Take it to the extreme: The best sporting holidays

By land

Kilimanjaro has to be on the bucket list of any serious climber, but even those with experience need to ensure they're in safe hands should anything go awry. Abercrombie & Kent is the only international tour operator with its own climbing operation in the region, meaning you can enjoy the trek knowing there are oxygen bottles, altitude chambers and other essential equipment in easy reach the entire way. Its knowledgeable guides are also trained in mountain craft and ecological awareness to help you make the most of the experience.

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The ten-day Kilimanjaro Machame Route holiday is available from £4,979 per person; abercrombiekent.co.uk

Underground

The Yucatan Peninsula in Mexico is steeped in history; home to the world-famous Mayan ruins Chichen Itza. Throughout the area runs an incredible network of underground rivers and lagoons accessed via limestone sinkholes, also known as cenotes, which provide the ideal place to partake in a variety of water sports such as swimming, snorkelling and diving in the most stunning surroundings.

The 14-day Mexico – Highlights of the Yucatan Peninsula is available from £3,995 per person; steppestravel.co.uk

By water

A quick dip off the shores of the Maldives is one thing, snorkelling in sub-zero temperatures in the Antarctic quite another. But the pay-off for any temporary discomfort is immense as soon as you head underwater and find yourself in an incredible maze of breathtaking icebergs littered with unique marine life including crustaceans, isopods and starfish. Adventure experts Aurora Expeditions offer the experience as part of various holiday packages exploring the icy wonderland by cruise, kayak, climbing and more.

The 12-day Spirit of Antarctica trip is available from US$8,500 (£6700) per person; auroraexpeditions.com.au

By sky

Few places are so remote that paragliding is one of the ways to gain access, but the Six Senses Zighy Bay Resort in Oman is exactly that. Take an adrenaline-inducing airborne journey from the top of Zighy Mountain and experience majestic views of the bay from 960 feet above ground. While you're there, take advantage of other sporty adventures such as 4x4 excursions, mountain biking and scuba diving or kick back and make the most of the resort's luxurious facilities.

Six Senses Zighy Bay 7-day holiday from £4,795 per person; steppestravel.co.uk