A Day Out at Aqualand

Nat Geo Day Tour: Echoes of Al-Andalus in Malaga

Journey through time and culture as you uncover the fascinating heritage of Al-Andalus in Malaga. Visit the Alcazaba, a formidable fortress standing as a testament to the military prowess of the Arab era. As you explore its imposing walls and strategic design, you'll be transported back to a period of grandeur. Continue the adventure at Malaga Museum, where Al-Andalus' vibrancy is showcased through a collection of ceramics and Moorish calligraphy. Marvel at exhibits merging history and art, delving into the cultural richness of the past. Next, you will stop at a restaurant to enjoy a typical tapa merging Arabic and Mediterranean flavours, washed down with local wine. Then, learn how to write your name in Arabic at a calligraphy workshop, crafted exclusively for National Geographic travellers. Discover the characteristic streets of the historic centre, revealing the urban heritage shaped by Al-Andalus. Admire the decorative tiles and intricate details that bear witness to the fusion of cultures, creating a unique landscape. Wrap up your experience at the colourful Atarazanas Market, its Moorish entrance beckoning you into the sensory overload of colours and aromas. Engage with vendors as you meander through stalls filled with fruits and herbs. To fully immerse yourself in the local experience, take a sip from an Andalusian-style wineskin.

Gibraltar day trip with dolphin-watching boat tour and Rock visit

An exotic blend of the familiar and the unusual, Gibraltar is a must-visit. This tour ticks off all its top attractions – the Barbary apes, the Rock and Main Street. And to top it off, you'll set sail around the Bay of Gibraltar for the chance to spot dolphins along the coast. Rosa, one of our expert local guides, says, ‘Gibraltar's monkeys are the most accommodating wildlife around. Unlike dolphins, you don't have to search for them – they come looking for you, especially if you're holding food.'The fun kicks off with a boat trip in the bay to look out for dolphins. Three species – bottlenose, common and striped – are known to frolic in these waters. Then, back on dry land, head for a guided minibus tour of the Rock of Gibraltar, which juts 426 metres above the Mediterranean. You'll stop at Europa Point, where there are many famous monuments, a mosque and a historic Christian shrine. Plus, you'll also visit the Rock's recently renovated St Michael's Cave, which now hosts an auditorium.At the Upper Rock nature reserve, you'll meet the free-roaming Barbary apes – Europe's only wild monkeys. There are about 300 monkeys on the Rock. A local legend says that if the monkeys disappear, Gibraltar will stop being British. Back at ground level, Gibraltar's town centre has a distinctly British feel to it. Head to Main Street, where many of the British high street chains have outlets, for a mooch around its duty-free shops.

Marbella and Golden Mile half-day tour with Puerto Banus visit

The charming old town of Marbella and the upscale opulence of Puerto Banus provide a perfect contrast on this trip. Take half a day to discover them both, with a little help from your guide. Sip a coffee in its famous Orange Tree Square, see the Dali sculptures along the Avenida del Mar, and see the millionaire's playground of Puerto Banus.

Andalusia tour with El Torcal, Antequera and lunch

This tour is a scenery-rich journey through some often-overlooked corners of inland Andalusia. You'll visit historic Antequera, immerse yourself in the rugged beauty of El Torcal and the Guadalhorce lakes, and round off the day at Juanito's orange farm. Sonia, one of our guides, says, ‘You'll pass through miles of stunning, varied and unspoilt scenery. It's a rare chance to try local food and wine in a warm, friendly and welcoming atmosphere.'First up is the UNESCO-listed nature reserve of El Torcal. Here, you can stroll about its gnarled and otherworldly karst rock formations, which date back to the Jurassic age. Next, we'll stop to enjoy panoramic vistas of the Antequera's Moorish fortress and Lovers' Rock – a mountain steeped in local legend. The city has been dubbed the ‘Florence of Andalusia' because of its Renaissance and baroque palaces and churches. Free time to explore the old town is followed by lunch made from locally sourced seasonal ingredients, washed down with regional wine, in a family-run restaurant.In the afternoon, we'll head to the jade-green waters of the Guadalhorce reservoirs. But the best is yet to come, with a visit to the citrus farm of the larger-than-life Juanito. He'll proudly show you around his groves and offer you his tangy fruits. ‘Juanito is a true character who'll give you insights into local farming methods and let you taste his freshly squeezed orange juice and homemade orange cake,' Sonia adds.

Malaga old town and Mijas mountain village tour

From big city to quaint whitewashed village, experience both sides of life in the Costa del Sol. In Malaga, you can shop-till-you-drop, explore the historic old quarter or visit one of the many art museums. A change of pace in Mijas sees you stroll flower-lined streets and enjoy views over the sea.

Gibraltar Shopping

Gibraltar's shopping scene is surely unique. With plenty of tax-free goods, unique souvenirs, and vibrant shopping districts, this tour from Costa del Sol gives you roughly five hours to bag a bargain in this sunny slice of Britain.A scattering of Union Jack flags, red phone boxes and arched doorways gives Gibraltar town centre a distinctly British feel. And we'll drop you off in the heart of it for a spot of retail therapy. Pedestrianised Main Street is a great place to pick up everything from clothes to crystals. It has all the British high street chains as well as international brand boutiques. You'll find that electronic goods, spirits and tobacco are much cheaper in Gibraltar, too.Fashionistas will love the cosmopolitan waterfront-complex, Ocean Village, with a host of stylish boutiques, trendy shops, and high-end brands. Or, if you're after souvenirs to take home, a trip to Gibraltar's lively market is a must.

Full-day guided tour of Ronda with Reservatauro Ranch visit

Heading into the hills from the Costa del Sol, you'll come across one of the most storied medieval towns in the region – the one and only Ronda. Spend the whole day exploring its cobbled alleys and discover its history and local traditions, including a visit to a bull ranch. Marilo, one of our expert local guides, says ‘Ronda's famous bridge is still known as Puente Nuevo, even though construction began over 250 years ago. It joins the two parts of Ronda – the new town, “Mercadillo”, and the old town, “La Ciudad”.'After arrival, you'll set off on a guided walk around the town, checking out its churches, mansions and the Puente Nuevo. This magnificent stone bridge straddles the 100-metre-deep Tajo gorge that bisects the town, serving up dizzying views. Ernest Hemingway was a frequent visitor – so much so, there's a sculpture of him, opposite one of Orson Welles, another Ronda aficionado – in Blas Infante park. Then, you'll enjoy more views over the ravine from the Casa Don Bosco, a modernist mansion perched above the gorge, as well as a glass of wine.You'll round off at the Reservatauro Ranch – set in a biosphere reserve filled with centuries-old oak trees, it's a perfect habitat for breeding Spanish bulls and Andalusian horses. Learn more about the history of Spanish bulls and Andalusian horses, in a sustainable and eco-friendly way. You'll stroll through wooded pasturelands studded with oaks and get to meet these lovingly cared-for animals, which are free to roam the vast ranch.

Alpujarras Mountain Villages Tour

On this half-day tour, you'll marvel at dramatic scenery and be enchanted by picturesque hilltop villages. The Alpujarras nestles at the foothills of the Sierra Nevada and were for years a little-known secret. You'll see Lanjaron, Portugos, Trevelez and Pampaneira, with plenty of free time to explore. Your day begins in Lanjarón, where you can relax with a coffee and take in the stunning panoramic views. As we continue to Pórtugos, you'll have the chance to taste the unique 'Fuente Agria' water, known for its orange hue due to its rich iron and mineral content. Next, we head to Trevélez, famous for its ham drying facilities. Here, you'll get an insider's look at the impressive process and savor some of their renowned cured hams.Finally, we visit Pampaneira, one of Spain's most beautiful villages. With its steep, cobbled streets, whitewashed houses, and rich Arab history, Pampaneira is a true gem. You'll see traditional looms in action, producing the famous Alpujarran rugs, visit an ancient laundry area, and taste the region's most beloved chocolate.

Fuengirola Market and Mijas tour

There's no better way to mingle with the locals and immerse yourself in their way of life than a trip to the market. On this half-day excursion, you'll visit the Fuengirola market – the largest on the Costa del Sol – and then make the short trip to the whitewashed village of Mijas for some free time exploring its pretty streets.

Cordoba Tour with Mosque Visit from Nerja Area

Cordoba's heyday as a medieval melting pot of cultures has left the city with a collection of historical buildings that form the backdrop of your tour. The mesmerising Mosque-Cathedral, with its multitude of arches and lavishly decorated mihrabs, is the star of this visit. You'll also discover the former Jewish quarter and enjoy free time to poke around the plant-laden patios of the old town.