If your idea of the perfect vacation is a poolside margarita or a book on the beach, we aren’t here to judge you—taking time to unwind and relax is important. But some people are looking for more out of their vacation.

For the group of people who want to get active on their holidays, here are some of the top destinations for adventure and activity.

Canada
There’s no need to leave the country to experience adventure, especially in a country as expansive and beautiful as Canada. Whether you’re looking for hiking, climbing, water sports or wildlife, our country offers some of the best outdoor experiences on the planet.

  • Yukon – Often overlooked, the Yukon is an adventurer’s paradise. With glacial whitewater rafting, alpine climbing, horseback riding and snowshoeing as just a few of the many options at your fingertips, it’s hard to name an outdoor activity you can’t do. 
  • Nova Scotia – Explore the Cabot Trail, one of Canada’s most scenic stretches of highway, where you’ll find kayaking, hiking and scenic views for days. You can also experience the brute force of the world’s highest tides with Tidal Bore Rafting at the mouth of the Bay of Fundy.
  • Ottawa – The Nation’s Capital is well-known for its whitewater rafting in the Ottawa River. The river features world-class rapids and warmer temperatures, making it a hotspot for guides and travellers from all over the world.

Peru
Peru is home to the legendary Machu Picchu, the most recognizable structure from Incan civilization and is considered one of the New 7 Wonders of the World. The ancient Incan citadel isn’t the only attraction here though; the trek to reach the 15th-century landmark is a wonder all on its own.

Hiking the Inca Trail isn’t easy—expect to experience intense heat during the day and cold at night, and some seriously steep climbs—but it’s one of the most beautiful hikes on the planet, with its steep mountain passes and lush, wild forests.

Besides the memorable trek to Machu Picchu, there are plenty of other adventures to be had in Peru. You can visit the man-made floating islands in Lake Titicaca, home to the Uros, whose people pre-date Incan Civilization; sandboard in the desert oasis outside the village of Huacachina; or get your surf on in the beach town of Mancora.

Pacific Coast Highway
For the road-tripping crew, a trip down the Pacific Coast Highway is a dream. The breathtaking coastline drive between Seattle and San Diego has something for every adventurer, whether you’re into hiking, camping, fishing, beachcombing or just visiting some of America’s most memorable cities.

The most iconic stretch of road is the undeveloped coastline of Big Sur between San Francisco and Los Angeles. Here, you’ll find incredible views, scenic beaches, redwood forests and multiple State Parks. Swimming in the ocean can be dangerous, but many people will stop for a swim in the Big Sur River.

Costa Rica
On the Costa Rican coasts, you can experience world-class surfing year-round. There are regions suitable for any level of surfing expertise, whether you’re a beginner or already a master, and plenty of options for learning the way of the waves.

If you’d rather not spend your entire trip surfing, you can add snorkelling or sailing to the itinerary, or head further inland and explore the diverse ecosystems of Costa Rica on horseback. There, you’ll find picturesque waterfalls, caves and volcanoes amidst the rainforest. There, you’ll find picturesque waterfalls, caves and volcanoes along with an abundant variety of fauna scattered throughout the country’s tropical rainforests.

Swiss Alps
The Swiss Alps are commonly considered a ‘winter’ destination, but the mountain range boasts activities for travellers all year round. Whether you’re searching for some of the world’s best skiing in the winter, or some of its best mountain-biking in the summer, you won’t be disappointed.

For a unique Swiss experience, you can try your hand at ‘Sledging,’ navigating old ski runs on sleds that often carry you several kilometres down a mountain. While Sledging is primarily a winter endeavour, other activities are more suitable for the rest of the year, including kayaking, hiking and—for the ardent thrill seeker—hang-gliding.

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