Want a swoon-worthy vacation with adrenaline-pumping activities? Think bungee jumping, ziplining, whitewater rafting, snorkeling or mountain biking. From New Zealand to Hawaii to Peru—adventure honeymoon destinations options are endless.
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Should You Plan a Big Adventure For Your Honeymoon?
You should plan a big adventure for your honeymoon if both of you are big adventurous junkies. It can also include lounging by the pool, sipping champagne, and watching the sunset.
However, the perfect adventurous honeymoon will depend on your personality and interests, the honeymoon destination, budget, and preferred duration.
For instance, if you’re on a tight budget, you could plan a honeymoon to an off-the-beaten-path destination with substantial adventure. On the other hand, a destination that combines romance, luxury, and adventure might appeal to couples who don’t mind splurging the cash.
And numerous honeymoon destinations, locally and abroad, offer different kinds of adventure to suit your preferences.
What Are the Best Adventurous Honeymoon Destinations?
1. New Zealand
New Zealand is a treasure trove for high-energy activities, making it a perfect adventurous honeymoon destination. Couples interested in adrenaline-pumping experiences choose New Zealand for its vast array of small and big adventures.
Plus, the country flaunts natural beauty in its ragged landscapes, glacial lakes, stunning coastlines, snow-capped mountains, fjords, and rivers.
Your first stop should be at Queenstown, ‘the world’s adventure capital.’ Try bungee jumping, skydiving, mountain biking, canyon swinging, zorbing, white water rafting, kayaking, jet boating, or ziplining here. Then head to the Bay of Islands to glimpse swimming dolphins on a catamaran cruise. You can also go for a thrilling hike or guided tour on the West Coast of South Island.
And to unwind, enjoy top-notch accommodation in New Zealand’s boutique hotels, beach resorts, and luxury lodges.
Where to stay: Queenstown, South Island, Auckland, Waiheke Island, and Taupo
When to visit: November to April
How to arrive: By plane
Suggested duration: 10-14 days
2. Hawaii
Although Hawaii is a typical beach honeymoon destination, it makes it to the bucket list of adventurous couples. From secluded beaches to hidden waterfalls, jagged cliffs, and rainforests, the Hawaiian islands have numerous spots for thrilling activities.
Take an adventurous day trip to Kahuna Falls or a road trip to Hana (Maui). Go snorkeling, scuba diving, and kayaking in Kauai. Then, discover the island’s natural beauty by taking a helicopter ride or hiking along the Kalalau hiking trail.
And after a long, fun-filled day, enjoy a pampering treatment in a four-seasons or world-class beach resort.
Where to stay: Kauai, Maui, and Oahu
When to visit: March to September
How to arrive: By plane, then ferry or boat ride to secluded beaches
Suggested duration: 7 days
3. Tanzania
Head to Tanzania if an African safari is your ideal adventurous honeymoon. Home to the Big Five, Tanzania also boasts gorgeous rolling plains of the savanna, lush sceneries, and pristine beaches.
Combine a wildlife safari with a beach honeymoon for a real adventure. View Tanzania’s serene and beautiful landscapes by taking a hot air balloon ride in Serengeti National Park. Go on a game drive to spot wildlife and bond with nature, then retreat in a luxe four seasons safari lodge or boutique hotel.
Hike the Ngorongoro Crater or trek in Gombe Stream National Park to spot chimpanzees. You can also test your prowess by climbing Africa’s highest mountain, Mount Kilimanjaro.
After an adventurous safari, head to Zanzibar for adrenaline-pumping water sports like scuba diving and snorkeling. Explore the white sand beaches and lounge in a luxury villa for exquisite relaxation and pampering.
Where to stay: Serengeti, Ngorongoro Highlands, Zanzibar, and Tanga
When to visit: All year round, but the best time is June to October
How to arrive: By plane
Suggested duration: 10-11 days
4. Bali, Indonesia
Bali is another perfect honeymoon destination for outdoorsy couples. The awe-inspiring island in Indonesia boasts an untamed beauty for nature lovers to explore. Bali’s diverse landscape comprises pristine beaches, gorgeous mountains, dense jungles, and epic waterfalls.
Newlyweds seeking adventure are spoilt for choice on exhilarating activities. These include parasailing and scuba diving in Nusa Dua, surfing in Uluwatu, ziplining, and riding quad bikes in Ubud.
You can also go water rafting in the Ayung River or trekking up Mount Batur for a jaw-breaking view of Bali’s gorgeous scenery. The island also presents various accommodation types, including private villas, cottages, eco-lodges, and beach resorts.
Where to stay: Seminyak, Ubud, Uluwatu
When to visit: May to September
How to arrive: By plane, then a ferry ride
Suggested duration: 6-10 days
5. Australia
From rock climbing in the Blue Mountains to hiking in New South Wales, Australia has many adventurous activities. This Pacific getaway flaunts diverse landscapes of hidden waterfalls, lush green valleys, deserts, and over 10,000 beaches, islands, and rainforests. So it’s ideal for newlyweds seeking mad adventure in a far-flung destination.
Go scuba diving on Lizard Island or snorkeling and whale watching on the Great Barrier Reef. You can also take a safari tour in Tasmania, visit the national parks in Kimberley, or the Kangaroo Island for wildlife spotting.
Enjoy the adrenaline rush by jet skiing on the Gold Coast or skydiving in Cairns, Queensland. Also, surf and paddle boat in Noosa or swim with the whale sharks in Ningaloo Reef. And, of course, you want to take advantage of some pampering in eco-luxe safari tents, beach houses, luxury Airbnbs, or apartment hotels.
Where to stay: Queensland, Uluru, Tasmania, Venus Bay, and Qualia
When to visit: March to May and September to November
How to arrive: By plane
Suggested duration: 10-14 days
6. Fiji
With over 300 islands to explore, Fiji is a near-paradise on the Pacific Ocean. It’s one of the best honeymoon destinations for beach and adventure-loving couples. The island series is a beautiful array of gorgeous white sand beaches, lush jungles, waterfalls, and coconut groves.
Your honeymoon itinerary could include horseback riding, snorkeling, and scuba diving on Turtle Island. Also, let your heart race fast by swimming with the sharks on Deanarau Island, sailing and windsurfing on Lacaula Island, or trekking through the rainforest.
Then get some pampering treatment in a traditional Fijian villa, an all-inclusive 5-star resort, or an over-water bungalow.
Where to stay: Mamanuca Island, Yassawa Island, Laucala Island, Kokomo Private Island, and Turtle Island
When to visit: June to September
How to arrive: By plane
Suggested duration: 7-14 days
7. Peru
Famous for the Incan Ruins in Machu Picchu, Peru has a lot in store for adventurous couples. From the arid Pacific coast to the intimidating Amazon Rainforest, Peru is a one-stop honeymoon destination.
Explore the dunes in Paracas. Or hike along the iconic Incan Hiking Trail in Machu Picchu for breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Then, take a day trip to the Sacred Valley for water rafting, ziplining, or paragliding.
Go trekking in Huaraz, sandboarding in Huacachina, water rafting in Apurimac River, or mountain biking on Andes mountain. And your Peruvian honeymoon will be complete with lounging and dining in a desired accommodation facility, including luxurious sky lodges, boutique hotels, and beachfront hotels.
Where to stay: Machu Picchu, Lima, Paracas, Arequipa, and Cusco
When to visit: March to October
How to arrive: By plane
Suggested duration: 10-14 days
8. Costa Rica
A paradisal tropical destination, Costa Rica is a perfect honeymoon getaway for adrenaline-loving couples. Its beautiful rainforests, tranquil beaches, and brood volcanoes offer plenty of opportunities for thrilling excursions and activities.
You can go jet skiing, surfing in Praya Grande, snorkeling and whitewater rafting in Pacuera River. Trek around the Arenal Volcano, then zipline from the Arenal Volcano to Manuel Antonio. Or cruise the skies on a hot air balloon ride, taking in the magnificent views of pineapple plantations and the lush jungle canopy.
Hike in Manuel Antonio National Park, and pair this with a relaxing plunge in natural hot tubs (thermal pools) formed by the Tabacon Hot Springs. After a busy day of hiking or chasing waterfalls, unwind in a luxurious nature resort or eco-retreat for a couples massage and fine dining.
Where to stay: Manuel Antonio, San Jose, Arenal, and Tamarindo Beach
When to visit: December to April
How to arrive: By plane
Suggested duration: 10-14 days
9. Mexico
Mix romance and adventure on a honeymoon getaway in Mexico—the diverse landscapes and natural beauty allure nature lovers and adventure-loving newlyweds. Outdoorsy couples will have their hearts pumping with all the exhilarating excursions and activities in this honeymoon destination.
Get a jolt of adrenaline by surfing and whale watching in Puerto Escondido. Hike into the jungle in Las Caletas or go paddleboarding, kayaking, and snorkeling in Majahutias, a gorgeous private cove. Take a day trip to Cancun and explore the ruins of sacred Mayan cities in Chichen Itza and Talum.
You can also go snorkeling and diving in Tulum. Or try ziplining, spear-fishing, and free-diving with the dolphins. Also, explore the Rio Secreto (underground caves) in Riviera Maya on Mexico’s Caribbean coast. And enjoy world-class relaxation in Mexico’s eco-luxe beachfront resorts, four seasons, or all-inclusive resorts.
Where to stay: Cancun, Puerto Vallarta, Sayulita, and Acapulco
When to visit: November to April
How to arrive: By plane
Suggested duration: 10-12 days
What to Pack for an Adventurous Honeymoon
Apart from the essentials you’d carry on a regular honeymoon, an adventurous one will require some extras.
Bring breathable clothing like slacks, t-shirts, shorts, liner and (or) hiking socks, sports bra, and comfortable shoes, hiking boots, or rugged footwear.
Don’t forget things like swimwear, underwear, and sleepwear, sunblock, lip balm, and bug repellant. Also, add an insulated water bottle, waterproof phone, or camera bag. Bring binoculars, chargers, and battery packs if possible.
Know this is a basic list for an adventurous honeymoon. Actual items will depend on the adventures, the weather, and travel regulations.
How to Plan an Itinerary for an Adventurous
- Plan it yourself: DIY is excellent if you want to avoid involving a third party in planning your ideal adventurous honeymoon. Determine what’s essential for you as a couple before adding any extras. But you’ll have to do your homework to know the perfect destination, the best time to visit, and how to get the best honeymoon packages.
- Hire a travel agent/tour operator: If you prefer another person to do the heavy lifting. Travel agents or tour operators have great honeymoon ideas; this might save you time and money. Plus, they could have access to fantastic discounts and trip upgrades.
How to Choose a Tour Operator
- Research tour operators specializing in honeymoons (or specifically adventurous honeymoons). Check their expertise and the services they offer. Look out for testimonials, ratings, and google reviews.
- Evaluate them depending on your preferences, budget, and desired honeymoon destination.
- You can get word-of-mouth recommendations from friends or family.
- Be on the lookout for scammers or bogus tour operators by checking if they’re licensed or verified by the responsible authorities.
How to Stay Safe in Adventurous Honeymoon Destinations
- Gather information on any health or environmental risks at the destination.
- Take a local trusted guide.
- Carry and use the appropriate gear for specific activities.
- Look out for dangerous or no-go zones.
- Avoid getting close to animals during safari drives or wildlife tours.
- Stay hydrated.
- Use sunscreen and bug repellants.