Epic Adventure Race Training: From Volcano to Beach in Veracruz, Mexico

There are few adventures that can take you from the ridge of an 18,000-foot snow-capped volcano to a stretch of sandy beach and blue ocean in just one trip. In Veracruz, Mexico, you can do it on foot. Esprit Whitewater offers the experience in the form of their eight-day Expedition Adventure Race training program. Hike, bike, and paddle your way from "Pico 2 Playa," and learn racing strategies, as well. Led by top adventure racers like Canada's Lawrence Foster, "this is an adventure travel trip on steroids," says Esprit founder Jim Coffey. You'll spend your long days navigating the area's pristine wilderness and your evenings at a luxury campsite where happy hour and dinner await. And the best part? No other tourists in sight. "It's like Costa Rica 25 years ago," says Coffey. "International tourism hasn't caught on there yet." So get to know the locals, though they might shy away as you ditch your bike, crack open the champagne, and run cheering into the Gulf to culminate your trip.—Greer Schott

Outfitter: Esprit Whitewater

Price: $1995 CDN

Length: 8 days

Departs: March 2011

Photograph courtesy of William Young