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The Different Types of Adventure Travel

Adventure travel is one of the fastest segments of the travel market, drawing in more and more people on a yearly basis. But what exactly is adventure travel and what can you expect out of an adventure trip? That is completely up to you, because "adventure" has a different meaning for every individual traveler.

That said, in its purest form, this type of travel generally offers some classic experiences and activities that truly help to define its style. If you're planning on taking your first adventure travel trip, here are some of the activities you can expect to be a part of the itinerary. 

Trekking/Hiking

Traveling on foot through remote locations has always been at the core of adventure travel. Whether that means backpacking along the Appalachian Trail, trekking to Everest Base Camp in Nepal, or simply heading out for a backcountry adventure on a local trail, this is a great way to explore any destination. Travelers have always enjoyed walking tours and pretty much no matter where you want to go, you'll likely find some options for hiking and trekking there. Often these trips involve camping overnight along the way too, adding yet another adventurous element to the equation. 

Cycling/Mountain Biking

Cycling trips are another popular method of transportation and category for adventure travel. Rather than exploring a destination on foot, travelers climb aboard a bike instead. This allows them to cover more ground at a faster pace, while still feeling connected with the landscape, culture, and people there. Mountain biking offers a similar experience, but allows access to more remote, off the beaten path, destinations, while introducing a more challenging aspect to the riding as well. 

Travelers will find options to ride just about anywhere these days, ranging from French wine country to the entire length of Africa . 

Canoe/Kayaking

Canoeing and kayaking trips are another popular way to experience a destination, granting travelers access to lakes, rivers, and even oceans. This type of travel can be as serene as paddling the Greek Isles or as wild as taking on some of the top whitewater destinations on the planet. One word of caution however, travelers should have some experience paddling before embarking on these types of journeys as they can be strenuous and dangerous depending on the nature of the water involved. Flat water is generally safe, but whitewater can be treacherous. Both can be fun if you are well prepared. 

Climbing/Mountaineering

While not often viewed as a form of adventure travel, mountaineering and climbing expeditions still fall under the same very broad umbrella. These types of trips typically require more skill and experience than simply trekking in the mountains and tend to be more technical too. That means requiring the use of ropes, ice axes, crampons, and other specialized equipment to reach the top of a mountain. A climb to the top of Kilimanjaro is mostly non-technical, and falls under the trekking category, while an expedition to Mt. Everest is squarely in the more challenging mountaineering realm. Altitude can often play a bigger role in this type of adventure too, which can literally take place on every continent.

Take caution however; you should only embark on a mountaineering trip if you have the necessary skills and experience to do so and are traveling with a certified mountain guide. 

Skiing/Snowshoeing

Some of the best adventures take place in the snow, with skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing offering great experiences for travelers who don't mind colder weather. These types of trips can include everything from resort and backcountry skiing, to cross-country and snowshoe traverses too. Winter adventures are once again very popular in pretty much every corner of the globe, ranging from North America, to Europe, and even the Antarctic. 

Horseback Riding

Horseback adventure tours are also a fantastic way to explore the more remote regions of any country. Horses can travel faster and more safely to places that we humans can't always reach on our own. This allows us to go along for the ride while taking in the scenery along the way. While travelers will want to have some level of skill on horseback before setting out, these types of trips are a great way to gain experience for those who want to improve their riding. Just be sure to be confident in the saddle, don't be afraid of the horse, and enjoy the ride. (And if you're in Jordan, check out how to ride a camel.)

Dogsledding

Horses aren't the only animals that get to join us on our adventurous travels. Dogsledding is another exciting activity that travelers can indulge in if so inclined. These types of tours can last four a few hours or a few weeks, depending on just how adventurous you want to get. Driving a team of dogs takes a bit of practice, but it can be a lot of fun and a wonderful way to travel through the backcountry during the winter. Be sure to pack your warmest clothes and bring your most adventurous attitude. Oh, and try not to fall in love with the dogs. 

Overlanding

If you're the type of traveler who likes to get off the beaten path and explore remote parts of the world by motorized vehicle, overlanding is the option for you. Typically done in 4x4 vehicles, overlanders relish the journey rather than the destination. These types of excursions will take you off-road and into the wilderness where you'll be completely self reliant. Camping is usually a part of the experience, with only the occasional dip into nearby towns to refuel and resupply. Travelers can choose to join an organized overlanding expedition or go completely independent as well, depending on their own level of experience and confidence. 

Traditionally speaking, a safari is a wildlife viewing trip to Africa, although these days the term can be applied to all kinds of excursions to just about any part of the planet. In fact, "safari" is the swahili word for "journey" and it is widely considered to be one of the first forms of adventure travel. Today, the African safari remains a great option for spotting wildlife in its natural habitat, but there are also penguin safaris , polar bear safaris , and other times of safaris that take place across North and South America, and Asia too. These types of trips are family friendly, relaxing, and perfect for a wide variety of ages, making them one of the most popular forms of adventure travel, even in the 21st century. 

Just as the name implies, a multisport adventure travel experience combines two or more of the activities listed above into the same trip. For instance, travelers might go hiking, biking, and paddling when visiting a certain destination, allowing them to stay very active and experience a wide variety of aspects of the place they are visiting. These types of itineraries can be found in just about any corner of the globe and during any season too. In the winter, travelers might ski, snowshoe, and dogsled their way across the landscape, and in summer they could bike, surf, and sail for instance. These types of outings are generally very popular with those who like to stay very active and are in good physical condition. 

Sailing/Cruising

For most adventure travelers a cruise doesn't seem like much of an adventure, but there are some great options for those who enjoy traveling by ship. Small-ship cruises to places like Alaska, Antarctica, and the Falklands can be amazing options, with opportunities to go hiking, kayaking, and wildlife spotting. Plus, small-ship cruises are much more intimate and allow passengers to get to know one another better. These types of adventures are far cry from the massive ships that carry thousands of tourists, with the smaller vessels allowing access to some of the most remote and rewarding places on the planet. 

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What is Adventure Travel? & 6 Bucket List Adventure Travel Destinations

by Ashleigh Page Last Updated: Nov 4, 2023 Action & Adventure Sports , Adventure Travel

Page Contents

Compared to other forms of travel, adventure travel is defined as being a type of tourism that involves one or more of the following things:

• Physical challenging activities (usually outdoors in nature)
• A cultural exchange and/or
• Travel to a remote or exotic location

According to the Adventure Travel Trade Association , adventure tourism is all about connecting with new cultures or landscapes, and being physically active at the same time. 

You may also be involved in an activity that requires significant effort or involves some degree of risk, real or perceived. 

For example:

• Mountaineering
• Bungee Jumping
• Mountain Biking
• Scuba Diving
• White Water Rafting
• Paragliding
• Canyoneering
• Sandboarding
• Rock Climbing & Abseiling

One of the greatest things about adventure travel (compared to many other forms of travel) is that it directly supports local communities and promotes the development of new infrastructure.  

The demand for Adventure Travel has risen over the past decade due to more travellers wanting to travel in a way that allows them to:

• Go off the beaten track
• Be more eco-friendly and
• Give back to local communities

Adventure travel is less about looking pretty or photoshopping incredible photos.

Instead it’s about exploring the world as it is, experiencing new cultures and exposing yourself to new adventures whilst discovering the key elements of yourself.

Doing this can and will change your life.

Who is Adventure Travel for?

Adventure travel does not discriminate. 

Anyone can be an adventurous traveller, whether you’re young, old, a nature nut or an adrenaline junkie seeking your next rush. 

There’s always plenty of activities you can do all around the world that come under the umbrella of Adventure Travel.

There are some “softer” forms of adventure travel (Eg. activities seen as having less risk and intensity), whereas others are more extreme requiring you to step outside of your comfort zone or take on an element of risk.  

Now that I’ve explained what Adventure Travel is, let’s now look at some of the best places adventure travel destinations to tick off your bucket list! 

6 Adventure Travel Destinations to Add to Your Bucket List!

Throughout my travels, I have found that you find adventure in almost any foreign place. 

However, like anything, there are always those that stand out – with better infrastructure, landscapes and/or communities to support adventure-packed experiences.

Here are the top 6 adventure travel destinations that I believe are superior to get you that adrenaline rush you seek or actively exploring amongst nature. 

If you have any others you think I should add to the list, please let me know!

1)  Adventure Travel in Africa

Throughout my travels, Africa was definitely one of those stand out places. It has an aura about it that you just can’t get anywhere else.

The feeling that anything could happen or that you’ll experience something that’s never happened before. 

As they often say, “ TIA. THIS IS AFRICA.”

For my fellow thrill-seeking souls, Africa has everything you could possibly want when it comes to adventure travel. 

From jumping off the world’s highest bridge bungee, 4X4 driving over sand dunes, cage shark diving, or even doing a safari drive to catch a glimpse of the Big 5, in Africa you can do it all. 

Here’s some of the many adventure travel activities you can do in Africa:

• Jump off the world’s highest Bridge Bungee (Bloukrans Bridge Bungee) on the Garden route (South Africa)
• Venture to Kruger National Park for a Safari/Game Drive and spot the Big 5 (South Africa)
• Victoria Falls Gorge Swing Flying Fox Jump  (Zimbabwe)
• Volunteer by teaching English in a local community in Tanzania or Malawi
• Witness the magic of the great pyramids, temples and Nile River in Egypt
• Ride by camel through the Sahara Desert and camp overnight in a traditional Bedouin tent 
• Hike through wild jungle to see the Gorillas in Uganda
• Climb to the summit of Mt. Kilimanjaro 
• Witness the great migration in Kenya’s Masai Mara Reserve
• Sleep under the stars in Spitzkoppe and hike up some of the world’s oldest sand dunes (Namibia) 
• Go scuba diving and snorkeling off Zanzibar beach (Tanzania)

Now this is only a tiny snippet of all the adventure activities you can do in Africa. 

To read more about Africa and all the adventure activities you can do there, click here. 

2. Adventure Travel in Australia

Yes this is my home country, so I may be a touch biased. BUT, there is honestly so much adventure and fun to be had on this massive island. 

Australia boasts some of the world’s oldest rainforests, reefs and deserts which are a true wonder to explore. 

Here are some of the best adventure experiences you can do in Australia:

• Dive and snorkel in the Great Barrier Reef
• Hire a campervan and overland through Tasmania
• Visit the Daintree rainforest and hike through Cape Tribulation (Queensland)
• Go Bungee Jumping in Cairns, Queensland
• Visit the red center of Uluru and sleep under the stars i n the Northern Territory
• Learn how to surf at one of the many beaches along the east coast of Australia. 
• Go Skydiving over famous wine regions and beaches (Victoria)
• Experience hot air ballooning with stunning views of Perth CBD
• Grab a paddle and go With Water Rafting in Queensland and surrounds

There is honestly so much you can do in Australia. Sadly, I do not have the time to list them all for you now. 

To read more about Australia travel destinations click here. 

Related Articles :

• Plane Aerobatics | What it is & the Best Aerobatics Flight Locations in Australia
• The Best Places to Go Scuba Diving in Australia
• Hot Air Ballooning in Australia | The Best Locations & Tips for Beginners
• The Best White Water Rafting Locations in Australia

In addition to adventure sports, Australia also contains a rich history. Aboriginal people are believed to be the oldest living descendants of the first people to leave Africa up to 75,000 years ago.

A genetic study even revealed that the aboriginal people may have the oldest continuous culture on the planet.

One limitation you may have in Australia, is the availability of bungy jumping. Right now, this adrenaline-packed adventure sport is only offered in Cairns. 

If bungy jumping is a non-negotiable for you, then I’d suggest you do a hop, skip and jump over to New Zealand. This is where bungee jumping is abundantly available. 

I’ll talk more about this below.

• The Complete Guide to Bungy Jumping in New Zealand
• A Beginner’s Guide to Bungee Jumping in Australia

3. Adventurous Travel in New Zealand

Located right next to Australia sits one of the best adventure capitals of them all, New Zealand.

New Zealand is renowned for adventure tourism and boasts some of the world’s most stunning scenery. 

You’re sure to find an activity that will not only scare the pants off you but will also leave you grinning from ear to ear.

In Queenstown alone, you can enjoy:

• Jet boating
• Skydiving  
• Horse riding
• Bungy jumping
• Mountain biking
• Off-roading / Four wheel driving
• Skylounge Gondola and high-speed luge (toboggan) 

Whatever tickles your fancy really…

Some other great adventure activities you can do in New Zealand include: 

• Quad biking
• Skiing and snowboarding 
• Heli-skiing
• And much much more!

If you’ve not been to New Zealand yet, it is definitely an adventure travel destination to add to the top of your bucket list. 

Here are some great adventure activities you can try in New Zealand:

4. Adventure Travel in North America

Following on from Africa, Australia and New Zealand, North America is another great adventure travel destination.

For those who aren’t geographically literate (ie. me), North America consists of:

According to Google anyway…

To be honest, I was surprised. I didn’t realise that Greenland was a part of America.

I guess you learn something new everyday.

There are so many adventurous activities you can do on this continent including:

• Going canyoneering through Moab, Utah
• Mountain bike riding around South Lake Tahoe, California
• Experiencing your first aerobatics flight over Las Vegas
• Scuba diving off the coast of Mexico
• Volunteering in Costa Rica
• Kayaking with Whales in British Columbia, Canada
• Dog sledding or ice fishing in Greenland
• Spend a night under the stars watching the magical Northern lights in Alaska

5. Travelling in South America

Now it’s time to talk about South America.

South America is actually my next bucket list destination. I CANNOT wait to travel there next year (assuming all quietens down with COVID).

What an epic place for an adventure. 

If adventure travel is your jam, and you haven’t considered South America as a destination on your bucket list, then my friend, you’re in for a treat.

I believe that South America is one of the best adventure travel destinations in the world.

Whilst travelling across the continent, you can:

• Hike the famous Inca trail through the Andes mountains, and witness the abandoned city of Machu Picchu 
• Stay overnight and cleanse amongst nature in the Amazon jungle 
• Sail to the Galapagos islands (Ecuador) to witness a diverse range of plant and animal species that can’t be found anywhere else in the world. 
• 4WD through the white wilderness of the salt flats in Bolivia  
• Go paragliding over the city of Lima, the capital of Peru
• Trek to the ends of the earth to see the polar glaciers of Argentina and Chile

In addition to adventure activities, South America is extremely rich in culture.  

There are many ways to inject yourself into the local community to experience the country through their eyes. 

Whether it be visiting a woman’s co-op, volunteering within the community, doing a street Latin dance class or even attending a local school to learn Spanish. 

Whatever you choose to do, I am sure that you won’t return home disappointed after visiting South America. 

6. Adventure Travel in Europe & the UK

If you’re into history, Europe is the place to go. 

Especially if you’re after an action packed experience, but want to avoid culture shock. Assuming you’re from a Western country…

When you go travelling through Europe and the UK, you will be able to access a plethora of adventure sports and experiences. 

One of the greatest benefits of Europe and the UK, is that everything is so close together.

Moving between cities, and even countries for that fact, is super easy compared to some of the other main continents. Getting around as a tourist is never a problem (in the main touristy countries anyway).

If you’re seeking an adventure in Europe or the UK, here are some things you can do:

• Give surfing a go at “The Wave” in Bristol. It is an inland surf destination where you can surf on consistent, safe waves all year round. 
• Hire a kayak and witness the stunning scenery along the Scottish coast and highlands. 
• Grab a paddle and speed down the crazy white water rapids of the River Tryweryn ( Snowdonia National Park ) in Wales
• Go bungee jumping at Bray Lake or Tatton Park in Cheshire, England
• Paraglide like a bird over the Austrian Tyrol 
• Get in touch with your inner bike rider in Amsterdam, Netherlands
• Go kite surfing or horse riding in Spain 
• Venture across the border into Portugal to get your adrenaline rushing with some downhill mountain bike riding 
• Show your skiing moves at Mont Blanc in France
• And so many more!

So there you have it! 

In this article, we’ve explained what adventure travel is and why it’s such a fantastic form of travel to get involved with.

I’ve also outlined the best adventure travel destinations (in my opinion) and some adventure activities and experiences you can do within these locations.

Also, if you have any other destinations that you believe should be added to this list, let me know so I can add them to the list. 

If you’re keen to start doing some adventure travel, ensure to head over to Get Your Guide. They showcase a ton of different adventure activities from all over the world. Many which I am sure you will enjoy.

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services, and may earn a commission from purchases made after clicking links on this site.  Learn more

Hey guys, I'm Ash. Welcome to Adventure Travel Pro!

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The 12 best adventure-travel experiences in the world

• RIDE A SEVEN-STAR TRAIN ACROSS JAPAN

Best for: stylish travellers looking for the Japan beyond Tokyo

There are trains and then there are trains . Japan’s Seven Stars in Kyushu slots firmly into the latter category, siding with the likes of the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express and South Africa’s Blue Train in terms of pure, uncompromising luxury. On my own journey across the verdant, onsen -dotted landscape of Kyushu, Japan ’s southernmost island, I was blown away by the astounding scenery and service alike, including 10-course banquets, live bands and a bedroom big enough to host my own cocktail parties. This is a perfect coupling of old-world glam and state-of-the-art tech, in spectacular surrounds.

FEAR FACTOR: 0/5 SHOW-OFF LEVEL: 4/5 BOOK IT: cruisetrain-sevenstars.jp **PRICE:**From about £5,900 for three nights

• TRAIN AS AN ASTRONAUT AT SPACE CAMP

Best for: those craving more space

With the 50th anniversary of the Apollo 11 moon landing in July 2019, why not take one giant leap of your own and sign up for Space Camp? The facility – next to NASA’s base in Huntsville, Alabama – welcomes guests of all ages for weekend retreats, where you’ll suit up and get hands on with the art of astronauting. On my recent visit, we learnt how to pilot shuttle simulators, walk in recreated lunar gravity (one-sixth that of the Earth’s) and perform repairs while floating in space suits. Not to mention the infamous Astronaut Trainer, which hurls you about like confetti at a wedding (tip – they aren’t joking when they suggest you don’t drink any alcohol the night before this particular experience, which is a problem as Hunstville has some really good bars ).

FEAR FACTOR: 2/5 SHOW-OFF LEVEL: 4/5 BOOK IT: spacecamp.com PRICE: Three-day Adult Space Academy about £435, including accommodation and food

• EXPLORE THE EMPTY QUARTER

Sand-lovers after the ultimate off-grid experience

It’s bizarre that Rub al Khali, the world’s largest desert , isn’t better known. Translated as the Empty Quarter, this is the heart of TE Lawrence’s Arabia: an ocean of sand covering a mind-boggling 400,000 square miles, taking in parts of Saudi Arabia, Oman and Yemen. It’s bested kings and adventurers alike over the centuries, but today you can explore its untamed magnificence in high style, with UK-based expert Wild Frontiers. 'The Empty Quarter is one of nature’s most remarkable creations,' says founder Jonny Bealby, who leads expeditions here. 'Standing on top of the world’s highest dunes, the sheer scale of the landscape and the utter silence blows you away. The tranquillity here is absolute.'

FEAR FACTOR: 2/5 **SHOW-OFF LEVEL:**4/5 BOOK IT: wildfrontierstravel.com PRICE: About £2,850

• TAKE A NUCLEAR ICEBREAKER TO THE NORTH POLE

Best for: those who’ve already set foot on all seven continents

Unlike Antarctica, which has become borderline mainstream in recent years, its polar opposite remains tantalisingly distant as a holiday destination. Distant, but not unachievable. Quark Expeditions runs three sailings a year to the North Pole, aboard a nuclear-powered icebreaker from the Russian port of Murmansk. On my recent trip, recorded by expedition photographer Mark Chilvers, above , we explored abandoned bases, witnessed polar bears on the hunt (with cubs in tow) and took the infamous polar plunge beneath the pack ice (invigorating and numbing in equal measure – they have plenty of whisky on standby afterwards). Even on a specialist ship such as Quark’s 50 Years of Victory , passage to the frozen north is only possible in July and August, with the entire 14-day voyage taking place under the perpetual daylight of Arctic summer. So pack an eye mask as well as thickest parka you can find.

FEAR FACTOR: 2/5 SHOW-OFF LEVEL: 5/5 BOOK IT: quarkexpeditions.com **PRICE:**From about £23,500

• TREK THE CLOUD FORESTS OF LAOS

Best for: those after a story very few others will have

When it comes to daydreaming about travel, it’s not just your head that could be lost in the clouds. Inside Asia Tours organises hiking expeditions into the incredibly diverse cloud forests of northern Laos , making for the summit of Phou Louey, or Forever Mountain, over five days. You will traverse meadow-carpeted valleys and endless green forests, with possible sightings of rare species such as sun bears, white-cheeked gibbons and clouded leopards – and overnight stays with hill tribes. 'This is a remote corner of the country where few visitors have ever been: you’ll be one of only a handful of people to set foot in this region every year,' says Inside Asia's Chris Greener. 'If Laos is little visited, this area feels positively uncharted.'

FEAR FACTOR : 3/5 SHOW-OFF LEVEL : 4/5 BOOK IT : insideasiatours.com PRICE: 9 nights from £1,495

• MOUNTAIN BIKE ONE OF THE WORLD’S MOST ACTIVE VOLCANOES

Best for: A fiery alternative to the fly-and-flop of neighbouring Mauritius

The Indian Ocean’s Réunion Island has already been tipped as one of 2019’s hot destinations – and the good news is that you can bike up to its hottest point. The Piton de la Fournaise (Peak of the Furnace) is one of the world’s most active volcanoes , but there are dedicated trails crisscrossing all the way up to its bubbling summit. Plus you can create a fire and water experience by canyoning some epic waterfalls on the way down. 'The trail descends across volcanic rock, through thick jungle and then cane fields before ending at the beach,' says Alexis Vincent of local outfit Ayapana. 'It might be stating the obvious, but nothing quite compares to the exhilaration of biking down the side of a volcano.'

FEAR FACTOR: 3/5 SHOW-OFF LEVEL: 3/5 BOOK IT: ayapanareunion.com PRICE: About £60

• ABSEIL DOWN TABLE MOUNTAIN

Best for: solo travellers who want to let loose

At 1,000 metres above sea level, Table Mountain isn’t just South Africa ’s most famous landmark – it’s also one of the highest commercial abseils in the world. As such, it’s the obvious spot to propel yourself from your comfort zone in immortal fashion. Group adventure-travel specialist Flash Pack can easily arrange the heart-in-your-mouth experience as part of a longer stay in the area. 'We did the big abseil on day one, so people were going straight from their desks to a literal cliff edge,' says one person who braved it. 'The views across the cityscape and the Cape Peninsula are absolutely spectacular, but edging over the rim can be terrifying. Once you’ve done it though, you’re buzzing for days afterwards – you feel like you can take on the world.'

FEAR FACTOR 5/5 SHOW-OFF LEVEL 4/5 BOOK IT: flashpack.com **PRICE:**13 days from £3,549

• JOIN THE GREATEST SHOAL ON EARTH

Best for: David Attenborough fans ready to take the plunge

Each June, one of the animal kingdom’s most thrilling spectacles takes place off the KwaZulu Natal coastline. The Sardine Run sees millions of sardines migrating north, following warmer currents towards the Indian Ocean. This moving smorgasbord attracts a who’s who of hungry ocean predators, from dolphins and game fish to sharks and whales. If you’ve got the nerve (and the swimming ability), Dive Worldwide can drop you into the thrashing heart of the action. 'During our five days at sea we were fortunate enough to jump into the water with a super pod of dolphins, swim alongside an enormous humpback whale and witness numerous bait balls as they were attacked from all angles,' says photographer Mat Howell-Reeve. 'The gannets dive-bombed from above, the dolphins orchestrated from below and the sharks make a wondrous mess of the middle. It was epic to witness nature on this scale.'

FEAR FACTOR: 4/5 SHOW-OFF LEVEL: 4/5 BOOK IT: diveworldwide.com **PRICE:**11 days for £2,695

• CYCLE THE WORLD’S MOST DANGEROUS ROAD

Best for: travellers with balance and backbone in equal measure

You don’t get a nickname like Death Road by accident. Hacked into the side of a mountain near the Bolivian capital of La Paz , Yungas Road earned its sobriquet thanks to a notoriously high fatality rate. Today, the bulk of local traffic takes a safer route, but the road remains – and mountain-bike crews such as Barracuda Biking will take you down it. Twisting rapidly to sea level from the snowy summit, you’ll pass everything from grazing alpacas to a government drugs checkpoint. Just keep your wits about you and both hands over the brakes – fatal accidents are less frequent now, but broken bones are an almost daily occurrence. On the plus side, the views are to die for.

FEAR FACTOR: 5/5 SHOW-OFF LEVEL: 5/5 BOOK IT: barracudabiking.com PRICE: About £65

• LEARN TO BE AN OLYMPIC SKI JUMPER

Best for: Experienced skiers looking for a new challenge

If you’ve ever felt like channelling your inner Eddie the Eagle, you can do so at Utah’s Olympic Park near Salt Lake City. After a couple of days’ training on smaller jumps, competent skiers graduate to the Olympic training ramps and eternal glory – or a large medical bill. The trick, as I learnt, is to lean forward and ‘attack’ the jump as you exit the ramp, forcing your body into the correct aerodynamic shape as you reach for the clouds. My take-off from the 40-metre jump ( photographed above ) was perfect – it was just the landing on my backside that left a lot to be desired.

FEAR FACTOR: 5/5 SHOW-OFF LEVEL: 5/5 BOOK IT: utaholympiclegacy.org COST: Single pass from about £35

• FIND YOURSELF BY GETTING LOST

Best for: outdoor enthusiasts eager to test their limits

In what has to be the world’s ultimate digital detox , intrepid-deluxe outfit Black Tomato will drop you into the wilderness from a helicopter, then leave you to fend for yourself. When you sign up for Get Lost, your precise location remains a secret, even to you, but it could be anywhere from Guatemala to northern Iceland . All you’ll have is a small pack of supplies, a satellite phone and a set number of days to work your way back to civilisation. 'Clients can choose what kind of terrain they want to be lost in: polar, desert, mountain or jungle, and then given the necessary survival training,' says co-founder Tom Marchant. 'The skills you acquire, and spending time in the wilderness , can really change the way you look at the world.'

**FEAR FACTOR:**5/5 SHOW-OFF LEVEL: 5/5 BOOK IT: blacktomato.com PRICE: From £15,000

• GO CLIFF CAMPING IN THE ROCKY MOUNTAINS

Best for: Insomniacs with a head for heights

When it comes to reflecting back on the sunlit plateaus of life’s long journey, this is one you’ll never forget. Colorado -based KMAC offers a cliff-camping experience deep in the Rocky Mountains , where you’ll spend the night suspended from a sheer rock face 200ft (or 18 storeys) up. After abseiling down to it, you’ll make yourself comfortable on a portaledge little wider than a church pew, then settle in till morning. You can see our attempt in the photograph above. Personally, I didn’t sleep a wink, but the spectacular view over the moonlit mountains was worth it – as was the hard-earned sunrise, incinerating any lingering night fears as it ignited the sky about me. (I was grateful to get my feet back on terra firma afterwards though).

**FEAR FACTOR:**5/5 **SHOW-OFF LEVEL:**5/5 BOOK IT: kmaconline.com PRICE: One person about £950

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[b] More epic adventures

Inside Japan's seven-star train

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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!

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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.

• Adventure Travel

What is Adventure Travel?

Liz is a collector of grand adventures. She first discovered her passion for meaningful travel wh...

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What is adventure travel? It’s the most epic way to see the world! Adventure tourism activities combine tourism with cultural immersion, physical activity, and getting down and dirty in nature—the adrenaline rush is just a bonus.

What does “adventurous” look like for you?

Adventure travel is the opportunity to explore your favorite destinations while discovering new skills, passions, and lifelong friends. It is physically, mentally, and emotionally challenging in the best way possible. It’s climbing the highest peaks, learning local languages, shredding down powdery mountains, diving deep into history, and plunging headfirst into the depths of the ocean.

If you’re the kind of traveler who loves to push themselves to the limits and collect new experiences, adventure travel is a must on your travel bucket list .

What is adventure travel?

Adventure travel embraces the concept of exploration. Adventure activities often appeal to adrenaline junkies, but you don’t necessarily have to be keen to jump out of an airplane or swim with sharks to be an adventure tourist. Sometimes being in an unfamiliar place and pushing yourself out of your cultural comfort zone can be enough of an adventure in itself!

Adventure tourism activities range from anything that gets your blood pumping to anything that allows full immersion to the local culture. Often, this includes some type of physical activity and the chance to connect with nature, but most of all it’s the opportunity to challenge yourself and push your limits to allow for personal growth and the ultimate travel experience.

What is the importance of adventure tourism?

You’d be surprised how capable you feel after summiting a mountain!

Adventure tourism offers the opportunity of growth, both for yourself and the destination.

On a personal level, adventure tourism activities are often physically stimulating. They get your blood pumping, endorphins running wild, allowing you to reduce stress, burn calories, and feel a sense of accomplishment.

Adventure travel allows you to connect with nature, improving your mental state so you can feel your best in every sense. And sharing an adventure with locals or other travelers is always the perfect way to bond quickly over incredible experiences and make fast friends.

Not only does adventure tourism benefit our health, but there is an importance of adventure tourism to the local economy. Many of the top destinations for adventure tourism are also some of the poorest countries in the world.

When we take part in adventure activities and eco-tourism , we have the ability to help develop the country’s infrastructure, support local community development, and contribute to eco-initiatives to preserve land and natural resources.

It’s always a good idea to travel with eco-friendly programs and providers that are responsible, sustainable , and who benefit the local community.

11 best types of adventure tourism activities

So what are the best types of adventure travel? Whether you’re a lover of mountains or ocean, sun or snow, adrenaline-pumping activities or cultural immersion, there are countless types of adventure tourism activities to suit every traveler.

Here are the best types of adventure activities to satisfy your mind, body, and soul.

1. Backpacking

Living out of a backpack is an essential travel skill.

• Why? Backpacking is one of the best ways to do adventure travel. With almost no luggage, backpacking lets you reach unique travel destinations that other travelers may not be able to access—whether that’s the depths of the jungle or tiny beach towns with nothing but pedestrian access.
• Whether you want to spend a week or several months abroad, backpacking is one of the most flexible and cheapest types of adventure tourism, and one of the best ways to make friends with fellow travelers.
• Where? Australia , Costa Rica , Ecuador , Thailand , Vietnam
• Recommended program: Australia Adventure with Gapforce

2. Climbing

• Why? If you want to truly push your limits to the extreme and see the world from a new perspective, climbing is one of the best types of adventure travel. With the ability to scale cliffs and sit atop the tallest mountains, climbing will give you access to extreme terrain and some of the most legendary views.
• As a sport, climbing is one of the most physically and mentally challenging, giving you both an adrenaline kick and a sense of accomplishment. What better way to fall in love with a new land?
• Where? Nepal , New Zealand , Tanzania , Thailand
• Recommended program: 12 Weeks Adventure Guide Program in Queenstown, New Zealand with Pure Exploration

3. Heritage Tours

• Why? Have you ever felt the desire to dive deep into your ancestral roots? Heritage tourism is one of the most unique types of adventure tourism, taking you on a journey to connect with your ancestral roots and experience a new country and culture that is deeply ingrained in your own personal history.
• Connect with the places, traditions, and stories of your ancestors for a one-of-a-kind adventure abroad that will leave you with a deeper understanding of your identity.
• Where? France , Mexico , Italy , UK , Japan , India
• Recommended program: Maya Day of the Dead Experience in Quintana Roo, Mexico with Na'atik Language and Culture Institute

4. Homestay

Homestays can push you out of your comfort zone while immersing you in different cultural norms.

• Why? Living with a local family abroad is the best possible way to have a culturally immersive travel experience. There is only so much you can learn from traveling on your own or with other travelers. By participating in a homestay abroad, locals will become family. You’ll eat home-cooked meals, have your own local social circle, and take part firsthand in cultural traditions.
• Homestays will push you outside of your comfort zone, but this adventure allows you an inside peek at your destination that you won’t find anywhere else.
• Where? Denmark , Italy , Japan , South Africa , Sweden
• Recommended program: Exploration and Adventure Travel Program in Europe with Putney Student Travel
• Why? White water rafting is one of the most common adventure tourism examples, and for good reason. It is the epitome of adventure travel, combining anticipation, natural beauty, and fun.
• Rafting allows you to appreciate nature on a new level—the power of the river, the lushness of the forest around you, and the depth of the world’s grandest canyons. Splashing through white water rapids is a great way to use your muscles and have a blast while you’re at it.
• Where? Australia , Costa Rica , Fiji , Nepal , New Zealand
• Recommended program: Surf, Scuba, Raft & Hike in Costa Rica & Panama with Outward Bound Costa Rica

6. Scuba Diving

• Why? Test the limits of being human by exploring an entirely new world under the sea. Scuba diving teaches you to relax, communicate, move slowly, and appreciate the ocean's ecosystems.
• Whether you want to go for a day trip, a scuba tour, or earn your diving certification so you can explore the depths of the ocean solo, scuba diving is one of the best adventure activities if you want to be one with the sea.
• Where? Caribbean , Great Barrier Reef , Malaysia , Philippines
• Recommended program: Caribbean: Marine Biology Voyage with Broadreach

7. Skydiving

This exhilarating adventure tourism activity isn’t for the faint of heart!

• Why? There’s nothing like jumping out of an airplane and free falling from the sky at 10,000 feet. It’s the ultimate adrenaline rush, the most epic adventure you could imagine.
• Skydiving gives travelers the opportunity to see the world from a totally different angle while pushing you completely out of your comfort zone. With endless types of adventure tourism activities, skydiving is the only one that will allow you to appreciate the world’s beauty from above.
• Where? Fiji , Hawaii , New Zealand
• Recommended program: Awesome Aussie Service Adventure with Rustic Pathways

8. Snowboarding & Skiing

• Why? Fresh powdery snow, cozy fireplaces, and stunning white peaks are just a few of the reasons hitting the slopes is one of the most fun adventure activities. Whether you’re a skier or a snowboarder, a beginner or a black-diamond expert, there’s nothing like embracing your inner snow bunny in a winter wonderland.
• If you want to gain experience in tourism and hospitality while shredding powder, you can even consider becoming an instructor, transforming adventure travel into an internship or job abroad .
• Where? Canada , France , New Zealand , Switzerland
• Recommended program: Become a Ski Instructor in Canada with EA Ski & Snowboard Instructor Training
• Why? Prefer basking in the sunshine and salty air? Surfing is more than just bumming on the beach. It’s the chance to engage with local instructors who teach you not only how to ride the waves, but also how to blend into island life in your destination—living, eating, and speaking like the locals.
• Surfing challenges your physical ability and brings euphoria. There are equal moments of thrill as you search for the perfect wave, and peacefulness as you become one with the ocean. And the best part? You’ll have access to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world.
• Where? Australia , Costa Rica , Indonesia , Sri Lanka
• Recommended program: Learn to Surf in Peru with Maximo Nivel

10. Trekking

Trekking is a fun way to experience beautiful natural landscapes.

• Why? Trekking is one of the best adventure tourism options if you want to venture off the beaten path. From the jungle trails of South America, to European pilgrimages, to the highest peaks of Nepal, trekking pushes your boundaries and offers a unique cultural experience.
• Whether you want a short-term group hike or a long-term solo adventure, trekking allows the opportunity to spend your days in nature and your nights in small villages where you can eat, sleep, and speak with locals for full cultural immersion.
• Where? Argentina , Chile , Italy , Nepal , Spain , Tanzania
• Recommended program: Mexico, Guatemala & Costa Rica Gap Semester with Pacific Discovery
• Why? Yoga offers a different kind of adventure—an adventure of the soul. You won’t necessarily get an adrenaline rush through ashtanga and deep breathing, but yoga challenges you physically, mentally, and emotionally, while allowing you to connect with the culture of a new place.
• Practice your language skills or learn about the local history of yoga. Combine your practice with volunteer work for a true cultural immersion and feed your soul in more ways than one.
• Where? Costa Rica , India , Nepal
• Recommended program: Kindergarten Volunteering in Bali with International Volunteer HQ (IVHQ)

Get matched with 5 adventure travel programs abroad for FREE

Ready for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure abroad.

Don’t shy away from an adventurous lifestyle!

If you have big dreams of traveling the world, why not make it into a grand adventure? With so many different types of adventure travel opportunities, you’re guaranteed to find adventure activities to suit your own personal desires.

Whether you crave that adrenaline rush, the glorious natural world, or want to drench yourself in a new way of life, adventure travel offers once-in-a-lifetime experiences that will transform travel for the better.

Explore ALL Adventure Travel Opportunities on GoAbroad.com

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40 travel adventures you have to try

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Travelling is an adventure. Through travel, you can have new experiences, flavours and encounters that redefine your perception of the world. From adrenaline-pumping escapades to awe-inspiring expeditions, this bucket list is your passport to the most extraordinary and daring experiences the world has to offer. 

Whether you seek to conquer towering peaks, dive into the depths of the ocean, or immerse yourself in diverse cultures, these adventures are bound to ignite your wanderlust and leave you craving more. Take this as a timely reminder that we all need to get out there, keep adventuring and challenge ourselves. Here are 40 top ideas to test your travel mettle.

An African safari at Shamwari

One of Africa’s most exclusive safari destinations, Shamwari offers not only the opportunity to see a multitude of African wildlife but also the chance to actively contribute to their preservation. Shamwari’s expert rangers ensure guests are treated to unforgettable wildlife adventures in the untamed African wilderness adventures including guided bush walks and photographic safaris. At the heart of Shamwari is an unwavering dedication to wildlife conservation and environmental sustainability. The reserve houses a Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre that cares for injured, sick, and orphaned animals, and a vulture breeding centre – a collaboration between Shamwari and vulture conservation organisation Vulpro. Shamwari also hosts two Born Free Big Cat Sanctuaries and Education Centres.

Read : All you need to know about Shamwari

Bareboat in the Whitsundays

Join Portland Roads Sailing the Whitsundays – the only company licensed to sail to all 74 islands in the Whitsundays region – to go to islands others cannot and have bays all to yourself. The seven-strong fleet of luxury catamarans is available for bareboat – self-skippered – charter adventures for novice and experienced sailors alike. Better yet, visitors don’t need a boat license or sailing experience to skipper these 38- to 45-foot vessels, with an extensive briefing supplied. Once you set off, the wind in your sails and the salty air in your face, feel the burden of stress and responsibility slip away on the tide.

You can also feel content that this charter company is a sustainable tourism-accredited business, is carbon neutral, and holds Climate Action, Recognition of Culture and Advanced Ecotourism certifications. Portland Roads Sailing the Whitsundays really does respect the environment and the waters of Ngaro, its history, its people and the land that has flourished for millennia.

Read : Portland Roads Sailing the Whitsundays is the best bareboat charter in the Whitsundays

Visit the Northern Lights capital of the world

You’re all bundled up in warm clothes, standing in the crisp Alaskan air. Suddenly, a shimmering curtain of light appears, painting the sky in hues of green, red, and blue. Welcome to Fairbanks , Alaska – the Aurora Borealis capital of the world. Aurora Season in Fairbanks is from August 21 to April 21. Book a guided tour with a local operator, who will take you to the best viewing spots and provide insights into this fascinating phenomenon. Or venture out on your own, following the aurora forecast and seeking out secluded areas away from the distraction of the city lights.

Beyond the dazzling natural light show, Fairbanks offers everything from adrenaline-fuelled adventure to cultural immersion. Go dog sledding through the snowy wilderness or snowmobiling across frozen waterways. Take a guided tour of the Chena Hot Springs to soak in the mineral-rich waters. Visit the Fairbanks Ice Museum, and learn the history and culture of Alaska at the Museum of the North.

Read : Experience the northern lights from Alaska

Nature experiences on Kangaroo Island

Everywhere you go on Kangaroo Island is a veritable wildlife safari. As soon as you arrive off the SeaLink ferry, your island exploration begins. In Flinders Chase National Park, marvel at the mercurial Remarkable Rocks, crafted over 500 million years, and venture down the boardwalk from Cape du Couedic Lighthouse to Admiral’s Arch, spotting long-nosed fur seals as you go. At Seal Bay Conservation Park, home to a population of endangered Australian sea lions, join a ranger-guided beach tour where you can watch from a respectable distance and learn about their incredible long-range fishing abilities. Afterwards, sample award-winning gins at Kangaroo Island Spirits, sip on a cider at Emu Ridge Eucalyptus Distillery, savour a wine at one of the island’s wineries or knock the top off a craft beer at Kangaroo Island Brewery.

Read : The best ways to experience Kangaroo Island

Air safari in Australia

Australia has it all. Urban cities and tiny townships, rainforests, mountain ranges, outback deserts, coastlines, and rolling green hills. Australian Air Safaris allow you to see the best of Australia by private or light plane. You will see some most remote parts of the country quickly and efficiently, without hours of driving in between.

See Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park and King’s Canyon in the Northern Territory, traverse the Tasmanian wilderness or gaze upon the moonlike landscape of Mungo National Park in New South Wales. The multiple aircraft in the privately owned fleet are flown by pilots who double as expert guides. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime way to experience the land Down Under from above.

Japan’s most adventurous island

Tokashiki Island in Okinawa has a warm climate year-round and is a paradise for adventure seekers. The island is perfect for sea kayaking, snorkelling, diving with sea turtles and wildlife spotting. While Aharen Beach is the primary activity hub, stunning Tokashiku Beach stands out for its natural beauty. Visitors can also visit WWII historic sites, Shinto shrines, and traditional villages or take an e-Bike tour across the island. Then explore rice fields, the local village, see local wildlife and soak up the island’s breathtaking scenery from its observatories and high lookouts.

Tokashiki is easily accessed via a 40-minute, high-speed ferry from Naha. Perfect for an overnight stay, travellers can partake in night tours along the beach, and stay in a guesthouse, modern hotel, private beach house or one of the campsites on the island.

Whitsundays sailing

Sailing one of the world’s great cruising grounds is a bucket-list experience, and Queensland Yacht Charters , a member of Dream Yacht Worldwide, is the cream of the crop in the Whitsundays. Drop anchor in dreamy bays where you can frolic with fishy friends in a riot of colour, relax on board, and enjoy evening drinks with golden sunsets. You don’t have to have a boat licence – there is a comprehensive briefing before you set off. If you really want to put your feet up, you can choose a skippered charter. Set off from Airlie Beach or Hamilton Island and find your blissful base at places like Nara Inlet, Stonehaven or Butterfly Bay on Hook Island, and don’t miss Whitehaven Beach.

Be charmed in Ireland

Ireland is a playground for adventure seekers. Every step is guaranteed to be accompanied by a spirit of hospitality and warmth from the people you encounter along the way. From friendly chats in cosy pubs, where the locals regularly perform traditional music, to the warm hellos received on winding walking trails. Ireland offers kayaking at the Cliffs of Moher, pints and paragliding in Dingle, bike riding at the Ring of Kerry and scaling the Mourne Mountains. Take a tour of Giant’s Causeway to explore the interlocking basalt columns and tackle the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge. Suspended above the water, the rope bridge was first erected by salmon fishermen 350 years ago and is sure to set pulses racing.

Read : Why Ireland is the ultimate destination for adventure

Aqua-packed Rockingham, WA

45 minutes south of Perth, Rockingham has 37km of sandy beaches, crystalline waters and protected bays. Animal encounters and bucket-list experiences abound in Rockingham. Explore the world beneath the water with a scuba diving lesson, or get up close and personal with the furred, feathered and finned residents of Shoalwater Islands Marine Park. Join a sea kayak tour of Penguin and Seal Islands, swim with wild dolphins or take in the idyllic surroundings from a stand-up paddleboard.

Read : The secret seaside escape by Perth you need to know

Set sail in Europe

Want to sail Greece, the Amalfi Coast, Corsica, the French Riviera, Malta, Croatia, or the Adriatic? Star Clippers’ European itineraries access small ports in charming villages and secluded coves. This means you can experience Europe’s off-the-beaten-path destinations with small, handcrafted shore excursions. Each ship welcomes no more than 230 guests, with legendary service and gourmet culinary offerings. You can even lend a hand hoisting the sails, or just lay back and let the crew do all the work. With ships boasting billowing sails as they harness the power of the wind for a true sailing experience, you can also be sure that your journey is a sustainable one.

Read: Sail the Med with Star Clippers

Cape York Motorcycles

With Cape York Motorcycles you can feel the freedom of riding a dirt bike through lush bushland, twisty forest trails and across creeks in Cape York, North Queensland. All while leaving minimal impact. You’ll venture to places you never thought possible on a seven-day adventure experience, including the chance to discover some local gems, including the Old Telegraph Track, Tip of Australia, Heritage listed Rainforests, Historic Cooktown, and picturesque Twin Falls – and you might even spot a croc or cassowary along the way. The multi-award-winning company was the first of its kind to achieve Eco-Certification and it takes the environment seriously. From its maintenance of the bikes to maintaining fuel efficiency to fundraising for local conservation and community activities.

Read : Two-wheel adventures with Cape York Motorbikes

Gorillas in Rwanda

Rwanda is a wonder. Although geographically small, this landlocked country is blessed with unique biodiversity and landscapes decorated with volcanoes, montane rainforest and rolling plains. Hidden within the undulating vistas are more than half of the world’s remaining mountain gorilla population, and travellers come from far and wide to catch a glimpse of the magnificent creatures.

From animal encounters with chimpanzees and golden monkeys to inspiring cultural enrichment and jaw-dropping environments, One&Only Resorts affords guests the ability to experience all that Rwanda has to offer. Its two unique properties, One&Only Nyungwe House and One&Only Gorilla’s Nest offer an array of once-in-a-lifetime experiences.

Read : Six reasons to experience Rwanda at One&Only resorts

WA’s secret islands

The Houtman Abrolhos Islands are Australia’s best-kept secret and the best way to explore them is on a five-day cruise on the Eco Abrolhos , a 35m, four-deck catamaran that can carry 32 passengers in 17 air-conditioned cabins with ensuites. Set off to this stunning marine wonderland, 70 kilometres off the coast of Geraldton. Recently declared a National Park, the Abrolhos Islands consist of 122 islands in three main groups; the Wallabi, Pelsaert or Southern Group and Easter Groups. Snorkel on coral reefs, join a lobster pot tour, go fishing to enjoy ocean-to-plate cuisine and learn about the famous survival story of the shipwrecked Batavia. Eco Abrolhos also offers a 13-night Kimberley itinerary, going further and seeing more, to places like Horizontal Falls, Montgomery Reef and King George River.

Read : Discover the Abrolhos Islands

Stay, play and stargaze in Flagstaff, Arizona

Immerse yourself in the breathtaking vistas of Grand Canyon National Park before dining in one of Flagstaff’s 200 restaurants, grab a craft beer along the Flagstaff Brewery Trail and get your pics on Route 66 with a visit to the Flagstaff Visitor Center. Visit Wupatki National Monument, where 800-year-old pueblos stand as a testament to ancient civilisations. Delve into geologic wonders and the history of the Apollo moon missions at Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument and explore the Island Trail’s cliff dwellings and scenic overlooks at Walnut Canyon National Monument.

Flagstaff’s celestial allure has earned its status as the world’s first international dark sky city. Experience the cosmos at Lowell Observatory, where Pluto was discovered in 1930. Visit Meteor Crater, the world’s best-preserved meteor impact site. Then cap off your City of Seven Wonders adventure, full of wonder under Flagstaff’s star-studded skies.

Go cruising – but not as you know it

In the world of cruising, size matters, but not in the way you might think. UnCruise Adventures is demonstrating how going small can lead to big, unforgettable experiences. With fewer passengers and smaller vessels, UnCruise minimises its ecological footprint. UnCruise’s all-inclusive seven- and 14-night adventure itineraries explore destinations such as Alaska, Hawaii, the Galapagos, Mexico, and the Aleutian Islands, focusing on nature, wildlife, and outdoor adventures that begin right off the boat. Passengers are invited to enjoy kayaking, hiking, and wildlife watching in pristine, remote locations they’d otherwise be unable to reach. The company also places a strong emphasis on community support and local partnerships, connecting travellers with the communities they visit.

School your kids with Bear Grylls

Bear Grylls is the epitome of an outdoors type of guy. He can survive in all kinds of terrain, find food everywhere – even though it may not be tasty – and he can sleep out in the elements. With a lot of our kids these days more attuned to the indoors than out, it is a great idea to sign them up for the Bear Grylls Survival Academy, the ultimate outdoor experience exclusive to NRMA Holiday Parks and Resorts . Each 60-minute mission is completely supervised and aims to teach kids how to think like a survivor, and a lot of fun will be had and new friends will be made during the process.

Read : Bear Grylls adventures at NRMA parks are totally wild

Sail Ningaloo

Hidden beneath the crystalline waves of Western Australia’s Coral Bay is a wonderland of marine wildlife. From turtles and whales to dolphins, dugongs, manta rays and reef sharks, the pristine waters are an idyllic escape for swimmers, snorkellers and divers alike. To experience the best of the region, embark upon a five-night Ningaloo Reef Tour aboard Shore Thing , a beautifully appointed 15-metre catamaran with cabins and staterooms to accommodate up to 10 guests. Hosted by Sail Ningaloo , the cruise navigates 70 kilometres of calm waters from the coral formations of Coral Bay and the thriving ecosystem of Bateman Bay, on to the historical ruins of the Norwegian Bay whaling station. Hear tragic tales of the shipwrecks on the reef before exploring the locale by snorkelling, scuba diving or kayaking along the secluded coastline. It’s a unique experience for passengers as Sail Ningaloo is one of the only operators with access to these preserved natural areas.

Read : Embark upon a five-night Ningaloo Reef Tour aboard Shore Thing

Rock climbing in Yosemite National Park

Few could walk among the dramatic plunging waterfalls, sky-high granite cliffs and giant sequoias of California’s Yosemite National Park and not leave a changed person. While it’s famed for its hikes, people have been rock climbing here since the late 60s. The appeal? Adrenalin alone as you reach the highest peaks in the park. Join a climbing class (they meet daily) and you’ll soon be scaling this pristine locale with ease and soaking it up from a whole new perspective.

Slow travel in Switzerland

The Jungfrau Region in Switzerland boasts 500 kilometres of well-maintained and signposted trails in this jagged peaked, green-carpeted wonderland. Take the 1.5-hour trail from Männlichen to Kleine Scheidegg, enveloped by majestic mountains, or tackle the two-hour downhill walk from the Jungfrau railway station at the Eiger Glacier to Kleine Scheidegg. This walk takes you from the famous wall of rock that is the North Face of the Eiger, down along its base with striking views.

Read : Love slow travel? You can’t beat Switzerland

Foiling in Fiji

Foiling is taking off in surf breaks around the world. If you want to learn to foil or improve your technique, head to Namotu in Fiji. A tiny slice of palm-fringed paradise, Namotu is a huge aquatic playground that offers foil and surf programmes offering everything you could possibly need. Sign up for the Surf and Foil Camps with Matt Wilkinson and Adam Bennetts, with unlimited use of surfboats to get out to the famous breaks around Namotu, a surf guide, professional filming, use of Fliteboards, as well as the delights of this exquisite island.

Horse riding tour in Africa

From the pristine waters of Botswana’s Okavango Delta to the lush grasslands of Kenya’s Masai Mara, the striking landscape of Namibia and vibrant Rajasthan, The Classic Safari Company’s luxury horse riding holidays will see you saddle up for an active and exhilarating safari through stunning scenery. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or simply an adventurous thrill seeker looking to gallivant in thrilling style, The Classic Safari Company’s itineraries, led by experienced guides and staying in luxurious lodges and camps, offer a unique and unforgettable safari experience.

Ski at Val d’Isere

The French Alps are home to some of the biggest resorts in the world with snow-covered mountain views that stretch all the way to Switzerland and Italy. Val d’Isère has a whopping 300km of skiable terrain with a wide variety of runs across two mountains and numerous peaks. For an extra adrenaline rush, try paragliding from the top of Solaise Mountain, learn a new skill by signing up to biathlon lessons, tackle an illuminated night ropes course, go snowmobiling through the mystical snow country above the Chevril Dam, venture out on an electric mountain bike tour, or try climbing up a frozen waterfall. For added adventure of the party kind, head to La Folie Douce for a cocktail or three.

Read : Seven reasons to ski in the French Alps

Jaw-dropping hikes in Scotland

The Quiraing Walk on the Isle of Skye is a piece of heaven for photographers and nature enthusiasts. The trail traverses some of the most beautiful and dramatic scenery in Scotland. The 6.8km challenging circuit’s soaring cliffs, hidden plateaus and gravity-defying rock pinnacles are worth every hard-earned step. The hike is just part of the Trotternish Ridge on Scotland’s Hebrides archipelago.

Keep reading :

• 40 best holiday destinations
• 40 best travel experiences around the world
• The 40 best stays for your travel bucket list

Swim the globe

A great way to see the world is to swim it. SwimTrek offers swim tours that cover from three to eight kilometres a day in scenic destinations. Whether it’s swimming along Oman’s fjords in the Musandam Peninsula, delighting in the Greek Islands, Maldives or Croatia, discovering Saskatchewan’s Churchill River system in Canada, encountering sea lions and marine iguanas in the Galapagos Islands, or tackling the Thames in England, you’ll be led by experienced swim guides. Tours include above-water activities like hiking, yoga, kayaking, and sightseeing, showcasing the natural beauty of each destination

Dive between two continents

Swimming between tectonic plates may sound like science fiction. But take a trip into Iceland’s Thingvellir National Park and you’ll find it’s a very real experience. Silfra Fissure is filled with glacial meltwater from Langjokull, and it’s one of the best snorkelling spots in the world. It is located between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates, which move apart at a rate of 2cm per year. Explore incredible submarine rock formations such as the Silfra Crack, Hall, Cathedral and Lagoon and marvel at the jewel-hued algae that grow within them.

Summit the Macau Tower

Conquer the world’s highest urban climb by summiting the Macau Tower. From level 61 of the tower, you’ll be guided up 100 metres of internal and external ladders before reaching the needle tip of the tower that sticks out 338m into the sky. At the summit, be prepared to cling tightly to a mast that can sway in the wind as you stand on a narrow, open-air platform, exposed to the elements. Those with nerves of steel will be rewarded with the best views of Macau, Zhuhai and the Pearl River Delta.

Skydive Dubai

The glittering cityscape of Dubai is an unforgettable sight. The towering Burj Khalifa skyscraper, luxury boutiques and fine dining establishments make this cosmopolitan city by the sea the jewel of the United Arab Emirates. However, visitors should look skywards if seeking a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Skydive Dubai offers Palm and Desert dropzones, tandem skydives for first-timers and classes for those looking to fly solo. Not for the faint of heart, tandem skydiving hits a freefall of more than 193km per hour and has unbelievable views of Palm Jumeirah Island, Ain Dubai and Burj al Arab.

Indonesia’s best diving

On a tiny island in Indonesia, Wakatobi Resort is punching well above its weight in marine protection initiatives. Located on a UNESCO marine biosphere reserve, the resort is renowned for its diving the world over. There are 50 mapped dive sites, 1,000 fish species and more than 500 varieties of multi-hued corals, sea fans and sponges. The resort’s private marine park is the largest coral barrier reef in Indonesia – second to the Great Barrier Reef. Through its Collaborative Reef Conservation Program, a portion of resort revenue goes directly to local communities.

Kayak in Canada

Haida Gwaii, nestled off British Columbia’s coast, is best explored by kayak. Glide through the Burnaby Narrows, explore UNESCO World Heritage Site, Ninstints, and delve into the wilds of Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve’s southern reaches, to encounter orcas, humpbacks, and bears as you learn the rich history of Haida’s First Nations seafaring culture from expert guides.

Abseil Table Mountain

Abseiling down the iconic Table Mountain is an experience for thrill-seekers, offering breathtaking views as you scale 112 metres down one of the Seven Wonders of Nature . This one-hour experience involves a controlled descent down from one of the world’s highest commercial abseiling points, 1,067m above sea level. The panoramic views over the Mother City from the cliff’s edge are unbeatable, featuring Robben Island, Lions Head, The Twelve Apostles and Camps Bay, with the dazzling blue Atlantic under your feet. Cape Town Abseil is a pulse-racing experience to get under your belt.

Mountain bike in North Dakota

Mountain bikers come from near and far to ride The Maah Daah Hey Trail trail in North Dakota , the longest single-track mountain biking route in the USA. The Maah Daah Hey Trail is a 230-kilometre playground connecting the north and south units of the Theodore Roosevelt National Park and running through the Little Missouri Grasslands and the rugged Badlands. Most experienced riders will do it over four or five days, either carrying their own camping gear or organising someone to take it for them. You can also book a group ride through Dakota Cyclery at Medora.

Heli-hike in Canada

Hike above deep valleys, icefields and glacial lakes in the otherworldly British Columbia on a heli-hike experience with CMH at places like Bugaboos or Cariboos. Here, you can follow in the footsteps of legendary mountaineers as you roam among sky-scraping granite titans in one of the province’s great natural wonders. After each day hiking on your four or seven-day adventure, enjoy a hearty dinner and bed down in rustic luxury.

Paddle the Bermagui River

Paddle up the seven-kilometre Bermagui River alongside mangrove forests and lofty woodlands, that herons, kingfishers and sea eagles call home. The emerald water of this estuary on NSW’s Sapphire Coast is the playground for ecotourism Australia-certified Navigate Expeditions . Stop for a swim in a secluded spot with your expert guide, and then glide back down the river to the sound of nothing but your oar hitting the glassy water, and the tranquil song of the bellbird.

White water rafting in Arizona

Roar along the Colorado River through one of the world’s most stunning natural wonders with Grand Canyon Whitewater . A whitewater adventure offers breathtaking views of towering red rock formation, rugged landscapes and hidden waterfalls. Navigate adrenaline-pumping rapids and tranquil stretches as you experience the Grand Canyon’s geological history and unique ecosystems up close. All rafting trips are led by experienced and certified guides and multi-day trips allow you to camp beneath the stars and explore hidden side canyons, with knowledgeable guides sharing fascinating insights.

Explore Africa’s waterways

Watch an African sunset on a Chobe River cruise, then glide through the Okavango Delta on a traditional mokoro (canoe). Abercrombie & Kent’s nine-day ‘African Waterways’ journey explores the unspoiled beauty of Botswana’s natural wonders. Delve deep into the heart of the Okavango Delta and the wilderness of Chobe National Park, which has one of the largest concentrations of game on the continent. Experience thrilling game safaris by 4WD, boat, and on foot, plus a spectacular helicopter flight to Sanctuary Chief’s Camp for extraordinary game viewing in the Mombo Concession, Africa’s “predator capital”. Finish each day in sophisticated style with sundowners, spa treatments and private accommodation at Sanctuary Retreats’ Lodges & Camps.

Glaciers in New Zealand

Walking on a glacier is an unforgettable experience. In New Zealand’s South Island, stepping out on the ice is easy. New Zealand’s Glacier Country is home to Fox Glacier and Franz Josef Glacier, the most accessible rivers of ice in the world. Fox Glacier Guiding runs a range of tours to Fox Glacier, from a half-day e-bike and hike through Fox Glacier Valley to the adrenaline-addled Flying Fox Heli-Hikes. Choose the half-day option or go big, and do the full-day tour where you’ll put on your crampons and climb through the icefalls and dramatic landscapes of this frozen natural wonder.

Hot air balloon over the African plains

Take to the skies to spot wildlife on a hot air balloon safari in Africa. Adventure Aloft Balloon Safaris offer these surreal experiences over the Masai Mara, Serengeti, Ngorongoro Conservation Area and Tarangire National Park. Watch in the dark of the pre-dawn, as the balloon expands, before lifting off. The pilot flies at various heights, wildlife spotting as you fly along. Once the balloon lands, it’s off to a spectacular breakfast on the open plains, with a dazzle of zebra, nervous impala and maybe even a giraffe.

Cruise French canals

Paris will be really jumping during the Olympics in July and August 2024. After all the fun of the Games, chill out on a canal boat holiday with Le Boat – Europe’s number one boating holiday company. Discover the beauty of the countryside from the country’s canals and romantic rivers, explore the sights, or stop at any time to relax and indulge in fine French wines and delicious food. There are nine regions to choose from including the Canal du Midi, Nivernais, the Camargue and Brittany. The boats are easy to drive, can cater for from two to 10+ people, and you can explore at your own pace.

An emerging trekking hotspot

The Transcaucasian Trail stretches across the borderlands between Europe and Asia and will link more than 20 national parks across Azerbaijan, Georgia, and Armenia. World Expeditions is offering guided treks along the Trail in Georgia, with highlights including Tbilisi, stunning views in Svaneti, the ancient sites of Mtskheta and Uplistsikhe, Mount Ushba’s waterfalls and Mount Tetnuli’s glaciers.

Mount Kilimanjaro

Surprisingly, Africa’s tallest mountain isn’t part of a mountain range. Instead, it presides free and tall over the plains of Tanzania at 5,895 metres above sea level. Mount Kilimanjaro is a dormant volcano home to monkeys, antelope and highland animals. Those who crave an alpine adventure can make the climb to its snow-capped peak with a bit of help from tour operator Maasai Wanderings . Whether a seven-day challenge or two-week journey piques your interest, climbers can explore the African rainforest, scrublands and the icy summit of the Roof of Africa.

We hope you travel far and wide to embark on whichever adventure on this list piques your interest.

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Top 8 Best Blogs On Adventure Travel

When I am not climbing mountains or exploring new destinations, I spend much of my free time reading about adventure. While I am always looking to read the next great book on adventure or the latest addition of Outside Magazine or National Geographic, over the years I have found myself increasingly interested in following the adventure blogs of real life explorers.

Listed below are my Top 8 Best Blogs on Adventure Travel . Each of them are written by individuals who have a gift for storytelling, a thirst for exploration and the courage to blaze their own path through life!

Reading their travel blog sites has helped me to keep motivated, and inspires me to plan my own new epic adventures.

The Top 8 Best Blogs On Adventure Travel

• The Expert Vagabond – Matthew Karsten
• Alison’s Adventures – Alison Teal
• Alastair Humphreys
• Andrew Skurka
• Eric Larsen Explore – Eric Larsen
• Section Hiker – Philip Werner
• Wild Junket – Nellie Huang
• SoCal Hiker – Jeff Hester

1.  The Expert Vagabond – Matthew Karsten

Visit Matthew’s Blog by click HERE or follow the link below:

https://expertvagabond.com/travel-blog/

As stated on his site, the definition of a vagabond is “wandering from place to place without any settled home; nomadic” and this perfectly sums up Karsten’s life. At the age of 29 Matthew quit his job, sold his possessions and headed out on the road. Karsten has traveled across the globe for five years while travel blogging to share his adventures with the world and he doesn’t have any plans to slow down. The Expert Vagabond is living proof that it is possible to live an adventurous life and follow your dreams.

2.  Alison’s Adventures – Alison Teal

Visit Alison’s Blog by clicking HERE or follow the link below:

https://alisonsadventures.com/news/

Continuously on the go, nothing can stop this worldwide adventurer who is dubbed “The Female Indiana Jones”. Whether she is surfing in Hawaii, exploring the ancient city of Petra, or backpacking through Indonesia, Alison Teal, through her adventures teaches people to follow their dreams while also showing the beauty of the world for all of us to see. Alison’s Adventures is one of the best adventure travel blogs on the web.

3.  Alastair Humphreys

Visit Alastair’s Blog by click HERE or follow the link below:

https://alastairhumphreys.com/blog/

This British adventurer who coined the term ‘micro adventure’ advocates that people don’t need to go across the world to find adventure, but can actually find it closer to home. Although Humphreys has written a best selling book on micro adventures which you can check out HERE , this doesn’t stop him from continuously testing the boundaries of global exploration. Nominated as a National Geographic Adventurer in 2012, Humphreys has crossed Iceland by foot and pack raft, rowed across the Atlantic ocean, and cycled round the world for four years. This adventure travel blog is a must for anyone who loves to explore!

4.  Andrew Skurka

Visit Andrew’s Blog by click HERE or follow the link below:

https://andrewskurka.com/blog/

Described by National Geographic as “one of the best traveled and fastest hikers on the planet” , Andrew Skurka has made a name for himself by hiking super human distances across rugged terrain. One example is his 7,775-mile, eleven month sea-to-sea route expedition. The sea-to-sea route connects the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans in the United States.

Being awarded the National Geographic Adventurer of the Year in 2007, Skurka has perfected the art of moving fast and lightly through the mountains, and has actually published a gear guide on the subject titled “The Ultimate Hiker’s Gear Guide: Tools & Techniques to Hit the Trail” which you can find HERE .

5.  Eric Larsen Explore – Eric Larsen

Visit Eric’s Blog by click HERE or follow the link below:

http://www.ericlarsenexplore.com/updates

The best way to describe explorer Eric Larsen is that he LOVES the cold. The seasoned polar explorer has skied to both the North and South Pole, and after summiting Mount Everest in October of 2010 Eric became the first person to reach the three poles in a 365 day period. He also uses his expeditions as a platform to create awareness on the effects of climate change on the earth.

I first saw Eric speak in 2014 at the REI Adventure Store in New York City and have been following this polar explorers’ adventures ever since.

6.  Section Hiker – Philip Werner

Visit Philip’s Blog by click HERE or follow the link below:

http://sectionhiker.com

Whenever I have a question on gear, backpacking skills, or a trail I am about to hike I always check out the Section Hiker blog. Section Hiker is an encyclopedia of information and is one of my go-to resources on the web for anything hiking related. The blog is penned by Philip Werner, who is an accomplished adventurer and has completed notable adventures such as the 272 mile long trail in Vermont and two coast-to-coast backpacking trips across the Scottish highlands.

A few year’s ago I was looking for help with an Appalachian trail hike and I was able to find everything that I needed on the Section Hiker blog.

7.  Wild Junket – Nellie Huang

Visit Nellie’s Blog by click HERE or follow the link below:

https://www.wildjunket.com/blog/

Professional adventure traveller Nellie Huang has been traveling the world since 2003 and documenting her journeys in the adventure blog, Wild Junket. With over ninety countries under her belt, regardless of whether she is climbing active volcanos in Guatemala, scuba diving in Borneo or exploring the Silk Road, Nellie is always in search of her next great adventure.

8.  SoCal Hiker – Jeff Hester

Visit Jeff’s Blog by click HERE or follow the link below:

https://socalhiker.net/

The SoCal hiker blog was created by Jeff Hester and is an excellent resource of trails for those who live in the Southern California area. Many of the blog posts are written as detailed guides with trail descriptions and photos to help you navigate. For those who are interested in hiking the John Muir trail, there is one of the most comprehensive guides that I have seen, which will help you plan your adventure. Anyone that loves to explore the mountains, the SoCal Hiker is one of the best travel blog sites on the web.

We hope that you have enjoyed our post on the 8 Best Blogs on Adventure Travel. If you would like to learn more about our adventures click HERE or if you have a favorite blog on adventure travel we would love to hear about it just shoot us an email at [email protected].

I look forward to seeing you on the trail!

Jeff Bonaldi Founder & CEO The Explorer’s Passage

About Jeff Bonaldi

Jeff Bonaldi is the Founder and CEO of The Explorer’s Passage, a premier adventure travel company. His mission is to provide travelers with the opportunity to transform their lives and the planet through the power of adventure.

Learn more about Jeff’s story and his company HERE .

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Home » Budget Travel » The 12 Best Places for Adventure Travel Holidays (TOP TRIPS in 2024)

The 12 Best Places for Adventure Travel Holidays (TOP TRIPS in 2024)

Adventure is good. Adventure says a lot about who we are as people. How we interact with it, the kind of adventure we seek, our reasons for doing it… these things woven together tell a story .

The adventure keeps us alive – without it, we stagnate . We work our 9 to 5 so we can come home afterwards, cook dinner, binge Netflix on the couch with our significant other, and then – if we’re lucky and not too tired – a banal quickie before we hit the sack.

Even writing that paragraph gave me an existential crisis .

So what’s the remedy to all that deep-seated nihilistic fear and loathing? Quite simply, an adventure! Nature, adrenaline, dicking around and almost falling off mountaintops: now you’re really living!

So, you’re considering some good ol’ travel adventures. Well, this is the list for you: the 12 best places for an adventure travel holiday . It’s also quite a good list if I do say so myself; at least one offering from every continent!

The activities vary, the environments vary, the budgets vary but the feeling of truly being alive remains the same among these adventure tourism destinations. These are the bucket list trips of a lifetime!

To, you know… distract you from the gnawing meaninglessness of existence.

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The 12 Best Places for an Adventure Travel Holiday

What is adventure tourism, safety and ethics of adventure travel, it’s time to go to the best places for adventure travel holidays.

Alright, we’re jumping right into it… the good stuff! The best places for adventure travel across the seven continents!

After the mega-list we’ll get into some nitty-gritty stuff but today I want to give you your dessert before your broccoli. The 12 best places for adventure travel straight off the bat!

They may not necessarily be the most adventurous countries (depending on your perception of ‘adventurous’) but then some, I’d argue, are pretty far out. That’s what I’m saying: we got something for everyone! It’s like Baskin Robbins if Baskin Robbins only had 12 flavours.

Bah, enough loose metaphors – it’s time for the 12 best places for adventure travel – starting with the best!

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#1 Pakistan: The Best Place for Adventure Travel that Makes People Go, “You’re going where!?”

I bet you weren’t expecting this to make the list of the best places for adventure travel holidays!

Yep, let’s talk Pakistan. And before we do, you’re gonna have to leave all your stigmas at the door (along with your shoes, thank you very much)!

Pakistan is one of those places where you’re taking adventure tourism to the next level. It drops a lot of the ‘tourism’ in the process. If your idea of the best adventure holiday is a lot of beautiful nature with a lot of friendly, inquisitive people, it’s worth flying in the face of the status quo and travelling to Pakistan. I mean, that’s the whole point of a travel adventure, right?

You’ll find a lot of trekking in Pakistan with something for everyone. If you’re an avid trekker, the Karakoram range is magnificent and a true feat to experience. There are also more chill day hikes – and then there’s the 18-day trek to the K2 base camp (the second-highest mountain in the world).

You can try going it solo to discover one of the most adventurous countries in the world all by your lonesome. There is certainly some solitude and epic adventure waiting for you!

Even adventure travel is sometimes better shared though!

#2 New Zealand: Adventure Travel With a Bit of Everything!

Time for something a little more standard but no-less downright gorgeous! The good thing about adventure travel in New Zealand is that you’re getting a lot of bang for your buck. It’s like seven countries in one neat little package.

Ice-capped mountains? Check. Petrified forests? Check. Prehistoric coastline? Check. Uninhabited fjords? Check.

And that’s just found while road tripping the South Island !

New Zealand’s adventure tourism options have a flavour for everyone!

The Great Walks offer multiple levels of trekking from the well-worn Abel Tasman to the near-undisturbed Stewart Island. Or, you know, you could just walk the entirety of New Zealand – I met a dude that did it without shoes. That’s pretty metal.

But where do you go in New Zealand for the best overall adventure holiday? Easy one, man. You backpack Queenstown : the go-to for adventure travel sports and activities in New Zealand.

You’ve got beautiful weather on the lake in the summer months. Then, come winter, all the snow bums roll in for the powder season. A year-long travel adventure backpacking epicentre!

So what other adventure activities are there? It’s mega-famous for bungy jumping, ziplining, or you can book a skydiving tour. Honestly, it’s one of the most beautiful places in the world to do it.

Oh, and if you get bored, beautiful, darling Wanaka is about an hour’s drive away… and it’s way better!

#3 Nepal: Holy Mountains and a Booming Adventure Tourism Industry

The past decade has seen near-consistent growth in tourist arrivals to Nepal. 

How come? Hmm, I can’t be certain but it may have something to do with the Himalayas… Nepal is the ‘roof of the world’ after all.

So what type of adventure tourism can you expect from Nepal? Well, again, it’s the Himalayan Mountains… so… a lot of mountaineering. Mind you, this is the final-boss-level mountaineering I’m talking about. The proper hardcore deal.

However, Mount Everest is full of garbage and Nepal is struggling to keep up with its tourism. We’ll cover being a responsible tourist later on, but while we’re talking about Nepal, trek something other than Mt Everest.

You can disappear (safely) into the Annapurna range . This epic trekking loop strikes a nice balance between being both culturally authentic and tourist accessible. But pick your timing right: outside peak season but close to the cusp for the best of both worlds.

Alternatively, just pick a direction and start walking. The further out you get to where the whiteys don’t go, the more spectacular and strange Nepal becomes. The chaos of India slowed down by the pace of mountain life. 

I’ve even heard whispers of a pristine ancient lake too; they say… Rara .

And then there is travelling Pokhara . Pokhara, in many ways, is like Queenstown. Only it’s slower, it’s more chill, and you smoke hash instead of greenery.

There’s a lot of adventure tourism activities around Pokhara now (as the industry has grown). You can learn to Paraglide , go trekking, and there’s some dope rafting around too.

Want to save money on accommodation?

We got you. For reals.

#4 Costa Rica: Adventure Travel that’s Pura Vida

Costa Rica – the birthplace of the zipline. So, now you know number one on your list of adventure activities to do in Costa Rica.

Backpacking Costa Rica has got a lot to offer the adventure traveller: jungles, beaches, volcanoes. The nature in Costa Rica is one of the reasons that Costa Rica has remained one of the world’s best places for adventure travel for so long.

Its natural magnetism to travellers and ex-pats alike has made Costa Rica both a fantastic and varied place to travel. It’s also caused its prices to rise and become one of the more expensive choices for adventure holidays you can take while travelling Central America .

The trade-off? It’s the goddamn birthplace of the zipline, remember?

Picture this: you’re cruising along at a cool 70km/hr. Beneath you, the rippling greens of the jungle canopy blur together. At the end of the line, a crew of trained squirrel monkeys await your arrival, a chilled refresco and caramel flan in hand. Ok, I made that last bit up (but I’m a writer , don’t you know).

La Fortuna is your best destination for adventure tourism in Costa Rica. It’s a small town close to the piercing Arenal Volcano (which is an absolutely magnificent creature). In the area, you’ll find hiking, canyoning, rafting, and of course, the jungle zipline!

And, if you’re more of a beach person, head towards Costa Rica’s coast for snorkelling and scuba diving action.

#5 USA: The Adventure Travel MECCA

Heading north from Central America takes us to… North America. Yeah, that makes sense.

What will you find while exploring the USA?

A lot of flag-waving patriots who chase tornadoes and pull their own teeth out on account of the lack of medical insurance. Anyway, other than that, you’ll find SO MUCH epic, adventure travel!

The big, bold, and beautiful US of A is chock full of adventurous places to visit .

So, where to travel for adventures in the USA? God, what do you like? Canyons, mountains, coasts, great lakes, rivers, prairies… it’s all there.

• Moab (Utah) takes the top pick as one of the best places for an adventure vacation in the USA. It is the go-to for mountain biking with courses ranging from the beginner all the way up to the ‘holy shit, I might die’ . You’ll also find heaps of sweet rafting, ATV driving, horseback riding… it’s an adrenaline junkie’s desert playground!
• Yellowstone National Park (Wyoming) has hiking and hot springs. That’s a no brainer! Anywhere that has hot springs is going to make for a top trip.
• Colorado: home of the Rocky Mountains! What do you get there? Mate, were you not listening; I just told you – the Rocky Mountains! Hikes, rock climbing, and legal bud; it may just be heaven-on-earth.
• Yosemite National Park, California : is the impossible-to-not-mention choice. The undisputed king of the USA’s national parks featuring the truly staggering peaks of free-soloing ‘What’s a rope?’ Alex Honnold fame.

The USA is  blisteringly beautiful. It’s also blisteringly expensive! Visiting two national parks in day can run you $70+ in entry fees.

Orrrr… you kick those entry fees to the curb, buy an annual ‘America the Beautiful Pass’ for $79.99,  and get unlimited access to ALL 2000+ federally managed sites in the States totally FREE!

You do the math. 😉

#6 Argentina: Adventure Travel at the End of the World

If you head in the other direction from Central America (by which I mean south) you get to travelling South America . That also makes sense. 

There are a lot of kick-ass destinations for adventure trips in South America: Bolivia, Peru, and Ecuador jump to mind. But Argentina has Patagonia. And I’m all about those harsh, sparsely populated wildernesses.

This idea for adventure travel is not for the faint of heart – you’re heading into challenging terrain. Look at a map of Argentina. You’re nearly at the bottom of the world. But challenging is the whole point, right?

And backpacking Patagonia is only one region of Argentina you need to explore. It’s a big damn country with a lot of cool places to see (the Ibera Wetlands come to mind). 

Argentina is so big and so damn gorgeous that it’s picking up steam as one of the best places for adventure travel in a van. Van life is preferred by many scroungy vagabonds – because a van makes perfect sense for an adventure vacation on a budget.

The northernmost point to the southernmost point of the land at the end of the world… now that’s a journey idea!

#7 Canada: Adventure Travel With a Dash of Solitude

Since we’re talking about vast, harsh, sparsely populated wildernesses, we should talk about Canada. You’ve got a lot of chill places and cool cities in Canada ( like Vancouver )… and then you head into the great outdoors and oh wow!

It’s mega pretty .

What kind of extreme adventure vacations can you get up to in Canada? Well… that depends on how extreme you’re willing to go.

For something fun but with a low chance of death, there’s skiing and snowboarding at a resort such as Whistler. Hit the slopes and then get all the perks of a ski-town: loud parties and hordes of drunk Australians. Don’t worry, we’ve got awesome hostel suggestions for budget adventurers too! 

Oh, you wanted something with a high chance of death? Sorry, I misheard you. How about ice-climbing UP A FROZEN WATERFALL! How’s that for an extreme adventure vacation? It’s your very own Tom Cruise movie!

Banff is one of your best adventure travel destinations in Canada. You’ll find the aforementioned ice-climbing there (yesssss) plus a bunch of other cool shit: national parks to adventure in , hot springs, and skiing.

North from Banff (and not too far by Canadian standards) is Jasper National Park with more wilderness and hikes. If it’s solitude that you’re seeking in your adventure travels, then travelling the Canadian wilderness has what you need.

Just watch out for bears. Although, they make a spray for that.

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These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

#8 Mongolia: Adventure Travel With The OG Nomads

This is one of the best adventure holidays in Asia as far as I’m concerned. It’s a long-time dream of mine: to ride a horse on the plains of Mongolia. I haven’t done it yet – timing is important – so I’m recommending you to do it.

Why? Well, if you want to truly call yourself a nomad, then you gotta be a damn nomad! You need a horse on the plateaus of Mongolia. You need to search for water for your travelling companion and shoot at horse thieves with your bow.

I met a good dude in New Zealand. He’d never ridden a horse before and he was curious, so he went to Mongolia and made his very own horseback adventure tour. Now that is bad-ass!

Seriously though, Mongolia is a country of beautiful yet unforgiving terrain and the Mongolian people have unlocked its secrets, able to live nomadically and tend livestock amongst its deserts, plains, and hills. It’s also smack-bang between Russia and China so wherever you go, you’ll be off the beaten track .

If you’re interested in Mongolian culture, I’d recommend being there in October. Every year in the first week of October is the Golden Eagle Festival where you can see skill contests in archery, wrestling and eagle hunting. Not hunting eagles but hunting with eagles –  they’re the OG nomads, man!

#9 China: The Other Best Place for Adventure Travel that Makes People Say, “You went where!?”

Good ol’ communist China: the antithesis to the American Dream. It’s like going to another planet so, if you can’t get ‘off the beaten track’ there, you’re probably doing something wrong. China is a hit with backpackers in search of adventure!

You’ll almost always be mildly-to-noticeably uncomfortable which makes for some of the most character-building adventure holidays for both single travellers and couples. It’s also a solid destination choice for a cheap adventure holiday. It’s not as cheap as, say, Nepal, but it’s cheaper than most people realise (especially if you’re camping in nature ).

So, what kind of adventure activities await in China? Well, trekking galore; I’ve heard the Great Wall is kind of long and, yup, you can camp on it! Or you can visit Tiger Leaping Gorge or Mount Huashan which is considered one of the most dangerous hiking trails in the world. Deadly hiking in China – now that’s an extreme adventure vacation!

I mean, hell, just buy a bicycle and see how far you can get across the supreme landscape. It’s China, you’re pretty much guaranteed an adventure no matter where you go!

#10 Zimbabwe: Adventure Travel With a Touch of Sun and Crocodiles

There’s three more entries on our list and three more continents to explore. Let’s make a shift over to Africa now… to Zimbabwe! Africa is one hell of a trip that will always make you laugh!

If we’re talking Zimbabwe adventures, we’re talking Victoria Falls. Oh, the falls? They’re drop-dead breathtakingly ‘life is beautiful’ gorgeous. Absolutely stunning.

Victoria Falls has built itself up as the best adventure holiday destination in Africa. You’ll find a huge scope of adventure activities in Victoria Falls including bungy-jumping, gorge-swinging, flying foxes, rapid rafting (I’m talking those infamous grade V and VI options), and cage diving with crocodiles. Diving with crocs… it’s an adrenaline junkie’s paradise!

It’s also warm – with swimming involved! It’s a nice change of pace from the freezing-cold murderous wildernesses I keep sending you to (just wait for the last two entries on this list, muahahaha)!

And since you’re in Zimbabwe (and how often do you end up over that way, realistically) maybe explore the rest of the country. Victoria Falls is surrounded by gorgeous national parks and there are plenty of adventure safari tours to partake in.

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#11 Scandinavia: Adventure Travel With Freedom to Roaaaaam

Right, let’s talk about adventure holidays you can have while backpacking Europe. Are we talking about the stunning (and warm) Amalfi Coast or the tranquil (and warm) beaches of Portugal? Hah, nope, it’s back to freezing your tits off. Apparently, adventure is best served cold.

I think the reasons to send you to Scandinavia should be relatively obvious: a massive and untamed wilderness of eclectic beauty that will bitchslap you upside the face if you don’t respect it. Just my type. 😉

But, there’s another reason: something called “freedom to roam” . Laws vary by location and discussions on environmental impact is important but it is, I feel, the way adventure travel should be.

Every human has the right to disappear into nature and just be. Just be without electricity, and goddamn Wi-Fi, and the white noise of the world. Time to just spend some time without your phone, and straight-up forest bathing.

So if you’re looking for the best places to escape alone, the Scandinavian/Nordic countries have got you covered. If you’re also looking for the best adventure holidays for couples, you should consider Scandinavia because everybody knows that disappearing into the wilderness for weeks at a time is better with someone that lets you touch their butt.

Where are you going? Wherever you damn well please, that’s my point. Take a compass. And if you don’t feel like walking then saddle up a reindeer – and go disappear… safely. Light a campfire (legally) and watch the stars and the lights in the northern sky which no man owns no matter how much they wish they did.

#12 Antarctica: The Final Boss of Your Adventure Travels

I said we were going to all seven continents, right? I also said adventure is best served cold.

Yes, you can do adventure travel in Antarctica. Yes, it is more expensive than anything else on this list and no you can’t go unguided unless you break away from your tour group ( NOT a good idea). This is about the most extreme adventure trip you can take until Elon Musk sorts out that whole space/moon tourism thing. But, let’s be real, do we really want him to?

Most Antarctica tours involve a cruise and will take you to and around parts of the continent – usually, the Antarctic peninsula which is pretty damn close to Argentina (hence the ‘land at the end of the world’ thing). Some of them will also take you to the Falkland Islands which are super damn pretty.

Now, you could always shore up your boat life skills and test the hell out of yourself and your crew by sailing there…

Either way, you can expect a lot of wildlife watching as well as some adventure activities alongside such as kayaking, scuba diving, and paddle-boarding. Notice how all those activities had some relation to the freezing-cold water…

Yep, that’s what to expect from Antarctica: desolation, magnificence, and feeling permanently cold all the time. But hot damn if she’s not gorgeous.

Things go wrong on the road ALL THE TIME. Be prepared for what life throws at you.

Buy an AMK Travel Medical Kit before you head out on your next adventure – don’t be daft!

Now I’m giving you your broccoli. You don’t have to eat it; you do you, man.

Depending on where you look, you’ll find several definitions of adventure tourism. Of course, as we all know, stuffy definitions created by stuffy people don’t often encapsulate the whole truth. But we need to talk about the consequences of these stuffy definitions.

In 1953 Edmund Hillary and Tenzig Norgay were the first ever to summit Mount Everest. Now, just over 65 years later (less than the lifespan of a person) over 8000 people have summited the peak.

Now, there’s something to be said about the advantages and disadvantages of adventure tourism but it doesn’t help with our definition for the purpose of this article. Thus, I’ve decided on three criteria to define adventure travel by:

• There’s some level of an inherent risk involved i.e. injury or death is increased in likelihood by the activity.
• The activity revolves around interaction and interplay with nature and the outdoors.
• There is a market, sub-culture, and level of commercial gain behind the activity.

The adventure activity can be guided or unguided; paid for or free; and range anywhere from death is a slim possibility to ‘Dude, who gets your PlayStation when you die?’ .

But, generally speaking, your best places for adventure travel are going to be marketed as primo adventure tourism holiday destinations. With that comes all the perks and caveats of a place well-worn by tourists.

I’d also like to define the difference between adventure travel and a journey . Hitchhiking across China, walking through the Middle-East, or backpacking around South Africa are all great journeys (and some of my ultimate bucket list ideas), but they’re not adventure travel holidays since they’re not primarily driven by the purpose of tourism. That’s a personal journey, mate!

Types of Adventure Tourism: Hard Adventure Activities

Ok, so seriously, if you want to discuss types of adventure travel, there are lots of ways to break it down and a lot of different sub-categories. That’s the point of my criteria above and my separation of a ‘journey’ and ‘adventure travel’ . 

One of my favourite types of journeying (which many would rightfully consider adventure travel) is overland travel (i.e. no planes). However, telling you to start in Japan and finish in Italy without using planes wouldn’t make for a very appealing article. It does, however, make for a seriously dope journey!

So, the first category of adventure tourism activities that we’re going to talk about are the ‘hard’ type. Generally, the activities defining this category pose a sizeable risk… of death.

When you’re partaking in these adventure travel ideas, generally it’s better to know what you’re doing to avoid that whole ‘dying young’ thing:

• Mountaineering
• Ice Climbing
• Wingsuiting
• Base Jumping
• Bear Fighting

For the record, I made that last one up… I hope…

Types of Adventure Tourism: Soft Adventure Activities

These examples of adventure tourism tend to be less hazardous and generally less dangerous than fighting a bear on an ice mountain while wearing a wingsuit. They have lower overall death-related statistics and your mum isn’t going to complain as much when you tell her what you’ve been up to.

It’s worthy to note that most of these activities’ risks can be mitigated by having a professional guide or partaking in some sort of adventure holiday tour. Conversely, the risks can be heightened (i.e. made more fun) by pushing the limits of the activity, often upgrading it to a hard adventure activity. Try rafting some grade VI rapids and you’ll see what I mean:

• Trekking/hiking/orienteering
• Kayaking/rafting/canoeing
• Bungee jumping
• Skiing/snowboard
• Mountain biking

Obviously, this far from a complete list but it does give you an idea for what you’re in for when visiting some of the best places in the world for adventure travel… that being a whole lotta fun!

Why Visit the Best Places for Adventure Travel?

Well, I feel I sorta already addressed that with the whole ‘combatting the existential abyss inside your soul’ thing but, yeah, there are other reasons too.

It’s about the challenge. Sure, the advent of the adventure tourism industry mitigates the challenge somewhat (see the above example of Mount Everest) but it’s still an adventure – it’s in the name, after all!

And it’s your adventure! Take it as far and as dangerous as you like. You do you.

It’s about growth : growth through hardship. Learning to take things in stride. Learning that things, most of the time, will be ok. You just have to keep moving.

It’s about getting dirty. Because, everybody knows, being covered in dirt, and mud, and scratches, and leeches makes you appreciate a hot shower just a little more.

And, it’s about contentment. It’s about, one day, when you’re eighty years old and nestled in your rocking chair reminiscing on the life you’ve lived, you can say: “Yeah, that was pretty good. I’d say, overall, I did a good job – 7 out of 10… oh, maybe a 7.5.”

You could think of your travels as a way to create a lifetime reel of memories to spin into epic yarns to bother your grandkids with…

But adventure travel is also about connecting to life and our planet, which, in case you hadn’t heard, is pretty bloody gorgeous.

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Right, so that’s your dessert: 12 of the best places for adventure travel across the seven continents of our world. And some damn fine choices too, if I do say so myself!

And you ate your broccoli. Good, I’m proud of you. No, you can’t have a second dessert! But you can have some more broccoli. 😉

So, before you inevitably go and tear it up snowboarding, rafting, or bear fighting, I’d like to touch on a few more things to note. A few practical considerations of the environment, taking care of yourself, and just generally not being a knob-jockey while you’re engaging in your Evel Knievel ways.

Toursim: the Double Edged Sword

This topic is really deserving of (and has many) socio-ecological research papers, but it goes without saying that adventure tourism has an impact. Think about Pokhara in Nepal: what was once considered one of the most mystical places in Nepal is now a bustling city that is known as its ‘tourism capital’.

But, again, think about Pokhara: a city that was once only accessible by foot is now one of the most affluent cities in Nepal. It’s a huge metropolis that garners a large amount of revenue for a developing nation and supplies jobs and a better quality of life for many people. It’s here that you start to wonder: is budget travel ethical?

Tourism is a double-edged sword and adventure tourism only takes a whetstone to the blade. As per my original definition, it usually entails some form of interaction with the natural environment and, as you may have noticed, it also usually involves some form of interaction with cultures unaccustomed to the West. Which means they are unaccustomed to – let’s say – the ugly side of Western tourism.

So be a good dude; it’s just that simple. Nothing grandiose – just stay aware, be responsible, and be respectful. Be respectful of other cultures and the people there; their sole purpose in life is not to make sure our one-week-itinerary travel adventure trips blows up on the socials. 

And be respectful of our environment. It was here long before we were carving it up with snowboards and mountain bikes and it’ll be here long after it’s wiped us all out for carving it up with snowboards and mountain bikes.

Past that, you do you. You know how to be a good human. And if you’re travelling and not being a good human… it’s only a matter of time until someone – local, traveller, or Mama Nature herself – sorts you out.

Travel Insurance for Best Places for Adventure Travel Holidays

Goddamn! All this adventure and far-flung locales and talk of bears – maybe it would be smart to protect yourself with some insurance?

Things do go wrong when you travel, particularly if you’re doing hectic shit in the most hectic corners of the planet.

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

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That’s it. The whole list. If you do one of these ultimate bucket list ideas , well done. If you do all 12… geez, dude, legend; you’re a braver human than me.

So, what are my final thoughts on the 12 best adventure holidays in the world? Honestly, I think I’ve touched on all of it already.

It doesn’t matter whether you’re after a cheap adventure holiday, an extreme vacation, or a journey away from where all tours can take you. Just remember, that it’s the adventure that connects us to travel and to life.

Just remember that adventure is awesome. And that it keeps us alive. And that it is these stories that you’ll be telling your grandkids one day. So make them grand and beautiful and dangerous and filled with plot twists.

Tell a good story.

Made it this far? You get 15% OFF to book a place to stay ! Offer valid exclusively for Broke Backpackers 😉

Ziggy Samuels

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Essential tips for planning an adventure trip

Molly Feltner

Molly has also written for National Geographic Traveler Magazine and Fodor's Gold Guides . Her photography has been published in The Boston Globe Magazine .

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At 4:00 a.m., we found ourselves off the trail, clinging to a sheer icy slope, with no ropes and no battery power remaining in our headlamps. As I clung to the rocks, envisioning falling to my death in the dark, I thought about how just a little more planning might have kept us out of this.

I had been so proud of us. My friend Amanda and I were going to be the first in our group of college friends working at Rocky Mountain National Park to summit Longs Peak, the tallest mountain in the park. Sure, it was early in the season—ice and snow might obscure our route—and we’d have to start hiking at midnight to make sure we were off the top before the afternoon storms rolled in, but we were tough and in shape.

Luckily, Amanda found a route that didn’t require hand-over-hand grappling or using quite so many four-letter words, and we eventually made it safely to the summit and back. Luck had saved us, but I vowed never to take trip-planning so lightly again.

Since then, I’ve learned a lot about planning safe, fun, and affordable adventure trips, from day hikes in U.S. national parks to off-the-beaten-path trips in developing countries. Here’s a rundown of the essential trip-planning strategies I’ve learned from my own travels and conversations with experts who make a living through adventure travel.

1. Research your destination

Knowing what to expect from your destination will make all aspects of trip planning easier and help you get more out of your time on the ground. Research will not only help you pick the best places to go and the best activities, you’ll also learn what you need to pack, what health and safety precautions to take, and what cultural (and sometimes political) issues you should be aware of.

Guidebooks and travel magazines can serve as a good base, but online resources can be better for getting the most up-to-date information. “The very first thing I do is go through the official tourism organization website—some destinations have great sites,” says Kate Siber , a freelance contributor to Outside Magazine and National Geographic Adventure . You can find the official tourism websites for destinations worldwide by visiting the Tourism Offices Worldwide Directory .

Specific recommendations from friends or other travelers online can also be very valuable. “Getting information from someone who’s been on the ground recently can be the most helpful, but it can be hard to get,” says Mike Perrin, co-author of Adventure Travel in the Third World . “In this case, online forums can be the next best source of information.”

IgoUgo , the Lonely Planet Thorn Tree , and the BootsnAll Travel Community are three popular online forums where you can ask questions related to adventure travel. However, Leslie Weeden, Travel Director for Outside Magazine warns, “Online message boards can be helpful but they’re not entirely reliable because you don’t know who the writers are, so take what you read with a grain of salt.” Read SmarterTravel.com Contributing Editor Christine Sarkis’ feature about online travel communities for more information on this topic.

While some research is essential, don’t plan out every moment of your trip in advance. “You can only research so much,” says adventure travel photographer Jeff Pflueger . “Sometimes we like to be rigid with our plans about things, and all the attachments that we have to itineraries and expectations not only set us up for inevitable disappointment, but also tend to make us less able to see all of the unexpected possibilities that come with any sort of adventure travel. I go into any trip with an idea about what I’d like to do and see, but more importantly I also keep a keen eye and a big reserve of excitement and energy ready for the unexpected adventures.”

2. Know when to go and when to book

Climate, crowding, and seasonal pricing are all important factors in your decision about when to go. Especially for adventure travel, bad weather or weather you’re not prepared for can ruin the trip. Mountain biking in the Southwest desert when the temperatures are over 100 degrees, rafting when rivers are running dangerously high, and hiking when mountain passes are clogged with snow are all bad ideas. While you can’t predict the exact weather in advance, you can learn about climate trends ahead of time when doing your destination research. Seasonal popularity and pricing should also be considered if you hope to avoid peak-season crowds and prices.

Besides the possibility of early-booking discounts, reserving your trip in advance is vital if you want to visit a popular destination at a popular time. For example, permits to hike Peru’s Inca Trail may need to be reserved three months ahead in the high season, dates at popular national park lodges often sell out a year in advance, and the average wait to get a permit to raft the Colorado River through the Grand Canyon is 10 years.

3. Choose a reputable outfitter

When searching for the right outfitter for an adventure trip, reputation and safety record should weigh more heavily than price. So how do you find a good tour operator or guide service besides the ever-popular method of Googling “destination + adventure travel?” “Look for industry organizations that have lists of outfitters by region or activity, like the American Mountain Guides Association , for example, which has a list of guides that have been certified by the organization,” says Siber. Other similar organizations include the Adventure Travel Trade Association , the International Ecotourism Society , and America Outdoors .

“The best way to gauge [the reputation of a company] quickly is to see what kinds of accreditations the company has,” says Siber. “Does it have any safety accreditations, for example? Does it belong to several industry associations? Does it belong to a chamber of commerce or a tourism organization?”

Besides accreditations, personal recommendations are helpful. “There are lots of outfitters out there, and lots of advertising, so a recommendation from a friend is pretty valuable,” says Pflueger. If you don’t have any personal recommendations, ask for referrals. “When you have identified one or two companies that offer the trip you’re interested in, call them up and ask for references of past clients,” says Nadia Le Bon, Director of Special Programs for Mountain Travel Sobek , a top adventure travel company. “These people are usually pretty candid about their experience, quality of trip, and difficulty.”

4. Choose the trip that’s the best value for your money

Once you’ve found a few good trip options, compare the offerings side by side to see which company can give you more for your money. “Read the fine print about costs (what’s included and what’s not),” says Le Bon. To make a fair comparison, you’ll need to find out exactly what you’re getting for the price you pay. A low advertised price can be deceptive if costs like taxes and fees, gratuities, local guide fees, and other extras are left out. Also look at the quality of accommodations and other inclusions. For example, you should expect to pay more for a biking trip through Provence that features accommodations in hotels rather campsites.

5. Know your limitations

Imagine signing up for a Kilimanjaro climb without training for the altitude, or signing up for a kayaking trip in Alaska despite having a tendency for sea sickness. Not only do you risk embarrassment and losing your money if you have to bail, you could put yourself and your companions in danger.

“One of the most important aspects of trip planning is to be realistic about your own fitness level and make sure that you can actually do what a trip entails,” says Weeden. “Before you book a trip you need to talk to one of the guides and tell them what you do for your fitness routine to make sure you’re in shape.”

Most adventure outfitters rate their trips according to ability and many will provide training guides or fitness recommendations. Whether you’re booking with an outfitter or planning yourself, know what you’re getting into and be honest with yourself about your fitness level and whether you have enough time to train before your departure date.

6. Consider travel insurance

While many travelers feel that common sense is the best and only travel insurance necessary, others believe the potential costs of missing a trip or getting injured or victimized while traveling are too great to leave home without protection. Indeed, many adventure tour operators will not let you travel with them unless you are covered. Whatever your personal preference, here’s what you should know about travel insurance for adventure trips:

• Trip cancellation insurance: If you purchased a package tour or are spending a lot of money up front, trip cancellation insurance will protect your investment should you have to cancel, delay, or interrupt your trip for a “covered” reason. “Covered” reasons can mean sickness, death of a family member, financial failure of your tour company, and even acts of terrorism committed in your destination. Polices vary, so you’ll have to read the fine print carefully to determine what’s covered. Cancellation insurance usually comes bundled in packages with other coverage including baggage, medical, and medical evacuation. In searching for a plan, try to find packages that best cover what you are most concerned about. Trip cancellation policies usually cost five to seven percent of your trip cost.

There is a solution to getting at least some adventure activities covered, however. “Many policies will allow you to add on what’s called a ‘hazardous activity rider’ or a ‘sports rider’ which will buy an excluded activity back,” says Evans. “You’ll pay a 20- to 25-percent premium over the base premium for a rider.”

• Medical evacuation coverage: This type of insurance will cover the transportation costs to a capable health facility should you need emergency treatment while traveling. One popular choice, Medjet Assist , promises that if you are hospitalized almost anywhere in the world, they’ll send a medical team to transport you to the hospital of your choice. Annual membership starts at $205. Other companies will provide similar services, but may only transport you to the nearest “best-care” hospital, not the facility of your choice. Once again, coverage isn’t limitless. “Medical evacuation will cover evacuation from a reasonably accessible area,” says Evans. “They won’t send a helicopter to take you off a mountain in the Himalayas or evacuate you from an unstable area with no-fly or ground restrictions.”

Many companies sell travel insurance, and options and exclusions vary. To compare and price travel insurance from many different companies, go to InsureMyTrip.com . Before booking, make sure you read through and understand all the details.

7. Pack light, but don’t forget the essentials

Packing is an art. Bring too much and you’ll be overburdened your entire trip; forget a necessary item and you could wind up in a difficult or even dangerous situation. “I think you can often get away with a lot less than you think you can. The key is to not scrimp on the essentials,” says Siber. “If you’re going to the Himalayas and there’s a possibility you’ll sleep in a drafty teahouse at 14,000 feet, by all means, bring your poofy jacket. But there’s no need to bring a gazillion T-shirts on any trip.”

Your first step is to figure out what you absolutely need to bring, and here, research is key. Many items, such as toiletries, can be picked up in your destination, but specialized or technical equipment can be harder to come by. If you’re going on a tour, request a packing list. If you’re doing it yourself, learn about your destination’s weather conditions and health and cultural considerations. Knowing the exact kind of technical equipment you’ll need will help you to determine what’s important.

Your next step is cutting out all the nonessentials until you get your baggage down to a reasonable size. “I lay everything out on the floor and then edit it, and I really try to be brutal. And then I do it again, and again until I’m down to the bare bones,” says Leslie Weeden, who says she once traveled for two months in Southeast Asia with just a daypack.

8. Don’t forget your documents and money

Bringing the right kinds of documentation and currency for international trips can’t be emphasized enough, because without either you may not be able to get into or out of your destination. Go to the State Department website and the embassy website of your destination to find out the country’s entry requirements. Do this early because it may take some time to obtain the necessary visas and letters of invitation certain countries require. Also be sure to inquire about any special permits you may need. Permits are often required for mountaineering, rafting, and use of popular trekking routes.

“Make extra copies of your passport and other documents,” says Perrin. “Keep copies on you in two or three places and always leave an extra copy at home.” To illustrate the importance of this, Perrin offers the following anecdote about two Americans who were attending a festival in Honduras: “One left his passport behind in their car and the other brought his with him. Neither had bothered to make copies. While they were away, their car got broken into and everything inside was stolen. The man who brought his passport with him was able to leave the country as planned. The man whose passport was stolen had to wait four-and-a-half weeks before the State Department issued him a new passport so he could leave. If he had a copy of his passport on him, or had left a copy with someone trusted at home who could have sent it to the embassy, he could have gotten through a lot quicker.”

Before you leave, you should also find out what type of currency to bring along. Huge wads of cash are an invitation for robbery, but ATM cards are worthless if there are no working ATM machines or banks in your destination, and credit cards and travelers checks are not accepted by vendors in some destinations. Ask your outfitter or do thorough research to find out how you should handle money.

When traveling, you should keep your important documents, credit cards, and most of your cash hidden on your person in a document holder or money belt. Keep copies of your documents and an extra reserve of cash elsewhere in your baggage. Lastly, if you’re going to an unsafe area, it may be worthwhile to carry a dummy wallet with some local currency and a few expired credit cards in case you do get robbed.

9. Make health a priority

Before traveling, ask your outifitter or visit the Centers for Disease Control website to find out what kinds of vaccinations and medications are recommended for the region you’ll be visiting. If you do need vaccinations, book an appointment with your doctor early, as some vaccinations require a series of shots given over a period of several months. Also ask what items to put in your medical kit (a packing essential). Besides the basics like bandages, antibiotic cream, and anti-diarrhea pills, you might consider getting a prescription for a powerful antibiotic medicine such as Cipro, which can be a life-saver in instances of severe digestive problems or infections.

Once you’ve gotten your shots, packed a medical kit, and purchased travel-medical and evacuation insurance, your quest to stay healthy needs to continue on the ground. A few simple precautions will prevent most problems.

“Drink lots of water,” says Siber. “Hydration is key for keeping healthy, and it’s surprisingly easy to get dehydrated. Not only does it weaken your immune system, it makes you tired too.”

“Don’t eat raw food in the Third World, no matter how appealing,” says Le Bon. “Bring lots of Purell for washing hands constantly (not just after meals, but after visiting bazaars, or shaking hands with locals). Clean hands prevent colds as well as intestinal problems.”

For more detailed information about staying healthy and dealing with health issues should they arise, consider purchasing a travelers’ health handbook such as the Rough Guide to Travel Health .

10. Stay safe while traveling

Besides making sure you (and your guide or tour company) have the proper equipment and training and the right conditions to participate in an adventure activity safely, you should also consider the dangers of crime and negative political or cultural developments in your destination, particularly if you’re visiting a developing country. While there’s a temptation (especially for women) to want to pack mace or sign up for karate lessons, being alert and informed is the easiest and most important thing you can do.

Robert Young Pelton , the author of The World’s Most Dangerous Places and Come Back Alive , has gotten out of many sticky situations while doing research (including being kidnapped in Colombia). He says, “[Your] primary concern should be to get outside the tourist ‘bubble’—that feeling that because you are on vacation you are somehow immune from the pitfalls that affect the locals. Keep a 360-degree radar going, talk to the locals, and be prepared to change your plans if needed.” Perrin agrees: “Your brain is your finest weapon.”

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10 Adventure Cruises to Stunning Destinations Around the World

Visit Antarctica, the Galápagos, and more on these adventure cruises.

A cruise can be a thoroughly peaceful escape with days spent relaxing on deck, sipping cocktails at happy hour, and watching the waves roll by. Or a cruise can be an active adventure with exploration of natural environments, wildlife encounters, and an itinerary that changes based on weather conditions. With travelers these days seeking new experiences, cultural immersion, and remote untouched destinations, adventure cruises and expeditions are trending. That's not to say that these cruisers are totally roughing it. Many return to butler service, five-course dinners, hot tubs, and spacious suites after a day of kayaking, hiking, or snorkeling.

Adventure cruises can satisfy a traveler's curiosity, commitment to ecotourism, or desire for an active vacation. Well-equipped expedition ships might take them to Antarctica, to the Galápagos, or to inaccessible islands in the Arctic Circle. Along the way, they may climb into kayaks or Zodiacs, hike through dense forests, or snorkel among tropical fish or coral reefs. Onboard educational programs enhance the experience on most adventure cruises.

The options are many, with expedition itineraries and adventure-based activities even showing up in the brochures of traditional luxury cruise companies. Here are 13 adventure cruises for both newbies and experienced adventurers.

Adventures by Disney - Antarctica and Patagonia Expedition Cruise

This 12-day excursion begins in Buenos Aires, Argentina, and continues with a flight to Ushuaia and a chance to explore Tierra del Fuego or ride on the End of the World train through Patagonia. There, guests board the ship for the 10-day cruise to Antarctica. Along the way, optional activities include a Zodiac cruise to the Antarctic Peninsula, a walk among penguins, a kayak experience, and a hike for stunning hilltop views of Antarctica. The two-day crossing of the Drake Passage is a highlight. Onboard, activities include wildlife viewing, naturalist presentations, photography tips, ship tours, games, movies, and a heated pool.

Adventures by Disney - Galápagos Islands Expedition Cruise

This 9-day excursion begins in Quito, Ecuador and continues with a flight to Baltra where guests board a panga boat that takes them to their ship, Galápagos Legend . A hike and snorkel on Bartolome Island begin the adventure, and the ship sails to South Plaza Island for a naturalist-guided morning wildlife walk among sea lions, iguanas, and blue-footed boobies. On Cristóbal Island, guests can hike, take a glass-bottom kayak cruise, and snorkel. Visit the oldest of the Galápagos Islands, Española, where green sea turtles, sea lions, and mockingbirds live. Onboard, guests enjoy stargazing on the equator, Disney movies, and al fresco dining.

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Lindblad and national geographic - wild peru escape: amazon and machu picchu.

Starting in Lima, Peru, guests on this adventure head to Cusco for a drive to an Andean village and a train to Machu Picchu. Travelers spend a day exploring Machu Picchu, with hikes to the Sun Gate or Huayna Picchu. A train ride, flight to Lima, and a drive to the riverside village of Nauta takes guests to the Delfin II for the cruise of the Upper Amazon. For the next five days, they explore the Pacaya-Samiria National Reserve, with more than five million acres of pristine jungle. Daily excursions by skiff or kayak and hikes (when water levels permit) pass sloths, monkeys, birds, and more. Guests have a rare opportunity to meet the ribereños, the people who live on the river.

Hurtigruten - Circumnavigating Svalbard: The Ultimate Expedition

The Svalbard Archipelago, located in the Arctic north of mainland Europe, represents one of the world's largest untouched wilderness areas. The 12-day expedition begins with a flight from Oslo to Longyearbyen. There's time to explore the frontier town before boarding ship to cruise among huge glaciers, icebergs, and wildlife. In eastern Svalbard, the largest population of polar bears in the archipelago can often be seen hunting seals with their cubs. Drifting ice and the frozen seascape determine the specific route, and the captain and expedition team decide where to sail and land. Onboard amenities include hot tubs, sauna, gym, lectures from the team, and a professional photographer's advice for capturing the best landscape and wildlife photos.

UnCruise Adventures - Columbia River Cruise: Rivers of Adventure and Wine

From Portland, the ship heads to Astoria with its Victorian downtown, and Fort Clatsop where guests explore the landscape of the Lewis and Clark expedition. The ship cruises upstream, through the Bonneville Dam locks and to Multnomah Falls. A guided hike takes travelers to the heart of the Columbia Gorge through a fern-filled forest, and a tasting of Hood River Valley wine ends the day. Day five takes the ship to the mouth of the Palouse River for kayaking, paddle boarding, swimming, and wildlife viewing. A guided whitewater rafting adventure on the Deschutes comes with a picnic lunch and visit to Columbia Hills State Park. The next day's hikers are rewarded with views of the river, Mt. Adams, Mt. Hood, the Columbia River Gorge, and a farewell dinner before the return to Portland.

UnCruise Adventures - Belize Cruise: Wonders, Rivers, Reefs, and Mayan Culture

Adventurers board the Safari Voyager in Belize City for the seven-day cruise , then head to the Belize Barrier Reef and Ranguana Caye, a private island, for snorkeling, swimming, and paddle boarding. At Laughing Bird Caye National Park, kayak or snorkel among angelfish, parrotfish, sea sponges, and coral before setting sail for Guatemala. A hike through a tropical rainforest with more than 400 species of plants and animals is next. In Punta Gorda, guests visit the local market before a trip to Mayan ruins. There's also a birdwatching skiff tour, hike, or kayak trip to see black howler monkeys, deer, crocodiles, and more than 300 species of birds. The cruise ends with the captain's dinner before returning to Belize City.

Abercrombie & Kent - The Northwest Passage: From Greenland to the Bering Sea

This 24-day cruise combines adventure and luxury, with private balconies, butler service, French-inspired cuisine, and afternoon tea along with Zodiac trips, icebergs, and wildlife. Starting in Montreal, guests explore the city before flying to Western Greenland to board the ship. Cruising iceberg-strewn fjords, visiting Inuit villages, dog sledding, and seeing ancient huts are on the itinerary. The ship cruises into the Canadian Arctic Archipelago of Nunavut and enters the Northwest Passage with excursions that may include shore landings, whale sightings, and visits to historic towns. In the Northwest Territories, opportunities include tours of an Inuit town and the chance to see the "Smoking Hills," cliffs of bituminous shale that constantly combust and burn, a rare geological phenomenon. Cruise the Yukon Territory and Alaskan coast before disembarking in Nome.

Quark - Canada's Remote Arctic: Northwest Passage to Ellesmere and Axel Heiberg Islands

The 12-day trip begins in Toronto with a flight to Resolute, Nunavut where guests explore the town before boarding the expedition vessel Ultramarine , equipped with two helicopters and 20 Zodiacs. The next days are spent cruising among the remote islands of the Canadian High Arctic and navigating icy inlets with the goal of reaching some of the most remote places on the planet: the rarely visited Ellesmere Island and Axel Heiberg Island with its famous fossil forest. Weather and ice conditions determine the route under the constant guidance of the skilled Expedition Team. Zodiac cruises, land excursions, sightseeing flights, an education program, wildlife viewing, and community visits fill the days. Wildlife includes sea mammals, birds, polar bears, muskox, and possibly arctic wolves.

Adventure Canada - Newfoundland Circumnavigation

The 12-day trip begins in St. John's, capital of Newfoundland, with an evening departure of the Ocean Endeavor , equipped with 20 Zodiacs and advanced navigation equipment. Cruising northeast, the ship passes icebergs, whales, seabirds, picturesque villages, and rocky shores. At L'Anse aux Meadows, guests visit a reconstructed Viking habitation and learn about the remains of the Norse settlement. In Labrador, at the Red Bay Basque Whaling Station, they learn about the whalers of the 1500s. On the west coast, they hike through Gros Morne National Park for views of Bonne Bay. Cruise past the bays, coves, and communities of southern Newfoundland, and get close to wildlife in a Zodiac. Guests are welcomed by local leaders of the First Nations Miawpukek to learn about their community, and then stop in Saint-Pierre, an official territory of France just off the shores of Newfoundland, before returning to St. John's.

Viking Expeditions - Undiscovered Great Lakes: Thunder Bay to Milwaukee Expedition Cruise

The eight-day trip crosses the width of Lake Superior beginning in Thunder Bay, Ontario, Canada where Fort William recreates an early 19th-century fur trading post, and guests can hike granite cliffs and discover Kakabeka Falls. In Duluth, Minnesota, options include a journey along Lake Superior on the North Shore Scenic Railroad and a paddle down the St. Louis River. The Apostle Islands of Wisconsin feature coniferous forests, dune bogs, lagoons, and sea caves for exploring in kayaks. In Houghton, Michigan, discover the area's 7,000 years of copper mining history and descend 370 feet into the Quincy Mine to learn about working underground. Choose a hike to Hungarian Falls or kayak among local birdlife. Next, the ship passes through the Soo Locks in the St. Mary's River between Lake Huron and Lake Superior, before landing in Mackinac Island for a day. The cruise ends in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

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• Avalanche Shovels
• Ski Backpacks
• Surfboards For Beginners
• Surfboards For Kids
• Surfboard For Small Waves
• Soft Top Surfboards
• Foam Surfboards
• Body Boards
• Boogie Boards
• Kiteboarding Kites
• Kitesurfing Boards
• Kiteboarding Harnesses
• Surfing Wetsuits
• Men's Rash Guards
• Women's Rash Guards
• Board Leashes
• DLSR Travel Cameras
• Mirrorles Travel Cameras
• Point and Shoot Travel Cameras
• Fuji Travel Lenses
• Nikon Travel Lenses
• Tripods for Travel
• DLSR Landscape Cameras
• Mirrorles Landscape Cameras
• Point and Shoot Landscape Cameras
• Fuji Landscape Lenses
• Nikon Landcape Lenses
• Canon Landcape Lenses
• Tripods for Landscape Photo
• Wildlife Cameras
• Wildlife Lenses
• Wildlife Tripods
• Wildlife Monopods
• Birdlife Cameras
• Birdlife Lenses
• Surfboards For Small Waves

Top 25 Adventure Travel Blogs of 2024

This list is an attempt to highlight some of the best blogs about adventure travel   that can be found on the web. The ranking was compiled tracking hundreds of blogs. The top sites that made this list are ranked according to Alexa (33.3%), Domain Authority (33.3%), Page Authority (33.3%) indicators. The list doesn't involve our personal opinion in any way.

The ranking is updated once every year with new blogs and up-to-date scores. The data was collected in December 2020 for the current list.

To all who made it to the list, a big congratulations!. You deserved it for the great job you are doing with your blog. For those who didn't make it this time, don't get yourself down. Study what the other blogs are doing and get ready for the next update!

SCORING SYSTEM

In order to evaluate every blog in an objective way we use indicators that measure the web traffic and the authority of the site on the internet.

The total score that every blog receive is based on 3 key indicators: Alexa Score , Page Authority and Domain Authority . For full details on what these indicators mean and how to improve them, we recommend you to read this page on NomadicSamuel.com that explains everything in an easy way to understand.

All the blogs get ranked on these 3 categories and they receive a score (points) according to their rank on each category. The sum of those 3 scores is the blog's total score.

TOP 25 ADVENTURE TRAVEL BLOGS

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Proud of making the list?

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SUBMIT YOUR BLOG FOR THE NEXT UPDATE

If you would like to submit your blog and be considered for this list, it needs to meet the following requirements:

• Be  adventure travel specific . Only real adventure blogs are accepted.
• Your site must have a  blog section .
• Being  updated regularly . Sites that haven't been updated within the last 3 months won't be considered.
• You must  own the domain (i.e. wordpress.com, weebly or blogspot blogs don't rank for their own Domain Authority score).

DOES YOUR BLOG MEET THESE REQUIREMENTS?

We would love to hear from you!

Please send us a message to  [email protected] with the subject "Top 25 Adventure Travel Blogs" to be considered for the next update.

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