Have you ever considered going off-grid? Do you have an urge to explore a place that’s cut off from civilization? Are you a traveller over 50 and eager to visit somewhere that only a handful of people have stepped foot? You may or may not believe it but these unexplored places do exist and we’ve rounded up a handful of the wanderlust-worthy unexplored destinations to help inspire your next adventure.
Choosing the Right Unexplored Destination for your Wanderlust
From getting lost in Kejimkujik National Park, Nova Scotia to hiking through Wolkberg Wilderness, South Africa, there’s a whole list of unexplored destinations for you to choose from. Before you decide, we’ve gone into detail about just a few of the many unexplored locations to whet your wanderlust appetite.
Holidays to South Africa – Discover an Untapped Paradise
South Africa doesn’t do things by halves. From majestic wildlife and sprawling savannahs to dizzying mountains and white-sand beaches, there’s a plethora of places to explore.
But for travellers over 50 who want to venture into unexplored territory, the remoteness and sheer magnitude of the Wolkberg Wilderness is not to be missed. It’s characterised by densely forested ravines and magnificent scenery making it not only beautiful but also testing to navigate. Some compare the landscape of the Wolkberg Wilderness to the Andes, with its vast valleys and craggy mountain peaks. For hiking enthusiasts, it’s a place to bookmark for a truly unforgettable, off-grid experience.
If you’re looking for unspoiled seascapes then lesser-known De Hoop Nature Reserve is the destination to seek out. Here, there’s a wealth of wildlife to see, from zebra, eland, and ostrich, as well as pink flamingos and other bird species. The beach at Koppie Alleen is an untapped paradise of white dunes and horizon-spanning sea views. Located a three-hour drive from Cape Town, this coastal haven is away from tourist crowds while being easy enough to reach if you’re planning a day trip from the city.
Holidays to Japan – Experience Unique Culture and Cuisine
Japan conjures images of billowing blossom trees, snow-capped Mount Fuji and majestic temples. But there’s so much more this island country has to offer for travellers over 50.
Two hours’ drive from Kyoto is Ine. A remote fishing village where you can stay in a funaya (boathouse) and wake up to the sound of waves lapping at your door. Or if you’re looking for more adrenaline-fuelled activities, a hike to the summit of Mount Fuji is a must. The perfectly symmetrical mountain is a majestic sight on the horizon and the surrounding landscape is a serene contrast to nearby Tokyo. While the hiking routes are popular with climbers and tourists, some trails will take you deep into nature.
Or if you want to venture away from the mainland, visit Okinawa and Amami. These two archipelagos sit between Taipei and Japan offering visitors a mesmerising fusion of Chinese and Japanese influences. Here you’ll experience tropical climates, dense jungles brimming with wildlife and serene beaches.
Okinawa also has its own unique food culture. Don’t miss a chance to try local delicacies such as green algae (umibudo), also known as green caviar, coconut crab (yashigani), and Pig’s feet broth (tebichi-jiru).
Holidays to Egypt – Uncover Ancient History and Beauty Beyond Belief
Egypt is a country where ancient civilization and captivating culture collide. From lost cities, and pharaonic remains, to sphinxes and beguiling pyramids, there are centuries of history for travellers over 50 to dive into on a holiday to Egypt. Aside from the headline acts, there are also untapped oases such as Siwa Oasis located at the edge of the Sahara. This dreamlike place is flanked by mountains and gently leaning palm trees. Its remote location as well as its traditions make Siwa a place that has to be seen to be believed.
From dunes to sea caves, Egypt’s coastline offers unrivalled diving opportunities. Take a boat from Hurghada to experience the underwater wonders of the Red Sea. There are plenty of prime snorkelling spots, some known and some less so, so it’s worth seeking out a guide who can help you navigate the waters.
Holidays to Canada – Navigating the Northwest Territories
In rush hours and traffic jams of daily life, it’s hard to picture a place that’s as sparsely populated as the Northwest Territories. Despite being five times the size of the UK, this vast swath of boreal forest and Arctic tundra has a population of a small town.
In the Northwest Territories, travellers over 50 in Canada can truly experience the great outdoors. Such as canoeing along the sensational South Nahanni River that winds through deep canyons inside Nahanni National Park Reserve and the Mackenzie Mountains. Canoeing this stretch is far from plain sailing. However, those up for the challenge are rewarded with stunning views. A major highlight of the journey is Nailicho (Virginia Falls), which drops 96m and is an incredible sight from water or dry land. From the base of the waterfall, you follow the river down for eight to ten days, camping on the banks each night, until the journey ends at the First Nations community of Nahanni Butte.
Experience the migration of a 3,000-strong reindeer herd, which takes place between late March and early April. The mass migration across the Northwest Territories starts from the animals’ wintering grounds near Jimmy Lake to their calving grounds on Richards Island at the Beaufort Sea. It’s a captivating natural wonder to witness but if you do, be sure to wrap up warm! Temperatures can drop down to -20 degrees Celsius.
Tips for Making the Most Out of Your Adventure in Unexplored Lands
Our best tip for making the most of your off-grid adventure? Be prepared. Read up on your chosen destination and decide where you want to go before you arrive. That way you’ll be able to plan accordingly. But don’t forget, the best way to make the most of your adventure is to go with an open mind. The real pleasure of an adventure is making memories that will last you a lifetime.
To start planning your adventure to unexplored lands, call Silver Travel Advisor on 0800 412 5678.
