Locally guided hikes, with visits to historic cathedrals and other attractions, through the countryside and small villages of Northern Portugal and Spain.

Comfortable and luxury historic hotels with modern conveniences, restaurants, and ideal locations.

Spring and fall mornings are cool but warm up to 70F at midday, cooling back down to about 50F in late afternoon.

This 11-day journey offers an authentic pilgrimage from Lisbon to Santiago de Compostela along the traditional Central Camino. Tracing historic inland Roman roads and ancient pilgrimage paths, it pairs the spirit of this legendary route with elegant 4- and 5-star accommodations—including three exceptional Spanish Paradores—along with outstanding regional cuisine and expert-led cultural insights.

Legacy of Expertise: Since 1969, MT Sobek has offered unmatched experience in adventure travel including decades leading travelers on the historic Camino pilgrimage routes.

Goal-Oriented Journey: Travel the historic route through Northern Portugal and Galician Spain, culminating in a triumphant arrival at the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela.

Historic Stays: Enjoy luxury lodging in unique properties such as the renovated 15th-century royal hospital, Parador de Santiago de Compostela, and the 16th-century Renaissance palace, Parador de Pontevedra.

Seamless Support: Travel with expert guides from both Spain and Portugal, who handle all logistics and vehicle support.

April through June and September through October take advantage of the most comfortable hiking conditions on the Iberian Peninsula. We specifically avoid July and August due to the extremely high temperatures found in some areas along the Camino route, choosing spring and fall dates for the best experience.

April to May - Vibrant Spring: Expect colorful wildflowers and fresh landscapes, with cool mornings that typically warm up to 70°F by midday.

June & September - Warm & Bright: These months tend to be very warm with long daylight hours ideal for full days of walking.

October - Crisp Autumn: Autumn brings cooler conditions and fewer fellow pilgrims, with a higher chance of rain.

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 young children please check out our private departures .

This trip is rated Level 4 primarily due to the cumulative physical demand of walking up to 13 miles daily on hard, often paved surfaces. While elevation changes are generally moderate, the repetitive impact of walking on cobblestones and Roman roads requires significant stamina and physical preparation.

Endurance Walking: Guests typically hike between 8 and 13 miles daily for consecutive days, requiring excellent cardiovascular health and conditioning.

Hard-Surface Impact: Significant portions of the trail involve walking on pavement, cobblestones, and ancient Roman roads, which is harder on the body than soft trails.

Elevation Gain: While many sections are flat, specific stages like the "Queen's Stage" on Day 7 of the trip feature up to 1,800 feet of elevation gain.

Sustained Activity: Daily trail time often ranges from 6 to 8 hours, leaving muscles little time to rest between active days.

The trip starts in Lisbon, Portugal, and ends in Santiago de Compostela, Spain.

You should fly into Lisbon Airport (LIS) and depart from Santiago de Compostela Airport (SCQ).

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

You might also choose to arrive and depart via Lisbon Airport (LIS), requiring a short post-trip connecting flight from Santiago de Compostela Airport (SCQ) to Lisbon Airport (LIS).

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.

Some guests prefer to arrive at least one day early to adjust to the time change and ensure they are rested for Day 1.

Arrival: Please arrive at Lisbon Airport (LIS) no later than 2:00 pm on Day 1.

Departure: You may depart from Santiago de Compostela Airport (SCQ) anytime on Day 11.

We recommend staying at our group hotels: The One Palacio da Anunciada in Lisbon and the Parador de Santiago de Compostela in Spain.

Please book your extra nights with the hotel directly. Our groups stay in rooms of varying (but comparable) styles, and we will not know which room you will be assigned until the final participant list is sent to the hotel 30 days prior. Therefore, it will not be possible to guarantee you will not need to switch rooms on Day 1 of the trip. Your guides will review pre-trip details when confirming room assignments with the hotel and will make every effort to keep you in the same room. Please do not book a non-refundable rate, as hotels are subject to change.

A valid passport is required to enter Portugal and 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 and Portugal. 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.

Transfers on this trip are generally short. The longest scheduled transfer is around 1.5 hours on Day 2.

This is a Level 4 hiking trip designed for fit walkers who enjoy sustained, point-to-point days on the trail and can comfortably cover up to 13 miles a day for 9 consecutive days.

The Camino Portugues is less about steep mountain ascents and more about endurance—maintaining a steady pace day after day. The primary challenge is walking long distances on hard surfaces like cobblestones and paved roads, which can be taxing on the joints and feet.

Proper footwear, conditioning, and resilience are key to fully enjoying this rewarding journey.

Terrain: The Camino weaves through northern Portugal and Spain on dirt tracks, forest paths, ancient cobbled lanes, Roman roads, and paved country roads, along with occasional town and village walking. You will need to be comfortable walking on all types of terrain, but particularly cobblestones and paved surfaces.

Daily Duration: Plan for 6-8 hours of walking most days, with brief pauses at cafes, historic landmarks, and scenic viewpoints along the way. Days are full but well-paced, with a rhythm that reflects the Camino experience.

Elevation: The route is generally flat, with some rolling hills and gradual climbs. The most notable challenge is the “Queen's Stage,” with an approximately 1,800-foot ascent, rewarded by sweeping views and a strong sense of accomplishment.

To prepare for the Camino, focus on building a solid aerobic base and endurance through consistent walking and hiking at least six months in advance. You'll want to get outside multiple times a week with back-to-back days of activity to simulate the trip's daily 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. 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 8 hours daily.

There is no technical climbing or significant exposure on this trip. The trails consist of well-marked country roads, forest paths and historic Roman ways. Your guides manage all logistics and pacing to ensure a safe and steady experience.

Guests hike as a group, led by expert guides who manage the pace with regular breaks. This approach ensures that everyone can hike comfortably while maintaining safety and group cohesion throughout the journey.

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, in order 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 that this cannot be guaranteed, as it ultimately depends on the determination of the cathedral's Pilgrim's Reception Office.

You will be provided 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 in Santiago de Compostela to attend mass. Depending on schedules, you may also be able to attend some services along the route. Your guide can help determine what opportunities are available.

You will stay in a hand-picked selection of charming 4- and 5-star hotels and historic Spanish Paradores, which are a unique collection of historic hotels owned by the Spanish government. These properties are almost exclusively restored National Heritage sites, including ancient castles, monasteries, and fortresses that can date back as far as 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 Portugal and 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.

The foods of Portugal and Spain share some similarities due to their proximity on the Iberian Peninsula. Fish, shellfish and pork figure prominently, as do regional cheeses and tapas (called petiscos in Portugal).

All breakfasts are buffets at the hotel, perhaps featuring ham, cheese, quince jam and fresh bread, or savory sandwiches and Spanish tortilla (a thick potato omelet), along with cereals, yogurt, fruit, eggs, and cold cuts. Juices, coffee, and tea are included.

Lunches will be a combination of both restaurants and picnic lunches in scenic settings, depending on the day's activities. Typically, a variety of fresh and pickled vegetables, fresh baked breads, local cheeses, fruit and tomatoes, salads, and a variety of cured meats will be available to choose from for picnic lunches. Restaurant meals will offer local specialties. Popular choices include grilled sardines and bifanas (pork sandwiches) in Portugal, or jamon iberico and tapas in Spain, among many other dishes.

Dinners are served at the hotel or a nearby restaurant and are usually three courses. Some are set meals. Northern Portugal is famous for its bacalhau (cod) dishes and fresh shellfish. In Spain, dinner might include fresh fish or seafood or roast chicken or lamb with fried potatoes or rice. An omelet or soup with a green salad on the side is also quite common.

A limited amount of beer and wine selected by your guides is included with dinners. Additional alcohol is available for purchase.

Dinner is served later in Portugal and Spain than you may be accustomed to, with locals often dining after 9:00 pm. Most restaurants open between 7:00 and 8:00 pm.

We can successfully accommodate many common dietary restrictions, such as vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free and dairy-free, but due to regional limitations or cooking facilities, please be aware that we may not be able to fulfill every request.

Let us know about your dietary restrictions and food allergies as soon as possible, so we can coordinate with guides, hotels, and restaurants. Please also list these on your Participant Information Form.

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 .

Dressing in layers is the key to staying comfortable throughout the day.

Reliable rain protection is essential for the Camino. A waterproof, breathable rain jacket and rain pants will keep you dry during the spring and fall showers typical of Northern Portugal and Spain.

Your mid layer should keep you warm, such as a wool pullover or fleece sweater/vest, and hiking pants. Your inner layer should wick moisture, and also act as your warm-weather layer, such as synthetic T-shirts and shorts.

We suggest that you layer with synthetic clothing. Synthetic fabrics are the most effective barriers against cold and wet weather conditions. They provide the best insulation, are light in weight, wick away perspiration, and dry quickly if wet. Wool and wool/synthetic blends are also suitable. We strongly discourage the use of cotton garments in cold or wet conditions. On hot, sunny days cotton is perfectly acceptable, but you should always have synthetic or wool/synthetic layers with you, in case the weather changes.

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.

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

Sturdy, properly fitting footwear is the most important gear choice you will make, and a comprehensive Packing List will be provided to guide your preparations.

While you may not need every item every day, having the right gear ensures you can focus on the beauty of the pilgrimage rather than the elements.

A daypack with a 25- to 30-liter capacity is ideal. It should be large enough to carry your rain gear, extra warm layers, water, snacks, sunscreen, and personal medical basics. You'll carry your water for the day, and there are several opportunities each day to refill your water bottles.

Weather along the Iberian Peninsula is typically mild and well-suited to hiking, but it remains dynamic—shifting between sun, cloud cover, and occasional rain as you move from Portugal into Galicia. Expect a mix of conditions throughout the day, with noticeable changes between morning and afternoon.

Temperatures: Daytime highs generally range from 60°F to 75°F, aligning with the region's mild, ocean-influenced climate. April, May, September, and October often start with cool mornings before warming into comfortable hiking conditions by midday.

Sun & Heat: Many walking days include extended stretches under open sky, where the sun can feel strong—especially in late spring and early fall. Even outside peak summer, midday heat can build, so sun protection and hydration are important.

Rain & Changing Conditions: Rain is a regular part of the landscape, particularly in northern Portugal and Galicia, where passing showers and cloudy periods are common. Expect a mix of sun and rain—even within the same day—and be prepared for damp trails and slick cobblestones. This is especially true in early April, May and October. As you progress north, the climate becomes greener and more humid, contributing to lush scenery but also increasing the likelihood of muddy or wet sections underfoot. Light drizzle is not uncommon, especially closer to Santiago.

Variability: Weather patterns can shift quickly, with unexpected rain or warmer-than-expected afternoons possible even in ideal months—making flexibility and layering essential for comfort on the trail.

Spain and Portugal operate on a 220-240V system and use "Type F" outlets. Many guests use a universal plug adapter. A good 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 to 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.

If you have extra time in Lisbon, many guests enjoy exploring nearby Sintra, a resort town in the foothills of Portugal's Sintra Mountains, near the capital.

In Santiago de Compostela, many guests choose to add another night in order to visit the coastal village of Finisterre the following day. Camino routes technically end in Santiago de Compostela, but many pilgrims extend their journey to Finisterre because it is historically considered the "end of the world" (Finis Terrae). This offers a symbolic, quiet conclusion to the pilgrimage, allowing travelers to reach the Atlantic Ocean, watch the sunset, and reflect on their journey's completion.

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

Designed and built entirely by Portuguese companies, this five-star boutique hotel oozes local vibes. Its 19 rooms come complete with many comforts, from marble bathrooms with walk-in showers to plush bathrobes. Right in the heart of town, the hotel places you perfectly for easy exploration of Tomar and its sights.

This elegant, five-star, city center hotel was created from the 18th-century Palacio das Cardosas and boasts an enviable view of the emblematic Avenida dos Aliados and the Belle Epoque-era Praca da Liberdade. Surround yourself in old-world luxury, beneath crystal chandeliers and in the English library-esque bar, with its grand piano and extensive selection of local port wines. Rooms are surprisingly spacious with a contemporary feel and period accents, from the detailed crown molding to the ceiling-height mirrors.

With its peaceful garden and indoor and outdoor swimming pools, Vila Gale Collection Braga feels reminiscent of a regal estate. The former Sao Marcos hospital, which dates back to 1508, now offers comfortable guest rooms with modern amenities such as free WiFi, room service, and available spa treatments. It's all conveniently close to Braga's dining, shops, and attractions, including the notable Braga Cathedral.

A replica of a traditional Galician country house, Parador de Tui enjoys a central position in Tui, surrounded by mountains and overlooking the river. Its airy rooms feature traditional decor, and come complete with WiFi, minibars, and flat-screen TVs. The hotel's restaurant serves regional specialties, while its outdoor facilities include a lush garden, a tennis court, and a seasonal pool.

Occupying a beautiful 16th-century Renaissance palace, this four-star hotel bedazzles with elegant details like the marble staircase in the lobby and the exposed beams in the bar. The rooms feature vintage furnishings, flat-screen TVs, and mini refrigerators. The ambiance pairs perfectly with the convenient location, just minutes away from Basilica de Santa Maria a Maior.

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.