Horseback Riding Adventures in Brazil’s Alluring Rio Grande do Sul

On March 13, 2012, In Outdoor Adventure Travel, Wildlife, By Sylvia Arad

Riding with a sturdy horse beneath you across a rugged landscape replete with canyons and waterfalls, you’re bound to feel there is no better way to explore the Brazilian state of Rio Grande do Sul.  And with  horseback riding adventures  which include visits to National Parks and cattle ranches alike, there probably isn’t!

The Lure of Rio Grand do Sul from the lofty height of a horse

Bordering Uruguay and Argentina, Rio Grande do Sul is Brazil’s southernmost state. Much like Uruguay and northern Argentina, the state is inhabited  by gauchos -  cowboys known for their love of horses, bombachas (somewhat baggy pants), and gourd cups filled with chimarrão (Brazillian mate). The state’s cowboy heritage, coupled with the unique landscape of grassy plateaus and forest-covered mountain ranges, make for a unique and breathtaking riding holiday experience. 

Breataking Riding Vistas

Led by English-speaking guides, horseback excursions  through Rio Grande do Sul usually last seven days.   The  length of the trip and the tricky terrain make this a journey for the experienced rider who has   least an intermediate level of riding experience. The horse most commonly used for these treks is the Criollo, a breed of horse descended from those the conquistadors introduced in the 1500s and perfectly adapted to the regional surroundings. After long days riding through rough terrain, you’ll   spend the nights in comfortable fazendas (ranches), and where fazendas are not available, local accommodations ensure that  riders get the rest they need. In the evenings, a treat awaits you in the  local cuisine you’ll enjoy, including churrasco, a type of barbecue typical to Rio Grande do Sul. With these short ranch stays, you’ll get a taste of the typical regional  gaúcho lifestyle

Approaching the Fazenda

Mouthwatering Meals to End the Day

Once on horseback, start your journey over the surrounding plateaus and through the  Serra Geral Mountains. Pass through gorges where you’ll come across breathtaking   waterfalls, and enjoy South Brazil’s own unique flora and fauna, including blue crows, purple-chested parrots, bromeliads, and giant ferns.  Riding, you’ll   reach the Parque Nacional de Aparados da Serra covered in coastal forests, grasslands, and moist Araucaria forests. Though this  park is relatively small, it protects one of the most awe-inspiring canyons in the world:  Itaimbezinho Canyon,  covered with lush green forests, making it truly a sight to behold. The canyon and its surrounding area is  rife with wildlife and is home to ocelots, brown howling monkeys, neotropical otters, maned wolves, and red-spectacled Amazon parrots. 

Amazon Parrots

....Wildlife....

...And the Itambenziho Canyon!

On your journey, you’ll  pass through Pico do Monte Negro and its surrounding canyon. The highest point in Rio Grande do Sul,  here you  can admire the unforgettable Araucaria-covered landscape for miles around.  

Amazing Flora on the Ride

Towards the end of this riding adventure, you’ll reach the Cachoeirão waterfall, the largest waterfall in the area.  Here, by the beautiful white falls of the Cachoeirão   you’ll part with your your horse,  and after a night at a neighboring Fazenda and a morning of fishing, you’ll leave the Rio Grande do Sul for  the many other awesome destinations that this state has on offer.

Arriving at the Cachoeirão Falls

Combining the adventure of horseback riding, the local gaúcho culture, and the truly amazing landscape of the Aparados da Serra and its surrounding areas, this amazing riding expedition through Rio Grande do Sul  is a not-to-be-missed memorable adventure.

 
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Family Dreams Come to Life on an Amazon Adventure Cruise

On March 6, 2012, In Outdoor Adventure Travel, Rainforests & Jungles, Water Adventures, By Sylvia Arad

Imagine drifting along a secluded waterway just off the Amazon River, surrounded by the calls of parrots and monkeys echoing through the seemingly impenetrable green foliage of the rainforest. On one of our best family holidays, we  experienced just that during our adventure aboard one of the Amazon’s many cruises. From traditional-styled Amazon clippers to refurbished sailing boats, there are a great many vessels  to choose from, but, for our adventure, we chose the “Otter Premium,” an 18-passenger luxury riverboat from the Amazon Clipper Fleet. Stocked with modern amenities and programs filled with activities such as canoeing, hiking, and feeding river dolphins, the “Otter” ensured that we got the Amazon adventure we desired.

Our "home" on the Amazon River

Our Cabin

Almost time for Lunch!

We departed from Manaus,  located in the heart of the Amazon forest and the capital of the state of Amazonas. Largely built on rubber profits in the late 1800s, Manaus was once described as “one of the gaudiest cities in the world.” It fell into disarray after the rubber tree was smuggled to more accessible and profitable locations, but even today the ostentatious opera house with its imported marble, crystal, and glass flourishes testify to the era’s folly and decadence. After spending a night exploring Manaus, we were greeted aboard our ship with caipirinha cocktails waiting for us.

The Ornate Opera House in Manaos

Our six day cruise enabled  us to explore both the Amazon and Rio Negro rivers and enjoy all that the Amazon has to offer. With its slow calming current, the main rivers don’t always offer that much in the way of excitement, but not to fear. Canoe trips and hikes through vine-choked tributaries and virgin forests offer a chance of adventures reminiscent to those of the conquistador explorers when they first came to the region in the 1500s. Navigating the waterways of such diverse locations as the Anavilhanas National Park and Janauari Ecological Park, we had the  opportunity  to see the world’s largest freshwater archipelago, flocks of egrets, and giant Victoria Regia water lilies.

Biant Regia Water Lilies

We even had a chance to swim with a couple of pink river dolphins and be poked repeatedly by their toothy snouts in what has to be one of my most memorable experiences ever.

Canoeing in the Amazon

 Manaus Images Feeding and swimming with the Dolphins.  This photo of Manaus is courtesy of TripAdvisor

After recovering  from an awesome rainforest trek, we were off again, but this time to explore the indigenous and local villages of the Amazon. Strolling through grass-covered huts or admiring unique floating constructions, we were able to observe an older way of life, experience tribal culture and cuisine, and learn about the locals’ efforts to conserve the rainforest. Don’t hesitate to purchase some of the villagers’ colorful handmade crafts, as the revenue goes into helping both the village and its surrounding ecosystems.

Manaus PhotosDeep in the Rainforest.  This photo of Manaus is courtesy of TripAdvisor

As the sun sets on the Amazon, the forests awaken with the sounds of the region’s nocturnal inhabitants. With the help of spotlights, we had the chance to see some of these night-loving creatures including bulldog bats and caimans. At sunrise on the second to last day, the kids  even   managed to catch a peacock bass in the eternal struggle between man and fish!. As the ship neared its final destination, we had a chance to witness the “meetings of the waters,” a natural phenomenon where the muddy brown waters of the Amazon and the black waters of Rio Negro run next to one another for miles, refusing to mix because of a difference of water temperatures. No Amazon River adventure would be complete without it.

Manaus PhotosMeeting of the Waters.  This photo of Manaus is courtesy of TripAdvisor

As our cruise neared the docks of Manaus, our final destination, we were treated to breathtaking views of the city’s markets and opera dome. It was a fitting end to an  unforgettable journey. By combining all the elements necessary for Amazon adventure, Amazon cruises provide the stuff from which memories are made.

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Wild West Adventures in Brazil’s Pantanal

On March 2, 2012, In Outdoor Adventure Travel, Wildlife, By Sylvia Arad

Combining the region’s rich biodiversity with the “Wild West” culture of the local cowboys, eco-lodges offer one of the best opportunities to get the ultimate Pantanal experience.   The Barranco Alto Eco-lodge, a small family-run operation located on the banks of the Rio Negro in the Brazilian state Matto Grosso do Sul is such a lodge.  A converted authentic Panteneiro farmhouse and one of the oldest in the region, it was acquired by the lodge’s founder, Jorge Schweizer, for conservation and research purposes. While supporting research into environmental conservation continues to be an important priority at Fazenda Barranco Alto, the lodge offers a truly magical Pantanal experience, as well as the  hance to   see amazing wildlife. Few eco-lodges have quite the diversity of local fauna that Fazenda Barranco Alto has to offer. And because the lodge is located on a working ranch, you  have the  rare opportunity to live out your “Wild West”  dreams and  learn a few tricks from the Pantaniero cowboys.

Photos of Barranco Alto Eco-Lodge, Fazenda Barranco Alto
This photo of Barranco Alto Eco-Lodge is courtesy of TripAdvisor

The lodge and its surrounding farm is about as far away from civilization as you can get. The nearest town is over four hours away, and if you try driving in on your own, you will undoubtedly have a rough ride on bumpy and inhospitable roads. If you prefer not to spend your vacation digging land rovers out of the mud, the option of flying in on a private plane might be preferable. Upon arrival, you will find that the cozy Pantaniero lodge with its friendly staff and comfortable rooms await you. Despite its distance from the world at large, the lodge offers all the modern conveniences you could possibly desire, including air-conditioning, Internet, and a full-service restaurant. Additionally, experienced guides fluent in English, German, French, Spanish, and Portuguese are available to delight you with their knowledge of the area.  Best of all, because the Barranco Alto hosts a limited number of guests, you are guaranteed plenty of pampered  personal attention.

Photos of Barranco Alto Eco-Lodge, Fazenda Barranco AltoAereal View of Pantanal  from  Barranco Alto Eco-Lodge  courtesy of TripAdvisor

Lodge Accommodations

Thanks to its relative isolation and unique geography, the Fazenda Barranco Alto is home to an amazingly diverse and colorful assortment of wildlife.  Visitors here are treated to such wonderful sights as macaws taking flight, filling the skies with their brilliant multicolored plumage, and capybaras strolling cautiously along the river bank of the Rio Negro. Perhaps the lodge’s most famous and beloved animal inhabitants are its giant river otters. This particular otter family has entertained lodge visitors for years and even served as the inspiration for at least one book. Other animal inhabitants include jaguars, maned wolves, howler monkeys, and caimans. And when it comes to birds, the owners have counted at least 394 bird species!  The area also supports a large enough hyacinth macaw population (one of the rarest and most prized birds in the Pantanal) which can be  spotted regularly.

Photos of Barranco Alto Eco-Lodge, Fazenda Barranco AltoBirdlife Galore at Barranco Alto Eco-Lodge  photo  courtesy of TripAdvisor

Photos of Barranco Alto Eco-Lodge, Fazenda Barranco AltoHyacinth Macaws at Barranco Alto Eco-Lodge  photo courtesy of TripAdvisor

Photos of Barranco Alto Eco-Lodge, Fazenda Barranco AltoGiant Otters at Barranco Alto Eco-Lodge  photo  courtesy of TripAdvisor

Photos of Barranco Alto Eco-Lodge, Fazenda Barranco AltoCapybaras at  Barranco Alto Eco-Lodge photo  courtesy of TripAdvisor

  The lodge offers a myriad of activities, ensuring that you get the most out of your stay.   Canoeing, boating, horse-back riding, hiking, birding, fishing, open-vehicle safaris, swimming, star gazing, cattle wrangling, singing around the camp fire, or simply sun bathing on the beach with the local caiman population – all are readily available.  All wildlife tours are accompanied by one of the owners, Marina Schweizer or Lucas Leuzinger, both experts on the local wildlife and ecosystem. The lodge’s friendly staff is there to meet your every need, in terms of exploring, scheduling and simply pampering.   The varied activities,  unique wildlife, and warm ambiance make the Barranco Alto Eco-lodge the ultimate remote “Wild West” and wildlife adventure for the entire family.

Photos of Barranco Alto Eco-Lodge, Fazenda Barranco Alto Horseback Riding: Barranco Alto Eco-Lodge  photo  courtesy of TripAdvisor

Photos of Barranco Alto Eco-Lodge, Fazenda Barranco Alto…And Wild West Dreams:  Gaucho Roundup at  Barranco Alto Eco-Lodge photo  courtesy of TripAdvisor

 

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Biodiversity Meets Incredible Wildlife: Brazil’s Pantanal Revealed

On February 28, 2012, In Outdoor Adventure Travel, Wildlife, By Sylvia Arad

Of all the natural attractions in Brazil, the Pantanal wetlands offer one of the country’s best wildlife viewing opportunities. The combination of  remarkably diverse  wildlife  and wide-open, sparsely vegetated flood plains make it almost impossible to visit without spotting at least a dozen of the region’s treasured wildlife species.

The Pantanal Landscape

Located primarily in Brazil’s central-west states of Mato Grosso do Sul and Mato Grosso, with portions stretching into the neighboring countries of Bolivia and Paraguay, the Pantanal spans an area of between 54,000 and 75,000 square miles, making it the world’s largest wetlands. Protected areas include a national park and various privately owned reserves concentrating on ecotourism and research. Among the most important of these are the SESC Pantanal Private Natural Heritage Reserve and the Pantanal Matogrossense National Park, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since the year 2000. The ecosystem experiences two seasons, the dry and the rainy, the latter of which can leave up to 80 percent of the land underwater. Flooding is so drastic that the Pantanal’s first human inhabitants considered the region to be a sea full of islands. Visiting during the rainy season, the Pantanal indeed seems to be a myriad of islands surrounded by a sea!  

Incredible Birds of Every Kind....

....(Guira Cuckoos)....

While there is no denying that geology and climate contribute to the Pantanal’s splendor, the undisputed main attraction for most visitors is the incredibly diverse wildlife population. The region is home to an estimated 1,000 species of birds, 480 varieties of reptiles, 400 types of fish, 300 species of mammals, and an almost unbelievable number of invertebrates (9,000 sub-species). In addition, there are nearly 3,500 known plant species, making this ecosystem one of the most bio-diverse regions in South America. Visitors to the Pantanal are often thrilled and delighted by such unique sights as the giant river otter and the hyacinth macaw, whose brilliant blue and yellow feathers make it the jewel of the birding world. Other animals include jaguars, Tuiuiú giant storks, anacondas, giant anteaters, maned wolves, South American tapirs, marsh deer, yacare caiman, and capybaras (the world’s largest rodent).

...River Otters...

...And Colorful Macaws are Among the Many Animals....

There is no shortage of adventures for those interested in viewing the Pantanal’s furry, feathery, and scaly population. From giant otter boating trips to bird watching, there is a little something for every type of animal lover. Some of the more exciting adventures on offer in the region include: 

Jaguar Tracking – If you are determined to spot the often elusive jaguar, tracking tours are available. Guides use a unique indigenous instrument called an esturrador to emulate the jaguar’s call and lure the big cat out of its hiding place.

Photos of Pantanal Wetlands, Campo Grande
This photo of Jaguar Tracking in the  Pantanal Wetlands is courtesy of TripAdvisor
 

Canoeing – What better way to see the Pantanal’s wildlife than by canoe? Caiman and water fowl are common sights on canoe trips, and you may even see river otters, jaguars, and capibaras. And the best part of this adventure?   – canoeing is completely environmentally friendly.



Night Safari – As many animals of the Pantanal are nocturnal, a night safari allows for  the singular opportunity of tracking animals that might otherwise be missed. Frequently guides are known to shut off their lanterns to allow you to fully experience the sublime chorus of the area’s nocturnal inhabitants.

Nature Tours on Horseback – Why walk when you can ride? Atop the pantaneiro, a horse breed uniquely adapted to the region’s flood-prone plains, you will  experience  viewing the Pantanal’s wildlife from above.  Used to wading through floods and trekking long distances, a horse can go where no boat or car dares to tread.

Photos of Pantanal Wetlands, Campo Grande
 Horseback Riding in the Pantanal Wetlands - photo  is courtesy of TripAdvisor

Though the Panatanal can be explored year round, the drastic seasonal differences affect the activities on offer at any given time, making it an adventurer’s paradise. Wildlife touring, horse riding, and hiking  are ideal in the dry season, while  adventure seekers  will thrill to the excitement of wading or boating through the waters during the rainy season. Either way, the Pantanal’s rich wildlife and unique ecosystem make it a once-in-a-lifetime not to be missed opportunity while traveling in Brazil.

An Amazing Pantanal Sunset!

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The Thrill of Extreme Water Sports on Your Family Caribbean Holiday

On February 24, 2012, In Outdoor Adventure Travel, Water Adventures, By Sylvia Arad

Soar high above the water or carve through the waves when you take your adrenaline-loving family on a Caribbean holiday

The flawless blue water and the bright Caribbean sun are enough to make any island visitor run straight to the beach upon arrival. Well, for an adventurous family on a Caribbean holiday, once you hit the beach you’ll want to start tackling the thrills that will shoot the butterflies to your stomach and your heart pumping straight out of your chest, right away. That’s when you start booking some extreme water sports for your trip.

 

Take flight or hang ten with your family on your Caribbean holiday

Two of the most popular and most soul-stimulating water sports in the Caribbean are windsurfing and parasailing. Millions of visitors arrive on the many islands of the Caribbean ready to attack these activities and there’s an industry filled with professional instructors, mapped out locations, and all the equipment rentals anyone can imagine, waiting to give those visitors the experience of a lifetime.

Windsurfing in the Caribbean

 

An irresistible environment for windsurfing

The Caribbean region draws in windsurfers from all around the world thanks to its fabulous trade winds. Once you’re out in the water a bit, there’s always a steady current of wind that’s perfect for toting around the bays and shores of the Caribbean Islands, cutting through the water.

Photos of Cabarete Beach, Puerto Plata
Kite Surfing  on Cabarete Beach.   This photo is courtesy of TripAdvisor  

Some of the best windsurfing in the area is found in the Dominican Republic at Cabarete Beach, center for surfing triathlons including wind, kite and board surfing. Here, you’ll be able to rent, store, and purchase any equipment you need or have, as well as take any level of lesson from the vast array of windsurfing centers in the area. Picking up the windsurfing can be difficult at first, even compared to other extreme sports, but once you get it down there are oceans of fun and excitement to be had in the water!

Photos of Cabarete Beach, Puerto Plata
This photo of Cabarete Beach is courtesy of TripAdvisor

 

Catch an island view tethered to a racing speed boat

Okay, parasailing isn’t exactly a “sport,” but it is extreme! Nothing gives you such a euphoric feeling while simultaneously sending your heart into a racing rage of adrenaline quite like parasailing high above the Caribbean Sea. You can catch a ride on a parasailing excursion on pretty much any island in the Caribbean, but one of the most popular destinations for the adventure is St. Thomas.

Nothing's Quite as Much Fun as Parasailing!

Once you’re out to sea and strapped into your parasailing harnesses, you’ll embark directly from the back of the boat (and come back the same way, without having to be dragged in the water). From there, you’ll rise up to 450 feet above the sea. On a clear day, you can see the entire island of St. Thomas from your unique perspective, as well as a few of the neighboring islands such as St. John and St. Croix. You can find parasailing companies and most beach hotels and resorts in St. Thomas. Prices range from $25 – $85.

U.S. Virgin Islands Photos
View of St. John.   This photo of U.S. Virgin Islands is courtesy of TripAdvisor

 

When your family loves excitement a Caribbean holiday will refresh their spirit

Taking your family on a Caribbean holiday is packed with opportunities to soar through the skies – above the water, land, or rainforests – and splash in the waters. Caribbean holiday deals are readily available, and for the family armed with enthusiasm for adventure, Caribbean water sports are sure to satisfy your appetite.

St. Thomas Harbor at Dusk by Calyponte http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:StThomasHarbor.jpg

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Kayaking to the Secluded Beaches of the Caribbean

On February 21, 2012, In Outdoor Adventure Travel, Water Adventures, By Sylvia Arad

One part adventure and one part relaxation, kayaking out to the secluded beaches of the Caribbean is fun the entire family can take part in.

One of the great luxuries the Caribbean Islands give us is the seemingly never-ending beautiful beach real estate surrounded by tranquil crystal blue waters, ready to be conquered. When you go out on any adventure, you – of course – want to go somewhere rewarding, right? Well, if your family’s looking to explore the waters in search of fun and excitement, rent a kayak and go kayaking to the secluded beaches of the Caribbean.

Beautiful Caribbean Waters

All you have to do is choose your favorite beach

Kayaking is a great activity for any type of family. For most journeys no prior experience is required, as it is a fairly easy activity to pick up. Plus, the mostly calm waters right off the coast of most islands make kayaking a challenging endeavor while at the same time not too strenuous for the novice explorer.

Two of the most prized secluded beaches the Caribbean has to offer are Anguilla’s Little Bay and Montserrat’s Rendezvous Beach.

Gorgeous Little Bay

Kayaking to the secluded beaches of the Caribbean: Little Bay

In Anguilla, rent one or two person kayaks at da’Vida and head east from the shore. Make sure to bring along a bottle of water or two, as there will be no services once you get to your destination. The trip from the shore to Little Bay is about 20 minutes and the whole journey is encapsulated by peaceful gliding along turquoise water and the magnificent coastline of Anguilla.

Once you arrive on the shores of Little Bay, there are as many activities to do that you can think of. The calm waters lend themselves well to snorkeling. You can also lie under the warm Caribbean sun and spend the day relaxing, or if you’re feeling really adventurous, you can climb up the rocks behind you (about 20 feet high) and jump into the waters below. That will surely add some adrenaline to your day!

Photos of Little Bay, Anguilla
Kayaking in Little Bay.  This photo  is courtesy of TripAdvisor

Relaxing Snorkeling in Little Bay

Kayaking to the secluded beaches of the Caribbean: Rendezvous Beach

We couldn’t have a conversation about kayaking to the secluded beaches of the Caribbean without talking about Rendezvous Beach in Montserrat. Rent a kayak at either Scuba Montserrat or the Green Monkey Dive Shop and set out on your way! Make sure you bring water with you here too, as there are no services on the beach.

Rendezvous Beach and White Sand

Once you and your audacious family arrive to Rendezvous Beach – the island’s only white sand beach – there is a very good chance you will have the entire beach to yourselves. The most popular activity to do here is snorkeling, thanks to the calm waters and amazing coral formations. You can also bring along a variety of beach sports and activities to make your day exciting.

Get Your Kayak and Paddle Out!

Just the right amount of fun and finances

 Kayaking to the secluded beaches in the Caribbean is fairly inexpensive, with rentals ranging from $10 per hour for a one-person kayak to $60 per day for a two-person kayak. The paddling will wear you out and enliven you all at once, and the little break of fun and sun at the beaches will bring your day together and ensure a truly memorable family adventure.

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In the Caribbean, Deep Sea Fishing Snags Serious Family Fun

On February 17, 2012, In Outdoor Adventure Travel, Water Adventures, By Sylvia Arad

Just off the coast of Puerto Rico lies some of the best Caribbean deep sea fishing excursions for the adventurous family

The warm and deep waters of the Caribbean Sea offer an abundant offering of big game deep sea fishing opportunities. For a family that thrives on excitement and loves the challenge of a shaky sea and an illusive hunt, the best place for some Caribbean deep sea fishing is in the world-famous waters just off of Puerto Rico.  

The best time of the year to embark on a deep-sea fishing excursion is the winter months from October to March. The waters around Puerto Rico – where over 30 world records have been broken – are world-renowned for their fishing prospects and anytime of the year will yield you and your family an exhilarating experience in the open waters.  This is a also great way to expand your horizons on one of your yearlyFlorida Holidays!

 

 

 

Find a marina, get a boat, and get your Caribbean deep sea fishing started!

Charters out to the plentiful waters off Puerto Rico can be found in most of the bigger cities on the island, though some of the best spots for casting a line are right off of the island’s capital, San Juan. You can purchase a half day (4 hours), three-fourths of a day (6 hours), or a full day (8 hours) excursion from a number of charter companies in the San Juan area.

Just Man Your Pole and the Fish Will Bite!

The charter boats carry 4 to 6 passengers and range from 32 feet to 50 feet in length. You’ll not only get the boat, but also a captain, a super knowledgeable crew member, poles, all the bait you’ll need, and a plentiful supply of water bottles and soda. In fact, once you get out to your fishing spot, the crew does all the baiting and casting for you, all you have to do is man your pole and enjoy the day!

 

You don’t have to wait long for a bite

One of the highlights of choosing Puerto Rico to do your Caribbean deep sea fishing is that a large amount of big game fish live very close to the shore. This means it’s a quick trip out to your final fishing destination (usually only about a 20 minute ride). Just 1 mile off of San Juan’s coast, the ocean floor drops to 600 feet and giant sea animals, such as white and blue marlin, mahi-mahi, Allison tuna, wahoo, tarpon, and sailfish, are not far away!

Blue Marlin

...And Mahi-Mahi are Plentiful Here!

Knowing what to expect during your Caribbean deep sea fishing adventure

Once you arrive to the deep waters ripe for fishing, the crew prepares the lines, casts them out, and positions the polls for you. While you’re fishing, the boat will troll slowly along. The waters may seem a little rough, so if you get seasick, make your preparations before you leave. Out in the open seas of the Caribbean, the swells range from 4 feet up to 8 feet at times. While this is perfectly normal, it will probably seem like you’re rocking quite a bit, but that’s part of the fun!

Once you get your day’s fish and head back to the shore, your family will no doubt be thrilled by the bold experience – and hopefully the big catch – that Caribbean deep sea fishing has brought them. It’s a great adventure for a family of thrill-seeking people!

An Adventure for the Entire Family!

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Bonaire: The Place to Take Your Family Scuba Diving in the Caribbean

On February 14, 2012, In Outdoor Adventure Travel, Water Adventures, By Sylvia Arad

With remarkable conditions for underwater adventure, scuba diving in the Caribbean will add the excitement any family will love.

The Caribbean is world-famous for its plethora of scuba diving opportunities. The year-round warm, temperate climate – both in the air and water – along with the great underwater visibility make it the perfect place for submerging in exploration. Taking your family scuba diving in the Caribbean will be an adventure, guaranteed. Because of the popularity of diving in the area, the scuba industry present in the Caribbean is very developed. The service you get and the education first time divers receive are the best in the world.

 

One of the most illustrious islands for diving

Located just North of Venezuela and not too far East of Aruba, Bonaire ranks number one – or very close to the top – on several Caribbean and worldwide scuba ranking categories. It’s known for its large array of stunning sea life, its magnificent dive sites, and its delicately intricate reefs, which are all protected as a combined marine park. The reefs themselves are home to almost every kind of macro critter in the world and possess an enchanting display of shapes and colors that will amaze even the most seasoned divers.

a Plethore of Sea Life

Trumpet Fish

Corals Galore!

 

Finding where to go and getting wet

Just about every one of the 60 dive sites around Bonaire are accessible right from the shore and are marked by bright yellow rocks sporting the appropriate dive site numbers. All you have to do is get your tanks and gear, rent a truck, and drive to the first place you’ve heard about. The shallow dive sites around the area make scuba diving in the Caribbean something the whole family can do, as it is easy for all ages to catch onto in such a favorable environment.

Dive Site Markers Mark the Way!

Going Diving is as Easy as 1-2-3!

There are several scuba diving resorts in Bonaire that will not only provide you with lessons, but also have tanks available to guests 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. In fact, the most plentiful dive sites off the island are usually found in the areas right around the resorts. Resorts like: Don Habitat, Divi Flamingo’s Calabas Reef, Buddy Dive Resort, Sand Dollar Resort, Harbour Resort, and Plaza Resort. All of these places offer the family looking to experience the best scuba diving in the Caribbean exactly what they are searching for: memorable images and a gratifying adventure!

Bonaire Photos
Buddy Resort  on  Bonaire.  This photo is courtesy of TripAdvisor

 

The perfect atmosphere for a comfortable adventure

The visibility in the waters outside of Bonaire ranges from 50 to 100 feet, and the temperatures from winter to summer range from 75°F to 85°F. It’s an arid, bright, sunny island that lends itself perfectly to the adventurous family looking to add another checkmark on their list of must-have awe-inspiring excursions. If you’re coming to the area, you absolutely have to try scuba diving in the Caribbean in Bonaire.

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The Hike to Boiling Lake: A Caribbean Adventure for the Ambitious Family

On February 7, 2012, In Biking & Hiking, Outdoor Adventure Travel, By Sylvia Arad

The hike through a UNESCO World Heritage national park gives your family a Caribbean adventure that is both challenging and invigorating.

If you’re looking for a Caribbean adventure for a family of thrill-seeking outdoors-loving people, make plans to hike through Dominica’s Morne Trois Pitons National Park to the world’s largest volcanic lake, the aptly titled, Boiling Lake. The 2-4 hour hike (each way) will test your endurance and reward you with spectacular views of the lush rainforest, Dominican mountains, and beautiful, relaxing ponds and waterfalls along the way.

Photos of Boiling Lake, Morne Trois Pitons National Park
 A Steep Hike Up. This photo of Boiling Lake is courtesy of TripAdvisor

 

Prepare yourselves for nature’s raw terrain

Morne Trois Pitons National Park is a 17,000 acre UNESCO World Heritage site, and Boiling Lake is its biggest attraction. However, the hike leading up to the lake is no jaunt in the park, so you must come prepared. The trails are pretty well defined and clear cut, but don’t let that fool you. It’s a rather treacherous – almost always muddy – journey with over an hour of steep inclines, super-thin ridges, and boulder-filled terrain. It’s a must that you make the trek accompanied by a guide who knows the area well.

Boiling Lake

Along the Way...Morne Trois Pitons Park

 

Your Caribbean adventure challenge is…

The closet town is Roseau, and the launching point for the hike is Laudat at Titou Gorge (1,690 ft). You can find a guide in either location, and it will usually run you about $175. From Laudat, you’ll start your adventure up the 8 miles of mountainous, muddy trails up to the lake. You’ll go up on a steady incline for about 45 minutes before reaching Breakfast River. Then it’s on to the Valley of Desolation, which is where you start your final leg to Boiling Lake.

Titou Gorge

Valley of Desolation

Once you reach Boiling Lake, you’ll be greeted by the 63 meter (200 ft) wide pinnacle of your Caribbean adventure. The lake’s bubbling water is a bluish-gray color ranging from 180°F to 197°F and is usually teeming with a cloud of ambient vapor rising from its surface. This lake is unlike the few other volcanic lakes in the Caribbean. This is because it is not a volcanic crater – as the others are – it is, in fact, a flooded fumarole, which occurs when gases from molten lava escape through a crack in the mountain’s surface.

Photos of Boiling Lake, Morne Trois Pitons National Park
Steaming Fumaroles. This photo of Boiling Lake is courtesy of TripAdvisor

 

Taking in the sites and enjoying the second half

 There’s not too much to do once you’ve reached the lake except appreciate its beauty, celebrate the fact that you conquered the trip (so far), rest for a bit, and hike it back down the mountain. Enjoy some hot springs on the way down and the muddy decline and this Caribbean adventure is complete!

Enjoy the sights....

Freshwater Lake

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Caribbean Cave Tubing in Belize: A Serious Family Adventure

On February 3, 2012, In Outdoor Adventure Travel, Water Adventures, By Sylvia Arad

Your entire family will relish floating down this legendary subterranean waterway on your Caribbean cave tubing excursion.

What does the family that wants a little history and archeology mixed in with their adventure, relaxation, and water, do when they’re on holiday in the Caribbean? They go Caribbean cave tubing through the underground Sibun Reserve in Belize!

On the Way to Cave Tubing

 

The perfect combination of history and excitement

This is a unique opportunity to go on a guided tour through some of the areas impressive caves – where you’ll see ancient Mayan artifacts that date as far back as 400 AD as well as the amazing cave formations and crystals that adorn the ceilings and walls of these alien-looking caves – all from the comfort of an intertube floating down a brisk subterranean river.

In and Out of the Caves

There are several companies that offer guided cave tubing in Belize. Most of them include additional options to add to your tubing escapade. These additional adventures can include, driving ATVs through the jungle, zip-lining through the rain forest, or exploring dry caves and cave waterfalls. If you choose to add another adventure onto your tubing voyage, you’ll soon be ready to hit the water!

Zip Lining is Part of the Adventure!

...And So Are the Mayan Ruins!

 

Get going on your Caribbean cave tubing day

 The Caves Branch Archeological Reserve is just a brief drive from the main tourist area of Belize. Once you arrive, you’ll enjoy a quick 30 minute hike through the rain forest to the underground Sibun Reserve (most tour guides will show their courtesy right away and help carry intertubes for the women in the group that wish it), which is where you’ll hop on your tube equipped with your life vest, head lamp, and water bottle, and head down the Cave Branch River.

Preparing the Kids for cave Tubing

Throughout this 4 hour Caribbean cave tubing journey, the guides will give you floating commentary on the importance of each area as well as an overall history of Belize and the river cave system. For the ancient Maya, caves were a significant location for ceremonial centers. Because of this, you can still see many of their markings and artifacts throughout the caves. The crystals you’ll see hanging down from the caves’ ceilings are over 5 million years old and are a seriously astonishing site to marvel at as you drift down the river.

Entering the Caves

 

Experience the Caribbean like you never expected

Your Caribbean cave tubing experience will cost anywhere from $45 to $95, depending on which company you choose, as well as various other factors. Remember to bring your waterproof cameras and sunblock (you’re not in the caves the entire time) and this adventure will be something your family reminisces about for a while. You’ll receive a great education on one of the Caribbean’s most celebrated islands and have a remarkable journey whizzing down one of the world’s most renowned underground river systems!

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