Some of the largest and most unspoilt tracts of wilderness on earth, Patagonia’s temperate rainforests, towering mountain ranges, grasslands, fjords, lake and rivers are home to more than 500 wildlife species, making it one of the most diverse and fauna-rich regions in South America.

Birdwatchers, wildlife photographers and wildlife lovers alike come to this vast natural playground in the hopes of spotting condors, penguins, guanacos, pumas, whales and other creatures, but Patagonia’s harsh continental climate, challenging topography and the encroachment of estancias (ranches) on some habitats mean that some of the more elusive beasts may only be spotted in specific areas at specific times of year.

Wondering which creatures should make your bucket list? Here’s our guide to the region’s most iconic animals and birds,  and where best to find them.

Condors are most commonly spotted in the Andes

The national bird of Bolivia, Chile, Colombia and Ecuador, the Andean condor is one of the largest birds of Earth, with a massive 3m (10-foot) wingspan that puts it ahead of its Californian cousins in terms of sheer size. Contrary to popular belief that once saw them hunted by sheep ranch owners, condors are scavengers – giant vultures – rather than birds of prey, and thus not capable of carrying off livestock. Instead, they act as a clean-up crew, picking over the carcasses of dead animals.

Bald-headed, black, with distinctive white feathery patches on their wings, condors are most commonly spotted in the Andes, in Torres del Paine, Perito Moreno, Los Glaciares, Patagonia and Cerro Castillo national parks, where they take advantage of the strong air currents to keep themselves aloft. They live near the coast as well, where there are strong ocean breezes and are frequently spotted circling above Parque Nacional Monte de León.

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The best place to see Pumas is Torres del Paine

Kenya and Tanzania have lions, India and Siberia have tigers, the Amazon Basin is home to the jaguar, and Patagonia has the puma. Once hunted almost to extinction, the Patagonian mountain lion has made a miraculous recovery over the past few decades, due to the protective measures in place and the numerous national parks, teeming with food. The largest land carnivore in the region, the tan-colored puma is a powerful predator that can bring down prey much bigger than itself.

Puma-spotting tops the list for most wildlife lovers, but since the big cats are nocturnal and shy, sightings are few and far between. The best place to see them is Parque Nacional Torres del Paine, where there’s a large and thriving population,  thanks mainly to an abundance of guanacos and wild horses. In fact, this writer spotted a very large puma while hiking there solo – an exhilarating yet terrifying experience, despite the fact that there have been no puma attacks on humans in Patagonia in decades. The big cats have also been seen at Parque Nacional Patagonia and Parque Nacional Los Glaciares.

Guanacos are particularly numerous in Tierra del Fuego

A close relative of the domesticated llama and alpaca and South America’s largest camelid (though without a hump!), the guanaco can be seen in large numbers in Patagonia year-round. A pale tawny color, with long, graceful necks and legs, huge eyelashes and soft lips adept at finding nourishment among Patagonia’s thorny scrubland, guanacos are social, alert and inquisitive animals that tend to live in small herds, composed of up to ten females, a dominant male and their offspring. In winter, they band together in much larger groups.

The herds currently roaming Patagonia’s steppe and forest represent a mere fraction of the guanacos that once inhabited these grasslands. Their numbers were severely depleted after the arrival of Europeans, and while it’s no longer legal to hunt them, they still have to compete with sheep for food.

Guanacos are particularly numerous in Tierra del Fuego, where there are no pumas, but sightings are also frequent in Parque Nacional Monte de León – and pretty much guaranteed in Parque Nacional Torres del Paine, where they number at least 2000, and Parque Nacional Patagonia, known as the Serengeti of the Southern Cone. They share a habitat with the Patagonian armadillo, which like to burrow near lakes, and the swift-footed ñandú (rhea).

The best time to visit Patagonia

See whales between December and March

Four whale species can be seen in Patagonia’s coastal waters: humpback whales, orcas, southern right whales and – very rarely – blue whales. From December to March, Whalesound and Solo Expediciones run dedicated whale-watching tours from Punta Arenas to Francisco Coloane Marine Park in the southern Chilean fjords, where humpback whales, en route between Antarctica and the Arctic, stop to feed and perform their spectacular breaching displays.

Orcas can be spotted around Argentina’s Peninsula Valdés, hunting seals and sea lions, but you’re much more likely to catch sight of endangered southern right whales – between April and December, more than 2000 of them come to the sheltered bays around the peninsula to breed and raise their young. Regular boat trips depart from the village of Puerto Pirámides.

During these boat trips, you’re also likely to see dusky dolphins – small, playful dolphins that like swimming in the wake of boats and engaging in acrobatic displays, leaping high above the water. The black-and-white Commerson’s dolphin is very frequently seen during routine ferry crossings of the Magellan Strait, from mainland Patagonia to Tierra del Fuego; small pods often follow the ferry. As for the world’s largest mammal: With luck on your side, you could spot a blue whale if you happen to be on a ferry in northern Chilean Patagonia, en route to the island of Chiloé. There have been occasional sightings in the Gulf of Corcovado as well.

Endemic vizcacha make their homes in Reserva Nacional Jeinmeni

Adorably cute, extremely agile and looking like a cross between a large rabbit and a chinchilla with a longer, curlier tail, vizcacha (sometimes translated as ‘bunny-squirrel’) are usually spotted bounding up steep slopes. Reddish-gray in color and blending in well with their mountainous habitat, these large rodents are endemic to South America and live in large burrowing colonies.

In southern Chile, you’re likely to spot them among the lunar landscape of Reserva Nacional Jeinimeni, while in Argentina, the plains vizcacha inhabiting the pampas are seen as pests that compete with livestock for food.

The extremely endangered huemul will be tricky to find

Native to the mountains and periglacial scrubland of southern Chile and Argentina, the huemul is a notoriously shy deer that’s critically endangered – there are only 1500 or so left in the wild, the majority of them in Chile. The stocky southern deer is Chile’s national animal; it even appears on the country’s coat of arms, alongside the condor.

You would be incredibly lucky to spot one, though there have been occasional sightings in Parque Nacional Patagonia, Parque Nacional Torres del Paine and Reserva Natural Los Huemules. The latter is a private nature reserve in southern Argentina, near El Chaltén; its founders hope that habitat preservation and scientific study will help increase the deers' numbers.

Spot Chilean flamingos at Laguna Seca

When we think of flamingos, we usually think of the tropics, and Patagonia seems an unlikely home for these graceful stilt-legged birds. Paler than the Caribbean flamingo but pinker than the Greater flamingo, Chilean flamingos live in large flocks and are often spotted during the southern summer on the approach to Parque Nacional Torres del Paine – a flash of pink in the shallows of the pale-blue Laguna Amarga.

They also inhabit the lakes and lagoons of Parque Nacional Patagonia; if you're driving through the Chacabuco Valley in the direction of the border with Argentina, you can see them in large numbers at Laguna Seca.

Penguin chicks hatch in November and December

What’s black and white and outnumbers Patagonia’s human inhabitants almost two to one? If you’ve answered “penguin”, you’re absolutely right! From October to April, Patagonia hosts around 3.4 million Magellanic penguins as they swim back to their burrows from the coast of Brazil to nest and lay eggs. Chicks hatch in November and December, so if you visit then, you’re likely to get glimpses of these beaked balls of fluff.

The biggest Magellanic penguin colonies are in Punta Tombo, Argentina, reachable via driving or tour bus, and Isla Magdalena, Chile, accessed via half-day boat tours, operated by Turismo Comapa, from Punta Arenas. The Magellanic penguin is by far the most common penguin you’re likely to spot along Patagonia’s coastline.

That said, further south, Isla Martillo – in the Beagle Channel near Ushuaia, reachable via boat tour with Tangol Tours – is also home to Gentoo penguins, while rockhopper penguins can be seen along the coast east of Argentina’s Puerto Deseado. There's also a small king penguin colony on the main island of Tierra del Fuego, near Bahía Inútil, that's grown in size over the past few years, and it's the only place outside the Falklands, South Georgia and Antarctica where you can actually see these magnificent birds. Chile Nativo runs full-day tours from Punta Arenas.

Tips for getting around Patagonia by plane, bus, car and boat

The introduced beaver builds dams in Isla Navarino

In 1946, the Argentinian military came up with the bright idea of importing ten pairs of Canadian beavers from Manitoba and letting them loose in Tierra del Fuego, in the hopes of kicking off a lucrative fur trade and attracting more settlers to the sparsely populated southernmost region. With no natural predators to hold them back, the beaver population spread like wildfire – they number at least 70,000 today, and cause as much damage to Fuegian forests as wildfires.

If you’re looking to spot these industrious water-loving rodents, you’re likely to come across their dams and large stretches of ghost forest where thriving lenga (southern beech) used to grow – particularly if you go trekking on Chile’s Isla Navarino or take to the hiking trails in Parque Nacional Tierra del Fuego near Ushuaia.

Make it happen

Wildlife-spotting in Patagonia is really easy, and unless you’ve got pumas or huemuls on your bucket list, you don’t even need a dedicated guide to make it happen. You’re likely to see ñandú (rhea) while driving Patagonia’s traffic-light roads; guanacos and endemic birds, such as the Magellanic woodpecker and rufous-tailed hawks, while hiking the trails of national parks and nature reserves; and a wealth of sea birds, seals and sea lions just by visiting Chile’s and Argentina’s coastlines.

However, if you’re coming to Patagonia specifically to see the region’s rarer and harder-to-spot creatures, it’s worth looking into multi-day wildlife safaris offered by operators such as Chile Nativo, Swoop Patagonia, EcoCamp Patagonia, Eagle-Eye Tours, and Far South Expeditions, to name a handful of reputable outfitters.

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Wide, sandy and sun-drenched, the Grand Strand in South Carolina is a 60-mile stretch of captivating coastline.

This region offers 14 communities, each with its own personality – with Myrtle Beach as the charismatic center of gravity. Beachgoers have their pick of inviting shores, from crowded and lively to remote and quiet. Nature lovers are also spoiled for choice: salt marshes teem with wildlife, trails ribbon through maritime forests and botanical gardens bloom year-round. Fresh seafood abounds everywhere. And family fun, from putt-putt to zip lines, is a hallmark of the region.

If you only have a few days (and with the caveat that some attractions are only open in warmer months), here are some of the top things to do in and around Myrtle Beach.

Spend a day on the beach

Myrtle Beach is the anchor of the Grand Strand, and it’s the best bet for active beachgoers. Head here for water sports, oceanfront dining, Boardwalk shenanigans and summer festivals. Surfside Beach hugs the coast just south of Myrtle Beach. Also known as Family Beach, this two-mile stretch of sand has lifeguards, a gently sloping coastline and wacky golf-cart parades. It has also been recognized for its autism-friendly businesses.

Myrtle Beach State Park and Huntington Beach State Park offer a more low-key experience as well as opportunities for hiking, camping and wildlife watching. Further south, Litchfield Beach earns loyal fans for its crowd-free coastline and relaxing small-town vibe. Neighbor Pawleys Island encourages all-day relaxing with its empty white-sand beaches, protective dunes and famous roped hammocks.

Ride the SkyWheel

This soaring landmark is no mere Ferris wheel. Rising 187ft above the downtown Boardwalk, the SkyWheel offers 10-to-15-minute “flights” in 42 temperature-controlled gondolas, which each hold up to six passengers. Most of the gondolas are fully accessible and can accommodate wheelchairs and scooters, while more than one million LED lights wow onlookers during the dynamic evening light show.

Savor fresh seafood in Murrells Inlet

Twenty-five minutes south of Myrtle Beach, this inviting fishing village is known as the seafood capital of South Carolina. Fishing boats pull up beside waterfront restaurants in Murrells Inlet, where chefs await the day’s catch. Linked by the half-mile wooden MarshWalk, popular seafood restaurants overlook weathered piers and lush marshlands, and offer a prime choice for a lovely evening out. One sure bet for fresh seafood? Head to Wicked Tuna, a hook-to-plate seafood restaurant that overlooks the inlet and employs its own fleet of fishing boats.

Kayak the coast

Paddlers seeking wildlife, coastal beauty and solitude have numerous options within a short drive of downtown Myrtle Beach. Salt marshes hug the coast at Murrells Inlet, where kayak tours float past pelicans, egrets, sea turtles and dolphins. Other trips explore the swampy wonders of the Waccamaw River and its moss-draped cypress trees, or drift past lonely islands and empty beaches strewn with shells and sand dollars. Most guided trips are great for families and last a half-day, with many trips offered year-round.

Go shag dancing at Fat Harold’s

Shag dancing (known as “shagging” in these parts) is the official dance of South Carolina. According to lore, this easy-going swing dance akin to a slow jitterbug was birthed in North Myrtle Beach in the 1940s and 1950s, with doo-wop, old-time R&B and beach music providing the irresistible soundtrack. You can watch – and join in on – all the moves at Fat Harold’s Beach Club and surrounding dance clubs most nights of the week. Lessons at Fat Harold’s are $10 on Monday nights – no partner needed – and free every other Tuesday night.

Marvel at a Night of a Thousand Candles

The most enchanting place in the Palmetto State in winter is Brookgreen Gardens, 16 miles south of Myrtle Beach. The Nights of a Thousand Candles take place from late November through the early New Year: after sunset, a tunnel of live oaks, all wrapped in strands of white lights, funnels visitors from the entrance to an illuminated wonderland of flowers, shrubs and trees. Statues of gods and goddesses cast mysterious shadows across fountains and pools in the twinkling darkness. These events sell out, so buy a ticket before your visit.

Horseback ride on the beach...and beyond

Horseback riding is allowed on designated sections of the Grand Strand from the third Saturday in November through the end of February. This means you can gallop – or perhaps gently walk – along the surf in winter. Most guided trips run 90 minutes and cost about $75; Grand Strand Horseback Riding leads outings from Myrtle Beach State Park. In warmer months, when the beaches are off-limits to horses, many companies guide riders across inland farms, where you might see cows and canals instead of sand and surf.

Stroll the Boardwalk

Anchored by the SkyWheel, the 1.2-mile Boardwalk is crammed with arcade games, ice cream parlors, souvenir shops, volleyball courts, beachwear stores and busy hotels. The all-American scene is not to be missed in summer, especially if you’re traveling with kids. Officially dubbed the Oceanfront Boardwalk & Promenade, the walkway stretches from the 2nd Ave pier area to 14th Ave North. The family-owned Gay Dolphin gift shop, open continuously for 75 years, hawks shells, t-shirts and souvenirs. RipTydz Oceanfront Grille & Rooftop Bar serves up cocktails with ocean views.

Bird-watch at Huntington Beach State Park

Scan the skies and salt marshes for great egrets, blue herrings and even bald eagles at Huntington Beach State Park, a favorite stopover for migrating birds and one of the top birding spots in the Southeast. Birdwatchers have spotted more than 350 species of birds at this 2500-acre park, which is home to maritime forests, freshwater and brackish marshes, shrub thickets, beaches and dunes. Pick up a bird checklist then stroll the marsh-flanked Causeway for the best viewing. The new Nature Center also has a birding area.

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Seek out high-octane adventures for families

Smell the popcorn, hear the screams and feel the ocean breeze on the Swamp Fox, a classic wooden roller coaster that careens around Family Kingdom, an oceanfront amusement park packed tight with 35 rides. Funplex Myrtle Beach, which opened in 2021 at the northern end of the Boardwalk, has seven rides including the Sky Velocity, which drops riders six stories. At the beach, several family members can float above the ocean at once on parasailing trips – reaching heights of up to 500ft. Below, jet skis bounce across the waves with banana boats in tow as families cling tight.

Wander through WonderWorks

This eye-catching, upside-down building is the hub of this three-in-one attraction, an immersive adventure destination that is one part children’s museum, one part amusement park and one part science lab. Various interactive “wonder zones” bring scientific concepts to life, while the outdoor Soar + Explore area boosts the adrenaline factor with a zip line and three-level ropes course. WonderWorks is not unique to Myrtle Beach, but its mix of interactive physical and cerebral activities provides a fun alternative to a day of lying out in the sun.

Putt-putt with pirates and dinosaurs

Rome has ruins. London has pubs. And Myrtle Beach has mini-golf courses, with at last count more than 50 of them puttin’ their stuff (sorry). Some sources even say that the Grand Strand has more courses per square mile than any place in the country. What makes these 18-hole courses memorable? Their exuberant embrace of wacky themes. Pirate ships, dinosaur kingdoms, jungle wonderlands and Hawaiian backdrops have entertained families since the first course was built here in 1930. No ifs, ands, or...putts about it.

Immerse yourself in Gullah culture

Even after the brutal Middle Passage, enslaved workers on coastal South Carolina plantations retained many traditions from their West African homelands. Delve into this rich history, memorable customs and beautiful crafts in the coastal village of Georgetown, home to the Gullah Museum and the Rice Museum.

Zenobia Harper offers tours exploring Gullah culture several days per week at Hopsewee Plantation, a former rice-growing estate on the North Santee River. Workshops here teach sweetgrass basket weaving, a Gullah tradition since the 1700s. Brookgreen Gardens, built on the site of four former rice plantations, offers a weekly Gullah program (Jan–Nov). The Lowcountry Trail here spotlights the lives of those who owned and worked the fields.

Hit up Broadway on the Beach

With its unabashed embrace of shiny corporate excess, Broadway at the Beach may not offer an afternoon of Lowcountry authenticity. But this sprawling shopping, dining and entertainment complex – which surrounds a 23-acre lake – knows how to bring the rah-rah. Highlights include a lake-crossing zip line, the Pavilion Nostalgia Park carousel, the Pro Football Hall of Fame, dueling pianos at Crocodile Rocks and Ripley’s Aquarium, where penguins and the jellyfish beckon.

Sip craft beer

The outdoor beer garden at Crooked Hammock Brewery in North Myrtle Beach embraces backyard fun with hammocks, firepits, bocce ball, cornhole and a playground. Grand Strand Brewing Co, which opened in 2021, fills a two-story building in the heart of downtown Myrtle Beach. Enjoy live music and outdoor seating (including Adirondack chairs and picnic tables) as you sip an Airbrush Hazy IPA. Serious beer samplers will want to make the one-mile drive inland for the Dirty Myrtle DIPA at hyperlocal brewery New South Brewery, around since 1998.

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Finding a fabulous hiking trail in Jackson Hole is easy. Picking which one to follow is hard.

Early fur trappers used the term “hole” to describe a valley entirely enclosed by mountains – and the term could not more perfectly describe Jackson Hole, with its broad swath of alpine meadows and sagebrush highlands defined by the dramatic spires of the Teton Range to the west and the Gros Ventre Range to the east. More peaks extend in all directions, including the Hobart Range just outside the town of Jackson; the Snake River range; and the Wind River Range, where Gannett Peak, at 13,804 feet, is the tallest in the state.

The result is that hikers experience a constant dilemma: how to choose between hundreds of trails? Each offers its own temptations – a cascading mountain stream, a serene alpine lake, or the triumph of a summit and its 360-degree views.

Below is our attempt to help you make the right choice. Our selection of the area’s best hikes includes some popular favorites, and others a bit more off the beaten path.

Cirque Trail, Jackson Hole Resort Aerial Tram

2.5 miles; easy to moderate

This mostly downhill adventure starts with a brisk aerial tram ride up 10,450ft Rendezvous Mountain in the Jackson Hole Mountain Resort ski area, reaching the summit in a thrilling 12 minutes. Climb the stairs to Corbett’s Cabin, where you can stock up on snacks or even sit down for a plate of waffles before hitting the trail.

Look for signs for the Cirque Trail, a challenging single track that switchbacks more than 1300 feet down the mountain to the Bridger Gondola. More challenging than it looks at the start, Cirque involves several steep descents over loose rock, but rewards with a series of stunning views as it winds through meadows full of wildflowers.

Another option is to follow the wider gravel road that zigzags down the mountain to the west, shortening the hike to 1.8 miles but requiring a short climb to the gondola at the end. Another reward for either hike: a cold drink and savory snacks at the top-of-gondola restaurants. Families with small children and those wanting an easier hike can do the half-mile Top of the World stroll or the moderate two-mile trek to the Rock Springs Overlook. Note that any of these trails can be done in reverse, riding the gondola up then hiking to the summit.

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Snow King

2 miles; moderate

Less than a mile from downtown Jackson at the base of the Snow King ski resort, the manageable trail to the summit is a locals’ favorite for lunchtime and after-work hikes. While fit hikers can reach the top of Snow King in an hour, it’s by no means easy as it involves 1500 feet of elevation gain up a steep trail (there’s a lift available for the downhill ride if needed) – with views that are well worth it. The panorama opens up to the Teton and Gros Ventre ranges as well as the valley below; you might even glimpse the mountains of Yellowstone hazy on the horizon. Several other trail options are available from the Snow King trailhead, including connections with the Cache Creek trail network, allowing hikers to craft a variety of longer routes as they please.

Sleeping Indian

12 miles roundtrip; experienced hikers only

One of the highest peaks in the Gros Ventre wilderness, 11,239ft Sleeping Indian provides exactly the kind of challenge experienced hikers love: a 12 to 14-mile round trip (depending on route) through whitebark pine forests and wide-open meadows, with what some consider the best view of the Tetons from the top. Also known as Sheep Mountain (and often listed that way on maps) this peak takes its name from the silhouette visible in the rocky ridge rising above the tree line. Getting to the top involves more than 4000 feet of altitude gain from a start point of 7000 feet, with a couple of rocky scrambles at the end – not something to attempt on your first day at high altitude or if you’re new to peak climbing. Masses of lupine, paintbrush and black-eyed Susan spread across the meadows along this trail, making it a favorite of wildflower photographers.

Phelps Lake Loop

6.3 miles; easy to moderate

At the north end of Jackson Hole, Grand Teton National Park is beloved by hikers for its abundance of lesser-known trails, which keep the crowds down and make it possible to enjoy its tumbling streams and hidden lakes in relative solitude. Within the park at its southern end, the 1106-acre Laurance S Rockefeller Preserve – a favorite of families for its gentle terrain and frequent wildlife sightings – provides access to the Phelps Lake Loop.

Numerous options include taking the Woodland Trail directly to continuing around the lake, or reaching the lake via the Aspen Ridge trail, extremely popular in fall when the aspen groves are aglow. Before hitting the trail, take a few minutes to learn about the native flora and fauna in the well-designed Laurance S Rockefeller Preserve Center. A short section of this trail is currently closed due to reconstruction of the Phelps Lake Outlet Bridge; check the preserve’s website for current trail conditions. Also note the preserve does not allow dogs, even leashed.

Alaska Basin

16-mile loop; challenging

Like Grand Teton National Park, Alaska Basin in the Jedediah Smith Wilderness has jaw-dropping views of the peaks, challenging trails for long-distance hiking, and lush meadows that are prime viewing for moose, bear and other wildlife. And it’s far less crowded and requires no entrance fee to boot. Accessed from either the west or east side of the Teton Range, Alaska Basin is a pristine, bowl-shaped valley crisscrossed by rivers and streams with stunning views.

With an extended trail network that can easily keep you busy for days, the basin is a favorite with backpackers and requires no permit for camping since it’s outside the national park boundary. Alaska Basin can be accessed from either the eastern and western side of the Tetons and requires traversing approximately eight miles from either side to reach the basin itself. Plan for a full long day to complete the entire loop. River crossings can be necessary on this hike, usually via logs or stepping stones. And as with any backcountry Teton hike, bear spray is a good idea.

Grand Targhee Chairlift Hikes

.5 mile–5 miles; varied

On the west side of Jackson Hole, the chairlift at Grand Targhee ski resort provides access to an extensive network of trails, all boasting great views over the Jedediah Smith Wilderness and the Tetons from a new angle. At the top, the half-mile Summit Trail and three-quarter-mile Marmot Trail cross the rocky ridge top, with stops at the Summit Observation Platform and Summit Nature Center for views and exhibits. The aspens are glorious along Bannock Trail, which passes through diverse pine and hardwood forests before emerging at the Summit Observation Platform. Hiking down is more than half the fun here, as the valley spreads out below your feet, growing closer as you descend.

Table Mountain

11 miles; challenging

Climbing Table Mountain is a rite of passage for visitors looking to experience a wide variety of terrain and notch a wilderness summit doable as a day hike. Most visitors make this hike as a loop, following the steep 4.5-mile Face Trail in one direction and the 6.5-mile North Teton Trail in the other. (Whether you prefer a gentler climb to a straight-up ascent will probably determine your choice.) If a post-peak swim is on your agenda, return via the North Teton Trail, which follows the North Fork of Teton Creek through a verdant canyon. The lush meadows and woodlands along this route are prime nursery territory for moose and bear, so watch for mamas and their offspring. Those with less time can do this as an out-and-back on the Face Trail, shortening the distance to 9 miles. Wild huckleberries are plentiful on this hike, so come ready to snack.

Darby Canyon and Wind Cave

6.3 miles; moderate

Who doesn’t love an eerie cave, or a dramatic plunging waterfall? Put the two together and it’s easy to see why the hike up Darby Canyon to Wind Cave is so popular. After lulling you into complacency with a meander through thick forests and a pleasant stream crossing, the trail begins to rise, passing into the Jedediah Smith Wilderness and edging up an ever-narrower canyon enclosed by craggy cliffs.

Ledges, overhangs and stream cascades make good resting spots – much-needed ones too, thanks to an 1800-foot elevation gain. Soon the cave comes into view and below it, the waterfall, seemingly spits forth from the depths. The trail takes you to the base of the falls and from there it’s possible to clamber up to the cave, taking care not to slip on the wet rock. The narrow, high-ceilinged cave is fun to peek into; venture a little way in and you’ll feel the frigid breeze that lends it its name. A mile-long underground passageway connects Wind Cave with nearby Ice Cave, but only experienced cavers should explore beyond the entrance, as there are sudden drop-offs into deep water below.

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With over three hundred islands within its borders, Fiji seems like its best seen by boat. But with your own set of wheels, you’ll uncover scenery and a way of living around the islands rarely seen by those who travel solely by sea and sky.

On a Fiji road trip, you’ll discover waterfall trails, roadside markets selling piles of tropical fruits and floral bouquets, villages with impeccable gardens, sandy beaches, and snorkel and dive sites with untouched corals. Unlike a tour or bus trip with fixed schedules, you can linger at a newfound favorite spot for as long as you like.

To rent a car, you’ll need a valid driver’s license written in English or an international driver’s permit. When driving in Fiji, stick to traveling during the daytime as streets outside the main towns tend to be poorly lit. Go slow and keep a look out for potholes, pedestrians and animals, all of which make appearances on the roads. Here are some top driving routes to help you make the most of your visit to Fiji.

Follow the road along Viti Levu's Coral Coast

Best road trip for families

Start – Nadi; End – Suva; Distance – 190 km (118mi); allow three days

The Coral Coast road trip connects Nadi, home to Fiji’s main airport, to Suva, Fiji’s capital, along Queens Road. While the journey takes just four hours if you hit the gas in one go, you can easily spend a week exploring all the sights in between.

Spend the first morning of your trip in Nadi at the Garden of the Sleeping Giant, a jungle park with over 30 species of orchids, lily ponds and a covered walking path. For more of a thrill, buzz over tropical treetops with Zip Fiji. Or, just admire views of the Mamanuca islands from Momi Battery Historical Park. Spend the night near Natadola Beach, a crescent of white sand with a beginner-friendly surf spot – little ones will love it.

All along the coast, there are snorkeling spots with coral reefs rife with colorful fish, and you’ll see just how aptly named the Coral Coast is. Spend time scrambling up and down the soft sand dunes of Sigatoka Sand Dunes National Park and taking a ride on a former sugar cane railroad at Eco Trax Fiji.

From Pacific Harbour, spend a day at the beach or arrange a trip with Rivers Fiji to explore Fiji’s highlands from a raft on the Navua River. Bathe in the waterfalls and swimming holes of Colo-I-Suva Forest Park. The road trip ends in Suva, where the Fiji Museum, Thurston Gardens, the country’s largest municipal market, Albert Park, Indian-Fijian restaurants, and a chance to watch a rugby game await.

Escape the city with a drive along Viti Levu's Suncoast

Best road trip for scenery

Start – Suva; End – Lautoka; Distance – 265 km (164mi); allow two days

Escape any semblance of city-living by venturing from Suva east on Kings Road, keeping to the coastal roads along the way to Viti Levu’s wild Suncoast. Admire grasslands, jagged hilltops, huge banyan trees, groves of palm trees, and views of the sea that span from turquoise to deep cobalt. Take it slow through the villages to stop at a stand selling just-picked produce or plants grown in immaculately kept gardens.

The Vatu-I-Ra Passage (also called Bligh Water) is a marine protected area accessible from Volivoli with Ra Divers. With over 50 dive sites in the area, it’s one of the best places to spot marine life such as soft and hard corals, anemone fish, sea turtles, dolphins, and sharks.

West of Rakiraki from Tavua to Lautoka is the hub of Fiji’s sugarcane growing industry, and you’ll spot a few factories as you chug along. Escape into the wilderness at Koroyanitu National Heritage Park, where trails lead to the nation’s highest peaks. To complete a circular tour of Viti Levu, connect this road trip to the Coral Coast road trip and extend your destination from Lautoka to Nadi.

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Feel free on a road trip on Taveuni

Great road trip for waterfalls

Start – Kanacea; End – Bouma; Distance – 75 km (46mi); allow three days

While many travelers opt to visit Taveuni through day tours, there’s a far greater sense of freedom in exploring its many sights and trails with no fixed return time. Its stunning landscape is largely thanks to regular rain, so budget extra time on this Fiji road trip for dodging squalls. It’s wise to split your nights between Taveuni’s eastern and western sides.

On Taveuni’s southern tip, witness puffs of saltwater spray above volcanic rock at the blowhole. Heading east, drive along the rugged northern coastline where dive resorts like Paradise Dive Resort and Taveuni Dive Resort offer trips to snorkel and scuba dive around Rainbow Reef in the Somosomo Strait. The reef is a haven for technicolor soft and hard corals as well as pelagic creatures like manta rays, sharks, and barracudas.

Back on land, admire the stained-glass windows of Wairiki Catholic Mission Church, where visitors are welcome to join in on Sunday service. While the International Date Line technically bypasses Taveuni, there is a fun sign near town where you can straddle the 180th meridian. To cool off, scoot from rock pool to rock pool down the natural rockslide of Waitavala.

Passing the quiet town of Matei and Taveuni’s airport, venture south to the entrance of Bouma National Heritage Park, where trails lead to some of Fiji’s best waterfalls. Follow the Tavoro Waterfall trail, with three main cascades along its path. The most impressive is a ten minute walk along a flat pathway. The Lavena Coastal Walk is also scenic, ending at a waterfall accented swimming hole.

Drive Vanua Levu's Hibiscus Highway

Best road trip for offbeat experiences

Start – Labasa; End – Savusavu area; Distance – 155 km (96mi); allow three days

Start your journey in Labasa, the liveliest town on Vanua Levu heavily influenced by its Indo-Fijian heritage. Shop for produce and spices at the Labasa Market, admire the vibrant and intricately embroidered textiles at fabric shops, and sample curry rotis cooked with a distinctly Fijian flair.

Down the Cross Island Road, make a short detour to Vuadomo Waterfall, where you can wander around the village and swim beneath the cascade after giving a donation or gift, called sevusevu.

The Hibiscus Highway leads to the quiet town of Savusavu. Watch bundles of root crops cook in the town’s natural hot springs and steam rise from the tranquil shoreline at low tide like a cloud machine. Come sunset, grab a drink at Copra Shed Marina to clink glasses with visiting sailors and Savusavu residents. KokoMana Farm hosts chocolate tastings and crafting classes. Diving trips head out from here to the Somosomo Strait, one of the best marine parks in Fiji, while Liquidstate Freediving offers a chance to dive deep into Savusavu Bay with your own set of lungs. The calm waters of the area are ideal for swimming, kayaking or paddling.

There's little traffic on Ovalau, and no need to rush

Best road trip for history buffs

Levuka round-trip; Distance – 50 km (31mi); allow one to two days

Take your time on a trip around Ovalau, a quiet island with little traffic and no sense of urgency. Roll your windows down and you’re likely to hear children shout “Bula!” and wave as you drive past – tourists outside of the main drag are a novelty.

Spend a day wandering through Levuka, Fiji’s former capital and a 19th-century port town that once hosted American, European, and Asian traders at its shores. Architecture resembles America’s Old West complete with false fronts and swinging doors among coconut and papaya trees. Levuka Community Center holds a small museum with handicrafts and weapons, and along Beach Street you’ll find the best place to stop for a meal or drink.

North of Levuka is the shipwreck of Sinu-I-Wasa Tolu jutting from the waters. Make a stop at Rukuruku Bay for swimming and snorkeling. There are multiple trailheads leading to Ovalau’s interior, but hiring a guide is recommended due to recent cyclone damage.

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One meander through the colorful streets of Bristol and you’ll be hooked on the city’s passion for creativity.

From Brunel’s groundbreaking steamships to Banksy’s thought-provoking art, this city on the Avon River prides itself on taking risks and breaking the rules. And that heritage extends far beyond its most famous sons: whether it’s the artisans at St Nicholas Market or the independent restaurants at Wapping Wharf, all of Bristol’s people contribute to its inventive spirit.

Here are a few of the things not to miss as you explore this vivid city.

Cross one of the world’s most famous bridges

It’s all about location. Visionary Victorian engineer Isambard Kingdom Brunel oversaw many groundbreaking projects throughout his illustrious career, and few are as spectacular as the Clifton Suspension Bridge. Crossing the 245ft-high chasm of the Avon Gorge, the bridge runs from the handsome Georgian neighborhood of Clifton over to the serene streets and bucolic landscapes of North Somerset.

Tragically, while Brunel never lived to see the bridge in its final form – completed in 1864, it took 34 years to build – it looks today as magnificent today as it did in his original sketches. Cross the bridge’s 702ft span on food to get a wind-whipped idea of its grandeur. If that still isn’t enough, a tour from its Visitor Centre will teach you more about the history of Bristol’s most iconic site.

Go belowdecks on a 19th-century ship

Another masterpiece of design by Brunel, the SS Great Britain has resided in Bristol since 1970. A heroic salvage operation in the Falkland Islands thousands of miles away brought the ship back to the Bristol harbor, where she was first built in 1856; it’s remarkable she still exists in one piece. Today, visitors can explore almost every inch of the almost 100m-long vessel.

The tour of the first ship in the world to be both built of iron and powered by a screw propeller begins belowdecks with a slightly unnerving walk beneath the vast hull and around that huge propeller. It’s a perfect introduction to your discovery of this pioneering ship.

Experience the counterculture in Stokes Croft

The epicenter of Bristol’s creative movement, the Strokes Croft neighborhood offers a smorgasbord of jaunty art, cool cafes, quirky pubs, vintage shops and more. Just north of the city center, this district has a palpable sense of counterculture, community and artistic drive that few other neighborhoods in the UK can match.

Home to some original Banksy pieces and local institutions like the Crofter’s Rights and Canteen, Stokes Croft is perfect for a wander day or night.

Enjoy the views from Cabot Tower

From the tumbling cliffsides of the Avon Gorge to the breathlessly steep walk up Nine Tree Hill, Bristol promises wild topography. So there might be nowhere better to get a panoramic view of this cinematic city than from the top of a hill.

Built at the end of the 19th century to commemorate the 400th anniversary of John Cabot’s historic voyage to Newfoundland, Cabot Tower at the top of Brandon Hill offers gorgeous views of Bristol and the surrounding countryside.

Stay in an artistic haven

Bristol has bold artistic traditions, and the Artist Residence on Portland Square does right by them. Located on the square’s northwestern corner in a handsome Georgian townhouse, this boutique hotel has spacious stylish rooms dotted with unique art and period features.

With mid-century modern furniture and high ceilings allowing plenty of natural light, its breezy Library bar is a fine neighborhood spot for a quiet drink. (We recommend the divine Smoky Martini.)

Take a walk in the woods

At a compact two square miles, Leigh Woods Nature Reserve packs a lot into its small size. Located just across the Clifton Suspension Bridge on the western side of the Avon Gorge, these ancient woods provide a tranquil escape from the city and boast stunning views of the bridge from an angle few visitors ever see.

As well as rare flora and fauna, the woods are also home to Stokeleigh Camp, an Iron Age hill fort dating back to 350 BCE whose rising green ridges are clearly visible today.

See some of the best street art anywhere

Few cities in the UK have an identity as purely visual as Bristol’s. Using the city’s streets, buildings, walls and parks as an enormous canvas, Bristol’s street artists have given the city a color and richness that capture the eye almost immediately. The street art visible just about everywhere embodies the city’s vibrant and creative culture.

The enigmatic Banksy is the local whose work really put Bristol on the map over 20 years ago. You can explore his oeuvre in glorious yet succinct detail on tours run by Where The Wall. Taking you by Banksy classics like Mild Mild West and Well Hung Lover , global graffiti art authority John Nation explains the history and significance of these works, and why they could only have been made in Bristol.

Sip some cider

England’s West Country is one of the world’s most foremost cider regions, so unsurprisingly its largest city is home to some sublime cider pubs. Quietly situated at the end of a low-lit street in Clifton, The Coronation Tap – CoriTap to locals – is a 200-year-old cider house famous for serving the fearsome 8.4% Exhibition cider (only available in half pints).

Other superb spots for sampling the fermented apple beverage include the charming riverside barge The Apple in the Old City. On Spike Island, The Orchard Inn is a traditional pub dating back to 1834 with over 20 different dry and sweet ciders available.

Lie back at the Lido

An oasis in the heart of Clifton’s busy residential streets, Bristol Lido is a restored Victorian outdoor swimming pool with a unique open-air setting. Flanked by wooden changing rooms on one side and a modern European restaurant on the other, this modern bathhouse is a gorgeous retreat that’s perfect for unwinding after a long day.

Especially pretty in the evening under the glow of the lights, the Lido also features a hot tub and a sauna, very welcome amenities during the winter months.

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Learn what makes Bristol, Bristol

Some city museums display gaudy art and artifacts from far-flung corners of the globe. On the other extreme, Bristol’s M Shed goes deep into the fascinating, hyper-local makeup of this city, from its unsung heroes to proud neighborhood heritage.

M Shed celebrates everything that makes Bristol what it is today – without shying away from difficult episodes from the past. Handled with particular care is the city’s historical relationship with the slave trade, especially the sobering exhibition on the (in)famous Bristol merchant and colonial trader Edward Colston.

Sample the diverse food scene

With Bristol’s cultural range and creative mindset, it makes perfect sense that the city has a rich food scene, too. From the zesty Jamaican favorite ackee and saltfish at Carribean Croft to Coconut Tree’s fiery Sri Lankan Jaffna goat curry, there’s a wild variety of flavors to choose from.

If you want to choose from a selection of alluring flavors in one location, head to the famous St Nicholas Market in the Old Town, or the shipping containers converted into food stalls at Wapping Wharf.

Make some waves

If you’ve ever dreamed of surfing outdoors but far from the rough sea, meet The Wave. Just outside Bristol, this pioneering 180m-long inland surfing lake is the first of its kind in the UK, and is powered by 100% renewable energy.

It’s also a hugely welcoming environment with encouraging coaches who get just as much of a kick from seeing beginners ride their first wave as the surfers do themselves. Yes, you’re sure to wipe out a few times – but that first stand-up surf above the waves makes every tumble worth it.

Question your own ways of thinking

Bristol’s We The Curious does things a little differently from typically didactic science museums. Intended to get kids thinking about the world around them, this science center asks visitors questions in an interactive, visual and playful manner.

Located by the historic harbor, We The Curious engages young people’s natural curiosity, even encouraging them to leave their own questions pinned to the wall as a way of expanding the conversation. Don’t miss the remarkable 3D Planetarium shows on the first floor.

Pedal around a bit

With so much green space, Bristol’s a fine city for enjoying the great outdoors. And there might be no better way to enjoy the fresh air than by cycling the 14-mile Bristol and Bath Railway Path. Entirely free of cars, this converted railway right-of-way offers an eco-friendly path to Bath’s ancient Roman spas and majestic Georgian streets.

Within Bristol’s city limits, Pedal Progression will take your cycling to the next level by showing you the finer techniques of mountain biking amid the lush trees and hills of Ashton Court Estate.

Get high (in a hot-air balloon)

Bristol’s long relationship with aviation is proudly displayed at Aerospace Bristol, where visitors are able to explore, among other mechanical highlights, the last Concorde to ever fly.

For something more genteel than supersonic, hot-air balloons take to the skies around Bristol throughout the year. Organize a trip with Bailey Balloons or Elite Air to see the city from thrilling new heights.

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Detroit is a mashup of elements, including a cityscape full of art-deco skyscrapers, plus old warehouses filled with condos and restaurants. But amongst its more hurried city pace, there are parks and green oases perfect for strolling, biking, picnicking, and kicking back.

Some are family-friendly and attraction-packed, with free concerts and museums to boot. Others are diminutive green spaces with a few benches and flower beds. Whatever your taste, these are the top parks to visit in Detriot.

Belle Isle

Belle Isle is the Motor City’s most beloved park. An island idyll in the Detroit River, it packs an impressive amount of attractions into its 987 acres, from the kid-friendly Belle Isle Aquarium to maritime exhibits at the Dossin Great Lakes Museum.  The fern-filled Anna Scripps Whitcomb Conservatory is another highlight.

Come summer, families will love paddling at sandy Belle Isle Beach, with its views of Detroit’s soaring skyline, or spotting critters from turtles to toads at the Belle Isle Nature Center. Beyond that, trails wiggle through 150 acres of woodland and you can rent bikes just across the water at Wheelhouse Detroit.

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William G. Milliken State Park and Harbor

William G. Milliken State Park and Harbor spool out along the waterfront, with the paved and popular Detroit Riverwalk running through it. Its centerpiece is the Milliken State Park Lighthouse, a 63-foot beacon that overlooks the Detroit River.

Take a bike ride through the park’s wetlands, and look out for public art – including a curious sculpture of a steel man with pipes protruding from his body. Benches are perfectly placed to take in views across the water of Windsor in Ontario, Canada.

Palmer Park

Palmer Park is a green retreat from the sea of skyscrapers downtown. Located in the northern part of the city,  it’s a patchwork of woodland and open lawns that include hiking and biking trails, plus tree-flanked Lake Frances.

There are some nuggets for history buffs, too. Go out in search of the Merrill Fountain, an ornate marble monument. It dates back to 1901 and once stood in front of the Detroit Opera House. You’ll also find a rustic and ramshackle log cabin that was built in the 1880s for philanthropist Lizzie Merrill Palmer (after whom the park is named, along with her husband Thomas W. Palmer).

Lafayette Greens

You’ll find this  urban park just west of Campus Martius. It’s dominated by row-upon-row of raised beds filled with organic vegetables, plus seasonal blooms planted to attract bees and butterflies. If you’re into contemporary art, there’s also a particularly striking sculpture of a sundial.

Best of all, though, the park is right next to Lafayette Coney Island and American Coney Island, rival vendors of Detroit’s famous, chili-sauce-smothered beef hot dog. Grab yours to go and eat it on one of the long wooden benches that are scattered about the garden.

Eliza Howell Park

Taking over about 250 acres of northwest Detroit and spreading out alongside the wiggling Rouge River, Eliza Howell Park feels worlds away from downtown. You might entirely forget that you’re in Motor City as you wander trails winding through hardwood forest and fields bright with wildflowers.

Nature lovers will feel right at home here. The park provides a habitat for more than 100 bird species, from the red-tailed hawk to swallows to blue jays. You might also glimpse a coy white-tailed deer or red fox amid the trees.

Beacon Park

One of Detroit’s newest green pockets, Beacon Park, opened back in 2017 and sits somewhere between an al-fresco events space and community hub. Well-kept and compact, it comprises an open lawn that hosts free concerts, exercise classes, and eclectic food trucks, plus a restaurant with a rooftop and patio. It particularly shines in the winter months, when it’s bright with creative light installations.

Dequindre Cut

A favorite with cyclists, the Dequindre Cut is an urban greenway that follows an old railroad line for two miles. It begins down by the river, eventually spilling into Detroit’s buzzing Eastern Market. Saddle up and take to the paved pathway, keeping your eyes peeled for colorful murals emblazoned on walls under bridges. Grassy patches open up on either side of the concrete – perfect if you’ve packed a picnic – and metal benches stud the route, too.

Campus Martius Park

Right in the middle of downtown Detroit sits Campus Martius Park, which has earned itself the moniker of Detroit’s Gathering Place – and for good reason. From families to lunching workers, the neat little park attracts all kinds of Detroiters with its giant fountain, food trucks, and tree-shaded benches.

Its landscape shifts with the season, too. In winter, the place is decorated with twinkling lights and home to a large skating rink. In the summertime, the ice is swapped for sand, and the area is transformed into an urban beach – complete with umbrellas, palms, and Adirondack chairs.

Grand Circus Park

Four-legged companions aren’t forgotten in Detroit’s park system either. Grand Circus is home to the city’s top-rated dog park that plays host to everything from canine ice-cream socials to doggy pool parties.

For human park-dwellers, this half-moon-shaped space has a large fountain, a slew of memorial statues, and plenty of tables and chairs arranged under a leafy canopy. It’s located right next to Comerica Park, home of the Detroit Tigers baseball team.

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Though Vail is best known for its expertly groomed ski terrain and its snow-covered Bavarian-style alpine villages, this mountain town along Gore Creek in the Colorado Rockies is also home to some incredible hiking trails.

Vail’s hiking trails give travelers a chance to stretch their legs, breathe the fresh mountain air and reconnect with nature. Plus, the Vail Valley’s varied routes are a feast for the senses no matter the season. They’re dotted with colorful wildflower blooms in summer, golden yellow aspens in fall and glittering snow and icicles in winter. Below, some of our favorite hikes in the Vail Valley for every traveler.

Booth Falls

Best hike with waterfalls

9 miles (14.5 km) round trip, 5-6 hours, difficult

This popular out-and-back trail follows Booth Creek to Booth Lake, with a stop at the picturesque Booth Falls along the way. The trail begins just off I-70 in East Vail and climbs steeply for the first mile or so, then eases into a more gradual climb for the remainder of the hike. Meandering along Booth Creek, the route travels through aspen groves, conifer forests and meadows that are dotted with wildflowers in July and August.

The route reaches the waterfall about two miles in, then continues on for roughly three miles to Booth Lake, which is surrounded by the craggy gray peaks of the Gore Range. All told, the trail climbs more than 3000ft in elevation to 11,480ft, where there’s likely to be patches of snow and wildlife like mountain goats and marmots.

This is a challenging hike, particularly for travelers who are not yet acclimated to Vail’s altitude, so be sure to bring lots of water, take frequent breaks and invest in a pair of hiking poles (or grab a stick along the trail!) to help with navigating the steep sections.

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Gore Valley Trail

Best hike for accessibility

12 miles (19 km) one way, variable, easy

This easy-going paved trail meanders along Gore Creek through Vail’s core village areas. It’s a popular, accessible path for walking, riding a bike, jogging, rollerblading, pushing a stroller and other leisurely activities, right in the heart of town.

Many people pick up the trail from behind their hotel, then walk to dinner, drinks or other activities in Vail Village or Lionshead Village. It’s a convenient connector path for getting around Vail or working up a sweat, all while soaking up the views of Vail’s idyllic European-inspired architecture and the tree-lined creek.

Lost Lake Trail

Best for families

7.5 miles (12 km) round trip, 3-4 hours, easy

This mellow trail is great for beginners and families, thanks to its gradual climb and stunning scenery. The route has an east and a west trailhead, but most hikers start on the west side and work their way east toward Lost Lake. The road to the trailhead is unpaved and bumpy, so a 4x4 vehicle is helpful, but not totally necessary as long as you go slowly.

From the west, the trail passes through aspen groves and lodgepole pines along a ridgeline, then gradually gains 600ft of elevation before dropping down slightly to the lake. Stop for a picnic and views of the snow-dusted mountains reflected in the serene water, or keep hiking for less than a mile to the east trailhead and the end of the route. Lost Lake Trail is a great family hike or an introduction to backpacking for little ones, since it’s short and easy – camping is allowed as long as you set up your tent at least 200ft from the lake and the trail.

Bighorn Creek Trail

Best for fall hiking

7 miles (11 km) round trip, 3-4 hours, difficult

For spectacular views of the fall foliage, head to Bighorn Creek Trail, which is nestled among the golden yellow aspens and dark green fir and spruce trees of the Eagles Nest Wilderness area east of Vail. The route gains more than 2000ft of elevation, which makes it challenging, but it also offers lots of scenery to ogle as you huff and puff – you’ll pass beaver ponds, old mining buildings, Bighorn Creek and the Bighorn Falls waterfall.

The trail, which ends at a picturesque cabin, is dotted with wildflowers in summer and offers views of the Grand Traverse, an impressive 13,000ft tall ridge that’s part of the Gore Range. Hiking poles – and your camera – are a must for this route, which has some steep, slippery sections.

Shrine Ridge

Best for scenic views

4 miles (6.4 km) round trip, 2-3 hours, easy/intermediate

For some of the best views in the region, lace up your hiking boots and hit the Shrine Ridge Trail. The route climbs gently through scenic pine trees before climbing sharply to a ridgeline. At the summit of Shrine Mountain, you’ll have 360-degree views that include Copper Mountain ski area, Mount of the Holy Cross, Uneva Peak, Ptarmigan Hill and Ptarmigan Pass, the Flat Top mountains and the Gore Range.

As you ascend to the top of the mountain, you’ll be following in the footsteps of the Ute Native Americans and silver miners who used this route throughout history. This is a short, sweet hike with a great payoff at the end, and it’s a great fit for families who want to stretch their legs or get acclimated.

Upper Piney River Falls

Best for beginners

6 miles (9.6 km) roundtrip, 3-4 hours, easy/intermediate

This popular out-and-back trail in the Eagles Nest Wilderness is a great way to get acclimated after arriving in Vail. The route starts at Piney Lake, then climbs gently through a meadow and some aspen groves before reaching a beautiful waterfall.

The road to the trailhead can be rough, so be prepared to go slowly or consider renting an SUV. It’s a high-traffic hiking trail, too, so this route may not be ideal if you were hoping for some alone time in nature; it’s also open to horseback riders.

Berry Picker Trail

Best for ski area hiking

6.4 miles (10 km) round trip, 3-4 hours, intermediate/difficult

After ski season ends and the snow finally melts, Vail Ski Resort opens for hiking, mountain biking, tubing and riding the mountain coaster. The Berry Picker Trail is a fun, intermediate hike that climbs 2200ft up the mountain, traversing across grassy open ski runs and through aspens and evergreen trees. Though the steep hike is a hard workout, the route is not overly technical – and fatigued hikers have the option of riding the Eagle Bahn Gondola back down during the summer.

At the top, there’s Bistro 14 Bar and Talon’s Deck Outdoor Grill for grabbing a drink or a bite to eat, plus activities for the whole family, including a zip line and a climbing wall.

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Tanzania offers wild safari experiences, grasslands, rainforests, woodlands and savannah plains in abundance. And perhaps the best way to take it all in is by car.

Driving around this expansive country, you’ll encounter not just natural beauty but human diversity, too. Hundreds of ethnic groups call this East African country home, from the Sandawe in northern Tanzania, the Hehe in the southern highlands, the kiChagga people who live on Mount Kilimanjaro’s slopes and the Zanaki close to Lake Victoria – and they all love welcoming visitors from afar.

Be warned that journeys by road in Tanzania can be lengthy and arduous, with stretches on paved roads in better-traveled areas followed by hours on dirt roads – but by taking your time, you’ll get more out of your journey. A slow, long drive is just the way to take in the vast range of history, culture and wild allure Tanzania offers.

For a classic safari take the Northern Circuit

Arusha to Serengeti National Park, then back to Arusha; distance 190 miles (306km) each way

Arusha town – the starting point for some of Africa’s most memorable safaris – is where the best road trips in Tanzania begin. This itinerary takes you to Serengeti National Park, so you’ll need a four-wheel-drive vehicle that can handle off-road detours; such sturdy rides are easily available from various car-rental outfits in town. The road from Arusha to Tarangire National Park is smooth asphalt, but once you’re in the park be prepared to deal with unpaved roads that are often bumpy and spew dust everywhere.

On the way to Lake Manyara National Park, Mto wa Mbu is one of the first stops. This fun tropical town is a great place to meet local people and fellow travelers, buy souvenirs and fill up on snacks. The town is famously convivial – reputed to be the only place in Tanzania where all 120 of the country’s ethnic groups live harmoniously together.

One of the last hunter-gatherer peoples in the world, the Hadza or Hadzabe live in the Lake Eyasi region. As the day dawns in this part of the world, Hadzabe men make their way through thick bush to gather honey or hunt game – an experience in which visitors can participate by asking around in town. Make time to spend a few days at the world-famous Ngorongoro Conservation Area on your way Serengeti National Park. At 102 sq miles, the UNESCO World Heritage site is the world’s largest caldera, with an astonishing concentration of wildlife in the valley below.

For unexpected landscapes try the wild southeast

Dar es Salaam to Nyerere National Park, then back to Dar es Salaam; 160mi (256km) each way

The country’s biggest city, Dar es Salaam offers a lively and quick introduction to Tanzanian life. There are ample car-rental agencies in town that offer cars for hire, with or without drivers. Unless you’re truly ambitious, we would recommend hiring a local expert to drive, one who knows the country’s roads and driving culture, and who can help with any mechanical issues.

Setting out from the city, you’ll join the Tanzam Highway, which connects Dar es Salaam in the east to Mbeya in the west. The highway’s smooth surface takes you through Mikumi National Park and Iringa and on to Ruaha National Park. Though not as well known as Serengeti or the Ngorongoro, this remote rural park has striking landscapes: wild rocky outcrops, baobabs, mountains and seasonal rivers. Wildlife includes large elephant and hippo populations, as well as a huge array of birds.

From Ruaha, it’s a five-hour drive to the wild Udzungwa Mountains. At an altitude of over 8000 ft (remember to take deep, slow breaths), these forested landscapes offer a huge array of endemic plant species, as well as endemic animals like the Udzungwa red colobus monkey. The mountains are a veritable playground for hiking, worth spending a few days exploring.

Nyerere National Park (carved off for preservation from the massive Selous Game Reserve) is your final stop before you make the five-hour road trip journey back to Dar es Salaam. Roads in Nyerere are rough, but the incredible wildlife sightings of antelope, buffalo and lion make the tough doing worth it.

Drive the Southern Highlands and Western Tanzania if you have a month

Dar Es Salaam to Arusha; 403 miles (648km)

It will take a few weeks, even a full month, to fully take in this amazing journey across the Southern Highlands and western Tanzania. From Dar es Salaam, you’ll head to Morogoro, a small town at the base of the Uluguru Mountains where you can spend an afternoon hiking and taking in the birds, insects and plants. If you’re up for some culture, spend the day with the Luguru people.

Next, you’ll drive through the Udzungwa Mountains en route to Iringa, home of the waHehe people. Famous for defeating the Germans in 1891, this proud group bears a name said to come from their war cry, “ hee twahumite, hee twahumite, he he he heeeeee ” (“hey, we have come out”).

It’s a moderate drive from Iringa to Ruaha National Park, then along the Tanzam Highway to Mbeya. The journey onward from Mbeya offers plenty excursions en route – including canoeing on Lake Nyasa or hiking on the hills of Tukuyu – though you should look forward to arriving in Kitulo National Park, well known for its sunflowers and gorgeous views.

If you’d like to explore this region of the country further, consider skipping Kitulo and going from Mbeya to Katavi National Park, one of the country’s most remote wilderness areas. It takes some effort to get here – and is absolutely worth it. The large Katisunga Plain grabs your attention as do the striking roan and sable antelope, absent in other parts of the African continent.

As you continue to Arusha, stop at Gombe National Park, a sanctuary for habituated chimpanzees first made famous by Jane Goodall. Within the lush forest, you’ll hear shrieks and whoops as the chimps pant-hoot to each other in cacophonous songs of affection.

Northeastern Tanzania is the best road trip for variety

Kilimanjaro Airport to Dar es Salaam; 372 miles (598km)

A road trip through Northeastern Tanzania caters to both economy and high-end travelers, with accommodations, food, culture, history and adrenaline-fueled activities for all budgets and tastes.

From Kilimanjaro Airport, you’ll make your way to Moshi town, a well known trading post with lively, colorful markets. Visit a coffee plantation for a tour to learn how the ubiquitous beans are grown and harvested. If you’re keen, let your guide know you’d like to arrange a home visit with one of the kiChagga families in the area. The livelihood of these keen agriculturists depends on growing banana, yams, maize and beans.

Next come the stark Usambara Mountains, which rise from the plain to the high heavens. Hikers, botanists and avid birders will feel at home here among the deep lavish valleys and rainforests, whose overlapping trees create verdant canopies. A few more days will allow you to venture even farther off the beaten track and explore the Pare Mountains – a detour not for the faint of heart. As this region is still opening to tourists, you’ll certainly need a knowledgable guide.

As you approach the coast (and consider a jaunt onward to Zanzibar), you’ll come across the small town of Pangani. This once-vital port for the slave trade played host to Asian, Arab, German and British merchants – a diversity that leaves traces in the faded architecture and delicious food still available in the town. Also timeless are the vocal calls of fishermen as they head out for the evening, casting nets into the sea using old wisdom.

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Tanzania’s best road trips offer wildlife and culture aplenty

Naples is a busy city that demands stamina in buckets. Springboard for day trips to blockbuster Pompeii and volcanic Mt Vesuvius, this is a gloriously chaotic, high-energy destination.

Pack nerves of steel to navigate skinny streets on foot and a generous dose of Herculean endurance to take in the smorgasbord of sights littering Naples’ Unesco-listed historic center.

No wonder then that Naples’ hidden gardens, royal parks and salt-kissed seaside strips are a much-needed breath of fresh air for tourists and locals alike. When a retreat from the manic buzz of Neapolitan street life beckons, gravitate to one of these urban green spaces.

Villa Communale: best for a summer-evening passeggiata

The end-of-day passeggiata (stroll) is as sacrosanct in Naples as anywhere else in Italy and this long leafy park backing onto the Lungomare seafront is as fine a spot as any in downtown Napoli to promenade leisurely with locals, gelato or bag of freshly baked taralli rings in hand. Elegant stone fountains pepper the historical French-style gardens, laid out in the 18th century for the Bourbons to take some sea air in a style befitting of their regal status: until 1869 the private royal park or Passagio Reale (Royal Walkway) was open to the public just one day a year.

Views from the park of Castel dell’Ovo, Mt Vesuvius, the bay and outlying islands are particularly fine at sunset when Naples’ infamous volcano burns orange, pink and flame-red. Tennis courts, Europe’s oldest aquarium, bandstands and a generous peppering of open-air ‘chalet’ cafes and kiosks in the park provide other entertainment.

Orto Botanico di Napoli: best for bookworms and botanists

Story-book enchantment oozes out of every last vintage greenhouse and floral alley in Naples’ botanical gardens, gloriously green next-door neighbor to the city’s former royal almshouse where the ill and destitute sought food and shelter in the 18th century. If you’re dreaming of flopping on a bench in the shade and chilling with My Brilliant Friend or another Elena Ferrante Neapolitan novel for an hour or so, peaceful Orto Botanic di Napoli is the place to do it.

Founded in the early 19th century, the gardens squirrel away thousands of plant species – indigenous to beaches, deserts, peat bogs, rock gardens and wild lands all over the world. Exploring the ancient fern gully, citrus and palm groves are old-school adventurer highlights.

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Real Bosco di Capodimonte: best for jogging, cycling and dog-walking

Its centerpiece palace commands an admission fee, but promenading like a king through the swathe of manicured green framing 18th-century Palazzo Reale di Capodimonte is free. Graceful fountains and period statues pepper the 134-hectare estate (331 acres), designed as a hunting reserve for Charles VII of Bourbon in 1742.

Local families with dogs on leads and bambini in pushchairs flock to the park at weekends to stroll its serpentine footpaths shaded by centurion palm and eucalyptus trees, cypresses, camellias and magnolias. Year-round, picnic tables here are prime real estate.

Some footpaths are off-limits to bicycles and a well-marked percorso vita (‘Life path’) looping around the park’s lake is reserved for speedier joggers and fitness enthusiasts.

Complesso Monumentale di Santa Chiara: best for instant escape and meditation

When Neapolitan street life in the loud, pounding centro storico threatens to overwhelm, make a hasty retreat to the historic center’s landmark Basilica di Santa Chiara and cloister garden where fragrant citrus trees mingle with lilac lavender blooms. Plop yourself down on a bench and lose yourself in a bewitching kaleidoscope of whimsical 17th-century wall frescos and exquisite majolica tiling. Hand-painted flowers, grapes, twirling vines and soothing rural scenes decorating 72 ceramic-tiled columns in the cloister guarantee instant escape from daily life.

If monastery gardens are your thing, the cloisters and hanging gardens at Certosa e Museo di San Martino with bay panorama in hilltop Vomero are also sublime.

Parco Virgiliano: best for spectacular sea views

When a break from the urban crowd beckons, gravitate to this terraced hillside park in the bourgeois neighborhood of Posillipo. The reward: spectacular coastal panoramas.

Allow ample time for gawping, gorging and swooning over the exhilarating big-blue seascape that unfolds from Parco Virgiliano : cliff-fringed Capri with its celebrity villas dripping in perfumed wisteria and bougainvillea to the south; and the islands of Nisida, Procida and Ischia polka-dotting the magnificent blue sweep of the Gulf of Naples southwest. Cast your eye west to admire the Bay of Pozzuoli and Sorrento Peninsula.

Top tip: don’t miss Naples’ poshest street market that springs into life by the park entrance on Viale Virgilio every Thursday morning.

Parco Vergiliano: best for romantics and poetry nerds

It is a tad crumbling and unkempt, but this is all part of the romantic charm of Parco Vergiliano, a small eclectic park in the off-the-beaten-track ‘hood of Piedigrotta (metro line 2 to the Mergellina stop) which holds the curious claim to fame of ‘home to the world’s longest Roman tunnel’. Stagger up endless steep steps to peer in the 700m-long gallery (2296ft) that once linked Naples and Pozzuoli.

Roman poet Virgil (70–19 BCE) lived much of his life in Naples. Niches in a dovecot-shaped stone vault in the park, empty following the transfer of his ashes to a neighboring church (since destroyed), once cradled decorative busts and cinerary urns. Lyric poetry lovers can pay their respects to Italian poet Giacomo Leopardi (1798–1837), another resident of Parco Vergiliano who died in Naples from cholera.

Parco Sommerso di Gaiola: best for biodiversity and aquatic action

Submerged Roman ruins and abundant sea life are the inspiring USP of this underwater park – a protected marine reserve best explored with snorkel and mask along marked itineraries or afloat a glass-bottomed boat. Tours organized by the park set sail along the coast to Baia di Trentaremi from the village of Marechiaro.

On dry land, enjoy exhilarating views of this precious strip of coastline from the clifftop perch of Parco Archeologico del Pausilypon, an archeological park safeguarding the 1st-century BCE ruins of a Roman villa complex. Catching a summertime performance beneath the stars in the Roman theatre here is pure magic.

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