Besides the obvious (wine tasting, skiing, hiking), Chile offers isolated beaches, gorgeous hot springs, wildly distinct architecture, a diverse food scene, and much more. These are the best things to do in Chile.

Follow the W Circuit in Torres del Paine National Park

Located toward the bottom of Chile, the wild and remote Torres del Paine National Park feels like the end of the world. This park is packed with stunning scenery, from the iconic jagged peaks surrounding the brilliantly colored Mirador Las Torres to the sprawling Grey Glacier. 

Fortunately, there’s a simple way to see the highlights of Torres del Paine—all you have to do is follow the well-trodden W Circuit, a popular hike that starts at the east end of the park and traces its way through the mountain valleys before finishing in the west. Opt to camp along the way or retreat to luxury hotel rooms at night. 

Chase Down the Churches of Chiloe

If you’ve seen one old cathedral, seen them all, right? The extraordinary wooden churches of Chiloe Island (16 of which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites) will topple your preconceptions with their unorthodox constructions, bright colors, nontraditional symbolism, and intricate interior woodwork. Most of the churches are readily accessible, others far more remote, but the journey to each of them is part of the fun.

Some of our favorites (Tenaun, Castro, Chemchi) shake up the status quo with blue, yellow, and purple facades—an abrupt and beautiful clash of color with the deep-green countryside of the island—and each one offers its own unique architecture and interiors. Chiloetnico, based in the island capital of Castro, offers several eco-sensitive church excursions, including by bike, but it’s fun to drive around to many of them as well.

Meet Chile’s Renegade Winemakers

Chile produces some of the New World’s best (and most affordable!) wine, so it’s unsurprising that tasting is on most folks’ itineraries. But while the majority of oenophiles head toward some of the country’s most well-known wine regions—the Maipo, Colchagua, and Casablanca Valleys—you should head a few more hours south to the up-and-coming Maule Valley, about 224 miles below Santiago, where a group of renegade winemakers is producing extraordinary wine while bucking traditions around every turn.

What’s great about tasting here (besides the lack of lines) is that a lot of these independent-minded boutique winemakers run the show every step of the way, from hand-harvesting the grapes right down to pouring the wines for you (and, in our case, even running down to the cellar and labeling a few purchased bottles themselves). There are No tasting rooms, wine clubs, or winery-branded backscratchers—just fabulous face-to-face experiences with the winemakers. Get Your Guide offers a variety of tours to the area, so you don’t have to worry about driving.

Meet Penguins in Southern Patagonia

There are plenty of places to spot adorable penguins in Chile, so narrow it down by deciding which type of penguin you want to see. If you’re hoping to visit the King Penguin (the second largest penguin species after the Emperor), head to the aptly named King Penguin Park, the only place in South America where these majestic creatures live. 

If you prefer more pocket-sized penguins, head to Punta Tombo, home to South America’s largest Magellanic penguin colony. 

Kayak Through Misty Fjords

One of Chile’s best private parks is Pumalín Douglas Tompkins National Park, founded by American conservationist (and co-founder of The North Face) Douglas Tompkins and his wife, Kristine McDivitt Tompkins. It protects a more than 994,000-acre patch of pristine Patagonian landscape along the Pacific coastline. Multi-day sea kayaking expeditions are a major attraction in the park, which is full of steep green fjords, waterfalls, sea lion colonies, natural hot springs, and gorgeous snow-capped scenery.

Take a Cooking and Wine Course

Chilean cuisine isn’t as famous worldwide as some of its neighboring countries’ food. Once you land, you’ll discover what you’ve been missing out on—and there’s nobody better to introduce you to the delicacies found here than chef Pilar Rodriguez, who runs her namesake Food & Wine Studio in Chile’s Colchagua wine valley.

Neither a full-blown cooking course nor a wine course, Rodriguez’s offering concentrates on the marriage between the two. Her ceviche alone is worth the 2.5-hour trip south from Santiago, but it doesn’t get much better for foodies than a day with Pilar surrounded by the gorgeous vineyards of the Colchagua.

Channel Your Inner Robinson Crusoe

Way out there, more than 400 miles off the coast of central Chile, the volcanic Juan Fernández Archipelago remains a new frontier. The group of three islands, a national park, was made famous as the spot where castaway Scotsman Alexander Selkirk toiled away for years in Daniel Dafoe’s “Robinson Crusoe.”

The sleepy fishing village of San Juan Baptista is the only town and is located on Robinson Crusoe Island. From here, you can set out for the island’s main attractions: world-class scuba diving and excursions to observe the Juan Fernandez fur seal, the only native mammal in the vicinity. Diving, trekking, kayaking, and fishing trips can be arranged in San Juan Baptista.

Follow the Pablo Neruda Trail

Fans of Chile’s most beloved poet, Pablo Neruda, can retrace his steps from one home to the next. Start with his Santiago property, La Chascona, a hideaway he had built in Barrio Bellavista to escape to with his mistress, Matilde Urrutia (who later became his third wife). In Valparaiso, 75 miles northwest of the capital, there’s the five-story La Sebastiana, where Neruda enjoyed stunning ocean views complemented by the city’s colorful houses dotting the hillside. The poet’s largest home was a seaside getaway in Isla Negra, 53 miles south of Valpo, which houses the majority of his treasured possessions.

Today, all three homes function as living museums. For fans of the poet’s romantic prose, it’s total Neruda immersion. 

Best Time to Go to Chile

With its vast north-to-south expanse, Chile has no single climate. Still, October and November are springtime and tend to be the most pleasant time of year in many parts of the country. High season in the Lake District is November through March, the Southern Hemisphere’s spring and summer. 

Winter here can be cold and overcast, but the skiing is excellent in the mountains. The weather is variable year-round in Patagonia and generally best from September through April. Some places, such as national parks, may be closed in the winter. It is sunny and warm year-round in the Atacama Desert to the north. Easter Island enjoys tropical warmth all year.

Chile on a Budget

You’ll be unlikely to find a bargain from mid-December through February or in the middle of July. The exception is Santiago, as locals leave the city in the summer, making for better hotel rates. Rural hospedajes rent out rooms for cheap. City residenciales, or boardinghouses, offer a room, shared bath, and communal kitchen. (Beware: Many lack central heating.) More comfortable accommodations range from remote hiking lodges to sleek urban hotels. Restaurant meals are pricey, as is fresh food in the market, but beer and wine are bargain-priced. Public transportation is also a deal, including buses and the subway in Santiago.

Original reporting by Kevin Raub

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Go Stargazing on Mt. John

New Zealand’s South Island is home to one of the largest International Dark Sky Reserve on the planet, covering more than 1,600 square miles. Hunt for shooting stars and take in the constellations of the southern sky through the powerful telescopes at the Mt. John Observatory in Tekapo. Dark Sky Projects offers a two-hour tour that brings stargazers in a bus up the mountain to take in some of the world’s clearest sky views. It can be chilly up there, so warm coats and hot chocolate are provided. On cloudy nights when visibility is poor, you’ll get a behind-the-scenes tour of the observatory.

Big Sky Stargazing in Mount Cook and Skyline Stargazing in Queenstown are two additional options on other parts of the South Island.

Visit the Wildlife Capital

Tucked away in the southeastern part of New Zealand, just outside the city of Dunedin, is the windswept Otago Peninsula, where royal albatrosses wheel overhead and penguins waddle up the beach after a day spent fishing in the ocean. Walk down to Sandfly Bay and you just might find yourself sharing a beach with seals or sea lions basking in the sun. It’s not hard to see why this peninsula bills itself as the “Wildlife Capital of New Zealand.”

Don’t miss a stop at the Royal Albatross Centre at Taiaroa Head, one of the few places in the world where you can see this majestic bird — with a wingspan of nearly 10 feet — in its natural habitat. Nearby is The Opera, a reserve for endangered yellow-eyed penguins. A walking tour takes visitors into a system of trenches and hides where they can view the penguins from afar without disturbing them (bring your binoculars).

Take a Food Tour in the Bush

Adventurous eaters can join a Maori chef for an overnight foraging excursion in the Taumarunui bush. You’ll fish for trout and eel, hunt for huhu grubs, and hike through the rain forest to gather pikopiko (fiddlehead ferns) and wood mushrooms. Back at the cabin where you’ll spend the night, chef Charles Royal explains how to transform these ingredients into a traditional Maori meal, cooked either over an open fire or in a hangi (earth oven). After dinner, gather around the fire for music and storytelling as night falls.

The Taumarunui bush tour runs between November and April. The two-day, one-night tour includes cabin accommodations, four-wheel-drive transportation to the cabin, food, beverages, cooking classes and all outdoor activities. See MaoriFood.com.

Drive the Surf Highway

Without stops, it only takes about an hour and a half to drive New Zealand’s Surf Highway 45 from New Plymouth to Hawera — but this laid-back and remarkably scenic coastal road is worth lingering over. It’s famous first and foremost for its waves; spots like Fitzroy Beach and Kumara Patch draw surfers from all over New Zealand and beyond.

Beyond the breaks, Highway 45 offers relaxed beach towns, memorable views of the Tasman Sea and the looming peak of Mt. Taranaki, and a number of intriguing detours. Art enthusiasts can check out the avant-garde offerings at the Govett-Brewster gallery in New Plymouth, while hikers can wander the trails in Egmont National Park. The Cape Egmont Lighthouse and historic Maori fortress of Koru Pa are also worth a visit. See Taranaki.info for more ideas.

Experience Art in Queenstown

Often called the Adventure Capital of the World, Queenstown is best known for heart-pumping outdoor activities like bungee jumping, paragliding, jetboating, skiing and mountain biking. But Queenstown has plenty to offer even travelers who are more art lovers than adrenaline junkies.

You can wander independently through the city’s art galleries, including Artbay Gallery, which features contemporary art from around New Zealand, and Toi o Tahuna Gallery, which hosts changing exhibitions in a downtown location. If you want a more personalized experience, Black ZQN can organize an art tour in the Otago region that’s customized for your interests.

Stay on a Working Farm

Though New Zealanders are no longer outnumbered 20 to one by their sheep (the ratio is more like five to one these days), New Zealand is still sprinkled liberally with farms — and many of them welcome overnight guests. Your farmstay might include a sheep-shearing demonstration, a chance to feed a baby goat, a walk around the pasture or a home-cooked meal in the farmers’ kitchen. Accommodations range from rustic, budget-friendly cottages to ultra-lavish lodges.

Farmstays are available in nearly every region of New Zealand. To find them, visit TrueNZ.co.nz, RuralHolidays.co.nz or the accommodation section of NewZealand.com.

Search for Kiwi Birds on Stewart Island

The flightless, nocturnal kiwi bird is an icon of New Zealand — and yet it’s almost impossible to spot one in person. Sure, you can see them in captivity at places like Queenstown’s Kiwi Park, but if you want to catch sight of one in the wild, your best bet is to visit remote Stewart Island. Located off the southern coast of the South Island, with a population of just 400 hardy souls, Stewart Island offers a glimpse of New Zealand’s wild side. About 85 percent of the island is covered by Rakiura National Park, which makes a welcoming home for some 20,000 kiwi birds (as well as numerous other rare bird species).

Stewart Island offers an excursion that takes visitors on a twilight boat ride to an area where the birds often gather to feed; the excursion lasts four hours. For a longer and more active trip, try a one- or two-night package from Ruggedy Range™ Wilderness Experience. These trips involve 10 to 15 miles of easy walking per day through wetlands, beaches and manuka scrub, with accommodations at backcountry huts.

Climb a Dormant Volcano in Auckland

Many first-time visitors to Auckland don’t realize that New Zealand’s largest city is built on an active volcanic field, encompassing some 48 volcanoes. Fortunately for the locals, they’re all dormant — at least for now. The one that erupted most recently (between 500 and 600 years ago) is Rangitoto, one of Auckland’s most iconic landmarks. Its 850-foot cone rises from the sea to create an island just off the coast, visible from many parts of the city.

Hop aboard a Fullers ferry for a 25-minute ride to the island, where a hiking path through trees and lava fields brings you to the summit in about an hour. Once at the top, you can walk around the crater rim or simply enjoy the views of downtown Auckland.

Experience Maori Life in Kaikoura

No visit to New Zealand would be complete without time spent learning about the Maori culture. And while the Auckland Museum and Wellington’s Te Papa are good starting places, the best way to learn about the Maori is from the Maori themselves. Spend part of your day with a Maori guide who will take you on a journey through the stories and places that have shaped Maori life. For instance, TIME Unlimited Tours offers a few Maori-led excursions in the Auckland area, with a couple including a traditional cultural performance. You can also find Maori owned and operated businesses and experiences throughout New Zealand via the New Zealand Maori Tourism website. 

Bike the Otago Central Rail Trail

Bike through old train tunnels and across wooden bridges, explore old mining towns, and enjoy expansive mountain views along the Otago Central Rail Trail. This 93-mile track was once a 19th-century rail line between Clyde and Middlemarch, but today it’s a popular path for biking, walking and even horseback riding. To complete the whole trail by bike typically takes three to five days, depending on how fast you ride and how many detours you make. Travel during the summer months (December through February) for the warmest weather and longest days, or during autumn (March and April) to see the region’s spectacular foliage.

While a reasonable level of fitness is required, the trail doesn’t have any major hills and is suitable for most bikers. If you’re not up for the whole route, you can sample part of it in a half- or full-day ride; the Poolburn Gorge area is one popular choice. Shebikeshebikes can arrange bike rentals, day trips, accommodations and full-route packages.

Go Behind the Scenes in Wellywood

Move over, Hollywood and Bollywood — Wellington has its own claim to fame following the towering success of the “Lord of the Rings” and “Hobbit” franchises. Director Peter Jackson drew on landscapes across New Zealand to create his epic vision of Middle-earth, but Wellington, Jackson’s home town, was the center of the action. The first stop for any movie buff should be the Weta Cave, where you can get a behind-the-scenes tour of the workshop of Jackson’s special effects company. Weta Workshop produced props, costumes, sets and more for the “Lord of the Rings” movies, as well as other films.

For true LOTR fans, the Weta Cave is just the beginning. Several tours in the Wellington area explore the movie’s various filming locations, with several including Weta Cave on the itinerary.

Swim with Rare Dolphins in Akaroa

Found only in New Zealand, the Hector’s dolphin is the world’s smallest dolphin species. The average adult is just 4 – 4.5 feet long and weighs about 100 pounds. You can meet one up close and in person in Akaroa, on the coast of the South Island. Black Cat Cruises offers a 3.5-hour Dolphin Experience that gives animal lovers the chance to jump in the water and swim with these friendly creatures. You’ll put on a wetsuit and set off into Akaroa Harbour in a heated, covered catamaran; hot showers and drinks are offered after you get out of the water.

The company has successful swims on more than 80 percent of its cruises, but if the dolphins are calving, feeding or otherwise uninterested in interacting, you’ll get a re-cruise voucher to try again another time. Cruises run all year and carry just 12 people per sailing, so advance booking is recommended.

Uncover a Buried Village in Rotorua

It’s one thing to join the throngs visiting the bubbly hot springs that sour the air of Rotorua on New Zealand’s North Island; it’s quite another to see evidence of the power that thermal activity can have. At the 12-acre Te Wairoa village, visitors can see firsthand the destruction left behind by the 1886 eruption of Mt. Tarawera. Buried by volcanic ash, many of the village’s structures have been well preserved, offering a unique look at how Maori and European New Zealanders lived together in the 19th century.

Visitors can tour the museum, which houses a large collection of excavated objects, and trace a walking path dotted by excavated buildings and Maori whares (dwellings), all while guides tell of the night the volcano rained fire, killing 150 people.

Best Time to Go to New Zealand

New Zealand’s seasons are opposite those in the Northern Hemisphere, so for summer sunshine and the warmest possible temperatures, you’ll want to travel from December through February. Note that many New Zealanders travel then as well, so be prepared for crowds in the most popular tourist areas. Spring and fall are the less crowded shoulder seasons; you’ll find cooler temperatures, lower prices and a greater chance of rain. Winter may be chilly for sightseers, but it’s paradise for skiers, especially on the mountainous South Island; you can hit the slopes from mid-June through mid-October.

New Zealand on a Budget

Airfare to New Zealand will take a big chomp out of your vacation budget, and the outdoor adventures the country is known for — like whale watching, glacier hiking, kayaking and bungee jumping — can be pricey. Fortunately, you can save a few coins on accommodations. There’s a network of motels, campgrounds, holiday parks and hostels (known as “backpackers”) throughout the country, offering basic lodging at affordable prices. To reduce your food budget, get a place with a kitchen and cook for yourself.

–written by Sarah Schlichter and Dori Saltzman

The post New Zealand Travel Guide: What to Do in New Zealand appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Crime & Safety

The State Department notes that violent crime, assault, and robbery are not uncommon in cities and recommends exercising increased caution, particularly at night and on public transportation. 

Follow common sense travel safety rules: stick with your group, avoid deserted areas, and keep an eye on drinks and personal items in crowded nightlife settings. Travelers are most commonly victims of petty theft. Leave valuables safely in your hotel room and use cell phones discreetly. 

According to the State Department, certain areas within Brazilian cities have a higher rate of gun violence. The Onde Tem Tiroteio App (OTT App) lets travelers and residents know in real time where instances of gun violence are occurring so they can avoid getting caught in potential crossfire.

Driving

Like the United States, cars drive on the right side of the road and the driver is situated on the left side of the car. According to Sixt car rental service, the average speed limit is 30km/hour (roughly 19mph) for residential areas, 80km/hour (roughly 50mph) for urban highways, and 110km/hour (roughly 68mph) for rural highways. 

Brazil has the fifth highest rate of traffic fatalities in the world, with traffic patterns and road conditions that can be difficult to navigate for the uninitiated tourist. Opt for a registered taxi service or Uber and leave the local driving to the experts.  

Weather

Brazil experiences a tropical climate year-round, so there is no need to pack winter gear. The year is split into a wet season—from December to April—and a dry season—roughly May through November. During the wet season, extreme rainfall can cause flooding and landslides, especially in rural areas and torrential rains can cause the Amazon River to rise over thirty feet. The wet season lasts about a month longer in the Amazon region than the rest of the country, so plan accordingly.  

It’s not uncommon for Brazil to experience wildfires, particularly when conditions are exacerbated by drought as they have been the past two years. According to the World Resources Index, “Unlike other countries, where fires are a natural part of the forest ecosystem, almost all fires in the Amazon and Pantanal regions of Brazil are human-caused.”  Starting fires, including campfires, in the Amazon poses an extreme risk to people and nature and is prohibited.

Nature and Wildlife

Sixty percent of the Amazon Rainforest is located in Brazil. While there are endless opportunities to explore the incredible wildlife therein, there are potential dangers that should be considered with reasonable caution when planning an excursion. 

This jungle habitat is home to jaguars, cougars, green anacondas, and the golden poison dart frog—one of the most poisonous animals in the world. A few rules: always travel with a professional guide, stay with your tour group, don’t wander off the designated path, and pay attention to your surroundings and where you’re stepping at all times. Similarly, the Amazon River is home to jagged-toothed piranhas and alligators, so resist the temptation to cool down with a swim. If you plan to spend the majority of your trip in the Amazon, make sure to come prepared with a filtered water bottle and water purification tablets. 

Nature’s tiniest creatures also pose a risk while trekking through the rain forest. Mosquitos are highly active in the Amazon, so make sure to wear long pants and sleeves and to use DEET bug repellent. A sturdy pair of boots will also keep away other biting insects like the bullet ant, whose bit is notoriously painful. While most imminent wildlife danger will be found within the rainforest, travelers should keep an eye out for the Brazilian wandering spider or brown recluse spider, both of which can be spotted in nature as well as in the city.

Visa Requirements

Tourist visas will be required for US travelers visiting Brazil beginning in April 2025. All you need for the visa is the $80.90 fee, a valid passport, the completed passport application, and a passport photo. The application can be completed online and your visa will be emailed to you shortly after. 

Vaccinations and Medication

In addition to routine vaccines recommended for all travelers, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) suggests that travelers consider:

• The Chikungunya vaccine for travlers over 65 of planning a long stay
• Preventative malaria medication
• Rabies pre-exposure treatment if you will be exposed to animals
• Typhoid vaccine, if staying in rural areas
• Yellow Fever vaccine, if traveling to certain areas including Rio de Janiero

There is also the possibility for bug-borne illnesses like Zika and Dengue. Practice good habits when venturing outside like covering the skin and wearing bug repellent. 

Traveler Resources

Emergency Number: 911 or 112 will both redirect to the national emergency line

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Berlenga Islands

Located about ten miles off the west coast of Peniche, the Berlenga Islands are Portugal’s only marine reserve with crystal waters and an ancient fortress perfect for exploring. In 2011, UNESCO made it a World Biosphere Reserve, and it has been protected since 1465 when King Afonso V prohibited any action against nature there. Adventurers will love exploring the area, whether on a boat ride, snorkeling or diving, hiking or kayaking. Check out the Duque de Branganç Lighthouse, built in 1758, or the Fort of São João Baptista das Berlengas, dating to the late 17th century. The fort also is one of only three accommodation options when visiting the islands – and it is basic. You’ll need to bring your own bedding and hit as a shared kitchen. Your other option is camping, you can email campismo.berlenga@cm-peniche.pt to book your spot, fees are dependent on tent capacity. The only hotel on the islands is the Berlenga B&B, which houses the only restaurant on the island as well. 

Costa Vicentina 

It’s hard to find an untouched coastline anywhere in the world, but Costa Vicentina features wild beaches and fishing villages that are not as touristy as the other coastal areas of Portugal. Treat yourself to the stunning landscape of limestone cliffs or hit beaches that are only accessible on foot- all protected as part of the Parque Natural do Sudoeste Alentejano e Costa Vicentina. You’ll be able to snap photos of white storks, as it is one of the few remaining habitats for the birds; see what traditional Portuguese fishing villages look like when you visit Zambujeira do Mar and Porto Covo, and see the fishermen practice ancient fish-catching methods off of the cliffs. There are over 250 miles of hiking trails, surfing, and umpteen opportunities for cycling, photographs, and birdwatching. You’ll love the fresh seafood and quaint, smaller accommodations the area offers – no big-name hotels in site here! 

Recommended Hotel: Herdad Do Touril 

A restored farmhouse, Herdad Do Touril offers standalone houses and rooms, offers a breakfast featuring local ingredients, has a saltwater swimming pool with stunning views, and has both beach and countryside accessibility. 

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Comporta 

Located only an hour from Lisbon, Comporta offers pristine beaches and rice paddies, making for a unique landscape. Like Costa Vicentina, Comporta is minimally developed, and although is sometimes referred to as the “Portuguese Hamptons” – it has a laid-back atmosphere. The traditional cabanas de colmo (thatched-roof houses) dot the streets, creating a quaint, idyllic panorama. Creative types are drawn to Comporta, as evidenced in the artsy types it attracts. You can find locally made arts and crafts at the stores in the village, like Casa De Cultura, an old cinema-turned gallery and shops. Summer is peak season, but shoulder seasons offer spectacular weather without the crowds. 

Recommended Hotel: Sublime Comporta

This luxurious, secluded hotel built on a former rice farm is set within 17 acres of gorgeous landscape, with pine and cork trees creating a stunning umbrella effect. The hotel offers standard rooms or private villas has an organic garden, an on-site spa, and a rice restaurant featuring local ingredients. 

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Serra da Estrela

You’d miss out if you skipped Portugal’s highest mountain range with glacial valleys and unique cheese production. It’s the only place in Portugal where you can ski in the winter, too. There are plenty of opportunities for horseback riding, hiking, rock climbing and mountain biking. And, did somebody say cheese? Here, you’ll find the Manor House of cheese, where you can see how the famous Serra da Estrela cheese is made. Cheese not your thing? Head over to Museu do Pão, the museum of bread. (And, if you’re like me and love both of these products, you are in luck!) While in the area, try goat stew and wash it down with local wines. 

Recommended Hotel: Casa das Penhas Douradas

You’ll enjoy mountain views from the indoor pool at this hotel, which offers direct access to hiking trails, has an on-site spa, and an on-site restaurant. Choose from standard rooms and suites, many with balconies and mountain views. 

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Aldeias do Xisto

You may recognize the quintessential schist stone buildings that make up the twenty-seven villages in Aldeias do Xisto. These ancient villages not only provide quaint views, but also come with culture, art, and more. While exploring these villages, you may come upon communal fountains and bread ovens and observe the traditional, unique building techniques passed down for generations. While the buildings provide awe-inspiring views, the area is an astronomical destination thanks to its impeccable dark skies. Visit the Geoscope of Fajão, an astronomical observatory “for observing the dark sky and for teaching and pedagogy about astronomy.” Standout villages not to be missed include Talasnal, Piódão, Foz do Cobrão and Janeiro de Cima. 

Gerês National Park

From ancient oak trees to waterfalls and even wild horses, Gerês National Park is not to be missed. Portugal’s only national park, Parque Nacional da Peneda-Gerês, has natural beauty and a Roman road with original mile markers, medieval bridges and castles, and traditional stone villages like Campo de Gerês and Celtic ruins. Swim in a natural swimming hole, get lost in the ancient oak forest Mata da Albergaria, and hike one of the many trails. If you are there during a drought, you may get a glimpse of Vilarinho da Furna, a village completely submerged in 1972 after an electric company built a dam. You’ll even get a glimpse of traditional mountain communities. 

Recommended Hotel: Gerês Inn

This historic inn has stunning views of the mountains and will serve as the perfect basecamp for your Geres National Park stay.  There is an onsite restaurant. 

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Guimarães

Guimarães was the first capital of Portugal and has a preserved medieval center, which is now a UNESCO World Heritage site. The cobblestone streets and fifteenth-century buildings will make you feel like you have gone back in time. History buffs will love exploring the Palace of the Dukes of Bragança, or Guimarães Castle, considered Portugal’s birthplace. Guimarães perfectly combines the old and the new, as not only are there medieval buildings, but you’ll also find venues like Platform of Arts and Creativity, a modern art space in a converted market, and Centro Cultural Vila Flor, where you can take in a music or dance performance. Guimarães is truly unique, and since it is lesser-known to tourists, you will be able to really immerse yourself with the locals. 

Recommended Hotel: Pousada Mosteiro de Guimarães

When visiting somewhere historic, you might as well stay somewhere historic, too, right?  Pousada Mosteiro de Guimarães is  located in a 12th-century Augustinian monastery, perched on Monte de Santa Catarina offering views of the city. There is an on-site restaurant, gardens, and pool.

Book Now!

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Be Strategic When Booking Flights

A budget trip to any destination starts when you pull up the booking site. Ensure you’re getting the best flight deals by setting fare alerts early in your search. You can do this by simply toggling the “Track Prices” switch on Google Flights or signing up for email notifications from route tracking services like sister site, Airfarewatchdog. Having some flexibility in your travel dates could save you even more, as it allows you to search for the cheapest trips in a given time frame, usually over a span of a few months. 

Travel During the Shoulder Season

Weather-wise, Bora Bora experiences a tropical climate and minimal rainfall year-round. Temperature remains in the mid-70s to high 80s Fahrenheit (between 21 and 31 degrees Celsius). Traveling during the low season will save you the most money, but the trade-off is the intense rains that buffet the beaches during the rainy season, especially in December and January. Savvy travelers can maintain some off-season savings and benefit from better weather by aiming to book during the island’s shoulder season, around November in the autumn and April in the spring, 

Skip the Major Resorts

Resort fees and high nightly rates are the true budget-breakers when it comes to Bora Bora (the Four Seasons Bora Bora can run guests a cool $1k per night). Seeking out alternative accommodation goes a long way toward stretching your spending.

For outdoor enthusiasts, try out eco-camping at Bora Bora Motu Camping. Tucked away from the buzz of the main island on Motu Tupe, guests at this campsite can connect directly with the nature of Bora Bora and benefits from their hosts deep local and ecological knowledge.

For adult travelers under 40 years old, Alaroots Bora Bora Camp is a no-frills option that is nonetheless highly-rated. Check-in and check-out are self-serve and the property has a mix of permanent structures and room for tents. Despite the minimal amenities, Alaroots does offer a manta ray encounter, leopard ray encounter, and snorkeling package for interested guests—just inquire with their online reception.

Another popular option in Bora Bora and the surrounding islands is a stay at a guesthouse, small hotels typically run by families. These accommodations are usually in convenient areas with easy access to island attractions. Guests also benefit from the hosts’ local expertise and insight into the area.

Curate Your Itinerary Carefully

The key to sticking to budget is to plan your itinerary ahead of time. When crafting your trip, consider the following:

Choose your investments wisely. Choose where you want to invest your money ahead of time. For example, if engaging with marine wildlife is a can’t-miss experience for you, splurge a little on a tour of the Coral Gardens or the Bora Bora Lagoonarium. Knowing your priorities ahead of time and sticking to them can limit spur-of-the-moment spending.

Know what’s included in your vacation package. If you do plan to spring for a resort stay, make sure you’re aware of all inclusions in your nightly rate. There may be free or discounted excursions included in your package.

Luckily, Bora Bora offers plenty to explore, even for travelers working with a limited budget. When creating your itinerary, think about: 

Hitting the beach. Plage de Matira, located on the island’s southernmost point, is Bora Bora’s only free public beach. Snorkel, rent a jet ski, or go kiteboarding off its sunny coast. 

Timing your trip around local events and festivals. To truly immerse yourself in local culture, plan your trip around Heiva i Bora Bora, an annual multi-week Polynesian cultural festival beginning in July. This festival welcomes residents and tourists alike with music, dance, and sports events. Water sports enthusiasts may want to plan their trip for September to welcome the outrigger canoes as they pull up on the shores of Plage de Matira, the finish line of the world-renowned Hawaiki Nui Va’a race. 

Going for a hike. See the island from a different perspective with a hike up the 2,400-foot-tall Mount Otemanu, which ends with stunning views of the island, or up the Point Fitiuu Cannons trail, which gives hikers the best views of Mount Otemanu dominating the skyline.  Here is where you’ll want to invest a bit of your budget for a guided hike, as many of the island’s trails are difficult to follow for those unfamiliar with the landscape.

Get a Resort Day Pass

If you want a taste of resort life without the multi-night commitment, go for a resort day pass. Many resorts will charge non-guests an entry fee to use their amenities for a single day. For example, the St. Regis Bora Bora offers a day pass for its spa. These deals are often not well-advertised, so reach out to the hotel about a week or two ahead of time to see what they offer.

The post How to Do Bora Bora on a Budget appeared first on SmarterTravel.

If you get bored lying on the beach for your entire vacation, St. Lucia is the Caribbean island for you. Sure, there are plenty of romantic St. Lucia hotels and picture-perfect sandy beaches with shady palm trees for you to lounge under, but when you tire of that, there are plenty of other things to do in St. Lucia —including rainforests to explore waterfalls to swim in, and mountains to climb.

Go Jungle Biking

When you think of mountain biking, you probably don’t think of the Caribbean—which would be a mistake. Thanks to St. Lucia’s diverse terrain, it’s actually become a destination for serious bikers, who come to test their skills on Bike St. Lucia’s 12 miles of private trails.

Located on the grounds of Anse Mamin, a former plantation, Bike St. Lucia has trails for literally everyone—including people like myself, who have never mountain biked before, or for professionals like Tinker Juarez, a champion bike racer who trained here. This is one of the best ways to get off the beaten path in St. Lucia and get deep into the rainforest.

Explore Historic Pigeon Island

Pigeon Island National Landmark used to be an island, but it was connected to the mainland with a causeway in 1972. A former military base and rumored hiding place of pirate treasure, the island’s rich history is best explored with a knowledgeable guide who can take you through the park’s fascinating ruins and the twists and turns of trails scaling the park’s two peaks, Ford Rodney and Signal Peak.

Don’t skip out on the more challenging trek up to Signal Peak—hikers who push through will be rewarded with crystal clear, 360-degree views of the surrounding Rodney Bay. If visiting Saint Lucia in May, make a stop at Pigeon Island as it turns into a mainstage for the annual Saint Lucia Jazz & Arts Festival. 

Taste Authentic Cuisine at the Beacon Restaurant

You’ll be drawn into the Beacon Restaurant by the amazing views (the restaurant’s patio has a sweeping panorama of the Pitons that’s hard to beat from anywhere on the island), but you’ll stay for the authentic St. Lucian cuisine. This locally run restaurant serves up a hearty lunch buffet that will give you a chance to try all the famous foods that you’ve heard about—from the national dish of green fig and salt fish to St. Lucian-style macaroni and cheese. Complimentary fresh juice accompanies the buffet and is a great opportunity to taste tamarind juice.

Hike Gros Piton

The Pitons, two volcanic formations that rise over the Caribbean Sea, are St. Lucia’s most iconic landmarks (they’re even part of the country’s flag). Once you’ve stared at them long enough, you’ll likely be inspired to climb at least one of them, especially once you hear that it only takes an average of two hours to climb up and another two hours to descend the taller Gros Piton.

You’ll need to hire a guide and purchase a permit to hike Gros Piton, both of which you can do without a reservation at the base of the mountain. The earlier you start your summit, the better, as the heat and humidity only get worse as the day goes on. This is a moderate hike that most people with a good level of fitness can do with minimal gear—the most important thing to bring is plenty of water.

Walk the Tet Paul Nature Trail

Bring your camera to the Tet Paul Nature Trail, which is one of the best things to do in St. Lucia if you’re looking for great photo opportunities. This is a very easy walk on a well-kept trail that can be completed in about half an hour—the most challenging part is the “stairway to heaven,” a set of steep stairs that reveal one of the best views of the Pitons at the top.

The trail winds through a working organic farm, through a historic traditional house, and past many native plants, which your guide will point out to you. (If you’ve never seen how a pineapple grows, you might be surprised!)

Swim in Toraille Waterfall

The Toraille Waterfall is easy to get to—just a quick two-minute walk from the road—which is why I was surprised to find hardly anyone there when I visited. If swimming under a waterfall is on your bucket list, this is the place to do it—it’s easy to wade into the cool waters, and you can stand up under the pounding falls for an impromptu back or shoulder massage if you like. I stopped in here just after completing a very sweaty hike up Gros Piton, and it was like diving into heaven.

Discover Anse Mamin Beach

Anse Mamin feels like a well-kept secret. Most visitors flock to Anse Chastanet resort’s bigger, more developed beach, but if you follow the somewhat hidden path from there, you’ll emerge onto a second, quieter beach—Anse Mamin. Although the beach huts and lounge chairs are only for resort guests, all beaches in St. Lucia are public, so you can bring your own towel and chair and relax here for the day, even if you’re not staying at the hotel.

A secluded sandy beach in St. Lucia might not be where you’d expect to have an amazing burger, but the one served up for lunch at the Jungle Beach Bar & Grill is famous on the island (and for a good reason).

Attend an Island “Jump-Up”

The Gros Islet Street Party is one of the most popular jump-ups on the island, an all-night celebration that has packed the streets of Gros Islet every Friday for the past fifty years. The theme of the evening is music, dance, socialization, and food, with vendors selling everything from the freshest seafood to classic Saint Lucian barbeque. The party is usually a mix of locals and tourists, and local guides are available to take you to the hottest spots. 

Take a Lushan Country Life Tour

Interested in learning about St. Lucia’s rich cultural history? If so, a stop at Lushan Country Life is a must. This family-run tour is one of the best educational things to do in St. Lucia, taking you through the island’s past before offering up samples of the local fruit growing on the farm, as well as other homemade dishes.

Take a Volcanic Mud Bath

You’ve heard of a drive-in movie theater, but how about a drive-in volcano? The sulphuric mud baths in Soufriere are touted as the world’s only drive-in volcano, as visitors can drive their cars right up to the sulfur springs in the heart of the mountain. The volcanic mud is said to ease skin conditions and help detoxify the body. And if you’re worried about an explosion, don’t be—the Soufriere Volcano is officially dormant. 

Carol McPherson contributed to this article.

The post The 10 Best Things to Do in St. Lucia appeared first on SmarterTravel.

However, you don’t want the waterproofing to weigh you down. Too-heavy boots can strain your feet and legs, tiring you out faster. Lightweight boots can help keep you nimble and are also ideal for hiking trips where you’re worried about a weight allowance while packing. 

These six hiking boots combine the best of both worlds, offering waterproof protection in a lightweight package.

Asolo Falcon Evo Jacquard GV Hiking Boots

Asolo’s Falcon Evo Jacquard GV Hiking Boots offer a perfect blend of toughness and style in a surprisingly lightweight package. Weighing just over a pound per shoe, these boots are completely waterproof and capable of withstanding the harshest trail conditions.

Asolo, a family-run European hiking brand, has earned a cult following among serious trekkers for their ultra-durable footwear, all of which can be resoled to extend the lifetime of the boot. The Falcon Evos, their lightest model, uphold this reputation while incorporating features like a Gore-Tex Extended Comfort lining to keep you dry even if you face water crossings or heavy rain on your hike.

I tested these boots straight out of the box, tackling a long, rocky hike without experiencing any blisters or discomfort. The Asolo/Vibram Omega soles with MegaGrip compound particularly impressed me, providing exceptional traction and grip even on steep, slippery terrain.

These boots combine the best of both worlds: the robust features of a heavy-duty hiking boot with the comfort and agility of a trail runner. They deliver excellent ankle support, superior traction, reliable waterproofing, and impressive durability in a surprisingly lightweight package.

Weight: 17.28 ounces per shoe (women’s).

Merrell Antora 3 Mid Waterproof 

Merrell’s Antora 3 Mid Waterproof feels like a sneaker but offers the support of a hiking boot, and for good reason—it’s designed off of the company’s best-selling women’s trail running shoe. I’ve worn these boots on hikes of over 12 hours without a single blister, which is impressive.

The shoe got upgraded to a boot with a more durable upper for added foot protection, trademarked FloatPro Foam pods under the heel and forefoot for extra cushioning, and an extra-grippy Vibram sole. 

The waterproof membrane keeps your feet dry no matter how many puddles you slog through, and these boots are comfortable without needing to be broken in.

Weight: 10.23 oz per shoe (women’s)

Saloman Cross Hike 2 Mid GTX

Stay light and nimble with Saloman’s Cross Hike 2 Mid GTX boots. Featuring a unique Quicklace system, these boots can be on an instant—and they won’t come untied at inopportune moments. 

A higher cut adds additional ankle support and protection, which combined with the Gore-tex exterior and deep lugs on the sole, help keep you surefooted even on the muddiest of trails.  

Available in a sleek all-black design, these boots can pull double duty for post-hike adventures in town.

Weight: 14.56 oz per shoe (men’s)

Lowa Innox Pro GTX Mid

Synthetic materials are generally better than leather when it comes to keeping things light. Lowa’s Innox Pro GTX Mid are 100 percent vegan, using man-made technology to provide an airy feel that’s sturdy enough for tough trails. 

The built-in Gore-tex lining is breathable to keep your feet dry (and not sweaty) even on hot or rainy hikes. 

Weight: 15.87 oz per shoe (men’s)

Hoka Speedgoat 5 Mid GTX

Made from recycled materials, Hoka’s Speedgoat 5 Mid GTX  boots are kind to both the environment and your feet. Using the brand’s popular trail running shoe technology, the Speedgoat adds in Gore-tex waterproofing and a higher cut with a flexible collar for extra ankle support.

On the sole, Vibram’s Megagrip with Traction Lug keeps your footing stable even on loose soil or rocks. 

Weight: 10.30 oz per shoe (women’s)

Keen NXIS Explorer Waterproof

Feel a little cramped in regular hiking boots? Keen’s NXIS Explorers feature extra room in the front, giving your toes plenty of space to spread out. The Explorers are protected with Keen.Dry technology, a waterproof (yet breathable) membrane that will keep you dry no matter what. 

Not sure if these are the right boots for you? Keen has a great 30-day trial policy which lets you wear their shoes (even outside) for up to a month to see if you like them. 

Weight: 16.30 oz per shoe (men’s)

All of the products featured in this story were hand-selected by our travel editors. Some of the links featured in this story are affiliate links, and SmarterTravel may collect a commission (at no cost to you) if you shop through them.

The post The 6 Best Lightweight Waterproof Hiking Boots for Travel appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Taco Beast, Steamboat, Colorado

You’re skiing at Steamboat when you start to get hungry, but the powder’s good, and you don’t want to stop to eat. Then, like magic, through a flurry of snow, a tricked-out snowcat appears in front of you, bearing tacos. No, it’s not some kind of mountain mirage; it’s the Taco Beast, and it’s real. This snowcat-turned food truck roams Steamboat’s slopes from 11:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Thursday through Sunday, serving up four different kinds of tacos, esquites, and drinks. 

Ski-in, Ski-Out Distillery, Park City Mountain, Utah

Need to warm up from the inside? Ski right into High West Distillery, the world’s first ski-in, ski-out gastropub distillery. Here, you can grab a glass of house-made whiskey (with plenty of varieties, including a double rye) that will leave you feeling nice and toasty before you head back onto the slopes. Just don’t have too many, lest you fall off the chairlift.

Gondola Fondue, Vaujany, France

How amazing would it be if, at the end of a long lift line, you stepped into a gondola and were offered hot, gooey fondue? At Vaujany in France, this dream almost comes true—sadly, the gondola fondue isn’t available during ski hours, but you can reserve this after-hours experience throughout the winter season. The gondolas get kitted out with tables and stocked with fondue, aperitifs, dessert, and hot beverages for riders to enjoy while the gondola traverses the mountain.

Heated Gondola Seats, Vail, Colorado

Vail’s luxury gondolas might be nicer than your hotel room, but unfortunately, you’re not allowed to sleep there. Inside, heated seats warm you up in between runs, and free Wi-Fi means you can look up a trail map or post a smug Instagram during your 7.5-minute ride.

J.E. Henry Railroad, Loon, New Hampshire

Sure, you could ski or walk between the Octagon Lodge and the Governor Adams Lodge at Loon Mountain, or you could take a train. This wood-fired, steam-powered engine runs 900 feet back and forth each winter, shuttling skiers in a unique fashion.

The post Snowcat Tacos and 4 Other Amazing Ski Resort Amenities appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Whatever your reason for riding, it’s important to know how to stay safe and comfortable on two wheels. Follow these bike safety tips to protect yourself.

Stay Visible

Drivers can’t avoid you if they can’t see you, so make yourself (and your bike) as visible as possible. I love Knog’s Blinder 1300 Set, a powerful light set that allows you to be seen from far away. The set includes a front light with a 1300-lumen road-focused beam that lights up the road up to 390 feet away, along with a 150-lumen rear light that keeps you visible from both sides. 

The Knog set is my go-to for commuting since the lights have a super long run time (1.5 hours on full brightness and 120 hours on Eco flash mode for the front light and up to 50 hours for the rear light) and are waterproof. My favorite feature is the intelligent button LEDs, which show the battery level at a glance. 

The compact light set is also great for travel since it can be attached in seconds without any tools. You can pack it and use it on a rental bike.

Communicate Your Actions

Unlike cars, you don’t have turn signals or brake lights on your bike, so you must communicate your actions to drivers with hand signals for biking. This National Highway Traffic Safety Administration chart is an excellent graphic depiction of what to do.

However, signals can be hard to see in the dark (and confusing for drivers who might not know what hand signs mean). To make your intentions even more visible, you can also buy turn signals for your bike or cycling gloves with light-up indicators.

Let People Know You’re There

As someone who’s frequently both a pedestrian and a cyclist, I hate being startled while walking on a path by a cyclist screaming: “on your left” at full volume. And as a cyclist, I don’t want to scare someone by sneaking up behind them.

Knog’s Oi Classic Bell pleases me as both a walker and a rider—a light press on the bell’s level delivers a sound that’s much more pleasant than other bells yet still loud enough to get people out of the way in a polite manner. 

Prevent Theft

According to one study, an average of 2 million bikes are reported stolen each year. Prevent theft by following these tips:

• Park your bike in a busy, well-lit area
• Lock your bike to something secure
• Lock your wheels and frame together
• Avoid leaving your bike outside overnight
• Take any easily removable components with you
• Use a U-Lock

Stay Comfortable

Once you start racking up the miles on your bike, you may also start racking up some physical complaints—like chafing, saddle sores, and calloused hands. Here’s what I recommend to stay comfortable while riding:

Bodyglide Cycle Glide

Preventing chafing takes just five seconds with Bodyglide’s Cycle Glide. Simply swipe this deodorant-style applicator over your skin or shorts, creating a dry, invisible barrier that protects your skin while riding. The small container and solid formula make it great for travel.

Hestra Bike Short 5-Finger Gloves

If you dismount with sore wrists or callused palms, try Hestra’s Bike Gloves. These lightweight gloves feature a silicone print on the fingers for reinforced grip and shock-absorbent gel padding on the palm to combat tiredness and numbness in the hands and wrists. Best of all, they’re machine washable so that you can clean them after sweaty rides.

Backcountry MTB Liner Shorts

If you want the extra comfort and padding that chamois shorts provide but hate how they look, check out Backcountry’s MTB Liner Shorts. These sleek spandex shorts conform to your body and have barely noticeable low-profile padding, especially when layered under other shorts. I love the silicone leg grippers, which actually work to keep the shorts from rolling up while riding. 

Wear a Helmet

If you only follow one piece of advice from this list, let it be this one: Always wear a helmet while cycling. Your bike helmet should have a sticker indicating that it meets the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) standards for cycling.

For my everyday commuting, I wear this stylish helmet by Thousand. I like it not only for its looks, but for the secret pop-lock that safely locks the helmet to your bike, so I don’t have to carry it around all day.

The sleek design is lower-profile than most helmets and comes in a range of fun colors (like rose gold or striped).

The post Bike Safety Tips: How to Stay Safe and Comfortable While Riding appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Although fall means fewer crowds (and perhaps the chance to more easily spot wildlife) in popular parks, the weather can be unpredictable, and some facilities even close up after the summer season. Be sure to contact your park for details on what’s open and what’s not before planning your trip.

Acadia National Park, Maine

Acadia might be the first place that comes to mind when you think of fall colors at national parks—the destination attracts thousands of leaf peepers in autumn, so be prepared for some crowds. But it’s totally worth it—traverse the park’s more than 125 miles of hiking trails to discover amazing views, take a ranger-led bird-watching walk among the changing leaves, or rent a kayak and take in the scenery from the water.

When to Go: Peak fall colors generally pop up around mid- to late October. Check out recommendations for the best times to visit and see past foliage reports at Maine.gov.

Lyndon B. Johnson National Historical Park, Texas

You might be surprised to learn that the Texas Hill Country is a prime place for leaf peeping down south. Head to Lyndon B. Johnson National Historical Park, where you can get a side of American history with your foliage. The park is home to the LBJ Ranch (also known as the Texas White House), which is surrounded by wild brush country. Here, sumacs, oaks, and haw hollies become awash with intense fall hues during autumn.

When to Go: You’ll likely find the best foliage from mid-October through November.

Mammoth Cave National Park, Kentucky

This park’s famed cave system—more than 400 square miles of explored underground caverns that make up the world’s longest—is the reason most visitors make the trip. But don’t overlook the scenery aboveground. Forests of oaks, hickories, gum trees, and dogwoods on rolling Kentucky hills become a mosaic of fall colors this time of year.

When to Go: Early to mid-October is the best time to check out the foliage in this park. Cave tours run less frequently in the autumn, so make sure to book in advance if you want to explore underground as well.

Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, Michigan

We love the sweeping views of water and the eyeful of beautiful fall colors that Sleeping Bear’s sky-high dunes afford during this time of year. Visitors can get even better views from the air: Board a helicopter or hot-air balloon and view fall foliage on an aerial tour.

When to Go: You’ll find peak colors in the region from late September through mid-October. Check Michigan.org’s Fall Color Map to see the status of local foliage.

Valley Forge National Historical Park, Pennsylvania

Just a short drive from Philadelphia, Valley Forge is the site where General Washington and his Continental Army camped during the Revolutionary War. Here, visitors can learn about life in the 18th century as well as explore an expanse of lush parkland, including more than 3,000 acres of grassland, wetland, and deciduous forest, which become awash with rich colors in autumn.

When to Go: Peak foliage in Pennsylvania will hit around mid-October. Plan a weekend trip to take advantage of the in-park bike rentals.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park, North Carolina and Tennessee

There are about 100 native tree species in America’s most-visited national park, most of which turn kaleidoscopic come fall. Changing leaves are complemented by autumn wildflowers: delicate asters and other varieties furnish pops of color.

When to Go: Check out the Smoky Mountains’ 2024 Fall Foliage Forecast, or check leaf status via live feed from the Smoky Mountain webcams.

Shenandoah National Park, Virginia

Since Shenandoah’s more than 300 square miles of parkland are so heavily forested, it’s a gorgeous place to be when the seasons change. Look for oak and chestnut trees, which are abundant in the park, as well as splashes of autumn pigment from sassafras, sumac, and poison ivy. (Yes, poison ivy leaves change color in the fall. Just don’t get too close.)

When to Go: Take a peek at the park’s Mountain View Webcam for a real-time look at the changing leaves. Expect the best colors in early October in more elevated parts of the park and late October to early November in more low-lying areas.

Glacier National Park, Montana

Fall foliage in this enormous, wild expanse of alpine forests and Rocky Mountains in Montana is quite the sight. But fall is a wonderful time to visit if you want to see wildlife, too. The National Park Service website says that there are fewer people in the park and more animals—including grizzlies, wolves, and eagles—out and about during autumn.

When to Go: Early-changing trees like aspens and cottonwoods start donning their autumn colors in September. A “second autumn” begins when the deciduous trees in the more mountainous regions of the park start to change in mid-October.

Zion National Park, Utah

Zion National Park’s jaw-dropping sky-high cliffs provide the perfect points for seeing miles of mesas and forested land decked out in reds, oranges, and golds. Climb to the top of Zion’s massive sandstone cliffs to get sweeping bird’s-eye views of the autumn scenery.

When to Go: Fall colors in Zion begin at higher elevations, showing the best colors in late October and early November.

Harpers Ferry National Historical Park, Maryland, Virginia, and West Virginia

Peep the leaves in well-tread Harpers Ferry, where 70 percent of the land is covered with forest. Fun fall activities sweeten the deal: Visitors can explore living-history museums on Shenandoah Street or join in on an interactive 19th-century skills workshop.

When to Go: The best time to catch the fall colors is mid-October through early November. Follow Harpers Ferry on Facebook for the latest foliage updates.

Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Ohio

Close to Cleveland and hugging the winding Cuyahoga River, this national park is a Midwestern sanctuary for fall foliage seekers. There’s so much to do: Hike along more than 125 miles of trails, take part in a Canalway Questing adventure, or go bird-watching (look out for the bald eagles). One of the most relaxing ways to enjoy the fall colors is to hop onboard the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad, which rolls through the park past lush woods, meadows, the Cuyahoga River, and historical small towns.

When to Go: The best colors flourish in mid-October. Check the National Parks Service for the best times to plan a seasonal trip.

Yellowstone And Grand Teton National Parks, Wyoming

These parks are so close that they almost touch, and they offer amazing autumn colors against a backdrop of snowcapped mountains, waterfalls, forests, and lakes that reflect the changing leaves. Hikes, horseback rides, and ranger-led treks are fabulous ways to see the foliage. Or get a bird’s-eye view with a hot-air balloon ride or a trip on the Jackson Hole Aerial Tram.

When to Go: Head to Wyoming in September and early October to see the foliage.

All of the products featured in this story were hand-selected by our travel editors. Some of the links featured in this story are affiliate links, and SmarterTravel may collect a commission (at no cost to you) if you shop through them. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

The post 12 National Parks You Need to See in the Fall appeared first on SmarterTravel.