Hauteville sur mer → Bréhal → Granville → Genêts → traversée de la baie) :
Hébergements pas chers : je galère un peu à trouver des gîtes d'étape abordables (beaucoup de ce que je trouve en ligne, ce sont des locations de vacances chères, pas vraiment adaptées à un randonneur solo). Si vous avez des bonnes adresses (gîtes d'étape, chambres d'hôtes randonneurs, campings sympas), je suis preneuse !
Traversée de la baie : des retours d'expérience sur les guides/prestataires au départ de Genêts pour la traversée finale ?
Conseils généraux pour un premier trek en itinérance : ce que vous auriez aimé savoir avant votre première fois, pièges à éviter, etc.
Hi,
We’re planning to do the 4-day trek from Mestia to Ushguli without an agency. The descriptions mention that there are accommodations at each stop, but we can’t find any details about them. Has anyone got info or feedback on this route?
I'm developing a free and open-source web app for planning walking and cycling trips (and even car trips). You can create a route by clicking directly on the map to add waypoints, and it can consist of multiple stages. The app provides tools to edit the stages and the overall route, and to display useful information (distances, altitudes, and elevation changes). A relief profile can be shown as a graph for a specific stage or the entire route.
Once the route is ready, it can be exported as a GPX file, which can then be used with a GPS or a mobile navigation app.
The app is built in JavaScript and runs entirely in the web browser. It uses the Leaflet library and several OpenStreetMap-based services. Initially developed for my personal needs (I enjoy hiking and cycle touring), I’d be happy to share it with anyone who might find it useful. It’s free to use, doesn’t require an account, and the source code is available.
New to this forum, I’m planning a pretty big project for 2028.
I’m heading to Nepal to do a trek from Kathmandu all the way to Everest Base Camp (a cool 5,300 m 😄).
This trek is a bit special because even though I’ll be part of a group, I’m going solo (so far, no problem—I’m used to it). But it’s my first real trek, and it’s also a humanitarian one: once I reach base camp, I’ll stay an extra week to help clean up the waste left by tens of thousands of climbers! Since I’m originally from South America, from two countries that share the Andes, I have a deep respect for mountains—they fascinate me. So Everest… it’s kind of the trip of a lifetime!
So, a little question for those who’ve done treks to Everest before… any tips for good mental preparation (I’m already working on the physical side)?
We're planning to trek in Peru and Bolivia and would love to find some local agencies.
If you know any, could you share details on prices and, of course, the names of the agencies?
Which trek would you recommend?
Elocine
I'm heading out on a fully self-sufficient trek in Morocco (10 days) from Imilchil to Aghbalou.
Can I find screw-on gas canisters (Coleman, Primus) in Marrakech (any addresses?) or in villages between Imilchil and Aghbalou?
If not, are Butagaz canisters for camping gas (small 230g size) available?
Thanks in advance for your tips!
Hello, I’d like to embark on a little trip in my home country, Switzerland. I’ll start walking from La Cure, heading toward Le Noirmont first, then I’ll improvise my route—but it’ll probably follow the French border... at least as far as Lac de Joux.
I’ll decide day by day how much farther to go after that. My goal is to stay in nature as much as possible, wander around for as long as I can, and restock food in villages or towns along the way.
I’m thinking of mostly camping, but we’ll see if I end up in a hotel or another campsite depending on my route.
I’d love to reach La Chaux-de-Fonds on foot... maybe even Delémont.
The whole thing should take about a week, give or take.
I’ll be bringing my dog, and I’m preparing for this as soon as I’m ready.
Any tips to make sure everything goes smoothly for us? Things I should know—or avoid? What about shepherds with their flocks of sheep? And isn’t hunting season open right now?
I’m not sure if what I’m planning is even doable, which is why I’m asking around.
This’ll be my first time doing something like this—wandering in nature *and* with a dog. I’m really excited for this adventure... and I need it. Thanks!
We’re really keen on ecosystems and want to hike in "natural" ancient forests—not planted woods or areas heavily degraded by human activity. Travel guides (like Lonely Planet) don’t provide much info on this. Could you point us to the most interesting spots?
Thanks in advance for your tips.
We wish you happy holidays and a fantastic 2026, full of discoveries!
Claire and Albert
Hi, this might not be the right section, but I’d like to know if it’s possible to start mountaineering with another person without necessarily hiring a guide. We’ve done quite a bit of hiking but not mountaineering—we’ll just do a half-day glacier course. After that, we were thinking of starting with La Grande Motte and the Pointe de la Traversière, which were recommended to us. Honestly, for things like roping up and knots, I’ll learn at home with lots of videos and a book.
I’d love to know if anyone has done treks in the Rwenzori Mountains and how much it costs on average, what the infrastructure is like, the landscapes, and safety in the area. Thanks so much! I’m really looking forward to your replies.
We’re leaving in 9 days for a two-week trip to Madeira, mainly to hike.
From my research, I’ve found that since last year, access to most trails—and systematically for the most popular ones—is now paid. You have to pay an access fee of 4.50 € per person per classified hike in 2026, and even 10.50 € for the most iconic hike: Pico Arieiro to Pico Ruivo. When paying, you also have to choose a day and a 30-minute time slot for your start time. Of course, this reservation is neither changeable nor refundable, even if the weather that day is terrible.
Personally, given the massive influx of tourists to the island in recent years, I don’t mind paying a fee to help maintain the trails. Similarly, setting a limit on the number of people who can hike them per day is certainly preferable to preserve this priceless heritage.
However, what’s much less fair is that in reality, most of the available spots are reserved: 1/ for Madeira residents (which is normal); 2/ for "economic operators" (meaning local tour operators). For example, if you’re a non-resident (independent tourist), no booking is possible for the Pico Arieiro hike for an early morning start before September! So, unfortunately, we’ll have to skip this hike.
It’s the same issue for Ponta de São Lourenço, the 25 Fontes, Pico Ruivo... in short, all the most popular hikes. Oh well, we’ll skip those too!
So my question is: which hikes do you recommend where we won’t face the huge crowds that the others get? And where we can book the day before for the next day, taking the weather into account?
Finally, a quick accommodation question: we’ve booked the first week in Funchal, but I haven’t decided yet for the second week. Do you have any advice on where to stay in the south or north, preferably avoiding overly concrete-heavy and touristy spots?
I’m reposting about the logistics for Samaria Gorge.
I’d love to get recent info, especially about whether it’s possible to park my car in Omalos, do the hike, and then catch a bus back to my vehicle.
In theory, it’s doable, but when you check the KTEL website, there aren’t any feasible schedules listed. If anyone has recently organized this with reliable, verified details, I’d really appreciate it. Thanks in advance!
Hi there,
We’re flying from Montreal to Lyon this August to go hiking in the French Alps. We’ve rented a car and will be staying at campgrounds. We’re planning to do day hikes and want to stay a few days in one spot, do a few hikes, then move on to our next camping spot. Could you share your favorite spots or any recommendations for places to spend a few days with great hikes?
A few details:
We arrive in early August and leave in early September.
We’re looking for day hikes (or shorter), moderate difficulty, with a cumulative elevation gain of no more than 1000m, and of course, beautiful scenery!
We’d prefer not to drive too much—maybe it’s best not to head too far south and deal with unnecessary heat?
Along the same lines, if you know of any great campgrounds where we can start our hike directly without needing the car, we’d love to hear your suggestions!
Hi there,
I’m planning to go hiking on this island and would like to know the best time to do it. I visited for a few days in November 2018—not for hiking but just to explore—and the weather wasn’t great, especially in the mountains. So, is a star-shaped itinerary doable if I rent a car and maybe use two different accommodations?
I’m not planning to join an organized group—just traveling with one other person and organizing things ourselves—unless you’d recommend a local agency or guide. Finally, even though I’ll be getting maps, a topo guide, and a GPS, I’d really appreciate your top hiking recommendations.
Thanks so much for your tips!
I’m planning to do the Mercantour crossing following the Randoxygène route in mid-July.
I’m used to hiking in the mountains, but I sometimes get vertigo, for example on ridges with drops on both sides. I wanted to check if there are any T4 or T3-T4 sections and find out if there are any very exposed passages—and if so, where—so I can plan an alternative route.
Can anyone give me some info on this?
Thanks!
I’m planning a trip around Cap Corse and the AGRIATES in 2026, from May 8th to 15th (there are still 2 spots left, by the way! Just DM me if you're interested).
I’d love to know which hikes are worth prioritizing in the AGRIATES. We’ll be staying in SALECCIA for two days as our base—what should we focus on from there?
A round trip to IGNHU beach? Any other suggestions?
For Ostricano, I think it’s too far for a round trip...
Thanks for your tips!
Have a great day,
Anie, Toulouse
I’d like to get some info about the GR10 Pyrenees traverse. I need help planning the daily stages and accommodations—my wife isn’t an experienced hiker but walks a lot, so I’d like to schedule shorter walking days and thus a longer overall trip in terms of number of days.
Could anyone give me some help and advice?
Best regards,
Hi there, I’m planning the Annapurna Circuit for March 2027 and I’m looking for a local agency with a local guide—preferably French-speaking—to arrange this trek for us. Any suggestions? Thanks
Hello!
We’re spending a few days in Toraja country at the end of May. We’d love to do a day trek—taking our time—on a route that’s stunning in terms of scenery, but not a level 5 in difficulty!
Any suggestions you can share, please?
Thanks in advance
I’d like to do the Mare a Mare Sud in May over 4 days. I’ve found quite a few places to stay along the route, but I’m stuck on the start and finish.
I’ll be arriving by plane on Sunday evening and would like to start pretty early on Monday morning. Ideally, accommodation right at the trailhead (Alzu di Gallina) would be amazing, but I can’t find anything. Any tips?
Also, for the transfer from Figari Airport to Porto Vecchio or Alzu di Gallina?
At the end, I’d like to pick up a rental car—any advice on that too?
I’m traveling solo by plane to Catania in May and plan to hike the northern side of Etna, starting from Linguaglossa where I’ll arrive by bus. After that, I’d love some info on how to get up to Piano Provenzana (shuttles or hitchhiking), since it seems there’s no public transport except in the summer. Can you sleep there in a free or cheap refuge, or camp? And how far up can you go without having to hire a guide? Thanks in advance. Bernard.
Hi everyone,
I’m heading to Morocco in August and we’ll start with a stop in Chefchaouen (we’re driving).
My question: can anyone suggest a 5-to-7-day loop hiking route from Chefchaouen in Talassemtane Park, ideally passing by the God’s Bridge? Or a paper guidebook that covers a few options?
We prefer wild camping and guesthouses.
Thanks in advance
Hi there, for those who’ve been recently—is it possible to find other solo travelers in March on the island to share transport or room costs? It doesn’t seem easy to travel on a budget.
If you have any recommendations for simple lodgings or places with dorms, I’d love to hear them.
For those who’ve done multi-day treks while moving around: do you need to bring your own sleeping bag? I’d love to hear about itineraries you’ve done without a guide, just with a map and GPS.
Thanks, and have a great day!
Hi everyone!
We’re planning a 15-day road trip to Scotland this summer, specifically to explore and hike on Lewis and Harris—places we’ve never been before. We’ve visited other islands on previous road trips in Scotland (we usually go in April for a week). This would be our first time in Scotland in the summer and for 15 days. We’re looking at late August to early September.
I’m currently drafting the itinerary. We’d be crossing from Ullapool and were thinking of spending 3 nights on Harris and 4 nights on Lewis.
Does that sound balanced to you? Is it better to keep the same accommodation on Harris and the same on Lewis to explore the area? I’d love to hear about any past experiences you’ve had on these islands.
Thanks!
Hi there, I’m trying to leave for 15 days very soon to São Vicente. I’m either looking to join an agency or figure things out on my own to go hiking on one of these islands or both. From what I’ve seen, it’s not easy to organize with local transport, so it gets expensive. Can I use the services of a small local agency? I’m looking for the simplest way to hike for several days. Also, how do you get from São Vicente to São Nicolau? Thanks in advance and have a great day!
Aichatou
I’ve been wanting to do this for several years, and this year’s the one. Next September, I’ll be trekking in Tusheti (Georgia), from Omalo to Shatili.
Of course, I won’t be renting a vehicle that’d just sit unused. No problem getting to Pshaveli, but from there to Omalo, it’s a dirt road (still the case?)
There must be some form of public transport since there are so many guesthouses, and not all travelers come in a 4x4.
If any of you have been to Omalo, could you confirm that these shared transports exist and how often they run?
we’re planning a trip to Yellowstone and hoping to do a three-day backcountry hike if we get a permit.
if any of you have done this before, could you let me know if it’s possible to find water along the way? And if we can transport it, are we allowed to use a stove?
