Discover the joy of travel on a walking program that exposes you to history, culture, and scenery on all 7 continents
Walking is the oldest form of travel, and we at Walking Adventures soon discovered it is also the purest form of travel. It slows us down and gives our senses a chance to connect with our surroundings. Early on, our travel programs were based exclusively upon 10 kilometer (6.2 mile) trails sponsored by walking clubs affiliated with the International Federation of Popular Sports. These events provi
ded the added dimension of walking with locals - everyday citizens from the host country who love walking and love sharing it with others. As we’ve taken our message of walking blended with motorcoach travel farther afield, we’ve continued to slow our travel pace and look for ever more creative ways to use walks to connect with the culture, history, and scenery of our destination. Most walks in international destinations are planned by WAI staff. These walking adventures generally combine a greater number of shorter walks, still blending them with local points-of-interest and cultural experiences. Walking Adventures International offers an up-close and personal style of travel to more than 60 countries on all 7 continents! We feature 15 different destinations on average per year, offering a different rotation of destinations each year.
07/02/2025
🗻Bon Voyage to Our Alaskan Adventurers!
Yesterday, our group took off in Anchorage, kicking off the Alaska: The Great Land journey in epic style!
We jumped right into Alaska’s glacier magic with a Byron Glacier Walk, strolling through the scenic Portage Valley along Turnagain Arm, followed by a breathtaking 26-Glacier Cruise in Prince William Sound - one of the world’s largest concentrations of tidewater glaciers. What an incredible way to start this northern adventure!🚢
We can’t wait to see what the coming days bring as we continue exploring America’s Last Frontier.
In 1989, Dan’s dad, George Friesen, turned his love for travel into what would become Walking Adventures International. Since then, we’ve journeyed across all 7 continents, sharing unforgettable walking experiences with so many of you along the way. 🌍👣
Now, after 37 incredible years, Dan is passing the torch—and it couldn’t be going to a more passionate, capable leader: our very own Scott Isom, alongside the inspiring Hugo Palma and his team at Borealis. 🙌
We’re calling this new era WAI 2.0 – a continuation of the legacy, filled with fresh energy, big dreams, and the same heart for meaningful, joyful travel. 💫
📬 This message was part of our most recent email update to the WAI community—if you missed it, you can catch up with the article below.
Thanks for being part of this amazing journey. We truly couldn’t have done it without you. ❤️
What started in 1989 as one man’s post-retirement passion has grown into a globe-spanning legacy of exploration. From George Friesen’s early tours through Europe to walking adventures on all seven continents, Walking Adventures International (WAI) has spent over three decades creating unforgetta...
06/16/2025
🌍✈️ Postcard from Norway!
Our adventurers have kicked off our Norwegian journey in style!
We began in beautiful Bergen, exploring colorful harbors, historic wooden buildings, and the medieval charm of the old Hanseatic wharf. 🏘️
We've cruised fjords like locals on a high-speed ferry, landing in peaceful Frøya Island, where cozy fishing villages and sea views stole the show. In the tiny hamlet of Davik, our local guide Rogier shared his hometown with sweeping views over Nordfjord and a warm welcome.
Highlights so far? Hiking high above the legendary Geiranger Fjord—a UNESCO World Heritage site—then cruising through its dramatic S-curve by ferry, surrounded by towering cliffs and cascading waterfalls.
We've also walked along the shores of a lake shaped by two historic tsunamis, visited a glacier deep in the valley, and picnicked with views straight out of a postcard.
📍 Tonight, we’re relaxing in Stryn, where we’ve earned some downtime (and maybe a waffle or two).
📸 Stay tuned—more fjords, folklore, and fun await as our Norwegian saga continues!
06/06/2025
👣“Walking is good for solving problems. It’s like the feet are little psychiatrists.” – Pepper Giardino
Did your week feel like a bit of a rollercoaster 🎢 – if so, you're not alone. Let your feet do the therapy for a change — lace up those sneakers, take a stroll, clear your mind, and welcome the weekend. 👟
Happy Friday, friends! ☀️
05/31/2025
Southern Spain Highlights – Part 2! 💃
The second half of our Walking Adventures tour through Southern Spain delivered even more depth, flavor, and beauty. From citrus groves and cliffside cafés to historic sherry cellars and royal gardens, each stop added a new layer to an already unforgettable experience. Here’s how the journey unfolded:
🍊 Zest for life – and citrus!
We kicked things off with a visit to a family-run citrus farm where we met Juanito—our hilarious and slightly cheeky host.
🌉 Cliffhanger alert – Caminito del Rey
We hiked the legendary Caminito del Rey—a 7 km trail with sky-high boardwalks above deep gorges. The views were unreal, and the adrenaline? Absolutely real. (Pro tip: don't look down too much!)
🍷 Tapas & tales in Ronda
We wrapped up our day in style with a sensational meal at Tragata in Ronda—course after course of inventive tapas, each one more delicious than the last.
🏞 White villages & sherry sipping
As we continued north toward Sevilla, we stopped at a viewpoint for the breathtaking Pueblo Blanco, Arcos de la Frontera, before enjoying a fun and flavorful tour at Bodegas Fundador, a 150-year-old sherry producer. A multi-course lunch with sherry pairings followed.
💃 Sensational Sevilla sendoff
Our time in Sevilla was the perfect grand finale. A morning city walk set the stage, followed by a guided tour of the magnificent Alcázar and its tranquil gardens. We wrapped it all up with a final farewell dinner—another tapas extravaganza filled with laughter, stories, and celebration.
🌟 What a journey it's been! Southern Spain dazzled us with its warmth, flavors, and soul. Until next time, España… ¡Olé!
We’ve recently wrapped up our incredible Walking Adventures tour through Southern Spain, and WOW—what a ride it’s been! Here's a quick recap of the unforgettable moments:
🖼 Madrid – Kicked things off with an amazing tour of the Prado Museum and city highlights, guided by the passionate and insightful Ignacio. He made the city’s history leap off the cobblestones!
⛪️ Holy Toledo! – This hilltop gem gave us a glimpse into Spain’s layered religious history. We wandered narrow streets past cathedrals, synagogues, mosques, and the impressive Alcázar. Such a unique blend in one compact city!
🍽 Dining to remember – Adolfo in Toledo gave us a meal we’ll never forget. Multi-course Castilian cuisine, Michelin-level presentation, and a private tour of their 11th-century wine cellar led by the chef himself!
💨 Don Quixote country – We explored La Mancha's iconic windmills and channeled our inner knights for a fun walk and photo shoot. Perfect blend of storybook charm and sweeping views.
🫒 From olives to flamenco – Afternoon olive oil tasting and picnic turned into an evening of flavor and fire! We dined al fresco and were blown away by an intimate, powerful flamenco show. Dinner at 8:30, home at midnight—we’re on Spain time now!
🚶♀️ Granada strolls & the majestic Alhambra – A magical mix of street scenes and sultan dreams. The Alhambra’s intricate gardens, water features, and stucco details had us transported to another era. Simply stunning.
🌊 Land & Sea – A day that had it all! A charming white village, castle tales, and a beachside picnic in Salobreña, followed by an adventurous trek through the otherworldly Torcal National Park.
This is only the first half... Stay tuned for Part 2!💃
After 37 unforgettable years of exploration, connection, and walking the world together, Dan and Linda are stepping into a new season. This journey with Walking Adventures International has been one of passion, purpose, and providence — and it's been possible because of you, our incredible WAI family.
In the most recent email update, Dan shared some big news about our 2026 tour schedule and what the future holds for WAI. Since not everyone catches our email updates, we wanted to be sure to share the news here on Facebook as well — to thank you, keep you in the loop, and invite you to join us for one final celebration. The WAI Farewell Adventure is coming in 2026, and we’d love for you to be part of it as we close this chapter the way we’ve lived it: with joy, friendship, and the memories made along the way.
With love and thanks,
Dan & Linda, on behalf of the entire WAI Team
In the last Saturday Report I promised to give you an update on the 2026 schedule. My announcement is likely not what you were expecting. My wife, Linda, and I have decided it is time to retire at the end of 2025. In 2026, WAI will be offering one, and only one, special tour: the WAI Farewell Advent...
05/15/2025
🌴 Fiji Fun Recap! 🌴
Our tour of gorgeous Fiji was a tropical dream come true! From rainbows after storms to snorkeling off pristine beaches, we packed in all the adventure and relaxation the South Pacific could offer.
🏝 We hiked to remote villages, swapped stories (and songs!) with local kids, swam through limestone caves where Blue Lagoon was filmed, and got our Castaway vibes on Mondriki Island (Wilson was not home 😆).
🌊 Snorkeling, kayaking, fish-feeding, and beach barbecues were just the start—add in sunset hikes, coconut husking, a traditional lovo dinner, and a meke dance performance, and you’ve got one unforgettable island escape.
🌦 Even the rain brought beauty—one downpour gifted us a rainbow over Naviti Island!
Thanks to everyone who joined us on this island-hopping adventure. Fiji, you were magic! 🌺✨
The adventure has officially begun! Our amazing group is off to soak up the sun, savor tapas, and stroll through the stunning sights of Southern Spain. From the fiery flamenco streets of Seville to the breathtaking Alhambra in Granada, the timeless charm of Toledo, and the vibrant energy of Madrid – they’re in for an unforgettable journey! 💃
Wishing them safe travels, full hearts, and plenty of sangria.🍷
Stay tuned for photos – the fiesta is just getting started! 📸
Our amazing group has just left the wild wonders of Tasmania for the Australia mainland – and our Adventure Guide Scott has snapped more jaw-dropping photos than we can count! 📸
From the hauntingly beautiful Port Arthur and Coal Mines Historic Site, to misty rainforest strolls at MT Field and wildlife encounters at Bonorong Sanctuary (hello wombats and Tassie devils! 😍), we've been on a non-stop nature spree!
Tasmania Highlights included:
🦅 3-hour cruise on the Tasman Sea
🐾 Magical hikes on Maria Island – Painted Cliffs, Fossil Cliffs, and kangaroo hangouts
🏞️ Epic views from Wineglass Bay Lookout
🌊 Cliffside boardwalks over crashing surf at Cape Tourville
🐦 Birdwatching at Tamar Wetlands
🌺 Chill time at Friendly Beaches and a stunning trail at Cataract Gorge in Launceston
We've met quolls, sugar gliders, possums, even a tawny frogmouth or two – and every day has been an adventure!
🌄Road-tripping through New Mexico & the AVA in style! Our amazing group has journeyed from Santa Fe to Taos, Albuquerque, Silver City, and Deming — and wow, what an adventure it's been!🌵
🥞 In Santa Fe, we kicked things off with delicious eats, explored the oldest capital city in the U.S. on foot, and soaked up its vibrant blend of Native American, Spanish, Mexican, and Anglo-American cultures. Color, history, and flavor everywhere we turned!
🏞️ From Taos, we cruised the stunning Enchanted Circle, visited a touching Vietnam Veterans Memorial, wandered through the ghost town of Elizabethtown, and walked the breathtaking (and slightly dizzying!) Rio Grande Gorge Bridge — 600 feet above the mighty river!
🏰 We stepped back in time at the Taos Pueblo, a 1000-year-old living village and UNESCO World Heritage Site, then grabbed a drink in an 1885 saloon in Los Cerillos before getting wonderfully weird at the quirky Tinkertown Museum!
🛰️ Next up: mind = blown at the Very Large Array — 27 giant satellite dishes scanning the skies in perfect harmony.
🌊 After that? A breezy walk on elevated catwalks above Whitewater Creek in a beautiful canyon oasis.
🤠 And now we’ve landed in Silver City, a wild little town with ties to Billy the Kid and Geronimo.
So many stories, sights, and steps! Stay tuned — the adventure continues!👣
Adventure Guide Scott just wrapped up an epic planning trip through beautiful Tasmania—and wow, was it a stunner!
Here’s a taste of what he explored:
🥾 Little hikes in the lush wonderland of Mt Field National Park
🏚️ A sobering step back in time at the Coal Mines Historic Site – a UNESCO World Heritage Site
🌊 A sneak peek at Tasman Arch & Devil’s Kitchen – dramatic sea cliffs incoming!
🧩 A quick marvel at the Tessellated Pavements – nature’s perfect geometry right by the sea
🌴 A dreamy visit to Bruny Island, including a stroll at The Neck and a sea cave adventure in Adventure Bay
⛰️ Time in Freycinet National Park, with jaw-dropping stops like Wineglass Bay, Honeymoon Bay, Cape Tourville Lighthouse, and Friendly Beaches
🚗 A drive up the mighty Mt. Wellington – 4,000 feet high with unforgettable views of Hobart
Plus, kookaburras, wallabies, AND humpback whales?! 🐋 Yes, please!
Scott’s journey was the perfect warm-up for the real adventure—our Australia: Tasmania, Sydney & the Blue Mountains tour, which kicks off TOMORROW! 🧳
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Contact The Business
Send a message to Walking Adventures International:
Walking Adventures International (WAI) is a small travel company based in Vancouver, Washington offering travel programs on all 7 continents. We have offered walking tours as the optimal way to connect with the world since 1989. We are dedicated to providing meaningful experiences around the world. We promote lifelong learning and provide a superior, customized product with a focus on customer service. Many of our clients keep coming back; any given tour is comprised of at least 50% repeat travelers.
Original and Personalized
WAI creates each tour from scratch! We do not purchase pre-packaged programs from other travel companies. New trips involve months of planning, including on-site research to plan walks, review hotels, and handcraft the schedule for each day. Subsequent editions of these trips are refreshed with research from our office and collaboration with in-country guides and suppliers.
More Guides
We send two WAI tour leaders on each trip. International trips also benefit from in-country guides. Typically a national guide is with the group from the time they arrive until the day they depart. Local guides also make cameo appearances to add commentary and share insights.
Nature Walks and More!
We’re convinced that walking is the best way to see the world. We love nature walks and off the beaten path experiences, but great cities of the world have much to share as well. We blend sightseeing and educational excursions in urban settings, traditional and cultural connections in rural areas, as well as natural wonders of the great outdoors to provide a holistic understanding of our destination.
Different Schedule Each Year
We cover the globe—all 7 continents! But every year we offer a different menu of tours based upon client input. Thus, each year the schedule is full of fresh travel experiences. This adds an element of customization—each tour is refreshed and revisited every time we travel. The traveler benefits from our expertise, our past experience, and the invaluable input of our in-country guides and suppliers. But because each trip is essentially a new tour, it doesn’t feel canned or scripted. Authenticity is one of our core travel values!
