Top Adventures for 2022
OARS announces most in-demand domestic and international trips right now
Angels Camp, Calif. — Veteran river outfitter and adventure travel company, OARS, reports unprecedented demand for river trips in the American West, along with renewed interest in international travel, and shares its expert insight on the top adventures for 2022.
“Despite the ongoing pandemic, a brutal Western wildfire season, and low water conditions on many of the rivers we run, we took a record-setting number of guests on multi-day river trips throughout the western U.S. in 2021,” says Steve Markle, OARS vice president of sales and marketing. “Based on our advance reservations for 2022, it’s clear that demand for outdoor adventures like whitewater rafting remains high and we’re on track for another busy season.”
While international travel has been slower to bounce back to pre-pandemic levels, Markle adds that the company is experiencing renewed interest right now for trips to bucket-list destinations like Baja, Chile, Peru, Galapagos, and Fiji.
“Fiji welcomed back international travelers December 1, so we’ve recently seen a big uptick in bookings for 1-day rafting trips on the stunningly beautiful Upper Navua River,” he says. “But the more widespread international travel demand is really for some of the adventures a bit closer to home, like Baja sea kayaking trips.”
Heading into 2022, these domestic and international adventures are on track to be the hottest trips of the year according to OARS:
Sea Kayaking Espiritu Santo Island, Baja
Camp on pristine white sand beaches, swim with sea lions, explore hidden coves, and see some of the planet’s best biodiversity while kayaking and snorkeling the beautiful turquoise waters of Baja’s Espiritu Santo. (7 or 8 Days | From $1200 | October – April)
Yampa River Rafting, Colorado & Utah
One of the most sought-after whitewater trips in the world, the Yampa offers exciting Class III-IV rafting through stunning canyons, ample hiking and the opportunity to go off-the-beaten path in Dinosaur National Monument. Special Geology, Yoga & Mediation and All Adult departures available. (4 or 5 Days | From $1249 | May – July)
Main Salmon “River of No Return” Rafting, Idaho
Splash through Idaho’s idyllic wilderness, camp under the stars on sandy beaches, and try a fleet of different boats, including dories, paddle rafts, SUPs and inflatable kayaks on America’s quintessential rafting trip. All Adult and Wilderness Gourmet trips offered. (6 Days | From $2199 | June – September)
Rogue River Rafting, Oregon
Raft through one of the most beautiful pine-forested canyons in North America on this beloved Wild & Scenic River trip that offers a combo of adrenaline-infused rapids with just enough tranquil floating, fun side hikes, fishing and abundant wildlife viewing. Perfect for families, but All Adult, Wine on the River, Craft Beer Tasting and Gourmet trip options are also available. (3, 4 or 5 days | From $999 | May – September)
Patagonia Hiking: Torres del Paine W Trek, Chile
Hike the famous W Trek in Patagonia’s Torres del Paine National Park on an unforgettable guided adventure where each day’s hike ends at a cozy dome or refugio with hot showers and hearty meals. It’s the iconic Patagonia hiking experience. (7 Days | From $1453 | October – April)
In addition to these popular trips, OARS notes that Grand Canyon rafting and dory trips remain among its most in-demand offerings with 2022 dates nearly sold out. The company plans to release its available 2023 Grand Canyon dates in early January, but for those hoping to secure a spot on this bucket list trip sooner than later, they report that there is still some availability on their short and sweet 5-day Lower Grand Canyon trips from Whitmore Wash to Pearce Ferry.
