Nature’s gifts are here to stay and appreciate. Although appropriate precautionary measures need to be taken in view of the COVID-19 pandemic, you can enjoy natural surroundings while performing some permitted recreations suitable under the current circumstances. Subject to applicable government authorities’ rules, you may consider any of the following nature encounters that allow smoothly adopting social distancing practices:

1) Sightseeing on the road

Drive on scenic routes or roads along forests and admire the vibrant surrounding trees and flowers as well as hill or mountain scenery.

2) Driving on an off-road trail surrounded by nature

Motor vehicles with four-wheel drive transmission (4x4) are recommendable for this trip.

3) Riding a bike to explore

Subject to the type of bike, you may ride on mountain bike trails on forests open to the public, bikeways along the coast or cycle tracks in parks open to the public.

4) Hiking

Whether on a private forest or government-owned forest open to the public, hike on trails while taking appropriate social distancing measures. Verify if you need to make any prior reservations.

5) Watching birds and listening to their songs

To get up early on the morning and engage in bird watching in forests, whether nearby the coast or in the countryside, is rewarding.

Since quality of life is important always, the present is the best time to reorganize step-by-step how you will connect with nature while protecting your health. Balance is key to temporary lifestyle adjustments during the current pandemic. Play safely.

Note: This article includes general suggestions; however, you are responsible of finding out about applicable government rules and restrictions in view of COVID-19 pandemic, considering the location. If the outdoors activity is permitted, precautions still need to be taken. For instance, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, promote particular safety measures. You may read examples of these in the “tips” subsection of this article.