10 unusual adventure holidays to book in July

Step back in time and explore the ancient cities of Uzbekistan, cycle through Cuba’s dramatic Viñales Valley or camp in the wild nature reserves of Swaziland. Read on to be inspired by our top ten unusual adventure holidays...

1. Exotic Java and Bali

Awaken to the sweet fragrance of incense wafting through the streets of Ubud as the local Balinese Hindus lay out their spiritual offerings of flowers and rice in banana leaf bowls. The beating heart of Bali’s bohemian culture, this city boasts a plethora of handicraft workshops with skilled artisans and you’ll find yourself immersed in a world of theatre and art, recounting the stories of Balinese tradition and culture.

View trip

2. Cycle Madagascar

Discover the vast plains and verdant rainforests of Madagascar on two wheels for an exhilarating once-in-a-lifetime adventure. Teaming with a rich variety of birds and wildlife, Madagascar delivers an abundance of natural charm. Prepare yourself to be bowled over by the warm hospitality of the villagers too; a fanfare of cheer will greet you as young children run over to say hello and elders burst into joyful song to mark your arrival.

View trip

3. Ecuador - Andes to Amazon

Climb aboard the ‘Devil’s Nose’ Train for a dramatic journey down into the gorge of Río Chanchan in Ecuador. Set on a sheer sided valley, the train zips around hairpin bends, transporting you through lush and grassy mountain ranges. Sit back, relax (if you can!) and enjoy a hot cup of coca leaf tea while you marvel at the sensational view and keep a look out for the native llamas.

View trip

4. Spirit of Laos

Before a day of exploring the sacred wats and temples, set your alarm for an early start to witness a special local ritual. As the sun slowly rises, pause on the sleepy streets of Luang Prabang and watch with fascination as a sea of monks in saffron coloured robes gently flows through the town, collecting alms from devoted locals.

View trip

5. Contrasts of Colombia

Get set for a feast of the senses as you immerse yourself in the sights, sounds and smells of the Paloquemao farmer’s market in Colombia’s capital city, Bogota. Meandering around wobbling piles of aromatic and brightly coloured tropical produce you’ll be dazzled by unfamiliar fruits such as lulo, guanabana, granadilla. Why not pick up a Maracuyá to try - the juicy yellow flesh is delicious!

View trip

6. Cycle Cuba

As we pedal through Cuba’s dramatic western mountain range, we soon get our first sight of the Viñales Valley appearing over the horizon. This vast rural countryside is home to lush tobacco fields nestled in between the steep limestone hills that rise up from the plateau and fertilized by the rich red soil that has nourished this spectacular terrain. Look out for local people tending to their harvests and give them a friendly wave as you cycle by!

View trip

7. Family Kruger, Kwazulu and Coast

Get back to nature and embark on a camping adventure like no other! Escape to Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary, lying in the shadow of the mighty Nyonyane Mountains, and absorb yourselves in the remote tranquility of our rustic Swaziland camp. Play games amongst the warthogs and springbok and enjoy a traditional braai around the campfire, before retiring to your traditional BeeHive Hut for a night in the wild African bush.

View trip

8. Simien Mountain Trek

After an active morning of trekking in the wilderness of the Simien Mountains, we take a break to savour the delights of an Ethiopian ‘jebena buna’ coffee ceremony. The aromatic smell of coffee wafts in the air and you cradle the specially prepared ritual brew. Take time to switch off and admire the spectacular panoramic view of rocky plateaus, towering peaks and plunging gorges taking centre stage before you.

View trip

9. Golden Road to Samarkand

Step back in time and explore the rustic charm of the ancient city of Khiva, Uzbekistan. Completely traffic free, rusty old bikes are the transport of choice, weaving in and out of the patchwork of sand coloured buildings. Head into the bustling bazaars to find yourself a momento, or take some time to admire the stunning architecture of the Madrassahs, embellished with ornate aquamarine mosaics.

View trip

10. Classic Antarctica - Expedition

When you get a midnight wake up call, you’d be forgiven for wanting to pull over the sheets and go back to sleep. But this is a sight you really won’t want to miss. As you wrap up warm and drag yourself up on deck, feel the hairs on your neck stand up on end as you gaze in wonder at a pod of humpback whales stirring up the water into a fizzing net of bubbles to feed.

View trip