For some, taking a vacation is as simple as traveling to an unfamiliar city or lying by the pool or on a sandy beach. But many people want more adventure from their vacations, with the opportunity to explore the natural world.
If you’re one of those people who thinks every city looks the same, but loves the thrill of seeing exotic animals in their wild habitats or digesting the nuances of the world’s ecosystems, a destination rich with ecotourism opportunities is for you. Try vacationing in these wild locales to get your fill of the natural world’s wonders.
San Diego: While it’s also a popular location for city-loving vacationers, San Diego vacations offer all kinds of opportunities to explore the natural world. The San Diego Zoo is world-renowned as one of the best places to see exotic animals up close. There are plenty of opportunities to see wildlife in its more natural surroundings, perhaps the most thrilling being whale-watching opportunities in the winter, as ocean tours are available through multiple companies.
Costa Rica: While it’s a relatively small country, there are innumerable ways to get out into the wild during Costa Rica vacations. You could get up in the wee hours of the morning to see the fascinating routine of a sea turtle coming in to lay her eggs on the beach and then be on a zip line through the rainforest by the afternoon. Costa Rica boasts 500,000 animal species and national parks occupy more than one-tenth of the country’s total area, and even more of the country’s land is protected from development.
Wild Europe vacations
Many people visit Europe for the old world charm within its cities, but there are also abundant unique natural tours for visitors who are drawn to the wild.
Norway: Its stunning fjords offer contrast between water and highlands, and with such a varied terrain, Norway is home to many magnificent species of animals, including musk ox, reindeer, orcas and sperm and humpback whales.
Germany: The Black Forest of Germany marries history and the natural world, as 14,000 miles of trails connect small villages through the coniferous forest. Visitors will traverse scenic hills containing many picturesque waterfalls.
Scotland: The Scottish highlands offer lush and varied terrain, with some of the oldest rock formations on earth. Visitors can expect to see wild goats and red deer, but those hoping to see the mythical Loch Ness Monster will probably go home disappointed – although the gorgeous scenery around the deep mountain lake is a pretty good consolation.
