Guide to Adventure Holidays

When it comes to adventure holidays there are particular destinations and activites that immediately spring to mind. Africa will always be associated with the “safari”, Egypt with a journey to the “pyramids” and Australia with a trip to “the outback”.

However as enjoyable and entirely keeping with the "adventure" prefix, these are just some of the many options available to people who want a little danger in their travel itinerary. There are many types of adventure holidays to choose from, here is just a sample of the options available to the adventurer at heart.

Victoria Falls and The Zambezi River

An ultimate adventure guaranteed to get your adrenaline pumping is located in the border region of Zambia and Zimbabwe, the majestic Victoria Falls on the Zambezi River. If you fancy a wild ride, you can spend a day white water rafting down the Zambezi whilst conquering the “Devil’s Toilet Bowl” rapids.

The Zambezi is superb for wildlife watching. You can catch sight of elephants, buffalos, zebras and even the occasional lion. Experienced climbers can abseil down the rock face above the Zambezi, which carves its way through the Bakota Gorge. For an extra thrill around the Falls try river boarding, bungee jumping and swinging over the gorge.

For the more relaxed amongst you why not try an elephant ride or horseback safari? Or take a canoe down the Kafue River, a tributary of the Zambezi River, and sail into the Kafue National Park where you can see much wildlife including hippopotamuses, zebras, black rhinoceroses and lions.

Tours in this area usually provide camping and cooking equipment, transport and guides. Not included however, are sleeping bags and drinks, so take plenty of bottled water.

Italian Ruins and Active Volcanos

For something quieter, why not take a look at what the Italian menu has to offer. Sicily has intrigue mixed with romance and topped off with plenty of history.

Palmero, once regarded as the grandest and most beautiful city in Europe has plenty of palaces, churches and gardens waiting to be explored. There are also the Greek ruins of the ‘Valley of the Temples’ in the medieval town of Agrigento to be discovered.

One of the world's most active volcanoes, Mount Etna, draws in tourists who are keen to climb up the trembling mountain. Nearby volcanic Lipari Island is popular with sunbathers. You can spend hours lounging on the beautiful beaches or take a boat to the surrounding Aeolian Islands and watch the constant lava flow on down the Stromboli, a volcanic island.

Tours here will consist of extensive walking, so pack comfortable walking shoes, socks and plasters in case of blisters.

The Inca Trail

The famous Inca Trail is a great way to trek the Andes, covering places like Machu Picchu and Cusco, which has a selection of Spanish tavernas and colourful Quechua Indian markets. You could always try a boat trip down the Amazon River and explore the fascinating Peruvian city of Iquitos.

Discover the Amazon villages and jungle tracks and explore the pre Inca ruins in Kuelap, located along the Inca trail in Peru. There are also the Ballestas Isles, a nature reserve, or the Pacific subtropical coastal desert of Paracas, the only protected coastal marine area in the country and one of the most productive marine areas on the planet. Both are good spots to see a rich assortment of fauna and animal species in danger of extinction. North of the city of Arequipa is Colca Canyon, home to the great condors and one of Peru’s natural beauties. The La Calera hot springs at Chivay are the perfect way to unwind.

It’s a good idea to take cash with you as ATMs and traveller’s cheques aren’t used in small towns. Take plenty of sun protection, water, a good camera and lots of film because there are plenty of great views to capture.

To help satisfy your adventurous streak, check out our listings on safaris and adventure holidays.