Top 10 Outdoor & Active Vacations

Plunge into the azure waters of Raja Ampat, one of the world’s best scuba diving sites. Dive into vibrant coral gardens, encountering a kaleidoscope of marine life and some of the world’s finest reefs in this underwater wonderland. Sail the Raja Ampat Archipelago on a private charter with an expert crew for a luxurious, customized cruise.

Enjoy pure island bliss at LUX Le Morne in Mauritius, a truly secluded boutique retreat nestled at the foot of UNESCO-listed Le Morne mountain. While here, you’ll have the chance to explore the incredible natural scenery including Le Morne and Black River Gorge National Park. Embark on a scenic hike through the national park before venturing up Le Morne mountain in a 4X4 for a sunset apertivo and champagne.

Take your exploration of the South Island’s most scenic regions to new heights with a heli hiking experience in Franz Josef National Park. One for the adventurous travelers, take a scenic flight by helicopter and be dropped off alongside your guide at the starting point, high up on the glacier. Admire the awe-inspiring glacier vistas while kicking off the exciting, two-hour trek. Traverse exciting trails and marvel at the epic scenery and ice formations as you go.

For a truly epic arrival to your vacation destination, strap in and paraglide into Six Senses Zighy Bay. Launch from 960 feet above sea level, soar over the ruggedly beautiful landscape of the Gulf of Oman and soak up the views of the Al Hajar Mountains before gently descending to the soft sands of Zighy Beach.

Traverse the lunar-like surface of the Makgadikgadi Salt Pans on a quad bike. Arrive at Kubu Island, a remote rocky outcrop crowned by ancient, gnarled baobab trees. Here, vast skies and sprawling salt pans combine to create this extraordinary African landscape. Switch off your engine and take a moment to breathe in the silence and solitude.

Delve into the invigorating buzz of Hanoi as you weave through the bustling city streets on a Vespa, immersing yourself in the very best of Vietnam. Indulge in the sights and smells of the city as the wind blows through your hair, stopping off to sample infused rice wine and enjoy the vibrant sounds of a famous local jazz club.

Iconic granite towers beckon the avid adventurer in Torres del Paine. Hike in the vicinity of the icy glacier, through sprawling forests and along lakes sparkling under morning frost. Absorb stunning views from the sun and snow-kissed peaks as you trek. Hear the call of pumas in the stillness of the night, perhaps seeing them cross your path by day.

Embrace your adventurous spirit at Iceland’s Silfra Fissure – the only place in the world where you can snorkel and dive between two tectonic plates – the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates. Don a snorkel and explore the crystal-clear waters. Float over lava, swim between volcanic canyons and admire the underwater scenery – this is a ‘once-in-a-lifetime' experience of note!

Escape the bustling crowds on a bike ride through the Valley of the Moon at dawn, enjoying moments of true bliss as the sun rises over the picturesque sand dunes. Attune your senses to the silence of nature, uncovering the remote Tatio Geyser fields, spotting flamingos in the Altiplano lakes and pausing for a revitalizing swim in local lagoons.

Take on a thrill-seekers route or a gentle raft through the jungle scenery, occasionally across rushing rapids for a short sharp blast of adrenaline, on the Pacuare River in Costa Rica en route to Pacuare Lodge. Definitely an experience for families with teenagers and older travelers who are looking for a dose of sheer fun, you’ll encounter some of the best whitewater Costa Rica has to offer, as well as the Huacas waterfall and classic Costa Rican wildlife.