For outdoors lovers, nothing beats the allure of nature vacations. Spending time out in the wild is a great way to get some much-needed quiet time. Moreover, it is an opportunity to connect with nature on a deeper level and get a front-row seat to its best shows.
Some of us simply enjoy being out there, taking in the sights and sounds of thundering waterfalls, incredible sunsets and wildlife encounters. Others however prefer action-filled natural habitat adventures that combine a love for the outdoors with the potential for an adrenaline rush.
Whatever your preferences, there are plenty of things to do on your next nature trip. Take a look at the best nature vacation activities for an unforgettable holiday.
Mountain Biking
This is one of the best nature vacation activities if you want to cover a lot of ground in a short time. As a bonus, it is a sustainable tourism idea and it is accessible virtually everywhere. The secret to a great mountain biking holiday is to pick a trail suitable to your abilities and equipment. Prepare for the weather to avoid nasty surprises and stay hydrated.
For diehard mountain biking fans, however there is a lot more to it than just the trails. The best mountain bike vacations require destinations with a friendly climate and breathtaking scenery. There should also be a variety of trails and sufficient trail mileage.
Top Mountain Biking Destinations for Nature Vacations
Indeed, the top mountain bike destinations around the world tick all the boxes. Here are some picks to add to your bucket list:
- Bentonville in Arkansas, USA
- Mountain Hero Mine Trail in Yukon, Canada
- Finale Ligure in Italy
- Stellenbosch, South Africa
- The Whistler Bike Park in British Columbia, Canada
- Innerleithen and Glentress trails in Tweed Valley, Scotland
- Blue Derby in Tasmania, Australia
- The Sacred Valley, Peru
- Moab in Utah and the Grand Valley in Colorado, USA
- Kilimanjaro to Ngorongoro Crater, Tanzania
Hiking
Hiking is a nature lover’s dream come true in so many ways. From the dramatic landscapes to the breathtaking views, everything about it offers boundless potential. As you explore the wonders of nature by foot, you get to experience everything at close range. It does not require any special equipment either, just a pair of good boots.
The best part about a hiking vacation is the option of choosing from a variety of terrains. Walk through deep canyons, up steep mountains, through dense forests and along beaches. Depending on your preferences, it can be as easy or as challenging as you wish.
Popular Hiking Destinations for Nature Vacations
While you can hike virtually anywhere, popular hiking destinations around the world will take your experience to the next level. Here are some of the world’s top hiking trails:
- Appalachian Trail, US
- Camino de Santiago de Compostela, Spain
- Mount Toubkal, Morocco
- Tour du Mont Blanc, Switzerland, Italy and France
- Mount Everest Base Camp Trek, Nepal
- Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, Uganda
- Overland Track, Australia
- Tahoe Rim Trail, US
- The Lycian Way, Turkey
- West Coast Trail, Canada
Kayaking
If you love water adventures and nature vacations, kayaking is a great way to combine the two. Whether you love to explore peaceful lakes, coastal waters or tranquil rivers, the immersive experience is matchless. Beauty surrounds you on every side and you might have up close encounters with fish, birds and even mammals.
Aside from the opportunities to observe wildlife, being out on water often offers unobstructed views of scenic landscapes. Some kayaking sites are not accessible by any other means; it is a chance to explore hidden caves and coves. As a bonus, paddling in open water is plenty of exercise for your muscles – a chance to get some workout as you unwind.
Best places for Kayaking Trips
The best part about kayaking is that there are plenty of places where you can indulge your passion. Here are some top kayaking destinations around the world:
- Zambezi River, Zambia
- Bacalar, Mexico
- Kaiteriteri, New Zealand
- Dalmatian Coast, Croatia
- Amazon River, South America
- Cat Ba Island, Vietnam
- Glacier Bay, Alaska
- Northern Vancouver Island, Canada
- Antarctic Peninsula, Antarctica
- The White Nile, Uganda
Immersive Wildlife Experiences
One of the most authentic ideas for nature vacations is an immersive encounter with wildlife. Seeing wildlife in their natural habitats is exciting. But having up close encounters with them takes it to another level.
For adventure lovers, nothing beats the adrenaline rush of walking side by side with a giant elephant or swimming with a friendly dolphin. Most immersive adventures take place in a controlled setting within a game reserve or a zoo. But thrill seekers have the option of getting even closer through immersive journeys in the animals’ natural habitats.
The Best Nature Vacation Ideas for Immersive Wildlife Experiences
Depending on your preferences, here are some of the top activities you can enjoy for an immersive experience with wildlife:
- Night safaris
- Swimming with sea turtles
- Whale watching
- Arctic expeditions
- Swimming with dolphins
- Jungle trekking
- African gorilla trekking
Yoga and Meditation
A yoga and meditation vacation is a great way to take a break and recharge. Whether you happen to be a seasoned yogi or are just starting out, there are many benefits to this exercise. Outdoors yoga allows you to connect with nature as you enhance your mindfulness.
Yoga retreats are usually set in the most scenic environments for a calming effect and to provide inspiration. Some of these are remote settings with plenty of fresh air and few distractions from the modern world.
Best Yoga Destinations for Nature Lovers
The next time your wanderlust calls for a little “me time,” here are some of the top yoga destinations to visit around the world:
- Tulum, Mexico
- Costa Rica
- Big Island, Hawaii
- Rishikesh, India
- Amalfi Coast, Italy
- Bali, Indonesia
- Macchu Pichu, Peru
- Siem Reap, Cambodia
- Chiang Mai, Thailand
- Sedona, Arizona, USA
Turn Any Holiday into a Natural Habitat Adventure
Are you planning an outdoor family vacation or a romantic weekend getaway with a nature lover? Do you wish for an opportunity to get away from the concrete jungle and get closer to nature? No matter what you have in mind, these activities for nature vacations will ensure you get it done. These are the best ideas to turn any holiday into a natural habitat adventure. Choose one that most resonates with you and enjoy the boundless benefits.