Adventure and Sports

For those who want to beat the heat during the summer months, a vacation to a cooler climate can be highly appealing. With plenty of tourist-y destinations scattered all over the Northern Hemisphere, picking the right place for your tastes isn’t as simple as you might think.

Likewise, there are many travelers who want to fully encompass themselves in the ambiance of winter, choosing to travel from more temperate climates to colder ones. With plenty of outdoor winter activities to enjoy, it’s not as bad of an experience as some would believe.

One destination that’s increasingly gaining attention from travelers on a year-round basis is Iceland. A relatively small country with an even smaller population, Iceland boasts both great urban life and vast, tranquil nature. To get an idea of how fun Iceland can be, we’ve put together a list of five must-see attractions throughout Iceland, all of which can be found outside the main urban area of Reykjavik.

Thingvellir National Park

When people think of countries like Iceland – as well as most of the Nordic countries – one of the first things that comes to mind is the aurora borealis. Also known as “Northern Lights”, there are relatively few people who can enjoy this natural phenomenon on a consistent basis. If you’re visiting Iceland and want to take in the show for yourself, however, then a trip to Thingvellir National Park is a must.

Arguably the best place in the world to witness the Northern Lights, Iceland sightseeing isn’t complete without a trip to this park. With a ton of historical, cultural and geological activity to observe and learn about, this destination makes for both a fun and informative detour while in the country.

Hornstrandir Nature Reserve

Far away from the busy capital of Reykjavik, a peninsula juts out from the remainder of Iceland. Known as the Westfjords, this section of Iceland provides some of the most beautiful views anywhere in the country. Situated within this region of the country is the Hornstrandir Natural Reserve, one of the most isolated places in the world.

Inside this beautifully preserved area, you can witness massive, jutting peaks that play home to many unique species of birds and wildlife. Until relatively recently, this section of Iceland was effectively cut off from civilization, with a few small villages being wholly self-reliant. While the villages have since disbanded, the beauty that comes with this natural reserve remains intact.

Lake Myvatn

People flock from all over the world to see, witness, and experience the immense geological activity in Iceland. From naturally-occurring hot springs to absurd lava formations, Lake Myvatn is one place to see it all.

The natural baths in the area are a prime attraction, but geological activity has made some of them unsafe (it is highly recommended to seek local advice before entering any natural bath or hot spring!). Nevertheless, you don’t have to dip your toes in the water to experience the beauty that lava, wind and time have bestowed upon the lake.

Hekla

Iceland may be best known for its immense geothermal activity. Underneath the island is a plethora of volcanic activity, culminating in large part around the active volcanoes on the island. Most people are familiar with the Eyjafjallajökull volcano that disrupted global air traffic with an eruption several years ago, but another beautiful example is the Hekla volcano.

Known as one of the most active volcanoes on the entire planet, Hekla rises more than 4,500 feet, providing an anchor in the Icelandic countryside for a beautiful vista. The area surrounding the volcano looks more like an alien planet than one would think is possible, which has led to it being a cultural and artistic inspiration for many.

Solheimajokull Glacier

What trip to Iceland would be complete without a bit of ice climbing and hiking? Iceland’s natural climate means that you can enjoy these adventures throughout most of the year. One of the best places to visit for an ice climbing adventure is the Solheimajokull glacier, located about 150km outside of Reykjavik.

With an expert guide to assist, you’ll be able to scale the beautiful ice formations of the region, visit one of the largest waterfalls in the country and take in the immaculate terrain of the region as ice collides and meshes with earth. For those seeking a full day’s adventure without fully separating themselves from the capital city, there are day-trip adventure packages to Solheimajokull from Reykjavik.

Looking at Iceland on a map, the country can seem quite small. However, once immersed in everything there is to see and do here, you’ll feel nothing of the sort. The vast, open terrain outside of the capital city can feel untamed at times, providing some of the most beautiful views anywhere in the world. If you’re ready to visit Iceland but want more than the typical urban tourist experience, then these five destinations are must-see attractions.

For car drivers nothing beats a wide open road or the gentle curves found round mountain passes made only better if there is little or no traffic. While this may be the case for the majority of avid drivers, it’s also true that others may have differing ideas of what would make up their perfect road. In the same way what makes for the perfect biking road? Is it the adventure of traveling on a smooth traffic-free roads, an element of danger, twists and turns, or having an impressive landscape as a backdrop.

Perhaps the best answer is that a great biking road is a blend of all the above, something that is shared by the following list of some of the world’s best motor biking destinations: 

Morocco

Morocco is a noted winter destination for motorcycle enthusiasts. With light traffic, reasonable surfaces on most main roads, and an amazing diversity of landscapes, the North African country makes for a great place to ride. In addition to good roads, Morocco also offers variety in the form of wild mountain trails, isolated high passes, mule tracks and sand dunes. As a result, there are several motor cycle tour companies that offer packages for Morocco including all inclusive off-road tours, all-day trails, and more.

Norway

Motorcycle tours have grown in popularity in recent years and as such there are a number of professional motor biking tour companies offering a variety of destinations. In most cases all you need to do is book your tour and the company will take care of everything from helmets to motorbike tyres for the smooth running of your trip. As such similar tours are offered in Norway too, one of the best destinations for motor biking in the world. A great example is the Bergen to Geiranger tour which takes you past Norway’s longest Fjord, through long tunnels, past glaciers and even waterfalls.

Italy

In addition to the allure of its history, Italy not only has the draw of amazing man-made historical attractions, the country is also blessed by an abundance of natural attributes. What’s more, the Italians also enjoy motor cycles too hence the wide availability of Hotels offering perks such as secure parking, tour and trail information, as well as facilities to help you relax after a long day’s ride. Highlights here include the Dolomites in Northern Italy, and the Amalfi Road coast tour from Naples to Salerno.

America (the Wild West)

Many places in the United States of America are also among some of the world’s best motor biking tours but none are as awe-inspiring, or as challenging as the country’s Wild West. Tours here will take you through some of America’s most untamed regions, including Utah, Arizona, and Nevada where you get a wide choice of terrain to ride. Frome cruising on the historic route 66 to hitting the dirt as you go off road, Americas Wild West sure is a top destination for avid bikers looking for some adventure and amazing scenery.

The destinations mentioned above are not the only great motor biking tours for avid two wheel travellers, there are many others including India, Costa Rica, Switzerland, and Turkey, among others. Still you’d be hard pressed to find better biking trails in the places mentioned above, making it a good start for all your motor biking tour planning.

After a hard decade or so, Zimbabwe is now safe for adventurous travellers. This remarkable country found in Africa is abundant in terms of natural wonders, captivating heritage, good weather and welcoming people. A journey in this lovely destination will take you through an attractive arena of landscapes, laidback towns, lush valleys and natural rivers. National parks and World Heritage archaeological sites will make you awe, while the Victoria Falls will take your breath away.

Africa is famous for its safari tours, and Zimbabwe is one of the best places to take advantage of this. This peaceful palace offers mesmerising tours around exotic animals like cheetahs, lions, elephants, rhinoceros, African buffalos and various species of birds. In the wilderness of Kitty Bingo, you can find an assortment of wild animals by hitting the reels of Stampede slots. This 243 ways to win slot game comes loaded with the most agile animals ever found at Booty Bingo… and they can guide you to some massive wins. Unlike other African spots, safaris in Zimbabwe are serene as you won’t find crowds of people or vehicles. It is considered as the most unique place to travel to- give it a go!

Abundant wildlife is another aspect of this country. It holds few stunning national parks like Hwange National Park, Mana Pools and Victoria Falls National Park. You don’t have to look out for wildlife, as it is almost at the step of your door. The massive elephants could be visiting you while you sit on your balcony, the zebras can be staring at you while you drive and the pack of lions will guard you while you camp in the wild. The ‘Big Five’ is ever present in Zimbabwe, but what is even more is the birdlife. You will find more than 600 kinds of birds- the diversity, exoticism and volume of wildlife is marvellous.

Indeed, the country has the best variation of animals, but the hospitality of the natives is much more than that. Even if Zimbabwe has been a safari haven for over 150 years, the hospitality is timeless. Alongside warm handshakes from the locals, you can expect to discover the most genuine customer care. The natives will blow you away with their niceness even if they have faced the hardships of life. Whether it’s a businessman, a waitress or any staffs, the people treat you with equal kindness and respect.

Furthermore, Zimbabwe proposes some of the best accommodations, both in terms of price and quality. There are just different types of lodgings for everyone- from tiny B&Bs in Harare to Edwardian style hotels overlooking the Victoria Falls. You will also find top hotels under the ‘Legacy Hotels’ and luxury safari camps like Linkwasha and Somalisa. Most of the safari camps provide all-inclusive meals, which cuts down your living costs as well. Some of the best hotels you can enjoy at are Batonka Guest Lodge, The Elephant Camp, Imbabala Zambezi Safari Lodge, Bronte Hotel and Holiday Inn Mutare. So, if you are looking for an adventurous trip that will take your breath away and leave you happy then, Zimbabwe should be at the top of your bucket list!

When we take a trip, we usually have certain goals in mind. For instance, you can go to Hong Kong or the Kuala Lumpur City Centre to shop on all boutiques and get good bargains. You can drop by Thailand and Cambodia to go sightseeing and check out ancient ruins and temples.

But for Perth, this is a trip best enjoyed through a road trip. After getting a car hire at the Perth airport, finding out why it has become an increasingly popular destination and getting to know its varied landscape will be an exciting journey to take.

Here, we have listed down some of the best stops you should be on the lookout for during your trip.

Perth to Exmouth

Starting off this list is one of the most scenic road trip routes to take, and it is more or less a 13-hour drive north of Perth. Exmouth is a port town, a seaside resort that is filled with adventure parks, beautiful reefs, museums, and countless restaurants. But the journey going from Perth to Exmouth is also a sight to see. If you happen to come on wildflower season, you will be able to see a sea of wildflowers during your drive. Places to visit include Cape Range National Park, the Exmouth Gulf, Ningaloo Reef, and Vlamingh Head Lighthouse.

Lancelin Sand Dunes, the Pinnacles Desert, Cervantes Beach

These sand dunes are about 2 hours from the Perth Central Business District are the Lancelin Sand Dunes. You can bring your own board or rent one, and slide down the highest sand dune peak. Once you have had your fill, you can drive an hour more from Lancelin to the Pinnacles Desert. The desert is pretty big so you will not have to worry about tourists getting in your shot. You might even get to see wild kangaroos roaming the landscape.

Afterwards, chill out at Cervantes Beach which is only 20 minutes from the Pinnacles Desert. The best thing about this beach is it is not very crowded. It is a small fishing village with only a few restaurants, you can easily relax here without worrying about other tourists.

Monkey Mia

Monkey Mia is visited by so many people because it offers a unique encounter with some of the friendliest mammals in the world: the bottlenose dolphins. Fishermen in the region used to share their daily catch with the dolphins, forging a relationship with humans. Which is why if you make the 9-hour drive to Monkey Mia, not only will you enjoy relaxing at the beach, but you will also get the chance to feed the dolphins. While you are there, take the indigenous tour at the Shark Bay World Heritage Area for a unique look at the history of the indigenous people and Australia.

Albany

From Perth, drive 5 hours to reach one of the most breathtaking destinations in the country. What you will get from Albany is more than just scenic coastlines, it offers a unique look into the settler and convict history of Australia. Especially if you decide to traverse the Bibbulmun Track, you will see firsthand where the first Western settlers set foot in the country. Apart from being able to take a cruise and meeting the whales up close, you can also learn Albany’s history in the whaling industry. But more importantly, you can enjoy food, wine, diving, hiking, and four-wheel driving in just one place.

For more information on some of the best Perth destinations, you can visit and where you can get the best car hire, visit the DriveNow website here.

No trip to Ecuador would surely be complete without a trip to the Amazon Rainforest. Monkeys, sloths, snakes, caiman, river dolphins, piranhas, pretty birds and all variety of tree and plant life make this an adventure not to be missed. Amazon tours in Ecuador are offered by many providers, but Ecuador and Galapagos Insiders (https://galapagosinsiders.com) offers some great tips to help you make the most of your trip to the Amazon rainforest. From selecting your trip, to what to bring, and even the best attitude to have, the below will help you get the most out of your Amazon tour in Ecuador.

Making the most of your trip to the Amazon rainforest is best achieved by selecting the right package for you, depending on how luxurious or rustic you like your experience to be. There are a very wide range of lodges to choose from, from the downright opulent, to very basic huts that may have a light bulb and a bed, but not much else, and everything in-between. Some of the more lavish options will have most of the creature comforts you would have at home, but the more meagre options will definitely not. There is something to be said for both types of experience in terms of the benefits and drawbacks, but it is important to select the Amazon tour in Ecuador that is right for you, and with a tremendous knowledge of Ecuador and its rainforest, Ecuador and Galapagos Insiders may be able to help you make the best choice to suit your personal needs and budget. The most important thing is to do your research and make sure you find a trip that you will be comfortable with.

Whichever package you choose, be prepared for a bit of a journey. All Amazon tours in Ecuador involve some time to travel there. This makes sense when you consider that to get to primary rainforest where animals roam, you will need to be away from civilization for a few days. Even if you choose a lodge “nearby” to a town, it could involve a motorized canoe ride of a couple of hours up the waterways. This is an experience in itself, and an excellent opportunity to spot birds and wildlife living alongside the water, and taking in the delights of the forest on your way to and from your lodge will help you to get the most from your trip. You may well spot birds and animal life that you do not get to see at any other time. Keep your eyes open, and scan the banks and you never know what you might see!

Another key thing to remember when taking your trip to the Amazon rainforest, to get the most out of it, is to bring a sense of adventure with you. If you’re up for anything and for trying new experiences, you will be most likely to have the best time. New experiences that you can try could include strolling along wooden walkways strung out in the jungle canopy, taking motorized canoes up and down the river to spy all manner of birds and animals during the day or at night, or trying new and exotic foods… and even insects! You might hold a tarantula in your hand or a boa constrictor around your shoulders. No one will make you do anything you don’t want to, but coming with an open mind, and leaving anxiety at home should help you get the most out of your adventurous trip. Make the most of the experience by taking as many of the available trips and walks as possible, and also listening to your guide impart a wealth of information on the flora and fauna of the jungle.

Getting the most out of your trip is possible by being kitted out appropriately for the experience. The rainforest is named so for a reason. This should give you a clue about the kind of weather you should expect. Making the most of your trip to the Amazon rainforest means understanding that you are likely to get wet. Most lodges will provide rubber boots for you to wear when out and about on walks, but you might also wish to bring a sturdy pair of hiking boots with you to ensure you are comfortable while traveling. You are also likely to get wet because of the amount of rainfall that the jungle receives, paths do get very muddy and can be slippery. You might also wish to consider bringing a rain coat, and clothes that are quick-dry, such as those designed for hiking. Nothing dries quickly here, even when it is not raining, due to the humidity. Long sleeves and pants help keep the bugs off. In terms of other equipment, you might want to bring a thin quick-dry camping towel. A pair of binoculars will undoubtedly be helpful for spotting animals and birds high up in the jungle canopy, or alternatively a camera with a powerful zoom will be useful – or both! Meanwhile, birdwatchers may wish to bring a bird book with them, to help them identify the beautiful range of birds they will spot. This aside, be sure to listen to any briefing that your guide gives about what to bring on any particular day, as this will help you get the most from your trip. Don’t forget sun screen and bug spray!

Finally, to make the most of your trip to the Ecuador rainforest, make sure to bring a positive attitude with you. Nature rules the jungle, and despite the best laid plans, sometimes not everything runs exactly as it should. Plans may have to change depending on the weather, or due to logistical and safety challenges. Remember, that the jungle is not a zoo – your guide will make sure you see as much of the wildlife as possible, but there are never any guarantees. Whatever the challenges, you can be sure that your hosts in the Amazon rainforest will be doing their utmost to ensure that your Amazon tour in Ecuador runs as smoothly as it can and that you have the best possible experience during your stay. Check out https://galapagosinsiders.com to find out more and organize your once in a lifetime trip to the Amazon today.