travel adventure activities

28 Adventures to Travel For, From Glacier Chasing in Greenland to Sand Surfing in the Sahara

By Caitlin Morton

As much as we love lounging on a faraway beach or revisiting our favorite city for the tenth time, sometimes our passports need some adventure travel—we’re talking about those once-in-a-lifetime trips that push us way outside our comfort zones. Adventure travel is a great way to see more of the world, while also testing your physical limits, and coming home with a lifetime's worth of stories to tell at parties.

Below, we’ve rounded up some of the most incredible outdoor adventures for intrepid travelers, ranging from climbing Machu Picchu to skydiving in Dubai . Even if you don’t consider yourself a daredevil, you’ll still find activities that feel exciting (hello, camping under the northern lights) without too much physical—or emotional—exertion required. So fasten your seatbelts, grab your best pair of hiking boots , and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime.

All listings featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. If you book something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

This gallery has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

Boat under the Iguazú Falls

South America’s Iguazú Falls, located on the border of Brazil and Argentina, make all other waterfalls look like mere trickles in comparison. The system of more than 200 cascades (reaching heights of around 270 feet) can be viewed from surrounding walkways and catwalks, but we’re fans of the more adventurous vantage-point—hopping on an Iguazú Jungle inflatable raft and sailing directly under the exhilarating, high-pressure falls.

Climb to Machu Picchu

No adventurer’s must-visit list is complete without Machu Picchu , the famous Incan citadel located in the Andes. While the site can be accessed via train and bus, more active travelers can take the five-day trek along the entire 26-mile-long Inca Trail. Or, thanks to local tour operator Sam Travel Peru , you can get dropped at kilometer marker 104 and do the whole experience in 24 hours .

Sand surf in the Sahara

The dunes of the Sahara are colossal, untouched, and tailor-made for extreme sports. The desert’s rows of barchans (meaning “crescent-shaped dunes” in Turkic) have ideal shapes for sand surfing (descending the slopes on a surfboard) and sandboarding (descending the slopes on a snowboard)—and those views don’t hurt, either. Stay at Erg Chigaga Luxury Camp in Morocco, which offers sandboarding in addition to other desert activities like camel rides and quad biking.

Heli-hike in British Columbia

With CMH Heli + Skiing , you can helicopter to the steepest and deepest powder in Canada for backcountry skiing. However, come summer , the company’s guides take guests on multi-day hiking trips to terrain otherwise inaccessible, along ridgelines, through alpine meadows, and to stunning viewpoints. While these high-altitude adventures are not for the faint at heart, the accommodations are quite comfortable, with log-hewn lodges complete with full-service restaurants, spa treatments, and a rooftop hot tub to relax in before another day on the trail.

Charlie Hobbs

Maya Silver

CNT Editors

Hot air balloon over Cappadocia

A hot air balloon ride over central Turkey’s Cappadocia region provides 360-degree views of the famous limestone spires and “fairy chimneys”—something you can't get at the ground level. We recommend booking with Kapadokya Balloons , the first company that introduced hot air balloon tourism in Cappadocia. Services include transfers to and from your hotel, snacks, full insurance, and a champagne party after the flight.

Hunt for glaciers in Greenland

Greenland is relatively expensive and tricky to get to, but well worth the effort—especially since it’s one of the most untouched landscapes on the planet. Exhibit A: the hundreds-year-old icebergs and glaciers floating off the mainland, which you can get up close and personal with during a cruise excursion. ( Hurtigruten and Cruise Norway offer these sailings.)

Hop across Botswana on a mobile safari

While most safari camps stay in one place like a traditional hotel, the private canvas safaris by  Barclay Stenner Safaris are totally mobile, meaning you can pick up and move locations based on weather conditions and wildlife movements. The outfitter’s Botswana itinerary moves across the country to fauna-rich areas like the Okavango Delta and Makgadikgadi Salt Pans—get ready to follow groups of lions, hippos, elephants, and more.

Paraglide over Turkey’s Blue Lagoon

Oludeniz has one of the most beautiful beaches in Turkey, with pebble shores and a “blue lagoon” of aquamarine hues. The beach also happens to be one of the world's best places to paraglide, thanks to stable weather and gorgeous panoramic views. The launch site for most companies is from Babadağ mountain, with jumping-off points reaching 6,000 feet above sea level.

Explore the Great Barrier Reef

Divers and snorkelers everywhere need to experience the Great Barrier Reef at least once in their lifetime. Not only does the site have more than 400 different types of coral and 1,500 species of fish, but the natural wonder has been rapidly eroding due to coral bleaching and global warming . That means it’s more urgent than ever to see this sight in all its glory—and to understand what we are losing.

Swim through Mexico’s cenotes

Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula features a wealth of unique natural beauty, particularly when it comes to its cavernous cenotes. Floating in one of these natural sinkholes is an incredible experience, as is diving through the underground cave systems . When in Tulum , visit Dos Ojos (“Two Eyes”) to view one of the planet’s most beautiful underwater sites or Gran Cenote for rock formations that resemble Gothic architecture.

Free-fall over Dubai at 120 miles per hour

Dubai is one of the most over-the-top cities in the world, so are you really surprised that skydiving is one of its most popular activities?  Skydive Dubai is a company located near Jumeirah Beach, offering tandem skydiving for beginners and solo jumps for licensed divers. If you thought Dubai’s skyline was impressive already, just wait until you see it while falling from 13,000 feet in the air.

Scale Half Dome at Yosemite National Park

The Half Dome trail through Yosemite may be one of the most intense hikes you’ll ever take, stretching for 16 miles and ascending more than 5,500 feet. The final 400 feet are the trickiest—hikers must climb up the steep slope with two steel cables as their only support—but the breathtaking views from the top make the effort (and terror) worth it. Afterwards, stay at The Ahwahnee, one of the most beautiful national park hotels in the country.

Swim with great white sharks in South Africa

The fishing town of Gansbaai is often considered to be the birthplace of great white shark cage diving, an activity that would make most adrenaline junkies drool. Cage diving is totally safe (despite what some low-budget shark movies might lead you to believe), but we dare you to keep your heart rate in check as you come face-to-face with an apex predator.  Marine Dynamics is one of the most popular cage diving operators in town, with a marine biologist and videographer joining every tour.

Bungee jump in New Zealand

New Zealand practically invented adventure sports when the Kawarau Bridge Bungy opened in 1988. Here you join around 38,000 annual visitors to take the 140-foot jump from the South Island's historic, steel-framed Kawarau Bridge—an activity in which the views are almost as thrilling as the fall itself.

Climb Mount Fuji

Solitary Mount Fuji is probably Japan’s most iconic natural wonder , rising 12,388 feet above villages and reflecting on lakes’ surfaces. You can get views of the landmark from many places, like Lake Kawaguchi in Fujikawaguchiko and even the Park Hyatt Tokyo , but it’s the views from the mountain that will give you the most bragging rights. Visit from early July to mid-September to take advantage of the official climbing season, when the designated trails and paved roads are free of snow.

Go volcano boarding on Cerro Negro in Nicaragua

If you’re looking for action sports and adventure, we recommend booking a flight to Nicaragua right now. There you can kayak, surf, zipline through the jungle, and even sled down the side of an active volcano. Intrepid travelers love to climb up the 2,388-foot Cerro Negro and then “volcano board” back down (an activity where you sit or stand on a piece of plywood and slide your way down the slopes). You'll want to go with a guided group tour with this one. Bigfoot Hostels is one of many operators for excursions—for $25, you get transportation to the volcano, boards, safety equipment, snacks, and your speed clocked by a radar gun.

Take a white-knuckle drive in Norway

Who says your adrenaline can’t pump from the comfort of your car? Trollstigen is one of the world’s most popular (and  terrifying ) highways, known for its steep gradient and hairpin turns. The one-lane road passes such impressive wonders as the 1,050-foot Stigfossen waterfall, but be sure to pull over before you gawk and snap photos. There are several viewing platforms along the road that will let you take in the sites without risking a crash.

Dive Belize’s Great Blue Hole

Known for its circular shape and strikingly deep blue color , the Great Blue Hole is a 1,000-foot-wide sinkhole in the middle of Belize’s Lighthouse Reef. While an aerial shot is enough to convince anyone of its beauty, scuba divers are the ones who get to experience the wonders that lie beneath: massive, 40-foot limestone stalactites and stalagmites that formed during the last glacial period.

Go canyoning in the Azores

Portugal’s Azores Islands are equal parts adventurous and beautiful, inviting travelers to get up close and personal with nature while hiking, biking, and swimming. If you want to really push the envelope, try canyoning—an activity that has you rappel down a waterfall while navigating slippery rocks and fast-flowing water. Azores Getaways offers a comprehensive and easy-to-book experience. Training, equipment, on-site instructors, and snacks are all included in the excursion, which will no doubt become one of the most memorable of your life.

Kayak through Torres del Paine National Park

Chile’s Patagonia region is one of the most beautiful spots on the planet, and there are plenty of ways to explore the area. But while most people experience the sights while hiking, you can get a slightly different view from the water via a kayaking trip.  Kayak en Patagonia offers several tour options ranging in duration and difficulty levels, but all let you paddle past towering mountains, rugged glaciers, and other incredible vistas.

Sleep under the northern lights

Ah, the elusive northern lights . So many factors are at play when it comes to seeing the technicolor phenomenon—location, time of year, weather conditions—but it’s hard to lose with an excursion to Finnish Lapland. The Arctic area is one of the planet’s best for aurora viewing, especially if you get to sleep in an igloo hotel at Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort or mobile Aurora Bubble Sled . Up your viewing chances by planning a trip between December and March.

Go heli-skiing in Alaska

If you’re a seasoned traveler who’s conquered every black diamond slope in North America, there’s still one snowy adventure left to vanquish: heli-skiing. There’s nothing quite like hopping in a helicopter and being dropped onto untouched snow at the top of a mountain—especially in a setting as formidable as Alaska’s Chugach Mountains. The experienced guides at  Valdez Heli Ski Guides (VHSG) will help make this dream a reality, taking you to some of the best runs of your life and then letting you unwind (hot tub and massages included) at the cozy  Tsaina Lodge .

Snorkel between continents in Iceland

Iceland is one of the best countries in the world for adventure travel , with opportunities for everything from glacier hiking to snorkeling and diving. For the latter, head straight to Thingvellir National Park along the country’s Golden Circle route , where two tectonic plates slowly pull apart at the rate of about two centimeters (0.8 inches) per year. The phenomenon results in the Silfra fissure, a stunning rift valley where travelers can snorkel or dive in impossibly clear (and cold) waters. Tour company DIVE.IS offers tours for divers and every level of snorkeler—including those with no prior experience—and will snap an underwater photo of you touching two continents at the same time.

Float along the Amazon

Some remote destinations are best seen from the deck of a boat, and that includes the upper Amazon River. Aqua Expeditions ’ luxury cruises through the Peruvian stretch of the river tour the area’s wildlife and culture at a delightful, leisurely pace. You'll even have chef-prepared gourmet meals and five-star suites with floor-to-ceiling windows. Looking for something a little less luxe? Amazon Adventures offers kayaking trips along some Amazon tributaries, where you can fish for piranhas and camp out in the rainforest.

Surf ‘The Pipeline’ in Oahu

Oahu’s Banzai Pipeline (commonly referred to as The Pipeline) is easily one of the most sought-after surfing spots in the world. Located off the coast of the island’s north shore in Ehukai Beach Park, the surf reef break averages waves measuring nine feet high. This activity is definitely not for beginners, but even non-surfers will get a thrill out of watching the many surf competitions that take place at The Pipeline—all from the safety of a sunny beach.

Spot elusive wildlife in the Great Bear Rainforest

Canada’s Great Bear Rainforest is the largest intact temperate rainforest in the world—and one of the most magical, with elusive species like sea wolves and Kermode bears roaming its 21 million acres. Outer Shores Expeditions will take you on a nine-day excursion aboard a schooner, departing from British Columbia’s First Nations community of Bella Bella and stopping for sea kayaking along the way.

Soak in the planet’s most extreme infinity pool

Located on the border of Zimbabwe and Zambia, Victoria Falls attracts thousands of tourists each year. One of the biggest draws here is the Devil’s Pool , a naturally formed eddy sitting at the very edge of the falls, where daring swimmers can splash around between August and January (depending on water levels, that is). Given that a slippery rock barrier is the only thing separating you from going over the edge, this site is easily the planet’s most extreme infinity pool .

Camp in Antarctica

Antarctica is truly the final frontier when it comes to adventure travel, providing untouched landscapes, unique wildlife, and more activities than you’ll know what to do with (like cruising, caving, and thermal spring soaking , to name a few). If you can get yourself to Punta Arenas, Chile, Antarctic Logistics & Expeditions will fly you to Antarctica for three days of skiing and hiking before setting you up for a South Pole sleepover.

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Adventure Destinations: 30 Best Places to Travel for Adventure

Posted on Last updated: November 17, 2023

If you are looking for some awesome adventure destinations to add to your bucket list, you’ve come to the right place! It’s pretty hard to narrow down the most adrenaline-inducing places to travel (and why!) but this article should be enough to add some new places to your bucket list.

As an avid adventure traveler myself, I had already compiled an excellent list of places to travel for adventure – many of which I have ticked off. But, naturally, there are always TONS more places on anyone’s bucket list.

So I asked some amazing travel bloggers in my community what their favorite adventure destinations were, where you can find the best adventurous activities for an adrenaline rush. So I compiled a comprehensive list of the most amazing adventure travel destinations in every continent on the planet. Enjoy!

Places to Travel for Adventure in SOUTH + CENTRAL AMERICA

One of the most amazing places to travel for adventure is PATAGONIA. Yes, I know, Patagonia is not a country in and of itself – it’s a REGION split between two other incredibly adventurous destinations – Argentina and Chile.

Patagonia surrounds the Andes mountain range from the bottom tip of South America (Ushuaia, Argentina) up until about halfway up both Argentina and Chile. This means – Patagonia is HUGE! It encompasses over 1 million km sq from the bottom to the top, and has DOZENS of amazing places to adventure and explore.

Patagonia is one of the best adventure destinations in the world, as it is completely centered around outdoor adventures. There are National Parks, glaciers, hikes, caves, volcanoes, and stunning views that would make anyone’s jaws drop. You can go trekking, kayaking, boating, caving, rappelling, four-wheel driving, and SO much more – there’s no limit to the adventures you can have.

I recommend spending at least two weeks in Patagonia , if not extending your trip to four weeks in Northern Patagonia too. You must not miss the W Trek in Torres del Paine or Climbing Volcan Villarrica in Pucon, Chile – among SO many other things! Be prepared to see some of the most dramatic mountain views of your life, as well as being wowed at the culture and scenery.

You didn’t expect to see Panama on a list of adventure destinations, did you?! Since I recently spent a month there, I have dubbed Panama as one of my favorite underrated travel destinations AND adventure destinations. This country completely blew my mind with the sheer amount of awesome things to do!

I’ll start with the obvious: Panama is MUCH more than Panama City. While it’s great to see the canal, the famous capital is only the tip of the iceberg when it comes to exploring Panama.

Bocas del Toro is one of the best adventure destinations in Panama. Located on the Caribbean coast not too far from Costa Rica, Bocas is comprised of dozens of islands ready for adventure. You can go sailing, fishing, kayaking, scuba diving, snorkeling, jet-skiing, jungle hiking, and even take cooking classes around all the islands.

Playa Venao and Santa Catalina are great beaches on the Pacific coast for surfing – perfect if you are backpacking Panama . I highly recommend speedboating through the San Blas islands to encounter some of the most pristine islands you may see in your life.

If beaches and islands aren’t totally your thing – no worries! Panama also has a mountainous destination called Boquete . Boquete is home to a huge volcano which, when ascended, you can see BOTH the Pacific and Caribbean Seas on a clear day! Hiking Volcan Baru is a must for adventure travelers. Make sure to also stop at Lost and Found Hiking Hostel for some scavenger hunts and amazing views.

Peru is an incredible country and one of the perfect places to travel for adventure. Cusco is a great base to start your Peruvian adventure, as the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is the most famous hike in Peru. From Cusco you can arrange ATV tours to the Mayan ruins at Moray and to see the salt mines at Maras. In the Sacred Valley, you’ll also find zip-lining and the chance to sleep in a pod on the side of a cliff if you are brave enough!

Huaraz is the best place to go for trekking in Peru and is relatively off the beaten track compared to Cusco and the Sacred Valley. Here you can hike through the breath-taking Huascaran National Park with incredible mountain views and beautiful blue lakes in the Cordillera Blanca, although the altitude can be a challenge.

If you prefer less strenuous activities and warmer weather, head to the coast for surfing in Mancora or Huanchaco or try paragliding on the cliffs in Lima. Inland, go sandboarding and hop in a buggy to speed around the sand dunes at Peru’s desert oasis Huacachina. For a wetter adventure, Peru also has some fabulous rafting on the Río Urubamba in Cusco, Río Chili in Arequipa and Cotahuasi Canyon, one of the deepest canyons in the world.

Arguably, the most adventurous place in Peru is the Amazon, where you can take tours into the rainforest from Iquitos, trekking through the jungle to spot wildlife. As a fitting finale to your Peruvian adventure, take a slow boat along the Amazon River right to its delta in Brazil.

By Claire Sturzaker from This Travel Lover

Are you an adrenaline junkie looking for your next heart-dropping adventure? Do you also prefer not breaking the bank when doing said activities? If your answer is yes, then you must visit Colombia. A country with a terrible past, Colombia has now become one of the top travel destinations in South America. With diverse landscapes ranging from the beautiful Caribbean waters of Capurgana to the mysterious Amazon rainforest, it is not difficult to see why it is so popular.

Many of the best things to do in Colombia are adventure-based. In the ancient city of Cartagena, visitors can participate in many adventurous water sports such as windsurfing, diving, and kitesurfing on the Caribbean Sea. Deeper towards the Amazon Rainforest, a famous 5-day trek called the Lost City trek takes you to a protected archaeological site.

Still not enough adventure? Then make sure you include the city of San Gil on your  Colombia itinerary . Known as the adventure capital of Colombia travelers can enjoy intense level 5 white-water rafting, canyoning, cave explorations, bungee jumping, and more!

By Sean Lau from Living Out Lau

Costa Rica is the ultimate adventure destination. From the laid-back surfer towns along the coast to amazing music festivals like Envision to the extreme wilderness of the jungles and volcanoes, you can find any adrenaline rush you’re looking for in this Central American country.

One adventure sport that you can’t miss while in Costa Rica is ziplining. Now, maybe you’ve ziplined a few times before. It’s all the same, right? Not in Costa Rica. CR is world-renowned for its ziplining industry. We experienced a zipline that was over 1km long, several hundred feet above the jungle, which flew past a raging waterfall. And that isn’t even considered one of the best in the country!

If ziplining isn’t your thing, you have plenty of other adventure options. In the short week we were there, we surfed, rappelled through canyons, hiked to hidden waterfalls, galloped horses through the jungle, and tried some high-intensity white-water rafting.

We also barely survived what was hands-down the biggest adrenaline rush of the trip: a water slide. More specifically, the Buena Vista del Rincon jungle water slide. No kidding, you suit up with a helmet and protective innertube, then scream along the 425m waterslide in the middle of the rainforest. This is undoubtedly dangerous, as we both almost flew out several times and could easily see how people have been injured here. Would we do it again? In a heartbeat.

Costa Rica is a beautiful country that is perfectly suited for adventure travelers. You will absolutely not get bored with any amount of time you spend there!

By Dani Ward from Diapers in Paradise

Places to Travel for Adventure in NORTH AMERICA

When it comes to adventures, California TRULY has it all. To be honest, there aren’t many adventure sports you CAN’T do in California! It’s one of the only places that you can go surfing and snowboarding on the same day, and there are dozens of National Parks, mountains, coastlines, and more.

California actually has more National Parks than any other state! Yosemite , Sequoia, Death Valley, Joshua Tree , Pinnacles, and Channel Islands National Parks are fantastic for hiking, camping, amazing views, rafting, kayaking, extreme climbing, and more. California is also home to the highest mountain peak in the lower 48, Mt Whitney, which many people like to ascend over a few days.

The amount of cliffy coastlines in CA is incredible, and you can find more ocean adventures than you could possibly complete in a lifetime! California is fantastic for surfers, and also has many places you can kayak/swim in caves, rock climb, snorkel, jet ski, go sailing/boating, or even scuba dive. Some of my favorite coastlines to adventure are Big Sur, San Diego/La Jolla, Laguna Beach , San Louis Obispo, Point Reyes, and some great beach hikes in Southern California.

I could tell you about places to travel for adventure in California for AGES – there’s truly no limit between the incredible mountainous landscapes, low deserts, and oceanic opportunities. You MUST take a California road trip at some point in your life, and most definitely a Pacific Coast Highway road trip as part of it too.

Canada/Rockies

The Rocky Mountains run along the border of Alberta and British Columbia, two of Canada’s best adventure destinations. Most travelers heading to the Rocky Mountains fly into my hometown, Calgary, Alberta . I always recommend they begin their trip at Winsport, the sporting facility that hosted Calgary’s 1988 Winter Olympics. There, visitors can ease their way into adventure travel through activities like skiing, snowboarding, mountain biking, downhill go-karting and even “summer luge” on the old Olympics tracks.

From Calgary, it’s only an hour’s drive west to Canmore, the gateway to the mountains. Canmore is ideal for river rafting in the summer (choose a sunset tour for the best wildlife spotting!) and cross-country skiing in the backcountry during the winter. From here, it’s only twenty minutes further to Banff National Park, one of Canada’s most famous, and spectacularly beautiful, parks.

Spend a summer day (or two, or three…) hiking the pristine forest trails that criss-cross the park, or take your adventure to the next level by spending a winter day heli-skiing high in the Rocky Mountains. And of course, when you’re all done, relax your exhausted muscles in Banff’s historic hot springs! 

By Carly from Absolutely Calgary

As the adventure capital of the United States, Colorado is a must-see on any adventurer’s bucket list. You’ll find world-class hiking, backpacking, mountain biking, climbing, and more throughout the state. The best way to get all of the outdoor action in Colorado is to hit the road. Go on an epic Colorado road trip.

Must-see adventure destinations include taking a scenic mountain drive through the San Juans, alpine rock climbing in the iconic Rocky Mountain National Park or hiking to the top of one of Colorado’s most scenic 14ers (mountains over 14,000 feet tall). After your big adventure, kick back at one of the many beautiful campsites in Colorado.

You can even explore the depths of space with a visit to the town of Westcliff and surrounding mountains. This area is a designated Dark Sky area, where you’ll get un-polluted views of the Milky Way. Other nearby attractions are the Sangre de Cristo Mountain Range, known for their backpacking and hiking routes. Also, check out Great Sand Dunes National Park, North America’s biggest sand dunes for even more spectacular adventures.

With so much to choose from, you could easily spend two weeks to a month exploring all that Colorado has to offer. So hit the road this season with an amazing outdoor adventure trip you’ll never forget.

By Meg Atteberry from Fox in the Forest

There are far too many  adventurous things to do in Oregon  to choose favorites! It really is all dependant on what you’re after. Just choose your favorite activities and Oregon will take care of you. Here’s a quick rundown on some of my favorite spots and adventure destinations.

Rock Climbing   – Smith Rock is the mecca for hanging off rocks and getting up high!

Hiking  – There’s a hike around every corner in Oregon. A few of the best spots are Samuel H. Boardman and Ecola on the coast, around Mount Hood like the Tom, Dick and Harry Trail or Tamanawas Falls Trail. The Cascade region outside of Bend will keep you busy for weeks -the South Sister summit is a favorite, and the Wallowas and the Steens Mountain in the east won’t disappoint.

The Lakes  – The lakes are just too good! Crater Lake National Park is must-see, it’s the State’s only National Park and is gorgeous. There’s some good hiking around the rim and beyond. Beyond that, the Cascade Lakes in Central Oregon are magnificent. There are numerous lakes all surrounded by trails or that have water sports on offer. Grab a SUP, kayak, or boat and spend the day out on the lakes. Bring your own or head to Elk or Lava Lake to rent equipment.

Like most places in the USA, the best way to experience Oregon is on a road trip! You can bring a tent along and keep your trip super cheap or try some of the unique spots that are around the state like yurts or even teepees.

by Nina Ragusa from Oregon is for Adventure

Maui, Hawaii

If you’re looking for adventure in one of the most beautiful places in the world then Maui is the place for you . Get your heart pumping and fly high through the trees on one of Maui’s zipline tours; my favorite has always been Kapalua Adventures on the island’s west side.

If hiking is more your thing, head to the top of Haleakala and hike around the volcano crater at the Haleakala National Park before or after taking in the sunrise or sunset. Or cruise the Road to Hana for a day and go hiking through the bamboo forest on the other side of Haleakala National Park all the way up to Waimoku Falls. They also have some amazing saltwater fishing.

When in Maui you have to try surfing at least once! There are lots of local surf schools around the island that offer great lessons and board rentals. Once you’ve had enough of the waves, try a kayak and snorkel tour. Kelii’s Kayaks is a locally owned company and their guides are experienced and knowledgeable about the best snorkeling spots and the sea creatures you’ll find. Take the super early tour (around 7 am) when the water is smooth as glass and see the coast from a new perspective and explore the colorful reefs below the surface.

Maui doesn’t have extensive public transportation so to really explore the island, you’ll need to rent a car. If you want to get off the beaten path, consider staying at Travasaa Resort in Hana on the far east side of the island. Hana is much less crowded than other areas of Maui with easy access to beaches and Haleakala National Park.

If traveling around, make sure to visit Kauai and catch the sunset in Oahu .

By Emily Hines from Em’s on the Road

Places to Travel for Adventure in EUROPE

Switzerland.

Switzerland is a paradise for adventure seekers. The country is also known as one of the safest countries throughout Europe thanks to its low crime rate and strict police force. However, there are plenty of activities you can do, which are considered not so safe! Thanks to the country’s amazing public transport system, you can easily get around without driving. The beautiful Swiss Alps is a playground for thrill-seekers. It has many beautiful hiking trails and via ferratas, that are not for the faint-hearted.

The challenging  hardergrat trail  is on many hiking enthusiast’s bucket lists. Paragliding is a popular activity, especially in the scenic Lauterbrunnen Valley. Despite being a landlocked county, Switzerland is an amazing place for water sport activities as it has over 7000 lakes and many rivers. You can also pop over the border to Vorarlberg.

Sailing, water skiing and kayaking are all fantastic at these locations. In the winter the country gets plenty of snow and many people flock to the ski resorts. Luckily there are plenty of them in Switzerland, and off-piste skiing is also possible. So if you want one of the best places to travel for adventure in Europe, visit this country as it has so much to offer!

By Eniko Krix from Travel Hacker Girl

Wales, the country in the UK, is a great place to travel for adventure lovers and for people who enjoy outdoor activities. Three national parks cover one-fifth of the total Welsh land.

Snowdonia National Park, located in the north, is home to beautiful lakes, hills, moorlands, waterfalls, and the highest peak in England and Wales, Mount Snowdon . In this park, there are various hiking routes you can take. If you don’t fancy hiking you can also take a steam train to Snowdon’s peak at an altitude of 1,085 meters.

Pembrokeshire Coast National Park is the only coastal national park in the UK in the west. There are numerous coastal paths which take you to some breathtaking cliffs. If the weather is good you can cycle across sweeping hills, go for a swim or go scuba diving. There are different diving sites including wrecks and reefs. If you are lucky you can also swim with wild dolphins.

The Brecon Beacons, in the south of Wales , is famous for its magnificent upland formations. It is also home to some outstanding waterfalls, caves, and lakes. You can stay in Parkwood Outdoors Dolygaer which offers different types of accommodations such as cottages, lodges, and chalets. This centre also offers different activities including caving, stand up paddleboarding, and canyoning. While in the Brecon Beacons, make sure to take the Four Falls Walk which takes you to four amazing waterfalls.

If you go to the south of the national park you will find Bike Park Wales which features various mountain biking trails for different experience levels from beginners to professionals.

By Mansoureh Farahani from Travel with Mansoureh

Iceland is a paradise for adventure seekers and one of the best adventure destinations in the world for outdoor activities. Every corner of the island offers amazing opportunities to explore the unique Icelandic landscape: from glaciers to waterfalls, geysers and volcanoes!

The best way to experience Iceland is to take a road trip along the Ring Road. You can rent a car and book tours and activities along the way. Aside from hiking, most adventure activities in Iceland require booking a tour. Check out more Iceland budget tips.

There are dozens of adventure activities you can experience in Iceland. Our favorite adventure tour in Iceland was hands down snorkeling/diving the Silfra fissure . Wearing a drysuit, you get the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to swim between two continents!

Some of the best adventure tours in Iceland include glacier hiking and ice climbing, ice caving, horseback riding, and hiking inside a volcano. If you are looking for great activities to do with kids, you can take a boat ride on a glacier lagoon or go white water rafting! Iceland also has dozens of hiking trails you can explore without a guide. Just make sure to always check the weather forecast and listen to local warnings as conditions can be very unpredictable!

By Julie Laundis from Wandering Sunsets

Is Greenland the last frontier of world travel? This sparsely populated giant ice sheet between Europe and North America is often overlooked and usually seen by most at 30,000 feet on transatlantic flights. But if you are the sort that loves all sorts of winter-based activities and treks then I would highly advise you to stop over and spend some time in Greenland.

Taking a cruise through the Ilulissat ice fjord and encountering the iceberg formations up close and personal is undoubtedly one of the highlights, but there is also the opportunity to kayak along some of Greenland’s ice fields at your own pace too. A daring adventure, certainly, but best carried out in the Spring/Summer months where there is almost 24-hour daylight. You will need to rent a kayak from a company first.

The hiking opportunities throughout Greenland are limitless. One of the most enduring is the Arctic Circle Trail between Kangerlussuaq and Sisimiut, a real adventure through ice-capped mountains where pitching your tent and camping for the night is essential. And of course, another of the highlights of any visit to Greenland is the opportunity to go dog sledding. Dog sledding is a fun expedition for all but in truth a way of life for the local population. What better way to be transported through the deep thick winter snow through ice mountains and with a view of the frozen sea from a distance, or even in full view of the Northern Lights in January?

When staying in Greenland, there is no place I recommend more than the Hotel Arctic in Ilulissat. Between May and September, their metal igloos overlooking Disko Bay are open for reservations. It may be one of the most unique accommodation experiences and views you will ever have.

By Jonathan Riddick from Journeymaxx.com

Dolomites, Italy

The Dolomites are often overlooked when people think about visiting Italy, but they are some of the most beautiful and adventure packed mountains in the entire world, and the possibilities to explore them are endless. Whether you want to keep it simple with a nice relaxing hike around Lago Di Braies, or perhaps you just want to ride a cable car and take in all the majestic views around you, there is something for everyone. 

If you’re looking for adventure, you’ll absolutely love mountain and road biking in the Dolomites, as well as rock climbing. To truly experience the Dolomites, stay a night in a mountain top Refugio where you can enjoy sunset and sunrise from the perfect viewpoint, and really feel how wild these mountains are.

If you want something more adventurous, there are plenty of multi-day trekking routes where you hike from Refugio to Refugio, eating all their wonderfully cooked food along the way. Located just 2 hours from Venice, visiting the Dolomites is a must-do for adventure seekers.

By Jessica Averett from  Bring The Kids

Places to Travel for Adventure in ASIA/MIDDLE EAST

With sweeping valleys, white water rivers, towering waterfalls, and rugged mountains for days, the Republic of Georgia was made for adventure travel.

The Caucasus country has an extremely diverse landscape that ranges from semi-desert in the east to lush forest in the west. High mountains form natural land borders to the north and south, while a stretch of coastline along the Black Sea provides opportunities for sailing and water sports.

Georgia has 10 national parks, all with something different to offer. But the country is best known for its alpine trekking. Hikes range from easy trails such as Kazbegi to Gergeti Trinity Church , to multi-day journeys – the most popular being the three-day trek from Mestia to Ushguli. Accommodation along the high-altitude route comes in the form of village homestays, which means experiencing legendary Georgian hospitality (read: lots of homemade wine and mountains of food to conquer every night) is part and parcel of the experience.

Other highlights include horseback riding in the remote Tusheti Protected Landscape and trekking to Black Rock Lake on the Russian border. Winter sports including snowboarding are on offer in Gudauri and Bakuriani as well as tandem paragliding. For rafting, head to Western Georgia’s Rioni river in the summer months.

Budget flights from Europe, flexible visas, cost-effective options for guided tours – plus a general feeling of still being ‘off the beaten track’ – are just some of the factors that make Georgia a top adventure destination.

By Emily Lush from Wander-Lush

Nepal is one of the ultimate places to travel for adventure. The small landlocked country boasts some of the world’s greatest trekking trails, stunning mountain regions, and other adrenaline-rushing activities. In short, Nepal is the Holy Grail for adventure enthusiasts.

Trekking in Nepal is undoubtedly the most coveted adventure. Home to some of the highest peaks in the world, Nepal has varied trekking trails suited for beginners as well as hardcore mountaineers. The Everest and Annapurna region in Nepal offers the most popular treks, while the Mustang and Dolpo trails and the Manaslu Circuit Trek are somewhat offbeat.

If you think Nepal is only about trekking, then you are quite wrong. Pokhara in Nepal is heaven for adventure activities. You can go for paragliding, bungee jumping, zip-lining, and mountain biking near Pokhara. Finally, the Everest Mountain Flight is the ultimate adventure that you can have in Nepal. A helicopter ride will take you a few hundred feet higher over the highest peak of the world, and you can enjoy the summit view of the Everest ranges from the flight.

Finally, the fast-flowing mountain rivers of Nepal provides some of the best whitewater rafting in the world. Single-day trips are available from Pokhara.

For adventure activities, it is best to visit and stay in Pokhara. There are several travel shops from where you can book your adventure activity. These agents arrange for pick up from your hotel as well. You can also book these activities from Kathmandu, the capital city.

By Agni & Amrita from Tale of 2 Backpackers

Phillipines

The Philippines is generally known for its beautiful beaches and incredible blue water. But our two month trip exploring many of the different islands showed us how many awesome, adventurous things there are to do here. Whether it’s island hopping or scuba diving in Palawan, chasing waterfalls in Cebu or riding scooters around the island paradise of Siargao there is an endless amount of epic adventure destinations in the Philippines.

Our favourite island in the Philippines is Siargao and that’s because it is stunningly beautiful while also providing plenty of adventurous activities to do. You can cliff jump into natural rock pools, swim from palm tree rope swings, surf, swim through caves and explore multiple different islands and lagoons by boat. It really is the dream island for adventure lovers.

The easiest way to get around the Philippines is to rent a scooter and drive yourself. This allows you to discover more remote and untouched regions, beat the crowds and really helps to create a unique experience for you. It doesn’t really matter what activity you are into because the Philippines has it all.

By Luke Storey from The Coastal Campaign

If you’re looking for adventure destinations then Kyrgyzstan should definitely be on your radar. While some people have never heard of Kyrgyzstan, many off the beaten path travelers are discovering the new hotspot in hiking and adventure. There is lots to explore in Kyrgyzstan and most of it can be done on a budget and without crowds of other tourists.

Kyrgyzstan boasts incredible hiking trails spanning mountain ridges, grassy glades, and pristine lakes. One of the most popular is the 3-day trek to Ala Kul Lake which ends in a little village sitting on natural hot springs. There are also incredible options for horse trekking and skiing throughout the country which are really affordable.

But of course, a trip to Kyrgyzstan wouldn’t be complete without experiencing some of the local nomadic culture. You can stay in yurts, watch eagle hunting displays or if you’re lucky, catch a game of Kok Boru – the local sport played on horseback with a goat carcass! You can also visit Kyrgyzstan in winter, which is a huge adventure too.

By Rohan Cahill-Fleury from Travels of a Bookpacker

Considering it’s home to dozens of the world’s tallest mountains, including the second tallest K2, it’s no surprise that Pakistan is an adventure traveler’s paradise- especially if you’re into trekking! The beautiful South Asian country is filled with a seemingly endless amount of mountain opportunities. Everything from day-hikes to alpine lakes to multi-day expeditions to the base camp of K2 can be done in Pakistan.

For those looking for a moderate adventure, I highly recommend taking 1-2 days to venture up towards Rakaposhi Base Camp in the Gilgit-Baltistan province. The trek starts in Minapin Village and heads to a pretty epic viewpoint where you’ll be able to see the majestic Rakaposhi mountain up close!

Another popular and easier trek to embark on in Pakistan is Fairy Meadows (also in Gilgit-Baltistan), where you’ll be able to stay the night in a lush campsite that has an unparalleled view of Nanga Parbat, the world’s 9th highest mountain.

Hitchhiking through Pakistan’s mountainous villages will also bring you up close and personal with a ton of elevation and little known treks- don’t forget about them in favor of the popular guys!

Overall, backpacking Pakistan is one of the most incredible travel experiences you can have. Pakistanis are some of the friendliest people on the planet, which will undoubtedly be a highlight of your trip aside from the surreal landscapes.

Logistically speaking, Pakistan can be entered through any one of its international airports, or can be crossed overland. The Wagah Border with India is the easiest land border to cross over at, and would lead you right into one of Pakistan’s liveliest cities: Lahore. Even if you plan on spending all your time in the mountains (very understood!), I highly recommend spending some days in Lahore before heading north. The city is known as the cultural capital of the country, and boasts dozens of Mughal-era relics.

To reach the mountains, you’ll have to first make your way to Gilgit- the hub of Gilgit-Baltistan. Gilgit can either be reached by a flight (which is often canceled) or an overnight coach-bus ride from Pakistan’s capital city Islamabad. Islamabad is about 5 hours north of Lahore and Gilgit is some 17 hours north of Islamabad.

By Samantha Shea from Intentional Detours

Uttarakhand, India

Uttarakhand, India may not be a place that jumps readily to mind when you think of adventure destinations to travel. But this mountainous region is home to adventure in India. Uttarakhand is in North India, about a five hour drive north-east of the capital city, Delhi. It’s one of several states in India dominated by the Himalayan mountain range. Most of the state is mountainous, from the rolling foothills of Rishikesh right up to the soaring peaks, like Nanda Devi, the tallest mountain in Uttarakhand at 7,816 metres.

Naturally, this kind of terrain makes for great adventure travel options. Trekking is very popular in Uttarakhand, and one trek in particular is legendary. The summertime trek to Valley of Flowers is on many bucket lists as it has all the hallmarks of a true adventure. The Valley of Flowers trek is in a very remote location that’s only accessible for a brief time each year, but it rewards those who make the effort with a glorious vision — a Himalayan valley carpeted with flowers in full bloom.

Another popular option in Uttarakhand is white water rafting. This state is the source of the Ganga (Ganges) River. The most sacred river in India, the Ganges tumbles from the Himalayas before making a 2,500 kilometre journey across the length of India. In Uttarakhand, the rushing river is ideal for white water rafting. Rishikesh is not only the Yoga capital of the world, it’s also the gateway to adventure. Many adventure outfitters offer white water rafting in and around Rishikesh.

Finally, I cannot end before mentioning Corbett Tiger Reserve, one of the top tiger reserves in all of India . In fact, the very concept of tiger reserves started in Corbett, which was originally established in 1936 and later named after legendary author and hunter-turned-conservationist Jim Corbett. A jeep safari in Corbett is a wildlife adventure among thick forests and rolling meadows teeming with tigers, leopards, elephants, sloth bears, pangolins and many others.

By Mariellen Ward from BreatheDreamGo

Israel is probably not the first country that comes to mind when thinking about adventure destinations, but it actually offers dozens of amazing adventure travel activities for anyone to enjoy.

Sitting on the Mediterranean, on Israel’s beaches, you can engage with all types of water sports like surfing, paddleboarding, and windsurfing.

If you’re more of a green landscape kind of traveler, head to northern Israel, where you’ll find scenic views of mountains, creeks, and waterfalls. This area is filled with hiking trails, but you can also try other activities like skydiving, kayaking or rafting on the Jordan river, and flying in a hot air balloon over the Galilee region .

As opposed to the green north, southern Israel offers unique desert views. The Negev and Judaean deserts are extremely popular for hiking, but they’re also perfect for outdoor adventures like canyoning, rappelling, and rock climbing. If you want to make your time in southern Israel extra special, choose to stay at a Bedouin tent or lodge to learn about Bedouin culture and enjoy traditional Bedouin hospitality.

By Or Amir from My Path in the World

Places to Travel for Adventure in OCEANIA

New zealand.

New Zealand surely needs to be at the top of the list for adventure destinations around the world. The home of bungy jumping, and superhuman adventurers like Sir Edmund Hillary, you know you are going to have an action-packed holiday here.

While New Zealand can be a long way for some, there are direct flights from Australia, the USA, major Asian hubs and the Pacific Islands. Once you are here, the easiest way to get around is to grab a campervan or rental car and road trip your way around.

The South Island is the king of adventure, with Queenstown being its adventure capital. Bungy jumping originated here and now you can jump the highest bungy: the Ben Nevis , at 134m high, a 8.5-second freefall. It’s an absolute must-do in New Zealand. Queenstown has a raft of adventure activities including jet boating, heliskiing, rafting, skydiving, Skyline luge, and epic hiking.

While in the South Island, enjoy an overnight boat adventure in Milford Sound, swimming with dolphins in Akaroa, whale watching in Kaikoura or zipline at New Zealand’s longest zipline in Christchurch.

The North Island isn’t one to ignore for adventure either. Rotorua is home to the highest commercially rafted waterfall in the world, mountain biking in the Redwoods and kayaking with glowworms. Also try hiking the Tongariro Crossing in volcano country, diving in New Zealand’s best dive site, Poor Knights Marine Reserve, or a canoe adventure down the Whanganui River.

Whatever you choose, you will not run out of places to travel for adventure in New Zealand!

By Jennifer from Backyard Travel Family: Active Family Travel Specialists in New Zealand

Australia is a country packed full of adventurous things to do; whichever region you chose to visit you won’t be disappointed. Some of my best travel memories are from my numerous trips down under.

If I had to pick the best one, it would be the night I spent on a floating pontoon on my trip to the Great Barrier Reef. Spending a night in the middle of the ocean, seeing the magnificent reef on a scenic helicopter flight and then snorkeling in the beautiful underwater world was truly amazing.

Another adventure not to miss is sailing around the Whitsunday Islands. If you base yourself at Airlie Beach, you’ll be able to organise both of these experiences. Sleeping under the stars, and getting to dive at the best times was incredible.

If you enjoy hiking and trekking, then you’ll love the Blue Mountains near Sydney, or you could consider driving along the Great Ocean Road in Victoria or getting a delicious Aussie brunch in Melbourne . The stunning vistas along the way at both adventure destinations provide perfect photo opportunities, not to mention unforgettable memories.

Of course, Australia is famous for its surfing, and there’s no shortage of great beaches to ride the waves. Some of the best have to include Bells Beach in Torquay, Surfers Paradise or Noosa Heads in Queensland and Prevelly Bay in Western Australia.

If you’re staying in Sydney, climbing the famous harbour bridge is also not to miss or at least seeing the Pylon Lookout . There’s so much to do in Australia that one trip won’t be enough, so be prepared to plan a return adventure.

By Fiona Berry from Passport and Piano

Solomon Islands

The South Pacific has PLENTY of incredible island adventure destinations dotted throughout the Pacific Ocean. I’m sure many if not all small island nations would be grand for a more off-the-beaten-track adventure, but I can personally attest to the adventurousness of the Solomon Islands.

I spent a week traveling the Solomon Islands (check out my Solomon Islands guide here) and can safely say I only scratched the surface when it comes to really cool and adrenaline-inducing things to do. There are over 1000 islands in ‘the Sollies,’ each with something unique to offer.

Naturally, most Solomon Islands adventures have a LOT to do with the ocean! As far as surfing goes, there are remote reef breaks here that have literally never even had a surfer before. Finding these depends on YOUR lever of adventure (and, well, if you have a boat you can live on too I suppose). There are some tiny and beautiful Solomon Islands hotels too.

The Solomon Islands are also known as one of the best places to scuba dive in the WORLD. They have some of the clearest water and most prolific dive sites (with the most sea life) on the planet. There’s a LOT of jungle to hike and explore, many successful fishing trips, and some different water sports around, too.

Places to Travel for Adventure in AFRICA

South africa.

South Africa is another one of those countries that really does have a little but of everything! Many people think of beaches when they think of South Africa, but in reality, there are deserts, mountains, beaches, and more.

Cape Town is actually one of the most adventurous cities I have been to. It has hiking, climbing, kitesurfing, paragliding, helicopter-ing, abseiling, surfing, diving, and more available within a few minutes of the city center! Check out Cape Town’s top 10 adventures and also 100 things to do in Cape Town if you need some inspo; I can’t wait to go back.

But, Cape Town is merely the beginning of places to travel for adventure in South Africa. There are some incredible road trips to check out, such as the Garden Route, which touches upon lots of amazing coastlines, national parks, hikes, waterfalls, and beaches. The middle of the country is home to beautiful expansive deserts, and of course, there are TONS of places to see wild animals and ‘the Big 5″ such as famous Kruger National Park.

Perhaps one of my favorite adventure destinations in South Africa is the Drakensburg Mountains- on the border of Lesotho . These are some of the most incredible mountains I have seen in my life, and are home to TONs of single-day treks and also treks as long as 300km (“The Grand Traverse”). The ‘Devil’s Tooth’ mountain is a famous view, as well as the second-highest waterfall in the whole world, Tugela Falls. If you do the hike to Tugela Falls you will be able to see both, as well as scaling metal ladders attaches to the cliff face. An adventure for sure!

Victoria Falls

Forming the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe one the famous Zambezi River, Victoria Falls is a true destination for adventure. There are lots of ways to experience one of the largest waterfalls in the world! To make the most of Victoria Falls, I recommend spending some time on the Zambian side (Livingstone) AND the Zimbabwe side (Victoria Falls), not only so you can form your own opinion on which side’s view is better (its an age-old debate) but to take part in more adventures as well.

Livingstone, Zambia is essentially built on adventure tourism. There are multiple ways to fly over the falls (prop plane, microlight, helicopter) and even more ways to experience them from the ground or the water. There are TONS of boat cruises and sunset trips on the Zambezi, as well as safaris around the area, quad biking, horseback riding, and even fishing. It’s a great place to see a lovely African Sunset .

Rafting is also famous on the Zambezi – but don’t worry, you raft on the part of the river AFTER the falls! There’s a huge bungee jump from a bridge that connects the Zambian side to the Zimbabwean side, and because of this, you will need your passport just to do the jump!

Perhaps the most adrenaline-inducing adventure at Victoria Falls is swimming in the Devil’s Pool (dry season) or the Angel’s Pool (wet season). These are famous pools RIGHT on the edge of the 300+ ft waterfall – so close you can nearly look off the edge! In wet season when you can’t safely make it to Devil’s Pool, you can book a tour to Angel’s Pool and hold onto a rope as waist-high water goes over the edge of the falls. Its an absolute thrill!

Kenya is located in East Africa and a popular destination for safaris and adventure holidays. With regular flights from many countries, it makes it an easy country to get to, and then moving about you have two main options of flying (which can be expensive) or driving. I have travelled around both ways and could recommend both. I would recommend you have a driver if you decide to drive. You can spend any length of time in this wonderful country and have the most amazing time.

Whilst Kenya is well known for its amazing safari adventure, people of all ages will make memories of a life time. We have just returned from 3 weeks with three small children (4, 4 & 1) proving safari really is possible with kids! Take a look at House in the Wild , it will blow your mind and offers far more than just a safari experience. We visited local schools, a Maasai Village, the rhino sanctuary just to name a few.

Pre children, I joined Angell Safaris and cycled 300km from Nairobi to Mombasa. The most incredible experience of my life. It was such an awesome way to see the country, go on safari, and really challenge your mind in one of the best adventure destinations!

By Anna Miller from Twins and Travels

Adventurous travelers are drawn to Antarctica for its isolated location, wild scenery, and opportunities for spontaneous exploration.

Just getting there is a huge part of the adventure, as you have to sail across the Drake Passage and its famously rough seas.

Once you arrive in Antarctica, the seas calm but adventure kicks into high gear. Passengers hop into zodiacs and cruise through brash ice, passing larger-than-life icebergs and glacier-covered mountains. Wildlife sightings are common, yet unpredictable, with huge colonies of penguins, swimming seals, and maybe even breaching humpback whales.

Simply sitting and watching life unfold at the bottom of the world is an adventure in itself, but there are more active ways to experience Antarctica. Depending on the time of year, expedition cruise operators may offer sea kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, hiking, cross-country skiing, and mountaineering. Other popular optional adventure activities are winter camping and the Polar Plunge, where brave souls jump into the cold Antarctic waters.

No matter how you spend your time, a  trip to Antarctica  is guaranteed to be unforgettable!

by Rhonda Krause from travelyesplease.com

Well, that’s about it for some of the best adventure destinations in the world! You may also enjoy these:

• The Best Adventure Captions
• Funny Road Trip Quotes + Captions
• Heymondo Travel Insurance: Our Review

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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.

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!

Introducing the best hostel EVER!

Hell yeah, you heard right! There are many great places in Indonesia, but none of them can live up to Tribal Bali .

A unique coworking hostel for those that want to travel the world while working from their laptops. Make use of the massive open-air coworking spaces and sip on delicious coffee. If you need a quick screen break, just take a refreshing dip in the infinity pool or grab a drink at the bar.

Need more work inspiration? Staying at a digital nomad-friendly hostel is a really smart way to get more done whilst still enjoying the social life of travelling… Mingle, share ideas, brainstorm, make connections and find your tribe at Tribal Bali!

#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.

#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.

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

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.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

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.

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Ziggy Samuels

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10 Best Adventure Vacations Around the World

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

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

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

Paragliding in Umbria

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

It's also a paraglider's dream.

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

Heli-skiing in The Alps

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

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

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

Shark Diving in South Australia

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

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

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

Hut-to-hut Hiking in Colorado

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

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

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

Seeing Red-hot Lava in Hawaii

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

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

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

Snorkeling in Belize

Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure

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

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

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

Canopy Tour in Guatemala

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

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

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

Hiking Half Dome in Yosemite

Valerie de Leon/Travel + Leisure

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

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

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

Trekking to Machu Picchu

Rory Fuller/Travel + Leisure

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

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

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

Skydiving in Dubai

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

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

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

Top Adventure Travel Destinations: Unlock the Thrills of the Globe

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• Adventure travel is a booming industry, valued at $683 billion in 2017.
• New Zealand, known as the adventure capital of the world, offers a plethora of adrenaline-fueled activities.
• Adventure travel offers a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in the local culture and environment.
• Embarking on an adventure vacation can deliver significant benefits, from personal growth to a greater appreciation of our planet.

The Thriving Pulse of Adventure Travel

According to the Adventure Travel Trade Association, the global adventure travel market surged to a staggering $683 billion in 2017, growing annually by 21% since 2012. As more people recognize the immense benefits of this dynamic form of travel, the industry shows no signs of slowing down.

Thrill Seekers’ Paradise: New Zealand

Bungee jumping and more: the kiwi’s way of life.

Often hailed as the adventure capital of the world, New Zealand delivers a smorgasbord of adrenaline-inducing activities. From the nerve-wracking leap of bungee jumping, the stomach-churning thrill of skydiving , to the invigorating rush of white-water rafting, this nation offers a myriad of adventures that are bound to satisfy even the most daring of thrill-seekers.

Immerse, Engage, Transform: The True Essence of Adventure Travel

In the words of Shannon Stowell , CEO of the Adventure Travel Trade Association, “Adventure travel is about connecting with a place and its people, and immersing oneself in the local culture and environment.” This approach is integral to truly experiencing your destination and building meaningful relationships with its landscape and inhabitants.

Reaping the Rewards of Adventure Travel

Adventure travel goes beyond the simple thrill of adrenaline. It pushes you out of your comfort zone, challenges your assumptions, and leads to personal growth. From building resilience and problem-solving skills to promoting environmental responsibility, the benefits are manifold.

Flora’s Secret Insider Tips for Adventure Travel

Navigating the world of adventure travel can seem daunting, but with the right knowledge and preparations, you can make the most of your experience. Always research thoroughly, prioritize safety, respect local customs, and, most importantly, remain open to new experiences.

More Breathtaking Adventure Travel Destinations

Beyond New Zealand, the world is filled with destinations that offer spine-tingling thrills and heartwarming cultural exchanges. Whether you prefer scaling icy mountains or diving deep into the ocean’s abyss, the planet brims with unforgettable experiences that could spark an unending love for adventure.

Experience Pura Vida in Costa Rica

Costa Rica, a tiny country brimming with biodiversity, is another top pick for adventure enthusiasts. With its world-class surf spots, breathtaking national parks, active volcanoes, and abundant wildlife, this Central American gem truly lives up to its mantra of ‘Pura Vida’ or ‘pure life.’ Don’t miss the chance to zip line through its verdant rainforests or white-water raft along the exhilarating Pacuare River.

Unleash the Explorer in You in Nepal

Nepal , the home of the majestic Himalayas, is a trekker’s paradise. Embark on an epic journey to Everest Base Camp or explore the culturally rich Annapurna circuit. If you crave for more, paragliding in Pokhara, bungee jumping in The Last Resort, or a jungle safari in Chitwan National Park should definitely be on your bucket list.

Embrace the Wilderness in Canada

With its vast landscapes, Canada is ideal for adventure-seekers who relish in the great outdoors. Kayak with whales off the coast of British Columbia, camp in the rugged wilderness of Yukon, or ski down the slopes of the world-renowned resort, Whistler. Canada’s natural splendors offer endless possibilities for exhilarating escapades.

Conquer the Wilderness in Australia

Australia, the land down under, is a behemoth of adventure . Its vast landscapes, ranging from rainforests to deserts, make it a haven for thrill-seekers. You can surf the legendary breaks of Bondi Beach, dive the Great Barrier Reef, or brave a four-wheel drive across the sprawling outback. With every terrain imaginable, Australia is an adventure lover’s dream.

Step Into the Ancient Inca World in Peru

Peru is a treasure trove of history, culture, and adventure. This South American country draws adventure enthusiasts with its mesmerizing blend of ancient Inca ruins, vibrant cities, and diverse landscapes. Trek the world-famous Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, sandboard the dunes of Huacachina or navigate the Amazon River, the world’s largest river by volume.

Immerse in Arctic Adventures in Iceland

Iceland, the land of fire and ice, is a raw and rugged beauty that appeals to the adventurous spirit. Here, you can hike glaciers, bathe in geothermal hot springs, explore ice caves, and chase the Northern Lights. Each of these experiences is sure to leave you in awe of nature’s grandeur.

Why should I consider adventure travel?

Adventure travel offers an opportunity to immerse yourself in a different culture, challenge yourself, and create unforgettable memories.

Is adventure travel safe?

Yes, adventure travel can be safe, provided you choose reputable tour operators, follow safety guidelines, and maintain a reasonable level of physical fitness.

What are some of the best adventure travel destinations?

New Zealand, Costa Rica, and Nepal are some of the top destinations for adventure travel, offering a range of activities from bungee jumping to trekking.

What should I pack for an adventure travel trip?

Pack essentials like sturdy footwear, comfortable clothing, a first aid kit, and necessary gear for your chosen activities. Always consider the climate and culture of your destination when packing.

How can I ensure a positive adventure travel experience?

Research your destination, respect local customs, prioritize safety, and stay open to new experiences. It’s also a good idea to maintain a reasonable level of fitness before your trip.

What activities can I do in Costa Rica?

From zip-lining and white-water rafting to wildlife spotting and volcano hiking, Costa Rica offers an array of adventure activities.

Is Nepal safe for trekking?

Yes, Nepal is generally safe for trekking. However, it’s advisable to hire a reputable guide, stay on designated trails, and prepare adequately for changes in altitude and weather.

What kind of adventure activities are available in Canada?

Canada offers a wide range of outdoor activities, including hiking, kayaking, camping, skiing, and wildlife spotting.

What adventurous activities can I do in Australia?

Australia offers an array of activities including surfing, diving, hiking, four-wheel driving, and wildlife spotting.

Is Peru suitable for adventure travel?

 Absolutely! Peru offers a wide range of adventure activities like trekking, sandboarding, river navigation, and more, all set against a backdrop of rich culture and history.

What makes Iceland an attractive adventure travel destination?

Iceland’s unique geography and landscape make it perfect for various outdoor activities like glacier hiking, ice caving, Northern Lights chasing, and bathing in geothermal hot springs.

The rise of adventure travel is a testament to the human spirit’s thirst for exploration, cultural immersion, and adrenaline-fueled thrills. As you plan your next vacation, consider the plethora of benefits that adventure travel has to offer, and set your sights on a journey that goes beyond the ordinary.

• Adventure Travel Trade Association
• Tourism New Zealand
• Quotes by Shannon Stowell

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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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Adventure Bucket List: 50 Crazy Ideas & Things to Do

No bucket list, whether for travel or for life, is complete without some items that seem a little crazy; dangerous, even. Perhaps you find yourself in need of even making an entire adventure bucket list, solely dedicated to the craziest and most adrenaline junkie type of activities you could possibly come up with?

To get you started on planning your next adventure, I’ve compiled a list of some crazy and adventurous things to do that can give you great ideas. Some of these may seem easy, while others just might get you nervous just thinking about them.

PS: I must preface this list by saying participating in these adventures is at your own risk!

Adventure Bucket List: Crazy Ideas & Things to Do

1. air boat across an alligator swamp.

Because if something goes wrong with this activity, it can go really wrong, this has deservedly earned its spot on an adventure bucket list for anyone. You can trust, though, that rather than being dangerous, it’s likely going to be a lot of thrilling fun, possibly with some gator sightings to be made. Just do your due research to find the tour that best soothes your nerves ahead of time.

2. Arrive By Seaplane

Some places in the world, such as the private islands on Maldives, can only be reached by a seaplane that will take-off and land on the water. Make a plan to visit an island or a similar sight with this in mind and you’ll find yourself adding a bit of additional thrill to your journey.

3. Base Jump With a Wingsuit

This one is definitely for those looking for the most crazy bucket list ideas! You’ll don on a wingsuit, get on the edge of a high point – such as somewhere on the Alps where this is a particularly popular sport – and then you leap off it. The purpose is to glide back onto the ground with the help of the webbing-sleeved jumpsuit, but this is understandably an incredibly dangerous sport to try and tackle.

4. Bungee Jump

Bungee jumping is a classic bucket list item for any daredevil out there. It’s possible to try out almost anywhere in the world, and if you happen to be particularly adventurous, you might want to choose to do it precisely based on where the nature around you is the most spectacular to look at as you are falling off that ledge attached to a large elastic cord.

5. Cage Dive with Sharks

Also featured in some thrilling movies, cage diving into waters with sharks is not for the fainthearted. Thankfully, it is also a lot more fun and a lot less dangerous than what the films make it seem like, as long as you join a reputable tour for it. A truly unforgettable adventure, especially when you do it in one of the World’s best places to shark cage dive !

6. Catch a Wave Surfing

While this may not be the craziest item on this bucket list, it does take a fair bit of practice to learn how to surf. And especially when you’re just getting started, it’s particularly thrilling to see whether the approaching wave is one you’ll catch successfully – or whether the wave’s going to catch you instead! The feeling that comes from catching those waves once you’ve finally got the handle on surfing is such a great and exhilarating feeling.

7. Cliff Jump

Another great item to get added and then checked off your adventure bucket list is cliff jumping. You’ll want to do your due research ahead of time for approved spots, and maybe go with people who know what they’re doing, but finding gorgeous spots for cliff jumping is the easy part of this. If you love water and aren’t scared of heights, maybe this one’s for you to try out?

8. Dive to a Shipwreck

The sea is vast and filled with treasures like shipwrecks to be explored. Not only is this one adventurous and memorable activity, but it requires a lot of practice and skills with diving before it should even be considered. But once you’ve got all that down, diving down to explore a shipwreck is a lot of people’s dream come true!

9. Dog Sled

While cold weather may not be many of our things, it’s undeniable that wintery scenes and landscapes aren’t absolutely beautiful, not to mention filled with totally awesome winter bucket list activities . Dog sledding is perhaps from the most family-friendly end of them, but that doesn’t mean it isn’t a thrilling activity in its own right, even for us adults.

10. Eat Fire

You’ve probably seen a performer or two eat fire before, and already got curious back then over how easy they make it seem. It’s a really cool act to master, especially with all the possible tricks you can do while eating fire, but this one’s crazy enough you definitely don’t want to start learning without a supervision from someone who’s mastered it. You can start by read this article: How do fire eaters eat fire?

11. Eskimo Roll in a Kayak

“Do what now?” may be the first thought that crossed your mind upon reading this one, but knowing how to Eskimo roll in a kayak is actually a useful skill to know! Of course nobody wishes for their kayak to roll over in the first place, but you never know what could happen, so perhaps it’s a good time to learn this before you hop into your kayak again. 

12. Explore a Cave

Could this adventure bucket list item be your next on your hobby list ? As with many other hobbies, to get into exploring caves, you’ll also want to start off easy and gradually move towards more challenging ones. Best way to go about this is to find a caving club near to where you’re living and join them for one of their easiest caving trips. Even if you want to progress to exploring caves independently, a great rule of thumb is to never do so alone.

13. Flip on a Trampoline

We’ve all jumped on trampolines here and there when we were kids, and these days it’s easier than ever to get one added onto your backyard or to go hang out at a trampoline park. But flipping on a trampoline isn’t something all of us can do, so why not make it a fun challenge for yourself to learn how to flip on a trampoline, and then do it?!

14. Fly on a Trapeze

Trapeze acts are performing acts we’ve all seen and admired from afar before, but it’s totally possible to get your own turn to shine as you fly on a trapeze! Especially for those of us who are afraid of heights, this can come across as quite a crazy bucket list item idea, but it’s thankfully possible to try out in a safe supervised environment. In fact, the Internet is full of websites offering just that and you can read about my experience here: A day at trapeze school: a circus-style aerial class .

15. Flyboard

In the last couple of years, flyboarding has really become a hit among water sports lovers. It is a water sport where propulsion drives you up in the air. Seems like it’s possible to do in so many spots these days, especially around Southern Europe and Dubai (I went flyboarding in Cancun, Mexico !). It’s not quite like riding a banana boat, though; you’ll have to spend a little bit of time learning the basics and even then it can be a challenge to successfully do it. However, it’s a fun and adventurous, but relatively safe way to challenge your mind and body once you get properly started with it. 

16. Free Dive for Abalone

You’re not allowed to scuba dive in order to catch abalone, which certainly makes this a unique adventure to try. This extreme sport is especially popular around Northern California, though it may be possible to do elsewhere too—and also illegal in some other places. Find a good spot for abalone, don on your swimwear, and get diving! 

17. Get a Tattoo

Although getting a tattoo isn’t among the craziest of ideas on this list at first glance, putting permanent ink on your body – and being in pain throughout the experience – is quite crazy after all, if you ask me. Many do it on a whim, but I do recommend you at least give it enough thought to come up with a tattoo you won’t regret five minutes later, let alone the next fifty years. Maybe check out on of these 27 Beautiful Tattoos That Tell Their Own Travel Stories for inspiration.

18. Go Bamboo Rafting

While opting for a bamboo raft may not make for an adventure as exhilarating as jumping on a whitewater raft would, it’s still a great and memorable, unique adventure in its own right. Not to mention it’s environmentally friendly! You can go bamboo rafting in Jamaica and Thailand’s Chiang Mai, but China’s Yangshuo is perhaps best known for it. 

19. Go Bobsledding

If you’re looking for a thrilling winter sport to try out with a friend or a loved one, bobsledding is a great one to give a go with. You’re going down narrow and icy tracks in high-speed with a sleigh that’s powered simply by gravity – what isn’t adventurous and exhilarating in that?!

20. Go Fat Biking

Fat bikes have such brilliantly thick tires they allow for biking in environments that’d be difficult on a regular bike, such as a thick forest or snowy grounds. That means that with your fat bike, you can take it off-road and go explore areas you otherwise might’ve only walked through or choose not to visit at all. 

21. Go Heliboarding

Are you a lover of snowboarding and downhill skiing, and now looking to kick it up a notch with it? Then you’ve got to hop on board a helicopter to reach a more remote slope, and then jump off it to ski or board all the way down. Talk about crazy bucket list ideas, this one is certainly not for the faint of heart! 

22. Go on a Police Ride Along

While this will likely not turn out to be as crazy of an experience as portrayed in some movies, it’s still a thrill to hop into a police car and spend a day shadowing officers on the job. It will definitely give you a more authentic image of what their job’s like than any TV show or movie could! 

23. Go on a Survival Weekend

This can be a hardcore challenge especially those of us entirely accustomed to the city life. It’s not dangerous by any means, but you have to camp outdoors, and essentially will have to also pick and hunt your food. It’s a great experience to make you in general more resilient and resourceful in life. 

24. Go Paragliding

Paragliding is an awesome and adrenaline pumping way to see your surroundings from the air! You’ll usually fly with an instructor attached to you and the paraglide, so whilst an extreme sport of sorts, it’s by no means one that’s particularly dangerous. Of course, if you’re experienced in this, you may fly on your own, too.

25. Go Whitewater Rafting

Now, this is the more adventurous way to go rafting. Although moving through a stream, sometimes at high speed, may seem like a dangerous activity, if you choose your course right and go with the right crew, you should lose nothing, and only be gaining spectacular memories! This cool activity can be done all around the world, from the US to Turkey to South Korea. 

For an even more adrenaline rush, try Tidal Bore Rafting Nova Scotia’s Bay of Fundy Tides !

26. Go Windsurfing

To get the best of both surfing and sailing in one fell swoop, why not add windsurfing to your adventure bucket list? It’s fun and thrilling, but also easy and safe enough for even a beginner to try out. Since even kids can start learning windsurfing, this can be a fun activity for the whole family to do together! 

27. Go Zorbing

Although many of us have probably yet to try this one, I’m sure you’ve all heard of zorbing, where you place yourself into a big, transparent orb, then roll down a hill in it. I’d say if you’re looking for crazy bucket list ideas, this is a good one to add to it!

28. Hang Glide

If paragliding isn’t enough for you, time to amp up your time in the air and go hand gliding! A hand glider is non-motorized, so it is simply you and your body controlling the movement of the glider. This can definitely feel like a crazy and scary activity, but you’ll at least be attached to your glider by a harness, so suddenly losing your grip and falling off the glider shouldn’t be an issue of concern.

29. Join the Mile High Club

Yup, you all know what this one’s about, right? Being intimate while flying in a plane is certainly on a lot of people’s sex bucket list . It may be a little bit dangerous, because it just may get you in trouble with the airline you choose to score the achievement on. So, better make it worth the while and bring on your best moves and spirit!

30. Kite Surf

Here’s another surfing-like water sport to get your adrenaline pumping with! You may not need just as badass skills to stay standing on your board as you would with surfing, but controlling that kite while flying through water and air is a game of its own to master. It’s possible to kite surf through snow and ground, too. 

For the ultimate experience, complete this on at one of the 10 Best Places in The World to Kite Surf !

31. Parasail

An alternative to paragliding, especially if you happen to be scared of heights, is to go parasailing instead. You’ll still be gliding in the air with a parachute attached to you, but instead of controlling your own movement, you’re attached to a boat driving you all around a water-area, like a lake or sea. 

32. Play a Game of Paintball

Looking for an activity to do with your friends that’s fun, but also challenging? Then paintball may be an amazing choice! The object is to shoot guns with paint-filled capsules at your opponents before they tag you! It can get a little painful, so dress up in many layers! 

33. Rappel Down a Mountain

Climbing up a mountain is one thing, and rappelling down a mountain is another. Both are a challenge, and especially for those of us scared of heights coming down a mountain may prove to be much scarier than getting high up in the first place. Tackling a mountain, especially heading down one, just may be the next adventure you go on. 

34. Rappel Down a Waterfall

Even more exhilarating than rappelling down a mountain is to rappel down a waterfall. This is an extreme sport that has been gaining a lot of popularity over the last decade, and numerous tours are being arranged these days to conquer waterfalls like this. It’s by no means an easy feat to complete and therefore another great and adventurous way to challenge yourself. 

35. Rappel into a Cave

You can also go exploring those caves we talked about above by rappelling into one! This is the way to go if it’s a cave with an opening only at its top. It’s a tad bit scarier than just walking into a cave, but can honestly be a lot of fun, not to mention picturesque.

36. Ride a Bull

Yes, to some extent it may still be possible to ride a bull in the way you’ve seen cowboys do in rodeo. But do note that this one does have potential to go awry. If you’re up for the challenge, find a way to do it; if you’re OK with a less thrilling experience, then find a bar with a mechanical bull.

37. Ride ATVs

Riding an ATV, whether it’s near your home or whilst somewhere on a trip, is another fun and easily accessible adventure to add to your list. If you’re completely new to it, I do encourage trying it with hired professionals for the first time, but if you end up getting your own ATV to ride down the line, many driving adventures can be had with this. 

38. Ride in a Hot Air Balloon

Riding high in the sky in a hot air balloon will give you a birds-eye view of the landscapes below. 

39. Ride in a Luge

Now here’s an experience you don’t hear everyone talk about, or might even know what it is yet! A luge is a self-driving car system, kind of like a go kart, except it relies on gravity and a downhill path to move. The only ride in the US is available in Michigan and it’s rather different from a traditional luge ride; to get the real thing, your best bets are Queenstown in Australia and Sentosa in Singapore.

40. Ride on a Scary Roller Coaster

Every big amusement park in the world seems to be equipped with at least one roller coaster these days that’s absolutely wild in how steep it can get or how fast it can go. Oftentimes it’s a combination of both! If you’re a thrill seeker, try to find the scariest roller coaster possible to tackle next. And if you’re one of those who’s been too fearful to get on that one particular scary roller coaster, now’s your chance to right that wrong!

41. Sail a Boat

Despite it seeming like a rather peaceful activity, sailing a boat can be surprisingly strenuous, and is most certainly always its own little challenge. If you’re looking for items for your adventure bucket list, but aren’t too much of a thrill seeker, this is a great one to add to your list.

42. Scuba Dive

Even if your scuba diving adventure doesn’t take you to exploring a shipwreck, at least not immediately, it’s always a fun adventure to embark on once you’ve learned its basics. There’s a lot of beauty to be discovered undersea, and while you can explore some of it by snorkeling, diving gets you properly close and intimate with life under the surface. 

43. Skydive

We’ve already covered paragliding and its equivalent forms, but skydiving is really where it’s at if you want to get as high in the air as possible. This is a truly gutsy hobby to embark on, but it can be incredibly rewarding if you just have the patience and courage for it. If this is just too scary for you, then how about having an indoor skydiving cxperience ?

44. Snowboard

Alternatively, you can go with skis as well. Either way, as long as you are going down a snowy hill, you’ll be doing a tremendous job checking this one off your bucket list. The world is full of amazing resorts with incredible slopes available, so you’ll likely end up going through a few of them once you get properly addicted to snowboarding or downhill skiing. 

45. Swim with Stingrays

While you’re advised to stay away from stingrays you come across in the wild, this is a fun and memorable activity you can do on a tour specializing in swimming with them. It’s possible elsewhere as well, but the most famous, and therefore most reputable, for swimming with Stingrays is Stingray City in the Cayman Islands .

46. Swim with Whale Sharks

Unlike the sharks you meet while cave diving, with whale sharks you don’t have to worry about them suddenly gaining interest in your flesh. Yes, they’ve got big mouths, and with everything we know of sharks you’ll probably be really nervous to get into waters with them. However, these gentle creatures are on a plankton diet, so you should be able to get in and out of the water with all of your limbs attached. 

47. Take a Geocaching Adventure

All you need to embark on a geocaching adventure is a GPS, which most of today’s phones come ready with, and perhaps some clothing and shoes appropriate for the weather. While the main purpose of geocaching is to find geocaches in your area, it can easily take you to places you’ve yet to discover, leading you to catch two birds with one stone. 

48. Try Skijoring

In this wintertime sport, you’ll be on skis, but instead of moving using ski poles to help you move, you’ll be attached to a dog, or a horse, or possibly a vehicle that’ll be pulling you forward. This originated in Norway, and is today mostly conducted as a competitive sport. 

49. Walk a Suspension Bridge

Suspension bridges are bridges where the deck of the bridge hangs on vertical suspenders attached to suspension cables above the deck. Even Brooklyn Bridge and Golden Gate Bridge are considered to fall under this category, so just by walking through those you can tick this item off your list. However, I encourage you to challenge your adrenaline levels and instead go for a bridge like Sidu River Bridge, for example. 

I walked this cool one while in Guyana :

50. Walk on Hot Coals

Also known as firewalking, walking on hot coals isn’t just a popular catchphrase, it’s an actual performance-type activity some skilled folks can do. But it’s possible for you to also learn firewalking, or at least try once! Though perhaps do so with a trained professional, so you don’t actually end up burning yourself.

51. Walk on the Wings of an Airplane

And yes, I’m talking about doing this while the plane is in the air! Just the thought of it may get goosebumps popping up all over your body, am I right? It’s actually considered relatively safe, though, as you will receive training for it and will also be attached to a harness all the way through.

52. Wrap a Snake Around Your Neck

Perhaps not the first thing you ever thought you’d do in your life, but turns out that sometimes the opportunity simply presents itself. Maybe don’t try to do this with any random snake you find in the wilderness, for both your and the snake’s safety, but it’s quite likely you’ll get lucky and find a moment where it’s possible to find yourself with a snake wrapped around your neck.

53. Zip Line

Finally, no adventure bucket list is complete without zip lining included in it. This is an extreme sport where you are attached to cords that “zip” you from one tree to the next. It has grown so popular over the years it seems to be possible to do just about anywhere – so easy to check off your bucket list! And while it can get your nerves on overdrive before setting off, it’s usually totally safe to do. 

How many of these adventure bucket list ideas have you already managed to complete? How many were you already planning on doing, and how many more dreams did just get added to your crazy bucket list?

While compiling bucket lists may seem like a corny idea, they can give an amazingly clear picture of all the things you want to complete in life, besides just getting that dream job and dream apartment. Going on adventures should be a big part of all of our lives, too! 

This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through my links, I earn a commission that helps to keep this blog running—at no extra cost to you. For more information read my full disclosure .

You might also enjoy.

Beach Bucket List: 60 Fun Things to Do at the Beach Outdoor Activities Bucket List: 75+ Fun Things to do Outside Travel Bucket List: 100 Best Places to Visit & Destination Ideas Polaris Slingshot Adventure: Driving Colorado’s Million Dollar Highway A Nova Scotia Adventure: Tidal Bore Rafting the Bay of Fundy Tides A Guide to Piranha Fishing (& Eating) in the South American Rainforest The Adventure of Cave Tubing in Belize A Day at Trapeze School: A Circus-Style Aerial Class

8 thoughts on “Adventure Bucket List: 50 Crazy Ideas & Things to Do”

Hello! Every Traveler would love to read your blog like me. This blog is one of the best blogs that you’ve written, which took me here to leave a comment. Though I’m an adventurer, I will never wrap a snake around my neck! But would love to get the Bird’s eye view of the landscapes below by riding in a hot air balloon. Every adventurer will have a dream of trying bungee jumping at least once in a lifetime so as for me. I even want to swim with sharks. Your travel blogs are awesome and I’m looking forward to more such blogs to read.

Glad you liked the articles

Hey, It’s an Amazing Post. I liked it and I love to share it.

VERY GOOD EXCELLENT

Really liked your post, so unformatted. I am always for your new posts.

thanks for giving such a great information for us, keep sharing and keep it up

I was actually surprised that I’ve done more on this list than I thought haha I’ve zip lined, I’ve rode a bull (mechanical), I’ve done parasailing, walked across a suspension bridge and explored a cave! I love the print out too, really awesome.

Really good bucket list !

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Make Travel Truly Transformational

17 Tips for Adding Adventure Activities to Your Next Incredible Trip

Want to add incredible adventure activities to your next trip? It can be hard to know where to begin, but we promise you, the effort is all worth it in the end. Get started by grabbing our 17 tips below for adding more outdoor adventures into your travels — and your life.

This post was created in collaboration with 57Hours. All great adventure tips are our own!

What’s in our guide to adventure activities?

You know those friends you have — the ones who go away and come back with all sorts of crazy stories about what they did on their travels?

Or worse, their Instagram feed is packed with epic pictures of them bagging mountain peaks, leaping into waterfalls, or kayaking pristine glass lakes?

It’s annoying, right?

But what if I told you that you can be one of those annoying people?

Or, as we prefer to think of it…

You could be one of those adventurous people!

You too can be someone who:

• Thrives in the great outdoors.
• Visits the most incredible places on the planet.
• Experiences the best Mother Nature has to offer.

You can be one of those people who comes home from vacation with a magical glow, like the sun is shining from inside your heart!

Adventure travel is not just for special people. It’s within reach for almost anyone and it’s not hard to get started. All it takes is a little preparation and a little practice.

More Travel Tips this Way Grab our 63 transformational travel tips , our guide to finding the best food when you travel , and our 20 best travel experiences .

The first step is to read on for our…

17 Tips for Adding Adventure Activities into Your Next Trip

How to find the best adventure activities.

1. Book an Adventure Tour

You might think that tours are less adventurous than going places on your own. But honestly, we love taking tours with local guides.

A guide can help you find the secret spots that only locals know about. If you’re craving extreme adventures, a knowledgable guide will lead you through safely and make sure you have the best possible experience.

Plus, a guide can provide any technical equipment you need and tell you exactly what you should bring to stay warm, dry, and comfortable for the whole trip. If you’re on a family adventure, hiring a guide will help you make sure your plans are suitable for kids (and any reticent adults in your party).

We prefer to deal with a small personable adventure company like 57Hours , who help you access the best human-powered outdoor adventures around the globe.

They personally review each experience they offer to make sure it’s fun and safe — but also environmentally responsible and sustainable. All you need to do is to choose your adventure tour and show up on time!

2. Ask Locals Before You Go

The internet has transformed the way we travel. No longer do we have to rely on out-of-date guide books that send everyone to the exact same handful of sights, restaurants, and hotels.

Instead, you can get personal recommendations about what to do and see from the experts — people who live there.

To find the adventurers at your destination, hop onto Facebook and search for local groups dedicated to hiking, climbing, mountain biking, or whatever kind of adventure you want to have.

Once you find them, pop in and start asking questions. People love the chance to show off their home towns, so don’t be shy! If you’re lucky, someone will invite you along their next outdoor adventure.

You can also use Instagram hashtags to accomplish the same thing. Just search a hashtag and when you find a photo you like, message the person who posted it asking how you can go there too.

Of course, you’ll want to stay away from the most popular Instagram spots, where everyone is there just to get the shot and get out!

3. Plan Ahead with Pinterest

People often think that adventure can only arise spontaneously — and sometimes that’s true. But more often, the best adventure travel is the result of lots of research and careful planning.

If you have a vacation destination in mind, start by researching the outdoor adventures available in the region. Or, if you have a particular adventure activity in mind, research the best places to do that activity.

If you don’t plan ahead, you might get lucky and end up having a great adventure. Then again, you might just miss out on some of the best experiences!

We like using Pinterest for travel planning . It is a visual search engine — and no, it’s not just a place to find recipes and crafting projects.

Top travel bloggers (like us!) share their best posts there, and you’ll find articles about secret places and amazing destinations you might never find on Google or in a guide book. Start by searching for “adventure holidays” or “adventure trips” to get inspired.

4. Get the Right Apps

From trail-finding, to mapping, to star-gazing, the right apps can make outdoor travel a little safer and a lot more fun.

We like Alltrails and Viewranger for help finding (and not losing) hiking trails. To find great adventure guides in your area, try out the 57Hours app , where you can find rock climbing, mountain biking, hiking, backcountry skiing tours and more.

Maps.me is our favourite offline map which can help you find your way even if you lose cell service. Peakvisor and Spyglass help you know exactly what mountains and stars you’re gazing at, while First Aid by the American Red Cross can be a literal life saver!

(Related: If you’re going to be hiking, discover the best hiking apps in this post by Atlas and Boots) →

Planning and Packing for Adventure

5. Less Travel Means More Adventure

When you book a trip, it’s tempting to constantly move around from place to place — one night here, the next night somewhere else, and so on. This is the absolute best way to kill any chance of adventure. You’ll spend most of your time in the most boring places on the planet — like hotels, train stations, and airports. Ugh.

Instead of moving all over the place, slow down!

Adventure tourism does not have to be a frenetic experience.

Instead, base yourself in a single place for a week or two. That’ll give you lots of time to explore, discover, and actually enjoy yourself. Plus, slow travel is much better for the environment… so we all win!

6. Be Open to Last-Minute Opportunities

I know I said earlier that you should plan your trip carefully before you go but a key part of planning adventure vacations is to plan lots of free time . I like to schedule must-do adventure activities early on in my itinerary and then leave later days open for unexpected opportunities.

If you pack your itinerary full from the minute you leave home until the minute you get back, you’ll shut down any chance of spontaneous adventure. It’s amazing how many times locals recommend things that sound just incredible and it’s a huge bummer when we have to say “no” because we just don’t have time.

Plus, if nothing comes up, you’ll get to relax — which is part of the point of travel, no?

7. Save on Accommodation, Spend on Fun

Here’s a secret that the luxury travel industry doesn’t want you to know.

You don’t need to spend a huge amount of money on hotels in order to have a great time. Instead of opting for five-star hotels (where adventure goes to die) or chain hotels (the McDonalds of accommodation), stay in a small family run B&B, a hostel (yes, even adults are welcome), or try camping.

By avoiding corporate accommodation, you’ll get to meet local people and your travel dollars will go straight into their pockets. Plus, you’ll save stacks of cash that you can spend on outdoor adventure activities!

8. Get in Shape Before You Go

This one is not a deal breaker but it can really help you have more fun on active vacations. Even if you don’t plan on climbing a mountain or going sea kayaking, getting used to using your body will greatly increase your enjoyment of almost any travel.

If you’re desk-bound by day, try to get out every day during lunch or after work for a brisk walk. On weekends, get outside or to the gym to get your body working. You can even book a weekend adventure to prep for a longer adventure while on vacation.

We also highly recommend learning a few yoga postures which, if practiced regularly, can help reduce muscle soreness, shorten recovery time, and prevent injuries.

Check out our guide to Yoga for Hikers to get started.

9. Pack the Essentials

Once you have an idea of what adventure activities you want to do, it’s time to pack the right gear. Now, don’t get me wrong. I do not advise loading up your suitcase with all the things .

But there are a few basics that no adventurer should not leave home without:

Comfortable hiking shoes. Shoes are the foundation of any adventure. If your foundation falls apart, your whole trip will crumble; if you get blisters or don’t have enough support in your shoes, the rest of your body will quickly start complaining, too.

If you’re going to spend a lot of time on your feet, get your hiking shoes early and wear them a lot before you leave home. That way, there are no surprises when you finally hit the trail.

A great rain jacket. Rain can really put a damper on things (ha ha!). But, as people from my extremely wet hometown of Vancouver will tell you, if you have the right rain jacket, a downpour can be downright fun.

I have hiked and biked through some of the craziest storms you can imagine. The amount I enjoyed these experiences directly correlated to how waterproof my jacket was that day.

You will never regret investing in a great breathable rain jacket .

Women’s intimate adventure gear. Ladies, let’s get real here for a minute. Women have a harder time in the outdoors because of our sometimes inconvenient biology. There are two pieces of equipment that have revolutionized my enjoyment of wilderness adventures.

The first is a menstrual cup which allows so much more freedom (and is way better for the environment) than traditional period solutions. I like the Lunette Cup but there are tons out there to choose from.

The second is the female urination device — sounds sciencey but it’s really just a funnel that helps ladies pee standing up! No more baring your butt to bears and bugs while in the great outdoors.

A few more essentials . Add a versatile pair of travel pants , some extra cushiony socks, and a sun hat or warm hat for extra comfort.

10. Rent Gear for Short Trips

Most people know that you can rent sports gear, like bikes and skis, all around the world. But did you know you can often rent camping equipment, hiking gear, bike touring bags, and climbing gear too?

If you just want to spend a couple of active days as part of a longer trip, plan on renting instead of packing gear from home. That way you can still pack light and enjoy one or more different adventures while you’re away.

Of course, booking a tour will accomplish the same thing with less hassle — your guide should provide all the technical equipment you need.

11. Always Be Eco-Friendly

The great thing about outdoor adventures is that many of them are naturally eco-friendly. Spending a few days hiking, biking, or kayaking is far better for the environment than a speedboat tour or sipping cocktails at a luxury resort.

However, before you book any activity, make sure to check the eco-credibility of the tour company. Are they aware of the impacts of tourism? Do they have an eco-protection policy or contribute to any local environmental organizations? If they don’t have it on their website, make sure you ask before you book.

(Don’t miss: Our post on how to be a green tourist has lots of tips to help you be eco-aware as you travel) →

Staying Safe in the Great Outdoors

12. Invest in Protection

If you ignore everything else on this list, at least do these two things before you leave home :

Get vaccinated. Research travel vaccines for your destination and, if they are needed, head to a travel clinic early! Some vaccines need multiple courses to take effect, so you need to plan ahead. We’ve had enough tropical diseases (say “hello” to our good friends malaria and dengue) to know that you can’t mess around when it comes to vaccines.

Find the right travel insurance. Not all travel insurance covers adventure sports, so when you’re buying, make sure you’re covered for whatever adventurous activities you’re planning. If you need to be airlifted off a mountain somewhere, you don’t want to be worrying about how much it’ll cost!

World Nomads provides reliable travel insurance that covers lots of adventure sports. SafetyWing offers simple month-to-month coverage, and also covers plenty of adventures.

Some adventure tours include insurance, so make sure to ask what is covered before you book.

13. Make Like a Boy Scout and Be Prepared

At My Five Acres, we pack as light as possible . But one thing we never leave behind is our mini first aid kit. It has all the necessary items we need for small accidents, blisters, slivers, and the like.

However, if you’re going on a bigger adventure, a bigger, more comprehensive first aid kit might be in order. At the very least, make sure that one person in your party is carrying a kit with all the bells and whistles — and that at least two people know how to use it.

When our friend spilled a pot of boiling water on her foot in Canada’s Broken Islands , more than an hour’s kayak from the nearest road, we were sure glad that my brother knew exactly what to do, and had all the equipment to do it! Not only did it save our friend from huge amounts of pain and a long recovery time, but it saved our entire trip!

14. Be Realistic About Your Limitations

It can be tempting to book the most awesome, epic, hard-core adventure possible but, unless you are an expert, just… don’t do it.

Instead, be realistic. If you spend all week at a desk and all weekend doing chores around the house, chances are your body won’t perform as well as you might like.

You can still have an amazing time doing a moderate, or even easy, activity ! Plus, you won’t spend the rest of your trip moaning about your sore knees or the massive blisters you got.

At the same time, make sure you’re not wimping out just because you’re afraid to push yourself. It’s a fine balance between edging out of your comfort zone and jumping off a cliff.

15. Stay Hydrated

Many an adventurous day has been ruined by lack of hydration. Every outdoor adventure activity, whether it’s in the snow or the blazing sun, requires that you drink plenty of water.

We always bring our own refillable water bottles and drink tap water (unless it is non-potable, of course). If we’re taking an adventure tour, we check that our guide can provide us water refills that don’t come from small plastic water bottles.

The last thing we want to do is add more single-use plastic to an already overloaded world.

16. Respect the Wildlife

Remember that wild animals are wild animals. They are not cute little kitties or puppies, waiting to be patted, photographed, and admired by humans.

Anything from tiny mosquitos to big ol’ grizzly bears can ruin your adventure and — let’s be honest — outright kill you. Before you head outside, do a little research about your destination.

What are the potential hazards from wildlife and how should you avoid them?

It might be as simple as packing a powerful insect repellent, or you might need to bring the right equipment to avoid attracting hungry animals to your campsite.

Do your research and be prepared so you know what to do when confronted by wild animals.

17. Solo Travellers Should Have a Home Buddy

I do a lot of day hikes alone when Stephen is off teaching yoga. Before I leave, I always text my hiking plan to him and tell him what time I should be back . If he hasn’t heard from me by then, he knows it’s time to take action. So far, he’s never had to send out a rescue party but he would if the need ever arose.

If you’re going solo, always have a buddy who will remember to worry about you and take action if you don’t check in.

And please, if you’re not experienced in the outdoors and you want to have a big adventure, hire a guide! They will make sure you have the most amazing time while also staying safe.

The world is big, wild, and wonderful — but it can also be deadly if you don’t know what you’re doing.

Getting out into the great outdoors is the perfect way to turn an ordinary vacation into a transformational trip. Challenging your mind and body can teach you more about yourself and just how much you are really capable of doing. So before you head out on your next trip, use our tips to make sure you have an amazing, safe, and adventurous time.

We hope our tips for adding more adventure activities into your travels has been helpful! If you have any questions, feel free to email us.

♥   Happy transformational travels, Jane & Stephen

We’re not going to lie, it takes a LOT of work to create travel guides like this. But it’s easy to help us out! If you book or buy something using one of our personal links in this post, we’ll earn a small fee at no extra cost to you. Of course, we would never recommend anything we didn’t 100% believe in! Huge thanks in advance! –S&J

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About Jane Mountain

Hi, I'm Jane, founder and chief blogger on My Five Acres. I've lived in six countries and have camped, biked, trekked, kayaked, and explored in 50! At My Five Acres, our mission is to inspire you to live your most adventurous life and help you to travel more and more mindfully.

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What is Adventure Travel?

by Elizabeth Gorga - Last updated on May 16, 2022

• Before You Go

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)

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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.

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ADVENTURE TRAVEL ACTIVITIES & STYLES

Overland safaris in the Serengeti, snorkelling in the reefs of the Philippines, kayaking under waterfalls in New Zealand, high altitude camping in Nepal, hiking the undulating trails in Patagonia – the list of adventure activity possibilities is endless.

Adventure activities come in all shapes and sizes – we’ve grouped them up across a variety of activity types and styles. No matter what kind of adventures you are into or looking for, we’ve got plenty that will get your wanderlust going.

Peruse the below adventure travel activities and styles and get ready for your adventure.

Hiking & Trekking

Everest Base Camp Trek Day 15: Monjo to Lukla

Everest Base Camp Trek Day 14: Tashinga to Monjo

Everest Base Camp Trek Day 13: Periche to Tashinga

Wildlife Adventures

Guide to Visiting the Ras Al Jinz Turtle Reserve in Sur, Oman

Dunedin & The Otago Peninsula – New Zealand

Exploring The Galapagos Islands – Part 2

Coastal Road Trip From Muscat to Sur, Oman – 8 Incredible Stops

OMAN ROAD TRIP ITINERARY: ULTIMATE 8-DAY SELF-DRIVE JOURNEY

The Ultimate New Zealand Road Trip – A Self Drive Itinerary

Aquatic Adventures

Spending A Day At Milford Sound

Visiting Doubtful Sound, New Zealand

Cultural Adventures

Get To Know Prem Tamang

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Urban Adventures

Epic Things To Do In Qatar – Adventure Travel Guide

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Top 6 Things To Do In Kathmandu, Nepal

Gay Adventure Travel

Diversity and inclusion in the travel space is super important. As a gay man who travels to off the beaten path places, I share my unique experiences and passion for adventure travel with other like-minded individuals. This gay adventure travel hub features travel tips for the LGBT community who love to get outdoors and are looking to plan their next adventure.

Explore Gay Adventure Travel

Get To Know Robert Sharp

Get To Know Eric Bacolas

Luxury Adventure Travel

Adventure travel doesn’t always mean you have to rough it. Combining affordable luxury with adventure activities has become our sweet spot. Whether it’s the personalised service of private tours, lush accommodation or bucket list adventure travel experiences that take your trip up a notch – we have you covered. Luxury travel highlights include 5 star hotels, helicopter flights and private trekking trips.

Desert Nights Camp – Luxury Camping in Wahiba Sands, Oman

The Perfect Stay In Marlborough, New Zealand

Wine Tasting in Hawkes Bay, New Zealand

ARE YOU READY?

Enough reading about everyone else’s adventures, right? It’s time to start mapping one out of your own.

Whether you are still looking for trip ideas, are already booked and planning the details or getting to the fun part – figuring out whats to take with you, our adventure planner tool will help get you there.

GET YOURSELF ADVENTURE READY

• FIND YOUR ADVENTURE
• PLAN YOUR ADVENTURE
• EQUIP YOUR ADVENTURE

Intrepid Travel is another great source for adventure travel itineraries that will get you outdoors and seeing the world. They even offer tailor-made tours that you can create from scratch.

Already know where you are going and looking for things to do while you are there? Check out Viator and their extensive range of day trips and multi-day tours to add some flavour to your itinerary.

)For a look at some of the most epic outdoor adventures around the world, be sure to check out Lonely Planet’s Atlas of Adventures . If you know where you are going, but not sure what to do when you are there – these experiences should do the trick.

Planning on driving yourself, then there is no better time than now to get your rental car booked. We use RentalCars to review the best rates when we book – and they tend to have a good selection of 4×4 vehicles.

There are a million and one places to stay around the world. Once you have decided where you are going, check out Hotels.com to compare prices and availability. I go on about it regularly, but every 10 stays results in a free night.

Unless you are staycationing, you’ll need to start looking into flights. Skyscanner is one of a handful of aggregators that looks for deals across various airlines. Use the Price Alerts function to keep an eye on deals for your next destination.

Considering travel insurance for your trip? World Nomads offers coverage for more than 150 adventure activities as well as emergency medical, lost luggage, trip cancellation and more.

( World Nomads provides travel insurance for travelers in over 100 countries. As an affiliate, we receive a fee when you get a quote from World Nomads using this link. We do not represent World Nomads. This is information only and not a recommendation to buy travel insurance.)

REI has been providing US-based outdoor lovers with gear since 1938. They offer quality and affordable kit for any type of adventure. Be sure to check out REI New Arrivals and REI Deals to get you started. If you aren’t fussed about the latest kit head over to REI Outlet where you can unlock even better deals on great gear.

UK-based mountain sports equipment retailer Ellis Brigham is one of my go-tos for outdoor clothing and accessories. Be sure to check out the Ellis Brigham Sale for deals on all your favorite brands and don’t miss out on their comprehensive Outdoor Gear Buying Guides

Cotswold Outdoor is another great resource when looking to get your outdoor adventure basics. For the latest arrivals check out New Season and to see what deals you can score, be sure to peruse the Cotswold Special Offers .

Amazon can also be an excellent resource for finding great deals on travel and outdoor adventure gear. Be sure to check out the curated Amazon Outdoor Recreation offering to peruse the latest and greatest in their adventure travel related products.

I am also obsessed with Earthrunners sandals. Great for general travel and hiking, these barefoot sandals are worthing checking out if you are looking for a light pair of kicks for your adventure.

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above are affiliate links and I earn a small commission if you make a purchase. Clicking through the links doesn’t cost you anything and if you decide to make a purchase with one of these organisations, you will be helping to support the DomOnTheGo website.

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50 american adventures in 50 states.

We've got all the ideas and inspiration you need to embark on the ultimate awe-inspiring adventure trip.

(Getty Images) |

Your state-by-state breakdown of adrenaline-pumping escapes across the country.

With snow-capped mountains, epic trails, captivating coastlines and inspiring national parks, America has long attracted adventure-seekers itching to explore to its otherworldly landscapes. While a few classic adventure destinations stand out to outdoorsy thrill-seekers – from the Grand Canyon's iconic rock formations to Yellowstone's mesmerizing prismatic hot springs – unexpected adventures abound in remote corners of the country. Whether you want to raft along Idaho's Salmon River or hike the spellbinding cliffs along Hawaii's Na Pali Coast, America teems with striking and diverse settings that appeal to every skill level and passion. Keep reading to discover 50 one-of-a-kind adventure trips across the country.

Alabama: Mountain bike along Little River Canyon.

Tucked into the Southern Appalachians and flowing above Lookout Mountain, Little River Canyon Natural Preserve offers sandstone cliffs, striking waterfalls and canyon cliffs to explore. Straddling the state's Cherokee and DeKalb counties, Little River Canyon offers ample opportunities for outdoor adventure, from climbing to swimming to whitewater paddling. For a trip to remember, enjoy a scenic mountain bike ride in the backcountry, which features 23 miles of dirt and gravel roads. After working up a sweat, check out the 45-foot waterfall, perched off of state Highway 35 at the northern entrance of the park, and enjoy a picnic before taking a scenic stroll along the boardwalk.

Alaska: Glacier trek in Anchorage.

Whether you want to heli-ski along the snow-capped Chugach Mountains, hit the 11-mile Tony Knowles Coastal Trail or enjoy prime wildlife-viewing in prized national parks, there are plenty of allures for trailblazers in Alaska. "Adventure is practically Alaska's middle name, and in and near Anchorage you can angle in the world’s largest urban fishery, hike to a glacier, surf the bore tide along Turnagain Arm and spot grizzlies from a floatplane," says Amy Alipio, senior editor at National Geographic Traveler. Another must-do experience is watching grizzlies snatch salmon at nearby destinations like Katmai National Park and Preserve, says Alex Howard, managing editor of the U.S. edition of Lonely Planet magazine.

Arizona: Hike Red Rock State Park.

Striking crimson rock formations draw hikers, New Age enthusiasts and photographers to Sedona. And there's no better way to experience the iconic ochre structures in all their glory than at Red Rocks State Park. Cathedral Rock is a particular highlight in this 286-acre nature area, which boasts a network of hiking trails catering to all skill levels and families. Stroll along the Apache Fire Loop, Eagle's Nest Loop and the Coyote Ridge Trail to soak in the scenery before enjoying a picnic at Oak Creek. For a memorable visit, consider joining a naturalist-led moonlight trek or geology hike.

See the top things to do in Arizona .

Arkansas: Float along the Buffalo National River in the Ozarks.

Follow your bliss in the Ozarks as you explore the tranquil, wildlife-filled Buffalo National River. You can tube, kayak, hike, bird watch or join ranger-guided programs, among other activities. A popular way to experience the area is floating along the river with a reputable outfitter, such as Buffalo River Float Service or Ozark Mountain Takers Hiking Adventures. During your adventure, keep your eyes peeled for elk and herons, and admire the area's unique sandstone and limestone rock formations, cliffs, caves and springs. Best of all, there are a variety of campgrounds and cabins available at the park, along with budget-friendly bed-and-breakfasts and inns nearby.

See the top things to do in Arkansas .

California: Paraglide over San Diego's Black's Beach.

Ever dream of taking in dazzling sea vistas as wind and gravity propels you in different directions? "In San Diego, you can soar above Black's Beach in a paraglider with outfitters like Torrey Pines Gliderport," Alipio says. If you're a novice, you can learn about paragliding, get a P1 certification (a beginner pilot paragliding certification) and enjoy five to eight flights over Torrey Pines' striking cliffs. During the aerial expedition, you'll learn about landing aerodynamics and risk management before launching off on your own. You can also opt to enjoy tandem instructional flights, where you'll whizz over Torrey Pines' sea cliffs and mansions on a 20- to 25-minute flight, followed by a scenic hike along the beach.

Colorado: Shred powder in Aspen.

If you want to race down snow-capped mountains and enjoy an après-ski rosy glow, consider alpine-skiing in Aspen , says Everett Potter, a columnist for Forbes and author of "Everett Potter's Travel Report." Whether you want to glide down black-diamond slopes at Aspen Mountain, snowboard on challenging terrain at Snowmass or strap on skis for the first time at Buttermilk, there are plenty of ways to embrace top-notch skiing and an off-the-slope winter wonderland. After checking out iconic ski runs like Bell Mountain, explore the sophisticated ski town's resorts (Viceroy Snowmass and The Little Nell are crowd-pleasers). And cap of your visit with a memorable post-ski cocktail at Ajax Tavern.

See the top things to do in Colorado .

Connecticut: Hike the New England National Scenic Trail.

Immerse yourself in striking natural scenery – with dramatic 500-foot craggy cliffs and sweeping views of Long Island and Hartford – at Bluff Head Preserve on the Mattabesett Blue Trail. The preserve is managed by the Guilford Land Conservation Trust and is a sliver of the sprawling 215-mile New England National Scenic Trail, which runs across Connecticut and Massachusetts. After raising your heart rate and snapping a few scenic photos along the Mattabesett Blue Trail, unwind and refuel in Guilford, Connecticut. In this inviting New England village, explore the quaint Town Green common area, low-key bed-and-breakfasts (check out The B&B at Bartlett Farm) and quintessential seafood restaurants like The Place Restaurant.

See the top things to do in Connecticut .

Delaware: Paddle through Delaware Bay.

Cape Henlopen State Park is a prime summertime spot for swimming, sunbathing and year-round biking and hiking. But for a unique outdoor activity and beautiful scenery, glide into Delaware Bay on a canoe or kayak. Along the journey, keep your eyes peeled for horseshoe crabs, osprey, dolphins and other wildlife. There are also a variety of tour operators, from the Outbound Collective to Quest Kayak, offering guided expeditions and rentals. Start your journey at the beach, then head to the Henlopen Lighthouse or the Point at Cape Henlopen State Park, where you'll spot dunes and migratory shorebirds. After taking in the area's lighthouse vistas, head to Lewes, Delaware, for a sweet scoop at Hopkins Farm Creamery.

Florida: Explore Everglades National Park.

With rare and endangered marine life, from alligators to manatees to blue herons, the Everglades is a dreamland for nature lovers looking to explore the area's excellent biological diversity, Howard says. No matter your pleasure – hiking, canoeing, biking, naturalist-led tours – there are plenty of classic adventure experiences in the Everglades. Enter at Shark Valley, the northern part of the park, located roughly 40 miles west of Miami, to tag along on a naturalist-guided hike, bike ride or tram tour. Rent a bike at the park's welcome center before tracing Tram Road, where you may even catch sight of an American alligator and you can take in sweeping views of the sawgrass marshland from an observation tower.

Georgia: Whitewater raft along the Chattooga River.

For a high-octane adventure filled with enchanting vistas and heart-pounding paddling with an expert, immerse yourself in the Chattooga River's rapids. With outfitter Southeastern Expeditions, you can pair rafting on Class II to Class IV rapids with an overnight camping experience – complete with steak or trout dinners – in Sumter National Forest. You might recognize the scenic 40-mile-long river rapids from the Academy-award nominated 1972 thriller "Deliverance." After getting an adrenaline rush and taking in the river's striking backdrops, explore more of northern Georgia's prized natural attractions, such as the 1,000-foot Tallulah Gorge and Chattahoochee National Forest.

See the top things to do in Georgia .

Hawaii: Hike Kauai's Na Pali Coast.

Cinematic coastal scenery. Spellbinding beaches. Pristine waterfalls. This is what attracts adventurers to Kauai's rugged, off-the-tourist-track outdoor lover's paradise. A setting for the "Jurassic Park" films, Kauai offers an otherworldly landscape that's both rugged and "primordial-looking," Alipio says. She recommends immersing yourself in the island's rugged wilderness "by trekking the 5-mile Wai Koa Loop Trail, which passes through the U.S.'s largest mahogany forest," she adds. Along this trail you'll snake past lagoons, a swimming hole and serene picnic areas. Make sure to pack along your camera to take in views of Mount Namahana's staggering 2,600-foot peak and the imposing Kilauea Stone Dam, a tranquil respite with magnificent falls.

Idaho: Whitewater raft along the Salmon River.

With desert scenery and geothermal hot springs, the Salmon River is an outdoor lover's paradise. For a once-in-a-lifetime adventure trip, "raft the Salmon River, which includes Class IV rapids," Alipio says. Even better, step out of your comfort zone on an action-packed whitewater rafting trip. "One of the best things about this adventure is that you won't be getting a Wi-Fi signal, so you can be in the moment," she says. Plus, you don't have to be an experienced whitewater rafter to embrace the great outdoors. With a reputable outfitter, such as O.A.R.S, it's easy to embark on a guided rafting trip before bunking down at campsites and enjoying all-included meals at the end of the day.

Illinois: Rock climb in Giant City State Park.

Get your heart racing by bouldering in this verdant, 4,055-acre retreat in southern Illinois. Along the Giant City Nature Trail, you'll admire striking 12,000-year-old sandstone bluffs. And at Devil's Standtable and Shelter 1 Bluff, climbers looking for a challenge can rappel on grueling routes. Just remember to bring your own ropes and climbing equipment. Adventure-seekers wanting more thrills can push their limits on the rustic, 12-mile Red Cedar Trail, which weaves past striking rock formations and boasts an overnight campsite. During your visit, also make sure to stop and admire the park's unique landscapes, 75 species of trees and colorful wildflowers.

Indiana: Hike along scenic trails and camp at sand dunes.

An under-the-radar park, Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore stretches the southern edge of Lake Michigan and offers 50 miles of trails to explore. You can enjoy kite-flying, wildlife-viewing, horseback riding and fishing in summertime, plus indulge in snowshoeing and skiing in the winter months, among other pursuits. Find your bliss along the Porter Brickyard and Calumet bike trails in autumn, with peak leaf-peeping around mid-October, or in spring, when beautiful wildflowers speckle the trails. After working up a sweat, unwind at Dunewood Campground, which is open from April to October, or check out nearby areas like Portage and Chesterton, which offers lively restaurants, shops and easy access to the trails.

Iowa: Seek serenity in Coon Creek Wildlife Area.

The Coon Creek Wildlife Area encompasses nearly 1,000 acres and features rugged dirt paths that weave past pristine meadows, verdant oak forests and bucolic landscapes. Make Decorah, Iowa, which is located about 7 miles from the Coon Creek Wildlife Area, your home base. After meandering along the area, you can try trout fishing. The area is home to brook and brown and rainbow trout. Back in Decorah, there are plenty more outdoor diversions, from mountain biking to nature walking. A main draw is hiking, canoeing and fishing along the Trout Run Trail. When you're ready to turn in, Hotel Winneshiek offers a centrally located place to hang your hat.

Kansas: Head for the hills.

Known for its rare tallgrass prairie ecosystem and tucked-away small towns and storied sites, Kansas' Flint Hills region offers much more than a home on the range. Venture to Council Grove, near the Flint Hills National Scenic Byway, to admire eye-catching wildflowers, sprawling prairie grasses and historic attractions, like the Kaw Mission State Historic Site along the Santa Fe Trail. Those interested in agritourism can get their fix with traditional prairie experiences at local homesteads. For more activity, hit the trails along the Konza Prairie Nature Trail or Kings Creek Loop. Then, explore nearby Manhattan, Kansas, to brush up on Flint's unique ecology at the Flint Hills Discovery Center.

Kentucky: Navigate the world's longest underground cave network.

"You don't have to be a hardcore caver to experience the wonders underground," Alipio says. "At Mammoth Cave National Park in south-central Kentucky, you can explore the world’s longest known cave system in a guided tour," she explains. Stretching across 400 miles, the cave system is best experienced on a ranger-led tour. In the autumn, visitors can tag along the Grand Avenue Tour, which wraps around narrow canyons, gypsum-filled passages and dripstone formations. And in winter, you can join the Gothic Avenue Tour, where you can view 200-year-old stone monuments and admire signatures written in the 19th century by candlelight. Afterward, get some fresh air on a backcountry hiking or off-road biking trail.

See the top things to do in Kentucky .

Louisiana: Walk the Wild Azalea National Recreation Trail.

This 26-mile trail snakes through hardwood forests, pine-laden hills and wetlands and offers ample opportunities for spotting diverse wildlife, including beavers and eagles. Tucked inside the Kisatchie National Forest in Alexandria, Louisiana's southwest corner, the trail is well-suited for hikers of all skill levels. If you don't have it in you to walk the entire trail, you can traverse a section of it – from the town of Woodworth to the Valentine Lake Recreation Area. You can also pedal your way through the forest on a mountain bike. Stop at Castor Creek Scenic Area to admire pristine pine and hardwood trees. And of course make sure to catch a whiff of the area's namesake azaleas.

Maine: Catch crowd-free waves.

Forget the can't-miss waves of Hawaii's Waikiki or California's La Jolla. Instead check out a thriving surf scene just 15 minutes south of downtown Portland, Maine, Potter says. At Ogunquit Beach, Kennebunk and Long Sands Beach in York, Maine, you'll find ideal surfing waves and a dedicated surf crowd. You can take a lesson (and grab necessary equipment) at a nearby surf shop like Liquid Dreams Surf Shop at Long Sands Beach or Wheels N Waves at Wells Beach. Or, if you're already a pro, grab your board and tackle imposing swells at Higgins Beach, where avid riders skim 15-foot waves.

See the top things to do in Maine .

Maryland: Catch oysters along the Eastern shore.

Embracing seaside scenery and catching crustaceans is the perfect way to experience the Eastern Shore. You can try your hand at oystering with captain Ed Farley, "a longtime oysterman who takes visitors on a working skipjack for a two-hour sail on the bay," Alipio says. Farley's company, Oyster Catcher, also offers catered picnics if you would rather take a leisurely sail. After your cruise, Alipio advises eating some delectable oysters (or Maryland's crowd-pleasing blue crabs) at The Crab Claw Restaurant, a St. Michaels institution. Cap off your Eastern Shore adventure by exploring the Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge, where you can catch sight of bald eagles, snow geese (in autumn and spring) and peregrine falcons.

See the top things to do in Maryland .

Massachusetts: Explore Cape Cod on a stand-up paddleboard.

Cape Cod's superb coastal scenery and unspoiled salt marshes and sandy beaches can easily be navigated while balancing on a stand-up paddleboard. And though there are plenty of ranger-led programs worth checking out at Cape Cod National Seashore, a unique way to get moving and enjoy the area's scenery is with outfitter SUPfari Adventures in Brewster and Orleans. Daredevils can even join a SUP Glow Tour after dark to paddle beneath the stars. If you would rather explore by daylight, catch sight of horseshoe crabs and osprey and admire the Cape's thriving ecosystem on a guided adventure with a reputable instructor. After squeezing in a workout, reward yourself with a fresh chowder at Brewster Fish House.

Michigan: Bike, kayak or hike around Grand Island.

In the warmer months, Michigan's Upper Peninsula offers excellent opportunities for escaping the heat and enjoying active adventures, Potter says. A lesser-known gem, Grand Island is a quick jaunt from Munising, Michigan, and is located in Hiawatha National Forest, a nature lover's playground with picturesque trails, craggy cliffs and pristine lakes. Paddle your way through the water to check out beautiful views of Pictured Rocks National Lake Shore, tucked-away beaches, sea caves and sandstone cliffs. You can easily rent a kayak and paddleboard or bike from Muntsing and catch a ferry from the Ferry Dock off of state Highway M-28, from Memorial Day to early October.

See the top things to do in Michigan .

Minnesota: Paddle through Boundary Waters.

For a mix of small-town charm and pristine wildlife, embark on an adventure to Ely, Minnesota, an ideal launching pad for exploring Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, which offers untouched lakes and streams. You can enjoy peace and solitude as you kayak along the area's remote lakes and rivers, which weave past pine forests, craggy bluffs, imposing rock formations and sandy shorelines, Potter says. You will need a permit to visit the protected area, but if you opt to navigate the lakes with a reputable outfitter like Ely Outfitting Company or Wilderness Outfitters, you won't need to worry about logistics. With about 1,500 miles of canoe routes, Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness is the perfect place to immerse yourself in nature.

Mississippi: Bike the Homochitto.

The Magnolia State offers plenty of diversions for thrill-seekers, from sailing near Biloxi to biking through lush national forests. For a heart-pounding adventure, grab a set of wheels and tackle the diverse trails in Homochitto's 189,000-acre green space. You can swerve past hardwood forests and unique wildlife – from turkey to white-tailed deer – on a memorable bike ride. The roughly 10-mile Richardson Creek Trail in the Clear Spring Recreation Area is an ideal route for avid mountain bikers, with its steep inclines and diverse terrain. After taking to the great outdoors, retreat to nearby Natchez, Mississippi, roughly 25 minutes west of the forest, where you'll find a variety of affordable inns, hotels and dining establishments.

Missouri: Admire geological wonders at Elephant Rocks State Park.

As its name suggests, this fascinating park features mammoth-sized red boulders created roughly 1.5 billion years ago. The largest granite rock – a 27-foot-tall boulder – carries a unique name, Dumbo. Venture to the 1-mile Braille Rail to explore a labyrinth of the monumental-sized geological marvels, a granite outcrop and a small pond. When you need a break, picnic near the rust-colored boulders. After taking in the striking rock display, retreat to Graniteville, a nearby town off Missouri Route 21, where you can view original granite structures.

Montana: Cross-country ski in Big Sky Country.

Across Big Sky Country, you'll find miles and miles of well-groomed trails to tackle, Potter says. In western Montana, breaks from gliding along downhill slopes can be spent cross-country skiing. At the Glacier Nordic Center, there are plenty of trails well-suited for varied ski levels, from beginner to advanced. And if you're itching to visit Yellowstone in the off-season, head to Lone Mountain Ranch, where there are miles postcard-perfect Nordic paths twisting through the Rocky Mountains. You can even opt for an expert-led tour with a guide from the ranch. After an exhilarating day outdoors, unwind at the ranch's inviting restaurant and soak in the unspoiled forest and meadow scenery from your rustic log cabin.

See the top things to do in Montana .

Nebraska: Canoe or kayak along the Niobrara River.

This free-flowing river lures outdoorsy types, animal lovers and geologist enthusiasts. You can take in striking sandstone bluffs and raft past canyons, valleys and magnificent falls. The Smith Falls, which rise higher than 60 feet, are a top highlight. If you're a novice rafter, consider checking out the Cornell Bridge to Rocky Ford route, with Class I and Class II rapids. Reputable outfitters like Niobrara River Range offer guided expeditions and rentals. After floating along the river, stretch your legs in the Fort Niobrara National Wildlife Refuge, where you can spot prairie dogs, deer, elk, turtles and bison, among other species along scenic trials and observation platforms.

Nevada: Snowmobile in Lake Tahoe.

For an off-the-beaten-track snowy getaway, head to Lake Tahoe Nevada State Park, where you can snowmobile along fresh powder in the area's Tahoe Basin. With towering granite bluffs, snow-blanketed meadows and tall pines, the area transforms into a winter wonderland. Sports lovers can also cross over the border to California to enjoy more cold-weather pursuits, from dog-sledding to cross-country skiing at Squaw Valley – the spot where the 1960 Olympic Winter Games were held. What's more, Zephyr Cove offers a variety of snowmobiling tours and promotions, making it easy to embark on a high-octane lakeside snowmobile tour along well-groomed trails.

New Hampshire: Push your limits on tough trails in the White Mountains.

For a strenuous, but rewarding hike, lace up your boots and venture to Presidential Range in New Hampshire's legendary White Mountains. Potter recommends taking advantage of trail season and hiking during the warmer months (in winter, Mt. Washington State Park shuts down facilities). As you tackle the long route, weaving past towering peaks like Mount Washington, which ascends to nearly 6,300 feet, you'll weave past forests and maple-, beech- and birch-lined trails. Best of all, you'll take in enchanting views of the alpine scenery. The best way to experience the area is on a guided tour. With Cathedral Mountain Guides, you can tackle difficult mountaineering and rock climbing expeditions with a knowledgeable guide.

See the top things to do in New Hampshire .

New Jersey: Hike Cape May Point State Park.

With coastal marshes, sandy dunes, forests and pristine seaside scenery, this charming 235-acre park offers plenty of arresting trails, picnic areas and lookout platforms for admiring the Cape May Peninsula. Take the short, but picturesque Red Trail to reach the lighthouse and gaze over a viewing platform, where you can often spot osprey, swans and wading birds. If you're pining to cast a line, the area is home to striped bass, bluefish and flounder, among other species. And if you want to stretch your sea legs, you can easily rent a kayak or stand-up paddleboard and embark on a guided nature tour from mid-June to September with a reputable company like Aqua Trails.

See the top things to do in New Jersey .

New Mexico: Sled along dunes.

If you've ever wanted to sandboard in a surreal desert landscape, make your way to New Mexico's White Sands National Park. Set beneath the San Andres Mountains in the Tularosa Basin in southern New Mexico, these striking dunes beckon to adventurers yearning to bike, hike, camp and sled along soft, gypsum dune fields. For an otherworldly adventure, join a guided full moon bike ride or hike. Best of all, you can admire the desert dunes, pines and aspens in this top New Mexico vacation spot year-round, though comfortable temperatures in the spring and fall beckon to hikers. For a memorable stroll, hit the Playa or Alkali Flat trails.

See the top things to do in New Mexico .

New York: Explore Adirondack Park.

"I think the state parks don't get nearly enough of the recognition that they should," Howard says, highlighting Adirondack Park as a tranquil respite for those looking to escape the daily grind. The 6-million acre region offers diverse areas to explore, untouched natural landscapes and an abundance of ways to soak up the great outdoors. Plus, there are more than 2,000 miles of trails to explore. Plan a trip in autumn to catch sight of blazing colors – from purple to amber to yellow hues. Castle Rock in Blue Mountain Lake is particularly alluring in the fall, when you can admire bright leaves blanketing beech, white ash and cherry trees. Another standout is Mount Haystack, which rises 4,960 feet.

North Carolina: Take a scenic hike in the Blue Ridge Parkway.

A quintessential, can't-miss destination for every intrepid hiker, North Carolina's Blue Ridge Parkway is especially bewitching in autumn, when green, yellow and amber leaves cast a fiery glow across the scenic stretch through the Blue Mountains. Though the sprawling, 469-mile parkway meanders through Virginia and North Carolina, highlights for adventure-seekers can be found near Asheville. Make your way to Mount Pisgah, where you'll find picturesque trails and a picnic area. If you're an avid hiker, don't skip the challenging 16-mile Shut-In Trail. Another must-see is the Craggy Gardens Trail, a self-guided route lined with wildflowers that leads to a sweeping view of the Black Mountain Range.

See the top things to do in North Carolina .

North Dakota: Take the Petrified Forest Loop in Theodore Roosevelt National Park.

With its colorful painted canyons, prairie grasses and cottonwood forests, Theodore Roosevelt National Park is an outdoor lover's playground. You can admire bighorn sheep and deer, float along the Little Missouri River or hit underrated nature trails. Meander along the 10-mile scenic Petrified Forest Loop to stroll past rocky badlands, petrified wood and striking rock formations. For an easier hike, trek along the Wind Canyon Trail, which, as its name suggests, weaves past a wind-carved canyon as you ascend to a scenic lookout of the Little Missouri River. There are plenty of other outdoor adventures to experience in the park, from horseback riding to fishing to canoeing.

Ohio: Hike the foothills in Burr Oak State Park.

There's a lot for adventurers to love about backpacking through Burr Oak State Park, an underrated woodsy Appalachian destination with hickory- and oak-filled paths and ideal conditions for wildlife watching and stargazing. Set in the southeastern part of the state, the state park offers plenty of accommodations, from rustic campgrounds to well-appointed lodges. Plus, visitors can join naturalist-led expeditions, like full moon hikes. Arrive in autumn to catch sight of yellow, crimson and orange hued leaves; in spring, keep your eyes peeled for orchids, violet wildflowers, Dutchman's breeches and other blooms. No matter what time of year you visit, look for white-tailed deer, box turtles and other wildlife.

See the top things to do in Ohio .

Oklahoma: Fish along the Mountain Fork River.

If you're itching for a tranquil weekend in the great outdoors, venture to southeast Oklahoma's Mountain Fork River, where you can soak in spellbinding sights and enjoy trout fishing. Take in dramatic views of imposing peaks and pine trees along the 14,000-acre Broken Bow Lake, as you reel in local rainbow and brown trout. Unsurprisingly, there are plenty more ways to embrace quality time in the great outdoors here, whether you want to kayak, raft, float or canoe along the river. If you're not a DIY type, pick up supplies and explore the river beside an experienced fisherman with an outfitter such as DFWflycasting or Four Seasons Fishing Guide Service.

See the top things to do in Oklahoma .

Oregon: Catch the waves at Oswald West State Park.

Spending a trip skimming large swells may seem like a pipe dream in the Pacific Northwest, but at Oswald West State Park's Short Sands Beach, it's easy to swim, surf and boogie board. And though you won't find laid-back clam shacks or tiki huts here, you will find an active surf team, enchanting vistas of Neahkahnie Mountain and Cape Falcon and prime conditions for surfing. Sea temperatures along the northern coastline linger around the cool 40s, making a wetsuit a necessity. If you cringe at the prospect of plunging into icy waters, fret not: There are plenty of other worthwhile diversions at the park, including picturesque coastal hiking trails packed with red cedar, Sitka spruce trees and hemlocks.

Pennsylvania: Reach new heights in Hyner View State Park.

If you've dreamed of soaring over dramatic overlooks, Hyner View State Park offers a scenic and storied spot to try your hand at hang gliding. From above, you can take in sweeping mountain vistas and postcard-perfect views of the Susquehanna River's West Branch. Adventure tour outfitter Hyner Hang Gliding Club Inc. offers paragliding and hang gliding classes. After ascending to inspiring heights, enjoy more relaxing outdoor adventures on terra firma. Stretch your legs along the Donut Hole Trail or enjoy fishing, canoeing, mountain biking, horseback riding and camping in nearby Renovo, Pennsylvania, at Sproul State Forest.

See the top things to do in Pennsylvania .

Rhode Island: Glide along Narragansett Bay.

Shingled cottages, pristine beaches and the charming Point Judith Lighthouse are among Narragansett's top attractions. But here's a secret: For superb coastal views, the best way to experience this beach destination is along the water. Set sail on a fishing charter or sunset trip to soak in the scenery. If you want to learn the ropes, take a course at Narragansett Sailing School. If you would rather let someone else steer the wheel, Rhode Island Bay Cruises offers a 90-minute cruise that weaves past 10 storied lighthouses across the state. Afterward, check out Victorian architecture in Narragansett or explore nearby Galilee, a laid-back New England town with kitschy clam shacks (don't skip Iggy's Doughboys & Chowder House.)

See the top things to do in Rhode Island .

South Carolina: Kayak through Folly Creek.

Grab a kayak or stand-up paddleboard and head to Folly Creek to take in the area's unspoiled beauty along its tidal creeks and inlets along the coast. The estuary offers opportunities for expert-led marsh kayaking, where you can spot crabs, pelicans, dolphins and more local wildlife. Plus, you can embrace the low country's superlative landscapes and learn about the unique ecosystem on a kayaking expedition geared toward moderate paddlers, as you weave through the network of tidal creeks behind Folly Beach with a reputable outfitter like Charleston Outdoor Adventures. After admiring the area's unique biodiversity, relax at Folly Beach (or try your hand at surfing), before grabbing a bite at one of the city's crowd-pleasing eateries like Lost Dog Cafe.

See the top things to do in South Carolina .

South Dakota: Hike and cruise through Custer State Park.

Whether you want to hike, mountain bike, kayak, canoe or test your limits on a high-octane adventure, South Dakota's Custer State Park in the southwestern corner of the state is an overlooked gem for adventurers. Aside from a mix of outdoor activities, you'll find beautiful grassland and buffaloes, Potter says. The park is also home to antelope, prairie dogs, bighorn sheep and coyotes, among other wildlife. Plus, the 71,000-acre retreat in South Dakota's Black Hills, though often overshadowed by Mount Rushmore, offers spectacular scenery-packed drives (don't skip cruising along Needles Highway) and iconic trailheads like Cathedral Spires. If you plan a trip in September, don't miss Custer State Park's annual Buffalo Roundup, when cowboys wrangle about 1,300 buffalo – a rare sight.

See the top things to do in South Dakota .

Tennessee: Find a peaceful respite at Fall Creek Falls State Park.

Take a quick jaunt to this serene 26,000-acre park to immerse yourself in rugged natural beauty. It's got waterfalls that are truly spectacular, Howard says. In fact, Fall Creek Falls rise more than 250 feet and are some of the tallest waterfalls in the eastern U.S. Captivating waterfalls aside, the park also boasts streams, cascades and gorges and hugs the top of the Cumberland Plateau. Plus, there are more 56 miles of trails to explore. If you're looking for peace and solitude, stroll along the Gorge Overlook Trail or check out the Base of Fall Creek Falls Trail. If you want to raise your heart rate, grab a bike and pedal along the challenging Upper Loop Trail, which snakes along hills, rocky areas and scenic twists and turns.

See the top things to do in Tennessee .

Texas: Commune with nature in McKinney Falls State Park.

With towering waterfalls, a storied 500-year-old cypress tree named Old Baldy and opportunities for road biking, hiking, bouldering and fishing, this impressive green space offers plenty of outdoor diversions for adventurers. And thanks to its convenient location – 13 miles southeast of downtown Austin – it's easy to hit the reserve's picturesque trails in the Hill Country. For a challenging trek, tackle the Rock Shelter Trail, and for a more leisurely stroll, hit the 2.8-mile Onion Creek Hike and Bike Trail. Animal lovers will also appreciate the park's diverse species, from armadillos to painted bunting birds. And with 81 campsites, countless areas for fishing and picnicking and ranger-led programs, the park offers allures for everyone.

Utah: Mountain bike in Moab.

A launching pad to otherworldly red-rock formations at Canyonlands National Park and Arches National Park – especially in March – this eastern Utah town offers the chance to hike, raft, bike and stargaze, among other outdoor pursuits. To embrace the area's surreal, eroded sandstone rock formations, get your heart racing as you traverse the 100-mile White Rim Trail in Canyonlands National Park, which offers picturesque vistas of Island in the Sky mesa's red-rock cliffs and wildflower-filled terrain. Other legendary trails include Slickrock and Porcupine Rim. After working up a sweat on an adrenaline-fueled desert ride, explore more natural attractions in Utah's prized national parks or unwind at one of the town's microbreweries or low-key restaurants.

See the top things to do in Utah .

Vermont: Join a road biking tour.

Vermont may be well-known for its well-groomed slopes, clapboard homes and charming countryside inns, but it's also a playground for cyclists. Vermont is a perennial favorite for road biking – and for good reason, Potter says. You can admire quintessential New England towns like Woodstock, catch brilliant autumn foliage, tackle challenging terrain and delight in the state's world-renowned maple syrup and cheese at crowd-pleasing restaurants, followed by an organized bike tour – a craft beer in hand – through the Green Mountain State. Reputable outfitters such as Backroads and VBT offer organized tours through the state. For more of an adrenaline rush, head to East Burke, Vermont, which is a prime destination for mountain biking along its winding Kingdom Trails.

See the top things to do in Vermont .

Virginia: Cruise along Skyline Drive.

For a gorgeous road trip, drive along the 105-mile Skyline Drive , where you can soak in brilliant views of the Blue Ridge Mountains in Shenandoah National Park, Potter says. The trails are easily accessible and a treat for nature lovers, particularly in autumn and spring to catch blazing fall colors or beautiful blooms. Along the drive, you'll weave past rolling hills, oaks and hickories. Breaks along the road can include stops at picturesque overlooks, such as Hazel Mountain Overlook and Old Rag View Overlook. At Old Rag, adventure-seekers will want to tackle the Ridge Trail to catch sight of the iconic granite masses followed by panoramic views of the park. Start your journey from Front Royal, Virginia, off of U.S. Route 340.

See the top things to do in Virginia .

Washington: Hike the Hoh River Trail in Olympic National Park.

From backpacking in the wilderness to stargazing on a ranger-led hike to racing through scenic rivers on a canoe or kayak, Olympic National Park is packed with adventurous activities for every interest and skill level. "I really like the Pacific Northwest," Howard says, highlighting the area's unique hikes and rugged and diverse landscapes, especially at Olympic National Park. The spectacular Hoh River Trail to the west of the Olympic Mountain, features mossy, old-growth trees such as Sitka spruce, red cedars, big leaf maple and glacier meadows. Plus, you can keep your eyes peeled for wildlife such as Roosevelt elk, eagles and otters. Best of all, this nature lover's playground offers plenty of campsites, available with a wilderness permit.

West Virginia: Trek through the Dolly Sods Wilderness.

If you're searching for serenity and solitude, escape it all in Dolly Sods Wilderness, a 17,371-acre area in the Monongahela National Forest with lovely, high-mountain trails. You can traverse railroad grades and former logging roads as you snake past pristine meadows, hemlock and birch trees and remote wild landscapes along the area's 47 miles of protected trails. The Red Creek Trail is a particular crowd-pleaser for thrill-seekers, with its rugged and often muddy terrain, river crossings, stunning views of waterfalls and pine forests blanketed with huckleberries, blueberries and cranberries in the warmer months. For postcard-worthy vantage points, tack on a side trip to Lion's Head Overlook, which offers striking mountain and valley vistas.

See the top things to do in West Virginia .

Wisconsin: Cycle along the Gandy Dancer Trail.

Enjoy exploring picturesque forests and serene country roads from behind two handlebars on one of Wisconsin's scenery-filled biking trails. With very few hills, Wisconsin's terrain is ideal for road biking, Potter says. Consider peddling along the Gandy Dancer State Trail, a 98-mile trail that straddles the Minnesota border and yields amazing views overlooking the St. Croix River. A top highlight is the Ice Age National Scenic Trail, which stretches for 1,200 miles and traces Gandy Dancer State Park for roughly 19 miles. At Ice Age National Scenic Trail, there are plenty of ways to embrace the great outdoors, from nature walks to wildlife-viewing to stargazing to cross-country skiing. Make charming Polk County your home base, before soaking in Wisconsin's pristine natural allures by bike.

See the top things to do in Wisconsin .

Wyoming: Hike and river raft in Grand Teton National Park.

Strap on your hiking boots and take in alpine scenery, unspoiled lakes and diverse wildlife in Grand Teton National Park. All of America's prized national parks offer unique activities geared toward a variety of traveler interests, Potter says, highlighting everything from guided bike trails to river rafting to hiking with reputable active travel company Backroads. While there are a variety of picturesque trails to take in, exploring Taggart Lake stands out as a memorable hike. The 4-mile trail snakes past the glacially carved lake and verdant forest and affords sweeping views of the Teton range. For more activity, consider rafting along the Snake River on an expert-led tour with an operator such as Backroads or a scenic float trip with Lost Creek Ranch.

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25 Adventure Activities Around The World

Tours and activities around the world

Welcome to Viator's indispensable guide to adrenaline-pumping (some might say, fear-inducing), heart-pounding adventure activities around the world. The following list represents the most popular adventure activities offered around the world , with tips on where you can do each one both near and far from home.

1. Skydiving

When it comes to adrenaline-pumping activities, few things beat launching yourself out of an airplane and plummeting through the air on a breathtaking freefall, but as the parachute unfolds you'll be able to catch your breath and admire the incredible views. For a beachside vista, soar over the coast on a Miami Tandem Skydive or get a bird's eye view of the glittering lights of the Las Vegas Strip with a Las Vegas Tandem Skydive . For a change of scenery, head over the Pacific, and enjoy a Reef and Rainforest Tandem Sky Dive in Cairns or hop over to the extreme sport hotspot of New Zealand, where you can enjoy tandem skydives in Rotorua or the adventure-capital of the south, Queenstown .

2. Ziplining

Remember careening through the playground on a swinging tire as a kid? Well, ziplining has had a bit of a makeover since then -- these days treetop ziplines reach dizzying heights and you can zoom through the air at break-neck speeds, all while securely attached to a safety harness. Get the ultimate adrenaline rush on a Bootleg Canyon Zipline Tour , gasp at the Hawaiian scenery on a Kipu Zipline Safari , or tackle the longest zipline circuit in North America on a Cancun Extreme Zipline Canopy Tour . That's not all - how about ziplining the heart of the Puerto Rican rainforest on the Zipline Canopy Eco-Adventure from San Juan or experiencing the Dominican Republic's first zipline on a Punta Cana Zipline Canopy Adventure ?

3. Bridge climbing

Thrill-seekers don't have to get out of the city to challenge their climbing skills -- try clambering the rungs of these iconic bridges, where you'll be rewarded with the best panoramic views in the city. The famous Sydney Harbor Bridge isn't just a monumental landmark, the 440-foot (134-meter) high walkway is also a bucket-list favorite -- attempt the Sydney BridgeClimb at night if you dare. Brisbane Story Bridge Day and Night Climbs are another popular choice, with views from the summit spanning the nearby Glass House Mountains and Lamington National Park, alongside New Zealand's Auckland Harbour Bridge Climb .

4. Exotic car driving and racing

Whether you fancy making like James bond in a vintage Aston Martin or tearing up the tarmac in a made-for-speed race-car, why not live out your motoring fantasies in style, with an Exotic Car Driving Experience Elite Package . Speed freaks can reach hair-raising velocity with a Race Car Drive-Along: Rookie Experience at Walt Disney World Speedway Orlando or the Richard Petty Rookie Experience in Las Vegas , or you can make like you're a movie star and cruise the open roads of the Red Rock Canyon Exotic Car Tour .

Whether hurtling downstream or navigating treacherous rapids that threaten to overturn your dingy, river rafting is an exhilarating way to get your pulse racing and your clothes soaking. Grab a paddle, hop in an inflatable raft and explore some of the world's most daringly turbulent waters. Try Tully River Full-Day White Water Rafting from Cairns boasting an incredible 45 rapids; drifting beneath an array of tropical wildlife on the Whitewater Rafting on the Pacuare River in Costa Rica or taking on the mighty Colorado River with a Grand Canyon Rafting Trip from Las Vegas . Fancy an underground water adventure instead? Go Black Water Rafting at Waitomo Caves near Auckland and you can navigate eerie caves, underground waterfalls and caverns filled with glowworms. Just don't forget your life jacket!

6. Sandboarding

Forget walking across the sand dunes - the most entertaining way to get around in the desert is by sliding downhill on a sandboard. The summer alternative to snowboarding, sandboarding has fast become a popular activity, but if you can't get your balance, don't worry - you can always sit on the board and sled downhill instead! Try a Dubai 4x4 Sandboarding Safari ; a Cerro Negro Volcano Sandboarding Tour from Managua where you can climb the famous volcano, before zooming back down the other side; or wander the moon-like landscapes of the Pinnacles Desert in Western Australia and try sandboarding on the looming Lancelin sand dunes, with a Pinnacles Desert, Koalas and Sandboarding 4WD Day Tour from Perth .

7. Bungy jumping

If nose-diving through the air like a human yoyo sounds like fun, you're sure to have bungy jumping on your to-do list. Whether you want the ultimate death-defying plunge with your nose skimming the floor or a short-and-sweet drop, there are a range of locations around the world that will help you live out your bungying aspirations. The The Original Kawarau Bridge Bungy Jump in Queenstown was the world's first public bungy jump and at 141-feet (43-meters) it's the perfect way to experience the activity. The Auckland Harbour Bridge Bungy Jump and the 164-foot (50-meter) high Cairns Bungy Jump are also popular choices, but for the ultimate in extreme jumps, try the mega 440-foot (134-meter) drop at Queenstown Nevis Highwire Bungy Jump with a scream-worthy 8.5 seconds of freefall.

8. Rappelling

Even more thrilling than climbing up a mountain, is rappelling, or abseiling, down one. It's not quite as easy as it sounds though - you'll need to lower yourself down vertigo-inducing cliff faces, scramble down rocky outcrops and traverse icy cold waterfalls to get to the bottom. For the most incredible views, try rappelling 180 feet (55 meters) beside Brazil's mammoth Iguassu Falls with a Rappel Adventure from Foz do Iguaçu or scale the heights of Rio de Janeiro's iconic Sugar Loaf Mountain then rappel back down. For an extreme-sport buzz without the stomach-churning heights, opt for underground cave rappelling, as part of a 4-in-1 Tulum Adventure in the Yucatan.

While not one for the claustrophobic, if crawling through narrow rock crevices, swimming in eerily-lit underground pools and scrambling through pitch black caves sounds like your idea of an adventure, grab a headlamp and a crash hat, and head underground. Caving is not only a challenge, but a chance to discover some otherworldly scenery - an Iceland from Below Tour uncovers a wealth of curious lava formations, dripping stalactites and peculiar rock formations, and a Batu Caves and Temple Tour from Kuala Lumpur reveals a fascinating series of underground Hindu temples etched into the mountainside. You can even go caving in the city - Budapest Caving Tours expose a labyrinth of tunnels and secret caverns right underneath the city's residential district.

10. Swimming with sharks

There's no better way to prove your bravery than taking a dip in the ocean with sharks so close you can feel the swish of their fins. Thankfully, you won't be cast into the open seas to re-enact scenes from Jaws - instead, you'll be safely inside a cage, able to return to the boat at any time. Take a trip to the St Thomas to enjoy Swimming with Sharks at Coral World Ocean Park , where you can take a detour to the dolphin pools if your nerves get the better of you; brave the depths of the Atlantic to try Cage Diving with Great White Sharks from Cape Town or take an Oahu Shark Dive in Hawaii. Prefer your sharks a little less ferocious? Try a Mexican Whale Shark Snorkel Adventure where you can dive amidst the world's largest, and decidedly friendlier, fish.

11. Paragliding

For an extreme sport that's more tranquil than terrifying, experiencing the feeling of floating in mid-air with a tandem paragliding excursion, harnessing the power of the wind to propel your parachute. Launch off the 5,380 feet (1,615 meters) summit of Cerro Arco on a Mendoza Paragliding Tour and soar over the Andean landscape, or head to Colombia, where you can gaze down at the matchbox-sized houses of the city on a Bogotá Paragliding Adventure or swoop over alpine valleys and craggy mountains on a Medellín Paragliding Tour .

12. Rock climbing

There's nothing like the achievement of scaling a precipitous cliff-face with nothing but your bare hands (well, and a few ropes and harnesses). Rock climbing has become a hugely popular activity over the past decade, with plenty of recreational climbers giving the professionals a run for their money. How about gearing up for a Rock-Climbing Adventure from Denver where you'll learn how to rock climb and take on part of the magnificent Colorado Front Range? Alternatively, China is home to some of the world's most celebrated rock climbing regions and a Small-Group Yangshuo Rock-Climbing Adventure is the most exhilarating way to tackle the famous peaks.

13. Hang gliding

Swoop and dive like a bird on a hand gliding excursion and with nothing beneath you but fresh air, you'll have an unobstructed view over the landscape below. Hand gliding hotspots abound throughout South America, where high cliffs and strong winds provide the perfect weather conditions for thrill-seekers. Try a Hang-Gliding Tour from Bogotá where you can soar over the grassy plateau of the Bogotá Savannah.

14. Sky swinging

Make like a modern-day Tarzan, hanging from a harness and soaring through the jungle at speeds of up to 100kph on the Cairns Minjin Jungle Swing , Australia's only multi-person swing. Alternatively, try The Ledge - Queenstown's Sky Swing , a half bungy-jump half sky-swing that circles over the moonlit city after nightfall.

15. Parasailing

If you prefer water to heights, ditch the paragliding and go parasailing instead, where you'll be propelled 200-feet (61-meters) in the air on a hand glider towed by a speedboat. Book on a Cancun Parasailing Adventure where you'll get an expansive lookout over the famous beaches and jungle of Cancun; take to the skies for a Maui Parasailing Experience where you can rise up to 1,200 feet (366 meters) above the palm-fringed Ka'anapali Beach; or try Tandem Paragliding in Malibu where you can gaze out over the idyllic Malibu hills. For the ultimate family adventure, try Tandem Parasailing at Disney's Contemporary Resort and see if you can spot your favorite characters down below.

16. Extreme biking

Forget rolling through country lanes and leisurely pedaling the beachfront; cycling fanatics have plenty of more extreme ways to get their kicks. Whiz down steep mountain-sides and weave between volcanic craters on a Waimea Canyon Bicycle Downhill or discover the Road to Pachacamac: Small-Group Bike Tour from Lima , where you'll cycle an ancient Inca Trail, dotted with sacred temples and landscapes steeped in local myths. Tackle untamed jungle and lava tubes with a Kilauea Volcano Bike Tour in Hawaii Volcano National Park; kick up clouds of dust as you tear down the Las Vegas' Red Rock Canyon while Dirt Mountain Biking in Kaaawa Valley or taking a Guided Mountain Bike Tour of Mustang Trail in Red Rock Canyon .

17. ATV driving

If you want to go off-road and traverse the wilderness, you'll need an all-terrain vehicle to handle the twist, turns and bumps of the ever-changing terrain. Take a high-speed drive through Iceland's Thingvellir National Park, on a Golden Circle Super Jeep Tour , where the unique scenery includes seething hot springs and exploding geysers; zoom through the desert on a 4x4 Dubai Desert Safari , where you'll enjoy a pit stop at a traditional camel farm; hold onto your seats for the Broken Arrow Jeep Tour , a bumpy ride through the Arizonan desert on the ominously-named 'Road of No Return'; or cruise along the sands of Punta Cana in a Dune Buggy on a Punta Cana Half-Day Dune Buggy Adventure .

18. Glacier climbing

Few experiences are as otherworldly as hiking a vast glistening glacier, and what better place to get to grips with a frozen landscape than Iceland itself? Take a Day Trip from Reykjavik: Glacier Hiking and Ice Climbing on Iceland's Sólheimajokull Glacier , where icy ridges, deep crevices and mind-boggling expanses of frozen rock will challenge even the hardiest of hikers, and you can even try your hand at ice climbing.

Of course, there are plenty of other places to sharpen your ice picks. Take a Small-Group Franz Josef Glacier Walk along New Zealand's famous southern glacier, where jutting ice cliffs, dangling icicles and natural hot springs make for a rewarding, unique trek; or head to Alaska for a Mendenhall Glacier Trek and Climb , where you'll be truly off the beaten track.

19. Dogsledding

Hurtling across snow-blanketed terrain at peak speed behind a team of zealous huskies is one surefire way to get your blood pumping and experience the winter scenery up close. Alaska is the undisputed king of dogsledding, or mushing, as the sport is known, with a long history of raising huskies and navigating the freezing terrain. Try a dogsledding experience along the ominously-named Troublesome Glacier with a Helicopter Tour and Dogsledding Adventure from Anchorage , or for the ultimate experience, check out Alaska's World famous Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race, where you can tour the race headquarters, meet the dogs and try your hand at driving a dog sled on a 7-Day Winter Alaska Experience: Anchorage and Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race .

20. Exploring the great outdoors

Leave the bungee cords, safety harnesses and fast moving vehicles behind - if you really want an adventure, let Mother Nature provide the entertainment and simply explore the great outdoors. Few landscapes are as magnificent as the epic Grand Canyon and walking along the rim of the world's most famous canyon is enough to make anyone marvel at their significance. The world famous Yosemite National Park is another remarkable gift of nature and a 2-Day Tour of Yosemite National Park from San Francisco takes in the amazing including El Capitan, the Tunnel View, Half Dome and Yosemite Falls. Want to get even closer to nature? Explore the Thai jungle from the back of an elephant on a Chiang Dao Elephant Jungle Trek and Ping River Rafting Tour from Chiang Mai where you'll march through the heart of the rainforest and experience first hand the majesty of the gentle giants.

21. Kayaking and canoeing

Grab a paddle and hit the waves for a Dubrovnik Sea Kayak and Snorkeling Small-Group Tour , where you can explore the Croatian coastline and drift beneath the walls of the imposing St Lawrence fortress; or opt for an Oahu Kayak, Hike and Snorkel Adventure along the Hawaiian coast. If navigating dimly-lit sea caves and rowing through eerie underground tunnels sounds like fun, try a La Jolla Sea Caves Kayak Tour or a Canoe Cave Explorer Phang Nga Bay Tour from Phuket , where you can kayak among wild dolphins. Or why not try night kayaking beneath the stars with a Bioluminescent Kayak Adventure from San Juan ?

Whether you're a powder junkie or a ski virgin, there are excellent ski resorts all over the world where you can polish your moves. Hit the world renowned ski runs at Australia's best-known resorts on a Thredbo or Perisher Blue Weekend Snow Trip , where there's an array of beginner runs, near-vertical black runs and challenging off-piste routes to keep all levels amused.

Skiing isn't the only way to make the most of the snow, either - try Heli Hiking Franz Josef along the spectacular New Zealand glacier; tackle the immense Troublesome Glacier on a Helicopter Tour and Dogsledding Adventure from Anchorage ; or opt for an Athabasca Glacier Snow Trip from Banff .

The ultimate in back-to-nature eco-friendly activities, there's no better way to fully experience a landscape than by trekking through it, and the world is teeming with photo-worthy hiking routes. Explore an ancient Benedictine Monk abbey and admire the views over the Catalonian countryside on a Small-Group Montserrat Hiking Tour from Barcelona ; enjoy an Oahu Rainforest Hiking Adventure where you'll amble beneath waterfalls and ancient rock terraces; or delve into dimly lit caverns and glistening lagoons inside the El Perito Moreno Glacier on an El Calafate Adventure Tour . Feel like a challenge? Scale the heights of Japan's most iconic mountain at Mt Fuji where you can catch the famous sunrise from a height of 7,560 feet (2,304 meters).

24. Deep sea fishing

Whether you're a first-timer or an experienced fisherman, the thrill of catching your own dinner is irresistible -- just make sure you pick a gorgeous landscape to gaze at while you wait for the fish to bite. Soak up the coastal charms of Reykjavik, as you fish for Haddock, rockfish and Pollock in the nearby Faxaflói bay with a Sea-Fishing Tour from Reykjavik ; barbecue your fresh catch as you float the waves near California's famous Newport Beach on a Half-Day Deep-Sea Fishing Cruise from Newport Beach ; reel in enormous Hawaiian tuna on a Small-Group Sport Fishing Adventure from Oahu ; or take a Deep Sea Fishing Private Boat Charter in San Juan . You could even liven up the experience, with a Miami Party Fishing Cruise where there'll be plenty to keep you amused while you wait for your dinner to swim past.

25. Surfing

- Viator Travel Team

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

19 Unique And Fabulous Experiences In Moscow

• Destinations

Thinking of visiting Russia? When visiting such a famous city, one must, of course, visit the iconic landmarks first. Moscow has plenty of those, most of them in the center of the city, which is very well-planned for tourists. Once you’ve seen the sights that are on most travelers’ lists, it’s time to branch out and visit some of the lesser-known sites, and there are some fascinating places to see and things to do.

I know this list is long, but I just couldn’t help myself. You probably won’t have the time to see them all. But that’s okay. Just scroll through the list and choose what sounds the most interesting to you. Where possible, make sure to book in advance, as things can get crowded, especially during high season.

1. The Red Square, Kremlin, And Surroundings

Red Square (Krasnya Ploshad) is the heart and soul of Russia, and where much of the country’s history has unfolded. This is the most famous landmark in Moscow and indeed the whole country, it’s an absolute must-do! The square is always full of people and has a rather festive atmosphere!

Saint Basil’s Cathedral

This is the famous church with the rainbow-colored, onion-domed roof. The cathedral was commissioned in the 1500s by Ivan the Terrible and according to legend, the Tsar thought it was so beautiful, that he ordered that the architect’s eyes be cut out afterward, so he could never build anything more beautiful! He wasn’t called Ivan the Terrible for no reason!

Lenin’s Mausoleum

The “love-it-or-hate-it” of tourist attractions in Russia. A glass sarcophagus containing the embalmed body of Russian revolutionary, Vladimir Lenin. It may seem a bit bizarre to display the mummy of a person, but it has been there for almost half a century and the 2.5 million visitors who come each year, clearly feel the queuing and thorough body search are worth it, to be in Lenin’s presence.

Pro Tip: no photos and no loud talking are allowed inside the Mausoleum.

Eternal Flame

There is an Eternal Flame in honor of an unknown soldier on the left side of Red Square. The hourly changing of the guards is worth seeing.

The Kremlin is the official residence of the Russian president. You can see it from the outside, or you can take an excursion to one of the museums located inside. This is the biggest active fortress in Europe, and holds a week’s worth of attractions! Once behind the 7,332-feet of walls, there are five squares, four cathedrals, 20 towers, various museums, and the world’s largest bell and cannon to see. Worth a special mention is the Armory Chamber that houses a collection of the famous Faberge Eggs.

Pro Tip: You can only go inside the Kremlin if you are part of a tourist group.

2. Bolshoi Theatre

Bolshoi Theatre translates to “The Big Theatre” in Russian, and the building is home to both the Bolshoi Ballet and Bolshoi Opera — among the oldest and most famous ballet and opera companies in the world.

Pro Tip: It’s hard to get an inexpensive ticket, so if you’re reading well in advance of going to Moscow then try buying tickets on the official website . Last-minute tickets cost around $250 per person. If this is out of your budget, about an hour before a performance, you can try buying a ticket at the entrance from a reseller. Most can speak enough English to negotiate the price.

Tour the Bolshoi Theatre: You can take a group guided tour of the Bolshoi Theatre which focuses on the history and architecture of the theatre and behind the scenes. There’s an English language tour that lasts 2 hours and costs around $300 for a group of up to six.

3. Luxury Shopping At GUM And TSUM

Russia’s main department store, GUM, has a stunning interior that is home to over 100 high-end boutiques, selling a variety of brands: from luxurious Dior to the more affordable Zara. Even if shopping is not on your Moscow to-do list GUM is still worth a visit; the glass-roofed arcade faces Red Square and offers a variety of classy eateries. TSUM, one of the biggest luxury malls in town, is right behind the Bolshoi and GUM. It’s an imposing building with lots of history, and worth a visit just for its design and its glass roof.

4. Christ The Savior Cathedral

This is one of Russia’s most visited cathedrals and is a newer addition to the gorgeous array of Muscovite cathedrals, but don’t let its young age fool you. After perestroika, in the early 90s, the revived Russian Orthodox Church was given permission to build a cathedral on this site. It did the location honors and built the largest temple of the Christian Orthodox Church. The façade is as grand as you’d expect, but it’s the inside that will mesmerize you, with its domes, gold, gorgeous paintings, and decor!

The cathedral is located just a few hundred feet away from the Kremlin and was the site of the infamous Pussy Riot protest against Putin back in 2012.

Pro Tip: Bring a shawl to cover your hair as is the local custom.

5. Gorky Park

Moscow’s premier green space, Gorky Park (Park Gor’kogo) is the city’s biggest and most famous park. There is entertainment on offer here for every taste, from outdoor dancing sessions to yoga classes, volleyball, ping-pong, rollerblading, and bike and boat rental in summer. In winter, half the park turns into a huge ice skating rink. Gorky Park is also home to an open-air movie theater and the Garage Museum of Contemporary Art. There is also Muzeon Art Park, a dynamic contemporary space with a unique collection of 700 sculptures. It is located right in front of Gorky Park.

6. Sparrow Hills Park

If you take a walk from Gorky Park, along the Moscow River embankment, you’ll end up in the city’s other legendary park, Sparrow Hills. Although the park doesn’t offer as many activities as its hip neighbor, it has a great panoramic view of the city

Pro Tip: You can take a free walking tour to all of the above attractions with an English-speaking guide.

7. River Cruising

One of the best ways to experience Moscow, and see all the famous landmarks, but from a different angle, is from the Moscow River. Take a river cruise. Avoid the tourist crowds. There are little nameless old boats that do the cruise, but if you are looking for a more luxurious experience take the Radisson Blu cruise and enjoy the sights with some good food and a glass of wine.

8. Metro Hopping

Inaugurated in the 1930s, the Moscow Metro system is one of the oldest and most beautiful in the world. Started in Stalinist times, each station is a work of art in its own right. I’d recommend touring the stations between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. This way, you’ll be able to properly see it without the crowds. Ideally, I’d recommend taking a tour with a knowledgeable guide with GuruWalk, who will tell you stories of forgotten stations and how the history of the country is interconnected with the metro development. If going by yourself, then I definitely recommend checking out: Mayakovskaya, Ploschad Revolutsii, Kievskaya, Kropotkinskaya, Kurskaya, and Novoslobodskaya stations.

Visit the free Moscow Metro Museum: For real train enthusiasts, located in the southern vestibule of Sportivnaya station is a small free museum. Here you can take a peek into the driver’s cabin, see a collection of metro tokens from different cities, and see different models of a turnstile, traffic lights, escalator, and more.

9. Moscow State University View

In his effort to create a grander Moscow, Stalin had seven skyscrapers built in different parts of town; they’re called the Seven Sisters. The largest of these buildings and the one with the best view is the main building of the Moscow State University. Although this is a little outside the city center, the view is more than worth it.

10. Izmailovsky Market

Mostly known for the city’s largest flea market, the district of Izmaylovo is home to a maze of shops where you can get just about anything, from artisan crafts to traditional fur hats, handcrafted jewelry, fascinating Soviet memorabilia, and antiquities. It’s also one of Moscow’s largest green spaces. There are often no price tags, so be prepared to haggle a bit. Head to one of the market cafes for a warming mulled wine before continuing your shopping spree.

The History of Vodka Museum is found here, and the museum’s restaurant is the perfect place to sample various brands of the national drink.

Once you’ve covered the more touristy spots, Moscow still has plenty to offer, and the places below will also be full of locals! So for some local vibes, I would strongly recommend the spots below!

11. Moscow City

With a completely different vibe, Moscow City (also referred to as Moscow International Business Center) is like a mini Dubai, with lots of impressive tall glass buildings. Here is where you’ll find the best rooftops in towns, like Ruski Restaurant, the highest restaurant both in Moscow City and in Europe. Moscow City is great for crowd-free shopping and the best panoramic views of the city.

12. Tretyakov Gallery

Tretyakov Gallery started as the private collection of the Tretyakov brothers, who were 19th-century philanthropists. They gave their private collection to the government after their deaths. If there is just one museum you visit in Moscow, I recommend this one!

13. Tsaritsyno Museum-Reserve

Tsaritsyno was a residence of Catherine the Great more than two centuries ago. It became derelict during the Soviet era but has now been fully renovated. With its opulently decorated buildings, gardens, meadows, and forests, Tsaritsyno Park is the perfect place for a green respite in Moscow.

14. Kolomenskoye

A 10-minute metro ride from the city center is Kolomenskoe Museum-Reserve, where you can get an idea of what Russia looked like 200 years ago. You’ll find ancient churches (one dating back to the 16th century), the oldest garden in Moscow, and the wonderful fairytale wooden palace of Tsar Alexey Mikhailovich, father of Peter the Great.

15. Ostankino TV Tower

Built in 1967, Ostankino TV Tower was the tallest free-standing construction in the world at the time, it’s still the 8th tallest building in the world and the highest in Europe. It’s also the best observation deck, with a glass floor and 360-degree views. The speedy elevators take you 1,105 feet in next to no time.

Pro Tip: You need to book in advance; entrance is based on specific ticket times and the capacity is limited and only a certain number of tourists are allowed per day. Don’t forget your passport, you’ll need it to get through security.

16. Zaryadye Park

Zaryadye is a newly opened, landscaped urban park so new you won’t find it in a lot of tour guides. The park is near Red Square and is divided into four climatic zones: forest, steppe, tundra, and floodplains, depicting the variety of climatic zones in Russia.

These last three suggestions are a little quirky, but all are really worth checking out.

17. Museum Of Soviet Arcade Games

Release your inner child playing on 66 arcade machines from the Soviet era! What a great way to spend a couple of hours when tired of visiting museums and palaces. The staff speaks excellent English and are happy to explain how the games work.

18. Moscow Rooftop Tour

Take a 1-hour private Moscow rooftop tour with an experienced roofer. I can just about guarantee none of your friends will be able to say they’ve done it! For your comfort, I recommend wearing comfortable shoes. Take your camera, there are some amazing photo opportunities out there!

19. Sanduny Banya

This classical Russian bathhouse opened its doors in 1808 and is famous for combining traditional Russian banya services with luxurious interiors and service. If you enjoy spas and saunas, then you should experience a Russian bathhouse at least once in your life! Go with an open mind and hire a specialist to steam you as it’s meant to be done — by being beaten repeatedly with a besom (a leafy branch)! This is said to improve circulation, but is best done by a professional!

So there you have my list of things to do in Moscow. I could have gone on and on and on, but I didn’t want to try your patience! There are so many things to do in this vibrant city that you’ll definitely need to allocate several days for exploring.

Here are some other reasons to visit Moscow and Russia:

• 7 Reasons To Put Moscow On Your Travel Bucket List
• Russia 30 Years (And 30 Pounds) Ago
• Massive Mysterious Craters Appearing Again In Siberia

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

How to spend a perfect weekend in Moscow

Feb 11, 2020 • 5 min read

Moscow enjoyed the status of capital for most of Russia’s history, except for a relatively brief period (about two hundred years), when the Tsar and the government relocated to St Petersburg . But the Bolsheviks moved the capital back to Moscow in 1918, and today it’s an extremely diverse city. It can easily take a couple of weeks to see all of its sights, but if you've only got a weekend to explore, here's how to have two perfect days in Moscow.

Start your weekend in Moscow by acquainting yourself with top-notch Russian cuisine at Grand Cafe Dr Zhivago . Located on the first floor of the historical hotel National and overlooking the Kremlin, it’s definitely one of the best breakfast spots in the city. Try millet porridge with crawfish, pearl barley porridge with oxtail or traditional cottage cheese with raisins and candied fruit.

Set aside at least half a day for Russian capital’s major attractions: the Red Square and the Kremlin . To reach the Kremlin, cross the street from Dr Zhivago and walk through the Alexander Garden to the main entrance at the Kutafya Tower . Check out all the cathedrals, including Archangel cathedral with all the tsars’ tombs and Uspensky cathedral with medieval icons. Pause to look at the famous Tsar Bell and climb Ivan the Great Bell Tower to enjoy some great views.

Exit and walk to the Red Square through the Alexander Garden, where, if lucky, you can see the change of guard. If you’re feeling hungry, stop by the food court at Okhotny Ryad shopping complex to pick up a snack.

The Red square is dominated by four buildings of equal historical importance: the Kremlin's most famous Spasskaya (Saviour) Tower , with a clock and fourteen bells that chime national anthem four times a day (6am, noon, 6pm, midnight), St Basil's Cathedral , Moscow's best-known symbol with its multi-colored domes, Lenin’s Mausoleum , the resting place of the leader of the 1917 October revolution, and GUM , Moscow's oldest department store, topped with a glass roof, designed by one of Russia's most celebrated architects, Vladimir Shukhov. 

A guide to shopping in Moscow

Right behind the St Basil’s it is the relatively new Zaryadye Park , designed by Diller Scofidio + Renfro, famous for its work on the High Line in New York City. Zaryadye showcases flora from all the climate zones of Russia, which is the largest country in the world. The floating bridge at the edge of the park is one of the biggest selfie magnets in Moscow, providing spectacular views of the river and the city skyline as the background. 

Another Zaryadye attraction is a glass pavilion that hosts restaurant Voskhod  (Sunrise) – a perfect spot for your lunch or early dinner. Voskhod focuses on dishes from all fifteen former Soviet Union republics and its inside looks like a Soviet-made spaceship with great views of the Moscow river. Try Azeri home-made pasta or trout from Lake Sevan in Armenia.

After all that walking and exploring you need some quality downtime and what better way to spend it than relaxing for a couple of hours at the famous Sanduny  traditional Russian hot bath. Make sure to get a massage with birch sticks!

You might still have time to go to Winzavod Center – a creative cluster with galleries housed at a former wine factory. Galleries like XL , pop/off/art and Ovcharenko always have something on, most likely a cutting-edge Russian contemporary art exhibition. Finish the evening hanging out at one of the best Moscow bars – try socialites’ paradise Noor Electro , co-joined with one of Moscow’s avant-garde theatres or Powerhouse Moscow , located in a 19th-century mansion, which is famous for live indie and jazz band performances. Both serve great food, too. 

Power up for a busy day ahead at one of Moscow’s trendiest coffee/breakfast spots,   Nude . Located in the upscale, well-heeled neighborhood of Patriarch’s Ponds, Nude offers a wide range of breakfast dishes, including scrambled eggs, toast, porridge and banana bread. Book ahead as it might be busy on a weekend morning.

After checking out the Patriarch's Ponds, which features prominently in Mikhail Bulgakov’s perennial novel The Master and Margarita , devote the rest of the morning and early afternoon to exploring Moscow’s best museums. Depending on your tastes, pick one of the following: Tretyakov Gallery for traditional Russian art, from medieval icons to the early 20th century;  New Tretyakov for 20th century and contemporary art as well as great temporary exhibitions;  Pushkin Museum for one of the greatest collections of Impressionist and post-Impressionist art in the world; and the Garage Museum for some eye-opening modern-art exhibitions. 

Whichever museum or gallery you choose, be sure to go to LavkaLavka for lunch, certainly one of the best places to try new Russian cuisine, which is a contemporary reading of centuries-old recipes. It’s one of the few places to try polugar , which is, allegedly, what Russians called vodka in the 19th century. 

When you talk about Russian culture, literary giants usually pop into mind: the likes of Leo Tolstoy, Fyodor Dostoevsky and Anton Chekhov. There are plenty of literary museums in Moscow, but if you had to pick one, visit Tolstoy Estate Museum , located just opposite the headquarters of Yandex, the Russian equivalent of Google. Every little detail has been restored just the way it looked when Tolstoy lived here in the 1880s–90s. 

Leave some time for exploring the Moscow Metro : every station is an architectural masterpiece in its own right. Our favorites include Mayakovskaya, Komsomolskaya and Kievskaya. Later, unwind at one of dozens of Moscow’s craft beer places . Try  Jawsspot , named after one of the leading breweries in Russia, Jaws from the Urals region, which also serves decent pizza and salads.  

You might also like:

Why food markets in Moscow are having a moment    Russia for first-timers: dos and don’ts    Russia's best drinks and where to try them   

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10 Activities to Get You Outdoors While Traveling

Many of us would enjoy getting outside and escaping our day-to-day with some fresh air while traveling, and we all know science shows spending time outdoors is good for us. But where do you start? Try out a few of these activities, and you're bound to find a new outdoor hobby to help you enjoy nature on your next vacation.

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Hiking is a standard activity for getting outside. Trails exist all over the world for all experience levels, but getting past the first few miles of any hike will often get you out of the tourist zone and into more serious solitude with nature. Or combine hiking and camping on a backpacking trip to really sync up with the outdoors.

MORE: The Most Thrilling Day Hikes in the U.S.

Star Gazing

One big advantage of actually getting out of the city when traveling is the night sky. Free from light pollution, you can check out constellations, planets, meteors and more. Finding a good dark sky place or an area far from cities can open up a new hobby and great opportunities to learn about astronomy .

MORE: 10 Dreamy Ways to Sleep Under the Stars

Fly-Fishing

For an excuse to stand in a river enjoying the sounds, smells and scenery of some of the most beautiful locations, try fly-fishing. Fishing is a perfect multi-generational activity to enjoy with children, grandparents or whoever. With enough practice, you may even catch a coveted cutthroat trout.

MORE: 8 Great Fly-Fishing Destinations

Horseback Riding

Many people may shy away from this, citing lack of experience with horses, but most operations have horses for riders of any experience including none. Horses can take you greater distances in a shorter time, covering terrain that would be difficult or inaccessible otherwise.

MORE: Best Places to Go Horseback Riding

Cycling + Mountain Biking

On the trail or the road, spending time on a bike allows you to slow down and take in your surroundings. Mountain biking can give the biggest adrenaline addict a rush, while road cycling may offer a more peaceful and calming experience. Travel with your bike or rent one at your destination, and your possibilities for exploration have already expanded.

MORE: 10 Amazing Mountain Biking Destinations in Colorado

Whitewater Rafting

Are you looking for some adrenaline to go with your nature? Check for guided whitewater rafting trips around your destination, especially if you're going somewhere with mountainous terrain. Rafting will let you connect with the rougher side of nature while enjoying the comfort of a team and an experienced guide.

MORE: Extreme Whitewater Rafting

Rock Climbing

For a more physical and challenging experience outdoors, try your hand at rock climbing. You can get a feel for climbing in a gym, but it's real rewards lie in putting those skills to use outside. Many popular travel destinations have great climbing within a day-trip distance.

MORE: 50 States of Adventurous State Parks

Stand-up Paddleboarding

Want a more peaceful connection with water? Stand-up paddleboarding is a great way to get some exercise and explore lakes or slow-moving streams. Meditation or yoga is encouraged but not required. Not confident in your balance? You can likely get a kayak or canoe at the same place.

MORE: After-Dark Water Sports

Camping is the tried-and-true method for getting outdoors. It's perfect for people new to spending time in nature and a favorite of more experienced nature-lovers. Plus, you can combine it with almost any other outdoor activity to create a truly immersive experience.

MORE: Best National Park Camping Sites in America

Skiing + Snowboarding

For many people, winter travel means warmer weather, but you can always mix things up by finding some mountains and learning how to enjoy the snow that so many of us dread each February. Bundling up near a fireplace is nice, but it's best after a day spent carving powder in a winter wonderland. If you feel less agile and coordinated, snow-shoeing is another excellent way to get out in the snow this winter.

MORE: America's Best Family Ski Resorts

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Passing Thru Travel

Ready for Adventure? Here’s the Ultimate Guide to Traveling in New Zealand

Posted: March 10, 2024 | Last updated: March 10, 2024

New Zealand, known for its stunning natural beauty and diverse landscapes, is a playground for adventure seekers. From majestic mountains to serene beaches, it offers a plethora of activities for those who yearn for excitement with a touch of luxury. Combining adventure with luxury isn’t just about comfort; it’s about experiencing the thrill of adventure with an added layer of exclusivity and personalized service.

Whether you’re heli-skiing over the Southern Alps, wine tasting in Hawke’s Bay, or exploring the fjords of Milford Sound, New Zealand provides an unparalleled backdrop for luxury adventure travel. In this listicle, we’ll explore 15 ways to indulge in adventure travel in New Zealand, ensuring that your experiences are as luxurious as they are thrilling.

Opt for Private Guided Tours

Experience New Zealand’s wonders with private guided tours that offer personalized experiences and insider knowledge.

Stay in Luxury Lodges

Choose from New Zealand’s array of luxury lodges that provide exceptional accommodation in stunning locations.

Indulge in Heli-Adventures

Take to the skies with helicopter adventures that give you access to remote locations like private beaches or mountaintops.

Try Luxury Cruising in Fiordland

Explore the fjords in style with a luxury cruise, offering an intimate view of the spectacular landscapes of Fiordland.

Experience Private Vineyard Tours

Visit renowned vineyards for private wine tastings and gourmet dining experiences in regions like Marlborough and Central Otago.

Enjoy High-End Spa Retreats

After a day of adventure, unwind in one of New Zealand’s high-end spa retreats, offering traditional Maori therapies and more.

Engage in Exclusive Golfing Experiences

Play on some of the world’s most picturesque and exclusive golf courses, such as Kauri Cliffs and Cape Kidnappers.

Embark on Luxury Fishing Expeditions

Fish in style in some of New Zealand’s pristine rivers and lakes, known for excellent trout and salmon fishing.

Explore the Wilderness with Private Guides

Hike, bike, or kayak with private guides who can take you to hidden gems away from the tourist trails.

Experience Maori Culture Privately

Engage with New Zealand’s rich Maori culture through private tours and exclusive experiences.

Savor Gourmet Outdoor Dining

Enjoy gourmet meals in breathtaking outdoor settings, from mountaintop picnics to beachfront feasts.

Take Scenic Flights Over Iconic Landscapes

See New Zealand’s dramatic landscapes from above with scenic flights over places like Mount Cook, the Bay of Islands, or the West Coast glaciers.

Try Luxury Eco-Tours

Participate in eco-friendly tours that offer luxury experiences while respecting the environment, like sustainable dolphin watching or conservation projects.

Go on Bespoke Adventure Excursions

Tailor your adventure activities to suit your preferences, whether it’s adrenaline-fueled bungee jumping, skydiving, or a more relaxed pace like horse trekking.

Utilize Concierge Services for Seamless Travel

Make use of concierge services to handle all your travel arrangements, bookings, and special requests for a hassle-free experience.

Known as the adventure capital, it offers everything from jet boating and bungee jumping to luxury wine tours.

Bay of Islands

Ideal for sailing, fishing, and exploring pristine beaches.

Offers unique geothermal landscapes, luxury spas, and Maori cultural experiences.

Abel Tasman National Park

Perfect for kayaking, hiking, and enjoying secluded beaches.

Provides a more relaxed alternative to Queenstown, with stunning scenery and luxury lodges.

Aoraki Mount Cook National Park

Ideal for scenic flights, glacier explorations, and stargazing.

Waiheke Island

Offers luxury vineyard experiences, art galleries, and beautiful beaches.

Hawke’s Bay

Known for its Art Deco architecture, vineyards, and gourmet food scene.

Fiordland National Park

Offers breathtaking fjord cruises and luxury wilderness retreats.

The Coromandel

Perfect for private beach escapes and nature walks.

Adventure travel in New Zealand doesn’t have to mean roughing it. With the country’s wealth of natural beauty and luxury offerings, you can easily immerse yourself in thrilling activities while enjoying the pinnacle of comfort and exclusivity.

Each experience and destination in New Zealand presents an opportunity to create unforgettable memories, blending the adrenaline of adventure with the serenity of luxury. So pack your bags and prepare to embark on a journey that will take you through some of the most breathtaking landscapes on earth, all in the lap of luxury.

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The post Ready for Adventure? Here’s the Ultimate Guide to Traveling in New Zealand republished on Passing Thru with permission from The Green Voyage .

Featured Image Credit: Shutterstock / Nok Lek Travel Lifestyle.

For transparency, this content was partly developed with AI assistance and carefully curated by an experienced editor to be informative and ensure accuracy.

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