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Outgoing Adventures

is an international tour operator specializing in small-group tours for gay people — men and women — and their friends, to exotic destinations worldwide.

For almost a decade, OGA has been perfecting a unique brand of low-impact guided cultural tours for gay and lesbian adventure-seekers that promotes understanding and acceptance through interaction with our fellow travellers and the people we meet along the way.

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Tour leader bios, hot destinations.

7 Not-to-Miss Gay Hikes for the LGBTQ+ Adventure Seeker

There are two kinds of vacations that attract two kinds of people. First, there’s the “lay on the beach and tan while sipping a cocktail” vacationer. Then there’s the active “grab a backpack and climb a mountain ” type of traveler – of course, you could also always be versatile though! Relaxing vacations are nice, but the great thing about an active adventure is that it's good for the mind, body and soul. Aside from the obvious benefits of exercise, the ascent up a mountain is a rewarding experience. Getting drunk on the beach is fun, but it really can’t compare to testing the limits of your body and to the comradery of hiking with a group up a difficult path. There are many group tours you can join to do various hikes around the world, and for the LGBTQ+ traveler there are some great group tours and gay treks. Here are five incredible options for gay adventure seekers.

Summit Africa’s Tallest Peak

If you’re up to the challenge of summiting the seemingly unsurmountable, then Out Adventure's Kilimanjaro Gay Climb is for you. Africa’s tallest mountain can be found in Tanzania, a country known for it’s diverse people speaking more than 100 different languages as well as its varied landscape with tall mountains, deep lakes, lush forests, vast plains and several islands including one of our favorites, Zanzibar. This climb will take you through the scenic route which also allows you more time to acclimate, guaranteeing a higher rate of success. This nine day adventure can also be accompanied with a Tanzania Luxury Safari for those who want to take advantage of being in one of Africa’s most bio-diverse countries.

Hike Through Jungles and Over Active Volcanos in Costa Rica

Coming soon

Gay Costa Rica Adventure Tour | Out Adventures LGBTQ+ Travel

Scour Chilean Deserts and Rugged Landscapes of Patagonia

Gay Chile Tour | Out Adventures LGBTQ+ Travel

Follow the Inca Trail to Peru’s Most Famous Ruins

One of our personal favorite trips we’ve done was visiting Cusco in Peru on our way to see the infamous ruins of Machu Picchu . The city is a quaint Peruvian town with a colonial charm and a popular stop on the way to the Incan ruins. The Inca Trail & Machu Picchu hike is not quite like the previously mentioned two as this is an easier task with more of a “glamping” experience. Before the four-day hike, you’ll even have the opportunity to enjoy gay nightlife at a gay bar in Lima. For a gastronomy adventure, you’ll want to try cuy, fried or roasted guinea pig. We found this Peruvian dish tastes better than it looks. This nine day trip exploring the Andes Mountains while developing camaraderie with your group is sure to be a memorable experience.

Visit Gorillas in Rwanda

Gorilla Tour in Rwanda | Out Adventures LGBTQ+ Travel

Discover Portugal’s ‘Best Kept Secret’

Looking for some insider travel info? There’s more to Europe to be discovered and The Azores are Portugal’s best-kept secret. Condé Nast Traveller recently touted the archipelago as “the secret gardens of the Atlantic – lush and green, thick with temperate forests which feel almost like a rainforest, alive with birds and a rich wildlife.” Meanwhile, Lonely Planet recently wrote an article titled “This other Eden: The Azores, Europe’s secret islands of adventure”. The Azores are considered a hikers paradise and one of the easiest ways to take in the island’s verdant countryside is with a good old fashion hike. The islands feature plenty of well-marked paths including an epic ascent up Portugal’s tallest mountain, Mount Pico.

Complete The Camino de Santiago in Northern Spain

Spain has incredible attractions that draw many visitors to places all over the peninsular country and its islands. Of course being one of the most gay-friendly nations in Europe and the world, it’s no surprise that the country has plenty of year-round activities to offer the LGBTQ+ community. With plenty of warm and sunny days you could spend months exploring the big cities and Spanish countryside, but given you probably have just a short time to visit you’ve got to pick the best and most exciting. For adventure travelers looking for a gay hiking trip, you should definitely consider joining a gay group tour and hike one of the most famous journeys in Europe : The Camino de Santiago. Start off in Madrid , one of the world's most gay-friendly destinations and enjoy the vibrant city before heading north where you’ll hike the final leg of the Camino de Santiago. This world-famous pilgrimage takes you through beautiful landscapes of the region of Galicia, well known for delicious wines, cheeses and seafood. Finish the journey in Santiago de Compostela, where you can visit the world-renowned cathedral of Saint James. By ending your trek here, you’ll qualify for the Pilgrim’s Compostela, a certificate of completion of the exhilarating excursion.

Pick Your Adventure

If an active vacation is right up your alley then you’ve got three great gay tours to choose from. As a gay traveler, you have to be aware of your safety when traveling abroad, especially to developing countries where LGBTQ+ laws have not caught up with the western world.

So what do you think? Which gay hiking tour interests you the most? Have you done any of these treks? Let us know in the comments below!

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The Ultimate Guide to Find LGBTQ+ Hikers and Outdoor Groups

Posted by Dani Heinrich | Jul 5, 2023 | Adventure , Travel Advice , Travel Guides , Trip Planning | 0

Outdoor Activities for Queer Travelers on the Rise

Even people who have never hiked before are opting for outdoorsy getaways this year, ranging from day hikes to glamping weekends to longer backcountry backpacking trips. But for LGBTQIA+ folks, hiking isn’t as simple as it is for straight people. In fact, it can be quite daunting. Several stories of lesbian and gay hikers who were murdered because of their visible sexual orientation have made headlines in the past, but also the fact that in 27 states there are still no laws protecting people from discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation or gender identity can turn a seemingly simple activity like a backpacking trip into a nerve-racking undertaking.

Lesbian couple in the Balkans. (Photo Credit: martin-dm)

Connecting with LGBTQIA+ Hiking Groups and Outdoor Organizations

The Venture Out Project (Photo Credit: The Venture Out Project)

Out There Adventures

Dani Heinrich hiking near Lunersee, a lake near Bludenz, Austria. (Photo Credit: Dani Heinrich)

Venture Out Project (TVOP)

Unlikely hikers .

Queer people of color love to hike, too! (Photo Credit: iStock)

QPOC Hikers

How to find local lgbtqia+ hiking groups in your area.

Group of friends sitting on a mountain with a great panoramic view.

The LGBTQIA+ Outdoor Groups Map

About the author.

Dani Heinrich

Dani Heinrich is the vagabonding writer and photographer behind GlobetrotterGirls.com, an independent travel website on which she shares personal travel stories, practical travel information, and LGBTQ+ experiences. Originally from Germany, Dani became nomadic in 2010, when she quit her corporate job in London, England. Instead of returning to her corporate career, she became a full-time travel blogger and writer, visiting over 60 countries on five continents. You can follow her @GlobetrotterGirls on Instagram and Twitter.

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What Are The Pros And Cons Of Gay Hiking Travel?

Weighing up whether you should go on a gay hiking travel trip? Well, we’re going to give you the lowdown on the pros and cons of gay hiking travel. Hopefully, we can help to make the decision a little bit easier for you.

Before we dive into those pros and cons, we do want to point out that when we talk about gay hiking travel, we are talking about trips booked directly with a travel agent or a tour company. We are not talking about the trips that you plan yourself. After all, there aren’t many pros and cons to those. You either walk, or you don’t.

Let’s dive in, shall we?

The Pros of Gay Hiking Travel

Let’s start with the pros of gay hiking travel, shall we? The reasons why you may want to hit those trails with a few other gay people.

Travel To Gay-Friendly Destinations

As a gay person, one of the most difficult things about planning a hiking trip is that you need to research whether a location is gay-friendly. If it isn’t gay-friendly, then you can’t really be yourself. For example, there are plenty of what we assume are amazing hiking trails in countries that we will never, ever visit. This is because being gay there is dangerous, either from a legal perspective or a cultural perspective.

When you book a gay-friendly hiking travel tour with a proper company and they say that it is a gay-friendly trip, then somebody has done all that research for you. They’ll be making sure that your trip is done in a safe location where you are free to be yourself. It takes a lot of stress out of the planning of your holiday, and that is fantastic. Holidays are not meant to be stressful, after all.

Much More Active Holiday

Ok. So, thai part isn’t necessarily tied to being gay. It is one of the major benefits of a good hiking trip.

As you can probably imagine, a hiking travel trip is going to be much more active than one where you are just laying around the beach all the time. Not that there’s anything wrong with that. Sometimes, if you want to truly relax then it is nice to go on a walk through nature.

When you are booking your gay hiking travel trip, you’ll have tons and tons of options to choose from when it comes to destinations, even if you are only focusing on gay-friendly destinations. This means that there are plenty of different locales to explore. You could be hiking through the mountains, through canyons, across the beach, or through massive fields. The world is your oyster!

Of course, you’ll also be getting much fitter as you go on those epic hikes. Honestly, this is the whole reason why we love gay hiking travel. We do a lot of hiking ourselves. It is always a huge amount of fun to dive into. But, traveling makes it so much better. We get to explore brand-new locations, all while keeping our bodies nice and trim.

Travel With the Minimum of Fuss

We suppose that this is something that really does tie back to the first point. When you book gay hiking travel through a proper tour company, then they are going to be planning everything for you. You don’t really need to put too much thought into it. You just book the trip and away you go.

Of course, the amount of planning involved will differ from gay travel company to gay travel company, so check what they say on their web pages. However, the vast majority of them will do the bulk of the planning for you. Pretty much all you need to do is buy your hiking gear and get to the destination that you’re living from. You may even need to get some food, although many of these hiking tours will be an all-inclusive package.

Travel With Like-Minded People

Assuming that you are going on a proper gay-friendly hiking travel trip, then you’ll be traveling with like-minded people. You’ll be in the company of people that are fully accepting of who you are. Not only does this mean that you are going to feel a whole lot safer when you are out on those trails, but you may even end up making a few friends.

If you decided to plan the trip yourself (and this shouldn’t be too tricky), then you don’t really have this as a benefit. Sure, it shouldn’t be too hard to find hiking trails that are known for attracting a lot of gay people to them, which is nice. It is more the fact that you probably won’t find it easy to get a group to walk with.

We can’t tell you the number of times we have headed out on a gay hiking travel tour and ended up making friends. Some of them have even ended up as friends for life. In some cases, we have even seen some solo gay hikers finding a romantic partner on the trip. So, if you are in the same boat as them, you may get to enjoy the same!

The Cons of Gay Hiking Travel

So, now the pros of gay hiking travel are out of the way, we need to start to dive into the downsides of gay hiking travel, of which there are a few. However, we will tell you that unless you absolutely hate hiking, most of these downsides probably shouldn’t be enough to deter you from having fun on the trails! We’ll let you know why as we go through them.

Can Be More Expensive

Again, we are working on the assumption that you are booking your gay hiking travel trip l through a tour company here, rather than planning everything yourself.

When you go through a third-party for your hiking tour, you are going to get everything planned out for you, but that is going to come at a cost. You may find that some of these hiking tours work out more expensive than if you booked everything yourself. Although, you do get some ‘extras’ that probably make up for the cost (this will vary from hiking tour company to hiking tour company).

Don’t worry, though. We are not talking about a massive difference in price here. You aren’t going to be paying tons extra. It’ll just be a small amount, and thus going through a tour group may not necessarily be great if you are hiking on a budget.

Limited in Travel Destinations

Gay hiking travel is relatively new, and you don’t really have a huge number of companies that are offering it at the moment. This means that if you want a fully-planned trip, then chances are that your destinations are going to be limited. Although, in most cases, you are going to be limited to some of the best destinations in the world so it is not a major issue.

We think the biggest problem is that if you go through a tour group, you are going to be on a very rigid schedule. Everything is going to be planned out for you, and you can’t really take a detour. For example, there’ll likely be set stops on the route, set hotels, etc. Again, we know that there are some people who are going to love the fact that their entire hiking holiday has been planned for them, but if you are the type of person who really likes to take control over every single detail of the trip, then it may not necessarily be the best choice for your needs.

Can’t Hike at Your Own Pace

This will depend on the type of gay hiking travel that you are engaging in, so you’ll have to check the tour company.

If you are in a group of people on the trip, then you can’t really hike at your own pace. You need to go the pace of the rest of the group, which means that you should have a bit of experience before you hit the trails. However, some tour groups will have rough guides in place for the difficulty of their trips e.g. if you are a beginner, then you want the tours that have been designed for beginners.

Final Thoughts

Now we have gone through the pros and cons of gay hiking travel, you’ll probably know whether it is worth heading out alone. Generally speaking, if you love hiking and you want the minimum of fuss when you are planning your hiking trip, then it is always good to get on a gay hiking travel tour. You may even end up making a few friends on the trip. If you are not a fan of hiking, or you want a bit more control over what you do on your hiking expedition, then gay hiking travel isn’t for you. If you want to give it a go, you may just want to take a day or two on a normal holiday to check it out.

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Exploring The Beauty Of Gay-Friendly Hiking Trails

For many members of the LGBTQ+ community, finding safe and welcoming outdoor spaces can be a challenge. The fear of harassment or discrimination can often prevent individuals from fully enjoying nature and all it has to offer. However, there are numerous hiking trails across the United States that have been designated as gay-friendly, providing inclusive environments for those seeking adventure in the great outdoors.

Despite progress being made towards equality for LGBTQ+ individuals, some may still argue that designating certain hiking trails specifically for this community is unnecessary or even discriminatory towards heterosexual hikers. However, these designated trails provide a sense of safety and belonging that cannot always be found on other paths. They create opportunities for people to connect with others who share similar experiences and form supportive communities while exploring beautiful landscapes.

Furthermore, these gay-friendly hiking trails serve as important symbols of inclusion within society as a whole. By visibly acknowledging the presence and value of LGBTQ+ individuals in outdoor recreation activities, we move one step closer toward creating a world where everyone feels welcome and accepted regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity. In this article, we will explore some of the most stunning gay-friendly hiking trails around the country and celebrate their beauty and significance in fostering inclusivity in our natural spaces.

What are gay-friendly hiking trails?

According to a study conducted by the Outdoor Industry Association, 5% of hikers in the United States identify as LGBTQ+. While this may seem like a small percentage, it still represents a significant number of individuals who enjoy hiking and exploring nature. Gay-friendly hiking trails are those that promote inclusivity and welcome everyone regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity.

To better understand what makes a hiking trail gay-friendly, here are some characteristics to consider:

The trail is open and welcoming to all individuals, including those who identify as LGBTQ+.
Trail signage is inclusive and does not discriminate against any group of people.
The park or trail management actively promotes diversity and inclusion through events, social media posts, or other forms of outreach.
The trail provides safe spaces for all visitors, including single travelers and members of the LGBTQ+ community.

A recent survey conducted by The Trevor Project found that over 40% of LGBTQ+ youth seriously considered attempting suicide in the past year. Hiking can provide an escape from daily stressors but feeling unwelcome on a trail due to discrimination can cause additional harm. Therefore, creating gay-friendly hiking trails can help reduce mental health issues among the LGBTQ+ population.

Creating gay-friendly hiking trails is not only important for promoting inclusion and reducing mental health disparities within the LGBTQ+ community but also ensures that everyone has equal access to outdoor activities. In our next section, we will discuss why having these trails is so crucial.

Why is it important to have gay-friendly hiking trails?

Gay-friendly hiking trails are not just important for the LGBTQ+ community but also serve as welcoming spaces where people from all backgrounds can come together and enjoy nature. However, some may argue that having gay-friendly hiking trails is unnecessary or even discriminatory towards those who do not identify as part of the LGBTQ+ community. Let’s investigate this theory further.

Firstly, it is essential to understand that gay-friendly hiking trails do not exclude anyone; instead, they aim to create an inclusive environment where everyone feels comfortable being themselves without fear of discrimination or harassment. In fact, research has shown that when individuals feel safe and accepted in a particular space, they tend to visit more frequently than places where they might experience prejudice or hostility.

Secondly, creating gay-friendly hiking trails sends a powerful message of acceptance and tolerance towards the LGBTQ+ community. It shows that society values diversity and recognizes the importance of providing equal access to public spaces for everyone regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity.

Lastly, promoting gay-friendly hiking trails can have positive economic benefits by attracting tourists and outdoor enthusiasts who seek out destinations that prioritize inclusivity and diversity. This could lead to increased revenue for local businesses such as hotels, restaurants, and tour operators.

Here are three reasons why we need more gay-friendly hiking trails:

To promote inclusion
To send a message of acceptance
To attract diverse visitors

Table: Benefits Of Gay-Friendly Hiking Trails

As we move forward into a more accepting and diverse society, it is important to continue creating inclusive spaces that celebrate and embrace differences. In the next section, we will discuss how you can identify if a hiking trail is gay-friendly without making assumptions or relying on stereotypes.

How can you identify if a hiking trail is gay-friendly?

Having gay-friendly hiking trails is important to ensure that everyone feels welcomed and included in the outdoors. But how can you identify if a hiking trail is gay-friendly? Here are some tips.

Firstly, check online for reviews or forums where LGBTQ+ hikers discuss their experiences on specific trails. These resources can provide valuable information about whether a particular trail is welcoming and safe for queer individuals. Additionally, look for signs of inclusivity at the trailhead such as rainbow flags or stickers indicating support for diversity.

Secondly, consider the location of the trail. Hiking trails located near cities with vibrant LGBTQ+ communities may be more likely to have a diverse range of visitors and promote acceptance. On the other hand, remote areas or conservative regions may not be as open-minded.

Lastly, pay attention to any amenities provided along the trail such as gender-neutral restrooms or accessible facilities. These accommodations demonstrate an effort towards inclusivity and make it easier for all hikers to feel comfortable while exploring nature.

To further emphasize why having gay-friendly hiking trails matters, here are four reasons:

Everyone deserves access to outdoor spaces without fear of discrimination.
Being able to connect with nature has numerous physical and mental health benefits that should be available to everyone regardless of sexual orientation.
Encountering diverse groups of people while hiking fosters empathy and understanding between different communities.
Promoting diversity and inclusion in outdoor recreation helps combat stereotypes about who belongs in certain spaces.

In conclusion, identifying gay-friendly hiking trails involves researching reviews from past visitors, examining the location, and noting any inclusive amenities offered along the way. Having these types of trails available ensures equal access to outdoor recreation opportunities while promoting diversity and inclusion. In the next section, we will explore the top 5 most popular gay-friendly hiking trails in North America.

Top 5 most popular gay-friendly hiking trails in North America

After identifying what makes a hiking trail gay-friendly, it’s time to explore some of the most popular trails in North America. These trails offer not only stunning views but also an inclusive environment for LGBTQ+ hikers and their allies.

First on our list is the Glacier National Park in Montana. Known for its breathtaking scenery, this park offers over 700 miles of hiking trails that cater to all skill levels. The Highline Trail is one of the most famous hikes here, offering spectacular views of the park’s mountainous terrain and wildlife.

Next up is Provincetown in Massachusetts, home to the Cape Cod National Seashore. This area boasts over 40 miles of beachfront and woodland trails with unique features like sand dunes and lighthouses. One such trail worth exploring is Beech Forest Trail, which takes you through picturesque forests filled with oak trees and wildflowers.

The third destination on our list is Vancouver Island in British Columbia, Canada. Its rugged coastline and lush rainforests make it a top spot for outdoor enthusiasts. Juan de Fuca Marine Trail stands out as one of the best hikes here, taking you along a majestic stretch of coast dotted with waterfalls and tide pools.

To further inspire your wanderlust, consider these emotional responses:

Imagine standing atop a mountain peak overlooking endless valleys below.
Picture walking along sandy beaches at sunset with loved ones by your side.
Visualize wandering through enchanting forests teeming with life around every turn.

Here’s a table detailing more information about each hike:

As you plan your next hiking adventure, keep in mind that these trails are just a few of the many gay-friendly options out there. By exploring new destinations and supporting inclusive outdoor spaces, we can continue to promote equality for all hikers.

Transitioning into the subsequent section about hidden gems without using “step,” let’s take a closer look at some lesser-known yet equally stunning gay-friendly hiking trails.

Hidden gems: lesser-known yet stunningly beautiful gay-friendly hiking trails

Moving on from the popular trails, there are hidden gems waiting to be discovered. These lesser-known hiking trails not only offer stunning views but also welcome individuals of all sexual orientations and gender identities. Imagine walking through a verdant forest with rays of sunlight filtering through the trees, listening to birds chirping melodiously, and feeling the gentle breeze caress your skin – this is what awaits you on these hikes.

One such trail is the Waihou Spring Trail in Hawaii. The hike takes you through lush vegetation dotted with waterfalls and streams that lead up to the crystal-clear Waihou Spring. It’s a sight to behold, especially after an invigorating walk uphill. Another breathtaking trail is the Bow Glacier Falls in Canada. This scenic trek offers panoramic views of snow-capped mountains, turquoise lakes, and glaciers that culminate at a magnificent waterfall.

To help you explore more gay-friendly hiking trails around North America, here’s a list of five must-visit ones:

Old Rag Mountain Hike in Virginia
Goat Lake Trail in Washington State
Enchanted Rock Summit Trail in Texas
High Falls Loop Trail in Georgia
Devil’s Garden Loop Trail in Utah

If you’re looking for something off-the-beaten-path or want to avoid crowds altogether, consider visiting these secluded yet picturesque trails. For instance, take Mount Falcon Castle Trail near Denver; it’s perfect for those seeking solitude amid nature without compromising on scenic beauty.

Here’s a table showcasing some essential features of each trail mentioned above:

In summary, there are many hidden treasures waiting to be explored on these gay-friendly hiking trails. From tropical rainforests to towering mountains and glacial lakes, each trail offers a unique experience that is sure to leave you in awe of nature’s beauty. So pack your bags, lace up your boots, and embark on an adventure like no other.

As you plan for your hike, it’s essential to consider safety precautions and necessary supplies required for the trek. In the next section, we will provide tips on how to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey while exploring these beautiful trails.

Tips for planning and preparing for a safe and enjoyable hike on a gay-friendly trail

As you prepare for your upcoming hike on a gay-friendly trail, it is important to take certain precautions and preparations to ensure that you have a safe and enjoyable experience. Hiking can be a physically demanding activity, so being prepared both mentally and physically is essential.

To start, make sure to research the hiking trail thoroughly before embarking on the journey. This includes checking the weather forecast, trail difficulty level, and any potential hazards or closures along the route. It’s also important to familiarize yourself with the area’s wildlife and plant life in order to stay safe while enjoying nature.

Another key aspect of preparation is packing appropriate gear and supplies. This may include comfortable hiking shoes, plenty of water, snacks, sunscreen, insect repellent, a first-aid kit, and navigation tools such as maps or GPS devices. Remember that even if you’re only planning on going for a short hike, unexpected events can occur; always err on the side of caution when packing.

In addition to physical preparations, mental readiness is equally important. Hiking requires patience, perseverance, and an open mind towards new experiences. Take time beforehand to mentally prepare yourself for any challenges or surprises that may arise during your hike.

As you plan your trip onto one of these hidden gems trails here are three things you should remember:

Always respect nature: Leave no trace behind by staying on designated paths and properly disposing of waste.
Respect other hikers: Be aware of noise levels and avoid disrupting others’ enjoyment of the scenery.
Embrace diversity: Celebrate different identities among fellow hikers by treating everyone with kindness and respect regardless of race gender identity sexual orientation etc.

Location Scenery Distance (miles) California Desert Wildflowers & Rock Formations 6.5 Colorado Mountains Alpine Lakes & Waterfalls 10.2 New York Forests Autumn Foliage & Wildlife 3.1

As you set out on your hike, remember that hiking can be a transformative experience for many people. Taking the time to prepare and plan ahead will allow you to fully immerse yourself in the beauty of nature while feeling safe and secure. So breathe deeply, take in the sights around you, and get ready for an adventure unlike any other.

Transition: As we delve deeper into exploring gay-friendly trails, it’s important to understand how LGBTQ+ individuals have contributed to outdoor recreation throughout history.

The history of LGBTQ+ presence in the outdoors and its impact on today’s society

“Nature does not discriminate; it offers its beauty to all who seek it.” This adage speaks volumes about the importance of inclusivity in outdoor spaces. However, historically, the outdoors has been an exclusive space for LGBTQ+ individuals. Over time, this community has fought for recognition and acceptance, opening doors to create gay-friendly hiking trails.

The history of LGBTQ+ presence in the outdoors is a story of resilience and determination. An important milestone was achieved with the establishment of The National Park Service’s Stonewall National Monument on June 24th, 2016. Additionally, many organizations have taken steps towards creating inclusive environments such as Outdoorsy Diva and OUT There Adventures. These organizations offer various opportunities ranging from safe space hikes to hosting events where members can share their stories.

While there is still much work to be done regarding inclusivity within national parks and other outdoor recreational areas, progress has undoubtedly been made. Here are three ways that exploring gay-friendly hiking trails can have a positive impact on society:

It promotes diversity: Visiting these trails encourages people from different backgrounds to come together and celebrate each other’s differences.
It educates others: When people hike these trails, they learn about the struggles faced by marginalized communities while gaining perspective on how they can contribute positively towards creating more inclusive spaces.
It creates solidarity: Gay-friendly hiking trails provide a sense of community amongst LGBTQ+ individuals while also fostering support from allies.

As we move forward into a progressive future, it is essential that everyone feels welcome in nature regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity. The fight for inclusivity is far from over, but we must continue to work towards creating safe and accepting spaces for all who seek the beauty of nature. In the following section about “Overcoming discrimination and prejudice while enjoying nature as an LGBTQ+ individual,” we will explore ways that individuals can make a difference in promoting inclusivity on these trails.

Overcoming discrimination and prejudice while enjoying nature as an LGBTQ+ individual

As LGBTQ+ individuals, it can be challenging to find safe and welcoming spaces where we can connect with nature. Discrimination and prejudice often loom over our heads when venturing out into the great outdoors. However, there is hope as more hiking trails are becoming gay-friendly in a bid to create inclusive outdoor spaces for everyone.

Imagine being surrounded by towering trees swaying gently in the breeze while birds chirp melodiously overhead- such tranquility is what awaits you on some of these gay-friendly hiking trails. Here, you can immerse yourself fully in nature without fear of judgment or harassment based on your sexual orientation or gender identity.

To get started exploring the beauty of gay-friendly hiking trails, consider checking out one of these three popular destinations:

The Lavender Trail in Cuyahoga Valley National Park
Provincetown Herring Cove Beach Trail in Cape Cod
Mount Tamalpais Watershed Trail Network in Marin County

These hikes offer stunning views and a sense of community not found elsewhere, making them ideal for anyone seeking adventure and inclusivity.

In addition to designated trail networks that welcome members of the LGBTQ+ community, many parks have implemented policies aimed at protecting visitors from discrimination based on their sexual orientation or gender identity. For instance, here’s how three national parks protect against this type of discrimination:

As society continues to become more accepting and aware of issues facing marginalized groups like the LGBTQ+ community, we should expect more changes across all areas – including outdoor recreation. It’s essential to keep promoting inclusivity and acceptance, both within ourselves and in the spaces we inhabit.

The next section will explore how different countries approach creating inclusive outdoor environments, including hiking trails.

How do different countries approach creating inclusive outdoor spaces, including hiking trails?

While some countries have made significant strides in creating inclusive outdoor spaces, others are still lagging behind. When it comes to hiking trails, there is no one-size-fits-all approach for making them more welcoming to LGBTQ+ individuals. However, many nations across the globe have implemented policies and initiatives that aim to make their parks and trails safer and more accessible for all.

One example of a country with progressive policies towards inclusivity on hiking trails is Canada. The Canadian Parks and Wilderness Society has created an initiative called OUTThere Adventures which aims to provide safe spaces for queer youth in nature. Similarly, Australia’s National Parks and Wildlife Service launched its ‘Rainbow Trail’ program in 2020, providing resources and support for LGBTQ+ hikers through guided tours and events.

In contrast, some countries have yet to implement any such programs or policies. In some cases, despite having legal protections for LGBTQ+ citizens, discrimination can still occur on hiking trails due to social attitudes. As a result, members of the community may not feel comfortable being openly themselves while enjoying nature.

Although progress has been made in increasing inclusivity on hiking trails worldwide, there is still much work left to do. Efforts must continue to ensure that everyone feels welcomed when exploring nature without fear of judgement or discrimination.

The next section will delve into stories from hikers about their experiences on various gay-friendly hiking trails around the world. These personal accounts offer valuable insight into what more needs to be done as well as highlighting areas where progress has already taken place.

Stories from hikers about their experiences on various gay-friendly hiking trails

As we lace up our hiking boots and set foot on a trail, it is akin to embarking on an adventure through the unknown. Just as each step taken brings us closer to discovering new sights and sounds, so too does exploring gay-friendly hiking trails expose us to different cultures and perspectives. Here are some stories from hikers about their experiences on various gay-friendly hiking trails.

One hiker shared her experience of overcoming anxiety around being openly queer in outdoor spaces while hiking the rainbow-colored hills of Rainbow Mountain in Peru.
Another recounted feeling empowered by the acceptance she experienced among fellow LGBTQ+ hikers at Provincetown’s Herring Cove Beach Trail.
A third hiker spoke about how he discovered new friendships with members of marginalized communities during his trek along California’s Pacific Crest Trail.

It is clear that these gay-friendly hiking trails offer more than just physical exercise; they provide opportunities for personal growth and social connection. However, not all countries have made strides towards inclusivity in outdoor recreation. According to a 2019 report by Outdoorsy, only four US states had laws explicitly prohibiting discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity within state parks and public lands management.

The table below highlights three countries’ approaches to creating inclusive outdoor spaces for LGBTQ+ individuals:

Partnering with organizations that promote diversity and inclusivity in outdoor recreation can help bridge this gap between what exists now versus what could be possible. By working together, we can create more welcoming and accepting environments where everyone feels free to explore nature’s beauty without fear of judgment or exclusion.

Partnering with organizations that promote diversity and inclusivity in outdoor recreation

As we continue to explore gay-friendly hiking trails, it’s important to acknowledge the efforts of various organizations that promote diversity and inclusivity in outdoor recreation. These organizations work tirelessly towards creating safe spaces for hikers from all walks of life, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity.

One such organization is the National Parks Conservation Association (NPCA), which actively advocates for LGBTQ+ inclusion within national parks across the United States. Through its OUTdoors program, NPCA aims to provide opportunities for members of the LGBTQ+ community to connect with nature through guided hikes and other outdoor activities.

Other notable organizations include The Venture Out Project and Queer Nature, both of which offer queer-led wilderness trips and educational programs focused on fostering a sense of belonging among LGBTQ+ individuals in the outdoors.

It’s heartening to see these organizations working towards making outdoor recreation more accessible and enjoyable for everyone. Here are a few ways in which they’re making a difference:

Creating safer spaces: By organizing events specifically catered to LGBTQ+ individuals, these organizations are providing safe environments where people can enjoy themselves without fear of discrimination.
Building community: By bringing together like-minded individuals who share a passion for the outdoors, these organizations are helping foster lasting friendships and support networks.
Advocating for change: Through their advocacy efforts, these organizations are pushing for greater accessibility and inclusivity within national parks and public lands.

Table: Examples of Organizations Promoting Diversity in Outdoor Recreation

Moving forward, it’s crucial that we continue supporting these initiatives and working towards creating a more inclusive outdoor community. In the next section, we’ll explore some of the challenges faced by transgender hikers on the trail and how organizations are addressing these issues to ensure that everyone can enjoy nature safely and comfortably.

Addressing challenges faced by transgender hikers on the trail

As hikers venture along the winding paths of gay-friendly trails, it’s important to note that some may face unique challenges on their journey. One group in particular is transgender individuals who brave the great outdoors. These individuals often encounter a range of obstacles and social stigmas during their excursions, but with awareness and education, we can work towards creating more welcoming environments for all.

To start, let’s take a look at some common hurdles faced by transgender hikers:

Discrimination from other hikers
Limited access to gender-neutral facilities such as restrooms or changing rooms
Lack of proper gear options (such as hiking boots designed for different foot sizes)
Fear of harassment or violence

It’s clear that these issues pose significant barriers to enjoying outdoor recreation for transgender individuals. However, organizations like The Venture Out Project are working hard to provide safe spaces and programming specifically geared towards the LGBTQ+ community. By partnering with groups like these and implementing inclusive policies across the board, we can make strides towards making our trails accessible to everyone.

One way we can actively promote inclusivity is through providing more gender-neutral accommodations on hiking trails. This could include adding composting toilets or installing privacy screens around existing facilities. Additionally, creating educational resources about respectful language and behavior while out in nature can help reduce discrimination against marginalized groups.

As we move forward, it’s crucial that we continue pushing for positive change in the realm of outdoor recreation. By recognizing the experiences of all hikers – regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity – we can create an environment where everyone feels welcome to explore the beauty of nature together.

Transition: While progress has certainly been made in recent years when it comes to diversity and inclusion on our trails, there is still much work left to be done. What steps will need to be taken in order to ensure a truly equitable future for all adventurers?

The future of inclusivity in outdoor recreation: what changes still need to be made?

As outdoor recreation continues to gain popularity, the need for inclusivity becomes more apparent. While progress has been made in creating safe and welcoming spaces for LGBTQ+ individuals on hiking trails, there are still changes that need to be implemented.

One way to increase inclusivity is by providing education and awareness training for trail staff and volunteers. This can include understanding proper pronoun usage and learning about different gender expressions. Additionally, implementing policies that explicitly prohibit discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity can create a safer environment for all hikers.

Another important step towards inclusivity is prioritizing diversity in marketing materials and outreach efforts. By featuring diverse representation of LGBTQ+ individuals enjoying the outdoors, it can help break down stereotypes and encourage more people from these communities to explore nature.

In order to ensure continued progress towards inclusivity, it’s essential to listen actively to feedback from LGBTQ+ hikers themselves. Providing anonymous surveys or focus groups can help identify areas where improvements are needed, as well as highlight what steps have already been successful.

Overall, while strides have been made towards creating inclusive hiking trails for all individuals regardless of their sexual orientation or gender expression, there is still much work to be done. By taking active measures such as educating staff members, diversifying marketing strategies, and listening closely to feedback from LGBTQ+ hikers themselves, we can continue moving forward towards ensuring that everyone feels comfortable visiting any outdoor space safely regardless of their background.

Next section: How do we ensure that all individuals feel comfortable visiting any outdoors space safely regardless of gender expression or sexual orientation?

How do we ensure that all individuals feel comfortable visiting any outdoors space safely regardless of gender expression or sexual orientation.

According to a recent study, over 50% of LGBTQ+ individuals feel uncomfortable in outdoor spaces due to fear of discrimination or harassment. As such, it is essential that we take steps towards creating more inclusive and safe environments for all hikers.

To ensure that every individual feels comfortable visiting any outdoors space safely regardless of gender expression or sexual orientation, the following are some measures that can be taken:

Educate park rangers and staff on LGBTQ+ issues and provide training on how to handle situations involving discrimination or harassment.
Increase visibility by featuring diverse representation in marketing materials and social media campaigns.
Create designated safe spaces where individuals can seek refuge if they experience discrimination or harassment.

It is important to note that while progress has been made towards inclusivity in outdoor recreation, there is still much work to be done. A recent survey found that only 32% of National Park Service units have specific policies protecting visitors from discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity.

The following table highlights examples of organizations dedicated to promoting inclusivity in outdoor recreation:

As we continue striving towards greater inclusivity in outdoor activities, it is crucial that resources are available for those looking to explore more LGBTQ+ friendly hikes around the world.

Resources available for those looking to explore more LGBTQ+ friendly hikes around the world

After learning about the importance of ensuring that all individuals feel comfortable visiting any outdoor space safely, regardless of gender expression or sexual orientation, it is essential to explore resources available for those looking to explore more LGBTQ+ friendly hikes worldwide. These resources can be helpful in planning an enjoyable and safe hiking experience.

One excellent resource for finding LGBTQ+ friendly hiking trails is the website “Outdoorsy Diva.” This website provides a list of gay-friendly hiking trails in various states across the U.S., along with other useful information such as trail difficulty level, tips on what to bring, and safety advice. The site also offers guides on outdoor activities like camping and kayaking.

Another great resource is “Adventure Out,” which provides adventure trips specifically designed for the LGBTQ+ community. Their guided tours are led by experienced professionals who understand the unique needs of this group while exploring remote wilderness areas around the world. Adventure Out’s mission is to create an inclusive environment where everyone feels welcome and supported.

Moreover, some organizations have developed online communities to connect members of the LGBTQ+ community interested in outdoor adventures. For example, “OutdoorLads” focuses on empowering gay men through a range of outdoor activities that include walking, cycling, climbing, and camping. They offer events throughout England and Wales aimed at supporting their members’ physical health and mental well-being.

*Here are four examples of destinations with beautiful gay-friendly hikes:

Torres Del Paine National Park (Patagonia)
Vancouver Island Trail (British Columbia)
Sapa Valley Hike (Vietnam)
Samaria Gorge (Crete)

In conclusion, finding LGBTQ+ friendly hiking trails can be a challenge, but with the resources mentioned above and other online communities’ emergence, it should become more manageable to plan an enjoyable and safe outdoor adventure that caters to everyone’s needs. These resources provide valuable information about trail difficulty levels, safety advice, and what to bring on your hike while connecting you with like-minded individuals.

How do you deal with unfriendly or discriminatory encounters while on a gay-friendly hiking trail?

Encountering discrimination while on a hiking trail can be an unsettling experience for anyone. It is important to have strategies in place to deal with such situations, particularly when you are part of the LGBTQ+ community and may face additional challenges. According to a survey conducted by The Outdoor Foundation, 40% of LGBTQ+ individuals reported that they felt uncomfortable participating in outdoor activities due to their sexual orientation or gender identity.

Having a plan in case of unfriendly encounters can help alleviate anxiety and ensure personal safety. Here are some tips for dealing with discriminatory behavior while on a gay-friendly hiking trail:

Stay calm and composed: Reacting aggressively or emotionally may escalate the situation.
Speak up: If someone says something offensive, calmly explain why it’s unacceptable and ask them to stop.
Document incidents: Write down any details about the encounter, including what was said and who was involved. This information could be helpful if you choose to report the incident later.

It is essential to remember that not all hiking trails offer safe spaces for members of the LGBTQ+ community. In fact, only 15% of national parks have specific policies protecting visitors from discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity (The National Park Service). Below is a table showing some common forms of discrimination experienced by hikers who identify as LGBTQ+, along with ways allies can support them.

In conclusion, being prepared for potential discriminatory encounters while hiking can provide peace of mind and protect physical safety. Utilizing strategies like staying calm, speaking up, and documenting incidents can make these experiences more manageable. Additionally, having supportive allies who stand up against hate speech and intervene during aggressive situations can create safer environments for all hikers.

What are some common misconceptions about LGBTQ+ individuals and outdoor recreation?

There are many misconceptions about the LGBTQ+ community and outdoor recreation. One common misconception is that LGBTQ+ individuals do not participate in outdoor activities, such as hiking or camping. This idea may stem from stereotypes of queer people being more interested in urban environments or nightlife. However, this is simply not true. In fact, many members of the LGBTQ+ community have a deep appreciation for nature and seek out opportunities to engage with it.

Another misconception is that LGBTQ+ individuals are not welcome in natural spaces. Unfortunately, discrimination towards queer people still exists in many areas of society, including outdoor recreation. Some hikers may feel uncomfortable sharing trails with those who identify as LGBTQ+, while others may make homophobic comments or gestures while on the trail. These experiences can be disheartening and even dangerous for members of the community.

Despite these challenges, there are many ways that outdoor enthusiasts can create safe spaces for all hikers regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity:

Educate yourself: Learn about issues facing the LGBTQ+ community so you can better understand how to be an ally.
Speak up: If you witness discriminatory behavior on the trail, speak up and let the person know that their actions or words are unacceptable.
Support organizations: There are many organizations working to promote diversity and inclusion in outdoor recreation – consider supporting them through donations or volunteer work.
Practice empathy: Put yourself in someone else’s shoes by listening to their stories and experiences without judgment.

To further illustrate the impact of these misconceptions and barriers faced by members of the LGBTQ+ community when participating in outdoor activities, we present a table outlining some statistics related to this issue:

In conclusion, while the outdoors can be a beautiful escape for many people, it is important to acknowledge that not everyone has equal access to these spaces. The misconceptions surrounding the relationship between the LGBTQ+ community and outdoor recreation contribute to discrimination and exclusion on hiking trails across the country. However, by educating ourselves, speaking up against discriminatory behavior, supporting inclusive organizations, and practicing empathy towards others’ experiences we can begin to create safer spaces for all hikers regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity.

Can non-LGBTQ+ individuals also enjoy gay-friendly hiking trails?

It may seem ironic to ask whether non-LGBTQ+ individuals can enjoy gay-friendly hiking trails, but it is a question that deserves consideration. The term “gay-friendly” might suggest exclusivity or bias towards the LGBTQ+ community, but in reality, these trails are open and welcoming to everyone who wishes to explore them.

To answer the question simply – yes, non-LGBTQ+ individuals can absolutely enjoy gay-friendly hiking trails. In fact, by doing so, they have an opportunity to show support for inclusivity and acceptance of all people regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity. Here are five reasons why:

Experiencing new perspectives: By exploring different types of communities and environments outside one’s own comfort zone, a person can broaden their world view and learn about diverse lifestyles.
Building empathy: Walking alongside members of the LGBTQ+ community on gay-friendly hiking trails provides opportunities for understanding and compassion towards those with whom we may not share common experiences.
Appreciating natural beauty: These trails offer scenic views and unique landscapes that appeal to anyone interested in nature-based activities.
Encouraging diversity: Supporting diversity means being willing to engage with others from various backgrounds and learning more about what makes us similar as well as different.
Creating positive social change: Joining forces with other like-minded individuals helps promote equality while challenging stereotypes and eradicating discrimination.

A table comparing traditional vs. gay-friendly hiking trail experiences might help illustrate this point further:

In summary, non-LGBTQ+ individuals can not only enjoy but also benefit from gay-friendly hiking trails. By exploring these environments, they have an opportunity to learn about the LGBTQ+ community while also supporting inclusivity and diversity in outdoor recreation.

How can we encourage more communities to create inclusive and welcoming outdoor spaces for all individuals?

“The great outdoors” has long been a source of inspiration and relaxation for individuals from all walks of life. However, not everyone feels welcome or included in outdoor spaces due to various reasons such as gender identity, sexual orientation, race, religion or ability status. This is why it is important to encourage more communities to create inclusive and welcoming outdoor spaces for all individuals.

One way to achieve this goal is through education and awareness campaigns that promote diversity and inclusivity in outdoor activities. By highlighting the benefits of diverse participation in outdoor recreation, we can encourage community leaders to take action towards creating safe and welcoming environments for marginalized groups.

Another approach is building partnerships with organizations that support inclusion of underrepresented groups in the outdoors. Programs like “Outdoor Afro”, “Latinx Hiking Collective” and “Disabled Hikers” are examples of initiatives that aim to increase access and representation of minority populations in nature-based activities. Partnering with these types of organizations can help expand outreach efforts across different demographics while also providing valuable resources and insights on how best to serve their specific needs.

To truly foster an environment where everyone feels valued and accepted, there must be a concerted effort by stakeholders at every level (local government officials, park staff, volunteers) to prioritize equity in decision-making processes related to public lands management. Investing resources into developing accessible trails, supporting cultural competency trainings for staff/volunteers, gathering feedback from diverse users about what they need/want from their parks are just some ways we can work towards achieving equitable access to nature.

Creating inclusive outdoor spaces requires collaboration between multiple stakeholders.
Education campaigns play a vital role in promoting diversity & inclusivity.
Partnerships with relevant organizations provide valuable insight & increased outreach opportunities.

In summary, creating inclusive and welcoming outdoor spaces requires a multi-faceted approach that involves education, partnerships, and equitable decision-making. By prioritizing diversity and inclusivity in public lands management, we can ensure that everyone has access to the many benefits that come with spending time in nature.

Discovering the serenity on gay hiking routes.

Imagine hiking on a trail surrounded by breathtaking vistas, the sun shining through trees and birds singing in the distance. Sounds relaxing, right? But what if you were also able to completely be yourself without fear of judgment or discrimination? That is exactly what many LGBTQ+ individuals are discovering on gay hiking routes. One such […]

Reviving Your Adventure Spirit With Gay Hiking Trails

Have you ever felt like your life has become stagnant? Do you miss the feeling of exploring new horizons and going on thrilling adventures that challenge both your body and mind? If so, then perhaps it’s time to revive your sense of adventure by taking a hike on one of the many gay hiking trails […]

Harnessing The Peaceful Vibes Of Nature Through Gay-Friendly Hiking

Nature is a constant source of inspiration for many individuals seeking peace and tranquility amidst the chaos of modern life. It has been observed that exposure to natural surroundings can lower stress levels, improve mental clarity, and promote physical well-being. Hiking is one such activity that allows people to connect with nature while experiencing its […]

Well hike from town to town along the traditional route, stopping to take in the beautiful architecture and natural beauty of this region of Spain. Enjoy the charming village of O Cebreiro where it seems that time has stopped. View the still-active medieval monastery at Samos. Well shout for joy when we reach Monte de Gozo and see Santiago de Compostela in the distance. Well make new friends and unforgettable memories on this journey of the mind, body, and spirit.

Spain's Camino de Santiago Gay Hiking Tour Highlights

• Witness the natural beauty of the Camino de Santiago

• Trek through narrow forest paths

• Marvel at the spires of the Cathedral of Santiago

• Visit medieval villages and churches

• Connect with nature and people from around the globe

• Travel back in time and soak in the history

• Dine with new friends on the journey

Spain's Camino de Santiago Gay Hiking Tour Itinerary

Well then move on to spend our afternoon surrounded by mountains in Ponferrada. Here, we will be given our pilgrims passports, so that we may receive our Compostela at the end of our journey. Well also take a tour around this historic city full of stunning medieval architecture. Later in the evening, we will make our way to the small, picturesque village of Cacabelos where we will spend the night in country-style accommodations.

Spain Camino de Santiago gay hiking tour - Villafranca

Well then make our way to the quaint town of Triacastela where we will spend the night.

Camino de Santiago gay hiking - Samos Monastery

On our way, we will pass through the town of Samos and see the monumental Monastery of San Xulian de Samos. This still-active Benedictine monastery was founded in the 6th century.

Camino de Santiago gay hiking tour - Portomarin

Portomarin is an interesting town with ancient roots it was once a Roman village but was moved brick by brick to its current location in the 1960s.

Camino de Santiago gay hiking tour - Serra de Ligonde

Well pass by several tiny hamlets and even cross the Mino River as we make our way to Palas del Rei.

One of our stops will be the colorful market town of Melide.

Well then continue on our forest path to Arzua where well be spending the night at a traditional 18th-century Galician manor.

Well continue our hike today until we reach the village of Amenal.

Well then make our way along the final stretch, reaching the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela.

Those who wish to continue the journey can stay an extra night in Santiago or make their way to the traditional ending point of the pilgrimage, Finisterre (the edge of the world).

Spain gay hiking Way of St James Galicia

DC Metro Area LGBTQ+Outdoors Club Since 1979

Adventuring is an outdoors club for the LGBTQ+ community in the Washington, DC Metro area. We’re all about enjoying the outdoors and being physically active.

Our LGBTQ+ volunteers lead hikes year-round. Camping, backpacking, and canoeing are examples of some of the other things we do when we have volunteers to lead them a nd, we love beginners, so don’t worry about any lack of experience.

Don’t have a car? Not to worry – our trip leaders coordinate carpools from Metro stations.

WALKING TOURS

Nope! We accept all fitness and experience levels. Our members run the gamut from “slow beginners” to “seasoned experts”. You will fit in.

Yes! We are open to everyone.

Membership is free! However there is a per-trip fee, ranging from $5 to $25 depending on the distance and duration of the event.

Yes! There are a few minor prerequisites. Please reach out to us at [email protected] to get started.”

We love pets! Rules change based on the location of the hike, so ask your hike leader before bringing Fido.

Generally no. Just your favorite footwear, a decent backpack to hold plenty of water and snacks. Your hike leader will give you specifics before each event.

Don't Miss Out On Future Events!

Meet our hike leaders.

Get In Touch

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Gay Travel Tours & Trips

Discover the best gay-friendly travel destinations for 2024/2025. Search countless adventures and vacations that travel to Latin America (Peru and Brazil), Europe (Slovenia and Croatia), Thailand and other great places. Search our gay tours departing in 2024/2025 and find the one that's right for you.

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19 gay travel trips with reviews.

Christmas & New Year

Best Of Nepal Gay Tour | 15 Days

Best trip to experience overall Nepal. We group of 6 people family booked this trip to experience overall glimpses of Nepal and we really enjoyed this trip. We experienced Nepali culture, food, people and places. One day Everest experience flight was more adventurous. It was really scenic flight to see Everest. Hiking of Dhampus village gave us an opportunity to experience local village, had conversations with people. Our kid really enjoyed more than us. Our guide Arjun was knowledgeable and made our trip worthy. Shree helped us in booking procedure as well as guide us to make this trip worthy. Overall, those who want to experience Nepal then this trip is one which gives wonderful experience of Nepal.

Pride Sailing in Croatia (from Split to Dubrovnik) - 8 Days

Pride Sailing in Croatia (from Dubrovnik to Split)

Hiking & Trekking
Mountain Hikes
In-depth Cultural

Annapurna Gay Hiking - LGBTQ+ trek to Annapurna

$LGBTQ vacation to exquisite and picturesque places in South Africa -\"Group special\" Tour$

LGBTQ vacation to exquisite and picturesque places in South Africa -"Group special"

Gay Naples, Capri and the Amalfi Coast

Gay Exclusive Luxury Matera and Puglia Vacation

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Kathmandu Gay Tour - LGBTQ+ Nepal Tour Tour

Coach / Bus

Kathmandu Gay Tour - LGBTQ+ Nepal Tour

Gay Sicily Tour

Pride Sailing in Greece (Athens)

Beaches and Reefs (Pride With Sailing, 15 Days)

€100 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Beaches and Reefs (Pride, 15 Days)

Ultimate Australia (Pride With Sailing, 24 Days)

Pride Sailing in Greece (Ionian Sea)

What people love about gay travel tours, destinations.

Mediterranean (11)
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5 Best Gay Travel Companies 2024/2025

International Versions

Deutsch: LGBT Reisen
Français: Circuits Voyage gay
Español: Circuitos y Viajes Gay
Nederlands: Homo-Reizen Rondreizen & Tours

The ultimate guide to LGBTQ+ hikes and outdoor groups

Hiking is more popular than ever especially after living through a global pandemic, which forced us to deal with self-isolation, causing us to crave nature even more. But how LGBTQ is it? Dani Heinrich explores.

Nature helps us deal with anxiety and stress, it helps us to relax and to slow down, according to Harvard Medical School research .

National Parks have been more crowded than ever , and so many people opted for a vacation in nature that it caused a campervan and RV shortage across the U.S. Outdoor tour companies felt the effects of the surge, too.

Dani Heinrich at Arches National Park in Grand County, Utah. (Photo Credit: Dani Heinrich)

Outdoor Activities for Queer Travelers on the Rise At The Venture Out Project (TVOP), an organization that arranges backpacking and wilderness trips for queer and transgender outdoor enthusiasts, most of their trips sold out before the summer even started. “After being stuck at home for over a year, some of us with unaccepting family, I think a lot of queer folks could really use some queer joy,” said Anna Seilier, Communications Specialist for TVOP.

Connecting with LGBTQIA+ Hiking Groups and Outdoor Organizations Over the past few years, more queer hiking groups and organizations have popped up. Social media has been a great tool for typically underrepresented groups to connect and to find each other, reaching millions of people all over the U.S. LGBTQIA+ hiking organizations aim to educate, to create a sense of community, and to get people who don’t have any hikers in their social circles to live out their passion and offer them a support system.

Regardless of your skill level – experienced hiker or a newbie nature lover – joining a hiking organization can be rewarding for a lot of reasons: you get to enjoy the outdoors with like-minded people, and you connect with other queers who share your love for nature and hiking. Along the way, you also learn fundamental outdoors skills, the right gear for long hikes and camping trips, and how to make your first overnight camping trip a success.

If you don’t fit the bill of the stereotypical hiker – usually a fit, straight, white cis man – and you find the thought of heading out into the woods by yourself intimidating, check out the following LGBTQIA+ hiking groups & organizations.

Out There Adventures Elyse Rylander founded Out There Adventures , a non-profit adventure education organization in Seattle. She focuses primarily on LGBTQIA+ youth trips and is committed to improve the quality life for queer youth through educational activities. Out There Adventures offers kayaking, climbing and multi-day hiking trips.

Venture Out Project (TVOP) This organization based in New England and the Pacific Northwest offers wilderness trips for LGBTQIA+ hikers. They offer day hikes, campouts, river rafting trips, youth- and women-centered camping trips as well as hike for people of color. The Venture Out Project ’s most popular age range is 25 to 35, with 36- to 45-year-olds close behind. It recently launched a US-wide volunteer program in every U.S. state. Keep an eye on their Instagram account to find out how to sign up for TVOP road trip events in your area.

Unlikely Hikers Jenny Bruso, a queer hiker from Portland, Ore., created the Unlikely Hikers . She organizes group hikes that she wants to be 100% inclusive: gay, transgender, disabled, non-binary, people of color, and indigenous. Everyone is welcome! Unlikely Hikers has chapters across the U.S. and you can find out about upcoming hikes in your area by signing up for their newsletter .

QPOC Hikers In Seattle, native New Yorker Jasmine Maisonet wanted to create an outdoor community for LGBTQIA+ people of color in the Pacific Northwest, which Maisonet calls home now. QPOC Hikers offers a monthly group hike as well as an annual overnight backpacking trip to Barclay Lake, Wash. You can sign up for hikes on the QPOC Hikers Facebook page or the QPOC Hikers’ website .

How to Find Local LGBTQIA+ Hiking Groups in Your Area Many cities in the U.S. have smaller queer hiking groups, which you can usually find on MeetUp.com . You can find the largest gay and lesbian hiking groups listed here , but a quick search for LGBTQ+ or queer groups in your area will show you hiking groups near you. Larger cities like New York City often have various groups, for example LGBTQIA hikers , Backpacking Gay Men of NYC , and Gay Men’s Over 40 Hiking Group .

Facebook is another great resource to find queer hiking groups near you – make sure you select “groups” when you do a search. Local groups will be shown first, and most post group hike events.

The LGBTQIA+ Outdoor Groups Map Two organizations, the Wilderness Society and Pride Outside, teamed up to build an interactive map that displays all LGBTQ+ outdoors groups in the U.S. to connect queer nature enthusiasts and to find a local group in their area. If you run your own queer outdoor group, you can add it if it’s not listed on the map.

This article first appeared on our sister site Vacationer .

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Chile: Active Santiago, Atacama & Patagonia

An lgbtq+ chile adventure through arid deserts, scenic terrains, and spectacular santiago..

Our big gay Chile adventure offers an unforgettable taste of South America’s wild west. Soak up sensational Santiago, the country’s capital and beating heart, then visit the Atacama Desert, known for being the driest place on Earth. Afterwards, head south to tackle one of the world’s most sought-after hiking destinations, Patagonia. It’s so famously rugged, the world’s largest outdoor clothing company is named after it. We’ll spend 4 days in Torres del Paine National Park hiking from campsite to campsite along the same trails used by guanacos and prowling pumas. This epic journey concludes on the shores of Grey Lake, renowned for its sweeping vistas and massive glaciers.

Quick Facts

Who's it for? LGBTQ+ folks, friends and family
Countries visited: Chile
Duration: 9 Nights/10 Days
Starts in: Santiago, Chile
Ends in: Puerto Natales, Chile
Group size: Min 6; max 16
Accommodations: 3- & 4-Star+ Hotels, Camping, Simple Lodge
Physical Rating: 4/5
Theme: Active
Activities: Cycling, Food Tours, Hiking, Hot Springs, Swimming, Wildlife
Trek unforgettable landscapes in the Atacama Desert
Float in Chile’s salt-dense lagoons
Discover Chile’s growing LGBTQ+ scene in Santiago
Soak in Puritama natural hot springs
Trek one of the world’s most rugged landscapes alongside a group of ambitious gay hikers
Visit Torres Del Paine National Park and hike to its namesake “towers”
Spot local wildlife like soaring condors, grazing guanacos, or even elusive pumas
Marvel at massive glaciers and soaring snow-capped peaks
Safely challenge yourself on more industrious trails such as the French Valley trail
Go “off the grid” and camp overnight in a lush old-growth forest

DATES AND PRICES

Tour Price: $7,295.00 per person
Single Supplement - 8 nights only - see important info page: $1,050.00 per person
Payment Terms: $750 Deposit - Balance Due 60 Days Before Departure
Guides and Hosts for this trip: Alf Barba
Tour Price: $7,995.00 per person
Single Supplement - 8 nights only - see important info page: $1,200.00 per person
Payment Terms: $750 Deposit - Balance Due 90 Days before trip

CHOOSE YOUR DEPARTURE

We can’t wait to help you plan an awesome adventure, but due to a high level of fake inquiries we now record your IP address when you submit an inquiry. This helps local authorities identify and prevent harassment against Out Adventures, or any intended recipients.

Hola! Welcome to Santiago. And thank you for joining our big gay Chilean adventure! Upon arrival at Santiago International Airport, a private transfer will take you to the hotel. Chile’s capital is a vibrant city full of character with thriving arts and culture, a trendy restaurant scene, and lively nightlife. At 2pm, please join us in the hotel lobby for our Group Meeting followed by an afternoon tour around Santiago via foot and the city’s metro system. Together we’ll pass by some of the city’s most iconic architectural gems including “La Moneda” government palace, the Plaza de Armas and Santiago’s Cathedral. After an afternoon of walking we’ll be hungry for our welcome dinner where we’ll savour the region’s fine local cuisine and its distinctive Chilean pisco (a type of brandy).

This morning we have a very early start to catch our flight to Calama, then transfer to San Pedro de Atacama. Lunch is optional at our hotel. Take a few hours to explore this oasis amidst the world’s DRIEST desert. In the afternoon we’ll reconvene for a sunset hike through Moon Valley. Our trek begins within the Salt Mountain Range known for its abstract rock formations. We’ll then make our way to the magical Three Marys view point to enjoy panoramic views of this national reserve and the Andes Mountain Range. After the hike we’ll be transferred to a local restaurant for dinner.

Length of hike: 3 hours Maximum altitude: 2,600 meters above sea level.

Please note: Today’s flight is not included in the cost of the tour. Please see Important Information for a special note on purchasing domestic airfare.

Buenos dias! Today, we’ll start with another desert hike that will take approximately 3 hours. The adventure begins in Las Cornisas, known for its distinct red tones and breathtaking rock formations. This area is renowned for its amazing geomorphic and topographic formations where rocky natural sculptures and dunes abound. We’ll have a box lunch in tow for a quick bite to eat, then continue today’s adventure with a bike ride to some briny lagoons north of the Atacama Saltpan. We’ll float in Laguna Piedra, thanks to its salt-dense waters, then walk a few minutes to Cejar Lagoon. Dinner tonight is optional, and later we’ll have the option of star gazing (not included, weather dependent). As the driest place on earth, the night sky from Atacama Desert is second to none, so why not spend tonight observing splendid nebulas and constellations while wine, hot cocoa and sweet snacks are served?

Today’s biking distance: 36 Kilometers/22.3 Miles round-trip Pedalling level: Moderate-Difficult

Feeling spritely this morning? We’ll have an optional early-morning excursion to visit the Tatio Geysers. Otherwise, our day begins around 8am when we’ll begin hiking towards Termas de Puritama. Upriver along the Puritama, we’ll discover how the riverbed is the ideal environment for this region’s endemic flora, like the Foxtail, Ojalar, Tikara and Cardon cactus. Our trek ends around noon at the Puritama Thermal Springs where both groups will reconvene and enjoy a boxed lunch together. Be sure to unwind in the mineral-rich, 33°C (90° F) water while a symphony of birds like the Andean Ibis and Yellow-Finch serenade us. En route we’ll also see Guatin Canyon, where a lukewarm stream flows. Tonight we’ll have the option to enjoy dinner at the hotel or take a transfer into town (not covered) to eat at a local restaurant.

Length of hike: 2 hours Maximum altitude: 3,200 meters above sea level

After breakfast we head back to Santiago (2-hour flight) for a final day in the country’s capital. The afternoon is free to enjoy the sights, sounds, and culture of this world-class South American city. Before saying farewell to civilization and heading to remote Patagonia, we’ll have a delicious dinner in a local restaurant.

Please note: Today’s flight is not included in the cost of the tour. Please see Important Information for a special note on purchasing domestic airfare.

Up and at ‘em! This morning we’ll fly out very early to Puerto Natales. We will likely arrive early afternoon depending on the availability of flights. Upon arrival we’ll store bags with reception as our rooms likely won’t be ready, then take a short orientation walk of this small and sleepy port city. The afternoon is free for us to relax and pack our small bags for the next portion of the tour or perhaps an optional kayaking excursion if the temperamental weather is cooperating. This evening we’ll enjoy a local Patagonian dinner in town.

IMPORTANT PACKING NOTE: Tomorrow we’ll begin the camping & refugio portion of our tour. You must prepare a smaller pack with enough clothing and layers for 3 full days of hiking along with any daily essentials and personal items you require. You will be required to carry this pack from campsite to campsite—there are no porters on this tour. The rest of our luggage will be transferred to Hotel Lago Grey and will not be accessible until Day 9.

Another early day awaits with a 2.5-hour drive to Torres del Paine. Once we’ve arrived, we’ll drop our bags before we stretch out our legs on the beautiful hike towards the park’s namesake granite “towers”. Upon arrival at the towers, we’ll have some time to soak up the majestic view and gaze at the turquoise lagoon before heading to camp for dinner.

Ascent: 740m/2427ft Descent: 380m/1245ft Distance: 15.5km/9.6mi Approximate hiking time: 6.5 hours

This morning we’ll rise early to get the most out of our day. We’ll begin with a quick transfer to Pudeto Lake for a catamaran ride to the start of the French Valley trail. This scenic hike is well known for its sweeping views of snow- and glacier-capped mountains. The trek itself will be challenging and long with quite an impressive incline. Once we descend from the hike, we’ll arrive at our cozy but basic accommodation, Refugio Paine Grande. At this lodge we’ll be staying in bunk beds with 6 to a room and shared facilities. Unfortunately, there are no single supplements available this evening.

Ascent: 516m/1692ft Descent: 875m/2874ft Distance: 22.3km/14mi Approximate hiking time: 9 hours

Good news, after yesterday’s tenacious trek, today will feel like a breeze by comparison. In total, we’ll be hiking for only 4-ish hours with very little incline/decline. We’ll begin with a proper breakfast before setting off towards Glacier Grey. At 30m/100ft high and 6km/3.7mi wide, it’s one of the most spectacular glaciers in South America’s Wild West. Our hike concludes on the shores of Grey Lake where we’ll ferry to our final accommodation, Hotel Lago Grey. We’ll have some time to rest our weary feet, shower and unpack/repack before a rewarding farewell dinner.

Ascent: 204m/672ft Descent: 185m/607ft Distance: 11km/6.8mi Approximate hiking time: 4 hours

Today is the final day of the tour. After breakfast, a group transfer will be provided to the Puerto Natales Airport, or our Puerto Natales hotel for those extending their stay. With that in mind, we ask that you contact our team before purchasing your flight out of Puerto Natales.

GUIDES AND HOSTS

What’s included.

An LGBTQ+ Out Adventures host and an English-speaking local guide throughout
Arrival transfer to the Out Adventures joining point hotel
Departure transfer from the Out Adventures Finishing Point Hotel (group transfer)
All land transportation in comfortable, air conditioned vehicles with bottled water available on the bus
Breakfast daily, 5 box lunches, 7 dinners
Gratuities for drivers, day/city guides and all included activities
All included activities and experiences mentioned in the itinerary
Tents, sleeping bag and mat while camping
A $50 USD Rainbow Railroad donation to help resettle LGBTQ+ refugees. Read more here.

WHAT ISN’T INCLUDED?

International airfare
Domestic airfare (details will be provided when the official Trip Confirmation is sent to group)
Entry visa costs
Travel insurance is mandatory for all travellers. Click here for more details.
Gratuities for Host ($70 – $100 USD)
Meals and activities not mentioned in the itinerary
Sleeping bag liner
Towels (for showering) at Torres Central camping or Paine Grande refugio
All optional activities mentioned/suggested
Alcoholic beverages at lunch and dinner, unless otherwise indicated
COVID-19 rapid tests, or any expenses related to a guest contracting COVID-19. Click here for more details.

LGBT INFO FOR Chile

Important information, examples of accommodations, photos from this adventure, steve & andrew.

Great location with super fun guides. The exercise helped us enjoy the great food and wine!

It was a terrific 9-day adventure, packed with interesting activities and places to see. I particularly enjoyed the opportunities for hiking and biking.

Best group trip I’ve taken. The gay Chile tour itinerary is amazing, great group of guys, special extras like champagne in the dessert. Amazing!

Out Adventures gay Chile tour was well organized with plenty of diversions while including an excellent background, and knowledge of the country.

Amazing! First time to South America and I don’t know why I waited so long. It was a more active trip which made it more satisfying.

Small fun group was ideal, right blend of activity and exploring and good mix among those.

Dustin B & Nate G

Very well-organized and fun to be with a group of gays

Jason O & John S

We absolutely loved this trip. The places we stayed, the food we ate, and the activities we did were all incredible. But more than that, the people (Alf and Adrian) were the best. They were warm and inviting yet never did we feel lost or disorganized. They made traveling through Chile an incredible experience.

Featured Posts

Stays that slay: chile.

A preview of the hotels Out Adventures has selected for our gay Chile tour to Santiago, Atacama, and Patagonia.

11 Gay Hikes For Hardy Homos

Sweat and schlep on one of Out Adventures’ epic international Gay Hikes. From the Peruvian Andes to exhausting Everest Base Camp.

The Ultimate Guide To Buying Hiking Boots

Out Adventures’ ultimate gay guide to purchasing hiking boots.

Related Tours

Oct. 24 - Nov. 2, 2024
Oct. 23 - Nov. 1, 2025

Ask a Question

Who's it for.

While these trips typically attract gay men, all genders are welcome, and we encourage friends and family to join the fun as well.

Accommodations

All accommodations on Out Adventures tours include breakfast and are located in areas central to our activities. All amenities are examples only, and may differ from hotel to hotel.

3-Star Hotels: Clean and comfortable rooms along with basic amenities such as a simple restaurant/breakfast area. Customer service is good, but offers no frills.

4-Star+ Hotels: Comfortable and well-decorated rooms along with quality amenities such as a stylish restaurant and/or bar, a fitness centre, and a pool/sauna. Customer service is excellent, and there is usually a concierge.

Camping: Sleeping bags, 2-person tents and insulated matts will be provided but you may wish to rent or purchase a sleeping bag liner. Bathrooms and showers are communal, towels are not provided.

Simple Lodge: A VERY basic lodge with simple bunk beds in shared dorms with 6 to a room, sleeping bags are included. You may wish to rent or purchase a sleeping bag liner. The space is heated with a slow-burning wood fire stove. Bathrooms and showers are communal, towels are not provided.

Physical Rating: 4 - DEMANDING

4 – Demanding

Hiking is a major component of this tour and can range from 3 hours to 9 hours per day, sometimes at high altitude.
Other included activities such as biking and paddling may be mixed in
Suitable for a good fitness level

This trip is fully booked but cancellations occur. If you’d like to be contacted if space opens up, please click “Book Now”, select the appropriate departure and you will be prompted to provide limited information.

If you are a solo traveller willing to share a room with another solo traveller, please select Shared/Twin Room when booking this tour.

If you are a solo traveller interested in booking a private room, please select single supplement when booking this tour (based on availability). If you are willing to share a room with another solo traveller, please select Solo Shared.

This departure is closed and a wait list is not available.

This departure is almost sold out. Book now to guarantee your spot!

This departure is open for booking!

This trip is available but we are close to departure and will need to confirm services such as hotels and activities before confirming you on the trip. The process can take up to 5 business days. If you are seriously interested in this trip, please complete the On Request Booking form and one of our team members will get back to you with next steps.

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Gay travel and tours on all seven continents!

Spain – Hiking the Camino de Santiago Gay Tour

2024 May 28 to June 8 – Booking Closed

Prices listed are per person: Shared Room: $7498 Private Room: $8798

Physical Challenge

Join us on this gay Spain hiking tour and follow in the footsteps trod by countless others since the 9th century. Hike through gorgeous mountain landscapes, visit medieval towns and obtain your Compostela certificate of completion. During the Middle Ages, the Camino was a sacred pilgrimage route for millions, and one of the few times that rich and poor were side by side. Enjoy the journey with HE Travel and meet a variety of people along the way.

Witness the natural beauty of the Camino de Santiago Trek through narrow forest paths Marvel at the spires of the Cathedral of Santiago Visit medieval villages and churches Connect with nature and people from around the globe Travel back in time and soak in the history Dine with new friends on the journey

The Camino de Santiago or Way of St. James is a pilgrimage that has been undertaken by millions of people since the middle ages. This spiritual hiking journey will start in Leon, where we will transfer to the city of Ponferrada. It is here that we will obtain our pilgrim passports and begin our trek. We’ll hike from town to town along the traditional route. We will stop to take in the beautiful architecture and natural beauty of this region of Spain. We’ll see the charming village of O’Cebreiro where it seems that time has stopped. We’ll see the still-active medieval monastery at Samos. We’ll shout for joy when we reach Monte de Gozo and see Santiago de Compostela in the distance. We’ll make new friends and unforgettable memories on this journey of the mind, body, and spirit.

We will be hiking many miles on this tour. You should be physically fit enough to walk multiple days in a row and up to 18 miles in a single day. There will be a support team with you for the duration of the tour if needed.

Day 1: León

Spain Hiking the Camino de Santiago Leon

The gay hiking tour will begin with guests being picked up from the airport or train station and transferred to our hotel. We’ll have the evening free in this city brimming with interesting architecture and history.

Day 2: León / Ponferrada / Cacabelos

Spain Hiking the Camino de Santiago Templar

This morning, we’ll be picked up and transferred from León to our next stop on the Camino, the town of Ponferrada (about two hours away). On our way there, we’ll stop at the Cruz de Ferro (Iron Cross). This monument with mysterious origins — some believe it was placed here by St. James himself — is a must-see for all who find themselves on this unforgettable journey. Next, we’ll take in the views and enjoy our lunch on the banks of the nearby river.

We’ll then move on to spend our afternoon surrounded by mountains in Ponferrada. Here, we will be given our pilgrims’ passports, so that we may receive our Compostela at the end of our journey. We’ll also take a tour around this historic city full of stunning medieval architecture. Later in the evening, we will make our way to the small, picturesque village of Cacabelos where we will spend the night in country-style accommodations.

Day 3: Cacabelos to Villafranca del Bierzo 11.2 mi

Spain Hiking the Camino de Santiago Villafranca del Bierzo

Today we’ll begin our hike by making our way through the center of the El Bierzo region toward the historic capital, Villafranca del Bierzo. This beautiful region is surrounded by mountains and is well known for its wines, which we will be sampling. Our destination today has been a resting place for pilgrims on the Camino de Santiago since the 9th century. We’ll follow in their footsteps by spending the night in the heart of this historic town.

Day 4: Villafranca del Bierzo to O Cebreiro 18.6 mi

Spain Hiking the Camino de Santiago O Cebreiro

Today we’ll make one of our tougher hikes to the higher elevation village of O Cebreiro. This village has held great importance for pilgrims for centuries as it is the home of the Galician Holy Grail. This village is also dotted with stone huts called “pallozas”. These pre-roman homes date as far back as 1,000 years ago, making visitors truly feel as though they have stepped back in time. There will also be an optional pick-up point at the 13th mile in the small town of Herrarias. This evening, we will spend the night in a cozy hotel in O’Cebreiro and rest up for our next hike.

Day 5: O’Cebreiro to Triacastela 13 mi

Spain Hiking the Camino de Santiago Alto do Poio

Our route today will take us higher, through Alto do Poio where we’ll get a close look at the pilgrim statue. This high point on our journey is the perfect place to take in the stunning views of the Galician countryside. We’ll then make our way to the quaint town of Triacastela where we will spend the night.

Day 6: Triacastela to Sarria 11.8 mi

Spain Hiking the Camino de Santiago Samos

We’ll be walking through serene forest paths today as we make our way to Sarria. On our way, we will pass through the town of Samos and see the monumental Monastery of San Xulian de Samos. This still-active Benedictine monastery was founded in the 6th century.

Day 7: Sarria to Portomarin 13.7 mi

Spain Hiking the Camino de Santiago Portomarin

Our hike today will be easier and we’ll be passing by many small villages as we make our way to the town of Portomarin. Along the way, we’ll be able to take in the striking architecture of Romanesque churches and the lush landscape. Portomarin is an interesting town with ancient roots— it was once a Roman village but was moved brick by brick to its current location in the 1960s.

Day 8: Portomarin to Palas de Rei 15.5 mi

Spain Hiking the Camino de Santiago Mino River

Today we will be making our way up to Serra de Ligonde, walking on forest paths and passing through farmlands. We’ll pass by several tiny hamlets and even cross the Mino River as we make our way to Palas del Rei.

Day 9: Palas del Rei to Arzua 17.4 mi

Spain Hiking the Camino de Santiago Melide

We’ll be back on the forest paths today, passing through small medieval towns on our way to Arzua. One of our stops will be the colorful market town of Melide. We’ll then continue on our forest path to Arzua where we’ll be spending the night at a traditional 18th-century Galician manor.

Day 10: Arzua to Amenal 14.3 mi

Spain Hiking the Camino de Santiago Fountain of Youth

Today, we’ll continue our hike through the beautiful woodland and streams. We’ll come across the hamlet of Santa Irene, featuring a chapel and the Fountain of Eternal Youth and we’ll also pass through the charming enclave of A Rúa. We’ll continue our hike today until we reach the village of Amenal.

Day 11: Amenal to Santiago 9.9 mi

Spain Hiking the Camino de Santiago Monte de Goz

Today, our first stop will be Lavacolla which is thought to have gained its name from the fact that pilgrims in the Middle Ages washed in the nearby stream before reaching Santiago de Compostela. We’ll then head to Monte de Gozo (Hill of Joy) where we’ll be able to see the Cathedral. This is the place where traditionally, pilgrims shout in joy at seeing the end of the journey. We’ll then make our way along the final stretch, reaching the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela.

Day 12: Farewell or carry on to Finisterre or have an extra night in Santiago.

Spain Hiking the Camino de Santiago Finisterre

Today we will say farewell to this amazing journey and head to the airport. Those who wish to continue the journey may stay an extra night in Santiago or make their way to the traditional ending point of the pilgrimage, Finisterre (the edge of the world).

Price Includes

Price includes: Comfortable B&B accommodation for 11 nights; Services of a full-time bilingual tour guide; All breakfasts and lunches, and 8 dinners; Beer/Wine; Support vehicle and driver to transport luggage to destination; All entrances shown as included in the itinerary; Transfer to Santiago de Compostela airport or train station at the end of the tour; Services of a knowledgeable HE Travel tour host (with a minimum number of participants); HE Travel provides complimentary Medical & Evacuation Insurance for every US Resident on our group tours who does not have other coverage.

Not included: Transportation to and from start/endpoints; Arrival transfer from the airport to hotel; 3 dinners; liquor at meals; souvenirs, snacks; Gratuities for guides and host.

We strongly recommend the purchase of Trip Cancellation and Interruption insurance to protect your vacation investment in case of unforeseen circumstances such as flight delay, illness, or injury. Click Here to learn more about our Insurance partner.

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