Published: 2024-10-24

If you’re trekking through Rwanda with Oasis Overland, don’t miss the chance to see the lesser-known but captivating Golden Monkeys in Volcanoes National Park. Spending a day in Musanze, you can pre-book this trek to witness these striking primates with their vibrant golden-orange fur, playful antics, and distinctive social behaviors. Beyond their charm, golden monkeys hold cultural significance in local folklore and play a key role in conservation efforts. Encountering them offers a rare opportunity to connect with Rwanda’s rich biodiversity while supporting habitat preservation. This unique experience is available on trips like Nairobi to Nairobi, Nairobi to Dar es Salaam, and other East African overland adventures, combining thrilling wildlife encounters with the awe-inspiring landscapes of the region.

Published: 2024-10-21

Sierra Leone, a West African gem, offers travelers a captivating blend of natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. From the lush rainforests of the Tacugama Chimpanzee Sanctuary to the bustling streets and historic landmarks of Freetown, every corner of the country tells a story of resilience and heritage. Adventurers can hike the stunning Wara Wara Mountains, engage with local communities in Rogbonko Village, or explore the poignant history of Bunce Island. For wildlife enthusiasts, Tiwai Island provides a sanctuary for rare species like pygmy hippos and diverse primates, while Banana Beach Island offers serene coastal escapes. Oasis Overland’s new 11-day “Freetown to Freetown” itinerary immerses travelers in these unforgettable experiences, blending culture, conservation, and adventure in a journey that highlights the heart and soul of Sierra Leone.

Published: 2024-10-18

Oasis Overland is excited to unveil our brand-new 11-day small-group adventure in Sierra Leone, a journey that perfectly blends history, culture, and natural beauty. Starting and finishing in Freetown, travelers can explore bustling markets, historic landmarks, and enjoy hands-on cooking classes featuring traditional cuisine. The itinerary immerses participants in local life, from engaging with communities in Makeni and Boma Village to discovering the wildlife at Tacugama Chimpanzee Sanctuary and Tiwai Island. Hike through the breathtaking Wara Wara Mountains, relax on the pristine shores of Banana Island, and reflect on Sierra Leone’s poignant history at Bunce Island. With stays ranging from eco-lodges to jungle camps, this trip combines comfort with adventure, offering an authentic and unforgettable exploration of Sierra Leone’s rich heritage and stunning landscapes.

Published: 2024-10-11

Our upcoming South America adventures are gearing up, with the next big departure from Cartagena just weeks away and only a few spaces left on the south/eastbound journey from Colombia to Brazil. Highlights include the 18-day Buenos Aires to Rio trip starting 10 February, the epic 60-day Rio to Manaus journey on 4 March, and a range of longer departures from Rio exploring Argentina, Uruguay, Paraguay, Chile, Bolivia, Peru, Ecuador, and Colombia, including Rio to Cartagena (131 days). Newsletter subscribers can enjoy a 10% discount if booked by 15 November using code SAOCT, and pre-trip Rio accommodation plus Sambadrome Carnival parade tickets are available for those wanting the full festive experience. With flexible options to start or continue from Buenos Aires, Santiago, or La Paz, these trips offer immersive exploration, breathtaking landscapes, and unforgettable cultural encounters across South America.

Published: 2024-10-08

Nestled high in the Andean mountains, Quito, Ecuador’s capital, is a captivating blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, earning its status as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors can explore its well-preserved colonial architecture, including the Baroque masterpiece La Compañía and the iconic San Francisco de Quito, while tracing the city’s Inca roots and vibrant local traditions. Quito offers unforgettable cultural experiences through festivals, traditional cuisine, and a lively arts and music scene, complemented by stunning outdoor adventures such as hiking Pichincha Volcano, visiting the Mitad del Mundo, and enjoying urban green spaces like La Carolina Park. With a rich historical legacy, breathtaking landscapes, and a welcoming local culture, Quito promises an immersive experience for every traveler.

Published: 2024-10-07

Carnival in Rio de Janeiro is an explosion of rhythm, colour, and culture, transforming the city into the world’s greatest open-air celebration. From the spectacular samba school parades at the Sambadrome to neighbourhood blocos filling the streets of Copacabana and beyond, Carnival 2025 promises unforgettable energy and creativity. Rooted in centuries of history and shaped by powerful African and Brazilian influences, Rio Carnival is more than a festival, it is a living expression of identity, community, and joy, drawing millions of visitors eager to experience the music, costumes, and spirit that define Brazil’s most iconic event.

Published: 2024-10-04

Exciting updates for our epic Central Asia overland journeys! Following the successful completion of our eastbound trips this year, we’re rolling out 2025 departures with enhanced itineraries and new dates. Highlights include an extra day in Samarkand, extended time in the stunning Fann Mountains, and over a week added to traverse the legendary Pamir Highway from Dushanbe to Osh, taking in breathtaking high-altitude scenery along the Afghanistan border. Additional changes feature an extra day in Beijing, a new starting point there for trips to Ho Chi Minh, Penang, or Singapore, and the addition of Khao Sok National Park in Thailand. The full Istanbul-to-Singapore adventure now spans 26 weeks, with flexible start and finish points—including Istanbul, Tbilisi, Ashgabat, Bishkek, Beijing, Ho Chi Minh, and Penang—allowing travelers to join shorter sections if desired. Whether heading east or west, these journeys combine cultural immersion, epic landscapes, and unforgettable overland experiences across the heart of Asia.

Published: 2024-10-04

Rio de Janeiro, often called the "Marvelous City," is a breathtaking destination where mountains, beaches, and vibrant culture converge. From the iconic Copacabana and Ipanema beaches to hidden gems like Prainha and Grumari, the city offers sun-soaked relaxation and stunning coastal views. Visitors can marvel at the world-famous Christ the Redeemer statue atop Corcovado Mountain, explore the serene Botanical Garden, and hike trails like Pedra da Gávea or Dois Irmãos for panoramic vistas of the city and coastline. Rio’s unique geography, combined with its lively culture—samba, local cuisine, and colorful festivals—creates an unforgettable experience. With convenient transport options, diverse accommodations, and countless viewpoints to admire the surrounding landscapes, Rio de Janeiro promises a perfect blend of adventure, culture, and natural beauty for every traveler.

Published: 2024-10-03

Puracé National Natural Park, nestled in Colombia’s Cauca region, is a breathtaking Andean escape that combines stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and rich cultural heritage. Dominated by the active Puracé Volcano and dotted with high-altitude lagoons like Pilimbalá, the park is a paradise for hikers, birdwatchers, and adventure seekers alike. Visitors can spot majestic Andean condors soaring above volcanic craters, explore páramo ecosystems filled with unique flora, and encounter wildlife such as mountain tapirs and Andean foxes. Easily accessible from Popayán via bus or guided tours, the park offers trails for all skill levels, with the best vistas rewarding early-morning hikers. To make the most of your visit, dress in layers, bring sturdy hiking boots, and pack essentials for volcanic terrains. Whether marveling at the volcano, hiking scenic trails, or immersing yourself in the park’s natural beauty, Puracé promises an unforgettable Andean adventure.

Published: 2024-10-01

Los Nevados National Park, located in the heart of the Colombian Andes across Caldas, Tolima, and Quindío, is a haven for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers. Renowned for its towering volcanoes—like Nevado del Ruiz and Nevado del Tolima—the park offers a dramatic blend of glacial peaks, lush valleys, and high-altitude páramos. Its diverse ecosystems host unique flora such as frailejones, and fauna including Andean condors, spectacled bears, and Andean tapirs. Trekking opportunities vary from accessible day hikes to challenging multi-day ascents, with routes to the summits of Nevado del Ruiz or Nevado de Santa Isabel offering panoramic Andean views. Visitors should plan trips during the dry seasons (December–March and July–August), acclimatize to high altitudes, and carry proper gear including sturdy boots, layered clothing, trekking poles, and hydration systems. Photography enthusiasts can capture stunning landscapes, glacial features, and endemic wildlife from viewpoints like La Olleta. With careful preparation and respect for the park’s regulations, Los Nevados promises an unforgettable Andean adventure rich in natural beauty, geological wonders, and wildlife encounters.