On- and Off-the-Beaten-Path Adventures
On- and Off-the-Beaten-Path Adventures
On- and Off-the-Beaten-Path Adventures
“How to Find the Right Balance”
One of the trickiest parts of planning an extended overland expedition is striking the right balance between on-the-beaten-path and off-the-beaten-path adventures. Here’s how we define those terms, especially in the overlanding world:
- On-the-beaten-path adventure: A destination or activity most overlanders visit—easily accessible, popular.
- Off-the-beaten-path adventure: A rare or less common experience—remote, harder to reach, often more rewarding.
Since we’re traveling with our rig, we can access remote areas more easily than backpackers—but it still takes effort to get truly off the beaten path.
What Does “Right Balance” Look Like?
On extended trips, we aim for at least 25% off the beaten path. If the trip is shorter, we push that to 50%. That may seem modest, but once you factor in travel and planning time, it’s substantial.
And being on the beaten path isn’t bad—some of the world’s most incredible places fall into that category.
Examples
- Belize: We stuck mostly to well-trodden paths, thanks to time constraints—and they didn’t disappoint. We explored:
- ATM Cave tour
- Scuba diving the Belize Barrier Reef and cave systems
- Wildlife spotting (birds, jaguars, scarlet macaws)
- Guatemala:
- We began with two weeks of “classic” destinations: Tikal, Lake Petén, and Antigua.
- Even then, we slipped into simpler off-path moments—like hot springs at Finca el Paraíso or biking up Volcán de Agua.
- Belize: We stuck mostly to well-trodden paths, thanks to time constraints—and they didn’t disappoint. We explored:
How to Find the Right Balance
Looking Ahead
- San Pedro la Laguna: We’ll spend time here studying Spanish. Though not frequented by many overlanders, its remoteness doesn’t make it off-path.
- Ixil Region, Western Highlands: Now this is truly off the beaten path. Sparse infrastructure, indigenous communities, and no official campgrounds—except apps like iOverlander that hint at its presence.
Combining classic destinations like Tikal and Antigua with quirkier experiences in San Pedro and the rugged beauty of the Ixil region gives us a well-rounded trip—one that satisfies both comfort and curiosity.
What do you think?
- Does a 25–50% “off-path” ratio feel about right for overland travel?
- Do you favor recognizable spots or remote adventures?
- How do you balance ease of travel with the thrill of discovery?
We’d love to hear your thoughts or suggestions!
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