Do you crave vacations that are more than just sightseeing trips? If so, you'll love these five adventurous vacations that are perfect for thrill seekers! These vacations take travelers off the beaten path and into some of the world's most breathtaking, uniquely remarkable scenery. Walk ancient trails, climb rugged peaks and witness exotic wildlife in its natural habitat. Here we'll review the best adventure vacations and affordable deals that can make these dream excursions a reality. These are the vacations that create memories that last a lifetime. Read on to learn more about these thrilling getaways.
New Zealand is among the most picturesque places on Earth, offering unrivaled adventure in an otherworldly setting. New Zealand has more than 500 hiking trails with options for treks lasting hours, days or weeks. There are no shopping malls, coffee shops or hotels -- everything you need, you or your guide must carry. Older travelers should not be intimidated, though, as several of these hiking tours follow easy routes through New Zealand's incredible landscape.
Tour Radar is offering incredible deals on New Zealand hiking tour packages. There's a five-day hiking package through Auckland, Rotorua, Taupo, Wellington and Tongariro National Park for $2,328. There is also an eight-day trek through southern New Zealand for $3,659 per person. Nature & Nosh is offering a hiking and food tour through New Zealand starting at just $1,690.
A vacation in Patagonia is an unforgettable experience. Wildland Trekking is offering some of the best deals on Patagonia tours, such as a seven-day vacation package for $4,100 per person that includes hiking, glacier hiking and sea kayaking. The tour company Say Hueque is offering its 13-day Bet of Patagonia Tour for $1,915 per person.
If you are looking for a little adventure in your life, there's no better destination than the wild and gorgeous continent of Africa. With the Classic South African safari, you’ll have a chance to see a wide variety of creatures, including dangerous predators like lions, as well as rhinos, elephant and even penguins. Also, while you're not up close with Big Five Game, you can relax at luxurious lodges and resorts with all the amenities of five-star hotels.
Machu Picchu is among the world's most majestic and mystifying places. Nestled in the Andes mountains, these ancient Incan ruins sit nearly 8,000 feet above sea against a backdrop of breathtaking panoramic views. The best way to experience Machu Picchu is to hike the 26-mile Inca Trail, which connects the archaeological sites of Runcuracay, Sayacmarca, Phuyupatamarca and Machu Picchu. People used to hike the Inca Trail on their own, but now hikers must be accompanied by licensed guides. Most tour companies offer four- and five-day treks. Plan ahead, as these tours sell out months in advance.
Spanning Argentina and Chile on the southernmost tip of South America, the Patagonia region encompasses grasslands, desserts, rainforest and sharp peaks. Numerous travel companies offer guided hiking and biking tours ranging anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks. See glaciers, mountain lakes, granite cliffs and numerous other stunning vistas that nobody will ever see from the window of a car or tour bus.
The Great Barrier Reef off the coast of Queensland in Northern Australia is the largest living thing on earth. The reef is made of more than 600 types of coral, and it's home to turtles, exotic fish, starfish and more. Travelers can explore the via cruises, day trips, and even from hot air balloon tours, but nothing beats putting on scuba gear and experiencing the reef up close.
Kanyezi Africa is one of many travel companies offering great safari deals. Take a nine-day journey through Kruger National Park for $54,95 per person, or a 13-day trek through the park with stops in Capetown and The Cape of Good Hope for $7,395 per person. Another fantastic deal is through United Travel Group, where you can book a seven-day safari through Kenya's Samburu and Shaba national parks -- as well as Masai Mara and the Great Rift Valley -- for $2,395.
Want to find incredible deals for visiting Machu Picchu? Audley Travel is currently offering a 12-day vacation package covering the Amazon, the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu for $3,405 per person. G Adventures is also offering a tour that includes both the Amazon and Machu Picchu for $2,749. For those who want to hike the Inca Trail, Audley Travel is offering an eight-day adventure with four days of hiking and camping en route to Machu Picchu.
Want to experience the Great Barrier Reef to the fullets? Jacada Travel is offering an expansive luxury tour for $8,700 that includes stops at the reef as well as Sydney, Uluru and more. For a better deals with fewer luxury frills, Goway Tours is offering an eight-day Classic Sydney, Rock & Reef tour starting at $1,392.