WALKING ADVENTURES INTERNATIONAL
Walk the World with Us
WELCOME TO
walking adventures international
For 37 years, we’ve been creating extraordinary walking adventures for active travelers who seek authentic experiences, cultural immersion, and the joy of exploring the world on foot.
What Makes Us Different:
– Expertly curated itineraries balancing activity, culture, and relaxation
– Active walks adapted to a comfortable pace for all fitness levels
– Local expert guides who bring destinations to life
– Carefully selected accommodations and authentic experiences
– Welcoming community of like-minded adventurers
Whether you’re interested in our confirmed 2026 departures or helping us shape our 2027 season, we’re here to make your travel dreams a reality.
March 6-17, 2026
New Zealand
Hike across cinematic landscapes where glaciers, beaches, and Māori legends collide.
This Tour is Sold Out
April 20-27, 2026 – 8 days
San Juan Island & Skagit Valley Tulip Festival
Join us for this multi-faceted odyssey across Puget Sound and through Western Washington’s colorful April highlights!
Last Spots Available
May 13-20 2026 – 8 days
utah`s mighty five
Step into a world of towering arches, crimson canyons, and breathtaking trails on a once-in-a-lifetime journey through the Southwest’s most iconic landscapes
May, 2026
route 66
Mother road 100 year anniversary tour
Part 1 – East – May 5-13, 2026
Mother Road at the Heartland
Part 2 – West – May 12-23, 2026
Mother Road Out West
Rediscover the soul of America on a once-in-a-century journey filled with classic cars, neon lights, small-town charm, and the timeless magic of the open road.
June 11 – 24, 2026
Yellowknife Canadian 2026 Walking Festival
Walk under the midnight sun and connect with walkers from across the continent on an unforgettable northern adventure celebrating the joy of walking where the sun barely sets.
This Tour is Sold Out
July 5-15, 2026
svalbard islands polar bear cruise ~ new
Experience the magic of the midnight sun, Arctic wildlife, and glacier-carved landscapes on a once-in-a-lifetime expedition through one of Earth’s wildest and most remote frontiers.
Closing Soon - Last Spots Available
July 27 – August 8, 2026
Ireland~ the emerald isle
Uncover ancient legends, coastal wonders, and emerald landscapes on a soul-stirring journey through Ireland’s most enchanting trails and timeless cultural treasures.
August 10-23, 2026
Namibia to Victoria Falls ~ NEW
From desert dunes to thundering falls, this four-country African odyssey is a once-in-a-lifetime journey through wildlife-rich parks, ancient cultures, and landscapes that redefine the word “epic”
Sold Out
september 1 – 11, 2026
Great Lakes & Mighty Mac Walk
From lighthouse-lined shores to the legendary Mighty Mac Walk, this Great Lakes odyssey blends history, heritage, and horizon-touching beauty.
Last Spots Available for General Registration
september 3-16, 2026 | september 17-30,2026
Channel Isles & London ~ NEW
From the salt-kissed trails of the Channel Isles to London’s storied streets, this journey bridges island serenity with cosmopolitan splendor.
Last Spots Available for General Registration
October 18-23, 2026
Smoky Mountains Fall Foliage
Blazing autumn colors and Appalachian charm converge in a vibrant six-day celebration of nature, culture, and renewal in the heart of the Smokies.
Last Spots Available for General Registration
November 8-17, 2026
Egypt ~ Land of Pharaohs
From pyramid shadows to Nile breezes, this timeless walking adventure unearths the marvels of Egypt with every step and sail.
Last Spots Available
December 2026
Christmas in Québec & Montréal
Twinkling lights, timeless cities, and holiday cheer come together in this Franco-Canadian Christmas journey from Montréal’s vibrant streets to Québec’s storybook charm.
September 18 – 28, 2026
Hiking the azores
Enchanted Islands
Journey to the lush, volcanic isles of the mid-Atlantic where emerald landscapes, crater lakes, and centuries of seafaring history await on an unforgettable island-hopping hiking adventure.
Want to know more?
July or August 2026 * 9 Days
Start & Finish: Ponta Delgada, Sao Miguel Island, Azores
Tour Type: Classic Curated, Hiking
Far out in the Atlantic Ocean, roughly one-third of the distance between southern Europe and the East Coast of the USA, lies a 9-island archipelago called the Azores Islands. Here, the tips of some of earth’s tallest mountains poke above the ocean surface from the bottom of a deep ocean at a juncture of three major tectonic plates.
The latitude of the islands combines with the moderating Gulf Stream influence and rich volcanic soil to produce a Garden-of-Eden effect. Luxuriant vegetation is an extraordinary feature of the Azores. The volcanic nature of the islands also produces a tremendous topographical variety: emerald green valleys dotted with a plethora of prolific dairy cows, black lava beaches bearing the pounding of a starkly contrasting and unusually clear blue surf, mysterious meandering lava caves, and a fascinating variety of lagoons and lakes…all explored on a well-developed system of trails and dirt roads.
Six hundred years ago, under the patronage of Prince Henry the Navigator, Portuguese mariners became the first to develop the ability to sail the open ocean, out of sight of land. In their relentless quest to round the cape of Africa in search of trade treasures of the East, they happened upon this blessed archipelago. Hence, though over 800 miles from Portugal, it fell under the jurisdiction of Lisbon and is today a part of the nation of Portugal.
Island hopping (by plane) to 4 of the Azores 9 islands offers a surprisingly diverse introduction to this luxuriant Atlantic archipelago.
THE NEW WAI team
As WAI enters a bold new chapter, two passionate explorers are charting the course forward. Scott Isom, WAI’s most seasoned global guide, brings unmatched experience and a gift for creating unforgettable walking adventures. Partnering with him is Hugo Palma, founder of Borealis and a visionary in nature-based travel, known for his creative spark and deep love of the outdoors. Together, Scott and Hugo are the perfect blend of wanderlust, wisdom, and heart—ready to lead Walking Adventures International into its most exciting era yet. Supporting Scott and Hugo from two continents are teams of experienced, professional, and committed guides, planners, and operational staff that will help bring your travel dreams to life!
Scott Isom
Adventurer in Chief & Global Trail Master
Hugo Palma
Experience Architect & Adventure Visionary
Walk with Purpose. Travel with Heart
Beyond sightseeing—every journey is a step toward deeper discovery, connection, and wonder.
At Walking Adventures International, travel isn’t just about visiting places—it’s about uncovering meaning. For over 35 years, we’ve invited travelers to go beyond the obvious, blending exploration with insight in every step we take. With a deep commitment to discovery, passion, and integrity, we curate journeys that challenge assumptions, awaken curiosity, and celebrate the joy of learning through experience.
Our adventures are designed to be more than vacations—they’re cultural immersions, scenic awakenings, and moments of shared humanity. We guide travelers through places of beauty, history, and spiritual depth, helping them step out of their comfort zones and into the rich stories that shape our world. Whether it’s strolling through ancient cities, walking rainforest paths, or connecting with local communities, each tour is a heartfelt invitation to truly be there.