Active Holidays:  Extreme Sports You Need to Try in 2025 

Ready to take your travels up a gear? If you're craving something beyond the usual beach and city breaks, 2025 is the perfect time to dive into the world of active holidays. With more people looking to balance adrenaline with adventure, destinations around the globe are catering to thrill-seekers like never before.

Whether you're a seasoned daredevil or new to pushing your limits, there's an extreme sport out there with your name on it. And with our team at Jamie Wake Travel on hand to tailor everything to your comfort zone, you can try something unforgettable without the stress.

Let’s take a look at the most exciting extreme sports you should be trying in 2025—and where to do them.

Skydiving Over the Swiss Alps

There’s no view quite like the Swiss Alps from 15,000 feet. Add the rush of freefalling through the sky and you’ve got the perfect start to your next active holiday.

Interlaken, a small town nestled between two lakes and surrounded by jagged peaks, has become a skydiver’s dream. You’ll be strapped to a professional and soar over snow-capped peaks, turquoise lakes, and green valleys. It’s an experience that makes you feel tiny and invincible all at once.

Freefall never felt so freeing.

Want to add a touch of luxury to your Swiss adventure? We recommend staying at the Victoria Jungfrau Grand Hotel & Spa. With mountain views and a world-class spa, it’s the ideal place to unwind after skydiving.

Ask us about our exclusive offers for Interlaken stays—we’ve got plenty to share.

Whitewater Rafting in Costa Rica

Costa Rica is a tropical playground where rainforests meet raging rivers. If you’re up for a water-based challenge, whitewater rafting here is pure exhilaration.

The Pacuare River is famous for its thrilling Class III and IV rapids. But it's not just about speed and spray. As you paddle through the jungle, you’ll spot toucans, monkeys, and waterfalls crashing into hidden pools.

The river carves its way through paradise.

Make your base at Pacuare Lodge, an eco-luxury retreat tucked deep in the jungle. Accessible only by raft, it adds to the thrill.

We have handpicked packages that pair jungle adventure with indulgent stays. Just ask.

Volcano Boarding in Nicaragua

You’ve heard of snowboarding. Now imagine doing it on volcanic ash.

In Nicaragua, thrill-seekers hike up Cerro Negro, an active volcano, and slide down on a wooden board at speeds up to 50 mph. It’s fast, gritty, and completely different from any other sport.

“It’s fast, gritty, and completely different from any other sport as shown in adrenaline-fuelled adventure stories like these.”

It’s hot, it’s dusty, it’s unforgettable.

Volcano boarding is best paired with time in colonial Leon, a city full of colourful streets and cool bars. Stay at Hotel El Convento, a peaceful retreat built around a restored convent.

We know the best dates to go—and who offers the smoothest rides. Get in touch to find out more.

Ice Climbing in Norway

Swap beaches for glaciers and test your strength on towering walls of ice. Norway’s Rjukan Valley is a frozen wonderland, with over 150 waterfalls turned into vertical challenges every winter.

This sport requires focus, courage, and the right guide—but the sense of achievement is unbeatable. You’ll be using ice axes and crampons to scale up frozen cliffs, all set against snow-covered pine forests.

Every swing of the axe takes you higher.

Stay at Gaustablikk Fjellresort, where cosy cabins and Nordic hospitality meet mountain views.

Ask us about group ice climbing trips or private tours with top local instructors—we’ll find the right fit.

Kite Surfing in Cape Verde

Trade snow and cold for tropical winds and warm waves.

Cape Verde’s island of Sal is one of the best kite surfing spots in the world. Consistent trade winds make it perfect for beginners and experts alike. You’ll glide across the Atlantic, pulled by a kite and powered by the wind.

Wind, water, and wide-open space.

Stay at Hotel Morabeza, right on Santa Maria beach. It’s stylish, sociable, and ideal for active travellers.

Let us tailor a kite surfing break that balances beach downtime with energetic highs. Ask for our latest offers.

Mountain Biking in the Scottish Highlands

You don’t have to go far to get your heart racing.

Scotland’s Highlands offer dramatic trails, rugged peaks, and epic descents. From Fort William’s legendary World Cup downhill track to the flowy Glenlivet trails, there’s something for every level.

This is the UK at its wildest.

Stay at The Torridon, a luxury hotel set on its own estate. With bikes, guides, and whisky tastings, it’s the full Scottish experience.

We’ve got great UK options for active holidays too—speak to us about planning your Highland ride.

Sandboarding in Dubai

Picture surfing—but on a dune.

Dubai’s desert is perfect for sandboarding, with vast slopes and golden light. Whether you stand up or go belly-down, the speed is surprising, and the sand surprisingly forgiving. Combine it with a desert safari or a luxury camp stay.

Surf the sand before sunset.

Stay at Al Maha, a Luxury Collection Desert Resort. It’s pure escape—private pools, endless dunes, and Arabian charm.

Want to mix adventure with elegance? Our team can build your perfect Dubai escape.

Bungee Jumping in New Zealand

The birthplace of bungee remains unbeatable.

Queenstown’s Nevis Bungy is a 134-metre plunge into a remote canyon. You’re suspended from a highwire pod, then dropped into the void. It’s as intense as extreme sports get.

Just one breath—and jump.

Stay at the Rees Hotel, a lakeside haven with alpine luxury.

We know who offers the most heart-pounding jumps in NZ. Let’s get your itinerary sorted.

Scuba Diving in Egypt

The Red Sea is one of the world’s top diving destinations—and 2025 is the year to finally dive in.

Sharm El Sheikh offers warm waters, excellent visibility, and reefs bursting with life. Whether you’re diving for the first time or you're PADI certified, the underwater world here is colourful, calm, and completely mesmerising. Expect turtles, rays, vibrant coral, and even the occasional reef shark.

Short sentence: It's like swimming in a giant aquarium.

We recommend staying at the Baron Resort, which boasts private beach access and on-site diving instructors.

Our Egypt diving holidays are flexible and full of options—get in touch to discover the right fit for your next active holiday.

Paragliding in Turkey

Take to the skies above Ölüdeniz, one of the most iconic paragliding spots in Europe.

From the top of Babadag Mountain, you’ll float down with a professional pilot over a stretch of turquoise coastline and the famous Blue Lagoon. The descent is smooth, serene, and surprisingly relaxing.

It’s flying without the fear.

For comfort and views, stay at the Liberty Lykia resort. It’s ideal for couples and solo travellers who want both rest and adventure.

We offer seasonal packages with paragliding add-ons—just ask what’s flying in 2025.

Canyoning in Slovenia

Slovenia is an underrated gem—and if you love water and cliffs, canyoning here is a must.

Near Lake Bled, you’ll scramble, slide, jump, and rappel through narrow gorges and crystal-clear pools. It’s one of the most fun and varied active holiday options, especially for small groups.

Nature becomes your obstacle course.

Base yourself at Hotel Triglav, offering mountain charm, lake views, and gourmet dining.

Our tailor-made trips to Slovenia include transfers, expert guides, and just the right amount of splash.

Windsurfing in Mauritius

Warm waters. Steady breeze. Dreamy scenery. That’s what windsurfing in Mauritius looks like.

Le Morne Beach is world-famous for wind sports. Beginners can stick to the calm lagoons, while advanced windsurfers can tackle the waves beyond the reef. It's a perfect blend of challenge and relaxation.

Ride the wind, ride the waves.

Stay at LUX* Le Morne, a luxury resort tucked between mountain and sea. It’s elegant, yet designed for people who want to move.

Our Mauritius escapes combine laid-back island life with exciting water sports. Let us build your ideal blend.

Rock Climbing in Thailand

Krabi’s limestone cliffs are world-renowned, and not just for the view.

Climbers of all levels come to Railay Beach to try their hands (and feet) on the rock. From sea cliffs to caves, the terrain is varied and unforgettable. Many routes are accessible by boat, which adds a real sense of exploration.

The rock meets the ocean in the most thrilling way.

Stay at Rayavadee, a five-star retreat nestled among cliffs and jungle. After a tough climb, the spa awaits.

We’ve created packages that balance climbing with beach time—speak to us for options.

Ziplining in Costa Rica

Why hike the forest floor when you can soar above it?

Costa Rica’s Monteverde Cloud Forest is home to some of the longest and highest zipline routes in the world.

Fly through misty treetops, over waterfalls, and across canyons. It’s safe, smooth, and unforgettable.

The forest becomes your flight path.

Stay at El Establo Mountain Hotel, set high in the hills with panoramic views.

Add a canopy tour to your jungle itinerary—ask about our Costa Rica adventure packages.

Wakeboarding in the Canary Islands

If you’ve tried surfing or water-skiing, wakeboarding is your next step.

The Canary Islands—especially Fuerteventura and Gran Canaria—offer warm waters and purpose-built wake parks. You’ll be pulled behind a boat or cable, carving up the water as you go. It’s a great addition to a beach-based active holiday.

Glide, jump, spin—then do it again.

Stay at Hotel Cordial Mogán Playa in Gran Canaria for sun, comfort, and close proximity to the action.

We’ve got amazing off-season deals and multi-activity options—just drop us a message.

Surfing in South Africa

Jeffreys Bay, or "J-Bay" as surfers call it, is legendary in the surfing world.

Known for its long, consistent right-hand point breaks, it’s one of the best places on the planet to learn—and to push your limits. The water is cooler than you might expect, but the vibe is warm, welcoming, and full of energy.

The waves keep rolling and so will you.

Stay at Mandyville Hotel, a boutique base near the beach and the action.

We work with expert instructors and local guides. Just tell us when you’re ready to ride.

Snowmobiling in Iceland

Looking for speed, snow, and surreal views? Snowmobiling on Iceland’s glaciers delivers all three.

Set against stark, otherworldly landscapes, you’ll race across ice caps like Langjökull with a guide leading the way. It’s surprisingly easy to learn and a great way to see remote areas of Iceland’s wild interior.

Ice has never felt so fast.

Stay at Hotel Husafell for comfort, hot tubs, and Northern Lights views.

We’ll plan a winter escape with snowmobiles, geothermal spas, and more—just ask.

Horseback Riding in Patagonia

Want to explore vast, wild terrain at a slower—but equally thrilling—pace?

In southern Chile and Argentina, you can trek across Patagonia’s valleys and steppes on horseback. With snow-tipped mountains in the distance and condors overhead, it’s an active holiday that feels cinematic.

These multi-day rides are led by local gauchos who share stories of the land.

The rhythm of the saddle never gets old.

Stay at Estancia Cristina, a remote lodge near the Upsala Glacier. It’s simple, authentic, and surrounded by beauty.

We tailor equestrian adventures for all skill levels—ask us how to saddle up.

Downhill Skateboarding in France

For something different—and daring—try longboarding down alpine roads.

The French Alps are known for skiing, but come summer, they become a playground for downhill skaters.

Wearing full protection, you’ll carve down scenic mountain passes, hitting serious speeds with hairpin corners to navigate. It’s thrilling, technical, and surprisingly peaceful when the road clears.

Gravity becomes your co-pilot.

Stay at Chalet Les Trois Canards in Morzine, a stylish alpine retreat with easy access to mountain roads and summer trails.

We can help arrange coaching, gear rental, and routes that match your confidence level.

Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda

Not all thrills come from speed—some come from rare moments.

Trekking through the misty Volcanoes National Park to see mountain gorillas in the wild is one of the most profound experiences you can have on foot. The journey is tough, involving steep climbs and muddy paths, but standing metres away from a gorilla family is deeply moving.

Eye contact with a silverback stays with you forever.

Stay at Bisate Lodge, known for its eco-conscious luxury and immersive views of the surrounding forest.

We craft bespoke Rwanda itineraries with permits, guides, and safari add-ons—reach out to start planning.

Dog Sledding in Finland

For a snow-based thrill that doesn’t involve speedboats or skis, try dog sledding in Finnish Lapland.

Guiding your own team of huskies through frozen forests and over snowy plains is pure magic. It's peaceful, physical, and connects you with both nature and animals. The experience includes learning to mush and care for the dogs—a rewarding challenge.

The only soundtrack is paws on snow.

Stay at the Northern Lights Ranch, where you can watch the aurora from a glass cabin after a day on the trails.

We tailor Nordic winter holidays that balance adventure with relaxation—just ask how we can help.

What Booking With Jamie Wake Travel Means

When you book an active holiday with Jamie Wake Travel, you’re not just getting a trip. You’re getting protection, peace of mind, and personalised service every step of the way.

We’re a member of Protected Trust Services and hold an ATOL licence, so your money is always secure. All tailor-made holidays come with Supplier Failure Insurance and Scheduled Airline Failure Insurance. If something unexpected happens, you're covered.



We don’t sell generic packages. We listen to what you want, use our network of trusted suppliers, and create something that fits just right.

Jamie Says:

"Active holidays are about more than ticking off a thrill. They’re about seeing the world differently—whether it’s from a volcano slope, a glacier wall, or the saddle of a mountain bike. My team and I love matching our clients to adventures that excite and inspire them."

Ready to Feel the Rush?

Whether you're a kite surfer in the making, a would-be ice climber, or just looking to spice up your travels, active holidays in 2025 are the way to go.

Jamie Wake Travel is here to help you design a holiday that’s exhilarating, protected, and tailored to you. We can build it for you—or you can search and book your own adventure directly on our website. Every page includes our new dynamic search tool to build your bespoke trip.

Prefer to let us do the planning? No problem—we’re just a phone call or message away. You’ll get the same personal service and same protection, whichever way you choose to travel.



Call us today on 01495 400005 or fill out the holiday enquiry form on our website. Let’s make 2025 the year you go full-throttle.

Frequently Asked Questions