extreme travel company

• Best Hikes In The World
• Appalachian Trail
• European Hikes
• Nepal Hikes
• Patagonia Hikes
• See All Hikes
• Mount Kenya
• Mount Kilimanjaro
• Mount Toubkal
• See All Mountains
• South Africa
• New Zealand
• Switzerland
• United Kingdom
• Packing Lists

Best Adventure Travel Companies

This is our roundup of the best adventure travel companies. This article is for those of us who love to travel, but don't have the time or energy to spend on figuring out complicated logistics. 

There are hundreds of adventure travel companies operating all over the world, from Andorra to Zimbabwe, that cater to a wide range of different travel styles and preferences. Booking a trip through an adventure travel company can save hours of frustration and help you have a fantastic experience.

We’ve taken a systematic approach to ranking these tour operators, taking into account everything from popularity, to online reviews, sustainability commitments, and the company’s breadth of trip offerings, so you can be confident that you’ve found the operator that’s right for you.

Let’s get to it!

Want to book your next adventure with a local guide?

These are all individual travel operators, but if you want to book direct with a local guide, check out the trips on Skyhook. 

Best Adventure Travel Companies In the World

#1. g adventures (9.8/10), best small group adventure travel operator.

G Adventures is one of the world’s largest and best adventure travel companies, with over 700 different trip offerings around the globe. Although they take over 200,000 travellers out on adventures each year, they’re actually best known as a small group travel operator with a high focus on sustainability and authenticity.

Instead of shuttling travellers from tourist attraction to tourist attraction, G Adventures takes small groups of guests off the beaten path and give them the chance to have quality interactions with local people.

G Adventures eschews fancy hotels and western-style meals for more local options. Their tours are best suited for the traveller that’s interested in stepping outside their comfort zone for a more authentic travel experience.

#2. Audley Travel (9.2/10)

Best tailor-made adventure travel company for luxury.

Audley Travel believes that the best way to see the world is to explore it in your own way. That's why they specialise in creating travel experiences that are tailored to the individual needs and desires of any given traveller.

Instead of selling you a pre-packaged experience, anyone travelling with Audley Travel starts their journey with a conversation with a specialist, who will figure out what your budget is, where you'd like to go, and how you want to travel, so you end up with an experience that's perfect for you.

This top-of-the-line service means that guests adventuring with Audley Travel can expect luxury accommodation and itineraries crafted just for them. Of course, this type of service doesn’t come cheap, but if you’re looking for custom luxury travel, Audley Travel might be for you.

#3. Exodus Travel (9.2/10)

Runner-up: best adventure travel company for small groups.

Exodus Travel offers an amazing range of different travel experiences that focus on active adventure and education about a country's culture and environment. Each of their 500 different trips builds in a variety of outdoor activities, whether that be hiking and biking or winter sports.

Exodus takes guests to more than 90 countries on all seven continents, so they've got something for everyone. Plus, they've made a commitment to travelling responsibly, with respect to both the environment and other cultures, when bringing guests to some of the world's most fascinating places.

#4. Intrepid Travel (9/10)

Intrepid Travel was founded nearly three decades ago by two Australian friends who set off for a journey around Africa. They gave up traditional Western comforts for an authentic travel experience like no other. It is this ethos that started Intrepid lives within the company to this day. Intrepid takes over 100,000s of travellers on over 800 different trips on every continent in the world.

These days, Intrepid specialises in small group travel to some of the world's most remote places. As their name suggests, they focus on out-there adventures that are off the beaten path, yet committed to sustainability.

They run trips to suit a wide range of different travellers and travel styles, but everyone travelling with Intrepid should be ready for an adventure like no other!

#5. National Geographic Expeditions (9/10)

Best operator for expert guides.

The name ‘National Geographic’ is synonymous with amazing photography and ground-breaking scientific research. Nat Geo brings the same quality found in their magazines to their adventure travel trips .

Each Nat Geo trip is designed for people of a specific interest group, whether that be food, culture, wildlife, or active adventure. There’s a Nat Geo tour for pretty much everyone.

What sets Nat Geo apart from other tour operators is their commitment to hiring only true experts to run their trips. So, when you book on an African safari, you’ll be accompanied by an actual researcher that’s dedicated their life to studying the very animals you’ll see.

#6. Urban Adventures (8.8/10)

Best city adventures.

Sometimes, the best adventures happen in the heart of a city. Although the idea of “adventure travel” usually conjures up imagines of high mountain peaks or vast desert landscapes, Urban Adventures firmly believes that there’s a lot to explore and learn from inside some of the world’s greatest cities.

Urban Adventures has a trip for everyone, whether you’re a foodie or an active traveller. They’ve got shopping tours, beer tours, and multi-city tours, so it’s not difficult to find a trip that piques your interest.

Urban Adventures will create a custom itinerary just for you. You can be sure that you’re getting the city adventure you’ve always dreamed of.

#7. World Expeditions (8.8/10)

Runner-up: best small group adventure operator.

World Expeditions wants to take you to some of the world’s most amazing places via the path less travelled. They’re committed to providing high-quality travel experiences that focus on responsible tourism and supporting local communities. World Expeditions brings travellers to every continent but leaves behind the touristy areas for some seldom seen places.

They focus on cultural immersion and active adventures, but they cater their trips to travellers of all different ages and different activity levels so you can find a trip that's right for you. Plus, if you have a dream trip in mind, they'll even help you craft an entirely custom made itinerary and make it happen.

#8. TrailFinders (8.2/10)

Best adventure travel agency.

Trailfinders offers a variety of different tours that have garnered them a worldwide reputation. While they have a selection of pre-packaged trips, where Trailfinders really shines is in creating tailor-made travel itineraries because they know there’s nothing better than a bespoke travel adventure.

Trailfinders is known for its fantastic customer service, from actual travel experts who have actually been to the places they sell tours. You can be confident that you're getting an itinerary that's right for your needs. They offer everything from a weekend getaway to months-long holidays and everything in between.

#9. International Expeditions (8.2/10)

Best eco-travel operator.

If eco-friendly small group travel sounds like your kind of adventure, then look no further than International Expeditions . The company is committed to sustainable tourism and conservation efforts both in their offices and on their trips.

International Expeditions create award-winning travel experiences to over 20 different countries. They focus on facilitating authentic interactions with local people and cultures.

On an International Expeditions trip, you’ll be accompanied by an expert naturalist and expedition leader who are local to the area you’re travelling to. This means that with International Expeditions, you’ll get information and service that you could never find in a guidebook.

#10. Kuoni (8/10)

Runner-up: best luxury & tailor-made travel company.

Kuoni is one of the best adventure travel companies for luxury custom travel that's designed specifically to meet your needs. Whether you're looking for a guided small-group tour or a carefully designed experience, Kuoni is there to make your dreams a reality.

Where Kuoni really shines is in its customer service. For travellers from the United Kingdom, you can visit their offices and have a chat with one of their destination experts. If you're someone who wants to plan a trip and a pre-packaged tour won't cut it, Kuoni's adventures just might be for you.

#11. Flash Pack (8/10)

Best adventure travel company for 30-40-somethings.

Are you between the ages of 30 and 49? Do you frequently travel alone but wish you had adventure companions like you? If you answered yes to both of those questions, then Flashpack is the best adventure travel company for you.

Other tour operators place people on a trip together simply because they wanted to go to the same place at the same time. Flashpack specialises in connecting travellers in their 30s and 40s with other like-minded adventure enthusiasts. You can explore the world in style without having to go about it alone.

#12. Wild Frontiers Adventure Travel (8/10)

Runner-up: best operator for expert guides.

Wild Frontiers was founded by renowned travel writer Jonny Bealby with a mission to bring travellers to amazing places and introduce them to the fantastic people and cultures that make these locations so special.

The company specialises in small-group travel. Itineraries are organised by regional experts that have been to the places you’ll journey to.

Wild Frontiers offers a wide variety of different tours to some truly remote places, but they’re also happy to tailor-make an itinerary, just for you. On a Wild Frontiers trip, you’ll stay active and experience some of the world’s most remote places like a local.

#13. Trek America (7.8/10)

Runner-up: best small group adventure travel operator.

North America is home to some incredibly diverse landscapes, from the deserts and canyons of the Southwestern United States to the jagged, snow-covered peaks of the Canadian Rockies. There's so much to see and do in the USA and Canada and one of the best ways to experience it all is on a Trek America tour.

Trek America offers road trips in the USA and Canada for young international travellers who want to see the big cities, stunning national parks, and everything in between on their next North American holiday.

Tours vary from just three days to three months. Trek America has something for every active young traveller looking for an adventure holiday in North America.

#14. KE Adventure Travel (7.8/10)

KE Adventure Travel started out as the premier adventure tour operator in the remote Karakoram Mountains of Pakistan. Since then, they’ve expanded their range of offerings to include trips to popular destinations such as the Himalaya , Mount Kilimanjaro , and the European Alps . Hike, bike, climb, and adventure to your heart’s content.

KE Adventures specialises in organising active travel holidays to nearly 90 countries. On a KE Adventures tour, you'll head off the popular trails toward hidden valleys and isolated villages and immerse yourself in the culture of the local people for an authentic travel experience.

#15. Classic Journeys (7.8/10)

Although they may be called “classic,” Classic Journeys ' tours are anything but standard. Classic Journeys is dedicated toward making sure that every traveller on their trip has the experience of a lifetime.

Most Classic Journeys' trips go to popular locations, like France , New Zealand , and the Galapagos . However, they give you a chance to see these places in a different way.

Classic Journeys’ itineraries give you a unique perspective on some of the world’s most popular travel destinations. Classic Journeys' high-end trip offerings include options for families and solo travellers, too, so there’s really something for everyone.

#16. Austin Adventures (7.8/10)

Family-owned and operated, Austin Adventures is a pioneer in small group active holiday adventures around the world. Austin Adventures prides itself on hiring only the highest-quality tour guides and all of their trip itineraries have been fine-tuned. 

The best part about Austin Adventures? Their trips are priced at an all-inclusive rate. You don’t have to worry about shelling out more money after you arrive at your destination. Trips come with a departure guarantee, so you don’t ever have to worry about last-minute cancellations due to low enrollment.

#17. Abercrombie & Kent (7.6/10)

Abercrombie and Kent have been guiding guests on luxury adventure tours for over 50 years, so it’s no surprise that they’ve made it onto our list of the best adventure tour operators.

Abercrombie and Kent will take you quite literally anywhere you want to go in the world. You can choose from one of their pre-set luxury small group tours or ask about a custom itinerary and tour, just for you.

The defining feature of any Abercrombie and Kent tour is luxury. When you book a trip, you can rest assured that you'll be staying at the best hotels and travelling in the most comfortable way possible.

#18. Butterfield & Robinson (7.6/10)

Butterfield and Robinson  offer prescheduled journeys in dozens of countries on nearly every continent.

Their trips focus on hiking, biking, and other outdoor pursuits during the day, but ensure that you still get to enjoy the comforts you expect from a luxury travel company. Butterfield and Robinson  offer a bespoke travel service, so they can design a luxurious active holiday that’s just right for you.

#19. UTracks (7.6/10)

Best active european adventure travel company.

Photo by Sam & Jo

UTracks ' tours are all about exploring Europe in your own way. Dedicated to leading the industry as an active European holiday tour operator, UTracks offers over 400 different small group tours  in nearly 50 countries.

Plus, they have a range of self-guided tour options, so you can skip the hassle of planning logistics and just worry about having an amazing time on your trip. All of UTracks’ trips focus on either walking, cycling, boating, or winter sports, so they’ve got a little bit of something to please everyone.

#20. Natural Habitat Adventures (7.4/10)

Runner-up: best eco-travel operator.

Natural Habitat Adventures specialises in nature travel, bringing visitors to some of the world’s most remote places, so you can see first-hand the beauty of the natural world. Natural Habitats even partners with the World Wildlife Fund to design sustainability and conservation-focused tours for their guests.

Natural Habitats itineraries are wholly unique, and their expedition leaders are some of the most experienced guides out there. Plus, their trips have very small group sizes, with an average of just nine guests per tour, so you can spend more time enjoying nature and less time avoiding tourist crowds.

#21. Explore! (7.2/10)

Explore! has been guiding visitors around the world for nearly 40 years. In that time, they’ve grown from offering just six tours to their current selection of over 600 tours.

Offers range from your classic group excursions to active family adventures. They offer trips in over 130 countries, each of which gives you the chance to learn more about the unique culture and environment in the region you choose to visit.

On every Explore! tour, you'll be guided by locals, who can provide you with information and service that you just can't get from a travel blog or guidebook. Explore! has been fine-tuning their itineraries for nearly four decades, so they have the skills and expertise necessary to create some fantastic active holidays.

#22. Peregrine Adventures (7.2/10)

Peregrine Adventures is the premium small group adventure travel section of the better known Intrepid Travel Company. Like Intrepid, Peregrine is dedicated to offering travellers an off-the-beaten-path experience, so you can get an authentic feel for a place during your holiday.

Where Peregrine stands apart, however, is that their maximum tour size is just 12 people. This means you'll get a much more personalised experience. Peregrine hires experienced local guides, hand-picks their accommodation, and travels in smaller, private vehicles.

#23. Tucan Travel (7.2/10)

Best latin american adventure travel company.

With over three decades of experience under their belt, Tucan Travel is no newcomer to the adventure travel game. Tucan Travel offers first-time travellers and seasoned globetrotters a choice of over 200 different tours in 70 countries. We rate them as the best adventure travel company for Latin America.

Tucan Travel also caters specifically to solo travellers, who make up over half of their total clientele. Tucan Travel is committed to offering affordable active holidays that are focused on sustainable and responsible travel.

#24. Kandoo Adventures (7.2/10)

Best hiking adventure travel company.

If you like to hike, Kandoo might be the adventure tour operator for you. Kandoo pitches themselves as a world expert in adventure trekking, and with trekking tours to places such as Aconcagua, Bhutan, Kilimanjaro, Machu Picchu, and Nepal, there’s no doubting that they know what they’re talking about.

Kandoo's trips are specifically designed to bring small groups of hikers to some of the world's most remote and famous high-altitude trekking destinations. They're perfect for the adventure traveller with a bucket list.

The team at Kandoo is also committed to responsible travel. When you book with them, you can be confident that your local guides and support team are all adequately compensated and respected.

#25. Adventure Alternative (7/10)

Runner up: best hiking adventure travel company.

Photo by AJCHO

Adventure Alternative was founded almost thirty years ago by Gavin Bate, a mountaineer and International Mountain Leader with decades of personal climbing, trekking, and international travelling experience under his belt.

These days, they focus on providing the highest quality adventure travel experience to their guests. Whether that be on a trip to the jungle, the desert, or the Arctic.

All of the Adventure Alternative’s trips have a focus on hiking, so they’re best for anyone looking to stay active and off the beaten path on their holiday. They’re also more than happy to help you plan a private expedition whatever your personal trekking challenge.

#26. REI Adventures (6.8)

Photo by NW Boating

REI Adventures is the adventure travel subsidiary of Recreational Equipment, Inc., one of the largest and most popular outdoor gear stores in the United States.

REI’s mission is to get people outdoors. They’ve dedicated themselves to providing over 150 different trips to every continent to help their guests have the experience of a lifetime.

REI trips are active adventure expeditions that bring guests to some of the remote places in the world. They’re led by top-notch guides, many of whom are local to the places you’ll be travelling in. The emphasis at REI Adventures is on environmentalism and authentic experiences.  You won’t find any cookie cutter trips with this company.

Ranking Methodology

Criteria & scoring.

To rank the adventure travel companies on our list we used 5 main criteria, as follows: 

We researched the web traffic statistics as measured by SimilarWeb.com and social media audiences as measured by followers on Facebook and Instagram, and subscribers on Youtube. We created a popularity score for 1. Web Traffic and 2. Social Media presence on a scale of 1-3. Total available points: 6. Weighting: 5%

Review Profile

We analysed the public review profiles of each of the travel companies focusing on the major independent 3rd party review platforms like Trustpilot, Tourradar, Stride, Tripadvisor, Feefo and Facebook. We divided our review score into two parts: 1. Size of Review Profile, and 2. Overall Quality of Reviews. Each part was scored on a scale of 1-3. Total available points: 6. Weighting: 80%

Responsible Travel Practices

We reviewed each travel operator's website and read their statements about responsible travel / ethics / sustainability. We then scored each operator on a scale of 1-3. Total available points: 3. Weighting: 5%

Awards and Accreditations

We explored each travel operator's website to uncover evidence of accreditations like ABTA, ATOL, ATTA and AITO (among others), and official awards / recognitions from the travel industry. We then scored each operator on a scale of 1-3. Total available points: 3. Weighting: 5%

Breadth of Offering

We analysed the breadth and scale of each operator's tour offerings, focusing on the number of tours offered, countries covered and number of activities. We then scored each operator on a scale of 1-3. Total available points: 3. Weighting: 5%

We recognise that smaller travel companies would struggle to compete on some of the criteria above.

For example, a small tour operator would most likely have significantly less web traffic and a smaller social presence than a big travel operator. Equally, they would likely have a smaller scale and breadth of offering.

To provide a level playing field, we therefore weighted our overall score heavily towards 3rd party reviews - a criteria that all operators can fairly compete on.

The total review score counts 80% towards the overall score, with the rest of the criteria accounting for 20%.

Table of Adventure Travel Company Data

Below is the raw data we captured for each adventure travel company during our analysis. Please note, metrics like traffic, social media followers and reviews are dynamic and change overtime. The data below is a snapshot of these metrics as of April / May 2019.

We will revise these numbers annually. 

About the author 

Mark Whitman

Mark has trekked extensively in Asia, Europe, South America and Africa. He founded Mountain IQ in 2014 with the sole aim to be the best online information portal to some of the most popular mountain destinations around the world. When not writing for Mountain IQ, Mark is out exploring the outdoors with his wife!

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked

great article.. thanks for the information…

Hello Mark,

Do you have any experience with a travel company called 10Adventures? We are planning a hiking trip through Tuscany and I cannot find any reviews.

Hi Marianne, I’m not familiar with this company, but you may want to look at the Italy trips on our platform, Skyhook: https://skyhookadventure.com/go/italy

We work with local guides to offer great value adventures at unbeatable prices.

FIND YOUR WILD

Prepare to find your wild, whether that’s in the steppes of Mongolia, the lively cities of India or the rainforests of Costa Rica. Using our wealth of knowledge and expertise, we have created an exciting range of tours worldwide, all with an emphasis on leaving a long-lasting positive impact on both the people and places we visit. Whether you prefer to travel as part of a small group or independently, contact our experts today to find your wild. 

THE WORLD BY WILD FRONTIERS

Why travel with wild frontiers.

We specialise in immersive and responsible small group tours and tailor-made holidays worldwide. We have drawn on our extensive knowledge and local expertise to create extraordinary travel experiences in some of the world’s most captivating destinations.

Winners of the Guardian/Observer 'Best Ethical Tour Operator' Award, we are committed to the environment and communities we are privileged visit. This ethos was re-enforced when we set up our own charitable foundation, enabling us to channel funds into sustainable community initiatives.

TRENDING GROUP TOURS

Trending tailor-made holidays, inspiration at your fingertips.

Places to visit in Vietnam

From the blog: The Hunza Valley

Giving back, responsible travel at our hearts.

At Wild Frontiers we do more than pay lip services to Responsible Tourism. Find out more about the Wild Frontiers Foundation and how we design our adventures with the local people, culture and eco-system in mind.

800-763-4840 | [email protected]

Travel now pay later.

Your Adventure Starts Here

AmaWaterways

Hilton - stay longer in paradise, vacation promotions, celebrity cruises black friday event, vacation adventures take many forms, ocean cruising adventures, river cruising adventures, land adventures, nearby adventures, what we provide.

Dreaming of visiting a place is one thing, making it happen is something completely different. At Adventure Travel, we not only make your luxury vacation happen, we take it to the next level with our planning services. Our experience has given us the knowledge and the partnerships to provide exclusive access to sites and experiences you can’t find on your own. Wherever you want to go, your adventure starts here.

Get deeper travel insights through:

• Complimentary upgrades on flights, hotels, cruises, and more.
• Behind-the-scenes access to the world’s top attractions.
• An array of included amenities at no extra charge.
• Exclusive pricing you can’t find online.

Our world is an endless ocean of cultures just waiting to be experienced. Our team of seasoned travel experts thrives on helping people experience new things and has devoted their lives to traveling to new and faraway places. This gives us the ability to build custom itineraries uniquely suited to your preferences.

Booking with Adventure Travel gives you access to:

• 15 Travel Advisors, each with a specific area of expertise.
• More than 100 combined years of travel experience.
• Intimate knowledge of traveling to and within all 7 continents.
• Expert tips and secrets to get the most out of your travel.

To truly experience a place, you need to be free from the stress, worry, and uncertainty that can come from booking and managing your own travel. By serving as your travel expert and liaison, we empower you to be fully present wherever you are to get the most out of your vacation. With us, you can travel farther and rest easy knowing we’re here for you no matter what.

Eliminate worry and stress.

• A dedicated travel advisor throughout your booking process and vacation.
• Direct access to your travel advisor via phone, email, or travel app throughout your vacation.
• Visible savings on air, cruise, hotel, and excursion fares and fees.

Explore Our Trips

3-­nights ­san ­francisco ­getaway ­with ­napa ­valley ­wine ­train.

Enjoy 3 nights’ in the “City by the Bay” with a day trip out to Napa Valley aboard the Napa Valley Wine Train. Take in all the amazing sights and attractions of San Francisco, then head out for an unforgettable

Third Night FREE in Boston at Fairmont Copley Plaza

Fairmont Copley Plaza is located just one block from Back Bay Amtrak Station and less than 5 miles from Boston Logan International airport. Enjoy a complimentary 3rd night with the purchase of two nights for stays now through May 31,

Exclusive Amenities at Luxury Nashville Hotel

Located near Music Row, the epicenter of Nashville’s unique sound, Hutton Hotel is the city’s original boutique hotel and a hub for creative expression. From the deals being made over lunch at our modern steakhouse, to the artists performing in

adventuretravelagency

Build Your Dream Vacation

Our travel advisors are standing by to answer any questions you might have. Simply call, email or fill out the form and we will contact you within 24 hours.

Get in Touch!

*By providing your phone number, you consent to receive follow-up SMS messages from Adventure Travel; for more information, please refer to our  Privacy Policy  page.

• Vehicle Builds
• Gear We Use
• Overlander Network
• Overlanding Blog Overlanding Blog

XOVERLAND IS A TEAM OF EXPLORERS AND FILMMAKERS WHO AIM TO INSPIRE OTHERS TO BOLDLY EXPLORE THE WORLD

Who Is Expedition Overland?

XOVERLAND is an award-winning team of adventure travelers sharing through video, their exploration of some of the world’s most remote places and inspiring others to go on their own adventures.

New Services & Content

XOVERLAND believes that overlanding is not just a journey, but a way of life, and you’re invited to join in on this incredible adventure. Together, let’s explore the world, discover new horizons, and become the best versions of ourselves.

Inside XOverland

Bite-size videos designed to show you the happenings in the XOVERLAND Hangar!

XOVERLAND Network YouTube

Out And About

Join Tanner and the crew from the trail as we discuss ideas and tips and tricks that we have learned.

Bite-size videos designed to equip and educate you to confident explore the world!

the XOVERLAND Podcast

The place to learn about all things overlanding and get inspired with the confidence to go do it.

Browse Episodes

About XOVERLAND

Many amazing people are needed to make XOVERLAND run. XOVERLAND includes a core team who serve the creative, production, online store, and day-to-day administrative needs. Expedition teams vary—we assemble cast and crew based on each trip’s unique needs and challenges.

Featured Gear

onX Offroad Membership

MyMedic – MyFAK Pro

XOVERLAND Edition Offroam Mount

DMOS Nomad Shovel

What We’re Up To

XOVERLAND Exclusive: We Put the 2024 Toyota Tacoma Trailhunter to the Test

Until recently, vehicle manufacturers didn’t supply off-the-lot options for overlanders, so we’ve adapted by modifying vehicles to suit our needs. Little did we know Toyota secretly developed the solution many have been waiting for—the Tacoma Trailhunter, a rugged new platform designed for overlanders to “go far.” Expedition Overland has filmed [...]

Africa: A Look Back at How to Navigate the Unknown While Overlanding (as a Family)

Last summer, the XOVERLAND team embarked on an expedition to Africa for the first time. A stark difference from the Nordic countries of Season 5, Southern Africa brought the team into vast landscapes, extremely remote locations, and days in between supplies, which was a major juxtaposition from our previous expedition [...]

2023 Overlander’s Holiday Gift Guide

Whether you’re an overlander with years of experience or hitting the trail for the first time, this collection of our “Top Ten” lists of overlanding gear and accessories is sure to help improve your kit.

the latest and greatest videos

What Makes Expedition Overland Possible?

Our media partners help pave the way…

Presented By

Official Vehicle Sponsor

Official Apparel Partner

In-Part Sponsors

Expedition Support

Grab the free Adventure Checklist complete with a packing list and bonus 3-day meal planner so you can get started today!

You’ll receive follow-up emails from Expedition Overland. You can cancel at any time and your information will not be shared with anyone else.

Most Extreme Adventure Tours in the World

In the age of social media, it’s easy to feel like every traveler is doing the same thing in the same place. But sometimes you want to forget there’s a road altogether and go where few others have gone before. 

Numerous companies have begun to offer tours that meet the growing demand for extreme experiences in extreme places. Pushing the limits, these are the world’s most extreme adventure expeditions.

15. Kayak With Sea Lions in the Galapagos

Destination:  Ecuador

Hosted by: Classic Journeys

Starting price: $6,595

Book it:  Online

The Experience: Kayaking With Sea Lions

The Galapagos Islands are one of the most unique places on the planet. Their isolation has provided the perfect circumstances for the evolution of several endemic species like blue-footed boobies, marine iguanas, Galapagos tortoises and Galapagos sea lions. 

On this Classic Journeys tour, you'll get the chance to get up close with many of these species. You'll kayak with sea lions and sea turtles, or snorkel to see them underwater.

On land, you'll get to trek up to the world's second-largest volcanic caldera, learn about conservation and enjoy delicious gourmet meals.

14. Surf in Teahupoo

Destination:  Tahiti, French Polynesia

Hosted by: Teahupoo Adventure Tours and Surf

Starting price: $210

The Experience: Surfing in Teahuppo

Surfing is often considered an extreme sport, given the inherent dangers associated with trying to dominate the ocean. But when you do it in one of the most dangerous surf spots in the world, the danger — and thrill — is taken to another level. 

The Tahitian village of Teahupoo is famous for its heavy waves, which can sometimes be over 20 feet tall. The reef's semi-circular shape can also make the waves very wide, almost forming a wall of water that can knock you down into the reef below with incredible strength. 

You can book a half-day tour with Teahuppo Adventures for some incredibly fun, albeit risky, surfing.

13. Dive Between Two Continents

Destination:  Iceland

Hosted by:  Dive.Is

Starting price: $225

The Experience: Diving Between Two Continents

Iceland is a country of extremes and encounters. It is also one of the only places in the world where you can dive between the tectonic plates of two continents.

Located in Thingvellir National Park, the Silfa fissure is the crack where the Eurasian and the North American continents separated. The fissure is submerged in clear glacial water with high visibility, making it perfect for diving. 

You'll need to have a diving certification to enjoy the 40-minute tour. If you're absolutely bent on diving but don't have a certificate, plan ahead and get a two-day certificate and Silfa diving bundle.

You can also snorkel above the fissure , though we think diving deep into it is best.

12. Explore the Namibian and Antarctic Deserts in One Trip

Destination: South Africa, Antarctica, Namibia

Hosted by:  Wilderness Safaris and White Desert

Starting price: $98,405

The Experience: The Namibian and Antarctic Deserts

Rather than choose between two once-in-a-lifetime trips, let the collaboration between tour operators Wilderness Safaris and White Desert help you kill two birds with one stone. 

In this amazing expedition, you'll visit literal climate extremes. The adventure starts in the beautiful city of Cape Town, where you can enjoy vineyards, beaches and nightlife. Then, you'll head to Antarctica, the driest place on Earth to see emperor penguins and icebergs galore.

The third leg of the trip will take you to the Namibian desert, where the strenuous heat will contrast with the freezing landscape of the South Pole.

11. Hike Mount Hua

Destination: China

Hosted by:  Klook

Starting price: $105

The Experience: Hiking Mount Hua

Famous for its absurdly narrow paths, Mount Hua, or Huashan, is one of the most extreme hiking experiences you'll ever have. 

Many intrepid travelers come to Xian to climb the mountain by latching themselves onto the rock with skimpy metal chains. They then proceed to walk along loose planks while trying not to look down to the abyss right by their feet. Some of the planks are missing and have not been replaced and missteps have led to deaths — though we guess that's true of any hiking trip.

If you want to stay in the region for longer, you can do a four-day Xian highlights tour that includes the Terracotta Warriors, the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda and Mount Hua.

10. Heli-Ski in Alaska

Destination: Alaska

Hosted by: Chugach Powder Guides

Starting price: $5,950

The Experience: Heli-Skiing in Alaska

Skiing in Alaska is already an awesome experience, but not many things can beat heli-skiing in the wildest state in the U.S.

The Chugach Mountains are part of the Chugach National Forest, not too far from Anchorage. They are remote and difficult to access, which is where a private helicopter comes in. This Chugach Powder Guides tour lets you get to places you wouldn't otherwise have access to and allows for changes in the itinerary based on weather conditions. 

Once the helicopter has landed, you'll ski down the mountain in wild, rugged conditions. The amazing views from the air are an added perk. When you're not skiing, you can rest at the luxurious Alyeska Resort and enjoy four-diamond meals at the Seven Glaciers Restaurant.

9. Enter a Volcanic Magma Chamber

Destination: Iceland

Hosted by:  Gray Line

Starting price: $342

The Experience: Entering a Magma Chamber

Going into the magma chamber of a volcano does not seem like it would be possible, but Iceland delivers once again. For less than $500 , you can hike to the top of the Thrihnukagigur Volcano and then be lowered through its crater into the magma chamber.

The lava that once filled the chamber has left its mark on the walls, displaying vibrant spots of red, blue and green hues. You'll be in the literal heart of a dormant volcano, whose center is deep enough to fit the Statue of Liberty.

This is undoubtedly one of the coolest underground experiences you can have.

8. Canoe With Hippos and Crocs

Destination:  Botswana and Zimbabwe

Hosted by:  National Geographic Expeditions

Starting price: $5,599

The Experience: Canoeing With Hippos and Crocs

Doing an African safari with National Geographic is guaranteed to be an adventure, no matter the country you visit. But what sets Zimbabwe and Botswana apart from other similar tours is the opportunity to navigate the Okavango River on a mokoro, a small traditional dugout boat. 

As part of Botswana's breathtaking Okavango Delta, the river is teeming with life — and not all of it is very friendly. Hippopotamuses and crocodiles lurk within the water. These two species are famously aggressive, landing within the top 10 most dangerous animals on Earth.

Besides this fun excursion, you'll get to see the mighty Victoria Falls, do bush walks in different national parks and see land animals like lions, cheetahs and elephants.

7. Bike Bolivia’s Death Road

Destination: Bolivia

Hosted by: Gravity Bolivia

Starting price: $125

The Experience: Biking Bolivia’s Death Road

Bolivia's North Yungas Road is most famously known as "Death Road" due to the dangers of traversing it.

As one of the most dangerous roads in the world , it was responsible for 200-300 deaths a year before the government built an alternative route for crossing La Paz to Coroico. Today, the road is mostly used by thrill-seeking tourists who bike its narrow, slippery and winding curves.

If you need to feel the nearness of death in order to feel alive, join a Gravity Bolivia tour through a 50-mile stretch. Be prepared for low visibility, no guardrails and a very, very steep fall.

6. Join a Survival Camp in the Amazon

Destination: Guyana

Hosted by: Adventure Life

Starting price: $3,375

The Experience: Joining a Survival Camp in the Amazon

Touring the Amazon is always an adventure. One of the most biodiverse places on Earth, the massive rainforest spans eight countries, is hot and humid, and hosts a number of dangerous species like caymans, anacondas, jaguars and giant spiders. 

But if you want an even more adventurous trip to the Amazon, we suggest this survival camp in Guyana. Perhaps the least visited part of the Amazon, you won't find large cities here like in Colombia or Brazil. Rather, you'll be able to visit indigenous villages and learn survival techniques from groups who have protected and survived in the jungle for centuries.

The Adventure Life tour will teach you how to "build shelter, make fire, find food" and other necessary skills in a place where those skills will definitely be needed.

5. Submarine Dive in Costa Rica

Destination: Costa Rica

Hosted by: Undersea Hunter

Starting price: $5,410 

The Experience: Submarine Diving in Costa Rica

If you're considering a diving trip to Costa Rica, we highly suggest going with Undersea Hunter . The 10-day tours will take you on a cruise to Cocos Island, where you'll get to spend multiple days diving and enjoying the nature on land. 

But what sets this company apart is that its tours include the DeepSee Sub Dives, for which you have to pay an additional $1,500 plus. These dives take you under the sea on an actual mini-submarine with a 360-degree view of the underwater world around you.

How cool is that?

4. Ski In Antarctica

Destination: Antarctica

Hosted by:  Ski Antarctica

Starting price:  Inquire with company

The Experience: Skiing in Antarctica

Going to the most remote continent is an expedition, even if you're just sailing through it. But imagine the absolute thrill of getting to ski in its wild landscapes. 

The strenuous experience is not for rookies and definitely not for the risk-adverse. There are no built resorts or manicured slopes here (thankfully!), so it will only be you, your group and nature. 

When you're not skiing, you'll get to see some of the continent's wildlife from a safe distance and enjoy an Antarctic sailing experience.

If you want other cool Antarctica experiences but aren't the best skier, G Adventures offers Antarctica cruises with possible camping and kayaking add-ons.

3. Bungee Jump Into an Active Volcano

Destination: Chile

Hosted by:  Bungee

Starting price: $15,958

The Experience: Bungee Jumping Into an Active Volcano

Chile's Villarrica Volcano is one of the most active in the country. Though its last major eruption happened in 1985, it has had numerous small eruptions since. No one knows when it will erupt next, which is exactly what attracts daredevils.

Here, you can bungee jump from a helicopter into the mouth of the volcano. We've seen people willing to put their lives at risk for the thrill of a death-defying stunt, but this takes things to a whole other level.

The complicated stunt was first done by Bungee for MTV. The company claimed 2018 would be the last time they stage the stunt, but then offered it on March 2020, though it's unclear whether it was canceled because of COVID-19.

We can't say if Bungee will be offering the stunt again, but given how much money people are willing to pay for it, someone else will start offering it soon enough.

2. Navigate from Pole to Pole

Destination:  From Canada to Antarctica

Hosted by:  Hurtigruten Expeditions

Starting price: $50,143

The Experience: Navigating from Pole to Pole

Navigate from the North Pole to the South Pole on an epic 93-day adventure unlike anything else you've ever done. 

This amazing Hurtigruten expedition  starts in Vancouver, Canada, making its way up to Alaska, the Arctic Circle and Greenland through the Northwest Passage. Then, it comes back along the East Coast of the U.S., stopping in New England ports like Nantucket before heading to Central America.

The ship will then cross the Panama Canal to go into South America, with stops in Ecuador and Peru. Visiting multiple ports along the Chilean and Argentinean Patagonia help prepare you for the last frontier: Antarctica.

Yes, the trip is over $50,000 per person. But if you have that kind of money, it's completely worth it.

1. Climb Mount Everest

Destination:  Nepal

Hosted by:  RMI Expeditions

Starting price: $74,000

The Experience: Climbing Mount Everest

In 1953, Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay became the first confirmed people to reach the summit of Mount Everest. Since then, only 4,000 people have managed the feat.

If this ultimate adventure is a dream for you, RMI Expeditions can make it happen for a starting price of $74,000. The duration of the trip depends on many factors, so the company estimates 74 days, the first 16 of which are mostly spent climbing up to Everest Base Camp.

You'll then acclimate yourself to the altitude while practicing the skills you will need to reach the summit of the world's tallest mountain.

This challenge is for people who are truly committed. It is extremely dangerous and demanding, both physically and mentally. You will need to have previous experience climbing at high altitudes. But if you make it, you will have done something very few other people in history have managed to do. 

TO THE ENDS OF THE EARTH

Why Travel with GeoEx

GeoEx has been named one of the top tour operators in the world in Travel + Leisure ’s 2022 World’s Best Awards and Conde Nast Traveller ’s 2021 Readers’ Choice Awards.

A pioneer in designing innovative itineraries, GeoEx has nearly four decades of experience traveling thoughtfully and respectfully to the world’s most astonishing places.

Innovative Itineraries

Unusual travel experiences are not simple to plan, let alone find. And that is what makes GeoEx distinct. Whether you want to sip sweet mint tea with hijab-clad women in Iran, track lions for scientific research in Kenya, or stretch your own soba noodles under the watchful eye of a master maker in Japan─we can make it happen.

Decades of Experience

Forty years of exploring the world and showing our clients the best experience brings our travelers back year after year. Your priorities are important to us. We take the time to discuss your plans and share our expert knowledge. We consistently deliver authentic cultural experiences and the most thrilling out-of-the-ordinary adventures.

Travel with Integrity

We do not travel as escapists. We immerse ourselves in other countries and cultures to appreciate their different perspectives. As a company, we carefully weigh where to invest and build relationships to maximize benefit for the local community. In Tanzania we work with a camp dedicated to empowering local women, and in the Galápagos, giant tortoise research is supported through the ships we sail on.

DESTINATIONS

With our reach, we can connect your explorations across countries and hemispheres.

Latin America

Central Asia

North & East Asia

Middle East & Turkey

Southeast Asia

Australasia & Oceania

North America

Indian Ocean

FEATURED TRIPS

Discover our collection of trips hand-selected by our specialists for fulfilling, beyond-the-ordinary travel.

A Journey of Discovery & Connection

Exquisite Scenery, Vibrant Culture, and Sacred Rituals

The Best of Northern India’s Natural, Cultural, and Architectural Wonders

Inca Ruins, Natural Wonders & Colonial History

Cruise Island to Island, Meeting Sensational Wildlife

Forgotten Empires of the Maghreb

Set group departures ready for you to book

Private trips custom designed just for you

Handcrafted trips with private jets & the utmost in privacy

TRAVEL BY INTEREST

You don’t have to have your finger pointed to a destination. We’ll work hand-in-hand with you to craft the perfect trip based on your desired interests.

Nature & wildlife

Honeymoons / special occasions

Women’s trips

Solo travel

Start planning your journey, featured blogs.

6 Reasons Why You Should Go to Botswana, Again & Again

Destination Insights

Top 10 Things to Pack For Bhutan Travel

Travel Tips

Embracing India

Bolivia in Photos

9 Galápagos Travel Surprises

What to Know Before Traveling to Cuba

As featured in.

• Skip to primary navigation
• Skip to main content
• Skip to primary sidebar
• Skip to footer

TravelAwaits

Our mission is to serve the 50+ traveler who's ready to cross a few items off their bucket list.

6 Extreme Travel Experiences I’ve Tried And Lived To Tell The Tale

• Adventure Travel
• Destinations
• Types of Travel

Are you looking for something a little “more” from your holiday? Ready to test your limits by embarking on a trip that’s guaranteed to put you outside your comfort zone? Keen to try something a little extreme? These days more and more people are heading to some of the farthest-flung corners of the earth in search of something new and adventurous. Let me give you a few tips and suggestions, a few ideas to help you plan the ultimate destination for an intrepid traveler.

These trips are a mix of epic hikes, extreme sports, and creative ways to see some of the planet’s most beautiful landscapes. These six activities are guaranteed to thrill — and quite possibly change your entire outlook on life!

1. Trekking To Everest Base Camp At The China-Nepal Border

At 28,996 feet above sea level, Everest is the highest mountain on earth and is known the world over to climbers, hikers, and couch potatoes alike. Altitudes above 26,000 feet are considered “death zones” because humans struggle to survive there. This is definitely one place that is best left to the truly experienced. You ideally need to have climbed at least three 20,000-foot peaks, one 23,000-foot peak, and one 26,000-foot peak before you consider Everest. But if you are one of the lucky few who have the experience, time, and money needed to reach the summit, then definitely go for it! 

Fortunately, for those who wouldn’t class themselves as mountaineers, Everest Base Camp is still an option — and without the many dangers involved in attempting to reach the top. Most treks from Kathmandu take around two weeks, and this epic journey will provide you with plenty of adventure, and at the end of it all, gazing up at the highest point on earth will be the reward for all your hard work.

While teahouse hospitality and magnificent views en route are to be expected on an Everest Base Camp trip, most treks are not actually allowed to stay at base camp (it requires special permission) and most trekkers simply visit base camp for a photo opportunity before descending to nearby Gorak Shep to sleep. There are a few companies, however, like Highland Expeditions , who do offer the unique opportunity to sleep in the shadow of the mighty mountain, and if your trip coincides with peak summit season, when groups of climbers are in residence, you may have the opportunity to chat with some of those brave climbers who are making their final preparations to head to the top. If you are lucky you may even witness teams setting off up the notorious Khumbu Ice Fall at the start of their push for the top.

Pro Tip: Summiteers usually arrive at Base Camp in April and May, so plan your trip accordingly. Keep yourself healthy, too. To avoid potentially infecting the climbers, trekkers with illnesses will not be allowed to stay at Base Camp.

2. Climbing Mount Chimborazo In Ecuador

Sticking with the mountain theme, standing at 20,565 feet, Mount Chimborazo is the farthest point from the Earth’s center. Most people believe Mount Everest is the highest point on Earth, and while the summit of Mount Everest is the highest point above sea level, Mount Chimborazo is actually the highest spot above the center of the Earth, making it the closest place to outer space. Although Chimborazo has glaciers on its peak, it is possible to climb to the top and gaze on down at the world spread out below.

Mount Chimborazo is a difficult but not technical climb, and most of the ascent is a steep trek up the side of the mountain. There are several routes for brave climbers. The El Castillo route is the standard route used by climbers, ascending 4,200 feet up the west side of the mountain and taking 8-12 hours to the summit, then another 3 to 5 hours to descend. All this effort does require good stamina and endurance, though, as well as good adaptation to altitude. Climbers taking on Chimborazo are advised to have previous experience with alpine climbing. If you don’t, beginners can take an alpine climbing and glacier trekking course with their guiding company to learn proper climbing techniques and gain familiarity with the gear. It’s important to take your training and preparations seriously. The success rate of Chimborazo depends almost entirely on the climber. Those looking to climb Chimborazo might like to check out Ecuador Eco Adventures .

Pro Tip: For those wanting to witness this natural wonder without leaving civilization, gazing at the beauty of this magnificent mountain and the surrounding scenery can be just as rewarding. The nearest town to Mount Chimborazo is Riobamba. Here you can zip through narrow streets, visiting the city’s top attractions like the Museo de Arte Religioso, a beautifully restored 18th-century convent that showcases 200 religious pieces in 15 different rooms, before shopping at Feria Artisan market. If you are looking for somewhere to stay, try the highly acclaimed Hosteria La Andaluza .

3. Biking Down The Death Road In Bolivia

Have you heard of The Death Road? With no guard rails and frequent rain and fog causing limited visibility, the road has claimed numerous lives. Reports say that around 200 to 300 people die on this road every year (this number is a combination of motorists and cyclists), and because of this, the road is known as one of the world’s most deadly. This infamous narrow dirt road is cut into the side of the mountain and the descent is at such a rapid rate that riders are practically hurtling down the rough terrain. On one side of the road is a sheer drop, and on the other side are enormous rock overhangs and cascading waterfalls. It’s a thrilling ride that will have you hanging on, with white knuckles, all the way down.

While this harrowing stretch of road in Bolivia is undeniably dangerous, numerous people do summon up the courage to cycle it, and for those looking for an ultimate adventure, this definitely fits the bill. Not for the fainthearted, the 43-mile-long stretch through the Cordillera Oriental mountain chain links the Bolivian capital of La Paz with the low-lying city of Coroico via one seriously steep road. The road twists and turns, and I wouldn’t recommend looking off to the sides — it’s a 2,000-foot drop!

Most of the road is around 11 feet wide and some sections are unpaved. With warm, humid winds from the Amazon hitting the slopes of the Andes and bringing heavy rain and fog, visibility isn’t great. Mudslides and rockfalls are common, and sometimes you’ll even find waterfalls in the cliffsides. The stretch of road takes about 5 hours to complete, so it’s not a quick trip by any means, and it’s likely you’ll never let off the brakes because it’s entirely downhill and steep. At some points, the road is so narrow it feels like only one bike can pass at a time and it barely seems possible that a car or bus would ever consider driving this route. All along the road are crosses in remembrance of lives lost, and in the misty surrounding, it all feels unbelievably eerie.

Pro Tip: Madre Tierra Travel offers Death Road cycling tours as day trips departing from La Paz.

4. Whitewater Rafting The Zambezi River In Zambia

Whitewater rafting through the powerful rapids of the Zambezi River is definitely not for the fainthearted. Considered to be one of the best rafting experiences in the world, this Grade 5 “extremely difficult” water run will have your palms sweating, your knuckles white, and your heart pounding. There are many places in the world where you can white water raft, so why the Zambezi? Sad to say, the Zambian and Zimbabwean governments currently plan to move ahead with a $4 billion hydroelectric dam project that will flood the river gorge almost back as far as the famous Victoria Falls, displacing villagers and wildlife and putting a stop to rafting. So run this great river while you can!

Whether you choose a day or half-day trip from Livingstone, or maybe a multi-day, beach-camping expedition, this adventure is really up there with the world’s greatest river journeys and extreme travel experiences. You’ll tackle hair-raising rapids with names like Oblivion and The Devil’s Toilet Bowl, there’s a chance you’ll spot hippos lazing in the channels or even crocodiles lying on the river bank. Rafting the Zambezi is something I just keep coming back to do over and over again. I’ve been down this river more times than I can count, and I’ve loved it every single time.

Pro Tip: Book your trip on the Zambezi for some time between August and December; that’s low water season and the best time for rafting.

5. Bungee Jumping In New Zealand

New Zealand practically invented bungee jumping when the Kawarau Bridge Bungy, the world’s first bungee, opened in 1988. Here you can join around 38,000 annual visitors and make the 141-foot jump from the South Island’s historic, steel-framed Kawarau Bridge (you can even touch the water if that’s your thing!). Alternatively, if you are feeling really brave, how about the Nevis Bungy, which at a whopping 440 feet is the highest in the southern hemisphere, and has 8.5 seconds of terrifying free-fall? Quite possibly the longest 8.5 seconds of your life! Not only is bungy jumping a fantastic thrill in itself, but both jumps are located in truly gorgeous surroundings, not far from Queenstown.

Pro Tip: Check out AJ Hackett Bungy New Zealand to plan your adventure, and if throwing yourself off with a cord tied ’round your ankles seems a little too extreme, perhaps the slightly more sedate zip line, or maybe “the catapult,” might be more your thing.  

6. Swim With The Sharks In Gansbaai, South Africa

I don’t know about you, but the movie Jaws had me petrified of sharks as a kid. If you are the same, then the waters around South Africa’s Gansbaai are bound to bring those memories flooding back. Gansbaai has some of the most treacherous waters on Earth — this is prime great white shark territory. “Shark Alley,” a small channel of water between Dyer Island and Geyser Rock, is home to the densest concentration of these creatures, and it’s become a popular destination for tourists who want to get up close and personal with these deadly creatures by jumping on board a shark cage diving tour. Imagine being underwater in a cage and watching these terrifying beasts circling around you, so close that you can count their razor-sharp teeth! If this sounds a little overwhelming, you can go whale watching instead, or perhaps on a cruise to see penguins, seals, or dolphins.

Pro Tip: Marine Dynamics would be my recommendation for the company to do a shark diving trip with. They have the only purpose-designed boat for shark cage diving, are the only company that guarantees a marine biologist on every trip, and are the only company that has a registered conservation trust. They also take your safety really seriously, which seems a pretty important criterion to me! So there you have my round-up of extreme travel experiences that I’ve tried and lived to tell the tale!

Hopefully I’ve got you excited enough to head out on some of your own adventures. For more inspiration, see all our Adventure Travel content here !

Born and raised in Sydney, Australia, before moving to Africa at the age of 21, Sarah Kingdom is a mountain climber and guide, traveler, yoga teacher, trail runner, and mother of two. When she is not climbing or traveling she lives on a cattle ranch in central Zambia. She guides and runs trips regularly in India, Nepal, Tibet, Russia, and Ethiopia, taking climbers up Tanzania’s Mount Kilimanjaro numerous times a year.

The 7 Best Destinations for Extreme Travel

February 29, 2024   7 Comments »

Home » Blog » Travel » Adventure Travel » The 7 Best Destinations for Extreme Travel

It’s that time of year when you get the ‘best’ lists giving you ‘new’ ideas of where to go next year.  But in an effort to not be like everyone else, I focused on my favorite type of travel – extreme travel.  Check out Lonely Planet, AFAR , and the New York Times for the typical lists of where to go, but if you want something different – then stay right here.

I understand that many people aren’t excited when they see the term Extreme Travel, but I also know there are a group of people like me, however small, that do get excited by this concept.

Table of Contents

What is Extreme Travel?

I never wanted to be normal – I like to live my life at extremes. Granted – I’ll never be that skier skiing off ridiculous cliffs, or a climber sleeping on a little hammock on a ledge thousands of feet up. I’m not talking about that kind of extreme; I’m not that brave!

My extreme travel is not hazardous or involves great physical risk. If you want that kind of extreme travel, then check out The South Pole Energy Challenge (SPEC) hike in the Antarctic ! It’s a fascinating father-son expedition embarking on the first-ever challenge to the South Pole powered solely by clean energy technologies; a 600-mile, eight-week journey on foot to the South Pole.

As much as I love following their progress and adventure, I’m not going to tell you to go out and do that type of extreme travel!

My Definition of Extreme Travel

The extreme travel I’m talking about is exceptional landscapes, hard-to-reach locations, severe temperature, low population, and rare wildlife experiences.

It’s stuff I love, and most people probably consider it extreme. Extreme travel is often expensive and uncomfortable, but for me, it’s worth the journey and hardships because it’s just that exciting to me.

When I tell people I’m going to Fairbanks Alaska in the dead of winter they think I’m crazy and extreme, but for some reason, it calls me. I want to see what life is like there in the winter.

It’s a curiosity that drives me into these extreme landscapes, I want to see how people survive there and if I can survive there. And yes – I went and LOVED it!

7 Extreme Travel Destinations for Epic Adventures

So if you are up for a challenge and want an epic experience, try these extreme trips.

I believe it’s important to only write about and recommend trips that I’ve personally taken.  These 7 epic adventures have all been completed/tested by me!

1.  Antarctica’s Ross Sea – Antarctica to the Extreme

Approximately 40,000 tourists visit Antarctica each year, and only 500 of them come through the Southern Ocean to the Ross Sea. And that’s what makes this epic journey extreme; this is a place few people get to go.

Journey through the Southern Ocean from New Zealand arriving at historic Cape Adare in East Antarctica; this is the route of the famous explorers. Cook, Ross, Borchgrevink, Mawson, Scott, and Shackleton all made this same journey through the Southern Ocean multiple times to go deeper into Terra Australis incognita – the unknown southern land. And now, you too can follow in their wake, an Antarctica route few people take.

However, it will take an entire month of your time to get there and back!

Highlight – Ross Sea Antarctica

There are too many to mention. Watch my Antarctica YouTube Playlist to see what it was like. But if you ever dreamed of crossing the Antarctic Circle, being surrounded by 30,000 penguins, and seeing the most beautiful landscape in the whole world, then consider this extreme trip.

Best time to go to the Ross Sea:

January and February are really the only months you can make this journey due to the ice. The trip is 28 days from New Zealand to the Ross Sea.

How to Get to the Ross Sea

Heritage Expeditions Tours is one of the few companies that take this route! (Tell them Ottsworld sent you!). I have noticed that more of the cruise companies are starting to follow their lead. But know that Heritage was the one and only company doing this route for years and has an incredible amount of knowledge about all of the landings in that region of Antarctica.

More Antarctica articles

7 things to do in Antarctica (that surprisingly don’t include wildlife) Cruising the Ross Sea in Antarctica What to expect on a journey to Eastern Antarctica

2.  Churchill Canada for Polar Bears Who Are Curious to ‘See’ You

Viewing polar bears in the wild is a pretty standard bucket list item – like seeing the ‘Big 5’ in Africa. However, there are very few places you can actually view polar bears in the wild accessible to people, and the extreme town of Churchill Canada in Manitoba is one of them.

Every year as the bears wait around for the ice to form on Hudson Bay, people come north to have a ‘Polar Safari’ and see huge marine mammals roam around on land in the protected Churchill Wildlife Management Area. Unlike a zoo where an environment is created for the animal and then the animal is plopped down into it.

In Churchill, you are the one who is plopped down in the middle of their polar bear environment! That’s one of the many things that makes this trip extreme travel.

In addition, Churchill is located in a very remote part of Manitoba near the Arctic Circle. The only way to get there is to fly in as no roads connect Churchill to the rest of Manitoba.

Read about 3 ways to minimize travel disasters

Best time to go to Churchill to see Polar Bears

To see polar bears you should really go in October or early November. This is when the bears come to the coastline and wait for the ice to form on Hudson Bay so they can go back out on the ice and hunt.

Before October, they are still further inland and not around the bay where you can see them.

Churchill Polar Bear Highlight

Riding in the safety of a tundra buggy and seeing the curious bears in their habitat come right up to the vehicle at times. They were comfortable with the specialized tundra buggies. Plus – polar bears are curious – they have no fears of coming up to the buggy, standing up, and putting their front paws on it as they peer into your eyes!

Luckily the tundra buggies sit high off the ground so the bears are unable to get within reach.

How to go to Churchill

Frontiers North is the premier provider of this experience – check out Frontiers North’s offerings here . They have offices in Churchill and their staff lives there during the summer/fall. They are a wealth of information and they have a number of different trips.

Read about my trip: How Does a Polar Bear Safari Work Polar Bear Town Where Bears Outnumber People

3.  Paddle Alaska’s Lake Clark National Park – One of America’s Least Visited Parks

Situated where the Alaska range collides with the Aleutian range, Lake Clark National Park is a back-country park; meaning there are no roads or campgrounds, and only one hiking trail. The only way to move around the park is by foot, kayak, raft, boat, or small plane. It consists of over 4 million acres making it twice the size of Yellowstone National Park and larger than the state of Connecticut. This is not a place where you want to go alone if you don’t know what you are doing!

Discover 7 of the best places to travel in winter for North Americans

You might think that remote camping is something I do all the time, but it’s not. I love adventures, but I get to do a few real hard-core adventures because I don’t have the experience or the gear to do them normally. So I contacted the experts in remote wilderness adventure, Alaska Alpine Adventures. AAA knows Lake Clark NP, and it really knows Twin Lakes, the turquoise crowning jewel of the park. Their Twin Lakes Paddle Tour was named one of National Geographic’s Tours of a Lifetime and for good reason.

I’ve done a lot of travel to amazing places in my life and this by far was one of the most beautiful, extreme, rugged (yet pristine) places I’ve ever experienced.

The best time to go to Lake Clark National Park

Even in the summer months between May and September, it’s a little challenging to get there since you’ll have to arrive by float plane. But it’s totally worth it. It’s really only possible to visit in the summer months.

Lake Clark Highlight

Having the float plane drop you off and knowing they weren’t coming back for 5 days! You are truly dropped in the wilderness. I loved using the inflatable kayaks on the lake and learning all about Dick Proenneke, it felt like a pilgrimage into the real wilderness.

How to Go to Twin Lakes in Lake Clark National Park

Alaska Alpine Adventures is the premier outfitter and guide operation for Lake Clark. They know the backcountry of the park like no one else. They provide all of the equipment (kayaks, tents, food) so you can just enjoy the wilderness. This is the exact tour I took – Alaska Alpine Adventures Twin Lakes Paddle Tour

Read about my trip: Journey into the Wilderness of Lake Clark National Park

Discover where to find autumn colors in Alaska

4.  Inuvik and Tuktoyaktuk  – Canada’s Extreme Far North

Most people go to the Arctic by ship cruise in the summer – it’s the most accessible, however, Canada’s Northwest Territory is more accessible than you think. It’s accessible in the summer and the winter, which makes it even more unique.

And if you are looking for real authentic Arctic experiences, Canada’s Arctic is just as stunning and culturally rich to visit as the popular Arctic countries. There are no roads connecting communities in the Canadian Arctic. Instead, you use the water systems as boat highways in the summer and the ice highways in the winter.

This is extreme travel, you go all the way up to the shores of the Arctic Ocean in Tuktoyaktuk! They’ll furnish the warm gear you need for reindeer herding, snowmobiling, igloo building, and more! And be prepared to have a warm welcome from the locals!

The best time to go : April to herd reindeer! It’s still freezing there in April, but it’s at least doable then. Highlight: Tundra North will teach you how to build a real igloo and then you can take pride in your work and sleep it in overnight in the Arctic; a truly extreme experience! My other highlight was driving on the Arctic Ocean on the ice roads that connect these remote Arctic towns. How to go: Tundra North Tours is an incredible company operating out of Inuvik and will show you an authentic Arctic experience.

Read about more Artic adventures

Things to do in Tuktoyaktuk Northwest Territories Why would someone live in the Canadian Arctic? Forget Cruising and Take a Real Arctic Adventure

5.  Road Trip to Tolar Grande Argentina – A Place You’ve Likely Never Heard Of

Ever wanted to go offroading on Mars? I have a place then for you – Tolar Grande in Northern Argentina. A magical landscape in a little-known and little-traveled region where vicuña and flamingos roam. This whole area is a giant salt flat with little turquoise oases, red deserts, conical sandstone mountains, and virtually no people.

Tolar Grande itself is a small mining village nestled in the Puna Salta at 11,000 feet above sea level. To reach this town from the city of Salta, you have to travel 220 miles through small hamlets and high mountain passes where the winds howl. But it’s all worth it to get to your base in the little mining village of Tolar Grande (with only 1 basic hotel), surrounded by landscapes that your eyes have never seen before.

South Pacific travel: how to visit 4 of the most remote culturally fascinating islands

6.  Staying in Gers in Mongolia (not a Ger camp…a real Ger)

For the last 8 years when someone asks me what my favorite country to travel to is, I always answer Mongolia. It won my heart a while ago when I went to the Gobi Desert for 2 weeks and spent time staying with and learning from local Ger families. The culture and the barren landscape were so extremely different from anything I had experienced at that point and I felt as if I had just come across this hidden gem.

Eight years later it’s not as ‘hidden’, but it is still a gem. And to get the most out of it I advise you to rough it and meet and stay with locals as opposed to luxury or semi-luxury ger camps and fancy hotels…what fun is that? And it’s certainly not extreme travel!

I played volleyball in the desert with local families, danced with Mongolian men under a full moon, milked goats and camels, rode horses, and learned how to bake Booz – the Mongolian dumpling. All of this was done in a true Mongolian Ger while camping with locals with no electricity or plumbing; extreme travel.

The best time to go: The summer months mid-June to September. July is great for attending the local Naadam festivals too! Highlight: Meeting the families who were so excited to share their culture, peeing in the middle of the desert, driving in a country where there are no roads, and going to village festivals! Read about my trip: Modern Nomads Authentic Cultural Travel in Mongolia How to go: I have utilized Ger to Ger on multiple trips I love them so much. It’s not easy travel, you are roughing it, but it is my authentic travel!

Why you should travel to the Gobi Desert in Mongolia

7.  Cruise to Wrangel Island Across the Top of the World

As I set foot on the Wrangel Island tundra the earth beneath me moved. It was like walking on a sponge, soft and light; almost delicate feeling. However, the tundra was anything but delicate. I had just set foot on an island that only a few hundred people had ever seen or walked on. A visit to Russia’s Wrangel Island in the Arctic Ocean is truly a unique, once-in-a-lifetime, extreme, experience (I don’t think I could fit in any more goofy adjectives…but it’s just that good!).

Wrangel Island is a part of Russia’s Far East. It sits above the Arctic Circle about 87 miles north of Russia. It is home to an extraordinary amount of animal and plant diversity, the greatest in the high Arctic. It’s referred to as the Polar Bear Maternity Ward because it had the largest density of denning of polar bears anywhere in the world, averaging between 300-350 maternity dens each year on the island, and even more on Herald Island.

While I was there, the polar ice had just receded and the bears had come ashore now for a few months. You’ll also find muskoxen, snow geese, snowy owls, arctic foxes, and remnants from the last mammoths that walked the earth. And the best part is it’s relatively unknown. There’s only one way to get to this little Arctic island – by expedition ship – and there’s only one that goes there.

Best time to go: July/August is really the only time boats can get there. Highlight: I went for the polar bears, but was blown away by the incredible birdlife on the bird cliffs along Russia’s coast – I had never seen anything like it in my life. But seeing the polar bears across a lake or on land while we were only about 50 feet away was incredible. Read about my trip: Travel to Wrangel Island How to get there: Like the Ross Sea adventure, the only company that will take you to Wrangel Island is Heritage Expeditions . This is not a luxury cruise – it’s an expedition cruise so be prepared for a few hardships while you do this extreme travel! (tell them Ottsworld sent you!)

Are you ready for your extreme adventure in 2018?

Are you tired of the same old destination lists?  Check out Everything-Everywhere’s list of the Ultimate Arbitrary List of Places to Visit !  It’ll make you smile.

Get Ready for Your Extreme Travels With This Gear

Get prepped for your extreme travels by checking out my special and seeing my recommended travel products for extreme environments!

7 Responses to "The 7 Best Destinations for Extreme Travel"

By Leigh December 25, 2017 - 10:37 pm

Great list – I really want to see the polar bears, but Namibia is also calling…hopefully I can do at least one of those, as well as exploring my new home state of Arizona!

By Ruby Eddings December 28, 2017 - 8:50 am

thanks for sharing this. great list

By Levia January 2, 2018 - 7:41 am

great information… 2018 resolution is travel as much as possible. 😉

By Erika Hepburn September 5, 2018 - 3:10 pm

My kinda travel – great ideas!

By Sherry September 6, 2018 - 8:29 am

By order essay November 21, 2018 - 3:04 pm

Extremely interesting list. Thanks for sharing.

By DTW to DEL Flights November 2, 2019 - 9:10 am

Sherry, Thank you for great compilation of extreme destinations. it’s will more helpful for me if i got $50K for full enjoy this dream trip. 🙂

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

* Your Name

* Your Email

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Notify me of follow-up comments by email.

Notify me of new posts by email.

Get my best travel tips,

Unique destination ideas,, and travel discounts, in my weekly email.

Never see this message again.

Luxury Travel Companies’ Push for Extreme Experiences

Rashaad Jorden , Skift

June 23rd, 2023 at 4:48 AM EDT

Today's edition of Skift's daily podcast looks closer at extreme luxury adventure trips, hotels' AI labors solution, and Bhutan's push for longer tourist visits.

Rashaad Jorden

Skift Daily Briefing Podcast

Listen to the day’s top travel stories in under four minutes every weekday.

Good morning from Skift. It’s Friday, June 23. Here’s what you need to know about the business of travel today.

🎧 Subscribe

Apple Podcasts  |  Spotify  |  Overcast  |  Google Podcasts

Episode Notes

A growing number of affluent travelers are seeking extreme adventures, but are they pushing the boundaries for those popular excursions too far? Travel Experiences Reporter Selene Brophy seeks answers from executives responsible for organizing those trips . 

Carl Shephard, co-founder of travel company Insider Expeditions, said safety is always the priority, but added that the industry is providing valuable experiences. He said companies like his should push the boundaries. Virgin Galactic, a long-time Insider Expeditions client, recently took a group of 30 future astronauts on a trip to a remote island centered around a one-minute solar eclipse. 

Brophy notes she scheduled interviews for the story before the OceanGate submersible, the Titan, went missing while taking passengers to explore the Titanic wreck. The five passengers on board are believed to have died.

Next, much of the discussion around artificial intelligence in travel has centered around how the technology can help increase bookings. But Travel Technology Reporter Justin Dawes reports in his Travel Tech Briefing that hotel tech startups are using AI to combat an ongoing labor shortage . 

Dawes cites HiJiffy as one tech company that’s gotten a boost from hotels struggling with staffing issues. Founder Tiago Araújo said the startup grew 150 percent during the pandemic due the industry-wide labor shortage, a challenge many hotels still face. The company said its so-called “pre-stay” product is able to quickly answer roughly 80 percent of guest questions about the hotel. 

Araújo added most of HiJiffy’s clients are doing well in terms of revenue. But he acknowledged many are having difficulties regarding staffing, which is driving them to automate as many processes as possible. 

We end today in Bhutan. The country is lowering its sustainable development fee — used to offset the carbon footprint of tourists — to encourage longer stays, reports Asia Editor Peden Doma Bhutia. 

Bhutia writes Bhutanese authorities relied on feedback from the country’s travel executives to develop options for longer stays. Garab Dorji, CEO of travel company Truly Bhutan, said the reduced fee will give tourists an opportunity to explore more of the country. Bhutan’s tourism department estimates the South Asian nation attracted roughly 52,000 tourists between late September 2022 and mid-May. Bhutia adds the country aims to hit pre-pandemic tourism figures by the end of 2024.  

Skift AI Travel Newsletter

AI coverage across travel sectors that’s focused on separating trendy moves from good ideas – in your inbox every Friday.

Have a confidential tip for Skift? Get in touch

Tags: adventure travel , artificial intelligence , bhutan , experiences , luxury , skift podcast

Photo credit: Rendering of a Virgin Galactic aircraft. Roderick Eime / Flickr

Family Adventure Travel Companies

Looking for a company that offers family adventures you and your kids will love? Here are several companies that offer family adventure travel chock-full of activities just for kids, plus adventures the entire family will enjoy as a group. Once you click on these websites, look for links to the family trips. While not on the list, another company to check out is Road Scholar.

G Adventures Around the Globe

G Adventures, which National Geographic Adventure magazine has included in its “Do It All” outfitter list, offers a choice of more than 1,200 adventure travel trips to all seven continents. You can take the kids to Italy, India, ​Egypt, Costa Rica, Peru and many other countries, on trips that offer a mix of family and kid-oriented experiences.

Family Trips With Adventures By Disney

While Mickey Mouse or Donald Duck won't lead one of the family vacations offered by Adventures By Disney, the guides who do are skilled in showing your children the wonders of the world during any of this travel company's adventurous trips.

Ecoventura Family Cruises

In the Galapagos Islands, the family will swim with sea lions, walk among blue-footed boobies and kayak near tiny penguins. Ecoventura offers special family departures throughout the year, and a first parent and teen trip, designed to celebrate high-school graduations. Ecoventura was awarded​ the Conde Nast Traveler's 3rd Annual World Savers Award in the category of Best Overall Cruise Lines.

Austin-Lehman Adventures Visits Alaska, Colorful National Parks & Exotic Lands

Some of the company’s most popular trips, which are offered year after year, include two family adventures: The Yellowstone National Park Family Adventure, and Alberta - Banff & Lake Louise Family Adventure. Adventures for travelers age 16 and older, including Alaska - Kenai Peninsula, Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks, and Costa Rica- Volcanoes & Jungles Multisport Adventure.

REI Adventures Specializes in Active Trips

REI Adventures around the world can take your family ziplining in Costa Rica, hiking in the Amazon jungle, exploring islands in Greece or on a safari in Africa.

Take the Family to Far-Flung Lands with Intrepid Travel

Intrepid Travel offers family adventures to such exotic lands as Morocco, Egypt, Turkey and Singapore.

Whitewater & Other Adventures With ROW Adventures

ROW Adventures offers such diverse trips as Family Magic rafting trips on Idaho’s Salmon River to a Galapagos Islands multisport trip that includes hiking, snorkeling, sea kayaking and two-nights camping on an island beach.

Heli-hiking in the Canadian Rockies with CMH

Canadian Mountain Holidays offers heli-hiking trips in the Canadian Rockies during the summer that are designed specifically for families.

Thomson Family Adventures Delivers Exciting Vacations

This company's innovative trip categories stretch from family trekking and art adventures to cultures and civilizations. The vacation styles include choices designed to appeal to multigenerational groups, family groups, and parents with teens.

Tips for Choosing a Family Adventure Trip

Choosing and preparing for a family adventure trip that everyone, from your 5-year-old to your teen, will enjoy can be a family venture. Here are some tips for finding and getting ready for your family adventure travel trip.

Adventure Travel Trips with Austin Adventures

Solo Female Travel: Why It's Worthwhile

REI Adventures Offers Great Active Travel Trips

Top Family Vacation Ideas for Kids of Every Age

Best Tour Companies for Singles

The Best Women-Only Adventure Travel Companies

Multi-Sport Trips and Vacations Keep the Adrenaline Pumping

14 Amazing Private Travel Experiences

Extreme Adventure Travel Vacations

Most Popular Family Cruise Lines

13 Amazing Trips to Take Before You Turn 40

6 Historical Journeys You Can Still Take Today

12 Best Places to Visit in December

Should You Visit Alaska by Land or on a Cruise?

The Best Countries in the World for Adventurous Travelers

11 Family Hotels with Amenities Just for Kids

Inside the World’s Rarest Experiences: Why the Rich Love Extreme Tourism

O n June 18, 2023, the submersible Titan lost contact with the outside world as it approached the wreckage of the Titanic 13,000 feet below sea level at the bottom of the North Atlantic.

Among the five people on board were ultra-rich extreme tourists who paid $250,000 each to cram into the makeshift sub and descend into the abyss.

Four days later, on June 22, an international search was called off when officials determined that Titan had imploded, killing all aboard.

Check Out: Dave Ramsey’s 10 Best Tips for Building Wealth: ‘Start Thinking Like Rich People’

Read More: 6 Genius Things All Wealthy People Do With Their Money

The next day, on June 23, Business Insider reported that it was unlikely that the tragedy would deter the world’s wealthy elite from paying top dollar to risk their lives for the sake of so-called “extreme tourism” — high-end, hardcore adventure travel that requires money most people will never have for experiences that most people would never want.

Sponsored: Protect Your Wealth With A Gold IRA. Take advantage of the timeless appeal of gold in a Gold IRA recommended by Sean Hannity.

Living It Up After COVID: You Have To Die of Something

The lifting of pandemic-era restrictions triggered an avalanche of cash into the extreme tourism realm as the rich lined up to part with small fortunes to experience the last remaining (mostly) unseen, untouched corners of the world and beyond.

Grand View Research reports that the extreme tourism industry was worth $322 billion in 2022 but is on pace to top $1 trillion in 2030.

Much of the enthusiasm comes from COVID itself.

Like everyone else, the rich watched helplessly as friends and loved ones died from humdrum daily tasks like trips to the grocery store or visits to the doctor’s office. Gone forever, their fortunes unspent, many rich survivors vowed to live their lives to the fullest, even if it killed them.

“More and more wealthy travelers are diving into extreme tourism because they understand how fleeting life can be,” said Frank Spitzer, CEO at Pelecanus , a luxury travel operator that specializes in upscale vacation packages in Colombia. “This mindset of embracing life’s unpredictability is pushing them to seek out thrilling adventures and extravagant getaways before change is ahead. Also, they can easily afford these extravagant expeditions, so why not?”

So, what, exactly, are these ‘extravagant expeditions’ and how much do they cost?

Saving Money: 6 Frugal Habits of the Super Rich and Famous

If You Have All the Money in the World, Why Not Leave It?

The Titanic wreckage sits roughly 2.5 miles below the surface of the ocean. That’s just a short stroll compared to the journey that space tourists take when they travel up and away from Earth’s oceans to a different kind of abyss.

Axiom Space is a privately funded space infrastructure corporation that flies missions to the International Space Station and its own Axiom Station. It offers so-called “private astronauts” the chance to visit space and view their home planet from the emptiness of the final frontier. 

The company states, “Missions with Axiom include 17 weeks of expert training at space agency facilities that only a privileged few get to see. Training prepares the participant as an astronaut, develops a deep camaraderie with fellow astronauts and truly inaugurates one as a member of the exclusive space traveler family.”

Understandably, none of that comes cheap. Axiom Space doesn’t disclose the per-person cost of its private astronaut program, but Space.com estimates each seat sells for roughly $55 million.

Jet-Setting, Redefined

Some people would rather see the world than float above it — and they might not have eight figures to plunk down even if they did. For them, extreme tourism involves cramming as many experiences in as short a time with as much luxury as humanly possible.

Companies like Abercrombie & Kent organize mind-boggling global private jet tours like Around the World with Geoffrey Kent. It costs $185,000 per person — but think of what you get for the money.

The excursion takes place over 26 days, and in less than a month, the rich will receive insider access to local spots that regular tourists can’t visit in Japan, India, Malta, Senegal, Saint Helena, Uruguay, Easter Island and French Polynesia.

Their tour bus is a chartered Boeing 747 with full lie-down first-class seating, a dedicated staff and a chef. Wherever the passengers go, a valet, concierge, guide and luggage handler follow.

They probably won’t risk their lives, but they will experience the most extreme and expensive globe-trotting that money can buy.

Pursuing Extreme Animals and Environments

Another mainstay of extreme tourism is, naturally, the pursuit of the extreme — extreme wildlife, extreme environments, extreme weather, etc.

For example, Abercrombie & Kent — just one of several ultra-luxe extreme travel providers — offers the following packages that allow the rich to pursue the planet’s wildest side in style:

• North Pole Expedition Cruise: From $47,995 per person
• Arctic Cruise Adventure — In Search of Polar Bears: From $20,495 per person
• Kenya and Tanzania Wildlife Safari: From $11,995 per person
• Climb Kilimanjaro — Summiting the Machame Route: From $8,495 per person
• The Great Migration Safari in Style: From $19,795
• Galapagos Wildlife Adventure: From $11,495 per person
• Patagonia, the Last Wilderness: From $11,495 per person

More From GOBankingRates

• The Single Best Thing To Buy at Aldi in March 2024
• 10 Cars That Outlast the Average Vehicle
• This is One of the Best Ways to Boost Your Retirement Savings in 2024
• 6 Things You Should Never Do With Your Tax Refund (Do This Instead)

This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com : Inside the World’s Rarest Experiences: Why the Rich Love Extreme Tourism

EXTREME stands at the forefront of adventure, fuelled by a powerful purpose: To drive positive change through extreme and adventure sports.

Managing one of the largest and most influential online adventure travel communities our sustainable led approach covers a spectrum of services:

As architects of adventure Extreme leads in the planning and development of destinations through to the operation of experiences, camps, and boutique hotels.

Our social media publishing house excels in social media management and skilfully crafting compelling stories that forge unprecedented connections between brands and consumers.

Across events our team orchestrate awe-inspiring events that not only captivate fans and drive engagement for brands but also champion sustainability and adventure.

From tourism boards to destination developers, marketing agencies to global brands our clients are all looking for our fresh innovative approach.

DESTINATIONS

Delivering impact through sustainably driving an active healthy lifestyle, sport participation, health by stealth, job creation, infrastructure investment, support local communities and tourism.

Thank you to our community of clients

Host Agency Login

Can't remember your password.

• Skip to main content
• Keyboard shortcuts for audio player

The huge solar storm is keeping power grid and satellite operators on edge

Geoff Brumfiel

Willem Marx

NASA's Solar Dynamics Observatory captured this image of solar flares early Saturday afternoon. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration says there have been measurable effects and impacts from the geomagnetic storm. Solar Dynamics Observatory hide caption

NASA's Solar Dynamics Observatory captured this image of solar flares early Saturday afternoon. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration says there have been measurable effects and impacts from the geomagnetic storm.

Planet Earth is getting rocked by the biggest solar storm in decades – and the potential effects have those people in charge of power grids, communications systems and satellites on edge.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration says there have been measurable effects and impacts from the geomagnetic storm that has been visible as aurora across vast swathes of the Northern Hemisphere. So far though, NOAA has seen no reports of major damage.

The Picture Show

Photos: see the northern lights from rare, solar storm.

There has been some degradation and loss to communication systems that rely on high-frequency radio waves, NOAA told NPR, as well as some preliminary indications of irregularities in power systems.

"Simply put, the power grid operators have been busy since yesterday working to keep proper, regulated current flowing without disruption," said Shawn Dahl, service coordinator for the Boulder, Co.-based Space Weather Prediction Center at NOAA.

NOAA Issues First Severe Geomagnetic Storm Watch Since 2005

• LISTEN & FOLLOW
• Apple Podcasts
• Google Podcasts
• Amazon Music
• Amazon Alexa

Your support helps make our show possible and unlocks access to our sponsor-free feed.

"Satellite operators are also busy monitoring spacecraft health due to the S1-S2 storm taking place along with the severe-extreme geomagnetic storm that continues even now," Dahl added, saying some GPS systems have struggled to lock locations and offered incorrect positions.

NOAA's GOES-16 satellite captured a flare erupting occurred around 2 p.m. EDT on May 9, 2024.

As NOAA had warned late Friday, the Earth has been experiencing a G5, or "Extreme," geomagnetic storm . It's the first G5 storm to hit the planet since 2003, when a similar event temporarily knocked out power in part of Sweden and damaged electrical transformers in South Africa.

The NOAA center predicted that this current storm could induce auroras visible as far south as Northern California and Alabama.

Extreme (G5) geomagnetic conditions have been observed! pic.twitter.com/qLsC8GbWus — NOAA Space Weather Prediction Center (@NWSSWPC) May 10, 2024

Around the world on social media, posters put up photos of bright auroras visible in Russia , Scandinavia , the United Kingdom and continental Europe . Some reported seeing the aurora as far south as Mallorca, Spain .

The source of the solar storm is a cluster of sunspots on the sun's surface that is 17 times the diameter of the Earth. The spots are filled with tangled magnetic fields that can act as slingshots, throwing huge quantities of charged particles towards our planet. These events, known as coronal mass ejections, become more common during the peak of the Sun's 11-year solar cycle.

A powerful solar storm is bringing northern lights to unusual places

Usually, they miss the Earth, but this time, NOAA says several have headed directly toward our planet, and the agency predicted that several waves of flares will continue to slam into the Earth over the next few days.

While the storm has proven to be large, predicting the effects from such incidents can be difficult, Dahl said.

Shocking problems

The most disruptive solar storm ever recorded came in 1859. Known as the "Carrington Event," it generated shimmering auroras that were visible as far south as Mexico and Hawaii. It also fried telegraph systems throughout Europe and North America.

Stronger activity on the sun could bring more displays of the northern lights in 2024

While this geomagnetic storm will not be as strong, the world has grown more reliant on electronics and electrical systems. Depending on the orientation of the storm's magnetic field, it could induce unexpected electrical currents in long-distance power lines — those currents could cause safety systems to flip, triggering temporary power outages in some areas.

my cat just experienced the aurora borealis, one of the world's most radiant natural phenomena... and she doesn't care pic.twitter.com/Ee74FpWHFm — PJ (@kickthepj) May 10, 2024

The storm is also likely to disrupt the ionosphere, a section of Earth's atmosphere filled with charged particles. Some long-distance radio transmissions use the ionosphere to "bounce" signals around the globe, and those signals will likely be disrupted. The particles may also refract and otherwise scramble signals from the global positioning system, according to Rob Steenburgh, a space scientist with NOAA. Those effects can linger for a few days after the storm.

Like Dahl, Steenburgh said it's unclear just how bad the disruptions will be. While we are more dependent than ever on GPS, there are also more satellites in orbit. Moreover, the anomalies from the storm are constantly shifting through the ionosphere like ripples in a pool. "Outages, with any luck, should not be prolonged," Steenburgh said.

What Causes The Northern Lights? Scientists Finally Know For Sure

The radiation from the storm could have other undesirable effects. At high altitudes, it could damage satellites, while at low altitudes, it's likely to increase atmospheric drag, causing some satellites to sink toward the Earth.

The changes to orbits wreak havoc, warns Tuija Pulkkinen, chair of the department of climate and space sciences at the University of Michigan. Since the last solar maximum, companies such as SpaceX have launched thousands of satellites into low Earth orbit. Those satellites will now see their orbits unexpectedly changed.

"There's a lot of companies that haven't seen these kind of space weather effects before," she says.

The International Space Station lies within Earth's magnetosphere, so its astronauts should be mostly protected, Steenburgh says.

In a statement, NASA said that astronauts would not take additional measures to protect themselves. "NASA completed a thorough analysis of recent space weather activity and determined it posed no risk to the crew aboard the International Space Station and no additional precautionary measures are needed," the agency said late Friday.

People visit St Mary's lighthouse in Whitley Bay to see the aurora borealis on Friday in Whitley Bay, England. Ian Forsyth/Getty Images hide caption

People visit St Mary's lighthouse in Whitley Bay to see the aurora borealis on Friday in Whitley Bay, England.

While this storm will undoubtedly keep satellite operators and utilities busy over the next few days, individuals don't really need to do much to get ready.

"As far as what the general public should be doing, hopefully they're not having to do anything," Dahl said. "Weather permitting, they may be visible again tonight." He advised that the largest problem could be a brief blackout, so keeping some flashlights and a radio handy might prove helpful.

I took these photos near Ranfurly in Central Otago, New Zealand. Anyone can use them please spread far and wide. :-) https://t.co/NUWpLiqY2S — Dr Andrew Dickson reform/ACC (@AndrewDickson13) May 10, 2024

And don't forget to go outside and look up, adds Steenburgh. This event's aurora is visible much further south than usual.

A faint aurora can be detected by a modern cell phone camera, he adds, so even if you can't see it with your eyes, try taking a photo of the sky.

The aurora "is really the gift from space weather," he says.

• space weather
• solar flares
• solar storm

An official website of the United States government

Official websites use .gov A .gov website belongs to an official government organization in the United States.

Strong geomagnetic storm reaches Earth, continues through weekend

NOAA space weather forecasters have observed at least seven coronal mass ejections (CMEs) from the sun, with impacts expected to arrive on Earth as early as midday Friday, May 10, and persist through Sunday, May 12, 2024. 

NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center (SWPC) has issued a Geomagnetic Storm Warning for Friday, May 10. Additional solar eruptions could cause geomagnetic storm conditions to persist through the weekend.

• The First of Several CMEs reached Earth on Friday, May 10 at 12:37 pm EDT.  The CME was very strong and SWPC quickly issued a series of geomagnetic storm warnings. SWPC observed G4 conditions at 1:39 pm EDT (G3 at 1:08 pm EDT).
• This storm is ongoing and SWPC will continue to monitor the situation and provide additional warnings as necessary.

This is an unusual and potentially historic event. Clinton Wallace , Director, NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center

CMEs are explosions of plasma and magnetic fields from the sun’s corona. They cause geomagnetic storms when they are directed at Earth. Geomagnetic storms can impact infrastructure in near-Earth orbit and on Earth’s surface , potentially disrupting communications, the electric power grid, navigation, radio and satellite operations. SWPC has notified the operators of these systems so they can take protective action.

Geomagnetic storms can also trigger spectacular displays of aurora on Earth . A severe geomagnetic storm includes the potential for aurora to be seen as far south as Alabama and Northern California.

Related Features //

Clothes Steamer vs. Iron: Which Should You Choose?

Either way, wrinkles are no match.

We've been independently researching and testing products for over 120 years. If you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more about our review process.

When to choose an iron

The bottom line: steamer or iron, how we test clothes steamers and steam irons, what to consider when shopping for a clothes steamer, what to consider when shopping for a steam iron, are there any fabrics that should not be steamed, does steaming kill bacteria, why trust good housekeeping.

We test both appliances in the Good Housekeeping Home Care & Cleaning Lab for how well they de-wrinkle a wide variety of fibers, fabrics and clothing items, how much steam they produce, how easy they are to use and more. Which is best for you depends on the type of clothing that makes up the majority of your wardrobe and how much time and effort you want to put into smoothing it. Below, we explore the pros and cons of each and include our top clothes steamer and iron picks to help you decide what's best for you.

When to choose a clothes steamer

Lightweight, portable, easy to store and great for travel, a clothes steamer smooths fabrics right on the hanger. Many now have big water tanks and multiple settings for more power. Some steam continuously, while others do so when you press a trigger or button. They are a great option if you often need to smooth one item before heading out the door and mostly wear clothing with an unstructured, casual feel.

Steamer pros:

• Great for knits, hard-to-iron structured jackets, soft casual garments and embellishments like sequins and beads
• Can freshen and deodorize home furnishing, like draperies, without taking them down
• Saves time when you need to de-wrinkle in a hurry

Steamer cons:

• Water tanks can be small meaning more frequent refilling
• Some must be used vertically to prevent leaks
• Can struggle with creases, pleats and stubborn wrinkles

Top Clothes Steamer Picks

Conair Turbo Extreme Steam Hand Held Fabric Steamer

Conair Power Steam Handheld Travel Garment Steamer

Jiffy Steamer Company LLC J-2000 Beige Garment Steamer

An iron is a wrinkle-removing champ thanks to its heavy weight, steam output and wide soleplate and temperature range. It's best for those items where you want a sharp, crisp, fresh-from-the-dry-cleaner look and for batch pressing multiple garments in one session. It's also better for sewers and quilters who many need to flatten their work as they go.

• Offers a large water tank and spray and steam burst buttons for better pressing results
• Let's you adjust the steam level and temperature to match the fabric
• Sets creases and gives dress shirts, pants, linens and more a smooth, pressed look
• Requires a board or another flat surface to press on
• Navigating shoulders, collars, cuffs and other curves and tight areas can be challenging
• Needs time to cool down from a cotton or linen setting before ironing delicate and sheer fabrics to avoid damage

Top Steam Iron Picks

CHI Retractable Cord Steam Iron

BLACK+DECKER Vitessa Advanced Steam Iron

Panasonic 360 Cordless Freestyle Iron

Having both a clothes steamer and a steam iron gives you the most options for achieving smooth, wrinkle-free clothes no matter what the fabric or style. If you need to make an either-or decision, clothes steamers are stellar for on-the-go de-wrinkling and giving garments a flowy, relaxed look and feel. An iron is your best bet if you prefer a flat, crisp, sharp vibe or frequently sew, quilt or do other crafts requiring strong steam, heat and pressure.

In the Good Housekeeping Institute Cleaning Lab, we dedicate hours to evaluating each steamer and iron we test. We measure the grams of steam they produce and at what rate they pump it out. We take temperatures in various spots on each iron's soleplate at several heat settings and track the high and low temperature swings as it heats up and cools down. For both appliances, we check how hot the handles and bodies get, for safety.

We weigh the appliances to determine how heavy they are to lift and hold, assess how user-friendly the controls are, how easy the water tank is to fill and see into and how long they take to heat up.

Finally, we twist and ball up cotton, linen, wool, silk, nylon and other synthetic fabrics and garments and allow the creases to set overnight. The next day, we iron or steam the swatches and garments, rating the smoothness using standard visual guides borrowed from the textiles industry all while checking for any spitting, spotting or dripping.

✔️ Water tank: If you expect to steam often or do several garments in one session, look for a large water tank for a longer steam time and a model that offers continuous steam over one that requires you to press a button to pump out the steam. The water tank should also be easy to remove, fill, replace and see through so you know when it needs refilling.

✔️ Design: If you will use the steamer occasionally or just for travel, consider a slim model that's compact, lightweight and easy to pack and store. Many mid-size handheld models now have small heated plates that mimic an iron's soleplate and give you the option to steam or press out wrinkles. Large professional steamers — the kind that magazine photos stylists use — have extra-large tanks for super long steam times, telescoping poles and hooks for holding garments. They can be wheeled to where you need them, but they do take up more storage space.

✔️ Water type: Most use regular tap water, but some brands recommend distilled, especially if your tap water is extremely hard. Check the product's use and care guide on the brand website for details on the type of water it requires.

✔️ Features: Steamers that offer multiple settings work best on both delicate and heavy fabrics. Attachments may include lint remover pads, brushes to fluff fabrics and protectors to shield delicate fabrics from hot steam. Some have on-board clamps to help set creases and pleats.

✔️ Size: An iron should be comfortable to lift and hold and not so heavy that it becomes a chore to use. Most fall within a range from about 2 pounds to almost 5 pounds. The heavier they are, the better they press out wrinkles, but a too-heavy iron makes ironing tiresome. To cover more ground quickly, choose an iron with a large soleplate and a large, see-through water tank.

✔️ Power: Generally, we've found that the best-performing irons require 1,700 to 1,800 watts of power to produce strong and long bursts of steam. Cordless irons are an option many prefer but they cool off quickly and need to be put back on the corded base every time you reposition the garment. Electronic controls in higher-end irons help ensure more precise fabric temperature settings and selections.

✔️ Soleplate: Ceramic and titanium soleplates are the most durable, provide the best glide and are easiest to clean. Stainless steel and non-stick work well when new, but can scratch and ultimately snag fabrics over time. And more holes in the soleplate don't guarantee more steam from the iron.

✔️ Safety: Most irons today automatically shut off in seconds or minutes when tipped. We prefer those that turn off quickly when landing in any direction, not just onto the soleplate. Some, designed for sewing and quilting, delay or don't shut off at all to help make crafting easier.

✔️ Features: Steam burst and spray features are helpful to dampen fabrics while ironing and for extra oomph removing stubborn wrinkles. Vertical steam works well for drapes, bed skirts and other home furnishings, though we've found a clothes steamer is actually more effective than an iron when used vertically. A steam station with a large, separate water tank, powerful steam and a sturdy base is good for quilting, sewing and handling big batches of rumpled garments. Nice extras include a button groove around the soleplate to iron around buttons and a retractable cord for easy storage.

Most fabrics handle steaming well. Even sheer, delicate ones, like silk can take light steam. Some fabrics like velvet, corduroy and lace do better with steaming than with ironing, as steaming doesn't flatten them like ironing can. The only fabrics where it's best to avoid steam — from a clothes steamer or an iron — are vinyl, fabrics with a waxy finish or garments with thin plastic trim or embellishments that steaming could melt. Steam leather and suede very carefully, if at all.

Yes! In fact, we recommend steaming to help freshen and deodorize hard-to-wash items like mattresses, throw pillows, athletic shoes and stuffed toys. Just be sure to pass the steamer over the fabric surface slowly for the time recommended by the manufacturer to sanitize fabrics. Steam also kills dust mites near the surface. After steaming, you must remember to vacuum the fabric surface to remove them.

Carolyn Forté has tested dozens of steam irons and clothes steamers in over 40 years of experience researching, testing and writing about appliances like the best dryers , top washing machines and best-performing vacuums . As the executive director of the Cleaning Lab, she oversees all testing done by our reviews analysts, including the most recent tests of steam irons and the currently underway category test of clothes steamers. Plus, she spent 19 of those 40 years in the GH Textiles Lab so she has extensive experience caring for all types of fabrics and fibers. And at home, she owns both a clothes steamer and steam iron for whatever the task requires and time permits.

Carolyn Forté brings more than 40 years of experience as a consumer products expert to her role as executive director of the Good Housekeeping Institute 's Home Care and Cleaning Lab. Using deep analytical testing and writing expertise in appliances, cleaning, textiles and organizational products, she produces cleaning and home care advice for GH, has authored numerous books and bookazines for the brand and partners with the American Cleaning Institute to co-produce the Discover Cleaning Summits. She holds a bachelor's degree in family and consumer sciences from Queens College, City University of New York.

@media(max-width: 64rem){.css-o9j0dn:before{margin-bottom:0.5rem;margin-right:0.625rem;color:#ffffff;width:1.25rem;bottom:-0.2rem;height:1.25rem;content:'_';display:inline-block;position:relative;line-height:1;background-repeat:no-repeat;}.loaded .css-o9j0dn:before{background-image:url(/_assets/design-tokens/goodhousekeeping/static/images/Clover.5c7a1a0.svg);}}@media(min-width: 48rem){.loaded .css-o9j0dn:before{background-image:url(/_assets/design-tokens/goodhousekeeping/static/images/Clover.5c7a1a0.svg);}} Cleaning Tips & Advice

The Best Washer and Dryer Combos

The Best Cleaning Products

The Best Car Upholstery Cleaners

The Best Mops

Are Earth Breeze Detergent Sheets Worth It?

The Best Car Cleaning Kits

How to Make a Homemade Fly Trap

How to Remove Mildew From Every Surface

The 35 Best Closet Organization Ideas

The Best Cheap Vacuum Cleaners Under $150

How to Easily Clean a Pizza Stone