As the colder months approach, why not trade snow for sun and set out on an unforgettable adventure? Whether you’re seeking vibrant wildlife encounters, thrilling outdoor activities, or the stunning beauty of desert landscapes, these sun-soaked destinations offer the perfect winter escape. From the Galapagos Islands to Costa Rica and beyond, discover incredible getaways and soak up the winter sunshine!
Top Sunny Destinations: Costa Rica, Baja, Texas, California, and the Galapagos Islands
The warm breeze and sunshine beckons in three spectacular adventure destinations: Costa Rica, Baja, Texas, California, and the Galapagos Islands. These enchanting locales promise not only pristine beaches and vibrant marine life, but also a wealth of exhilarating activities including swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, walks in nature, and much more.
Texas and California are also home to some of the planet’s most iconic natural treasures that are great to visit year-round—all here to discover in our backyard. When the day winds down, soak in stunning sunsets and embrace the serenity of being far from the everyday hustle.
A few reasons why we love these warm weather escapes are:
- Cool breezes and mild weather
- Endless water activities
- Unique scenery
Winter doesn’t always mean snowy hikes and icy trails. These diverse landscapes ensure that even in winter, you can find dry, sunny trails and warm temperatures.
Excited yet? Let’s dive into some of our favorite warm getaways!
Warm Weather Getaways
1. Ecuador: The Galapagos Islands
- Duration: 11 days | Activity Level: 2
- Difficulty: Easy-to-Moderate
Winter is the best time to visit the Galapagos Islands! From stunning beaches and volcanoes to an array of fantastic wildlife, the Galapagos offers endless adventures. With steady year-round temperatures and abundant wildlife activity, you’ll have the chance to see plenty of native animals, marine creatures, and natural fauna up close.
On this small-group journey aboard the comfortable Galaxy yacht, follow in the footsteps of Charles Darwin as you explore several islands on the classic Western Loop route. Expert-led nature walks and encounters with endemic wildlife make this a trip like no other.
Family-friendly departures are available!
2. Costa Rica: Tortuguero, Pacuare & Arenal
- Duration: 8 Days | Activity Level: 3
- Difficulty: Moderate
For those craving a balance of adrenaline and relaxation, Costa Rica is the perfect winter destination. It’s also a unique getaway! Begin with a heart-pumping whitewater rafting adventure on the Pacuare River, followed by serene kayaking and snorkeling. This one-week journey also includes guided walks through the volcanic landscapes of Tortuguero National Park, where you’ll experience Costa Rica’s lush rainforests and abundant wildlife.
Enjoy whitewater thrills and stay overnight at small boutique properties like the award-winning Rios Lodge in spectacular natural settings on this multi-adventure tour.
3. Santa Elena Canyon Trail in Big Bend National Park, Texas
- Duration: 6 days | Activity Level: 3
- Difficulty: Moderate
Need a short hike to keep your muscles active during the winter season? It only takes an hour to complete the Santa Elena Canyon Trail, but the memories of the views and experience will last a lifetime!
Our hiking tour lets you experience incredible hikes, night sky, rock art, and desert botany in over six exhilarating days. Each day, brace yourself for majestic sights with mountains, deep canyons, and winding rivers. Led by expert guides, you will summit the park’s highest peak at 7,825 feet, wading deep into the Santa Elena gorge, and even venture across the Rio Grande into old Mexico. Cap off the week at a boutique hotel in the “Capital of Quirkiness,'” mysterious Marfa, Texas!
4. Mexico: Baja Sea of Cortez
- Duration: 6 days | Activity Level: 3
- Difficulty: Moderate
Escape to Baja’s unspoiled island paradise this winter! Baja offers spectacular wildlife and warm waters perfect for kayaking, snorkeling, and swimming. Explore the rugged coastline of Isla Espiritu Santo while camping under the stars, and enjoy endless opportunities for hiking and unwinding. Bookend your journey in the laid-back town of Todos Santos, home to pristine beaches and surf spots.
Considered the jewel of the Sea of Cortez, Isla Espiritu Santo is an unspoiled island paradise, home only to an abundance of spectacular wildlife. This trip showcases Baja at its very best! Discover this UNESCO-protected idyll on our multi-sport adventure.
Private options are available!
5. California: Joshua Tree & Death Valley
- Duration: 6 days | Activity Level: 2
- Difficulty: Easy-to-Moderate
If you’re looking for an escape closer to home, the Mojave Desert’s surreal landscapes in Joshua Tree and Death Valley are perfect for a winter retreat. The Mojave Desert is ideal for hiking and exploring, with moderate temperatures and breathtaking desert scenery. Along with guided hikes through these otherworldly landscapes, enjoy the charm of nearby Palm Springs, known for its midcentury-modern architecture, chic shops, and trendy restaurants.
We organize a special hiking tour that immerses you further into the region’s beauty by guiding you along trails into the heart of the Mojave Desert, famed for its scorching temperatures, salt flats, and sand dunes!
What Our Guests Are Saying about Our Warm Getaways:
“An absolutely wonderful trip with varied activities, especially snorkeling with sea lions! Beautiful island, great food, and a truly wonderful adventure.”
— Vandy B., MT Sobek Guest | Mexico Baja Sea of Cortez
“IT WAS AMAZING! Well-organized, fun, and packed with activities. The experience we had in the Galapagos was remarkable – beautiful boat, fantastic crew, great food, amazing attention to detail.”
— Marie C., MT Sobek Guest | Galapagos Islands
“HIGHLY RECOMMENDED TRIP! An action-packed unforgettable experience that provided a great mix of activities including whitewater rafting, hiking, and kayaking.”
— Larry C., MT Sobek Guest | Costa Rica
These trips aren’t the only outdoor adventures you can enjoy this season. Check out our list of warm weather adventures and request your free MT Sobek catalog to start planning your next adventure!
Further reads…
- Best Adventure Travel Gadgets to Buy
- Best Places to See the Northern Lights
- Best Off-the-Beaten-Path Adventures for Active Travelers