On 28 June 2023, Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny debuted in British cinemas, marking the return of the whip-cracking, part-time professor, part-time adventurer to the silver screen.
If you’ve found yourself inspired and are looking for ways to capture a spirit of adventure this summertime, there are a variety of holiday destinations around the world that might scratch that itch for excitement.
Here are five exotic locations from across the globe you might want to consider.
1. Cycle, hike, and raft through the Croatian wilderness
Croatia is home to swathes of greenery and wide-open wilderness, with mountains, lakes, waterfalls, and plenty of hiking trails.
Arriving in Dubrovnik, you can take in the serene harbour life and the city’s shops and cafes, before heading off on your adventure.
Plitvice Lakes National Park is a Unesco world heritage site with plenty of adventurous activities to take part in, such as:
- Mountain hiking
- River boat trips
- Rafting down river rapids
- Kayaking
- Mountain bike paths.
There are also opportunities to climb craggy cliffs and limestone peaks or explore the depths of rich pine forests.
There are plenty of camping sites across the region, as well as a range of lakeside accommodation.
2. Scale glaciers and volcanic landscape in Iceland
If you’re looking to get away from the summer heat and have a slightly cooler adventure, a trip to Iceland might be the solution.
You can head out across the country’s volcanic landscape and navigate its daunting frozen glaciers.
Iceland is also home to a labyrinth of ice caves and tunnels, such as the Crystal Ice Caves at Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon.
The ethereal surroundings of the cave are a spectacular sight with walls of bright blue ice that refract a beautiful spectrum of natural light. They are one of the many natural wonders that make up Europe’s biggest glacier, Vatnajökull Glacier.
If you’re looking to relax your muscles after a long day of trekking, you might want to head to one of the country’s many natural geothermal spring spas.
Finally, settle in for the night at one of Iceland’s boutique hotels overlooking its vast lava fields, and enjoy watching the Northern Lights flicker across the night sky.
3. Paddle down the Zambezi River in Africa
The Zambezi River stretches across Africa. A flight to Zimbabwe will allow you to explore its middle stretch which separates Zimbabwe to the south and Zambia to the north.
A river adventure will allow you to canoe down the river and get up close to African wildlife, such as:
- Hippos
- African fish eagles
- Tigerfish
- Elephants
- Crocodiles
Along the river, you’ll be able to take in The Tigerfish Safari, Vundu Camp, and the Mana Pools National Park.
The Zambezi can be filled with plenty of danger, so make sure you have an able guide along with you for your expedition and that you’ve had all the necessary vaccinations before you travel.
4. Motorbike across Cuba’s backroads
If you’re interested in rich history, majestic jungles, sunny beaches, and plenty of rum – it might be worth a flight across the Atlantic to Havanna, Cuba.
After taking in the city’s lively nightlife and historic Cuban architecture, you could embark on a motorcycle adventure across Cuba’s sprawling backroads.
Cuba is home to some beautiful jungle landscape, as well as sparkling Caribbean beaches that can be taken in while riding along the country’s many coastal roads.
A ride to the Sierra del Rosario Biosphere Reserve will allow you to cool off with a swim in the San Juan River.
There are also many old fishing villages, local cantinas, and historic landmarks to explore along the way.
Finish up your journey in Santiago de Cuba and enjoy a delicious Cuban mojito before kicking back on one of the many white sandy beaches.
5. Explore the jungles of Colombia and discover a lost city
A trip to Colombia could see you explore the Amazon jungle and embark on an adventure that encourages you to navigate one of South America’s most mysterious hiking routes. The trek will take you to La Ciudad Perdida, a pre-Hispanic lost city, hidden in the depths of the jungle.
Explore Colombia’s:
- Rich “coffee zones”
- Vibrant local villages
- High-altitude páramos
- Secluded Caribbean beaches
- Santa Marta, cloud forest, which harbours rare exotic animal species.
Once you’ve finished exploring the jungle wilderness, you could head to Colombia’s coast and the city of Cartagena.
The port city is a mosaic of old and new world buildings. The city’s famous walled Old Town, founded in the 16th century, is full of bright cobblestone streets and old colonial architecture. It is also home to plenty of beautiful beaches, harbourside restaurants, and vibrant rum bars.
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