Much as we love a beach holiday or a relaxing cruise, there’s definitely something about a trip that involves a little more adventure. Every so often, it can be incredibly rewarding to experience something different in a beautiful and exciting part of the world.
Holidays are more varied now than ever before, and professionally guided tours are making it possible for people to explore places and take on challenges previously accessible by only the most intrepid travellers.
Guided adventure holidays are a wonderful way to experience some of the more remote and exciting destinations out there, and to see some truly amazing culture, wildlife, and natural landscapes, all under the watchful eyes of an expert group leader.
Not all of the destinations we’ve rounded up here require a guide, but all guarantee some genuine ‘wow’ moments!
1. Trekking with rhinos in Namibia
Join your wildlife guide in a 4×4 and explore the deserts of Damaraland in the hope of catching sight of the rare rhinos who live there, before heading out to try and spot lions, elephants, and cheetahs. Booking with a responsible travel company will mean that your trip contributes to essential conservation efforts too.
2. Explore amazing natural caves in Utah
The shapes and colours of the natural rock caves and gorges of Antelope Canyon in Utah are every bit as dramatic as the Grand Canyon, but with a fraction of the tourists. A guided exploration can show you some of the most awe-inspiring formations first-hand.
Don’t forget to buy USA travel insurance
3. See the Northern Lights in Iceland
As a popular up-and-coming travel destination, Iceland is becoming quite the holiday hotspot! An increasing number of airlines are offering affordable flights to the areas of the country where the Northern Lights can be seen at their most impressive. So there’s no better time to wrap up warm and tick this one off your bucket list.
4. Jungle trekking in Borneo
A tailor-made conservation-inspired guided tour into the rainforests of this biodiverse paradise can reveal the wildlife that calls it home, including endangered Sumatran rhinos and clouded leopards. Take part in a night safari in the Danum Valley or experience world-class diving around the tiny neighbouring islands of Lankayan and Sipadan.
Please note: Scuba diving is covered under Free Spirit up to a maximum depth of 30m, provided you are not diving alone.
5. Kayak across a stunning Slovenian lake
Lake Bled in Slovenia is a picture-perfect location, surrounded by densely forested, snow-capped mountains and with a tiny 17th church on the island in its centre. Taking to the water in a kayak is a great way to explore the lake and soak up the breathtaking views.
6. Snorkel with giant marine life in Western Australia
Although they don’t get the attention of their famous east coast counterpart, the reefs on Australia’s west coast are just as beautiful and rich in life as the Great Barrier Reef. At Ningaloo Reef, you can swim with some of the biggest marine creatures going all year round, including whale sharks (don’t worry, they’re non-carnivorous!), migrating humpback whales and manta rays.
7. Hike to the end of the world in Spain
The north-western region of Galicia in Spain is home to what was long believed to be the end of the world; Cape Finisterre. Walk the spectacular Costa da Morte (Coast of Death) to reach it, so-called thanks to the many ships that became wrecked on its treacherous shore.
8. Count the stars in Tenerife
Although Tenerife is known for being a volcanic island, many may not be aware of its jaw-dropping Teide National Park, which could be a dead-ringer for the rugged Arizona badlands. Take a cable car up to an altitude of 3550 metres to watch the stars come out with virtually no light pollution, alongside an expert astronomer.
9. Travel legendary Route 66
Many of us have dreamt of taking to the open road along with one of America’s most famous highways, which stretches coast to coast from Chicago to California. On route, you can experience the freedom of the road and take in all the weird and wonderful sights along the way.
10. Explore the Andes
Another 4×4 adventure awaits, this time along the world’s longest mountain chain in Peru. Explore the colonial churches and architecture of Ayacucho, the archaeological remains of Cusco, and look out for condors and flamingos in Pampas Galeras National Park.
Have we given you some travel experiences to dream about? Our medical travel insurance can help turn your dreams into a reality
Whatever your ultimate adventure might be, having specialist travel insurance that covers your existing medical condition or disability is an essential box to tick off your list of preparations.
We aim to offer tailored medical travel insurance to people with almost any health condition or disability, of any age, for a huge variety of destinations and activities, so talk to us about your travel plans – we’d love to help you realise them!
With Free Spirit, medical travel insurance includes a wealth of essential cover benefits*, such as cancellation cover, emergency medical expenses and cover for your travel documents, medical aids and luggage.
For a quick, no-obligation travel insurance quote, either call a member of our friendly expert team on 02392 419 080 or apply online.
Top tip: If you are in any doubt as to whether a particular activity is covered by Free Spirit, please call us on 02392 419 080.
*Cover is subject to the terms, conditions and limits of the Insurance Policy.