Life can get crazy. Whether it's the normal hustle and bustle of a 9-5 job, an obsession with your phone or even a global disease like Covid-19, nature getaways are the perfect option for the traveler craving to disconnect.
When you put down your phone and look up at the beautiful world around you, it can create not only rejuvenation but transformation. Immersing yourself in nature quiets the rest of the world and amplifies your own thoughts, feelings and emotions.
LIke the saying goes: less is more. Traveling to some of the most beautiful nature getaways combined with a digital detox is the perfect way to take a big sigh of relief but also to open yourself up to new and exciting experiences in a place you’ve never been.
Below are 8 of the best nature getaways for the travel craving to disconnect from the stress of everyday life.
Jump to:
Top Destinations for Luxury Nature Travel
Canterbury, New Zealand
Natural landscapes: This area is made up of many rivers which border the region as well as grasslands and plains. For mountain lovers, Canterbury is bordered in the west by the Southern Alps.
Wildlife: For the bird lover, there is a wide range of birdlife in Canterbury which includes cormorants, stilts and herons. Travelers can also see the white-flippered penguin or if they’re lucky, the yellow-eyed penguin.
The most well known animal in the region is the Hector's Dolphin which is the smallest marine dolphin. Travelers also have the opportunity to see whales and sea lions.
Things to do in Canterbury, New Zealand: There are many activities in Canterbury for the active, wildlife and nature lovers. Go cycling or walking through the plains, visit a wildlife reserve or go jet boating on the Waimakariri River. Travelers have many opportunities to explore the beautiful landscapes as well as witness stunning wildlife in their natural habitats.
Who it’s best for:
- All ages
- Active minded travelers
- Wildlife enthusiasts
Travelers who don’t just want to see nature and wildlife but really experience it will love Canterbury, New Zealand. There are ample opportunities to explore the beautiful grasslands, prairies, rivers and mountains in the region as well as see wildlife both on their exploration journeys and in wildlife reserves.
Physical fitness level requirements: The region allows for travelers to choose the level of physical activity that is right for them. For the more adventurous traveler, cycling and climbing are great activities. For the individual who prefers to take things slow, walking and safaris are a perfect option.
Weather considerations - when is the best time to go: The seasons in New Zealand differ drastically from those in the U.S. This means that during the winter in the U.S. it’s summer in New Zealand and a great escape from the bitter cold.
New Zealand seasons:
- Summer: Dec, Jan, Feb
- Autumn: Mar, Apr, May
- Winter: Jun, Jul, Aug
- Spring: Sep, Oct, Nov
The most popular months to visit are between March and October as January and February are the warmest months. This does mean however that costs may be cheaper if travelers visit outside this popular timeframe.
Narendra Nagar, Uttarakhand, India
Natural landscapes: Narendra Nagar is full of luscious green forests and sits at an altitude of 1,322mts above sea level.
From different vantage points within the region of Nerendra Nagar, travelers can get a stunning view of the Himalaya Mountains. Travelers can also soak up panoramic views of the Ganga River and the Doon Valley.
Wildlife: The most common wildlife that travelers can find include the tiger, black bear, Indian elephant, Rhesus Monkey, king cobra as well as many bird species.
Things to do in Narendra Nagar: A popular feature of Nerendra Nagar is its proximity to Rishikesh, the yoga capital of the world. This gives travelers the opportunity for a yoga experience of a lifetime.
Travelers can also experience activities such as going to a spa or going on a nature walk.
Who is it best for:
- Travelers looking to escape
- Wildlife enthusiasts
Narendra Nagar is a great destination for travelers who need to get away from the stress of regular life. It’s perfect for meditation and relaxation to reconnect with yourself and what makes you happy.
This is also a great destination for travelers looking to immerse themselves in breathtaking natural landscapes as well as witnessing many different kinds of animals.
Physical level requirements: There is no level of physical activity necessary as many activities are easy and meant to be relaxing for travelers. Yoga is a popular activity in this destination, so there may be a certain level of physical fitness to participate in these sessions.
However, for more active travelers, they can seek out more active experiences such as hiking.
Weather considerations / best time to go: The best time to visit is March to April and mid-September to mid-October which covers the summer and monsoon seasons.
Iya Valley, Setouchi Region, Japan
Natural landscapes: Iya Valley is famously known for its mountain valleys and vine bridges. The Iya River runs through the valley and Mount Tsurugi rests at the east end of the area.
Things to do in Iya Valley: Mountain slopes and rocky gorges as well as vine bridges create a playground for the active and adventurous traveler. Go hiking, backpacking or exploring in the area by immersing yourself in the stunning scenery.
Travelers can also participate in walking tours, ziplining, boating and rafting.
Who is it best for:
- Active travelers
- Travelers who like off the beaten path destinations
Iya Valley offers many active experiences for the traveler who likes to push themselves. These travelers love exploring nature and trying adventurous activities such as ziplining or rafting. This region is great for individuals who aren’t looking for a touristy getaway but one where they can explore off the beaten path experiences.
Physical level requirements: Travelers will need to have a certain level of physical fitness to enjoy this destination. Many experiences are active and traversing different natural landscapes. This isn’t to say there aren’t easier activities such as nature walks, but the traveler who will enjoy Iya Valley the most is the one who enjoys staying active.
Weather considerations / best time to go: June through August are the busiest months. March through May is also a good timeframe to visit because of the moderate weather.
Los Cabos, Mexico
Natural landscapes: Los Cabos has a mix of natural landscapes to provide options for many types of travelers. Deserts meet beaches. Mountains meet the ocean.
Wildlife: Much like the terrain, the wildlife varies greatly in this region. Mammals include badgers, foxes and pumas. Bird species include doves, cardinals and swallows. Aquatic animals include whales, swordfish and marlins.
Things to do in Los Cabos: A popular activity at this destination is enjoying a sunny day on the beach. Whether that’s sunbathing on the beach or going for a dip in the water, Los Cabos is great for a relaxing day by the ocean.
Travelers can also participate in activities such as whale watching, golfing, visiting nearby national parks or seeking adventure in the canyons.
Who is it best for:
- Beach lovers
- Travelers looking for relaxing experiences
Los Cabos is great for travelers who love the beach. These travelers enjoy laying out on the sand or splashing in the ocean. It’s a good mix of relaxing and active for the traveler who wants a nature getaway but also wants to have a little playful fun too.
Physical level requirements: There are no physical fitness requirements for this region has most activities are meant to be relaxing and easy. However, there are some ocean activities and it's best for travelers to know how to swim.
Weather considerations / best time to go: May to June is a great time to visit Los Cabos because winter crowds have all gone home and the summer storms haven’t hit yet. The most popular months to visit are October and November so if this is when you want to travel, make sure to plan and hotel search in advance to save money and reserve your spot.
Ayers Rock (Uluru), Australia
Natural landscapes: Uluru also known as Ayers Rock is a large sandstone rock formation in Australia. It is most notable for changing to a bright red at sunrise and sunset. Around Ayers Rock are springs, waterholes, caves and ancient paintings.
Wildlife: There are many different species of mammals. These include the camel, fox and rabbit. One animal that is most notable in the region are bats.
Things to do in Ayers Rock: This destination is great for travelers who enjoy hiking and photography. The region provides ample opportunity for both activities. Travelers can also go on walks, enjoy the silence around Uluru and go for a nice dinner nearby.
Who is it best for:
- Photographers
- Active travelers
This destination is great for those that enjoy photography and capturing the beauty of nature. Travelers who enjoy staying active will also find that Uluru is a great destination for their interests. There are many areas to go hiking.
Ayers Rock is great for travelers who like to slow down as well with walks and nice dinners as well as picnics.
Physical level requirements: The physical level depends on the experience you are seeking from this region in Australia. If you are more into photography and taking things slow, there is no physical fitness needed. However, if you want to go hiking, it is best to have some experience with this activity before visiting so the experience can be most enjoyable.
Weather considerations / best time to go: The perfect time to visit Uluru to miss both the scorching heat and the freezing temperatures in between May and September.
Patagonia, South America
Natural landscapes: Patagonia is a much larger region which meansthere are different types of terrain depending on where you visit. If you visit the area in the west you will find the southern section of the Andes Mountains, lakes, fjords and glaciers. In the east you will find deserts, tablelands and steppes.
Wildlife: If you are a bird lover, this destination is for you. There are abundant bird species in Patagonia which includes the characteristic bird of the region, the southern caracara.
Mammals that travelers can find in the region include the cougar, Patagonian fox and the Patagonian hog-nosed skunk.
Things to do in Patagonia: Some activities that travelers can enjoy include hiking, rock climbing, trekking, visiting national parks and whale watching.
Who is it best for:
- Active travelers
Patagonia is perfect for the active traveler. The diversity in terrain offers many different outdoor experiences for the traveler who likes to push their limits.
Physical level requirements: Many activities offered in this region are active and sometimes intense so travelers will need a certain level of physical fitness to enjoy their time in Patagonia.
Weather considerations / best time to go: Much like the terrain, depending on where you go there will be different times that are best for visiting. For example, if you visit Chilean Patagonia, the best times to visit is between November and early March.
Interested in an eco friendly tour option to Patagonia? Say Hueque just became a carbon neutral company! Travel can be harmful on the environment and Say Hueque is determined to bring good to the earth and the local communities they visit. They are accomplishing this by calculating the carbon footprint of their clients and compensating with investment into different projects that help the earth. Sound good? Find trips with Say Hueque >>
County Clare, Ireland
Natural landscapes: This region is most notable for the Cliffs of Moher. These are sea cliffs and from the top, travelers can see many mountain ranges in the distance.
Water defines much of the borders of County Clare. Ireland’s longest river is in the south-east and the third largest lake is in the north-east.
Wildlife: County Clare includes the Barren which is a region of environmental interest in the region. The Barren contains many rare flora and fauna. Travelers can find the European pine marten, foxes, otters and goats.
Things to do in County Clare, Ireland: Travelers can go on ferry rides, dolphin watching from a lighthouse, visit historical sites such as Poulnabrone Dolmen and relax on the beach.
Who is it best for:
- Travelers who want to explore
- Sightseers
County Clare is perfect for travelers seeking to explore and sightsee. This destination provides opportunities to explore the natural landscape and discover unique sights such as caves and rock formations.
Travelers who enjoy history will also be right at home in this region. There are many historical and archaeological sites scattered throughout County Clare. Learn more about the region just by exploring it.
Physical level requirements: Travelers won’t need to worry about meeting a certain level of physical fitness to be able to enjoy County Clare. However, there is a lot of walking included to get from one place to the next so be sure to pack your walking shoes.
Weather considerations / best time to go: The best time to visit is in March and May or September to November when it's not overly crowded or too cold.
Snæfellsnes peninsula, Iceland
Natural landscapes: This region includes volcanos, cliffs, caves, beaches and glaciers.
Wildlife: Travelers can expect to see Atlantic birds, seals and whales.
Things to do in Snæfellsnes peninsula: Some popular activities for the region include caving, relaxing on the beach, hiking and soaking in a hot spring.
Who is it best for:
- Active travelers
Snæfellsnes peninsula is perfect for travelers who love to be active and have a heart for exploration. With such diverse terrain, there are many different active experiences that travelers can partake in. This destination is perfect for the individual who wants to escape regular life and immerse themselves in the beauty of nature.
Physical level requirements: Many experiences are active so travelers will need a certain level of physical fitness to enjoy the region fully. However, there are ways to enjoy the region at a slower pace and thus not need such endurance to have a good time.
Weather considerations / best time to go: The best time to visit is between May and September when the temperatures are more moderate.
Glamping
Nature travel allows for many exciting and unique experiences such as glamping. This activity fully immerses travelers in nature without forcing them to be uncomfortable whether that be with sleeping arrangements, food or activities. It’s a great way to experience nature on an entirely new level as well as escape from the craziness of everyday life and technology.
Glamping vs. Camping
When it comes to the term “glamping” it can get a little confusing on what it means. How does this differ from just regular camping? How different are the two really? Let’s break it down!
Camping is an outdoor activity where travelers stay out in nature, oftentimes a forest, without intending to have the regular comforts of home. Travelers are okay with sleeping bags, fires to keep warm and many bottles of bug spray. Camping is meant to get away from all the luxuries of life and just “rough it” for a few days.
Glamping on the other hand is meant to keep some of these comforts of the home with you. While this activity still includes travelers immersing themselves in nature and staying there overnight, glamping includes a bit more luxury than a simple tent.
Short for glamorous camping, glamping often includes cabins or larger, more secure tents. Whether in the cabin or close by, there is usually warm, running water, a normal toilet and a real mattress.
To put it simply, glamping is camping but with more luxuries and home-found accommodations.
Types of accomodations
There are many different types of accommodations when it comes to glamping. It all comes down to the type of experience you want and level of luxury you desire. Common accommodations include cabins or lodges but travelers can also find sleeping arrangements in farmhouses, cottages, yurts and large tents.
If you want the experience of immersing yourself in nature but also prefer a higher level of luxury, try staying in a cabin or lodge. If you don’t mind a little less comfort but rather embrace it, try staying in a yurt or large tent. It’s up to you how glamorous you want to make your glamping experience.
What to pack
If glamping and camping aren’t the same thing, should the packing list be the same thing? Will I need as much bug spray or hot dog skewers?
With glamping being a more glamorous version of camping, it is easy to say that the packing lists will look slightly different. While you’ll need a sleeping bag, toilet paper and hot dog skewers, these aren’t necessarily things you’ll need for glamping.
A packing list for glamping still includes bug spray, hiking boots and backpacks full of trail mix, but you can scratch out the sleeping bag and toilet paper. These are things travelers can usually find in their accommodations.
It’s best to assess the type of accommodations you’ve booked to know what the best things to pack are. The higher the glamour, the less high essential items you’ll need.
Who is it best for?
If you love the great outdoors but also prefer to travel with comfort, glamping would be perfect for you. This type of experience fully immerses the traveler in nature while giving them opportunities to see wildlife up close.
The list of activities are endless whether it be hiking, kayaking, mountain biking or rock climbing. If there’s a specific activity that you want to do, make sure you go to a destination where it is offered.
For the traveler who loves luxury and nature, glamping is for you.
Safari Lodges
When it comes to nature travel, wildlife is a key aspect of the experience. Safaris are a great way to see animals up close and personal right in their habitats. Combine this unbeatable wildlife experience with luxury and you have safari lodges.
What are safari lodges
These are lodges where travelers go to spend nearly every day of their trip on a safari. They’re usually located in a national park or game reserve and are most famously found in Africa.
Who is it best for
Safari lodges are great for the traveler who loves animals and is eager to see them in person. Maybe you’re a photographer who wants to snap pictures of the big 5. Maybe you just really love the sense of adventure you get when you’re right in front of an elephant.
Safari lodges are not only great for the wildlife enthusiast but also the traveler who enjoys certain luxuries. Lodges offer high quality accommodations that give you the comforts of home while immersed in nature and wildlife.
Note for travelers
While these lodges offer a higher level of luxury, safaris in their own right are not luxurious. You’ll be in a cramped van that is very bumpy. It will be hot and sweaty and it will feel like a long and tiring day.
Travelers can expect a private driver and jeep but there’s no way to make the bumpy terrain more enjoyable. These experiences are great for the traveler who believes a little commute discomfort is worth the once in a lifetime sightings of animals.
Interested in reading more?
Discover the most beautiful forests in the world >>
Find the best 8 outdoor tour operators >>
Browse hiking and walking tours >>
Want to read more about travel and Covid-19?
