Cycling through Vietnam

Explore Worldwide: Where To Go and What to Pack

Explore, the adventure travel specialist offers an inspiring collection of small group, tailor-made and self-guided trips for all ages, to some of the most fascinating destinations in the world. Wherever your passions lie, whether it’s walking and trekking, cycling, wildlife, culture, a polar voyage, or a family adventure, Explore will take you far beyond the tourist spots into the heart of the country you’re visiting.

Explore have put together suggestions of where to go on holiday and what to pack.

Autumn – Vietnam

Vietnam is generally warm and dry in the autumn months making it an ideal time to explore by bike.

Explore’s Cycle Saigon to Hanoi travels along the rural backroads to Cai Be and discover the town’s famous markets; cycle the Central Highlands over Hon Giao Pass and explore Vietnam’s old imperial city of Hue by bike and travel over Thuan Phuoc Bridge which crosses the Han River. Cruise on a traditional junk boat in Halong Bay, spend time in the charming World Heritage town of Hoi An and visit the infamous Cu Chi Tunnels close to Saigon.

  • Cycing grade: Moderate
  • Departures: October and November 2016
  • What to pack: NosiLife short sleeved sport, money belt for exploring cities
Cycle Saigon to Hanoi. Photograph: Explore

Winter – Sri lanka

Have a go at rafting, walking and cycling in Sri Lanka. Photograph: Explore

For a small island, Sri Lanka has a complex weather system with two distinct monsoon seasons.

However, the winter months are a great time to visit the central and southern regions of this country as the days are sunny and dry and the sea is usually calm. Explore’s two week Active Sri Lanka is a great option for those who want to combine the cultural highlights with some active adventure.

On this trip, cycle through the rural villages to the coastal town of Hikkaduwa, raft down the Kelani River and climb to the summit of sacred Adam’s Peak for sunrise views. Search for wildlife including the elusive leopard in Willpaththu National Park and visit the Temple of the Tooth in Kandy.

  • Activity grade: Moderate
  • Departures: January, February and March 2017
  • What to pack: NosiLife outback hat, dry bag, rucksack

Spring – Italy

Take advantage of the pleasant walking conditions and quieter trails in spring on Explore’s eight day Amalfi Coast Walking trip.

Discover the spectacular Amalfi coastline, walk along the high cliff path of the ‘Walk of the Gods’ overlooking the Bay of Salerno, escape to the beautiful island of Capri and soak up the stylish resort of Positano. There’s also time to experience the warm hospitality and home-cooked food in the agriturismo accommodation and visit the archaeological site of Pompeii.

  • Walking grade: Easy to Moderate
  • Departures: Various departures in April and May 2017
  • What to pack: Hat, waterproof jacket, 15L Kiwi Pro Rucksack, for all your walking essentials
Self-Guided Amalfi Coast Trails in Italy are great for spring getaways. Photograph: Explore

Summer- Tanzania

Discover the Serengeti Lodge Safari. Photograph: Explore

The summer months are the peak season in Tanzania. With the migration of animals heading north in July and August, September sees the herds spread out across the Serengeti. At this time of year, the land is drier, making it much easier to spot game. Try the eight day Serengeti Lodge Safari trip for a safari through the vast national parks and extend this trip to spend four days relaxing on Zanzibar Island.

Enjoy game drives in the most iconic national park in Africa – The Serengeti to spot a whole host of wildlife, including lion, zebra and elephants. Observe rhino, leopard and giraffe in Ngorongoro Crater, the world’s largest complete caldera and soak up the views and geological features of the Great Rift Valley.

Explore currently have over 500 tours available in over 120 countries. Discover the full list of destinations here.

ch_uk-Blog - Author - Bradley Stacey

Bradley Stacey

Based in Lancashire, Brad enjoys weekend getaways in his well travelled camper van, exploring Scotland, Wales and everything in-between.

Publish Date: 08/08/2016

Updated: 23/08/2016