Chiang Mai is often a travelers introduction to northern Thailand—a city known for historic temples and lively markets that reward exploring on foot.

Bolzano is a great base for Dolomites adventures—so much so that we start many of our northern Italy trips here. Nestled in the heart of South Tyrol, Bolzano blends Austrian, Italian and Ladin influences in everything from its architecture and cuisine to its language and traditions. Historically, Bo…

At Backroads, we believe people can do hard things, specifically hard hikes. Many guests come seeking a true mountain challenge. Others arrive certain they’ll choose the moderate route each day, only to decide they’re up for testing their limits. However you approach your next trek, our leaders and…

Looking for a challenge? Backroads has long been a favorite of riders who love big days in the saddle. With more than 20 biking trips that include Level 5 routes—our toughest option—these adventures will thrill guests who want to log longer miles, power up sustained climbs and enjoy the satisfaction…

As a Backroads Trip Leader and a musician, I’ve always believed you can learn just as much about a place through its music as through its landscapes. Music carries history in a way few other things can.

In the Galápagos, sustainability is a fundamental philosophy of local culture and policy, further emphasized by the islands’ remoteness and subsequent scarcity of certain resources. Santa Cruz Island is home to roughly 20,000 people—over half of the human population of the archipelago—with smaller a…

Uruguay has been flying under the radar. That’s exactly why we like it. But it’s time for this small, stable and safe coastal country to have its moment. If you haven’t heard Uruguay talked about yet as a destination, let this be the first of many times—and allow us to introduce our new obsession.

Where to go in a month when things are heating up? How about a cool-cation in Canada among glacially fed lakes and spectacular peaks or trek trails in Alaska to outlooks where whales breach and bears feast? If Europe is calling, there’s no destination quite like Provence, France, during the lavender…

On our South Africa & Botswana Active Safari Trips, guests explore the rugged beauty of the Cederberg Wilderness, a region famed for its dramatic sandstone formations, ancient rock art and deep ecological significance. Through our Give Back Field Project program, Backroads proudly supports community…

Lee Schwartz is a writer who has taken countless Backroads trips, mostly family adventures. This was her first time visiting Thailand and her first time flying into the wrong airport. And honestly? She recommends both.