11 Of The World’s Best Adventure Holidays
PAUL LONGHURST
Go Gorilla Trekking In Rwanda
Rwanda’s vast mountainous landscape teems with wildlife. The northwest regions have some of the most breath-taking ranges and are home to some of the world’s last remaining mountain gorillas as well as rare golden monkeys. Go to Volcanoes National Park for hiking, canoeing and mountain biking, before heading on a once-in-a-lifetime gorilla trek. One & Only Gorilla’s Nest, which lies at the foothill of the Virunga volcano range, is a luxury resort with access to the national park.
Explore Sri Lanka By Train
Sri Lanka has some seriously impressive scenery to explore, and one of the best ways to see the sights is via its diesel loco network. The line that runs from the capital Colombo to Kandy in the centre of the island passes through forested hills and tea plantations. Or you can head out of the capital to Galle along the southwest coast, or to Ella in the east – where you’ll find the famous Nine Arch Bridge. If you’re up for a physical challenge, climb Sigiriya (the huge rock fortress in Duran Duran’s ‘Save A Prayer’ video) or the sacred Adam’s Peak. Experience Travel Group is a reputable company for group tours.
OLIVER SJOSTROM
MNUEL CONSENTIN
Hit The Slopes In Japan
Japan offers many opportunities for an unforgettable ski trip. Hakuba in the country’s northern Alps is home to ten ski resorts which hosted the Winter Olympics back in 1998. With a variety of slopes for all abilities, there are over 200 runs to test your skills on, while the nearby village of Happo has excellent restaurants and izakaya bars. Confident skiers should go to Asahidake in Daisetsuzan National Park on Mount Asahi in central Hokkaido. Facilities are fairly limited but it’s a top spot for cross-country skiing and off-piste runs.
Explore The Tanzanian Wilderness
If you’ve always wanted to explore East Africa, Tanzania has it all. Home to world-renowned national parks, scenic coastlines and fascinating culture, the country is a great choice for a once-in-a-lifetime family holiday. In this monumental landscape of protected land, a safari is a must. While the Serengeti is famous for its wildebeest, zebras and crocodiles, Ruaha National Park is the largest in the country and has some of the biggest populations of lions and elephants in the world. It receives fewer tourists than other national parks, so bookmark it for a fully remote experience – Aardvark Safaris will plan the trip for you.
ASHIM D SILVA, PARTHA NARASIMHAN, HENDRIK CORNELIS/ UNSPLASH
BALAZS BUSZNYAH/ UNSPLASH
Find The Northern Lights In Iceland
Iceland’s rugged coastline and natural wonders can be appreciated year-round, but if you’re after the ultimate winter holiday, head to the island during the colder months. There’s an extensive selection of outdoor activities from skiing and glacier hiking, to husky sledding and bathing in geothermal pools. Iceland also has one of the most beautiful landscapes in the Nordic region – the northern territories in particular are known for their huge mountain ranges and rivers. Head there and stay at the impressive Deplar Farm, a secluded retreat surrounded by mountains and green valleys.
Catch A Wave In Hawaii
If surfing sounds more like your thing, it’s no secret that Hawaii has some of the best and biggest waves in the world. Oahu is a top spot – the waves at Puaena Point and Chun’s Reef are great for experienced surfers. For crystal-clear waters, make a beeline for Maui to spot tropical fish and sea turtles – Launiupoko State Wayside Park has long, easy waves for beginners. Take lessons with Hawaiian Surfing Adventures to sharpen your skills.
KARSTEN WINEGAR, JEREMY BISHOP, LUKE MCKEOWN/ UNSPLASH
JOEL HERZOG, WYNAND UYS, REDCHARLIE/ UNSPLASH
Wander The Shorelines Of Mozambique
Southern Mozambique is home to miles of empty beaches, sand dunes and, more recently, a selection of top accommodation options, including newcomer Sussuro. Bazaruto National Park is surrounded by beautiful waters, while the Maputo Special Reserve is where you’ll find Mozambique’s bushlands – both are great options for a safari. Once you’ve made the most of these natural wonders, head to the coast to relax on the white-sand beaches.
Camp Under The Stars in Morocco
Known for its huge mountain ranges, ancient cities and vast deserts, Morocco was made for adventurers. Take a tour of the Saharan dunes and visit the ancient medinas, before heading into the cities. Ouarzazate province, known as the ‘door of the desert’, is rich with culture and a great starting point from which to explore some of the best sights. Head to Dar Ahlam in the Sahara for a night under the stars, then relax at the hotel’s hammam.
HASSAN OUAJBIR, VINCE GX, HASSAN OUAJBIR/ UNSPLASH
Head On A South African Safari
In South Africa, June to September is the best time for a safari – you’ll spot more wildlife because animals are more likely to be in the bare bush and at watering holes. With over 600 national parks to choose from, you’re spoilt for choice, but Marakele is a great choice for first timers. This mountainous park is home to all of the ‘big five’ (lions, leopards, rhinos, elephants and buffalos), plus one of the world’s largest colonies of the endangered Cape vulture. Marataba Conservation Camp recently opened two new sites in Marakele.
Take In The Himalayas In Bhutan
As one of the world’s most exclusive places to visit, Bhutan is an authentic once-in-a-lifetime experience. Amid spectacular nature and fascinating cultural sites, explore the country’s hidden corners and learn about the traditional Buddhist way of life. Six Senses has created a journey across Bhutan’s key valleys which takes you through lush tropical plains in the south to the sub-alpine Himalayan mountains to the north. Highlights include the Dochula Pass which offers dramatic views of the Himalayan peaks, Chimi Lhakhang (an ancient fertility temple), and a hike to Taktsang Goemba – the famous Tiger’s Nest Monastery.
KINSHUK BOSE/ UNSPLASH
HJØRNDFJORD, FREDERIK BYE, KRISTIN STOYLEN, ANDERS DALSET
Go Wild In Norway
The autumn months are a great time to visit Norway. Discover the region with 62ºNORD, which will take you off the beaten track to try a range of outdoor activities in the north west of the country. The Sunnmøre region is well known for its impressive landscapes and natural features – think fjords, waterfalls and glaciers. From mountain hikes and cycling trips to cross-country skiing and kayaking adventures along the fjords, there’s something for everyone. Stay at Storfjord Hotel for some breath-taking views of the fjords.
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