Active adventure holidays include cycling and walking tours but sometimes we even take you kayaking or do more daring things like zip-lining. While there are numerous new trips being launched in the new year, we have made a selection of the best hiking, biking and multi-sport adventure tours.
Here are the best new active adventure travel holidays for 2020.
Cycle Poland - Gdansk and the Baltic Coast
8 days from CA$1,500
Physical rating 2 out of 5
An exploration of Poland's Baltic coast on two wheels. Cycle along dedicated cycle paths and quiet country roads through charming medieval towns, past pristine beaches and along the Hel Peninsula sand bar. Visit the giant Teutonic castle of Malbork. Contact us for more information.
Portuguese Camino
10 days from CA$2,120
Physical rating 3 out of 5
Challenge yourself to a journey from pretty Porto to the historic Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela on an 11-day alternative coastal Camino trail. This Portuguese Camino trail passes through coastal Baiona, Vigo and Redondela, and joins the pilgrim route onwards to Pontevedra, Caldas de Reis, Padron, and finishing in Santiago de Compostela. You’ll embark on a journey through the countryside in mostly north-western Spain, retracing the ‘Way of Saint James’, trekking past the Bay of Vigo, visiting old churches and quaint villages. As one of the three most important Christian pilgrimages, you’ll take part in a powerful journey through some idyllic landscapes and via some beautiful towns. Contact us for more information.
Cycling the Italian and Swiss Lakes
8 days from CA$3,145
Physical rating 3 out of 5
The Italian lakes of Como and Maggiore are famed for both their spectacular scenery and their well-heeled residents. The rich and famous clearly have good taste as the scenery here is simply wonderful with forested hills and medieval properties overlooking the glistening blue waters. This is a fascinating place to discover on two wheels with excellent roads that closely follow the winding shores. Amongst others, we visit the Hermitage of Santa Caterina del Sasso, a striking overhanging abbey built by a rich merchant. The Villa del Balbianello with its ornate Italian gardens may look familiar to film buffs, having featured in international movies such as Bond’s Casino Royale and Star Wars: Attack of the clones. There will be opportunities to taste plenty of delicious local produce en route, including cheese, cold meats, honey, wines and ice cream, before riding across the border to Lugano in Switzerland for a chocolate tasting. The excellent cycle rides will hopefully help you build up an appetite! Contact us for more information.
Cycle the Balkans
15 days from CA$3,645
Physical rating 4 out of 5
The Balkans offers an intoxicating mix of beautiful countryside, fast-developing cities and historic towns. Our first ride ends at the UNESCO town of Ohrid on the vast lake of the same name, from here the route leads up towards the border with Kosovo. Small towns and villages dot the route as we wind our way across into Montenegro and through the heart of the imposing Durmitor Mountains. As the route suggests, there is a good mix of climbing and flat riding, with a few stops along the way to visit or see places of interest. Sunshine and sea come in the form of the Bay of Kotor on the Adriatic, a dramatic setting to end the ride. Few other regions offer such cultural and natural variety along with a true sense of discovery. Contact us for more information.
Turkey - Walking the Turquoise Coast
8 days from CA$979
Physical rating 2 out of 5
The Turquoise Coast offers an alluring combination of beautiful scenery and ancient sites with some fine coastal and inland walking on the many trails in the area, including sections of the famed Lycian Way. Highlights include the ruined city of Arycanda, the chance to walk over a Roman aqueduct and some fantastic coastal views. Those looking for more adventure can also take part in a number of optional activities including SCUBA diving, paragliding and mountain biking. Alternatively just sit back and enjoy the leisurely pace of life in Turkey from the comfort of a poolside lounger or harbour café. Contact us for more information.
Trek Armenia: The Transcaucasian Trail
10 days from CA$1,905
Physical rating 4 out of 5
Follow the spectacular Transcaucasian trail through the stunning mountain ranges of Armenia on this world-class, long-distance hike that traverses one of the most biologically and culturally diverse regions in the world – and few have had the chance to explore. Feast your eyes upon the dramatic gorges and rocky canyons of the Vayots Dzor province, witness beautiful Armenian architecture at the UNESCO listed Noravank Monastery and indulge in a delicious drop or two as you navigate your way through one of the oldest wine-producing regions in the world. Follow over 3000 kilometres of trail through the impressive scenery of the Great Caucasus and join the community of international hikers helping to put this intriguing region on the map. Contact us for more information.
Azerbaijan Caucasus Walking
9 days from CA$1760
Physical rating 2 out of 5
A walking holiday that discovers the wild landscapes, history and contemporary culture of little-known Azerbaijan. Sitting on the easternmost fringes of Europe, flanked by the mighty Caucasus Mountains and Caspian Sea, it's a country undergoing rapid change and a fascinating place to visit. Contact us for more information.
Sri Lanka Expedition: Village & Tea Treks
14 days from CA$2,225
Physical rating 4 out of 5
Venture off the tourist trail and uncover the raw beauty of Sri Lankan paradise on this heart-pumping, soul-warming, active adventure that takes you behind the scenes of this irresistible island. Trek deep into steamy jungles amid birdlife and butterflies, traverse the undulating peaks and folds of misty mountain ranges, climb winding staircases to the grounds of an ancient fortress, meander through tea plantations dotted with quaint villages and cool down on a hike through the picturesque highlands – then reward your efforts with an epic sunrise on the summit of Adam’s peak, panoramic vistas from the crown of Sigiriya and a lazy day on the palm-fringed beach of Unawatuna. So, lace up your boots and pack your sense of adventure as you prepare to traverse the enchanting terrain of the Teardrop Isle. Contact us for more information.
Japan: Koya-san & Kumano Kodo Trek
8 days from CA$4,075
Physical rating 3 out of 5
Stray onto the beaten track with an eight-day trekking adventure on some of the ancient pilgrim routes in Japan. The Koya-san and Kumano Kodo treks take you deep through the wilderness and into the mountainous landscapes of Honshu, as well as provide insight into the strong connection with past and present pilgrims hiking these historic routes. Along the way, stop by peaceful temples and tranquil monasteries, soak in traditional onsen and discover the cultural hubs of Kyoto and Osaka. This small-group adventure will give you both a physical and cultural workout around the best of enchanting Japan. Contact us for more information.
Sulawesi Expedition: Tana Toraja Trek
11 days from CA$1,495
Physical rating 3 out of 5
Experience an island that ventures way beyond the imagination. Hike deep into the mountainous core of Sulawesi and witness the compelling combination of art, ritual and death that’s central to the existence of one of Indonesia’s more confronting cultures, on an unforgettable expedition that’s not fit for the faint-hearted. Inhale the fresh mountain air and traverse dense bamboo forests, undulating landscapes and deep fertile valleys on a breathtaking trek that sees you interacting with the locals and resting in remote villages. Leave the terraces of rice paddies behind to discover elaborate wooden effigies on the cliff-face tombs of Lemo, and meet the Taroja people – who, by faithfully following ancient traditions, preserve the belief that death is all a part of life’s journey. Contact us for more information.
Cuba Multisport - bike, kayak & hike
12 days from CA$2,549
Physical rating 3 out of 5
Cycle, hike, snorkel, and kayak your way through Cuba's incredible natural landscapes on a 12-day tour that gets up close to Mother Nature. Ride along the stunning Viñales Valley, passing mogotes (large limestone pincushion hills) and tobacco farms, explore the vast cave network of Cueva de Santo Tomas, go underwater world in the crystal clear Bay of Pigs, and kayak to an 18th-century fortress in Cienfuegos Bay. With all the details taken care of, you can concentrate on soaking in the incredible sights around you. Contact us for more information.
Dominica - Caribbean Island Walking
9 days from CA$3520
Physical rating 3 out of 5
Often named the 'Nature Island', Dominica's dramatic interior of forest-covered mountains, spectacular waterfalls and bubbling hot springs is perfect for exploring on foot. The lush scenery and wild nature make this a Caribbean holiday with a difference. Contact us for more information.
Guatemala Expedition: El Mirador Trek
8 days from CA$1,045
Physical rating 4 out of 5
Go in search of ancient Maya civilisation on an eight-day expedition of northern Guatemala. The Carmelita El Mirador jungle trek is an incredible active adventure that takes you through the lush thickets of the Mirador-Rio Azul National Park, past overgrown jungle and native bird and wildlife. You’ll discover ancient citadels – some of the oldest discovered in Mesoamerica. Camping beside the sites gives you direct and uninterrupted access to learn and gaze at the historical wonders. Challenge yourself and turn back time on this exciting historical Guatemalan trek. Contact us for more information.
Cycle Guatemala, Honduras & El Salvador
15 days from CA$5,545
Physical rating 4 out of 5
This adventure into Central America showcases the best of the region, from the Pacific to the Caribbean coast. In Guatemala, we cycle around Lago Atitlan - a lake in an ancient crater where mountains and verdant hills circle the water. In San Juan, on the south shore of the lake, we meet and support the indigenous ladies that live here weaving vibrant fabrics. We also visit Antigua, one of Guatemala's oldest cities, home to colonial architecture and history. Delve into Honduras' history, learning of its Mayan past at the Copan ruins. Whilst in El Salvador we take La Ruta de las Flores - named for its flowers - through colourful villages and coffee plantations up to Apaneca. As well as challenging rides through tropical scenery there is time to discover other attractions of the countries we visit! Contact us for more information.
Costa Rica: Hike, Raft & Zipline
11 days from CA$3,145
Physical rating 4 out of 5
Jump straight into this active journey through the secluded wilderness of Costa Rica. From vibrant San Jose, head to the pristine San Gerardo de Dota valley – home to endless cloud forests and a haven for unique birdlife. Pull on your boots and stretch your legs for an unforgettable four-day hike along the Savegre River to the Pacific coast, through misty forests and humid jungle. Stick on a helmet and experience a half day riding the rapids of Rio Naranjo. Continue down the coast to Drake Bay and explore the Corcovado National Park. This trip will open the eyes and quicken the pulse in one of the most lush jungles in the world. Contact us for more information.
Northern Brazil: Hiking & Beaches
8 days from CA$2,520
Physical rating 3 out of 5
Experience the heart and soul of Brazilian culture and its remote interior wilderness as you embark on an eight-day adventure that breathes vibrant history and natural beauty. Feel the pulse of Afro-Brazilian beats on the streets of Salvador, sip Caipirinhas on the palm-fringed shores of Morro de Sao Paulo and traverse rugged plains and thundering waterfalls in the verdant landscapes of Chapada Diamantina National Park. Find yourself among lush jungles, picture-perfect beaches, colourful colonial houses and jaw-dropping caves on this perfect Brazilian blend of relaxation and exploration. Contact us for more information.
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