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10 Best Adventure Vacations Around the World

From cage diving with sharks to jumping out of a plane, these adventure vacations are guaranteed to break you out of your comfort zone.

After a year of indoor activities (and far, far too many Zoom meetings), it's finally time to break out. If you're anything like us, you've got plenty of energy to burn — and a long list of places you want to explore. Adventure vacations, like the 10 we've listed below, offer a fantastic way of getting to know a destination while also testing your own physical limits. So, whether you're diving with great white sharks or jumping out of a plane, you'll leave with a closer understanding of that part of the world, not to mention a rich repertoire of stories to share with your friends back home.

Not usually the daredevil type? Not a problem. We've curated these adventure trip ideas to be beginner-friendly, accessible, and most importantly, fun. Now, what are you waiting for? Go out there and ride that adrenaline high.

Paragliding in Umbria

The town of Castelluccio, in Italy's Umbria region, sits three hours from Rome. Perched high on a grassy hill, it's known for stunning views over the Piano Grande, a valley that comes to life with thousands of tiny red, white, and purple flowers every spring (there's even a festival honoring the floral event that takes place in June). It's the perfect place to soak up fresh mountain air while indulging in the region's notable pecorino cheese.

It's also a paraglider's dream.

At 8,123 feet in the air, Monte Vettore is the typical jumping-off point for a 20-minute tandem glide with Fly the Appenines . (If you're hungry for more air time, you can also sign up for longer 90-minute cross-country flights.) Piano Grande's year-round mild weather makes it ideal for this activity, so even if you show up after the flowers have faded, you'll still be in for a treat. Once you're back on the ground, there's still the rest of Umbria to explore by foot, car, or even horseback .

Heli-skiing in The Alps

It's no secret that the Alps are home to world-class skiing. But for those who want exclusive access to untouched powder and secluded wilderness, there's nothing like a heli-skiing trip to make you feel like the world's your own private playground. At the northern edge of Piedmont, Val Formazza offers all the isolation you'll need.

The protected valley is surrounded by three majestic peaks: Ofenhorn, Blinnenhorn, and Basòdino. And because it's so high up (the highest landing spot available is around 10,500 feet), the area receives an average of 4 feet of snow per year. To access all that unspoiled backcountry, Heli-Guides.com maintains a fleet of Airbus AS 350 BE helicopters, and the menu of options — from easy day trips to full-week packages — means travelers can spend as much (or as little) time in the valley as they like.

Of course, some prior skiing experience is needed, but you don't have to be a pro. Guides choose from a wide range of landing spots, meaning they can customize the trip to match your exact level of ability. And one thing's for sure: wherever you choose to land, the views aren't likely to disappoint.

Shark Diving in South Australia

Off the coast of Port Lincoln in South Australia , the Neptune Islands are home to Australia's largest colony of long-nose fur seals. And while those cuties are worth a visit themselves, what interests thrill-seekers are their top predator: the great white shark.

Little is known about the migration habits of great white sharks, which is what makes this site so exciting for adventure travelers. Thanks to a mingling of cold and warm currents merging from the Indian and Southern Oceans, the islands offer an incredible diversity of wildlife, hence the appeal for blood-thirsty sharks.

Humans aren't on the menu, of course. Safe inside a steel cage or what's known as an "aqua sub" (essentially a reverse aquarium, where the fish are outside the glass), you'll be free to marvel at these 19-foot-long beasts as they swim mere inches from your face. To add to the novelty, tour companies like Adventure Bay Charters use sound — not live bait — to attract the sharks. For some reason, heavy metal seems to get the job done. So what are you waiting for: Pull up your favorite AC/DC track, climb into the cage, and let the gasps begin.

Hut-to-hut Hiking in Colorado

Little known fact: Colorado is home to more huts and yurts than any other state in the U.S. And that's not by accident: Back in the 80s, members of the 10th Mountain Division of the US Army decided to recreate the huts they'd encountered while on duty in the Alps. And so the 10th Mountain Division Hut System was born.

Today, the network of 36 huts spread across a 350-mile route is a fantastic way for travelers to connect with the Colorado wilderness. Just don't come expecting turn-down service. The huts are rustic — you'll have snowmelt for water, a bare bed, and basic cooking utensils, and that's about it. But for all the austerity, the huts have a zen-like appeal (and they're very affordable). Some are close to popular trails, while others are miles (and we do mean miles) from civilization.

Best of all, you can go any season. Just be prepared to sweat. In winter, it'll be 6-7 miles of cross-country skiing to get from one hut to the next. (Intermediate skiing skills are required.) And in the summer, it's the same distance for hiking and mountain biking — just without the snow. However you do it, make sure at least one person in your group has wilderness experience, not to mention avalanche safety training for winter visits. As the website states: "Route finding may be the most important skill you'll need."

Seeing Red-hot Lava in Hawaii

On the Big Island of Hawai'i, a December 2020 eruption of Mount Kilauea, the most active of the island's five volcanoes, had residents worrying they'd have to relive the devastation caused by the last eruption in 2018. Luckily, the damage this time was minor. But it's been a boon for visitors to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park .

While eruptions are ongoing, it's entirely safe to view the lava — from a distance, of course.

Each day, hundreds of people show up to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park to witness the plumes of gas and steam; by night, the phenomenon is even more spectacular, as you'll see red-orange lava glowing from inside the rim of the caldera. The sight is enough to make you realize the sheer geological power of Hawaii's subterranean stirrings. And the trip is entirely family-friendly: On a 12-hour guided tour with Hawaii Forest & Trail , you'll embark on a 3-mile hike around the park, go romping through a dark lava tube, and enjoy views of the flowing lava from several key vantage points. Nature doesn't get any more thrilling.

Snorkeling in Belize

Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure

Belize's Great Blue Hole is not only one of the most mysterious — and beautiful — sites on earth, it's also a must-visit destination for divers. Venturing all the way down is recommended for experienced divers only. But that doesn't mean the rest of us can't go exploring, too.

Snorkeling is a fun, beginner-friendly way to glimpse life below the surface. On Belize's largest island, Ambergris Caye, an area called Tres Coco is a wonderful place to start. Here, snorkelers benefit from large brain and elkhorn coral in waters that only go 6 to 8 feet deep. You'll see not only tropical fish like yellowtail snapper and rainbow parrotfish, but also conch, banded shrimp, sea urchin, and stingrays.

A few miles off the southern tip of Ambergris Caye, you'll find Hol Chan Marine Reserve , another excellent destination for underwater thrills. The protected reserve is teeming with wildlife, including a sandy-bottom area that's become a gathering place for nurse sharks, hence the name: Shark Alley. Don't worry, though. Despite the sharks' intimidating appearance and rows of serrated teeth, they're harmless to humans, and will only respond aggressively if provoked.

Canopy Tour in Guatemala

If you're not afraid of heights, a visit to Guatemala's Tikal National Park might be in order. The UNESCO World Heritage site is home to a thrilling canopy tour that takes place each morning in the park at 9 a.m.

On the tour, you'll be able to soar through the trees via zipline. The route connects 10 platforms built 100 feet above the forest floor, and it offers an impressive bird's eye view of the flora and fauna. Along the way, a staff of naturalist guides will be able to identify any creatures — Howler monkeys, ring-tailed coatimundi, jaguars, and toucans, to name a few — that catch your eye.

While you're here, stick around to explore the park's impressive Mayan ruins. Scattered throughout the park is a network of 3,000 ancient temples, monuments and dwellings — the largest excavated site in the Americas.

Hiking Half Dome in Yosemite

Valerie de Leon/Travel + Leisure

America's national parks are full of enchanting scenery, but nothing quite compares to the magnificent peaks of Yosemite Valley. The sheer granite cliffs appear to poke the heavens, while the gently cascading 2,400-foot waterfalls will make you think you've wandered straight into Neverland. For a truly unforgettable panorama, try hiking Half Dome, the park's most recognizable monolith.

Only 300 hikers are allowed to climb its surface each day. And when you start making your way up the near-vertical rockface, you'll understand why. A steel cable acts as a handrail, with a series of wooden slats for your shoes to grip onto. Due to the treacherous nature of the climb, things move very slowly, as folks do their best to advance up the rock without tumbling into the valley below. (Don't forget: The route is two-way, so you'll also have to navigate sharing the cables and foot rests with all the folks climbing down, too!)

To apply for a climbing permit, simply log onto the park's website in March to enter a lottery for the upcoming season. A limited number of permits are available on a first-come, first-serve basis; those can also be secured through the website. And don't forget to drink water — lots of it.

Trekking to Machu Picchu

Rory Fuller/Travel + Leisure

If the idea of trekking through a stark landscape of craggy mountains and lush jungle sounds appealing, then maybe it's time you finally crossed Machu Picchu off your bucket list.

A colorful mix of landscapes awaits hikers on the Salkantay trek, a pleasantly crowd-free alternative to the popular Incan Trail that leads to the archaeological wonder. The classic 5-day itinerary begins with scaling Salkantay Mountain, the 12th highest in Peru. It's hard work, but the endorphins greeting you at the top of the pass — not to mention those views — will be reward enough. From there, it's onto the delights of the Sacred Valley's "cloud forest," where you'll cross under waterfalls, go ziplining, and sleep in simple yurt-like tents with all meals catered by a team of hard-working guides.

By the time you finally reach Machu Picchu (at sunrise, no less) on the fifth day, it'll feel less like a bucket-list item, and more like the natural continuation of a landscape which, after sleeping outdoors and sharing meals with locals, you'll feel intimately connected to. Enjoy the view from the top, you've earned it.

Skydiving in Dubai

Dubai might not be the first place that springs to mind when you think of adventure. The desert metropolis is typically associated with glamorous hotels, gold, and its iconic skyscraper, Burj Khalifa. But for those looking to skip the malls, skydiving is a fun way to see another side of Dubai — literally.

Picture this: You're freefalling at 120 miles an hour, having been dropped out of a plane 13,000 feet over Dubai. Below you, the iconic Palm Islands are spread out like a painting made of sand. From above, you'll be able to make out the turquoise Persian Gulf, the symmetrical "fronds" of the islands, and, yes, the famous spiraling skyscraper.

You'll be strapped to an instructor, of course. (Someone's got to make sure that parachute deploys!) After freefalling for 60 seconds, you'll float slowly over the city for 5 minutes, and between the views, the howling wind, and the pleasant feeling of weightlessness, the sensory overload will leave you grinning ear to ear. By the time you touch down, you'll probably want to toast your bravery with a glass of champagne. Looks like that hotel bar will come in handy, after all.

• BEST OF THE WORLD

20 of the coolest travel adventures for 2024

From a horseback safari in Kenya to river rafting in West Virginia, here’s our ranked list of the top travel experiences right now.

This page is a portal.   No, really, it is: Our annual Best of the World feature is a gateway to the streets of Paris , the snowy Caucasus Mountains of Georgia , the ancient rock art of Algeria . To help us engage with places more deeply and meaningfully, we drew on National Geographic’s global community of experts to create the following ranked list of 20 great adventures for 2024. Read on and you’ll discover that this page is also a celebration—of travel’s power to transform us and our connections with one another.

#1: Go on horseback safari in Kenya

A safari in Africa usually conjures an image of mud-spattered 4x4 vehicles bouncing through the bush. But there’s another way to travel: on horseback .  

Although horse safaris originated in Kenya in the 1970s, they’re a perfect fit for today’s growing number of travelers looking for more engaging, sustainable wildlife encounters. At the 32,000-acre Borana Conservancy , two stables house thoroughbreds and ex-polo ponies for riders of all skill levels. Visitors can book half-day, full-day, or overnight rides. July through September is the prime time to go.

Since wildlife perceive equines as just another animal, exploring the landscape atop a horse makes for an intimate experience. “To journey on horseback is to break down the walls—meant to protect but also to separate—between oneself and the natural world,” says Nichole Sobecki , a photographer and equestrian who’s ridden in Borana. “Your horse is a translator, responding to the low growl of the lion, the soft scent of a herd of elephants.” A horse’s ears are an advance warning system, she says, helping knowledgeable guides navigate routes.

#2: Run an Olympic marathon in Paris

For the first time, members of the public will be able to run their own marathon during the 2024 Summer Olympics , in Paris, France , just one initiative aimed at creating a more inclusive Games.  

Slated to be held the evening of August 10, between the men’s and women’s official races, the Marathon for All will allow 20,024 qualifying lottery winners on the 26.2-mile route that links Paris and Versailles , a loop beginning at the Hôtel de Ville (City Hall) and passing through nine arrondissements before finishing at Les Invalides on the banks of the Seine. Before or after the big event, learn the route to follow in their tracks.  

#3: Ski tour UNESCO sites in Georgia

Long a means of transportation, exploration, and hunting, skiing is still a way of life in the mountainous republic of Georgia. Now visitors can enjoy some of the nation’s best backcountry skiing in the Caucasus with the help of outfitters such as Svaneti Ski and Georgia Ski Touring . In Svaneti, excursions may lead skiers through panoramic Gvibari Pass or to medieval Ushguli villages, among the highest continuously inhabited in Europe. The best times to experience this are December to April.

#4: Bear watch in Katmai National Park

Alaska ’s Katmai National Park is home to one of the highest concentrations of brown bears in the world. Far from the crowded viewing platforms of the Brooks Camp Visitor Center, a guided trip along the Katmai coast with outfitters like AK Adventures reveals a different side of the park.

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Here, the bears feast on a diversity of foods: sedges, grasses, razor clams, salmon. “For me, seeing a single brown bear in the wild is meaningful because it is a sign that the landscape is healthy enough to support it,” says Alaska photographer Acacia Johnson , a frequent National Geographic contributor.

#5: Hear legendary live music in Kyoto

Guidebooks speak of Kyoto as frozen in time, with hushed temples and meditative gardens. But after hours, Japan ’s former imperial capital reveals a live music scene that can be loud and irreverent. At venues like Jittoku and Field , rock, swing, and even Irish music echo into the night. Whatever you’re into, from jazz to punk, there’s a community to share your jam. “This is what happens in Japan when the mask comes off,” says Kyoto guide Van Milton.

#6: Cruise an epic river in Colombia

About 80 percent of Colombia ’s population lives in the river basin of the Magdalena, which flows for nearly a thousand miles from the Andes to the Caribbean. AmaWaterways’ new cruises on the river—said to be the first by a major cruise operator—take seven-night trips from Cartagena via Mompós to Barranquilla. Stops at colonial towns, performances of vallenato   and cumbia music, and visits to a stilt-house village highlight the region’s culture along this mighty waterway.

#7:   Road trip Route 66 in New Mexico

For nearly a century, Route 66 has beckoned to travelers. A trip along the Mother Road through New Mexico hits timeless landmarks , such as quirky motels and curio shops in and around Tucumcari and symbolic etchings in Petroglyph National Monument . In Gallup—mentioned as one of the places to “get your kicks” in Nat King Cole’s 1946 hit song “Route 66”—you can take in performances featuring Zuni, Lakota, and Diné (Navajo) dancers.  

Some 18 miles of the highway traverse Albuquerque , the longest urban interlude of the route in the United States. And it’s getting a half-million-dollar glow-up with the ongoing restoration of vintage neon signs along Central Avenue.  

While cruising down the brightened strip, stop at the new West Central Route 66 Visitor Center , with its museum and outdoor amphitheater. The center will host events like lowrider car shows, drive-in movies, and artisan markets.

#8: Explore ancient art in Algeria

Algeria is home to Africa’s largest national park, which holds one of the world’s greatest concentrations of ancient rock art. Tassili n’Ajjer National Park is a geologic wonderland of sandstone towers, arches, and sculpted outcrops. But these rock forests are only half the story.  

Neolithic herders and hunter-gatherers carved 15,000 petroglyphs here, including images of elephants, giraffes, and rhinos. These animals are more commonly associated with sub-Saharan Africa—a hint that this arid wilderness was once a grassland crisscrossed by waterways. Five- to seven-day guided tours with Fancy Yellow take in the most spectacular works of Tassili’s art, like the “Crying Cows,” engraved at the base of a stone pinnacle 7,000 years ago.  

Travelers with more time might want to combine a trip to Tassili with a visit to the Algerian Sahara’s other great geologic marvel: the extraordinary mountain range of Ahaggar National Park .

#9: Dive with sharks in Western Australia

Stretching almost 700 miles along the Indian Ocean north of Perth, Western Australia’ s Coral Coast is studded with natural wonders. But Ningaloo Reef is the star. Here, you can dive with giants: Some 300 to 500 whale sharks ,   one of the largest congregations on Earth, gather along the reef each year between March and July. Ethical outfitters ensure divers give the sharks space and avoid feeding them or using flash photography.  

Even more megafauna abound from July to October, when about 40,000 humpback whales migrate along the Coral Coast. You can also commune with more than 10,000 dugongs in Shark Bay or swim with manta rays at Coral Bay.  

#10: Hike a volcano in Panama

A sustainability leader, Panama recently launched its “1,000 Kilometers of Trails” project , which seeks to bring outdoor recreation and green tourism to rural communities and protected areas.

First out of the gate is the Ruta de la Caldera , a system of five trails around the extinct Valle de Antón volcano . The treks take in waterfall-speckled landscapes, according to photographer Rose Marie Cromwell , who hiked sections of the Ruta de la Caldera over five days.

“There were some spectacular views on top of the volcanic crater—interesting land formations covered in so much green,” she says.

#11: Catch the eclipse at Niagara Falls

Directly in the path of totality, Niagara Falls will offer views of a total solar eclipse, which won’t occur again in the contiguous U.S. until 2044. For about three and a half minutes, beginning at approximately 3:18 p.m. on April 8, the sky will darken over the thunderous cataract as the moon crosses between Earth and the sun.  

On the U.S. side of the falls , Terrapin Point, Prospect Point, and the Observation Tower will be prime viewing areas (if clouds stay away). From the Canadian side, an excellent vantage point is Table Rock. A side bonus: The sunny-day rainbow that hovers above the falls will become pink.  

#12: Trek a glacier in Chile

In Chilean Patagonia‘s Laguna San Rafael National Park , visitors can trek to glaciers, taking in a panorama of pale blue ice massifs and glacial waterways. Some 17,300 glaciers still cover the whole of Patagonia’s ice fields, but rising temperatures are rapidly melting them. Climate scientists say sustainable tourism , such as hikes with Chilean outfitters like Turismo Valle Leones , supports local communities and inspires travelers to learn more about how to protect glaciers.

#13: Step back in time on Menorca

Spain ’s Balearic Islands are best known for the jet-set beach destinations of Ibiza and Mallorca . But quiet, less developed Menorca has a unique mother lode: The archipelago’s greatest repository of ancient architecture.

In an area of just 270 square miles, Menorca has a total of 1,574 inventoried archaeological sites , ranging from the foundation blocks of small dwellings to well-preserved village centers that existed long before the Roman Empire. Most striking are the navetas,   megalithic tombs dating back to 1600 B.C.; talayots, watchtowers built from mortarless blocks of limestone; and   taulas,   shrines exclusive to Menorca that evoke Stonehenge pillars. These remnants of the Talayotic Menorcan culture, the first civilization to inhabit the island, have now been inscribed on UNESCO’s World Heritage List .  

The open-air monuments are easy to visit; the island’s Me-1 road passes by some of the best-preserved sites, including the settlements of Talatí de Dalt, Naveta des Tudons, and Taula de Torretrencada.

Reenter the 21st century at the new Hauser & Wirth gallery in the picturesque town of Mahón. Housed in repurposed 18th-century hospital buildings, the cultural venue presents contemporary art exhibits and has an outdoor sculpture trail with works by Louise Bourgeois and Joan Miró.

#14: Ride classic rails in Scotland

Exploring Scotland ’s wild, scenic Highlands doesn’t have to mean roughing it. The Royal Scotsman train glides among the moody lochs and dramatic peaks in style. New suites debuting in May 2024 sport interiors that reflect the compelling landscapes through dark woods, wool tweeds , and richly patterned bespoke tartans crafted by Scottish brand Araminta Campbell . After a day spent hiking to waterfalls or playing rounds of golf (a sport inextricably tied to the nation), guests can wind down with a massage at the onboard spa.

Departing Edinburgh ’s Waverley Station, the two- to seven-night rail journeys cross the heart of the Highlands, from Perthshire to Inverness to the rugged west coast. During stops guests can tour castles, stargaze in Cairngorms National Park , sample whisky at revered distilleries, and even take a dip in a loch.

#15: Find authentic flavor in Thailand  

The Isaan region in northeastern Thailand is known for its distinctive cuisine that reflects influences from bordering Laos and Cambodia. “Isaan is a hidden gem of Thailand,” says Weerawat “Num” Triyasenawat, the chef at Samuay & Sons , a Michelin Guide -recommended restaurant in the Isaan city of Udon Thani.

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One key ingredient of the region’s delicious food is pla ra, a fermented-fish seasoning that boosts umami flavor. Local dishes include laab   (minced meat salad), traditionally served during celebrations.

#16: Wander tea trails in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is virtually synonymous with tea. The island nation is one of the world’s top producers of tea leaves. British colonists introduced the first bushes about 200 years ago. Now visitors can trace the footsteps of historic planters on the new, nearly 200-mile Pekoe Trail , the country’s first long-distance walking route.  

Starting just outside Kandy, the trail follows the 19th-century tracks upon which workers and horse-drawn carts transported freshly plucked leaves. Hikers pass through hill towns and tea estates and can stop to take a cooking class or savor a cup of aromatic Ceylon tea.

#17: Gallery hop in São Paulo

São Paulo, Brazil ’s largest city, is an art lover’s paradise, home to numerous galleries, exhibitions, and street murals. The crowning jewel is the Museu de Arte de São Paulo (MASP), which is expanding to showcase more of its 11,000-plus artworks, from pre-Renaissance paintings to contemporary sculptures. Departing from the usual model of exhibiting works on walls, MASP hangs some pieces against clear panels, allowing visitors to view the art from all angles.

#18: Raft the rapids in West Virginia  

Despite its name, West Virginia ’s New River is actually one of the oldest on Earth, perhaps as old as 360 million years. The river falls 750 feet in only 50 miles between sandstone cliffs. It eventually merges with the Gauley River.   Outfitters such as ACE Adventure Resort can arrange whitewater rafting trips here on Class III to V rapids through the longest and deepest river gorge in the Appalachians.  

#19: Go antiquing in Hudson Valley

The bucolic Hudson Valley is booming, thanks to an influx of New York City residents during the pandemic. But it’s long been a mecca for creatives: Its landscapes inspired America’s first artistic fraternity, the Hudson River School. Antique collectors will be drawn to the hundreds of stores, boutiques, craft shops, and flea markets that sell everything from colonial furniture and rare books to mid-century modern decor. For vintage finds, head to the Antique Warehouse in Hudson, Sister Salvage in Catskill, and Opera House Co. in Athens.

“There’s a common denominator here—the charming historic villages,” says Sarah Gray Miller, owner of Coxsackie antique store UnQuiet . From Stuyvesant to Saugerties, these towns “share a strong commitment to preservation.”

#20: Sleep on the water in British Columbia

The newly reopened Tofino Wilderness Resort , owned by the Ahousaht First Nation, is an idyllic base from which to explore the western coast of British Columbia ’s Vancouver Island. In the heart of Clayoquot Sound, the luxury floating lodge was renovated with lumber cut from timber which fell on-site. Through guided whale-watching trips or visits to the Freedom Cove artists’ sanctuary, the Ahousaht share with guests their philosophy, hishuk ish tsawalk (“everything is one”), celebrating the interconnectedness of people and nature in a land they’ve occupied for thousands of years.

Editor's note

Related topics.

• HORSEBACK RIDING
• PETROGLYPHS
• WILDLIFE WATCHING
• WILDLIFE PHOTOGRAPHY
• CROSS-COUNTRY SKIING
• SNOWMOBILING

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The Best Adventure Destinations For The Ultimate Vacations

Written By: The Planet D

Adventure Travel , Travel Bucket Lists

Updated On: February 9, 2024

While all countries offer an adventure of some kind, there are a few destinations that we have been to that seem to cater to the true adventurous spirit. We came up with a list of our top 10 favorite adventure vacations to tick off your travel bucket list.

Each of these destinations will let you do a lot of adventures in one place.

• Is a safari on your bucket list? Check
• What about Whitewater Rafting? Yep
• Or how about jumping out of an airplane? Oh yeah

Table of Contents

Adventure Bucket List Vacation Guide

Check out our favourite adventure destinations around the world that we’ve personally been to for the greatest adventure vacations on earth.

Have you got a favorite adventure destination? Share it with us in the comments. We’re planning our 2021 travels and are itching for a great adventure around the world.

1. New Zealand

New Zealand isn’t called the adventure capital of the world for nothing! New Zealand is the land of adventure and you can check off most of your travel bucket list dreams here. We took part in pretty much every adventure that we could dream of trying during our trips to New Zealand and can honestly say, this is the best place on earth for adventures.

From whitewater rafting  class 5 rapids  in freezing glacial waters to magnificent glacier walks and bunjy jumping to skydiving it’s the adrenaline junkies dream destination. With beaches, watersports, wildlife and glaciers, New Zealand has it all.

• Check out all the Things to do in New Zealand
• The Best Places to Visit in Wellington, New Zealand
• A Local’s Guide to The Best Things to do in Wanaka, New Zealand

2. Best Adventure Vacations for Wildlife – Tanzania

Tanzania is the ultimate safari destination . Going on a game drive through the Serengeti is an experience you’ll never forget. Looking for the big 5 is a thrill of a lifetime and seeing a large male lion for the first time is out of this world.

There is nothing like camping in the middle of a game reserve or viewing Jane Goodall’s chimpanzees at the Gombe Forest on Lake Tanganyika. Don’t forget to cycle, we had our greatest adventure cycling through the country!

But Tanzania also is an amazing vacation destination with a tropical escape to Zanzibar where you can go scuba diving and snorkelling, take a sailing trip or enjoy the beach life. But the ultimate adventure is to climb to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro and stand on the roof of Africa.

Check out all the things to do in Tanzania at 16 Amazing Things to do in Tanzania

3. Best Mountain Trekking Adventures in Nepal

One would think that the only thing to do in Nepal is trek in the Himalayas. While the biggest attractions are treks to  Mount Everest Base Camp and Annapurna Circuit there are so many more adventures in Nepal to be had!

Even travel through the country is exciting. The flight to Lukla is considered one of the scariest in the world making for thrills and spills in mid-air. Head out to Pokhara and try Paragliding over the valley below. There is awesome  mountain biking  and cycling trips are gaining speed all over the country.

Did you know that you can go on safari in Nepal as well?  The Chitwan National Park offers excellent opportunities to spot Rhinos and its considered one of the best tiger habitats in the world. There is White Water Rafting and kayaking as well that we didn’t get to try unfortunately because it was the dry season when we were there, but rest assured we’ll be back.

• The Complete Guide to the Everest Base Camp Trek
• Top Places to visit in Kathmandu, Nepal
• Tips for Planning and Trekking to Everest Base Camp

4. Best Adrenaline Rush in South Africa

South Africa is considered the adventure capital of Africa and with good reason. It caters to thrill seekers of all kinds. From bunjy jumping the highest commercial bungy jumping the world at Bloukrans Bungee Jump on the Garden Route to cage diving with great white sharks, South Africa has it all. We’ve done sandboarding and ziplining, kayaked with hippos and flying over Durban in a microlight plane !

South Africa is also an amazing safari destination where you can see all the amazing African animals like the Big 5 (lions, buffalo, elephants, leopards, and rhinos) to ostrich and cheetahs. There’s also great caving at the Cango Caves in South Africa.

• Check out all the things to do in South Africa here
• 20 Amazing Things to do in Cape Town, South Africa
• Ultimate Guide to Kitesurfing Cape Town – A Local’s Guidebook

And you thought the only thing to do in Peru was to go to Machu Picchu ! That couldn’t be farther from the truth. While the ruins are spectacular,  Peru  offers some of the most exciting adventure travel in the world. It starts with a trek on the Inca Trail and Sacred Valley, but the adventures continue with Paragliding over Mira Flores in Lima and surfing off the coast.

If you want dry land, try sandboarding in Huaccachina. But the real adventure for us was going on a wild dune buggy adventure in some of the highest dunes in the world.

And the ultimate backwater adventure vacation has to be exploring the Amazon. Explore the tributaries of the world’s largest river in search of wildlife. Or if the Amazon isn’t in the cards yet, we loved taking a boat trip to Isla Ballestas to view sea lions and penguins Peru’s answer to the Galapagos Islands.

• Fun Facts About Peru You Never Knew
• Paracas Peru – Adventures in the California Desert
• What To Expect When Hiking Rainbow Mountain Peru

Spending time at  Victoria Falls  will satisfy the adventure bug in any traveler. Try whitewater rafting in the sky as a helicopter whisks you through the deep maze of gorges and giving you a bird’s eye view of the largest waterfall in the world. Or even better, hop on a microlight flight for a birds eye view.

If you want the real deal, The Zambezi River offers some of the most exciting rapids on earth!

Or if heights are your thing…Bungy jump on the border of Zambia and Zimbabwe on the bridge spanning the Zambezi River below.   But we loved the Gorge Swing where you drop 50 meters in a matter of seconds, to be whipped across the Victoria Falls gorge at 95 miles an hour. If that’s too much for you, there’s abseiling and ziplining over the gorge as well!

There’s more relaxed adventures as well, take a day trip to Chobe National Park for some of the best game viewing in Africa and if you are very brave try Sitting in Devil’s Pool at the top of Victoria Falls during the dry season.

They don’t run the world’s toughest race in Fiji for nothing! It is paradise island destination filled with countless adventure activities! We went out to the adventure capital of Fiji on the Pacific Coast where we took part in some wild activities. Home to the eco-challenge in 2003 and 2019 this South Pacific Island is an adventure lover’s dream. From high-speed Jet boating on the Sigatoka River to riding the longest  Zip Line  in the world over a magnificent jungle canopy.

There’s jungle trekking and exploring caves with actual descendants of Head Hunters as your guides. World-Class diving sites, beautiful whitewater rafting on the Upper Navua River and island hopping on sailboats to explore it’s 300 islands. Oh yeah, this island paradise is a place you’ll never want to leave.

• 12 Things to do in Fiji – The Ultimate South Pacific Dream Trip
• Kava Ceremony in Fiji Etiquette
• Pacific Coast Fun with Zipline Fiji

9. Malaysian Borneo 

This place as it all! Start in Kota Kinabalu and make your way to Mount Kinabalu, Southeast Asia’s most beautiful peak. This is a challenging 2 day climb that will take your breath away two-fold. One for the rigorous hike and another for the spectacular scenery. Visiting Gunung Mulu National Park where you can hike the Headhunter’s Trail and trek to the Pinnacles is a thrilling experience.

Continue on to Sepilok where you’ll view Organgutans in their natural habitat and then pop over to the Kinabatingan River to view wildlife along the river banks from Wild Orangutans, elephants and crocodiles to name a few.

The best diving in the world is in Sipadan where you can dive within a swirl of a school of barracuda! And it’s an amazing wildlife adventure destination. There’s more wildlife viewing where you can spot the proboscis monkey and Borneo houses one of the largest cave systems in the world where you can view 2 million bats circle overhead nightly from Deer Cave.

• Great Things to do in Borneo – Malaysia’s Wild Jungle Island
• The Pinnacles of Borneo – Amazing Wonder of Gunung Mulu
• Mount Kinabalu – What it’s Really Like to Climb Borneo’s Highest Peak

10. Antarctica

It’s the final frontier for adventure travel. Not everyone has the opportunity to go to Antarctica, but it is at the top of everyone’s travel bucket list. Before going on an Antarctic expedition, we thought you simply sailed through the ice, but there are amazing adventures to be had.

From kayaking around icebergs to taking zodiacs close to the mouth of glaciers and taking part in the polar plunge jumping into the Antarctic Peninsula’s freezing waters. You’ll have bragging rights for years to come!

It is also one of the best safari destinations on earth with millions of penguins wanting to say hello. Fearless whales that surface for a closer peek and leopard and Weddell seals lounging on ice flows. Antarctica is the ultimate adventure vacation.

• 11 of the Best Things to do in Antarctica
• Fascinating Facts About Antarctica
• How to Pack for an Antarctica Cruise

11. Greenland

Heading to the other end of the world, Greenland blew our minds. With many of the same adventures as Antarctica, Greenland is the northern hemisphere’s final adventure frontier. We kayaked through uncharted fjiords, stood beside the world’s most active calving glacier and jumped into the freezing Arctic waters for the Polar Bear Plunge.

There’s awesome hiking, and dogsledding, zodiac tours and village visits. What unique about a visit to Greenland is all the chances to view the Northern Lights.

• Incredible Greenland – The Final Frontier for Adventure Travel
• Kayaking in Greenland – The Greatest Arctic Adventure in Photos
• Ilulissat Greenland – Icebergs are Born at Ilulissat Fjord

12. Off the Beaten Path Adventure Vacations – Kyrgyzstan

The Stans are one of the last places that haven’t been overrun by tourists in this world, and Kyrgyzstan is made for adventurers. Issyk Kul Lake is the place to be for great adventure where you can meet the mystical Eagle Hunters, stay in yurts and trek to the fairytale Skazka Canyon.

But it is going to Jygalan that the adventures really begin where you meet up with the horse people of Kyrgyzstan. Take a horse trek high into the mountains or go trekking on foot into the mountains. Going to Kyrgyzstan is an adventure unto itself as the country is remote and wild.

• Kyrgyzstan Trekking by Horse – Into Jyrgalan and the Boz Uchuk Lakes
• The Proud Eagle Hunters of Kyrgyzstan
• 10 Incredible Reasons to Visit Kyrgyzstan

14. Galapagos

The Galapagos Islands are home to the world’s most unique ecostystem with many animals endemic to the islands. It is truly one of the greatest wildlife destinations in the world for unique encounters. Swim cage free with the Galapagos Sharks, or frolic in the sea with playful sea lions.

Spot the massive Galapagos tortoise and see the Galapagos marine iguana. It’s an amazing destination for scuba diving, snorkelling and bird watching. But there is some amazing hiking through the jungle and along an active volcano on Isabella Island. Explore its lava fields and cones as you hike up to overlook the caldera.

• Unique Galapagos Islands Animals in Photos
• 27 photos that will transport you to the Galápagos Islands
• Playing With Sea Lions on San Isabella in the Galapagos

16. Costa Rica

It took us years to finally make it to Costa Rica and it did not disappoint. Costa Rica is a wild untamed land of jungles and volcanoes. We spied monkeys, sloths and toucans while searching for wildlife.

Kayaking and zodiac tours are a must and hiking through the jungle is an experience you’ll never forget. Take a tour to the cloud forest and see the incredible Arenal Volcano blowing its smoke as you stay in a treehouse. Costa Rica is the original home to the zipline and canopy tours so it is not to be missed!

• Things do to in San Jose, Costa Rica
• 23 Interesting Facts About Costa Rica
• What to Expect on a Panama Canal Cruise with Uncruise

It’s difficult to choose an adventure destination in Canada for a vacation, because each province has awesome adventures. We have an entire breakdown of adventures in Canada, but to help you check off your bucket list, here are a couple highlights from different provinces. Read more: Best Canada Adventures From Coast to Coast

Walk with polar bears and explore the arctic Tundra on tunrda vehicles. You’ll also see wolves, bears and moose on Canada’s most epic safari. Then head to Churchill for some kayaking or snorkelling with Beluga whales.

Read all about our time with polar bears here. Walking with Polar Bears – The Greatest Arctic Safari and check out the time we went Kayaking with Beluga Whales in Churchill

Alberta was home to the 1992 Olympics and besides the world class skiing there are plenty of adventures to be had. See all the great adventure to be had at Things to do in Alberta Canada – The Ultimate Guide

Explore North America’s largest glacier at the Athabasca glacier, go cross country skiing deep into the back country to stay in a remote lodge, take a high mountain trail ride through the rockies or search for grizzlies, moose and caribou in Jasper National Park . The possibilities are endless. Read more: Beautiful Places to Visit in Alberta

• The Best Things to do in Canmore, Alberta
• The Best Things to do in Banff
• 14 Best Hikes in Jasper National Park – Alberta Canada
• Driving the Icefields Parkway from Banff to Jasper Alberta
• Things to do in Drumheller, Alberta
• Where to Stay in Banff

Nova Scotia

The East Coast is home to the world’s highest tides and you can ride the waves while tidal bore rafting in Nova Scotia. If that’s a little too much of an adventure, you can walk on the ocean floor while the massive tide is out. There is incredible kayaking on the Bay of Fundy and the Atlantic Ocean, world class trekking and hiking and fantastic whale watching, boat tours and beaches. Read more: Best Things to do in Nova Scotia – The Ultimate Travel Guide

But there are so many other amazing adventures in Canada, you really need to read our full article to see them all and plan your own Canadian adventure vacation.

• Tidal Bore Rafting in Nova Scotia – The World Highest Tides
• The Stunning Skyline Trail in Cape Breton, Nova Scotia
• 22 Incredible Stops on the Cabot Trail in Nova Scotia
• Things to do in Lunenburg Nova Scotia – Top Activities
• The Best Things to do in Halifax, Nova Scotia
• The Ultimate Nova Scotia Road Trip Itinerary

18. Thailand 

Thailand has so many adventure activities it is difficult to know where to begin from sea kayaking through sea caves and entering hongs to snorkelling and scuba diving.  We’ve spent many a day rock climbing in Southern Thailand , it is one of the best sport climbing destinations in the world. There’s not only water sports, jungle trekking is a popular and mountain biking is gaining popularity. The toughest adventure we took part in was training in Muay Thai Kickboxing. It’s one awesome way to get yourself in shape.

For a less stressful adventure take a motorcycle ride to the Myanmar Border. We wound our way through steep mountain roads and witnessed hill tribes in their natural habitat. We went sea kayaking to untouched villages in the north of the country and hiked through tea plantations in Doi Mae Salong. The sky is the limit in Thailand imagine and adventure and you can probably do it here!

• The Best Things to do in Koh Samui
• 35 Amazing Things to Do in Thailand in 2021
• Beautiful Beaches in Thailand to Spark Your Wanderlust
• The Best Things to do in Pai Thailand
• 35 of the Best Things to do in Chiang Mai, Thailand

19. Mexico 

Sure it’s probably the number 1 vacation destination for North Americans to go and chill out on the beach, but there is so much more to Mexico than Margaritas and laying in the sun. Mexico has some of the most pristine scuba diving on the planet. It is also one fo the best places to swim with whale sharks. Which is a must on any bucket list.

For diving, there is the magnificent Palancar Reef which we still put up there as the best marine life views we’ve ever seen. And for the truly adventurous, there’s diving in the Cenotes near Tulum. Paragliding and Hang Gliding can be experienced all over the country including Tapalpa and Oaxaca. Mexico is known for its rock climbing too, there are sites all over the country most notably El Potrero Chico. There is surfing all along the Pacific Coast and mountain biking in Copper Canyon. Of course there is hiking too.

One of our greatest adventures in Mexico was kayaking through the Baja Peninsula for 10 days. It was a trip we’ll never forget. Mexico is such a giant country that it is impossible to pin down where to choose to do your vacation.

• 15 Fun Facts About Mexico
• Best Things to do in Cancun, Mexico
• 23 Amazing Things to do in Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula

Like Canada and Mexico, America i s huge and has many adventure destinations, but what sets it apart is that it has Alaska, so we could easily choose! Alaska is filled with adventures from seeing glaciers up close and personal to spotting wildlife like brown bears (coastal grizzlies) to moose.

But it also has North America’s highest mountain, Denali (aka Mount Mckinley) that you can either climb if you are an avid mountain climber or take a scenic flight over. There’s amazing hiking, whale watching, more zodiac tours and kayaking. Alaska is truly the best adventure vacations in the US.

• The Best Places to Visit in Alaska
• 28 Amazing Things to do in Juneau, Alaska
• Things to do in Alaska
• How to Pack for an Alaskan Cruise

And these are our favorite adventure destinations to add to your bucket list. They have definitely created lasting memories for us.

What destination or country did we miss? Add your bucket list adventure to our list in the comments below.

• 50 Most Beautiful Places in the World to Visit – That We’ve Been
• Beautiful Isolated Places on Earth – In Photos
• 41 Beautiful Places in Canada To Visit Right Now
• Bucket List Travels – 52 Places to Visit in Your Lifetime

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12 thoughts on “The Best Adventure Destinations For The Ultimate Vacations”

EXCELLENT ARTICLE… WELL, ALL COUNTRIES HAVE IT’S OWN SPECIALITY & BEAUTY… & THESE 5 PLACES ARE THE BEST PLACES FOR ADVENTURES… I REALLY LOVE FIJI & NEPAL…

I’m glad Peru made your list! This place is definitely underrated in adventure travel!

Wow this a great round up. New Zealand is my stand out. I have not been to the others but nothing like starting at the top. I think Peru would be my next, once I have been round Australia seeing that I live here.

Awesome article!! One question: when you refer to Fiji, are you referring to the largest island (Viti Levu)? Or are you referring to other islands? Would like to know cause I it would be cool to visit Fiji and participate in some of these adventures. I tend to see Fiji as a beach destination but I guess is way more than that.

Hi Ruth, Good Question and yes, we are referring to Viti Levu. All of our adventures took place on the main island with an emphasis on the Pacific Coast. (the adventure capital!)

New Zealand definitely deserves that #1 spot, that’s for sure! You wouldn’t think so much adrenaline-inducing adventure could be contained in such a small country… but it is!

I would also add the US! Plenty of adventure to be had in this diverse country of mine.

Ah, wish I had seen that CTV segment! Is there a video?

Hi Candice, we are working on getting the video copied. We had friends and family record it on their PVR’s but CTV is working on getting us copies of future segments as well. We are on every Friday between 9 and Noon on CTV News Channel!

Go New Zealand!

You betcha, New Zealand is the tops for adventure in our books!

Well I’ve done New Zealand and Nepal. Sounds like I have a few more adventure destinations to visit 🙂

Wicked Dean, you’ve done some pretty awesome adventure destinations! Stay tuned for part two tomorrow for some more ideas!

• Adventure Travel

12 Best Places for Adventure Seekers

Farryl Last is a poet and international educator from New York. She studied abroad in Paris and B...

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How would you design your dream travel itinerary ? Maybe you’re the type to check off every major monument and museum along the way. Maybe you’d prefer leisurely strolls along city streets, or you're eager to discover a beach or pool for some international lounging.

Or maybe it’s tons of activity, opportunities for cultural immersion , and a daily adrenaline rush (or two or three) you’re after. In that case, you might just be an adventure-seeker at your core.

Planning an adventure trip? Here are the top destinations to consider!

Adventure travel can cover a wide range of experiences, and the best places for adventure travel help you pack an array of heart-pounding, goosebump-raising possibilities into your trip. In fact, any time you push yourself to your limits, you’re embracing adventure travel .

For you, that could be hurtling from planes, scaling the world’s tallest peaks, or swimming hand-to-fin with sharks. Even immersing yourself in the local language or connecting with nature can offer meaningful adventure travel experiences.

And that means you’ll find opportunities for adventure just about everywhere. Picking the first place to visit might be your hardest task!

12 best places to travel for adventure seekers

You can’t go wrong with any of these action-packed destinations if you’re debating where to go for adventure travel:

1. Thailand

Grab your backpack and do a little island hopping in Thailand!

Put Thailand on your personal map if you’re looking for one of the best adventure trips in the world. A wide range of adventure opportunities exist in the midst of a tourist-friendly country, making Thailand a great destination whether you’re just getting into adventure travel or you’re a seasoned expert.

Gorgeous beaches, stunning temples, and bustling cities are just the start. Thailand lures in backpackers who want to explore wildlife (and wild nightlife), taste delicious food, surf for the first time , and do so much more. You can’t beat the affordability factor, either, making Thailand ideal for short-term adventures and longer stays alike.

Recommended program: Grabatour Thailand: 8-Day Thailand Experience

2. New Zealand

There’s good reason why New Zealand is home to the adventure capital of the world (for the uninitiated, just google Queenstown). You’ll find opportunities to live out all your adventure-travel dreams across the country. With everything from glaciers to hot springs to snowy mountains, New Zealand’s breathtaking landscapes make it the go-to land of adventure for travelers worldwide.

Zorbing , bungee jumping, flying by wire, jet boating—yep, Kiwis invented it all. Whether you’re after a water-based adventure (think: class 5 rapids for white water rafting) or prefer your adventures high above the ground (skydiving anyone?), New Zealand has you covered.

Recommended program: 12 Weeks Adventure Guide Program in Queenstown, New Zealand

3. Costa Rica

Hike in Costa Rica and meet jungles bursting with wildlife!

The country known for pura vida , a.k.a. the pure, simple life, is also one of the best places for adventure travel. You’ll find adventure around every corner, whether that’s on a sandy beach, in a dense jungle, or even high above a cloud forest or deep down in a cave spelunking .

Pound the waves and then lounge on the beach, or zipline above cloud forests and take in the natural beauty while getting your adrenaline fix. You can even go more hardcore with bungee jumping and extreme hiking. Costa Ricans really know how to embrace that pura vida lifestyle, so if you’re looking to enjoy life and earn some adventure points along the way, this Central American country is the place to go.

Recommended program: GVI: Wildlife Expedition in Costa Rica

India draws in plenty of travelers thanks to its reputation for adventure and its vast land. You can sign up for camel rides or skydiving, mountain trekking or watersports. India is also one of the world’s best places to go white water rafting , and there’s no lack of foodie tours, photography opportunities, and an impressive assortment of landscapes to keep things interesting.

There’s something here for those seeking laid-back days and top-notch adrenaline rushes alike. You’ll find deserts in Rajasthan and beaches in Goa, not to mention bustling cities like Delhi and Mumbai. Prefer your adventures in the mountains? Head off to the Himalayas, or better yet, make time for all of it on an extended adventure trip.

Recommended program: Oyster Worldwide: Backpacking Tour of India

5. Australia

When it comes to adventure travel, Australia has it all!

Scuba diving? Check. Bush hiking? Check. Snowboarding? Yeah, you can do that in Australia, too. Boasting mountain ranges, rainforests, outback, and even the Great Barrier Reef, this continent truly has the landscapes and activities to please any adventure-seeker.

The species count in the hundreds of thousands (you read that right) will have wildlife enthusiasts ready to book a plane ticket. Australia is well-known as a home to kangaroos and koalas, but you might also catch a glimpse of a cassowary, kookaburra, or echidna. When it’s time to really get your adrenaline pumping, white water rafting, bungee jumping, or learning to surf at an iconic spot like Bondi Beach or the Gold Coast should do the trick.

Recommended program: Pacific Discovery: New Zealand & Australia Gap Year Semester

Morocco brings together cultural influences from Africa, Europe, and the Middle East, making it a unique landscape for all travelers. That’s especially true for the adventurers among us. Colorful souks, camel rides, mountain hikes, and delicious foods kick off an itinerary essential for those who love trips off the beaten path.

Situate yourself in the Mediterranean or in the Sahara. Maybe settle in for a homestay experience perfect for honing your Arabic or French skills. Morocco offers an assortment of ways to up your adventure game.

Recommended program: Desert Discovery Tours: 4 Days Desert Trip – Marrakech to Fes

7. Switzerland

Treat yourself to some Swiss chocolate while skiing in the Alps.

If the thought of Alpine adventures gets your pulse racing, you’ll want Switzerland on your list of destinations. Sure, this crossroads country in central Europe is known for delicious chocolate and luxurious spas. It’s also the place to take in unbeatable views of the Alps—whether you’re hiking, skiing, or hurtling high above the mountains (no surprise, Switzerland is a top skydiving destination ).

From backpacking to snowboarding, paragliding to kayaking, there’s an adventure for anyone in Switzerland. Book a bike trip in the countryside, backpack through the Alps, and adventure on to your heart’s content.

Recommended program: Vivid Snowboarding: Snowboard Instructor Course

Peru lands squarely on adventure-seekers’ lists thanks to Machu Picchu. This Inca citadel is both the stuff of legends and the ideal setting for a heart-pumping trek. You’ll find a whole lot more to explore in Peru though. The diverse country features habits that range from the tropical Amazon basin rainforest to Andes mountain peaks to a Pacific coastal region complete with arid plains.

Whether it’s hiking, island hopping, Amazon rainforest tours , or a homestay experience you’re after, you’ll find it all in Peru. Check out the unique towns, learn about the area’s folklore, and take in the views from a canopy bridge. Machu Picchu is only the beginning of an amazing adventure.

Recommended program: Linguistic Horizons: Internship in the Sacred Valley, Peru

Greece is a go-to hub for adventure travel in the Mediterranean.

Stunning scenery and a plethora of adventurous activities make Greece a top choice when you’re wondering where to go for adventure travel. On land, you’ll have various chances to go hiking, biking, or mountaineering. By sea, try sailing or scuba diving.

Greece is even one of the top spots for snorkeling in the Mediterranean thanks to over 9,000 islands and islets and an underwater landscape chock full of species like the loggerhead turtle and Mediterranean parrotfish. Time to rest and recharge after a day of electrifying activity? Stroll along the cobblestone streets in a quaint village for a different kind of adventure.

Recommended program: GoEco: Greece – Sea Turtle Conservation

Adventure bragging rights are yours for the taking once you hop a flight to Nepal. The home of Mount Everest (you know, the world’s tallest mountain) is actually the place to find a whopping eight of the ten tallest mountains on the planet. In other words, extreme adventurers can find plenty of challenges here.

Adventures in Nepal go far beyond mountain climbing, too. White water rafting, biking, and paragliding, all against the backdrop of hospitable people and mouthwatering food, makes for a memorable adventure trip. Sign up to volunteer, go birdwatching, or set off for the hike of a lifetime in Nepal.

Recommended program: Glorious Himalaya Trekking: Annapurna Base Camp Trek

11. Iceland

Between the northern lights and magnificent waterfalls, Iceland will take your breath away.

Iceland’s unique geography makes this island nation a dream for adventure travelers. Gorgeous glaciers, stunning waterfalls, and active volcanoes (the country is situated on the Mid-Atlantic ridge as well as over a hot spot, after all) mean an abundance of outdoor activities amidst the dramatic and diverse Icelandic landscape.

DIY-adventurers can’t go wrong by renting a car and road tripping along the Ring Road. You can also go for a soak in a natural hot spring, hike in a lava forest, or snorkel in the fissure where the American and European tectonic plates meet. When you’re not in full-on adrenaline mode, exploring the charming towns will keep you busy.

Recommended program: Travel For Teens: Iceland Adventure

12. United States

Hiking and kayaking in national parks like Yellowstone, dogsledding in Alaska, foodie tours in New York or LA. You don’t have to book a flight halfway across the globe to experience adventure travel at its finest. The United States is vast, it’s diverse, and it’s ready to deliver pretty much any adventure you can dream up.

Whether you visit Alaska, Hawaii, or any of a number of action-packed destinations in the continental U.S., you’re sure to find an adventure worthy of sending that postcard home…even if home is just a short drive rather than an hours-long flight away.

Recommended program: The High Desert Center: 3 Affordable Months of Adventure, Travel, Community & Growth

Get matched with 5 adventure travel programs for FREE

Are you ready for some of the best adventure trips in the world.

Time to step out of your comfort zone!

No matter how you define adventure, the best places to travel for adventure seekers all have one thing in common: They offer the chance to get out of your comfort zone and embrace exploring the world around you. Start checking off destinations on your adventure bucket list and experience the power of transformative travel.

Explore ALL Adventure Travel Opportunities on GoAbroad.com

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The 15 Best Countries for Adventure Travel

By Caitlin Morton

We believe adventure travel comes in many forms—and that no matter which way you slice it, adventures can be found in every nook and cranny of the world. That being said, there are certain places that have a little more of an advantage in the adrenaline department, thanks to a combination of natural resources and tourist attractions. With this in mind, we dug into data from U.S. News and World Report to identify just which countries were best for adventurers—and added a few picks of our own. So if you tend to choose scuba diving and camping over spa treatments and lying on the beach, here are the 15 best countries for adventure travel.

This article was originally published in December 2017. It has been updated with new information.

10. Australia

With more than 30,000 miles of spectacular coastline , Down Under is ripe with adventure opportunities—most notably in the Outback and a little place called the Great Barrier Reef . Bonus: Given that its population-to-land ratio is so low (Australia is one of the least crowded countries in the world), you’ll even feel like you have huge stretches of it to yourself.

Adventures to try: Scuba diving off Lady Elliot Island; hiking through Tasmania's Bay of Fires; swimming under waterfalls in The Kimberley (just watch out for crocodiles).

Note: If you are interested in helping Australia during its current bushfire crisis, check out these resources .

9. Argentina

Snow-topped mountain peaks. Turquoise lakes. Wild tundra, treeless plains, and sprawling ice fields. If you’re an adventurer looking for a country with a seemingly endless rotation of landscapes, Argentina may be your best bet. The South American nation is also great for family travel , and Traveler 's top specialists can help design a trip suitable for all ages.

Adventures to try: Fly-fishing in Patagonia; riding horses on estancias ; learning to ski on Francis Mallmann's private island .

8. Costa Rica

Though Costa Rica is just 19,730 square miles (roughly the size of West Virginia), a quarter of its land is protected jungle. When you’re not hot-air ballooning over, zip lining through, or climbing in that very jungle, simply point in any direction to find a new adventure in a new landscape.

Adventures to try: Horseback riding on the beach; stand-up paddleboarding your way around Lake Arenal; rushing the rapids of Pacuare.

7. New Zealand

Name a landscape, and New Zealand most likely has it within its California-sized borders (though it has 34 million fewer people than the Golden State). Kiwis in the Traveler office say the country has every adventure you can think of—and then some—and we’re inclined to believe them.

Adventures to try: Caving in Waitomo; rafting rivers on the North Island; bungee jumping in Queensland.

Harrison Pierce

María Casbas

Jessica Puckett

6. Portugal

Though once the launching pad for explorers like Magellan and Columbus, who set off from its western shores, Portugal today has become a destination for, well, explorers. While the mainland has plenty of activities for outdoor enthusiasts, don’t forget about the Azores : An archipelago some 850 miles off of Portugal’s coast, the nine islands play host to some of the world’s best whale watching, lay claim to Portugal’s tallest mountain, and have volcanoes and crater lakes galore.

Adventures to try: Paddling down the Sabor and Tua rivers; surfing off of Guincho Beach; horseback riding through Alentejo , one of the world's burgeoning wine regions.

5. Thailand

Long a destination for gap year travelers and backpackers, Thailand’s combination of bustling metros, unforgettable street food culture, and blissed-out historical sites is attracting travelers of all ages. Whether you stay close to the cities or island hop to a cluster of jungle-covered islands off the coast, Thailand is as pretty as it is packed with opportunities for adventure at every turn. 

Adventures to try: Zip lining through 1,500-year-old rain forests; sea kayaking in Tarutao National Marine Park; caving in Pang Mapha.

With more than 6,000 islands and islets and a coastline of nearly 8,500 miles, Greece is more than just whitewashed buildings, sleepy beaches , and epic sunsets —though there are plenty of all of those, too. Seeking an island adventure without the crowds? Try Naxos, which is paradise for windsurfers, or Thassos (Greece’s northernmost island), which draws top mountain bikers.

Adventures to try: Sliding down waterfalls in Samothraki; diving WWII wreckage off the coast of Crete; climbing high for killer views on Kalymnos.

It seems as though Spain's geography was specifically carved out for adventure. Aside from its world-class beaches , the country is home to 15 national parks, including five in the Canary and Balearic Islands. So if you're looking to explore volcanos, sand dunes, marshes, or mountain ranges, you'll be set in this country.

Adventures to try: Hiking the Camino de Santiago; cycling through Andalucía ; camping and stargazing on the Canary Islands , one of our top places to go in 2020.

Few parts of the world can claim so intense a range of natural beauty as Italy, from craggy peaks and verdant hills to coasts of jaw-dropping beauty. There's nothing quite like driving through the winding, cyprus-lined roads of Tuscany , past rolling green hills and golden fields dotted with sunflowers. The Dolomites are some of the most beautiful mountains you'll find anywhere, too; San Pellegrino Pass is one of its best spots for rock climbing, skiing, and, well, just being in awe.

Adventures to try: Boating through Capri's caves and grottos; skiing in Cortina d'Ampezzo; scuba diving down to San Fruttuoso's haunting Christ of the Abyss statue .

South America’s largest country, Brazil, is also known for hosting Rio’s famous Carnival —the world's largest party, and an adventure in its own right. But it’s also a paradise for outdoor explorers, with the world’s largest waterfall system (Iguazú), biggest wetlands (Pantanal), and that thing called the Amazon, which comprises both the mighty river and rainforest.

Adventures to try: Boating under the Iguazú Falls; riding dune buggies in Natal; snorkeling in Fernando de Noronha .

Our pick: Canada

Canada may be the world’s second-largest country in terms of sheer size, but it has a population less than that of California—and 82 percent of that population lives in large or medium-sized cities. Got a few years? Hike, bike, ski, and paddle your way across the country on the Trans Canada Trail , which is a 14,864-mile network of paths—and the longest recreational trail in the world. Only have a week? There are plenty of options for that, too.

Adventures to try: Spotting polar bears in Manitoba; boating past glaciers in Torngat Mountains National Park; chasing the Northern Lights in Yellowknife.

Our pick: Iceland

Iceland’s landscape is so verifiably lunar that astronauts used to train here —if that doesn’t convince enough that the country is ripe for adventure, then we don’t know what will. A literal land of fire and ice, you can trek Snæfellsjökull, the snow-capped volcano that inspired Jules Verne’s Journey to the Center of the Earth , see geysers erupt in the Golden Circle, and hike across massive glaciers all in the course of a long weekend.

Adventures to try: Snorkeling between two continents in Thingvellir National Park ; exploring Vatnajökull glacier's underground ice caves; hiking behind the Seljalandsfoss waterfall.

Our pick: Peru

Machu Picchu 's panoramic views and mysterious stone walls are worth a plane ticket to Peru alone, but the country has more to offer than just Incan ruins. (Though climbing to the iconic citadel is definitely an adventure we recommend—and one you can even do in a day .) Once you cross that major item off your bucket list, head toward the country's national parks, lakes, and deserts for even more, less-crowded activities.

Adventures to try: Hiking past penguins in Paracas Natural Reserve; boating from island to island on Lake Titicaca; sand boarding in Huacachina, an oasis in the Ica desert. 

Our pick: Botswana

Botswana has plenty of national parks and safari camps for travelers, but the country's primary draw is the lush Okavango Delta —a 49-million acre river delta in northern Botswana. The area is real-world eden, where cheetahs, zebras, buffalo, and rhinos roam freely. Visit during Africa's winter (our summer), after the rains when the delta floods: The savanna’s grasses are low, while growth along the waterways attracts tons of wildlife.

Adventures to try: Camping under the stars near boulder-covered Kubu Island; river boating through Chobe National Park; zooming across the Makgadikgadi salt pans on quad bikes—another spot on our 2020 travel list.

Our pick: Sri Lanka

It's been just over a decade since the end of Sri Lanka's brutal civil war, but the country has bounced back to become one of our favorite travel destinations , complete with rambling temple ruins, leafy tea plantations, and wide, golden beaches. Animal lovers should take particular note, as the country has tons of options for wildlife viewing.

Adventures to try: Surfing off the country's southern coast; finding the world's highest concentration of leopards in Yala National Park; hot air ballooning over the Dambulla rock temples.

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Team Wanderlust | 25 January 2023

25 big bucket list adventures.

The rarest travel experiences. The toughest. The dearest. The ones that won’t be around forever. These are the real once-in-a-lifetime journeys. Which one will you take on in 2023?

At Wanderlust , we're not the greatest fans of the term 'bucket list' when it comes to travel. It's often associated with the world's most popular, overcrowded attractions, as well as having a slightly morbid origin (does 'kick the bucket' spring to mind?). What we consider a 'bucket list' adventure are the rarest, toughest and dearest adventures. The ones that won't be around forever. The real once-in-a-lifetime journeys.

Although a few iconic sites have crept into our selection, including the Grand Canyon and Kilimanjaro (after all, they're famous for good reason), there are alternative ways to see these places to make your trip unique. But beyond these, there are many more magnificent, lesser-known destinations that offer some of the most breathtaking, heart-warming and hair-raising travel experiences you will ever have.

1. Raft the Grand Canyon Arizona, USA

The Colorado River running through the Grand Canyon (Dreamstime)

Why the Grand Canyon?  To see the great gorge from a completely different – and rare – angle. Looking down on the squiggle of the Colorado River from a mile up on the rocky rim, it seems impossible that this river could have carved the gargantuan Grand Canyon. 

Of course, it’s had about two billion years to do so, slowly slicing through the black-red-orange-purple strata to create one of the natural wonders of the world. And this is why seeing the canyon from water level is the best way to appreciate it – the experience offers a far more intimate encounter than peering in from the top, as well as a close up of all that glorious geology. 

The official launch point for a full run is Lees Ferry, at the north-east of Grand Canyon National Park; the end is at Lake Mead, 443km further on. En route are side canyons, Puebloan sites, swimming holes and sandy beaches, not to mention plenty of wild water. 

So, all good – it’s just getting authorisation to enter that’s the problem. There’s a ‘weighted lotteryʼ system, with a waiting list of several years, to secure a private rafting permit.

Fortunately, commercial tour-op trips – which range from one-day to three-week floats – are available, but even these need booking in advance if you want to guarantee your rendezvous with all this ancient rock. 

How to tick it off your bucket list:  The best time to raft the Colorado is May to October, so book your trip then. Overall, the river is graded a IV (intermediate), with many I to III rapids, plus some Vs. 

Like that? Try this:  Tackle the Rio Futaleufu, an absolute classic that cuts through the canyons and wilderness of Patagonia. 

2. Visit Antarctica

Whale in the Weddell Sea, Antarctica (Dreamstime)

Why Antarctica?   Antarctica is a land of grand voyages. Powerful, dangerous, but undeniably exciting. The chance to venture where so few others have visited is perhaps the very reason it tops so many wish lists.

To visit a place even less well known to travellers, embark on a cruise into the Weddell Sea to the east. The crashing icebergs, vast ice floes and often unpredictable and treacherous conditions will show you what real adventure looks and feels like.

Spot a variety of wildlife including impressive baleen whales just under the surface and colonies of penguins and seals clustered on the thick ice on top.

How to tick it off your list:  Weddell Sea voyages are limited to just a few a year. If you want to go, you need to be organised and plan well in advance.

Like that, try this: Head north to the Arctic for a cruise down the little-seen seas of the North-East Passage. Expect walruses and polar bears.

Watch next Wanderlust's virtual Antarctica event

3. hike one of the great walks, new zealand.

Waterfall along the Milford Track (Dreamstime)

Why a Great Walk?  There is plenty of variety in New Zealand's Great Walks, especially with the arrival of new tracks in recent years. At the end of 2023 we expect to welcome the Hump Ridge Track, but in the meantime, there's 10 others to choose from.

If you want to complete one of New Zealand’s best walks, the Milford Track is arguably the greatest of the lot. This four-day, 53.5km hike from Lake Te Anau to Milford Sound slices through the splendour of Fiordland National Park, taking in lakes, waterfalls, ice fields, forest and plenty of pioneer history, and tops out at the panoramic Mackinnon Pass (1,154m). 

In the peak summer trekking months (November to April), it’s always oversubscribed; camping is not permitted and numbers are limited by the bunk-space available in the three DOC lodges en route. That is, unless you opt for an upgrade. Ultimate Hikes operates a series of private lodges (with both dorms and doubles) that enable hikers to tramp the track, with a guide, in a little more comfort. 

For a historic journey without the crowds of Milford, try the Heaphy Track. Once walked by Māori tribes, the route traverses through thick forests and onto the wild West Coast. An hour from Westport, the Heaphy Track boasts the best of both New Zealand’s nature and history, with a chance to spot native plants, rocks and wildlife (if you're lucky, perhaps even a kiwi). 

How to tick off your list: Make sure you're prepared fitness wise before the October to April hiking season commences, and whenever you go, prepare your packs for all weather conditions.

Like that? Try this: Hike Tasmania’s Overland Track in style with Cradle Mountain Huts.

Read next A guide to New Zealand's Great Walks

4. sleep under the stars in namibrand, namibia.

The NamibRand under a night sky (Dreamstime)

Why the NamibRand?  To experience some of the world’s best celestial sights. Sure, leave the big city and you can see stars almost anywhere. But the experience will be extra heavenly if you travel somewhere very dark, very clear and very remote. 

Namibia’s vast NamibRand Nature Reserve is one of only a few gold-certified Dark Sky Reserves. Simply, it has some of the world’s best dark skies. There are no towns or settlements inside it, or even nearby – Namibia is one of the planet’s most sparsely populated countries. And the dry climate means cloudless skies are the norm.

By day, explore NamibRand’s ochre-hued wilderness of dunes, mountains and plains, looking for oryx and Hartmann’s zebra. Then, after a blazing sunset, it’s time to turn your eyes skyward. 

How to tick it off your list:  It may seem difficult to get to the desert, but the reserve is around 375km from Windhoek. So, you can always start from the capital, and find your way to the reserve. 

Like that? Try this: Unroll a swag in Australia’s Red Centre for a snooze with uninterrupted night-sky views. 

5. Trek to Petra, Jordan

Petra, Jordan (Shutterstock)

A Wanderlust favourite, Petra is one of the Middle East's great wonders. This UNESCO-listed archaeological site is carved into pink sandstones cliffs, hidden within Jordan's mountain and desert landscape.

Many visit the 'Red Rose City' from Amman via a three hour car journey, but we prefer a more adventurous approach. The Jordan Trail is a 640km-long route launched in 2015 that spans the entire country, taking around 40 days to complete the whole thing.

We're not suggesting the entire route needs to be traversed, although it is a great way experience the best of Jordan. Instead, try the 3-5 day trek from Dana to Petra. Around 80km in length, this rewarding section enters the beautiful 'Lost City' from an old caravan route. The fantastic hike follows the beautiful valley of Feynan to the dramatic mountain scenery of Wadi Araba, over a mountain pass, before a final canyon and wide valley builds up to the dramatic ascent to Petra’s ancient monastery.

Along the way, you’ll find secret pools of water to take a dip, smell local herbs and flowers, see Jordan’s birds and animals, and experience the diversity of terrain that Jordan has to offer.

How to tick if off:  Plenty of tour operators offer walking trips to Petra from Dana. Or go to the trail's official website  to learn more.

6. Swim with turtles in Ningaloo, Western Australia

A green turtle at Ningaloo Reef (Shutterstock)

Why Ningaloo Reef?  To take a dip with endangered species. Western Oz’s  Ningaloo Reef  isn’t as big as the Great Barrier, on the opposite coast.

But it’s still attracts around 500 species of fish; best of all, in parts it lays only 100m offshore, making its underwater riches extremely accessible – the snorkelling is superb, too. 

How to tick it off your list:  Three of the world’s seven species of marine turtles nest on beaches and islands near Ningaloo between November and April: green (listed as endangered), hawksbill (critically endangered) and loggerhead (vulnerable). 

However, turtles swim offshore year-round, their lumpen on-land movements transformed into a graceful ballet once they’re in the water. Good spots include Shark Bay, the Muiron Islands and Turtle Bay on Dirk Hartog Island. 

Start your adventure:   More information

Like that? Try this: Snorkel with endangered leatherback and hawksbill turtles in Barbados.

7. Spot a snow leopard in Ladakh, India

A snow leopard in India (Shutterstock)

Why Ladakh?  Few have seen this endangered cat. There are thought to be just 4,000 to 6,500 snow leopards left in the wild. Coupled with the fact that these charismatic big cats tend to live in cold, inhospitable, rocky clifftops at altitudes above 3,000m, they’re not that easy to spot. 

This makes a sighting very special, and most trips that venture into their domain – largely Tibet, the Himalaya and the ’Stans – make it clear that you’d be fortunate to see even a paw-print. However, in recent years Ladakh’s Hemis National Park has gained a reputation as the world’s snow leopard capital, with hundreds of leopards, and as time passes, local guides gain an ever better understanding of their habits. 

There are still no guarantees, but in Hemis’s Husing, Tarbuns and Rumbak Valleys, sightings are relatively common; Husing is on a well-known snow leopard corridor. Visit in winter, when the snow brings the cats to lower ground and, with the help of local knowledge, trained trackers and spotting scopes, you might be in luck. 

How to tick it off your list:  Flights connect Delhi to regional hub Leh, which is 40km from Hemis NP. There are six villages in the park; accommodation is in homestays or camping.

Like that, try this: Track giant pandas in China’s Foping Nature Reserve, for the frisson of seeing the poster child of conservation in the wild.

Read next: 60 alternative winter experiences around the world

8. descend into a volcano, iceland.

Thrihnukagigur magma chamber (Shutterstock)

Why Iceland?  For a unique descent into the Earth’s belly. To inject some Jules Verne adventure into your bucket list you need to head to Iceland. It’s a strange, singular place; a newborn babe in geological terms, you can virtually see it being formed before your eyes – the land groans, hisses and spews. 

This makes delving beneath the surface quite exciting indeed, though something that’s been easy to achieve since 2012, when commercial tours began plunging into Thrihnukagigur volcano.

Clipped on to what’s essentially a window-cleaner’s lift, you’re slowly lowered 120m into another world – a magma chamber uniquely drained of its magma. Lights reveal a cavern of many colours – bruise purples, sulphur yellows, blood reds. 

Water drip-drips from above, while breaking into song demonstrates the excellent acoustics. It is wonderful, and very weird. Thrihnukagigur is dormant, last erupting over 4,000 years ago. There’s no sign that it’s about to spring into life, but tours are only announced on a year-by-year basis because, well, you never know... 

How to tick it off your list:  Tours run May to October, so book your trip accordingly.

Like that, try this : Hike up Mount Etna, to stand on one of the most active volcanos in the world.  

9. Visit St Helena, South Atlantic

St Helena (Shutterstock)

Why St Helena?  Even though the Royal Mail Ship departed on its last trip to St Helena last year, it’s still not too late to visit this far-flung isle. With an airport now on the island, it is now arguably easier than ever to visit.

The South Atlantic speck is a crumple of glorious geomorphology – small, but riven with deep gullies, gulches and volcanic after-effects, and swept with semi-tropical lushness.

The waters are brim-full of dolphins; the skies wheel with myriad birds. Make the most of the large congregation of whale sharks by snorkelling alongside these gentle giants from January to March.

But it’s the human story that is most fascinating – less than 5,000 people live on this lonely isle, in settlements little changed since Georgian times. Explore it all by foot by walking some of the Post Box walks, which vary in difficulty but all offer views of the most scenic and untouched parts of the island. You will get a log book and a stamp at the end to prove you’ve completed them. Or go on a historic ramble to get to know Napoleon’s influence on the isle.  

How to tick it off your list: Plan your trip's dates based on your biggest interests - here's what to do when in St Helena . Do your research before you book, too - as the isle's  Post Box walks vary in difficulty, and even the easier ones can be tricky. 

Like that, try this: Sail to Russia’s Wrangel Island (aka polar bear heaven). It's only accessible July to Aug by very few specialist cruise ships.  

10. Seek out private islands in Scotland

The Summer Isles, Scotland (Dreamstime)

Why?  Who doesn’t fancy an island to themselves? Sadly, most of us don’t have a Branson-sized budget – but that doesn’t mean you can’t claim your own patch of sea-lapped solitude. 

Thanks to the fact that Scotland has almost 800 islands, as well as a favourable attitude to wild camping, it’s possible to tick this must-do off the list without spending a penny. Tiny Tanera Beag, the second-largest of the 20-odd north-western Summer Isles, has never been inhabited – though you might be joined by a few sheep, occasionally brought here to graze. 

You can sea kayak from the mainland, over Badentarbet Bay and around larger (inhabited) Tanera Mor to reach Tanera Beag. Once you’ve hauled ashore, look out for seals in the lagoon by Eilean Flada Mor, climb to the island’s 83m high-point for views over the nearby rock stacks and skerries, and pitch your tent amid the heather to feel like a laird for the night.

How to tick it off your list:  Achiltibuie, on the coast of Wester Ross & Sutherland, is the best access point. Tanera Mor is 3km offshore; Tanera Beag is just beyond. Plan to visit in spring, summer or autumn. 

Like that, try this: Canoe to little Algonquin Island, on Ontario’s Kawawaymog Lake, to stay in a Canadian log cabin, away from the world. 

11. Climb Kilimanjaro, Tanzania

Kilimanjaro, Tanzania (Dreamstime)

Why Kilimanjaro?  It’s travel’s greatest trekking summit – and it could well be losing its snows. Tanzania’s Mount Kilimanjaro deserves to be on every travel bucket list. 

No other mountain manages to combine such a wealth of wow-factors to tick all those boxes: it’s an aesthetically awesome monolith poking out of the African plains; it’s a tough but achievable challenge; at 5,895m, it’s the roof of a continent; it’s a climatological oddity, proving snow can sit virtually on the equator. Tick, tick, tick, tick. 

But just to add an extra bit of tock to all those ticks, doom-sayers predict that those snows might be gone in just a few decades – all the more reason to tackle Kili quick. 

There are several routes to choose from. Many opt for the Marangu Route due to its steady slopes, however it has a fairly low success rate as the quick five-day ascent does not allow many to acclimatise sufficiently. The  Machame Route is more difficult but a much higher success rate.

How to tick it off your list:  Kilimanjaro cannot be climbed independently. Choose a longer trip to allow more time for acclimatisation and increase your chances of success. 

Like that, try this:  For extra kudos, try climbing Argentina’s Aconcagua, a tougher, higher, non-technical challenge. 

12. Tour Havana in a classic car, Cuba

Classic cars in Havana, Cuba (Dreamstime)

Why classic Havana?  Hop in an iconic vintage motor before they get scrapped. It’s all change in Cuba . A gentle thaw in relations with their big neighbours to the north means that some travel to the island has become (slightly) easier for American citizens and some trade restrictions have been lifted. 2019 marked the 500th anniversary of the founding of Havana, so there’s never been a better time to visit.

For now, Cuba remains quite unique, with an intoxicating  je ne sais quoi  that’s strong of culture and loose of hips. Perhaps the most iconic Cuba image, though, is of a classic 1950s car bumping down a Havana backstreet.

While you can, take a tour in vintage motor, listening to its retro roar as you glide by the capital’s crumbly grandeur.

How to tick it off your list:  You can’t self-drive a classic car, but several companies offer tours with driver/guides. 

Like that, try this: Up the ante: join a Rickshaw Rally, to negotiate India at the wheel of a tuk-tuk. 

13. See an eclipse in Argentina, Antarctica or Australia

A total eclipse (Dreamstime)

Why the eclipse?  To be in the best place when the world goes weird. Total eclipses – when the moon blocks out the sun, basking the earth in an eerie glow – happen roughly every 18 months. But you need to be in the right place, ideally somewhere in the path of the solar maximum, to fully appreciate the effect, and you’d have to wait an average of 375 years to see two total eclipses from the same spot. 

Sometimes being in the path of an eclipse is simple. On 21 August 2017, the total eclipse swung right across the middle of the USA, visible in states such as Wyoming, Nebraska and South Carolina; its point of greatest eclipse just north-west of Hopkinsville, Kentucky, where totality lasted for over two minutes. 

Sometimes, though, it’s a bit trickier – the eclipse in March 2015 was best viewed in the snowy wilderness of Svalbard. Part of the battle is securing a place on a good, expert-led eclipse-watching trip: these specialist departures can fill up well in advance. 

How to tick it off your list: The next total solar eclipse is due on 8 April 2023, visible in Australia, and there's even the chance to see it by air . Cloud cover will affect the quality of eclipse-viewing; if possible, check forecasts and head for clearer skies. The NASA Eclipse site is a mine of information. 

Like that, try this: There are plenty of once-in-a-lifetime wonders to witness in Antarctica. Discover  some of the best here.

14. Cuddle a whale in Baja California, Mexico

A grey whale calf in Baja (Dreamstime)

Why Baja California?  Closer encounters with massive mammals. You can see whales in lots of places, but there are few spots where you can actually give one a hug. From December to April grey whales gather in Baja California’s San Ignacio Lagoon to mate, calve, nurture their young and – so it seems – have a jolly old time with the weird human creatures that sail out to see them. 

Despite having been hunted to near extinction, these greys bear no grudge; indeed, they bump into boats and surface within touching distance, inviting pats and strokes. However, there’s only a short window of opportunity to see the greys here each year, with February, March and April the best months, and good trips sell out far – often years – in advance. 

How to tick it off your list:  Activity varies by month, so time your visit perfectly. In February you see more breaching adults; calves grow more confident in March to April, approaching boats more frequently. 

Like that, try this:  From Jan to April you can swim with humpbacks in the Dominican Republic.

15. Capture the Northern Lights on camera

Photographing the Northern Lights (Shutterstock)

Why the Northern Lights?  To record a spectacular photo of the Northern Lights that you saw. In this age of instant images and selfies, it’s not good enough anymore to just see the planet’s most spectacular light show – to hopefully be in the right place at the right time – now you have to snap a frame-worthy photo of it too. 

One way to increase your chances of filling that memory card is to join an aurora photography tour. You’ll not only get tips from pros on how to snap the show – sharpening up those DSLR skills for those future travels – but they’ll also be attuned to where those spectral waves are most likely to start pulsing through the night. 

Your daylight hours will then be spent exploring the wild Arctic terrains that best yield luminous results – Finland, Norway, Iceland , Sweden or Canada. 

How to tick it off your list:  October to November and February to March are the best times to see the Northern Lights. Remember that dark skies yield better displays, you're best off avoiding the full moon, and you'll have to be flexible during your trip. The Aurora Borealis may not appear on the night of your schedule tour, but they could be out in full-force the next night - so be prepared to change your plans at a moment's notice.

Like that, try this: Look for the Southern Lights (Aurora Australis) on New Zealand’s Stewart Island. 

Read next  The best places to see the Northern Lights

16. leaf-peep on the appalachian trail, usa.

Autumn in New Hampshire (Dreamstime)

Why New Hampshire?  You'll get to see fall colours without the other people. The idea of visiting New England in autumn, wending between comely white clapboard houses, verges lined with pumpkins and forested hillsides completely aflame, is a romantic notion. Now add in hiked prices and all the other cars and coaches trying to get to the same scenic lookout, and it isn’t quite so dreamy. 

Arguably the best way to appreciate the glorious death of New England’s trees is to stride among it, camping out each night. So, why not combine a smidgen of the Appalachian Trail – the East Coast’s seriously long long-distance hike, bucket list-worthy in itself – to see the leaves without the crowds. 

The 70km stretch between New Hampshire’s White Mountains and the Vermont border is particularly renowned for its fabulous fall foliage – think maples smouldering crimson, dogwoods turning purple and birch trees burning gold. 

How to tick it off your list:  Fall colours usually start to appear in New England from mid-September. Shelters and campsites along the trail are basic.

Like that, try this: Make for Québec’s Laurentian Mountains, where the sugar maples turn magnificent late-Sept to mid-Oct.

Read next: 15 of the world's epic walking trails

17. visit an endangered tribe in the amazon, ecuador.

Two young girls form huaorani tribe in the amazon rainforest, Yasuni National Park, Ecuador (Dreamstime)

Why the Ecuadorian Amazon?  To glimpse a unique culture, but to do it sensitively and responsibly. Understandably, many struggling minority tribes don’t want to be gawped at by tourists passing through – the arrow-firing Sentinelese of the Andaman Islands being a case in point. 

But for some such groups, tourism is providing a cultural lifeline, and travellers staying at lodges or booking tours owned and run by the tribes themselves are helping to keep endangered traditions alive (and protect their much-threatened environment from developers), while also giving visitors an authentic insight into how the peoples have existed for centuries: everybody wins. 

The indigenous peoples of Ecuador’s Oriente seem to have mastered this kind of community eco-tourism; there are several well-regarded options. For example, the Cofán – one of the oldest Amazonian tribes have been running community-based ecotourism in northern Ecuador since 1978. 

Trips here include canoeing and piranha fishing, sleeping in traditional thatched huts and trekking into the wildlife-dense rainforest with Cofán guides – with optional overnight camping trip for the adventurous minded. 

How to tick it off your list:  Trips to the Cofán community at Zabalo depart from Lago Agrio (seven to eight hours from Quito by bus).

Like that? Try this: Visit the El Molo of Lake Turkana, Kenya, for whom tourism is helping their economy.

18. Climb an alternative route to Everest Base Camp, Nepal

Everest Base Camp (Dreamstime)

Why Everest Base Camp?  To complete an epic trek, then snooze with the summiteers. The treks to Everest Base Camp – a breathtaking 14-day out-and-back into Sagarmatha NP to the foot of the world’s highest mountain – is a classic.

Everest has received negative press when it comes to overtourism, after a photograph of a queue to its summit went viral online in 2019. But if the mountain has been a bucket list item you're desperate to conquer, don't let this photograph put you off, as these treks bring in millions for the Nepali economy, and help to support local people.

We do suggest trying a less-popular trekking route to EBC, to reduce both the traffic and the wear and tear of the main route. The Chhukung Valley, Bhote Kosi Valley, and the Dudh Kosi Valley are all strong alternatives.

Do note, most treks are not actually allowed to stay at Everest Base Camp – it requires specific permission. Most hikers visit their 5,340m goal for a ‘been there’ photo op, then descend to nearby Gorak Shep to sleep.

However, a few special departures do offer the chance to overnight at the iconic camp, and it's far more likely when it's peak-season for summiteers.  It’s a unique opportunity, to both sleep in the shadow of the mighty mountain and to speak to the brave/mad souls making their final preparations; you might even see teams setting off up the notorious Khumbu Ice Fall, the start of their push for the top. 

How to tick it off your bucket list:  Summiteers usually arrive at Base Camp April/May, so plan your trip accordingly. keep yourself healthy, too, as trekkers with illnesses will not be allowed to stay at Base Camp to avoid potentially infecting the climbers. This goes without saying, but you can't climb Everest independently. 

Like that? Try this:  Hike up to Camping Arolla (1,950m), in Petit Praz, Switzerland – Europe’s highest campsite.

19. See the Sistine Chapel in Vatican City, Italy

Inside the Sistine Chapel (Shutterstock)

Why the Sistine Chapel?  Massive art, small crowds. Damn Michelangelo for not picking a bigger room! The 40m long by 13m wide box, squished into the Vatican Museum complex is woefully inadequate for the 25,000-odd people who now traipse through here every day. 

Yes, the iconic ceiling, and particularly the altar wall’s Last Judgement, are probably the most impressive paintings you’ll ever see – but that’s only if you can see them, over the heads of the rest of humanity. 

Fortunately, there is another way. It’s possible to book private tours of the site, which take small groups into Vatican rooms usually off limits, and finish in the Sistine Chapel for an after-hours viewing of Michelangelo’s masterpieces, without all the other people. 

How to tick it off your bucket list:  Advance booking is essential, so don't delay in organising your visit to the Sistine Chapel.

Like that? Try this:  When in Rome... join a nighttime, lesser-crowded tour of the Colosseum.

20. Drive through Glacier National Park, USA

Glacier National Park (Shutterstock)

Why Glacier National Park?  A rare, time sensitive chance to see retreating ice from a capricious drive, that's why. The Going-to-the-Sun Road somehow carves an 80km-long furrow through the mountains of north-west Montana. It’s also notoriously difficult to clear of winter snows. Portions of it remain open year-round, but the very earliest in the season that the entire length might be accessible is mid-June. 

Then, by late September, parts are off-limits all over again, leaving a brief window for a traverse. It’s worth trying though: the road slices through the parks most dramatic sections, with hair-raising hairpins and a haul over 2,026m Logan Pass. 

You can also see the park’s rapidly retreating Jackson Glacier from the tarmac, which you should certainly pull over for – it’s estimated that Glacier NP may be entirely glacier-free by 2030. 

How to tick it off the list:  Hire a car and drive the road. Without stopping, the journey will take you around two hours.  Keep your eyes peeled for road accessibility updates .

Like that, try this: Norway’s switchbacking Trollstigen is closed in late autumn and winter. 

Read next  USA national parks you've probably never heard of

21. see a spirit bear in british columbia, canada.

A white spirit bear (Dreamstime)

Why British Columbia?  These rare bears roam only here. Even for a country big on big empty, Canada’s Great Bear Rainforest takes some beating. What the GBR does have, though, is lots of lovely wildlife: grey wolves, grizzlies, cougars, orca, sea otters, humpback whales and, uniquely, Kermode – or spirit – bears. 

These unusual ursines are black bears with a recessive gene, which renders about 10% of them creamy-pale. Like spirits, though, they’re tricky to spot – fewer than 400 are thought to exist.

But if you head to the right part of this roadless, fjord-cut, river-riven rainforest, you might be in luck. The area around Klemtu is a known Kermode hang-out, and lodges accessible only by floatplane have guides expert in tracking them down. 

How to tick it off your list:  The best time to visit is late August to mid-October, when returning salmon tempt bears to the rivers. 

Like that, try this: Visit Timbavati’s white lions, on Kruger NP’s western edge, South Africa.

Read next  How to seek out spirit bears

22. ride the reunification express, vietnam.

The Trans-Siberian passing through Mongolia (Dreamstime)

Why the Reunification Express?  Resurrected after the Vietnam War, the Reunification Express travels from Hanoi in the north, all the way to Ho Chi Minh in the south.

This slow and spectacular route, with its railway longer than 1,700km, only takes two-days to complete (for those doing the whole thing at once). But of course, you have to get off, stretch your legs and explore the history of Vietnam, as it passes through  Hue, Danang and Nha Trang.

Taking in the views from the carriage windows is a pure delight, passing sugar-sand beaches, jungles of banana-leaf trees, rural fields and new glass cities.

It's not the most luxurious way to travel, but its one for real train enthusiasts, who love a rumbling journey accompanied with oodles of history.

How to tick it off your list:  If not the whole thing, make sure to tick off the first segment to Da Nang. November to April is a good time to visit.

Like that, try this: Ride The Canadian, from Toronto to Vancouver, another vast, cross-country, multi-day epic. 

23. Raft the Zambezi River, Zambia

Hippos in the Zambezi River (Dreamstime)

Why the Zambezi River?  Run the great river, while you can. The Zambezi is one of the world’s most iconic waterways, slicing its way through south-eastern Africa and famously plunging over Victoria Falls. 

Rafting it – whether you choose a short trip from Livingstone or a multi-day, beach-camping expedition – is up there with the world’s greatest river journeys. You’ll tackle hair-raising rapids called things like Oblivion and The Devil's Toilet Bowl. You’ll might spot hippos lazing in the channels and even crocs on the banks. 

How to tick it off your list: Book your trip to the Zambezi for sometime between August and December - that's low water season, and the best time for rafting.  

Like that, try this: Raft Tasmania’s Franklin River, the wild waterway that conservationists saved from dam-nation.

24. Trek a lesser-known route to Machu Picchu, Peru

Machu Picchu (Dreamstime)

Why Machu Picchu?  It’s more satisfying than the train, and there are lots of options. It’s virtually impossible to make a bucket list that doesn’t include Machu Picchu. A secret city, never found by those pesky conquistadores, perched in the mountains, swirled by mists and mysteries – it’s the stuff of travel legend.

The trouble is, when you’ve seen so many, many photos of the Inca citadel, there’s a danger it’ll be a bit of a let-down. And that’s one reason why, if you can, you should go on foot. The city deserves the slow build, the accumulated excitement, that trekking there provides. 

Also, deciding to lace up doesn’t mean you have to hit the Inca Trail. There are plenty of alternatives to the classic: you can hike via the much less-visited ruins of Choquequirao; head along the dramatic and diverse Salkantay Trail (with posh lodges en route); or tackle the tough Vilcabamba Traverse. 

How to tick it off your list:  Hikes vary in length, altitude and difficulty, so you'll need to acclimatise before setting off. Remember, dry season (the best time to go) is April to October. You also need a permit for the Inca Trail. Only a limited number are released each year and they sell out quick.

Like that? Try this: Make a grand entrance at Jordan’s once-lost Nabatean city via the multi-day Dana-Petra trek – the Inca Trail of the Middle East .

Please note: Machu Picchu is currently closed  at the time of publication. Please check with tourism authorities on its reopening before travelling.

25. Experience New Orleans' Mardi Gras, USA

Mardi Gras parades through the streets of New Orleans (Shutterstock)

Why Mardi Gras?  One of the USA's biggest carnivals, Mardi Gras is all about the party spirit, with extravagant parades of colourful costumes, large floats and plenty of music. 

Although celebrations take places across the states, New Orleans is world-famous for its Mardi Gras event. 

The name itself translates to Fat Tuesday in French, otherwise known as Shrove Tuesday. This is a day before lent begins, so expect the party to finish promptly at midnight on Ash Wednesday. 

The good news is its more than just one day in New Orleans. Celebrations begin the weekend before Shrove Tuesday, where parades including Endymion and  Bacchus take place.  The party atmosphere fills each corner of the city, from Bourbon Street to the French Quarter. 

When Mardi Gras is over, why not stay a little longer? New Orleans is known as the 'Big Easy', with jazz, blues, reggae and rock all part of its cultural heritage. Spend time seeking out the hot spots in town to experience live, authentic music. 

How to tick if off your list:  Book your accomodation in advance. The city draws in around a million visitors over the few days, so accomodation will sell out quick. Keep an eye on parade dates here .

Like that, try this:  Día de Muertos   (aka Day of the Dead) celebrated most prominently in Mexico is another fascinating cultural celebration to experience.

Discover more amazing adventures:

Where to go in 2023, top new trips for 2023, your 2023 world festival calendar, related articles, looking for inspiration.

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The 9 Most Fun Adventure Lodges in North America

Every great adventure needs a staging area. Here they are, from simple and affordable to dreamy and luxe, in unbelievable locations, with endless terrain to explore and a warm bed to return to at night.

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Base camp might be my favorite two words in the English language. Base camp is where you stage the next excursion, or refuel with a bowl of stew, or a beer. You rest and recover there. If you’re lucky, you can slip into a hot tub or cold spring, because base camps don’t always have to be a tent or in the back of your truck. Sometimes, base camp can be a lodge with soft sheets and a chef.

I’ve gathered a handful of my personal favorite adventure lodges and picked a few more destination hotels and chalets on my bucket list. Some of them are high-end and  worthy of a splurge, while others are downright affordable. All of them are chosen specifically for their locations and adventures they offer, putting visitors within reach of dramatic landscapes while providing gear, know-how, and sometimes in-house guides. Because occasionally it’s nice not to have to plan everything yourself.

The Gravel House Hotel, Patagonia, Arizona

You may not have heard of Patagonia, Arizona, a tiny town of 800-ish sitting at the base of the Patagonia Mountains, near the Mexico border. Much of the surrounding land is protected by the Coronado National Forest, which houses a chunk of the 700-mile Arizona Trail, while a lifetime of gravel rides begin and end in the two-block downtown.

The Gravel House is a collection of homes and a small hotel with nine rooms and a communal kitchen, all in the heart of town. The hotel is owned by cycling guide and chef Zander Ault, who you can hire to whip up regional delicacies like green chile stew and carne asada tacos. He and his team can also lead you on day rides through plains of shimmering grass flanked by the 7,000-foot Patagonias, which were capped with snow when I was there last spring. I loved the riding, which had me pedaling firm gravel through narrow canyons to historic ruins and across broad grasslands to the Mexican border before returning to town for a cold beer.

The Adventure: You can hike or mountain bike a slice of the Arizona Trail, but the gravel is the magic here. I’ve stayed at The Gravel House, spending three days exploring the lonely roads of the area, and want to return to it and the landscape. Elevation gain is moderate, so you can cover a lot of ground exploring canyons and prairies that butt up against the border with Mexico, just 18 miles away. Check out the 30-mile Alto Ghost Town ride, which climbs to the ruins of a mining camp from 1933.

Logistics: Rooms start at $135 per night, with chef services and guiding extra. Guided day rides start at $295 per person and include high-end Pivot bike rentals.

Sol Mountain Lodge, Revelstoke, British Columbia, Canada

At 3.855 million square miles, Canada is a big place—among the world’s countries, only Russia is bigger—so no lodge can put you within striking distance of everything that our neighbors to the north offer. But Sol Mountain Lodge , south of one of Canada’s great destination towns, Revelstoke, brings you into the thick of the Monashee Mountains, which are blanketed with powder in winter and host hundreds of miles of trails in summer. Sol Mountain provides backcountry skiers access to the Monashees’ alpine bowls and steep chutes during chilly months (the lodge is owned and operated by certified members of the Association of Canadian Mountain Guides), and the rest of the year mountain bikers and hikers can explore the high alpine singletrack.

The lodge is off-grid, with all of the power generated on-site by micro-hydro electricity, but sustainable doesn’t mean uncomfortable.The place has private rooms, a gear room, full kitchen, and a bar stocked with local craft beers. There’s also a small library with books and games as well as guitars, a box drum, and a mandolin, if you’re musically inclined. There’s even a wood-fired sauna.

The Adventure : The lodge shares a border with Monashee Provincial Park, and the owner/operators have built a trail system that extends from the lodge into the park, with permits to lead ski, biking, and hiking trips throughout. Mountain bikers are going to want to ride loads of trails , but the five-mile Infinity and Beyond Loop is a must. The purpose-built trail has it all—ridgetop views of the Provincial Park and the Gold Range Mountains, lots of rock features, and a thrilling downhill back to the lodge. All rides end with a dip in Sol Lake, on Sol Lodge’s property, where the owners will stash a six pack by shore to keep it cold for you.

Logistics: In winter, you have to fly into the lodge (helicopter rides from Kelowna International Airport are included in the cost of a winter trip); stays require a five- or six-night trip (from $3250 Canadian per person) and include guides. But in the summer, you can make the 55-kilometer (34-mile) drive from Revelstoke on 4WD forest roads. Summer rates are per day, and catered trips (all meals included), start at $350 per person per night, two-night minimum.

Paradise Lodge, the Rogue River, Oregon

Once on site, you can enjoy hiking trails that start on the property, swimming holes, and paddling the class IV Rogue. The lodge sits on Paradise Bar, a long, unusually calm stretch of the Rogue that’s perfect for fishing for steelhead trout or salmon. In-house chefs create family-style meals served in a low-key dining room, while an expansive deck overlooks the river. There’s a disc-golf course, too.

The Adventure: Trails start on the grounds, following the Rogue River and exploring the smaller Paradise Creek. There’s an easy quarter-mile hike to Paradise Falls and back to get started, but you’re here for the Rogue. The classic adventure is a multi-day, 32-mile trip through the Rogue Canyon. Rogue River Outfitters runs a trip where guests camp riverside on the first night and spend the second in the lodge. The run is a mix of class III-IV drops and swimming holes, culminating with the class IV Blossom Bar, just a half-mile upstream from the lodge (trips from $1,225 per person, including lodging).

Logistics: Hike-in options start at $215 a night per person, including breakfast, dinner, and a sack lunch. You can also raft into the lodge for $205 per person per night, but must make your own arrangements, through local outfitters including Rogue River Outfitters and Noah’s Rafting . To raft the Rogue on your own, you need permits from the BLM for any dates between May 15 to October 15. Most commercial trips run in July and August.

Gunflint Lodge, Grand Marais, Minnesota

Tucked onto the southern shore of Gunflint Lake, near the Canadian border, Gunflint Lodge has been hosting adventurers since 1925. The property sits on the edge of the million-acre Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness , allowing boaters to explore the myriad paddle trails by day and come home to hot meals and a sauna by night.

The lodge consists of 25 private cabins spread across the shore of Gunflint Lake, with a main lodge and dining area, two floating docks, and a shop for the in-house outfitters. Most of the cabins have stone fireplaces, saunas, and hot tubs. The night sky is vibrant with stars, as this is one of the largest Dark Sky Sanctuaries in the world, and the lodge is far enough north that you may even experience the northern lights . Hiking trails on the property lead to the top of cliffs with epic views of Gunflint Lake and the surrounding Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. The resort guides offer daily trips into the Boundary Waters on foot and canoe. In the winter, it’s all about ice fishing and cross-country skiing. Come summer, you’re hunting for smallmouth bass in Gunflint Lake and canoeing into the Boundary Waters on day trips.

The Adventure: Retrace the path of early fur traders by paddling a piece of the Voyageurs Route across Gunflint Lake through a narrow inlet into Magnetic Lake, crossing into the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness proper. This mixed route of lake and river paddling, with a few short portages, has you tracing the edge of the United States as you travel north, seeing waterfalls, historic chalets, and maybe a moose from the hull of your boat. Guided trips for lodge guests are $125 per person.

Logistics: Gunflint Lodge is a six-hour drive north from Minneapolis. You can book a cabin (from $300 a night, two-night minimum) only, or an all-inclusive package that includes the cabin, all your meals, access to canoes, and one guided adventure per day (from $1279 per person for four nights).

Red Mountain Alpine Lodge, Red Mountain Pass, Colorado

Want a taste of the Alps right here in the U.S.? Book a couple of nights in Red Mountain Alpine Lodge , a luxurious A-Frame “hut” perched at 11,000 feet on Red Mountain Pass in the San Juan Mountains above Ouray, with gorgeous high-alpine hikes and backcountry skiing right out the door. A few winters ago, I spent some days skiing the terrain outside the lodge, and was just about as impressed with the digs inside the lodge as the powder.

The lodge has three private rooms and 10 semi-private loft spaces above the expansive living room, which is warmed by a wood-burning stove set in front of floor-to-ceiling windows. A shot ski hangs above the dining room for apres shenanigans. Adventures abound, from endless jeep roads to the via ferrata in Telluride in warmer months. But it’s mainly about backcountry skiing in the winter and high-alpine trekking in the summer.

The Adventure: The skiing is epic, but I want to hit Red Mountain Alpine Lodge in the summer. The hut is a key component to the Million Dollar Trek , a guided five-day hike that traverses the 10,000- to 13,000-foot-tall San Juans, hitting alpine lakes and with nights spent in three different huts along the way. Or you could just base at Red Alpine and do your own day hikes. The above-treeline, off-trail routes are endless and the lodge staff can point you in the direction of Red Mountain #3, a 12,877-foot peak with 360-degree views of the Red Group. Or you could bring a gravel bike and knock out the 8.1-mile Red Mountain Loop , which hits 12,000-foot peaks and backcountry waterfalls along a high-alpine dirt road.

Logistics : Loft spaces start at $289 per person, which includes breakfast, trail lunch, and dinner. Guided adventures are add ons, but the lodge is owned by San Juan Mountain Guides , so the process is seamless.

Mulberry Gap, Ellijay, Georgia

Sitting 90 minutes north of Atlanta, in the heart of the Chattahoochee National Forest, Mulberry Gap was designed with mountain bikers in mind, giving front-door access to more than 150 miles of single track through the mountains of North Georgia. This rustic lodge offers a collection of cabins, from basic rooms with access to communal showers, to plush multi-bedroom buildings with private baths. There is also a communal barn with games and, last time I was there, a tricycle for silly races, plus a family-style restaurant, a small gear-and-beer shop, hot tubs, and an onsite pump track and jump line.

I’ve spent a few weekends riding bikes with Mulberry as my basecamp, and love the juxtaposition of a full day on hard, steep singletrack and a return to a smoked brisket in the restaurant, a cold beer and a hot tub. It hits just right.

The Adventure : Mulberry Gap sits next to the Pinhoti Trail, a long-distance mountain-bike trail that spans the length of Georgia. And there’s twice as much gravel if that’s what you’re into. If you’re only going to experience one ride, let it be the 18.4-mile Bearhoti loop , which combines a piece of the Pinhoti Trail with Bear Creek. It’s a mix of gravel and single track, with lots of loose rock descents, waterfalls, creek crossings, and a little bit of flow.

Logistics : Cabins start at $140 a night, midweek; prices vary for size. Weekends are minimum two-night stays. Meals are extra, as are shuttles (from $12 per person).

Johnstone Wilderness Lodge, Seward, Alaska

Johnstone Bay is wild. The inlet sits on the southeast coast of the Kenai Peninsula, 30 miles south of Seward with the Church Mountains rising steeply from the edge of the water. This collection of gray, rocky beaches, steep green mountains, and blue/white glaciers and icefields is only accessible by air (you’ll have to get dropped off by helicopter or float plane) or sea. Johnstone Adventure Lodge has three chalets that sit in the middle of all that action, with walk-out beach access, surf breaks galore (yes, Alaska has surfing, and it can be really good), and the massive Excelsior Glacier waiting for you to explore. The lodge itself is a collection of three chalets built by hand over three years. All are surrounded by dense forest and face the beach, where bonfires are the nightly entertainment.

The Adventure: Jordan Pond, owner of the lodge, fell in love with Johnstone Bay because of the surfing, and if you’re hardy enough to handle the cold water, he can deliver you to the goods: a beach break along three miles of isolated beach. Swells can produce big, heavy waves. It’s also a deep bay, so you’ll occasionally see humpback whales hanging out beyond the breakers. Pond will also guide you in a Zodiac, navigating icebergs to Excelsior Glacier, which covers a broad valley as it flows from the Sargent Icefield down to the edge of the water.

Logistics: You can book packages for summer (June 1 to October 30) starting at $1,575 per person (three-night minimum), which includes three meals a day plus snacks, use of kayaks, and guiding for the various adventures surrounding the lodge, from surfing to hiking and kayaking. You’ll have to arrange a helicopter drop from the Seward airport (prices depend on number of people and weight of gear). Boating to the place is possible, but helicopter access is much easier.

Field Station, Moab, Utah

You hardly need another reason to visit the historic desert town of Moab, but Field Station definitely sweetens the deal. The new hotel, which opened in April, 2023 , sits at the bases of both Arches and Canyonlands national parks, which are full of sandstone rock formations and classic desert hikes, offering a mix of accommodations from van-life sites to spacious hotel rooms that sleep up to eight, all centered around communal spaces, such as a pool and hot tub, beer garden, and cafe.

Field Station’s a one-stop shop for exploring the surrounding landscape, with on-site equipment rentals and professional guiding partners, Bighorn Mountain Biking and Moab Cliffs and Canyons , on hand to lead you on mountain biking, canyoneering, and climbing trips. The place often offers pop-up skills tutorials where you can learn things such as survivalist skills or how to patch a flat tire, and live music around the fire pits. I want to go here: Moab is great, but it would be even better with a pool.

The Adventure: The problem with Field Station (and Moab in general) is choosing how to spend your time. Do you hike in Arches? Mountain bike on the area’s famous slickrock single track, which has been attracting fat-tire enthusiasts for decades? Climb desert towers and cliffs? Or raft the Colorado River? We say call in sick and extend your stay to do it all. But if you have to choose just one caper, sign up for a guided tour of the Moab Brand Trails , which has 30 miles of dusty, sandstone-heavy single track with optional big descents and rock drops.

Logistics: Room rates start at $127. Van-life sites start at $29 and include access to all of the hotel’s amenities, including showers.

Surfhouse, Encinitas, California

California has no shortage of hotels with quick access to celebrated surf breaks, but Surfhouse makes your SoCal surf trip effortless with a combo of proximity and amenities. The eight-room motel is located in Encinitas, just a block from the beach and within a quick drive of dozens of world-class waves, including the iconic Swamis. Each room is crafted to represent a different local break. Small touches like an outdoor shower and in-house surf rentals go a long way, and the services include staff pros that can give lessons or even guide you through the local goods, helping you avoid any trouble (like upsetting crusty local surfers). You can even hire a photographer to hop in the water with you to document your trip.

The Adventure : If you’re a beginner surfer, book a lesson with a Surfhouse pro and learn at a friendly beach break like Moonlight State Beach. If you have some experience, hire a Surfhouse guide (rates vary depending on break and number of surfers) who can tailor the experience to your skill level, putting you on the right wave that’s not only ideal for your ability, but is all-but-guaranteed to avoid the crowds. Or just pedal one of the hotel’s complimentary beach cruisers and roll from taco stand to beach to taco stand.

Logistics: Rooms start at $260 per night. Guides and lessons are extra. Surfhouse also has a rental van decked out with all of the amenities you need for the ultimate SoCal surf road trip (from $250 a day).

Graham Averill is Outside Magazine’s national-parks columnist. He’s always loved the idea of a basecamp, but as he’s gotten older, he likes them to have swimming pools, saunas, and cocktail bars. Has he gotten soft? He prefers the term “wise.”

For more by this author:

The 9 Best Gateway Towns to U.S. National Parks

The 8 Most Adventurous States in America. Number 1 Is …

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A rising number of people are swapping their standard holidays for immersive experiences, filled with exploration, discovery, and a hefty dose of thrill. Now, more than ever, it’s time to redefine what a ‘ vacation ‘ can be.

• Adventure tourism is booming, with a projected market value of $1,626.7 billion by 2026
• Adventure activities can be divided into three categories: land, water, and air-based activities
• Adventure travel is about connecting with a place and its people, and stepping outside of your comfort zone

Embrace the Adventure Tourism Boom 💥

According to a report by Allied Market Research, the global adventure tourism market was valued at $586.3 billion in 2018 and is projected to reach an impressive $1,626.7 billion by 2026, growing at a CAGR of 13.3% from 2019 to 2026 . This meteoric rise shows no signs of slowing, with people across the globe, particularly Americans, increasingly seeking out vacation experiences that excite, inspire and challenge.

Choose Your Adventure: Land, Water, or Air? 🌍🌊💨

Adventure travel activities can be divided into three main categories: land-based activities, water-based activities, and air-based activities. Each offers a unique opportunity to engage with the environment and push your boundaries, allowing you to choose your thrill depending on your preferences and comfort levels. Let’s delve deeper into each category:

Land-Based Activities 🏞️

The feel of the earth beneath your feet, the exhilaration of conquering a challenging trail, the pure joy of outdoor exploration – these are the hallmarks of land-based adventure activities. These might include:

Mountain biking: A step up in adrenaline, mountain biking offers a more high-speed exploration of the great outdoors. It’s an excellent option for thrill-seekers and those seeking to combine physical exertion with stunning scenery.

Rock climbing: This is for those who like their adventures vertical. Rock climbing requires strength, focus, and nerve as you ascend cliff faces and crags. It offers an incredible sense of achievement and unbeatable panoramic views as a reward.

Water-Based Activities 🌊

If the call of the ocean (or river, or lake) appeals to you, water-based adventure activities might be your calling. These activities allow you to connect with the aquatic world and can range from serene to extreme:

Kayaking: Whether it’s serene sea kayaking or navigating the thrilling white waters of a rapid river, kayaking offers an excellent way to connect with nature and get a workout.

Rafting: A group-based thrill, rafting is all about teamwork and nerve as you navigate tumultuous river rapids. It’s an exhilarating, bond-forming experience that will leave you soaked and smiling.

Scuba diving: Discover the enchanting world beneath the waves. Scuba diving gives you a fish-eye view of the world, uncovering the vibrant ecosystems that thrive beneath the water’s surface.

Air-Based Activities 💨

If you’ve ever dreamed of flying, air-based activities are as close as you can get to realizing that dream. These high-adrenaline activities provide an utterly unique perspective on the world:

Skydiving: A literal leap of faith, skydiving offers an adrenaline rush like no other. It’s you, the open sky, and the ground far, far below. The free-fall sensation is unparalleled, and the parachute glide gives you a bird’s-eye view of the landscape.

Paragliding: A slightly more sedate air-based activity, paragliding allows you to soar like a bird, catching thermals and gliding over landscapes. It’s a peaceful, yet exhilarating experience.

Bungee jumping: This headfirst dive offers a pure adrenaline hit as you plunge towards the earth, with only an elastic cord saving you from gravity’s full effect.

Remember, while these activities can offer unparalleled thrills, they also require appropriate safety measures. Always ensure you have the right gear, knowledge, and possibly a guide to ensure your adventure doesn’t turn into a misadventure. Adventure awaits! Choose your playground – land, water, or air – and start exploring.

“Adventure travel is about connecting with a place and its people, stepping outside your comfort zone, and discovering the world in a more authentic and sustainable way,” says Shannon Stowell , CEO of the Adventure Travel Trade Association (ATTA). In fact, adventure travel invites you to forge a deeper relationship with your chosen destination , its culture, and, most importantly, yourself.

How Adventure Travel Activities Benefit You 🎒

Beyond the rush of adrenaline, adventure travel activities can offer a myriad of benefits. It promotes physical fitness, mental well-being, and fosters a sense of accomplishment. These experiences can teach you resilience, expose you to diverse cultures, and provide lasting memories.

Insider Tips for First-Time Adventure Travelers 🗺️

Planning your first adventure travel trip can seem daunting, but with the right preparation, it can be an incredibly rewarding experience. Here are a few insider tips:

• Research: Know the physical demands, potential risks, and safety precautions of your chosen activity.
• Equipment: Invest in quality gear and ensure you know how to use it.
• Guides: Consider hiring a local guide to make the most of your experience.

In the world of adventure travel, every path leads to a new discovery. Embarking on this journey not only enriches your life but also contributes to local economies and supports sustainable tourism. So gear up, step outside your comfort zone, and let the world be your playground!

What are some popular adventure travel activities?

Adventure travel activities can range widely depending on your interest. Popular ones include hiking, mountain biking, rock climbing for land activities, kayaking, rafting, scuba diving for water-based activities, and skydiving, paragliding, bungee jumping for air-based activities.

How do I prepare for an adventure travel trip?

Preparation can vary based on the activity chosen. Generally, it includes researching the activity and location, understanding the physical demands and potential risks, ensuring you have the right equipment and considering hiring a local guide for a better experience.

Is adventure travel safe?

While there’s an element of risk involved in adventure travel activities, they can be safe with the right precautions. It’s crucial to understand the risks, follow safety guidelines, use appropriate equipment, and potentially hire experienced guides.

What are the benefits of adventure travel?

Adventure travel can promote physical fitness, mental well-being, resilience, and a sense of accomplishment. It also provides an opportunity to learn about diverse cultures and contribute to local economies.

How has the adventure travel market grown over the years?

The adventure travel market has seen significant growth. As per Allied Market Research, it was valued at $586.3 billion in 2018 and is expected to reach $1,626.7 billion by 2026.

Can beginners try adventure travel activities?

Absolutely! Adventure travel isn’t just for seasoned thrill-seekers. There are activities suitable for all skill levels. It’s important to do your research and start with activities appropriate for your fitness level. Always prioritize safety and consider engaging guides, especially for more challenging adventures.

How do I choose an adventure travel destination?

The choice of a destination depends on your interests and the type of activities you enjoy. Research various locations, consider the climate, local regulations, available adventure activities, and the level of challenge they present. Also, think about the cultural experiences you might have in different locations.

Is adventure travel expensive?

The cost of adventure travel can vary widely depending on the destination, type of activities, duration, and whether you hire guides or join a group. While some activities can be relatively inexpensive, others that require specialized equipment or guides can cost more. Planning and budgeting are crucial parts of the process.

How does adventure travel contribute to sustainable tourism?

Adventure travel often takes travelers off the beaten path and into local communities. This type of tourism, when managed responsibly, can contribute to local economies and foster a greater appreciation for nature and culture. It can also motivate conservation efforts as travelers witness the beauty and fragility of these environments first-hand.

• A llied Market Research . (2018). Adventure Tourism Market.  
• Adventure Travel Trade Association . (n.d.). Adventure Activities.  
• World Tourism Organization (UNWTO). (n.d.). Sustainable Development of Tourism.  

This post is also available in: English

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One response to “Unleash Your Inner Explorer: Top Adventure Travel Activities for Thrill Seekers”

Hey Deborah Green, your piece was truly enlightening! I loved how you wove in personal stories – especially the bit about trial and error with the new coding language. As a software developer, my experience resonates. Have you ever explored AI applications in software development? It’s fascinating and could totally revolutionize how we code! One suggestion: could you delve into blockchain tech in future posts? 🔎💻 Keep up the inspiring work, look forward to more insightful posts!

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