Push Your Limits with iExplore Active Adventures

by Joanne Lane

For those seeking the wilds of the world, active trekking vacations have become a good way to push your limits, get away from it all and journey to remote places.

Sure you're probably going to be cold, hot, sick, tired or hungry at some point but for those that make an effort to get to the most scenic canyons, glacier-clad ranges and pristine wilds they can also encounter rare wildlife, glorifying sunsets and high peaks.

Not only does it take you away from the trappings of civilization but there's also a personal side – the elation of your own achievements.

Hiking or trekking is one of the easiest active vacations. You need little gear, or experience and it doesn't need to be a daunting planning prospect with the Active Adventures offered by iExplore. Nor do you have to feel controlled by the group, rather you can enjoy the guide's experience and a vacation tailored to your needs.

For example, you could take on Mt. Kilimanjaro and look out over some of Africa's greatest savannah and wildlife parks. Or perhaps you would prefer to look over the ancient ruins of Machu Picchu or traverse New Zealand's high country? Here's a selection of iExplore's most popular treks.

Mt. Kilimanjaro, Tanzania

If you are seeking the ultimate adventure in Africa you'll want to journey to the top of it. Kili is the continent's highest peak (5895m) and will soon leave you breathless over the 5-9 days it takes to reach the summit. It's a strenuous climb, but one that will leave you on a high for a long time.

There are several routes to climb Kili; iExplore takes you via either Marangu or Machame. Machame is a scenic, steep route while Marangu is easier, busier, and faster with accommodation in huts. Due to Kilimanjaro's equatorial location and high elevation you also get to see dramatic climatic changes – all the parts of Africa in one climb from the dry plains to wet tropical forest to the permanent ice on the peak.

View iExplore's Kilimanjaro itineraries »

Inca Trail, Peru

The trail to the ancient ruins of Machu Picchu is an incredible journey over high-mountain passes. Snow peaks, cloud forests, abandoned settlements and sweeping views provide a stunning backdrop and take your mind off the steep trails that reach up to 4,200m. The four-day trek is not without its hardships including gaspingly thin air and what seems far too many people to share it with. But it is made easier imagining the vanquished city that lies ahead. And it's more than worth it when you finally reach the Sun Gate with an unforgettable view down to Machu Picchu.

View Inca Trail itineraries »

Mt. Everest Base Camp, Nepal

Many argue Nepal is the world's ultimate trekking destination and we aren't disagreeing. While the Annapurna circuit lures many, few can resist the idea of trekking to the world's highest mountain. The route to Mt Everest Base Camp does take you to 5360m but you don't have to do any roping, crevasse-crossing or other scary stuff. It's still a tough round trip of 12-13 days from Lukla (2850m) but there's plenty to reward you on the way and not just at the end. The journey allows you to experience some true Nepali treasures including colorful villages, exciting suspension bridges, ancient monasteries, spectacular sunrises and incredible mountains.

Book an adventure tour to Mt. Everest »

Milford Track, New Zealand

The best way to catch a glimpse of Peter Jackson's Middle Earth is on foot. "The Finest Walk in the World" is the four-day long Milford Track on the South Island in beautiful Fiordland National Park. Thanks to its popular status the 53-kilometre route is highly regulated with just 90 walkers allowed on the track per day. But the lakes, glacial mountains, waterfalls and Milford Sound where you finish are more than worth getting your name down early for this one.

Check out iExplore's Milford Track itineraries »