Costa Rica

Country Post

Exploring National Parks: Senior-Friendly Tours

Hiking Walking

For seniors looking to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the United States, national parks offer some of the most breathtaking landscapes and serene environments. These parks are not only a testament to the country's rich natural heritage but also provide an array of senior-friendly tours

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One Weekend in Sevilla

Walking

Sevilla, the sun-kissed capital of Andalucía, is a city where tradition meets modernity in a symphony of vibrant colors, tantalizing flavors, and soul-stirring rhythms. A weekend here promises an unforgettable blend of history, culture, and pure joie de vivre.

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Hidden gems in Aguas Calientes, Peru

Walking

Nestled in the lush valleys of the Peruvian Andes, Aguas Calientes (also known as Machu Picchu Pueblo) is famous as the gateway to Machu Picchu. However, this small town offers its own unique charm and hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re stopping by before or after your visit to the

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Maria Lally

Profession:

National Park Ranger, Professional Guide, Outdoor Educator

Hi, I'm Maria! I got my start in the outdoors the same way a lot of people do—family trips to national parks. But it wasn’t until I hiked to Vernal Falls in Yosemite that I realized how much I loved it. That first hike led to thousands more, and eventually, a career as a Park Ranger and outdoor educator at some of the country’s most iconic national parks, including Glacier, Grand Canyon, and Rocky Mountain. If you’re planning a national park trip and need help navigating seasonal conditions, permits, trail choices, or even picking which park to visit, I’ve got you covered.

My Favorite Adventures

🏕️ Hiking the O Trek in Patagonia – Eight days of glaciers, condors, and remote wilderness in Torres del Paine, drinking pisco sours in backcountry huts and swapping stories with travelers from all over the world.

🎒 Exploring New Zealand by Campervan – Road-tripping across the country, waking up to sunrises over Fiordland, hiking in Mount Aspiring National Park, and exploring the wild coasts of Abel Tasman.

🛶 Backcountry Trips in U.S. National Parks – Some of my favorite experiences have been backpacking and rafting in Glacier, Rocky Mountain, and the Grand Canyon, finding the best remote spots far from the crowds.

Specializations & Interests

🌎 Helping You Pick the Right National Park – If you’re torn between destinations, I can help match you to the best park for your adventure style.

🏕️ Backcountry Permits & Seasonal Planning – Knowing when to go and what to expect is key—I can help you navigate permits, closures, and ideal trail conditions.

🚶‍♀️ Solo & First-Time Adventurers – Whether you’re planning your first big hike or traveling solo, I can help with safety, logistics, and confidence-building.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Families & Multi-Generational Travel – I’ve worked with families and older travelers in national parks and can help tailor recommendations to all skill levels.

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