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Nature Vacations: 25 Amazing Places For An Outdoors Adventure

Nature vacations are becoming more and more popular – especially since the pandemic, when social distancing and long walks in the countryside became a thing. And with the world’s population now topping a massive EIGHT BILLION people, it’s not surprising more and more of us are looking for a way to get away from the crowds!

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Fortunately, the planet is a big place, and there are still plenty of places to go on vacation where you can avoid other people and get back in touch with the natural world. In fact, there are so many opportunities for nature holidays, that choosing where to go can be a bit overwhelming.

Discovering the World’s Best Nature Vacations

To help narrow it down, I asked some top travel experts and travel bloggers to give me their best nature destinations. Then I added some of my own, and ended up with this list of 25 amazing places to take a nature vacation.

And in no particular order, here they are! Hopefully they’ll help inspire your next hiking, swimming, diving, or wildlife-spotting adventure!

If they do, I’ve helpfully popped a link in to take you to TourRadar , which is a great platform that collates some of the best small-group adventure and nature tours in the world, all in one place. TourRadar only works with reputable tour companies and has a 4.5-star rating on TrustPilot, so you know you’re in safe hands when searching for the best trips for outdoor lovers.

1/ Antarctica and South Georgia

There’s a reason why the fabled seventh continent is right at the top of most people’s nature holiday bucket lists. With magical icy landscapes, brilliant blue glaciers the size of cathedrals, snowy hillsides teeming with thousands of Antarctic animals including 8 different species of penguins , dramatic seascapes full of whales and seals, endless wildlife photography opportunities , and the chance to try out adventure activities like sea kayaking or the legendary polar plunge , Antarctica is a nature-lover’s dream destination.

Yes it may be expensive to get there, but it’s worth every penny. You’ll need to book an expedition cruise and cross the dramatic Drake Passage, fabled to be the roughest stretch of sea in the world. But once you’re there, you’ll be able to set foot on the seventh continent – an opportunity few people get.

But if you’re going all that way, don’t stop at just Antarctica. Some expeditions take the long way round and go via the magical island of South Georgia . Lost in the vast Antarctic Ocean, 1000 miles from the nearest land, this incredible island is uninhabited by humans, allowing wildlife to flourish . There’s so much overwhelming biodiversity here that’s it’s known as the Galapagos of the south, and it will absolutely blow you away.

Explore holidays to Antarctica and South Georgia here

Whether summer or winter, Iceland will have you hooked. With towering glaciers , erupting volcanos, majestic waterfalls , steaming hot springs, black sand beaches , and miles upon miles of dramatic coastline, Iceland truly is the place for the nature holiday of a lifetime.

Rent a car and drive the circumference of the ring road, stopping every 5 minutes to marvel at yet another jawdropping vista. Stop to say hello to the Icelandic horses or to photograph yet another sweeping vista, and if you visit in winter there’s a good chance you’ll get to see the Northern Lights too. Meanwhile in summer there are almost endless hours of daylight and dramatic hiking trails to enjoy.

If you’re a nature lover and you haven’t been to Iceland yet, what are you waiting for?!

Start planning your Iceland adventure here

Read more: 25 Spectacular Places To Visit For Travel Photography

3/ Tanzania

No list of nature destinations would be complete without at least one African safari (and actually there are three in here). If you love animals, conservation, and wildlife watching, then a visit to one of Africa’s many safari destinations is a must. After all, what better experience can there be than the chance to witness nature, red in tooth and claw: lions stalking impala across the savanna, hippos wallowing in watering holes, or elephants and giraffes grazing among the trees?

One of the best places to go on safari is Tanzania . It’s home to the world-famous Serengeti national park, where you’ll find lions, leopards, cheetahs, zebras, giraffes, antelopes and more, as well as the famous Ngorongoro crater, home to one of the greatest concentrations of African animals anywhere on the continent. But on top of that, Tanzania is also home to world-class hiking opportunities, with the legendary Mount Kilimanjaro , highest peak in Africa, at the top of that list.

Read more: Climbing The 8 Days Lemosho Route On Kilimanjaro

But if that’s not enough, there’s also the volcano Ol Doinyo Lengai , and the flamingo-packed Lake Natron to tempt you. That’s why, when people ask if they should go to Tanzania or Kenya , for many people, Tanzania is the clear winner.

Check out a range of Tanzania adventure packages here

Less celebrated than Tanzania, but no less great for a wildlife vacation, is Uganda. With lush rolling green landscapes and ten national parks, you won’t be short of options for hiking or wildlife-spotting in Uganda . Most famous of all is Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, where you can go trekking to see critically-endangered mountain gorillas . But no less exciting is the chance to visit habituated chimpanzee families in Kibale National Park.

Read more: 28 Brilliant Things To Do In Uganda

Other opportunities to spend time in nature include walking with rhinos at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary , feeding the animals behind the scenes at Uganda Wildlife Education Centre , spotting tree-climbing lions in Queen Elizabeth National Park, or visiting the dramatic Murchison Falls .

For those who prefer adventure, Uganda also offers an excellent choice of outdoor activities, from white-water rafting or kayaking at Jinja , the source of the River Nile, to hiking or rock climbing in the Sipi Falls region.

With so much to see and do, and at prices that are much more affordable than other parts of East Africa, I think Uganda really does offer the best nature getaways for safari or wildlife lovers .

Fancy Uganda? Search for trips and tours here

5/ Guatemala

Guatemala is most well-known for its vibrant and photogenic culture , with pretty colonial architecture, buzzing markets , and kind and friendly people – but alongside all of that, this Central American country also offers plenty of opportunities for an off-the-beaten-track nature vacation.  

The Petén region, in the north of the country, is a vast expanse of tropical jungle, where ancient Maya temples emerge from the dense rainforest, and you’re almost guaranteed to spot wildlife including toucans, monkeys, coatis, and, if you’re lucky, the resplendent quetzal, national bird of Guatemala . There are jaguars here too, but they’re much harder to spot.

Read more: A Perfect Guatemala Itinerary In 10 Days, 2 Weeks Or 3 Weeks

Head west, and you’ll come to Lake Atitlan , famed for its dramatic landscape of vivid blue waters surrounded by three volcanos. There are almost endless outdoors adventures to be found around the lake, and even more around the nearby cities of Antigua Guatemala and Xela , both of which offer easy access to a huge range of hiking trails including the chance to climb an erupting volcano .

Check out some amazing Guatemala packages here

6/ Costa Rica

Costa Rica is probably the most celebrated place to experience nature and wildlife in the whole of Central and South America – and for good reason. Wildlife tourism is a hugely important part of the economy here, and they take conservation extremely seriously. The Costa Rican people really understand the value of protecting their natural resources, not just for financial reasons but also for the good of the planet.

With two coastlines and endless swathes of cloud forest and tropical jungle, Costa Rica is a wildlife lover’s dream. Take a hike in one of the many national parks and you’ll have no trouble spotting spider and howler monkeys, macaws, toucans, parrots, hummingbirds and of course the loveable and iconic sloth. At the right time of year, you may also get the chance to see endangered turtles nesting and breeding.

Read more: A Review of G Adventures’ Costa Rica 16-Day Tour

But animals aren’t the only reason why Costa Rica is brilliant for a nature holiday. The country has miles and miles of beautiful, palm fringed sandy beaches, perfect for strolling, swimming, or just relaxing with a book. They’ve also invested millions in turning the country into a mecca for adrenaline and outdoors adventure lovers, with ziplines, jungle canopy bridges, whitewater rafting, volcano hiking and more.

So whether you’re after wildlife, landscapes, or outdoors thrills, Costa Rica has you covered.

Find your dream Costa Rica trip here

7/ New Zealand

There’s a reason why the country of New Zealand has served as a backdrop for many fantasy films in the last few decades: the country’s breathtaking landscapes all look like they belong in a fairytale.

From golden beaches to glaciers that snake down through rainforests, New Zealand is truly an outdoor-lover’s dream. Hiking, camping, and simply being out in nature is a way of life for many New Zealanders, so it’s no surprise that it’s also a popular spot for tourists who enjoy the same.

While you can’t see everything with  2 weeks in New Zealand , you certainly can tick off some major highlights. 

Starting on the North Island, you can go dolphin-spotting in the Bay of Islands, dig your own hot tub at Hot Water Beach on the Coromandel Peninsula, hike between volcanoes in Tongariro National Park, walk in a forest of redwood trees in Rotorua, and visit bird sanctuaries to see rare flightless birds like kiwis.

On the even more dramatic South Island, you can go kayaking in Abel Tasman National Park, try heli-hiking on a glacier on the West Coast, spot whales in Kaikoura, brave tandem skydiving or bungee jumping into stunning canyons in Queenstown, and go on a cruise through Milford Sound. There’s no shortage of active vacation ideas in New Zealand!

By Amanda Williams from A Dangerous Business Travel Blog

Search for your bucket list New Zealand holiday here

Namibia is one of the best nature travel destinations for two main reasons.

Firstly, it has a stunning natural landscape, formed by the elements over billions of years. In  two weeks in Namibia , you could explore the graceful dunes of the Namib Desert, thought to be the oldest desert in the world. Here you can climb giant sand dunes, wander the eerie white clay pans of Sossusvlei and drive along the legendary Skeleton Coast. You can also see dramatic canyons, including Fish River Canyon, the largest in Africa, craters, stunning mountains and plains. In the east of Namibia, there are lush wetlands where you might spot hippos and water buffalo.

Which leads on to the second reason Namibia is great for a nature holiday: the wildlife. Namibia is home to all of the ‘Big Five’ animals: elephants, rhinos, lions, leopards and buffalo. The best place to do a wildlife safari is Etosha National Park, which is a huge reserve in the north of the country that allows self-drive safaris. However, you will see wild animals and African birds all over Namibia in your two weeks, even along the roads: it is quite common to see Gemsbok and other antelopes, zebras, wildebeest and baboons inland; and seals along the coast.

By Martha from May Cause Wanderlust

Ready to head to Namibia? Start your journey here!

As such a vast country,  Canada  is easily one of the best places in the world to enjoy a nature-filled holiday. From the powder-capped wilds of the north where polar bears leave footprints in the snow, to the lush green forests and glossy lakes of the south, there’s enough to keep your memories (and your memory cards!) full for two weeks or more.

One of the best ways to spend your time in Canada as a nature lover is by road-tripping the Canadian Rockies . Start in the cosmopolitan city of Calgary before winding your way through the peaks, lakes and national parks towards Vancouver. Stop off at Jasper to enjoy spectacular hikes and trails, taste delicious Canadian wines at Kelowna and marvel at the waterfalls around Golden.

As you drive, keep your eyes peeled for moose, bears and birds of prey who frequent the camps in search of berries and other food. Once you reach Vancouver, join a whale-watching safari to be in with a chance to spot humpback and grey whales, orcas, sea otters and seals. If you’re yet to see bears, head to Vancouver Island to join a bear tour, where you’re almost guaranteed sightings of black bears searching for crabs on the shore. 

Too much of a wildlife fix for you? Head to Canada’a Atlantic coast – where the picturesque provinces of Nova Scotia , New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, and Prince Edward Island will tempt you with glorious landscapes and incredible food. You really can’t beat it.

By Anna from Really Wildlife

Start planning your Canada adventure here

10/ Ireland

If you love unapologetic wildness and lush green landscapes, Ireland would be a wonderful place for a nature vacation. Ireland is an island, so there is coastline in every direction, complete with sandy beaches, dramatic cliffs, and incredible bird life, including the adorable puffin ! Most of the country is very rural, so the best way to explore is to rent a car and drive, first along Ireland’s Ancient East from Dublin to Cork, then along the Wild Atlantic Way from Cork to Donegal. 

You can wild camp throughout Ireland: just ask a local farmer if they know of any spots and they’re usually happy to give advice. Wild swimming is very popular in Ireland, and there are plenty of places that are perfect for a secluded dip in the sea or an alpine lake – just beware of riptides and strong currents. 

There are two main mountain ranges in Ireland, the Wicklow Mountains and the Mountains of Kerry, both of which have hiking trails (the Wicklow Way and the Kerry Way, respectively). Over the course of two weeks, you could complete sections of both hikes, or simply explore the trails and serene wildness of the national parks. Even if you decide to skip the Wicklow Way, dedicate a day of your trip to hiking the Spinc Trail around Glendalough, a stunning glacial lake near a set of monastic ruins.

By Amber from Amber Everywhere

Start exploring Ireland here!

The most popular destination for a holiday in Alaska is Denali National Park. Denali is the largest mountain in North America at 20,310 ft. Explore the park by hiking countless trails among the tundra, animal viewing for bears and caribou, whitewater river rafting down the Nenana River, taking a scenic flight over the mountain with a glacier landing, or even mountaineering up Denali itself.

There are a plethora of mountains at every turn throughout Alaska and a lot of them will have some sort of trail for hiking, whether short day hikes or long multi-day hikes. Hatcher Pass in the Talkeetna Mountains, Crow Pass in the Chugach Mountains, and Harding Icefield (the only land access to Kenai Fjords National Park) are just a fraction of the hiking options.

In Kenai Fjords National Park, nature-watching cruises take off out of Seward to view enchanting blue glaciers calving into the ocean and to watch wildlife like puffins, otters, seals, and whales frolicking in the cold waters.

During the winter, keep your eyes to the skies to spot the Northern Lights dancing amongst the stars. 

By Tabitha from Travel Compositions

Feeling inspired? Search for your dream Alaska trip here!

12/ Australia’s Great Barrier Reef

The Great Barrier Reef is often a bucket list item and perfect for a nature holiday. Located off of the east coast of Queensland, Australia, the Great Barrier Reef can be visited from as far south as Bundaberg and as far north as Cape York.

With two weeks to explore the Great Barrier Reef, don’t stay in one spot! Spend some time in the Whitsunday Islands enjoying the sugar sand white beaches and crystal clear water. Airlie Beach is the most popular place to stay by the Whitsunday Islands and there are plenty of hikes, waterfalls, and watersports available to add excitement to your nature vacation.

While Cairns or Port Douglas are the closest entrances to The Great Barrier Reef, don’t just stop there!  While there are plenty of  day trips from Cairns , also head north to Daintree and Cape Tribulation to explore the only location on earth where two World Heritage sites (The Great Barrier Reef and Daintree Rainforest) meet.

If diving isn’t for you, there are endless nature trips to be had in other parts of Australia.Why not try finding your fortune in the opal fields of Coober Pedy , or visit a pearl farm in the stunning Dampier Peninsula?

By Lanie van der Horst from Make More Adventures

Check out some of the best Australia trips and tours here

13/ Cappadocia, Türkiye

Cappadocia is a region in beautiful Türkiye (formerly known as Turkey). It’s famous for its vast, desert landscape with expansive valleys and impressive rock formations known as fairy chimneys, which were used as homes in the 7th century. 

Because of its arid climate, the people here live in cave dwellings. These are not dark, damp caves with stalagmites and stalactites, but warm, cosy homes made from carving out the porous rocky landscape. This means much of the landscape has been free of construction and development. Outside of the towns, you’ll find endless deserts filled with rocky canyons with unique rock formations and glistening white sand.  Cappadocia is famous for  hot air balloon rides, which take off at sunset and offer incredible views of the valleys below (and hundreds of hot air balloons above). It’s is the perfect nature vacation spot for hikers since there are so many valleys and hiking trails to explore. Some popular valleys to explore are Red and Rose Valley, Love Valley, Pigeon Valley, White Valley, Devrent Valley, and Monks Valley. Each valley has something special and unique to explore, from ancient churches to sunset viewpoints. Perhaps the most fascinating valley of all is Ihlara Valley. Ihlara is a green anomaly to the rest of Cappadocia and is the only place where you’ll find lush green trees, a glistening river, and craggy limestone cliffs. Once you’re there, you won’t believe you’re in a desert.  While you’re in Turkey, don’t miss some of its incredible ancient ruins , like the legendary city of Troy or the UNESCO site of Gordion, the city of King Midas .

By Louisa Smith from The Turkey Traveler

Click here to start your Türkiye nature vacation!

14/ Galapagos Islands, Ecuador

The Galapagos Islands are unmissable for any wildlife photographer or lover. This unique destination, situated in the Pacific Ocean, is one of the most amazing places to go on vacation, home to some of the most diverse and incredible wildlife on Earth.

The islands were famously a source of inspiration for Darwin’s theory of evolution, and visitors can see this for themselves with the plethora of different species of animals found here. From giant tortoises to playful sea lions, there is an abundance of wildlife to be spotted on any tour of the Galapagos Islands .

One of the best ways to experience the natural underwater world of the Galapagos is by diving or snorkeling. The clear waters offer fantastic visibility, meaning you can get up close and personal with the sharks, turtles, sea lions, fishes, and marine iguanas.

For those who prefer to stay on dry land, there are still plenty of opportunities to see the amazing wildlife. A hike to the top of one of the volcanoes will provide stunning views, as well as the chance to spot some of the rarer birds such as the blue-footed booby.

By Giorgy from the G-Extreme Travel Blog

Click here to start planning your dream Galapagos nature vacation!

15/ Torres del Paine National Park, Chile

Torres del Paine national park at the southern tip of Chile is one of the most beautiful natural places in the world. A land of epic mountains, sparkling glaciers, and turquoise lakes, it’s the highlight of any trip to Patagonia. With two weeks to work with, start your adventure out in the small town of Puntas Arenas, the gateway to Torres del Paine. From here you’ll take a bus to the park where you’ll be dropped off in a stunning natural landscape.

The “O” Circuit hike takes about 7-10 days and takes you all around the park over the course of 130+ km. It’s much less popular than the 3-day “W” hike, so when you’re beyond the extent of the W hike, the trails will be quiet, and you’ll have the beauty of the Patagonian Andes almost all to yourself.

During the trek, you are required to reserve the campsites ahead of time. There are limited spaces available and they book up about 6 months in advance. So advanced planning is required! If you’re planning the shorter W hike, campsites still need to be booked ahead.

If hiking through the mountains isn’t your thing, there are still plenty of things to do in the park and in Patagonia. Rent a room at Hotel Las Torres Patagonia and just relax while taking in the stunning scenery. Then cross the border into Argentina to check out Fitz Roy and Perito Moreno glacier, with a night or two in El Chalten or El Calafate on the way.

You’re spoiled for choice when it comes to adventure vacation ideas amidst the fabulous natural beauty of Torres del Paine and Patagonia! 

By Chris Heckmann from Around The World With Me

Why wait? Click here to find your perfect Chile trip!

It’s easy to see why Japan is known as a land of contrasts. Visitors don’t need to venture too far from the hustle and bustle of major cities such as Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka to be immersed in the diverse landscapes and nature experiences the country has to offer. Exploring  off the beaten path in Japan  will reward visitors with nature experiences like no other!

Enjoy snorkelling? Head to the pristine waters of tropical Okinawa for sun, sand and sea life. Want to discover ancient temples and shrines nestled deep within forests? Spend a few days in Nikko, Koyasan or the outskirts of Kyoto. Prefer hiking along flowing rivers against a jagged mountain backdrop? Look no further than Kamikochi. Interested in seeing snow monkeys bathing in hot springs? The forests of Nagano have you covered. 

Speaking of hot springs, one of the most popular cultural experiences in Japan is bathing in  onsen . As a landmass formed by volcanic activity, in Japan there is no shortage of natural springs to soak in and relax, making it one of the most beautiful places to go on vacation.

Spending a few days in the Mt Fuji area allows for more chances to see the sacred mountain (and even climb its summit during summer!), see gorgeous UNESCO World Heritage sites such as Shiraito Falls, a cave where locals believe is the residence of Fuji’s goddess, and many lake hikes to catch Mt Fuji’s reflection.

By Alyse from The Invisible Tourist

Life is short. Find your bucket list Japan tour today!

17/ South Africa

South Africa is an incredible country with vast natural beauty, wildlife, and safari opportunities. So if you’re an animal lover looking for a nature vacation, then it’s time to pack your bag for South Africa !

Kruger National Park and Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park are both national parks you will see an amazing variety of wildlife. Both parks are home to many African animals including the Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino), cheetah, wild dogs, and a variety of antelope.

You can also stay in a private game reserve, such as Zulu Nyala, Bayete Zulu, and Colin’s Horseback Africa. Activities you will enjoy include game drives, bush walks, camping, and more. Food is provided with accommodation.

Cape Town is one of the best nature places to visit. Take a cable car to the top of Table Mountain to see stunning views of the city and the surrounding coastline. The Boulder Penguin Colony is an excellent place for you to see these adorable birds up close, and you can also go shark diving or visit Cape Good Hope, the southernmost point of Africa.

You will have plenty to do around Johannesburg too. Go hiking or mountain biking in the Magaliesberg, or enjoy a picnic in one of the city’s parks.

By Melodie Rush from Travel Must Do’s

Search for South Africa adventures here!

Norway is a stunning place full of natural wonders that you can visit in any season. Above the Arctic Circle, bask in the midnight sun during the summer months when the sun never sets.

Alternatively, experience the polar night in the winter, when the sun never rises. This is the best time to chase the magical Aurora Borealis. Take a tour with an expert guide who will show you the best spots and give tips on how to photograph the Northern Lights for amazing memories to look back on. Or visit Bergsjøstølen for the spine-tingling Ice Music Festival .

There are plenty of places you can check out the northern lights in Norway – including  the Lofoten Islands , Tromso, and the North Cape.

Norway is also full of majestic fjords, where you can take cruises any time of the year. The breathtaking Geirangerfjord is one of the most famous fjords in the world and has been deemed a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

There are also amazing parks that are the best vacation spots for outdoor activities, such as Jotunheimen or Folgefonna National Parks. Breathe in the fresh air as you traverse the mountains and through the meadows, full of rugged scenery from wildflowers to waterfalls to glaciers.

Some of Norway’s tallest waterfalls to check out include Vettisfossen, Vinnufallet, and the Seven Sisters. The hike to Trolltunga outlook gives you fantastic views of the Ringedalsvatnet lake and Folgefonna glacier.

By Megan Starr

Click here to start planning your perfect Norway vacation

19/ The Philippines

With over 7,600 islands, the Philippines are home to countless idyllic seascapes and landscapes, tropical beaches and amazing wildlife, making these islands one of the most beautiful nature places in the world.

Among the country’s most captivating destinations are Bohol and Cebu. These two island provinces are packed with natural wonders and activities perfect for a two-week vacation.

Be amazed by Bohol’s world-renowned Chocolate Hills and visit the adorable Philippine tarsiers, a tree-dwelling animal and the world’s smallest primate. After that you can have your lunch while cruising the Loboc River one of the cleanest in the country.

Be mesmerised by dolphins not in a dolphin show but in the middle of the ocean, wild and free! To complete your  Bohol itinerary , try snorkelling with sea turtles and a visit to Virgin Island sandbar before getting the ferry to Cebu.

Once in Cebu you can do waterfall chasing and even canyoneering to Kawasan Falls if you’re feeling adventurous. Swimming or snorkelling with millions of sardines during the famous Sardines Run at Panagsama Beach is the experience of a lifetime. Or if you prefer hiking, head to Osmena Peak which is Cebu’s highest.

These are not all, but among the top experiences for anyone looking for great nature places to visit.

By Dea Mariano from Jea Wanders

Search for small-group nature adventures in the Philippines here.

20/ Scottish Highlands & Islands

Scotland is inarguably the wildest place in the British Isles and perfect for a journey to connect with nature. With a low population density and most people living around the large cities in Central Scotland, the northern and western parts of the Highlands and Islands are an adventurer’s playground.

Scotland is home to the UK’s largest national park (the  Cairngorms National Park ) and its highest peaks, and many animals that have long disappeared from the forests and fields of England and Wales can still be found in the remote glens up north.

You can cover a lot of ground on a two-week nature holiday in Scotland. Out west, explore the rugged coastline with its sea lochs, beaches and islands either by boat or kayak, or head east to join a wildlife cruise to see puffins or the world’s largest colony of northern gannets .

For a fully immersive experience, put on a snorkel and discover the underwater world of Argyll, the UK’s first mainland Hop Spot. Don’t leave without hiking among the dramatic mountains of Glencoe, trying to spot the Big 5 of Scottish wildlife, forest bathing in a native Caledonian pine forest and walking up to the sub-Arctic plateau of the Cairngorms mountain range.

By Kathi from Watch Me See

Love Scotland? Find the best Scotland trips and tours for you right here!

21/ New England, USA

New England  in the Northeastern part of the US is such an underrated region for nature lovers, but it has everything, including dramatic coastline cliffs, some of the best beaches in the USA, world-class fall foliage and incredible mountain ranges for hiking. 

One of the top places to visit in New England for nature lovers is Acadia National Park in Maine. With over 60 miles of some of the most jaw-dropping coastline views in the country, it’s home to amazing hiking trails, scenic drives and an iconic lighthouse. 

For those looking to tackle the most thrilling hike in Acadia, add the Beehive Trail to your itinerary. For one of the most stunning sunrises you’ve ever seen, be sure to wake up early and drive the auto road to the Cadillac Mountain summit. 

If it’s gorgeous beaches you’re after, head to Cape Cod in Massachusetts. Home to the Cape Cod National Seashore, it’s here you’ll find impressive sand dunes (some reaching 100 feet tall), as well as Coast Guard Beach, regarded as one of the most beautiful in the U.S. 

A great time to visit New England is the fall season to see the famous fall foliage throughout the region. One of the best places to experience this is in the White Mountains of New Hampshire, which is also an amazing area for hiking.

By Sam of New England Wanderlust

Start planning your New England nature vacation today!

22/ Tasmania, Australia

The island state of Tasmania is a remote destination full of natural beauty and diverse landscapes. A trip to Tasmania is the ultimate escape for those seeking an adventurous getaway surrounded by untouched wilderness. Home to pristine forests, epic mountain ranges, beautiful beaches and unique wildlife, taking a 2 week road trip is the ideal way to see the best of the island.

If hiking is your thing, be sure to spend a few days exploring Cradle Mountain National Park. There are a huge variety of scenic hikes and nature walks offering some of the best views in the state. Binalong Bay, also known as The Bay of Fires is a must-see for beach lovers. Vibrant orange rocks with a backdrop of turquoise water is an incredible sight that can’t be missed on your  Tasmania itinerary . 

A visit to Maria Island off of Tasmania’s east coast will provide the perfect opportunity to meet some of the island’s cutest residents, wombats. Rent a bike and spend a day cycling around this small island to see some of the most beautiful natural scenery and free roaming wombats. 

The long stretch of white sand in Wineglass Bay is like a scene from a postcard and one of the most iconic views in Tasmania. The best way to see this stunning scenery is by hiking to the Mount Amos summit which is located in Freycinet National Park.  

By Ann Kelly from The Road Is Life

Find your dream Tasmania trip by clicking here!

The Hawaiian Islands offer some of the world’s most diverse nature, from active volcanoes to humpback whales and dramatic mountainscapes. While you could spend years exploring Hawaii, two weeks is a good amount of time to dive in and experience two of the islands. For example, consider spending a week in both Maui and the Big Island, respectively. 

If you time your visit in the winter, Maui is one of the best places on the planet to see humpback whales, given that they migrate to the island’s shallow lagoons from their arctic waters to breed and raise their young. Make sure to also carve out some time to drive along the dramatic Road to Hana, a 65-mile road that winds through incredibly lush rainforests, past rushing waterfalls, and along jaw-dropping black sand beaches. 

Your Big Island itinerary can be stuffed with a variety of dynamic outdoor adventures- for example, you can climb the world’s tallest mountain (as measured from the seafloor to its summit) at Mauna Kea, snorkel with manta rays in the town of Kona along its western coastline, and see some of the world’s most active erupting volcanoes spew lava at Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park. 

By Jessica Schmit of Uprooted Traveler

Click here to start researching your Hawaii vacation today!

24/ Slovenia

For another idyllic and less obvious nature vacations destination, try out the scenic country of Slovenia. Outdoor lovers will find picturesque mountains, crystal clear lakes and rivers, stunning caves, and bucolic valleys.

Start in Ljubljana, the capital city, and make an easy drive to Lake Bohinj. While slightly less known than Lake Bled, Bohinj has fabulous hiking and boating on the lake. Hikes to Savica waterfall or Mostnica gorge are recommended. Or take a cable car up Mount Vogel for outstanding views of Lake Bohinj from the top. 

Triglav National Park in the Julian Alps has the highest peak in Slovenia. The trails here range from nature walks to hut-to-hut routes. The Juliana Trail, a 270 km-long circular long-distance trail with 16 stages, wanders through this spectacular area.

Nearby Bovec has paddling outdoor adventures in the Soca River Valley. Try  whitewater kayaking on the Soca River , regarded as the most beautiful river in Europe. There is also ziplining, canyoneering, and cycling trips in this epicenter of outdoor adventure.

For ocean lovers, Slovenia has a 47 km of coastline on the Adriatic Sea. You will find natural beaches to explore and take a dip. Don’t miss the sunsets.

By Karen Warren from Outdoor Adventure Sampler

Fancy an outdoors adventure in Slovenia? Click here to find out more!

25/ The USA’s Grand Circle

The southwest United States is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful places on earth, making it unmissable for nature lovers! The perfect way to explore this region is through a two-week road trip around the ‘grand circle,’ aka the route between Las Vegas, Utah’s five national parks, and the Grand Canyon. That’s a lot of nature packed into one epic trip!

Start driving clockwise from Las Vegas and stop at Zion National Park. Zion has some of the most famous hikes in the world! Don’t miss Angel’s Landing or the Narrows. 

Next, visit Bryce Canyon National Park. The red hoodoos in this park are unlike anywhere else in the world! Watching sunrise over the canyon is an experience to remember.

Capitol Reef National Park is perhaps Utah’s most underrated national park. Spend time off-roading through the Mars-like landscape of the Bentonite Hills.

Canyonlands and Arches National Parks are neighbors, and both are filled with beautiful red rock formations and archways.

On the way to the Grand Canyon, don’t miss Dead Horse Point State Park for a double horseshoe bend-style canyon, or the famous rock formations of Monument Valley!

End your trip at the Grand Canyon. Walking along the southern rim will give you almost painting-like views of this sprawling natural wonder. By the end of your two weeks, you’ll have seen some of the best and most diverse landscapes that the southwest has to offer.

By Jen from Glasses and Boarding Passes

Start planning your epic USA nature vacation here!

Where to next?

If you enjoyed this best nature vacations post, you might like some of these other outdoors articles:

• South Bohemia: The Gorgeous Czech Republic Region You Need To Visit
• Four Days in Valli Giudicarie in Trentino Italy
• Glamping And Hiking In The Beautiful Knuckles Mountain Range, Sri Lanka
• The Thrilling Volcan De Acatenango Hike In Antigua Guatemala
• A Kenya Safari Holiday: How To Plan The Perfect Trip For You

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Bella is a multi-award-winning travel writer, wildlife photographer and science and history documentary director from London. Among many awards and nominations she won Blogger of the Year at the British Guild of Travel Writers’ Awards 2023 and Best Photography at the Travel Media Awards 2020. Her work has been published by National Geographic, Wanderlust, and BBC Travel among others. Her films have been shown around the world including on the BBC, Discovery and PBS.

Further Reading...

Sweat And Leather At Chouara Tannery, Morocco

Cerro Quemado in Guatemala: The Volcano Where People Talk To The Gods

Kilimanjaro’s Beautiful Shira Plateau: Lemosho Route 3

30 beautiful pictures of guatemala and the stories behind them, crater azul: is guatemala's gorgeous blue crater overhyped.

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What is nature tourism and why is it so popular?

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Nature tourism is a fantastic type of tourism and it is on the rise! But what is it and why is it so popular? Read on to learn more…

What is nature tourism?

Why is nature tourism important, what is the difference between nature tourism and ecotourism, types of nature tourism, bird watching, scuba diving, scenic driving, bush walking, visiting parks, fishing , cycling , nature tours, nature tourism- further reading.

Nature tourism is all about visiting natural areas and is closed aligned with the concept of rural tourism . Places that nature tourists might visit include might include beaches, forests or national parks. Activities focus on the natural environment rather than visiting man-mad features; think stargazing and hiking, for example. There are locations right across the globe which are perfect for nature tourism.

The CBI (Centre for the Promotion of Imports from Developing Countries) in the Netherlands define nature tourism as follows:

Nature tourism, also called nature-based tourism, is tourism based on the natural attractions of an area. It consists of responsible travel to experience natural areas and their landscape, flora and fauna, protecting the environment and improving the quality of life of locals.

Nature tourism is important as it allows people to see and appreciate the beauty of our natural environment. Through this kind of tourism, we are able to escape the pollution and pressures of city life – it is good for our physical and mental wellbeing to be out in nature, breathing in fresh air and seeing lush greenery or sparkly blue seas. Nature tourism also encourages visitors to take an interest in the natural environment, which may then translate to them making a more conscious effort where environmental issues are concerned. With climate change being an ever-present and ongoing issue, this is definitely a good thing.

Following on from this, nature tourism gives land owners, local communities and local governments more reason to preserve and take care of natural areas. If they know people will come to visit, it is in their best interest to look after these places and is a great incentive for developing their sustainable tourism provision. Visiting tourists can do wonders for local community pride this way.

As with all tourism, nature tourism brings in money . This economic boost trickles down through a whole community; people need places to stay, and food to eat, and they want to buy souvenirs. Hikers may need to buy replacement walking boots, and weary explorers will always need somewhere to rest their heads at night. Jobs are created and economies are boosted through natural tourism, in the surrounding areas of the specific locations too.

Is nature tourism different from ecotourism? Put simply, yes. They are very similar, but ecotourism is perhaps a more specialised branch of nature tourism if we were looking to clearly define the difference in some way. Nature tourism is about visiting an area – responsibly, yes – rather than actively aiming to learn about the environment and participating in its protection. A nature tourist might visit a beach and admire its beauty, while an ecotourist might join in with a beach clean-up. The lines are blurred, of course, as they so often are when we try to differentiate between types of tourism .

There are different types of nature tourism. This is where we will see similarities with another kind of tourism: adventure tourism. You can read all about adventure tourism here if you’re interested! However, the similarity is that both can be split into two ‘types’: hard and soft.

Soft nature tourism might involve bird watching, visiting a beach to sunbathe, gentle walks through country parks and so on. Hard nature tourism is a bit more tough going: mountain climbing, bush walking and scuba diving, for example. Below I’ll go into some of these specific examples, so you can see how diverse nature tourism is!

Nature tourism examples

There are many examples of nature tourism to be found. Keep reading to see what they are, and whether they fall into the hard or soft category.

Bird watching is an example of soft nature tourism. People of all ages and abilities can do this, with or without a guide. You just need some background knowledge of bird species (or a book explaining them) and perhaps some binoculars. the Gambia is a hotspot for bird watching!

This is more of an example of hard nature tourism. It’s much more adventurous, and requires specialist equipment and a guide or a lot of training/experience. Head under the water to see what kind of nature is on display down there: coral, fish, shells and so much more. It’s subjective, but Barracuda Point in Malaysia is apparently the most beautiful place in the world to scuba dive… and I am a big fan of diving in Dahab , Egypt too!

This is another ‘soft’ activity in that it is low-risk and doesn’t require physical exertion. The North Coast 500 in Scotland is an example of a famous scenic drive – this is a great way to experience nature. From rolling hills to winding rivers, there is so much to see out of the window from the comfort of your car. Another fantastic example is the Kings Highway in Jordan , where you will see endless desert, canyons and incredible rock formations.

Camping is, again, an example of soft nature tourism. While it’s a little more ‘involved’ than scenic driving, for example, it is still relatively low risk and most of us are able to participate. Mount Cook National Park in New Zealand is said to be one of the most beautiful places in the world to camp, with its green landscapes and snowy mountain scenery. Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro gives you some fantastic camping opportunities too- just make sure you buy the best wild camping tent !

While controversial, hunting tourism is an example of nature tourism as it takes place in natural spaces. It is definitely one for the hard category, as you need special equipment to do so and it can obviously be quite dangerous if you don’t know what you’re doing. It is also often a discussion point for ethical tourism .

For the most part, this is a very safe activity and therefore falls into the soft category again. Guided tours are available in all of the very best stargazing locations, such as El Teide National Park in Tenerife, and it has even spawned its own branch of tourism. This is known as dark sky tourism, and there are many examples of activities that fall within this. They include stargazing, of course, alongside seeing the Northern Lights, watching an eclipse, astronomy tours and staying in accommodations that offer a clear view of the night sky such as glass domes.

This can be dangerous in that it is all about going off the beaten track, and walking through bushes/on rough ground. Therefore we can categorise this as hard nature tourism; it is something you would do when hiking, and gives you a bit of an adrenaline kick!

One of the easiest and most common forms of nature tourism is simply visiting a park. Whether this is a UK national park or your local green space at home, visiting a park is a definite example of this type of tourism. You’ll see birds, insects, flowers, trees, grass and more. Have a leisurely stroll, cycle through or sit and eat a picnic surrounded by nature.

Fishing falls in the middle of the soft and hard categories. You do need specialist equipment, but with most types of fishing there is little to no risk to life involved. But you need to be in nature – by or even on a lake or river – to do it, so it definitely counts as a form of nature tourism. People have obviously been fishing for years as a source of food gathering, but it is also a recreational hobby enjoyed by many.

This is another middle of the road activity. Kayaking can be dangerous, although it usually isn’t – you’ll often have a guide with you, and of course specialist equipment (the kayak) is required. It’s a really fun activity that many people enjoy!

You can visit a beach and simply do… nothing! This is still an example of nature tourism, as beaches are natural environments. Bali has some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, and tourists flock there to relax and soak up the sunshine. Beaches are also usually near to bars and restaurants, and you might find people doing beach yoga or watching the sunrise/sunset. Thailand even has all-night moonlight beach parties. They are versatile and beautiful locations!

Again, another activity that could be considered hard or soft. It depends where you go, really. A gentle bike ride along a specific cycle lane through a park is nothing like mountain biking in harsh terrains. It’s all about the level of ability you have and what risks you’re willing to take. But cycling is definitely a great way to get out and about in nature. It is also a low-cost and eco-friendly activity, which makes it a winner from many angles.

These tend to be a longer duration than many activities mentioned above, which you may do regularly but for a few hours at a time. Nature tours are days or even weeks-long trips, out into the wilderness with nature and wildlife experts. You might travel by air or train, or go on a cruise, and your guide will be on hand to point out every aspect of nature there is to see. These nature tours will take visitors to some of the most beautiful destinations on earth, such as trekking in Chiang Mai , Croatia, seeing the glaciers in Iceland and Alaska, and gazing at the best waterfalls in Finger Lakes . They’ll set you back a fair bit, but the memories you’ll make seeing bears and waterfalls and glorious sunsets will more than make up for it!

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UN Tourism | Bringing the world closer

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A United Vision for Nature - 'Nature Positive' Report Marks New Collaborative Era in Travel & Tourism

• All Regions
• 22 Apr 2024

WTTC, UN Tourism and the Sustainable Hospitality Alliance join forces to support Nature Positive Tourism

The leading players of Travel & Tourism globally have published a landmark joint report setting out their joint plan to help halt and reverse biodiversity loss.

Launched on Earth Day 2024, "Nature Positive Travel & Tourism in Action" is the creation of the high-level 'Nature Positive Tourism Partnership, made up of the World Travel & Tourism Council ( WTTC ), the World Tourism Organization ( UN Tourism ) and the Sustainable Hospitality Alliance ( the Alliance ).

For years, UN Tourism has been at the forefront of integrating tourism into the broader UN biodiversity agenda, including supporting the work of the Secretariat of the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD)

Developed in collaboration with specialist consultancy ANIMONDIAL, the report is the sector's pledge to support the implementation of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF), the UN's Biodiversity Plan.

It presents more than 30 case studies of inspiring and progressive actions from around the world involving large and small businesses, national and local government agencies, civil society groups, and inter-sectoral partnerships.

By offering actionable guidance and insights, this report not only highlights the intrinsic link between biodiversity and tourism's resilience, but also empowers businesses to become stewards of nature.

Historic partnership for nature

Ms. Julia Simpson, WTTC President & CEO , said: "This historic partnership with Travel & Tourism heavyweights is a significant step in our collective journey towards a more sustainable and responsible sector. This report is not merely a publication but a movement towards integrating environmental stewardship into the core of travel experiences. As we celebrate Earth Day, let us heed the call to nurture and protect our destinations. Our sector's reliance on nature, coupled with our expertise in creating inspiring and memorable experiences, means we are ideally placed to be guardians of nature."

Mr. Zurab Pololikashvili, Secretary-General of UN Tourism , said: "For years, UN Tourism has been at the forefront of integrating tourism into the broader UN biodiversity agenda, including supporting the work of the Secretariat of the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD). This pivotal new collaboration among key global players sets a robust framework for sustainable practices that not only drive significant impact but also exemplify the power of united efforts in conserving biodiversity. This report is a testimony to what we can achieve together for nature's preservation, inspiring a global movement towards more sustainable and resilient tourism."

Mr. Glenn Mandziuk, Sustainable Hotel Alliance CEO , said: "This report is a milestone for Travel and Tourism, representing our commitment as an industry to protect and conserve nature. The Alliance is proud to contribute to and collaborate on this insightful and action-orientated report which will bring tangible change to destinations around the world, supporting biodiversity.  Nature underpins our society, economies and indeed our very existence. The hospitality industry is today a leader amongst industries in its Nature Positive approach and this report signifies how much our industry understands the true value of nature."  

Expert-led coalition

Recognising that the sector has a critical role to play in protecting and conserving biodiversity, the Nature Positive Tourism approach is designed to be a touchstone for actionable change. It focuses on equipping the sector with the tools and insights needed to nurture and protect destinations upon which it depends.

The commitment of the Partnership to work towards "net positive for nature" draws on extensive consultation with experts from business, government, academia and civil society, including the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) and the World Commission on Protected Areas (WCPA).

The report, which follows the 2022 WTTC report "Nature Positive Travel & Tourism", includes practical frameworks and real-world examples that encourage both travel providers and travellers to embark on journeys that contribute to the conservation of our natural treasures.

Related links

• Download News Release on PDF
• Report “Nature Positive Travel & Tourism”
• UN Tourism Biodiversity
• Sustainable Hospitality Alliance

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Managing Overtourism in Nature-Based Destinations

• First Online: 20 April 2021

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• Ante Mandić 3 &
• Izidora Marković Vukadin 4  

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Tourism has grown and evolved significantly in past decades, and some of the destination hassles (e.g. crowding, rubbish,facility accessibility and conflicts) become more pronounced. Along with that, PAs face biological, social and economic fragmentation, suggesting that to be effective, the existing approaches to nature-based tourism management require improvement. This chapter aims to critically discuss the usability of tourism and visitor use management and planning frameworks to address the challenges associated with overtourism. The analysis suggests there is no one for all solution in terms of visitor use framework, but constituents of existing frameworks can be crucial for mitigating influences related to extensive visitation. The established frameworks should be advanced by consideration of new theoretical and practical advances, employing the system approach in which PAs are seen in the interrelation with other ecosystems. PA managers require tools and resources, which are necessary to prevail the pressure before they even happen. Greater involvement of stakeholders, goal-orientation and monitoring is needed.

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Mandić, A., Marković Vukadin, I. (2021). Managing Overtourism in Nature-Based Destinations. In: Mandić, A., Petrić, L. (eds) Mediterranean Protected Areas in the Era of Overtourism. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-69193-6_3

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ORIGINAL RESEARCH article

Remembering for resilience: nature-based tourism, covid-19 and green transitions provisionally accepted.

• 1 York University, Canada
• 2 Toronto Metropolitan University, Canada

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The COVID-19 pandemic had transformative effects on the tourism sector at an unparalleled scale. With the rapid onset of unprecedented travel restrictions, tourists were abruptly confined to experiences in their regional surroundings that led to new and refreshed relationships with local destinations. This paper draws on qualitative interviews with small tourism businesses in two distinct but proximate nature-based destinations in Ontario, Canada and considers how they responded to the COVID-19 pandemic. Findings are positioned within Holling's (2001) Adaptive Cycle to consider implications for ongoing resiliency planning for disturbances relating to climate change. Over a two-year period (2020-2022), SMEs revealed that after an initially turbulent period they quickly adapted to the absence of international long-haul visitors by embracing a surge in domestic demand for nature-based, outdoor experiences. The paper contributes to the literature on tourism SMEs by connecting experiences of COVID-19 to resiliency planning for future predictable disturbances. Two critical lessons for enhancing destination resiliency are identified: engagement of regional tourism demand, and destination level leadership, through investment in infrastructure and partnerships, can both be harnessed to support SMEs and their communities in transitioning towards a more sustainable, resilient and climate-friendly tourism future. Given the growing demand for tourism businesses to transition away from environmentally harmful practices and a longstanding dependency on economic growth, these resources can help destinations enhance preparedness for future changes to tourism flows driven by decarbonization scenarios and increased climatic impacts.The concept of resiliency concerns the ability to cope with and adapt to challenging conditions, which became increasingly relevant for tourism through the COVID-19 pandemic (Gianiodis et al., 2022;Iborra et al., 2020;Saad et al., 2021). As the virus spread in early 2020, governments imposed unprecedented travel restrictions and tourism was drastically limited (UNWTO, 2021). In subsequent seasons, as restrictions were partially lifted, travellers sought safety and familiarity (Kock et al., 2020;Rogerson and Rogerson, 2021; Zamanzadeh et al., 2023) with demand returning in altered volumes and forms (UNWTO, 2020). Destinations

Keywords: nature-based tourism, SMEs, resilience, COVID-19, Climate Change, Local tourism

Received: 27 Feb 2024; Accepted: 22 Apr 2024.

Copyright: © 2024 Tegelberg and Griffin. This is an open-access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (CC BY) . The use, distribution or reproduction in other forums is permitted, provided the original author(s) or licensor are credited and that the original publication in this journal is cited, in accordance with accepted academic practice. No use, distribution or reproduction is permitted which does not comply with these terms.

* Correspondence: Dr. Matthew Tegelberg, York University, Toronto, Canada

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