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Hiking Vacations

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Whether nearby or halfway around the world, hiking vacations will transport you to a place filled with wonder and untouched by stress or hurry.

Discover a popular national park by its backcountry trails. Behold epic 360-degree views after a big ascent. Stare in awe at wildlife freely wandering in its natural habitat. Whatever destination you choose, you’ll experience the unparalleled thrill of a hike gone right. With experts leading the way and every detail handled, all you have to do is grab your hiking gear and pick your destination.

Get ready to feel the crunch of earth below your boots, explore paths centuries in the making, and discover untouched ecosystems on one of our hiking vacations.

Hiking Vacations

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Hear from our Happy Guests
4.85/5 Rating | 6,500+ Reviews

Reviews From Our Guests

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Costa Rica Tortuguero Adventure - March 2024

Costa Rica Tortuguero Adventure

"This holiday was one of the best experiences we've ever had. Costa Rica is a special place, and made even better by having a very knowledgeable and experienced guide called Sterling. As well as keeping us on track with all of the activities, he was always on the lookout for all of the beautiful wildlife that Costa Rica has to offer. We loved all of the activities that included Ziplines, Rappelling and Kayaking. We'd recommend this trip to anyone who's looking for an adventure into the rainforest and like a more active holiday.

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"This holiday was one of the best experiences we've ever had. Costa Rica is a… read more

"This holiday was one of the best experiences we've ever had. Costa Rica is a special place, and made even better by having a very knowledgeable and experienced guide called Sterling. As well as keeping us on track with all of the activities, he was always on the lookout for all of the beautiful wildlife that Costa Rica has to offer. We loved all of the activities that included Ziplines, Rappelling and Kayaking. We'd recommend this trip to anyone who's looking for an adventure into the rainforest and like a more active holiday. read less

5 Stars (42 reviews)

M Mark Withycombe, | March 2024

Ultimate South Island Adventure - March 2024

My awesome Ultimate South New Zealand Adventure

"This was my first experience on the beautiful South Island of New Zealand. The planning, the trip, the itinerary and our guides Mel and Brogan were absolutely outstanding and professional and worked so very hard. Some days we had very long van days, however they broke it up so the trip was delightful. Transport to and from the airport was a nice feature. The days were action packed, the sights and activities we so rewarding. I feel like I had the opportunity to experience the entire South Island and all the beautiful parts of it. The free day came at a perfect time. Our group was small which made it nice for all of us. The meals made by the guides were superb and featured New Zealand cuisine and features products made in New Zealand, like Barkers. We were even able to make a trip there before we headed to the airport. The accommodations were lovely and had all the necessary amenities. NZ accommodations tended to have towel warmers which was delightful and also helpful to dry a small batch of laundry. The 3 day back country backpacking was hard, but worth it, the climb to Mueller's Ridge was hard,…

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"This was my first experience on the beautiful South Island of New Zealand. The planning,… read more

"This was my first experience on the beautiful South Island of New Zealand. The planning, the trip, the itinerary and our guides Mel and Brogan were absolutely outstanding and professional and worked so very hard. Some days we had very long van days, however they broke it up so the trip was delightful. Transport to and from the airport was a nice feature. The days were action packed, the sights and activities we so rewarding. I feel like I had the opportunity to experience the entire South Island and all the beautiful parts of it. The free day came at a perfect time. Our group was small which made it nice for all of us. The meals made by the guides were superb and featured New Zealand cuisine and features products made in New Zealand, like Barkers. We were even able to make a trip there before we headed to the airport. The accommodations were lovely and had all the necessary amenities. NZ accommodations tended to have towel warmers which was delightful and also helpful to dry a small batch of laundry. The 3 day back country backpacking was hard, but worth it, the climb to Mueller's Ridge was hard, but worth it! All other adventure hikes, kayaking, biking were nice and rewarding as well. The travel wallet was good, options to use their insurance and their travel agent. The price/cost for the trip was just right. I worked with the travel agency they recommended, specifically I worked with Shelley Bartlett who was outstanding. I will definitely travel with Active Adventures again. read less

5 Stars (921 reviews)

W Wendy | March 2024

Ultimate South Island Adventure - March 2024

Ka kite anō Aotearoa

"New Zealand provided a magnificent backdrop to an amazing Active Adventure trip. I enjoyed every second of this trip. Mel and Brogan, challenging tracks, beautiful views from William and magnificent vistas on our hikes, nutritious and delicious food and snacks, great accommodations, especially the Hermitage Hotel near Aoraki, the small stops along the way grabbing an ice cream, coffee or just stretching our legs and taking pictures (did that a lot), Mel and Brogan providing a ton of information on everything New Zealand, interactions with local people, I couldn’t have asked for more. Thank you. By, the way, did I mention Mel and Brogan?

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"New Zealand provided a magnificent backdrop to an amazing Active Adventure trip. I enjoyed every… read more

"New Zealand provided a magnificent backdrop to an amazing Active Adventure trip. I enjoyed every second of this trip. Mel and Brogan, challenging tracks, beautiful views from William and magnificent vistas on our hikes, nutritious and delicious food and snacks, great accommodations, especially the Hermitage Hotel near Aoraki, the small stops along the way grabbing an ice cream, coffee or just stretching our legs and taking pictures (did that a lot), Mel and Brogan providing a ton of information on everything New Zealand, interactions with local people, I couldn’t have asked for more. Thank you. By, the way, did I mention Mel and Brogan? read less

5 Stars (921 reviews)

Y Yvonne | March 2024

Classic South Island Adventure - March 2024

Beth from Malibu CA

"My Active Adventure Tour of the beautiful South Island of New Zealand was Outstanding! Our tour guides were phenomenal! Ryan was an excellent, safe, and courteous driver, and Noah an amazing chef (yum!!). They both shared so much knowledge about Maori culture, history and stories, re: conservation, wildlife, plant life, and more. Onto the tour, I loved every beach we stopped at, our lagoon kayak trip, all of the hikes, the bike ride, and more! The Siberian Valley was out of this world, from the small plane ride, to the river crossing, the hike. and the most fun of all, the crazy, wild, fun, jetboat trip back! Woohoo! I loved Queenstown, our accommodations there were amazing, and Milford sound and the hike after was fantastic. I also loved all of the birds fluttering around us on hikes, from the Fantails to the Tomtits and more! I will definitely be returning to New Zealand!

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"My Active Adventure Tour of the beautiful South Island of New Zealand was Outstanding! Our… read more

"My Active Adventure Tour of the beautiful South Island of New Zealand was Outstanding! Our tour guides were phenomenal! Ryan was an excellent, safe, and courteous driver, and Noah an amazing chef (yum!!). They both shared so much knowledge about Maori culture, history and stories, re: conservation, wildlife, plant life, and more. Onto the tour, I loved every beach we stopped at, our lagoon kayak trip, all of the hikes, the bike ride, and more! The Siberian Valley was out of this world, from the small plane ride, to the river crossing, the hike. and the most fun of all, the crazy, wild, fun, jetboat trip back! Woohoo! I loved Queenstown, our accommodations there were amazing, and Milford sound and the hike after was fantastic. I also loved all of the birds fluttering around us on hikes, from the Fantails to the Tomtits and more! I will definitely be returning to New Zealand! read less

5 Stars (537 reviews)

B Beth | March 2024

Classic South Island Adventure - March 2024

First time tour group experience as a solo traveler

"I really wasn't sure how I would like traveling with strangers (also considered new friends) and in a group setting, but this was one of the best vacations I have ever had. I did plan for some alone time before and after which was a nice mixture. But ultimately I do believe my experience probably has a lot to do with the company I was keeping. I feel grateful that the folks in our group were easy to get along with and I have made long lasting connections. I also believe that the guides can make or break it and our two guides, Ryan and Noah, were fantastic. They had a wealth of knowledge and I literally said, "it's really nice to have walking encyclopedias with us" on this trip! They were kind, funny, organized and Noah is an amazing chef! We ate well, we hiked great trails, we saw amazing sights and we didn't have to sweat any of the small details which really made me feel like I was on vacation. Overall, I had a wonderful time creating amazing memories I won't forget. It was without a doubt…

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"I really wasn't sure how I would like traveling with strangers (also considered new friends)… read more

"I really wasn't sure how I would like traveling with strangers (also considered new friends) and in a group setting, but this was one of the best vacations I have ever had. I did plan for some alone time before and after which was a nice mixture. But ultimately I do believe my experience probably has a lot to do with the company I was keeping. I feel grateful that the folks in our group were easy to get along with and I have made long lasting connections. I also believe that the guides can make or break it and our two guides, Ryan and Noah, were fantastic. They had a wealth of knowledge and I literally said, "it's really nice to have walking encyclopedias with us" on this trip! They were kind, funny, organized and Noah is an amazing chef! We ate well, we hiked great trails, we saw amazing sights and we didn't have to sweat any of the small details which really made me feel like I was on vacation. Overall, I had a wonderful time creating amazing memories I won't forget. It was without a doubt well beyond what I imagined the trip would be like. We also did have the most amazing weather pretty much the whole time so we lucked out on that. read less

5 Stars (537 reviews)

E Elizabeth | March 2024

Costa Rica Guanacaste Adventure - March 2024

Fun Adventure

"This was my first group tour so I wasn't sure what to expect. I was a little sus, actually, and was uncertain how things would go. Those concerns were quickly dismissed once I met our guide, Roy, and driver, George. They found excellent hotels, activity vendors, restaurants, led informative and exciting hikes, and put together an overall awesome itinerary. Each day was filled with adventure, fun and local food. I have to admit the trip exceeded my expectations and I'm considering exploring the east coast of Costa Rica now that I've experienced the west coast.

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"This was my first group tour so I wasn't sure what to expect. I was… read more

"This was my first group tour so I wasn't sure what to expect. I was a little sus, actually, and was uncertain how things would go. Those concerns were quickly dismissed once I met our guide, Roy, and driver, George. They found excellent hotels, activity vendors, restaurants, led informative and exciting hikes, and put together an overall awesome itinerary. Each day was filled with adventure, fun and local food. I have to admit the trip exceeded my expectations and I'm considering exploring the east coast of Costa Rica now that I've experienced the west coast. read less

5 Stars (13 reviews)

S Steven | March 2024

Costa Rica Guanacaste Adventure - March 2024

Pura Vida - Costa Rica

"This is my second trip with Austin / Active Adventures and it won't be my last! Costa Rica, Guanacaste trip was amazing. The activities were well planned and ran smoothly. The nature was beautiful and everything I hoped it would be. But the best part was our guide Roy and our driver Jorge! They 100% made my trip the best it could be. I am a single traveler and I always felt safe, taken care of and very much entertained and educated! I definitely recommend the Guanacaste, CR trip and if you are lucky to get Roy and Jorge, you are guaranteed to LOVE IT!

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"This is my second trip with Austin / Active Adventures and it won't be my… read more

"This is my second trip with Austin / Active Adventures and it won't be my last! Costa Rica, Guanacaste trip was amazing. The activities were well planned and ran smoothly. The nature was beautiful and everything I hoped it would be. But the best part was our guide Roy and our driver Jorge! They 100% made my trip the best it could be. I am a single traveler and I always felt safe, taken care of and very much entertained and educated! I definitely recommend the Guanacaste, CR trip and if you are lucky to get Roy and Jorge, you are guaranteed to LOVE IT! read less

5 Stars (13 reviews)

J Jeannine | March 2024

New Zealand Walking Adventure - March 2024

New Zealand Walking Adventure

"The trip was first rate and exceeded my expectations. It’s easy to be won over by New Zealand’s stunning scenery and natural beauty! More than this though, the success of the trip was due, in large measure, to our two superlative guides, Emma and Elize. Both guides did their jobs superbly: Emma is a fantastic cook who put heart and soul, indeed love, into her cooking. Every meal she prepared was delicious and well presented. Elize is an excellent driver - steady and considerate, making us feel safe throughout the long distances covered over 14 days. As hiking guides, both enhanced our hiking experience with their knowledge of flora and fauna. They also kept us entertained with local stories and legends. Both put in so much effort to give us an unforgettable holiday, and even went out of their way and beyond the call of duty to help us on 2 occasions. They were exceptional!

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"The trip was first rate and exceeded my expectations. It’s easy to be won… read more

"The trip was first rate and exceeded my expectations. It’s easy to be won over by New Zealand’s stunning scenery and natural beauty! More than this though, the success of the trip was due, in large measure, to our two superlative guides, Emma and Elize. Both guides did their jobs superbly: Emma is a fantastic cook who put heart and soul, indeed love, into her cooking. Every meal she prepared was delicious and well presented. Elize is an excellent driver - steady and considerate, making us feel safe throughout the long distances covered over 14 days. As hiking guides, both enhanced our hiking experience with their knowledge of flora and fauna. They also kept us entertained with local stories and legends. Both put in so much effort to give us an unforgettable holiday, and even went out of their way and beyond the call of duty to help us on 2 occasions. They were exceptional! read less

5 Stars (238 reviews)

J Juniper | March 2024

Patagonia Hiking Adventure - March 2024

Patagonia Adventures

"Wonderful experience exploring Patagonia - outstanding guide (CEM), spectacular scenery and great food.

CEM went out of his way to ensure we were well taken care of throughout the trip. Highly recommend any trip with him. He was the best guide! Our group named him "Guide of the Year" to our farewell dinner.

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"Wonderful experience exploring Patagonia - outstanding guide (CEM), spectacular scenery and great food.

CEM went… read more

"Wonderful experience exploring Patagonia - outstanding guide (CEM), spectacular scenery and great food.

CEM went out of his way to ensure we were well taken care of throughout the trip. Highly recommend any trip with him. He was the best guide! Our group named him "Guide of the Year" to our farewell dinner. read less

5 Stars (377 reviews)

M Michelle | March 2024

Patagonia Hiking Adventure - March 2024

Liz

"The Patagonia adventure was epic. Our guide, CEM, was an experienced professional who cared about each of us.

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"The Patagonia adventure was epic. Our guide, CEM, was an experienced professional who cared about… read more

"The Patagonia adventure was epic. Our guide, CEM, was an experienced professional who cared about each of us. read less

4 Stars (377 reviews)

M Mary | March 2024

Classic South Island Adventure - March 2024

Tomi (Classic South Island Adventure)

"This was an absolutely fabulous trip. Every step of the trip was smooth and all details taken care of. Beautiful country and our guides were spectacular (Liana & Lauren). The accommodations were great, food was good, and the narrative by Liana was second to none. She described in beautiful detail everywhere we went and the history (maori legends included) of each town and sight we saw. Lauren was a perfect partner to her in making sure we were well fed and all details taken care of.
I would gladly do another trip with Active Adventures or even Austin Adventures. Will only hope I get Liana and Lauren again.

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"This was an absolutely fabulous trip. Every step of the trip was smooth and… read more

"This was an absolutely fabulous trip. Every step of the trip was smooth and all details taken care of. Beautiful country and our guides were spectacular (Liana & Lauren). The accommodations were great, food was good, and the narrative by Liana was second to none. She described in beautiful detail everywhere we went and the history (maori legends included) of each town and sight we saw. Lauren was a perfect partner to her in making sure we were well fed and all details taken care of.
I would gladly do another trip with Active Adventures or even Austin Adventures. Will only hope I get Liana and Lauren again. read less

5 Stars (537 reviews)

T Tomi | March 2024

Ultimate South Island Adventure - March 2024

South Island trip

"Greg and Max were fantastic guides. They were positive and made the trip a joy to experience. If they were guaranteed to be my guide for other trips then I would sign up for a trip again in the future. Not only were they our tour guides, chefs, and drivers, but they also were wonderful teachers sharing their passion for New Zealand.

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"Greg and Max were fantastic guides. They were positive and made the trip a joy… read more

"Greg and Max were fantastic guides. They were positive and made the trip a joy to experience. If they were guaranteed to be my guide for other trips then I would sign up for a trip again in the future. Not only were they our tour guides, chefs, and drivers, but they also were wonderful teachers sharing their passion for New Zealand. read less

4 Stars (921 reviews)

C Courtney | March 2024

Ultimate South Island Adventure - March 2024

Fear not the bus

"A bit apprehensive at first about a guided tour, on a bus, etc but after the first day with Max and Greg at the wheel settled in to letting them be the excellent guides they are. Saw much more than previous trip I did on my own; secret places with thorough explanations Especially nice after an arduous day of hiking to have a gourmet meal cheerfully prepared by our guide! The last evening after another tough hike (how many thousand steps?) of crashing glaciers, we were entertained by both on the piano, bringing the history and ambiance of the Hermitage alive!

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"A bit apprehensive at first about a guided tour, on a bus, etc but after… read more

"A bit apprehensive at first about a guided tour, on a bus, etc but after the first day with Max and Greg at the wheel settled in to letting them be the excellent guides they are. Saw much more than previous trip I did on my own; secret places with thorough explanations Especially nice after an arduous day of hiking to have a gourmet meal cheerfully prepared by our guide! The last evening after another tough hike (how many thousand steps?) of crashing glaciers, we were entertained by both on the piano, bringing the history and ambiance of the Hermitage alive! read less

5 Stars (921 reviews)

P Patrick | March 2024

Ultimate South Island Adventure - March 2024

Outstanding Trip - Great Hikes led by Terrific Guides!

"Wonderful introduction to the South Island of New Zealand through hiking plus limited amounts of kayaking, biking and heli-hiking experiences. Our guides, Greg & Max, were outstanding. Greg provided insight into New Zealand history, geology and horticulture. The hikes were well thought out and gave the entire group access to areas we would unlikely have done on our own (including obtaining all of the necessary permits on the Great Hikes). Max was an excellent chef for the breakfast, lunch and dinner meals we did not eat out. The guides did a nice job integrating everyone on the trip which can be difficult when people meet each other and are then together for 14 days! Highlight of the trip (if I had to pick just one…..and there were many) was the hike in Aoraki Mt. Cook National Park to conclude the adventure.

We are already plotting out next trip back to New Zealand!

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"Wonderful introduction to the South Island of New Zealand through hiking plus limited amounts of… read more

"Wonderful introduction to the South Island of New Zealand through hiking plus limited amounts of kayaking, biking and heli-hiking experiences. Our guides, Greg & Max, were outstanding. Greg provided insight into New Zealand history, geology and horticulture. The hikes were well thought out and gave the entire group access to areas we would unlikely have done on our own (including obtaining all of the necessary permits on the Great Hikes). Max was an excellent chef for the breakfast, lunch and dinner meals we did not eat out. The guides did a nice job integrating everyone on the trip which can be difficult when people meet each other and are then together for 14 days! Highlight of the trip (if I had to pick just one…..and there were many) was the hike in Aoraki Mt. Cook National Park to conclude the adventure.

We are already plotting out next trip back to New Zealand! read less

5 Stars (921 reviews)

R Rob | March 2024

Classic South Island Adventure - March 2024

South Island Immersion

"Really great way to see and experience the South Island in a week. Lovely, and very knowledgeable guides who take you as far and as deep into the country as you want. - Angus, Toronto, Canada.

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"Really great way to see and experience the South Island in a week. Lovely, and… read more

"Really great way to see and experience the South Island in a week. Lovely, and very knowledgeable guides who take you as far and as deep into the country as you want. - Angus, Toronto, Canada. read less

5 Stars (537 reviews)

a angus | March 2024

AUS 50 Off Kids Web Tile

Kids Save 50% on ALL Family Adventures

Half price for Kids* on ALL our specially ‘made for families’ adventure vacations! A family fun-filled adventure is 100% guaranteed, exploring North America’s epic national parks. View all family adventures here.  

Book now and create memories to last a lifetime out in the wild, together. 

50% off kids offer ends April 30, 11:59 PM (Pacific Daylight Time).  

*Terms & conditions apply – see below. 

 

*Offer valid for new bookings made through April 30, 2024 (11:59 pm US PDT) for trips departing no later than June 30, 2025. A 50% discount applies to the full advertised adult trip price – not the discounted child concession price. Offer valid for up to two children 12 years and under who must be sharing rooms with at least one adult. To secure the booking and discount, a 50% deposit is due at time of booking. Your 50% deposit is non-refundable, non-cancellable, and non-changeable. If you change or cancel your trip, you will forfeit your 50% deposit, and no refunds will apply. Discount cannot be combined with any other offers. Other restrictions may apply.  We highly recommend purchasing Cancel For Any Reason (CFAR) insurance. We recommend Redpoint Insurance – you can find details here.

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Secure Your Spot Now, Pay the Rest Later

As members of the Active Adventures family, Austin Adventures offers booking assurance that allows you to secure your spot with a deposit now and pay the rest later. Plus, if your plans change or you can’t travel, you can transfer your booking or request a refund on any additional funds paid (less deposit) up to 90 days (180 days for Africa and Himalayas trips) from your original trip start date.  

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Why Travel With Us

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Just-right group sizes allow you to get off the beaten path

With an average of 12 guests per departure and an industry-leading average 6:1 guest-to-guide ratio, you’ll enjoy a highly personalized experience.

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Award-winning guides lead the way

It’s so much easier to relax and enjoy your adventure when you have fun, caring guides who know the land, sweat all the details and whip up incredible meals, too!

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You’ll never need to sweat the details

When we say all inclusive, we mean it! Meals and snacks, activities, lodging, transportation, guiding services and more. All you need to do is show up!

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Enjoy freedom to push your boundaries – safely

Every aspect of your trip is thoroughly considered for your safety, from highly vetted partners and well-maintained equipment to extensively trained guides.

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Decades of expertise mean you’ll experience only the best

Family travel and North American National Parks are our specialty. We’ve perfected our itineraries for decades, ensuring you'll experience your destination to the fullest.

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"Wow Moments” take your trip from enjoyable to extraordinary

For us, the extra mile is never extra, it’s part of the way! Count on special touches throughout your trip that will amplify your experience.