There is no better way to get to the heart of a destination than a hiking excursion. With nothing but your feet on the ground, clear skies above, infinite breathtaking views, wildlife and jaw-dropping topography ahead, you are quite literally following in the footsteps of history’s most revered explorers— and is that not what expedition cruising is all about?
You’ll take to the trails in small groups, accompanied at all times by an experienced team of walking guides and specialists in fields such as zoology or geology. Although expedition hiking often involves leaving the beaten path behind in the most literal sense, navigating challenging terrain like mud, tundra, sand and scree—don’t stress about physical limitations.
What you should wear entirely depends on the destination, but some things are a given: sturdy rubber boots (often provided by the cruise line), sunscreen, a refillable water bottle, a hat, hiking poles (if desired) and a jacket to shield you from the elements. Polar regions will also require warm layers, scarves and gloves, whilst those exploring the volcanic terrain of warmer climates like the Galápagos should come prepared with bug spray and a lightweight shirt to guard against the sun’s rays.
Follow in Shackleton’s footsteps and get up close to penguin colonies on an Antarctic hike. Hike around Greenland’s and marvel at the otherworldly Arctic fjords and ice-formations—look out for the Northern Lights!