An Adventure

Camping in Antarctica is a fantastic way to experience the continent that early Antarctic explorers discovered, albeit in far more comfort. Sleeping on the ice, maybe under the midnight sun, listening to the splintering of icebergs and the crackling of glaciers is simply unforgettable.

Zambia’s Luangwa Valley is the birthplace of the walking safari, pioneered by the legendary Norman Carr. There’s no other way you’ll feel closer to the natural world than when you walk with a guide by day and sleep in a bush camp by night.

From the vast snow topped ranges of the Himalayas in Ladakh, to the mountainous terrain and dense forests along the border with Myanmar, and stretching south to the rolling hills clad with spice plantations and tea estates in Kerala and Tamil Nadu, India’s natural topography is extraordinary.

Great adventures start with a single step. This is especially true in Namibia, where you can explore the vast, diverse landscapes on foot, entering into the wildernesses of mountains and valleys, discovering ochre deserts and their contrasting emerald oases.

Punakha was the capital of Bhutan until 1955, and it remains a site of cultural importance. The idyllic river valley in which it sits is defined by its rice paddies, the mud and stone houses, and the Punakha Dzong, the second oldest monastery in Bhutan.

Kalahari means “the great thirst”, and indeed it’s hard to believe that the arid red sands of the Kalahari Desert actually border the Okavango Delta. In spite of the shortage of water, the Kalahari is teeming with life, and it’s a varied playground for active travellers.

Every part of Costa Rica - from the beaches to the cloud forest - summons you to an adventure. Adrenaline junkies will be pushed to their limits, but in this eco paradise there are plenty more sedate activities to enjoy as you explore.

If primates are your thing - and let’s face it, who doesn’t want to meet the relatives in the wild? - Journeysmiths can help you pair gorilla tracking in Rwanda with spotting chimpanzee and the Big Five in Tanzania.

There are just two places left in the world where you can still see mountain gorilla. Tracking permits are issued in strictly limited numbers, but they fund vital conservation work. Hiking through the dense jungle is a thrill in itself, but nothing can prepare you for that first gorilla encounter.

Iguazu Falls is the most spectacular waterfall in the world, linking Argentina to Brazil. This imposing natural wonder and the surrounding Iguazu National Park, offers not only spectacular views of the falls, but hiking trails, safari, and rafting as well.

The Inca’s Sacred Valley is the gateway to Cusco and Machu Picchu. This is Peru’s cultural heartland, dotted with ancient ruins and colourful Andean villages, but it is also a territory well suited to family adventures, from hikes to bikes to horseback rides.

Sweeping wetlands line the banks of Zimbabwe’s Lower Zambezi, making up Mana Pools National Park. The life-giving waters and lush vegetation are havens for wildlife, making this a rich area for game viewing and the sweeping expanse of the Zambezi is perfect for canoeing.