Tour The Great Outdoors Of The Americas

Are you ready for an adventure this summer? The great outdoors of the Americas is waiting to be explored. From the stunning natural beauty of Arches National Park in Utah to the idyllic Catalina Island off the coast of Southern California and the Torres del Paine National Park in Chile, there are countless incredible destinations to explore.

Arches National Park

One of the most iconic destinations in the American Southwest is Arches National Park. Located in Utah, this park is home to over 2,000 natural stone arches, as well as numerous other geological formations like towering spires and balanced rocks. The park's most famous attraction is the Delicate Arch, a stunning red rock arch that has become an emblem of the region.

Hiking trails crisscross the park, providing opportunities for visitors to explore the stunning natural landscapes up close. For the more adventurous, the park also has multiple sites for canyoneering and rock climbing. And for a fully immersive experience, consider staying the night out in the campgrounds in the park.

The Arches National Park has also been officially certified as an International Dark Sky Park. Away from the light pollution of the urban cities, the park is an amazing destination for those who want to spend the night out stargazing. Check out our guide to stargazing in the Arches National Park for tips on where to go and what to take note of.

Antelope Canyon

Arizona is best known as the Grand Canyon State, but there is more to Arizona than just the Grand Canyon! One of the most spectacular destinations in Arizona is Antelope Canyon. This narrow, winding slot canyon is famous for its undulating red sandstone walls and the stunning light beams that filter through the narrow passageways.

All areas of the Antelope Canyon are accessible only on a Guided Tour. If you are planning to visit the Antelope Canyon, you can choose a tour offered by any of the authorized tour operators. The Upper Antelope Canyon tour is the more popular route because more sunlight enters the canyon, making it more picturesque. But the Lower Antelope Canyon tour is also very impressive with its swirling sandstone walls.

The Antelope Canyon tours are usually 1 to 2 hours, giving you plenty of time to go on multiple tours to explore the different areas of the Antelope Canyon. Or you could combine the Antelope Canyon with your visit to Grand Canyon, just a 2-hour drive away.

Catalina Island

If you're looking for a more laid-back adventure, consider a visit to Catalina Island off the coast of California. This idyllic island paradise is just a short ferry ride from the mainland, but feels like a world away, perfect for a short getaway this summer.

The island is home to a variety of wildlife, including bald eagles, foxes, and bison. Lounge by the beach, hike on one of its many trails to explore the island or jump into the crystal-clear waters that are perfect for snorkeling, kayaking, and other water sports. For a more rustic experience, you can also spend the night out camping!

Catalina Island is more than just beaches. Visitors can also explore the charming town of Avalon, with its quaint shops, restaurants, and galleries. Read our guide to Catalina Island for more inspiration about what to do there.

Golden Gate National Recreation Area

If you haven’t been to the Golden Gate National Recreation Area, you can’t say you have been to San Francisco. One of the most popular national parks in the United States, the recreation area in the heart of San Francisco offers an unparalleled opportunity to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and immerse themselves in nature.

The iconic Golden Gate Bridge is undoubtedly the star attraction of this incredible park. Spanning over 1.7 miles across the Golden Gate Strait, it is an engineering marvel that draws millions of visitors each year. The views of the bridge from the park are simply spectacular, and visitors can enjoy them from several viewpoints throughout the park.

But the Golden Gate National Recreation Area has so much more to offer than just the bridge! With over 80,000 acres of rugged coastline, dense forests, and stunning cliffs, it is a playground for outdoor enthusiasts. Hiking trails crisscross the park, offering everything from leisurely strolls to challenging hikes that will take your breath away. Wildlife watching is another popular activity in the park, with opportunities to spot harbor seals, sea lions, and a wide variety of bird species.

If you're planning on visiting the Golden Gate National Recreation Area from abroad this summer, don’t forget to get a Nomad eSIM data plan for the USA to stay connected while exploring the park!

Banff National Park

No tour of the great outdoors of the Americas would be complete without a visit to Banff National Park in the Canadian Rockies. This stunning park is home to some of the most dramatic mountain landscapes in the world, as well as a variety of wildlife such as grizzly bears, elk, and bighorn sheep.

One of the highlights of Banff National Park is the awe-inspiring Moraine Lake. Surrounded by towering mountains and dense forests, this turquoise-colored lake is a photographer's dream. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll along the shoreline or hike to one of the many viewpoints for an even more spectacular view. And the best time to see this lake? Definitely summer.

And Moraine Lake is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to outdoor adventures in Banff National Park. With over 1,600 miles of hiking trails, there is no shortage of options for hikers of all levels. From easy strolls to multi-day treks, the park's trails offer a chance to explore some of the most stunning scenery on the planet. Or if you are looking for something more relaxing, why not visit the hot springs at the Banff Upper Hot Springs and the Cave and Basin National Historic Site?

Torres del Paine National Park

Torres del Paine National Park is a paradise for thrill-seekers and nature lovers. Located in the heart of Patagonia, this park offers some of the most awe-inspiring landscapes on the planet. From towering mountains to sparkling glaciers, there's no shortage of adventure to be had in Torres del Paine.

For hikers, Torres del Paine is a dream come true. With over 1,500 square miles of wilderness to explore, the park is home to some of the most famous trails in the world. The most popular trail, the "W Circuit", takes visitors through the heart of the park, offering breathtaking views of the Paine Massif, Grey Glacier, and countless other natural wonders. One of the best things about this trail is that you don’t have to be an advanced mountaineer to complete this circuit.

But hiking is just the beginning of the adventure in Torres del Paine. For those seeking an adrenaline rush, the park offers everything from kayaking to horseback riding and zip-lining. And with some of the clearest night skies in the world, Torres del Paine is also a haven for stargazers. The park also offers plenty of opportunities for relaxation and rejuvenation. Visitors can soak in natural hot springs, enjoy a leisurely boat ride across one of the park's stunning lakes, or simply bask in the tranquility of nature.

P.S. Make sure you don’t miss out our Early Bird Summer Special Offer! Throughout May, we're having a 15% discount on our eSIM data plans for specific regions. Keep an eye on our website and Nomad app to discover which regions are on sale every week!