Best Outdoor Team Building Activities

Looking to energize your team, spark creativity, and build lasting connections? Outdoor team building activities are the secret ingredient for memorable corporate events, especially in the Netherlands where scenic landscapes and a culture of outdoor recreation set the perfect stage. At UP Events, we specialize in crafting unforgettable experiences that blend adventure, collaboration, and fun — tailored to your team’s unique needs.

Why Outdoor Team Building Works

Outdoor team building activities aren’t just about having fun — they’re proven to foster collaboration, boost morale, and support employee wellbeing. In the Netherlands, where outdoor participation rates are among the highest in Europe, these activities are a natural fit for companies seeking to strengthen their teams in an engaging, healthy environment.

Key facts:

• Scalable for any group size: From intimate teams of 15 to large-scale gatherings of up to 5,000 participants.
• Hybrid-ready: 43% of C-suite executives in the Netherlands and Europe now invest in hybrid team building, blending in-person and virtual participation.
• Wellness focus: Outdoor and wellness-oriented events are in high demand as companies prioritize employee mental health and connection post-pandemic.

Top Outdoor Team Building Activities

1. Expedition Robinson Team Challenge

Inspired by the iconic survival show, our Expedition Robinson Team Challenge is a thrilling test of collaboration, resilience, and creativity. Teams face a series of physical and mental challenges — think obstacle courses, puzzles, and strategic games — designed to break down silos and spark new ideas across departments.

• Why it works: Encourages teamwork under pressure, builds trust, and delivers plenty of laughter and memorable moments.
• Expert insight: “The most memorable business deals happen during moments of entertainment. Team building is not just about fun — it’s about creating shared experiences that drive real business outcomes.”

Discover Expedition Robinson and more activities

2. Outdoor City Games

Bring your team together for a digital scavenger hunt or city-based challenge that combines technology with exploration. Our Outdoor City Games use GPS and mobile apps to guide teams through Amsterdam or Weesp, solving clues and completing creative tasks along the way.

• Why it works: Perfect for local and international teams, these games blend competition, discovery, and teamwork.
• Pro tip: Gamification boosts engagement and learning outcomes, especially for hybrid or remote teams.

Explore our city games and outings

3. Adventure Sports and Wellness Activities

From archery tag and laser gaming to cycling tours and water sports, adventure activities are a fantastic way to energize your team. The Netherlands’ parks, lakes, and beaches provide the ideal backdrop for these experiences.

• Why it works: Promotes physical wellness, teamwork, and a sense of achievement.
• Wellness trend: Outdoor and wellness-oriented events are increasingly sought after to support employee mental health.

See all team-building options

4. Creative and Culinary Workshops

Not every team wants to get muddy! Our outdoor workshops — like cocktail making, BBQ parties with live entertainment, or creative art sessions — offer a relaxed yet engaging way to connect.

• Why it works: Ideal for mixed-ability groups, these workshops encourage creativity and collaboration in a laid-back setting.
• Customization: All workshops can be tailored to your group’s preferences, dietary needs, and event goals.

Browse our workshops

Customization and Flexibility: The UP Events Difference

Every team is unique, and so is every event we organize. Whether you’re planning a quarterly off-site, a product launch, or a company anniversary, we offer:

• Full-service event management: Activities, catering, decorations, music, and entertainment — all handled in-house.
• Flexible venues: Choose from our 45,000 m² private location in Amsterdam West or our versatile Weesp venue.
• Personalized experiences: From activity selection to menu planning, every detail is tailored to your needs.

Learn about our venues and event packages

Professional Advice for Planning Outdoor Team Building

1. Prioritize Safety and Inclusivity

All physical activities must comply with Dutch and EU safety standards. We ensure every event is accessible, with options for all abilities and clear contingency plans for bad weather (think indoor workshops or tastings).

2. Embrace Hybrid and Wellness Trends

With the rise of remote work, hybrid events are more popular than ever. We offer seamless integration of virtual and in-person experiences, ensuring everyone feels included and engaged.

3. Focus on Experience and Connection

Our goal is to create moments that matter — experiences that build trust, spark creativity, and leave your team feeling inspired. As one client put it: “Everyone enjoyed it and I’m looking forward to our next event.”

See what our clients say

Recent Trends in Outdoor Team Building

• Wellness and mental health: Companies are prioritizing activities that support employee wellbeing, such as mindfulness walks, yoga sessions, and nature-based challenges.
• Hybrid participation: Blending virtual and in-person elements ensures inclusivity for remote and international teams.
• Gamification: Competitive, game-based formats drive engagement and learning, making team building both fun and impactful.

For more on the latest trends, check out Harvard Business Review’s guide to team building.

Why Choose UP Events?

With over 15 years of experience and a 4.8 Google review score from more than 2,600 clients, we’re the trusted partner for corporate events in the Netherlands. Our large-scale capacity, complete event packages, and focus on experience and connection set us apart.

• Seamless planning: We handle the logistics so you can focus on your team.
• Memorable experiences: From adrenaline-pumping challenges to creative workshops, we make every event unforgettable.
• Personalized service: Every event is tailored to your goals, culture, and preferences.

Book your next team-building event

Useful Resources

• UP Events Activities
• UP Events Meetings
• UP Events Corporate Events
• UP Events Bachelor Parties
• UP Events Workshops
• UP Events Team Building
• UP Events Event Agency Amsterdam
• UP Events School Activities
• UP Events Outings in Amsterdam
• UP Events Outings in Weesp

External links for further reading:

• European Outdoor Group: Outdoor Participation Trends
• Forbes: Why Team Building Is The Most Important Investment You’ll Make
• Harvard Business Review: The Right Way to Build Your Team
• Dutch Government: Event Safety Guidelines

FAQ: Best Outdoor Team Building Activities

What are the most popular outdoor team building activities in the Netherlands? Expedition Robinson challenges, city games, adventure sports (like archery tag and cycling tours), and creative workshops are among the favorites for corporate groups.

How do you ensure safety during outdoor activities? All our activities comply with Dutch and EU safety standards. We provide professional supervision, accessible options, and have contingency plans for bad weather.

Can outdoor team building activities be customized? Absolutely! We tailor every event to your team’s size, abilities, goals, and preferences — including catering, entertainment, and activity choices.

Are hybrid or virtual options available? Yes. We offer hybrid team building experiences that blend in-person and virtual participation, ensuring inclusivity for remote and international teams.

What group sizes can you accommodate? We host events for groups as small as 15 and as large as 5,000 participants, with flexible venues and scalable activities.

How do I book an event with UP Events? Simply contact us for a personalized quote or consultation. We’ll guide you through every step to ensure your event is seamless and unforgettable.

Ready to create an unforgettable team experience? Contact UP Events today and let’s make your next corporate outing the highlight of the year!