The kids have flown the coop and that means it’s now your turn to spread your wings! Empty nesters like yourself are redefining travel. Their swapping theme parks and kid-friendly resorts for adrenaline pumping, awe-inspiring experiences. If you’re craving adventure but want to escape the tourist crowds, these unforgettable adventure travel destinations for empty nesters should be at the top of your bucket list. From secluded islands to mystical mountains, get ready to explore hidden gem travel destinations you absolutely need to visit! Today, I am sharing some of my favorite unforgettable adventure travel destinations for empty nesters with you. So, get ready to start dreaming big for your next adventurous vacation.

Unforgettable Adventure Travel Destinations for Empty Nesters: Hidden Gems Await!

Aysén Region, Chile – Patagonia’s Best-Kept Secret as an Unforgettable Adventure Travel Destination

One of my favorite adventure travel destinations lies deep in Patagonia. If you dream of spending time in the pristine wilderness for your next empty nester vacation, I recommend adding Aysén to your travel list.

Yes, Aysén is a remote region in Chilean Patagonia. But you will embrace the remoteness once you capture a glimpse of the breathtaking glaciers, towering peaks, and serene fjords.

There are so many thrilling adventures you can have during a vacation in Aysén. I recommend starting with a trek along the Cerro Castillo circuit. This is a multi-day trek that offers the most stunning mountain views in Patagonia.

The trails are challenging, yet rewarding, as they lead you to alpine lakes and jagged peaks.

If you need a low-key activity one day, take a cruise through the labyrinth of fjords. The fjords in Aysén are untouched by humans. Therefore, you will see plenty of whales, sea lions, and dolphins along the way.

Another amazing activity will take you through the Marble Caves via kayak. As you paddle through the ethereal caves, you will be mesmerized by the swirls of blue and white marble.

Rediscover your wild side in these destinations during your next empty nesters vacation. 

Faroe Islands – Europe’s Wild and Rugged Wonderland

The Faroe Islands are an adventure travel destination nestled between Iceland and Norway. These islands are untouched and considered paradise for empty nesters who are searching for an off-the-beaten path adventure.

Puffin lovers will want to take a rib boat tour amongst the dramatic cliffs of the Faroe Islands. You will be amazed at how close to the puffins you get during your high-speed boat tour. Of course, you will want to keep an eye out for razorbills, seabirds, and other wildlife during this thrilling adventure.

You cannot visit the Faroe Islands and not take a hike to Sørvágsvatn. This floating lake doesn’t actually float. However, the optical illusion will make the lake appear to float in front of your eyes. I recommend having your camera and video camera ready to capture it all to show your friends and family back home.

One last activity you should consider in this adventure travel destination is driving along the Buttercup Route. This scenic route will take you through quaint villages, as you pass by rolling green hills and rushing waterfalls.

Take the time to stop along the way to appreciate the true beauty of this destination. Plus, you’ll get to visit with the locals to learn more about their cultures and traditions.

Raja Ampat, Indonesia – An Adventure Travel Destination Plus Paradise

Do you and your partner love diving into crystal clear water? If you said yes, let me recommend vacationing in Raja Ampat in Indonesia.

This adventure travel destination is known as the Amazon of the Ocean. During your vacation, you will experience the most biodiverse marine ecosystem on the planet.

There are plenty of activities to keep you busy in this hidden gem of a travel destination. However, the most popular activities include kayaking, scuba diving, and snorkeling.

The waters surrounding Raja Ampat are considered a diver’s paradise. Snorkel and dive amongst more than six hundred species of coral, as well as fifteen hundred species of fish. You also won’t want to miss out on spending time with the manta rays and sea turtles.

Spend time on top of the water, as you kayak amongst the secret lagoons, mangrove forests, and towering limestone formations. And stay slightly further from the water during a hike to the breathtaking Piaynemo viewpoint.

The hike to the viewpoint is short. However, it is steep. The trek is worth the journey though, thanks to the stunning views of the lush islets and sparkling water from the top.

Lofoten Islands, Norway – Arctic Adventures Await

You can’t be afraid of cold weather when you choose to visit this adventure travel destination as empty nesters. A vacation in this Norwegian archipelago is an incredible place to kayak, hike, and surf. Of course, this is when you are not wandering around the charming fishing villages.

The best part about visiting this hidden gem travel destination during the winter is you can capture glimpses of the Northern Lights.

Start your empty nester vacation by kayaking through Reinefjorden. These waters will take you past many of the fishing villages and dramatic peaks of the Lofoten Islands.

Hiking the Reinebringen Trail will allow you to see panoramic views of Reine and the surrounding islands. This hiking trail is steep. However, it won’t be too bad, as long as you take your time.

While the Northern Lights can be seen from the Lofoten Islands during the winter months, the Midnight Sun is present during the summer. All you need to do is tell me which one of these magical experiences is highest on your list of things to see and I will plan your vacation accordingly.

See a few more destinations empty nesters love for vacations. 

Kyrgyzstan – The Land of Celestial Mountains

Do you want to feel like a nomad during your next empty nester vacation? Well, it is possible when you choose to vacation in the Land of the Celestial Mountains. The Central Asian area of Kyrgyzstan is an adventure travel destination that is perfect for empty nesters.

Trek along the stunning Ala-Kul Lake. This alpine lake trek will take you through high mountain passes and glaciers.

Or go for a horseback ride through Song-Kul. You will feel carefree, as you ride with local shepherds along the untouched grasslands.

Eagle hunting is one of the popular traditions in Kyrgyzstan. It has been passed down through generations. And you can watch the locals, as they continue to share this pastime.

Travel tips for empty nesters traveling the world. 

Madagascar – A Wildlife Wonderland

Okay, so you have probably heard of Madagascar, thanks to Disney movies. However, you probably haven’t given this adventure travel destination a second thought when it comes to planning your empty nester vacation.

Thankfully, I am here to make sure you don’t make a mistake by forgetting about one of the best adventure trips for empty nesters!

After all, you won’t see some of the wildlife roaming around this island anywhere else in the world.

Start your vacation in Madagascar by trekking through Tsingy de Bemaraha National Park. You will see limestone pinnacles as you hike through this park.

Some of the villages in Madagascar can only be reached via the water. I recommend canoeing down the Manambolo River to see those villages. Of course, this trip will also allow you to pass through caves and gorges you wouldn’t see from the inner part of Madagascar.

No matter what you do, plan on spotting Indri lemurs, colorful chameleons, and other unique wildlife during your vacation in Madagascar.

Check out even more places to visit and things to do during a vacation in Madagascar. 

Your next adventure awaits! Being an empty nester means you finally have the time and freedom to explore the world on your terms. This is the time to pack your bags, embrace the thrill, and visit the adventure travel destination of your choice.

So, are you ready to have me create a personalized itinerary for your trip to one of these adventure travel destinations?

If you said yes, I would like to invite you to click here to schedule a personalized planning session with me. Clicking the link will take you directly to my digital calendar to schedule a time that is convenient for you.

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