Wander Expeditions Blog
US Travel Ban: What does it mean?
Donald Trump needs a headline every day, and yesterday it was the announcement of the new official lists for Full Travel Ban (12 countries) and Partial Travel Ban (7 countries). 1. If you are a US citizen: this might continue to hinder the power of your passport. You are currently ranked #8, needing 51 on arrival visas and 28 visas (thats 6 more visas than a Spanish Passport at #2). New visa requirements might be introduced, even more expensive fees, and visiting some of these countries might
2026 Unicorn 🦄 : APPLY NOW
December 2023. One of the toughest months of my life. Returning home from the hardest Expedition we've ever had, I'm checked in the Hospital with very high fever. It's Malaria. Mental exhaustion, physical toll, and personal life sacrifices because of it. Over 2 years reliving what went wrong, what could've been improved. We failed at trying to do the impossible: overland Central Africa like we overlanded West Africa. It simply can't be done. It's rough, expensive and a logistical nightmare.
Welcome Home
You. You want to explore adventurous destinations, but you're not sure if an operator is trustworthy or reliable. Who is behind the brand? What do they stand for other than a price and itinerary? You secretly prefer to travel in groups, but most group trips you've been on weren't a vibe. So you tell yourself you prefer to go solo, because your friends never want to join you going off the grid. You want to learn, grow and level up your skills, but it has to be from the right people, experts in
BLACKOUT
12.30pm today. My whole country blacked out. No power, no internet. At first I thought my power went out. 10min in, we realized the whole building had the same issue. 15min in, we walked out to a street full of neighbors with the same problem. Maybe it’s local? Our Town? No electricity, no TV, no wifi, no data, no news. Car radio! I thought. I turned it on, and bam! It was country wide. A whole country blacked out. Something to do with issues connecting to the European Power G
Best Summer Festivals
Spoiler: it's not fucking Tomorrowland. Traditional Festivals are an excellent way to visit a destination and squeeze the most juice from its culture. Usually, they land in weird dates around the year, and you can't make it out there. However, there are a few that take place in Summer, so you literally have no excuse. Nadaam Festival in Mongolia: the best time to visit the infamous steppes of this Central Asian giant. Nomad games that take place over 2 days and showcase the best sports, arts
Decisions Decisions
I woke up to a horrible email 48h ago: "North Korea has closed Rason". Tourism lasted... literally less than 2 weeks and the country was shut once again. If you've followed this newsletter for a while, you know I always speak of windows of opportunity. If you want to go everywhere, some places are more pressing than others. Canada will likely always be open to tourism. North Korea? Not so much. You need to jump at the opportunity. And as that window closed, another door opened: "Pyongyang Ma
Himalayan Dream
Tibet is the abode of Himalayan Buddhism. The Potala Palace, the ancestral home of the Dalai Lama. Red & Gold monasteries above 4000m, yak butter candles, incense, monks chanting and colorful buddhist prayer flags flying in the wind. Kathmandu, the capital of the only country in the World that has Hinduism as their official religion. Gurus gather at the entrance of temples, while corpses are cremated by the holy river. In between, 1300km of paved road connect both capitals, Lhasa and Kathman
The Friendship Highway: Tibet, Everest & Kathmandu
July 27th 2009. We reached Everest just after midnight, on my 21st Birthday. The mountain lay naked in front of us, with a silver dress from the full moon. No clouds, despite it being monsoon season. One could call it fate. Everest was a big dream of mine. Before Travel, I was into mountains, and that was the one that always lingered in my mind. I was a 20 year old broke student that couldn’t afford to Summit it, so I settled for its Base Camp. I researched thoroughly how to get there, plan
Exploring Mongolia: A Comprehensive Guide to Its Untamed Beauty
Why Mongolia is a Dream Destination for Adventurers Mongolia is a land of unbridled beauty, where vast open steppes stretch to the horizon, snow-capped mountains pierce the sky, and the silence of the desert offers unparalleled serenity. For adventurers, this is a dream destination, offering an escape from modernity and a chance to reconnect with the raw, unspoiled essence of nature. Mongolia’s allure lies not only in its landscapes but in its rich culture, where ancient traditions still thrive
We didn't warn you
Don't say we didn't warn you. You can still join an Expedition before May 2025. These are the spots we have open: * Ghana Togo & Benin VIII: a couple spots left in this superb classic that everyone loves. Magic dances, voodoo rituals... this is an essential Expedition. March 8-15th 2025. The last spots at this price, before we inevitably need to raise them after 8 editions. * Turkmenistan IV: explore the weirdest country on Earth with us! Turkmenistan won't leave you the same: between the Ga
Everything you'd expect
Antarctica is everything you'd expect. A Frozen Continent that takes 2 days to get to from the End of the World. When you finally see land, you understand what those avid explorers that ventured out into the Oceans must've felt. The land, is snow and ice. Sunlight reflects everywhere in a magical way, as the ship makes its way through frozen bays. The silence is broken only by icebergs cracking. No other humans in sight. It would be very eerie if it weren't for the locals: colonies of pengui
Visiting Turkmenistan: Everything You Need to Know for an Epic Trip
Why Turkmenistan is a Unique Destination Turkmenistan stands as one of the most enigmatic and visually striking countries in Central Asia. With its blend of ancient Silk Road heritage, vast deserts, and modern architectural marvels, it offers a travel experience unlike any other. This hidden gem is home to surreal landscapes like the Darvaza Gas Crater and ancient cities that once thrived as hubs of trade and culture. Its limited tourism makes it a rare and untouched destination, perfect for ad
Mauritania Tours: Unveiling the Magic of the Sahara Desert
Why Mauritania Should Be Your Next Adventure Destination Mauritania is a land of extraordinary contrasts, where the boundless beauty of the Sahara Desert meets a rich tapestry of culture and history. Often overlooked by mainstream tourism, this North African nation offers a pristine adventure for those eager to explore its golden dunes, ancient cities, and nomadic traditions. Mauritania promises an unforgettable journey into a world shaped by nature and time. The Unique Charm of Mauritania’s
How to Reach Svalbard: A Complete Travel Guide to the Arctic Archipelago
Why Svalbard is a Bucket-List Destination Svalbard is a place where the world feels untouched, raw, and profoundly beautiful. Located deep in the Arctic Circle, it offers travelers an opportunity to step into a pristine wilderness of glaciers, fjords, and snow-capped mountains. This remote archipelago captivates adventurers, wildlife enthusiasts, and those yearning for solitude in a world apart. From its unparalleled Arctic landscapes to the chance to witness polar bears in their natural habita
Top Things to Do in Papua New Guinea: A Traveler's Ultimate Guide
Why Papua New Guinea is a Hidden Gem for Travelers Papua New Guinea is one of the most diverse and unspoiled travel destinations in the world. With its rugged landscapes, unique cultural heritage, and unparalleled biodiversity, this Pacific nation offers a journey into the extraordinary. For those seeking adventure, cultural immersion, or a connection with nature, Papua New Guinea remains a hidden gem waiting to be explored. Overview of Papua New Guinea’s Rich Culture, Nature, and Adventure
What Are the Stans? Discover Central Asia’s Hidden Gems
The Mystery of the Stans: An Overview of Central Asia Central Asia, often called the "Heart of the Silk Road," is a region steeped in history, cultural richness, and breathtaking landscapes. The Stans—Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, Turkmenistan, and Tajikistan—are a quintet of nations that blend ancient traditions with modern intrigue. From the windswept steppes of Kazakhstan to the mountainous terrain of Tajikistan, these countries offer a diverse tapestry of experiences waiting to be dis
Unmissable Adventures in Palau: Your Go-To Travel Guide
Why Palau Should Be Your Next Travel Destination Palau is a haven for adventurers and nature enthusiasts, offering a perfect blend of serenity and thrill. Nestled in the Pacific Ocean, this small island nation captivates visitors with its stunning landscapes, vibrant marine life, and rich cultural heritage. Whether you're diving among coral reefs, exploring ancient traditions, or soaking in the tranquil beauty of its beaches, Palau promises unforgettable experiences. Overview of Palau’s Uniqu
Pakistan Travel Guide: Exploring the Land of Majestic Landscapes
Why Pakistan is a Must-Visit Destination Pakistan is a treasure trove of natural wonders, rich history, and warm hospitality, offering something for every kind of traveler. From the soaring peaks of the Karakoram Range to the sun-drenched sands of the Cholistan Desert, the country's dramatic landscapes capture the imagination like few other places on Earth. But it’s not just the scenery that beckons. Pakistan is a land of ancient civilizations, vibrant festivals, and a cultural diversity that m
How to Get to Patagonia: Planning Your Journey to the End of the World
Why Patagonia Captures the Imagination of Travelers Patagonia is not just a destination; it’s a dream. This remote region, straddling the southern tips of Chile and Argentina, calls to adventurers, dreamers, and nature lovers alike. Its allure lies in its untamed wilderness, where jagged peaks pierce the skies, glaciers crackle like thunder, and winds whisper ancient stories. For those seeking escape, Patagonia offers a rare promise: the chance to stand at the edge of the Earth and feel truly a
Top 10 Reasons to Visit West Africa Now
West Africa VII - Wander ExpeditionsHere it is: West Africa VII. After months of refining our expertise from the past 6 expeditions, we set out with one goal—to perfect our best-seller. We stripped all the fat and left the best meat, the West African overland fuckery you all love. From Bissau to Monrovia, with a chance to add-on 2 days of Ivory Coast conveniently with a direct flight. We’ve also slimmed our group size and saved you a few days of painful driving. As always, we’re pairing it with
Antarctica Tours: Explore the Last Frontier
Antarctica, Falkand Islands and South Georgia - Wander ExpeditionsAntarctica is the Expedition you have all been waiting for, so at Wander Expeditions we’ve taken this challenge very seriously and we have picked the best ship to experience the majesty and wonder of Earth’s last frontier. This time, we are including Falkand Islands and South Georgia too! The Ocean Victoria is a brand new vessel that offers comfortable sailing, luxurious amenities, a fleet of Zodiac landing craft and an experience
Wildlife Adventures Await in DRC, Rwanda & Burundi
DRC, Rwanda & Burundi VII - Wander ExpeditionsDRC is back! We repacked this Wander Expedition classic with it’s two smaller neighbours to offer the most value in this East African Expedition. One week where we will track gorillas in Congo’s rainforests, explore the deadly Lake Kivu, and the lively streets of Bukavu, a border town that packs a punch. We will kick it off in Kigali, Africa’s most organized and cleanest capital, and enjoy the stunning Rwandan sceneries. Finally, we will end in Burun
Experience epic adventures in Ghana, Togo, and Benin
Ghana, Togo & Benin VIII - Wander ExpeditionsGhana, Togo and Benin are the perfect first experience in West Africa, while still keeping all the thrill and adventure you seek for in any off-the-beaten path experience. Ghana offers epic outdoors from Kakum NP to a gorgeous photogenic coast sprinkled with colonial castles. Togo and Benin are also the home of Voodoo, which we will try to understand as a belief system based on nature and spirituality, breaking the stereotypes of western pop-culture.