The Ultimate Adventures for Nature Enthusiasts Traveling Internationally

Even the most seasoned adventurer needs support when stepping outside their comfort zone. Whether tackling the thrilling river rapids of the Pyrenees or traversing the rugged equestrian trails of Patagonia, the United States Tour Operators Association offers a vast network of approved tour operators to make the great outdoors more accessible.

With the backing of USTOA’s $1 Million Travelers Assistance Program, each guided adventure includes a range of amenities such as transportation, equipment, and meals, along with additional free time for personal exploration. With knowledgeable staff available to assist, advise, and inform, USTOA tour operators ensure safe access to some of the world’s most stunning and remote locations while prioritizing minimal environmental impact to protect these natural spaces for future generations. Among the numerous fantastic tours available, we’ve selected five particularly thrilling offerings from USTOA member operators to help everyone, from novices to experts, step outside and experience the wonders of nature.

Finding Comfort at the Edge of the World

Covering the remote reaches of southern Argentina and Chile, Patagonia is a paradise for adventure enthusiasts. Famous for its rich culture and unique wildlife, this southern frontier showcases some of the world’s most breathtaking mountain ranges, glaciers, fjords, and forests. Despite its distance from home, Abercrombie & Kent’s 10-day tour, Patagonia: The Last Wilderness, is designed to add a personal touch to this wild landscape.

Beginning with a cultural exploration of Buenos Aires, Argentina’s vibrant capital, and concluding in Santiago, Chile’s lively counterpart, your journey leads you to Ushuaia, the world’s southernmost city and the gateway to Argentina’s Patagonia. Highlights include a visit to an island home to Magellanic penguins, witnessing sheep shearing and herding at a ranch in El Calafate, and sailing across the glacial Argentino Lake.

With a blend of protected biospheres and UNESCO World Heritage sites, gourmet dining and open-air barbecues, each day balances excitement with relaxation. In Puerto Natales, you’ll have the option to choose from three “Design Your Day” activities: cruising through fjords and glaciers, horseback riding to Puerto Consuelo, or hiking among condors for panoramic views from Mount Benitez.

The flexibility of your Abercrombie & Kent tour is intentionally crafted. Founded in 1962 as a luxury sMytouri operator, Abercrombie & Kent brings 60 years of expertise to every itinerary. Each group is limited to a maximum of 18 guests, guided by English-speaking tour directors and knowledgeable guides, including a range of optional excursions, personal luggage and laundry services, daily meals, and 24/7 customer support. With top-tier accommodations at every stop, you can feel secure and well-cared-for—even in the most remote locations on the planet.

Experience the thrill among Andorra’s mountains and rivers

Nestled between France and Spain, Andorra covers just 181 square miles, but for outdoor enthusiasts, it’s a hidden gem. From racing down the steep slopes of the Pyrenees to navigating wild rivers and biking through lush green valleys, Andorra offers an array of thrilling activities. Additionally, it boasts the rich cultural heritage of its more renowned neighbors. Intrepid Travel’s Hike, Bike & Raft tour is designed to engage both the body and mind, showcasing the best of this mountainous and historic playground.

During this eight-day adventure, you’ll cycle along the scenic Iron Route in the Ransol Valley and traverse the mountain pass of Port de Cabus on the Andorran-Spanish border. You’ll tackle thrilling rapids while rafting in the nearby rivers of the Spanish village of Sort, zip line across Cortals Valley, and hike among the vibrant wildlife of the Siscaro Reserve. Staying in the charming mountain town of Soldeu, you’ll enjoy Andorra’s captivating blend of culture and cuisine, along with ample free time to explore hot springs, hiking trails, and museums that make this small nation truly unique.

The award-winning experts at Intrepid Travel are ready to address any questions or requests you may have. With 30 years of travel experience across Europe and more than 1,000 destinations globally, along with a strong dedication to sustainability in all their journeys, Intrepid Travel serves as your reliable partner on the thrilling adventure through the Pyrenees.

Embark on a journey to Alaska’s most breathtaking landscapes

As the largest state in the U.S. and the 49th to join the union, Alaska is a vast and enigmatic land filled with rich cultural heritage, diverse flora and fauna, and landscapes of staggering beauty. While one could easily spend a lifetime exploring its meandering rivers and snow-capped mountains, Trafalgar condenses the essence of this incredible state into the comprehensive Majestic Alaska tour. Whether you choose to immerse yourself in 10 days of wilderness or opt for an additional seven-day cruise into the wilds of British Columbia, the experience is unforgettable.

From Anchorage to Vancouver, British Columbia, with a stop in Juneau, you’ll have ample opportunity to explore the rich cultural history of the region's indigenous people who have lived here since 14,000 BC. Experience the untouched beauty of Denali National Park, witness the playful seals and otters in Prince William Sound, and marvel at the humpback whales and magnificent icebergs in Kenai Fjords National Park.

As part of Trafalgar’s exclusive Be My Guest program, Yukon Quest Champion David Monson will host you, sharing fascinating stories of this historic sport while showcasing his active sled dog kennel. Additionally, through their MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experiences, you’ll enjoy a guided tour of a working ox farm, gaining insight into the sustainable practices of this non-profit organization. From iconic landmarks to the remarkable people behind them, you’ll encounter some of the U.S.'s most breathtaking attractions while forging lasting friendships along the way.

For over a century, Trafalgar has prioritized safe and worry-free travel. As a member of “The Travel Corporation” family, they have garnered more than 80 awards for travel excellence, achieving “Platinum Feefo” status through independent guest reviews and receiving the World Travel & Tourism Council’s esteemed safety stamp of approval.

The tour operator is dedicated to sustainable travel practices, featuring their TreadRight Foundation, a five-year sustainability initiative called How We Tread Right, and eco-friendly experiences integrated into their itineraries to keep guests informed about ethical travel options. With hyperlocal community activities included in their 303 trips across 72 countries, along with 24/7 support and culturally significant accommodations in their exclusive “Stay With Stories” series, each journey with Trafalgar offers a unique and different experience.

Challenging Yourself in the Italian Dolomites

Spanning three unique regions in northeastern Italy, the Dolomite Mountains are both formidable and breathtaking, concealing lush green valleys and picturesque villages within their towering heights. Stretching from the River Adige to the Piave Valley, these rugged peaks present a wealth of experiences, from challenging hikes to exquisite dining. In the autonomous province of South Tyrol, you'll encounter a culture that shares more with Salzburg than with other Italian cities, resulting in a distinctive cultural blend.

Your eight-day Classic Dolomites Premium Adventure with Exodus Travels kicks off near the Austrian border in Villabassa, a delightful and historic village where you’ll stay in a charming four-star hotel for the week. You'll remain active while also having the opportunity to explore museums and unwind in the hotel’s wellness center.

Additional highlights include a stroll around the stunning Lago di Braies, a hike to the peak of Strudlekopf, and a visit to the Ötzi Museum, home to a 5,000-year-old man preserved in ice. You'll also trek beneath the impressive UNESCO World Heritage site known as Three Chimneys, whetting your appetite for the rich Tyrolean cuisine, from apple strudel to speck.

With over 45 years of expertise, Exodus Travel provides a reliable foundation for adventurous exploration in any of the 90 countries in their portfolio. Emphasizing ethical and sustainable travel experiences—including “Citizen Science” initiatives aimed at educating and contributing to conservation efforts—this British travel company advocates for travel that enriches both travelers and hosts while positively impacting the environment and local biodiversity. Guided by experts in groups limited to 15, travelers can select the intensity of their treks, ranging from moderate to challenging, all while enjoying comfortable and stylish accommodations to relax in at the end of each day.

Embracing Sustainability in Costa Rica

Devoting over a quarter of its land to protected national parks and reserves, Costa Rica stands as a shining example of natural splendor and sustainable practices. This tranquil land is characterized by hot springs, volcanoes, volcanic lakes, pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and vibrant wildlife. With Collette’s 12-day A World of Nature tour, you’ll experience the unparalleled biodiversity firsthand and learn what it truly means to live the pura vida.

Your adventure begins in the vibrant capital of San Jose, leading you to the coastal wonders of Tortuguero National Park, which boasts the world's first sea turtle research center in a quaint town where cars are not allowed. After two days surrounded by green macaws, monkeys, and manatees in the lush jungle waterways, you'll explore a cacao plantation and botanical garden, navigate the Peñas Blancas River by canoe, and traverse a series of hanging bridges.

During your three-day stay near Arenal Volcano, you'll have ample opportunity to customize your experience—whether it’s exploring lava fields, zip-lining above the jungle canopies, or tackling whitewater rapids. You can also unwind in nature, enjoying a boat cruise on Tárcolesgo’s Rio Grande or swimming among the rich wildlife on the beaches of Manuel Antonio National Park.

Whatever activities you choose, Collette—a third-generation, family-owned travel company—has been a pioneer in guided travel since 1918. With over a century of expertise, their thoughtfully crafted tours prioritize meaningful experiences over checklist travel, fostering connections with local cultures and immersing you in destinations across all seven continents. Collette is committed to your comfort, offering 24/7 support and a dedicated Tour Manager during your journey. Each tour also features the Choice on Tour program, allowing you to tailor your experience, as well as the flexibility to combine multiple itineraries for an enriched travel experience.

While we are particularly fond of these five tours, there are endless opportunities to stay active and discover the greener side of travel, especially when partnering with a USTOA tour operator. Explore how a guided tour with a USTOA member enables you to reach the far corners of the Earth while ensuring maximum safety, sustainability, and value.