Hobby Holidays

Simply lazing on the beach not quite cutting it anymore? Upskill breaks, hobby holidays, call it what you will, more and more people are looking for that something extra - and we have found some fantastic options out there. By Tess de Klerk

ELEVATE YOUR BREAK

WILDLIFE PHOTOGRAPHY IN AFRICA

SAFARI IN SOUTHERN AFRICA…

With an intoxicating mix of wildlife, vibrant colours, beautiful scenery, and extraordinary light, the photographic opportunities in Africa are endless.

Letaka Safaris runs specialist photography trips where a professional photographer accompanies guests to advise and assist budding amateur and experienced photographers alike. Full immersion in the beautiful Botswana bushveld is guaranteed, with accommodation in safari-style tents. Letaka Safaris currently offers two separate itineraries, perfect for those who want to safari with like-minded travellers. Tailor-made and private safaris are also possible.

From £4,090 pp www.letakasafaris.com/find-a-safari

LEARN TO SOAR

PARAGLIDING IN SPAIN…

Who amongst us hasn’t stared up in the sky, envying the freedom of the soaring birds above? Feel as free as we earth-bound beings can be by learning to glide on the currents, free-flying with only the swoosh of the winds for company.

Let the enthusiastic and highly experienced team at Fly Spain show you how with their six-day Beginners Elementary paragliding course in Algodonales, in the province of Cadiz, Spain. All equipment and tuition are included, as well as accommodation in a picturesque townhouse with a pool. Fly Spain is a BHPA school, meaning that you can go on to train for your UK gliding qualifications.

From £1,200 pw www.flyspain.co.uk/paragliding-courses/ paraglider-training-for-beginners … AND IN FRANCE

The southern French Alps is a world famous paragliding destination thanks to its reliable thermals and good weather. Undiscovered Mountains are experts in the area and offer a six-day Learn to Fly course in the ski resort of Orcières. Accommodation is available at several quaint hotels and chalets, and there is plenty of mountain activities for those in your party who might not feel as enthused about running off the mountain’s edge.

From £930 pw https://undiscoveredmountains.com/ learn-paragliding-holiday-french-alps

... AND ACROSS THE GREAT PLAINS

Photography is central to the Great Plains Conservation experience inspired by world-renowned wildlife filmmakers and photographers, Dereck and Beverly Joubert. Photographic hides are in place at a range of their camps to guarantee extraordinary close-up shots of wildlife, while the animals themselves are unaware of human presence. Options range from a camouflaged boat anchored mid-river to treetop platforms, all hidden from sight. Tents are equipped with professional Canon camera sets at selected camps, with photography tuition available on request.

From £870 pps https://greatplainsconservation.com/ safari/photographic-safari

❛❛ Feel as free as we earth-bound beings can be by learning to glide on the currents, free-flying with only the swoosh of the winds for company ❜❜