How To Prepare For A Multi-Day Hiking Trip

BY  Sibashree Aug 12, 2024

Gates of the Arctic National Park is where the Brooks Range and the Tundra landscape come to life with wilderness and vivid topography. This national park is a place of topographical diversity with the coexistence of mountains, glaciers, rivers, lakes, and marshy lands.  A home to nomadic people for more than 13,000 years, the Gates of the Arctic is a prominent example of how human lives can be dependent on wilderness or nature. Many visitors love backpacking and trekking in this national park. Further, many stay in camps in the backcountry to experience its rich wildlife despite the challenges. Do you want to know why camping in the backcountry is worth the hardship? Does the national park have camping sites? Find the answers to all your questions in this guide.  Knowing The Gates Of The Arctic National Park (Why Camping Here Is A Great Experience) The Gates Of The Arctic National Park is a paradise for wilderness travelers. The intriguing land of Tundra, embraced by jungles, mountains, and rivers, makes camping in the backcountry worth all the effort.  Gates Of The Arctic Geography You can explore the arctic geography of this national park by trekking or by air. Tundra peaks and the Schwatka Mountains region of the Brooks Range ensure a humbling experience. You trek to Mount Igikpak, a glacier-carved peak with an 8,510-foot elevation. Another mountain to have glaciers in this region is Mount Arrigetch. Even backpacking and trekking to Mount Doonerak have a distinct charm, as the mountain is the quintessence of wilderness and unadulterated beauty.  Further, this national park has six designated wild rivers. Those are: Alatna River John River Kobuk River Noatak River North Fork of the Koyukuk River Tinayguk River Alatna and Noatak are great for canoeing. If you want more adventurous pursuits, you can try rafting in Nigu (to the north) and Kobuk (to the west).  Gates Of The Arctic Wildlife  The Gates of the Arctic is home to many mammals and birds. The Alaska Department of Fish and Game says,   “Forested southern foothills rise to limestone and granite peaks more than 7,000 feet high in this remote wilderness park. North of the peaks, clear water rivers run through glacier-carved valleys; and Tundra, covered with wildflowers during the brief northern summer, stretches toward the Arctic Ocean. Many of the nearly 500,000 member Western Arctic caribou herd migrate through the park each fall. Brown and black bear, wolf, Dall sheep, lynx, moose, wolverine, and red fox live here year-round. In the spring, the park hosts migratory birds from Europe, South America, Asia, tropical archipelagos, and the continental U.S.” Other animals found in this national park are grizzly bears, Dall sheep, and musk oxen. Among the birds, Tundra swans, common loons, and golden eagles are the most common.  Further, if you enjoy the playfulness of aquatic animals, watch out for graylings, trouts, sheefish and salmon.  Gates Of The Arctic And Human History  The Gates of the Arctic is a prominent place for archaeological research. The study and interpretations of the museum collections depict how people have been surviving in the Brooks Range for around 13000 years now.  Along with Inupiat, Nunamiut, and Athapaskan descendants, you will also find many non-native Alaskan people in this region. These people have always been dependent on fishing and hunting. The wilderness of the Gates of the Arctic is the foundation of their livelihood.  What Is The Best Camping Near Gates Of The Arctic National Park? With marshy lands and tussocks, Arctic Tundra has a vulnerable landscape and it is difficult to find a steady spot for setting up camps or tents. Also, the existence of wildlife in a remote location and dense vegetation make the space unsuitable for camping.  So, there is NO CAMPING SITE in the Gates of the Arctic National Park. There are designated areas in the backcountry for camping. However, you will have to strictly adhere to the rules and regulations of the national park when putting up a tent.  You must also attend the orientation program and be particular about the gear, food, and safety essentials to be carried.  With permission from the park authority and the National Park Service, you can set up tents near the Arctic Interagency Visitor Center in Coldfoot or around Wiseman and Bettles communities.  However, while camping in the backcountry, you will have to keep the following factors in mind.  Be respectful to the local communities like the Koyukon Athabascan Indians or Nunamiut. Their livelihood depends on the wilderness.  There are no provisions for running water, a dump station, or restrooms. Your phone network will be unavailable in this location. You have to carry all your trash back as you leave the camping site. You cannot adulterate the pristineness of the location.  If you have plans for camping in the backcountry near the Gates of the Arctic, summer is the best season. The temperature is a little moderate on these days, and sunnier days make all outdoor pursuits in the park easier for you.  Did You Know?  The Gates of the Arctic National Park is the second-largest national park in the USA. It stretches over 13,000 square miles. You can see aurora borealis from this park if you visit between November and March.  July and August are the best months to visit Gates of the Arctic National Park for hiking and backpacking.  Bob Marshall, a wilderness advocate, named this national park “Gates of the Arctic.” Final Words  Unlike popular national parks like the Biscayne National Park or the Kenai Fjords National Park, the Gates of the Arctic National Park does not have many visitors yearly. In 2023, only 11,045 tourists flocked to this place. (Source) With a diversity in topography and wildlife and an association with human history, this park has much to explore. However, the extreme trekking conditions and wilderness make it far from an easy excursion or trekking experience. Despite the absence of campgrounds in this park, you can camp in the backcountry at the designated spots in the fields. However, only an experienced backpacker should try it with proper orientation and extra safety measures. Have you ever been to this wild and intriguing national park? Do you have any camping experience in the backcountry? Don’t forget to share your experience with us!  Gates Of The Arctic National Park FAQs  Can You Camp In The Arctic National Wildlife Refuge? Only backcountry camping is possible in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge. The absence of roads, villages, or facilities makes this area unsuitable for having designated campsites. Backpacking and hiking are the best ways to explore this vast landscape with rich wildlife and geographical interests.  Can You Stay In Gates Of The Arctic National Park? You can stay or try backcountry camping near the Gates of the Arctic National Park. Undefined terrains, wilderness, and a lack of modern amenities make it risky to put up camps in the national park. Even to camp in the backcountry, you will need the highest outdoor survival skills. The arctic ecosystem, topography, and weather conditions are different, and if you are confident enough to stay in the backcountry, plan in advance and get in touch with the Park and Preserve authorities for updates and advisories.  How Much Does It Cost To Visit The Gates Of The Arctic National Park? You don’t have to pay entry fees to visit the Gates of The Arctic National Park. However, you must attend the backcountry orientation program at any of the visitor centers.  In this way, the Gates of The Arctic National Park is different from other national parks as most of them demand an entrance fee.  How Difficult Is It To Get To The Gates Of The Arctic National Park? The Gates of the Arctic is a wilderness park. So, as you enter the park, hiking is the best way to explore. Remember, it is home to the Schwatka Mountains region of the Brooks Range and the highest peak here is Mount Igikpak with an 8,510-foot elevation.  So, exploring the national park is not going to be a cakewalk. A lack of established trails further makes hiking difficult.  Further, there are six designated rivers, including Koyukuk and Dietrich, in this national park. So, you will have to pass through multiple meandering river crossings. The water levels of these rivers keep fluctuating throughout the season. They are furious throughout the spring season. Tussocks, marshy lands and dense vegetation are other hurdles to your fast movement while trekking.  Do you want to visit the backcountry? You can take a bush plane operated by permitted pilots with knowledge of the region.  What Is Special About Gates Of The Arctic? The Gates of the Arctic is special because of its geographical uniqueness, rich wildlife, and significance in human history. The glacier-carved valleys, rivers, and ancient trails make the Gates Of The Arctic a favorite destination for backpacking and hiking. Thanks to its geographical typicalness, you will meet many animals and birds. The adorable grizzly bears will be seen feeding, and the musk oxen are another unique animal you must watch out for. If you are a birder, you will love watching the golden eagles, Tundra swans, or common loons.  Near the Nigu River or throughout the park, you will find stone fences and camping rings. These are a testament to how Inland Eskimos or Nunamiut have lived in this region for thousands of years. They survived on fishing and hunting.  In addition, as I pen this guide, I must tell you that the Gates Of The Arctic National Park is going to celebrate its 45th anniversary of designation next year. First, it became a national monument on 1st December 1978. In 1980, it became a national park and preserve. Also read Italy: Is Florence flat or hilly? Ultimate Guide to Your Next Family Vacation in Israel. The Glaciers of Wrangell-St. Elias National Park: Experience The Magnificence Of Nature.

BY  Sibashree May 31, 2025

People are calling Dubrovnik a travel secret, a hidden gem in the Mediterranean region, and whatnot! I don’t agree with these, as for the longest time, Dubrovnik has been famous as the “Pearl of the Adriatic.” Also, the Old Town of Dubrovnik was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979. Moreover, this city in Croatia has been facing overtourism since the HBO series Game of Thrones became so huge.  It is the filming location of the series.  Even if you are not a Game of Thrones fan, you will love the blue water of the Adriatic Sea, the walls around the Old City, the cobblestone streets, and, overall, the quaint charm.  While it takes almost a week to explore the best of Dubrovnik and indulge in its happening culinary scene, here I have curated a quick itinerary of what to do in Dubrovnik.  This time, the best activities in Dubrovnik span over 3 days, and here you go! However, before that, I want to share how I fell in love with this Mediterranean gem and what the best time to visit this beautiful city is. What Is The Best Time To Visit Dubrovnik? May to September is the best time to visit Dubrovnik.  Pleasant weather conditions Affordable hotel rates Less crowd An ideal situation for exploring beaches and water activities These are the benefits of scheduling your trip to Dubrovnik during these months.  Further, have a look at the table below to understand the weather conditions of Dubrovnik by month.  MonthsHighest Temperature (°C)Lowest Temperature (°C)Days of RainfallJanuary13710February1499March15109April17128May22156June27205July30223August31233September27204October23177November191110December 15810 Moreover, if you want to explore the festive scenario of Dubrovnik, you can plan your visit during the following months. Festivals in DubrovnikTimeSignificance of the FestivalFestival of St. Blaise3rd FebruaryThe two-day festivities include a grand procession, and the city celebrates St. Blaise, its patron saint, on this day. It is also an intangible cultural heritage identified by UNESCO. Dubrovnik Summer FestivalJuly-AugustUnique cultural programs and artistic performances are the festival's highlights. Festivities take place across various areas of Dubrovnik. Dubrovnik Winter FestivalNovember to JanuaryThe historic Old Town comes to life with music, lights, family fun, and more. Dubrovnik Good Food FestivalOctoberIt is a two-week-long food festival, including vibrant events. Stradun ClassicSeptember to OctoberMusicians around the globe perform at Stradun Classic. Midsummer SceneJune-JulyThis festival takes place at the Lovrjenac Fortress.Croatian and British theatre artists collaborate to perform the celebrated Shakespearean plays.  How I Fell In Love With Dubrovnik? Being the biggest fan of Game of Thrones, I, of course, got to know about this beautiful Croatian City.  Dubrovnik was the King’s Landing or the capital of Westeros in the series. The Red Keep and the unforgettable scene of Cersei’s “Walk of Shame.”  Then, I researched Dubrovnik and its magnificent walls surrounding the Old Town, and the seafood delicacies here made me fall in love with the city.  So, if you thought that Dubrovnik was all about pasta and pizza and exploring the Old Town on the hottest days, it’s time to guide you on how to do it right.  What To Do In Dubrovnik: A Complete 3-Day Itinerary For You Here is what to do in Dubrovnik during a 3-day trip.  Day 1: What To Do In Dubrovnik Your day 1 in Dubrovnik will be focused on exploring the walled Old City. You can also take your time to relax by the pool or the sea, visit the local restaurants, enjoy a cable car ride, indulge in fine dining and the best wines, and end your day with a night stroll.  1. Exploring The Walled Old City Of Dubrovnik The Dubrovnik Old City celebrates Croatia's rich medieval history. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and taking a stroll across the cobblestone street and visiting places like the Cultural History Museum are the ultimate experiences here.  “The 'Pearl of the Adriatic', situated on the Dalmatian coast, became an important Mediterranean sea power from the 13th century onwards. Although severely damaged by an earthquake in 1667, Dubrovnik managed to preserve its beautiful Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque churches, monasteries, palaces and fountains. Damaged again in the 1990s by armed conflict, it is now the focus of a major restoration programme co-ordinated by UNESCO.” - UNESCO World Heritage Convention 2. Relaxing By The Pool Or The Sea If you want a delightful beach experience, you can visit Mlini Bay or Lapad Peninsula in Dubrovnik.  However, if you are feeling too lazy to explore the beach, you can explore hotels with pools for the perfect lounging time.  3. Visiting Local Restaurants Dubrovnik has places such as Proto, where you can have the best shrimp, scallops, and octopus delicacies.  Further, fish cooked in sea salt is something you cannot miss in Dubrovnik.  4. Enjoying A Cable Car Ride A ride on the Dubrovnik Cable Car before Sunset is truly magical. During this ride, you can enjoy the changing colors of the Sun in the sky.  Further, as you approach the top of Mount Srd, you will see wonderful views of the Elafiti Islands to the north.  5. Fine Dining And Wine Tasting Local restaurants, such as Panorama Restaurant in Dubrovnik, offer wonderful views alongside the best local cuisine.  They serve amazing steak sandwiches and Chicken “Rustico.”  Furthermore, you can taste red, white, rosé, and sparkling wines here. D’Vino Wine Bar is another hotspot in Dubrovnik to relish the best of Croatian wines.  6. Taking A Walk In The City At Night Are you a Dark Academia fan? Do you want to enjoy your “Everything is Grey” moment in the city?  Take a walk around the city at night when there are no cruise passengers, and the lights and darkness create a mysterious ambiance. Day 2: What To Do In Dubrovnik Kayaking, chilling by the beach, and exploring the City Walls are some of the best activities you can do on day 2.  1. Adventurous Kayaking In Dubrovnik Kayaking at the City Beach will be the best way to start your second day. Kayaking tours start here at $43.  2. Relaxing At The Beach If kayaking is not your forte, you can plan a visit to the City Beach and enjoy the crystal clear water and Sunshine while exploring the views of the Old City.  3. Exploring The Walls of Dubrovnik During The Sunset You can take a 2-hour walk along the city walls to relish the beauty of the Sunset. Once you reach the top, you can also grab some local snacks and the best coffee at the cafes.  You need to buy tickets to explore the City Walls, and the ticket prices are: During the high season, tickets for adults to explore the City Walls cost 40 EUR, while children's tickets are 15 EUR.  However, in the low season, ticket prices are 15 EUR for adults and 5 EUR for children. 4. Relishing Croatian Peka Meal If you're looking for a fun-filled community-building experience, consider the Peka Meal in the signature Dubrovnik style. Here, you will have the option of lamb, veal, or octopus in a communal pot. Further, potatoes will be cooked over the coal and served to everyone. Day 3: What To Do In Dubrovnik Your day three will begin a journey to Lokrum Island. This Island houses the Benedictine Monastery and the Dubrovnik Visitor Center.  The Visitor Center has the Iron Throne, where you can sit and live your Game of Thrones moments.  Furthemore, the Dalmatian Coast has rock slab beaches. You can jump into the water there and enjoy the most unique views of the Old City. Additionally, you can visit Mljet Island, home to the Mljet National Park and stunning saltwater lakes.  Then, the Red History Museum, located across from the Gruž Ferry Port, will be your next destination. The ticket to the museum is 9 EUR for adults, 7.20 EUR for seniors and university students, and 3.60 EUR for primary and secondary students.  Furthermore, for students under the age of 10, admission to the museum is free. Where To Stay In Dubrovnik?  Hotel Dubrovnik Palace and Hotel Excelsior are two of the best places to stay in Dubrovnik. Hotel Excelsior is located close to the walls of the Old Town and the City Beach.  On the other hand, Hotel Dubrovnik Palace offers a luxury resort experience, and it offers the best views of the Adriatic Coast.

BY  Abdul Aziz Oct 31, 2023

Dubai is tirelessly inviting visitors to immerse themselves in an exotic landscape of culture, architecture, and luxury. Dubai is an oasis of splendor hidden within the Arabian Desert. With the help of a well-chosen Dubai tour package, you'll be able to embark on an exciting adventure. You can visit some of the city's most breathtaking attractions. Learn about the city where tradition and modernity dance effortlessly together. Dubai leaves no room for the ordinary as it unveils a wide variety of tourist attractions. It ranges from the Burj Khalifa's soaring splendor to the classic charm of the Gold and Spice Souks. The sun-kissed beaches of this desert metropolis, which contrast sharply with the concrete jungles, reveal its lively personality. The Palm Jumeirah and the Mall of Emirates are two examples of man-made wonders in Dubai. It increases the list of destinations in Dubai and provides a varied itinerary for every traveler. The city's famed hospitality guarantees opulent lodging and delectable cuisine. In order to experience this desert paradise, where every moment is planned to exceed your expectations, plan your trip immediately! If you are conflicted about the weather in the “desert” city, here is the best time to visit Dubai. Best Time To Visit Dubai It is a little tricky to answer the question of when is the best time to visit Dubai. Dubai can get extremely hot, with the summer months of July and August being particularly unbearable. It is due to the high temperatures and humidity. Moreover, during May and June, the holy month of Ramadan is observed. Most malls, stores, schools, and universities remain closed during the day, giving the city a deserted look. If you want to know the best time to visit Dubai, you can plan between mid-November and early December. Or you could go in the first half of March when the temperature is around 30 degrees Celsius. It stays high during the day and drops in the evening. It allows you to take a stroll through the city after 5 p.m. Visiting during the peak tourist months of January and February for the Dubai Shopping Festival can be challenging due to the heavy crowds. The Dubai weather is hot throughout but a little caution can help make your trip less uncomfortable and restrained. Therefore, visiting in the recommended months will allow you to experience the city without the hassle of navigating through large crowds and enjoying pleasant temperatures. Places To Visit While In Dubai Once you know when to visit you should in all possibility also be aware of some of the best places you cannot miss. These spots are the highlight of Dubai and have put the city on the world map. They drip raw extravagance and missing out on them while visiting Dubai is going to be a very expensive error. Burj Khalifa Welcome to Dubai, a city where the sky truly is the limit and where wonders abound! The Burj Khalifa, which lies in the center of unparalleled magnificence, is a sight that will undoubtedly leave you speechless. It is one of the must-see tourist attractions in Dubai, rising high like a beacon of human achievement. Just picture yourself at the base of this magnificent structure, your gaze traveling up the dazzling borders of the tower to the clouds. But that's only the start! Once inside, the real magic starts to happen. As you soar into the heavens in a matter of seconds, taking an elevator might feel like traveling through time. Palm Jumeirah Travelers, pack your bags for an alluring trip to Dubai's Palm Jumeirah, one of the city's most magnificent attractions. It's a palm-leaf-shaped architectural wonder in the middle of the Arabian Sea that serves as a tribute to human ingenuity and aspiration. Why should you visit right away? Imagine yourself unwinding in a beachfront cottage with a warm breeze caressing your hair. What about rewarding your palate with a selection of culinary treats from top-notch restaurants? Here, every second is a delicious taste of luxury! Dubai Aquarium And Underwater Zoo In the center of Dubai's glittering desert city, where sparkling skyscrapers pierce the sky, an aquatic sanctuary welcomes both curious and brave spirits. Welcome to the fascinating world of the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo, a world that captivates you and takes you to a place of wonder and exploration. You will be surrounded by a gigantic aquarium brimming with a colorful tapestry of marine life when you enter this aquatic wonderland. Your senses are heightened as you glide down the glass tunnel. Majestic sharks and graceful rays pass overhead, unconcerned with the wonder they elicit. Even seasoned travelers are surprised by this humble encounter. Burj Al Arab Dubai, a metropolis of breathtaking wonders, exposes The Burj Al Arab as a blank canvas for the sumptuous fantasies of the heart. It is a symbol of wealth and splendor, nestled amid the turquoise Persian Gulf and teasing the azure skies. In Dubai, it's more than just a tourist destination; it's a chance to experience magnificence itself. The story of luxury starts when your chauffeur-driven, gold-plated Rolls Royce carries you into its arms. The high tea at the SkyView Bar will lavish you with amazing views of the glittering city. You can inhale the fragrant Arabian coffee and gaze upon the golden furnishings. Dubai Marina In the beating center of the city sits Dubai Marina. It is a man-made wonderland bursting with beautiful skylines and a world of luxury. This enchanted oasis, braided with sparkling fairy lights, is one of the most alluring spots to visit in Dubai. Enjoy the Marina Walk's ethereal radiance as the dying sun playsfully on the glistening structures. The Marina is a haven for wanderers. It expertly combines the excitement of a busy metropolis with the peace of a beach getaway. Enjoy the lingering flavor of various cultures colliding at a crossroads. It will draw you in with the fragrances of international cuisines emanating from the many restaurants. Try visiting in the colder season because that is the best time to visit Dubai Marina. Dubai Frame Dubai Frame is a remarkable architectural and narrative symphony that begs for your attention. It's a huge window that connects the city's dazzling history and present, glistening against the Emirati sky. It's evidence of the fast development that propelled this oasis in the desert to the world stage. You begin your tour on the mezzanine level, where you will find a charming reminder of the past. You'll experience an exhilarating journey through Dubai's rich past. It will leave you with a renewed respect for this city of dreams and a racing heart. Global Village The Global Village, Dubai's stunning cosmopolitan oasis, is located in the center of Dubai’s desert. Here, the sun-kissed dunes of sand create a breathtaking environment. This location creates a vivid tapestry of cultures, heritage, and excitement. It is all tucked away under one starry canvas as if it were taken straight out of a fairy story. Imagine taking a quick trip around the world in a matter of hours, visiting over 75 nations, each elegantly represented by a separate pavilion. Taste the delectable culinary treats of China. Sway to the pulsating rhythms of Africa. Behold the vivid hues of India and immerse yourself in the refined elegance of Europe. Miracle Garden Walk into a magical oasis where the boundaries between reality and fantasy are skillfully blurred. Gorgeous flower displays made of vibrantly colored blooms will defy your wildest imagination. When you witness this spot, you will realize that the best time to visit Dubai is definitely the cooler months. Welcome to the aromatic kaleidoscope known as Dubai Miracle Garden, which is tucked away among the dry desert sands. It is one of the nicest spots in Dubai to visit. It invites you to immerse yourself in its spectacular beauty with its fanciful designs in full flight. Enjoy a kaleidoscope of floral formation of the Airbus A380. Witness the swirl of walkways with umbrellas over them, and the heart-shaped lanes beckoning and whispering. The garden teases the senses by fusing a flourish of natural grandeur with a sense of innocent wonder. There are numerous jewels in Dubai's tourist attractions, but this one makes you genuinely happy. It compels you to take hundreds of photos as souvenirs. Wrapping Up Chart the Burj Khalifa through the clouds, see the Atlantis, and shop til you drop at the gold souk. Dubai is a city of opposites and a kaleidoscope of adventures. Now that you know the best time to visit Dubai- plan your trip right away. As your voyage comes to a conclusion, take a stroll through Bastakia's serene lanes to commemorate your exciting experience. As you explore the city's humble beginnings, leave your mark in the sands of time. Dubai's true essence is found here- among the lovely wind towers and sand-colored homes. You're in for a unique experience when you enter the city of riches. If you have thoughts to share or questions to ask, please leave a comment below. We would love to hear from you! Read Also: Spa Relaxation On A Charter Yacht In Dubai Yachting In Dubai – A Memorable Experience A Cultural Adventure: Dhow Cruise Trip In Dubai