10 Best-Selling Excursion Guide Books Millions Love

What if everything you knew about hiking narratives was wrong? Bill Bryson, returning to his American roots after years abroad, developed a unique blend of humor, history, and environmental insight in this account of his 2,100-mile trek along the Appalachian Trail. You learn not just about the physical challenges of long-distance hiking but also about the trail's ecological significance and the quirky characters that populate it, like his unforgettable companion Stephen Katz. The chapters alternate between laugh-out-loud anecdotes and thoughtful reflections on conservation, making it ideal for those curious about America's wilderness and the human stories within it. This book works best if you appreciate travel writing that entertains while it informs, although hardcore survivalists might find it less technical.

Millions have turned to this National Geographic guide as a unique gateway to explore the United States beyond typical tourist paths. Drawing from decades of travel expertise and vivid photography, the book uncovers hidden gems like the world’s longest yard sale in Tennessee and dinosaur trails in Colorado, blending practical travel details with cultural insights. You'll gain a rich understanding of diverse destinations—from Civil War battlefields to serene beaches—complete with tips on when to visit for the best experience. If you’re aiming to deepen your knowledge of American geography and discover less trodden adventures, this book delivers a well-rounded, visually engaging resource.

This personalized book explores proven methods and tactics to plan excursions that match your unique interests and goals. It combines widely validated knowledge with your background to deliver tailored guidance on organizing memorable adventures. The content examines practical aspects such as itinerary design, risk assessment, and resource management, all focused on your specific excursion type and preferences. By tailoring insights to your skill level and desired outcomes, this book helps you build confidence in planning trips that feel both exciting and manageable. It reveals how to integrate popular excursion knowledge with your personal context, making the learning process engaging and directly relevant to your next adventure.

Kate Siber's extensive experience as a correspondent for Outside magazine and contributions to National Geographic Traveler shaped this vivid collection of 100 world-class hikes. You gain detailed insights into trails across various continents and climates, from quick day hikes like California's Sierra High Route to multiday adventures such as Tanzania's Mt. Meru. The book offers not only beautiful National Geographic photography but also expert advice on travel logistics, gear essentials, and wildlife spotting, making it practical for both casual sightseers and seasoned hikers. If you crave inspiration and reliable information to plan your next hiking excursion, this book offers a broad selection tailored to different skill levels and interests.

What started as Carrot Quinn's urgent need to escape the isolating grip of city life became a raw, unfiltered journey across 2,660 miles of the Pacific Crest Trail from Mexico to Canada. As you follow Quinn’s trek, you gain insight into the physical and emotional toll of thru-hiking—grappling with injury, exhaustion, and solitude—while also witnessing the unexpected camaraderie that emerges among diverse hikers united by a shared goal. Chapters vividly recount moments like crossing the Southern California desert and forging unlikely friendships, offering a nuanced perspective on endurance and human connection. This book suits anyone curious about the realities behind long-distance hiking beyond the Instagram highlights, especially those drawn to personal transformation through nature’s challenges.

Stephanie and Jeremy Puglisi bring decades of hands-on RV travel experience to this detailed guide, reflecting their life spent on the road with their family. You’ll find a curated selection of over 300 campgrounds across all 50 states, each offering unique outdoor accommodations and activities like hiking, fishing, and stargazing. Beyond location tips, the book shares practical advice on campsite choice, campfire cooking, and safety, catering to both newcomers and seasoned campers. If you want to plan memorable outdoor adventures without the guesswork, this guide offers a solid foundation, though it’s best suited for those ready to embrace the camping lifestyle fully.

This tailored hiking guide explores how to rapidly improve your trail skills and trip planning within a focused one-month period. It covers essential hiking techniques, safety protocols, gear selection, and environmental awareness, all aligned with your background and specific goals. The book examines practical ways to build endurance, navigate diverse terrains, and prepare for various weather conditions. By concentrating on your interests and skill level, this personalized resource reveals a path to confident hiking and successful trips, drawing from widely validated knowledge adapted just for you. Its engaging approach ensures you gain meaningful insights that accelerate your hiking journey efficiently.

Drawing from Anthony Bourdain's decades of experience as a writer and television host, this guide offers a candid and vivid tour of some of the world's most intriguing destinations. You gain direct insight into his favorite places, from bustling cities like Buenos Aires and Shanghai to remote spots such as Borneo and Oman’s Empty Quarter, with practical tips on where to eat, stay, and what to avoid. Supplemented by essays from Bourdain’s close friends and family, the book blends personal stories with travel guidance, making it a rich read for anyone keen on exploring the world through a distinctive, unvarnished lens. However, if you prefer traditional, formal travel guides, this irreverent style might not suit your taste.

When Norman Murphy first realized the layers of hidden history beneath London's familiar streets, he transformed that fascination into 'One Man's London,' a richly detailed guidebook revealing the city's lesser-known quirks and secrets. You’ll discover the stories behind the oldest gas lamps on The Mall, the mysterious markers of royal processions, and even an admiral’s memorial with a Guinness bottle inside. The author’s decades of personal exploration and official tours for the Ministry of Defence shine through, making this more than just a walking guide—it’s a dive into London’s overlooked cultural fabric. If you’re curious about London beyond typical tourist spots, this book offers a layered perspective, though those seeking straightforward travel tips might find its charm lies more in storytelling than logistics.

Andrew Doughty has written what many consider the definitive guide to Kaua'i, drawing on his extensive experience exploring every corner of the island. You get candid, no-holds-barred reviews of restaurants, resorts, and activities, plus driving tours and 15 detailed maps with mile markers that make navigation straightforward. The book goes beyond typical sightseeing by revealing hidden beaches, secret waterfalls, and local culture, which means you’ll uncover layers of Kaua'i most visitors miss. Whether you’re planning your first trip or returning, this guide offers grounded insights that help you tailor your experience to your interests and pace.

Andrew Doughty’s deep connection to Hawaii shines through in this guidebook, crafted from years of firsthand exploration and anonymous reviews. You gain detailed insights into the Big Island’s hidden gems, from secluded beaches to local eateries, supported by the most precise maps available. This isn’t just a list of tourist spots — it’s a candid look at what’s worth your time and what’s best avoided, all delivered with a dry wit that keeps the tone engaging. Whether you’re planning your first visit or returning to uncover new experiences, this guide offers a grounded perspective that’s hard to find elsewhere.

Lonely Planet's extensive experience in travel publishing shines through in this guide to America's top bike routes, blending detailed planning tools with vivid imagery. You explore 200 rides across North, Central, and South America, including everything from urban paths to rugged mountain trails, with practical tips on navigation, accommodations, and local highlights. The book's strength lies in its diverse coverage—from the Cabot Trail in Canada to the Baja Divide in Mexico—offering a rich resource for cyclists who want to tailor adventures to their skill level and interests. If you're seeking inspiration and solid logistics for bikepacking excursions, this book provides a grounded, experience-based roadmap without unnecessary fluff.