The Best Adventure Holidays in South and Central America

Ever wanted to go snorkeling and scuba diving with sharks, sea lions and sea turtles? If so, then consider joining this five-day overland trip to the Galápagos Islands – an archipelago around 1,000km (621mi) off the coast of mainland Ecuador. Follow in the footsteps of Charles Darwin as you spot marine iguanas and blue-footed boobies on San Cristóbal, hike through rugged volcanic landscapes and cactus forests on a remote, uninhabited island, and safely observe white-tipped reef sharks while kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding in the Itabaca Channel. An optional excursion to Kicker Rock gives you the chance to experience one of the best snorkelling and scuba diving spots in the Galápagos.

Mainland Ecuador boasts some of South America’s most spectacular scenery, including glacier-capped volcanoes, enormous waterfalls and tropical rainforest. Horse riding in Cotopaxi National Park and hiking around the Laguna Limpiopungo while staying overnight in a traditional mountain hacienda are just two of the highlights of this eight-day adventure. Hiking around the rim of the emerald green Quilotoa crater lake, cycling the Baños Waterfall Route and white water rafting through the Amazon on the Jatunyacu River are exhilarating activities on the agenda. You’ll also have an opportunity to ride the Swing at the End of the World, which offers jaw-dropping views of the Tungurahua volcano and the sweeping valley below.

Central America has plenty to offer adventurous travelers. This five-day trip to Guatemala includes a hike up to the summit of Pacaya volcano, where you’re rewarded with pizza and marshmallows cooked over molten lava. Next, you’ll travel to Lake Atitlan, a volcanic crater lake that’s surrounded by traditional Mayan villages. You’ll hit the water on a kayak tour, paddling among the lush gardens that line the lakeshore. Adrenaline junkies won’t want to miss the optional activity of ziplining over the water, too.