Travel: Tackle an alternative adventure this year

TRAVEL

Ditch the resort-style holiday in 2023 and step out of your comfort zone by trying something new.

EXPLORE CAMBODIA

Southeast Asia has always been on the travel list of many discerning adventurers, but for a longest time Thailand, Indonesia and Vietnam have been the most popular destinations. Head to Cambodia for your next trip east. It is a place of incredible and diverse natural beauty, fantastic food and unique culture. To take it up a level, explore by pushing the adrenaline levels with some serious outdoor adventure. Kayak the Mekong river to get up close with the mysterious Irrawaddy dolphins and see amazing flooded forests.

Tackle an alternative adventure this year

GO TREKKING IN NEPAL

The Himalayan mountain range is something to behold. Its rugged, remote beauty is what attracts most visitors, but trail runners, hikers and high-altitude climbers also go also to pit themselves against the challenges of the steep slopes and extreme altitude. Fortunately, you don’t need to be a world-class athlete or elite alpinist to enjoy this wilderness. A guided trek with Intrepid Travel will take you through the spectacular Annapurna Ranges through jaw-dropping glaciers, across mountain pastures and through remote mountain villages. You’ll be guided by experienced guides and porters, who will not only lead you along the way, but also introduce you to the rich local Sherpa culture.

TAKE ON THE PYRENEES

Europe’s ‘other’ mountain range is too often overshadowed by the Alps. We suggest you head to Andorra, the adventure central in the Pyrenees. Nestled between France and Spain, this mountainous region offers a host of activities to build strength and improve your cardio fitness all while having a serious adventure. Think mountain biking, hiking, trail running and whitewater rafting… Intrepid Travel runs guided trips out of Soldeu, at an elevation of 1710 metres above sea level (about the same as Johannesburg, so you won’t struggle with the effects of altitude).

PERU AT PACE

It would take months (years even) to truly experience the beauty of Peru. However, trekking the four-day Inca Trail (with Machu Picchu as its undeniable highlight) as part of a week-long trip provides just the right mix of archaeological and cultural sights along with some serious hiking along precipitous mountain trails. The Inca Trail will reward your efforts however by way of spectacular mountainscapes, cloud forests and jungles.

TREK GLACIERS IN PATAGONIA

Patagonia is where you head when you’ve done the Alps and the Pyrenees. The incredible glacial landscape of Chile shouts ‘adventure’ and expeditions into this wilderness require experience and expertise. Patagonia Adventure Expeditions offers various trips into the remote Aysén region. The team has dedicated their lives to understanding the human and physical geographies of the Northern Patagonian Ice Field and Baker River basin, and are committed to protecting these spectacular wild lands and the communities that call them home.

CHAMONIX

This little village in the French Alps is affectionately known as the ‘Outdoor Disneyland’ among South African mountain sports addicts. Chamonix overflows with choices of activities high on thrill factor - trail running and hiking are the chiefs among these in summer (our wet, cold winter).

Website: www.wildandisle.com