Family Style Adventure Travel

If your family is looking for something a vacation that’s a little different from Disneyland or the beach, an adventure travel might be just the thing for you. This type of trip isn't for families with small children, but for families with older kids, the opportunities are endlessly rewarding.

How to choose a trip

The first decision you will have to make is whether you plan to go it alone and arrange everything by yourself, or choose a pre-packaged trip with a small group and guide. There are definitely benefits to both. While paying for a pre-packaged trip isn’t cheap, with costs ranging between $1000 to $10,000 per person, there are a lot of benefits - safety and security, peace of mind, ease, and reduced stress. But if you choose to put the trip together yourself, you will have total freedom to stop and go as you please, to take extra time at a place you are enjoying, or to take a break when your family has had enough.

If you decide to book a packaged trip, check out AdventureLink, G Adventures or Adventure Centre, three wonderful companies that’ll make your vacation fun and easy to plan. I have personally traveled with AdventureLink, and loved it.

Where to go

Find and compare prices from different adventure tour operators. We are the best resource for finding, comparing and booking adventure travel with help from experts that can assist you in booking the perfect trip!

Here are a few suggestions:

Galapagos Islands

Visit one of the most biodiverse ecosystems in the world. Follow Charles Darwin’s path by boat through the Galapagos Islands exploring endemic species of plants and animals on the young volcanic islands. Hike barren volcanic landscapes, watch playful penguins dive into the water, and snorkel with sea lions. There is no better place to experience a stunning, natural environment.

Africa

Africa is the kind of place most people only ever dream of seeing. It’s a continent full of beauty,  wonder and mystery. You will pinch yourself every once in awhile and have many “am I really seeing this?” moments….good and bad. No matter which country within Africa you choose to visit, it will never be boring, I promise you that! I recommend a pre-packaged trip for most places in Africa as road conditions, rapidly changing political situations, and general safety can sometimes be a little tricky for most travelers. While I would not let any of these things keep you away, I would book a trip with an experienced guide to help you navigate this outstanding continent in a safe and organized manner.

Costa Rica

I like family destinations that have a lot of fauna, in case you didn't already notice that. Costa Rica definitely falls under that category. It’s great for active families with tons of wonderful  hiking and boating opportunities. And they have managed to keep their heritage perfectly in tact - there won’t be a single McDonalds in sight! They do not have a military, and you will notice that as you move through the country…it just feels different.

Thailand

The reason I love Thailand for family trips is that it is pretty easy travelling. With three distinct sides to this magical country, there is a wealth of activities to do and places to see in Thailand. Visit the floating marketplaces and golden temples of Bangkok, hang with elephants and tigers in the Northern city of Chiang Mai, or explore the limestone caves and beaches of the Southern islands. You do not need a guide, and in fact, I highly recommend taking this one independently. Thai people love children, and bringing them will open up a new world to travelers with Thai men and women reaching out to talk to you about your family. Kids will love the beautiful the beaches, crystal clear water for snorkeling, the unique transportation options and the hustle and bustle of the night markets.

What to bring

The gauge on whether your children are old enough to do an adventure travel trip will lie heavily on their ability to carry their own stuff. You will likely need to carry a backpack for an adventure trip, and they can be very heavy. Especially if you plan on going on an extended trip, do a few laps of your neighborhood with the family with fully loaded backpacks and see how everyone fares. A “dry run” is a great eye opener for everyone and helps bring swift resolution to what is important to bring and what isn't.  I get asked all the time what the one thing I don’t leave home without…and it’s this: A Buff can be used as a hair cover, to cover your neck from the sun, to cover your mouth on dusty roads, to cover your eyes in planes or buses. Bring light, breathable clothing, a very comfortable pair of closed toe shoes, a pair of flip flops, a small first aid kit, the best camera you can afford, and a very light and small laptop or tablet.

Know before you go

Adventure trips generally have more considerations than other types of Adventure Travel Deals. The first thing you should do once you have your destination nailed down is look into what kind of immunizations you will require. Some of them have to be started far in advance of your trip.

Next, you may have to apply for a special visa to gain entry into certain countries. This is also something that may require a fair amount of time.  Visit Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada for a look at each country alphabetically. Look for section #4 under each country information page where you will find requirements and information listed.

Finally, travel insurance for an adventure trip isn't necessarily the same as you would buy on a beach vacation. If you are planning to do what your current insurance company stipulates  as a “high risk activity” like rock climbing or bungy jumping, or any activity that would specifically exclude you from being eligible to receive medical care should something happen, ask your insurer first if there is some type of supplemental insurance you can purchase. If not, start looking into companies that provide this type of coverage. I highly recommend World Nomads . I want to state that I am in no way connected to or can benefit from this recommendation. This is simply a company I have used on several occasions, and with whom I have had to make a substantial claim with. They were wonderful every step of the way, and they are the only company I have made a claim through.

Ultimate Alaska Wildlife Safari

While superlatives strive to convey the grandeur of Alaska, they never quite manage to capture the reality. Our “Ultimate Alaska Wildlife Safari” Adventure Travel does, though. We take you far afield from the heavily touristed routes to get you up close to the real Alaska.

While superlatives strive to convey the grandeur of Alaska, they never quite manage to capture the reality. Our “Ultimate Alaska Wildlife Safari” trip does, though. We take you far afield from the heavily touristed routes to get you up close to the real Alaska: to the inner heart of Denali; alongside the face of a calving glacier; at river’s edge, watching giant brown bears fish for salmon. This is Alaska “less discovered”: bigger, wilder and more amazing than you’ve imagined. You’ve got to see it for yourself.

This trip ventures far afield from the typical Alaska tour where buses move long lines of cruise clients to crowded destinations. We also focus on bears, which, naturally, should be treated with caution. At Brooks Falls, thousands of visitors have traveled to view bears in the past 50 years and, to our knowledge, there has never been a bear attack. But we never know exactly what bears are thinking, so we ask our travelers to consider this and pay close attention to the rules set forth by the park rangers. Accommodations at Brooks Lodge are in shared quarters (4 to a cabin) with two bunkbeds and private facilities in each cabin. Solar power is available during daytime hours at Kenai Wilderness Lodge. All of our Hidden Alaska programs begin in Fairbanks and end in Anchorage.

Budget For Adventure Travel

Top Ten Budget For Adventure Travel

It's under the greatest pressures that we all have our greatest, most genuine experiences adventure travel. Despite the state of the economy, it's still quite possible to travel all around the world, comfortably, for an affordable price. From as low as $30 a day, you can see Guatemala and Morocco, Peru and Kenya, Thailand, South Africa and more. Let's take a look!

1. Atlas Mountain Trek

7 Days for only $93/Day!

The Atlas Mountains stretch across the crown of Africa, from Algeria to the Atlantic. On this adventure travel, you'll depart from Marrakech, Morocco for the wilds of the hillsides. Your guides will go at a leisurely pace, allowing you to admire the awe-inspiring landscapes around you. Your journey will take you to the shrine of Sidi Chamharouch, the supreme vistas of Mizrane Valley and the contemplative atmosphere of Tzikert Plateau. You'll even have tea with friendly local villagers in Achain, and have the chance to serve the local community with engaging projects.

2. Lake Atitlán Village Stay

8 Days for only $62/Day!

Have you ever wanted to live with a welcoming Mayan community on the banks of a spiritually energized lake? Well then, this is quite clearly the trip for you! With this latest offering from G adventure travel, you can experience life as these authentic villagers view it. You can hike through this mystical land, help cook a traditional Mayan meal and even participate in a Mayan tree-planting ceremony. There's so much you can do in this land of living legends, your short week there will disappear in a flash!

3. Andes & Amazon - Quito to La Paz

37 Days for only $43/Day!

The latest adventure travel trip from Oasis is selling fast! For less than $1600, explore Peru and Brazil for almost 40 Days! You'll sail to the Ballestas Islands, BBQ on sandy Pacific beaches, spend the night with a native family on Isla Amantani and visit the ruins of Machu Picchu. This may very well be your dream vacation. Save up for this 2013 departure date now, and reserve yourself a seat!

4. Climb Mount Toubkal

One Week for only $100/Day!

The beauty of Morocco's Mount Toubkal has to be seen to be believed. This enormous peak reaches over two and a half miles above the Mediterranean, and plays host to the most gorgeous alpine scenery in North Africa. Although it may sound overtaxing, this adventure travel is well within your reach. For only $699, you can summit this gigantic landmark with the help of guides who will ensure you make it to the top in comfort. Authentic Berber villages dot your ascent, and every night you'll be welcomed in with open arms and a delicious home cooked customary meal.

5. Nile Trans Nairobi to Cape Town

8 Weeks for only $29/Day!

Two months of traversing the African continent by truck, stopping at every locale along the way; now that's a road trip! Through eight nations, eight weeks and innumerable captivating sights, you'll experience the real Africa for yourself, in the most genuine way possible. But it doesn't stop there: as you journey on, you'll have opportunities for side trips, such as climbing to Mt. Kilimanjaro's Base Camp, ride Elephants and spot game in Gweru, and even sky dive over the coast of Namibia!

6. Palaui Island Photography Tour

3 Days for only $80/Day!

The volcanic allure of Palaui Island is some of the best opportunities for nature photography in the Philippines. Home to over 90 species of migratory birds, the geological wonders of the Eastern Rock Face, and a protected marine reserve, you'll find so much to see and shoot (with pictures!) on this adventure travel. We promise: If you aren't much of a photographer now, you'll be an expert by the end of these three days.

7. Roof of Africa - Cairo to Tunis

3 Weeks for only $41/Day!

For only $850, you can see the whole of North Africa on a three-week odyssey. From the Roman catacombs at Alexandria, to Troglodyte villages at Matmata and the ruins of Carthage at Tunis, there's a lot of culture and history to absorb. Along the way, you'll also have the opportunity to dive through sunken Roman Galleys and German U-Boats in the Eastern Mediterranean, walk through Plato's hometown of Cyrene and hike around the monumental fortified Kasbah of Le Kef.

8. Thailand Northern Hilltribes & Villages

8 Days for only $82/Day!

Thailand is a nation of contrasts; on this tour, you'll have the opportunity to explore all of them. First off is the bustling metropolis of Bangkok, with its colorful narrow alleyways, winding canals and gleaming high-rise skyscrapers. Next, it's off to the crumbling walls of Chiang Mai, a 14th century city with over 300 Buddhist temples. There's also an optional sojourn to Wat Po, home of an enormous reclining Buddha. From there, you'll head on a trek into the hills, visiting different minority populations, riding elephants and bamboo rafting through the valleys of Thailand. What more could you ask for?

9. Oasis Caravan - Tunis to Istanbul

58 Days for only $30/Day!

If traveling from Cairo to Tunis isn't hardcore enough for you, maybe a caravan all the way from Tunisia to Turkey is more your style! You'll traverse three continents, thousands of miles and so much more. Of course, on the way you'll see the Great Pyramids and Sphinx, but you'll also explore the fortified granary at Nalut, and sail down the Nile in a traditional felucca. Snorkel in the Mediterranean, hike through Cappadoccia, and river tube your way to Olu Deniz: it's the vacation of a lifetime, for the truly adventurous among us!

10. Deserts & Gameparks - Victoria Falls to Cape Town

3 Weeks for only $38/Day!

Three weeks of driving and trekking through some of the world's most unique animal habitats: heaven for a game enthusiast! First, you'll have the opportunity to fly over Victoria Falls in a helicopter, or even jump off it at one of the world's largest Bungee Jump locales! Then, you'll proceed to Etosha National Park in Namibia, before standing in awe below the Spitzkoppe Rock formations and Namib-Naukluft's incredibly tall sand dunes. Of course, the main event is nothing to be trifled with: see elephants, rhinos, giraffes and other uniquely African wildlife in their natural habitats!

International Summer Adventure Travel Deals

Top Ten International Summer Adventure Travel Deals

Summer has arrived, and that means it's time to take a load off, get a change of pace and go on adventure travel. Times might be a little rough economically, but that hardly means you have to skip this year's! Here at AdventureLink Travel Deals, we've compiled a list of ten wonderful vacation locales from all around the world that will save you money and still make this year one to remember.

1. Paris to Madrid Sightseeing Tour

This casual, two-week stroll through Western Europe takes you through beautiful countryside, past gorgeous Roman aqueducts and onto sophisticated urban boulevards. You'll have innumerable opportunities for side-trips, allowing you to pick and choose the optional components to optimize your adventure travel and trip for you. Want to kayak down the Dordogne? Taste wine in Bordeaux? Hike the Pyrenees? Well then, this is clearly the trip for you.

2. Ancient Inkas of Peru

Starting in Lima, Peru, this trip leads you on a 9 days adventure travel, where you'll delve into the ruins of the ancient Inkan civilization. Traverse the Sacred Valley, Explore the Cathedral of Cuzco, and (of course) step inside the ancient walls of Machu Picchu. You can also opt in to special additional mini trips, such as horseback riding in the hills, to Cuzco's numerous museums, or to additional archeological sites. The level of cultural immersion you'll experience will be, simply put, incredible.

3. Relaxing Mont Blanc Hike

The French Alps are beautiful this time of year, and it's now more affordable than ever to take a adventure tours. While you're there, you might as well conquer the tallest mountain in Western Europe! Don't worry, this budget-priced, helpfully guided tour will make the whole endeavor a piece of cake. In 8 days, you'll find yourself exploring the Courmayeur, Planpincieux, Chamonix and other regions of the gorgeous range. Bon Voyage!

4. Colombia Highlights

Colombia is home to millions of people and innumerable treasures. This grand tour throughout the country will show you a great sampling of Colombia's best sides. You'll explore the adventure travel with local charm of Tolu, the history of Santa Marta, and the museums of Cartegena. Moreover, you'll see Bogota's numerous churches and plazas, as well as camp out in the extremely biodiverse Tayrona National Park.

5. Turkish Coast Sailing Cruise

If you're going to go on a cruise, you might as well sail. And if you're going to sail, you might as well go to Turkey! This adventure travel will take you on a one-week luxurious tour of Turkey's south coast, including Marmaris, Bencik, Symi Island, and Bozburun Bay. On your way, you'll have the opportunity to dine both in local organic markets and on your seaborne home, while admiring the beauty of the Mediterranean. At night, party with the locals in coastal towns, or look up at the constellations, as the ancients did.

6. Thai Sailing Adventure Travel

"The Land of the Smiles" is sure not to disappoint while you're on this tour. You'll begin by snorkeling in Koh Tao's crystal-clear turquoise waters before setting sail on a luxury catamaran, stopping off in Pha Ngan for a swim, and perhaps a drink. You'll continue on to Than Sadet beach, and then to a short hike to the beautiful waterfalls of Than Pradet. Finally, dance the night away in Pha Ngan's famous Full Moon party! And all in 4 days!

7. The Baltics to Budapest: Sightseeing in Eastern Europe

Not up to wade through London or Paris in the height of tourist season? The weather is wonderful in the Ukraine this time of year, and it's a fine time to explore the deeper, hidden Europe. The medieval castles of Kiev, the sumptuous palaces of Vilnius, and Soviet facades of Warsaw all beckon you onward! From the artistry of the Angel of Uzupis, to the tragic hell of Auschwitz, immerse yourself in the rich, untold story of Eastern Europe!

8. Local Living & Trekking in the Dolomites

The Dolomites are the rough and gorgeous crown of Italy. Perched atop the Northern border, they wait to be surmounted by the discerning mountaineer. Your guides will assist you through the trek, taking you through Rifugio Genova, Sass Putia and Cima Dodici Apostoli. Along the way, you'll stop for home-cooked, delectable meals with locals. If you're up for a walk, it's certainly worth it!

9. Discover France Sightseeing Adventure Tours

Starting in Paris, you'll discover the whole of what France has to offer, from the Louvre to Versailles, Notre Dame to Mont St.-Michel. Witness the D-Day beach bunkers at Bayeux, and feast at the markets of La Rochelle. France is a country rich in culture, history and art: you're certain not to be disappointed. Book today, while the weather is pleasant and the tickets are cheap!

10. Mt. Kilimanjaro Group Trek

Mt. Kilimanjaro may seem insurmountable, but with the help of your welcoming guides you'll find it completely manageable. The Marangu route is a tried-and-true way up Africa's tallest peak. Regardless, you'll feel like (and be!) a pioneer when you reach the summit. This seven-day trek will leave you exhausted, exhilarated and anything but normal. But, trust us, it's worth it. Book today, while the promotion lasts!

The Happiest Place on Earth (Quantifiably)

Imagine a place that doesn't measure the quality of life in economic terms, but "real" terms. Not in money signs, and time clocks punched, but smiles, and time spent with loved ones. The place you are imagining is Bhutan, the kingdom of quantifiable happiness: or, Gross National Happiness.

The term was coined in 1972 when then King Jigme Singye Wangchuck was in the process of opening Bhutan up to modernization.  Prior to Wangchuck's rule Bhutan had been an isolated kingdom.  In openeing up the Kingdom to the outsdide world and Western economonics Wangchuck made off-hand comment, "Gross National Happiness is more important than Gross National Product."

What was once an off-the-cuff remark, is now policy. Karma Titsheem is the current secretary of the Gross National Happiness Commission of Bhutan. According to him, the four pillars of Gross National Happiness are: sustainable socioeconomic development, preservation and promotion of culture and traditions, good governance, and conservation of the environment.

Bhutan "preserves and promotes its culture and traditons," by limiting outside influences.  They have slowly allowed in the influences of television and internet.  Lisa Napoli of NPR just released an impressive book recounting her volunteer efforts to help Bhutanese youth open the nation's first radio station. This newfound openness was accompanied by massive recent political reforms, most significantly the abdication of Wangchuck in 2008 and emergence of a more democratic, constitutional monarchy.

Due to this glasnost-esque reopening of the nation, adventure travel companies have begun to move into Bhutan in earnest. AdventureLink is proud to carry over 70 trips to the country, ranging from short multi-day tours all the way to 27-day odysseys! Despite, or perhaps because of the nation's spiritual wrestling with tradition and innovation, Bhutan has a unique and endearing mix of old-world culture and modern convenience, local custom and open-armed welcome. Combined with incredible vistas and awe-invoking landscapes, Bhutan is surely a destination you'll not soon forget.

If you're looking for a mighty trek, perhaps you'll want to hike From Darjeeling to Bhutan. This 20-Day adventure is a hardcore hike through mountains and jungle, an unforgettable trip through Himalayan wilds. If you're less interested in the trek and more fascinated by the monasteries, you can take a shorter 10-Day tour of the Nature and Legends of Bhutan, where you'll visit the famous Taksteng Monastery, among others. If you'd like to experience the local culture, why not take a tour of the Black-Necked Crane Festival this November, where you'll experience the celebratory side of the Bhutanese people as well as immersing yourself in Buddhist culture. If road cycling is more your style, you can go on the Mystical Bhutan Cycling Adventure, where you'll cruise through the famed spiritual energy of Dochula Pass as well as past the many flags of Lawala. The bottom line is this: you don't know what "Happy" really means until you visit Bhutan!