For tens of thousands of years, the San people, commonly known as Bushmen, have lived in the Okavango and throughout the southern reaches of the African continent. The San are members of the indigenous hunter-gatherer cultures of the region and are the oldest people in Africa. Nowhere else on the continent has a group lived in harmony with the land for so long without radically altering or destroying it. The San never domesticated animals or planted crops, finding all they needed through hunting and foraging. Their indigenous way of life centers on total dependence on the region’s natural resources. By using plant and wildlife resources wisely, the San have shown us a model that is guiding conservation in Botswana today. “The Bushmen are our heroes,” said Mpaphi Dikaelo, a safari guide at Meno a Kwena Camp in Makgadikgadi Pans National Park.

“When they dig even a very small plant, they will replant a tree because they know they will need it again in the future. The things we are doing today in Botswana, we have learned from them.”

Botswana employs three unique models for conservation: national parks, game reserves, and private concessions. Each conservation model protects wildlife and offers opportunities for safari-based tourism, but nuances define each model. Game reserves and private concessions are managed under strict environmental standards. While lands in these areas may be leased, capital alone is not sufficient for operating approval. Safari operators must present local communities with detailed, long-term plans for land and wildlife management. Those plans must benefit the environment, wildlife, and local communities. And that’s where the indigenous knowledge of the San people comes into play.

Unlike some neighboring countries that operate a mass-tourism model, Botswana employs a high-value, low-volume model for safari. The model encourages a wilderness experience that benefits animals and visitors alike. While not a hard rule, many concessions and reserves limit wildlife sightings to two or three safari vehicles. Operators often choose to keep vehicle occupancy low. The result is a more intimate experience with that lion, leopard, or elephant. By limiting use, Botswana’s model for safari allows guests to witness animals that aren’t habituated to human observers. That equates to genuine experiences (not to mention photographic opportunities) that capture the true nature of the African bush. It’s almost like a throwback to the safari of a bygone era. You can still cast your eyes across the immensity of the Okavango Delta and see nothing but wildlife and wilderness.

“You become more secluded on safari in Botswana,” OBP guide Lazi Moalosi said. “In other countries where they do mass tourism, instead of guests taking a picture of animals, they end up taking a picture with another vehicle in the background. Botswana is very unique with less people on the safari.”

Beyond the visitor experience, Botswana’s conservation model works with and benefits those who live in and around wildlife habitats. When you visit game reserves and private concessions in Botswana, a percentage of the funds from your safari goes back to support the local communities. Those funds aid educational programs in schools, provide wildlife-friendly fencing around croplands, and send children from area villages on safari to experience the wild places in their own backyards.

Today, modern pressures and restrictions on hunting have greatly reduced the number of San people living in a traditional way in southern Africa, but their influence and indigenous knowledge are providing a guiding light for future generations. Travelers visiting Botswana on an Off the Beaten Path safari have an opportunity to experience the traditional ways of the San people during a bush walk at Meno a Kwena Camp. It’s an experience that offers insight into indigenous knowledge passed down through the generations. Demonstrations include the use of bows for hunting, braiding grasses to make rope, setting traps, traditional song and dance, and using sticks and dried grasses to spark a fire. Learning from their traditions deepens understanding of Botswana’s wilderness. By employing a conservation model grounded in respect for the land and its people, and by following the San’s lead, Botswana is providing the world with a roadmap for sustainable land use and wildlife conservation.

The post Botswana — An Indigenous Model for Conservation first appeared on Off the Beaten Path.

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To celebrate its 40th season, Off the Beaten Path introduces three new Small Group Adventures: Baja Breakaway, Perfect Patagonia, and The Magic of Morocco. These carefully chosen and expertly crafted journeys take travelers deep into three spectacular corners of the globe. In alignment with this year’s catalog theme – YOU + THERE – OBP’s newest explorations will deliver the heart of the traveler to the soul of each place with meaningful, thrilling, and poignant experiences that will become memories cemented for a lifetime.

“OBP’s approach to travel is based on the belief that immersive, authentically rich encounters deliver travel of a higher order,” says Off the Beaten Path CEO, Cory Lawrence. “Our new itineraries were purposefully designed to keep our travelers connected and captivated each step of the way.”

The Sea of Cortez, in Baja California Sur, is one of Mexico’s most beautiful beaches

Baja Breakaway

OBP’s Director of Sales, Cary Costello, introduces this new Baja California Sur journey best:

“The trip has it all! Great food, cultural interactions, and two of the most amazing wildlife encounters in the world.” 

Breakaway from the everyday on this week-long adventure to southern Baja. Start the week immersed in two of Baja’s most beautiful nature reserves. In the Sierra La Laguna Biosphere Reserve – the mountains that form the spine of the Baja peninsula – you’ll set out for early morning birding, hike through the biodiverse landscape, and spend the night under the stars at a family-owned luxury camp in the heart of Baja’s pristine wilderness. After a memorable morning frolicking with sea lions, you’ll picnic on the pristine beaches of Isla Espiritu Santo, a UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site that’s home to 40% of the world’s marine species.

The Sea of Cortez explorations continue with the possibility of a thrilling swim with whale sharks in the shallows of the Bay of La Paz and a volunteering opportunity with a local coral gardening program – to leave Baja better than you found it. Back on land, wander the enchanting cobblestones of Todos Santos, walk bluffs along the Pacific Coast, and discover street art in La Paz with a local artist. Along the way, savor the flavors of the Baja with a taco-tasting stroll, an afternoon of tortilla making, and a chef-led cooking class.

Patagonia is home to spectacular hiking opportunities

Perfect Patagonia

For 40 years, Off the Beaten Path has been helping travelers discover the wilds of Patagonia. From the tango rhythms of Buenos Aires to spotting condors soaring high above the Patagonian steppe to hiking under the gaze of jagged granite peaks, this new small group adventure is Argentina at its best. OBP’s decades of exploring Patagonia have forged deep ties with some of its best guides, experts who will immerse you in active pursuits, vibrant culture, and intriguing history each step of the way.

After strolling elegant boulevards lined with jacaranda trees and soaking up northern city life, you’ll migrate to the untamed south. A short flight takes you to El Chaltén, the trekking capital of Argentina, for two days hiking with expert local guides in Los Glaciares National Park. The trails here will take you into the heart of Patagonia’s unspoiled grandeur.

The rest of your time in Patagonia includes hikes to turquoise lakes, horseback riding by the shores of Lago Viedma, and, to remind you of nature’s tremendous power, kayaking to the hulking ice wall of Perito Moreno Glacier. Along the way, you’ll get a taste of Argentina’s cultural heritage with an estancia stay and traditional asado dinners. This exploration is Patagonia perfected!

A camel ride through the Moroccan desert is a unique, Off the Beaten Path experience

The Magic of Morocco

OBP is excited to introduce a new Moroccan itinerary, designed as a comprehensive exploration for those wanting to experience all facets of this fascinating country. Each step of the way, outstanding guides help you find the magic in labyrinthine souks, ancient medinas, stunning coastal cities, and the lyrical landscapes of the Atlas Mountains. 

Spend eleven days experiencing Morocco’s timeless beauty and traditions. Start with two nights in bohemian Tangier on the edge of the continent, then stroll the blue-rinsed buildings of mountainous Chefchaouen, discover the medinas and markets of vibrant Fes, wander (and ponder) ancient Roman ruins, and watch the sunrise over the desert on a camel ride through the orange dunes of the Sahara. Explore Essaouira’s UNESCO-designated seaside medina and historical ramparts. Then, wrap up the adventure by leaving the buzzing souks of Marrakech to set out on a rich day hike in the Atlas Mountains.

Throughout the journey, you’ll stay in distinctive accommodations and savor delicious, authentic cuisine, from Marrakech street food and traditional tagine lunches to dinner under starry Saharan skies, and your own Moroccan delicacies, created during a hands-on cooking experience.

All three Small Group Adventures have departure dates available to book through 2027 – capture the moment to explore these stunning destinations.

The post New 2026 Small Group Adventures first appeared on Off the Beaten Path.

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From the Kenai Peninsula to Wonder Lake in Denali National Park, grizzlies are a fixture of the Alaskan wilderness. And more than any other state, Alaska presents the traveler with a wealth of opportunities to witness grizzlies in the wild. Off The Beaten Path hosts several trips to the state with departures from June to September. Grizzly bear viewing is a staple of all our trips to “The Great Land.”

“I always wanted to go to Alaska because of the bears,” Off The Beaten Path traveler Sharon Kornhaus said. “Grizzly bears always appealed to me. Seeing black bears always appealed to me. I figured coming to Alaska pretty much guaranteed seeing some major wildlife. And we did.”

During the 19^th century, the grizzly bear was classified as 86 distinct species, but by 1928, only seven remained. Today, there is one recognized species of grizzly bear, which is genetically identical to the brown bear. Grizzlies once ranged as far south as Central Mexico. Today, grizzlies inhabit only a small portion of the lower 48, present in Yellowstone National Park and the Northern Rockies of Montana. While there are healthy grizzly populations in northwest Canada, Alaska is far and away the best place to see them.

Alaska has two distinct populations of grizzly bears: those that thrive in the coastal regions and those of interior Alaska. Both populations of bears are fascinating, and Off The Beaten Path offers trips to experience each.

Open wide. Grizzly bear, Katmai National Park, Alaska.

Coastal brown bears benefit from the bounty of the sea and are typically larger and darker in color than their interior cousins. You’ll see coastal grizzlies digging clams on beaches and hunting salmon in estuaries and coastal river systems. The abundance of salmon and other foods means that coastal brown bears rarely need to compete for limited resources. Instead, coastal bears will congregate and work together to capitalize on the seasonal abundance.

“Our coastal brown bears tend to be a lot larger because they have that rich protein of salmon in their diet,” Off The Beaten Path guide Jen Shapley said. “Over generations, they’ve evolved to be bigger bears.”

Brooks Falls in the heart of Katmai National Park and Preserve is Alaska’s most iconic location for viewing grizzlies hunting salmon. Up to two dozen bears vie for prime feeding positions above and below the six-foot falls. These bears wait for leaping salmon migrating upriver to their ancestral spawning grounds in Brooks Lake. A captured fish makes for a healthy meal for a hungry bear and an excellent photograph if you happen to be quick with the camera. The best time to view grizzlies at Brooks Falls is from July to September.

Getting the shot while bear viewing in Katmai National Park, Alaska.

Katmai National Park and nearby Lake Clark National Park offer countless other opportunities for coastal brown bear viewing. Off The Beaten Path arranges flyout excursions from Homer to remote locations within both parks. With the help of local guides and the bush pilots, travelers can get out on foot in the wilderness to observe bears up close. Seeing the slash of a salmon rushing upstream and the speed of a grizzly in pursuit is a moment you will never forget.

“The great thing about being able to do the flyout trips to either Lake Clark National Park or Katmai National Park is that we have amazing pilots that always know where the bears are,” Shapley said. “Flying over the landscape in Alaska really takes it to a whole new level.”

On a flyout to Katmai National Park our group spotted bears hunting salmon in a small stream flowing off the glaciated summit of Mount Douglas. We circled over the mountain and a steaming emerald lake, hinting at the region’s volcanic geology, before landing our plane on a remote beach. The adage that a fed bear is a happy bear proved true. Moving in groups of six to eight, we were able to approach and photograph several grizzlies hunting salmon in the shallow creek. A hushed silence consumed our group, very much witness to the natural spectacle before us.

Alaska’s interior grizzly bears rely on a diversity of food sources, including berries, seeds, and forbs. Contrary to their coastal kin, the bears of Denali National Park have a diet that consists of 80 percent vegetation. They are generally smaller and often exhibit a blonde coat, in striking contrast to the bears of the coast.

A Tolkat grizzly bear forages blueberries in Denali National Park, Alaska.

Alaskans have a special name for these blonde-haired grizzlies. They are referred to by locals as “Tolkat” bears after the Tolkat River in Denali National Park. These blonde bears have brown legs and sometimes a chocolate patch down the spine. Seeing a Tolkat grizzly in Denali National Park is a special experience. There are an estimated 350 bears within the park’s 6 million acres.

We were fortunate to see a Tolkat grizzly near Denali Backcountry Lodge during our stay. Following an afternoon spent foraging wild blueberries near the shores of Wonder Lake, we departed for the lodge in our van, busily consuming our berries. As we passed below a cliff, a Tolkat appeared from the forest. Its curious expression indicated a young bear that seemed as surprised to see us as we were him. We watched in amazement as he descended the cliff and passed just a few feet from our van. He was bright blonde, unlike any bear any of us had ever seen. He vanished as quickly as he’d appeared into the spruce forest, leaving us awestruck.

Grizzly bears are one of Alaska’s most powerful mammals and can be seen throughout much of the state.

To see Alaska’s largest brown bears, you’ll want to seek out the Kodiak brown bear (Ursus arctos middendorffi). These bruins inhabit the Kodiak Archipelago off Alaska’s southwest coast. They are the second largest bears on the planet, surpassed in size only by another Alaska native – the polar bear. Kodiaks can be one-and-a-half to two times as large as Alaska’s interior bears. The largest Kodiaks have been known to reach weights over 1,500 pounds and stand more than 10 feet tall.

Grizzly bear claws, Katmai National Park, Alaska.

With such an abundance of wild and protected country, Alaska truly is The Last Frontier. There’s no better place in the world to witness the raw power and majesty of nature. Everyone who loves wild places and wildlife should make the time to experience this incredible place and its amazing brown bears.

The post Close Encounters with Alaska’s Grizzlies first appeared on Off the Beaten Path.

The post Close Encounters with Alaska’s Grizzlies appeared first on Off the Beaten Path.

Vineyards dot the landscape near the town of Grožnjan on the Istrian Peninsula.

Croatia is a bit off the radar when it comes to the fine wines of Europe. While many wine drinkers have an intimate knowledge of the grape varietals found throughout the nearby countries of Italy, Greece, and France, grapes such as Pošip, Malvazija, Plavac Mali, and Teran are foreign to many North American palates. With limited production and a populace with a passion for fine food and drink, little of Croatia’s wine makes it out of the country. That means you’ll likely need to travel to Croatia, visit its vineyards, and dine by its shores to taste its wines. And what a joy that is!

Off The Beaten Path travelers explore a vineyard on the Island of Biševo off Croatia’s Dalmatian Coast.

The Croatian landscape is a picturesque blend of rugged hillsides, lush green forests, and dramatic coastlines. Medieval hilltop villages, Roman ruins, old towns, and bustling ports dot the countryside. Sweeping views of the Adriatic Sea are never far off, and neither are the vineyards. Tracks of grape vines line the hills of the mainland as well as the islands off the Dalmatian Coast. Some varietals, such as Mrkuša, are indigenous to the islands, which are well worth a visit. Everywhere you go in this country, you’ll find great wines.

Off the Beaten Path offers wine lovers a taste of Croatia with small-group adventures scheduled in the spring and fall. Our trips traverse the country from north to south, exploring the history and culture of Croatia through its wine and cuisine. We begin on the Istrian Peninsula, a region well-known for its wines, olive oil, and seafood. The city of Pula is Istria’s hub and home to one of the most well-preserved Roman amphitheaters in the world. Indeed, evidence of Croatia’s unique past is everywhere, with Roman, Venetian, and Austro-Hungarian influence in abundance.

Grape vines are tressled alongside a home in the town of Grožnjan.

Croatia produces more than 140 varietals of grapes distributed across three primary wine regions: the Eastern Continental, Western Continental, and Coastal, which includes the islands in the Adriatic Sea. These regions are subdivided into more than 300 defined wine-producing areas, with the vast majority of production in the three counties of Istria, Vukovar-Srijem, and Osijek-Baranja.

Istria is home to Malvazija Istarska, one of Croatia’s signature varietals. Malvazija Istarska originated in Greece, but it grows exceedingly well in the soils of Istria. The Venetians traded heavily in Malvazjia, sailing it up and down the Dalmatian Coast. They introduced the grape to Istria as cuttings, and it has since become the prominent grape of the region. Istrian Malvazija is notable for its thickness, amber hue, and mature, fruity bouquet. The nose includes prominent notes of melon, apricot, and peach. 

Ipša, a family-owned estate producing natural wines and olive oil in the heart of Istria, has been vinting exquisite Malvazija for more than 20 years. The vineyard, perched on a hillside overlooking the nearby Motovun Forest, home of the finest (and largest) white truffles in the world, is a dream to visit. Rows of olive trees and vines are terraced along the slopes that surround the family’s home. A wine and olive oil tasting at Ipša can be accompanied by a truffled pasta dish that pairs perfectly with the Malvazija.

“Many of our wines are not famous around the world because we don’t have the quantity, but the quality is really here,” certified sommelier and Off The Beaten Path guide Monika Mikulec said. “We put a lot of effort into those different varieties of wine, and people are amazed when they discover, when they taste the wine, and realize how amazing it really is.”

Istria is also notable for Teran, a red grape well regarded for its vibrant, slightly acidic, and aromatic character. It is grown primarily in western Istria and is a late-ripening grape that requires abundant sun but less water. The grape has a more than 650-year history on the peninsula and is the most common red grape found in Istria.

No trip to Croatia is complete without an excursion to the sea and one of the country’s numerous islands, which dot the Dalmatian Coast from Istria all the way south to Dubrovnik. While the northern coast of Croatia is primarily focused on fruity, dry white wines and bold, dry reds, the southern coast and islands possess an infinite variety of microclimates where terroir is elemental.

Malvazjia is the signature wine of the Istrian Peninsula.

The red grape Plavac Mali is grown in the interior of Dalmatia and on the central and southern coast. A cross between Crljenak Kaštelanski and Dobričić, it is the dominant grape grown in the region and for good reason. Aromas of fig and carob, sage, pepper, and cherry define the wines produced from Plavac Mali, but the unique microclimates of the region can push the grape in either dry, semi-dry, or sweet directions. Uneven ripening can make Plavac Mali a challenge for vintners, but when things come together, truly exceptional wines are produced.

For an exceptional taste of Croatia, set sail on the Adriatic Sea. There are grapes, such as Bogdanuša on the Island of Hvar, that are endemic and possess a quality all their own. Bogdanuša grows only in the deep, fertile, and moist soils of the Stari Grad Plain and won’t produce grapes suitable for winemaking elsewhere. Local producers on Hvar include Plančić, PZ Svirce, and Carić. Bogdanuša, along with many of Croatia’s other island varietals, has never been produced in large quantities, so visiting Croatia is likely your only opportunity to try these unique wines.

A man prepares a traditional “under the bell” peka meal on the Island of Biševo.

Like many wines from around the world, Croatia’s varietals truly shine when paired with the local cuisine. Experience seaside bliss sipping Malvazija with Dalmatian seafood. Simple grilled fish, squid, and langoustines pair perfectly with these wines. A Plavac Mali is a great bottle to reach for with Croatia’s signature peka meal, traditionally prepared with octopus and cooked “under the bell” on an open fire.

Whatever your preference, Croatia has a wine for you, and Off The Beaten Path is here to show you the best of it.

The post Exploring Croatian Wines first appeared on Off the Beaten Path.

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Yellowstone National Park is a land of incredible beauty and stunning diversity. The park is home to more than 10,000 thermal features, some exhibiting the most vibrant hues found anywhere in nature. The Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone has inspired artists for generations: its Upper and Lower Falls are as dramatic a sight as anywhere in North America. The park is home to more grizzly bears than any other region in the Lower 48.

It’s no wonder Yellowstone surges with excitement each spring. Visitors clamor to witness the majesty of Old Faithful’s timely eruptions, the first steps of an elk calf in Lamar Valley, and the changing hue of the aspen leaves in the golden light of fall. But there’s another season in Yellowstone, one that sees few visitors but no less drama. Winter in Yellowstone is the park’s magical season, when quiet, solitude, and austere beauty abound. Bison, their beards cloaked in frost, emerge from the misty domain of Yellowstone’s geyser basins. Snowflakes fall in silence to the forest floor beside towering lodgepole pines. Wolves battle the elements in a timeless struggle for survival.

A wolf roams a windswept hillside in Yellowstone National Park.

Off the Beaten Path has been leading winter excursions into Yellowstone National Park for over 20 years. These trips offer guests a unique opportunity to witness Yellowstone’s winter magic. Snowcoaches (large and comfortable heated vehicles equipped with tracks for travel on the park’s snow-covered roads) ferry visitors to the interior reaches of Yellowstone. A stay at Old Faithful Inn and a tour around the snow-cloaked Upper Geyser Basin reveal a rarely seen glimpse of Yellowstone.

One of the highlights of visiting Yellowstone in winter is the chance to see some of the park’s most iconic wildlife.

“Many of Yellowstone’s species congregate together, particularly near the Firehole, Madison and Gibbon rivers. Those rivers don’t freeze in the winter months (due to thermal influence),” OBP guide Brenda Holland said. “Winter is the best time for wildlife viewing, especially wolves, because they are going to move in those corridors where the prey animals will be.”

Set against a backdrop of snow, wolves are easier to spot and observe during the winter months. Wolves are social animals, and when not on the hunt, you can observe them playing in the snow and interacting in a way rarely possible during the rest of the year. In addition to the rivers around Madison Junction, the hills above the Roosevelt Arch near Gardiner, the Lamar Valley, and the Old Faithful area are good places to spot wolves. A pair of binoculars or a spotting scope can be helpful, but during the winter season, closer encounters are not uncommon.

Bison thrive in Yellowstone’s harsh winter climate. The largest land mammal in North America, the bison can weigh more than 2,000 pounds. To survive in the extreme temperatures of winter, bison consume up to 35 pounds of grass a day. You’ll see bulls swinging their massive heads side to side like a snowplow to reach the grass buried beneath the powder. Large herds of bison can be observed in Lamar Valley, Hayden Valley, and along the rivers in Yellowstone.

Red fox is another favorite winter wildlife species. Their bright red coats and fluffy tails are stunningly colorful against the winter white. Red fox hunts rodents traveling in tunnels beneath the snow. They’ll listen for movement and pounce, diving face-first deep into the snow to capture a meal.   

No trip to Yellowstone is complete without witnessing Old Faithful erupt. This experience during winter is unlike any other. As temperatures in the park dip below freezing, the volume of the steam from the park’s thermal features is amplified. To see Old Faithful at its most dramatic, you’ve got to be in Yellowstone from mid-December through mid-March, and the colder the better. Billowing clouds of steam rising into the blue sky make for an unforgettable sight.

Old Faithful billows clouds of steam into the winter sky.

Aside from the copious amounts of steam venting from Upper Geyser Basin, the other thing you’ll notice is the sound – or lack thereof – all around you. Winter’s silence draws you deeper into the park, making a visit to Yellowstone even more profound.

“Without the crowds you can actually hear the geysers erupting, the waterfalls flowing, the animals moving through the snow,” Holland said. “It makes it exciting walking around.”

From Old Faithful Inn, visitors can tour the area via snowcoach or get out into the park on cross-country skis or snowshoes. Returning to the inn is the perfect way to relax. Designed by architect Robert Reamer and built in 1903-04, this historic structure remains the largest log hotel in the world. You can warm up next to the massive stone fireplace in the towering lobby of the inn. And you’ll be within a short walk of Old Faithful should you decide to venture out at a moment’s notice to enjoy the show.

Snow covers the walls of the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone.

Off The Beaten Path offers winter departures into Yellowstone from December through February. Whether it’s your first time visiting Yellowstone or you’ve been many times before, a trip into the park during the winter is always memorable.

The post Yellowstone’s Winter Wonder first appeared on Off the Beaten Path.

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Buenos Aires is the capital city of Argentina. More than a third of the country’s 45 million people call the metropolitan area home, which makes BA the cultural, political, and economic heart of Argentina. Like many others, I came to Argentina years ago to experience the wild beauty of Patagonia. Today, I return to revel in the warm embrace of its people. Off the Beaten Path has shared the magic of Patagonia and the culture of Argentina with travelers for over 20 years.

Well-known the world over as the birthplace of tango, BA is also the home of writer Jorge Louis Borges. Beloved politician, actress, and activist Eva Perón is entombed in the city’s famed Recoleta Cemetery. Buenos Aires launched the career of soccer star and national hero Diego Maradona, whose Boca Juniors fans still pack the streets surrounding La Bombonera stadium on match days.

But BA is much more than its past. The neighborhoods of Retiro, Palermo, and Puerto Madero are filled with the life and culture of this nation. And oh, how they sing out to be explored! Experimental cocktail bars, hip hotels, new-wave Asian restaurants, public gardens, architectural marvels, and art galleries galore dot the tree-lined streets of these neighborhoods. Much like New York City, Buenos Aires is a collection of boroughs, known in BA as barrios, each with its own undeniable appeal. Walking through the neighborhoods of BA, below the balconies and flowering jacaranda trees, is the best way to experience the soul of Argentina. For OBP travelers with a day or two to spend in Buenos Aires, here are my three favorite barrios to explore.

Asado is a national obsession in Argentina and the scent of grilled meats wafts through the barrios of Buenos Aires.

Recoleta

Located in the heart of BA, Recoleta is an upscale section of the city home to many of its politicians and business elite. Along with the adjacent neighborhoods of Retiro and Palermo, Recoleta forms Barrio Norte, a section of the city home to a vast array of cultural attractions. Boutique hotels and restaurants serving classic Argentine fare (think ojo de bife and malbec) make Recoleta a great neighborhood for first-timers to the city.

The Recoleta Cemetery is a must-see. The cemetery surrounds a convent built by Franciscan monks in 1732. In addition to Eva Perón, the cemetery is the final resting place of Nobel Prize winners, military leaders, and former presidents of Argentina. What makes Recoleta Cemetery remarkable is the ornate vaults (4,691 all told) that line its interior. The cemetery’s neo-classical gates, featuring Doric columns, give way to row upon row of above-ground mausoleums. Statues and architectural designs in styles as varied as Neo-Gothic, Art Deco, and Baroque reflect the cemetery’s deep cultural connections.

Blue jacaranda blossoms frame a plaza in Buenos Aires.

If you happen to visit Buenos Aires on a weekend, be sure to visit the Feria de Recoleta. This vast market pops up on Saturday morning, just a short walk from Recoleta Cemetery. Hand-made items, crafts, and goods from skilled artisans across Argentina are on offer. The market is an excellent place for a stroll. Food vendors provide opportunities for a taste of the city as you shop for souvenirs and gifts for family and friends.

Palermo

At more than 17 square kilometers, Palermo is BA’s largest barrio. It is subdivided into several smaller communities. Palermo Viejo is the old section of Palermo. It runs from Santa Fe Avenue south to Córdoba Avenue. This section of BA is graced with historic Spanish architecture and was home to Che Guevara and Jorge Louis Borges.

Within Palermo Viejo are the smaller communities of Palermo Soho and Palermo Hollywood, my favorite sections of Buenos Aires to explore for great food and drink. Palermo Soho is centered around Plaza Serrano, which hosts a fabulous weekend market and unique shops. Radiating out from the plaza are streets with many interesting restaurants. Nikkei cuisine, which is the culinary invention of the Japanese diaspora, is experiencing a renaissance here.

Following World War II, tens of thousands of Japanese citizens immigrated to South America, many settling in Peru and Brazil before venturing further throughout the continent. They brought with them a culinary tradition that included fresh seafood, seasonal vegetables, and rice. In their adopted home, they incorporated spicy chili peppers, quinoa, corn, and a fabulous variety of potatoes. The fusion of flavors represented by Nikkei cuisine is all the rage in South America’s biggest cities, from Santiago to São Paulo, and Buenos Aires is no exception. To experience this sublime mix of flavors and textures, try a causa, tiradito, ceviche, or any dish featuring leche de tigre, a vibrant concoction that combines lime juice and aji chili peppers to perfection.

Cocktail culture is thriving in Palermo.

Following dinner, be sure to explore Palermo’s excellent cocktail bars. Whether you are in the mood for Malbec or an inventive drink crafted by one of the city’s best mixologists, Palermo is the place to be.

La Boca

Located at the mouth of the Matanza River, La Boca is Buenos Aires’ melting pot and the bedrock barrio of porteño culture. The neighborhood attracted thousands of immigrants during the 20^th century, many of European and Asian descent. The barrio is famous today for the colorfully painted homes of the Caminito neighborhood and for La Bombonera, the home stadium of BA’s revered soccer club, the Boca Juniors.

La Boca is alive day and night, 24-7. There always seems to be a party going on somewhere. The sound of music in the streets and the scent of freshly grilled meat permeate the barrio. If you happen to be in Buenos Aires when a soccer match is slated, be prepared. La Boca roars to life when the team faces crosstown rival River Plate.

Tango originated in the working-class neighborhoods near the River Plate, including Buenos Aires and the nearby city of Montevideo, Uruguay. The dance features the influence of waltz, polka, and African rhythms and developed as a means of entertainment and social expression. Tango dancers can be seen in the streets of La Boca and the adjacent barrio of San Telmo with regularity. Individual and group instruction can be arranged in these neighborhoods for those eager to learn this wonderful dance.

The Casa Rosada in the Monserrat neighborhood is the seat of executive power in Argentina.

Off The Beaten Path has regular departures to Patagonia from November through April, with neighborhood tours of Buenos Aires bookending trips.

The post Buenos Aires: A City With Much More Than Tango first appeared on Off the Beaten Path.

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Denali National Park and Preserve is a vast protected area encompassing more than 6 million acres of pristine Alaskan wilderness. The park is best known for its namesake peak, Denali, the highest mountain in North America at 20,310 feet. It’s also beloved for its abundant wildlife, including grizzly bears, caribou, and moose. In many ways, Denali epitomizes the size and scale for which The Last Frontier is revered.

A grizzly bear forages for blueberries in Denali National Park, Alaska.

But visitors to Denali quickly discover another world, equally fascinating, and right below their feet. The Arctic tundra is a biome where tree growth is limited by sub-zero temperatures and a short growing season. The presence of permafrost prevents plants from setting deep roots. In place of tall trees are an array of dwarfed plants, including sedges, shrubs, and a tapestry of mosses and lichens that carpet the landscape. The subarctic wilderness of Denali gives rise to more than 1,500 species of vascular plants that form the base of a food web supporting wolves, eagles, and river otters.

Foraging blueberries near Wonder Lake in Denali National Park, Alaska.

A unique aspect of a visit to Denali is the opportunity to experience foraging first-hand, or, more likely, on all fours. The park is famous for its edible wild berries, including the blueberry and the lingonberry. True to the Alaskan spirit of self-reliance and living off the land, the park encourages visitors to collect wild edibles. The berries surge to seasonal abundance in August and September. The tundra areas around Mountain Vista, Savage River, and Wonder Lake are popular spots with foragers, complete with stunning views when the clouds part and Denali appears.

Alaskans have a special relationship with the land and sea. Hunting, foraging, and subsistence living are deeply enmeshed in the culture. Each season presents unique opportunities, from salmon runs to mushroom hunting to tapping trees for birch syrup. And berry picking plays into that seasonal scheme.

“In Alaska, we call it berry therapy,” said Off the Beaten Path guide Jen Shapley, who makes her home in Anchorage. “It’s just taking time, either by yourself to get away, or with your selected group of friends, to focus on the small things.”

Foraging blueberries near Wonder Lake in Denali National Park, Alaska.

Blueberries grow on low bushes in Denali, typically under knee height, in shrubby, open areas. The first berries of the year begin to ripen in early to mid-August and will continue to ripen into September. Visitors later in the season will be treated to a foliage display of note as the shrubs shift from the green hues of summer to splendid oranges and purples. Wild Alaskan blueberries are smaller in size (typically akin to a pea) than the cultivated berries found on supermarket shelves, but what they lack in size they more than make up for in flavor. Foragers are constantly torn between placing a berry in the basket for later or enjoying the flavor of the season in the present.

Lingonberries, sometimes referred to as lowbush cranberries, are found in areas of dense spruce forest easily identified from the Denali Park Road. The berries grow low to the ground, typically only a few inches above the tundra floor, and do not ripen until September. The berries mature to a bright, crimson red and look like the familiar cranberry common to Thanksgiving dinner. Trails around the Denali Visitor Center and Murie Science and Learning Center are well-known areas to pick lingonberries, but they can be found widely throughout the park, so it pays to explore. Speaking of exploring, Denali encourages off-trail travel, so if you see a spot that looks tempting, go have a look.

As always in Denali, it’s important to be aware of your surroundings. Remember that you’re sharing the landscape and a precious resource with the park’s wildlife. Grizzly bears and moose seek out prime berry patches, and a chance to watch one forage will have you questioning your own technique. When in the field always carry bear spray and make noise to avoid startling wildlife. And while it might be tempting, resist the urge to pick all the berries in an area.

“When you’re foraging, you want to make sure that you’re leaving enough behind,” Shapley said. “My goal foraging is that when I’m done, someone else could come through and not know that I had been there, so maybe a third of what you find you would harvest.”

Shapley said most people in Alaska are living at least a partially subsistence lifestyle and that there is a deep sense of satisfaction in enjoying food that has been harvested from the land and sea.

Fireweed lights up the landscape as Denali emerges from the clouds above Wonder Lake in Denali National Park, Alaska.

Not only is berry-picking fun and delicious, it’s also a chance to take an intimate and up-close look at the tundra. Despite Alaska’s limited growing season, the long daylight hours of summer lead to a verdant cornucopia of incredible plants. Wildflowers, including fireweed, larkspurleaf monkshood, and fairy slipper bring bursts of color to the landscape. Reindeer lichen and club moss lend texture and variety to the tundra. With so much diversity and drama underfoot, it’s almost possible to forget about The Great One looming high in the clouds above.

The post A Taste of the Tundra first appeared on Off the Beaten Path.

The post A Taste of the Tundra appeared first on Off the Beaten Path.

Katie sits atop the Zion Canyon Overlook

Katie Arenas grew up with an appreciation for the outdoors through immersive travel with family, friends, and as a solo traveler. She let her passion for active outdoor adventure lead her all the way to her role at Off the Beaten Path, where she helps like-minded adventurers explore the world. Katie and her husband had the opportunity to travel with OBP so she could connect with what the true travel experience is like for one of our travelers. In this interview, Katie recounts her unforgettable exploration of unique landscapes in Utah on a Small Group Adventure to the Desert Southwest, offering a glimpse into the transformative power of guided travel. Here is what she has to say:

Q: How did you get started traveling?

Katie: “I’ve been an avid traveler all my life – from childhood trips with my family to venturing on my own in my early twenties, starting with a memorable trip to Iceland! For the past year, I’ve been fortunate to combine my passion for travel with my work at OBP as a travel planner. I joined a Small Group Adventure “Zion and Beyond”** in September, experiencing an Off the Beaten Path journey firsthand.”

**Zion and Beyond is a retired trip. We have since adapted this trip itinerary, and created “Utah’s Mighty Five“. This journey is even more cohesive and immerses our travelers more deeply in the Desert Southwest.

Hiking in the Willis Narrows, Grand Staircase-Escalante NM

Q: Why do you think travel is essential?

Katie: “We get to go to new places, connect with new people, and experience completely different cultures and ways of life. We compare them with our lives back home – what’s unique, and what’s the same. I think travel shows us both the rich diversity of the world while reminding us that we’re all just humans, with more in common than we might think.”

Q: Tell us about Utah!

Katie: “Utah was an exciting destination for me, as it was a place I’d never been before but had always been drawn to. The landscape is vast and unique. Our Utah’s Mighty Five trip itinerary brings that bigness down to an intimate scale and offers a unique way to explore less-traveled areas!”

The Virgin River, which sculpts the Narrows in Zion NP

Q: Any highlights from your Utah trip?

Katie: “Bryce Canyon was so special, with adorable cabins perched cliffside within the park. Witnessing the magical sunrise and sunset at the canyon’s edge was truly special. The colors on the hoodoos – wow! Another highlight was visiting a slot canyon in Grand Staircase – just our small group, surrounded by towering stone walls with Native American pictographs, and a waterfall waiting at the end. Our guide also led us to what he called a “playground for adults” – massive boulders inviting us to climb and hop around. It brought out the kid in all of us. It’s so important to have experiences as an adult that make us feel like kids again, especially in our fast-paced world – to remember to play!”

Thors Hammer, Bryce Canyon NP.

Katie’s husband and travel companion on the rocks at the Devils Garden

Q: Have you traveled on guided trips before?

Katie: “This was the first time! I’m very independent, typically, and I love doing my own thing. But having a guide was such a great experience. And with everything meticulously planned and organized for us, I got to shift my focus from planning logistics to enjoying the ride! Your guide knows just where to go, and when to go, making the trip both relaxing and adventurous. Every single day, you get to wake up knowing there’s something new and exciting ahead of you. And with a good guide, you might go to the same place as someone else, but you’ll have a completely different experience from them. We learned so much about tribal history, plant life, and unique geology. Everywhere in Utah offers something different, and we got to go so much deeper than surface level!”

Fairyland Trail, Bryce Canyon NP

Q: How does guided exploration differ from solo adventures?

Katie: “I’ve always loved experiencing the natural world. But when you’re by yourself, you might just reach the end of a hike, snap a picture, and head back to the trailhead. With a guide, you don’t just move through the landscape – you engage with it. Pay attention to the details. Get curious. Ask questions. With a deeper understanding comes a deeper appreciation. You really enjoy every second.”

Katie is back in the office and ready to help make your trip the best it can be! Let’s get ready to plan your Desert Southwest Adventure!

About the Author – Lauren Burgess:

Lauren weaves poetry into marketing to help good people and businesses connect with their communities and elevate their impact. From Ecuadorian volcanoes to Alaskan rivers, entrepreneurship to art, she believes in taking the leap, falling in love, and embracing life’s wild, animate magic – an ethos she lives out alongside her partner of 12 years and their adopted barncat.

The post Utah Travel Tales - Journey to the Desert Southwest with Katie Arenas first appeared on Off the Beaten Path.

The post Utah Travel Tales - Journey to the Desert Southwest with Katie Arenas appeared first on Off the Beaten Path.

Ryan Smith is a frequent solo traveler with Off the Beaten Path. He has explored the country with OBP, from the unique deserts of California and Texas, to the coasts of the Pacific Northwest, the staggering, wild landscapes of the Rocky Mountains, and beyond. In this interview, Ryan speaks about his time spent traveling solo with Off the Beaten Path, some advice he has for fellow travelers, and the impact his travels have had on his life.

Q: How did you first discover Off the Beaten Path?

Ryan: “Well, it’s a bit of a funny story. About three years ago, I was at a wedding, enjoying a few drinks and feeling a bit adventurous. OBP had been popping up in my feed for a while. At that point, I was a confident solo traveler and wanted to explore the national parks, but I thought it would be nice to let someone else handle all the logistics for a change. So, with some liquid courage, I signed up for my first OBP trip – a Small Group Adventure to Joshua Tree and Death Valley.”

Ryan Smith hiking the Ubehebe Crater Trail in Death Valley.

Q: Can you share some memorable moments from that first trip?

Ryan: “My first trip with OBP happened just a few months after the initial COVID lockdowns. So for them, we were kind of testing the waters. But for me, it provided a lot of connection and normalcy in the middle of a strange time. I remember flying into Palm Springs, getting there late at night, and heading straight to Joshua Tree. The experience of seeing the Milky Way in Death Valley was mind-blowing. I actually teared up a bit – it was that spectacular.”

Q: You’ve been on a number of OBP trips now. What keeps you coming back?

Ryan: “I travel with OBP three to four times a year. It’s my go-to when I can get time off work, and I always have something to look forward to and daydream about when there’s an OBP trip on my calendar.

OBP got me hooked on the small group travel experience. And I love going as a solo traveler, entering that new little community. The camaraderie with strangers who share the same passion for exploration is half the fun. I love seeing people from different walks of life come together to enjoy the outdoors. Plus, the experts take care of the logistics, so I can just focus on the experience. It makes my adventures worry-free. I’ve visited around 25 national parks, a dozen national monuments, and a couple of national forests and state parks with OBP.”

Q: Do you have any favorite OBP moments or trips?

Ryan: “Oh, there are a few that stand out. One was watching the sunset on the beach in Olympic National Park with Kurt, one of the guides – just a human moment. It was the summer solstice, the longest day of the year. No buildings within 100 miles, so the beach is pristine. We all went to sleep, but I wanted to wake up at 10 pm to watch the sunset. So I went out there by myself. Then Kurt walked up to join me. And we just stood there, watching the sun go down late at night, no need for conversation, just taking it in side by side. It was a really, really good moment.”

Sunset on the coast in Olympic National Park.

“Another great memory was with an OBP guide named Melissa and another traveler named Jan. Melissa offered us two options for hiking – an easy one to a waterfall, or a hard one to a scenic point. And I always do the harder hike when it’s offered. So, we go all the way up to the top. Almost ten miles round trip, lots of climbing, and we finally get up there to this vista. On one side, the Rockies; on the other, the Great Plains. You’re literally where these worlds meet. The storms and thunderheads rolling over the Great Plains, and the wild rugged mountains on the other. The earth, and the sky. And we ate lunch up there, on top of the world. And I just loved it.”

Q: As a seasoned solo traveler, what advice do you have for someone considering joining a group trip?

Ryan: “Just do it. It might seem daunting at first, but it’s one of the best ways to travel. If you’re nervous about traveling solo, this is really a perfect solution. You get to meet amazing people, share incredible experiences, and have everything taken care of for you. It’s like joining a summer camp for adults. And don’t worry if you’re a first-timer; there’s always someone on their first trip, and it’s fun to welcome them into the fold. You don’t have to be Bear Grylls when it comes to confidence. But just remember that we’re not meant to spend our lives in front of a computer screen – we’re meant to get out there with nothing between us and the world. So whether you’re solo or not, experienced or not, don’t let anything stop you.”

Ryan Looking out over a vast expanse in the Rockies.

Q: What does traveling with OBP mean to you on a personal level?

Ryan: “Someone a couple of hundred years ago had the idea of national parks, and it’s become one of the best things about this country. Off the Beaten Path provides a way for people to experience the parks and the wild more fully.

I make it a point when we’re out on a big hike somewhere to find a little area where I can take a moment to myself. I like to be there in silence and imagine myself as someone hundreds or even thousands of years ago who may have sat there enjoying that exact same view, and it means a lot to me. It’s a mental refresh. We can get caught up in the 9 to 5, the news, mental health, all of it; life can grind you down sometimes. But out in nature on an adventure, that stuff fades away. It’s kind of spiritual, really, that feeling of happiness and peace you get in nature. Getting out there – like way out there, no cell signal, the whole off-the-beaten-path thing – in nature a few times a year? It’s my soul food.”

Ryan peering out at Bearhat Mountain and Hidden Lake in Glacier National Park with his mountain goat friend!

These massive swaths of land in pristine condition are set aside for everyone to enjoy. And so getting out there with good people, like-minded people, people that might have been strangers a few days before, but you’re out sharing trail miles and making memories, and you have something wonderful in common – the experience at hand, the present moment, you get to share it together.”

Off the Beaten Path would like to thank Ryan for spending time to share these fantastic stories with us. We look forward to more adventures to come!

About the Author – Lauren Burgess:

Lauren weaves poetry into marketing to help good people and businesses connect with their communities and elevate their impact. From Ecuadorian volcanoes to Alaskan rivers, entrepreneurship to art, she believes in taking the leap, falling in love, and embracing life’s wild, animate magic – an ethos she lives out alongside her partner of 12 years and their adopted barncat.

The post Ryan Smith Travel Tales - Traveling Solo & Sharing Trails first appeared on Off the Beaten Path.

The post Ryan Smith Travel Tales - Traveling Solo & Sharing Trails appeared first on Off the Beaten Path.

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The post Video: Katmai Wild | Alaska's Coastal Brown Bears appeared first on Off the Beaten Path.