Embarking on a vacation with your friends is an enriching experience, fostering camaraderie and creating lasting memories as you delve into new cities and cultures together. If you're the adventurous bunch, the world brims with incredible destinations awaiting your exploration.
Whether you're a group of seasoned trekkers or rookies about to embark on your first escapades, you'll find a destination to explore together. To give you an idea, here are our recommendations for the best destinations for active group getaways.
1. Nepal
When it comes to active getaways, Nepal tops the list of fantastic destinations for guided trekking holidays. Home to some of the tallest mountains in the world and boasts breathtaking landscapes waiting for you to explore on a trek. If you're travelling in a group, exploring Nepal is even more enjoyable, with plenty of outdoor activities guaranteed to leave you with fun memories.
Trekking is undoubtedly one of the top activities in Nepal, with iconic routes like the Annapurna Circuit and Everest Base Camp trek attracting avid trekkers. Aside from testing your climbing skills, these treks offer opportunities for cultural immersion as you pass through remote villages and interact with locals.
For groups of thrill-seekers, Nepal's rivers offer world-class white-water rafting and kayaking experiences. The Trishuli, Seti, and Sun Koshi rivers provide thrilling rapids with stunning scenery on the backdrop.
For a more relaxed yet equally captivating experience, a wildlife safari in Chitwan National Park allows groups to witness Nepal's diverse flora and fauna, including rhinos, tigers, and various bird species.
Furthermore, Nepal's rich cultural heritage adds another dimension to group getaways. Exploring ancient cities like Kathmandu, Bhaktapur, and Patan allows for immersive experiences in Nepalese architecture, cuisine, and spirituality.
2. Austria
Austria is a picturesque country in the heart of Europe, offering diverse activities that make it an ideal destination for active group getaways. Its stunning Alpine landscapes provide an incredible backdrop for outdoor adventures that cater to groups of all interests and abilities.
Skiing and snowboarding in the Austrian Alps are among the top activities, with world-renowned resorts such as St. Anton, Ischgl, and Kitzbühel boasting extensive slopes suitable for all levels of expertise. The après-ski scene adds to the allure, with vibrant bars and restaurants providing the perfect setting for group bonding after a day on the slopes.
In summer, Austria's alpine scenery transforms into a playground for hikers, mountain bikers, and climbers. The Austrian Alps offer an extensive network of trails and routes, ranging from leisurely walks through meadows to challenging ascents of rugged peaks.
For groups of water enthusiasts, Austria has numerous lakes and rivers for water activities like canoeing, kayaking, and stand-up paddle boarding. The picturesque lakes of the Salzkammergut region, including Wolfgangsee and Hallstätter See, are also popular destinations for water-based adventures.
Austria's charming cities, such as Vienna, Salzburg, and Innsbruck, are perfect for immersing in the local culture. Explore historic landmarks, indulge in authentic cuisine, experience the vibrant nightlife, and stay in catered luxurious Austrian chalets ensuring a fun-filled group getaway.
3. Switzerland
Renowned for its incredibly stunning landscapes, Switzerland is a fantastic place for active group getaways. Nestled in the heart of the Alps, it boasts outdoor adventures and cultural experiences that cater to groups seeking adventure and camaraderie.
Skiing and snowboarding are prime attractions, with world-class resorts like Zermatt, Verbier, and Davos offering extensive slopes and breathtaking scenery. These resorts also provide vibrant après-ski scenes, perfect for relaxation and bonding after a day on the mountain.
During the warmer months, Switzerland transforms into a playground for hiking, mountain biking, and paragliding. The Swiss Alps offer an extensive network of trails for group exploration and adventure amidst stunning alpine scenery.
Switzerland's pristine lakes, including Lake Geneva, Lake Lucerne, and Lake Zurich, are ideal for swimming, paddle boarding, and boating, perfect for groups looking to cool off and unwind in the water.
Moreover, Switzerland's charming cities and towns, such as Zurich, Geneva, and Lucerne, are fun to explore with friends. Check out their iconic landmarks, indulge in Swiss cuisine and chocolate tasting, or embark on scenic boat trips to explore charming lakeside villages.
4. Tanzania
Tanzania is the perfect destination if you're a group of wildlife enthusiasts. Here, you can embark on exciting safari adventures with the stunning natural landscapes at the backdrop. Tanzania's top safari destinations are the iconic Serengeti National Park and Ngorongoro Conservation Area, offering unforgettable group safaris to witness the Big Five and the annual wildebeest migration.
For thrill-seekers, consider scaling Africa's highest peak, Mount Kilimanjaro. Offering a challenging yet rewarding group adventure, trekking to the summit of Kilimanjaro allows groups of friends to share in the triumph of reaching Uhuru Peak while immersing in the breathtaking scenery of the Kilimanjaro region.
The tropical paradise of Zanzibar provides a perfect setting for group relaxation and water-based adventures. Here, you can enjoy snorkeling, diving, and sailing in the crystal-clear waters of the Indian Ocean or explore the island's spice plantations and historic Stone Town together.
Learn about Tanzania's diverse ethnic groups, such as the Maasai and Hadzabe tribes, through meaningful interactions with locals and visits to villages for insights into traditional ways of life.
5. Malaysia
Malaysia's diverse landscapes, encompassing lush rainforests, pristine beaches, and vibrant cities, offer the ideal setting for active getaways. If you're a group of avid trekkers, trek through Malaysia's ancient rainforests, such as those in Taman Negara National Park or the Cameron Highlands. These parks offer a chance to explore Malaysia's biodiverse ecosystems, encounter exotic wildlife, and immerse in the natural beauty of this Southeast Asian country.
For adrenaline-pumping activities, head to the island of Borneo for thrilling experiences like white-water rafting on the Padas River or scaling the iconic Mount Kinabalu, Southeast Asia's highest peak, which presents both physical challenges and breathtaking vistas.
Malaysia's coastline is home to idyllic islands, perfect for group snorkeling, diving, and beach relaxation. Islands like Perhentian, Langkawi, and Tioman boast crystal-clear waters teeming with marine life.
In addition to outdoor pursuits, Malaysia's vibrant cities are fun to explore, from historic sites like Melaka's colonial architecture to indulging in the diverse flavours of Malaysian cuisine in Penang's bustling streets and food markets.
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About the Author:
Jennifer Anders is a freelance writer who has traveled extensively and enjoys exploring off-the-beaten-path locations around the world.
She loves hiking national parks, windsurfing, and photographing wildlife.
Aside from all those crazy activities, you'll also find her eating plenty of local street food. She is absolutely fearless when it comes to trying new things.