Tired of the usual holiday rush and crowded destinations? If you want to escape the norm and dive into nature this holiday season, we’ve rounded up seven unconventional Christmas getaways that immerse you in some of the world’s most breathtaking landscapes.
Whether you dream of a cosy lodge under the Northern Lights, an island retreat, or a safari adventure, these destinations offer a holiday filled with tranquillity, adventure, and unforgettable memories.
1. Safari escape at Kruger National Park, South Africa
Kruger National Park offers a Christmas getaway like none other. Imagine waking up on Christmas morning surrounded by vast savannahs and dense woodlands, spotting wildlife right from the comfort of your room. With over 147 species of mammals and 500 species of birds, it’s a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts.
Accommodation options cater to all tastes and budgets. Rest camps provide affordable stays with facilities like electricity, kitchens, and laundromats—perfect for longer stays. For luxury, private lodges within the park offer all-inclusive packages, while hotels near the park gates provide convenient access.
Kruger is easily reached via three main airports (Nelspruit, Hoedspruit, and Skukuza) or by a scenic six-hour drive from Johannesburg.
2. Explore Milford Sound at Fiordland National Park, New Zealand
December in New Zealand means summer, making it the perfect time to explore the jaw-dropping beauty of Milford Sound, located in Fiordland National Park. Known as the Eighth Wonder Of The World, this UNESCO World Heritage Site boasts dramatic fjords, cascading waterfalls, and towering peaks.
Hike along trails like the Milford Track, often called one of the world’s best hikes. For closer views, take a scenic cruise or a kayaking tour, where you can paddle beside cliffs, watch seals basking on Seal Rock, and spot dolphins swimming in the Tasman Sea.
While camping is not allowed to protect this pristine environment, the Milford Sound Lodge offers luxurious chalets with stunning river and mountain views. Nearby campervan parks or overnight cruises are also excellent options for an unforgettable experience under starlit skies.
3. Living the Arctic dream in Alta, Norway
Alta, Norway, is a dream destination for thrill-seekers and those yearning for a cosy winter retreat. Located on Norway’s northern coast, Alta offers unique Arctic adventures that will make for stories you’ll share for years to come.
Embark on once-in-a-lifetime experiences like dog sledding across the scenic Finnmark plateau, adrenaline-pumping snowmobile rides, and magical Northern Lights sightings. Other highlights include whale watching and high-speed RIB boat adventures.
For an authentic Arctic stay, Gargia Lodge provides cosy dome accommodations nestled in the snowy Alta mountains. Combining excitement with tranquillity, Christmas in Alta is a dream winter wonderland for nature lovers.
4. Take a hike at Black River Gorges National Park, Mauritius
Mauritius may be famous for its beaches, but its natural treasures extend well beyond the shore. Black River Gorges National Park, located in the island’s southwest highlands, covers roughly 6,700 hectares of lush rainforests, endemic wildlife, and breathtaking waterfalls.
Hiking trails vary from beginner-friendly to challenging, such as the Black River Peak Trail, which leads to Mauritius’s highest point. The panoramic views of the island and the Indian Ocean are worth every step.
After a day immersed in nature, relax at a nearby beach resort. This combination of adventure and relaxation offers a memorable alternative to a traditional holiday season.
5. Take a scenic road trip to the Scottish Highlands
A Christmas road trip through the Scottish Highlands feels like stepping into a fairytale. Imagine driving along snow-dusted roads through misty glens and rugged coastlines, with enchanting castles and serene landscapes around every corner.
December in Scotland feels magical. Crisp air, snow-capped peaks, and fewer crowds make it an ideal time to explore the region’s wild charm. Start your journey from Edinburgh or Glasgow and follow the North Coast 500, a circular route showcasing the Highlands’ most stunning sights.
Along the way, stay at charming inns and welcoming bed-and-breakfasts, many featuring roaring fireplaces and traditional Scottish cuisine—perfect for a cosy Christmas getaway.
6. Chase the Northern Lights in Iceland
With the peak of Solar Cycle 25 in 2024/25, Iceland offers an excellent chance to witness Northern Lights displays. Let a local guide take you to remote spots, ensuring an immersive and magical experience.
Stay at aurora-friendly accommodations like Hotel Rangá in Hella, which features a stargazing observatory, geothermal hot tubs, and an aurora alarm, so you never miss a sighting.
This blend of adventure, relaxation, and nature makes Iceland an extraordinary Christmas destination for those seeking something extraordinary.
7. Enjoy the natural beauty of Costa Rica
Christmas in Costa Rica offers a refreshing alternative to traditional winter getaways. With tropical landscapes, warm weather, and vibrant culture, it’s an adventurer’s paradise.
December is perfect for exploring rainforests, beaches, and diverse wildlife. Hike through Corcovado National Park to encounter monkeys, tapirs, and scarlet macaws, or explore Tortuguero’s winding canals to spot nesting sea turtles and exotic birds.
For thrill-seekers, zip-line through Monteverde’s misty cloud forests or visit the Osa Peninsula’s thriving ecosystems. Costa Rica’s unique mix of adventure and natural beauty guarantees a holiday you’ll never forget.
