Active Vacation Options

Want to do more than relax at the beach for your next vacation? You're not alone. Staying active while on vacation has become a major goal for many travellers.

In recent years, there has been an increase in the number of trips designed to keep you fit or challenge your endurance. Cruise lines now offer a wide selection of active excursions ashore instead of just sightseeing tours.

Let's take a look at some popular active vacation options around the globe which we may arrange for you:

• Hiking the Inca Trail – Discover the ancient ruins of Machu Picchu, Peru on this four-day trek through the cloud forest and jungle and high mountain passes.
• Climbing Mt. Kilamanjaro – Combine your African Safari with a trek to the summit of Africa's highest peak, Mt. Kilamanjaro in Tanzania (5,895m), for spectacular views and magnificent landscapes.
• Exploring the Galapagos Islands – Guided nature hikes let you discover the fascinating flora and fauna of this unique archipelago. There are opportunities for diving, snorkelling and swimming as well.
• Walking tours of the British Isles – The hills and moors of Britain create some incredible scenic areas for walking. A comfortable resort can be your home base from where you set out each day on a new adventure.
• Hiking New Zealand's Tracks – There are many well marked tracks in New Zealand highlighted with spectacular views and intriguing plants and trees. With no natural predators this is the perfect place for day hikes, or longer treks with overnight stays, like the famous alpine Milford Track.
• Cycling Europe - See the most beautiful regions of Europe on guided or self guided cycling tours. Cycle rentals are readily available in city centres for zipping around, eco-friendly.
• Skiing –Ski packages to slopes in North and South America and Europe may include air, hotel, transfers and some meals. Ski tours give you the chance to try several different areas on one vacation.
• Golf – Scenic, challenging courses can be found around the world. From stunning seaside courses in Hawaii to the punishing links courses of Scotland and Ireland, there's a wealth of possibilities for your golf vacation. Many courses have accommodation on site so play and stay packages are featured. Golf passes allowing you to play at several courses at reduced rates are available.
• Tennis – Many resorts have their own tennis courts and there's often a pro on hand to help you improve your game.
• Day trips – Combine some active adventures into your vacation with one-day events like camel riding in Morocco; riding an elephant in Thailand; bungee jumping in New Zealand; surfing in Hawaii; ziplining through rainforests in Costa Rica.

The possibilities are seemingly endless for staying active and we're here to help you plan with our network of local partners around the globe.

By Susan Milne