MT Sobek Staff Picks: Best Adventures for 2027
MT Sobek Experts Weigh In On Where To Go in 2027 - Check Out Our Top 12!
Calling all adventurers! We’re thrilled to unveil our annual staff picks 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 2027!
Without further ado, our staff picks for 2027.
Staff Picks for 2027: Middle Fork of the Salmon Rafting
Submitted By: John S. MT Sobek Adventure Coordinator & Operations Specialist
Why We Love This: “Wilderness, wilderness and more wilderness. The Middle Fork of the Salmon Rafting trip is a unique trip, combining exciting whitewater, incredible natural scenery (including tons of wildlife), and a much-needed sanctuary to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of daily life. With an amazing, professional and hard-working guide team that makes literal magic happen out on the river, this iconic trip is a must for 2027.” — John S.
Preview the adventure here.
Staff Picks for 2027: Spain & Morocco with Premier Lodging
Submitted By: Heather H. MT Sobek Director of Marketing
Why We Love This: “This is one of those trips that immediately stood out to me for 2027. I love the idea of experiencing southern Spain and Morocco as one continuous journey—walking through beautiful landscapes, staying in wonderful places, and seeing how the history, food, and culture connect across the Strait. From Granada and the white villages of Andalusia to Chefchaouen and Fes, there’s so much variety packed into 12 days. It feels incredibly rich without being rushed.” — Heather H.
Preview the adventure here.
Staff Picks for 2027: Nepal Gokyo Lakes Trekking
Submitted By: Anne W. MT Sobek Senior Director, Trip Development & Operations
Why We Love This: “As a lifetime hiker, this trek is on my personal bucket list. It loops through Nepal’s legendary Khumbu region, in Everest’s shadow, on a path notably quieter than the main climbers’ route. Imagine six glistening turquoise glacial lakes, crowned by Dudh Pokhari’s brilliant blue-green waters. Above them, Gokyo Ri offers one of the Himalaya’s most spectacular panoramas—four 8,000m giants (Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu) framed together, with the lakes glittering below. Breathtaking!” — Anne W.
Preview the adventure here.
Staff Picks for 2027: Kenya Wildlife & Walking Custom Safari
Submitted By: Nicole R. MT Sobek Custom Africa Safari Specialist
Why We Love This: “At the heart of MT Sobek lies a passion for walking and hiking in the world’s most remote wilderness areas, and our Kenya Wildlife & Walking Safari is a true reflection of that spirit. Alongside expert tribal guides who share their knowledge and traditions, you’ll step off the beaten path and experience wildlife in a way few travelers do—tracking game on foot, riding quietly across the savanna by camel, and immersing yourself in the rhythms of the landscape on thoughtfully paced game drives. Along the way, connect with the rich tapestry of Kenya’s tribal cultures, whose stories and customs are as much a part of this journey as the remarkable wildlife encounters. This is a safari that stirs the soul and leaves you forever changed.” — Nicole R.
Preview this adventure here.
Staff Picks for 2027: Japan Kyoto to Tokyo Walking
Submitted By: Lou L. MT Sobek Custom Trip Consultant
Why We Love This: “I recently had the opportunity to hike portions of the Nakasendo trail in the mountainous areas of central Japan, and the experience was an unexpected combination of gorgeous natural beauty and traditional Japanese culture that can be difficult to find elsewhere in this unbeatable destination. Add some time in the mystical Buddhist center of Koyasan, as well as exploration of electric Tokyo and ancient Kyoto, and this trip really delivers.” — Lou L.
Preview the adventure here.
Staff Picks for 2027: Utah Escalante & Coyote Gulch Hiking
Submitted By: Josh K. MT Sobek Program Director, North America
Why We Love This: “My staff pick is our brand-new Utah Escalante & Coyote Gulch Hiking Tour. I spent over ten years guiding trips all across Utah, and these are the hikes I’d choose if I were going back myself. The places most people never get to. This is the Utah I fell in love with almost two decades ago. The red dirt out there didn’t just stain my socks; it stained my soul. These are the trails I want to walk with my own kids one day, so they can see the parts of this place that made me who I am. If you’ve already done Zion and Bryce, already done Arches, and you’re ready to go deeper, this is the trip.” — Josh K.
Preview the adventure here.
Staff Picks for 2027: Ultimate Patagonia Hiking
Submitted By: Tara Z. MT Sobek Travel Industry Channel Manager
Why We Love This: “I was fortunate to experience this journey firsthand, and it remains the most memorable trip I’ve ever taken. Patagonia has a raw, untamed beauty that stays with you long after you leave, but what truly sets this adventure apart is how effortlessly it all comes together. From world-class hiking and dramatic scenery to warm hospitality, every detail runs seamlessly behind the scenes, all anchored by extraordinary local guides whose deep roots bring the region to life. Our decades of experience in the region shine through in every step of the trail.” — Tara Z.
Preview the adventure here.
Staff Picks for 2027: Chile Patagonia Cochamo Valley Hiking
Submitted By: Katie S. MT Sobek Marketing Writer
Why We Love This: “It’s not often you get the chance to hike into a truly breathtaking region that remains virtually undiscovered. In northern Patagonia’s Cochamó and Ventisquero valleys, soaring granite peaks and ancient forests of towering alerce trees await those willing to reach them on foot—don’t miss this one!” — Katie S.
Staff Picks for 2027: Bhutan Trek & Cultural Discovery
Submitted By: Emily C. MT Sobek Director of Sales & Guest Services
Why We Love This: “Bhutan Trek & Cultural Discovery stands out as one of the trips I’m most drawn to, based on the feedback we hear from guests. Again and again, guests describe it as more than a beautiful hiking trip. They come away with a deeper connection with Bhutan’s culture, people, and spirit, while the guides add a personal, immersive, and meaningful dimension. To me, that combination of adventure, perspective, and lasting memories is what makes it so compelling.” — Emily C.
Preview the adventure here.
Staff Picks for 2027: Antarctica
Submitted By: Jen K. MT Sobek Custom Travel Operations Specialist
Why We Love This: “Antarctica is one of the few places that still feels beyond the edge of the map. The Antarctica Basecamp Adventure delivers the classic expedition experience, combining a crossing of the legendary Drake Passage with a full week exploring the White Continent. For travelers looking to maximize their time, the Antarctica Fly & Adventure Cruising Tour begins with a flight from Punta Arenas to King George Island, exchanging days at sea for more time among Antarctica’s remarkable wildlife, towering glaciers, and otherworldly polar landscapes. Pro Tip: Extend either itinerary with a stay in Patagonia, renowned for its dramatic scenery, jagged peaks, and world-class hiking. Or continue north to Chile’s Atacama Desert, where one of the driest places on Earth offers a striking contrast to Antarctica’s vast, ice-covered wilderness.” — Jen K.
Preview Antarctica adventures here.
Staff Picks for 2027: Guatemala Villages & Volcanoes Hiking
Submitted By: Sharman F. MT Sobek Program Director, Latin America
Why We Love This: “Guatemala holds a big place in my heart, and I’m so excited we’re offering this new adventure! Guatemala is the heartland of the Maya and such a unique destination, with pyramids rising dramatically above the rainforest and volcanic peaks, lakes, and islands dotted with indigenous villages. We’ll watch the sun rise over one of the greatest archaeological sites in the world at Tikal, taste pizza cooked over lava on a Pacaya volcano climb, and hike to a viewpoint over the charming colonial town of Antigua. I’m especially excited about our two-day village-to-village glamping trek in the highlands above gorgeous Lake Atitlan, with chances to meet the modern-day Maya who keep alive the rituals and crafts of their ancestors.” — Sharman F.
Preview the adventure here.
Staff Picks for 2027: Tanzania Climb Kilimanjaro Northern Circuit Route Trekking
Submitted By: Leah R. MT Sobek Program Director, Europe, Africa & Middle East
Why We Love This: “I’m really excited that we’ve added the Northern Circuit route to our Kilimanjaro trekking roster. This is the only route that circles the mountain, giving trekkers views from all four sides, and scenically, it’s stunning, as it moves through the full range of Kilimanjaro’s ecological zones (rainforest, moorland, alpine desert, arctic summit zone). The Northern Circuit is also the longest and most sparsely trafficked route, making it pretty much perfect in my opinion—the extra days support a more comfortable pace and the best acclimatization profile of any route, and the circuit design and low crowd density provide a strong ‘complete Kilimanjaro experience’ narrative with a true wilderness feel.” — Leah R.
Preview the adventure here.
Why Explore the World with MT Sobek
MT Sobek began operating adventure trips since 1969. True to our roots, we offer a range of immersive hiking and cultural experiences led by seasoned local guides, the best adventure travel experiences to take you all around the world. An adventure awaits everyone, from trekking to the highest summits to discovering stunning coastal towns, immersing in culture, or encountering wildlife.
So what does this rich history provide for MT Sobek guests?
- Carefully designed itineraries: A balance of iconic trails and hidden gems for a deeper experience of each unique destination. MT Sobek’s hiking adventures immerse guests in the natural beauty and cultural heritage of Italy, Patagonia, France, Japan and more.
- Small group adventures: All MT Sobek trips are limited to no more than 16 guests, while some are capped at 12. Small group sizes create a more personalized and immersive experience.
- Seamless travel logistics: Permits, transportation, meals, activities and accommodations are expertly arranged so you can focus on the joy of adventure and cultural discovery.
- Comfort and immersion: Rewarding hikes paired with premier lodging and memorable meals create an enriching and relaxing experience.
- Expert guides: Knowledgeable leaders share insights into local ecology, geology, wildlife, and cultural history, and ensure a commitment to safety and enjoyment throughout the journey.
Check out details for your favorite adventure and see how MT Sobek will help turn your adventure fantasies into reality.
Looking for more inspiration? Get your copy of our free catalog!
Check out all of MT Sobek’s adventures in Europe and get your free MT Sobek catalog!
Enjoying our content? Add MT Sobek as a Google Preferred Source.
FAQs
The best destination depends on your interests and travel style. Travelers seeking epic trekking often gravitate toward Patagonia, Nepal, Kilimanjaro, or the Alps, while those seeking culture and wildlife may prefer destinations such as Bhutan, Guatemala, Japan, Kenya, or Morocco.
Some of the world’s most celebrated hiking destinations include Patagonia, the Alps, Nepal’s Himalayas, Kilimanjaro, Bhutan, Peru, New Zealand, and Utah’s canyon country. Each offers distinct landscapes, cultures, and levels of challenge.
Guided adventures like MT Sobek provide logistical support, expert local knowledge, route planning, safety oversight, and deeper cultural connections. Many travelers find they can experience more and worry less when traveling with experienced guides.
Since 1969, MT Sobek has been designing active adventures led by expert guides in some of the world’s most beautiful destinations! Small-group travel, thoughtful itineraries, seamless logistics, and immersive experiences allow guests to focus on discovery rather than planning.
Many guests begin with iconic journeys such as Patagonia, the Tour du Mont Blanc, Japan’s Nakasendo Trail, Utah’s national parks, or a Galapagos adventure. These trips showcase the style, guiding, and immersive experiences that MT Sobek is known for.
Yes. Many solo travelers join guided hiking trips with MT Sobek because they offer a safe, social, and convenient way to explore iconic trails while meeting like-minded adventurers from around the world.
Learn More About Adventure Travel
