We were 19 strangers meeting for the first time at the airport in Heraklion, Crete. We all had a common passion for cycling, hiking, seeing the world, and eating great food. Our easily identifiable Backroads jerseys came in handy while we were waiting for each other's arrivals.

The moment we stepped out of the vans, we were absolutely swarmed with smiling, laughing and shouting children. Dani, one of the Backroads Trip Leaders, originally from Spain and one of the friendliest people I’ve ever met, swam through the sea of children to get to me and said, “Hey man, you’ve got to fly the drone, the kids will LOVE it.”

It's hard to deny that Machu Picchu is a truly grand feat of engineering, but why was such an impressive structure abandoned? War? Disease? Divine intervention? Learn more about one of the greatest archaeological mysteries in human history, as well as how to explore it on your next visit to Peru!

Ireland is a land of old-time charm, bucolic vistas and sheep—lots of sheep.

Choosing the Right Tour Company for You

Want to travel solo but not alone? Choose a Backroads adventure where you can choose how much or how little group time you need. It’s the ultimate freedom!

Sometimes obscured by lush rainforests, dramatic volcanoes and pristine beaches, the true heart of Costa Rica awaits your discovery.

Ever stayed somewhere so fabulous that you never wanted to leave? These two wilderness lodges on New Zealand's South Island have left one of our leaders awestruck!

Ecuador’s Galápagos Islands are like no other place on earth. Where else can you swim with curious sea lions, hike alongside a giant tortoise and witness the bizarre mating dance of the blue-footed booby? Check out this one-of-a-kind travel destination.

It's no secret that America's National Parks have become increasingly crowded in recent years. In an era that has made travel the new fad, it seems that every worthwhile destination is now at the mercy of floods of visitors. And it doesn't look like it's about to slow down anytime soon!