Whether you've never sung in a choir, or you're travelling solo and wondering how you'll fit in, these are the two most common questions we hear from people considering joining a Singing Tour with Stuart Davis. music travel tour - and the honest answers will happily surprise you.

"Do I need to be a singer?"

The short answer is no. You don't need to have sung in a choir, taken a single lesson, or even be comfortable with your own voice.

What you do need is a genuine love of music, an openness to participate, and a willingness to have a go. That's it.

Music travel tours aren't performances or auditions. They're immersive cultural experiences where music is the lens - the way you connect with local communities, understand a place's history, and share something human with the people you meet along the way.

On a typical tour, the group learns simple songs together early on, nothing demanding, just enough to have something to offer when you visit a local choir, a village gathering, or a community celebration. From there, the repertoire grows naturally as the trip unfolds. By the end, you'll have sung in places and with people you never imagined — and you'll mean every note of it.

The philosophy behind these tours is that music belongs to everyone. Somewhere along the way, singing got rebranded as something only talented people should attempt in public. Music is how communities celebrate, mourn, work, worship, and welcome strangers. Being willing to join in, imperfectly, joyfully, is the whole point.

So if you love music, culture, and travel, and you're prepared to participate with an open heart, you belong on a singing trip.

"I'm travelling solo - will I fit in?"

Absolutely, and you'll be in good company. A significant number of people on music travel tours are solo travellers. 

Singing tour groups typically range from around 15 to 25 people, and what brings everyone together isn't age, background, or travel experience, it's the shared passion for music and a curiosity about the world.

Here's what solo travellers consistently find on these tours:

Instant common ground. When a group sings together from day one, the usual awkward getting-to-know-you phase disappears quickly. Music is a social shortcut like nothing else.

A group that travels like a community. By the end of the first few days, you're not a group of strangers, you're a choir of sorts, with shared experiences and in-jokes already forming!

Flexibility on accommodation. Tours are generally priced on a twin-share basis, so solo travellers are matched with a roommate. If you'd prefer your own room, a single supplement is available - details are on the trip page.

Sometimes a small group of friends or choir members travel together, but this is the exception rather than the rule. Most participants are individuals who want the depth of a group travel experience without having to coordinate with others beforehand.

What a typical day actually looks like

The days are full but not relentless. Mornings might begin with a group singing session, building the shared repertoire, warming up, preparing something to offer the communities you'll visit. From there, the day could take you anywhere: a local market, a drumming workshop, a visit to a village to learn how instruments are made, or a session with a local choir or musician.

Evenings vary, sometimes a live concert, sometimes a meal at a local restaurant, sometimes a performance that wasn't on the schedule at all because someone made a spontaneous connection and an invitation appeared. That kind of unplanned magic is part of what makes these tours special.

There is some downtime built in, and travel between destinations.

Are you in?

Singing travel tours are designed for curious, open-minded people who want to experience a destination at its most human. You don't need a voice training certificate. You don't need a travel companion. You need enthusiasm, a sense of humour, and a genuine interest in the world.

If that sounds like you, hurry because these trips tend to book out early as they are limited in spaces.

View Singing Tours with Stuart Davis

Patagonia is a vast, sparsely populated region spanning the southern tip of South America, shared between Chile and Argentina. The heart of it is concentrated in the far south, where the Andes compress into dramatic peaks, the Southern and Northern Patagonian Icefields send glaciers down to meet the lakes, and the landscape shifts from dense beech forest to open steppe to sheer granite in the space of a single afternoon.

The two most famous destinations are Torres del Paine National Park in Chile and Los Glaciares National Park in Argentina, home to the legendary Fitzroy Massif and Perito Moreno Glacier. But beyond these well-known anchors lies a much larger, wilder Patagonia that most visitors never reach.

So, What Makes Patagonia So Special?

The Mountains Are Extraordinary and Accessible

Unlike the Himalaya, where you need days of acclimatisation before getting anywhere near serious terrain, Patagonia's most dramatic landscapes sit at relatively low altitude. Treks rarely push above 1,000 metres. You don't need specialised climbing skills or weeks of preparation. You just walk, and the mountains reward you immediately.

The Scale Is Hard to Comprehend

Photographs help, but they don't fully convey what it's like to stand at the base of Fitzroy - a near-vertical tower of granite rising more than 3,400 metres from the valley floor - or to look out across the Southern Patagonian Icefield, one of the largest bodies of ice outside the polar regions. It's the kind of landscape that makes people go quiet.

The Variety Is Remarkable

In the space of two weeks you can travel by jet boat up a whitewater river, cross an international border on foot through beech forest, spend the night with a family at a remote estancia accessible only by boat, watch glaciers calve into lake water, and trek beneath some of the most photographed peaks on earth. No two days look the same.

The Weather Adds Drama, Not Disappointment

Patagonia is famous for unpredictable conditions - wind, sudden storms, rapidly shifting light. Experienced travellers have come to see this as an asset rather than a drawback. The mountains change character hour by hour. The same viewpoint looks completely different at sunrise, at midday, and in a storm. For photographers especially, the weather is part of the appeal.

Do I Need to Be Super Fit?

This is the question most first-timers ask, and the honest answer is: not superhuman, but reasonably active.

On a well-structured walks in Patagonia are designed so there is a walk to match your fitness level. Walking days can range from four to eight hours. The walks are spread across a full day of long Southern Hemisphere summer light, with stops for lunch, photos and simply taking it all in. Shorter loop options are usually available, so the flexibility is built in.

A good benchmark: if you walk regularly, enjoy hiking on weekends, and can manage a few hours on your feet without difficulty, Patagonia is well within reach. A few months of regular exercise in the lead-up - hill walks with a daypack, cycling, anything that builds cardiovascular endurance - makes for a more comfortable and enjoyable experience.

The December to February window (the Southern Hemisphere summer) offers the best combination of stable weather, long days and trail accessibility.

What Does a Proper Patagonia Trek Actually Look Like?

There are many ways to experience Patagonia - from self-guided walks to short national park visits - but the travellers who come home most satisfied tend to be those who went deeper: crossing from north to south, combining the iconic highlights with lesser-known routes that most visitors never see.

The Great Patagonian Traverse does exactly this. Over 15 days, it travels the full length of the region - from Coyhaique in the north to Puerto Natales in the south - largely on foot and by boat, through a series of national parks, remote lake crossings and border passes that have only recently been opened to trekkers.

The route takes in the Leones Glacier via jet boat, a remote homestay at Candelario Mancilla, the dramatic walk across the Chilean-Argentinian border at Laguna del Desierto, two days trekking beneath the Fitzroy Massif at El Chalten, Perito Moreno Glacier, and the full W-Trek through Torres del Paine - culminating in an early-morning ascent to the base of the iconic granite towers of Paine.

Is Patagonia Right for Me?

If you love mountains, Patagonia delivers. If you're drawn to remote, unspoiled landscapes, Patagonia delivers. If you want a trip that requires genuine effort but rewards it generously - with world-class scenery, remarkable wildlife, authentic local encounters and experiences that are difficult to explain to people who haven't been - Patagonia delivers.

It's not a beach holiday. It's not a city break. It's the kind of trip that tends to become, for the people who do it, the trip they measure everything else against.

One experienced traveller who recently completed the Great Patagonian Traverse put it simply: the trip far exceeded expectations for a place he already had high expectations for. That's a reasonable summary.

Quick Facts: Patagonia

• Location: Southern tip of South America, shared between Chile and Argentina
• Best time to visit: December to February (long days, most stable weather)
• No altitude acclimatisation required - most trekking is below 1,000 metres
• Currency: Chilean Peso (CLP) in Chile, Argentine Peso (ARS) in Argentina
• Language: Spanish
• Main gateway airports: Balmaceda (BBA) and Punta Arenas (PUQ) in Chile, El Calafate (FTE) in Argentina
• Key national parks: Torres del Paine (Chile) and Los Glaciares (Argentina)
• Iconic peaks: Fitzroy (3,405m) and Torres del Paine (2,850m) - no climbing required to see them up close
• Weather: Highly changeable - wind, rain and sunshine can all occur in a single day

For more adventure travel inspiration in South America, visit: worldexpeditions.com/Chile

High in the eastern Himalaya lies a destination unlike anywhere else on Earth. Bhutan is a country where ancient monasteries cling to mountain cliffs, prayer flags drift across high passes and traditions remain woven into daily life.

Often called the Land of Happiness, Bhutan follows a philosophy known as Gross National Happiness, where wellbeing, culture and environmental protection are valued as highly as economic growth. The result is a place where travellers experience a rare sense of calm, authenticity and connection.

Why Bhutan is unlike anywhere else

Bhutan has chosen a different path from the rest of the world. Rather than pursuing rapid modernisation, the country carefully protects its culture, landscapes and traditions.

When you travel here, you experience a destination that remains deeply connected to its heritage. Traditional dress is worn daily, festivals bring entire communities together and ancient monasteries continue to guide spiritual life.

It is this balance between culture, nature and wellbeing that gives Bhutan its unique character.

A kingdom shaped by happiness

In Bhutan, national success is measured through Gross National Happiness.

This philosophy focuses on protecting the natural environment, preserving cultural traditions, supporting good governance and promoting the wellbeing of communities.

As a traveller, you feel this philosophy in the slower pace of life, the warmth of the Bhutanese people and the deep respect for nature that shapes the country’s policies.

Sacred landscapes of the Himalaya

Bhutan’s landscapes are as powerful as its culture.

Forest-covered valleys rise into towering Himalayan peaks, while rivers carve through remote mountain regions dotted with traditional villages. Monasteries and fortress-like dzongs stand watch over the valleys below, creating one of the most striking cultural landscapes in the Himalaya.

Among the country’s most iconic sites is Taktsang Monastery, often called Tiger’s Nest, perched dramatically on a cliff above the Paro Valley. Reaching it is one of Bhutan’s most rewarding experiences.

Living traditions and festivals

Bhutan’s culture is not preserved for display - it is lived every day.

During tsechu festivals, monastery courtyards fill with colour as monks perform sacred masked dances that have been passed down through generations. Families gather dressed in traditional clothing, creating celebrations that are both spiritual and joyful.

For visitors, these festivals offer an extraordinary window into Bhutan’s cultural heart.

When to visit Bhutan

The most popular seasons to explore Bhutan are spring and autumn.

Spring brings clear mountain views and blooming rhododendron forests, while autumn offers crisp skies, ideal trekking conditions and many of Bhutan’s most vibrant cultural festivals.

Both seasons reveal the country’s landscapes and traditions at their best.

Experience the magic of Bhutan

Travelling in Bhutan is about more than seeing remarkable places. It is about experiencing a culture that values balance, respect for nature and the happiness of its people.

From ancient monasteries and mountain trails to vibrant festivals and welcoming communities, Bhutan offers an experience that stays with you long after the journey ends.

Learn more about travelling in Bhutan

For many climbers, summit day is the moment they imagine long before an expedition begins. Standing on the highest point of a mountain after weeks of preparation is one of mountaineering’s most powerful experiences.

But summit day on a high-altitude expedition is rarely as simple as reaching the top.

Climbers may have spent weeks acclimatising and preparing for this moment, carefully moving between camps to adapt to thinner air. By the time the summit window arrives, success depends on patience, timing and the ability to keep moving when every step requires effort.

Experienced expedition climbers know that summit day is not just about reaching the top of the mountain. It is about climbing safely, managing altitude and returning to camp after a long day high on the mountain.

Before the sun rises

Most summit attempts begin long before daylight.

Climbers typically leave their high camp in the early hours of the morning, often between midnight and 2am. The coldest part of the night can make movement difficult, but starting early gives climbers the best chance of reaching the summit and returning safely before weather conditions change.

Headlamps trace slow lines of light up the mountain as climbers move steadily upwards.

At altitude, the pace is deliberate. Every step requires controlled breathing, and even small slopes can feel demanding above 6,000 metres (19,685 ft).

Progress is rarely fast. Instead, climbers settle into a steady rhythm that can continue for many hours.

Moving slowly in thin air

Above 6,000 metres (19,685 ft), the body is working hard simply to move.

Oxygen levels are significantly reduced, and climbers must carefully manage their energy to avoid exhaustion too early in the day.

Each step becomes a process of balance, breathing and patience.

On many Himalayan peaks, climbers follow established routes that may include ridges, steep snow slopes or sections protected by fixed ropes.

These ropes allow climbers to safely move through exposed or technical terrain while maintaining steady progress.

Despite the difficulty of the terrain, the key to summit day is often consistency rather than speed.

Reaching the summit

After hours of climbing, the summit ridge eventually appears.

The final approach can feel both exhilarating and exhausting. Weeks of preparation, training and acclimatisation all lead to this moment.

From the summit of a Himalayan peak, the view can stretch across some of the highest mountains on Earth.

Expedition leader Andrew Lock describes the experience of standing at altitude above the surrounding peaks.

“At that altitude the vista is just unparalleled — Everest, Makalu, Lhotse, Cho Oyu and countless other peaks across the Himalaya.”

Yet despite the sense of achievement, climbers rarely remain on the summit for long.

Extreme altitude places constant stress on the body, and weather conditions can change quickly.

Most summit teams spend only a short time at the top before beginning their descent.

The summit is only halfway

One of the most important lessons in mountaineering is that reaching the summit is only part of the journey.

The real objective of any expedition is returning safely.

Descending requires focus and careful movement, particularly after the long effort required to reach the summit.

Andrew Lock emphasises the importance of continuing the climb safely after reaching the top.

“You can’t stay up there though. Once we’ve reached the summit, we descend back to camp.”

The return to high camp can take several hours, often in warming afternoon conditions.

Climbers move slowly but steadily down the mountain, conserving energy and staying alert on steep sections of the route.

When they finally reach camp, the sense of relief and accomplishment is enormous.

The reward of the climb

Summit day is the culmination of everything that comes before it: weeks of acclimatisation, careful preparation and teamwork on the mountain.

While the summit itself is unforgettable, the real reward often lies in the entire experience of climbing at altitude.

Moving through high camps, watching the sunrise above a sea of peaks and pushing beyond personal limits are all part of what draws climbers back to the world’s great mountains.

For those who dream of climbing higher, understanding what summit day really involves is an important step in preparing for the challenge.

For anyone attempting a serious Himalayan peak, the greatest challenge isn’t always technical climbing - it’s altitude.

Above 5,000 metres (16,400 ft) the body begins to struggle with reduced oxygen levels. Move too quickly and climbers risk acute mountain sickness or far more dangerous complications such as pulmonary or cerebral oedema.

The difference between success and failure on high-altitude expeditions often comes down to one thing: acclimatisation.

Experienced mountaineers spend weeks carefully preparing their bodies to function in thin air before making a summit push.

As expedition leader Andrew Lock explains:

“We employ an acclimatisation process on the mountain of what we call climb high, sleep low, which is really the way you do things on these big mountains.”

Understanding how this process works is essential for anyone planning to climb above 6,000 metres (19,685 ft).

Why acclimatisation matters in the high mountains

At sea level, the air contains about 21% oxygen. But as altitude increases, the atmospheric pressure drops, meaning every breath delivers less oxygen to the body.

By the time climbers reach:

• 5,000m (16,400 ft) – oxygen availability drops significantly
• 7,000m (22,965 ft) – physical performance can fall dramatically
• 8,000m (26,247 ft) – the “death zone”, where the human body begins to deteriorate rapidly

Without acclimatisation, climbing at these elevations becomes extremely dangerous.

The body must adapt by:

• increasing breathing rate
• producing more red blood cells
• improving oxygen transport efficiency

These physiological changes take time, often weeks.Which is why expedition climbing moves slowly.

The “Climb High, Sleep Low” principle

The most effective acclimatisation strategy used on major peaks is known as climb high, sleep low.

Instead of continuously gaining altitude, climbers move higher during the day before returning to lower camps to recover.

Andrew explains the reasoning behind this approach:

“We’ll climb higher just to give our bodies a taste of the altitude, then return to a lower camp so they can keep adjusting.”

This process gradually teaches the body to tolerate lower oxygen levels.

A typical acclimatisation cycle might look like this:

1. Establish a base camp around 4,800–5,200m (15,750–17,060 ft)
2. Climb to a higher camp during the day
3. Return to base camp to sleep
4. Move progressively higher over several rotations

By repeating this pattern, climbers slowly build the physiological capacity needed for the summit attempt.

Why expeditions establish multiple camps

If you’ve ever looked at a Himalayan expedition map, you’ll notice several camps positioned up the mountain.

These camps exist largely to support acclimatisation.

A simplified example might include:

Base Camp – around 4,800–5,200m (15,750–17,060 ft)
The expedition hub and acclimatisation base.

Camp 1 – around 5,800–6,200m (19,000–20,340 ft)
First staging point on the mountain.

Camp 2 – around 6,400–6,800m (21,000–22,300 ft)
Higher camp used for acclimatisation rotations.

Camp 3 – around 7,000m+ (22,965 ft+)
Final camp before the summit push.

Climbers move between these camps multiple times before making a summit attempt.

It can feel repetitive — but the process dramatically improves the odds of success.

Why patience is essential on high peaks

One of the biggest surprises for first-time expedition climbers is how much time is spent waiting.

Waiting for the body to adjust.

Waiting for weather windows.

Waiting for the right moment to move higher.

It can be tempting to rush the process, especially when climbers feel strong early in an expedition.

But moving too quickly can end a climb before it really begins.

Experienced expedition leaders build acclimatisation days and rest periods into every itinerary.

Because when climbers finally attempt the summit, they need every possible advantage.

The reward of the high mountains

All of this preparation leads to the moment climbers have spent weeks working towards: summit day.

From the upper slopes of Himalayan peaks, the world unfolds in every direction, a sea of snow ridges and giant summits stretching across the horizon.

As Andrew describes it:

“At that altitude the vista is just unparalleled - Everest, Makalu, Lhotse, Cho Oyu and countless other peaks across the Himalaya.”

But even then, climbers can’t stay long.

At extreme altitude, the summit is only halfway.

The real goal is returning safely to camp - carrying the experience of standing on top of the world.

View Mountaineering Expeditions

If you are researching your first climb above 6,000 metres (19,685 ft), you have probably seen photos of climbers clipped into ropes high on steep Himalayan slopes.

For many people planning an expedition, this raises a few immediate questions. Who puts the ropes there? Do you need to know how to install them? And how exactly do they help climbers move safely on the mountain?

The good news for first-time expedition climbers is that fixed ropes are a standard part of modern high-altitude mountaineering. They exist to help climbers move safely through steep or exposed terrain on big mountains.

What fixed ropes are

A fixed rope is a climbing rope that has been anchored securely to the mountain along a section of the climbing route.

These ropes are attached to anchors placed in snow, ice or rock. Once installed, they remain in position so climbers can clip into them while moving up or down the slope.

Instead of climbing completely unprotected terrain, climbers attach themselves to the rope using safety equipment connected to their harness. This allows them to move steadily along the route while remaining protected in case of a slip.

Why fixed ropes are used on big mountains

Many high-altitude peaks include sections that are steep, exposed or technically demanding. This can include snow slopes, narrow ridges or ice-covered terrain where a fall could have serious consequences.

Installing fixed ropes along these sections allows climbers to move safely and efficiently through the most difficult parts of the route.

Expedition leader Andrew Lock explains that these climbs often involve much more than simply walking uphill.

“On a technical climb, we will certainly be fixing ropes along much of the route to safeguard your ascent.”

With fixed ropes in place, climbers can focus on steady movement and conserving energy rather than constantly placing protection.

Who installs the ropes

Another common question for first-time expedition climbers is who actually installs the ropes on the mountain.

On many Himalayan expeditions, experienced climbing teams establish the route ahead of summit attempts. These climbers place anchors in the mountain and attach ropes along sections where protection is needed.

In some cases, specialised rope-fixing teams complete this work early in the climbing season so that expedition teams can safely follow the established route.

On smaller or more remote peaks, guides and experienced climbers within the expedition team may install sections of rope as the route is established.

The process requires technical skill and careful judgement about the safest path up the mountain.

Do climbers carry the ropes themselves?

Many climbers assume they need to bring their own ropes for a high-altitude expedition.

In most cases, the fixed ropes used on steep sections of the route are supplied and installed as part of the expedition logistics.

Individual climbers usually carry their personal safety equipment, such as a harness, carabiners and ascenders that allow them to attach to the rope.

The rope itself remains fixed to the mountain so that everyone on the route can use it safely.

Do you need to know how to fix ropes?

For most climbers joining a guided expedition, the answer is no.

Participants are not expected to install fixed ropes themselves. Instead, climbers learn how to safely use the ropes that are already in place.

Guides normally demonstrate how to attach safety devices and move efficiently along the rope before reaching steeper terrain on the mountain.

For most climbers, the technique becomes surprisingly straightforward once they have practised it.

What it feels like climbing on fixed ropes

For many climbers, using fixed ropes quickly becomes a natural part of moving through steep terrain.

The system allows climbers to progress steadily while maintaining security on exposed slopes or ridges.

Instead of worrying about the consequences of a slip, climbers can concentrate on maintaining a rhythm and conserving energy.

Andrew Lock describes these climbs as far more engaging than many people expect.

“It’s really exciting. It’s not just a boring one-day walk up a lesser peak. These are a true Himalayan adventures.”

A system designed for safety

Fixed ropes are an important part of modern high-altitude mountaineering.

They allow climbers to move safely through steep or technical terrain that might otherwise require complex rope systems.

For climbers preparing to attempt peaks above 6,000 metres (19,685 ft), understanding how fixed ropes work can remove much of the uncertainty about what to expect on the mountain.

With the right preparation, guidance and teamwork, these systems help make high-altitude climbing both safer and more achievable.

To begin, a heartfelt thank you to everyone who travelled with us during our 50th year in 2025. Whether it was your first adventure or one of many, your support meant the world to our teams around the globe.

A special mention to those who joined us for our celebration in Sydney as well as at our 50th anniversary celebrations at Thyangboche, in Nepal. You helped us create one of the most memorable events in our company’s history. We’ve received so many kind messages and photos from that experience, and we look forward to sharing more of those stories throughout the year.

As we turn the page, 2026 brings a sense of quiet momentum. Not fanfare - just a commitment on offering the best adventure travel trips on earth. Focus on thoughtful travel, meaningful itineraries, and staying true to what we’ve always believed in: that small group adventure, done well, has lasting value.

 

What's Trending For 2026

Western Africa. Trekking in Kyrgyzstan. Madagascar. New trails in Japan. If you want to know our where people are travelling to, and how, check out our Top Destinations for 2026 article.

We've also noticed a shift in how people want to travel. Many are moving away from fast-paced, surface-level trips and towards slower journeys with more room to connect with nature, with local cultures, and most importantly, with themselves. 

Our Regenerative 2030 program continues to grow, with 34 projects already funded and more travellers choosing to support small, locally led projects through micro-donations and travel choices that align with their values.

Beyond our adventures, our Huma Charity Challenge division helped Australian charities raise over $2m in 2025 - we're looking to beat that in 2026!

We’re also seeing strong and growing interest in Indigenous-led travel, particularly in Australia. These experiences take time to build, and we’ll continue to work with care and respect as we grow in this space.

Active travel formats are broadening, too. Walking remains strong, but interest in cycling, active water-based journeys through our On Water Expeditions brand and slower paced adventures are also increasing. That will be reflected in some of the exciting new trips we will be introducing this year - stay tuned!

What I’m Excited About

One of the things I’m most looking forward to this year is a special Bush Tucker experience on the Larapinta with Rayleen Brown - a respected advocate and educator whose work connects people with Country through food. It’s a very special project and we’ll be sharing more details soon.

We'll continue to roll out even more Webinars, with some special guests to be announced soon. Our webinars provide a wonderful opportunity to hear directly from our guides, leaders and local experts. Check out some of the past ones to help you start planning for your next adventure.

You can also expect to see new culinary adventures and special guest-led trips across our program. 

Personally, I'm still reminiscing about my recent trek in Bhutan, a destination you'll hear alot more about this year, but those thoughts are slowly being replaced by my anticipation of returning to cycle China. I plan to revisit some of the routes that helped shape my early experience in this industry. We were the first company to offer cycling trips in China in 1978.

New Journeys Launched This Year

We’ve launched several exciting new adventure ideas that reflect the way our travellers want to explore, with more time, deeper connection, and local insight.

Horse Treks in Remote Landscapes

We’ve introduced Horse Trek trips in places where horses are still central to daily life - including Mustang, Dolpo, Mongolia and Patagonia. These trips are designed to slow things down and connect you to the people that honor horses in everyday life, while offering access to breathtaking regions that are well away from the footpaths or roads.They’ve been carefully developed in collaboration with local partners and with a strong focus on animal welfare.

Queensland’s NEW World-Class Walking Experiences

We’re proud to be the official partner for two new significant guided walks:

• The Ngaro Track on Whitsunday Island, created with the Ngaro people
• The Thorsborne Trail on Hinchinbrook Island, one of Australia’s most remote and spectacular island hikes

Our staff who surveyed the walks last year cannot stop talking about these exciting new Australian hiking experiences. Get in early to be one of the first to experience them.

Sri Lanka - Taste & Spirit

This new journey, led by food expert Jeremy Claasz, offers a warm, locally guided introduction to Sri Lanka’s food culture, sacred places and countryside. One of several new culinary-style experiences to watch for this year.

Looking Ahead

We’ll keep doing what we've been passionate about for 50 years - crafting small group adventures that are well operated, community minded, and grounded in real experience.

We’re also continuing to work steadily towards B Corp certification, which we hope to finalise later this year. It’s not a badge for us, but a useful framework to help ensure we’re staying accountable to the values we’ve always held.

Thank you for being part of this journey.

– Sue

Sue Badyari has led World Expeditions Travel Group since 1999. In 2025, she was recognised by Travel Weekly as Executive of the Year and Woman of the Year - recognition she credits to the people around her. She continues to work quietly behind the scenes to support the teams, partners and communities that make these adventures possible.

Minimising our impact where formal waste systems do not exist

In regions like Nepal and Bhutan, where waste infrastructure is limited or absent, we take full responsibility for what we bring in and how we manage what is left behind. Our goal is not only to leave no trace, but to lead by example and actively improve the health of the environments we travel through.

Reducing Waste from the Start

Our local teams, including cooks and guides, minimise waste at its source by using reusable containers, avoiding single-use plastics, and choosing ingredients with minimal packaging. Travellers bring refillable bottles and we supply safe, filtered water.

Taking More Out Than We Bring In: The 10 Pieces Initiative

We invite travellers to pick up 10 pieces of litter a day on treks in Nepal, Bhutan, India, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Tanzania and Peru. Guides brief groups, provide bags, and ensure responsible disposal.

Sorting and Responsible Disposal on the Trail

• Organic waste is composted or buried far from water sources.
• Hazardous waste is carried out for safe disposal.
• Combustibles and low-toxicity plastics are incinerated in custom incinerators.
• High-toxicity plastics are never burned and are sent to licensed facilities.

Clean Incineration in Wilderness Settings

We use a high-efficiency incinerator developed with Tim Macartney-Snape. Burns are high-temperature, outdoors, and only for approved materials. Remaining ash is buried away from water sources.

What You Can Do: Travelling Light and Right

• Pack light and avoid unnecessary packaging.
• Choose reusable over disposable.
• Follow Guide instructions for separating waste.
• Join the 10 Pieces initiative.

Leaving It Better Than We Found It

By taking more out than we bring in and by training local teams, we help fragile environments thrive.

Related: 10 Pieces Litter Collection Program | Protecting Bhutan’s Highlands for Future Generations

A Celebration Across Continents 

Our Sydney celebration brought together long-standing staff, industry friends, media and past travellers, people who have walked alongside us in one way or another over the years. 

In Nepal, more than 70 trekkers set off on various trails across the Himalaya, eventually converging at the spiritual heart of the Khumbu, Thyangboche. Among them was a special group retracing our original 1975 route, joined by our CEO, Sue Badyari. Together, they marked an extraordinary milestone with what may well have been the highest birthday celebration on the planet – complete with cake, candles, and a live simulcast back to Sydney.

As the sun dipped behind Everest’s flanks, laughter echoed from the mountainside and stories flowed freely. In both Thyangboche and Sydney, the energy was unmistakable, a shared pride in how far we’ve come, and a deep connection to the journey that began five decades ago.

Honouring Our Purpose 

A standout moment came when CEO Sue Badyari joined the Sydney celebration live from the Everest region. “We’ve always believed in protecting the places we visit, supporting local communities, and making these journeys available to people who seek meaning, not luxury,” she said. “This isn’t a brand built on trends. It’s built on truth.” That sentiment echoed throughout the night. From the beginning, our focus has been on genuine travel experiences that connect people to place and leave a positive impact. 

In Sydney, UTracks GM and long-time team member Kate Baker summed it up best: “Sustainability isn’t something we adopted – it’s something we were founded on. That’s why travellers return. That’s why so many of us have stayed.” 

We were proud to hear those words echoed by many others in the room, including brand ambassador and travel photographer Richard I’Anson, who reflected on decades of shared adventures. 

50 Years Forward 

This 50th year has not just been a celebration, it’s been a turning point. We are actively working toward B-Corp certification, have launched a carbon measurement framework, and recently hosted a Sustainability Symposium focused on regenerative travel practices. We’re not looking to grow for growth’s sake, we’re evolving in a way that stays true to who we are. 

Thank You for Walking With Us 

Whether you’ve joined us on one trek or twenty, supported our guides and crew, worked in our offices, or simply followed our story - thank you. This celebration was for you as much as it was for us. And while we’re proud of what we’ve achieved over the past 50 years, we’re even more excited about where the next trail leads.

Whether you’re a Taurus seeking tranquillity, a bold Aries chasing mountain highs, or a soulful Cancer longing for connection, your zodiac sign might just hold the key to your next big adventure in 2026.

After 50 years of helping adventure travellers with adventure ideas that go beyond the ordinary, we thought we’d try something different to help people find their next adventure. This fun guide is where the stars align with your spirit for adventure, it pairs our most exciting 2026 destinations with the key qualities of your zodiac sign.

♑ Capricorn (22 Dec – 19 Jan)
Summit your goals in Nepal

Capricorn, you don’t just take holidays - you set goals. You seek elevation, achievement and growth. You're at your best when steadily climbing towards something bigger. There;s no place better to keep going up than the Himalaya.

Trek to Everest Base Camp - or beyond, tackle Manaslu or go deeper into Upper Dolpo, or Mustang. Nepal offers structure, reward and a sense of accomplishment that’s hard to beat.

Why? You’re a mountain goat at heart – trekking Nepal is your natural element.

Browse all Nepal treks

♒ Aquarius (20 Jan – 18 Feb)
Trek through Madagascar’s biodiversity

You’re an original. An innovator. Aquarius travellers walk the unbeaten path not to avoid others, but to discover something radically new.
Madagascar’s endemic wildlife, evolving trails and conservation-led experiences will feed your eco-curiosity and your love of the unconventional.

Why? You thrive on originality and the chance to do things differently.

View Madagascar trips

♓ Pisces (19 Feb – 20 Mar)
Drift into peace on a water-based journey

Pisces is intuitive, empathetic and deeply attuned to water. Travel for you is more about flow - not pace.

From kayaking the remote island coastlines in Indonesia to exploring Antarctica by zodiac, our new range of On Water Expeditions offer time to dream, to feel, and to be immersed in nature’s rhythms.

Why? Water calms your spirit - and makes room for awe.

View On Water Expeditions

♈ Aries (21 Mar – 19 Apr)
Go bold in Patagonia

Trailblazing Aries, you don’t follow paths - you create them. Competitive, passionate and never one to back down from a challenge, you thrive where the terrain is tough and the views are earned.

Patagonia’s wild horizons, glacial valleys and dramatic ridgelines are your perfect match - raw, vast and utterly rewarding.

Why? Patagonia’s windswept wilderness is the perfect match for Aries energy, strong, unfiltered and full of challenge.

View Patagonia trips

♉ Taurus (20 Apr – 20 May)
Slow down in Japan’s sacred mountains

Taurus, you're a sensory traveller – grounded, patient, and deeply drawn to meaningful, beautiful places. You move with purpose, preferring slow immersion over speed.

Japan’s Kumano Kodo and Nakasendo Trail offer quiet, restorative walks through ancient cedar forests, with time to stop, reflect and indulge in the comforts of a warm meal and a hot spring soak. However our tip for those what want it extra slow and quiet? Go where the locals escape to - the island of Shikoku.

Why? It’s nature, culture, comfort - everything a Taurus seeks in perfect harmony.

Explore Japan walks & tours

♊ Gemini (21 May – 20 Jun)
Meet the world in the Caucasus

Endlessly curious and always on the go, Gemini travellers crave variety and connection. You're the one chatting with locals, swapping stories at camp and diving headfirst into new culture - so let's find you some new places to visit.

Georgia, Armenia and Azerbaijan are tailor-made for you - where every border brings a new dialect, cuisine or mountain view.

Why? The perfect blend of heritage and contrast, for curious minds and restless feet.

See Transcaucasian walks & tours

♋ Cancer (21 Jun – 22 Jul)
Float through Western Africa’s rhythms

Sensitive, intuitive and empathetic, Cancers seek journeys that touch the heart. You’re not chasing thrills, you’re seeking real stories, meaning and human connection.

Ghana, Togo and Benin offer powerful cultural insights, vibrant traditions and opportunities to walk alongside communities with openness and respect.

Why? Cancer values purpose. These destinations provide immersion with heart, and time for reflection.

View Ghana, Togo, Benin adventure

♌ Leo (23 Jul – 22 Aug)
Shine bright in Morocco or Turkey

Bold, magnetic, and drawn to places that feed your sense of drama, you’re the storyteller of the zodiac. You love a little flair, a lot of culture and views that demand attention. Let's get you there.

The spice bazaars of Morocco or Turkey’s wild coastlines and ancient ruins will light your fire and give you the centre-stage moments you secretly love.

Why? Leos love drama, history and flair - with sunshine to match.

Explore Turkey

♍ Virgo (23 Aug – 22 Sep)
Get methodical in Mongolia

Virgos are detail-focused adventurers; independent, intelligent and quietly brave. You prefer your travel with a side of purpose and seek out places where nature and rhythm guide your days.
Mongolia’s vast steppe and nomadic life offer you space to think, time to engage and journeys that unfold slowly and meaningfully.

Why? It’s remote, real, and deeply reflective, ideal for Virgo’s need for meaning.

Discover Mongolia

♎ Libra (23 Sep – 22 Oct)
Balance beauty and comfort in Bhutan

You’re a harmony seeker - graceful, thoughtful and drawn to places where inner and outer beauty align. You want meaning without chaos, culture without crowds. We know just the place.

Bhutan’s mountain monasteries, calm villages and considered way of life offer the balance you thrive on - and landscapes worthy of your refined eye.

Why? Bhutan offers balance - of luxury and simplicity, spirit and scenery.

Explore Bhutan adventures

♏ Scorpio (23 Oct – 21 Nov)
Go deep in Sikkim, Ladakh or Pakistan

Scorpios are intense travellers, seekers of depth, truth and wild places few others venture. You're not interested in surface-level tourism, and neither are we. You want to be changed by the experienc, which is handy cause our adventures often do just that.

Explore the stark beauty of Ladakh or the remoteness of Pakistan's ranges; powerful, raw and deeply spiritual landscapes that mirror your own complexity.

Why? Mysterious, remote and real - just like you.

View adventures in Ladakh, Sikkim or Pakistan

♐ Sagittarius (22 Nov – 21 Dec)
Ride into Kyrgyzstan’s wild heart

The ultimate wanderer. Sagittarius thrives on freedom, fresh air and long roads less travelled. You're born to roam – especially through mountain passes, open steppes and across cultural boundaries.

Kyrgyzstan’s alpine landscapes, nomadic culture and horse treks will match your boundless energy and open spirit.

Why? A Sag loves freedom. The Stans are freedom personified.

Explore Kyrgyzstan

Where will your 2026 adventure take you?

Browse all adventures

Regenerative 2030 is the World Expeditions Travel Group’s long term commitment to ensuring travel creates positive and lasting change. It is guided by a simple idea. Travel can be a force for regeneration. We donate five dollars for every booking to the World Expeditions Foundation to support community led initiatives that restore ecosystems, strengthen communities and improve access to education.

One of the fully funded projects under this initiative has now reached completion. The Menstrual Packs for Equal Rights Project in Zambia has achieved its fundraising goal of three thousand six hundred dollars. This support has provided one hundred and fifty reusable menstrual packs for school girls in rural communities, delivered in partnership with the Luangwa Conservation and Community Fund. The project is known locally as Ufulu, which means freedom. This name reflects the purpose of the program. To give girls the confidence and freedom to attend school every day of the month without interruption.

In many rural areas of Zambia, a lack of proper menstrual hygiene products results in girls missing up to one week of school each month. The consequences are long term. Reduced attendance leads to reduced learning outcomes and fewer opportunities. Early marriage is more common and confidence levels often drop. For low income families, boys are still more likely to be sent to school than girls. These barriers are compounded by stigma, limited education about menstrual health and the financial strain of purchasing safe sanitary products.

The Ufulu project addresses these challenges by providing high quality, washable and reusable menstrual pads made from breathable cotton and bamboo materials. They are sewn by local women employed through the initiative, creating fair income and valuable skills within the community. Each kit can be used for up to two years. Each one also reduces waste by replacing single use products with a sustainable alternative.

The project goes beyond the distribution of pads. It delivers education sessions that increase knowledge about menstrual health and hygiene. Girls learn how to care for their pads, how to understand their cycle and how to manage menstruation with confidence. This helps reduce stigma, improves comfort and supports dignity. Teachers and community members are also engaged to build a supportive environment within the school.

The impact is significant. Each menstrual pack saves approximately five school days every month that would otherwise be lost. Improved attendance means greater continuity in learning and improved academic outcomes. Girls report feeling more confident, more comfortable and better able to participate fully in classroom activities. The project is contributing to a shift in attitudes around gender equality and menstrual health in rural Zambia.

This initiative supports several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. These include good health and wellbeing, gender equality, reduced inequalities, responsible consumption and production and quality education. By meeting these goals in a practical and community led way, the project reflects the core purpose of Regenerative 2030.

For fourteen years, Project Luangwa and its partner organisations have worked to improve education and gender equality across the region. Through this long standing partnership, communities have seen steady improvements in girls attendance rates, confidence levels and the breaking down of harmful stereotypes. The Ufulu menstrual pack project builds on this foundation by addressing one of the most persistent barriers to girls education.

Regenerative 2030 is about choosing regeneration over impact neutrality. It is about supporting local leadership and investing in the wellbeing of future generations. The successful delivery of this project in Zambia shows what is possible when travellers, community partners and local leaders work together. Every booking contributes to this work. Every project strengthens the resilience of people and places. Together, we are helping create a more equitable and sustainable future for girls in rural Zambia.

Some trips are easy to explain.

Uganda's Mountains of the Moon trek isn’t.

In a webinar with mountaineer Tim Macartney-Snape, Tim unpacked the Rwenzori Mountains and the climb to Margherita Peak. There was no attempt to simplify it or dress it up. Instead, what came through was a clear explanation of a mountain that does not behave the way most do.

“It is unique in terms of mountain trekking. There’s nothing else like it at all.”

Rather than focusing on the summit, the emphasis stayed on the journey itself - the terrain, the movement, and the constant change underfoot.

“It’s the most fascinating part of the world… there’s nothing else like it.”

This is a guide to climbing Margherita Peak, shaped around what actually matters once you are on the mountain.

The Mountains of the Moon

For centuries, the Rwenzori Mountains were linked to one of geography’s great mysteries - the source of the Nile.

“Most sensible people thought it would be somewhere up in the so-called Mountains of the Moon.”

When the range was finally documented, it revealed something unexpected. These are not volcanic peaks like Kilimanjaro. They are uplifted blocks of ancient rock, saturated by moisture from the Congo Basin.

At their highest point sits Margherita Peak, 5,109m / 16,762ft, capped with glacier almost exactly on the equator.

A mountain that doesn’t behave like one

The Rwenzori are defined by water.

“Any piece of flat ground is basically a bog.”

Peat builds over thousands of years. Rock is broken and uneven. Vegetation grows across unstable ground.

“I don’t think I’ve ever seen anything like it… even compared to the Karakoram.”

And above it all, glaciers remain - despite the equatorial location.

The journey: from rainforest to glacier

The climb is a progression through distinct environments.

It begins in dense rainforest, humid and enclosed. As you ascend, the forest gives way to heather, then to a surreal alpine zone filled with giant lobelias and senecios.

“It’s otherworldly.”

The ground is often wet, unstable and complex. Without established trails, route finding would be extremely difficult.

“Trying to avoid little lakes and bottomless bogs…”

Higher up, the terrain becomes more alpine, leading towards the glacier and summit.

The summit: Margherita Peak

The final ascent begins early, typically around 1:00am.

The route involves rock scrambling followed by glacier travel using crampons and fixed ropes.

“You don’t require any technical knowledge… the staff will brief you.”

Weather is unpredictable, and conditions can change quickly.

“It’s just a matter of luck really.”

The defining moment is not the view, but the location - standing on a glacier on the equator.

The real challenge: the terrain

The biggest challenge is not altitude, but the ground.

“Gumboots are the recommended footwear.”

Mud, peat and water are constant. Conditions underfoot shape the entire experience.

Preparation

This is not a technical climb, but it does require strong preparation.

“You do need to have done a lot of hill walking… uphill and downhill… on rough terrain.”

Endurance, balance and comfort on uneven terrain are essential.

Why this climb stands apart

Very few mountains offer this combination.

Rainforest. Bog. Giant alpine vegetation. Glacier on the equator.

“If you like trekking in the mountains, it’s one of the places you’ve got to go.”

This is not defined by the summit alone, but by everything that happens on the way there.

Fact File

Location: Rwenzori Mountains, Uganda

Highest Point: 5,109m / 16,762ft

Best Time: July to August, December to February

Trip Type: Multi-day trek with mountaineering elements

Key Challenge: Boggy terrain and constant moisture

Explore the trip

View the Mountains of the Moon trek

By Sherry Ott

I knew this trek would be different the moment I saw our group standing in a loose circle in Kathmandu, nervously smiling at one another. Eight women. Different ages, different countries, different life stories. Some were married and traveling solo for the first time. Some were single. Some were mothers. Some were devoted cat moms. But every single one of us had something in common: we wanted to hike in Nepal.

For many of them, this trip represented more than a vacation. It represented a chance to step outside their routines, to trust themselves, and to say yes to an adventure on their own.

When World Expeditions invited me to host their 50th Anniversary Women’s Trek in Nepal, I jumped at the chance. Not just because Nepal has long held a special place in my heart and I wanted to go back, but because I knew World Expeditions wasn’t simply creating another trekking itinerary. They were creating something meaningful, unique, and celebratory for women. 

As the trek unfolded, I realized World Expeditions had created a women’s trek that reflected a deeper, decades-long commitment to empowering women—not just as travelers, but as leaders, guides, and community partners. That commitment became visible everywhere I looked.

Female Leadership: A Vision Decades in the Making

In an adventure travel company, leadership shapes everything. It shapes company culture, hiring practices, the traveler experience, and even how communities are treated. And World Expeditions has something rare at its helm: a female CEO who has grown with the company from the ground up.

Sue Badyari joined World Expeditions in 1986 as a receptionist. Over four decades, she rose through the ranks to become CEO in 1999—a role she continues to hold today. Her leadership and contributions to the industry were recognized with the 2024 with a Lifetime Achievement Award, the 2025 Executive leader of the Year award, and Woman of the Year at Australias’s Women in Travel Awards by Travel Weekly. 

I think Sue’s journey mirrors the very spirit of adventure travel itself—starting somewhere small and unknown and slowly, steadily climbing higher! Under her leadership, World Expeditions has remained deeply committed to sustainable tourism, community partnerships, and expanding opportunities for women. Today, women make up 55% of World Expeditions’ travellers -a number that continues to grow as more women seek transformative outdoor experiences.

But what struck me most wasn’t just Sue’s title. It was the ripple effect of her leadership throughout the entire organization.

Female Leadership on the Ground in Nepal

I was surprised to find that leadership wasn’t just at the executive level—it was deeply embedded within World Expeditions’ Nepal operations too!

Uma Khakurel, the Managing Director in Nepal, has been with World Expeditions for 32 years. In a country—and an industry—where leadership roles are traditionally dominated by men, Uma’s position is rare. Her steady presence ensures that operations run smoothly in a caring, thoughtful way, while also creating space for more women to enter the field.

Uma’s longevity reflects both competence and the company’s commitment to investing in female leadership locally. Her perspective has helped World Expeditions build something sustainable and inclusive, season after season.

And then there were the guides.

Meet Mama G: Carrying Trekking in Her Blood

Our lead guide, Dawa Yangin Sherpa, affectionately known as “Mama G”, carried both strength and warmth. Trekking wasn’t just her job; it was part of her heritage. Her grandfather had been the first trekking guide in the Khumbu region, and she grew up watching trekkers pass through her village while her father worked as a porter.

As I was growing up pretending to be Charlie’s Angels, Mama G and her friends would pretend to be tour guides, speaking fake English and leading imaginary trekkers along village trails. “We didn’t know English,” she told me with a laugh. “So we just spoke gibberish.”

But her path to becoming a guide required persistence—especially as a girl in a remote mountain village.

She walked three hours to school each day, often in the dark. In winter, she stayed with her aunt so she could continue her education. Out of five girls from her village who started school, she was the only one who continued beyond primary school.

There was a cultural belief that educated women would not find husbands. Women were expected to work in the fields and care for the household. But Mama G kept going. She earned a scholarship, completed secondary school, and eventually earned a bachelor’s degree in population education. Later, she even spent six months in the UK to improve her English.

“We were just happy to go to school,” she told me. “Education was everything.”

That education, and her determination, opened doors.

Breaking Barriers on the Trail

When Mama G began guiding for World Expeditions, she was the only female guide among 35 men.

“There were challenges,” she told me. “Females are expected to stay home and take care of the family.”

Even her husband and in-laws initially discouraged her from working. And her friends didn’t understand how she could leave home for weeks at a time.

Mama G told me that when she first became a guide, it was Uma who gave her the authority to lead. “At first, it felt strange telling the men what to do,” she admitted. “But Uma supported me.” Today, the crew calls Mama G Didi, or big sister, a term of respect that reflects how fully she has grown into her leadership role.

Today, she leads treks regularly and has helped provide opportunities for her two daughters, ages 18 and 14, both of whom are educated and speak English fluently. Her goal, she told me, was to give them a better life. And she most definitely has!

There was something deeply meaningful about being guided through the Himalayas by a woman who had fought so hard to stand there herself.

Empowering Women Beyond the Trail

World Expeditions’ commitment to women extends far beyond their guides. It reaches into the very communities where they operate.

At our first eco-camp stay, we were welcomed by Ngima Doma Sherpa, whom everyone lovingly called “Gaga,” meaning “grandmother” in Sherpa. She owns the land where the camp sits, and World Expeditions partnered with her to create a permanent campsite that provides her with a steady income and employment. She no longer has to make grueling trips to the Lukla market to sell her produce.

After losing her husband and son, Gaga now helps maintain the camp and prepare food for trekkers. Her partnership with World Expeditions provides both financial stability and independence.

I’ve always believed tourism should benefit local communities—not displace them. That’s exactly what World Expeditions is doing here, making travel more local and sustainable. 

Why Women Want to Travel Together—Especially in Challenging Destinations

As our women’s group settled into the rhythm of trekking, I noticed something I’ve seen repeatedly on women-centric trips: the speed at which strangers become friends. Women are so inclusive, and I love that!

When I asked some of the women why they chose this trip, their answers were honest and deeply personal.

Jodi told me, “It’s liberating to travel on your own and only worry about yourself. You don’t have to take care of anyone else—you can just be present.”

Carol shared something that stuck with me. “Here, I don’t have to be someone’s wife or mother. No one knows me. I can just be me.”

Sue, who was visiting Asia for the first time, admitted she wasn’t sure she had the confidence to come to Nepal alone. And Amanda told me Nepal had been on her list forever. “There’s nothing like the Himalayas,” she said, gazing up at the peaks that surrounded our campsite.

Women create an environment where we feel comfortable asking questions, challenging ourselves, and supporting one another. Instead of competition, there is encouragement. Instead of comparison, there is connection. That’s just how women operate. 

The Transformative Power of Women Traveling Together

By the end of the trek, the group dynamic had transformed completely.

We had watched each other push through altitude and fatigue. We had laughed together over games at camp. We had marveled at the strength of the porters, watching them carry loads up steep trails with a quiet efficiency that made our own efforts feel small by comparison.

More importantly, we had watched each other grow.

Women gain confidence when they step into unfamiliar environments and realize they are capable. They discover independence. They begin to trust themselves in new ways.

And often, they carry that confidence home with them.

Why World Expeditions Is Leading the Future of Women’s Adventure Travel

What makes World Expeditions unique is that their commitment to empowering women exists at every level of the organization.

From Sue Badyari’s leadership as CEO, to Uma Khakurel’s operational leadership in Nepal, to female guides like Mama G, to women like Gaga who partner with them in local communities—women aren’t just participants in the story. They are creating the story.

This isn’t symbolic empowerment. It’s a long-term investment creating pathways where none existed before.

And I could see the results—in the women leading the treks, in the women supporting their families, and in the women hiking and standing at mountain viewpoints, realizing they are capable of more than they ever imagined.

When Women Lead, Everyone Moves Forward

When World Expeditions invited me to host this trek, I said yes because I believed in what they were building. But walking alongside Mama G, hearing her story, and watching our group of women grow stronger each day helped me understand it on a deeper level. 

This wasn’t just about trekking in Nepal. It was about creating space for women to step outside the roles and routines that often define their lives and discover who they are beyond them. It was about local women like Mama G, who refused to accept limitations placed on her, and travelers who arrived unsure of themselves and left with a new sense of confidence. 

Thanks to women like Mama G—and the opportunities created by companies like World Expeditions—I know more women will continue to step into the unknown, discover strength they didn’t know they had, and realize they belonged there all along.

Sherry Ott Bio
Sherry isn’t just another travel blogger—she’s a trailblazer in new media, sharing her journey of global adventures and unconventional living on Ottsworld.com since 2006. With a passion for empowering women to break free from societal “shoulds” and step boldly out of their comfort zones, Sherry redefines what it means to explore the world.

From epic escapades in far-flung destinations to inspiring others to conquer their fears, Sherry’s mission is clear: to help you see the world—and yourself—in a whole new light. Let her stories spark your next adventure and transform the way you travel.