Sure, sipping cocktails at the beach bar while soaking up some island sun is a great way to spend your honeymoon and get in some much-needed relaxation.
But there are plenty of unique destinations for newlyweds looking for something more adventurous.
Here are just a few destinations you might not have considered – but definitely should!
INDONESIA, ASIA
Indonesia is just views, views, views!
Much-loved Bali is paradise for a honeymoon, but there are plenty of other areas in Indo that offer incredible experiences for more adventurous couples.
The Kelimutu Volcanic Craters on Flores Island are a must-see!
Wake up early, as in 3:30am early, to take the short hike up to the peak for a most incredible sunrise.
Three distinctly different color lakes have formed within the ancient volcanic craters and the lakes are known to mysteriously change colors over time.
Walk around the volcano on pathways made safe for tourists. It is a sight that will leave you in awe!
Another gorgeous hidden Indo-gem is Padar Island which is part of Komodo National Park. The least visited island in the park offers seclusion, fantastic hikes and breath-taking views. Take a hike up the tallest peak for views beyond compare.
Make sure to keep an eye out for the local reptiles!
ICELAND, EUROPE
Yes! The perfect location for adventurous travelers! Even going to the spa is a unique experience in Iceland.
The Blue Lagoon is a stunning geothermic spa flowing with milky blue warm waters, perfect to take off the Iceland chill!
The Retreat Hotel and Silica Hotel offer the best accommodation to experience the magic of these warm waters. Rejuvenate your skin and cover yourselves in the smooth white mud that forms below the water.
You will need to book early as this is one of the most popular attractions in Iceland.
If you’re planning for an April honeymoon in Iceland, book a boat trip to search for whales! Dalvik village is considered the whale watching capital in Iceland.
Get up close to the marine life and don’t forget your camera, there are endless photo opportunities. You are likely to encounter minke and humpback whales, blue whales, white-beaked dolphins, porpoises and the incredible killer whale. You might even spot the rare puffin!
For real adventurers, a tour company called Inside The Volcano will take you 400feet into the heart of a volcano. Don’t worry, it’s dormant, but what a thrill! Not many people can say they have been inside a volcano.
PERU, SOUTH AMERICA
Love mountains and history? Peru is the place for you!
Machu Picchu is a well-known tourist destination in Peru. This historical site is a definite must-see for those who want to experience the best of Inca heritage and exceptional architecture.
Most trips to Machu Picchu begin in the town of Cusco, which is about an hour’s flight from Lima. From here you can choose from a wide-array of hikes to the famous Incan ruin, including the iconic 4-day Inca Trail. For those less inclined to multi-day hiking, there is also a train that takes travellers to Machu Picchu.
For those looking for an off-the-beaten path experience, the hike to Laguna 69 near the city of Huaraz is amazing but not for the faint-hearted. The trek leads you to the most incredible pristine lake hidden in the mountains.
Make sure to give yourselves time to acclimatize and don’t attempt on your first day! The effects of altitude sickness can really put a damper on your experience. Take it easy, you will definitely want to make it to the lake. You may even be lucky enough to have the spot all to yourselves – how romantic!
MADAGASCAR, AFRICA
Not your typical honeymoon destination, but Madagascar has so much to offer! A stunning mix of scenic beaches and rainforests, this African island has something for everyone, especially adventurers.
Love wildlife? The Andasibe National Park is a stunning rainforest rich in biodiversity. There are numerous lodges available in the park and what better way to experience Madagascan nature than surrounded by lush greenery and the sounds of nature!
If you find yourselves in Andasibe Park, you have to experience Lemur Island. A rehabilitation center for orphaned lemurs which offers an up-close and personal encounter with these inquisitive creatures. Don’t get a fright when they land on your shoulder – this is the perfect time to take a selfie!
The Indri is one of the largest known lemurs and has an amazing call, which sounds like singing. A distinct sound that can be heard over 3kms away.
So get that camera ready and don’t forget to keep an eye out for the Parson’s Chameleon, which can grow to an incredible two feet long, or the elusive Foosa!
GALAPAGOS ISLANDS, ECUADOR
For a honeymoon in Ecuador, and something a little different, a truly authentic look into nature awaits on the Galapagos Islands. Fly directly or catch a cruise, this exotic location has wonders galore! Unforgettable moonlit cruises, incredible sunsets and stunning hikes into untouched nature, but still with all the spoils of a luxury honeymoon.
Arrange a marine adventure and go snorkelling or scuba diving. Pristine waters and an abundance of wildlife make this an amazing experience. You will most likely run into a giant tortoise and playful sea lions on your marine adventures.
Hiking enthusiasts looking for a unique trek should consider the hike to Sierra Negra Volcano. An active volcano and the only volcano on the island that tourists are allowed to hike to. It’s about a 6-hour round trip and can only be done with a guide.
While the trek doesn’t take you too high above sea level, it is strenuous due to the heat, so be sure to take sunblock, a good hat, and plenty of water!
There are a variety of accommodation options on some of the islands, but undoubtedly the best way to experience the Galapagos islands is on a multi-day cruise which will move between several of the islands, most of which are completely untouched by humankind and sprawling with nature.
Spend magical evenings on the water, enveloped in the moonlight with your soulmate. Something you will never forget and never regret!
The world is full of truly unique and breath-taking locations that can take your honeymoon to the next level.
Whether you are passionate about hiking, wildlife, water sports, land-based activities or even sky-high activities, there is something for everyone. There is no better way to experience these incredible destinations than with your soulmate by your side.
These are only a few. Where will you choose?
Author Bio
Mark has trekked extensively in Asia, Europe, South America and Africa. He founded Mountain IQ in 2014 with the sole aim to be the best online information portal to some of the most popular mountain destinations around the world. When not writing for Mountain IQ, Mark is out exploring the outdoors with his wife.
Naveen Mittal
Thursday 19th of September 2019
All adventure destinations are nice to visit for a new couple for the honeymoon.