Find out where you should vacation when outdoor adventure is a must.
Unpopular opinion, but the most fulfilling vacations involve more than just lounging poolside sipping Mai Tais. While that can be nice, some crave the thrill of adventure and have an insatiable longing to see and do everything, especially in new exciting places that ignite the spirits.
Equinox Circle partner Indagare, a luxury travel company that inspires and empowers people to change their lives through travel, is bringing you insider info on the best destinations across the globe for an action-packed getaway. From the majestic peaks of the Italian alps, to the Himalayan wonders of Northern India, the untamed landscapes of the American West, and beyond, these otherworldly locations are Mother Nature’s ultimate playground, serving as the perfect backdrop for your next outdoor adventure.
Below, the team at Indagare has curated some of their favorite active destinations.
Dolomites, Italy
The magic of the Dolomites is that we are very active during the day, hiking through varied, spectacular landscapes and at the end of the trail, right around lunch time, we arrive at our reward—my favorite rifugios serving freshly made pastas, schnitzel with spaetzle or locally foraged mushroom risotto with sweeping views. After a leisurely lunch, we head back to the hotel for some time in the fabulous spa in the afternoons and meet for an amazing dinner, before falling asleep and doing it all over again the next day. It is truly la dolce vita and one of my absolute favorite weeks during the year.
– Melissa Biggs Bradley, Founder and CEO of Indagare
American West
The American West holds a special place in my heart – especially the vast, lunar-like landscapes of Saguaro National Park and Monument Valley. Whether it’s a hike or a glass of wine enjoyed with the view, the desert has a mystical pull that somehow makes you feel small and big at the same time. It’s a destination that can be visited in any season (props to those who can withstand the summer heat!) and I love the unique biodiversity and weather patterns that happen within the climate. Sunny days and cool nights. Plus, there are so many fabulous wellness retreat properties in our American deserts – it’s the perfect place to unplug, unwind and reconnect with your inner self through meditation, yoga, horseback riding and a network of walking trails.
– Trey Ross, Editorial Assistant
Kilimanjaro, Tanzania
I discovered more about myself than my surroundings. I had time to listen and be fully present. I focused on achieving a single goal with a community that taught me oneness and perseverance.
– Diana Li, VP of Business Development on hiking Kilimanjaro
Switzerland
Switzerland is such an easy win for active travelers, thanks to its train network which makes mountain experiences surprisingly accessible. In the winter, you can be on the slopes within a few hours after landing in Zurich or Geneva. And in the summer, amazing hiking and biking, plus paragliding from a cliff or windsurfing on an alpine lake, are all on offer.
– Peter Schlesinger, Associate Director Digital Content
Chilean Patagonia
One of my favorite active trips to date was a stay at the super special Eleven Rio Palena Lodge in northern Patagonia. We hiked to a waterfall, fly-fished the Tigre river, helicoptered to a mountain peak to begin a full-day alpine hike to the summit and that was just the start of it. We worked hard and pushed ourselves during the day but arrived back at the lodge so ready for a massage, aprés in the hot tub and hearty Chilean dinner before a good night's sleep.
– Rose Allen, Senior Director of Travel Product, African Safari
Hawaii
Hawaii's stunning landscapes from volcanoes, waterfalls, and pristine oceanfront makes it the ideal active destination. For me, the perfect day in Hawaii is waking up to a sunrise hike over a volcano flowing right into an afternoon spent snorkeling the incredibly rich reefs. And always capped off with a tropical drink as the sun sets!
– Catherine Happ, Operations Manager Group Trips
Sacred Valley, Peru
I loved every minute I spent in the Sacred Valley of Peru! The area is a haven for active travelers, offering so much to do at varying levels of difficulty, it very much is a “choose your own adventure” destination. Visiting Machu Picchu is, of course, magnificent; you feel like you are on top of the clouds and the Andes Mountains peaks are right there in front of you, seemingly within an arm’s reach.
– Paige Gordon, Trip Designer
Northern India
In Northern India within the Himalayas on the border of Nepal, we hiked through villages, active farms, across bridges and through temples without cell service, WiFi and any sightings of other foreign travelers for a full week. We stayed in beautifully refurbished traditional farmhouses nestled within a new village each night and dined on delicious fresh vegetables and proteins prepared with local herbs and spices. The trip immersed us in local culture and challenged us physically and spiritually as all group trips do.
– Elise Bronzo, VP of Sales
Allow Indagare to plan your next getaway. The members-only, boutique travel-planning company offers in-depth destination guides and curates custom itineraries. Indagare also offers small-group trips to unique destinations across the globe, such as Madagascar, Mount Kilimanjaro, and Antarctica. Expect to feel fully immersed in the history and culture and experience curator-led tours and chef’s table dining.
The Exclusive Offer: Insider access to curated journeys and 30-day complimentary trial of Self Planner membership and $100 off annual subscription, plus access to VIP benefits including upgrades, complimentary breakfast, spa credit, and more.