blog

Where to spend the holidays: 7 new trip ideas

Lighthouse Reef Atoll in Belize
Lighthouse Reef Atoll in Belize

Spend the holidays on a remote atoll, celebrate Christmas Day on the Inca Trail or welcome the New Year at one of the most remote places on Earth. Find seven exciting active adventures to do in December and January that'll make the festive season one to remember.

Break away on a remote atoll in Belize

In need of a tropical adventure? Then put our new Belize Jungle and Reef trip on your radar. Lighthouse Reef Atoll is the first marine protected area in Central America home to over 20 renowned dive and snorkel sites, including the world famous Blue Hole, Half Moon Wall and the Aquarium. Don a mask, snorkel and fins and swim in this rich reef system, second in size only to Australia's Great Barrier Reef.

Submerged underwater is the best way to view Lighthouse Reef Sunset over the beautiful Lighthouse Reef Basecamp Mayan ruins of Lamanai in Belize Up close to a local Iguana in Belize Preparing to Kayak in the crystal clear waters of Belize Stand up paddle boarding in the warm waters of Lighthouse Reef Half Moon Base Camp backs onto the blue waters of Belize
 

Relax in a safari-style beach cabana with endless views of the Caribbean and enjoy day temperatures in December in the mid-20oCs – the sea could not be more inviting!

Plus, explore a different side of Belize: the jungle, where you will encounter a spectacular Maya world of ancient ruins, old Creole settlements as well as an impressive diversity of indigenous wildlife.

Treat yourself to spectacular safari lodges in Namibia

Harshly beautiful with stunning desert colours, endemic wildlife that has adapted to an arid environment and rock art spanning thousands of years, Namibia is a fascinating destination. But heading into the wilderness does not mean you have to rough it.

The spectacular safari lodges allow you to enjoy extra creature comforts, such as private en suite facilities, a swimming pool and sunset decks. The best part? Each safari lodge and camp are scenically located so you can best appreciate the impressive Namibian landscape and its wild.

Climbing the sand dunes of Sossusvlei |  <i>Peter Walton</i>

Enjoy game viewing in Etosha National Park, take in the ruggedly beautiful scenery of Damaraland, visit the colonial coastal town of Swakopmund and admire some of the world’s biggest sand dunes at Sossusvlei the views from the top of the dunes are well worth the climb.

Welcome the New Year in Ethiopia's otherworldly landscape

Camp beside the longest-existing lava lake in the world, hike up the ‘Smoking Mountain’, explore alien landscapes hidden deep beneath thick deposits of salt and witness colourful eruptions and active flows.

The unfiltered volcanic landscape of Dallol in the Danakil desert |  <i>Tanguy de Saint-Cyr</i> Active Lava Lake at Erta Ale |  <i>Lukas Bischoff Photograph</i> Edge of the world views in Ethiopia's Simien mountain range |  <i>Jon Millen</i>
 

The Danakil Depression desert, one of the world's most remote places, certainly makes for a memorable way to welcome the New Year. In the Afar region of north-east Ethiopia, it's on one of the hottest, driest and lowest places on Earth. The hundreds of impressive fumaroles and hot springs will feel as though you've stepped foot on another planet.

The trip also treks through the spectacular Simien Mountain escarpments, camping on the volcanic plateau with chances to spot unique wildlife such as the Walia Ibex and Gelada Baboon.

Spend Christmas on the Inca Trail

The classic hike along the historic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is considered by many to be one of the greatest short treks of the world. Our new Inca Trail Explorer trip offers the opportunity to overnight at quieter and scenic wilderness campsites away from the crowds.

Breathtaking views across Machu Picchu

Spend two days in the Sacred Valley to acclimatise to the altitude with walks through impressive Inca sites before you head out on the iconic Inca Trail on 25 December. On your way to Machu Picchu – and as you ascend dramatic passes, jungle trails and cloud forests – you will feel inspired by the panorama of Andean peaks.

Let Tasmania’s East Coast take your breath away

Celebrate the festive season on Tasmania’s East Coast, which offers access to some of the most breathtaking experiences on offer on Australia’s island state.

Head to the seaside village of Coles Bay and make your way to Freycinet National Park. Admire the dramatic pink granite peaks, secluded coves and white sandy beaches and, if you are up for the challenge, climb up Mount Amos for panoramic views of the captivating Wineglass Bay.

Just another glorious day on the Freycinet Experience Walk

Then explore on foot or by bike the beautiful Maria Island, a natural wildlife sanctuary known for its sweeping bays and historic ruins.

Reach new heights in Africa to kick off the New Year

If you are after an adventure to remote heights, head to Uganda’s rugged Rwenzori Mountains (also known as ‘Mountains of the Moon’).

Giant Groundsels and Lobelia Giants in Uganda's Rwenzori Mountains |  <i>Juniors Bildarchiv GmbH</i>

Begin the New Year on a high as you marvel at panoramic vistas from the so-called Observation Peak (4,328m) before making your way to the top of Margherita Peak, Africa’s third highest peak.

Discover remote alpine valleys and glacial landscapes, experience pristine tropical rainforests and cross through Giant Lobelia forests along the remote Kilembe Trail.

Hike along secret trails in USA's deserts & canyonlands

What better way to mark the end of year than with an exhilarating adventure in some of the world's most dramatic geological formations? Walk past endless natural stone arches and lava tubes, over petrified sand dunes and into a wonderland of stone towers and twisted sandstone rocks.

Vibrant colours as we hike though Arches National Park |  <i>Jake Hutchins</i>

Although it can be a lot colder during this time of year, it's usually sunny and clearer during the daytime and with much fewer crowds.

Mesa Arch, Canyonlands National Park, Utah |  <i>Susanne Lorenz</i>

Highlights include: the journey to Capitol Reef along a little known track which overlooks the immense monocline stretching over 100 kilometres; the giant amphitheater filled with purple, pink, and dark red stone towers at Bryce Canyon National Park; and witnessing the red landscapes of Monument Valley of the Navajo on trails off limits to tourists. The finale? Celebrating New Year at the Grand Canyon – amazing!

Comment (1)

Criss

Thanks for sharing the nice piece of content with us. I am also a big fond of traveling & now my aim is to travel dubai for different experiences i.e dune buggy. Actually you can say its my passion to explore all the world & see the beauty of nature with my own eyes. One of the strongest incentives to travel is the cultural expression of the people. The peculiarities of the culture of various regions of the world are increasingly prompting a person to spend their holidays and free time traveling. The development of the cultural elements of the region is a means of expanding resources to attract tourist flows. The development of tourism depends to a certain extent on the uniqueness of the cultural national heritage. The level of cultural development can be used to create a favorable image of a tourist destination in the service market. Once again thanks for sharing the nice piece of stuff with us.

2 years ago
Your comment will be visible after the administrator's approval.







b i u quote


Save Comment
Join Newsletter
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/ADS.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Adventures South"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Adventure South</div>
Adventure South NZ is unrivalled in their geographic coverage, originality and overall quality of adventures holidays in New Zealand. Choose from walking, cycling, winter or multi-activity holidays, on either the North or South Island.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/AWH.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Australian Walking Holidays"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Australian Walking Holidays</div>
Australian Walking Holidays specialises in small group guided walking adventures. Since 1982 we have been guiding small groups of travellers on Australia's finest walks across our tropical, coastal or red centre landscapes.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/GCT.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Great Canadian Trails"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Great Canadian Trails</div>
Great Canadian Trails specialises in active holidays in Canada. With both guided and supported self-guided options available, our unique itineraries draw upon some of Canada's most inspiring parks, trails and landscapes from coast to coast.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/HUM.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Humac Challenge"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Huma Charity Challenge</div>
Huma enables those with adventurous spirits to challenge themselves and make a difference for a cause close to their heart. Travel, fundraise and meet life-long friends on one of Huma's meaningful and unique challenges around the world.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/WB.jpg?v2' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Walkers’ Britain"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Walkers' Britain</div>
Walkers' Britain (formerly Sherpa Expeditions) have specialised in walking and cycling trips in the United Kingdom and Europe since 1973. Explore iconic trails and destinations on a self guided or small group active holiday with Walkers' Britain.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/WB.jpg?v2' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Walkers’ Britain"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Walkers' Britain</div>
Walkers' Britain (formerly Sherpa Expeditions) have specialised in walking and cycling trips in the United Kingdom and Europe since 1973. Explore iconic trails and destinations on a self guided or small group active holiday with Walkers' Britain.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/TAS.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Tasmania Expeditions"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Tasmanian Expeditions</div>
Tasmanian Expeditions is the most experienced operator of treks and adventure travel holidays in Tasmania. We own and operate the most comprehensive range of adventure holidays available across Tasmania's varied landscapes.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/UTX-new.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Utracks"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>UTracks</div>
UTracks are the active European holiday specialists. Whether you prefer cycling or walking, 2-star or 4-star, small groups or self guided, land, river or sea – UTracks can help you to explore Europe exactly the way you want.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/WYA.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="World Expeditions Schools"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>World Expeditions Schools</div>
World Expeditions Schools is our specialist division dedicated to organising tailor made overseas school group adventures. Specialists in Service Learning projects, choose from more destinations than any other school group provider.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/YOM.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Yomads"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Yomads</div>
Yomads offers adventures for the 20s and 30s on six continents. Designed as a way to bring young and likeminded travellers together, Yomads caters to those interested in lightly structured and active trips that allow freedom to roam and explore.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/ACT.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Australian Cycle Tours"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Australian Cycle Tours</div>
Australian Cycle Tours specialises in high quality self guided and guided cycling experiences in a selection of the most beautiful regions in Australia.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/WEX.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="World Expeditions"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>World Expeditions</div>
The pioneers of original, worldwide adventure travel holidays since 1975
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/TJX.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Trail Journeys"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Trail Journeys</div>
Self-guided cycling experts on New Zealand's Otago Rail Trail and more
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/BMAC.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Blue Mountains Adventure Company"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Blue Mountains Adventure Company</div>
The original Blue Mountains canyoning, hiking, climbing and abseiling experts
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/GWNZ.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Great Walks of New Zealand"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Great Walks of New Zealand</div>
Explore New Zealand's most spectacular wilderness regions with the self-guided hiking experts
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/NAA.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="North America Active"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>North America Active</div>
USA Canada hiking & cycling tour specialists, choose from self-guided or guided trips