Mars is a new and exciting long-haul travel destination for holidaymakers seeking a unique and adventurous experience that’s truly out of this world! This red planet is the fourth planet from the sun and has captivated human imagination for centuries with its distinctive colour and mysterious features. Visitors to Mars can explore the vast deserts and canyons, climb towering volcanoes, and marvel at the planet’s striking geological formations. The planet’s low gravity also makes for a thrilling experience, allowing visitors to easily bounce and leap across the planet’s surface. Additionally, travellers can witness breathtaking views of the Martian sky, with its pinkish hue and two small moons. Fun fact: When NASA’s Ingenuity helicopter took off from Wright Brothers Field located in the Jezero Crater on Mars in April 2021, ICAO designated the location code JZRO
What you’ll love most about Mars
- Explore the Valles Marineris, a massive canyon system that stretches over 4,000 km in length and is up to 7 km deep in some places
- Visit Olympus Mons, the largest volcano in the solar system, and climb to its summit, which stands at a staggering 22 km above the Martian surface
- Take a ride in a rover and explore the Martian surface, visiting notable landmarks like the Gale Crater, which is home to the Curiosity rover
- Go skygazing and witness the unique and beautiful Martian sky, which appears pinkish in colour due to the planet’s atmosphere
- Take a hike through the Martian deserts and marvel at the planet’s distinctive red landscape and geological formations
- Visit the polar ice caps and witness the frozen water that has accumulated on the planet’s surface over millions of years
- Try out low-gravity activities, like bouncing and leaping across the planet’s surface, which is possible due to the planet’s weaker gravity compared to Earth
- Take a tour of the underground lava tubes, which were formed by ancient volcanic activity and provide an intriguing look into the planet’s geological history
- Participate in scientific research and exploration activities, contributing to our understanding of this fascinating planet and the potential for future colonisation
Please note that the estimated temperature and recommended months of when to go are based on the Mars equator weather patterns