One of the first things to consider on any walking holiday is the weather. While difficult conditions aren't likely to put off a dedicated walker (and might even be welcomed for the challenge or adrenaline they can bring to a journey), it is important to be able to prepare for any difficulties the weather can pose while walking. Peru is notable for its unpredictable weather, and with such varied geography it can be quite confusing to predict. However, there are some regions that enjoy fairly stable weather, and even in the worst conditions there's always a chance of sunshine tomorrow while you're walking Peru.
Whatever views tickle your fancy, whether it is majestic mountain ranges, tropical jungles, vast deserts, or beautiful beaches stretching to the beyond; the stunning country of Peru can provide them for you. If you are a keen walker it is hard to get bored with the scenery. If you tire of what the mountain ranges have to offer, then catch a train to the east and trek through the Amazon rainforest. The unique geography of Peru makes it a must-see destination if you enjoy walking. Peru has many incredible places that you should not miss visiting - here are just a few to tantalise you.
If you want a break with a difference - then why not think about walking South Africa? If you've never been on a 'guided walking' holiday before, then perhaps the thought of walking South Africa may leave you a little intimidated - but don't be. You can put out of your mind any images of forced hikes through the blistering bush with an empty canteen in your hand while trying to outrun wild animals. That's the stuff of 1930s Hollywood films and, entertaining as they may be, they are of no relevance whatsoever to the 21st century reality.
Peru is one of those fantastic destinations that can be visited on a year-round basis. However, arguably the best time to visit is May to November when the dry season makes walking Peru a much more pleasurable pursuit. But if you brave the wet season of December to April, although you'll get showers in the afternoon you'll also discover beautiful Andean Christmas festivals, rare wildflowers and fewer crowds. There's a Peru for every season and here are some of the highlights for each:
After a long, challenging, and hopefully scenic walk, what better way to relax than by rewarding yourself with some of the most stunning natural scenery in the world? But some vistas can't be explored entirely by walking alone. One of these, though, should be a destination on every journey aiming to witness as much of the landscape as possible in New Zealand. Walking near to the coast, ramblers can discover sites not normally associated with walking, such as Milford Sound and Doubtful Sound, along the famous Milford Track.
"I think that I shall never see a walk more lovely than one featuring New Zealand's unique variety of trees," as famous American poet Joyce Kilmer didn't write. But if he'd been to New Zealand, walking across the country to see the trees on offer, and learned a little about their quirks and stories - he certainly would have. Take Waipoua Forest's 'Tane Mahuta', or 'Lord of the Forest', the largest Kauri tree in New Zealand, standing at fifty-two metres high. It's estimated to be over one thousand years old. Now that's the sort of tree Kilmer was thinking of.
In New Zealand, walking can be more of an adventure than people ever imagine. And there's nowhere better to put your adventurous spirit to the test than by deciding to explore the Franz Joseph Glacier. A remnant from the Ice Age, the glacier is 12 km long - though your walks don't have to be, in order to see some of the stunning vistas on offer.
If you're planning a holiday walking South Africa, the chances are that you are going to be joining a group tour with an experienced leader to guide you. These types of tours are the best way to get the most out of a walking holiday as you have most of the hard work, like finding accommodation and looking for transport, done for you and you are free to concentrate on experiencing the spectacular scenery for which you came. There are, however, times when on a rest day you may want to escape the group and get back to being just the one, or two of you.
Walking South Africa's magnificent landscape is the best way to not only explore the wonderful scenery, but also to immerse yourself in the warm and engaging culture of the local people. Hiking through the spectacular Drakensberg Mountains, wandering the picturesque Garden Route, or simply strolling along the waterfront at Cape Town; no matter where you choose to spend your time walking, South Africa will not disappoint.
If you like your holidays to involve plenty of walking, Peru is certainly one of the best places you could choose to go. But every now and then you might just want to get the weight off your feet and give your legs a rest. If that is the case, then here are some of the most eco-friendly and fun ways to get yourself from A to B.
Walking South Africa is hungry work and if you're planning on walking around the Stellenbosch then you'll find that your stomach won't stop rumbling from all the delicious food on offer. The Stellenbosch isn't just the wine capital of South Africa, but also a gastro-lover's paradise offering fresh local produce and gourmet restaurants.
From the lost city of the Incas, to the shores of Lake Titicaca, walking Peru's landscapes is truly the best way to see the wonders of the country. But if your weary feet need a day's respite, why not get a bird's eye view of Peru?
Whilst walking South Africa's wonderful paths and trails, you will see all manner of wildlife, from the smallest of blue crane birds to the largest of elephants. Seeing these animals in their natural habitat will take your breath away; however if you're looking for a real animal encounter, there are ways to get just a little bit closer!
Cape Town is often lauded as being South Africa's premier city destination but, although it is undeniably beautiful and an exciting and cosmopolitan place to visit, it is not the only jewel in South Africa's crown. Durban, in the eastern province of KwaZulu-Natal, is a beautiful sub-tropical city with just as much personality as her south-western counterpart. Gateway to the magnificent Drakensberg region, Durban also has a lot to offer in its own right, and a few days spent discovering the delights of this gorgeous city will be time well spent. Walking South Africa's urban regions is very different to a walking adventure in the more remote and rugged areas of the country; but the journey is no less rewarding.
Invariably, mention of the country New Zealand tends to conjure up images of bright blue skies and warm, pleasant sunshine. However, between the two islands, temperatures can vary dramatically depending on the time of year. We take a look at walking New Zealand - from hot to cold, and back again.
When you think of South Africa, which animals immediately come to mind? If you're like most people then it's probably one of the famous 'Big Five': the lion, the rhino, the leopard, the buffalo and the biggest of all - the elephant. However beautiful they are, none of these animals could really be described as 'cute'. But on a holiday walking South Africa you may come across a few other animals, although not so high-profile, who could definitely be described as cute - if not cuddly!
If you're planning a holiday walking Peru, chances are you've got your brochures creased open to pages on Machu Picchu and the Inca Trail. While we can't argue that both walks have great appeal, we recommend travelling somewhere a little off the beaten track for those wishing to uncover a different side of Peru.
If you're in New Zealand walking, the chances are you'll be slightly too fatigued to get yourself up and out of bed in time to watch the sun rise. But that doesn't mean you won't get to see red skies - there are plenty of places you can go to enjoy the most spectacular sunsets.
You probably think you can guess what Peru's national animal is. Well, if you thought it was the llama then you'd be wrong. Peru's national symbols actually throw up a few more surprises; from a tree used in fizzy drinks, to a flower with a fascinating story behind it. Here are some national symbols that you'll spot when walking Peru...
When in New Zealand walking, you'll often stroll right past a particular tree or a stunning flower without realising its particular cultural significance. New Zealand's national emblems all reveal a fascinating insight into the country's culture and history. Where better to see them than out in the great outdoors?
