Adventures in the Americas: 10 Epic Trips

April 17, 2017

The Americas contain some of the world's most incredible landscapes, thrilling activities, fascinating history, and amazing wildlife.

Staying close to home doesn't mean skimping out on 'bucket list' type experiences - from hard core adventurers to active families, there's something for everyone. Explore destinations like the snowy reaches of northern Canada. Or if you're seeking more sun and surf, the beaches, diving, and snorkeling of Belize may sound more enticing.

Here are 10 trips that showcase the true diversity and variety of the Americas:

National Park in Canada

Wonderful Canada contains within its borders a whole host of adventures to be had. With beautiful landscapes, endlessly dramatic views, and some of the most diverse wildlife in the world, a trip to Canada is all about variety. See all trips to Canada.

Trip #1

Family Canadian Winter Adventure - 8 Days

Winter Trees
Consider the charming east coast, with its diverse wildlife, wintry forests covered in blankets of snow, and beautiful lakes perfect for all of your favorite winter activities – from snowshoeing and ice fishing to dog-sledding and cross-country skiing. From the historical cities of Montreal and Ottawa, to the fairytale streets of Quebec, to the picturesque town of Lac Simon, eastern Canada is a wonderful and well-rounded trip. From $1,450 per person. 71 reviews. See itinerary

Trip #2 

Polar Bears in Churchill - 6 Days 

polar bears
Canada is among the world's largest countries, and much of the land is encased in ice and snow. The Canadian arctic is often explored on a small ship cruise, where thrilling tales of explorers seeking the enigmatic Northwest Passage abound. Enjoy a spectacular trip for spotting beautiful polar bears, and learning about the native Inuit cultures. From $6,290. 71 reviews. Rated 4.6/5. See itinerary.

Trip #3 

Canadian Rockies- 15 Days

group of friends enjoying canada
Finally, western Canada contains the stunningly beautiful Rocky Mountains where national parks, hot springs, classic lodges, and mountain towns await. Spend your days hiking for views of glacier lakes so icy blue they seem painted, and spotting diverse wildlife. From $2,340. 1,930 reviews, rated 4.8/5. See itinerary.

Yosemite National Park, California

Every state in the US has its own unique charm and culture. This is one of the most unique aspects of the country. Beautiful outdoor spaces beckon adventurers and roadtrippers for the classic North American vacation. Let a guide help you dive even deeper into the mythos of Americana as you explore the famous National Parks and the last frontier of Alaska. See all trips to The United States.

Trip #4 

Alaska Adventure - 14 Days

bears in alaska
The great state of Alaska is known for being an exhilarating travel destination. Situated north west of Canada, this great, sparsely populated state is known as “the last frontier” for a reason. The railway through Denali National Park is a classic trip, perfect for families. From $2,830.1,930 reviews, rated 4.8/5.  See itinerary.

Trip #5

Northwest National Parks - 15 Days

yellowstone
North America also boasts over 400 national parks, which celebrated their centennial last year (2016). Preserving nature, providing education, camping, hiking, and many other opportunities to get away from it all, they are the perfect vacation. Visit 3 spectacular National Parks on this trip: Mount Rainier, Glacier, and Yellowstone. From $2,959. 21,972 reviews, rated 4.8/5. See itinerary.

Belize, Central America

The dichotomy of Central America is in its reputation for blue seas and palm trees juxtaposed with the adventure spirit of countries like Costa Rica. Both seemingly opposed, and yet tours to Central America often manage to pack both punches. See all trips to Central America.

Trip #6 

British Virgin Islands Sailing - 8 Days

belize
The calming sea breezes of the Caribbean are enticing for anybody. The rejuvenating power of blue waters, palm trees, steel drums, and cocktail in hand as you drift from one white sand beach to the other cannot be understated. Let your worries fade away during 8 days of bliss. From $1,450. 1,930 reviews, rated 4.8/5. See itinerary.

Trip #7 

Costa Rica Adventure - 13 Days

arenal volcano
On the other end of the spectrum, imagine soaring through the rainforest canopy of Costa Rica - eye level with monkeys and brightly colored birds. The adventures of a lifetime await you in Costa Rica - from intricate highways of hanging bridges high in the trees to horseback riding within views of still-active Arenal Volcano. Whatever you choose, the thrills don’t stop on this Costa Rica tour. From $1,444. 21,972 reviews, rated 4.8/5. See itinerary.

Trip #8 

Belize & Guatemala - 9 Days

Tikal, Guatemala
The other landscape to explore in Central America is of course the one underneath the beautiful blue ocean waters. Snorkel through worlds of coral reefs, manatees, and ancient mangrove forests before relaxing on gorgeous beaches.

And for those also interested in the fascinating human history of the area, Belize & Guatemala showcase many impressive Mayan ruins, including Tikal, which film buffs will recognize from Return of the Jedi.  From $2,110. 12 reviews, rated 4.4. See itinerary.

Sunny Day at Machu Picchu, Peru

The South American continent calls for multiple visits, especially for those interested in the many unique cultures represented, including those that thrived long ago. Of course we’re speaking of the ancient and mysterious Inca, who dominated much of South America for nearly two centuries. See all trips to South America.

Trip #9 

Enchanting Peru - 11 Days

Machu Picchu
A visit to Machu Picchu fits comfortably on almost every person’s travel bucket list. Walking amongst the stone ruins, your imagination will fill in the gaps, envisioning what life was like in this settlement nestled high in the Andes Mountains.

Machu Picchu is a crowning jewel of Peru, but with the rest of your trip there is much more to see - including additional Inca ruins, and the fascinating floating islands of Lake Titicaca. From $1,999. 575 reviews, rated 4.9/5. See itinerary.

Trip #10 

Rio to Iguazu - 7 Days

rio, brazil
Exciting Rio is a place for those who are ready to dance, explore eclectic neighborhoods, and visit iconic sights. The vibrant culture of Brazil is showcased here to the max, and all you need to do is hang on and let the days capture your imagination.

Follow this with enchanting Iguazu Falls - the transcendent waterfall spanning over the Argentina, Brazil border, giving travelers the chance to visit both sides for amazing views. From $1,229. 20 reviews, rated 4.3/5. See itinerary.

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