The San Blas Islands in Panama are a unique archipelago that cannot be found anywhere else on earth. They are one of the few places that remain largely untouched by humans. The San Blas Islands fall under the Kuna Yala area, which is controlled by the Kuna Indians. They have their own rules and laws that are separate from Panama’s legislation. That’s why you won’t find resorts or mass tourism on the San Blas Islands, and large boats are not permitted. You’ll only find a few simple wooden houses, and only 50 of the 357 islands are inhabited. Most of the San Blas Islands are tiny, full of palm trees, and surrounded by white sandy beaches and clear blue seas. All of this makes it a very special place to visit during your trip to Panama.

Who are the Kuna Indians?

The Kuna Indians are the original inhabitants of Panama and these indigenous tribes can only be found in a few places in Panama. After the Spanish colonized Panama, the Kuna remained in the San Blas area, where they still live today. In 1925, the Kuna Indians were granted the right to self-determination, which allowed them to protect their land and culture with their own rules and laws. The Kuna are best known for their molas; colorful layers of fabric with cut-out patterns that women sometimes work on by hand for months. These colorful works of art are incorporated into the traditional clothing of the tribe, but also into souvenirs such as cushions, bags, and children’s clothing.

Important: Some of the islands you visit are inhabited, so when you visit them, you are quite literally stepping into someone’s backyard. Conduct yourself as you would at home when visiting someone you don’t know. Dress appropriately and don’t take photos of people without asking for permission first.

How to visit the San Blas islands?

There are many different tours available from Panama City to the San Blas Islands, from overnight stays on an island to multi-day boat trips. Travelers’ experiences can vary widely because many tours are quite touristy and can be disappointing. This is often due to being on a small island with many people and poor accommodations. If you want to go where most tourists don’t and have some budget, book a stay on a boat or a multi-day sailing trip. It is not easy to book a sailing trip because there are hardly any boats that sail here year after year. Most boat owners stay here with their boat for one season and then continue their journey to another country or continent.

How I visited the San Blas islands?

I chose to stay on Captain Mike’s boat during my days at the San Blas Islands. Mike has been living at the San Blas Islands for years. You will stay on the catamaran and can take part in various activities from here. It feels like a lovely all-inclusive experience since your food and drinks are taken care of, and you can do what you want. There’s no fixed program during your stay at the San Blas Islands because many activities depend on factors like the weather or availability. However, there’s plenty to do, and you won’t get bored in this paradise. The catamaran has sleeping spots in the cabin, but you may also sleep in a hammock on the deck or in a tent on the deck. People often switch between them for different experiences, but you can’t specify your preference beforehand.

We spent our days relaxing in a hammock, swayed back and forth by the sea breeze. We snorkeled at beautiful coral reefs and occasionally paddled a kayak to visit a deserted island. A Kuna village offered us a guided tour, and in the evenings we ate freshly caught crab and lobster before gazing at the stunning starry sky from our hammocks.

On weekends, the catamaran is docked in a fixed location. When weather conditions are good on weekdays, you’ll go sailing to explore more beautiful places in the San Blas Islands. The details of this trip may vary from time to time, so be sure to ask about what is and isn’t possible at the time you plan to go.

Note: Visiting a Kuna village is not always possible. Sailing is weather dependent and only possible on weekdays. Mike is in Panama City on weekends. Of course, someone from the crew will be present to provide meals.

What are the costs for a visit to the San Blas islands?

Unfortunately, a visit to the San Blas islands is never cheap, and this is one of the most low-budget ways to do it. Prices vary depending on the season but start at $135 per person per day. It is recommended to allow for about two or three full days for your visit to the San Blas islands as it is quite a long journey to and from Panama City and may not be entirely worth it otherwise. In addition to these costs, you should also budget for transportation to and from the San Blas islands, which can only be done by 4×4 and is about a 5-hour drive, which can cost around $135 per person. Lastly, you should also budget for $25 per person to enter the Kuna region. Even though this may all add up to a lot of money, do not expect a luxurious stay but rather a unique experience. If this is above your budget, consider visiting other paradisiacal islands in Panama that are easier to reach, such as Bocas del Toro or Coiba National Park near Santa Catalina. Of course, this is not the same experience, but if you’re traveling on a smaller budget, these are great alternatives.

The best time to visit the San Blas islands

For the San Blas islands and Panama in general, there are two distinct seasons – the rainy season and the dry season. You might think that the rainy season means non-stop rain, but fortunately, that’s not the case. While there are more heavy showers during the rainy season, it can also be dry for several days. Additionally, during this season, the water is calmer for snorkeling because there’s less wind. In the dry season, there is less rain but more clouds and rougher seas due to the wind. Each season has its advantages and disadvantages. The rainy season is from May to November, while the dry season is from December to April. September and October are the wettest months, so they may not be ideal, but this applies to all of Panama. I visited the San Blas islands in mid-January and experienced a mix of short rain showers, blue skies, and occasional cloudy weather. As you can see in the photos, the weather was generally fantastic.

How to get to the San Blas islands?

Getting to the San Blas islands from Panama City usually starts with a 5 am pick-up time for a four to five-hour journey. There’s a stop halfway where you can grab breakfast and snacks and get some cash. The mountainous road that follows is only accessible with a 4×4, and it’s bumpy with many bumps and curves. A travel pill might be helpful here. At the Kuna border, your passport will be checked, and you’ll pay a $20 fee to enter.

The last hour of the journey is by motorboat, which can sometimes be rough due to the waves. Try to grab a spot at the back of the boat to avoid feeling the bumps caused by the waves. Once you arrive at the catamaran, it’s wonderful to relax in a hammock and enjoy the heavenly view.

Where can you book this trip to the San Blas islands?

Interested in visiting the idyllic San Blas islands in this unique way? Look no further than Mike, who has been sailing his entire life and left to travel almost 30 years ago, eventually settling in the San Blas area for the past decade. He knows the area like the back of his hand, is involved with the Kuna people, and respects their customs and way of life. It is this experience that he wants to share with other travelers. To get in touch with Mike, simply send an email to sailwithmike@gmail.com. Keep in mind that it may take some time for him to respond since Mike spends a lot of time at sea, is not a big tour operator, and handles everything himself.

If you book a San Blas trip with him, you are guaranteed to spend a few days relaxing in paradise with all-inclusive accommodations. However, keep in mind that the specifics of your trip may vary. Depending on availability, you may sleep in a shared cabin on the catamaran or in a basic hut on an island. Food and drinks are provided daily, and you can use snorkeling gear, kayaks, and hammocks whenever you want. The number of people on the boat may also vary, so it’s best to ask Mike beforehand what to expect during your visit.

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If you ask us, there’s nothing quite as delightful as spending a day at sea. Put on your swimsuit and step aboard a sailboat for an unforgettable day on the water. The southwest of Milos is characterized by high white cliffs, sea caves, and crystal-clear waters. In the past, pirates inhabited this part of the island, as the numerous sea caves and high cliffs provided the perfect hideout for surprise attacks. This stunning part of Milos is still accessible only by boat, making a boat trip essential in your Milos itinerary. It was the absolute highlight of our visit to Milos!

The boat trip goes to the southwest coast of Milos, and whether you sail or use the motor depends on the wind conditions. The southwest coast is perhaps the most beautiful part of the island, and as we mentioned before, you can only visit this area by boat. The boat trip lasts the entire day, and you’ll make several stops at beautiful spots to take a refreshing swim in the water, visit unique places, or explore the underwater world. One of the first stops is Sikia Cave, which is a massive sea cave with crystal-clear blue water.

Afterwards, you’ll head towards Kleftiko, which is considered the highlight of Milos for many. Here, you’ll find towering cliffs with numerous small and large caves. The seawater has a turquoise color, and the combination with the white rock creates an incredibly paradisiacal place! The sailboat anchors, and with the small rubber boat and guide, you’ll visit various sea caves and have the option to cliff jump if you wish.

Pay attention: In case of adverse weather conditions such as strong winds, the boat may not be able to sail to the west coast. In such situations, the boat will likely head towards the north of Milos, where there are also many beautiful places to explore.

What to Take With You on the Boat?

• Towel
• Water shoes
• Swimwear
• Sweater or cardigan for the return journey
• Sunscreen
• Sunglasses
• Cap or hat

Where can You Book this Boat Trip? 

There are many different providers that organize boat trips to the west coast of Milos, and the prices depend on the type of boat, the size of the groups, and what is included or not included in the price. If you choose to pay a bit more, you will be on a smaller boat with a smaller group, allowing for more space to relax during the journey. Cheaper boats often have the entire boat filled with people. It can be fun, but less comfortable. We went on this sailing boat and can definitely recommend it. The group never exceeds 10 people, the lunch was delicious, and all drinks and snacks are included in the price. The crew is friendly and creates a great atmosphere on the boat. The perfect ingredients for a wonderful day! If this boat is already fully booked on your dates or if you want to compare all boats, you can check out all boat trips at Milos.

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One of the most beautiful ways to explore the Greek island of Milos is by kayak. During the 3-hour kayak tour, you’ll discover hidden beaches, idyllic coves, and unique sea caves while leisurely paddling over the crystal-clear blue waters. Every now and then, you can take a refreshing swim or simply enjoy the view from the beach. It’s an amazing tour that, in our opinion, you shouldn’t miss on Milos!

What Will You See While Kayakking?

The tour starts in the south of Milos at Fyriplaka Beach, where you will receive instructions and a snack with water for the journey. Everyone will also be provided with a waterproof GoPro to capture photos, including underwater shots, along the way. Two guides accompany the group, allowing each participant to kayak at their own pace, and there are several stops to rest during the tour.

You’ll kayak through sea caves and along steep cliffs, heading towards Gerakas Beach. This beach is incredibly beautiful with its white sand and can only be reached by water. Here, you can snorkel or explore with the guide to find a hot spring. After a light snack, you continue kayaking to Tsigrado Beach. This small beach is situated in a paradise-like bay with crystal-clear water. The guide will take you to a unique cave with bright blue water a little further down, or you can simply relax on the beach to catch your breath.

Finally, you’ll make the short journey back to Fyriplaka Beach. In just 3 hours, you’ll have seen many beautiful places, gained a nice tan, and had a mini workout!

Pay attention: Most days of the year, the kayak tour covers the above-mentioned places, but this is subject to weather conditions. If it is too windy on the south side of Milos, the tour may take place at a different location. Fortunately, there are many other beautiful locations to explore in case of strong winds. If this happens, they will contact you the day before to inform you about the alternative plan.

What to Bring With You?

As mentioned earlier, you will receive water and a light snack from the guide. If you prefer to drink a lot of water, you can also bring your own bottle. There are two sealed storage compartments in the kayak where you can keep some belongings. Here are some useful things to consider:

• Swimwear
• Sunscreen
• Sunglasses
• Hat or cap

What are the Costs and Do You Need to Make a Reservation? 

The costs vary depending on the season, but usually, the tour costs around $70-$75. This includes all necessary equipment, such as the GoPro, kayak, life jacket, and paddles. At the starting point, you can leave your clothes and other belongings as the organization provides a kind of beach hut. You will also receive a dry bag to carry items like your phone during the kayaking. It is advisable to book the tour in advance as it is often fully booked. You can book the kayak tour here, and if your plans change, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance. Payment can be made with iDeal.

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A hot air balloon ride over Cappadocia is a magical experience that should be on everyone’s bucket list. A hot air balloon ride is already special, but Cappadocia might just be the best place on Earth to do it. That’s because of the stunning landscapes and especially because here, every morning during sunrise, around 150 hot air balloons take off. Do you also want to take a hot air balloon flight in Cappadocia? Here are the things you need to consider.

What to Expect During a Hot Air Balloon Flight in Cappadocia?

To give you an idea of the experience, here’s a brief description of what a hot air balloon flight in Cappadocia looks like.

Takeoff

About an hour before sunrise, the balloon company will pick you up from your hotel in a van. It’s a short ride to the valley where the balloons are being prepared. You’ll see balloons lying on the ground, gradually inflating with the help of large fans. Once they are sufficiently filled, the burners are ignited to heat the air inside the balloons. The baskets are divided into compartments, each accommodating four people. Typically, there are 20 to 28 passengers on board. Once everyone has climbed into the basket and taken photos, it’s time to take off. The pilot ignites the burners, and soon you’ll feel the basket gently rising as the hot air balloon lifts off the ground.

The Flight and Sunrise

The direction of your flight depends entirely on the wind, but the pilot can somewhat control the direction by varying altitude to catch different wind currents. The maximum altitude is 800 meters (2600 feet), and during the flight, the pilot will try to fly both very close to the ground and at the maximum height, depending on weather conditions. At the highest point, when the burner is off, you’ll experience complete silence and have the opportunity to enjoy the magical sunrise over Cappadocia in peace. The pilot will provide information about the area during the flight, and you can ask any questions you may have about the hot air balloon. With reputable companies, they often capture 360° photos and videos that you’ll receive for free after the flight.

Landing

After approximately an hour in the air, it’s time to descend. Since there is usually very little wind in Cappadocia for most of the year, the landing is as relaxed as the takeoff. With the assistance of the ground crew, the pilot can often guide the basket to land directly onto the trailer of the support vehicle. Traditionally, champagne is served after every balloon flight, and you’ll receive a certificate from the pilot. After a short ride back to your hotel, you can enjoy breakfast and relish in the highlight of your trip to Cappadocia.

When Do Hot Air Balloons Fly in Cappadocia?

Hot air balloons in Cappadocia typically fly every day of the year, including during the winter. However, the flights are weather-dependent, and they take place at sunrise. Flying at sunrise provides the best chance for good weather and cooler temperatures. If you’ve booked a hot air balloon flight and the weather conditions are unfavorable, the balloon company will attempt to reschedule your flight for another day. If rescheduling isn’t possible due to full bookings, your availability, or prolonged bad weather, you will receive a full refund.

What Is the Cost of a Hot Air Balloon Ride in Cappadocia?

A hot air balloon ride in Cappadocia is not cheap. Prices start at around $200, but outside the winter months, you should expect to pay around $270 per person with a reputable organization. Prices can vary depending on the company and the services offered. Cheaper options might offer shorter flights, fewer ascents and descents to conserve gas, or take off slightly after sunrise when more balloons are allowed to fly. Only 100 balloons are permitted to take off before sunrise, with an additional 50 allowed to launch shortly afterward. While the cost might be steep, our advice is not to skimp on this experience and book with a reputable company.

Where Should You Book Your Hot Air Balloon Flight?

We recommend booking your hot air balloon flight with a reputable company like Discovery Balloons. They offer an excellent experience with experienced pilots, top-notch communication, and the flexibility to cancel or reschedule up to 24 hours in advance. This flexibility is especially helpful if the weather forecast predicts cloudy conditions on the day of your flight. You can adjust your date to a sunny day (if available) or cancel if you don’t want to fly in overcast weather.

Tip: If you plan to visit Cappadocia between May and September, it’s wise to book your flight well in advance as balloons can fill up quickly during the peak season.

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Experience the rugged landscapes of Madeira from a different perspective! Paragliding is an absolute must-do on Madeira for adrenaline junkies. Together with an instructor, you run off the mountain and glide effortlessly along the high cliffs. Meanwhile, you have an incredible panoramic view of the blue ocean. What a delightful sense of freedom!

What does paragliding on Madeira look like?

We went paragliding with the experienced Rui. He has 30 years of paragliding experience and offers tandem flights together with his wife, Alicia. Rui and Alicia are a fantastic couple who ensure that everything goes smoothly. You’ll take the flight with Rui, while Alicia assists with everything around it.

The location depends on the weather and is always a surprise. One day, you might fly above Funchal, and another time over a banana plantation near a small village. Alicia will contact you before the flight and provide you with the details for paragliding. If you’re paragliding as a pair, you’ll take turns flying. Rui is the only one who pilots the glider. We found it enjoyable to fly one after the other, as we could witness each other’s takeoff and landing and capture photos.

Once the location is chosen, you’ll drive with Rui and Alicia to the starting point on the mountain. You’ll be provided with a helmet, knee protectors, and a windproof jacket. Rui will give you the necessary instructions, and then it’s time to take off. You both run down the mountain until the wind lifts you up, and before you know it, you’re peacefully gliding on the thermals (warm air currents). Rui has lived on Madeira his entire life and will share interesting facts about the island during the flight. After about 15 to 20 minutes, you’ll smoothly land back on the ground, enriched with an incredible experience.

What should you bring for paragliding?

It’s important to wear long pants when you go paragliding. Also, wear sturdy closed-toe shoes, and it’s nice to have sunglasses on. You can bring a bag because you can leave it with Alicia.

How much does paragliding cost?

Most of the attractions in Madeira are free, so hopefully, you have some budget left for an exciting activity. Paragliding costs $129 and can be booked here. If you change your mind or if your travel plans change, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance. Please note that the minimum weight for paragliding is 40kg (88 pound), and the maximum weight is 85kg (187 pound).

Sit back, relax, and enjoy your flight!

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The enchanting ancient forest of Fanal Forest, sometimes referred to as Laurisilva, is one of the last laurel forests in the world and is therefore listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Tens of millions of years ago, a large part of Southern Europe was covered with forests like these, but due to the ice age and deforestation, almost all laurel forests disappeared. The old laurel trees often have peculiar shapes and are covered with up to 20 different species of moss. The thick mist that often lingers in Fanal Forest creates a mystical atmosphere, making this place even more impressive. Read our tips for visiting the Fanal Forest here.

How to get to Fanal Forest

Fanal Forest is located high in the mountains in the west of Madeira and is easiest to reach by renting a car. From Funchal, it takes about an hour’s drive to the Fanal parking lot, and from there, you can directly enter Fanal Forest. The road to Fanal is one of the most beautiful roads in Madeira, and along the way, be sure to make a stop at the viewpoint Miradouro Lombo do Mouro. If you don’t have a rental car, you will need to book a tour as public transportation doesn’t reach this area, and taking a taxi is not recommended due to the long distance and cost involved.

The Best Time to Visit Fanal Forest

If you ask us, you’ll want to visit Fanal Forest when there’s a thick layer of mist. The thicker the mist, the better. Combined with the unique shapes of the laurel trees, it creates a truly extraordinary sight. When there’s no mist, Fanal Forest is still beautiful, but it feels somewhat less mystical. Of course, it’s difficult to know when there will be mist, but fortunately, you have a good chance for most of the year. The highest chance of mist is in the morning. If you’re in Funchal, it’s best to check if there are low or high clouds that day. If there are clouds at the mountaintops above Funchal, there’s also a high chance of mist in Fanal Forest.

Navigating Through the Thick Mist of Fanal Forest

From the parking lot, you can of course wander around randomly and get lost in the forest. That’s a good idea in itself, but it can also be helpful to check the satellite images of Fanal Forest on Google Maps here to see where the large groups of trees are located. Otherwise, you might miss a significant part of Fanal Forest because you won’t be able to gauge its size. There are also dozens of cows roaming through Fanal Forest, sometimes appearing unexpectedly in front of you. Give them space when you encounter them.

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Southern Mexico is a tropical paradise, with hundreds of cenotes, dozens of Mayan temples, and countless beautiful beaches. While some of these hotspots are quite far apart, it can be advantageous to rent a car for a few days. You have the option of renting a normal rental car, but for a more unique experience, we found something really cool on the internet: a Volkswagen Kombi! Not only does it look stylish, but you can also sleep in it, waking up in the most beautiful places. Start the engine, play some relaxing music, roll down the windows, and hit the road!

Why a Volkswagen Kombi?

The Volkswagen Kombi gives you complete freedom to explore the Yucatan and Quintana Roo region. You’re not tied down to buses or cabs, so you can go wherever you want without breaking the bank. Say goodbye to expensive taxi rides and crowded tour buses with 30 other tourists. Plus, you can save on hotel stays by sleeping in the van. Pop the roof for some extra space and fresh air. Park anywhere you want, whether it’s on a palm-tree lined beach or a chill campsite. You feel like a true outlaw on the road when you’re on the road with the Volkswagen Kombi.

About the Kombi Experience

The Kombi Experience has a fleet of 4 cool Volkswagen Kombis: The Whale, The Kiwi, The Azulita, and The Mandarina, which we rented and is featured in the photos in this article. Each van is equipped with 2 double beds, seating, a pop-up roof, and a unique, eye-catching color. The vans are owned by Martin, a friendly Argentine in his 30s who has been living in Tulum for a few years. You’ll meet Martin in Tulum to pick up your Kombi and get all the info you need for your trip. Martin will give you the rundown on everything you need to know about the van and your journey, and provide plenty of tips on the most beautiful places, the best campsites, or unique places to spend the night.

What about safety?

You don’t have to worry about safety. In Yucatan and Quintana Roo, you mainly have straight roads with little traffic. The Kombi has a top speed of 75 km/h, so you may get passed by other cars.  The roads in Mexico are very wide, so as long as you stay to the right, you’ll be fine. Traffic rules are mostly similar to those in the United States. Watch out for speed bumps in Mexico, they can be very high and you have to take them slow. Speed bumps may not always be clearly marked, but there’s usually a sign nearby to warn you.

Putting together a road trip itinerary

Once you’ve picked up the Volkswagen Kombi in Tulum, the adventure can start! From here, you can go in any direction. We recommend not exploring Tulum by van, though, as it’s easily done by bike. The beachside of Tulum is always congested with traffic (think gridlock!) and parking can be expensive. We rented the Kombi for three nights and took a fantastic route. Martin has loads of tips for you and has even created a whole book filled with great campsites, beautiful cenotes, and many more useful tips

Our route with the Volkswagen Kombi from Tulum:

Day 1: Drive to Coba and watch the sunset from the top of the temple. Overnight in Coba.

Day 2: Visit Chichen Itza, Ik Kil Cenote, and Samula Cenote. Overnight in Akumal.

Day 3: Visit Casa Cenote and camp on the beach at ‘El Ultimo Maya’ campsite.

Day 4: Return to Tulum and return the Kombi.

Cost and where to book?

The prices vary by season and range from $90 to $150 per night. If you book, make sure to give Martin our regards! You can book or check availability on www.thekombiexperience.com. If these costs are too high for your budget and you still want to go on a road trip, you can always rent a regular car. That’s often much cheaper. You can read more about that in our article on tips for renting a car and driving in Mexico.

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If there’s one thing you mustn’t miss in Lagos, it’s definitely kayaking along the coast at Ponte de Piedade. With a 2.5-hour tour, you’ll kayak alongside the towering orange cliffs, visit beautiful beaches, and explore caves with crystal-clear blue waters. The guide will show you the most stunning spots as you leisurely float on the calm waters. This is the best way to experience the beauty of the Algarve!

What Does the Activity Look Like?

You don’t need any prior experience for kayaking in Lagos. You’ll go kayaking in pairs and receive instructions beforehand. Then, you’ll hop into the kayak and paddle along beaches and through some caves towards Ponte de Piedade, the most beautiful section. The water is usually very calm, and on a sunny day, it turns bright green-blue in shallow areas. Along the way, the guide will share information about the surroundings, and you’ll have plenty of time to take photos. After about two hours of kayaking, it’s time to head back, and your arms are likely to be somewhat tired from paddling. It’s quite convenient that they connect all the kayaks together like a train and tow them back to the starting point by boat.

Note: The conditions, such as water clarity and how calm the water is, depend on the weather and the weather in the preceding days. The summer months are the best period, but conditions are usually excellent in the spring and autumn as well. Kayaking in Lagos is not possible from November to February.

What to Bring for Kayaking?

• Swimwear
• Sunscreen
• Sunglasses
• Hat or Cap
• Water

How Much Does Kayaking in Lagos Cost, and Should You Book in Advance?

For this tour, you’ll pay $34 per person, which includes all equipment such as the kayak, life jacket, and paddles. You can use a locker to store your clothes and other belongings. Additionally, you’ll receive a dry bag for items you want to bring along while kayaking. You can book this tour here, which we highly recommend because they allow free cancellations up to 24 hours in advance, keep group sizes limited to 14 people, and work with experienced guides. Payment can be made using iDeal.

Tip: Schedule the kayak tour on your first day in Lagos so you haven’t already seen the coast from the beach or a viewpoint. It’ll make the experience even more breathtaking!

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Wadi Shab is one of the highlights of your journey through Oman. Nestled within a gorge of orange rocks, you’ll discover an oasis with palm trees, turquoise pools, and a hidden cave featuring a stunning waterfall. Wadi Shab is the perfect spot to seek refreshment and appreciate the beauty it has to offer, whether in the morning or afternoon. To ensure you have a smooth and enjoyable visit to Wadi Shab, here are some tips to keep in mind.

What Does the Hike Through Wadi Shab Look Like?

From the parking lot, you first need to take a small boat to cross the river because that’s where the hike through the canyon begins. These boats operate between 08:00 and 17:00, and the short ride of less than one minute costs 1 Omani rial, approximately $2.60 (2.30 euros). However, there is no additional entrance fee for Wadi Shab.

After the boat ride, it’s about a 40-minute walk to reach the first pool where swimming is allowed. The pools you come across earlier in the hike are off-limits for swimming. The initial part of the trail may seem a bit messy with some unfinished constructions and pipes lying on the ground. Fortunately, these sights quickly give way to the most impressive views of Wadi Shab’s canyon and the turquoise pools with banana trees. The hike is not difficult, and there’s no climbing involved, but it’s still advisable to wear closed-toe shoes for comfort and protection.

Swimming to the Hidden Cave and Waterfall

Once you arrive at the pools where swimming is allowed, you can first walk along the sides to view the pools from above. In total, there are three pools, each about 98.4 feet wide, that you must swim through to reach the hidden cave. In between, there are shallow areas where you can take a break. Behind the third pool, you’ll find a very narrow passage leading to the hidden cave and waterfall. This is the most beautiful spot in all of Wadi Shab!

Keep in mind that the water here is deep, so you won’t be able to touch the bottom or find places to hold onto the walls. While inside the cave, you’ll need to keep swimming. Make sure you are a confident swimmer and head back in time if you can’t find a spot to rest. The journey from the first pool to the cave and back will take approximately 45 to 60 minutes if you take your time and take some breaks.

What Do You Need to Bring to Wadi Shab?

Water shoes: The shallow areas consist of slippery rocks and paths with pebbles. Water shoes make it much easier and less painful to navigate.

Dry bag: There are no lockers or changing rooms, so you’ll need to leave all your belongings behind when you enter the water. If you have a camera, phone, or wallet with you, it’s a good idea to bring a dry bag so you can keep them with you while swimming. This is also very handy for other trips involving boat rides or beach days.

Swimwear: For women, it’s appropriate to dress modestly, although you’ll also see many women wearing bikinis. It depends on whether there are locals around or not. In our case, there were no locals, so bikinis were fine. However, we also brought cover-ups and modest clothing just in case.

Snacks and drinks: The visit to Wadi Shab can easily take 4 to 5 hours, so bring enough food and drinks with you. There are no places to buy anything once you start the hike.

Money: You’ll need 1 Omani rial, approximately $2.60 per person for the boat ride.

Towel: In the winter, the water can be quite cold, so it’s nice to have a towel to dry off afterward. Plus, there are plenty of spots to relax in the sun.

What Is the Best Time to Visit Wadi Shab?

Oman is essentially one vast desert, and that’s why the winter months between November and March are the best time to visit Oman, including Wadi Shab. Additionally, it’s wise to visit Wadi Shab in the morning so that you have plenty of time to stay as long as you want and because it will be less crowded. Try to avoid the weekend (Friday & Saturday) as it can be much busier during those days.

What is A Good Basecamp for Exploring Wadi Shab?

Wadi Shab is located exactly in the middle between the capital city, Muscat, and Ras Al Jinz, where you can spot turtles. It takes about a 2-hour drive from both places to reach Wadi Shab. You can plan a day trip from Ras Al Jinz to Muscat, or vice versa, and visit Wadi Shab on the way. In that case, you’ll need to depart early in the morning. If you prefer a more leisurely pace and want to stay close to Wadi Shab, you can choose to stay at the Wadi Shab Resort. This is the only hotel located near Wadi Shab.

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In the Rif Mountains of Morocco, you’ll find Chefchaouen, the most photogenic town in Africa. The old Medina of Chefchaouen is entirely painted in blue and white, creating a maze of narrow alleys adorned with colorful decorations. Chefchaouen is somewhat off the beaten path when you’re traveling through Morocco, but it’s definitely a place you shouldn’t miss. Here are all our tips for the best attractions and things to do!

Why is Chefchaouen blue?

There are many stories about why Chefchaouen is blue, but after some research, the following reason seemed the most plausible. Chefchaouen was founded in 1471 as a base for the Berber tribes from the Rif Mountains to launch attacks on the Portuguese in Ceuta. The city expanded in 1494 with the arrival of Muslims and Jewish refugees from Granada. They built whitewashed houses with small balconies, tiled roofs, and courtyards, giving Chefchaouen its Spanish look. The light blue color that Chefchaouen has now was introduced in 1930. Blue is an important color in Judaism, and it also helps keep the houses cooler.

Don’t just visit Chefchaouen as a day trip

Chefchaouen is about a three-hour drive from Fez, and in theory, you could visit Chefchaouen as a day trip. However, we believe that would be a shame and quite tiring since you would be on the road for six hours that day. We recommend staying for one or two nights because in the morning, before the day-trippers arrive, it’s wonderfully peaceful, and the sunset is fantastic. Moreover, you’ll find several beautiful hotels with rooftop terraces in Chefchaouen where you can enjoy a delicious breakfast with a view of the blue Medina. At the bottom of this article, we’ll recommend some good hotels with rooftop terraces. If you simply don’t have the time and still want to visit Chefchaouen as a day trip from Fez, then this day tour is highly recommended.

The Best Things to Do in Chefchaouen

One full day is enough to explore Chefchaouen thoroughly. Start your day early because the day-trip tourists haven’t arrived yet, and you’ll have the blue Medina almost to yourself.

Shopping in the small shops of Chefchaouen

Hidden in the narrow alleyways, you’ll find small shops everywhere. In addition to cheap souvenirs, you’ll also find nicer shops with beautiful jewelry, spices, or treats like nougat and roasted nuts. Prices in Chefchaouen are slightly lower than in other cities in Morocco, but bargaining is still necessary.

Get Lost in the Blue Medina

It’s delightful to wander through the alleyways and small squares. There’s something new to discover around every corner, and you’ll surely take dozens of photos of decorated doors, adorable kittens, or a stall with fresh fruit.

Tip: If you want to take a photo of a local, always ask for permission first because people in Morocco don’t appreciate it when you take their photos without permission.

Take a Sunset Stroll to the Spanish Mosque

From the Spanish Mosque, you’ll have a fantastic view of the entire Medina of Chefchaouen. The climb takes about 15 minutes, and it’s recommended to do it during sunset when the colors become even more vibrant due to the low light. You can find the starting point near Ras El Maa on the edge of the Medina.

Capture Stunning Instagram-worthy Shots on “Instagram Street”

While the entire Medina is photogenic, there’s a route that is particularly adorned with colorful flower pots, carpets, and beautiful corners. For convenience, let’s call this street “Instagram Street,” but it’s actually a route of 800 meters (2625 feet) across a few different streets. During the day, it can get quite crowded as everyone tries to take the best photos, so go as early as possible. We went at 8 o’clock, and there was hardly anyone there. We’ve saved this route for you here so you can easily find it.

Enjoy Mint Tea at Plaza Uta el-Hammam

In the heart of the Medina, you’ll find Plaza Uta el-Hammam, and the square is home to several restaurants where you can grab a bite to eat or enjoy a refreshing mint tea. It’s a nice place to relax, unwind, and people-watch!

Delicious Dining at Cafe Clock

Of course, indulging in a tasty couscous or tajine is a must when you’re in Chefchaouen. Our favorite restaurant is Cafe Clock. You can sit on a lovely rooftop terrace, and in the evening, there’s often live music. It’s a great spot for a Moroccan dinner followed by some drinks and games.

Tip: Stay in a Hotel with a Rooftop Terrace!

Perhaps the best tip we can give you is to stay in a hotel with a rooftop terrace. Here, you can enjoy a delightful breakfast in the morning while marveling at the breathtaking view of the blue city and the mountains. Dar Sababa has a charming rooftop terrace and a perfect location in the Medina. It’s situated slightly higher, offering an even more beautiful view. The rooms are quite basic but come with air conditioning, and a delicious breakfast is included with your stay. Another option is Dar Zambra, which features a cozy rooftop terrace and beautifully decorated rooms. However, please note that there’s no air conditioning, so it can get warm during the summer days. Both hotels are small-scale and tend to book up quickly, so it’s wise to make your reservation as early as possible if you want to stay there. If you’re looking for ultimate luxury and have a generous budget, Dar Jasmine is the top choice in Chefchaouen. It’s located a bit higher up the stairs, but it offers the best view of the Medina since the hotel is along the route to the viewpoint near the Spanish Mosque. The rooms are incredibly beautiful and equipped with all the luxurious amenities.

Dar Sababa More information

Dar Zambra More information

Dar Jasmine More information

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