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Yugen Earthside connects mindful travelers to sustainable trips around the world. Carbon removals included with each booking!

Connecting mindful travelers to responsible experiences around the world.

Prices exclude flights to/from the destination.

Prices are for double room occupancy unless indicated otherwise.

We proudly partner with wanderwell, a B-Corp-certified travel insurance agency and 1% for the Planet member.

Request a FREE quote for Trip Protection or Travel Medical coverage.

Nature-centric tours are a great way to enjoy a destination in a more sustainable way. Discover walking, trekking, cycling, & climbing tours, safari & wildlife adventures, scuba diving & more.

Sustainable Nature Tours | Yugen Earthside

Discover self-guided, privately-guided, & small group tours around the world. Our sustainable adventures are customizable, and include carbon removals with each booking!

Trips | Yugen Earthside | Sustainable Adventures

Liveaboard a Turkish gulet & cruise the island paradise of the Maldives to experience the ultimate in island hopping, marine conservation, & snorkeling adventures.

[8 Days] Snorkeling Conservation Cruise | Yugen Earthside

Liveaboard a Turkish gulet and cruise the island paradise of the Maldives to experience the ultimate in island hopping, marine conservation, and snorkeling adventures.

Snorkel with majestic whale sharks and learn about these gentle giants from the Maldivian Whale Shark Research Program Coordinator, who will travel with us. As you discover life under the sea at the South Male and South Ari Atolls, you can assist in data collection, identify individuals, and maybe even take measurements underwater!

If you are passionate about ocean life, this trip through the Maldives is a perfect fit!

This experience can only accommodate 12 guests and has 3 departure dates per year, so secure your spot early. Carbon removals are included with your booking!

Experience the magic of snorkeling with whale sharks and assist in data collection

Spot turtles, colorful fish, sharks, and dolphins through ~10 vivid underwater encounters

Snorkel the coral nursery maintained by Save the Beach and watch coral propagation firsthand

Learn about the Maldivian ecosystem, seagrass, conservation challenges, & protective measures

Savour exquisite local cuisine by sampling "hedika," sweet and savory small bites

Experience local traditions such "Boduberu," a tribal dance to drum music

Intrepidly roam through an uninhabited island and help clean up its beaches

This unique, hand-curated cruise itinerary is for couples, solo travelers, and families with a passion for the ocean and responsible travel. Discover the charm and natural beauty of the local islands of Dhangethi, Dhigurah, and Gulhi, both above and below the surface.

In addition to snorkeling alongside the whale shark research team, meet with a local NGO (Save the Beach), visit a coral nursery, and learn about the local efforts to regenerate coral reefs and how you can assist the process. Your expert tour leader will teach you about the importance of the humble seagrass in sea turtle conservation efforts. Embark on a tropical forest walk, visit deserted sandbank islands, complete beach cleans, watch mesmerizing sunrises and sunsets, and of course, kick back and relax as you sail your worries away, onboard the lovely MV Felicity gulet. 

Your tour leader will also familiarize you with all things Maldivian. From tours of the local islands and villages, to sampling afternoon tea snacks known as "hedika," to enjoying a Maldivian theme night featuring a traditional "Boduberu" musical drumming and dance performance, you'll see a special and unique side to these wonderful islands!

With a tropical climate, plenty of sunshine, and temperatures around 86°F (30°C) throughout the year, there is never a bad time to visit the Maldives. The Maldives has two distinct seasons:

January - March: This is the dry season as the northeast monsoons are more common.

Mid-May - November: This is the wet season, as southwest monsoons are more common. Wet, however, doesn't mean rain all the time, it just means we see more rain during this period than during the dry season. This may be a daily heavy shower, but it's very rare to have days and days of rain in succession or even a full 24 hours of rain. There is usually more wind during this period, but this helps keep the temperature at a nice level and you can still expect plenty of blue skies and sunshine.

The rare thunderstorm in the Maldives (especially around the southwest monsoon months) can be a welcome respite from the sun. Cloudy skies, slate grey seas, and crashing thunder make for lovely reading weather. The warm temperatures will allow you to go for a walk in the rain, a thoroughly enjoyable experience. For extra exhilaration, take a swim in the rain - the sea will be extra warm.

There can be heavy rain showers pretty much any time of year, but they tend to be short and cannot be accurately predicted seasonally (in other words – don’t worry too much about them – you will quite possibly experience some rain showers, but the majority of the weather should be great, and you will be unlucky to get several consecutive days of heavy rain). Like many places in the world today, the climate and weather pattern is changing, and historical data is less reliable as an indication of what to expect in the here and now.

7 nights' accommodation in a standard cabin

7 Breakfasts, Lunches, Snacks, High Tea, & Dinners

Unlimited drinking water – bring a reusable water bottle

Dingy or Dhoni transfer to snorkeling points and islands

Special BBQ Dinner on the beach (weather permitting)

All local taxes (10% Service Charge, 16% GST, & $6 Green Tax pp/night)

Additional services on board, including alcohol, can be requested and are to be paid in cash. 

Price is the same even for solo travelers.

Sustainable and Responsible tourism has been an integral part of our business model since 2012. We are mindful of ensuring we promote local tourism in line with Maldivian culture and traditions. Through the education of our team, guests, and locals, we aim to protect the environment and limit wherever possible any negative impact on local life.

As a team, we aim to inspire, inform and demonstrate to our partners, guests, and the tourism industry as a whole, that we are committed to ensuring we offer only responsible and positive travel experiences. We believe that people, communication, and education are the foundation of Sustainable Tourism. This is the reason that we have built our business on four communities:– Our Guests– Our Team– Local Islanders– NGOs and charity organizations.

We understand that success requires focus, adaptation, and long-term thinking. Change does not often happen overnight but is a gradual process. Surely in a destination such as the Maldives, it is our responsibility to make that difference.

Environmental Initiatives
Through learning experiences with our guides, we provide guests with awareness of corals, marine life, seagrass, mangroves, waste management, and plastic pollution. We brief all guests participating in snorkeling activities on the Green Fins Code of Conduct, this improves their knowledge of what they can do to help protect the ocean and coral reefs. We follow the Codes of Conduct produced by international marine organizations when encountering manta rays, whale sharks, and turtles while snorkeling and diving.

We collaborate with the Maldives Whale Shark Research Program, a charity founded to learn more about the life cycle, population dynamics, and habitat usage of the Maldives whale shark population. This enables us to educate our team, provide guests with marine education and spread the importance of whale sharks.

Plastic waste reduction is also paramount for us. Stemming from this belief, we do not provide any single-use plastic bottles to travelers, so we advise that you bring your own reusable bottle. 

Sociocultural Initiatives
We ensure that our tours include opportunities to engage with locals and learn about the local way of life. By facilitating interactions between travelers and the local community, we aim to provide enriching and authentic experiences. These not only benefit the travelers by offering a deeper and more meaningful connection with the destination, but they also have a positive impact on the local community. By actively participating in cultural interactions, travelers contribute to the preservation of local traditions, ensuring their endurance over time. Additionally, these interactions have a positive economic impact on the community economy, as they provide opportunities for income generation and sustainable development. 

Economic Initiatives
We choose locally owned and operated infrastructure as well as services developed and managed by locals to contribute to the local community's economic development. By doing this, we provide job opportunities for locals making the wheels of the economy spin. In this same line, we opt not to have our own fleet of vehicles but rather use public means of transportation or private locally owned ones. This decision not only supports the sustainability of the local transportation sector but also ensures that the economic benefits of tourism are distributed among the community, promoting more inclusive and balanced growth.

Be sure you have traveler´s insurance.
You can travel safely in the knowledge that you are in capable hands, all our guide team are certified in the care and safety of guests holding First Emergency Response and Lifeguard certifications.

Embark on a unique experience & discover the tranquil beauty of the Maldives' Goidhoo Atoll, a set of circular islands that remains off the radar of many tourists. 

[8 days] Goidhoo Atoll Experience | Yugen Earthside

Embark on a unique experience and discover the tranquil beauty of the Maldives' Goidhoo Atoll, a set of circular islands that remains off the radar of many tourists. 

This quiet atoll of natural beauty, also known as Horsburgh Atoll, sits within the UNESCO Baa Atoll Biosphere Reserve. During this trip, we'll visit 4 islands:  Hulhumale - our starting point near the airport and capital cite of Male; Goidhoo - the atoll's paradisical namesake; Fehendoo - loosely populated and mostly covered by tropical jungle; and Fulhadoo - a long, narrow island home to one of the world's top 25 beaches!

On your journey through Goidhoo Atoll, you'll snorkel through a vibrant marine ecosystem and encounter an array of coral reefs and colorful marine life. On land, you'll delve into the captivating history, rich culture, and tasty cuisine of three local islands (Goidhoo, Fehendhoo, and Fulhadhoo), immersing yourself in their way of life.

What is an "atoll"?  An atoll is a type of circular island found in the tropics, wherein the perimeter is a coral reef surrounding a lagoon in the center.

Explore Goidhoo's heritage through markets, mosques, and island tours

Get a taste of local cuisine through a "hedika" sampling of sweet & savory small bites

Snorkel in marine-rich tropical waters to see the vibrant tapestry of ocean life

Kayak through mangrove lakes and learn about their importance 

Join local women for a cooking workshop as you prepare "maashuni roshi", a Maldivian breakfast

Learn about conservation efforts & visit a coral nursery to watch coral propagation firsthand 

Complete a beach clean to give back to the island that welcomed you 

Witness incredible biodiversity as you explore mangroves, seagrass beds, and island lakes. Engage with inspiring NGOs and connect with friendly locals, gaining insights into their sustainability efforts and community initiatives. This purposeful journey will leave you with cherished memories and a deeper understanding of the Maldivian culture and environment.

Hulhumale, North Male Atoll, is a suburban island just a 10-minute taxi ride from Male International Airport. This artificial island was reclaimed from the sea to offer alternative living space outside of Male and, while not a 5-star resort, Hulhumale provides the ideal base as a start or finishing point for a trip. There are plenty of local coffee shops and restaurants and a small local shopping area. The public beach along the island's east side is an endless stretch of sand and provides the ideal location to swim or simply sit and watch the world go by. The capital of Male is just a 20-minute ferry journey away or a 15-minute ride by taxi.

Goidhoo Island is an interesting island paradise waiting to be explored. Experience an island rich in culture with mangrove lakes and agricultural resources, not at all what you expect from a Maldivian island! Enjoy a beautiful beach, vibrant coral reefs, a rich ecosystem, and a glimpse into the traditional way of life in the Maldives. Goidhoo could be described as 'large' compared to many other local islands, but the village community has a population of no more than 500, and much of the island is given over to tropical flora and agriculture.

Fehendhoo Island is one of the least populated islands in Baa Atoll, with some 150 locals living within its tiny village. The rest of the island is covered with tropical jungle and surrounded by aquamarine waters and coral reefs teeming with schools of tropical fish. With such a small population the island has little in the way of infrastructure; there are a couple of local shops and a small cafe. There are several beach areas on the island, especially for tourists, as well as a few secluded corners where you can relax in a hammock and lie in the shadow of the palms. 

Fulhadhoo Island is blessed with a beautiful beach that ranked in the top 25 beaches in the world! With avenues of swaying palm trees and surrounded by a magnificent turquoise blue ocean, it is indeed paradise. The island is much longer than it is wider, meaning a refreshing sea breeze blows across as you amble to and from the beach. The local village is home to 250 people and is positioned on the eastern part of the island, while the rest of the island features small agricultural land plots, a tropical forest, and white sandy beaches.

Return transfer by vehicle & public speedboat

2 Point Snorkeling tour including equipment

Sandbank hopping including snorkeling equipment

All local taxes (10% service charge, 16% GST, & $6 Green Tax pp/night)

If there are 2+ guests in a private group booking, the rate is as per the twin/double/triple pax rate. 

Sustainable and Responsible tourism has been an integral part of our business model since 2012. We are mindful of ensuring we promote local tourism in line with Maldivian culture and traditions. Through the education of our team, our guests, and locals, we aim to protect the environment and limit wherever possible any negative impact on local life. As a team, we aim to inspire, inform and demonstrate to our partners, our guests, and the tourism industry as a whole, that we are committed to ensuring we offer only responsible and positive travel experiences.

We believe that people, communication, and education are the foundation of Sustainable Tourism. This is the reason that we have built our business on four communities:– Our Guests– Our Team– Local Islanders– NGOs and charity organizations. We understand that success requires focus, adaptation, and long-term thinking. Change does not often happen overnight, it is a gradual process. Surely in a destination such as the Maldives, it is our responsibility to make that difference.

Environmental Initiatives
Through learning experiences with our guides, we provide guests with awareness of corals, marine life, seagrass, mangroves, waste management, and plastic pollution. We brief all guests participating in snorkeling activities on the Green Fins Code of Conduct, this improves their knowledge of what they can do to help protect the ocean and coral reefs. We follow the Codes of Conduct produced by international marine organizations when encountering manta rays, whale sharks, and turtles while snorkeling and diving.

Sociocultural Initiatives
We ensure that our tours include opportunities to engage with locals and learn about the local way of life. By facilitating interactions between travelers and the local community, we aim to provide enriching and authentic experiences. These not only benefit the travelers by offering a deeper and more meaningful connection with the destination, but they also have a positive impact on the local community. By actively participating in cultural interactions, travelers contribute to the preservation of local traditions, ensuring their endurance over time. Additionally, these interactions have a positive economic impact on the community economy, as they provide opportunities for income generation and sustainable development. 

Economic Initiatives
We choose locally owned and operated infrastructure as well as services developed and managed by locals to contribute to the local community's economic development. By doing this, we provide job opportunities for locals making the wheels of the economy spin. In this same line, we opt not to have our own fleet of vehicles but rather use public means of transportation or private locally owned ones. This decision not only supports the sustainability of the local transportation sector but also ensures that the economic benefits of tourism are distributed among the community, promoting more inclusive and balanced growth.

Be sure you have traveler's insurance.
You can travel safely with the knowledge that you are in capable hands, all our guide team are certified in the care and safety of guests holding First Emergency Response and Lifeguard certifications.

A blend of natural wonders, unique culture, rich history, & modern development make our Addu Atoll Uncovered tour ideal for discovering the Maldives beyond its beaches.

[5 days] Addu Atoll Uncovered | Yugen Earthside

A blend of natural wonders, unique culture, rich history, and modern development make our Addu Atoll Uncovered tour the ideal choice for discovering the Maldives beyond its stunning beaches.

This trip is perfect for travelers who are seeking a unique experience and enjoy exploring off-the-beaten-path in a tropical paradise.

Snorkel tropical waters teeming with marine life (keep your eyes peeled for turtles & sharks!)

Kayak through beautiful red mangroves, seagrass, and lakes

Discover the Koattey protected area, a UNESCO sanctuary of biodiversity that will delight bird enthusiasts!

Delve into the local history and culture with a guided tour of Gan 

Visit Kogannu Cemetery, the country's oldest & largest, home to many mosques & ancient tombs

See an experimental farm's unique techniques & go to the Mathikilhi Eco Garden

The atoll you will be visiting presents a distinct character that sets it apart from other Maldivian atolls. Feel welcomed by the warmth and hospitality of the Adduans and enjoy the remoteness of the islands, knowing that the next landfall is 300 miles further south! 

Addu Atoll, the heart-shaped gem of the Maldives, is nestled at the southernmost tip of the archipelago. Unlike the atolls that stretch to the north, Addu does not offer the idyllic white sand beaches the Maldives is famous for, but this captivating atoll boasts so much more. Lying just a few degrees south of the equator, the islands offer many surprises, such as lush, green, tropical forests, mangroves, and marshy taro fields. A rich ecosystem supports a diverse range of wildlife, such as seabirds, fish, crustaceans, fruit bats, and various bird species. The symbolic white terns, known locally as ‘dhondheeni’ is a type of bird that only graces the skies of Addu. In the waters surrounding these islands, snorkelers and scuba divers can enjoy vibrant coral reefs, encounter manta rays and sharks, and discover the biggest shipwreck in Maldives: the British Loyalty Wreck.

Connected by a 16-kilometer link road, the islands of Hithadhoo, Maradhoo, Maradhoo-Feydhoo, Feydhoo, and Gan form a vibrant community on the western side of the Atoll. Exploring the city's streets, you'll find a fascinating mix of traditional charm and contemporary development. On the eastern side, you'll find the quieter islands of Hulhudhoo and Meedhoo. At the southernmost tip lies Gan International Airport, making it the southernmost point in the Maldives and South Asia.

Roundtrip public ferry transfer including bicycle fee

Airport and domestic transfer assistance 

Addu Nature Park (return transfer, entrance fee, activities & picnic included)

Services of our English Speaking Tour Leader

All local taxes (10% service charge, 16% GST, & $3 Green Tax pp/night)

Sustainable and responsible tourism has been an integral part of our business model since 2012. We are mindful of ensuring we promote local tourism in line with Maldivian culture and traditions. Through the education of our team, our guests, and locals, we aim to protect the environment and limit wherever possible any negative impact on local life. As a team, we aim to inspire, inform, and demonstrate to our partners, our guests, and the tourism industry as a whole, that we are committed to ensuring we offer only responsible and positive travel experiences. We believe that people, communication, and education are the foundation of Sustainable Tourism. This is the reason that we have built our business on four communities:– Our Guests– Our Team– Local Islanders– NGOs and charity organizations. 

We understand that success requires focus, adaptation, and long-term thinking. Change does not often happen overnight but is a gradual process, but surely in a destination such as the Maldives, it is our responsibility to make that difference.

Environmental Initiatives
Through learning experiences with our guides, we provide guests with awareness of corals, marine life, seagrass, mangroves, waste management, and plastic pollution. We brief all guests participating in snorkeling activities on the Green Fins Code of Conduct, this improves their knowledge of what they can do to help protect the ocean and coral reefs. We follow the Code of Conduct produced by international marine organizations when encountering manta rays, whale sharks, and turtles while snorkeling and diving.

On this tour keeping the history of Addu in mind, we stay at Equator Village Maldives in Addu, a resort with a rich history as the former British Royal Air Force Sergeant's Mess during World War II. The converted colonial buildings now offer comfortable accommodations amidst a tropical garden. Guests can enjoy amenities like en-suite rooms, a swimming pool, a small beach area, and access to a house reef, creating a unique and memorable stay experience.

Our tours include opportunities to engage with locals and learn about the local way of life. By doing so, we help preserve the local cultures, foster mutual learning and exchange, empower the local community economically, as well as provide authentic travel experiences. Through meaningful interactions, travelers gain a deeper understanding of the destination's culture, traditions, and heritage, ensuring the preservation of unique cultural practices for generations to come. 

By using locally owned and operated infrastructure and sourcing services developed and managed by locals, our approach promotes economic sustainability in the Maldives. One key benefit is the creation of local jobs. Supporting locally owned businesses generates employment opportunities for residents, reducing unemployment rates and fostering economic stability within communities. This not only contributes to the overall well-being of the local population but also helps to alleviate poverty and improve living standards.

Additionally, by relying on existing local infrastructure and services, we contribute directly to the revenue streams of local businesses, enabling them to thrive and invest in further development.

Our decision to avoid having our own fleet of vehicles and vessels and instead utilize local public transport or private locally-owned transport allows us to support the local transportation sector. By utilizing their services, we contribute to the sustainability of local transport businesses, ensuring their continued operation and economic viability. 

You can travel safely in the knowledge that you are in capable hands. All of our guide team members are certified in the care and safety of guests and hold First Emergency Response and Lifeguard certification.

This sustainable, active adventure tour through Türkiye along the Lycian Way blends healthy outdoor activities with rich history & cultural sites.

[8 days] Lycian Way Active Adventure Tour in Türkiye | Yugen Earthside

This sustainable, active adventure tour through southwestern Türkiye along the Lycian Way blends healthy outdoor activities with rich history and cultural sites.

We’ll stay in the most charming villages and towns of the Lycian Coast, lying under the Taurus Mountains. We’ll hike scented hills and visit classical coastal sites, sea kayak to explore sunken cities, sail the Fethiye Bay, snorkel over sunken Roman ruins, and search for the fire-breathing monster, Chimaera of Mt. Olympos.

6 hikes (easy to moderate) 1-5 miles long

Sea kayaking for 3-4 hours (easy to moderate if windy)

Boating for a full day, with swimming breaks

Snorkeling at various locations, including over a sunken Roman bath

Visiting ancient cities: Olympos, Anti-Phellos, Lydae, Caunus, Aperlai

Searching for Chimaera, the fire-breathing monster, at Mt. Olympos

Exploring Kekova, an uninhabited Turkish island with sunken ruins

Meander Simena, a town near the ‘Sunken City,’ with a castle at the top

The Lycian Way is a popular trekking route in southwestern Türkiye that spans about 320 miles (520 km). The well-marked path hugs the Mediterranean coast, occasionally dipping inland, and runs from Fethiye to Antalya. The Lycian Way is Türkiye's longest hiking route and weaves between ancient cities and beautiful coastal views along the way. 

While walking the full length of the trail could easily take a month, this active adventure trip is a fantastic way to see more of it in a shorter time frame. You'll get to enjoy a perfect blend of the classic, leisurely hikes, along with relaxing time in beautiful Turkish waters, and fulfilling cultural experiences at historic sites.

You’ll be guided by a licensed professional who is sustainably minded and adept at interpreting the natural and cultural heritage of the region, as well as skilled at leading the active aspects of the trip. A private minivan supports the entire trip, and most meals are included.

This coastal trip along the Lycian Way is generally best from April through November.

April-May: This region of Türkiye is a bio-diversity hotspot, so if you are a wild-flower enthusiast, April and May will be especially fantastic!

June-August: During these peak summer months, you are more likely to observe (very discreetly) the “Caretta caretta” loggerhead sea turtles laying eggs, hatching, or swimming around. However, we suggest avoiding July and August if you are not used to very warm temperatures. It can be above 100°F (38°C) which you may find uncomfortably warm for hiking. If you are OK with the heat, go for it!

September-November: A pleasant time to visit as temperatures cool down and crowds lessen.

We believe beautiful places are beautiful all year round. If your schedule allows, we encourage you to travel in the shoulder season (April-May, September-November) for several reasons. It helps reduce the environmental impact of this popular trail, avoids over-tourism, and rewards you with more tranquil trails and site visits. Spring and fall offer the best balance of pleasant weather and fewer crowds.

7 nights' accommodation in charming local hotels

A big container of water on the van for refills (please bring your own reusable water bottle)

Entrance fees to Olympos, Simena, Patara, Xhantos, and Caunus ancient sites

Private sea-kayaking tour in Kekova Sound

These are the optional activities for your free day on Day 5 in Kaş.

Coasteering – 50 Euros pp, including equipment, guide, support boat, and snacks.

Mountain biking – 40 Euros pp, including equipment, guide, support vehicle, lunch, drinking water, and snacks.

Scuba diving – 32 Euros pp for 1 tandem dive or 55 Euros pp for 2 dives. 

Patara Ancient Site and Beach & Xhanthos – 25 Euros pp, including transportation and entrance fees and guiding. 

For groups of travelers in numbers not specified below, contact us for pricing.

We are the only active member of ATTA (Adventure Travel Trade Association) from Türkiye and we have signed the Travel’s Climate Action Agreement powered by ATTA. We are a signatory of Tourism Declares Climate Emergency and have published a Climate Emergency Plan.

We worked with ATTA-South Pole to calculate the carbon emissions for each of our itineraries. As a result, we modified some itineraries to reduce our carbon footprint. We're also proud to say that we're a "carbon neutral" company. We reported our 2020 emissions and will offset them at the end of 2021. We will also add 25 USD/person to our bulk carbon offset for this trip to be used in planting trees.

Our new itineraries are being designed with a "Slow Travel" perspective so that we spend at least two nights at each location and our new trips are more local. We stay in small or remote places, plan to stay more than 1 night at each location, travel in the shoulder season, and cover a small region, rather than traveling long distances. This travel format is not only safer but also helps to absorb and enjoy the experience even better.

This trip promotes tourism dispersal as it is in the less-traveled parts of the Turkish Riviera. We pick up our guests at Antalya Airport and immediately drive out of the heavily touristic region to small villages and towns. In these towns, tourism revenue is greatly appreciated, especially in the shoulder season.

During our trips, we prioritize the principle of "leave no trace" when visiting natural and historical sites, and we expect our travelers to uphold these expectations. To minimize our environmental impact, we take measures such as optimizing our driving distances and offering low carbon impact activities like hiking, sea-kayaking, snorkeling, coasteering, and para-gliding.

In line with our commitment to sustainability, we encourage our clients to bring their own water bottles. Throughout the day, we provide refills from large containers to reduce plastic waste. In the event that you forget to bring your own bottle, small bottles of water are available for purchase.

If you join us between June and mid-August, you may have a special opportunity to witness the remarkable sight of loggerhead sea turtles laying or hatching their eggs. Dedicated volunteers work to protect these precious creatures. If permitted, we may have the chance to observe them using red flashlights, as red light is the least disruptive method for observing the turtles. If this interests you, please remember to bring a red flashlight.

We understand that we have the responsibility to sustain our activities and support the local population. We choose to use the services of local accommodation providers, family-run restaurants, and women-owned businesses. The places we visit throughout the trip are highly dependent on tourism, so your visit will contribute to improving their well-being. 

Sail the Turquoise Coast (the "Turkish Riviera"), swim in crystal-clear waters, and hike to explore antique villages by foot on this sustainable & authentic adventure in Türkiye.

[8 days] Hike & Sail the Turquoise Coast in Türkiye | Yugen Earthside

Sail the Turquoise Coast (the "Turkish Riviera"), swim in crystal-clear waters, and hike to explore antique villages by foot on this sustainable and authentic adventure.

Starting from Göcek, we will hike and sail the idyllic shores of ancient Lycia in a traditional wooden gulet. Slowly cruising along the coast, we’ll make stops on land to walk through scented hills and visit classic coastal sites. Explore the islands, kayak, and snorkel over sunken ancient ruins. Meet nomads, search for the gods of Mt. Olympos, taste local cuisine, and enjoy the atmospheric nights of charming towns.

This iconic trip is a best-seller for those looking for combination trips blending hiking and sailing.

Family Friendly: This trip is beloved for families traveling together. It's ideal for 2-3 generational families where members have different activity levels and interests. Children are delighted to be in the water swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking; while elders are content to snooze on the deck, or read a book. Everybody is welcome to join the short hikes and historic explorations (or not)!

Sailing the Turquoise Coast on a traditional wooden gulet

Swimming in Cleopatra’s sunken Roman Bath

Visiting Kaş and Kekova, the 'sunken city'

The Turquoise Coast, also known as the Turkish Riviera, is a stunning stretch of coastline along the southwestern coast of Türkiye, facing the Mediterranean Sea. The region is famous for its crystal-clear turquoise waters, rugged cliffs, pine forests, and numerous beaches and coves. Spectacular views of the Mediterranean await in these towns where mysteries and history are intertwined.

The area boasts a number of famous tourist destinations and historical sites, such as the ancient city ruins of Perge and the Lycian rock tombs found in Dalyan. On this trip, we’ll visit the Batik Hamam Cove, a bath about 5 feet under water – where Mark Anthony is said to have courted Cleopatra, and Kaya, a ghost town abandoned in 1930.

The region is also known for its beautiful beaches and protected nature reserves, some of which are accessible only by boat. Visitors to the Turquoise Coast can also enjoy water sports such as swimming and snorkeling – both of which you’ll have the opportunity to do on this trip – as well as hiking in the nearby mountains, exploring traditional villages, and indulging in delicious Turkish cuisine.

Our sustainable trip to the Turquoise Coast will captivate you with breathtakingly beautiful views. This diverse region of Türkiye offers a unique blend of natural beauty, culture, and history. The Turkish Riviera is a must-visit destination offering adventure and relaxation for anyone traveling to Türkiye. 

Come cruise the coast and swim in our sparkling waters!

This trip runs best from May through October (but November is the new October...)

May and September-October/November: These are the best times of year to visit the Turquoise Coast in Türkiye as the weather is generally warm and pleasant, with average temperatures ranging between 68-77°F (20-25°C), and there is less chance of rainfall.

June-August: During these peak summer months, the region can become quite hot, with temperatures often reaching over 86°F (30°C), and can have high humidity levels. This can make outdoor activities, such as hiking or sightseeing, uncomfortable during the daytime. This is also the busiest time for tourism. If you don't like high temperatures, we suggest a similar trip to the Dodecanese Islands or the Carian Coast, where there is more breeze. Contact us for details.

If your schedule allows, we encourage you to travel in the shoulder season (April-May, September-October) for several reasons. It helps reduce the environmental impact of traffic along the coast, avoids over-tourism, and rewards you with more tranquil trails and site visits. Spring and fall offer the best balance of pleasant weather and fewer crowds.

7 nights' accommodation on a traditional wooden gullet

All meals, with great representation of Turkish cuisine

All bus & minibus transportation within Türkiye

Certified professional guide & their expenses

Entrance fees to museums & archaeological sites

Contact us for pricing for groups smaller than 10.

We worked with ATTA-South Pole to calculate the carbon emissions for each of our itineraries. As a result, we modified some itineraries to reduce our carbon footprint. We're also proud to say that we're a "carbon neutral" company. We reported our 2020 emissions and will offset them at the end of 2021. We understand that operating a gulet has carbon emissions, which should be compensated. In this regard, we will contribute 28 USD/person for this trip to be used in planting trees. We offer low carbon impact activities on this trip such as hiking, sea-kayaking, snorkeling, coasteering, and para-gliding.

Our new itineraries are being designed with a "Slow Travel" perspective so that we spend at least two nights at each location and our new trips are more local. We stay in small or remote places, plan to stay more than 1 night at each location, travel in the shoulder season, and cover a small region, rather than traveling long distances. This travel format is not only safer but also helps to absorb and enjoy the experience even better.

Environmental Initiatives
We are committed to minimizing our impact on the environment during our trip. Our guides ensure that we "leave no trace" whenever we visit natural and historical sites. This means that we take extra care to avoid damaging the natural environment or leaving any waste behind. We also encourage our clients to bring their own water bottles and provide refills from big containers during the day. This helps to reduce plastic waste and ensures that we have access to clean drinking water throughout our trip.


Economic Initiatives
Our trip is designed to promote tourism dispersal and support local businesses. We pick up our clients at Dalaman Airport and immediately drive out of the heavily touristic region to small villages and towns. In these areas, tourism revenue is greatly appreciated, especially in the shoulder season. We also use every opportunity to meet the people behind the tourism scene, such as visiting local shops, buying provisions from fishermen, and eating at a local home. By doing so, we hope to support the local economy and help sustain the tourism industry in the region.


Sociocultural Initiatives
We believe in promoting local culture and supporting the communities that we visit. To this end, we use the services of local accommodation providers, family-run restaurants, and women-owned businesses. This helps to support the local economy and ensure that tourism revenue is distributed more evenly throughout the region. We also make an effort to meet the people behind the tourism scene by having a cup of sage tea over a taste of homemade honey and bread or visiting a local home to enjoy a lunch cooked on an open fire.

Ecuador is a mesmerizing country rich in nature, culture, & diversity. Discover Quito, myriad indigenous markets, snow-capped volcanoes, hot springs, & more!

[7 days] Ecuador Nature & Culture Tour | Yugen Earthside

Ecuador is a mesmerizing country rich in nature, culture, and diversity. Discover Quito, myriad indigenous markets, snow-capped volcanoes, hot springs, and more!

This nature and culture tour of mainland Ecuador immerses you in five different paradises located north and east of the mountainous Andean region. From walking the cobblestone streets of colonial Quito (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) and visiting Latitude Zero at the Equator, to hiking in the intriguing cloud forest, to relaxing in hot springs in the paramo highlands, we will just begin to scratch the surface of the gems Ecuador has to offer. Then, we will bring you to Nono, a little jewel built in colonial times by the Jesuits, where the charm and hospitality of Villa Doris wait for you.

Endless adventures await on this 7-day, privately-guided tour!

Learn about colonial Quito on a city tour visiting iconic churches and plazas

Hike in the lush, evergreen cloud forest at 10,500ft above sea level

Visit the most traditional artisan markets in South America in Otavalo and nearby towns

Relax at the hot springs while enjoying an outstanding view of the highlands

Visit Cotopaxi, the highest active volcano on Earth!

Savour the delicious cuisine in every destination

During this adventure, you will experience Ecuador's vibrant and colorful culture as well as its diverse natural landscapes.

We will take you toward the north of Quito to one of the most colorful and well-known indigenous markets of Latin America where artisans display the best of their work. You can also look forward to an overnight stay at a 400-year-old hacienda, which is sure to be an unforgettable experience. In the paramo highlands, an ecosystem unique to regions lying above the tree line and below the snow line, we’ll make a relaxing stop to bathe in the hot springs. Here, we’ll also have the chance to do a small hike in this unique ecosystem. Finish the tour by visiting Cotopaxi, the world’s highest active volcano, where hiking and taking photographs are a must. Come, enjoy it all!

Ecuador enjoys spring-like weather all year round. Most days we enjoy sunny mornings and cooler afternoons with temperatures around 55°F-64°F (12°C-18°C). 

June to November: The dry season is generally the best time to visit Ecuador's cloud forest, with June to September being the dryest time in this Andean region. Days will be mostly sunny and warm with less chance of rain, making it ideal to explore the forest and enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, birdwatching, and wildlife spotting. The dry season is also the best time to see many of the cloud forest’s endemic bird species, including the colorful Andean cock-of-the-rock and the elusive plate-billed mountain toucan. The cloud forest can experience rain even in the dry season, so still prepare for the possibility of wet weather if you travel during this season.

December to May: The wet season is when you can see the cloud forest in its most lush and green state, and when its stunning waterfalls will be at their fullest. April is typically particularly rainy. Note: The wet season can bring heavy rainfall and mudslides, which may make some trails and roads inaccessible.

6 nights' accommodation: 1 in Quito, 2 in Nono, 1 in Otavalo, 2 in the Tababela area

Entrance fees, except while visiting Colonial Quito

Prices vary by group size; contact us if you're a solo traveler or if your group size is not mentioned below.

Our Outlook on Culture and Equality
How can the world be united if we do not understand that diversity makes us equal? The dreams of Ecuadorians are pretty much related to your own dreams.

We take you on a trip to discover the soul of our people and their living history; the richness of our culture and our regions, while supporting those who weave a dream for a better future for their families. Join us on this trip and go back home with a richer soul.

Staff
We hire guides and drivers who do an excellent job for our clients and who only rely on tourism as the major source of their income. At Villa Doris we hire a housekeeper who receives a fair salary according to the law of Ecuador.
We visit small enterprises to make sure that, through our visits, we contribute to their development and economic growth.

Cultural Heritage
Travelers will meet the makers of local products at Otavalo, Peguche, and Cotacachi in the north, and the embroiderers of Nono while visiting the cloud forest.
They will learn for instance how they obtain the colors for their textiles and how the whole family depends on the income produced by the workshop.
The women of Sisa Quinde receive our support, guidance, sales force, and logistic aid for them to embroider and sell their creations.

Accommodation
In Ecuador, eco-friendly practices are new to the industry. However, the accommodations chosen for this program are Ecuadorian-owned and we have seen these properties working hard to grow and to be very good referents to the industry. In this specific program, we are using only one-night stays in order for the clients to see as much of Ecuador as possible in a short amount of time.

Most accommodations are implementing eco-friendly practices such as changing our toilets to install water flow reducers and buying organic and local products to support small businesses and families in our neighborhoods. We are using bio-degradable cleaning products and offering bio-degradable toiletries for our guests.

Environmental practices
We carry tote bags and reusable plastic bottles for water. We bring all garbage back to the city to be taken to a recycling program.
We visit the reserves of Yanacocha and Zuro Loma which were created to protect the mammals and birds of the cloud forest.


Please be sure you have traveler's insurance.

We have been certified with the Safe Travels stamp from the World Travel & Trade Council and we follow all regulations instructed by the Ministry of Tourism in our country.

Venture into the soul of Ecuador’s famous cloud forest and experience the magic that awaits in this biodiversity-rich, subtropical jungle paradise!

[4 days] The Soul of Ecuador's Cloud Forest | Yugen Earthside

Venture into the soul of Ecuador's famous cloud forest and experience the magic that awaits in this biodiversity-rich, subtropical jungle paradise!

This is a short, authentic experience that immerses you in our local culture, nature, and gastronomy. Hike in a private reserve, photograph hummingbirds and amazing landscapes, explore our village’s colonial streets, and fall in love with our artisan cuisine. We will explore the village of Nono, learn about the living history of Ecuador, and meet with a local group of women who weave. Your trip will contribute to the development of the communities we visit in an organized and responsible way. 

Nature

Snorkeling Conservation Cruise

Goidhoo Atoll Experience

Addu Atoll Uncovered

Lycian Way Active Adventure Tour

Hike & Sail the Turquoise Coast

Ecuador Nature & Culture

The Soul of Ecuador's Cloud Forest

Citizen Science Scuba Diving in the Galapagos

Citizen Science Scuba Diving in the Galapagos

Galapagos Islands Land-Based Tour

Highlights of Spain: Sustainable Tour

Family Trip through Spain's Cities & Nature

Barcelona & its Surrounding Areas

Mida Creek Village Experience

Kenyan Coast for Ocean Lovers

Company

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