Issue 183: Matafonua Lodge and Dive Resort

Plus: Cruising Doubtful and Dusky Sound, Eurasian brown bear watching, and more.

Author

Amanda Zeisset
February 21, 2025

 

Hey Explorer,

This is Adventure Fix, the newsletter that helps you discover extraordinary journeys and experiences across the globe.

Here’s what we've got for you today:

  • Cruises: Doubtful and Dusky Sound Cruise

  • Stays: Matafonua Lodge and Dive Resort

  • Wildlife Encounters: Overnight in a Bear Hide in Estonia

 

 

CRUISES

Doubtful and Dusky Sound Cruise

Photo: Heritage Explorer

Found in New Zealand’s Fiordland National Park, Doubtful and Dusky Sound are remote fjords that feel like they belong to another world – think dramatic cliffs, waterfalls tumbling into glassy waters, and wildlife everywhere you look.

It’s the kind of place where you can actually hear the silence, broken only by the occasional splash of a dolphin or the call of a bird.

Getting to Doubtful Sound is half the adventure. First, you’ll cross Lake Manapōuri by boat, then take a scenic drive over Wilmot Pass – the views here are unreal.

Once you’re on the water, it’s all about soaking in the scenery and maybe hopping in a kayak to explore up close. Keep your eyes peeled for dolphins, seals, and those adorable Fiordland crested penguins.

Dusky Sound is even more remote, and it’s perfect if you’re craving some serious off-the-grid adventure. You can only get there by boat or plane, which means fewer people and more untouched beauty.

The sound is dotted with islands and hidden coves, and it’s a haven for wildlife. Birds, seals, and marine life are everywhere, and the waterfalls cascading down the cliffs make it feel like you’ve stepped into a prehistoric paradise.

Explore more:

 

 

TOGETHER WITH MATADOR NETWORK

Why I Keep Coming Back to Matador Network

Photo: Suzie Dundas - Matador Network

Over a decade ago, while dreaming of traveling the world, Matador Network became a source of inspiration.

Their stories transported me to places I had never been, fueling my wanderlust and shaping the kind of traveler I wanted to become.

When I finally took the leap and became a travel writer, Matador published my very first story.

It was the start of a journey that has taken me across more than 150 countries, chasing epic stays, unique experiences, and unforgettable wildlife encounters.

Now, as I build Adventure Fix, Matador continues to inspire me with its stunning photography, powerful storytelling, and immersive travel content.

Their stories remind me why I fell in love with adventure in the first place.

A Few Standout Stories:

How to Visit Niihau, Hawaii's ‘Forbidden' Island
Discover the forbidden island, where tradition and nature remain untouched.

Argentina’s Remote Puna Desert Is Like Mars on Earth
A surreal landscape of salt flats, volcanic fields, and endless horizons.

The Lesser-Known Wildlife Reserve Where In-the-Know Travelers Are Going on Safari
Experience Kenya’s most underrated safari destination through stunning photography.

 

 

STAYS

Matafonua Lodge and Dive Resort

Photo: Matafonua Lodge

Found on the northern tip of Foa Island in Tonga’s Ha’apai group, Matafonua Lodge is a little slice of paradise.

Imagine turquoise waters, white sandy beaches, and a chilled-out vibe. If you’d love to experience the South Pacific the way it used to be, this spot is for you.

The lodge offers cozy, simple yet charming Tongan-style fales (bungalows). Each has comfy beds, mosquito nets, and a covered balcony where you can relax and enjoy the ocean breeze.

You can swim, snorkel, or kite surf straight from the beach.

There’s even a dive and whale-watching center on-site where you can explore coral reefs or get up close with humpback whales during their migration season.

Explore more: 

 

 

WILDLIFE ENCOUNTERS

Overnight in a Bear Hide in Estonia

Photo: Erik Mandre

Estonia’s wilderness is a haven for wildlife, with its dense forests home to brown bears, lynxes, wolves, and more.

The best way to see these incredible animals is by spending the night in a bear hide in Alutaguse, where half of Estonia’s 1,000 brown bears live.

These hides are thoughtfully designed with comfy seating, bunk beds, and discreet observation windows, perfect for watching or photographing bears up close.

Getting to the hide is part of the adventure, as a local guide leads you through the forest at sunset. Inside, the quiet hum of nature surrounds you—rustling leaves, bird calls, and the occasional snap of a twig.

The anticipation builds until, finally, a bear appears. Watching it roam freely is a reminder of the beauty of untouched nature.

Explore More:

 

 

ADVENTURE FIX GO

9-Day Gates of the Arctic Oolah Traverse

For those seeking an unforgettable multi-day hiking adventure, the 9 Day / 8 Night Oolah Traverse is the ultimate way to experience Alaska’s wild heart.

This adventure, offered by Indigo Alpine Guides, includes everything you need—meals, transportation, and gear rentals—allowing you to fully embrace the challenge without the hassle.

Trek through the incredible Oolah Valley in the Gates of the Arctic National Park, conquer scrambly summits and experience the vast solitude of the Arctic wilderness.

With expert guidance and a small group of like-minded explorers, this 50-mile adventure promises memories that will last a lifetime.

The only problem? This exclusive tour only runs three times a year, and one date is already sold out:

Our friends at Indigo Alpine Guides are offering an exclusive discount to Adventure Fix readers. Book now using the code ADVENTUREFIX and get 10% off your spot.

 

 

QUICK FIX

Photography: Polar photography tips  

Unique Experiences: We slept 220 feet below ground

 

 

THE COMPASS

Where in the World

Wanna flex your adventure geography skills? Guess where this pic was snapped!

Stumped? No worries. The answer is at the end of this email.

 

 

QUOTE OF THE WEEK

“We find comfort among those who agree with us—growth among those who don’t.”

Frank A. Clark

 

I’d love to hear what you think of this issue, scroll down to the poll to let us know.

Until next time…

Keep exploring,

-Amanda

Whenever you’re ready, here’s how we can help you plan truly unique adventure trips:

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