Hiking for lava lovers
Mount Etna in Sicily continues to be active, which will suit those thrill seekers who want to be at the centre of the action. Explore Worldwide have organised a number of volcano hikes to the edge of the action, if not the centre of it. You can travel from Heathrow or join the seven-night tour in Catania for some moderate to strenuous hiking. Travellers climb Vulcano on the second day to sample the volcanic gases and the healthier mudbaths at the base. The ascent of the second volcano, Stromboli, is timed so that climbers reach the top at sundown when the flying sparks and incandescent lava appear at their most dramatic. The culmination of the trip is a day-long walk to the summit craters of Mount Etna. Accommodation is in local hotels and transport between the volcanic islands is by ferry. Prices start at £699 including flights. Phone 01252 760000.
Ice and a slice of danger
The ice tinkling gently in martini glasses is usually the only kind to be found on most cruises, but bigger lumps can be found in Peregrine Adventures' new Antarctica and Islands of the South Atlantic brochure. It features a number of trips on the Peregrine Mariner, a refurbished Russian research vessel specially equipped for ice cruises such as the nine-night Antarctic Encounter, which departs from Ushuaia, Argentina and goes on to the South Shetlands before returning on a route that takes in Cape Horn. This is not for the faint-hearted: a night camping on the ice is offered, as are shore excursions by inflatable boat to examine the sights and wildlife at close quarters. The expert crew offer a full programme of lectures. This cruise starts at £2,556 including transfers and meals, but not international flights. Phone 020 8772 3700.
Secrets of the wild
Travellers bewildered by the wilderness could benefit from a new holiday idea from Discovery Initiatives. A course in South Africa led by a game ranger and guide aims to impart the secrets of the wild to anyone who wants to experience bush life. Far from being just a sightseeing holiday, the 11-day trip focuses on conservation skills but casual visitors should beware as there is a written test at the end of the course. The holiday is based in a safari bushcamp for several nights, but novices can put their skills to use by sleeping out in the bush or around the campfire, identifying the nocturnal wildlife noises. The starting price is £1,125 excluding international flights. Phone 020 7924 5696.
