Top 10 Outdoor & Active Holidays

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, customised 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 travellers, 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 holiday 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.

Feel the touch of icy glaciers as you paddle through freezing aquamarine waters. As spring arrives, alpine and glacial lakes thaw, revealing vibrant blue waters that are prime for a glacier kayaking adventure. Marvel at the stark contrasts on the landscape and how the arrival of the warmer weather transforms the frozen surroundings.

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!

Immerse yourself in the red rock beauty of America’s southwest, a scarcely populated region fused with a compelling spiritual energy. Explore extraordinary landscapes, stunning national parks, Native American history and Wild West folklore. Tick Canyonlands, Arches, Capital Reef, Bryce Canyon, Red Rock, Lake Powell and Zion National Park off your wish list.

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 travellers 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.