The nation has been inspired by stories like that of Steve Way, the reformed 16 stone smoker who came tenth in the Commonwealth Games' marathon event after kicking a 20-a-day habit and an addiction to take-a-ways. While 13 year old Scottish swimming sensation Erraid Davies is spurring on a new generation to embrace sport as the way to a healthy life.

Real Africa, tailor-made safari specialist based in Norfolk suggests five of Africa's best active holidays to get you out of your deck chair and to focus the mind and challenge the body.

1.Trek to see rare mountain gorillas, Uganda

Don your walking boots and trek to see endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat, Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. From £2,495 per person (based on two sharing) for a five night itinerary including flights, transfers, park fees, gorilla permit and accommodation.

2.Climb Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania

At 5895 metres, Kilimanjaro is the world's highest walkable mountain. The Machame route allows time for acclimatisation and is the most scenic route up Kili. You are accompanied by experienced guides and fully supported to ensure maximum comfort. From £2,645 per person (based on four climbing) for a 10 night itinerary including flights, transfers, pre-climb accommodation and a fully supported climb based on the extended Machame Route.

3.Canoe the remote Selinda Spillway, Botswana

Traverse a pristine waterway by canoe, stopping to camp on deserted islands beneath the stars and encountering an array of wildlife. This is real off-the-beaten-track Africa. From £1,785 per person (based on two sharing) for a mobile four night camping canoe safari departing and returning to the Selinda Airstrip May-September 2015.

4.Walk untamed Africa, Zambia

Explore the wilds of South Luangwa National Park both on foot and by 4WD, staying in atmospheric Norman Carr bush camps. From £4,655 (based on two sharing) for an eight night safari including international flights, transfers and all-inclusive accommodation.

5.Canter across the savannah on horseback, Botswana

Forget your Sunday morning hack and take horse riding to a new level, jumping fallen trees, splashing through the calm waters of the Selinda Spillway and seeing plain's game from the saddle. From £2,880 per person (based on two sharing) for a three night weekend horseback safari including international flights, transfers and accommodation at Motswiri Camp. 

All of these inspiring active trips are tailor-made and can easily be extended – add on a stay in Victoria Falls, a spell on the sun-drenched beaches of the Indian Ocean or relaxing days on Lake Malawi's sparkling shore.  For full details, and other Challenge safari ideas from Real Africa go to realafrica.co.uk or call 01603 283 517.