It’s fair to say most people love a sun, sea, and sand holiday. Sipping margaritas on the beach and getting stuck into the latest crime novel as the glorious warmth of the sun beats down on your skin? Not bad for a Monday afternoon. However, even the classic summer break can get old after a while.
If you’re looking to try something a bit different for your next vacation, you’ve got plenty of options to choose from. Adventurous types might prefer something with a bit more of an edge and that gets the adrenaline flowing. Vacations in the jungle, desert and even the snow are becoming increasingly popular and are guaranteed to get your heart pumping.
Here, we explore destinations for adventure vacations in the jungle, desert, and snow.
The jungle
Costa Rica is a popular spot for a jungle vacation and with its lush greenery and beautiful beaches it’s easy to see why. The Costa Rica Institute of Tourism (ICT) has created a sustainability programme for local businesses which wish to be more eco-conscious to protect the environment and the community.
Malaysia is also a firm favourite for outdoor adventures, offering exciting nature and wildlife along with its famous jungles. Experienced hikers can challenge themselves with a five-hour trek up Mount Datuk in Sembilan, but there are plenty of options for less experienced explorers too. Most routes around Templer Park only take one to two hours to complete and are very accessible for beginners.
Peru is another popular stomping ground for outdoor enthusiasts and its Amazon rainforest makes it particularly appealing. Home to a wide range of flora and fauna, along with insects and exotic animals, there’s plenty to see when you trek through this famous jungle.
The desert
The Sahara is the most commonly referenced desert in the world and certainly the biggest, spanning across Tunisia, Morocco, Egypt and Algeria. Hop aboard a camel and trek to the Erg Chebbi dunes at Merzouga or explore the picturesque sights of the old ruins and the sandy landscapes in The Draa Valley.
The Kalahari Desert is also a popular spot for a desert vacation. Its vast land stretches from Namibia to Botswana and South Africa and it’s believed to be the best safari destination across the globe. Head to the Central Kalahari Game Reserve to catch a glimpse of the lions, springbok, wildebeest, and giraffes.
The snow
Patagonia is a popular spot for those seeking a snowy vacation. Situated on the southern frontier of South America, the stunning region offers plenty in the way of jaw-dropping sights and pristine beauty. Try hiking in Torres del Paine National Park and enjoy the view of the mountains, lakes, glaciers, and greenery along the way.
