Nature & Wildlife Tours

We will enable your group to visit the most pristine, ancient, and significant of all remaining parts of the parks. Highlights of this adventure include exploring some of the largest and last remaining stands of ancient, old growth redwood forest. Get a real sense of the enormity of these beautiful specimens, and learn why the Redwoods thrive most here.

All our tours can be completely customized to meet your interests and abilities, let us do the planning for you! Tours can be either half-day (3 hours) or full-day (6.5 hours). Private Tours available.

Let our wonderful naturalists create an unforgettable experience for you!

At our headquarters in Torrey, Utah, Hondoo is surrounded for scores of miles by rugged wilderness which often seems impenetrable. However, for those who know where to go there exist intricate trails established by Indians, explorers, stockmen, outlaws and outfitters.

Some trails have been formally improved by land managers; many have not. For those interested, Hondoo will guide hikes to Capitol Reef National Park, Grand Staircase & Escalante Canyons National Monument, San Rafael Swell Wilderness, or other landforms in the area.

Let us design a trip for you or your group–we especially enjoy being the local expert for non-local tour operators. We have all necessary permits which allow us to guide you on public lands. All day hikes require a two person minimum Lunch is provided on full day tours. The price of day hikes includes transportation, your guide and lunch; trips depart as arranged. When arranging your trip, inquire with Hondoo about specific trails, length and difficulty of the trails for the area you’re interested in exploring. You may choose a special emphasis hike which feature slot canyons, slickrock mountains, natural wonders, or rock art panels.

This popular private tour features stunning views at every step, following an exposed ridge into the depths of the Grand Canyon. There are two main turn-around options on the South Kaibab Trail. The first is Cedar Ridge, which is a broad saddle with stunning views, bathrooms and a bit of shade. Turning around at Cedar Ridge makes the hike an easy-going 3 mile round trip. The other option is Skeleton Point, which offers a breathtaking lunch spot and an incredible vantage point from which to view the Colorado River and Phantom Ranch. Either way, this trail offers mind-blowing views and exciting hiking, much of which is in the first half of the hike.

Choose from any of nine segments—follow the link or contact Encounter Walking Holidays for more information.

From towering cliffs to hidden coves, ghostly tin mines to lush wooded creeks. One minute a dramatic rock theatre hewn out of the cliffs, the next a prehistoric fossilised forest. On the South West Coast Path you re-trace the footsteps, histories and lives of old tin miners, fisherman, smugglers, wreckers and of the customs men who chased them.

The full path snakes a staggering 630 miles, but is more commonly broken up into nine shorter sections. Encounter Walking Holidays will happily tailor a route to your preferences—get in touch now for more information.

Hadrian’s Wall Path is an epic 84 miles in total stretching from sea to sea through the beautiful and rugged borderlands between Scotland and England.

This UNESCO World Heritage Site is Europe’s largest surviving Roman monument and steeped in history, as well as being a popular location for films and television shoots. It was the northern frontier of the Roman Empire and took a force of 15,000 men 6 years to build.

If you want to see the best preserved parts of the Wall with museums and forts then our Highlights of the Wall walk may be for you. This 41 mile walk between Chollerford and Carlisle is where the Wall can be seen at its best. You will see fine examples of the forts, turrets and milecastles, stay in hand-picked accommodation, visit the historic Border City of Carlisle to see the castle and museums and learn about the “Cursing Stone’, a curse made against the Reivers – robbers, blackmailers and highwaymen – who blighted this area 500 years ago.

Head for the more remote valleys of the northern Dales to explore fast-flowing rivers, stunning hay meadows, traditional villages and fascinating mining remains. Spend your first day crossing the wild, open moorland between Arkengarthdale and Swaledale before enjoying a classic exploration of upper Swaledale, with its waterfalls and welcoming little villages. Your third day takes you along the Swale to popular Reeth before heading up to Fremington Edge for views back over much of your route.

Spend your first day enjoying the famous Malham circuit, taking in Gordale Scar, Malham Tarn and the huge arc of Malham Cove, as well as the quieter footpaths in between. Your second day takes you across the moors into Wharfedale where you visit the pretty village of Linton before arriving at your base for the last two nights in beautiful Burnsall. Spend your last full day exploring a lovely stretch of the River Wharf (great for a dip if you’re brave enough!) and the gorge of Trollers Gill.

This route explores the peaceful fells of the Cumbrian part of the Yorkshire Dales National Park. Spend your first full day heading for the summit of brooding Wild Boar Fell, with views over much of the western Dales, the Eden Valley and the Howgill Fells. Your second day is a full-length traverse across the distinctive Howgill Fells to reach the ‘book town’ of Sedbergh. Your final day’s walk takes you over moorland and along gentle riverside paths in Dentdale, complete with a stop in picturesque Dent.

The food is as much a highlight as the walking on this trip, with fantastic dishes using lots of local produce on offer at both hotels.

The Anglesey Coastal Path is over 125 miles long and runs through some of the finest coastal scenery in Wales. Much of the Anglesey coastline is designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) (one of 5 areas in Wales). This Coast Path walk offers a varied walking holiday crossing sandy dunes, wide estuaries, rocky cliffs and rolling farmland.

From many points along the walk there are fantastic views over to the Snowdon hills and the Llyn Peninsula. On clear days you can see as far as the Isle of Man and even the mountains of Ireland. There is abundant wildlife, including many sea birds and seals and you may be lucky enough to see dolphins.

Enjoy a relaxed ramble through Wharfedale, soaking up riverside paths, woodland trails, moorland views and pretty villages. Explore the charming villages of mid-Wharfedale before heading north all the way to the ‘head of the valley’. On the way, you will take in atmospheric Grass Wood, the fascinating ‘Conistone Dib’, a trip into peaceful Littondale, the villages of Kettlewell and Buckden and stunning views up and down the valley. There is also plenty of time to stop and refuel in some of the many cosy pubs and cafes on the way.

Begin your journey in the small market town of Middleham with its impressive castle ruins and spend a day exploring the quiet footpaths of exquisite Coverdale, remote Walden and idyllic Bishopdale before making your way west towards the head of Wensleydale, taking in famous Aysgarth Falls and the banks of the surprisingly peaceful River Ure.

Explore the famous green pastures of bucolic Wensleydale and its beautiful tributary valleys before crossing one of Yorkshire’s highest mountains to reach the more remote valley of Swaledale, full of dry stone walls, field barns, waterfalls and sweeping views. Much of this route takes in classic ‘Herriot Country’ and is our take on the well-known ‘Herriot Way’.

The Northumberland coast is best known for its sweeping sandy beaches, rolling dunes, high rocky cliffs and isolated islands. The special qualities of this coastal landscape led it to being designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) in 1958 recognising that the Northumberland coast is one of the finest landscapes in the country.

This 64 miles walk takes in probably one of the finest sections of coastline in England. Part of the 'North Sea Trail' you will follow the Northumberland Coast Path from Cresswell in the South to Berwick upon Tweed in the North.

The route follows the coast in most places with an inland detour between Belford and Holy Island. Most of the route is on footpaths and bridleways but in some places beaches, minor roads and permissive paths are used.

The route is generally level with very few steep climbs and makes for a superb walking holiday in Northumberland.

Self-guided Walking Holiday along the Northumberland Coast Path From Cresswell to Berwick-upon-Tweed over 7 days giving you plenty of time to explore some of the sights on route.

Embark on an unforgettable adventure just south of the eclectic town of Moab, Utah. High-speed, custom rafts allow you to journey through the Colorado River's legendary 100-mile Cataract Canyon in just 2 days–perfect for those with busy schedules yearning for a quick, but refreshing dose of adventure. From surreal scenery to thrilling whitewater, Cataract Canyon is rated as one of the best rafting trips in America. Travel through the heart of Canyonlands National Park on the Colorado River, where postcard-perfect vistas will dazzle you around every bend in the river. Step back in time as you explore ancient Native American habitations and learn of their cultures. Discover the thrill of nearly 30 world-class Colorado River whitewater rapids.

Once you reach Lake Powell, you'll return to Moab, by ground shuttle. Join us for 2 spectacular days in the great outdoors and reconnect with your sense of adventure. Be sure to see the Cataract Express Itinerary and Adventure Extension option to make the most of your time in Moab, Utah!

The West Highland Way is the most famous and perhaps best loved long distance walking route in Scotland. It is 96 miles/154km in length and begins in Milngavie (on the edge of Glasgow) and ends in Fort William. It's an incredibly diverse trail which explores some of the best scenery Scotland has to offer. From mountains and lochs, to moorland and farmland, the West Highland Way trek really does have it all.

Walk the best preserved sections of Hadrian’s wall, beginning in the market town of Brampton, and continuing to historic Corbridge Roman Town. Visit world famous forts and museums: Vindolanda, Birdoswald, Housesteads, & Chesters. Admire the architectural splendor of Aydon castle, Thirlwall castle and Lanercost Priory. Spot the famous Robin Hood’s Tree at Sycamore Gap. Travel through the centuries walking along Hadrian’s Wall, the best-known frontier in the Roman Empire.

Highlights

• Walk the best preserved sections of Hadrian’s wall, beginning in the market town of Brampton, and continuing to historic Corbridge Roman Town.
• Visit world famous forts and museums: Vindolanda, Birdoswald, Housesteads, & Chesters.
• Admire the architectural splendor of Aydon castle, Thirlwall castle and Lanercost Priory.
• Spot the famous Robin Hood’s Tree at Sycamore Gap.
• Travel through the centuries walking along Hadrian’s Wall, the best-known frontier in the Roman Empire.

Return to Nature and the English Countryside on an 11-day, 10-night tour tracing the full length of the rolling Cotswold hills. 102 miles of magical walking from Chipping Campden in the North to Bath in the South, leading you from one breath-taking view to the next, immersing you in the Cotswolds’ iconic history and heritage and championing England in all its glory.

Journey on foot, at your own pace, in your own time. We take all the hassle out of walking by including all luggage transfers, organising and booking all accommodation, providing maps, GPS instructions, and recommending incredible iconic palaces, castles, estates, ancient sites and more to visit along the way. Walk through the Cotswolds along canals, rivers and meadows into our incredible towns and cities.

Step back in time on one of our idyllic walks through the heart of the English countryside, along routes used since prehistoric times, winding through villages, tracing ridgelines, down into woodlands and valleys, and with panoramic views around every corner. These linear journeys are the perfect way to discover England at its finest.

This tour explores the stunning rich and verdant green landscape of Kerala. We experience charms of an old trading port; take a houseboat cruise on its backwaters and spend relaxing downtime by the beach. The itinerary begins with a two-night stay in Kochi with a sightseeing tour exploring its long heritage and some outstanding architecture. We then travel to the coast for a memorable houseboat cruise through Kerala’s famous backwaters, a lush green water world of great beauty, before the tour concludes with a two-night stay at the enchanting seaside resort of Mararikulam.

Highlights

• Fort Kochi, with its grandiose colonial architecture and laid back tropical charm.
• The backwaters, a picturesque network of canals, lagoons and lush greenery.
• Houseboat cruise through the backwaters of Alleppey.
• Mararikulam, a serene and tranquil beach destination

Adventure across the Yucatan Peninsula from the tropical beaches to the colourful cities. Lose yourself among ancient Maya ruins of Chichen Itza and Uxmal, and head to the bustling street markets before finding yourself in clear waters and turquoise lagoons of the coast. Learn about the Maya culture in colonial Merida, experience a traditional meal with a family, and then take the plunge in Bacalar: a laidback lake town famous for its ever-changing shades of blue water. Thousands of years of history mixed with a modern, laidback lifestyle means Mexico, and the Yucatan in particular, should be high on everyone’s bucket list.

This is a three night Rwanda safari which includes a stay at Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge on the edge of the Volcanoes National Park. Trek to see the highly endangered and magnificent mountain Gorilla in its wild habitat and explore a local village which gives a fascinating insight into life in rural Rwanda.

Our tour is an interesting experience into culturally enchanting and verdant landscapes and charms of tropical South India. We explore ancient Hindu temples and lavish palaces; enjoy picturesque hill walks; see exotic wildlife in its natural habitat; and relax on a houseboat while cruising through the famous Kerala backwaters.

Highlights:

• Watching wild elephants and tigers in national parks in Bandipur, Madumalai and Nagarhole.
• Riding the toy train through the hills.
• Exploring Munnar hill station famous for its picturesque tea gardens.
• Experiencing old seaport of Cochin.
• Riding the boat on Periyar Lake.

Starting in the Nyerere National Park, you will spot a wide collection of species, including the famous Big Five, some rare species of antelopes like Roan Antelope, and large concentrations of elephant and hippos. Don’t miss the opportunity to enjoy a boating safari on the wildlife-abundant Rufiji River, spot the rare African wild dog, and enjoy a guided walking safari.

Then, travel to Matemwe which boasts some of Africa’s most impressive diving and snorkelling sites. You can marvel at the abundance of exotic marine life including colourful reef fish, turtles and many species of dolphin. Above water, you can experience a local fishing trip on a traditional dhow, visit nearby markets and villages, or simply kick back under a palm tree and unwind, far from the stresses of the modern world.

Freycinet Experience Walk is an eco certified, fully inclusive walking tour in Tasmania. Over four days, you will cover the entire length of the Freycinet Peninsula, including the iconic Wineglass Bay. Spend your days taking in stunning coastal vistas and the beauty of Tasmania’s flora and fauna. By night, dine on freshly prepared Tasmanian produce before resting your head at the sustainably built Friendly Beaches Lodge in the heart of Freycinet National Park.

This seven-day, 30+ mile backpacking adventure includes five full days of backpacking along massive glaciers, past wild creeks, and through virgin wilderness in this most amazing and virtually unexplored area of Denali National Park. Not only does this experience include float plane access via a flight-seeing tour of the mighty Ruth Glacier, it also provides backpackers the opportunity to experience Denali National Park in a way that few ever have. You’ll finish the trip with a short visit to the quaint town of Talkeenta, and a remarkable train ride back to Anchorage.

Turquoise Lake offers some of the best hiking and wildlife viewing in Lake Clark National Park. At your first camp, spend a few days exploring waterfalls and glaciers, then head toward Twin Lakes for three days in the alpine tundra. Enjoy some of Alaska’s most incredible lakes and mountain ranges, and return refreshed from this wild place of natural beauty and solitude.

Guarded by 8,000’ peaks to the east, and endless tundra to the west, Turquoise Lake is nestled between Telaquana Lake and Twin Lakes, in the heart of Lake Clark National Park. This 7-day adventure gives anyone looking for an all-inclusive wilderness hiking experience the chance to thoroughly explore one of Alaska’s most amazing and beautiful watersheds; kayaking the turquoise waters, hiking to the edges of mighty glaciers, and exploring the hillsides searching for a glimpse of the many animals that call this place home. With kayaks based at Turquoise Lake you can hike both the east end and west end of the lake, with the option to do morning or evening paddles from camp.

This routes explores three of Lake Clark National Park’s most spectacular watersheds — Telaquana Lake, Turquoise Lake, and the famed Twin Lakes. This backpacking trip will take you up and over glaciers, through spectacularly vertical canyons, past huge waterfalls, and across some of the most stunning alpine tundra in Alaska.

This 10-day backpacking and hiking trip will take you from the shores of remote Telaquana Lake, around the Trail Creek highlands, beneath the glaciated 8000’ Telaquana Mountain, under the hanging glaciers surrounding Turquoise Lake, over a glacier pass, through the tundra of the Emerson Creek valley, and finally to Twin Lakes.

While the mountains present exciting route-finding challenges, the tundra allows the opportunity to hike easily and glass the horizons for Dall’s sheep, grizzly bears, caribou, moose, migratory foul, and birds of prey.

Start your trip in Karatu with a stay at Ngorongoro Farmhouse Lodge, situated beneath the majestic Oldeani Volcano. There is easy access to both the untamed wilderness of Ngorongoro Conservation Area, as well as the simple pleasure of a ramble through 500 acres of farmland.

Flying on to the heart of Tanzania, the Central Serengeti encompasses the world-famous Seronera Valley which is known for its prime wildlife-viewing opportunities. Popular activities include game viewing, cultural tours, horse riding safaris, and hot air ballooning over the spectacularly scenic terrain.

Finally, you will travel to Matemwe which boasts some of Africa’s most impressive diving and snorkelling sites. You can marvel at the abundance of exotic marine life including colourful reef fish, turtles and many species of dolphin. Above water, you can experience a local fishing trip on a traditional dhow, visit nearby markets and villages, or simply kick back under a palm tree and unwind, far from the stresses of the modern world.