MT Sobek has been leading journeys in Europe for more than 50 years and has decades of experience on this famous pilgrimage route across northern Spain.

This 11-day adventure has been perfected to blend hiking and history, plus delicious cuisine and elegant accommodations. And, back-up coach support for those who need it.

Guided by a top-notch team of local experts, hikers enjoy historical and cultural tours in ancient towns on the way to Santiago de Compostela.

Moderate to challenging hikes through spectacular landscapes, paired with city, culture, and history tours.

Revamped medieval monasteries and historic buildings offer standard to high-class amenities, comfort, and warm hospitality.

Spring and fall mornings are cool but warm up to 75°F at midday, cooling back down to about 55°F in late afternoon.

MT Sobek distills the month-long classic Camino pilgrimage into an expert-led 11-day itinerary focusing on key sections of the Camino Frances. Skipping the standard pilgrim hostels, enjoy comfortable stays in historic hotels and revamped monasteries, pairing spectacular hikes with full van support for the ideal balance of active adventure and refined hospitality.

Historic Architectural Stays: Forego basic hostels for lodging in iconic Paradores, including converted medieval monasteries and palaces that reflect the region's rich royal and religious history.

Legacy of Europe Expertise: Drawing on over 55 years of adventure travel experience, MT Sobek provides expert local guides with unparalleled knowledge and perspective on this pilgrimage.

Best of the Camino: This itinerary focuses on the most interesting and historically important segments of the trail to condense a 30-day walk into 11 days, ensuring you experience the true spirit of the Camino from Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port to Santiago de Compostela.

Fully Supported Hiking: Enjoy van-supported hiking throughout the journey, allowing you to hike with only a daypack while we manage all luggage transfers and complex logistics between hiking destinations and our hand-picked hotels.

April through June and August through November offer the most pleasant hiking conditions in Northern Spain. These windows avoid the intense heat of mid-summer and the deep chill of winter, offering a balanced climate of crisp mornings and warm, sunny afternoons that are ideal for long-distance trail walking.

Spring Bloom (April to June): This window offers vibrant green landscapes and blooming wildflowers across the Meseta, with comfortable hiking temperatures averaging 75°F and a sense of renewal as the trail transitions out of the quiet winter months.

Late Summer (August to September): During these popular months it's important to get an early start to avoid peak summer heat, and hikes are scheduled accordingly on MT Sobek trips. Dress appropriately, use sun protection, and stay hydrated to get the most out of your summer Camino trip.

Autumn Gold (October to November): Fall brings changing weather and a dramatic color shift in the vineyards of the Rioja and Galicia regions, featuring cooler temperatures, significantly fewer crowds on the path, occasional rain showers, and a peaceful, contemplative atmosphere in Santiago.

The standard minimum age for this trip is 18. This itinerary is designed with adult travelers in mind, based on daily activity levels, accommodations, and overall group experience. Families or groups with younger children please check out our private departures .

This trip's Level 4 rating reflects the cumulative challenge of walking long distances for several consecutive days on varied surfaces. With daily distances reaching up to 16.5 miles, this trip requires solid endurance. This journey is designed for fit walkers who are comfortable with sustained, high-mileage days.

Daily Distance & Endurance: You should be prepared for an average of 10 miles of walking per day, with the longest stage reaching 16.5 miles. This high daily mileage requires well-conditioned, strong legs and the ability to maintain a steady pace for 6 to 7 hours. However, most days, there are opportunities to shorten your hike by getting a lift from our support vehicle.

Hard Surface Impact: Unlike soft forest trails, much of the Camino involves walking on hard-packed dirt, gravel, and paved city roads. This repetitive impact on firm surfaces can be taxing on the joints and feet, making proper footwear essential.

Sustained Climbing Stages: While much of the route is level, Day 2 and Day 8 feature significant ascents. You will encounter vertical gains of 1,656 feet and over 2,000 feet respectively, requiring solid cardiovascular fitness for these specific mountain stages.

Back-to-Back Activity: There are no rest days on this itinerary. You will be active for 10 consecutive days, meaning your body should be prepared for the demands of just shy of 100 miles of walking by the time you reach Santiago.

The Weather Factor: Northern Spain's weather is variable, and hikers must be prepared for full sun exposure and wind on the high plains or rain in the lush Galician hills, both of which can increase the perceived difficulty of the day's trek.

We plan the itinerary carefully, but adjustments may be needed due to weather, trail conditions, or other factors. MT Sobek and our guides make thoughtful decisions when needed in real time to keep the experience safe and enjoyable, and any significant changes will be communicated as early and as clearly as possible.

You should fly into Bilbao Airport (BIO) for the start of the trip. For your return, you will fly out of Santiago de Compostela Airport (SCQ).

Some guests choose to arrive and/or depart via Madrid's Adolfo Suarez Madrid-Barajas Airport (MAD) and connect via train. If you choose to route in or out of Madrid, you will need to book your train connection accordingly. Many guests use Trainline.com or Renfe.com to make these arrangements.

Once your reservation with MT Sobek is finalized, we'll notify you of your trip's status. After your departure is confirmed to operate, flights and travel arrangements may be purchased. While we can often confirm departures in advance, some decisions may be finalized closer to final payment.

Once your booking is finalized with MT Sobek and your trip has been confirmed to operate, flights may be purchased. If you are unsure of the status of your trip, be sure to check with your Adventure Coordinator prior to booking non-refundable flights.

Arrival: You will need to arrive at Bilbao Airport (BIO) no later than 9:00 am on Day 1 to catch our included airport transfer.

Departure: On Day 11, you may schedule your departure from Santiago de Compostela Airport (SCQ) or from the rail station at any time. Group transfers to the airport or railway station are provided throughout the morning until 2:00 pm.

Some guests prefer to fly in or out of Madrid, and you can take the train to and from the trip start and end if this is the best option for you. Guests typically use Trainline.com or Renfe.com for planning travel by rail.

Please refer to your Final Details, delivered 3 to 4 weeks prior to your trip, for exact timing and meeting instructions.

If you are arriving early in Bilbao, we suggest staying at our group meeting hotel, The Artist Hotel . Other good choices in central Bilbao include Hotel Miro and Hotel Ercilla de Bilbao . For those staying late in Santiago de Compostela, we recommend the Parador de Santiago de Compostela . Your Adventure Coordinator can provide current options and help you think through the timing for your extended stay. To make your reservations, please contact the hotels directly. If you book a room at the Parador de Santiago de Compostela, be sure to notify the concierge that you are with the MT Sobek group so that they can assign you to the same room. Please do not book a non-refundable rate, as hotels are subject to change.

A valid passport is required to enter Spain. Most countries require that passports be valid for at least six months beyond the end of your trip and contain at least one blank page for entry stamps.

US citizens do not need a visa for stays under 90 days in Spain. If you're planning extended travel in other European countries, check individual country visa requirements accordingly.

Non-citizens should consult their local embassy or consulate to confirm current entry requirements.

This trip is designed for active travelers who can maintain a steady pace for 10 consecutive days. You will navigate a mix of rural paths, paved sidewalks and roads for 6 to 7 hours daily, covering distances between 10 and 16.5 miles with just shy of 100 total miles of walking by the tour's end. Most days, there are opportunities to shorten your hike by getting a lift from our support vehicle, but this is not always possible, including on some of our hardest hiking days.

Climbs and Descents: While the terrain is often rolling, specific stages involve sustained vertical gain and loss, such as the 1,656-foot ascent on Day 2 and a gain of over 2,000 feet on Day 8, requiring solid cardiovascular conditioning.

Variable Terrain: Expect a combination of natural dirt trails, gravel paths, and hard-packed asphalt through ancient villages and along roads. Extended hikes on varied surfaces require well-broken-in footwear.

Back-to-Back Days: With no full rest days during this itinerary, you will be walking for 10 consecutive days. The pilgrimage is a progressive hike, meaning you will change accommodations each night as you move to the next stage. You must be conditioned for sustained effort and quick recovery.

Weather Exposure: Much of the route crosses open landscapes with limited shade, particularly across the Meseta. Hiking for 6 to 7 hours in direct sun or wind increases the physical demands of the activity and requires good hydration and pacing.

To prepare for the Camino, focus on building a solid aerobic base and endurance through consistent walking and hiking, starting at least six months in advance of your trip. You will want to get outside multiple times a week with back-to-back days of activity to simulate the trip's daily hiking nature. Start out gradually and increase your training to 4 to 5 times each week, for 40 to 60 minutes at a time, while making sure to go for full-day walks at least once a week to build your baseline stamina.

Because much of the trail involves paved or hard-packed surfaces, it is essential to train on similar terrain to condition your joints and feet for the daily mileage. You should aim to build up to hiking 10 to 12 miles comfortably on varied surfaces to ensure you are ready for the longer stretches of the journey. Include regular hill training in your routine to prepare for the significant elevation change occurring on Days 2 and 8. It is also vital to train in the footwear you plan to wear on the trip to prevent blisters, and practice hiking with a light daypack to get accustomed to the weight you will carry for 6 to 7 hours daily.

This certificate is issued by the Cathedral of Santiago at their discretion and not by MT Sobek. Official church rules stipulate that pilgrims walk at least 100 kms (~62 miles) consecutively, without any breaks or jumps, to qualify for the Compostela (Pilgrimage Certificate). While we do not walk 100 km consecutively on this trip, guests on our Camino trips usually do end up obtaining the Compostela. Please note, this cannot be guaranteed, as it ultimately depends on the determination of the cathedral's Pilgrim's Reception Office.

You will be provided with a Pilgrim's Passport (Credencial) to carry with you throughout the journey. Collecting unique stamps at various hotels, cafes, and churches along the route creates a wonderful booklet of mementos from the places you visited. You will also receive a traditional scallop shell to carry on the trek.

This trip follows the historic Camino de Santiago, a centuries-old pilgrimage path. While the route has deep religious roots, this is a rewarding journey for travelers of all backgrounds—whether you're drawn by history, culture, landscape, or personal reflection.

There are opportunities to attend mass in Roncesvalles and again at the cathedral in Santiago de Compostela. Depending on schedules, you may also be able to attend some services along the route. Your guide can inform you when there is an opportunity. Attendance is always optional but does offer excellent cultural insight into the pilgrimage experience.

Accommodations are a highlight of the experience, featuring a curated mix of 3-, 4-, and 5-star historic hotels and Paradores that offer an ideal location along our route. Paradores are a collection of government-owned hotels, set primarily in historical locations such as ancient castles, monasteries, and fortresses, some dating back to the ninth century.

These properties are chosen for their regional character and provide a restful environment to recharge, featuring commonly requested amenities such as Wi-Fi, air conditioning, minibars, and safes.

In each destination we select the best available choice, but please note that both rooms and beds may be smaller than you are accustomed to. Twin rooms in Spain are often configured with two single beds placed side-by-side and joined by a shared headboard or bedframe; these beds cannot be moved apart from each other.

Keep in mind that while your hotels will usually have a safe in your room, they often are not big enough to store a laptop or tablet.

Spain's cuisine is known for rich flavors influenced by local ingredients. You might encounter signature dishes like seafood and rice paella or tasting-sized tapas featuring potatoes in a spicy sauce, garlicky shrimp, or tender meatballs. Spanish cheeses such as manchego and regional wines are also worth exploring.

All breakfasts are buffets at the hotel featuring cereals, breads, yogurt, fruit, boiled eggs, cheese, and cold cuts. Juices, coffee, and tea are included.

Lunches are often taken along the trail and are a combination of restaurants and picnic-style spreads prepared by your guides. Typically, a variety of Spanish tortilla (a thick potato omelet), cured meats, cheeses, salads, and vegetables will be available to choose from for picnic lunches. Restaurant meals will specialize in local specialties. Popular along the Camino de Santiago are jamon iberico, pintxos (small tapas), pimientos de Padron, and Spanish tortilla, among many other dishes.

Dinners are served at the hotel or a nearby restaurant and are usually 3 courses. Spain is a country known for its ham and chorizo, but we will be traveling through areas also known for fish and seafood. Dinner meals might include fresh fish or seafood, or a portion of roast chicken or lamb with fried potatoes or rice. An omelet or soup with a green salad on the side is also common. Dinner is served later in Spain than you may be accustomed to, with locals often dining after 9:00 pm. Most restaurants open around 8:00 pm.

A limited amount of beer and wine selected by your guides is included with dinners. Typically, we include a toast for the first and last days of our adventures, but this trip is different! As we journey through a world-renowned wine region, we're raising the bar—and our glasses—by including wine with dinners every day. It's all about celebrating the local culture and flavors, making each meal a memorable part of your adventure. Salute to an extraordinary experience! Additional alcohol is available for purchase.

Yes, a limited number of single rooms are available on this trip. About a third of our travelers go solo, and single room inventory often books up quickly! You can find more information on solo traveler options here .

Layering is the absolute key to staying comfortable throughout the day as temperatures shift.

Your standard layer should be composed of synthetic T-shirts and shorts to wick moisture while hiking in hot conditions.

A hat and sun protection, including good sunglasses and sunscreen, are important for full days of hiking in the sun. A bandana or Buff are helpful for sun protection.

Pack a fleece and hiking pants to ensure you can stay warm when the temperature drops. Bring a waterproof, breathable rain jacket and rain pants to keep you dry in the event of rain. Your rain jacket can double as a windbreaker.

We strongly discourage using cotton or denim in cold or wet conditions as they fail to insulate when damp. Regardless of the forecast, always carry synthetic or wool/synthetic layers in case of sudden weather changes.

It is acceptable to wear clean hiking pants and a dress shirt to dinner in the evenings, along with a clean pair of shoes.

Weather along the Camino varies significantly by region and elevation. While summer days are often sunny and warm, the Pyrenees and Galicia can experience rapid shifts in temperature and unexpected rainfall at any time of year.

Average Temperature: Daytime temperatures can range from the 60s ° to the 80s°F, but mornings and mountain sections can be much cooler, making a versatile layering system essential.

Galician Rain: As you approach Santiago, the weather becomes more Atlantic and unpredictable; high-quality rain protection is necessary even in mid-summer.

High Plains Heat: In the Meseta region, shade is limited and midday temperatures can be high, requiring consistent sun protection and hydration.

Spain operates on a 220-240V system. Sockets in France, where you will spend the first night, are the "Type E" variety, while sockets throughout Spain are "Type F". Many guests use a universal converter. A useful resource to see images of plug types is www.power-plugs-sockets.com . Check the voltage on your personal electronics chargers to determine if you need a voltage converter. You will have access to electrical outlets at every accommodation to charge your devices nightly.

Your land cost includes most major expenses of the trip. We recommend budgeting for personal expenses such as meals on your own (although all meals are included on this trip), souvenirs, laundry, and optional tips for your guides. The local currency is the euro (EUR). Check out www.xe.com for current exchange rates.

Tipping your adventure guides is a common practice to show appreciation for their hard work, care, and expertise. The amount we recommend that you tip may vary based on factors such as the length of the trip, the expectations and level of service, as well as cultural considerations. What you decide to tip should be based on your overall satisfaction.

Your trip is supported by one MT Sobek Guide for every 8 guests and a Trip Driver. Tips for additional taxi/transfer drivers, guides, restaurant and hotel staff are included in your trip price.

We recommend tipping each of your Guides the equivalent of $150 to $250 per guide, per participant, in cash (euros).

We recommend tipping your Trip Driver $75-125 per participant in cash (euros).

Our local team is unable to accept gratuities paid by apps (Venmo, Zelle, PayPal, etc.), checks, or credit card.

We recommend bringing local currency with you or obtaining cash from an ATM machine at the airport, or upon arrival in town.

Remember that tipping is always optional and is sincerely appreciated.

Yes, we strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance for all trips. Travel insurance can help cover trip cancellations or interruptions, medical expenses, emergency evacuation, travel delays, and other unexpected situations.

We offer travel insurance with Arch RoamRight and will be happy to provide you with a quote. Please see our Travel Resources page for more information.

Staying healthy on this trip starts with good pre-trip preparation and daily habits. Hydrate consistently throughout the day, especially during long hikes, and eat regularly to keep your energy levels steady. On warmer days, using powdered electrolytes can help replenish minerals lost through sweat.

Foot care is especially important. Wear well-fitting, broken-in footwear, keep your feet dry when possible, and address hot spots or blisters early using moleskin or Compeed patches. Liner socks can also help reduce friction. Simple steps like trimming toenails before the trip and changing socks as needed can make a big difference over consecutive hiking days.

Hand hygiene matters as well. Wash or sanitize your hands frequently, particularly before meals. Prioritize rest and recovery in the evenings, and don't hesitate to talk with your guide about pacing, layering, or minor concerns as they arise. Addressing small issues early is one of the best ways to stay comfortable and enjoy the full experience.

Trip extensions are not available for this itinerary. If you're planning to arrive early or stay late independently, recommendations are provided below.

If you have extra time in Spain, many guests enjoy exploring Bilbao's historic Old Town and the Gehry-designed Guggenheim Museum. This trip includes the major highlights of Santiago de Compostela, so most guests do not plan to extend their stay.

You may also choose to link this trip with our Portugal and Spain El Camino Portugues Hiking trip on select departures, based on timing and availability.

A welcome respite after walking the Camino de Santiago, Hotel Roncesvalles features well-appointed, modern rooms in a restored medieval monastery that retains much of its original character. Amenities include private bathrooms, TVs, hair dryers, and free Wi-Fi. The restaurant offers hearty breakfasts to fuel up hikers.

Ideally located only a short distance from the city center, the upscale Hotel Tres Reyes is a perfect homebase for exploring Pamplona. Spacious, modern rooms come equipped with private bathrooms, minibars, LED televisions, telephones, safes, A/C, and free Wi-Fi. The hotel boasts a bar, cafe, restaurant, swimming pool, and fitness center.

This elegant hotel, housed in a Gothic church erected in the 16th and 17th centuries, sits at the heart of Burgos. Guests are only a short walk from the UNESCO-protected Burgos Cathedral, as well as the city's other attractions and restaurants. Modern amenities abound at this historic property, including a fitness center, sauna, rooftop terrace, and free Wi-Fi.

Set in a spectacular 10th-century monastery, the sophisticated Hotel Real Monasterio San Zoilo is a short walk from Rio Carrion. The individually decorated rooms seamlessly blend historic details, like exposed brick and original archways, with modern amenities such as free Wi-Fi. The hotel features a charming bar and a Castilian restaurant, as well as a beautiful cloister and peaceful gardens.

Located in the heart of Leon's historic quarter, the Hotel Real Colegiata San Isidoro consistently wows guests. As a converted monastery built in to the city's Roman walls, the hotel oozes Romanesque elegance with its brick walls, frescoes, and cloistered corridors. Its comfortable rooms are stylish and clean, with modern amenities and private bathrooms. The hotel also has a royal pantheon, museum, and collegiate library.

Framed by the Ancares Mountains, Parador de Villafranca del Bierzo offers modern accommodations in the El Bierzo district. Its Galician-style exterior, clad in stone and slate, is offset by lovely flower-filled grounds, which provide unobstructed views of the verdant mountains. The parador also has indoor and outdoor pools and an ice fountain.

Set in a beautiful 17th-century, neoclassical building that was once a monastery, this parador is ideally located in historic Lugo. Enjoy a stroll around the property's tranquil cloister with elegant carved stonework. Comfortable rooms offer air conditioning, free Wi-Fi and flat-screen TVs. Other amenities include laundry service, a hot tub, fitness center, and an outdoor pool.

Travel back in history with a stay in this grand hotel — originally a royal hospital built in the 15th century — in the center of Obradoiro Square. Four-poster beds, brocade linens, warm woods, and rich velvets adorn the comfortable rooms. The restaurant serves a delicious menu of Galician-style food, although endless culinary delights await outside the hotel.

Our groups are intentionally kept small to allow for a deeper experience with the people and wildlife you encounter on the way. It also allows us to take advantage of the many unexpected invitations and opportunities that would be impossible with larger groups.
 

Small Group Travel

Whether you’re traveling solo, with a partner, or with friends, join one of our over 500 scheduled departures where you’ll travel in the company of like-minded adventurers. They love being engaged, energized, and inspired. Each with their own story to tell, they make fascinating and entertaining travel companions. You may just come home with a new travel buddy. Plus, with an average of 8 to 10 guests per scheduled group, you’ll have unparalleled access to your expert guides and the space to enjoy your adventure free from the limitations of a tour bus.
 

Private Adventures

Private adventures with MT Sobek are perfect for those travelers who enjoy the privacy and flexibility of traveling on their own but want the peace of mind that comes with having all the logistics handled by experts. Most of our itineraries can be made private. We offer hundreds of itineraries and dates that your group can easily take over, or, if the date you’re looking for isn’t available, we’ll make it happen for you. 
 

Custom Adventures

Whatever the occasion—family reunion, milestone celebration, an ultimate road trip with friends, we can make your dream trip happen. Experience MT Sobek’s blend of insider access and adventure style on an itinerary exclusively created for you and your family, colleagues, or friends. We have a dedicated team of Custom Trip Specialists. 
 

Solo Travelers

Small group travel is perfect for solo adventurers looking to explore with like-minded people. Right from your first meeting, you’ll be amazed at how quickly you start to bond with your fellow travelers. No matter where they come from, it turns out that simply having a shared love of travel really brings people together. Whether you’re on the trail, watching wildlife, or enjoying a meal around a family table, there are plenty of opportunities to share stories and talk about highlights from the day.

From luxury hotels to rustic lodging, deluxe camping to wilderness camping, check out our full range of accommodation styles. Some trips may include a combination of styles, expertly picked for the destination.

Hotels at the Heart of Adventure

Where else to stay when visiting the Grand Canyon but perched on the North Rim of this natural wonder? How better to appreciate the fjords of Norway than to slumber in a brightly colored fisherman’s cottage by the water’s edge? Or to spot the “Big Five” from your luxury safari camp’s private veranda? We seek out small boutique hotels and lodges that treat you to the “must-have” experiences of the region.

Luxury Hotels
Revel in pure luxury at our hand-picked 5-star hotels—some of the most exquisite properties on the planet. With excellent amenities and services, including restaurants and wellness facilities, these accommodations are consistently top-rated by guests and provide an ultimate pampered experience.
 

Comfortable Hotels
The majority of our properties include small hotels and inns with a local flair. Well-appointed with modern amenities, many are family-run, adding to their character and charm. In some destinations, properties are chosen for their proximity to National Parks, wildlife and nature and are more basic. 
 

Rustic Lodging
Our rustic lodgings category includes remote lodges, mountain huts, homestays, guesthouses, gers, and fixed Bedouin camps. These accommodations may include bunk rooms and shared bathroom facilities. They truly get you to the heart of the destination.
 

Luxury Safari Camps & Lodges
We work with the finest African safari camps and global eco-lodges to bring you an ultimate experience that embodies the romance of adventure travel. We choose award-winning and top-rated accommodations with excellent amenities and services, including beautifully appointed safari tents and cabins. 

Adventure Camping

The only way to experience some of our most remote mountain and river destinations is to camp. Everest Base Camp, Kilimanjaro, the Middle Fork of the Salmon River—some of our most popular adventures—include at least five nights of camping. However, the type of camp set up can be different, depending on the destination’s remoteness and how easy it is to transport gear. Here are our three main camping styles.

Deluxe Camping

• Roomy tents
• Mattresses with linens
• Dining table and chairs
• Guides prepare meals
• All set up for you
   

Comfortable Camping

• Roomy tents
• Sleeping bags and pads
• Dining table and chairs
• Guides prepare meals
• Some camp work may be required
   

Wilderness Camping

• Trekking tents
• Sleeping bags and pads
• Guests help set up camp
• Guides prepare meals

Expedition Cruising

Over the years, we’ve found that adventure cruising aboard a nimble small ship or deluxe yacht gives our guests an intimate expedition-like experience with maximum flexibility. We can navigate narrow waterways, pull right into private coves, and get you onshore quickly. No waiting in long lines to get off the boat and no crowds once you get on shore!

Luxury Small Ship
Enjoy a luxurious 5-star cruise aboard modern vessels with elegant interior designs that enhance your onboard experience. Our luxury Galapagos ship, the Endemic, carry a maximum of 16 passengers, while polar expedition ships such as the Magellan Explorer carry up to 70 passengers. These ships include spas, bars, climate-control en-suite rooms, and an abundance of state-of-the-art equipment for ultimate cruising. Our guide to crew ratio is guide and crew service is world-class.
 

Comfortable Small Ship
Our comfortable 3 and 4-star ships are well-designed for relaxation and all equipped with modern amenities. Aboard you’ll enjoy en-suite amenities, air-conditioning, attractive dining, bar and lounge areas, and outdoor decks for viewing the scenery. Whatever star rating of ship you choose, you can be assured of the same world-class guide and crew team, and a first-rate experience.

Our adventures are categorized by activity levels from 1 to 5. Level 1 trips are the easiest, Level 3 trips are moderate, and Level 5 trips are our most strenuous—perfect for those seeking the ultimate challenge. We also offer new flexible trips featuring activities rated at Level 2 or Level 3, providing two activity options to match your preference on the day! For all trips, we encourage you to review the activity level and read the detailed activity overview for your chosen itinerary to ensure you’re fully prepared for your adventure.
 

Easygoing – Level 1

Our most relaxed style of travel. Come prepared with flexibility and a spirit of adventure. Activities may include game drives along dusty or bumpy roads, canoe rides or river floats, sailing, or walks of up to 30 minutes on flat terrain. Trail conditions may include cobblestones, pavement, gravel, or dirt paths. On some days you may be on your feet for much of the time.
 

Easy-to-Moderate – Level 2

Active trips are appropriate for most travelers. You don’t need any previous kayaking, hiking, or other experience, but should be in generally fit condition. Trips may include short hikes or walking of up to 3 hours at elevations below 6,000 feet, sea kayaking in protected waters, or river rafting on Class I-II rapids.
 

Multi-Level – Level 2 & 3

These flexible trips are perfect for travelers seeking a range of activity levels, from easy to moderate, with two options to suit your preference and energy on the day. This type of trip also enables you to travel with friends who are more, or less, active than you, and either start or end the activity together. For example, Level 2 guests may choose a 3-hour hike while Level 3 guests may choose a 6-hour hike. This variety ensures that there’s something for everyone, whether you’re looking for a leisurely experience or a bit more of a challenge. No matter your choice, you’ll enjoy breathtaking scenery, unforgettable adventures, and plenty of time together as a group.
 

Moderate – Level 3

The majority of MT Sobek trips. These typically include 3 to 6 hours of physical activity per day, such as rafting or wilderness camping. Eight to ten-mile hikes can reach up to 10,000 feet and may include some steep ascents or descents. River rafting trips include Class III rapids and sea kayaking trips to visit protected waters.
 

Moderate-to-Challenging – Level 4

Trips for experienced travelers seeking full days of activity and a higher level of physical challenge. Hikes and treks of up to 14 miles and 4,000 feet of elevation gains and losses per day cover steep, sometimes rugged terrain, potentially into areas of exposure and elevations exceeding 10,000 feet. River rafting trips include Class IV-V rapids; sea kayaking trips include 4 to 5 hours of paddling per day in areas of open water with waves and tides.
 

Ultimate Challenge – Level 5

Our most demanding trips for guests seeking a physical challenge. Trips include trekking without vehicle support over steep, often rugged terrain at elevations over 10,000 feet. Daily hikes of up to 12 hours or more may include substantial altitude gains and losses into remote areas of wilderness. River rafting trips include Class IV-V rapids and areas where portaging is needed. Previous experience, as well as a completed physician’s certificate, is required.

We Are Committed to Sustainability

At MT Sobek, sustainability isn’t just a principle; it’s woven into the very fabric of how we operate. We don’t simply observe the world’s unique cultures and fragile ecosystems—we take an active role in their preservation. Supporting organizations dedicated to environmental conservation and community well-being is part of our DNA. Over the years, we have contributed over half a million dollars to conservation efforts and volunteered hundreds of hours to initiatives like Yosemite Facelift. Our programs work to ensure that the wild and beautiful places we visit will continue to thrive, with a special emphasis on sustainable practices and positive social impact. From funding reforestation projects to supporting local artisans, our commitment to sustainability goes hand-in-hand with unforgettable adventure.
 

Protect The Galapagos

MT Sobek is proud to support the Galapagos Conservancy by making an annual conservation investment to its Santiago Society program. Galapagos Conservancy is dedicated exclusively to the long-term protection of the Galapagos Islands, and collaborates closely with the Charles Darwin Foundation, the Galapagos National Park, and many other institutions that are committed to the conservation of the entire archipelago.
 

Save the Tiger

MT Sobek guide Brian Weirum has made saving tigers his life’s mission and we are proud to support the Fund For the Tiger, raising over $300,000 to help tiger conservation in India and Nepal. The fund aims to address the threats faced by these majestic big cats and ensure their survival for future generations.
 

Kilimanjaro Porters Assistance Project

We are proud to work with the Kilimanjaro Porters Assistance Project (KPAP), based in Moshi, Tanzania, to improve the welfare and conditions for all Kilimanjaro porters. KPAP is an initiative of the International Mountain Explorers Connection (IMEC).
 

American Himalayan Foundation

Since our first treks in Nepal in 1969, Mountain Travel Sobek has worked with Himalayan communities to help support their way of life. We are also proud supporters of the American Himalayan Foundation which brings shelter, safety, education, health, and opportunity to people across the Himalaya. The AHF opens doors to education and health care, builds stronger communities, and works in a way that respects both tradition and innovation.
 

Dolma Ling Nunnery

As part of our philanthropic endeavors, we are proud supporters of the Tibetan Nuns Project at the Dolma Ling Nunnery & Institute in Dharamsala, northern India. The Tibetan Nuns Project provides education and support to refugee nuns from Tibet and to nuns from the Himalayan regions of India.
 

High Atlas Foundation

The High Atlas Foundation (HAF) empowers Moroccan communities through sustainable development. Focused on education, women’s empowerment, and environmental stewardship, HAF fosters local leadership to drive impactful change. From planting trees to building schools, their initiatives improve livelihoods while preserving cultural heritage, creating lasting opportunities for underserved rural and urban populations.
 

Preserve Alaska

The Alaska Conservation Foundation is the only public foundation solely dedicated to conservation in Alaska. The ACF’s vision is for an inspiring Alaska that is naturally thriving, biologically and culturally diverse, rich in wildlands, bountiful in terrestrial and marine life, sustainable in its economic development and thoughtfully protected—forever. MT Sobek supports the ACF by sharing their mission and vision with generations of adventure travelers.

National Park Foundation

As the official nonprofit partner of the National Park Service, the National Park Foundation generates private support and builds strategic partnerships to protect and enhance America’s national parks for present and future generations. We are proud to support the National Park Foundation to help sustain over 400 national parks in the USA, preserving 85 million acres of the world’s most treasured landscapes, ecosystems, and historical sites. 

National Park Service

MT Sobek is proud to be an authorized concessionaire of the National Park Service and a permitted outfitter under the National Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management. We always follow Leave No Trace principles and seek to drive awareness of fragile ecosystems to help support their long-term sustainability.
 

Western Rivers Conservancy

MT Sobek is proud to support Western Rivers Conservancy, an organization dedicated to protecting and preserving the vital rivers of the American West. With a shared passion for safeguarding the natural world, MT Sobek aligns with WRC’s mission to conserve critical habitats, secure public access to waterways, and ensure the sustainability of these lifelines for future generations. Together we’re working to make a meaningful impact on the preservation of our rivers.
 

Alianza Cero Basura

Alianza Cero Basura offers innovative solutions for sustainable living in Baja California Sur. It promotes waste reduction, recycling, and environmental education, providing tools and resources to empower communities. By fostering collaboration and eco-conscious practices, the hub inspires impactful change toward a zero-waste future.
 

Adventure Travel Conservation Fund

MT Sobek is proud to be a member of the Adventure Travel Conservation Fund (ATCF), an international nonprofit focused on funding on-the-ground conservation projects around the world. The ATCF is committed to protecting wild destinations and provides members in the travel and outdoor industry an avenue to directly advance critical projects that protect people, species, cultures, and places.
 

Ride 4 a Woman

We are proud to support Ride 4 a Woman, a charitable organization that empowers the women of Bwindi, Uganda More than 300 women from 11 villages now use or work at the Ride 4 a Woman community center, where they can learn to pedal sew, weave baskets, dance, sing and drum; learning new skills, making a living and making it possible for their children to gain an education.
 

Community Rhino Conservation Initiative

We are proud to support the Community Rhino Conservation Initiative to help benefit the communities and wildlife of Hwange National Park in Zimbabwe. The CRCI has re-introduced rhino to this part of Zimbabwe in a highly secure and sustainable way to eventually accommodate a viable population of free roaming black and white rhino.

Exito Planet Care Ambassador Carbon Offsetting

We are proud to work with Exito travel to book flights for our guests. Exito is a Planet Care Ambassador, committed to taking concrete steps to minimize travelers’ flight impacts on the environment by fully offsetting carbon emissions.