If winter means pulling out that parka from the back of the closet, lacing up your boots, and bracing yourself for that gust of snowy wind as you head outside, you may be thinking, where can I get away this winter? It can be a real challenge finding winter travel inspiration, so whether you’re looking to escape or embrace the cold weather, 10Adventures can help you find a winter trip with your name on it!
The winter travel season is typically defined as travel during the months of December, January, and February. While it’s not unlikely that you’ve taken a winter trip during November or March, these two months are typically considered the “shoulder season”.
Regardless of what month of winter you travel in, these trips come in many shapes and sizes, and will likely look different depending on what you’re looking to get out of the experience. At 10Adventures, we’ve broken our winter travellers down into three distinct groups, and hand-picked the top destinations to travel to during winter for each of them.
Winter Traveller Type 1: Sun Seekers
The one thing that all sun seekers have in common is they’re desire to escape cold weather at home for sunny weather abroad. For some, this looks like trading the snow shovel for a beach chair and posting up for a week of fun in the sun. But what about the adventurous sun seekers — those looking to not only enjoy warmer temps, but also looking for an engaging, active, and rewarding winter travel experience? If this sounds like you, we’ve got you covered!
Asia
Across mainland Southeast Asia, the dry and “cool” season typically lasts from November through April. It’s important to note however that “cool” is a term relative to the extreme heat experienced here during other months of the year. You can expect temperatures to be in the high 20’s and low 30’s if visiting during this period.
Although cycling and hiking in countries such as Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, and Vietnam is definitely an option during these months, a cultural-sightseeing tour is also a great way to experience the magic of these Southeast Asian countries in winter. Or, why not combine both? Here are our top picks.
Natural Wonders of North Vietnam Tour
A thrilling adventure in a magnetic country that mixes activity with cultural discovery.
Hike and Bike Northern Thailand
Immerse yourself in the renowned sights, smells, and tastes of Northern Thailand.
Laos to Cambodia Adventure Tour
Be wowed by ancient archaeological sites and natural wonders alike as you explore towns, cities, and wilderness.
Central America
If azure skies, sand in your toes, and balmy water is your cup of tea, set your sights no further than Central America for the winter trip of a lifetime. Beyond the beachy, sun-kissed vibes, Central America offers a wealth of outdoor adventure opportunities and is beloved by wildlife enthusiasts. December through April marks the dry season in much of Central America, meaning it’s the perfect winter escape. This winter, we’re seeing a ton of guests interested in travel to Costa Rica, Nicaragua, and Guatemala.
Beaches and Volcanos of Guanacaste | Costa Rica
Nature hikes, zip lines, and visits to natural hot springs will fill your days, and then you’ll head to the beach for some fun in the sun.
Nicaragua Family Adventure Tour
Boat cruises, kayaking tours, hikes to waterfalls, cooking classes, and even language lessons to enjoy.
Best of Guatemala in One Week
Explore the valleys, villages and volcanoes outside of Antigua before hopping on a plane to visit Tikal National Park.
Winter Traveller Type 2: Hike and Bike Enthusiasts
It goes without saying that for some, hiking and biking at home during those winter months can be a challenge. This traveller type is looking for excellent hiking and biking opportunities abroad in comfortable temperatures. Thankfully, there is no shortage of options for this adventurous group.
Hike Chilean and Argentinian Patagonia
Why not pull a season swap and head to the Southern Hemisphere this winter to enjoy their summer? At the southern tip of South America lies a trekking paradise known for its iconic granite spires, sparkling lakes, and sprawling forests. Patagonia tops the list of so many bucket lists, and if it isn’t on yours, this is your sign to add it!
Self-Guided W Trek in Torres del Paine | Chile
Running up three valleys to create the ‘W’ shape that gives this route its name, this trek will have you unwinding each night at cozy camps along the trail.
Guided O Circuit Trek in Torres del Paine | Chile
A demanding one-week adventure that will introduce you to some of Patagonia’s most rugged and remote landscapes.
El Calafate to El Chaltén Trekking Adventure | Argentina
A hiking adventure fit for any adventurous traveller with the best of Patagonia on their bucket list!
Biking in Tanzania
Geography, wildlife, and diverse cultural heritage are just a few of the reasons why our guests love to travel to East Africa. Did you know that the months of January through March are the best time to plan your Kilimnjaro adventure in Tanzania? And what an adventure that is, biking around the tallest peak in Africa!
Bike Tour around Mount Kilimanjaro | Tanzania
An exciting, challenging and unforgettable 211.9mi guided cycling tour around the largest free standing mountain in the world, Mt. Kilimanjaro
Mountain Bike to the Top of Mount Kilimanjaro | Tanzania
Bike to the top of Uhuru Peak, the tallest peak in Africa, via the Marangu Route under the knowledge of a trusted guide.
Kilimanjaro to Indian Ocean Guided Cycling Tour | Tanzania
Cycle from the slopes of Kilimanjaro through lush green forests and wildlife corridors to the warm Indian ocean.
Winter Traveller Type 3: Embrace the Cold!
Snow covered trails, frozen lakes, and thermal gear isn’t everyone’s idea of a great winter getaway, but for some, the cold weather provides the perfect winter wonderland for outdoor adventures. Let’s recap some of our top adventure destinations where lovers of snow and all things winter find their match.
Canada
This hallmark winter destination is one you don’t want to miss! From its snow-capped peaks, frozen emerald lakes, and endless winter fireplaces to cozy up in front of — Canada is an epic winter destination for skiing, snowshoeing, and much more. Plan your visit during the months of December through February for the quintessential Canadian winter experience.
Ultimate 8-day Powder Highway Ski Safari | British Columbia
Twist your way through some of the most breathtaking snow-capped mountains towering over British Columbia on ski or snowboard.
Wapta Icefield Hut-to-Hut Ski Tour | Alberta
With its vast glaciers, easy peaks, and a superlative hut system, this area is perfect for a great ski traverse.
Aurora Borealis Tour | Yukon Territory
A bucket-list adventure in Northern Canada’s Yukon territory, where the Aurora Borealis ripples into the night sky.
Europe
There are so many options for a winter-focused getaway in Europe, and these trips often include strapping on your skis for the ride! Let’s take a look at some of this season’s top ski and snowshoe destinations, some of which you may expect, and others which may surprise you.
Cross Country Ski the Tyrolean Dolomites | Italy
A self-guided adventure on the scenic mountain trails between Lienz and Cortina d’Ampezzo, discovering some of the finest alpine scenery in the Alps.
Dolomites Snowshoeing Adventure | Italy
Venture beyond the popular tourist spots and explore the wild valleys of Belluno on snowshoes.
Landmannalaugar Cross-Country Ski Tour | Iceland
Explore the world’s third-largest geothermal area in Iceland on cross-country skis.
Mont Blanc Snowshoeing Tour | France
Wild and varied paths will take you into the snow-covered mountains overlooked by the imposing Mont Blanc Massif.
Ski Touring in Bulgaria | Bulgaria
Bulgaria’s alpine ranges—Rila and Pirin—offer an outstanding tour for those that want to try something different.
Get Help Planning Your Winter Adventure
So now that we’re up to speed on the top trips for different winter traveller types, let’s quickly reflect on what makes winter trips so special. Winter trips are uniquely positioned in terms of timing, as they are often the last trip we take in a given year, or the first! For this reason, it’s key to make your winter travel plans spectacular, so that you can end the year with a bang, or start the new year on the right foot!
Reach out to an adventure specialist at 10Adventures – we’d love to help you plan your winter getaway! The only question you have to ask yourself is, what type of winter traveller are you? Check out the complete list of winter trips on 10Adventures.
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