“In every walk with nature one receives far more than he seeks.”
For nature lovers with a passion for travel, there’s no better way to explore the world than through the pages of a book. Whether you’re an avid hiker, a wildlife enthusiast, or simply someone who enjoys the beauty of the great outdoors, travel books for nature lovers offer the perfect escape. These captivating reads allow you to journey into the heart of nature, from remote wildernesses to lush forests and towering mountain ranges, all from the comfort of your reading nook. Today at What We Reading, we’re curating the best travel books for outdoor lovers that combine adventure, exploration, and a deep appreciation for wildlife. From eco-friendly travel guides to stories of breathtaking journeys, these books will inspire your next adventure and ignite your love for nature. Ready to explore the wild? Let these top nature travel books be your guide.
A Walk In The Woods – Bill Bryson
Our first destination on our list of beautiful nature travel books is Bill Bryson’s A Walk in the Woods, a humorous and heartwarming adventure along the Appalachian Trail, one of the longest continuous footpaths in the world. With his friend Stephen Katz, Bryson sets out to hike this 2,100-mile trail, which winds through the dense forests and rugged mountains of the Eastern United States.
Full of amusing anecdotes and insightful observations, Bryson shares his struggles with the physical challenges of the trail, the history of the land, and the beauty of the wilderness. At the same time, he reflects on the importance of preserving these wild spaces for future generations. Both a travel memoir and a meditation on nature, A Walk in the Woods is an engaging read for anyone with a love for the outdoors or who appreciates a good laugh, making it a perfect go-to for nature lovers seeking adventure and inspiration.
The Wild Muir – John Muir
The Wild Muir is a collection of writings from one of America’s most famous naturalists, John Muir, whose deep connection to nature and the wilderness led him to become a passionate advocate for the preservation of America’s national parks. Compiled from Muir’s journals, letters, and essays, this book offers a rich tapestry of his explorations through the rugged landscapes of the Sierra Nevada and beyond.
Muir’s vivid descriptions of the natural world, filled with awe and reverence, invite readers to experience the beauty of untouched forests, towering mountains, and serene lakes. His writings are not just travel accounts, but also philosophical reflections on humanity’s relationship with nature. The Wild Muir is a perfect read for nature lovers looking to delve deeper into the life and thoughts of a man who dedicated his life to exploring and protecting the wild spaces that inspire us all.
The Snow Leopard – Peter Matthiessen
The Snow Leopard is a beautifully written memoir that chronicles Peter Matthiessen’s spiritual and physical journey through the rugged Himalayas in search of the elusive snow leopard. Accompanied by naturalist George Schaller, Matthiessen sets out on a journey to not only explore the wild terrain of Nepal but also find a deeper understanding and healing following the loss of his wife.
As he travels through remote mountain villages and breathtaking landscapes, Matthiessen reflects on the meaning of life, nature, and human connection. The book blends adventure, philosophy, and nature writing, offering readers a rare glimpse into the heart of one of the world’s most remote landscapes. The Snow Leopard is a perfect book for nature lovers looking for an introspective and awe-inspiring travel memoir that explores the intersections of the natural world andthe human spirit.
The Nature Fix – Florence Williams
Florence Williams’ The Nature Fix is an eye-opening exploration into the science behind the healing power of nature. Williams delves into how time spent in natural environments – whether hiking through forests, walking along beaches, or simply sitting in a park – can significantly boost mental health, reduce stress, and enhance creativity.
Utilising scientific research from across the globe, Williams reveals the surprising benefits that nature has on the brain and body, backed by fascinating studies and interviews with leading experts. As she travels to various locations to experience the transformative effects of nature firsthand, The Nature Fix not only inspires a deeper appreciation for the outdoors but also underscores the importance of reconnecting with nature in our modern, often hectic lives. Ideal for nature lovers, this book is sure to inspire you to embrace the natural world and explore its many restorative benefits.
Vagabonding: An Uncommon Guide To The Art Of Long-Term World Travel – Rolf Potts
Vagabonding by Rolf Potts is the ultimate guide for those looking to embrace the freedom and adventure of long-term travel. Potts presents practical advice on how to travel the world on your own terms, whether you’re exploring remote wilderness or immersing yourself in diverse cultures. The book emphasises the art of slow travel – experiencing life in different corners of the world at a leisurely pace.
With tips on budgeting, planning, and living minimally, Vagabonding encourages readers to step away from the conventional tourist trails and explore the world in a more meaningful way. Perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers, this book is a call to embrace travel as a lifestyle, not just a holiday, and to find inspiration in the simple, life-changing experiences of wandering the world.
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The Wild Places – Robert Macfarlane
Robert Macfarlane’s The Wild Places is a captivating journey into the last wild corners of the British Isles, where nature remains largely untouched by human hands. In this beautifully written nature travel book, Macfarlane embarks on a journey to explore the landscapes that have been shaped by nature rather than civilisation – remote forests, rugged coastlines, and untamed mountains.
Through poetic prose and insightful observations, he reflects on the significance of these wild spaces and the powerful, sometimes spiritual, experiences they evoke. Macfarlane’s exploration is as much about the people he encounters and the stories they share as it is about the land itself, tying together themes of conservation, history, and human connection to the natural world. For nature lovers, The Wild Places offers both a compelling adventure and a deep meditation on the importance of preserving the wild places that sustain our sense of wonder and belonging.
Wild – Cheryl Strayed
Wild by Cheryl Strayed is a raw and inspiring memoir about a woman’s transformative journey along the Pacific Crest Trail. Still reeling from a personal loss, a failed marriage, and the death of her mother, Strayed sets out to solo hike through the wilderness on the hunt for healing and redemption. With no prior hiking experience, she encounters physical and emotional challenges that push her to her limits. However, along the way, she discovers the strength within herself to overcome her past and find a renewed sense of purpose.
Filled with both heartbreak and triumph, Wild is a powerful testament to the healing power of nature and the resilience of the human spirit. For nature lovers and adventurers, Strayed’s tale offers a compelling mix of self-discovery, wilderness, and the profound impact of the natural world on our lives.
Pilgrim At Tinker Creek – Annie Dillard
Annie Dillard’s Pilgrim at Tinker Creek is another beautifully written exploration of the natural world, set along the banks of Tinker Creek in Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains. Through lyrical prose and keen observation, Dillard immerses readers in the wonders and many mysteries of the landscape, from the tiniest insect to the vast expanse of the sky. The book is part memoir, part meditation on nature, philosophy, and the profound interconnectedness of life.
As Dillard contemplates the cycles of life and death in the natural world, she weaves together moments of awe and reflection, offering a poignant sense of wonder and spiritual insight. Pilgrim at Tinker Creek remains a timeless invitation to slow down, observe, and appreciate the intricate beauty that surrounds us, making it a perfect book to turn to for anyone looking for a deeper connection with the wilderness.
On Trails – Robert Moor
On Trails by Robert Moor is an exploration of the ancient and modern significance of trails, both physical and metaphorical. Moor takes readers on a tour through the world’s trail systems, from the Appalachian Trail in the US to the ancient footpaths across Africa, examining the deep-rooted connection between humans and the paths we create.
Along the way, he delves into the history, biology, and psychology of trails, exploring how they shape our understanding of the world and ourselves. With a sharp eye for detail and an infectious fascination with the natural world, Moor examines not only the trails that lead us through forests and mountains but also the invisible paths that guide our lives. On Trails is a thought-provoking and captivating read that reflects the importance of the trails we follow, both in nature and in life, making it one of the best nature travel books for anyone looking to fuel their outdoorsy wanderlust.
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Part-time reader, part-time rambler, and full-time Horror enthusiast, James has been writing for What We Reading since 2022. His earliest reading memories involved Historical Fiction, Fantasy and Horror tales, which he has continued to take with him to this day. James’ favourite books include The Last (Hanna Jameson), The Troop (Nick Cutter) and Chasing The Boogeyman (Richard Chizmar).
