Calling all adventurers! We’re thrilled to unveil our annual staff picks for 2024 at Mountain Travel Sobek, highlighting some of the world’s most exciting destinations we go to.
We’ve interviewed with our own staff to see what trips or trip destinations they are excited about. Share this list with a fellow wanderlust-filled soul and get on a plane in 2024!
Without further ado, our staff picks for 2024.
Staff Picks for 2024: Argentina & Chile Patagonia Luxury Hiking Adventure
Perfect For: The Hiking Enthusiast who Loves Indulgent Comfort and Cuisine!
Submitted By: Amber Laree MT Sobek Trip Consultant
Why: “We’ve taken our Iconic, 2 country Patagonia Hiking tour and dialed down the physical intensity a notch, while dialing up the comfort, luxury, food and wine… what could be better? Patagonia is one of my favorite places on the planet, having done my fair share of exploring there. But this new itinerary (bound to become a classic in my humble opinion) has me dreaming of heading back- and soon! With an extra dose of culture, coupled with a bit more down-time to savor the awe-inspiring views, spectacular new world wines, 5 star service and hotels that take the wow-factor to the next level- this is right up my alley!” -Amber L.
Best Time to Go: January to March
Best Hotel to Stay In: Tierra Patagonia Hotel & Spa
Locate Tierra Patagonia Hotel & Spa on Google Maps
Preview this adventure here>>
Staff Picks for 2024: Jordan Passage to Petra Trekking
Perfect For: The Unique Trekker
Submitted By: Neil Atkinson MT Sobek Trip Consultant
Why: “I think the trip does a lovely job of combining the classic Jordananian historic sites and monuments with an MT Sobek twist by adding in the challenging trekking. Having studied abroad in Amman, it is near and dear to my heart!” -Neil A.
Best Time to Go: March to May, October to December
Best Hotel to Stay In: Dead Sea Marriott Resort & Spa-Sweimeh, Dead Sea
Locate Dead Sea Marriott Resort & Spa on Google Maps
Preview this adventure here>>
Staff Picks for 2024: Egypt Pyramids, Temples & Nile Multi-Adventure
Perfect For: The Curious, Luxury Traveler
Submitted By: Massimo Prioreschi MT Sobek President & CEO
Why: “This itinerary offers a perfect blend of cultural exploration, historical marvels, and luxury experiences, making it a dream come true for any adventurer! The itinerary covers iconic sites like the Great Pyramids of Giza, the Egyptian Museum of Antiquities, the Temples of Karnak and Luxor, and the Valley of the Kings and Queens. The presence of a professional Egyptologist guide enhances the journey, providing fascinating insights into Egypt’s ancient history and culture..” -Massimo P.
Best Time to Go: October to March
Best Hotel to Stay In: Hotel Al Moudira
Locate Hotel Al Moudira on Google Maps
Preview this adventure here>>
Staff Picks for 2024: South Africa, Lesotho & Eswatini Muliti-Adventure
Perfect For: The Hiking, Wildlife & Cultural Enthusiast
Submitted By: Nicole Russo MT Sobek Program Director for Africa
Why: “This safari actually delivers some incredible ‘off-the-beaten-track’ experiences! Hike in the Drakensberg like a local, learn about the rich history and modern culture of the Zulu people, explore the Basotho traditions in the mountain kingdom of Lesotho, go caving in Eswatini, then finish your adventure with superior wildlife viewing at a private concession in the Kruger National Park. This is hidden South Africa, this is your diamond in the rough African experience, this is the trip that takes you beyond the mainstream safari.” -Nicole R.
Best Time to Go: June to October
Best Hotel to Stay In: Ghost Mountain Inn
Locate Ghost Mountain Inn on Google Maps
Preview this adventure here>>
Staff Picks for 2024: Slovenia Julian Alps Hiking
Perfect For: The Girl or Guy Who Loves the Spirit of Adventure
Submitted By: Grace Park MT Sobek Marketing Coordinator
Why: “I recently came across stunning photos of Slovenia from one of my colleagues’ trips, and I was blown and perplexed by how beautiful and stunning Slovenia is! The itinerary is full of adventure and re-inspired my own love for adventure. If you’re a hiking enthusiast and adventurist, enjoy breathtaking views at every turn, cozy lodges to stay in, and enchanting hiking trails through fairy-tale meadows, quaint lodges, lakes, and mountains. A next must-visit destination!” -Grace P.
Best Time to Go: Late Summer
Best Hotel to Stay In: Hotel Plesnik
Locate Hotel Plesnik on Google Maps
Preview this adventure here>>
Staff Picks for 2024: Idaho Middle Fork of the Salmon River Rafting
Perfect For: Beginners and Avid Adventurers
Submitted By: Mara Drazina MT Sobek Director of Program Management – Rivers
Why: “The quintessential river trip, days are spent in 2.2 million acres of Federally protected wilderness, The Frank Church Wilderness. World-class fly fishing, hot springs, camping under a bed of stars, campfires, hikes and a ton of archeology! Tons of wildlife and mountain botany, something for everyone. We lovingly call these floats and bloats because the meals are amazing!! Perfect for solo travelers or multi-generational family trips!” -Mara D.
Best Time to Go: June to August
Best Hotel to Stay In: River-side camps
Locate Andreas on the River RV Campground on Google Maps
Preview this adventure here>>
Staff Picks for 2024: Tajikistan Fann Mountain Trekking
Perfect For: For the intrepid trekker who is looking for a new destination
Submitted By: Julie McCormack MT Sobek Asia & Middle East Program Director
Why: “Tajikistan is off-the-beaten track, and few know about this destination, yet it boasts stunning alpine mountain scenery, glacial lakes, grassy meadows and over a 100 peaks with several rising over 16,000 feet! Our Fann Mountain Trek features 9 days of hiking coupled with fascinating cultural exploration of former Buddhist and Sogdian roots. And the best part: we are unlikely to see other tourists on our trek!” -Julie M.
Best Time to Go: June through August
Best Hotel to Stay In: Hyatt Regency Dushanbe
Locate Hyatt Regency Dushanbe on Google Maps
Preview this adventure here>>
Staff Picks for 2024: Best of the Dolomites
Perfect For: The traveler seeking a multi-cultural peek into the quaint and quiet alpine heartbeat, with mountains towering all around you, beckoning to you…
Submitted By: Erin Rosvold MT Sobek Adventure Coordinator
Why: “Craggy, stunning, and dramatic, the mountains took my breath away on every single hike in the Dolomites. Simply a majestic region, the cuisine of this region also drew me in and surprised me in its complexity… German, Italian, and Ladin cultures collide and the stunning result is culinary delights drawing from all 3. On this journey, at the end of your day, you’ll tuck yourself into the down covers of your alpine dreams and be reluctant to return home….” -Erin R.
Best Time to Go: Late Summer & Early Fall
Best Hotel to Stay In: Ciasa Salares, Romantik Hotel Turm
Locate Ciasa Salares on Google Maps
Locate Romantik Hotel Turm on Google Maps
Preview this adventure here>>
Staff Picks for 2024: Greece Tinos, Naxos & Santorini Multi-Adventure
Perfect For: For active travelers interested in archaeology, multi-adventure and great cuisine
Submitted By: Patty Ponciano MT Sobek Adventure Coordinator
Why: “I fell in love with Greece over 30 years ago and every time I go back, the beauty of the country and islands astound me. Exploring the Greek Islands through hiking is a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the natural beauty. The cliffs along the coastline offer stunning views of the Aegean Sea. Step back in time and visit ancient archeological sites, kayak in the caldera of Santorini, experience some of the most spectacular sunsets and enjoy the fresh flavors of the cuisine. It is purely magical!” -Patty P.
Best Time to Go: May to October
Best Hotel to Stay In: Divani Acropolis Hotel, Royal Olympic Hotel
Locate Divani Acropolis Hotel on Google Maps
Locate Royal Olympic Hotel on Google Maps
Preview this adventure here>>
Staff Picks for 2024: Iran Treasures Cultural Discovery
Perfect For: The World’s Warmest Welcome
Submitted By: Amber L. MT Sobek Trip Consultant
Why: “When I ask folks who’ve been everywhere on the planet about their all-time favorite trip, they all say the same thing: Iran. Makes sense right?. Incredible poetry, ancient history, art, architecture & cuisine. But the answer to my follow up question: “But why in all the world is Iran your favorite??” always surprises me: “It’s the people.” Anthony Bourdain put it like this: “…of all the places, of all the countries, all the years of traveling, it’s here, in Iran, that I am greeted most warmly by total strangers.” Take me to Tehran please!” -Amber L.
Best Time to Go: April & November
Best Hotel to Stay In: Abbasi Hotel-Isfahan
Locate Abbasi Hotel on Google Maps
Preview this adventure here>>
Staff Picks for 2024: Chile & Argentina Ultimate Patagonia Hiking
Perfect For: For the best wilderness trekking and unbelievable views, without needing to camp
Submitted By: Sharman F. MT Sobek Program Director for Latin America
Why: “Just the right amount of challenge for each day’s hiking, and magical moments every single day. I love the range of accommodations – even if not always luxurious, there is something about every lodging that’s perfect for when it comes in the trip. We all fell in love with the log-cabin Laguna Condor Cabañas in particular – hidden away in a lush forest alongside a pristine river, with sunset views of Mt Fitz Roy. Our incredible guides and drivers take such care with every detail and are invaluable to make the most of every moment of the trip – choosing routes and timings to avoid the crowds, taking us to the best photo spots, and spotting wildlife we might otherwise have missed.” -Sharman F.
Best Time to Go: November through Early April
Best Hotel to Stay In: Laguna Condor Cabañas
Locate Laguna Condor Cabañas on Google Maps
Preview this adventure here>>
Staff Picks for 2024: Southeast Asia Cultural Discovery
Perfect For: Culturally curious travelers who appreciate a soft landing after their adventurous days
Submitted By: Tara Buffington MT Sobek Trip Consultant
Why: “As a former Southeast Asia specialist, the region will always hold a very special place in my heart! The genuine and caring hospitality in Cambodia, Laos and Vietnam can’t be beat. Our Southeast Asia Cultural Discovery trip entails an amalgamation of stunning scenery, interesting history, delectable food, and deep spirituality. The accommodations are comfortable and characterful, and reflect the place as a whole… after all, who wants to wake up at a hotel with no sense of where they are? I dream of Southeast Asia… the most enchanting place I have experienced to date.” -Tara B.
Best Time to Go: October to March
Best Hotel to Stay In: Burasuri Luang Prabang
Locate Burasuri Luang Prabang on Google Maps
Preview this adventure here>>
Staff Picks for 2024: Uganda Gorilla Safari
Perfect For: Primate afficianados and those looking for an immersion into modern life in Africa
Submitted By: Mindy Teini MT Sobek Director of Custom Travel
Why: “Uganda is so much more than a home to mountain gorillas. Yes–it is a profound and humbling experience to meet wild gorillas in their home and observe their lives, but I find that to be the ‘cherry on top’ of the safari sundae which is Uganda. Diverse environments and wildlife viewing; pioneering community conservation and socio-economic empowerment initiatives; beautiful people in a stunning country; our Uganda Gorilla Safari quietly offers guests a meaningful connection with all of this and more.” -Mindy T.
Best Time to Go: Year-round
Best Hotel to Stay In: Mahogany Springs
Locate Mahogany Springs on Google Maps
Preview this adventure here>>
Staff Picks for 2024: Utah Bryce Canyon & Zion National Parks Hiking
Perfect For: Those Seeking Hidden Gems Close to Home
Submitted By: Massimo Prioreschi MT Sobek President & CEO
Why: “A traveler should choose this Utah Bryce Canyon & Zion National Parks Hiking Tour for an exhilarating and awe-inspiring journey through some of the most magnificent landscapes in the Southwest! This itinerary offers a perfect balance of challenging hikes and breathtaking scenery, making it an ideal choice for hiking enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.” -Massimo P.
Best Time to Go: Spring or Fall
Best Hotel to Stay in: Cliffrose Lodge
Locate Cliffrose Lodge on Google Maps
Preview this adventure here>>
Staff Picks for 2024: New Zealand South Island Hiking
Perfect For: For the traveler looking for an immersive experience into the natural beauty of the South Island
Submitted By: Emily Carson MT Sobek Director of Sales & Guest Services
Why: “Imagine everything from local Maori culture to trekking on some of New Zealand’s Great Walks. This trip checks all of the boxes including a cruise on Milford Sound, whale watching, Jetboat River Safari and exploring Lake Wanaka. I felt like I got a taste of all of the highlights and appreciated the chance to see so much of the South Island. I even had the opportunity to ride in a helicopter for the first time getting aerial views of Fox Glacier.” -Emily C.
Best Time to Go: November through March
Preview this adventure here>>
Staff Picks for 2024: Alaska Hula Hula & Alsek River Rafting
Perfect For: An epic wilderness rafting adventure of a lifetime
Submitted By: Amber Laree MT Sobek Trip Consultant
Why: “My whitewater dreams are fueled by our Director of Rivers, Mara. Hearing her share rafting experiences sets me all a-tingle with anticipation. She talks about “…impossibly turquoise waters, Yukon, gliding beside mammoth glaciers, the rumbling as hundreds of thousands of caribou cascade down a hill beside the river, epic helicopter portages, polar bears, cozy campfires with world-class story-telling, pristine, unreachable wilderness…” Throw into the mix river guides who are the stuff of myths and how can I not want to have one of these once-in-a-lifetime experiences. Sign me up please!!!” -Amber L.
Best Time to Go: June
Preview the Alsek Rafting adventure here>>
Preview the Hula Hula Rafting adventure here>>
Staff Picks for 2024: Zimbabwe Victoria Falls & Hwange Safari
Perfect For: Most brag-worthy collection of African photos
Submitted By: Amber Laree MT Sobek Trip Consultant
Why: “Sometimes, a picture really is worth a thousand words. These are the snapshots that make me swoon over this particular African adventure: Swimming at the edge of natural infinity pools impossibly high above Victoria falls; sipping sundowners beside a crackling fire only inches away from hundreds of behemoth elephants; canopied beds rolled onto terraces under the stars; mountain bikes peddling along remote roads and picnics under the shade of enormous trees as wildlife parades just beside. I dream of Africa…” -Amber L.
Best Time to Go: Late Summer & Early Fall
Best Hotel to Stay In: Camelthorn Lodge
Locate Camelthorn Lodge on Google Maps
Preview this adventure here>>