Pursuing Shorter Overland (or Backpacking) Adventures

August 8, 2019

Pursuing Shorter Overland (or Backpacking) Adventures

“Destinations for 2-3 Weeks”

Overlanding is one of the best ways to chase world-class adventures—especially off the beaten path. But let’s be real: not everyone has the time for long-term expeditions. If your next trip is only 2–3 weeks, you can still do something transformative. Here’s how, using only public transport—or better, a rental car or SUV for flexibility.

Destinations for 2–3 Weeks

Mexico – Oaxaca

- Spend a week in Oaxaca City exploring local culture and indigenous communities.
- Head to the coast for beach time in Zipolite, or go further east to Parque Nacional Lagunas de Chacahua.
- Alternatively, stay on the Yucatán side in Playa del Carmen—great for cenote and reef snorkeling, plus Mayan ruins.

Belize

- English-speaking and welcoming, Belize makes travel easy.
- Skip the typical tourist zone and head to Placencia for diving, snorkeling, and exploring Garifuna and Maya communities.
- Don’t miss the cable through lush forests on the Hummingbird Highway—home to cenotes and caves.

Destinations for 2-3 Weeks

Guatemala

- Fly into Antigua and explore beautiful colonial heritage.
- Visit Lake Atitlán, hike Acatenango volcano, or go west into Todos Santos and its indigenous communities.

Note: Guatemala City has a higher crime rate, but the destinations beyond are enriching and safe.

Colombia

Though underrated due to past reputations, Colombia is bursting with rich experiences.

- One route: Bogotá → Cathedral de Sal → Barichara/Villa de Leyva hiking in the Paramo de Iguaque.
- Another: Medellín → coffee region → hot springs east of San Vicente → walk among wax palms in Valle de Cocora.
- Or: Cartagena’s charm → then beaches east of Santa Marta (skip Barranquilla unless you’re there for Carnival!).

Ecuador

- A week in the Galápagos is classic—and pair it with volcanoes and indigenous culture near Quito.
- Other options: soak in Papallacta hot springs and visit the Amazon at Puerto Misahuallí, or head south to Cotopaxi, Chimborazo, or west for birding in Mindo.

Glamour Overland

Behind the glamour of overlanding are laundry days, endless logistics, and everyday frustrations. Leah reflects on finding balance, familiarity, and joy in life on the road.

Pursuing Shorter Overland (or Backpacking) Adventures