Activities for the Adventurous Family
While the activities that constitute family adventure travel may vary depending on who you ask, according to a 2009 market report on the adventure tourism industry, they all have three things in common. Adventure travel, either within your home country or abroad, involves “physical activity, interaction with nature, and cultural learning or exchange.”
While other areas of the travel and tourism industry have seen a decline — especially in the US since the 2016 presidential election — adventure tourism is trending for individuals, couples and families alike. If this kind of active relaxation excites you, take a look at some of the best adventure family vacation ideas that are sure to get your heart pumping.
White Water Rafting on the Tuolumne River
If your family works well together and enjoys US adventure travel, a whitewater rafting trip has the potential to become a yearly tradition. While there are tons of travel companies that offer whitewater rafting experiences, OARS has the best selection, especially within the United States.
Their Tuolumne River experience, in particular, comes highly recommended. Just outside of Yosemite, the river has 18 miles of challenging Class IV rapids, which you can conquer over a 1-, 2- or 3-day trip.
Aside from riding the rapids, you’ll get a chance to explore the area by hiking and fishing, along with enjoying the natural waterfalls and swimming holes.
REI Thailand Family Adventure
Outdoor lifestyle brand REI doesn’t just sell clothing and related equipment, they also organize outdoor adventures for families all over the world. One of their most exotic and off the beaten path excursions features a multi-sport journey through Thailand.
You’ll bike, hike, kayak and zipline in the countryside, among temples and through jungles full of monkeys. Cultural experiences include a Thai cooking class, tree planting and a visit to a nature sanctuary where you can both bathe and feed Asian elephants.
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Great Barrier Reef Dive Adventures
For unique, underwater, active family vacations, the folks at Family Divers offer a variety of specialized trips in the Caribbean, South Pacific and Indian Ocean. Their Great Barrier Reef dive adventure offers a chance to get up close and personal with the largest living thing on Earth and the various marine life that co-exists among it.
Dive with dwarf minke whales, observe manta rays, swim through colorful schools of fish and discover hundreds of other species off the coast of Australia. All trips feature three dive sites a day and also include catered meals and photo/video services.
Eskimo Weekend in Germany
Austria and Germany have a number of adventure parks that encourage spending time outdoors among, and in, the trees. One such place, Waldseilgarten Höllschlucht, offers unique summer activities including climbing, ziplining, archery and sleeping in suspended tents among the trees.
However, it’s their winter activity, Eskimo Weekend, that’s really something special. Families take a weekend journey in the alps where the park’s mountain guides teach participants how to build their own igloo.
That’s right — you get to build and sleep in your very own igloo. This is a once in a lifetime opportunity that’s only available two months out of the year and costs less than the price of a plane trip to Europe.
Tailormade Zambia Safari
For decades, safaris have been one of the most popular outdoor family adventure vacations. Many different East and South African countries have benefited from the draw of adventure tourism with luxury safari lodges popping up all over the region.
Multiple tourism companies currently offer higher end, tailor-made safaris to countries such as Zambia where the potential for observing wildlife is high.
African Safari Co, Boundless Journeys, and Norman Carr Safaris all boast private guides, chefs and staff during your stay. Enjoy your own custom itinerary filled with activities such as tracking lions and elephants, river safaris and hot air balloon tours of the famous Victoria Falls.
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Iceland Family Adventure Tour
Classic Journeys specializes in richly diverse multi-sport vacation experiences. Their Iceland Family Adventure package explores regional wildlife and natural wonders at an easy pace and amid comfortable accommodations.
You’ll enjoy a ferry ride to a puffin colony, a trip to the volcanic ruins of Vestmannaeyjar, glacier walking, snorkeling between tectonic plates and even the experience of riding a majestic Icelandic horse. All of their activities are specifically tailored to engage both children and adults, providing a memorable family vacation you’ll all be bragging about for years to come.
Surf Camp in North Carolina
If you’ve ever thought about learning how to surf, WB Surf Camp in Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina has one of the best surf camps on the East Coast. For five days, your family can enjoy three to one coaching from certified surf instructors and lifeguards amid a class of 15.
You’ll learn all the basics of surfing in addition to stretching techniques, safety measures, how to spot the perfect waves and surfboard care. Along with equipment rentals, merchandise and refreshments, the camp also includes an in-house professional photographer to document your entire experience.