There’s nothing like basking in the sun in a far-off destination to revive your spirits through the short winter days.

But winter sun holidays don’t have to be dull poolside sun loungers and all-you-can-eat buffets – sometimes the tonic you need is a winter sun adventure!

Below, we’ve listed 5 of our ultimate winter sun destinations worldwide that will lift your spirits and your vitamin D. So, whether it’s an island-hopping sailing adventure or a cycling tour through rugged terrain that gets your heart pounding, we have got you covered.

1. Cape Verde tall ship sailing

Experience a hands-on sailing voyage in the winter sun, exploring the remote Cape Verde islands on board a traditional tall ship! Over 11 days, you’ll island hop around this remote tropical archipelago while participating in all activities as a guest crew. 

On the island stops, you can relax, see wildlife, and explore the steep terrace fields, sand deserts, black volcanos and plantations with local guides. At night, you will stay at sea with your crew and enjoy freshly prepared meals by an experienced chef.

Indulge in the perfect blend of coastal sailing adventure and island life, all within a 2-week timeframe.

Duration: 11 days

Winter departures: 5th, 17th, 28th Dec ‘24 – 10th, 22nd Jan, 3rd, 15th Feb ‘25

Sail Cape Verde

2. Exploring Galapagos’s central islands

Clear waters, white beaches and abundant wildlife, all in the winter sun? It must be the Galapagos! Enjoy ten days of sailing and island adventure, where binoculars are a must. 

Snorkel with sea lions and see white-tipped reef sharks, sea turtles and penguins off the coast of Isla Santa Cruz and Isabela. Look to the skies in North Seymour or Caleta Bucanero and spot boobies and pelicans soaring above. Head out for a wander across the volcanic landscapes of Punta Espinosa to view land iguanas and flightless cormorants. This trip is a wildlife lover’s dream!

You’ll travel to up to 8 Galapagos islands with enough freedom and flexibility to make this trip your own. 

Duration: 10 days

Winter departures: Multiple departure days from November ’24 to March ’25

Explore The Galapagos

3.Cycling the lakes of Chile and Argentina

This small group adventure sees you spending 16 days cycling through the stunning lake districts of Chile and Argentina. You’ll be transported to a magical landscape that’s chock full of turquoise rivers, active volcanoes, enormous lakes, and ancient native forests.

This winter sun adventure will take you to six national parks, cycle across the Andes, and give you the chance to experience two of South America’s most beautiful and diverse countries. It’s the perfect mix of an active sun adventure and beguiling natural wonders.

Duration: 13 days

Winter departures: 3rd, 17th Nov and 1st, 22nd December ‘24

Cycle Chile and Argentina

4. Cape Town to Johannesburg overlander

South Africa offers a perfect winter sun adventure with its stunning beaches, dense forests, and abundant marine and bush wildlife. This 17-day journey will take you to the most southerly point in Africa, along the world-renowned Garden Route, the lesser-known Wild Coast, and the mountainous kingdom of Lesotho. 

As an overland adventure, you’ll see the sights, get hands-on with the day-to-day running of the trip, and have fun cooking for the group. This rugged adventure will see you camping, sometimes without modern comforts, but that’s what makes this trip unique. You’ll spend your time in nature, enjoy fun activities as a group, and have the chance to go on safari excursions. It’s the perfect mix for a winter boost!

Duration: 17 days

Winter departures: 1st Dec ‘24, 23rd Jan ‘25

Overland to Johannesburg

5. Atlantic Circuit Sailing Adventure

This winter sun sailing trip is truly for adventurous souls! Take a daring odyssey that will see you traverse ancient trade routes and embrace the spirit of adventure and sustainable sailing aboard a two-mast tall ship. 

Set sail from Rotterdam, Netherlands, on a six-leg exploration that circuits the Atlantic, taking you to Portugal, the Canary Islands, Cape Verde, French Guiana, Paramaribo, Grenada, Martinique, Saint Martin, Bermuda, and the Azores. Get involved in the daily activities on board, enjoy the camaraderie of a ship’s crew, and sun yourself in island bliss!

Duration: 15 days

Winter departures: 2nd, 21st Jan and 25th Feb ‘25

Join an Atlantic Adventure

Find out more

If you are looking for a once-in-a-lifetime winter sun adventure, we have a lot to offer. Get in touch to discuss your trip wish list or to arrange a tailored getaway as a solo-traveller, couple, or group.