Discover New Adventures: Where Nature Takes the Lead

Discover New Adventures: Where Nature Takes the Lead

Honestly, nature always provides unforgettable experiences. I've uncovered a list of new adventures for 2026, where the true essence of nature guides you—from pristine rivers in tropical forests to UNESCO biosphere reserves and paths where wildlife roams freely.

1. Meet the Capybaras in Costa Rica

During my classic trip to Costa Rica, I had the chance to explore the Tapir Valley Nature Reserve, the perfect spot to encounter gentle capybaras. They're often called living fossils, and interestingly, their closest relatives today are horses and rhinos. With a naturalist guide, I trekked through the forest following capybara tracks, learning about the conservation efforts to protect these magnificent animals.

2. Camp Under the Starry Sky in Botswana

On a new family adventure in Botswana, my kids and I encountered playful meerkats along the banks of Ntwetwe Salt Pan. Thanks to a familiar program, we could get remarkably close to these adorable creatures. At night, the whole family enjoyed the open-air camping atmosphere under the starry sky of Makgadikgadi, complete with sunset drinks, a barbecue by the fire, and cozy cushions on the sand. Truly an unforgettable experience!

3. Chasing a Full Moon in the Arctic

This year, one of the best places to witness a total solar eclipse will be from the deck of the Ocean Explorer, alongside renowned mapmaker Michael Zeiler. This journey from Iceland to Greenland promises fascinating insights into how the sun, moon, and earth are interconnected through the perfect cosmic timing.

4. Ignite Your Adventurous Spirit in India

A new family getaway in India’s Golden Triangle—covering Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur—will surely provide wonderful moments for everyone. I participated in Bollywood dancing, rode tuk-tuks, and even spent a night in a real palace. At Jhalana Leopard Safari, a wildlife park in the Aravalli Hills, we spotted over 40 leopards and various other species.

5. Discover Indigenous Life in Mongolia

A remarkable journey in Mongolia will leave you in awe. I spent two weeks immersed in the northern taiga, following the footsteps of the Tsaatan reindeer herders and experiencing homestays with them. This is a rare opportunity to learn from a community that has lived in harmony with nature for generations.

6. Drift from the Rainforest to the Coast in Sierra Leone

An eight-day adventure in Sierra Leone took me to two stunning islands, a perfect escape from daily life. I cruised along the Moa River and then ventured into the wilderness of Tiwai Island, a UNESCO-recognized site. Next, I enjoyed relaxing days on Banana Islands, with forest trails and golden beaches basking in the sun.

7. Embrace the Beauty of Riviera Maya, Mexico

The Intrepid trip from Tulum to Chichen Itza proves that unforgettable adventures don’t need to last for weeks. I kayaked through the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve and explored the serene ruins of Muyil hidden in the jungle. Visiting the legendary pyramids of Chichen Itza truly transported me back in time.

8. Explore Wildlife in Kenya

On a new train journey connecting with conservation projects in Kenya, I arrived at the Taita Hills Wildlife Sanctuary. Here, over 10,000 native trees have been planted to restore the land after years of wildfires and drought. I joined day and night safaris to meet lions, giraffes, and elephants.

9. Spark a Love for Natural History in Slovenia

The new family getaway in Slovenia will encourage young ones to put down their screens and enjoy the fresh air. I wandered through the murals of Ljubljana and cycled along scenic plateau paths. We took a guided hike through the Tolmin Gorge, listening to stories about how water has shaped these marvelous landscapes.

10. Kayak Through the Sporades Islands in Greece

The whitewashed villages of Greece are always enchanting. The Sail Greece: Skiathos, Skopelos & Alonnisos trip in 2026 will take me to the uninhabited island of Peristera, home to a rich marine ecosystem. In the village of Patitiri, I met volunteers caring for a monk seal, one of the rarest marine animals in the world.

11. Explore Ancient Lands in Australia

A new adventure from Melbourne to Sydney will lead me through ancient forests, caves formed millions of years ago, and one of the oldest cultures in the world. I took a ferry to Raymond Island to walk beneath the eucalyptus trees, home to koalas, and explored the limestone chambers of Buchan Caves with a guide.

12. Journey Through the Lush Desert

You may never have thought you would set foot in Saudi Arabia, but this new journey offers a fresh perspective on what awaits. Venturing deep into the Asir Highlands, I hiked along misty paths in pine forests, discovering hidden waterfalls.

13. Follow Ancient Trails in Jordan

Discover a different side of Jordan, where nature takes center stage. From olive groves to desert mountain peaks, Intrepid’s new adventure in Jordan invites you to reconnect with yourself in this natural world. The trek to Petra via ancient trails will leave an unforgettable mark on your memory.