Here at Original Travel, we're big believers in the benefits of slow travel. We define this as travelling by modes of transport other than plane or car - such as train, horse, walking, biking, boating and more; or simply taking your time with your travels, whatever form they come in. As well as giving you the chance to appreciate and connect with your surroundings - which you simply can't do when flying or driving - slow travel is better for the environment, meaning you can enjoy your getaways guilt-free. Read on to discover our top slow travel destinations...
Zambia
Forget the concept of a breakneck-paced 'Ferrari safari' on an epic slow travel adventure in Zambia; walking and paddling your way around, and spotting incredible wildlife as you go. Whether you go truly wild while tracking big game on wonderful walking safaris in South Luangwa National Park or prefer to canoe your way down the Lower Zambezi National Park to view game and birds from a whole new perspective, you'll be guided by passionate and knowledge experts every step (or paddle stroke) of the way.
Indonesia
Boats are brilliant, and those that sail between islands in the incredible Indonesian archipelago are even more so – a no-brainer as one of our top slow travel destinations. On a slow travel adventure in Indonesia, you can experience the treasures of multiple islands including Sumbawa, Komodo, Flores and Alor, as well as the magical marine world beneath the waves on snorkelling and diving escapades, all while you enjoy the sweet, slow pace of life on a liveaboard boat.
Australia
Australia lends itself to the slow-paced way of things. With its laidback, beach bum persona, you'll find yourself seamlessly adopting the slower pace of life that Oz is known for. For a different perspective on this vast destination (fun fact: Australia is 300 miles wider than the moon), take one of the country's famous long-distance trains or take your own two feet to explore one or more of the Great Walks of Australia. Trek your way through Queensland and sink into beach life; watch out for whales as you hike from cape to cape near Perth in Western Australia; get wild in Tasmania where you can reward successful daily hikes with evening meals with delicious local produce; or combine two wonderfully slow activities in one in South Australia with easy hikes along the Murray River Walk interspersed with nights aboard a houseboat.
Spain
In addition to that sweet sweet siesta time that guarantees a slow start to the afternoon, Spain is also excellent for travelling slowly. Experience the Andalusian countryside, including the beautiful Donana National Park on the coast from horseback as an expert guide talks you through the local area.
Galapagos
The Galapagos was designed with slow travel in mind. Cruise around the 18 volcanic islands with expert guides and stop off at interesting spots where you can continue the slow theme with hikes to spot the fascinating flora and fauna that inspired and captivated Charles Darwin.
Egypt
Experience slow travel in style as you cruise along the Nile aboard the Steam Ship Sudan. The elegant ship, inspired by Agatha Christie's famous novel Death on the Nile, will take you through ancient cities to historic wonders of the world in the knowledgeable hands of expert guides. Slow travel destinations don’t get much better than this, at least in our opinion.
