For educators craving a meaningful getaway, winter break is the perfect time to swap grading papers for global adventures. Whether you’re drawn to warm-weather escapes or snow-dusted cultural experiences, these winter holiday ideas combine relaxation, inspiration, and a dash of adventure. Here are GEEO’s best winter destinations for teachers.
Costa Rica – Rainforest, Rivers, and Real-World Learning
With dry-season weather in full swing, this is an ideal time to explore Costa Rica’s rich ecosystems, ranging from tropical beaches to misty cloud forests.
On this week-long GEEO program, you’ll visit a sustainable farm to learn how local communities practice regenerative agriculture and eco-tourism. You’ll hike through Monteverde’s cloud forests, where you might spot toucans, howler monkeys, and the elusive resplendent quetzal. In La Fortuna, one of the country’s adventure hubs, you can choose from a range of adrenaline-fueled activities like canyoneering through river gorges, rafting Class III rapids, or jumping into volcanic waterfalls.
Each day offers a new perspective on Costa Rica’s biodiversity and conservation efforts, making it the perfect destination for science educators or any teacher who wants to tie real-world experiences into their classroom. Plus, you’ll earn professional development credit while exploring alongside fellow educators who share your curiosity and sense of adventure.
Book your GEEO Costa Rica adventure today.
Egypt – Ancient Civilizations and Timeless Stories
Egypt is one of the best winter destinations for teachers looking to connect classroom history lessons with the real-world remnants of one of humanity’s most influential civilizations. December and January offer cooler temperatures and thinner crowds, making it the perfect time to explore world-famous archaeological sites without the intense heat of summer.
This 12-day GEEO journey offers a rich, immersive experience that goes beyond just sightseeing. Walk among towering columns at Karnak Temple, step into the tombs of long-lost rulers in the Valley of the Kings, and stand before the Great Pyramid of Giza—the only surviving Wonder of the Ancient World. Between site visits, experience Egypt’s living culture. You’ll share a home-cooked meal with a Nubian family, navigate the bustling markets of Aswan, and witness daily life along the Nile from the deck of a comfortable river cruise ship. From discussions about burial practices and hieroglyphics to conversations with locals about contemporary Egyptian society, every moment connects to real learning.
Book your GEEO Egypt adventure today.
European Christmas Markets – A Fairytale Come to Life
For teachers seeking a winter holiday that combines cultural immersion with festive tradition, Europe’s Christmas markets offer an ideal mix of history, regional flavor, and seasonal celebration.
On this seven-day GEEO program, you’ll explore holiday markets in five distinct destinations, gaining a deeper understanding of European culture through its wintertime rituals. Start in Berlin, where stalls in Gendarmenmarkt Square offer handmade crafts, live music, and traditional German snacks like stollen and bratwurst. In Nuremberg, explore a market that’s been operating for centuries, famous for its intricate ornaments and locally baked gingerbread. Continue to Munich, where you can browse artisan booths framed by Gothic architecture, before heading into the Austrian Alps to explore the quieter markets just outside Salzburg. The journey finishes in Vienna, where grand palaces and historic streets come alive with lights, spiced drinks, and choirs singing carols in the open air.
This program isn’t just about holiday décor—it’s about how communities preserve and share their heritage. You’ll witness how each region adds its own touch to the season, from traditional woodcarving in Bavaria to musical performances in Vienna. And between the mulled wine tastings and cozy city strolls, you’ll build classroom-ready stories that bring global celebrations and cross-cultural traditions into your teaching.
Book your GEEO European Christmas Market adventure today.
Galápagos Islands – Wildlife in Warm Weather
If your idea of a winter holiday means stepping far outside the ordinary, the Galápagos Islands offer an experience that’s as educational as it is unforgettable. In the winter months, the ocean is calm, the weather is warm, and wildlife activity is at its peak. It’s an ideal setting for teachers who want to immerse themselves in biology, environmental science, and conservation firsthand.
This 9-day adventure brings you face-to-face with many of the species you’ve taught about in class. Spot blue-footed boobies performing their famous mating dance, snorkel alongside sea turtles and schools of colorful fish, and walk volcanic landscapes where marine iguanas bask in the sun. The itinerary includes visits to three unique islands—Floreana, Isabela, and Santa Cruz—each with its own ecological footprint. Unlike cruise-based tours, this land-based program minimizes time at sea, offering more opportunities to explore on foot and connect with local communities.
Book your GEEO Galapagos adventure today.
Iceland – Fire & Ice Adventures
If you’re looking for a winter trip that trades palm trees for frozen waterfalls and hot cocoa for geothermal springs, Iceland offers a bold change of pace. Winter in Iceland means fewer tourists, dramatic snow-covered landscapes, and some of the most unique natural experiences you’ll find anywhere.
This five-day program is packed with hands-on exploration of Iceland’s geological wonders—ideal for teachers interested in earth science, climate, or Nordic culture. Hike across glaciers, trek through lava fields, and marvel at the tectonic plates pulling apart in Þingvellir National Park. Visit working horse farms and get to know the hardy Icelandic horse, a breed that has been isolated on the island for over a thousand years. You’ll also visit iconic spots like the Geysir geothermal area and Gullfoss waterfall, connecting classroom science with real-world landscapes.
Evenings are for unwinding in naturally heated hot springs and scanning the skies for the Northern Lights. And while the days are short, the itinerary makes smart use of the light, ensuring you experience the full range of Iceland’s wild beauty. This trip is built for educators who want to bring back more than just souvenirs—expect new ideas for your curriculum and stories your students won’t forget.
Book your GEEO Iceland adventure today.
Oman – A Hidden Gem in the Middle East
If you’re seeking a winter destination that combines history, nature, and a sense of adventure, Oman is a standout. While much of the Middle East remains under the radar for travelers, Oman offers a rare mix of accessibility and authenticity. With warm winter temperatures, low tourist crowds, and a welcoming atmosphere, it’s an excellent option for educators looking to engage with new cultures and historical perspectives firsthand.
This program takes you well beyond the usual tourist track. You’ll camp overnight in the sweeping dunes of the Wahiba Sands, where the silence of the desert is broken only by wind across the sand or the sound of Bedouin music around a fire. You’ll visit ancient forts and coastal villages, meet local artisans, and explore souks that still operate much as they have for centuries. The trip also includes a visit to Wadi Nakhr—known as the Grand Canyon of Oman—for breathtaking views and a glimpse into the country’s rugged interior.
Oman’s blend of Islamic heritage, rich trade history, and dramatic natural landscapes makes it a unique destination for teachers across disciplines. Whether your focus is on world history, religion, geography, or global studies, this trip offers firsthand experiences that bring those subjects to life.
Book your GEEO Oman adventure today.
Peru – Culture and Climate Diversity
The winter season is an ideal time to experience some of Peru’s most compelling regions without the usual crowds. With fewer tourists, sites like the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu take on a quieter, more intimate atmosphere. It’s a chance to connect with the cultural heart of the Andes—beyond the postcards and bucket lists.
This program takes you on a journey through Lima’s lively neighborhoods, the high-altitude streets of Cusco, and the villages that line the Sacred Valley. Along the way, you’ll visit ancient Incan ruins, browse vibrant markets full of handmade textiles and local produce, and meet with Quechua-speaking community members who maintain traditional ways of life. Machu Picchu, while world-famous, feels more personal this time of year—often shrouded in mist, adding to its sense of mystery and grandeur.
One of the program’s unique features is its flexibility: educators can choose between three different mid-trip itineraries. Whether you hike the iconic Inca Trail, explore remote villages in the Lares Valley, or opt for a culturally immersive non-hiking experience through Cusco and the Sacred Valley, each path offers a meaningful look at Peru’s past and present.
This trip is perfect for teachers interested in Indigenous cultures, ancient civilizations, Latin American history, and sustainable tourism practices. It’s also a reminder of how geography, history, and community are deeply intertwined—and how travel can help bring those lessons into the classroom.
Book your GEEO Peru adventure today.
Spain – Cities That Sparkle
Spain in the winter months is a different experience altogether—cooler temperatures, thinner crowds, and a chance to explore world-famous cities at a more relaxed pace. For educators looking to dig into art, architecture, and the complexities of cultural exchange, Spain offers a layered experience that blends Roman, Islamic, and Christian influences across every region.
This program focuses on the heart of Andalusia—Southern Spain—where you’ll explore the rich historical intersections that shaped the Iberian Peninsula. In Granada, you’ll walk through the Alhambra, a stunning example of Islamic architecture set against the snowy backdrop of the Sierra Nevada mountains. In Córdoba, the Mezquita (a mosque-turned-cathedral) offers a striking look at religious coexistence and conflict throughout Spanish history. And in Seville, flamenco performances, Gothic cathedrals, and orange-tree-lined streets provide insight into both the traditions and evolving identity of this vibrant region.
You’ll also dive into the energy of Madrid, where the works of Picasso, Goya, and Velázquez fill the halls of the Prado and Reina Sofía museums. Then it’s on to Barcelona, where the surreal architecture of Antoni Gaudí turns an ordinary street corner into a classroom on modernist design and Catalan culture.
Whether you cover European history, Spanish language, or global studies, this journey offers a real-world lens into the subjects you teach. And between the tapas, the public plazas, and the Mediterranean coastline, you’ll have plenty of moments to enjoy Spain’s slower, social style of life
Book your GEEO Spain adventure today.
Turkey – A Cultural Crossroads
Turkey offers one of the most compelling blends of geography and culture anywhere in the world—bridging Europe and Asia both literally and figuratively. And in winter, you can explore it all without the high-season crowds, inflated prices, or sweltering heat that often comes with summer travel.
Start your journey in Istanbul, a city layered with centuries of history and conflict. You’ll walk through the shadow of empires as you visit the Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and Topkapi Palace. The Grand Bazaar is a crash course in commerce and craftsmanship, where you can bargain for everything from spices to textiles and get a firsthand look at daily life in a modern megacity that never forgets its past.
In Cappadocia, volcanic activity and erosion have carved out a surreal world of cave dwellings and “fairy chimneys”—a region once home to underground cities and early Christian communities. It’s also one of the best places in the world to experience a sunrise hot air balloon ride, weather permitting. Then it’s on to Pamukkale, where mineral-rich waters have formed bright white travertine terraces that spill down a hillside like frozen waterfalls. At nearby Hierapolis, you’ll explore ancient Roman ruins nestled within this strange natural setting. And in Ephesus, you’ll walk roads once traveled by Greeks and Romans—lined with well-preserved temples, baths, and an enormous amphitheater.
Book your GEEO Turkey adventure today.
Ready to plan your winter adventure?
At GEEO, we specialize in educational travel programs designed just for teachers. Join a group of like-minded educators and explore the world on your break—no need to plan it all yourself.
Travel smarter. Teach better.
Find your next journey at geeo.org.
