If you’re gearing up to hike the Tour du Mont Blanc, do yourself a favor: arrive in Chamonix, France  a few days early. Nestled in the shadow of Western Europe’s highest peak, this iconic alpine town is the perfect place to shake off jet lag, acclimate to the altitude, and get swept up in the rhythm of mountain life. From jaw-dropping views to heart-pounding adventures, Chamonix offers something for every kind of explorer. Here are my top seven things to do in Chamonix before

Whether you’re trekking the Huayhuash Circuit in Peru , climbing Kilimanjaro , or trekking to Everest Base Camp, altitude has a way of humbling even the fittest adventurers. Thin air, pounding headaches, and fatigue can sneak up on anyone — but the good news is that with the right preparation and habits, you can dramatically improve how your body feels and performs at great heights. After years of trip organizing and trekking at altitude around the world, I’ve developed what

If you’ve ever found yourself wondering whether your next adventure is a hike , a trek , or a backpacking trip , you’re not alone. These words get tossed around a lot in the outdoor world — sometimes even used interchangeably — but each describes a different type of experience, requiring different levels of preparation, gear, and mindset. Understanding these distinctions not only helps you plan better but also ensures your trip aligns with your goals, comfort level, and sense

Discover beginner-friendly guided hiking trips with Authentica Travel. Learn how first-time trekkers can prepare, train, and enjoy multi-day adventure travel safely, with expert guides, small groups, and essential gear tips.

By Brooke Barber, Authentica Travel The Myth of the “Mountain Address” When I trained for my first high-altitude trek while living at a...

Packing for an adventure trip? Discover why less is more, how to avoid overpacking, and the psychology behind what you pack. Expert tips for trekkers on trips like Kilimanjaro and the Tour du Mont Blanc.

“How hard is this hike, really?” It’s a question I get asked all the time. And I understand why—when you're considering joining a...

Whether you're planning your first multi-day trek or leveling up your gear game, selecting the right sleeping bag is crucial for staying...

TMB 2025 Women's Group Conquers Col de Balme with stunning views of the Chamonix Valley. This year’s women-only Tour du Mont Blanc was...

There’s something extraordinary about Kilimanjaro. Maybe it’s the way it rises dramatically from the plains of Tanzania, or maybe it’s...

Every trail has something to teach us. Whether you're brand new to hiking or a seasoned trekker with hundreds of miles under your boots,...

It’s one of those topics that doesn’t get a lot of glamorous airtime on social media—but when you’re deep into a multi-day trek and...

An Honest, Unfiltered Look at the Authentica Adventure in Egypt Egypt is a place you feel  as much as you see. The magnitude of its...

Cusco is so much more than a gateway to Machu Picchu—it’s a living museum layered with Incan history, Spanish colonial influence, rich...

When you think of air travel, safety and smooth runways likely come to mind. But for adventure travelers heading to the world’s most...

The Tour du Mont Blanc (TMB)  is one of Europe’s most iconic long-distance hikes, and for good reason. This roughly 105-mile trek loops...

We all know the basics: don’t forget your passport, make sure it’s not expired, and keep it safe. But when it comes to international...

Dreaming of summiting Kilimanjaro , trekking to Everest Base Camp , or conquering the Inca Trail ? These adventures promise breathtaking...

Machu Picchu is one of the most breathtaking and iconic destinations in the world, drawing travelers from all walks of life. However, one...

Traveling to the Middle East can be an inspiring adventure, filled with vibrant cultures, historic sites, and breathtaking landscapes. If...