Ambitious adventures for families with teenagers

mother and daughter
Ahh teenagehood and all the challenges it brings. When it comes to the holidays, you want to be able to connect, reconnect, and share a special time. If you are looking for inspiration to get your teenager excited about a family adventure, look no further. These holiday ideas are sure to grab their interest to look up from that screen. From active holidays to experiential travel, discover the list below.

All these adventures are of course suitable and adaptable to families with children of different ages. 

japan: urban thrills, history and natural wonders

  1. Tokyo: Tech, Pop Culture, and Street Food

    • Explore futuristic neighborhoods like Akihabara for its anime shops, gaming arcades, and cutting-edge technology.
    • Visit the iconic Shibuya Crossing and try local street food in Harajuku.
    • Why teens will love it: The mix of hyper-modern tech and pop culture offers endless entertainment and Instagrammable moments.
  2. Kyoto: Samurai, Temples, and Geishas

    • Visit Fushimi Inari Shrine, famous for its 10,000 red torii gates.
    • Participate in a samurai swordsmanship class or rent a kimono for a stroll through historic streets.
    • Why teens will love it: The mix of history, culture, and action (like the sword lessons) is both educational and thrilling.
  3. Mount Fuji: Outdoor Adventure and Scenic Beauty

    • Take a guided hike to one of Mount Fuji’s viewing spots or go paragliding for a panoramic view.
    • Relax in an onsen (hot spring) with views of Japan’s iconic peak.
    • Why teens will love it: Adventurous hiking and breathtaking scenery make this a unique, active escape from city life.

Why a once-in-a-lifetime trip: Japan’s blend of ancient tradition, modern innovation, and natural beauty offers unforgettable contrasts and a deep cultural dive.

Japan

Andes: Hiking, Ancient Civilizations, and Unique Landscapes

  1. Machu Picchu: The Lost City of the Incas

    • Take the Inca Trail or a less-traveled route like Salkantay Trek to reach Machu Picchu.
    • Explore the ancient ruins with a local guide who can bring the Incan history to life.
    • Why teens will love it: The physical challenge of the hike and the epic reward of exploring one of the new wonders of the world.
  2. Sacred Valley: Outdoor Adventure and Culture

    • Try zip-lining or rock climbing near the Sacred Valley’s dramatic cliffs, or explore the ancient salt mines of Maras.
    • Visit Pisac Market for traditional Andean crafts and alpaca wool.
    • Why teens will love it: Adventure activities in stunning landscapes combined with opportunities to shop for unique keepsakes.
  3. Rainbow Mountain: Vibrant and Otherworldly

    • Hike to the top of the multi-colored Vinicunca (Rainbow Mountain) for stunning, surreal views.
    • Spot llamas and alpacas along the way in this high-altitude, natural wonder.
    • Why teens will love it: The incredible colors of the mountain feel almost otherworldly and are perfect for striking photos.

Why a once-in-a-lifetime trip: The Andes offer a mix of adventure, ancient history, and landscapes that are some of the most unique on the planet.

Andes

Tanzania: Safari, Peaks, and Island Paradise

  1. Serengeti: Big Five Safari

    • Go on a guided safari to spot the “Big Five” (lions, elephants, rhinos, leopards, and buffalo) in their natural habitat.
    • Witness the great migration if visiting at the right time of year.
    • Why teens will love it: Seeing wild animals up close is exhilarating and gives teens an immersive experience in nature’s raw power.
  2. Mount Kilimanjaro: Hike to Africa’s Rooftop

    • Take on the challenge of a multi-day hike on Kilimanjaro, the tallest peak in Africa (teen-friendly routes are available).
    • Even if you don’t summit, the lower-altitude treks offer spectacular views and a great challenge.
    • Why teens will love it: Completing part of this famous trek will give a huge sense of accomplishment and bragging rights.
  3. Zanzibar: Beach Bliss and Culture

    • Relax on the white-sand beaches, go snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, or visit Stone Town, a UNESCO site rich in Swahili history.
    • Take a spice tour to learn about Zanzibar’s unique agricultural history.
    • Why teens will love it: After safari and hiking, the tropical beaches and adventure in the water are a perfect cool-down, plus Zanzibar’s culture is vibrant and different.

Why a once-in-a-lifetime trip: The combination of wildlife safari, mountain adventure, and island escape gives a diverse experience unmatched anywhere else in the world.

Tanzania

Bolivia: Salt Flats, Extreme Adventures, and Indigenous Culture

  1. Uyuni Salt Flats: Surreal and Infinite

    • Explore the otherworldly Salar de Uyuni, the world’s largest salt flat. Take creative perspective photos and stay in a salt hotel.
    • Visit during the rainy season to see the salt flats turn into a massive mirror.
    • Why teens will love it: The landscape is unlike anything they’ve ever seen, providing unique photo ops and a surreal experience.
  2. La Paz: Urban Thrills and Ancient History

    • Take the world’s highest urban cable car system for incredible views of La Paz.
    • Visit the nearby Moon Valley, a dramatic landscape with eroded rock formations, or explore the pre-Columbian ruins of Tiwanaku.
    • Why teens will love it: The high-altitude city has a quirky vibe, and the mix of ancient history and urban fun makes it thrilling.
  3. Death Road: Mountain Biking Adventure

    • Go on an adrenaline-pumping mountain biking adventure down the world’s most dangerous road, with breathtaking cliffside views.
    • Safely guided tours are available for teens and families.
    • Why teens will love it: The thrill of biking down a narrow mountain road with a jaw-dropping drop-off on one side is unforgettable for adrenaline-seekers.

Why a once-in-a-lifetime trip: The combination of surreal landscapes, urban thrills, and extreme adventures make Bolivia a destination that pushes boundaries.

Boliva

India: Spirituality, Adventure, and Colourful Chaos

  1. Rajasthan: Palaces, Camels, and Deserts

    • Explore the grand palaces and forts of Jaipur, including the Amer Fort and City Palace.
    • Take a camel safari into the Thar Desert and camp under the stars.
    • Why teens will love it: The royal history, exotic landscapes, and the chance to ride camels make this an adventure straight out of a movie.
  2. Rishikesh: Yoga, White-Water Rafting, and Himalayan Views

    • Participate in a yoga session by the Ganges, then take on the rapids of the river in a white-water rafting adventure.
    • Visit the Beatles Ashram, famous for inspiring the band’s music.
    • Why teens will love it: The adrenaline rush of rafting combined with the peaceful surroundings of the Himalayas offers both thrills and chill.
  3. Kerala: Houseboats, Wildlife, and Beaches

    • Cruise the backwaters on a traditional houseboat, spot elephants in Periyar National Park, and relax on the beaches of Varkala.
    • Explore the spice markets and learn about Kerala’s rich heritage.
    • Why teens will love it: The diversity of landscapes—from wildlife parks to serene beaches and houseboat life—creates an exotic and relaxing experience.

Why a once-in-a-lifetime trip: India’s combination of vibrant cities, natural beauty, spiritual exploration, and high-energy adventure makes it a journey full of contrasts and surprises.

India

So here you have it, plenty of ideas to make your next family adventure with teenagers a true once-in a lifetime expedition. These trips will create memories for ever and strenghten bonds in the family. Also, you can be sure your teen will want to join for such an exciting trip! 

Reach out to get started with the planning of your next family adventure! 

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Marta Mikolajczyk

Your Family Travel Designer

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