Plan Your Next Adventure Using MT Sobek's Activity Levels

Have you ever said no to an adventure because you weren't sure if you were as experienced as the rest of the group? Or maybe the opposite—you worried that you'd be waiting around for adventure mates who couldn't keep up?

We've all been there, and it's frustrating for everyone involved. That's why the adventure travel company MT Sobek works with their destination experts to rank every single trip that they lead. They evaluate the route, the terrain, and the type, duration, and frequency of activities and mark each itinerary with an activity level from 1 to 5. 

Easy peasy, right? We think so, too. We're far more keen on traveling with others who we know are of a similar level of stoke as we are (and sometimes that stoke is of the "yoga in the morning, then relax on a deck overlooking the Dolomites..." variety). 

When you're ready to book your next adventure with MT Sobek, here is how to find just the right trip for you.

Keep it Chill at Level 1

Level 1 is MT Sobek's most relaxed style of travel. Previous adventure experience isn't required, but your adventurous spirit is. Activities at this level include game drives, canoe rides, river floats, cruising, and walks up to 30 minutes. You'll still see and experience plenty, but the day will also include downtime for recharging. This level is great for beginner adventurers and families.

In Level 1, we love the look of the Ancient Kingdoms of Sudan and the Botswana Flying Safari. 

Adventure for Everyone in Level 2

The Level 2 adventures are active trips appropriate for most travelers. Previous hiking, kayaking, or other adventure travel experience is not necessary, but MT Sobek recommends that everyone at this level have a good amount of physical fitness. Activities may include short hikes or walks up to 3 hours at elevations below 6,000 feet, river rafting on Class I-II rapids, cultural touring or adventure cruising. Like Level 1, a spirit of adventure and a flexible mindset will serve you well in Level 2.

Check out Rafting the Middle Fork of the Salmon River and Panama: Journey Between the Seas.

Be Active All Day in Level 3

The majority of MT Sobek's adventures are in Level 3 (they are an adventure travel company, after all!). Level 3 adventures typically include 3 to 6 hours of activity each day, such as rafting or wilderness camping. Eight- to ten-mile hikes can reach up to 10,000 feet elevation and may include some steep ascents or descents. Rafting trips will include Class III rapids. You aren't required to have previous adventure travel experience to head out on a Level 3 trip, but it's recommended. 

In Level 3, we're digging the Hiking Corsica adventure and the Highlands of Scotland Women's Adventure.

Experienced Adventures Welcome in Level 4

Looking to go to bed tired? Like, really tired? Level 4 trips are for experienced adventures who thrive on full days of activity and a higher level of physical challenge. Hikes and treks of up to 14 miles and 4,000 feet of elevation gains and losses cover steep, sometimes rugged terrain, potentially into areas of exposure and elevations exceeding 10,000 feet. River rafting trips include Class IV-V rapids. You'll want to train for these adventures to get the most out of them, and MT Sobek will give you tips on how to best prepare.

Check out Hiking the High Atlas Mountains in Morocco and the Bumthang Owl Trek.

Experience the Ultimate Challenge in Level 5

You know things are serious when your doctor needs to sign off on them. Level 5 trips are MT Sobek's most demanding adventures and require both physical and mental strength. Trips include trekking without vehicle support over steep, rugged terrain at elevations over 10,000 feet. Daily hikes of up to 12 hours or more may include substantial altitude gains and losses into remote areas of wilderness. River rafting trips include Class IV-V rapids and areas where portaging is needed. Previous experience and training are a must!

If this sounds like your jam, then how about Trekking in the Cordillera Carabaya or the K2 Base Camp Trek?

Find the perfect adventure for you with MT Sobek with their adventure finder!

All photos, including the cover photo, courtesy of MT Sobek.