Looking for a family vacation that’s full of adventure? Love wildlife encounters and spectacular natural scenery? Here are 4 popular destinations for families who like to be on the go and get up close to nature.
Galapagos
Don’t let the small geographic footprint fool you. It’s packed with incredibly diverse scenery and wildlife, some which cannot be seen anywhere else on the planet. A Galapagos cruise offers the best variety for families with different interests and ability levels. You can be on the go from breakfast to dinner, or take some time to relax on deck and enjoy the scenery. You can explore underwater or sightsee from a boat, choose between a hike or a paddle, or even get up early for yoga.
Getting the toys ready!
Showing us the love
I had the opportunity to experience Lindblad Expeditions’ new ship in the Galapagos in March, which is great for multi-generational groups because it offers the broadest range of activities, including a glass bottom boat for non-snorkelers. And their new children’s program developed in partnership with National Geographic is fantastic, even the adults wanted to participate.
Kids are kept busy with scavenger hunts, zodiac driving lessons, photography and video workshops, and even a pizza & movie night.
Mexico
I firmly believe Mexico is underrated as an adventure destination. If you want to stay at a traditional full service beach resort, yet have some off-property adventures, then this is the place to be. And there are so many choices for places to stay, you can go back again and again.
The Riviera Maya offers archaeological ruins, cenotes, and fantastic snorkeling, and a huge selection of resorts from large all-inclusives to luxury boutique hotels.
This snorkel trip requires a hard hat!
The Baja peninsula has a more arid climate, and some of the best whale watching and snorkeling in the world. Other outdoor activities include ATV tours, hiking, and kayaking.
How many kids can brag that they got to pet a gray whale on vacation?
Travelers who aren’t interested in the beach can go on a hiking expedition visiting wilderness lodges in the Copper Canyon, or enjoy cultural sites in colonial cities such as Oaxaca and San Miguel de Allende.
Oaxaca is world famous for its food, my son wants to go back just for these street tacos.
Costa Rica
Sloths and monkeys and iguanas, oh my! If you want nonstop action and scenery ranging from volcanoes to rainforests to beaches, this is the place to go. Clients never complain about being bored, if anything they have trouble fitting everything in!
So ugly he’s cute.
Most clients can visit 2 or 3 locations during a 8-10 day trip, if they don’t mind moving around. This allows them to experience a variety of locations like Arenal volcano and Manuel Antonio National Park. But the resort area of Guanacaste is great for families who prefer to stay in one location, have a traditional resort vacation, but still have access to adventure activities like rafting and ziplining.
Even little ones can have big adventures!
Peru
If you like to combine cultural exploration with outdoor activities, then consider a trip to Peru including visits to Cuzco, Sacred Valley, and Machu Picchu, which can be done in a 7-10 day itinerary. Families can enjoy short nature walks to full day hikes, purchase crafts at local markets, explore archaeological ruins and temples, or paddle around a lake spotting wildlife.
I don’t want to feed the llama. Said nobody ever.
They won’t ever forget this view.
And if you have the time, this is a great add-on to a Galapagos cruise!
Contact me to start designing a fantastic adventure for your family!
