The Best Outdoor Vacations Around the World
Published on: October 22nd, 2024
Last updated: October 22nd, 2024
At Jacada, many of the trips we plan are fundamentally focused on the natural world – from national parks and wildlife reserves to mountain peaks and tropical beaches. This is no coincidence; so many of the world’s most memorable experiences and destinations are inextricably linked to the outdoors.
Outdoor travel is a broad category, encompassing the simple pleasures of spending time in nature as well as thrilling – and sometimes challenging – adventures. Outdoor vacations can be adapted to every type of traveller: avid hikers and campers, wildlife enthusiasts and birdwatchers, surfers, climbers, kayakers and those who just want to sit back and take it all in.
We’ve selected a dozen of our favourite outdoor experiences and destinations around the globe. Some are perfect for thrill seekers and intrepid explorers; others are ideal for families or animal lovers. What they all have in common is a deep connection to the environment and the promise of memories that will last a lifetime.
Best Spots for Adventure
The best outdoor adventure vacations push you outside of your comfort zone and offer just the right amount of adrenaline to make you feel incredibly alive. Here are some of the world’s best activities for adventurous travellers.
Kayaking in the Norwegian Fjords
The fjords of Norway are legendary for a reason, and there’s no better way to see them than by kayaking through their glassy waters. The best time to do so is from May to September, when the weather is warmest and the surrounding valleys turn a brilliant green. There are thousands of Norwegian fjords, but we especially recommend Sognefjord, known as ‘the king of the fjords’, for scenic kayaking expeditions.
Whitewater Rafting on the Zambezi River
The Zambezi River is best known for the thundering Victoria Falls, which sit right on the border of Zambia and Zimbabwe. But the river itself is also ripe for adventure – especially if you’re up for an exhilarating whitewater rafting trip. The Batoka Gorge boasts some of the world’s best rapids for experienced paddlers, though you certainly don’t have to be a pro to conquer them. Go from August to December, when water levels are low, for the best rafting conditions.
Volcano Trekking in Iceland
Known as the ‘Land of Fire and Ice’, Iceland is an outdoor adventurer’s dream come true. The ‘ice’ part of its nickname may be fairly obvious, but volcano trekking invites you to explore the ‘fire’: lava fields, geysers, geothermal springs and highly active volcanoes. Head to the Icelandic Highlands or southern Iceland for some of the most dramatic volcanic landscapes, from vast craters to ash-streaked glaciers.
Escapes for Wildlife Enthusiasts
Some of the world’s best wilderness vacations are particularly well suited to animal lovers. Here are a few phenomenal experiences that combine wildlife encounters with unforgettable environments – both marine and terrestrial.
Snorkelling in the Great Barrier Reef
The Great Barrier Reef is among the world’s most spectacular wonders, and there’s nothing quite like snorkelling (or scuba diving) through its exceptionally diverse underwater ecosystem. Set all the way at the northeastern edge of Australia, this is the largest coral reef system on earth. There are literally thousands of species to see; you’re likely to encounter everything from fish and sea turtles to dolphins and dugongs.
Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda
The mountain gorillas of Rwanda have been endangered for decades, but recent conservation efforts have helped the species to survive. You can observe these majestic creatures in their natural habitat by going gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park. With highly limited permits and a firm focus on ethical encounters, this is a truly unique and meaningful wildlife experience in one of Africa’s most beautiful environments.
Wildlife Watching in the Galápagos Islands
Of all the globe’s most far-flung destinations, the Galápagos Islands might just offer the perfect combination of rare wildlife and natural beauty. Nearly 1,000 kilometres (600 miles) off the coast of Ecuador, this archipelago is home to endemic species like giant tortoises, Darwin’s finches and marine iguanas. Animal lovers will find plenty to do both on land and at sea; we recommend booking a Galápagos cruise to see as much of the archipelago as possible.
Top Outdoor Family Vacations
There’s no age limit when it comes to the sense of awe and wonder that nature inspires; children and adults alike can marvel at its beauty and revel in its magic. With that in mind, here are a few of the best outdoor places to visit with your family.
Zip-Lining in Costa Rica
A family trip to Costa Rica is a chance to challenge your children – and yourself – to play an active part in your exploration, whether that means hiking through cloud forests or helping baby turtles reach the sea. But above all, we recommend zip-lining through the rainforest canopy: a safe and controlled thrill that everyone can enjoy, regardless of age or ability. Stay at Pacuare Lodge to sleep among the treetops, too.
Wildlife Safari in Madikwe
Going on safari with your family may seem overwhelming, but the abundance of family-friendly safari lodges and wildlife reserves make it easier than you might think. Madikwe is among our favourite spots for a family trip to South Africa, not least because it’s malaria-free. It’s also home to Morukuru Family, a collection of three private villas offering bespoke safari adventures.
Discovering the Islands of Thailand
If you’re thinking of travelling to Thailand with family, make sure to add the country’s stunning islands to your list. In Phuket you can go hiking, kayaking or zip-lining, while Koh Samui is ideal for snorkelling, learning how to scuba dive or simply relaxing on idyllic beaches. We also suggest visiting multiple islands on a private boat trip that can be adapted to your family’s interests.
Best Outdoor Vacation Experiences
Certain trips don’t slot easily into any particular category. These vacations are all about enjoying the world’s best outdoor travel destinations through once-in-a-lifetime experiences that you simply can’t have anywhere else.
Safari in Serengeti National Park
Going on safari in Serengeti National Park is definitely an experience unlike any other. Despite the abundance of other national parks in Tanzania, there’s something special about this storied landscape with its baobab and acacia trees, seemingly infinite savannahs and emblematic animals. Then of course there’s the singular spectacle of the Great Migration, which takes place mostly in Tanzania.
Jungle Trekking in Borneo
Borneo is an enormous island boasting some of the most biodiverse rainforests on earth, where you’ll find distinctive species like the orangutan, sun bear, pygmy elephant and Bornean rhino. Beyond spotting wildlife, jungle trekking through the Danum Valley or Batang Ai National Park also offers opportunities to see vibrant plant life and meet local Indigenous groups like the Iban.
Hot Air Ballooning over Cappadocia
Turkey is brimming with historical treasures and contrasting cultures, and Cappadocia is among its can’t-miss spots. This surreal site is speckled with ‘fairy chimneys’ (whimsical rock formations) and undulating cliffs, and known for the colourful hot air balloons that often fill the sky above it. Hop into one for stunning bird’s-eye views of the intricate landscape below. After touching down, make sure to explore the underground cities as well.
Embark on Your Ultimate Outdoor Escape
With the whole world to explore, there are endless possibilities for a bespoke outdoor vacation. Our expert travel designers are ready to help find the one that’s perfect for you.
Feeling inspired? Our expert travel designers are always on hand to help you find the most incredible locations for your outdoor escape.
