Off-the-Beaten-Path Honeymoons for Adventurous Couples

Adventure of a Lifetime

Turn to these bucket-list destinations for an off-the-beaten-path honeymoon that’s anything but ordinary

By Shalee Super

The term “honeymoon” isn’t synonymous with relaxing on the beach. In fact, more couples than ever are trading all-inclusive beach resorts for once-in-a-lifetime adventures. From fly fishing in Patagonia to cheetah-spotting in Kenya, we’ve compiled a selection of bucket-list-worthy honeymoons that are anything but ordinary.

Samburu National Reserve, Kenya

Nothing quite says adventure like lunch with lions and sunsets with giraffes. Nearly all of Kenya’s iconic animals roam freely within the Samburu National Reserve. The area is off the tourist track, but the extra mileage has incredible rewards. Stay at Surana Buffalo Springs, a brand-new eco-resort with 16 private villas overlooking the expansive savanna. To ease planning, book your safari through reputable tour operators such as Capture Kenya or Uplift Travel. 

uplifttravel.org

Horseback Riding, Scotland

Scotland delivers an intoxicating blend of romance, history and untamed landscape — now imagine seeing it all on horseback. Saddle up for the ride of a lifetime with The Scottish Highlands Ride by Globetrotting, the world’s leading horse-riding holiday travel company. Ride through heather-covered hills, ancient forests and rolling countryside, soaking up the raw beauty and rich history of the Scottish Highlands, all with an itinerary designed for riders of all levels. 

globetrotting.co 

Keweenaw Peninsula, Michigan

Plenty of adventure can be found right here in our own backyard. The Keweenaw Peninsula is the pinnacle of exploration in the Midwest. Chase waterfalls, go Yooperlite hunting, hit the mountain biking trails, or catch the ferry to Isle Royale. You’ll quickly realize the only thing missing here is more time to explore.

visitkeweenaw.com

Fly Fishing, Patagonia 

Patagonia is the mecca for outdoor adventure. Spanning more than 28 million acres of protected wilderness across 17 National Parks, the region offers a scale and raw beauty that feels increasingly rare. Most travelers head south for backpacking and trekking, but Patagonia is also a world-class fly-fishing destination. Its pristine rivers and glacial lakes are rich with rainbow and brown trout. World-class angler Wildside Joe offers numerous luxury fly-fishing trips to Patagonia each year, including stays at remote, off-grid five-star wilderness lodges popular with couples.

wildsidejoe.com

Antarctica 

If sipping champagne in a hot tub while gazing at Antarctica’s drifting icebergs doesn’t define adventure and romance, it’s hard to imagine what does. The seventh continent is becoming increasingly more popular and accessible, with a growing number of luxury cruises operating between November and March. Companies like Quark Expeditions specialize in all-inclusive Antarctic expeditions, with itineraries that include kayaking with whales, polar plunges, and penguin encounters on the mainland.

quarkexpeditions.com/antarctic

Glacier National Park, Montana 

Towering mountains, expansive vistas and crystal-clear waters are just a few of the reasons Glacier National Park is at the top of every adventurer’s list in the United States. Experience the best of the West by staying at a local dude ranch, such as the Bar W Guest Ranch, then spend your days biking, hiking, and exploring some of the country’s most breathtaking alpine landscapes. Drive Going-The-Sun Road, lace up your hiking boots for a trek to Grinnell Glacier, or toast to newlywed bliss at Many Glacier Hotel.

thebarw.com

Red Rocks Road Trip, Utah

It’s hard to beat America’s Southwest when it comes to adventure. Southern Utah features five iconic National Parks dotted across the vast desert. Make your honeymoon a road trip, starting with some relaxation at ULUM Moab before setting off on a five-day adventure through Arches, Canyonlands, Capitol Reef, Bryce Canyon, and Zion National Parks. From slot canyons to vast desert vistas, something is waiting around every corner.

ulumresorts.com/moab