How to Become a Dual Pilgrim (Kumano Kodo + Camino De Santiago)

Tristan Balme Kumano Kodo Dual Pilgrim Certificate

When I first heard about the Dual Pilgrimage Certificate, I was immediately intrigued. I get to do two hikes that are already on my bucket list and get an award for it!? Lets go! The Dual Pilgrim is awarded to anyone who completes the major legs of two sister hikes, the Camino de Santiago, a…

How To Book Accommodation For The Kumano Kodo (With Kumano Travel)

Tristan Balme How to book kumano kodo accomodation with Kumano Travel

Securing the right accommodation is a crucial part of your Kumano Kodo experience, however, the booking process is a bit of a nightmare.. Staying in traditional inns and guesthouses, known as ‘ryokan’ or ‘minshuku’, was the highlight of my pilgrimage, but they often have limited capacity and are only offered through the official local tourism…

What To Do In Kii Katsuura (7 Must-See Attractions)

Tristan Balme What to do in kii katsuura

Kii-Katsuura might be home to the Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage route, but that’s not the only attraction you’ll get to explore during your visit. After my hike, I spent an additional two days exploring other parts of the town. And they’re just as breathtaking and exciting as the main event.  You’ll not only experience the town’s…

Kii Katsuura Tuna Market (Is It Worth It?)

Tristan Balme Kii Katsuura tuna market

After completing the Kumano Kodo hike, I made it a point to partake in the vibrant culture and traditions of Kii-Katsuura.  And so I decided to explore the tuna market. The market is renowned for its early morning tuna auctions. The action begins at 7 am and has a more intimate feel than its more…

The Best Hotel In Dalhousie, Sri Lanka (For Hiking Adams Peak)

Tristan Balme the bost hotel in dalhousie adams peak

Dalhousie might be a compact village, but it has a range of accommodation options to choose from. This is especially helpful if you’re planning to climb Adam’s Peak. The hostels and hotels are within walking distance of the trialhead, so you don’t have to spend anything extra on transport.  In this post, I’ll share some…

The Best Travel Insurance for Climbing Kilimanjaro (And Who I Used!)

The best travel insurance for climbing kilimanjaro what i used

Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro comes with risks and uncertainties you need to be prepared for.. In fact, most trekking comanies won’t let you on the mountain without insurance in place! And what I learned doing my research is that not all travel insurance is created equal.  Some may not cover you for high-altitude trekking, helicopter rescue,…

Brewster Glacier Hike (1 Day vs. Overnight)

Tristan Balme Brewster Glacier Hike 1

Brewster Glacier is the most accessible glacier in the Mount Aspiring National Park as you can get from carpark to the glacier in a matter of hours (although it’s no walk in the park!) The Brewster Glacier Hike can be done in a single day or overnight based on your timeline and fitness level. After…

5 Best Bike Rental Companies in Leh, Ladakh (Revised For 2024)

Tristan Balme best bike rental in leh ladakh

There are several bike rental companies in Leh, Ladakh. But not all of them are trustworthy and professional. And the last thing you need is to end up with a faulty bike, hidden charge, or bad deal that can ruin your trip.  In this post, I’ll share the 5 best bike rental companies in Leh…

Kilimanjaro Park Fees 2024 (This Is How They’re Calculated)

Tristan Balme How are kilimanjaro park fees calculated

Climbing Kilimanjaro is not cheap. When I was planning my trip back in 2019, the shock of the various fees caught me off guard. These include the conservation, camping, rescue, guide, and porter fees.  If that’s not enough, I also had to factor in my preferred route, the tour operator I’d be employing, and the…

How to Become a Dual Pilgrim (Kumano Kodo + Camino De Santiago)

When I first heard about the Dual Pilgrimage Certificate, I was immediately intrigued. I get...

How To Book Accommodation For The Kumano Kodo (With Kumano Travel)

Securing the right accommodation is a crucial part of your Kumano Kodo experience, however, the...

What To Do In Kii Katsuura (7 Must-See Attractions)

Kii-Katsuura might be home to the Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage route, but that’s not the only...

Kii Katsuura Tuna Market (Is It Worth It?)

After completing the Kumano Kodo hike, I made it a point to partake in the...

The Best Hotel In Dalhousie, Sri Lanka (For Hiking Adams Peak)

Dalhousie might be a compact village, but it has a range of accommodation options to...

The Best Travel Insurance for Climbing Kilimanjaro (And Who I Used!)

Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro comes with risks and uncertainties you need to be prepared for.. In...