7 reasons
to travel self-guided with pathways

Our custom self-guided trips are great for folks who prefer to travel on their own, without the services of a guide. We'll provide you with everything you need to enjoy a local, authentic Pathways experience and the liberty to explore at your own pace.

Each itinerary is handcrafted and completely customizable to your preferred travel date, budget and activity level.

1. we handle the details

From the Azores & Norway to Northern Italy & Argentina, we have personally traveled to all the places explored in our itineraries. We work closely with our local contacts and friends on the ground to craft unforgettable trips. We've carefully & thoughtfully planned each part of the experience - from your beautiful accommodations each night to the best restaurant recommendations along the way.

2. easy navigation

Even though you won’t have a guide with you, you are never completely on your own. Whether you’re traveling to South Africa or Slovenia, we provide you with a customized package of materials - including topographical hiking maps, elevation profiles, detailed route descriptions, travel itineraries, prepaid accommodations, and all sorts of information about the history, culture, geography, cuisine and language of the places you're visiting. You’ll even get a membership to AllTrails so that you can download all your maps ahead of time on your phone. No matter where you’re headed, we'll make sure that you're set up for a smooth, fun and successful trip.

3. customization & Flexibility

You can start your trip on any date that works best for you and your travel plans. Once you submit a request for more information about an itinerary, you'll receive a personal phone call from the Pathways team. Together, we’ll chat about your goals for the trip and Pathways will work to customize an itinerary based on your interests, budget & activity level. We’ll only ask for your deposit when your trip is just right.

4. Local discovery

When you travel independently, you'll naturally engage with the local folks you meet throughout your journey. We'll provide you with detailed information about where you're traveling including historical & cultural information so that you feel prepared and can immerse yourself as much or as little as you’d like. We’ll include a list of local recommendations for the best restaurants, local activities and insider tips for your trip.

5. expert knowledge
& support

These trips are near and dear to our heart and while we’ve traveled to all the places in our itineraries, we’ve scouted and re-scouted as necessary so that all information is as up-to-date as possible.

For every self-guided trip, we arrange a pre-trip orientation phone call to review your itinerary, the pre-trip logistics, packing list and more. You'll have time to get detailed, personalized answers to all your questions before your trip begins. On the trail, the Pathways staff is always a quick phone call or text away if you ever need help, no matter what time of day or night.

6. range of options

We have a variety of trips that we offer to various locations around the world. Each itinerary is capable of catering to a range of activity levels and all are fully customizable. If you see an itinerary you love, but want easier or more challenging options, we can do that. Don’t know what you want? We’ll get to know you and provide inspiration.

If you have an idea for a trip that isn't listed here, please contact us since we're always looking to expand our offerings. Perhaps your dream trip is already in the works…

7. handpicked
accommodations

Where you stay on a Pathways trip is so much more than just where you sleep - it’s an integral part of your experience. We very carefully choose where our groups stay – not just somewhere clean & convenient, but beautiful, special places with character, warmth and a story. Whenever we can, we try to find historic spots that are family or locally-run and that embrace the local culture and cuisine.

ready to start planning a trip?

Customize your trip here and we’ll be in touch within one business day to start building your itinerary. When you’re ready, we look forward to helping you plan an amazing trip.