★ Book a Trip Design Session | $60★ Book a Trip Design Session | $60

Mary Andino

Outdoor Educator | Extreme Athlete
Backpacking
Climbing
Solo Travel
First-Time Adventurers
Gear Expert
National Park Exploration

Where I Can Help

📍Italy: Umbria, Tuscany & the South

I lived in Italy while pursuing a PhD in Italian history and hiked 350 miles from Florence to Rome along the Cammino di Francesco. I’m fluent in Italian and deeply familiar with both cultural and outdoor experiences—especially in Umbria, Tuscany, Naples, Sicily, and Bari.

📍California & Joshua Tree

From the Sierra Nevadas to the Dinkey Lakes Wilderness and the backcountry of Joshua Tree, I’ve spent years exploring California on foot. I can help you find quieter routes even in the most popular parks.

📍Camino de Santiago

The Norte route of the Camino de Santiago took me through remote villages and unforgettable cultural exchanges. I’d love to help you prepare for this kind of long-distance hike—especially if you’re going solo.

📍Midwest & Southeast Climbing Areas

I climb all over the U.S. and know Jackson Falls, Sam’s Throne, The Red, Chattanooga, and the Black Hills firsthand. I also coach at a climbing gym and can help newer climbers prep for their first outdoor trip.

📍Utah’s National Parks

I’ve hiked through Bryce Canyon and Zion and love helping people explore these dramatic desert landscapes—especially lesser-traveled trails.

Book Your Trip Design Session with Mary

Includes:
  • 25-min Zoom call with your expert
  • TripGuide delivered post call including: all recommendations from call, personalized logistics, custom Google map, and day-by-day itinerary (if applicable)
Note: your TripGuide is editable and sharable so you can loop in your travel companions

Meet Mary

Hi, I’m Mary! I’m a backpacker, climber, writer, and gear nerd. I started hiking as a teenager and have spent the years since chasing long-distance trails, rock faces, and meaningful stories from the backcountry. When I’m not climbing or out on trail, I write for publications like Backpacker, Climbing, and Outside, covering everything from new ultralight gear to first-person trail narratives.

As a solo female backpacker, I care deeply about safety, preparation, and helping people build confidence outdoors. I regularly take first-timers climbing and backpacking, and I love helping them move past intimidation into pure awe. Whether you’re heading to the Camino, planning a quiet route through Joshua Tree, or picking your first backpack, I’d love to help.

My Favorite Adventures

🥾 Backpacking the California Riding and Hiking Trail in Joshua Tree over Thanksgiving—37 miles with only 4 other people

🌍 Walking the Camino de Santiago along the remote Norte route, meeting fellow hikers from around the world

🇮🇹 Hiking 350 miles across Italy from Florence to Rome on the Cammino di Francesco

🧗‍♀️ Climbing classic sport routes across The Red, Jackson Falls, and Sam’s Throne

What Travelers Are Saying

July 26, 2025

Mary was amazing! Just being able to connect face to face we fed on each others enthusiasm and love for the country until a beautiful framework of not one but 2 potential trips emerged. (Actually, she gave me other options as well!) Based on our lively discussion she introduced another location in Italy I had never considered and ultimately, - that's where I'm going . She listened to me and not only helped me plan the trip I had envisioned but came up with an even better vision for me! Talking with her saved me about 5 hours of going in the wrong direction. She is such a delight and super knowledgeable and she gratefully shared her vast experience for me to enjoy. I

Jodi Murphy

August 6, 2025

It was a pleasure working with Mary and the Outdoorable process. It was simple, very efficient and the best part was the guide was extremely helpful and well-executed to plan our trip to Italy!

Michael Gurevih

Trip Reports by Mary

Get to know my travel style and see my favorite spots and activities
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How It Works

One call and you're dialed in.
1

Book your session.

Click to book a session where youwill be prompted to tell me moreabout your trip, select a time thatworks for you on my calendar, andcomplete payment. It's $60 for a30-minute call.

2

Let's chat.

We'll meet over Zoom video call anddive into your ideas, questions, andgoals. I'll share local tips, itineraryquestions, and guide you to the bestspots.

3

Get your personalized TripGuide.

Within a few days, you'll receive acustom TripGuide in your inbox:

→ A day-by-day itinerary

→ Local recommendations withlinks

→ A shareable, interactive map

All tailored to your travel style—and builtto help you have the best possible trip.

Extras & Credentials

📚 PhD in Italian History
🍝 Food writer & editor
🧘‍♀️ Yoga enthusiast
📖 Avid reader
👩‍🍳 Passionate home cook

Book a Trip Design Session

Let's design your dream trip—together.

What you get:

  • 25-min Zoom call with your expert
  • Personalized TripGuide with your recommendations, logistics info, and a day by day approach following the call
  • Custom Google map, curated by your expert

Note: your map and TripGuide are shareable so you can give to your travel companions

Send me a message

We've got it! Your expert will review you details and we'll follow up shortly via the email you provided.
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Frequently Asked Questions

What happens during a trip call?
During our 25-minute call, we'll discuss your travel style, preferences, and specific goals for your trip. I'll ask questions to understand what makes you tick as a traveler. After our call, I'll send you a custom TripGuide with recommendations tailored to your interests.
How soon will I receive my custom TripGuide?
You'll receive your personalized TripGuide within 3-5 business days after our call. For rush requests, please mention this during booking and I'll do my best to accommodate your timeline.
Can you book accommodations and experiences for me?
Yes! After reviewing your TripGuide, you can let me know which accommodations and experiences you'd like me to book. I'll handle all the reservations for you at no additional cost beyond the standard booking fees.
How does Outdoorable work?
Outdoorable connects you with experienced outdoor pros through 1:1 video calls. Whether you’re deciding between destinations, need insider tips for a specific trail, or want advice tailored to your skill level, our experts are here to help. Simply browse expert profiles, book a call, and get the guidance you need to plan your next adventure with confidence.
What can I ask an Outdoorable expert?
Anything about your outdoor trip! Need advice on hiking routes, family-friendly trails, or navigating backcountry terrain? Want to know the best time to visit Patagonia or if a specific climb is doable for your skill level? Our experts are here to give personalized insights based on their firsthand experience.
How long are the calls?
Calls are 30 minutes, giving you plenty of time to ask questions, explore options, and get personalized advice. If you need more time, you can always book a follow-up session.
Can I choose which expert to talk to?
Yes! You can browse detailed expert profiles to find someone who matches your destination or activity needs. Whether it’s a hut-to-hut trek in the Alps or beginner-friendly kayaking in Croatia, you’ll find an expert who’s been there and done that.
What happens after I book a call?
Once you book a call, you’ll get a confirmation email with a link to share your questions or trip details in advance. This helps the expert prepare and ensures you get the most out of your session. You’ll also receive a link for the video call closer to the appointment.
How much does it cost?
A 30-minute call costs $60, with $45 going directly to the expert. We believe in fair pay for our pros who have invaluable expertise while keeping it affordable for adventurers.
What if I need to reschedule or cancel?
We get it—plans change. You can reschedule or cancel your call up to 24 hours before the scheduled time. Just head to your confirmation email for details on how to make changes.
What if I don’t find the call helpful?
We strive to connect you with the best experts and provide actionable advice. If you feel your call didn’t meet your expectations, let us know. We’ll work with you to make it right. All Pros can see your questions in advance, and they will let us know beforehand if they don’t think they are the best person to provide insight.
Can I share the call with someone else?
Yes! Whether you’re planning a trip with friends or family, feel free to include them in the call. Just make sure everyone’s ready to hop on when the session starts.
Do experts plan my trip for me or give me an itinerary?
No, Outdoorable is not a trip-planning service. Our experts provide personalized advice, answer questions, and guide you with insights to help you plan your trip. Think of it as having a knowledgeable friend with all the lowdown so you can plan your perfect trip.
How do you choose your experts?
Our experts are handpicked for their firsthand experience, regional knowledge, and ability to give actionable advice. Many are professional guides, trip designers, or seasoned adventurers with years of expertise. That means their jobs are to find the best places off the beaten path. Needless to say… you’re in good hands.
What kind of trips can Outdoorable help with?
Outdoorable is perfect for all types of nature-based adventures:
• Planning a big bucket-list adventure
• Deciding between destinations based on your outdoor skill level and interests
• Finding hidden trails, parks, routes
• Preparing for a solo trip, family outing, or group adventure