Ecuador: Journey through the Avenue of the Volcanoes

Ecuador, straddling both hemispheres, offers a microcosm of the planet's natural wonders within its compact borders. It's a land where you can breakfast in the Amazon rainforest, lunch among the high Andean peaks, and dine beside the Pacific Ocean. For trekkers, it's a paradise of varied landscapes, ecosystems, and cultures, particularly famed for its Avenue of the Volcanoes—a stretch of land graced with some of the world's highest and most active peaks.

The Andes and Beyond

The Andean spine that runs through Ecuador is the most prominent feature for trekkers. The famous Quilotoa Loop offers a multi-day trek around a stunning crater lake with a unique turquoise hue, passing through remote indigenous villages and offering breathtaking Andean landscapes. Meanwhile, the Cotopaxi National Park houses one of the world's highest active volcanoes, Cotopaxi, providing both challenging climbs for experienced trekkers and scenic day hikes for those looking for a leisurely pace.

Unique Biodiversity

Ecuador is one of the most biodiverse countries in the world. Trekking here not only means navigating diverse terrains but also encountering a vast array of flora and fauna. In the cloud forests of Mindo, trekkers can spot hundreds of bird species, including the vividly colored Andean cock-of-the-rock. The Amazon basin, accessible through gateways like Tena or Coca, offers treks through lush, dense jungle, home to an astounding collection of wildlife.

Cultural Exchange

Trekking in Ecuador also offers rich cultural encounters. The country is home to numerous indigenous communities, each with their own unique traditions and ways of life. As you trek through the Andes, you'll likely meet Quechua-speaking communities, known for their intricate textiles and hearty cuisine. Engaging respectfully with these communities can add a profound layer of meaning to your trek.

Conservation Efforts

As a country with such rich natural and cultural heritage, conservation is key. Ecuador's government and various NGOs are working hard to preserve its ecosystems and biodiversity. As trekkers, it's crucial to respect these efforts by sticking to established trails, minimizing waste, and being mindful of wildlife. In places like the Galapagos Islands, these efforts are especially stringent due to the fragile and unique nature of the ecosystem.

Ecuador offers an enchanting world of trekking possibilities, from the volcanic highlands to the lush Amazon, each with its own set of challenges and rewards. Whether you're a seasoned trekker looking for the next high-altitude challenge or a curious traveler eager to soak in natural beauty and cultural richness, Ecuador's trails await. As you embark on these journeys, carry with you a sense of responsibility and wonder, preserving the beauty you came to see for those who will follow in your footsteps.

Trekking in Patagonia's Less-Visited Parks

Patagonia, the fabled land at the southern tip of South America, is synonymous with vast open spaces, towering mountain peaks, and a sense of utter remoteness. While many trekkers flock to the well-known Torres del Paine, the region offers a plethora of less-visited parks that promise equally stunning landscapes and a more solitary communion with nature.

Hidden Gems of Patagonia

Los Glaciares National Park's northern sector is often overshadowed by the famed Fitz Roy range in the south but offers incredible trekking opportunities amid ice-capped peaks and pristine lakes. Parque Patagonia, a lesser-known yet stunningly beautiful area, offers treks through valleys teeming with wildlife and views of the Patagonian steppe. Further south, Tierra del Fuego presents a raw and windswept landscape at the very end of the continent, where forests, mountains, and glaciers meet the sea.

Wildlife and Wilderness

Patagonia's less-visited parks are a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. Here, you might spot guanacos grazing, Andean condors soaring overhead, or even the elusive puma. The parks are also home to a variety of unique flora, adapted to the harsh, windy climate. Trekking through these areas offers a chance to witness the interplay of life in one of the world's last great wildernesses.

Responsible Trekking

The remote and often fragile ecosystems of Patagonia require a committed approach to conservation. Trekkers are urged to follow leave-no-trace principles, sticking to trails to avoid damaging vegetation, and taking all trash out with them. Given the limited facilities in these less-visited areas, preparation and self-sufficiency are key, as is a respect for the natural environment and the small, often isolated local communities.

Trekking in Patagonia's less-visited parks offers a chance to escape the crowds and immerse yourself in some of the most breathtaking landscapes on the planet. Whether you're navigating the ice fields of Los Glaciares, exploring the new trails of Parque Patagonia, or venturing into the wilds of Tierra del Fuego, you'll find a deep sense of solitude and connection to nature. As you walk these lesser-known paths, remember that you are a steward of this land, responsible for preserving its beauty and wildness for future generations to discover and cherish.

The Timeless Trails of the Republic of Georgia - A Trekker's Paradise

Straddling the mighty Caucasus range, the Republic of Georgia offers an exhilarating mix of landscapes, from soaring peaks to serene forests, all ripe for exploration. Trekking in Georgia is to walk through history and witness the vibrant tapestry of cultures. As adventurers seek out the untamed beauty of Tusheti or the ancient towers of Svaneti, understanding and respecting the local environment and culture become paramount.

Tusheti: A Hidden Gem

Tusheti, a remote region accessible only a few months a year, is a bastion of Georgian wilderness. Treks here offer a blend of breathtaking landscapes and insights into ancient cultures. The region's isolation has preserved not just its natural beauty but also its traditional way of life. Trails lead to old villages, past defensive towers, and across alpine meadows, with the promise of an authentic connection to the land and its history.

Svaneti: The Towering Heritage

Svaneti, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is as famous for its medieval towers and churches as it is for its dramatic mountain scenery. The region offers a variety of treks, ranging from gentle walks to challenging climbs. The Mestia to Ushguli trek is particularly popular, winding through historic villages and offering spectacular views of the Caucasus. Svaneti is a place where culture and nature have been intertwined for centuries, creating a unique landscape that beckons to be explored with respect and wonder.

Comparing Tusheti and Svaneti

Tusheti appeals to those seeking a wild and remote experience, with less-trodden paths and a closer connection to traditional lifestyles. Svaneti, more accessible and developed for tourism, offers an opportunity to delve into a rich historical narrative set against a backdrop of stunning natural beauty. Both regions, with their distinct appeals, call for a thoughtful approach to trekking, ensuring that the footprints left behind are light and respectful.

Sustainability and Conservation in Georgia

As the interest in Georgia's trekking trails grows, so does the responsibility of every traveler to consider the impact of their journey. The country's diverse ecosystems and cultural sites are delicate treasures that require collective effort to preserve.

Here are some considerations for responsible trekking in Georgia:

• Trail Etiquette: Stick to marked paths to avoid eroding landscapes and disrupting wildlife. Respect any signs or guidance provided to protect sensitive areas.

• Waste Management: Leave no trace of your visit. Carry out all trash, and consider the impact of waste on local communities and wildlife.

• Cultural Sensitivity: Understand and respect local customs and traditions. This might mean dressing modestly, asking permission before taking photographs, or learning a few words in the local language.

• Support Local: Engage with local guides and use local services to help support the economies of the communities you visit. This also enriches your experience by providing authentic insight into Georgian culture.

• Conservation Efforts: Be aware of and support ongoing conservation efforts. This might involve participating in clean-up hikes, respecting wildlife habitats, or contributing to local conservation projects.

Georgia's trails are not just paths through the mountains; they are journeys through history, culture, and stunning landscapes. As trekkers, there is a responsibility to tread lightly and respectfully, ensuring that these treasures are preserved for future generations. Whether you are drawn to the remote beauty of Tusheti or the historic paths of Svaneti, remember that you are a guest in a story that has been unfolding for centuries. Embrace the adventure, but do so with a mindful step, ensuring that the trails of Georgia remain timeless and treasured.

Bhutan: Trekking in the Land of the Thunder Dragon

Bhutan, known as the Land of the Thunder Dragon, is a place where culture, spirituality, and nature intertwine beautifully. Nestled in the heart of the Himalayas, it offers trekkers not just trails, but pathways to a different world, characterized by serene landscapes, majestic monasteries, and a philosophy centered around happiness and harmony with nature.

Iconic Trails

Bhutan's trails are as varied as they are breathtaking. The Jomolhari Trek is perhaps the most famous, taking adventurers close to the majestic Jomolhari peak, at over 7,300 meters. The Druk Path Trek, another popular route, offers a shorter but equally stunning experience, connecting Paro to Thimphu and passing through rhododendron forests, alpine yak pastures, and ancient lhakhangs (temples).

Gross National Happiness

Unique to Bhutan is its development philosophy of Gross National Happiness (GNH), which prioritizes the well-being of its citizens and the preservation of its culture and environment over mere economic growth. This philosophy extends to its approach to tourism, emphasizing sustainable travel and cultural respect. Trekkers are invited not just to explore the land but to engage with its values, contributing to the preservation of Bhutan's unique environment and way of life.

Flora and Fauna

As a biodiversity hotspot, Bhutan is home to a range of ecosystems, from subtropical plains to alpine zones. Trekkers might encounter rare species like the snow leopard, red panda, or takin (Bhutan's national animal) alongside a variety of birdlife. The country's commitment to conservation ensures that these natural treasures continue to thrive.

Mindful Travel

Traveling in Bhutan requires a mindfulness of its delicate ecosystems and rich cultural fabric. Trekkers are encouraged to minimize their environmental impact, respect the local customs and spiritual sites, and engage with communities in a way that is sensitive and supportive. Bhutan's policy of high value, low impact tourism means that visitor numbers are controlled, ensuring that travel remains sustainable and beneficial to both visitors and hosts.

Trekking in Bhutan is an opportunity to step into a world that balances modernity with tradition, and development with conservation. It's a chance to witness the Himalayas' grandeur, delve into ancient Buddhist culture, and experience a society where happiness and harmony are central. As you walk the sacred paths of this last Shangri-La, carry with you a sense of reverence and responsibility, ensuring that the beauty and spirit of Bhutan continue to inspire for generations to come.

7 Ways to Travel More Sustainably on Your Next Adventure

1. Come prepared with helpful knowledge

Spend some time learning about the history and culture of the areas you plan to visit. Having a general background will provide a unique lens as you travel, plus your guides will be able to share more and help answer any questions in-country.

Be sure to research local customs before you arrive. What may be a friendly gesture in one country could be quite offensive in another. The easiest way to respect local customs is to know what they are.

Next, familiarize yourself with sustainability issues unique to that location. From water scarcity to animal welfare, every country (including your own) has unique and complex issues with sustainability. Get to know what issues your particular destination is facing to make responsible decisions while traveling.

Lastly, don’t forget to brush up on the local language. Bring a small notebook or make a note in your phone translating “hello/goodbye,” “yes/no”, “please/thank you,” plus a few more phrases that may come in handy. Learning just a few words of the language can go a long way. Don’t worry too much about your pronunciation, people always appreciate the effort!

2. Research your tour operator

Once in a lifetime trips are a big investment, and cost is always a factor when deciding where to travel. You may spend a few years saving to climb Kilimanjaro or visit Easter Island, but before booking the cheapest deal out there, consider the tour operator and why it costs what it does.  

Responsible travel operators choose suppliers that have good environmental practices and are locally owned, they pay their staff fair wages, manage their own environmental impact, and consider animal welfare. While this can be difficult to verify, look for operators who opt-in to third party verification. Partner companies of the Kilimanjaro Porter’s Assistance Project are audited annually (and on every climb) for proper wages and fair treatment of porters. Travel companies with B Corp certification have had their business verified to meet a high standard of sustainability and are legally required to consider the impact of their decisions on their workers, customers, suppliers, community, and the environment. Greenwashing is rampant in most industries these days - be sure to look for official certifications.

It’s a fine balance between finding something affordable and ensuring that your money is being well spent. If a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is! 

3. Offset the carbon emissions from your flight 

It’s hard to avoid flying across continents to reach your next travel destination. Unfortunately, the biggest contributor to greenhouse gases in the travel industry are long-haul flights. The first and most important step is to invest in projects that offset your flight’s emissions to achieve climate neutrality. Luckily, it’s affordable and shouldn’t take more than 5 minutes.

First, find a reputable organization that has been vetted and is transparent about the projects that they fund. (OneSeed currently uses South Pole to offset all expeditions and internal operations). Next, input your flight itinerary and your carbon emissions will be calculated by the metric ton. Lastly, choose a carbon offset project to fund like forest reforestation, clean cooking stoves, and renewable energy projects.

While methods like carbon capture and sequestration would help move the needle beyond just net-zero, they aren’t yet available or affordable to the masses. It’s important to not let perfect get in the way of good. Changing habits slowly over time helps shift mindsets towards the importance of protecting our planet. 

Other flights tips and tricks to lower your impact:

• Minimize air travel

• Take nonstop flights whenever possible  

• Fly economy rather than business or first class as you’re responsible for less of the calculated emissions based on available space

4. Bring a reusable water bottle filter

The amount of plastic filling our landfills and oceans is overwhelming. Microplastics are being found in our drinking water, even contaminating water and wildlife as far south as Antarctica. While big business and manufacturing need to change, we can always do our part.  

Commit to using a reusable water bottle wherever you go, whether that’s at home or traveling abroad. When you’re in countries where the water is not safe to drink, it can be easy to reach for bottled water as it’s cheap and easy. Keep in mind that many countries don’t have an efficient recycling system, so that plastic bottle is likely going straight into the trash.

The best option is to bring a reusable water bottle and filter system. Try a SteriPen that purifies water through UV light. Water treatment tablets work well and don’t take up much room. A water bottle filter like GRAYL can be an easy all-in-one solution where you fill the water bottle and push the lid filter down to purify the water in about 15 seconds. Being prepared with a water filter system ensures that you can drink from the tap in your hotel, a spigot along the trail, or from a river or lake without the worry of getting sick.

5. Support local business, not chains or imports

Shopping local is a great way to ensure an economy and community thrive. Whether you’re traveling with a tour operator or on your own, make sure to stay at hotels that are locally owned and ideally have environmental best practices in place and/or give back to their local community. That goes for restaurants and other attractions that have private ownership as well. Consider venturing off-the-beaten-path from the more touristy neighborhoods or popular trekking routes to find a restaurant or store.  

Keep in mind, when shopping for handicrafts, art, and other souvenirs, your money can go a long way. While haggling is common in many cultures, pay what feels fair rather than the cheapest possible price. What amounts to just one or two US dollars means quite a bit more to someone selling a custom handicraft that likely took hours or days to make. It’s always helpful to research your destination to see what is customary when purchasing goods. Lastly, be sure to purchase locally made goods (not ones imported from other countries) to support local artisans.    

6. Give back responsibly

It’s great to want to give back when you travel. Instead of bringing miscellaneous items and gifts, ask your tour operator for recommendations or connect with a local nonprofit operating in the country. It’s best to ask first rather than assume as local organizations are the experts when it comes to what a community really needs, and what it doesn’t. 

Consider donating the outdoor gear you use on your trek. It can help out a porter and lighten your luggage on the way home. Depending on your destination, guides and porters often appreciate hiking boots or quality outdoor gear if you want to donate them when you leave. Talk to your tour operator first or ask your head guide what would be most helpful.

If you’re set on volunteering your time while abroad, due diligence is key. Short term volunteer opportunities can often undermine local initiatives without addressing the root cause of issues a particular country or population faces. Monetary and resource support, as well as long-term engagement with skilled individuals, has shown to be the most successful at addressing issues in developing countries. 

At OneSeed, our mission does not include volunteer opportunities, rather it offers travelers a way to directly bolster the local economy. By investing 10% of every trip cost in nonprofit microfinance partners, travelers help empower local entrepreneurs to launch or expand their business through collateral-free microloans. We do not visit borrowers during expeditions as we want to respect their time and privacy, and they are not always located near major cities or travel routes.

7. Remember how you got there

It’s been reported that more than 80% of the world’s population has never flown on an airplane. That may be hard to believe the next time you’re delayed in an overcrowded terminal, but it’s true. While traveling has its ups and downs, it’s important to remember why and how you got there. The freedom your citizenship and passport gives you to cross borders, to choose when and where you want to go is a great privilege. Most people will never have the opportunity to leave the country, let alone the region, they grew up in. Heading into a new adventure with the right mindset will really set the tone of your trip, and will help determine how you interact with the people and place.

Like anywhere in the world, most people welcome visitors with kindness and respect. Be sure to do the same and remember that you are in someone else’s home country and culture. Think twice before taking photos of people going about their daily lives and avoid photos of children. If you want to take someone’s photo, be sure to ask first. Some people may ask for money in exchange for a photo, which is not uncommon in high traffic tourist areas. Just agree on a price beforehand if you’re comfortable doing so.

And finally, remember that English is almost always a second or third language for everyone you will interact with while traveling. Frustrated that you can’t understand the shopkeeper’s broken English? It’s likely you can’t say as much in their own dialect. It’s pretty hard these days to travel far enough to see zero signs in English. Be grateful that the bathroom sign says “toilet” rather than “शौचालय”!

Giving Thanks: Reflections on a Year of Travel

With Thanksgiving fast approaching, we thought it best to reflect on what we’re most grateful for and how travel positively impacts our lives. Our staff and guides from around the world took time to express gratitude and reflect on the last year. What travel experiences are you most grateful for?

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Kale Sherpa - Kathmandu, Nepal

What are you most grateful for this year? 

This year was very surprising for me. The most grateful thing for me was that I didn't expect my old guests from OneSeed would come to visit Nepal and have me as their guide once again. I am very grateful for all the recommendations that I got from OneSeed guests this year and to finish my grateful year. Lastly, I got the opportunity to visit Thailand and learned about their culture and traditions, plus I got to learn new guiding skills and different tourism practices.

How has travel positively impacted your life?

Traveling is one of the best things in my life. It has always kept me fit mentally, physically and emotionally. It has taught me to face various difficulties despite the hardness of the situation I face during a trip. But all of the difficulties pale in comparison to all the smiles and friendship of my guests which makes me stronger.

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Glenna Barron - Denver, CO USA

What are you most grateful for this year?

I'm thankful for my family as well as technology to connect me with them no matter where I am in the world. I know that even if I'm in Kathmandu, my family is only a FaceTime away. I'm in Denver and my niece and nephew are in San Francisco and I'm able to receive regular pictures, videos and FaceTime chats to keep in touch and watch them grow up.

Are there any specific travel moments that have left a big impact on you?

I recently traveled to Nepal and Bhutan and accompanied a group of 35 travelers. One distinct moment that stood out was about half-way through the 2-week trip, a client turned to me and said, "I need a hug. I'm feeling homesick and I miss my family, and I need a hug". I had been feeling the exact same way; I missed my family, my boyfriend, my friends and was feeling down that morning and she completely turned my day around. You can be vulnerable and sad and then ask for help.

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Ramadhani Kambi - Moshi, Tanzania

How has travel positively impacted your life?

Three years ago I helped guide a great group of 11 travelers. Among them there were three women, one of whom got sick on the way back from the top of Kilimanjaro although I managed to get her down safely and she recovered. From day one of that trip she had told me, “Rama make sure you get me on top!” From the beginning I noticed she needed some help with her backpack so I helped to carry her things. While it was tough, she made it to the top and back. Once we returned to the gate at the foot of Kilimanjaro and completed the trek, she was so happy that she was crying with joy. I will never forget Frida from North Carolina!

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Herlin Apaza Tumpay - Cusco, Peru

What are you most grateful for this year?

I am so thankful for sharing our culture with travelers who come to Peru. I am very grateful to have the chance to travel within my country and I hope to see more places. My dream is to journey outside of Perú one day.

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Ombeni Lema - Minneapolis, MN / Moshi, TZ

What are you most grateful for this year? 

We (me and my family) are grateful for all the wonderful blessings nature has blessed us with, including the chance to live and breathe freely in this world. With this chance, we meet wonderful people with wonderful travel experiences. Travel is one of the best tools for learning. I have learned so many new ways of life and about other people's cultures.

Are there any specific travel moments that have left a big impact on you?

My trip to Denver for the OneSeed Staff Summit stands out. It will be used as a point of reference for anything related to my work in tourism; from planning, expanding, and experience in general. I had a chance to meet wonderful friends and learned from them too.

The greatest of all is how Chris (OneSeed’s founder) strived a lot to make sure we traveled as "kids" and he was a really a "dad" to us during our four-day kayaking trip. Guys, the experience of seeing Chris carrying almost everything that we needed for the trip in his giant raft, including (I'm whispering here) "our poops" (now I'm speaking loud!) really humbled me and I never stop thinking about how much that meant to me. I STRONGLY RESPECT THAT.

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Kate Mason - Denver, CO USA

How has travel positively impacted your life?

It started with road trips around the US with my family and grew into a love of discovering new places and seeing different ways of living around the world. From some of my earliest memories scrambling across the deserts of West Texas to living and working across continents, travel has impacted every facet of my life by introducing me to the most amazing people and places. My perspective is constantly evolving and I continue to learn and expand my understanding of the world. The people I meet leave the biggest impact and most are just a WhatsApp chat away!

What are you most grateful for this year? 

Over the past two years I've flown to 10 countries on five continents thanks to the little blue book I keep tucked away in my jacket pocket. It's taken years of travel to truly understand the value of my American passport and the freedom it awards me. To be able to cross borders so freely, to experience other cultures and other lives, to make new and wonderful friends, and to visit loved ones living far from home. It's a reminder of the privilege I have, a reminder to value every travel moment both good and bad. To keep my eyes open and to express deep gratitude for the freedom of movement and the freedom to choose.

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What are you most grateful for this year?

Gabriel Makwaiya  - Moshi, Tanzania

OneSeed Expeditions is the best in Tanzania! I say this because as a Mount Kilimanjaro Guide, it is very important to be professional and the best at your job. Through OneSeed Expeditions I had the opportunity to attend a WFR course (wilderness first responder course) this year so I am feeling grateful for the opportunity to continue learning.

Said Daudi - Moshi, Tanzania

Working with OneSeed Expeditions and for clients who have been happy with my service. Travel has provided me a way to positively tackle problems or challenges.

Gabriel Makwaiya - Moshi, Tanzania

OneSeed Expeditions is the best in Tanzania! I say this because as a Mount Kilimanjaro Guide, it is very important to be professional and the best at your job. Through OneSeed Expeditions I had the opportunity to attend a WFR course (wilderness first responder course) this year so I am feeling grateful for the opportunity to continue learning.

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Bishnu Thapa - Kathmandu, Nepal

How has travel positively impacted your life?

As we know, there are different cultures, people, and belief systems. Travel teaches me to become more open and it helps tie us all together. Similarly, it helps me to experience and explore new cultures. Travel has given me a perspective I didn’t have before: for instance, how people survive and struggle and realizing and evaluating my own value. Travel has taught me to understand how totally different social culture can be somewhere else. I can feel a mix of happiness and frustration, especially in new places. It teaches me how to deal with difficult situations and patience, like problem-solving and managing stress when things are difficult.

Lastly, travel helps me make my own decisions and do things by myself, especially when traveling alone. It helps me to become independent and more confident and helped me to become more flexible. Once I visit a new place and meet different people, it teaches me to speak up and interact more as I hesitated before I had traveled anywhere. Travel has increased my desire, curiosity, and appreciation of the small things. It has definitely made me a happier person.

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Matt Leach - Denver, CO USA

How has travel positively impacted your life?

In one word: perspective. In many words: perspective on what is important in life: connecting with others; perspective on how privileged I am to live where I do and have the experiences that I have; perspective on just how many ways there are to go about life on this planet of ours. And food. I love trying new food and attempting to replicate it when I get back home

What are you most grateful for this year?

If I had to choose just one thing, I guess I would have to say that I am most grateful for all of the incredible travel experiences I have had this year. In March, I traveled to Nepal as a client of OneSeed to trek to Everest Base Camp. I found out that I’d be joining the OneSeed team just before leaving Kathmandu to begin the trek - what a way to start a new job! Getting to know my new coworkers in Nepal, daily servings of dal bhaat, and experiencing epic views of the Himalaya with good friends made the trip unforgettable (as if Base Camp wasn’t enough).

I also took a road trip to South Dakota with my family, including my grandparents who are both in their mid-80s. I’m extremely fortunate that they were willing and able to do this with me, and it was a great reminder that travel doesn’t have to be exotic or physically grueling to be meaningful: it is all about the people you experience it with.

Backpacking trips with friends, checking a few more 14ers off my list, my first-ever multi-day rafting trip on our semiannual OneSeed Summit, and a bike trip to Utah were the frosting on my travel-cake this year.

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Beatus Mtui - Moshi, Tanzania

What are you most grateful for this year?

Am so grateful for OneSeed Expeditions because through their motto “to explore the world, invest in people,” as their Kilimanjaro guide, I have benefited so much. Economically, they have improved my family income by providing to me not only enough work but also great advice on how to plan for the future (thanks, Lema!) which has resulted in many positive ways. OneSeed has also offered us further studies through Wilderness First Responder (WFR) trainings which has prepared me for different situations on the mountain. Without this, it would have taken a lot of time and money for me to learn it on my own. There's a lot of positive impact from porters and local institutions in my life as well. Many thanks to Chris, Glenna, Catherine, Lema, Renalda, and all members of OneSeed!

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Tek Bahadur Dong - Kathmandu, Nepal

How has travel positively impacted your life?

Traveling has significantly impacted my life. Traveling is not only about the recreation or vacation, but there are so many chances to  understand cultural diversity in the world. I have visited many popular trekking areas of Nepal including Everest, Annapurna, Langtang as well as North and South American countries such as Mexico and Peru. Both were meaningful to learn about global culture, traditions and hospitality. This fall I had an opportunity to host 35 people who were very high end clients in my life. I actively involved and shared my knowledge from beginning to end to their tour in Nepal.

Are there any specific travel moments that have left a big impact on you?

In August 2017 my wife and I attempted to board our scheduled flight to Mexico from Munich, Germany. Despite having all our valid travel documents, we were denied entry citing that our visa stated “December” as “DIC” and was “not correct.” We explained that our visa was in the Spanish language but they were doubtful of our intentions to travel. Thank god, the next morning, the senior police officer allowed us to fly to our destination.

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Sospeter Shekika - Moshi, Tanzania

How has travel positively impacted your life?

OneSeed Expeditions has really helped improve my life by allowing me to guide trips up Mt. Kilimanjaro. I feel strong and am able to pay the school fees, supplies, and transportation for my kids.

Are there any specific travel moments that have left a big impact on you?

I guided trips up Mt Kilimanjaro in February and June of this year, which was really great.

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Sergio Nuñez - Santiago, Chile

What are you most grateful for this year?

I am grateful that I can enjoy my life, my family, and my work. There are many travel experiences that have left a big impact on me, but in general, the smiles of the people bring me the most joy and to know different cultures and lifestyles.

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Lal kaji Gurung - Pokhara, Nepal

What are you most grateful for this year?

Traveling helps us to discover the hidden things and places in the world, enjoyment, and knowledge. When we see beautiful places it broadens our mind. The older I get, the more interest I have in gaining knowledge about the universe. I have recently realized that I have started acquiring plenty of general knowledge about the entire universe and it has made me feel as if this world is just a single village and I am an inhabitant there. I’m feeling far closer with this world now and will continue to observe this earth deeper in the days ahead.

How has travel positively impacted your life?

The journey to next place always brings a lot of experiences that teach us so many lessons. I have visited some places outside of my country and have gotten the opportunity to exchange languages, culture, and hospitality. This gives me a kind of joy I will always cherish. The stay I had abroad in the past has taught me to broaden and change my perspective on life once I got back to my homeland. As a result, I now feel myself that I have changed my way of living with different principles and focus.

Are there any specific travel moments that have left a big impact on you?

I was in India some years ago and last August I was in Tibet. I got an opportunity to know and learn so many things. I was greatly impressed.

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Chris Baker - Denver, CO USA 

What are you most grateful for this year?

I'm most grateful this year to be working with an incredible team, scattered around the world, leading expeditions and supporting entrepreneurship every day of the year. The work that we do spans 9 countries, many languages, and connects people from all walks of life. I'm grateful to do good work with great people.

How has travel positively impacted your life?

Travel has been a big part of my life for a long time. When we were kids it was traveling with my family or taking trips to the cabin in southern West Virginia where I grew up. I then spent a good chunk of my early 20s living and traveling in a lot of the places where we operate OneSeed today. As a student I studied anthropology mostly as an excuse to visit new places. These days I'm fortunate enough to travel for the work. There's a big list of places I'm excited to visit for the first time as well as those special places I keep returning to again and again.

Are there any specific travel moments that have left a big impact on you?

I remember our very first season scouting routes in Nepal. We were hiking for weeks at a time to document trail conditions, meet with our partners, and train our first group of guides. It was such a special time of building this company and continues to shape our mission today.

Travel creates these powerful experiences that come from meeting and connecting with others. Through travel we connect with the world in a really low tech way. We eat meals together, we learn new words in unfamiliar languages, and we recognize how much we all value many of the same things.

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Brighton Baraka - Moshi, Tanzania

What are you most grateful for this year? : 

Honestly, this year tourism has been a little bit slow because there are fewer travelers coming to visit Tanzania. But thankfully we've been working and earning enough to take care of our families. I am also learning new skills, working with travelers to make their holiday the best possible as I pick them up and drop them off at the airport in Tanzania.

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Goma Thapa - Kathmandu, Nepal

What are you most grateful for this year?

This year I found that I matured as a person in terms of work as well as personal growth.

Are there any specific travel moments that have left a big impact on you?

The earthquake in 2015 made me a stronger person while I was guiding with OneSeed Expeditions.

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Brad Carothers - Denver, CO USA

What are you most grateful for this year?

I am thankful for family, friends, and life. Life gives you both positive experiences and negative experiences, and I am thankful for the lessons that can be learned from both the positive things and the negative ones. Life is a journey!

How has travel positively impacted your life?

Travel is more than just the physical act of going somewhere for me. It's not the landmarks, but the experiences and interactions that I have while traveling that make traveling fulfilling and addicting to me. Travel has opened my mind and heart to other people, cultures and ideas.

Are there any specific travel moments that have left a big impact on you?

There are two experiences that have made a big impact on my life. The first was my first backpacking trip with my brother. He provided me with an opportunity and an experience that I would not have had at that stage in my life. That experience with him changed my life and I am super thankful for him and that experience. The second was the 'Camino de Santiago'. The 550-mile hike across northern Spain helped me to understand what is actually important in life and what isn't.

OneSeed Wins Gold at World Responsible Tourism Awards

OneSeed Expeditions has been named the Gold winner in the Best for Local Economic Benefit category at the at World Travel Market in London.

The WTM World Responsible Tourism Awards are presented each year at a three-day event attended by more than 600 leaders in the global travel industry. The awards are the focal point of WTM Responsible Tourism Day.

“Investing in local communities has been the cornerstone of our adventure travel business since 2011,” said Chris Baker, founder of OneSeed Expeditions. “We are honored to be recognized with others in our industry for committing to socially responsible travel and the positive impact it can have around the world.”

OneSeed spends 79 cents of every dollar in the local economies where it operates: Nepal, Bhutan, Tanzania, Chile, Colombia, Peru, and Argentina. This includes 65.8% spent on local suppliers, 3.5% dispersed to local guides through a profit-sharing program, and 10% invested in microcredit to local entrepreneurs to help expand and diversify the economy.

This year’s awards were presented last week in London by BBC’s Tanya Beckett on behalf of WTM Responsible Tourism. Awards were presented in five categories: Best for Wildlife, Best for Communicating Responsible Tourism, Best for Managing Success, Best for Employment, and Best for Local Economic Benefit.

WTM representatives said companies, like OneSeed, are being recognized for practices and initiatives that will inspire others and that are replicable across the industry.

“We want to encourage change in the industry, to single out for recognition those who are taking responsibility and can evidence that they are having a positive impact,” said Dr. Harold Goodwin, Managing Director of the Responsible Tourism Partnership and Chair of the WTM Responsible Tourism Awards panel.

OneSeed Expeditions links exploration with investment to develop a completely local supply chain, incentivizes and educates their partners on responsible tourism practices, and uses revenue from OneSeed clients to invest in local businesses through microfinance.

OneSeed won Silver in the Best for Poverty Reduction in 2015 -- and this year, WTM judges singled out OneSeed for significantly growing its program and impact in the last three years.

Learn more: www.responsibletourism.wtm.com/about/responsible-tourism-awards

How to Assess Your Fitness for Mountain Trekking

So how difficult IS it to climb Mount Kilimanjaro? Or to hike all the way to Machu Picchu?

All of our expeditions are open to adventurers without previous trekking experience. Whether you want a relaxed walking tour or to push your limits with a high-altitude multi-day trek, our activity level scale indicates the expected level of fitness for each expedition.

It’s important to note that various factors that go into assigning a difficulty level to our trips. Those include altitude, whether it’s self supported (carrying your own pack), the difficulty of the terrain, the climate, and the length of time and miles on the trail.

LEVEL 1

• These expeditions do not have any fitness requirements. No hiking is required.

• The only Level 1 expedition we offer is the Serengeti Safari where most of your journey is spent in the car (walking discouraged for obvious reasons!)

LEVEL 2

• These expeditions include walking or a short hike.

• A great example would be the 5-day Taste of Peru trip. The perfect combination of sightseeing in town, exploring ancient ruins, and short hikes.

LEVEL 3

• These expeditions require an average level of fitness and the ability to hike over variable terrain. These are great first treks of 3-6 hours duration on a typical day.

• We offer a number of Level 3 trips, including our Hidden Colombia expedition. This trip requires several river crossings in hot and humid weather and a fair amount of hiking steep trails and stone steps.

LEVEL 4

• These expeditions require above average physical fitness. Treks may reach high altitudes and require high levels of physical exertion. No technical skills are required, and first-time trekkers are welcome. Typical days require 5-10 hours of trekking, and some expeditions include significant elevation changes.

• Most of our trips are rated as a Level 4. Our Ultimate Machu Picchu expedition is a great example of longer days with a few tough climbs up and over high mountain passes like Salkantay Pass. While this trek provides porters, the elevation and sections of steep trekking make it a solid 4.

LEVEL 5

• These expeditions require excellent physical fitness. Treks include longer days, greater elevation gain, and more challenging terrain at higher altitudes. Participants should expect high levels of physical exertion at times. Travelers joining these expeditions should be in good physical shape and should expect to hike all day.

• Our hardest treks are Everest Base Camp and our Kilimanjaro climbs. These expeditions earned a Level 5 due to the physical and mental challenges. Both require long days at very high altitudes. Despite being supported treks with porters, they both require stamina and the drive to conquer the mountain.

• You don’t need to be a skilled mountaineer to tackle these trips - just physically fit and mentally prepared for the once in a lifetime challenge head!

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