Are you looking for the perfect destination for your next vacation? Maybe you’re considering taking a trip that’s a bit more rugged? If so, check out our list of the most adventurous places to travel in the world.
Naturally, this list must start with the country affectionally known as the adventure capital of the world. Aside from this sprawling wonderland being the filming location for the Lord of the Ringsfranchise, you'll find plenty of adventurous activities here! New Zealand is home to class 5 water rapids, perfect for whitewater rafting, and many amazing areas for bungee jumping.
There are a few great areas across the continent of Africa that are perfect for safari, making it impossible to name just one. The first and most recognizable destination is the Serengeti National Park, located in Tanzania. However, the nearby Maasai Mara National Reserve in Kenya is also a wonderful place to catch glimpses of Africa's most famous animals. If you want a truly unique experience, consider embarking on a walking safari in Kruger National Park, located in South Africa. Chobe National Park in Botswana and Etosha National Park in Namibia are also excellent safari options.
If you do happen to visit Kruger National Park in South Africa, consider staying a bit longer for a truly exhilarating activity—great white shark cage diving! The shores of South Africa are home to the biggest and baddest great white sharks in the world. This fun activity is not for the faint of heart, so ensure you're ready to face these beasts head-on.
Nepal is famous for the Himalayas, specifically Mount Everest, and the Annapurna Circuit. However, you can find many more adventurous activities in this wonderful country that aren't as daunting as conquering the world's tallest mountain. Consider taking a mountain biking tour through the countryside or paragliding over the Pokhara valley. If you're a true adrenaline junky, take a flight into Lukla, one of the scariest airports to land at in the entire world.
Peru is most famous for Machu Picchu, which you should absolutely visit if given a chance. There are many other breathtaking, ancient destinations and landmarks to explore throughout this South American country. An underrated activity to consider is surfing, which is surprisingly good off the coast of Peru.
There are plenty of adventurous destinations across Asia, but Malaysia is perhaps the most exhilarating. Specifically, you should check out Mount Kinabalu, known for some of the most unique scenery in the world. Gunung Mulu National Park features the Headhunter's Trail, which will take you through the Pinnacles. Don’t forget to catch a glimpse of the famous orangutans, crocodiles, and elephants of Malaysia.
If the tropics aren't your thing, Greenland might be the perfect place for you. Greenland features spectacular views of massive glaciers, including the most active calving glaciers in the world. You can take a kayak extremely close to these behemoth ice structures for the best possible viewing experience. If you love the cold, consider taking a dip in the freezing Arctic waters—but only for a few moments!
If Greenland sounds appealing to you, why not take it up a notch and visit the famous ice continent, Antarctica. Visiting here is quite tricky and usually requires pre-approval from various governmental agencies. However, if the opportunity ever arises, you should absolutely go to witness some of the most breathtaking views on the planet.
The Galapagos Islands are perhaps the wildest place left on earth. This area is most famous for its unique and delicate ecosystems—many creatures are endemic to the islands. Scuba diving and snorkeling are great ways to view the vibrant sea life below, which includes sea lions and sharks. Bird watching is another popular activity, along with exploring the lava fields.
Africa isn't the only place where you can go on safari, as Manitoba—located in Canada—is the best place on earth to see tundra wildlife. Specifically, you can catch amazing glimpses of wolves, moose, and polar bears. Additionally, the beluga whale watching off the coast of Manitoba is simply unmatched.
While you're in Canada, take a trip to Alberta, host of the 1992 Winter Olympics. Here, you can participate in some of the best downhill skiing this planet has to offer. Additionally, nearby Jasper National Park is the perfect destination to spot grizzlies and caribou, and you can enjoy a cross-country skiing adventure.
It's time to give the United States some love—Alaska is one of the best states in the union and home to many adventurous possibilities. From glacier cruises to snowmobiling trips, animal watching, and mountain climbing, there's no end to the activities you can do in the last frontier. Denali, or Mount McKinley, is the tallest mountain in North America and worth a visit if you decide to go.
Don’t forget about the Land Down Under! Australia is one of the most unique islands/countries/continents in the entire world and is home to an abundance of interesting, endemic wildlife. However, the most popular adventures include cage diving or snorkeling around the Great Barrier Reef. Additionally, you can take a truly rugged tour of the outback and see some of the strangest landscapes and animals found anywhere on this planet.
Most people overlook Mongolia when traveling to Asia, but this sparsely populated country features over 600,000 square miles of open land, perfect for exploration. The Gobi Desert is worth a visit, especially on horseback. You can even meet the nomadic people of the Gobi, who have lived there for hundreds of years and are very hospitable to visitors.
Finally, Washington State is home to countless different hiking and off-roading trails, unique environments, mountains, and national parks. Additionally, Washington State is home to our own outdoor clothing store in Bellevue Square! If you ever find yourself in the Evergreen State, stop by Escape Outdoors for all the adventure gear you could ever need.
Of the most adventurous places to travel in the world, be sure to find the destination that features activities that appeal most to you. However, don’t be afraid to consider some overlooked, less-traveled destinations. These trips often produce the most memorable and rewarding vacation experiences.
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