5 ways to explore the great outdoors on your next tropical vacation
To help you get inspired for your future tropical getaway, we put together some of our favourite ways to explore the great outdoors down south. From swimming in mystical cenotes to hiking through lush rainforests, you’ll want to add these nature experiences to your bucket list.
Hike through the exotic rainforests of Costa Rica
The Central American destination of Costa Rica is an eco-explorer’s dream, with over a quarter of the country covered in protected rainforest. You’ll find 5% of the world’s biodiversity living in this lush tropical oasis, with plenty of natural parks, biological reserve and wildlife sanctuaries to explore. Hike through Rincon de la Vieja National Park where you might spot exotic species like jaguars and pumas, or swim in the thermal hot springs of the Miravalles Volcano. You can discover the country’s unique landscapes with Planet Hollywood Beach Resort Costa Rica’s PH Experiences, a curated selection of the best excursions.
Swim in the mystical waters of a Mayan cenote
Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula is home to thousands of breathtaking cenotes, sunken swimming holes that were formed by collapsing limestone bedrock. These natural pools were considered sacred by the ancient Mayan civilization and are a must-visit for your next getaway to the Cancun area. You can swim in some of the area’s most famous cenotes including Ik Kil beside the ancient ruins of Chichén Itzá, Sac-Actun and Xcanche near the archaeological site of Ek-Balam. When you’re not checking out the area’s cenotes, you can lounge by one of the sprawling pools at Riu Dunamar.
Cool off in the cascades of a Dominican waterfall
The Dominican Republic is famous for its pristine beaches and turquoise blue waters – but did you know the island is also home to magical interior landscapes? The Samana Discovery excursion with Sunwing Experiences will take you to some of the area’s most beautiful national landmarks in and around Samana. You’ll get to visit the breathtaking cascades of Zumbador Waterfall hidden within the jungle before sailing on a catamaran to Cayo Levantado. After chasing waterfalls, head back to Royalton Splash Punta Cana Resort & Spa to enjoy unlimited access to one of the Caribbean’s largest on-site water parks.
Bike along the untouched shores of Isla Holbox
If you’re looking to explore a tropical locale that’s off the beaten path, look no further than Isla Holbox. This car-free island is accessible by ferry from Cancun and is nestled within the protected Yum Balam Nature Reserve with over 36 kilometres of untouched white-sand shores. Head out along the island’s charming roads on a bicycle, kayak along the mangroves or swim in the crystal-clear waters alongside friendly whale sharks. The island is home to just a handful of boutique-style resorts, including the luxurious Mystique Holbox by Royalton featuring just 36 elegant suites.
Zipline above the lush treetops of Mazatlán
Pacific Mexico should be on everyone’s travel bucket list! While Los Cabos and Puerto Vallarta are always popular choices, you can also head to the picturesque destination of Mazatlán, which offers the perfect blend of old colonial charm and lush natural beauty. Fly high above the treetops of the Sierra Madre Mountains at Huana Coa Canopy Park, which features a 5,000-foot-long zipline circuit that offers incredible views of the surrounding landscapes. Afterwards, head to Riu Emerald Bay to soak up the sun on the golden-sand shores of Brujas Beach.
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