A global pandemic may be keeping everyone locked down at the moment. But that doesn’t mean you’re trapped on the homefront forever. If you find yourself amongst the ranks of those itching to get out and visit new places, don’t despair. Sooner or later you’ll be able to get that travel fix again.
In the meantime, you can take advantage of the current lull to begin planning your next trip. Here are a few suggestions for physically active locations to consider as you lay your travel plans for a post-covid future.
1. New Zealand
The Land of the Long White Cloud is a great place for adventure junkies to visit. New Zealand offers a variety of active challenges. If you enjoy the water, you can find pristine beaches everywhere. All you need to do is head north, south, east, or west and you’ll hit water sooner or later. The aquatic habits of the native Kiwis also mean you’ll be well equipped to swim, surf, or even try something new, like stand up paddle boarding.
If dry land is your preference, there’s still plenty to do. Numerous movie sets offer visitors a chance to stretch their legs as they tour cinematic history. In addition, you can find trails to hike, spend the night in a mountain hut, or even sign up to bungee jump off of Auckland’s Sky Tower.
2. Iceland
Iceland has been high on the list of tourist destinations for a while now — and with good reason. The gorgeous Scandinavian island nation has many attractive elements worth seeing. Many of these also happen to double as active vacation ideas, as well.
For example, you can take a dip in the famous Blue Lagoon. This geothermal pool is a wonder to behold and even more exciting to swim in. There are many other walking and hiking opportunities across the island, too.
3. Machu Picchu, Peru
If you’re looking for a serious challenge, consider visiting Machu Picchu. The ancient Incan ruins lie far up in the heart of the Andes Mountains. Simply visiting the area ensures that your legs will ache before your trip is over.
On top of that, if you’re lucky, you can try to nab one of the limited daily entrance tickets to the lofty ruins themselves. This gives you access to a staggering climb fondly referred to as the “Stairs of Death.”
While the staircase has never been lethal, it’s easy to understand where the name comes from. These precipitous steps climb up to the ancient citadel, nestled high up, thousands of feet in the mountains. The view is enough to take your breath away. Even better? It’ll give you the workout of your life.
4. Zhangjiajie, China
China has many activity-based hotspots. One of the best of these is Zhangjiajie. The city is located in the northwestern portion of China’s Hunan province. It’s also home to the famous Wulingyuan Scenic and Historic Interest Area.
This natural sensation consists of an area covered by thousands of sandstone pillars. And we’re not talking about Stonehenge pillars, either. Many of these are hundreds of feet in height. This jaw-dropping geological phenomenon has created a network of ravines and gorges. Streams and waterfalls also snake their way throughout the region, as do dozens of caves. Needless to say, the area is rife with activity and adventure.
5. Big Island, Hawaii
As a U.S. citizen, you may find that a hike to New Zealand or China is out of reach. After all, sometimes you can only go so far in search of adventure. Looking for a way to get some vacation action closer to home isn’t just reasonable. At times it makes perfect sense.
If this is the case, you can try heading west to visit Hawaii’s Big Island. According to U.S. News, Hawaii’s Big Island is one of the absolute best adventure vacations in the United States. The tourist hotspot ranks sixth on a very competitive list that included iconic locations like the Grand Canyon and Yellowstone.
The massive island boasts a variety of different climates and activities. This includes everything from swimming on black sand beaches to hiking snow-covered peaks. If you’re on Big Island, rest assured that you’ll find something active to do.
6. Anchorage, Alaska
The Alaskan landscape has always beckoned to travelers. In Anchorage, in particular, you get a pleasant mixture of both city life and stunning natural landscapes. Anchorage has a reputation as Alaska’s most sophisticated city. This makes it a fun place to take a stroll and visit the local hotspots.
If you’re more of a nature junkie, the area can still deliver with ease. Hiking opportunities and wildlife abound. Fishing is popular. If you like the snow, make sure to pack your skis, too.
7. Sri Lanka
The wonderful island country of Sri Lanka is located off the southern coast of India. The island is 438km long and 225km wide and includes coastal plans on the north, and hills and mountains towards the interior.
There’s a huge choice of activities in Sri Lanka for anyone that’s an adventure-seeking person. From rafting in the Kelani river to trekking in the Knuckles Mountain Range, and hiking through Horton Plains.
To make sure you have enough time for each activity, you should definitely book your Sri Lanka tour in advance.
It doesn’t matter if you’re staying stateside or heading half a world away, there are tons of great destinations for an active vacation. The pandemic may have you feeling cooped up at the moment. But start making plans now. If you do, you’ll be ready to pull the trigger on the best vacation of your life as soon as things open up again.
