For some families, a vacation is a chance for the adults to relax on the beach while the children are looked after by the kids’ club helpers for most of the day. For others, no vacation is complete without some wild and exciting adventures that everyone can take part in, full of adrenaline-pumping thrills and memories that last a lifetime. Here are some adventurous options for families looking for an unforgettable vacation.
Safari in South Africa
What could be more amazing than waking up as dawn breaks over an African waterhole and seeing animals emerge from the bush for their early morning drink? South Africa’s game reserves are not just places to relax in awesome surroundings, but they also offer opportunities to explore the vast areas of jungle and scrubland that are home to many of the world’s greatest living creatures. Game lodges are dotted around the country, with many of them offering visitors the chance to spot the “Big Five” – leopards, lions, elephants, rhinos and buffalos. South Africa is also packed with opportunities to ride river rapids, bike along mountain trails or try out thrilling water sports in the ocean.
Grand Canyon, Arizona
One of the great adventure destinations in the US, the Grand Canyon was carved out by the Colorado River over millions of years. As one of the world’s most incredible geographical sights, the Grand Canyon draws vacationers from across the globe to experience its amazing sunrises and sunsets, as well as to take part in many adventurous activities. From a base in one of the plentiful Grand Canyon hotels, visitors can enjoy hiking and river rafting, take a mule trip from the rim to the canyon floor, or experience the true visual wonder of the gorge from a helicopter or an airplane. A vacation here offers something for the whole family, and the adventure is not complete without the ultimate thrill – a visit to the Grand Canyon Skywalk, where visitors can walk on a glass walkway that’s 4,000 feet above the ground.
Egypt
Follow in the footsteps of the ancient Egyptians. Explore the mysteries of the towering pyramids and their arcane tombs covered with hieroglyphs, as well as the enigmatic half-lion half-human statue of the Sphinx. Take a trip down the Nile River, whose banks nurtured the beginnings of one of the world’s oldest civilizations. Egypt is both a lesson in history and a chance to experience the vibrancy of city life in a land of teeming souks and endless archeological treasures. Families can enjoy learning about and experiencing this ancient culture first hand using Cairo as a base, then traveling to one of the country’s Red Sea resorts for a little relaxation or some energetic water sports.
The Lake District, England
This beautiful northwest corner of England is blessed with superb scenery, including majestic mountains and tranquil lakes. The Lake District is a destination for both climbers and walkers and is ideal for families that enjoy the outdoor life. Inexperienced climbers can test themselves on some easy routes, gaining the confidence to move on to more challenging tests, while hikers and mountain bikers can spend days off the beaten track. Campsites are also popular, and there are plenty of guesthouses and hotels for every budget.
