Travel blog

Namibia is two and a half times the size of France, but with only 2.5 million people, you certainly don’t see many cars or villages – in fact, it feels incredibly remote and at times, almost otherworldly. When you think of Namibia, most people picture the typical red dunes of the south – but the remote beauty of northern Namibia is actually just as spectacular for  Namibia adventure holidays . Our Namibia expert, Kirsty, recently returned from a two-week self-drive trip to Namibia where she ventured off the beaten track to explore the stunning scenery and incredible wildlife of the north and northeast of the country. Despite the remoteness, the region was still accessible and the driving surprisingly straightforward. So, from coast to desert and mountains to ephemeral river beds, join us as Kirsty shares the highlights of her northern Namibia adventure… Erongo Mountains After flying into Windhoek , our first stop was the Erongo Mountains . A two-hour drive from Windhoek, the mountains are a rugged taster of Damaraland scenery with strewn kopjes, green valleys and rolling hills. The walking in this area is absolutely incredible: guided or unguided, the stunning scenery speaks for itself – but we’d recommend going with a guide to learn more about the area. From knowledge about local plants and how they are used to make medicines to how people live and even information about the wildlife, these guides have got tons of expert knowledge and insight to make your experience even more memorable. If walking isn’t your thing, there are also several caves and rock painting sites which you can visit, some of which are thought to date back more than 2,000 years. And there’s some pretty fantastic wildlife here too, with residents including springboks, kudus, antelopes, mountain zebras, oryx, peregrine falcons and rosy-faced lovebirds, as well as giraffes, baboons and leopards. Damaraland After two nights in the Erongo Mountains, we headed northeast to Damaraland . A mid-point between the Skeleton Coast and the east, we stopped here twice more during the trip as we made our way across Namibia. There’s plenty to see and do, with the spectacular landscapes and incredible geology being the main draw thanks to Damaraland’s rugged mountains, cascading kopjes and dry river beds. In fact, Damaraland has some of the most dramatic landscapes in all of Namibia, including prehistoric water courses with open plains, grassland, massive granite koppies and deep gorges. Head to the Brandberg, Namibia’s highest mountain and home to the famous ‘White Lady’ Bushman painting, or visit the rocky outcrop of Twyfelfontein. Make sure you check out the Vingerklip (finger rock), an iconic towering limestone rock, as well as the Petrified Forest which is millions of years old.  There’s unique wildlife here, too – and if you have time, the Palmwag Concession is a must for Namibia adventure holidays . A rocky, mountainous environment, the 5000km² concession and surrounding areas are home to some incredibly rich and varied wildlife, including black rhinos (it’s the study centre for the Save the Rhino Trust), desert elephants and lions, as well as spotted hyenas, giraffes and antelope. Skeleton Coast A frontier destination offering some of southern Africa’s most remote and unspoilt areas, the Skeleton Coast is home to incredibly stark and awe-inspiring scenery. On the drive from Damaraland to the Skeleton Coast, Torra Bay is the first place you reach. The coastline you can drive to is stark, bleak and quite often cloudy, which can leave you wondering what everyone raves about – and as you carry on north to Terrace Bay, it still doesn’t quite tick the boxes when it comes to dramatic coastal scenery. Most people stop driving here, but we carried on along a 4×4 only road for another 80km to the most northern accessible area, Möwe Bay – and that’s where it starts getting exciting. The scenery and landscapes gradually become more surreal (we drove past a sign exclaiming “Lions – don’t get out of the car!!”) as you venture alongside sand, stone and rock. It’s incredibly stark, yet wildly beautiful and unique. When we arrived at Möwe Bay, the public road ended and we were transferred a further 1.5 hours north past seal colonies and shipwrecks – make sure you keep a lookout for the wreck of the Ventura bomber from the 1940s which was involved in the Dunedin Star rescue in 1942. When we finally arrived at the lodge, we were greeted by the most spectacular sunset over the sea and white-sand beach. But be warned – the weather here can change in an instant, and the next day was cold, grey, and full of mizzle. If you do get bad weather, there are plenty of activities on offer here to take your mind off it: we drove up the Hoarusib River bed, under stony cliffs, and over epic sand dunes before suddenly stumbling across green patches with grazing herds of oryx: the huge variety of scenery was spectacular. Sesfontein After a couple of days of off-road adventure, it was time to head back to Damaraland and then north to Sesfontein. As Damaraland’s most northerly outpost, Fort Sesfontein was built in 1896 by the government of former German South West Africa as a control base. Abandoned in 1914, today, a lodge has been built from the ruins of the fort. We left the car here and took a two-hour transfer along the Hoanib River to our camp situated to the east of the Skeleton Coast National Park, a destination all about desert wildlife, giraffe conservation and desert scenery. The camp is in a spectacular location – you can drive up to one of the hills at sunset and look down at the dry riverbeds and mountains around you with no one else there. Highlights of this area include the chance to explore an ephemeral river bed, visits to the nomadic Himba tribes and the chance to spot desert-dwelling elephants wandering along the river valleys. After a couple of nights here, we headed back to Damaraland for a final time before venturing on to Etosha National Park. Etosha National Park Our first stop was a new reserve on the southern border of Etosha National Park . Slightly too far to use as a base to explore the park itself, it’s a great safari location in its own right and a great option for people who don’t have time to go to Etosha itself. Next, we headed to another private reserve also on the border of Etosha, but very close to the park’s southern Andersson Gate and well known for its focus on conservation. There is excellent wildlife here, as well as the opportunity to meet resident researchers who can teach you all about the conservation being undertaken both locally and throughout Namibia. We then drove across Etosha from the Southern Gate to Eastern Gate of the park, stopping at waterholes along the way to wait for wildlife and taking in the incredible views across the Etosha Pan. Covering more than 20,000km², the ethereal and shimmering salt pan is so large you can see it from space – it truly felt like we were standing on the edge of the world looking across it. Etosha is a prolific area for wildlife with elephants, lions, leopards and more – at one of our stops, we were lucky enough to see a herd of elephants, including baby elephants who were just a few weeks old! Okonjima Reserve We spent the final night of our trip at the Okonjima Reserve, a 20,000ha reserve that is home to the Africat Foundation. The foundation started out rescuing and releasing cheetahs, but now runs lots of research programmes with leopard, brown hyena and pangolin, the world’s most trafficked animal. It’s an absolutely amazing place to stay for a couple of days, with activities such as leopard tracking, nature walks with experienced guides, hiking and game drives. There are also over 250 species of bird at Okonjima, so whether you choose to hike, bike or are an avid bird watcher, there are many ways to spend your time here! If you’re looking to see a different side to Namibia, a northern Namibia adventure will certainly not disappoint! With some of the most stunning scenery on earth, from ephemeral river beds to rugged mountains and cascading kopjes to deep gorges, northern Namibian scenery is absolutely spellbinding. And with fantastic wildlife, incredible birdlife and excellent walking available too, northern Namibia has all the ingredients you need for a completely unforgettable holiday. Ready to start planning your adventure? Our team are experts in Namibia adventure holidays and are on hand to tailor-make your perfect trip. Contact them today for a free quote .          

Wondering where to go in Botswana? You’re in luck… Back at the end of last year, our Southern Africa expert, Kirsty, headed back to this part of southern Africa that she loves so much. Have a read of her adventure highlights below for plenty of ideas – and soak up all the wild beauty she managed to capture in those stellar photographs!  If Botswana is on your holiday wishlist, Kirsty is the woman to talk to. She’s on the end of the phone at 01242 253 073 ready to tell you all about her trip first-hand, and help design your perfect visit, too!   “After far too long a break since my last visit, it was so wonderful to be back in Botswana , experiencing the uniqueness of this true safari region. It had been so long that even I was beginning to question if all the hype was worth it. In short – Botswana is so special and worth every single bit of it! If you’re wondering where to go in Botswana , following the route I took on this trip would be a great place to start. Mid-November is a great time to be there – yes it’s very hot – but the rains are just beginning and bring a lovely cooling relief from the really intense heat of October. What’s more, the rains give the landscape a refreshing tinge of green as the landscape starts coming alive again after the dry season.  Leaves are reappearing on the trees, migratory birds are returning and there is an increase in baby animals. Nxai Pan I started my trip in Nxai Pan in the Central Kalahari region – staying at Kwando Nxai Pan Camp. The camp is a brilliant one, located opposite a waterhole that is quite literally a magnet for elephants – what a start to my stay watching dozens of elephants enjoying the water and a mud bath.     Nxai Pan itself is a salt pan famous for a group of seven iconic baobab trees called Baines Baobabs.  These trees are thought to be over 1000 years old and were immortalized in paintings by the 19th-century artist and explorer, Thomas Baines. At this time of year, a trip to Nxai Pan also offers the opportunity to witness the start of the zebra migration. This phenomenon may not be as famous as the wildebeest migration in East Africa, but it’s still a significant event in the natural world, and seeing such huge numbers of zebra congregating together was a real highlight for me.     The Okavango Delta Leaving Nxai Pan we flew into the Okavango Delta . And let’s face it, any list of suggestions of where to go in Botswana would be falling short if it didn’t include the Delta! Flying by light aircraft over the expansive wilderness is one of my favourite things about travelling in Botswana. You really feel miles from anywhere – and the low-level flying means you can often spot wildlife from the air – especially around waterholes. It’s such a unique and different perspective! In November, the Delta’s waterways are still dry apart from the areas of permanent water – however, the start of the rains means the landscape is changing rapidly, and you can really see that from the air.     The final part of our journey into the Delta was an incredible helicopter transfer. A helicopter excursion is an optional extra at several camps and having had this quick 10-minute taster of the experience, I would say it is worth every penny!     Our first night in the Okavango Delta was at Kwando 4 Rivers – a new camp overlooking a small permanent lagoon, and it’s absolutely fabulous. Top tip: Book it while they still have ‘opening’ special rates! We headed out on a wonderful sunset drive overlooking the waters of the Delta and were then treated to a surprise “bush dinner” – would you look at that setting!     And then t he following morning we took off on foot for a guided game walk through the plains with a truly fantastic guide. The guides are so brilliant here, they really know their stuff – whether it’s reading animal tracks or telling you all the details you could ever want to know about different flora and fauna, your eyes and your brain will be busy! Our second two nights were at Mma Dinare also in the Delta – overlooking the stunning Gomoti River .  What a wildlife experience! The photos really do tell a thousand words – elephants, lion, leopard, cheetah and wonderful bird life too! Two of my safari highlights (perhaps of all time!) was seeing three cheetah brothers and also a leopard mother and a cub together. They were two moments that just make you feel an overwhelming sense of gratitude.   Chobe Riverfront Our final stop in Botswana was Chobe Safari Lodge . We chucked our bags and then headed straight out for a glorious sunset boat cruise on the Chobe River, spotting the HUGE crocs as the sun sunk lower in the sky. Then the following morning were treated to a wildlife-packed game drive in Chobe National Park .  This is a much busier part of Botswana, but there’s still some excellent wildlife and bird viewing! (And Botswana is never really busy by most people’s standards!)   Livingstone, Zambia The final adventure of my trip took place over the border in Livingstone, Zambia. I was there for Africa’s Eden trade show (#Africaseden if you want to find out more!) – which included a ride on the beautiful Bushtracks Steam train onto the Victoria Falls Bridget straddling Zambia & Zimbabwe to watch the sunset and a Zambezi sunset cruise. It was special!   All in all, my time in Botswana was every bit as special as I expected it to be. I got to explore some brilliant new lodges, and scope out the very best ideas for your holidays. I love my job every day, but sometimes I feel extra specially lucky! Do get in touch if a Botswana holiday is on your wish list, I’d love to help bring it to life for you.”       You heard Kirsty! Pick up that phone and give us her a call on 01242 253 073 or drop her an email at [email protected] if you think a Botswana holiday could brighten up your year. She’d be so happy to hear from you (and relive her latest adventure again!)      

 Emma, one of our destination specialists here at HA, is just back from her first (but not last!) holiday of the year. She spent 10 days exploring Saigon and Hoi An in Vietnam. Here Emma fills us in on what she got up to, and her best bits!   Name: Emma ‘Higgo’ Higgins (HA Destination Manager: Morocco, Oman, Lebanon and Israel) Trip: Vietnam holiday Travel dates: 9-19th March 2024   1. Where did you go? I spent three nights in Saigon and five nights in Hoi An. Courtesy of our delightful HA Vietnam expert, Erin.   2. What did you do while you were there? I went on a fantastic Vespa tour through Ho Chi Minh; a really fun way to spend an evening in the city, trying local food (my favourites are the summer rolls for sure!) and hopping between bars. It’s lovely to have a local to tell you all about traditional Vietnamese dishes and also go to authentic places to try them. And what’s more authentic than being on the back of a Vespa while doing it? It’s a little scary at first as there are so many bikes in Ho Chi Minh, but it’s best to lean into the experience! And the drivers are all absolutely delightful and make you feel safe.     I also really enjoyed the AO Show at the Opera House in Saigon, another evening well spent learning all about the evolution of Vietnam from its rural roots to the urbanisation we see in lots of the country today. In Hoi An, I visited the My Son temples just outside the city, which I highly recommend if you’re in the area. These fascinating temples are like a mini Vietnamese version of Angkor Wat in Cambodia – smaller, but no less beautiful and interesting. Going with a guide really helps to understand exactly what you’re looking at, and the history of the Champa Kingdom that created the complex.     3. Did you discover any secret spots you can tell us about? I think the backstreets of Hoi An are a real gem – I learnt all about the making of cao lau noodles – a regional dish you’ll find in vendors all over the ancient town – from one of only two people who make them in Hoi An. We visited the family’s home, next to which you can see the kitchens where they create the noodles – the father figure has been doing this for 66 years, he gets up at 1 am every day to make them, and only has one day off a year! We tried them right there and then with some soy sauce and they were absolutely delicious. Likewise, just down the road we wandered to a beansprout producer and learned all about how they grow the sprouts from mung beans in sand (yes, really..!) and then take them off to sell in the market each morning. We of course visited the market later in the tour too; a must-do for any trip to Vietnam.     4. Talk to us about the food… what was your favourite meal? See above! Anything on the food tour was fantastic. The thing I love about Vietnamese food is that it’s so fresh and light; the herbs they put with all their dishes make them so unique and delicious. I of course really fell in love with Vietnamese coffee (made with condensed milk) too, which is the complete opposite – rich, strong and almost a whole meal in itself! But so satisfying. And then of course banh mi at Madame Khanh – there’s a reason she’s called the banh mi queen!   5. Where was your favourite place you stayed? I really liked both of my hotels – Silverland Yen in Saigon is perfectly situated right in the centre and I could walk everywhere. Cosy Savvy in Hoi An was tucked away a five-minute walk from the ancient town (which is good because it was really quiet, and central Hoi An can get noisy at night) and the people were so kind and welcoming!     6. Your most unforgettable interaction or moment… I think the guide and drivers on the Vespa tour were a real highlight for me. So kind and generous, but also really put me at ease zipping around the big city, as well as offering local insights for everything we did. Above all else, they made it really FUN!   7. Your favourite experience: What’s the bit you’ll be telling your friends about over dinner? All the food, for sure! I’ll be cooking it for them, too!   8. What were your key take-homes, what did you learn on your trip? I really enjoyed the War Remnants Museum in Saigon and learnt a lot about the Vietnam/American War. I knew a limited amount prior to my trip, but this museum (which can be harrowing in part, just to warn anyone looking to visit) really put things into perspective from a Vietnamese point of view, and I was baffled by the fact it is all still having am impact of life in parts of Vietnam even today. I also learnt a lot about this heading out to the Cu Chi Tunnels outside Saigon. I did go down one for the briefest of moments but not too far – I still recommend it for anyone not keen on going into the tunnels themselves!     9. What’s the thing people absolutely can’t miss? Beautiful Hoi An! I loved having a good chunk of time here and the streets are just so charming and pretty.     10. Do you have a Vietnam Top Tip for us? I was travelling alone in Vietnam and felt incredibly safe everywhere I went. This meant I did a lot of strolling around at night in both Saigon and Hoi An, and I couldn’t have felt safer. People in Vietnam are just so friendly, warm, and if you give them a smile they will certainly smile right back! And definitely make the most of all the spas you can find absolutely everywhere – you can get a full body massage for as little as £8 for an hour (plus a tip, which I recommend!), whereas hotel spas will charge you much more. It’s one of the best things about travelling in Asia and they are all open late too – popping in for a foot massage after dinner and hours of wandering around in the heat is complete heaven.     Tempted by a Vietnam adventure of your own? Get in touch with our experts today to start tailoring a Vietnam holiday that’s perfect for you.    

Dawn, one of our fabulous Latin America specialists here at HA, is just home from her latest adventure around the country. And to say she is buzzing with tales of her Andean adventures is an understatement. Read on for a few of her travel tales…      I went on an unforgettable journey back to my beloved Peru! It’s a country that never ceases to amaze me with its rich culture, breathtaking landscapes, and warm-hearted people. I think I did Peru in a completely different way than I’ve ever done Peru before. I got into the bones of the country this time and took the path less followed, less travelled. It wasn’t about doing things the way they’re normally done. This time, it was about connecting with the local people, local tribes, and finding the Inca ruins that weren’t as famous. But of course, not forgetting those famous ones too! Because, wow, Machu Picchu is truly breathtaking. From Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley, to the Amazon and Lake Titicaca, read on for all of the highlights of my 3-weeks in Peru.     Lima My adventure began in the vibrant capital city of Lima. From the moment I landed, the city’s dynamic atmosphere charmed me. I wandered around the artsy district of Barranco, explored the fancy Miraflores (of course sampling some of its fantastic gourmet restaurants) and took in the sunset with a walk along the Malecon. I stayed at a wonderful, small boutique property, Fausto. The staff there were just beyond wonderful.  The Manager asked me if I’d like to visit the local market on my first morning – so I jumped at the chance!  We went for a wander and ended up talking to everybody on the stalls about the different herbs and vegetables and where they were from. I had a slight cold from the flight, and one seller bundled me up a selection of herbs that worked wonders! If you think Lima is just a quick stopover, think again – you could easily spend three days here and not see it all.     The Sacred Valley of the Incas After soaking up the sights and sounds of Lima, I took a short flight to Cusco, the historic heart of the Inca Empire. The altitude in Cusco is a challenge, so I quickly headed down into the Sacred Valley to acclimatise. The ancient valley is a realm of awe-inspiring landscapes, vibrant local communities, and preserved Incan ruins. My stay with the Huilloc community, perched high in the Andes at 3,500 meters above sea level, was a real highlight of my entire trip. You can only reach the village by private car (and a special invitation!), so it was such an honour to visit. This village and its wonderful people in their colourful dress offered an authentic glimpse into traditional Andean life. These authentic moments of magic are what make travel so special. I learned all about their traditions, shared food with them, and even tried my hand at weaving! I’ll never forget it. What’s more, when you visit you’ll see first hand the difference you’re making. Your visit directly helps fund the building of a school for the local children – that was the cherry on the cake for me. I can’t wait to go back again and see it finished!       Machu Picchu Of course, no visit to Peru would be complete without a trip to the incredible Machu Picchu . Hopping on the train and taking in the views as it meandered through the lush mountains, sent my excitement into overdrive. I hiked the Inca Trail last time (beyond special if you’re up to it!), but the train journey was a real treat, with the views getting better around every corner. I struck gold with my guide, Percy, he was brilliant. In his younger days he used to be a porter on the Inca Trail, so he was able to expertly navigate us to the quietest viewpoints away from the crowds and was full of stories and insider knowledge. It was so special soaking it all up away from the hustle and bustle. Words simply can’t capture the magic of Machu Picchu – I’ll let my photos do the talking here! In short, it may be a top tourist highlight, but there are ways to experience this wonder that get you away from the madding crowds. Plus, if hiking isn’t for you, don’t be put off. The train ride is just as beautiful! Do reach out to chat to me more about it if Machu Picchu is on your bucket list. I’ll try my best to get you the legend that is Percy if I can!     Cusco Returning to Cusco (via one of the most lively train journeys of my life!), I spent a few days indulging in its culinary delights, cobbled streets, vibrant nightlife, and historic monuments. Each corner of this city holds a story, from its grand cathedrals to the bustling markets. I love it. I spent a brilliant afternoon just outside of Cusco at the family-run Sulca Textile Farm. Surrounded by incredible views, I got to learn all about the Incan tradition of weaving, watching the process from start to finish. And the best bit? The farm is packed full of llamas you can feed! There’s a wonderful museum and shop, too. It would make a brilliant addition to a Peru family holiday, kids would love it. I was also lucky enough to visit the ancient site of Sacsayhuamán, just outside the city. Machu Picchu gets all the press, but this is another incredible example of Incan architecture and engineering. Built between the 14th and 15th centuries, the sacred structures have become an integral part of the landscape around them. Visiting its massive stone walls and breathtaking panoramic views is a must if you’re a history enthusiast!       The Amazon My next adventure took me deep into the Amazon basin . A short flight transported me to a world of lush rainforests, exotic wildlife and serious heat! It was hot hot hot, but just breathtaking. The temperature shift was unbelievable, but with bug spray and sunscreen in hand, I set off on an unforgettable few days. Here, nature reigns supreme. When I arrived at the lodge, I was greeted by a troop of monkeys swinging through the trees, and it didn’t end there! An Amazon highlight for me was when I was at the top of the canopy viewpoint, Scarlet Macaws flying ahead as I watched the magical sunset sink lower in the sky. Then, the massive Amazonian moon rose at the same time – I was one big pile of goosebumps. That moment sparked something phenomenal in me. The next morning, I was lucky enough to watch as the Amazonian sun lit up the clay cliff and before I knew it – it was breakfast time. Suddenly, the air was filled with the sounds of colourful birds swooping down to feed. Parakeets, parrots, and brilliant macaws perched and preened on the cliffs. The vibrant colours and lively calls were amazing. Seeing them gather and feast on the clay was a unique experience. Top Tip: If you’re heading to the Amazon (and I highly recommend it!), make sure you factor in enough time to take things slowly. With the heat and the humidity, having time to relax in a hammock between all of the wildlife wandering is a must!       Lake Titicaca Back in Cusco, I boarded the luxurious Andean Explorer train for an 11-hour journey through some of the most stunning scenery I’ve ever witnessed. I took this journey a few years ago, but this time I made sure I soaked up every moment as it wound through the ever-changing landscapes of the Andean Plains. The colours and contrasts were truly captivating. At times it looked a bit like we were flying through the moon, and then at times it was so sparse and barren. Then the next moment you’re passing big packs of llamas grazing. This was real Peru. This scenic ride brought me to Puno and the serene Lake Titicaca, the highest navigational lake in the world, and so so beautiful. When I got to Lake Tititcaca, I stayed at a lodge called ‘’Titilaka’’ located on the south-eastern shore of Lake Titicaca on a tranquil private peninsula shared only with the local Aymara community. Surrounded on three sides by the pristine lake and with four acres of grounds, a perfect base to explore this undiscovered corner of the earth. The lodge had these incredible panoramic windows looking out over Lake Titicaca. It was dark when I arrived, but the next morning I set my alarm for 5.30am to watch the sun rise. It was pinch-myself incredible. I sat in glorious peace and watched the sun rising over the water, and just llamas, birds, the sun, the colours for company. It was fabulous. One of the main draws of going to visit this part of Peru, is to meet some of the local tribes that live on these floating islands. Some of the options can get a little touristy these days, and again, I wanted to do something a little bit different. So, I took off to visit some homestays on the islands. I spent so much time sitting and talking with these tribes, people from Tequil and Uros, all about what they do for a living and how they spend their days. I got to meet their children and share lunch at their home. This was so special, it felt like I was part of the family for a day. I was seeing the real, authentic Peru. There were a couple of absolutely beautiful spots, hosted by the most special people. I’m adding them to my Peru holiday itineraries from now on for sure!       Colca Canyon From Puno, a 6-hour land transfer through the majestic Andes found me perched at the edge of the massive Colca Canyon , the second-deepest canyon in the world. I’ve been lucky enough to visit this incredible part of the world before, but this time I did it a little differently. This time, I glamped! Picture me, camping (very comfortably) under the stars at the edge of the magnificent Colca Canyon. There was a smoking volcano to one side and snow-capped mountains on the other. Peruvian wildlife is everywhere, with horses and llamas dotted around the landscape. I’ll never forget waking up to the birdsong, I felt so grounded and in tune with the Earth. I was lucky enough to have another incredible guide here: Mauricio (a.k.a. Condor Man). He found us a secret spot away from any crowds to sit and watch so many majestic condors in flight. His knowledge was phenomenal, he knew how the birds would move on the thermals, so he told us exactly where to look, stand, and even pose for photos with them. Their wingspans are immense – putting away my camera and quietly watching them soar through the canyon was a humbling experience.       Arequipa My final destination was the White City of Arequipa . This city, with its beautiful colonial architecture, rich cultural heritage, and delicious cuisine, was the perfect conclusion to my Peruvian adventure. Again, my guide was top-notch. I wasn’t being shown around the way everybody else was. First, we sat down together, had a coffee, and watched the world go by whilst he told me about the history of the city, little snippets about the culture and all about the different kinds of architecture that can be seen around the streets. Then we explored. Arequipa is his home, and with every single word he said you could tell how passionate he was about his city, his country and his job. He also had a wicked sense of humour, which anyone who knows me, will know went down well!       Phew! What a trip. I didn’t want to leave and I’m already dreaming of my next visit to this incredible country. If you think Peru might be for you, do get in touch on 01242 253 073 , or email me at [email protected] I’m still on such a high from the trip, and having an excuse to share my stories with you ear to ear would make my day!    

  After the inside scoop on Cambodia family holidays? Fenton, one of our Cambodia experts, is just home from his latest visit to the country. And this time he took his two young children along for the ride!  We’ve got a lot of children between the team here on HA. So we know first-hand the value of travel for little minds. Taking your children to experience new places and different cultures is a worldly education like no other. What’s more, Cambodia family holidays offer so much for kids and parents alike! Read on to hear all about Fenton’s latest adventure, along with some wonderful family photos that absolutely belong on the mantlepiece.   Where did you go? I spent the Easter holidays exploring Cambodia with my wife and two young children. We ventured to the famous sights of Angkor Wat , enjoyed the quieter beaches of Koh Rong Island , and everything in between. Siem Reap offers a lot to see and do besides temples, so we spent a few days here. We met landmine-detecting ‘Hero Rats’, and walked with elephants in the countryside of Kulen Mountain. The capital city of Phnom Penh is modernising fast, but still retains the charm of a smaller town.  We also went to some lesser-visited spots – the artsy town of Battambang , the verdant riverside town of Kampot, the coastal fishing town of Kep, and the rural landscapes of Kampong Chhnang.     What did you get up to while you were there? So much! We explored the golden Royal Palace in Phnom Penh in the 40 degrees midday sun (slathered in sun cream, of course). Hiked up to a mountain-top monastery for a view of the sunset without another person or vehicle in sight. Tried some delicious spicy sauces at a picturesque pepper farm (and bought a few bottles as souvenirs). And relaxed on some of the most impossibly-beautiful white-sand beaches I have ever seen.         Did you discover any secret spots you can tell us about? The Farmhouse by Smiling Gecko is part social venture, part luxury countryside escape. Days can be spent relaxing by the pool, enjoying a spa treatment, or dining on some quintessentially Khmer cuisine. But, you can also head out on excursions to learn more about the local people, and the lives they live. Although some of these are eye-opening, and even a bit upsetting (garment factories are abundant in these parts, creating ‘ fast-fashion ’ fo r Western wardrobes) it will help you understand the struggles the county has been through. A nd with it, how lives can be improved through the right intentions. The money you spend here goes back into the communities, the people serving your meals are gaining training for better jobs in the city, and you are sure to go home with warm memories, knowing that you have given a bit back during your travels.   Talk to us about the food… what was your favourite meal? Cambodian cuisine doesn’t get the recognition is deserves. It’ s easily as incredible as its neighbours’ food in Thailand and Vietnam. A curry in Cambodia is not too spicy, but rich and flavourful, and great with meat, fish or even made entirely vegetarian. My wife – a diehard seafood fan – would tell you that the Fish Amok curry is the best dish , but I personally think the Beef Lok Lak , with a pepper and citrus sauce, is the Khmer king.   Where was your favourite place you stayed? The Royal Sands on Koh Rong Island is a certified paradise, and no amount of photos can do it justice.  White sand, turquoise seas, impeccable service from every lovely, smiling member of staff, and an attention to detail that makes you never want to leave.  It’s not the cheapest place to stay on the island, but it is worth every penny.           What was your most unforgettable interaction or moment on your Cambodia family holiday?   Our guides and drivers are the people who really make our holidays incredible, and my own trip was no different. Getting to know real people, asking them questions about their lives, hearing about their experiences, and bonding with them in a genuine way. This is an experience you can’t get if you only holiday in self-contained resorts in the sun! This was a Cambodia family holiday after all, and travelling with young children can be tricky. But, everyone went above and beyond to ensure that drives were comfortable and tours were enjoyable. We were forever greeted with smiles, and always parted with a hug.     Your favourite experience: What’s the bit you’ll be telling your friends about over dinner?   When we were choosing to head on a Cambodia family holiday , we knew the kids were the most excited to see elephants in Kulen, just outside of Siem Reap.  This ‘retirement home’ for nellies is a beautiful destination, where you can get up close to these magnificent gentle giants. You get to prepare their food, feed them, and stroll alongside them in their forested homes. And there’s certainly no riding of any kind, which thankfully was made illegal some years ago! What we didn’t expect was how much the children would take to another animal – the African giant pouched rats, who have been trained to sniff out landmines and save lives.  The APOPO organisation allows you to see these superhero rodents in action. You’ll learn all about the valuable work they do in Cambodia (and all over the world).         What were your key take-homes, what did you learn on your trip? Cambodia is a great standalone destination, often demoted to a ‘city break’ to tag on to a trip to a neighbouring country.  Spend a bit of extra time here and you will be rewarded with wildlife encounters, unforgettable scenery, delicious food, and the smiles of a nation.   What’s the thing people absolutely can’t miss? When in Phnom Penh , even if it’s not part of your tour, be sure to visit Tuol Sleng. Here you’ll learn about the heartbreaking genocide of the Khmer Rouge regime.  It will bring you to tears, but is the best way to understand the Cambodian people, their struggles, but also their resilience to come back from such dark times.   Any top tips to share with us? The US Dollar has been the main currency here since the early 90s, but the government is trying to encourage the use of its own Riel wherever possible, especially for smaller transactions.  Breaking large dollar bills is tricky, and any damaged notes may be rejected. Do ask your hotel or a bank to give you ‘small change’ of any money you withdraw from an ATM , and if you are unfortunate enough to find yourself with a torn $20 dollar bill, bring it home with you … the locals may not be able to use it!     Quite frankly, there were far too many picture-perfect photographs for us to be selective with these. So enjoy an extended selection of the Fenton family’s holiday snaps. If you’re thinking of a Cambodia family holiday (or an adults-only one!), Fenton is fresh home from the country and ready to share all of his insider info. Give him a call on 01242 253 073 or request a quick quote to get your holiday plans rolling.                    

“This was the best trip we’ve undertaken.” When we receive photos and a review from clients that so perfectly encapsulate why we believe a country is so special, we can’t not share them! A big thank you to Rob and Audrey, who have done just that with these top-notch photos and their stellar review of beautiful Jordan. The highlights: Jordan is safe and Jordan is seriously special.   “We’ve been lucky and have undertaken a number of organised/escorted trips to different countries through reputable agents such as Kuoni, but this trip to Jordan booked and organised through holiday architects was the best we have ever undertaken. We were away for 10 days and the itinerary was just perfect with a balance of touring days visiting some amazing sites and days spent chilling in some lovely hotels. The local agents, UTA, were absolutely spot on. We were met at the gangway of the aeroplane and escorted through border control with our visas pre prepared and handed over to an excellent driver, Moayyed, who stayed with us throughout the trip. His personal knowledge and recommendations were great. We can’t believe Jordan hasn’t been on our radar before now. What a country! You can probably travel extreme north to south in 5 hours and the change in scenery is amazing from lush green to deserts and wadis. There is a huge range of historical sites other than Petra to visit with some of the most preserved ruins we’ve seen. I’d recommend taking two days to explore Petra to ensure everything can be covered at a reasonable pace. Due to the Palestinian situation, Jordans tourism is 70% down at our time of travel and the country is suffering with people losing their jobs. “I don’t recall ever feeling safer on holiday.” At no point did we feel unsafe, threatened or wish we hadn’t made the trip. In fact, I don’t recall ever feeling safer on holiday. UTA also provided a mobile for us to keep throughout our stay so we could contact our driver whenever we needed. Jordan is amazing, the food is great and the people warm and welcoming. In Amman, people randomly thanked us for visiting their country and wished us a good trip. We visited Amman , Umm Qais, Ajloun, Jerash , Karak, Aqaba , Wadi rum, Petra and spent our final day/night at the Dead Sea (45 mins from the airport) All this just 5 hours flight from the UK. We were very sad to leave and come home.”   Rob and Audrey, HA Jordan clients, March 2024         Haven’t they captured the country wonderfully? Jordan is a spot in the world that too often gets overlooked – and as you can see – it deserves better! Our HA Jordan experts have spent so much time in the country, uncovering authentic experiences, seeking out the best viewpoints and sharpening up their knowledge to pass on to you. So, call us on 01242 253 073 or get a quick quote , to start planning your very own journey to Jordan today.          

Beaches, rainforests, cloud forests and more wildlife than you can wave a palm leaf at…  Costa Rica is one of the most in-demand holiday destinations in the world right now. And, back in November, HA’s Lou and Gabby were lucky enough to spend two weeks there, soaking it all up. Where does your mind go when you think of Costa Rica? Trees? Toucans flying overhead? Flowing rivers? Eden-like landscapes? Monkeys swinging through trees? Boca Tapada has it all. And so does the hidden rainforest treasure that is, Macquenque Eco Lodge.     Here are 10 reasons why Macquenque Eco Lodge in Boca Tapada makes for the perfect first stop on a two-week Costa Rica holiday.   1. It gets you straight off the beaten track We might be biased, but we think it’s hard to find a better first stop on your Costa Rica holiday than a few nights at Macquenque Eco Lodge in Boca Tapada. This rainforest region gets you straight off the beaten track and straight into the natural Eden that Costa Rica is so well known (and loved!) for. It’s a three-hour, slightly bumpy, drive from San Jose. You’ll pass pineapple fields as far as the eye can see, drive through small villages with locals going about their day-to-day life, kids playing football in the roads and colourful washing drying outside houses. Soon the road will turn to gravel and things get a little bumpy! But, once you make it there and to the base car park, your adventure really begins.   Everything about the approach to this place is magic – getting there feels like an event in itself. You have to call the reception from a connection station on one side of the river (it has a toilet too, helpful after the long drive!), and they then send a boat transfer across the river to get you. All of your luggage is taken for you and the loveliest welcome awaits you when you get to the other side.   This really does feel like real Indiana Jones/Jurassic Park-style adventuring. The river is surrounded by the densest jungle and your senses will be engulfed with the sounds of the rainforest in no time at all. There’s something very special about staying somewhere you can only reach by boat. This was our very first pinch-ourself, we’re actually here moment! We’d definitely arrived on our Costa Rica holiday now.   2. You can stay in your very own treehouse Top tip: Stay in a treehouse if you can! After check-in with the lovely Saul, who handed us a refreshing fresh coconut – very welcome in the humidity! – it was time to head to our home for the next few nights. We hopped in the back of a little truck with our bags and made our way down the trails as the sun went down and the sky turned a hazy shade of pink. The truck dropped us at the bridge that would lead us to our treehouse. When I say this was remote, I really mean it. The lights on the path ended about 100m before the path to our treehouse began. But, oh it was worth the trek. Teetering high in the trees (two huge flights of stairs up!) was our little slice of treetop luxury. There was no roughing it here though. Macquenque Lodge have done a brilliant job of maintaining all of the rustic charm, nature and experience you’d expect from a treehouse stay – just without the rickety gaps in the wood to let all the creepy crawlies in! There were huge ceiling fans above the bed, so being hot wasn’t an issue. And I knew that with the backdrop of the live sounds of the rainforest (a soundtrack people pay good money for these days on wellness apps), I’d have no trouble drifting off. What we really love about the treehouses at Macquenque Eco Lodge is that each one has been built in such a way that causes absolutely no damage to the trees. The environment and nature always come first here. The way it should be!   3. The peace and quiet It can’t be described as ‘silence’ as such… as the air is filled with a medley of birdsong and monkey calls. But starting your Costa Rica holiday in Boca Tapada will acquaint you wonderfully quickly to the wild peace that makes the country so special. On our first morning, I woke up in our treehouse to the rising sun glinting through the trees and the flowing, white curtains. Laying there in silence for 15 minutes, listening to the birds’ morning chorus and the howler monkeys making a racket, is a wake-up I’ll never forget. It almost converted me to being a morning person. Almost. Walking out of the door to head to breakfast, we had the chance to take in our surroundings in daylight for the first time. Our treehouse felt higher up in the daytime! We had a little family of bats snoozing in the eves (so still and peaceful we thought they were hinges at first) and some slightly ominous-looking buzzy creature we chose not to mess with.   4. The naturalist guides are fantastic   The naturalist guides at Maquenque Lodge were just brilliant. Jose (on the left above), took us on the best coffee and chocolate tour – more on that later. And Luis (on the right), was our guide on our boat tour along the river. You can just tell that all of the guides take such joy in their work. They live and breathe what they do, this isn’t just a job for them – it really is a way of life. They spend years researching all of the different flora, fauna, wildlife. They can tell you all about the medicinal qualities of plants, as well as identifying the bird calls of specific birdlife so you’ll know exactly what is near by at any time. After one tour with these guys, you’ll understand exactly why it’s so valuable to experience these trails with a guide. Of course, they’re special even on your own, but we spotted so much with Jose and Luis that we would have definitely missed without them. Hear directly from the lovely, Luis, why he thinks you need to visit Costa Rica, here.     5. One for the twitchers: The birdwatching is second-to-none You don’t need to venture far to be treated to top-notch twitching at Macquenque Eco Lodge . Right by the restaurant, there’s a big birdfeeder that is loaded with fresh fruit every morning. This means you’re almost guaranteed to be treated to the most wonderful bird show whilst you munch on your fresh fruit over breakfast. Costa Rica, without doubt, made a birdwatcher out of me. And Macquenque Eco Lodge was responsible for a great deal of that convincing. The toucans, tannigers, oropendolas and parakeets were all so vibrant and popped up everywhere you looked. Nothing quite like mother nature’s talents fluttering past whilst you munch on your pancakes.   6. You can take a boat trip to the Nicaragua border and visit a local village Granted, the weather wasn’t on our side the morning of our boat trip. As soon as we left the dock, the heavens opened. And who forgot their raincoat? Me, of course. Top Tip: Regardless of what time of year you visit Costa Rica , it’s always a good idea to pop a pack-a-mac in your bag. You never know when you might be treated to the full, soggy, rainforest experience. And it’s always best to come prepared!   7. Enjoy a coffee and chocolate tour Costa Rica is renowned for two of (arguably) the most delicious things on earth. Coffee and chocolate. And at Macquenque Eco Lodge , you can experience both on their farm tour. Jose led us through the grounds on a bit of a nature walk, before we started the tour by making a local cocktail. (The way all tours should start if you ask me). The cocktail was made from the freshest sugarcane juice (squeezed by mine and Lou’s own fair hands as you can see from the action shot below, it was quite the workout!), lime juice, and the local spirit, Cacique. It was delicious. So delicious in fact, I may or may not have indulged in a second cup… Jose then led us through the organic vegetable and herb gardens (both of which supply the restaurant at the lodge ) before we took a seat at the coffee station. Jose then taught us all about the coffee production process, from bean to cup before we got to taste the coffee bean and ultimately, the coffee. The chocolate And then, the even better bit. Because, who doesn’t love chocolate? We learnt all about the process of creating chocolate, from tree to bar. Firstly though, did you know that there’s a chocolate flower?! You can see it in the photo on the right below. The process is more involved than you might think. Firstly, the cacao beans are roasted, before being cracked, crushed down and then ground into a fine paste. The paste is then ‘conched’, by being put through a device that mixes and mashes it, before finally heading to the final tempering stage. When the chocolate is being tempered, it’s heated and cooled multiple times until it reaches the desired result and quality. The tour finished with samples of hot chocolate, solid milk chocolate and a delicious chocolate sauce that we both could have happily swam in for the rest of the afternoon.     8. The food is incredible (and the cocktails aren’t half bad either!) We were fed seriously well at Macquenque Eco Lodge . A warning for those with smaller appetites – the portion sizes are VERY generous. There’s a huge mix of options on the menu. From quesadillas and sushi, all the way through to the local breakfast of Gallo Pinto (shown in the photo above!) and the freshest fruit you’ve ever tasted. The majority of food and drink served in the restaurant is all sourced locally (much of it as local as their very own organic farm!) Every single thing we ate and drank was delicious, and all served with a side of wonderful Costa Rican smile, of course. Swinging in the rocking chair overlooking the river, watching the birds flutter by, whilst sipping on that fresh mango daiquiri above, really was such a treat.   9. The trails around the lodge are an adventure in themself and there’s even a pool to unwind by You don’t have to go far to have a wildlife experience at Macquenque Eco Lodge . Even just walking from your bungalow or treehouse to the restaurant, you’re guaranteed to pass a whole host of animals, flora and fauna. We spotted bats, caterpillars, monkeys, toucans, and nightjars – all just on the stroll from our treehouse to the restaurant for a sundowner.   10. The people here give you the perfect, warm welcome to Costa Rica and the Pura Vida lifestyle From the boat crossing and the check-in, to the truck drivers, barman, waitresses, owners and guides – everyone here will make you feel like you’re a priority. So many smiles, so much generosity and all of the warmth. Maquenque Eco Lodge is the perfect introduction to Pura Vida!   Whether you stay in one of the 15 bungalows or the 10 treehouses at Macquenque Eco Lodge , you’ll find yourself immersed in nature, away from the hustle and bustle of normal life and surrounded by more wildlife than you can count. So many of the lovely people we send to Costa Rica tell us that this spot was one of their Costa Rica holiday highlights . And, after spending a few days here, I get that completely.   Latest Posts 15 of our favourite holiday ideas Summer holiday ideas: Our team share their favourite summer itineraries The hibernation’s over: Canada holidays are back! The most popular destinations for 2025 so far Holiday quiz: Find your perfect 2025 holiday  

Looking for the ultimate city break? Condé Nast Traveller have released the results of their massive Readers’ Choice Awards for 2022! Firstly, a massive shout-out needs to go to Canada – so loved that it’s managed to get not one, but two of its cities in the top 10. Here are 6 of the World’s top cities this year (don’t miss the most popular down the bottom!) Which tops your holiday wish-list?   Cape Town, South Africa Coming in ninth position, with a readers’ score of 88.27 / 100 – it’s no surprise to see South Africa’s Cape Town featured on a ‘Top Cities’ vote. Sip world-class wine in top-notch restaurants, climb to the top of the iconic Table Mountain for a view you’ll never forget, explore the district of Bo-Kaap (as colourful as it is cultural!) take off on the road trip of your life along Chapman’s Peak Drive, and take a boat through shark-infested waters to walk in Mandela’s footsteps on Robben Island. When to go: October – April   Québec City, Canada Finding itself at number 8 on the list, Canada’s Québec City – with its charming UNESCO streets – scored an impressive 88.29 in the awards. Treat yourself to the ultimate Québec slumber and check into the Fairmont Le Château Frontenac for a night or two. Explore it all on this 12-day ‘Cultures of Québec’ holiday. When to go: May – October   Tokyo, Japan With its bright lights, futuristic robot shows, tranquil gardens, karaoke bars, ridiculously busy pedestrian crossings, stunning temples and incredible food – it’s not hard to see why the neon metropolis of Tokyo has made it onto the list. Coming in at number 6 and scoring an impressive 88.32, Tokyo is well and truly open for business. We haven’t been able to send any of you to Japan for far too long, so having it back on our books is such a treat. If you haven’t experienced Japan yet, you need to! Our Japan expert, Fenton, knows all there is to know about holidays here and he’s so happy to be back doing what he does best. When to go: Whenever works for you!   Bangkok, Thailand Making it to 4th place on the list is Thailand’s Bangkok . A far cry from the powder-white sands and gin-clear water of the Thai beaches, this bustling city has so much to offer. With colourful markets (both floating and on land), world-class restaurants, tempting street food (if you’re brave enough) and so much culture and character, you’ll love every moment of a stop here. When to go: Year round     Victoria, Canada Scoring a massive 89.46, Victoria bursts its way into 3rd place on the list! The biggest city on beautiful Vancouver Island and named in honour of Queen Victoria herself, it boasts a pretty harbour, an impressive array of museums and galleries, fantastic restaurants and countless opportunities for outdoor adventures right on the doorstep. Whale-watching opportunities aplenty await you here. When to go: May – October     Singapore Condé Nast’s runner-up is Singapore ! Scoring an enviable 89.49 from their readers, it’s no real surprise to see it near the top spot. This futuristic city is all about green living and sustainability, with great plans to completely greenify itself by the year 2030. Float in the iconic rooftop pool at the Marina Bay Sands, take a stroll around the glowing trees at Gardens by the Bay , and take in the colourful buildings that line Haji and Arab Lane. When to go: Great all year round!     Are any of these cities on your holiday wish-lists? Give our team of travel experts a call on 01242 253 073 to start planning your next adventure today.

Compact, biodiverse and frankly bursting with wildlife, Costa Rica is a country that lends itself to outdoor adventure – and that’s before we’ve even touched upon the smoking volcanoes, misty cloud forests and lush rainforests.  With 30% of the country’s land protected by national parks and nature reserves (there are over 26 of them), Costa Rica offers an excellent variety of well-marked and lesser-known trails, from gentle coastal walks to challenging mountain climbs. As one of Central America’s safest and greenest nations, it’s no wonder that Costa Rica is considered one of the world’s greatest hiking destinations.   Whether you prefer to push yourself or amble along at your own pace, don’t worry – there are plenty of options for every level. Naturally, Costa Rica’s national parks attract more and more visitors every year – so in this blog, we take a look at some of the quieter areas too, so you can venture off the beaten track and get the best of both worlds. Read on for our top Costa Rica travel tips …   Venture through the rainforest at Arenal Volcano National Park Open daily from 8am-3pm for hikers, Arenal National Park spans 12,080 hectares and affords showstopping views of the magnificent Arenal Volcano. From zipline tours to white water rafting and mountain biking to hanging bridges, this is Costa Rica’s adventure hub and the ultimate destination to experience all the activities the country is most famous for. But we’re here to talk about the hiking – and trust us, you’re in for a treat! There are a number of well-marked hiking trails in the park through a variety of ecosystems – which means one minute you’ll be strolling through tropical rainforest with colourful orchids and soft green ferns, only to venture around the corner and find yourself up close and personal with Arenal volcano itself.   The wildlife is pretty impressive here too, from bird life (most of Costa Rica’s 850 species of bird can be found here, including the endangered quetzal) to white-faced monkeys, jaguars, coati and toucans. Venturing further than Arenal, the lesser-known dormant Cerro Chato Volcano sits unassumingly next to Arenal and offers a fantastic hiking route through tropical rainforests and old lava beds to a sparkling emerald green lake in an extinct crater – in fact, it’s one of our favourite trails.   Discover other-worldly beauty at Tenorio Volcano National Park The Rio Celeste hike in Tenorio Volcano National Park has got to be one of the most magical sights in Costa Rica. The seven-kilometre walk is mostly on flatlands, so it’s not too difficult – but this one isn’t about challenging yourself; it’s about taking in the views as you walk along a river so blue it almost seems unreal. Setting out from the gates of the Tenorio Volcano National Park, you’ll venture through thick primary rainforest, past loudly chattering monkeys to the banks of the other-worldly Rio Celeste.     As you follow the river upstream to the source of its extraordinary colour, the confluence of the Buena Vista and Roble rivers, the colour of the river deepens. Sulphur and carbonate from the Tenorio Volcano is responsible for turning the river an unnatural shade of blue, which, set against the bright green of the rainforest, looks as if it is luminous. In fact, it’s so blue it looks photoshopped – trust us when we say it needs to be seen it be believed! Once you’re done ogling at the bright blue waters, one of our favourite Costa Rica travel tips is to end your hike with a dip in the natural hot springs around Tenorio Volcano and soak your aching limbs – utter perfection!   Experience ethereal cloud forest at Monteverde Created in 1972, the 4,000-hectare Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve is one of the oldest and most famous in Costa Rica – and is also one of the last tropical cloud forests in the world. Straddling the continental divide between the country’s Pacific and Caribbean halves, there are six different life zones, each with a slightly different ecosystem. Yes, it’s well visited – but it also offers one of Costa Rica’s best opportunities to see a wide variety of cloud forest birds and mammals. You can unleash your inner Tarzan as you swing through an exciting zip-lining tour, or roam through the treetops on canopy walkways as you take in the unbeatable views of the cloud forest and wildlife below – and the hiking opportunities here are exceptional too. The reserve is crisscrossed with 10 different trails, each giving a unique perspective on the reserve’s biodiversity. Sendero Bosque Nuboso, the Cloud Forest Trail, is the most popular and arguably the prettiest with misty forest, whilst the Sendero Pantanoso (Swamp Trail) will take you through a swamp forest to a viewpoint of the Continental Divide. There’s also Sendero Chomogo, the highest trail on the reserve, and the Sky Walk, which will take you over all five of the reserve’s suspended bridges. Look out for over 400 bird species, tens of thousands of insect species, more than 2,500 plants, and 130 mammal species . If you get the chance, make sure you head back to the reserve after dark for a night walk to discover the secret nocturnal life of the forest as you venture along trails in search of coatis, fireflies, tree frogs and poison dart frogs, as well as bats and lizards – it’s a truly unforgettable experience.   Explore beautiful beaches and dense rainforest in Manuel Antonio Manuel Antonio might be one of Costa Rica’s smaller national parks, but it crams a lot into its 1,983 hectares. In fact, it’s been named as one of the best parks in the world. Set on the central Pacific coast, here you’ll find everything from rugged rainforest to white sand beaches and colourful coral reefs. Activities here include excursions in the mangroves as you look for sloths, capuchin monkeys and waterfowl, before relaxing on soft sand beaches. You can also kayak, fish, and snorkel too – and because the park isn’t that big, you can hike the whole thing in a day!     There are a number of trails dotted throughout the park leading from the jungle-fringed beaches right up into the towering mountains. For a gentle route, try the Main Trail from the park entrance which follows a flat, sandy track and branches off to all the major beaches within the park. It’s a great place to spot three-toed sloths, white-faced capuchins and numerous colourful birds as they dart in and out of the trees. If you’re after a more challenging route, then the Cathedral Point Trail is for you: a 0.9-mile loop around the park’s ridge, there are so many incredible views. Plus, because the trail begins and ends near the Manuel Antonio and Escondido Sur beaches, you can stroll down and enjoy a relaxing dip after your strenuous climb. Just don’t forget your swimsuit!   Hike the jungle trails of the Osa Peninsula In the far south-east of Costa Rica, the Osa Peninsula is quite simply the best place to see wildlife. Blanketed in dense rainforest, this remote crop of land that juts out into the Pacific Ocean houses some of the best and most intense biodiversity in Central America. Within the Peninsula, you’ll find Corcovado National Park, which arguably has the best hiking trails because you get to experience what Costa Rica is most famous for – the wildlife. The park has a good network of trails, each venturing deep into the dense lowland rainforest. Whilst the hiking here is the most strenuous in Costa Rica, following both coastal and inland routes and passing by habitats ranging from Pacific beaches and mangrove swamps to lowland and montane rainforests, it’s more than worth it.     In fact, it’s been named by National Geographic as the most biologically intense place on the planet and protects around 5% of the world’s biodiversity. It contains a whopping 13 diverse ecosystems and is home to a large number of endangered species such as jaguars, red-backed squirrel monkeys, Baird’s tapirs and harpy eagles. What’s more, due to the park’s remote location in Corcovado, monkeys and macaws greatly outnumber humans. Exploring the jungle throughout the Peninsula provides plenty of opportunities to spot all four of Costa Rica’s species of monkey and two-toed sloths as you look out for other animals such as anteaters and tayras, reptiles and unusual insects, as well as the highest diversity of flora and fauna in the entire country.   Essential hiking advice Whatever trails you decide to take, make sure you have these essential items to hand at all times: An insulated water bottle – the best thing in the world when you’ve been hiking under the hot sun all day! Our top Costa Rica travel tip ? Make sure you take at least two litres with you! A microfibre towel – wipe the sweat off your face, cover yourself in the rain, brush away sand, or dry off after a dip in the thermal springs – trust us, you don’t want to leave home without one of these! Mosquito repellent – mosquitoes are found all over Costa Rica apart from in the high elevations. Mozzie repellent is a must, especially for jungle hikes in Manuel Antonio and Corcovado. Hiking shoes – the right footwear is an absolute must. Whilst closed or open-toed hiking sandals are generally ok for Manuel Antonio, Rio Celeste and Arenal, for Monteverde, we’d recommend proper hiking boots – so make sure you pack accordingly.   In conclusion, there’s no doubt about it – Costa Rica is one of the best places in the world for hiking. From gentle trails to strenuous hikes, through rainforest, cloud forest and jungle to jewel-coloured lakes and mystical waterfalls, it’s all here. Ready to start planning your trip? Our Costa Rica experts Dawn and Lou have the best Costa Rica travel tips and inside knowledge and are on hand to help you to create the tailor-made trip of your dreams. Contact Dawn and Lou on our Costa Rica team to get a quote today!