Active vacations are redefining the travel experience, offering a perfect blend of fitness and adventure. This article explores exciting destinations that challenge both body and mind, from the ancient ruins of Machu Picchu to the breathtaking landscapes of Nepal and Colorado. Drawing on insights from travel and fitness experts, discover how these experiences can transform your holiday into an unforgettable journey of personal growth and cultural immersion.
5 on the lineup
One of my favourite active travel experiences was hiking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. It wasn't just a trip - it was a personal goal. In my 40s, I knew I needed to train and get fit to handle the high altitude and tough terrain. So, months before the hike, I got a personal trainer, started walking longer distances, climbing stairs, and building up my stamina. That made reaching the trail and completing it even more rewarding. I wasn't just sightseeing - I was achieving something I had worked hard for.
The Inca Trail is full of challenges, but also full of beauty. Each day, the scenery changed - from lush cloud forests to steep mountain passes. We walked past ancient stone paths, quiet ruins, and breathtaking views that made every step worth it. The mix of nature and history gave the journey a deeper meaning. Knowing we were walking in the footsteps of the Inca people made it feel even more special.
What made the experience truly unforgettable was the sense of connection. Our group supported each other along the way, cheering one another on during the toughest climbs. And when we finally reached the Sun Gate and saw Machu Picchu spread out below, it was pure magic. All the effort, sweat (and many tears), and training paid off in that single moment.
Hiking the Inca Trail wasn't just a holiday - it was a personal challenge, a cultural adventure, and a reminder of how travel can push you to grow. It showed me that getting fit for a goal can open the door to some of the world's most unforgettable places.
One of my most memorable active travel experiences was trekking through Nepal's Annapurna region—a journey that blends physical challenge with cultural depth. As someone who leads treks for a living, what stood out wasn't just the landscapes, but the rhythm of life along the trail. Each day brought a different connection: quiet sunrises over Himalayan peaks, warm conversations with locals, and the rewarding fatigue that only comes from walking village to village. It's the kind of travel that grounds you, builds resilience, and reminds you that fitness can be a gateway to meaningful, human experiences—not just a goal in itself.
One of my favorite active travel experiences was my trip to Denver, Colorado. It was the perfect blend of adventure, nature, and movement, which is exactly how I love to travel! I hiked some incredible trails, including Pikes Peak, which was both physically challenging and mentally rewarding. Reaching the summit gave me such a sense of accomplishment and appreciation for my body's strength.
Another highlight was visiting the Great Sand Dunes. It felt like walking on another planet. Trekking up those dunes in the heat was no joke, but the views were 100% worth it! And of course, I had to stop by the iconic Red Rocks Amphitheatre. Just walking those steps and taking in the scenery was such a unique fitness moment in itself.
What made it all so memorable was how grounded I felt, fully present, connected to nature, and moving with intention. It reminded me that fitness doesn't have to be confined to a gym; it can be something that enhances every part of a travel experience!
This is going to go against the grain of your regular content, I'm afraid.
The reason I work out and stay in shape is to travel. I don't actually "work out" while traveling, but rather work out at home, building up my endurance and flexibility so that when I am traveling in interesting places, I can hike the hikes, climb the towers, stay up later, get up earlier, walk for hours exploring hidden spots in foreign cities, enjoying as much as possible, as deeply as possible.
I don't take exercise clothes, so I can pack lighter; I work out so I can easily carry my (already light) travel backpack; I stretch so I can handle the sitting or standing or not-great bedding when traveling.
I work out to travel and live fully; I don't travel to work out.
There is nothing more enjoyable than putting fitness and technique to the test on a ski holiday. Before snowy peaks and bluebird skies, you'd be challenged to find somewhere more breathtaking to maintain and improve your fitness. The invigorating sensation of the bracing mountain air feels like a health kick in itself, but the unique motions of skiing are an unmatched workout. While ski ability correlates with the intensity of the workout, every skier will benefit from toning their hamstrings, core, and glutes. Higher effort equals higher reward, of course; however, what is arguably most memorable is rewarding the hard work with relaxing on a sun-soaked terrace with a mountain view and a drink in hand! It's all about balance, after all...
