Do you want to touch nature on the Mediterranean coast? Take your family and go to the zoos and natural parks of the Costa Blanca. Visiting these small artificial islands of wildlife will undoubtedly diversify your resort leisure. You and your children will see the unique representatives of the flora and fauna listed in the IUCN Red List, and just enjoy a journey into nature. If you are up for an outdoor adventure, let’s take a look at the best wilderness areas in Andalusia.

Selwo Aventura 

Located in the province of Estepona, Selwo Aventura is a huge 100-hectare safari park that completely recreates the animals’ natural habitat. That is, more than 2,000 animals from five world continents live practically in the wild. 

This Spanish safari park invites you to spend an unforgettable time in nature, take walks, ride on special vehicles, walk along the suspension bridge, admire the beauty of the canyon and, most importantly, watch the wildlife in natural conditions. Exploring the bat cave and bird yard, feeding the giraffe, and visiting the terrarium will be interesting both for children and adults. 

And to relieve fatigue, take a ride on one-humped camels or relax in a local outdoor restaurant or cafe. In the second half of the day, you can watch bird performances accompanied by detailed commentary from expert ornithologists.

Address: Av. Parque Selwo, s/n, 29680 Estepona, Málaga

Terra Natura 

Travellers often prefer this place when looking for day trips to Andalusia’s zoos. Terra Natura in Benidorm is a modern natural park with over 1,700 animals roaming on the territory. Its main highlight is the use of “Zooimmersión” technology, which allows maximum contact with animals through almost invisible barriers and protective structures.

The park occupies an area of about 320,000 square metres, divided into four thematic zones. Its extensive collection consists of over 190 wildlife species, 60 of which are recognized as rare. Also, Terra Natura hosts about 2,750 plants of 175 species, including trees and shrubs typical of each represented thematic zone.

The rich zoological collection is perfectly intertwined with educational programs held throughout the year. Animated performances featuring animals and birds are also a worthwhile option. All in all, Terra Natura offers the perfect setting for a fun-filled family weekend.

Address: Foia del Vedrader, 1, Alicante

Rio Safari Elche 

As a large modern zoo, Río Safari Elche invites you to the world of wildlife. It’s home to over 4,000 palm trees surrounded by hundreds of species of exotic animals. 

Excursion to Rio Safari is a great opportunity to observe living creatures in their natural habitat. Purchase an entrance ticket and choose any of the routes you like: a guided train tour of the entire park, or an independent walking tour along the winding paths. Every day the park arranges shows and performances with the participation of animals: 

• 2-3 performances per day with the participation of the elephant Babaty; 
• 2-3 performances per day with sea lions.

But that’s not all! At almost every turn, you will find yourself in the most amazing parts of the park, including the Exotic Bird Garden, Crocodile Bridge, Educational Farm, Pet Island, and Reptile Cave.

Address: Poligono 1 Carretera Elche-Santa Pola Partida, Bajo, 102, 03139 Vallverda

Crocodile Park 

Crocodile Park in Torremolinos is a themed croc farm-zoo located 15 minutes drive from the centre of Torremolinos and 10-15 minutes from Malaga. It covers an area of about 16,000 square metres surrounded by tropical vegetation and keeps more than 300 crocodile species in special reservoirs. 

The first thing that strikes you about the park is the entrance made in the style of an ancient African fortress. Among the local events are demonstrative feedings with show elements. Also, you can take a memorable photo with baby crocs. Adult crocodiles are accessible from a distance of less than two metres. 

A detailed tour of Crocodile Park takes about two hours. By the way, you can expand your croc experience with a visit to the nearby water park located a 5-minute walk away. 

Address: C. Cuba, 14, 29620 Torremolinos, Málaga 

How to get to the zoos and wildlife parks of Andalusia? 

We recommend that you take advantage of a car hire for a family as the easiest and fastest way to get around the area. Family car rentals in Malaga are available at a low price (from €11 per day) and in addition, they provide enough space for you and your children. You can pick up the best car hire in Malaga and go to your favourite park or zoo right after your arrival. Please book early for cheap prices and a great selection of deals. 

So, are you ready to start your wildlife adventure in the heart of Spain? Then pick up your car and go!

Puerto Rico is a cluster of islands, islets, and cays scattered in the Caribbean Sea. Together they form an archipelago that is 100 miles long and 35 miles wide. In Spanish Puerto Rico means “the rich port”. Such a name is fully justified by the abundance of stunning nature wonders, heavenly alluring views, exciting festivals, and exotic cuisine. But the main treasure of the place is the big-hearted and welcoming people. They will never let you feel bored, alone, uninvited, or embarrassed.

The self-governing island is jam-packed with incredible attractions both natural and human-induced. To embrace them all, it is highly recommended to travel around Puerto Rico by car. Download the Puerto Rico car rental app before leaving your place to make your future trip easier. The application will help you to look for the best cars for rent in Puerto Rico. 

What to Do in Puerto Rico: The Most Attended Tourist Attractions

Due to its geographical position, the archipelago boasts bright and absorbing culture. It is a passionate and charismatic mixture of Taino, African, and Spanish traditions. Let’s plunge into the dazzling world of a magnificent Caribbean archipelago.

National Forest El Yunque

El Yunque is a tropical rainforest with a total area of 28 000 acres. The must-do things to be included in your bucket list if you’re planning to visit this splendid natural reservation:

• Enjoy awesome scenery. Are you hunting for admiring views of wild nature? Then head off to Yokahú Observation Tower which rises 1,575 feet above the forest area. From the top of it, you’ll take corking photos for your social media. Be sure the pics will make your friends jealous. 
• Visit “El Porte de El Yunque”. It is a tourist center with a great number of exhibits, gift stores, restrooms, cafes, and a theater.
• Walk through numerous hiking trails. The breathtaking paths lead to the gorgeous natural pools, waterfalls, and lagoons. If you feel sick and tired of wandering around the forest, go down the La Coca trail. On your way, you’ll come across several ponds. Just imagine the delight: you are allowed to bathe for free in a postcard-perfect pool under the natural waterfall.

Traveler’s note. Before taking a journey, find a reliable car rental in Puerto Rico airport and make an online reservation. It is the most comfortable and money-saving variant for a budget-conscious and far-seeing tourist. Don’t forget that the minimum age for drivers on the island is 21 years old. Puerto Rico car rental under 25 is also possible. But a young renter will have to pay a surcharge.

• Dive into an impressive world of Caribbean nature. In the conservancy area, tourists have a perfect opportunity to get acquainted with the exceptional flora of Puerto Rico. About 240 plant species endemic to the region grow here. While hiking around the forest you’ll see trumpet trees, immense ferns, and tiny wild orchards.
• Experience the best birdwatching in the world. If you are lucky enough, you will have a chance to have a glimpse at rare green mangos, woodpeckers, and Puerto Rican parrots.
• Set off for outdoor adventures. Vendors offer different kinds of equipment for hire in El Yunque. Visitors may feel free to rent maneuverable ATVs to explore the wild nature, try horse-riding, or buy a high-adrenaline Zipline Adventure Tour.

Arecibo Observatory

Arecibo Observatory is the world’s largest telescope and an up-to-date scientific natural science center. Myriads of hands-on exhibits devoted to different topics are exposed in the observatory. Some displays help to gain a better understanding of the cosmic nature of stars, galaxies, and the Solar System. Others are devoted to the tools used for space exploration. All the exhibits are interactive. Read educational information written next to a mock-up model and press the button to put the mechanism in action. You’ll see how everything you’ve just learned about works in real life. Visit the Observatory Facebook homepage to get the most updated information about the attraction.

Beach in Flamenco

This awe-inspiring beach is located on the Caribbean island called Culebra. With its turquoise blue waters, green hills, and harsh-white sands it is considered one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. The sea here is calm, shallow, and waveless. That makes Flamenco Beach a perfect place for swimming, diving, and snorkeling.

Don’t be surprised to see a real tank on the coast. The abandoned military machine is a recognizable spot on Flamenco Beach. The tank was left here as a reminder of the US’s navy invasion of the island.

Old San Juan

According to the battle-seasoned tourist opinion, Old San Juan is one of the best places to visit in Puerto Rico. It is a residential area that used to be a military stronghold during the times of the Spanish Colonization. An old neighborhood consists of 7 square blocks made up of 16^th and 17^th-century buildings. Come to see Old San Juan with its exquisite, brightly colored facades, blue stone pavements, and one-of-a-kind atmosphere.

Besides views of miraculous beauty, the historical neighborhood offers tourists tons of attractions. Below, there are several tips for spending time in Old San Juan: 

• Book a guided walking tour to learn more about the history, culture, and traditions of Puerto Rico.
• Drink Piña Colada in the place of its birth. The cocktail was invented in Old San Juan by a bartender in 1954. To create the drink, he mixed pineapple juice, coconut milk, and rum. Now it is a Caribbean national drink well-known all over the world.  
• Visit giant ancient fortresses Castillo de San Cristóbal and El Morro.
• Walk along a broad promenade Paseo de la Princesa and enjoy free musical and cultural performances regularly held there.

The Old City welcomes tourists with an array of entertainment from visiting art galleries to dancing at nightclubs. Rent cars in San Juan to make your trip more eventful and remembered.

Vieques

Be careful! This picturesque island is going to steal your heart away. Vieques is an ideal destination for those who prefer quiet rest in luxurious nature surroundings. The island is uncrowded and almost untouched by civilization. It is worldwide famous due to the Mosquito Bay with its magical bioluminescent waters. The sea glows at night due to a swarm of microorganisms called “dinos”. They produce flashes of neon-blue light when shaken. Vieques offers a wide range of activities such as horseback riding, kayaking, scuba diving, and hiking.

Cabo Rojo Lighthouse

Cabo Rojo Lighthouse is a recognizable landmark of the Caribbean coastline. The 19^th-century construction of the crowns on the limestone cliffs of striking beauty. After the renovation, the exterior of the lighthouse has remained authentic. The inner mechanism has undergone renovation and automation. Climb up to the top of the tower and you’ll be rewarded with stunning views of Puerto Rico from the 200-foot height. The illuminating apparatus Cabo Rojo is open to the public daily, except Wednesday, from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. The entrance fee is not demanded. 

Las Vegas is associated with casinos, shows, and bohemian life, but this city is also famous for its admirable outdoor leisure options. Many tourists come here all year round for sports entertainment, surrounded by magical landscapes. Read this article until the end to discover the exciting outdoor adventures in Las Vegas away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Skiing or camping on Mount Charleston

Mount Charleston offers tourists an extensive range of outdoor adventures depending on the season. During winter months, you can go snowboarding, sledding, or skiing. You can enjoy scenic walks, hikes, picnics, or camping from spring to autumn. Mount Charleston rises in a National Wildlife Refuge with interesting flora to explore.

Rock climbing in Las Vegas

Excellent rock climbing spots attract tourists from all over the world to Las Vegas. One of the best places to practice this extreme sport is Red Rock Canyon. Pay attention to the following:

• Gunsight Notch Peak,
• Calico Hills Overview Scramble,
• Hidden Canyon Trail,
• Climbers Trail to Mescalito Peak.

In the Canyon, you can also organize a horseback ride or barbecue. If you prefer a sporty but not-so-risky outdoor activity, pay attention to these breathtaking hiking routes:

• Keystone Thrust,
• Turtlehead Peak,
• Grand Circle Loop,
• Ice Box Canyon,
• Middle Oak Creek.

Plan your trip carefully, and familiarize yourself with the route, the weather, and the duration of the trail in advance. Make sure you have a hat and enough water. The best time for hiking in Red Rock Canyon is autumn to spring. In the hot summer, even the light route will seem exhausting. While it gets too hot in Red Rock, alternatives for climbing and hiking are the scenic Mounts Potosi and Charleston.

Water activities

Want to ride a boat or kayak and admire the mesmerizing landscapes – make a route to Lake Mead. Lake Las Vegas also provides spots for water activities, and the highlight of the place is flyboarding. Flying over water is a marvelous opportunity to refresh yourself on a hot day and recharge with adrenaline. The local water park is perfect for families.

For thrills, head to Nelson’s Landing for some cliff jumping. If you prefer to avoid the risk of jumping from a height, it is possible to swim relaxingly in cool water as well. The magical atmosphere of this area is suitable for an original photo shoot in nature. The best time for water sports in Las Vegas is summer. In cool weather, you can go hiking near a water reservoir or have a picnic.

Las Vegas is famous for its hot springs, which give a remarkable recreational experience if you’re visiting during the nippy season. Enjoy the desert scenery in peace while the warm waters rejuvenate your body. The best hot springs to visit are:

• Gold Strike,
• Hot Spring Arizona,
• Spencer Hot Springs,
• Ruby Valley,
• Alkali Hot Springs.

Quiet walks

Ethel M Botanical Cactus Gardens is an excellent choice for a leisurely walk in nature with astonishing views. Here you can find more than three hundred species of desert plants. Here you can combine a romantic date with healthy physical activity for Valentine’s Day or Christmas holidays. On these dates, garlands and decorations are hung in the garden, making the atmosphere truly magical.

You can combine wellness with an educational experience at Springs Preserve. The gently dignified protected nature is full of recreational places and paths. There is an interactive museum on the territory, and various exhibitions, fairs, and outdoor workshops are often held here.

An alternative place for an exciting walk is the Valley of Fire. Excursions to this ethereal valley are short, and you can always rest, cool off, and grab a bite to eat at the visitor center. Valley of Fire is perfect for photo shoots and getting to know the region’s natural gems.

Excursion to Hoover Dam

Just half an hour from Las Vegas is a unique architectural and engineering monument – Hoover Dam. The dam was built in the 40s of the 20th century, but to this day, it strikes the imagination of tourists. This enormous building is on the list of National Historic Landmarks.
You will climb up and view the dam inside and out during the tour following the walking trail. Along the way, you will learn the non-trivial history of the design and construction of this attraction. Interestingly, when you cross the bridge here, you cross the border between Arizona and Nevada.

Closing remarks

Las Vegas offers many outdoor activities for every taste and preference. It is in your power to make the trip richer by renting a car in the area. When arriving with a large company, it is better to rent a van so as not to be separated on the way.

An excellent solution for camping or outdoor sports is to use the services of 12 passenger van rental. Take everything you need with you and ensure the comfort of passengers in the spacious cabin. Select the suitable offer of passenger van rental in Las Vegas in advance and book early to save!