If you’re an active person who enjoys getting out into the wilderness and testing yourself, a beach holiday is unlikely to keep you occupied for long. While a bit of relaxation can be the perfect solution after a stressful time at work, it’s also nice to feel as though you achieved something on your break, especially if you work in an office or don’t manage to exercise as often as you’d like. With this in mind, here is a list of the best adventure holidays: from trekking in Kenya to camping in the wilderness, there’s something here for everyone. Strap on your sturdy Merrell boots and comfiest waterproofs and get going!
If you’re keen to learn a new skill, or perhaps test yourself in a specific environment, a skiing, diving or climbing holiday may be for you. While these holidays are extremely diverse, they all have one thing in common: they’re all extremely active, energetic and allow you to learn a whole new sport. A skiing holiday is great for anyone who wants lots of things to keep them occupied, since most skiing resorts will also offer boarding, hiking and even sledging to their guests.
For thrill-seekers, climbing is an excellent sport to learn, and also includes some of the best views you may ever see. Diving is a good idea for water-lovers, or for anyone who can swim to a relatively advanced level; diving holidays also usually have the best weather if you’re looking for that all-important tan to go with your new skill.
For a holiday that’ll improve your fitness and help you bond with your fellow travellers, walking, trekking or hiking are all good options. For a particularly adventurous holiday, a trek through northern Scandinavia to see the Northern Lights will certainly put your survival skills to the test, as well as offering you the chance to see nature’s most spectacular light show.
For a more educational trip, a cultural walking tour offers you the chance to get to know another way of life, as well as meeting people from all over the world. From a food tour in Italy to a guided walk around the art museums of France, there’s something out there for every taste and budget. Whatever you choose to do, decent footwear is a must: sturdy walking boots for men and women, and something more lightweight for youngsters, are all sound investments prior to a walking holiday.
And for animal lovers, a safari is a great way of getting up close and personal with some of the rarest animals on the planet, as well as experiencing some of the world’s most beautiful landscapes. While Africa is traditionally associated with this sort of holiday, there are many other options available. Elephant and leopard safaris are popular choices in India, as are tiger safaris in Burma. Instead of hiring a car, why not go out with a local guide and see the animals for yourself? Many safari companies now offer this option and it’s a great way of seeing the animals in their own environment.
Wherever you choose to spend your action holiday, having the right equipment is essential. Some of the best action holidays are set in very harsh environments, and being unprepared could have preventable consequences.
It’s important that you buy the right equipment for you: many women are tempted to buy men’s walking boots for themselves, mistakenly thinking that they’re sturdier and more hard-wearing. However, such boots are also heavier and stiffer, and can make life difficult for a female walker. Similarly, lightweight footwear is good for climbing holidays or warmer environments, but will be extremely uncomfortable in snow or harsh terrain. For an idea of what equipment and clothing you’ll need to take, consult your travel company or local outdoors expert for the best advice. Happy holidays!
