Multi-sport Guide
Introduction to multi-sport vacations
If you like mountain biking, hiking, whitewater rafting, sea kayaking, rock climbing, and want to practice these sports all in one place, in a short period of time a multi-sport vacation package is ideal for you. The programs may also include horseback riding, canopy, bungee jumping and any other activity involving adventure. The positive aspect of these activities that they generally don’t use carbon as it is physically demanding.
The trips usually take you through wonderful places. You can kayak in the Patagonian fjords, hike in the wilderness of the Andes and sail around the islands of the archipelago of Chiloé. There are many ways to relax outdoors playing sports adventure.
Multi-sport tourism information
Basic Multi-sports
Most operators have a variety of multi-sport programs with expert guides who will make things easier and less risky, ensuring compliance with safety standards. It also means you can take a lift to go up a hill while someone takes their mountain bike and provides some extra food along the route.
Usually there are a variety of trips for people of all abilities, ages and experience. The elderly and children are welcome.
Multi-Sport - Beginners
Each trip is usually rated by its difficulty level and distances. If you have limited experience in extreme sports look out for an easy or moderate rating. Trips for beginners are suitable for most people in good health and generally include short days on good paths at low altitudes. If you're biking there will be relatively flat courses and on water that is less technical or fast flowing. On some trips you also have a variety of options of levels, one day you can perform an activity that requires physical exertion and another day you may choose a calmer one.
Advanced Multi-sports
The difficult trips are generally physically exhausting, only suitable for people who have a high level of resistance. They are conducted in inhospitable places, far away from civilization and the walks usually take you through steep mountains or the wilderness. You may have to carry your own backpack during the day and a lot of the time the weather conditions are extreme. Older people should see a doctor before opting for the advanced multi-sport trip.
<< Back to the topThings to consider on multi-sport vacations
Age
If you think your age might be an obstacle, contact the tour operator to inquire about performing a specific activity. However, you will find that there is usually a wide variety of choices for all types of physical states.
Ability and experience
Most operators offer a wide variety of tours to suit a wide range of interests, expectations and levels of fitness. Usually no experience is required, just enthusiasm and willingness to try something new. Less extreme trips are perfect for friends, couples or families. Many programs offer various activities during the day so everyone can choose the activity that is better suited to their physical capacity and in the evenings everyone can get together to enjoy an excellent quality dinner.
Choosing a Tour
When choosing the tour, you must take into account your physical abilities, as you have to choose between different sports within a determined context. Make sure you have the skills and experience necessary to meet the physical demands of the program. Most tour operators usually have an FAQ to answer your questions.
Children
Although most trips are designed for adults, many routes are suitable for strong and active teenagers, some for even younger children. Check with your operator.
Traveling alone
Traveling alone is very common among fans of multi-sport tourism, most companies organize groups with people who have more or less the same physical level, so doing it this way saves on costs and accommodation for people traveling alone, as it is usually more expensive.
Safety
The logistics of organizing tours to remote locations and extreme conditions is complex. Tour operators spend long hours researching destinations, routes, ground operations and equipment. Most of the programs offered are for tours that meet basic safety standards. Operators work with reputable and experienced companies. However, there is an element of risk in all activities.
<< Back to the topMulti-sport trip preparation
Training
It is not necessary to be a super athlete to enjoy a sports trip, but if you have a fitness and some experience in adventure sports, the trip will be less stressful and more enjoyable. To improve your physical condition, it is recommended to do some aerobic activity at least three times a week. Biking and hiking can be practiced regularly, each time increasing the distance and difficulty of the activity.
Cycling Preparation
If you have no experience in cycling, the ride can be quite exhausting and uncomfortable, it is recommended to start going on bike rides at least three times a week, one month before the vacation.
Hiking Preparation
Walking is recommended bike rides at least three times a week, one month before the vacation. It is important to have the right shoes so to avoid blisters and sore feet.
Altitude Preparation
Some tours will reach high elevations. Most people tend to acclimatize easily, but it is essential to be fit and well hydrated before beginning the ascent. Most programs perform activities that require little effort during the first few days, in order to help you to acclimatize. The most common symptoms of altitude sickness are usually nausea, loss of appetite and insomnia.
<< Back to the topEquipment for multi-sport activities
Tour operators will provide a detailed list of the items that you need. Generally, agencies provide all the equipment for extreme sports. This way, you do not have to take much luggage.
Weather
Before starting your journey always check the weather forecast. Remember that high up in the mountains it can be cold, regardless of the season. So if you are heading up a mountain, always wear appropriate clothing. Layers of clothing always work it is also recommended to wear a hat and a pair of gloves throughout the year. The desert can be very cold and dry no matter what time of year.
Clothing
Quick drying clothing is recommended, which is frost resistant and comfortable. If you are going up a mountain, take good waterproof jackets and warm hats for protection against the sun and the cold, also take long pants and shorts, long and short sleeved shirt and extra clothing for sporting activities. Always take an extra pair of shoes. If you plan on going swimming, do not forget your swimsuit.
Medications
It is recommended to carry a first aid kit with basic items such as bandages, aspirin and personal medicines. Make sure you have insect repellent and headache pills.
Sporting Equipment
Tour operators generally rent equipment if you do not have any. If you need additional items, it is recommended to go to a bike or sporting goods shop. For cycling, you need a helmet, gloves, special padded pants, bottle of water, short-sleeved shirts, warm jackets and sunglasses. For hiking you need trekking poles, hiking shoes and a bottle of water.
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