great travel adventures

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.

The Ever-Presence of Mythology on Greece's Peloponnese Peninsula

Antonia Quirke

What It's Like Flying in Etihad Airways' New Lie-Flat Business Class Cabin

Shannon McMahon

18 Places to Visit in the Netherlands That Aren't Amsterdam

Chris Schalkx

Where to Eat, Stay, and Play in Whistler for Spring

Chadner Navarro

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 .

This image may contain Water Outdoors Nature Diving Sports Diver Sport Aqua Scuba and Scuba Diving

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.

By signing up you agree to our User Agreement (including the class action waiver and arbitration provisions ), our Privacy Policy & Cookie Statement and to receive marketing and account-related emails from Traveller. You can unsubscribe at any time. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

BEST OF THE WORLD

20 of the coolest travel adventures for 2024

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

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

#1: Go on horseback safari in Kenya

Guide Hamprey Mweterwa, and riders Llewellyn, Eloise and Tatiana Rose Dyer, watch a herd of zebra from atop their horses in Borana Conservancy, Kenya

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

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

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

#2: Run an Olympic marathon in Paris

Silhouettes of runners pass in front of the Eiffel Tower during the 45th edition of the Paris Marathon

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

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

#3: Ski tour UNESCO sites in Georgia

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

#4: Bear watch in Katmai National Park

Brown bears (Ursus arctos) graze on sedge grass in Hallo Bay in Alaska's Katmai National Park

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

Travel gear you'll want to pack in 2024

National Geographic’s top travel products for 2024 run the gamut from customizable bags and backpacks to a recyclable jacket

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

#5: Hear legendary live music in Kyoto

A singer on stage rocks out with a guitar

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

#6: Cruise an epic river in Colombia

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

#7: Road trip Route 66 in New Mexico

A ballon festival in Albuquerque at dusk

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

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

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

#8: Explore ancient art in Algeria

A guide, wearing the traditional robes and shesh headscarf of the nomadic Tuareg tribe, stands on an outcrop at Adrit.

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

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

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

#9: Dive with sharks in Western Australia

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

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

#10: Hike a volcano in Panama

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

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

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

#11: Catch the eclipse at Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls, a boat of tourists, and a rainbow as seen from Niagara Falls, Ontario

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

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

#12: Trek a glacier in Chile

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

#13: Step back in time on Menorca

the archeological site of Naveta des Taudons lit up by a sky of stars

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

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

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

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

#14: Ride classic rails in Scotland

A view from inside the Royal Scotsman as it drives through the Highlands

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

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

#15: Find authentic flavor in Thailand

An overhead view of a plate of Northeastern style Thai cuisine

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

9 spectacular night sky events to see in 2024

Surprising ways animals react to solar eclipses

This medieval village is one of the buzziest places to ski

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

#16: Wander tea trails in Sri Lanka

View over the tea plantations near Kotagala on stage 7 of the Pekoe Trail

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

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

#17: Gallery hop in São Paulo

Aerial view of the São Paulo Museum of Art (MAP) illuminated at night

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

#18: Raft the rapids in West Virginia

An overhead view of people rafting the Gauley River in Gauley River National Recreation Area

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

#19: Go antiquing in Hudson Valley

Shoppers congregate inside the Basilica Hudson

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

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

#20: Sleep on the water in British Columbia

The exterior of the Tofino Wilderness Resort reflected in the lake

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

Editor's note

How to watch a solar eclipse safely

Do bats take flight during a solar eclipse? Here’s what we learned.

What is a solar eclipse—and when is the next one?

A supersonic jet chased a solar eclipse across Africa—for science

A total solar eclipse is coming. Here's how to photograph it.

Environment

History & Culture

History & Culture
Mind, Body, Wonder
Paid Content
Terms of Use
Privacy Policy
Your US State Privacy Rights
Children's Online Privacy Policy
Interest-Based Ads
About Nielsen Measurement
Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information
Nat Geo Home
Attend a Live Event
Book a Trip
Inspire Your Kids
Shop Nat Geo
Visit the D.C. Museum
Learn About Our Impact
Support Our Mission
Advertise With Us
Customer Service
Renew Subscription
Manage Your Subscription
Work at Nat Geo
Sign Up for Our Newsletters
Contribute to Protect the Planet

Team Wanderlust | 25 January 2023

25 big bucket list adventures.

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

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

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

1. Raft the Grand Canyon Arizona, USA

The Colorado River running through the Grand Canyon (Dreamstime)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

2. Visit Antarctica

Whale in the Weddell Sea, Antarctica (Dreamstime)

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

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

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

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

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

Watch next Wanderlust's virtual Antarctica event

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

Waterfall along the Milford Track (Dreamstime)

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

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

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

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

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

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

5. Trek to Petra, Jordan

Petra, Jordan (Shutterstock)

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

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

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

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

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

6. Swim with turtles in Ningaloo, Western Australia

A green turtle at Ningaloo Reef (Shutterstock)

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

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

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

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

Start your adventure: More information

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

7. Spot a snow leopard in Ladakh, India

A snow leopard in India (Shutterstock)

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

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

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

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

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

9. Visit St Helena, South Atlantic

St Helena (Shutterstock)

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

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

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

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

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

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

10. Seek out private islands in Scotland

The Summer Isles, Scotland (Dreamstime)

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

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

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

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

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

11. Climb Kilimanjaro, Tanzania

Kilimanjaro, Tanzania (Dreamstime)

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

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

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

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

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

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

12. Tour Havana in a classic car, Cuba

Classic cars in Havana, Cuba (Dreamstime)

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

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

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

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

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

13. See an eclipse in Argentina, Antarctica or Australia

A total eclipse (Dreamstime)

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

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

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

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

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

14. Cuddle a whale in Baja California, Mexico

A grey whale calf in Baja (Dreamstime)

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

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

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

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

15. Capture the Northern Lights on camera

Photographing the Northern Lights (Shutterstock)

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

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

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

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

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

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

Everest Base Camp (Dreamstime)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

19. See the Sistine Chapel in Vatican City, Italy

Inside the Sistine Chapel (Shutterstock)

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

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

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

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

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

20. Drive through Glacier National Park, USA

Glacier National Park (Shutterstock)

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

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

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

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

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

23. Raft the Zambezi River, Zambia

Hippos in the Zambezi River (Dreamstime)

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

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

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

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

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

Machu Picchu (Dreamstime)

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

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

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

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

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

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

25. Experience New Orleans' Mardi Gras, USA

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Discover more amazing adventures:

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

Join our newsletter

Get the very best of Wanderlust by signing up to our newsletters, full of travel inspiration, fun quizzes, exciting competitions and exclusive offers.

101 of the world's most mindblowing adventures to add to your bucket list

1. taste a real reuben in katz's delicatessen, new york.

Katz's Reuben is the best Reuben

2. Step inside Arizona's Upper Antelope Canyon

Upper Antelope Canyon, a petrified Arizona sand dune

3. Drive Montana and Wyoming's ridiculously cinematic Beartooth Highway

Beartooth highway: the most beautiful drive in America

4. Dance beneath the world's largest video screen in Las Vegas

Leave it to Las Vegas to create the world’s biggest video screen

5. Drink beers and throw axes in Louisville, Kentucky

Zeroing in on bullseye at Flying Axes, Louisville

6. Dive the actual Titanic wreck in a submarine

You can dive the Titanic for $100,000 a pop

7. Sing-along with Reverend Al Green in Memphis

Al Green performs at Memphis's Beale Street Music Festival

8. Helicopter over the Na Pali coast in Hawaii

Hawaii's Na Pali Coast has to be seen to be believed

9. Soak up the surrounds of Idaho's Bruneau Dunes State Park

Bruneau Dunes State Park has 400ft dunes that rival the Sahara.

10. Take a ride on Colorado's Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad

Enjoy the jaw-dropping views of the Durango and Silverton Railroad

7 things other than the Dakar to get your blood pumping in South America

11. eat the best ribs in america at pappy's smokehouse, st louis.

Ribs, turkey, chicken, brisket, burnt ends and pork at Pappy's Smokehouse

12. Kayak with orcas in Canada's Johnstone Strait

Catch up with Free Willy in Canada’s Johnstone Strait

13. Try an organic tipple in Mendocino, San Francisco

Mendocino grows some of the best (and greenest) wine in the country

14. Cross New River Gorge Bridge in West Virginia

Cross New River Gorge Bridge in West Virginia

15. Mountain bike in Crested Butte, Colorado

Crested Butte transforms into a mountain biking Mecca in summer

16. Stand before Turkmenistan's 'Door to Hell'

Turkmenistan's Door to Hell is a bit nuts, TBH

17. Camp with Nenet reindeer herders in Siberia

Camping with Siberian reindeer herders really is 'once in a lifetime'

18. Sleep with locals in a yurt on the plains of Kyrgyzstan

The yurt is still the king of accommodation in Kyrgyzstan

19. Venture beneath Istanbul in the Basilica Sistern

Hook into the subterranean drama of the Basilica Cistern

20. Learn to make khinkali dumplings in Georgia

Do Georgian dumplings taste as good as they look? Only one way to find out

Where in the world are the '7 wonders of adventure'?

21. snack on free pineapple cakes in tokyo.

There are free pineapple cakes to be had in Tokyo

22. Challenge yourself with Matt Prior's Adventure Academy

Matt Prior's Adventure Academy will yank you out of your comfort zone

23. Take a morning stroll through Koya San's Okunoin cemetery in Japan

Koya San is home to 200,000 ancient tombs

24. Ride camels through Nepal's Nubra Valley

Ride camels through the Nubra Valley

25. Join the Great Wall Marathon in China

Could you hack a marathon on the Great Wall of China?

26. Eat raw fugu in Osaka, Japan

Go fugu hunting in Osaka for a death-defying sushi experience

27. Drive the Karakoram Highway through Pakistan

Today, the Karakoram Highway is one of the world’s truly great drives

28. Survey the abandoned streets of Japan's Hashima Island

Japan's Hashima Island makes for an eerie day out

29. Drive through rainbow danxia in Zhangye, China

Danxia National Geological Park is a pretty spectacular place for a stroll

30. Catch a hip hop gig in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia

New Mass Club in Ulaanbaatar dishes up local hip-hop acts

10 Adventure Travel Destinations You Should Visit

31. cycle around sun moon lake in taiwan.

Taiwan's Sun Moon Lake makes a damn fine cycling spot

32. Sail Burma's Myeik Archipelago

Mergui was literally off-limits to travellers since the late 1940s

33. Crew a paraw in the Philippine archipelago

Sail around remote islands on the Philippines Sailing Challenge

34. Grab your super soaker for the Songkran Water Festival

Bring your own water cannon at Songkran festival

35. Sail the southern beaches of Sri Lanka

Sail Sri Lanka with a little help from G Adventures

36. Climb to the Tiger's Nest in Bhutan

Tiger's Nest in Bhutan defies both belief and gravity.

37. Drive a rickshaw through Cambodia

Take Cambodia by rickshaw with Large Minority

38. Venture beneath the earth at Hang Son Doong Cave, Vietnam

Hang Son Doong is the biggest cave in the world

39. Get down and dirty at the Boryeong Mud Festival in South Korea

Get down and dirty at this Korean mud festival

40. Check out the new elevated Skypark in Seoul, South Korea

Seoul's Skypark is an inner-city oasis

41. Stand beneath Maletsunyane Falls in Lesotho

Maletsunyane is one of those vistas straight out of National Geographic

42. Sail a dhow past the Swahili isle of Lamu

Hire a traditional dhow and sail the old trade winds in Lamu

43. Hike the northern reaches of South Africa’s Kruger National Park

An African elephant spotted on the Pafuri Walking Trail

44. Ski in Iran’s Alborz Mountains

Alborz – the best powder in the Middle East?

45. Meet endangered sea turtles in Ras al-Jinz, Oman

Hang out with turtles at Ras al-Jinz, Oman

46. Capture the sand dunes of Namibia on film

Your Sossusvlei shots will look otherworldly

47. Spot leopards on a walking safari in Zambia’s Luangwa National Park

South Luangwa National Park is a fine spot for spotting spotted leopards

48. Snorkel with whale sharks in Djibouti

Snorkel with these gentle giants in Djibouti

49. Check out the pink waters of Lake Retba in Senegal

Surreal scenes at Senegal's Lake Retba

50. Raft beneath Victoria Falls in Zambia

You'll FALL in love with Vic Falls. Get it? Ahem

This is how you make adventure photos turn heads

51. stargaze at the sahara observatory in morocco.

Quit navel gazing and start stargazing at the Sahara Observatory

52. Try kitesurfing at Essaouira, Morocco

White caps, sea spray, and an ever-present wind: welcome to Essaouira

53. Play a game of Awari in Ghana

Awari is one of the oldest known games of intellectual skill

54. Swim in the shallow waters of Bazaruto, Mozambique

All things considered, Bazaruto is a super nice place

55. Drive South Africa’s Panorama Route

The Three Rondavels, South Africa's Panorama Route

56. Meet the tribes of Ethiopia’s Omo Valley

Get to know a totally different way of life in the Omo Valley

57. Hike Namibia’s Fish River Canyon

Trekkers fly from all over the world to hike Fish River Canyon

58. Paddle kayaks on Lake Malawi

Welcome to Malawi, the warm heart of Africa

59. Visit a voodoo market in Togo

There are plenty of skulls to be had at Lome's fetish market

60. Camp overnight at the holy hermitage of Assekrem, Algeria

Topology that looks more like Mars than Earth: welcome to Asskerem

How to turn your next holiday into an epic walking adventure

61. party the night away in trinidad’s ayala cave disco.

Disco Ayala is one of the coolest nights out in Central America

62. Kill all the time in the world at Jericoacoara, Brazil

Hang 10 in hammocks at Jericoacoara, Brazil

63. Paraglide over Chile’s Atacama Desert

Chile's Atacama Desert: great from ground level, better from above

64. Ride dune buggies through the Atacama

The Atacama Crossing desert race

65. Search for lost spirits in Chiloé, Chile

Compared to nearby Patagonia, hardly any outsiders visit Chiloé

66. Try cutting-edge Nikkei fusion in Lima, Peru

'Nikkei' isn't Japanese for "insanely delicious", but it should be

67. Cross the Bolivian Altiplano

The Bolivian Altiplano is the largest high plateau outside Tibet

68. Hike the snowy slopes of a volcano in Chile

Not all volcanoes are created equal. Case in point: Villarica

69. Play documentary maker in Argentina’s Valdes Peninsula

Spend time with the Magellanic penguins on Peninsula Valdes

70. Watch surfers on the Amazon River

Pororoca – where the waters of the Atlantic swell and surge up the Amazon

71. Trek the tepuis of Venezuela

The tepuis of Venezuela are 'holy sh*t'-inducing

72. Sit ringside at a women’s wrestling match in Bolivia

Meet the Fighting Cholitas, a group of women Bolivian wrestlers

73. Surf down a volcano in Nicaragua

Ash boarding – the next big extreme sport?

74. Stroll beneath the roof of Santuario de Las Lajas, Colombia

Santuario de las Lajas is a beautiful sight

75. Go bonefishing in Los Roques, Venezuela

Los Roques serves up direct access to the best bonefishing in the world

76. Surf the coast of Ecuador at Montañita

Montañita is a a surfer's dream

77. Dive between continents at the Silfra Rift in Iceland

The Silfra fissure is drifting about 2cm a year

78. Try air-dried stockfish in the Lofoten islands

When Lofoten locals catch cod, they like to preserve it

79. Track Polar bears in Spitsbergen, Norway

Glimpse polar bears on Spitsbergen

80. Ride with a husky team in Luleå, Sweden

Sled dogs are a traditional mode of transport in the Arctic

81. Snowshoe through Þingvellir National Park, Iceland

Þingvellir is a pristine spot for a bit of snowshoeing

82. Take the karaoke taxi in Finland

Karaoke taxi: the ultimate roadtrip singalong

83. Hike through Landmannalaugar in Iceland

Landmannalaugar is one of Iceland’s premier natural wonders

84. Dare to eat Surströmming in Sweden

Surströmming: proceed with caution

85. Meet the elders of Australia’s East Arnhem Land

Megan and Nancy teaching traditional arts and crafts with Intrepid Travel

86. Hike the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, New Zealand

New Zealand's Tongariro Alpine Crossing is a bit of a face-melter

87. Put your survival skills to the test in the Australian bush (or desert)

Learn how to make fire with The Adventure Merchants

88. Castaway on Modriki Island, Fiji

Channel your inner Tom Hanks and castaway on the island of Modriki

89. Go husky sledding in the Australian bush

Husky sledding is a sure-fire way to embrace your inner child

90. Find 20,000-year-old rock art in the gorges of Kakadu, Australia

Some of the art at Ubirr is up to 23,000 years old

This is what it's like to paddle the Torres Strait

91. soak up maori culture in new zealand.

Tane Mahuta is a giant kauri tree in the Waipoua Forest

92. Bungee jump off the dam from GoldenEye in Switzerland

The name's Bond, James Bo– actually, are you sure this is safe?

93. Cycle to Castell d’Alaró in Majorca, Spain

Castell d’Alaró, Majorca

94. Climb the Quiraing on the Isle of Skye, Scotland

Pull out your camera, point it in any direction and hit the button

95. Check out the Dutch masters at the Mauritshuis, Netherlands

You don’t even need to be an art lover to appreciate the Mauritshuis

96. Visit Sleeping Beauty’s castle in Fussen, Germany

Neuschwanstein Castle is like something out of a fairytale (on steroids)

97. Walk on water in Lake Resia, Italy

Pretty sure Lago di Resia isn't even real

98. Go truffle hunting at dawn in Piedmont

Do the truffle shuffle in Piedmont

99. Try fresh buffalo mozzarella in Campania

Pillowy soft: mozzarella is one of Italy’s great food experiences

100. Burn a Viking galley at Up Helly Aa in Scotland

Up Helly Aa is a genuine erm… Scottish viking experience

101. Ride the real Hogwarts Express in Scotland

All aboard The Jacobite: the real-life Hogwarts Express

Meet the Team
Work with Us
Czech Republic
Netherlands
Switzerland
Scandinavia
Philippines
South Korea
New Zealand
South Africa
Budget Travel
Work & Travel
The Broke Backpacker Manifesto
Travel Resources
How to Travel on $10/day

Home » Budget Travel » 21 Insane Bucket List Adventures You MUST Experience in 2024

21 Insane Bucket List Adventures You MUST Experience in 2024

There’s nothing I love more than dreaming about bucket list adventures, especially when they’re around the corner. If you’re reading this, you too, are likely in the need of some seriously epic inspiration right about now.

Don’t worry–you’re in for a heck of a virtual (which will hopefully turn into the real thing soon) adventure!

Whether it be a dream trek somewhere in the mountains of South Asia, or an unreal road trip through a can’t-miss national park, our planet is filled with bucket list trips that you’ll remember for a lifetime.

These are the types of journeys that stay with you forever, adventures that push your limits and make you reconsider what’s truly possible… AKA the best type of bucket list experiences.

So with consideration for all types of travelers in mind, here are 21 travel bucket list ideas that will be sure to make this year the most memorable yet!

adventure list #1 - mount everest in nepal with a shrine in the foreground

The Broke Backpacker is supported by you . Clicking through our links may earn us a small affiliate commission, and that's what allows us to keep producing free content 🙂 Learn more .

The 21 Best Bucket List Adventure Ideas (to Knock Your Socks Off!)

Epic adventures for your travel bucket list, kinda’ crazy bucket list ideas, unique bucket list ideas you’ll never forget, top-tier adventure bucket list ideas, what to pack for the bucket list trip of a lifetime, bucket list inspo achieved.

Crazy adventures, travel bucket list trips, wild experiences: you’ve dreamed it, you can do it. From the best destinations for adventure travel to the most absolutely insane adventures you can have, here are 21 ultimate bucket list ideas to change your life.

Unlock Our GREATEST Travel Secrets!

Travelers, these are for you. Pack up and get ready for some of best international adventures around.

1. Road trip the Karakoram Highway

You can’t talk about bucket list travel destinations without mentioning Pakistan. It’s only adventure travel’s crown jewel, after all. And what better way to experience its magic than via a road trip through the 8th Wonder of the World, the Karakoram Highway?

From the delicious history, culture and food of Lahore to the unbelievable beauty of Gilgit Baltistan , the entire country is epic, but the Karakoram Highway alone is enough of a reason to make a backpacking adventure in Pakistan a bucket list trip ASAP.

The famous Karakoram Highway (which connects Pakistan with China) coasts along some of the most beautiful views I’ve personally ever seen. The iconic Passu Cones along with a multitude of other mountains and iconic scenery will greet you.

Other must stops along the highway include:

Hussaini Suspension Bridge
Attabad Lake
Batura Lake
The Passu Glacier
And if you like meat, the best restaurant I may have ever visited in my life: the Yak Grill near the Passu Cones!

A week is enough to get a good feel for the highway (including the Karakoram National Park where hundreds of yaks and marmots live), though you’d need a lifetime to truly get to know Pakistan.

484 pages with cities, towns, parks, and ALL the out-of-the-way places you will WANT to know. If you truly want to discover Pakistan , download this PDF .

2. Take in India by train

Traveling through India on its extensive railway network is a life-changing experience. I experienced it in 2019 (or part of the country anyway) and to say it’s a bucket list adventure is a massive understatement.

India is truly a multitude of worlds within worlds, and traveling by train is the best way to see it all. You can visit almost every part of the country via India Railways, except for some of its more mountainous regions.

Start your trip in New Delhi, head to Rajasthan, and keep making your way south until you hit India’s magical beaches and coastline. Make a U-Shape to hit the East Coast, and don’t forget about Northeast India, the 7 sister states that will make you feel like you’re in a different country altogether.

3. Self-drive through Namibia

Have you heard of Namibia? If not, you should! This African beauty should be on every stargazer/astrophotographer’s collection of bucket list countries.

But even if you’re not too keen on either of those things, odds are you’ll love a self-drive through Namibia.

Exploring Namibia with your own vehicle will also allow you to go for a full-on independent safari–all at your own pace.

The real highlight of a Namibia self-drive is a camp-out at NamibRand . The nature reserve is one of only a few gold-certified dark sky reserves, meaning on a clear night with little moonlight, you’re in for the best star show of your life!

4. Experience the magic of Bhutan

view of tigers nest bhutan bucket list adventures

Bhutan should be at the top of every traveler’s bucket list destinations list. The South Asian Kingdom borders both India and Tibet and is one of the few countries in the world that makes visitors pay a minimum daily rate.

While this might sound rather hefty at $250/day, Bhutan uses the money to preserve its heritage and provide for its citizens. It’s also the world’s only carbon-negative country!

Taking a trip to Bhutan is tricky, but the rewards are well worth the effort. The beauty of Bhutan’s landscapes, delicious food, ancient and well-preserved historical sites, and a culture very few have been able to experience–it’s truly one of those places that’s worth saving up for.

If you do make it to one of the most incredible countries in the world, must-do’s include:

Entering the beautiful Tiger’s Nest monastery
Checking out the phallus-fixated village of Sopsokha,
And heading out on a trek or two.

Since the $250/day package requires a guide, you can either choose a fixed route or exert some control over your itinerary.

5. Go Backpacking: Travel the world on $10/day!

surfing chicks in el salvador backpacking

And now for what I consider to be the best of all possible bucket list adventures: traveling the world on $10 a day .

Traveling on a low budget in epic countries taught me more about life and the world than 18 years of school ever did. Eating street food, finding out what a hostel was, making unforgettable memories in the most beautiful of places…these are but some of the benefits of traveling the world on a shoestring.

It forces you out of your comfort zone, thrusts you into new ways of life, and is absolutely 100% guaranteed to bring about some crazy adventures. If there’s just one thing on this adventure list that you ACTUALLY end up doing, let it be this one.

Everybody needs to try budget travel. At least once.

Our GREATEST Travel Secrets…

Pop your email here & get the original Broke Backpacker Bible for FREE.

The type of adventure ideas that really scream “bucket list.”

6. Sail to Antarctica

two penguins in Antarctica - bucket list trips

Being the most unexplored continent by far, Antarctica is one of those bucket list trips of a lifetime. Unknown, dangerous and infrequently visited, a sailing trip to Antarctica might just be in a category all of its own.

A place where you can see nature at its most raw and wildlife at its least disturbed, a trip to Antarctica comes at a high price tag, and a high amount of penguins to be seen.

The journey will take you through rough seas to quite literally the end of the earth. But all that it entails is well worth the reward–there’s no bucket list inspiration on Earth quite like Antarctica!

7. Cycle the Pamir Highway

The Pamir Highway extending into the horizon - top bucket list road trips

Vast, magical, high and about as remote as it gets, the Pamir Highway (or M41) is typically ridden from Osh in Kyrgyzstan to Dushanbe in Tajikistan (or vice versa if you prefer).

Its highest point is over 4600m, and the landscapes along the way make the Pamir Highway an essential travel bucket list item. The sights you’ll see in Central Asia and, particularly, while traveling through Kyrgyzstan are nothing short of otherworldly.

While you can hitchhike, self-drive, or hire a driver, the most extreme way to see the highway is undoubtedly from the saddle of a cycle.

With the ability to wild camp anywhere along the way, you’ll get to see Pamir at its rawest, and feel pretty damn accomplished after cycling over 1200 km through two countries!

8. Up the fear factor by bungee jumping in New Zealand

A backpacker in New Zealand crosses bungee jumping of his bucket list

An extreme bucket list adventure that will be sure to REALLY get your heart pumping is the famous bungee jump in Queenstown, New Zealand. At 134 m high, the Nevis Bungee jump is made for adrenaline junkies. After a 35-minute 4×4 ride, you’ll find yourself at the highest bungee point in all of New Zealand.

Any last thoughts or prayers?

Joking! But you might want to keep in mind that dropping 134 m in less than 10 seconds might raise your blood pressure a little! There are TONS of companies in Queenstown to check off this crazy bucket list idea with, and you can expect to pay around $200.

9. Go paragliding in Interlaken, Switzerland

paragliding in mountains of interlaken switzerland

Yes, paragliding might be one crazy bucket list idea, but isn’t that the point of an adventure?

Switzerland is known for its state-of-art paragliding locales, and Interlaken is one of the best areas in Switzerland to head to if you’re serious about getting a taste of life as a bird.

Clearly, paragliding isn’t something to be taken lightly! If you’ve never done it before, you’re going to need some lessons and a guide for your first few flights.

Luckily, Interlaken has dozens of companies to choose from to help you make the most out of this big bucket list adventure!

6. Embark on a journey to K2 Base Camp

So you’ve probably heard of the EBC (Everest Base Camp) Trek, but have you heard of the trek to K2 Base Camp, a journey that allows you to get up close and personal with the 2nd highest (and MOST DANGEROUS) mountain in the world? The amount of incredible hikes in Pakistan is truly impressive, but few can compare to K2.

Known as the Savage Mountain, K2 has only been successfully summitted a handful of times due to its insane weather conditions and numerous other technical difficulties. But while reaching the summit is for trained professionals, you can make it to the basecamp with only moderate fitness.

While it certainly can be categorized as one of those extreme bucket list ideas, this trek is perhaps the most beautiful in the world as it allows you to take in some other-worldly scenery.

Due to its extreme nature, you need a NOC and a licensed guide to check the K2 Basecamp Trek off this bucket list adventure. But, well, that feeling of pride…?

That lasts a lifetime .

The type of bucket list trips that you might not even have considered.

11. Get on the saddle of a horse in Mongolia

Mongolia is one of the wildest countries in the world: with rolling grassy plains that make up thousands of kilometers in area, it’s a landscape that’s best seen via horseback.

Riding through the Mongolian plateau on four legs might just SOUND like one of those crazy bucket list ideas, but it’s seriously doable. If you’re extra experienced on the saddle, you can even potentially opt to go on a solo ride.

But for most of us, arranging a trek with a Mongolian company is the best (and safest) option. Ulaanbaatar –the capital–is the best place to start your trip and plan further. Surprisingly, there are a few decent hostels in Ulaanbaatar , so it’s a decent base.

But keep in mind that travel in Mongolia is extremely seasonal–this is a bucket list country best experienced during the summer.

12. Get up close to volcanoes in Russia’s Kamchatka Peninsula

Russia’s Kamchatka peninsula is well known amongst Russians but is often left off of most other travelers’ adventure bucket list. The 1,250 km long peninsula is made up of some of the world’s rawest landscapes, tons of wildlife, and even active volcanoes.

Kamchatka is located in Russia’s far-east and has a dramatic climate with a short window of opportunity to visit. July-August is the best time to soak it all in, though you’d be able to manage without catching hypothermia any time from May-September.

Make sure you don’t miss Klyuchevskaya Sopka , the highest volcano on Kamchatka as well as the highest active volcano in all of Eurasia!

13. Fly over Bagan, Myanmar, in a hot air balloon

Hot air balloons over Bagan, Myanmar - bucket list adventures in Southeast Asia

Myanmar is a magical place to visit , but Bagan is an especially magical place. Over 2,000 ancient temples, pagodas, and a ton of greenery fill the ancient city which is best viewed at sunrise from above.

Each morning, the sky above Bagan becomes filled with balloons, which is undoubtedly the best way to view this one-of-a-kind landscape.

Personally, I’m a fan of the temples at sunset, but be sure to check them out at both breaks of day to see which one you prefer yourself. You can also visit the inside of some of the pagodas!

Balloon rentals can be arranged at MANY places nearby (including your Bagan hostel).

14. Visit the Ancient Angkor Wat

Cambodia’s signature bucket list inspo is a 900 year old temple complex that used to be covered in gold.

Angkor Wat is located not far from the center of the city of Siem Reap which in and of itself is quite a small area of Cambodia to stay . The best way to take in the spiritual, ancient structures is via tuk-tuk, or better yet bicycle. Both are easy to rent from any accommodation in Siem Reap, but you can also do it online beforehand!

For the best adventure list experience, try to make it to Angkor Wat for sunrise. Cambodia is generally hot AF year-round, but it’s on another level in the summer.

To enjoy the temples without feeling like you’re quite literally melting, visit during the “cool” months of December-February.

It will take days to see all the temples, and whether you buy the 1, 2, or 3-day pass is entirely up to you, but make sure you don’t miss these specifically: Ta Prohm (where jungle meets history), Bayon , and of course, the namesake Angkor Wat which will greet you upon entry!

15. Drive across the Salar de Uyuni in Bolivia

Covering an area of more than 4,000 square miles, the Salar de Uyuni (AKA the famous Bolivian salt flats) is the largest in the world of its kind. It’s truly impossible to describe just HOW flat the region truly is. Basically, it’s one of those bucket list adventures that truly feels extraplanetary.

Uyuni can be explored by bicycle, car, or with a tour. You also have the option to hire a driver if you prefer. Salar de Uyuni is one of the best things to do while traveling in Bolivia , but also just one of the more unique bucket list adventures out there. It’s certainly not every day that you’ll have the opportunity to soak in one of the planet’s rarest landscapes.

Drink water from ANYWHERE. The Grayl Geopress is the worlds leading filtered water bottle protecting you from all manner of waterborne nasties.

Single-use plastic bottles are a MASSIVE threat to marine life. Be a part of the solution and travel with a filter water bottle. Save money and the environment!

We’ve tested the Geopress rigorously from the icy heights of Pakistan to the tropical jungles of Bali, and can confirm: it’s the best water bottle you’ll ever buy!

Bucket list trips that are sure to be remembered for years to come.

16. Trek to Machu Picchu, Peru

The secret city of Machu Picchu is known by all travelers–it’s one of those bucket list travel adventures everyone has had their eye on at one time or another. And for good reason–the trek to the ruins is truly one-of-a-kind.

The best part is that there are MANY routes that lead to Machu Picchu, all of varying difficulty and length. The 26-mile Inca Trail is by far the most popular, and while beautiful, that means your experience will be far from private. A permit is also required to tread along the famous Inca Trail.

For those that are looking for lesser-touristed Incan sites , off-beat alternatives include the difficult Vilcabamba Traverse or via the infrequently visited ruins of Choquequirao . Keep in mind that the dry season runs from April-October, and trust me take that seriously–you don’t want to hike in a downpour!

17. See the Great Barrier Reef

fish in the great barrier reef australia

Situated along the North Queensland Coast, travellers on Australia’s East Coast will find the Great Barrier Reef. It’s hard to miss–it’s the longest in the world. Visiting the Great Barrier Reef is one of the world’s most well-known bucket list ideas.

The Great Barrier Reef is the world’s largest coral reef system. Stretching along over 2,000 km and containing nearly 3,000 individual reefs, this is a bucket list adventure that you seriously won’t find anywhere else in the world. Because it’s one of a kind.

There are many places to choose to base yourself near the Great Barrier Reef, and considering it’s so long, there are plenty of stay options as well.

Cairns is considered to be the main gateway to the reef, though if you’re on a budget you can opt for the more wallet-friendly Townsville .

18. Trek through Patagonia

hiker looking at a blue-white glacier in

Patagonia in Argentina is one of the most stunning places you can trek IN THE ENTIRE WORLD. Period .

The Torres del Paine Circuit (located in Torres del Paine National Park ) is the most popular of the dozens of hiking trails in Patagonia and will give you unreal multi-day views of jagged, snow-covered peaks and glacial lakes that come in shades of blue you never even knew existed.

The entire trek is about 80 km (50 miles) and the highest point is just below 1200 m. Though the distance may sound daunting, the altitude isn’t that high meaning anyone of average fitness should be able to enjoy this bucket list adventure.

19. See the Northern Lights in Scandinavia

The vibrant Northen Lights in Iceland - once in lifetime experience

A bucket list for travel can’t leave out seeing the Northern Lights–this epic phenomenon is a top Earthly-adventure that you really have to see to believe! As great as photos are, they simply cannot do them justice.

Finland, Norway, and Sweden are some of the best places to see the Northern Lights due to their polar locations. But don’t make the mistake of thinking you can see them all year-round; the window for Aurora Borealis sightings is within October-November and February-March .

Self-guided trips and tours are both possible, if you decide to head out on your own make sure your itinerary dates are generous, it’s not a given that the lights will be visible every night.

20. Summit Mt. Kilimanjaro

Few mountains can compare to Tanzania’s Mt. Kilimanjaro. Trekking to its summit is undoubtedly something to put on your once-in-a-lifetime adventure bucket list. At 5,895 meters, its summit is the so-called “roof of Africa” and will prove to be a meaty challenge.

Unlike other bucket list adventure ideas, Mt. Kilimajaro can NOT be done independently. Luckily, there are dozens upon dozens of companies to choose from when booking your adventure tour.

When selecting a company, keep in mind you’ll get what you pay for in terms of comfort and food. Combine it with an independent backpacking trip through Tanzania to get the most out of flight prices!

21. Road trip through America’s National Parks

photo of river flowing through bucket list place zion national park in the USA

With 63 parks to choose from, America’s national park system is in a class of its own. Each of the very different park options offers a different kind of adventure bucket list item to experience.

From seeking out alligators in the Florida Everglades to experiencing the White Sands Park in New Mexico to the many, many hiking opportunities each of the 63 holds, there’s no better way to see the US than via a road trip through some of its best natural assets.

If you’re planning to visit a ton of parks, your most wallet-friendly option is to buy an annual pass, which will quite literally save you hundreds that you could be spending on other bucket list adventures!

You can’t show up to a bucket list trip of a lifetime unprepared! A good set of backpacking gear (and good travel insurance) goes a long way.

Here are some of our top recommendations on what should go in your pack, and as always, we recommend World Nomads Travel Insurance to protect it all with.

Osprey Aether 70L Backpack

Ya can’t go backpacking anywhere without a blasted backpack! Words cannot describe what a friend the Osprey Aether has been to The Broke Backpacker on the road. It’s had a long and illustrious career; Ospreys don’t go down easily.

feathered friend backpacking sleeping bag

Feathered Friends Swift 20 YF

My philosophy is that with an EPIC sleeping bag, you can sleep anywhere. A tent is a nice bonus, but a real sleek sleeping bag means you can roll out anywhere in a and stay warm in a pinch. And the Feathered Friends Swift bag is about as premium as it gets.

Grayl Geopress Filtered Bottle

Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator – so you can enjoy a cold red bull, or a hot coffee, no matter where you are.

Petzl Actik Core Headlamp

Every traveller should have a head torch! A decent head torch could save your life. When you’re camping, hiking, or even if the power just went out, a top-quality headlamp is a MUST. The Petzl Actik Core is an awesome piece of kit because it’s USB chargeable—batteries begone!

First Aid Kit

Never go off the beaten track (or even on it) without your first aid kit! Cuts, bruises, scrapes, third-degree sunburn: a first aid kit will be able to handle most of these minor situations.

And Pack Some Damn Travel Insurance!

Ok, so you can’t pack travel insurance BUT it’s absolutely daft not travel without it. You truly never know what’s going to happen on the road, and if something not so ideal does, you want to make sure you (and your wallet) are protected.

Do you want to be another sad case on GoFundMe of an adventurer who thought they were too cool for travel insurance?

Didn’t think so.

We highly recommend you choose from one of the top travel insurance companies that has a good reputation for assisting travelers in far out lands.

Here at The Broke Backpacker, we always recommend World Nomads for all your trust travel insurance needs. Check out our World Nomads review so you too can protect yourself, your valuables, and your trip!

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.

And there, you have it: 21 absolutely epic bucket list adventures that are sure to tingle your travel senses! From road trips to climbing some crazy mountains, to seeing some of the world’s most unique landscapes, these adventure list ideas have something for every kind of traveler.

So what are you waiting for? Plan the trip, book the flight, and cross off those bucket list destinations!

girl walking down cliff in northern pakistan

Samantha Shea

Share or save this post

Machu Picchu is absolutely mind blowing! Then when you factor in the various treks you can take just to get there, you gain an appreciation of the tenacity and intelligence of this ancient Indigenous society. Can’t wait to knock off the other trips recommended on this list! Angkor Wat especially.

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!

These adventure destinations will inspire your next trip... or ten! Learn about both well-known and off-the-beaten-track adventure destinations and why you should explore them, with countries from every continent included.

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

places to travel in costa rica for adventure

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

best pacific coast highway road trip stops stops highway 1 california bixby bridge big sur

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

Smith Rock State Park outside of Bend, OR

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

greenland is a great adventure travel destination

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

dolomites adventure destination in europe

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

ADventure destinations in the middle east israel negev desert

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.

Queenstown view from Gondola _ Backyard Travel Family

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

Privacy Overview

Authentic Travel Experiences

For Every Adventurous Spirit

Find Your Trip

Travel with the Experts

Pioneering Adventure Travel for 45 Years

Since 1978, we’ve remained dedicated to designing innovative trips to the most fascinating corners of the world. Our adventures offer something for every adventurous spirit—from African safaris to hiking odysseys in the Alps to expedition cruises in Antarctica. We invite you to join us!

Award-Winning Journeys

Crafting Trips for Every Travel Style

Browse our trips based on your specific interests. Whether you are looking for hiking and trekking adventures, snorkeling excursions, in-depth cultural encounters, or more, we have the trip for you.

Private Journeys

Special Events

Exploring Top Destinations

We have more than 200 trips in over 80 countries throughout the world. Check out some of our most popular destinations below or browse our full selection.

Experience Tanzania

Take a classic wildlife safari with skilled trackers in Serengeti National Park or climb Kilimanjaro—the roof of Africa! Enjoy expert guides, exclusive private camps, and luxury lodges.

A group of people enjoying wine during a safari in Tanzania.

Join us in the Alps

Experience the Alps the right way with our world-class mountain guides. Hike among soaring peaks, hidden hamlets, and lush valleys—this is the way to see the Alps.

Explore Peru

Savor fine hotels and cultural exploration in the Sacred Valley of the Incas, hike the classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, and trek the spectacular alpine trails of the Cordillera Blanca.

A group of people hiking a mountain range in Peru.

Discover Egypt

Enter a mysterious world of soaring temples in a timeless desert landscape, from the Great Pyramids to Abu Simbel to a luxury cruise on the Nile.

Hike the Himalayas

Be welcomed in tiny villages and mountainside temples, meet red-robed monks, explore colorful markets, and discover a unique Shangri-La kingdom.

Tengboche monastery in front of Ama Dablam.

Providing Unparalleled, Best-in-Class Service

A group of people enjoying a meal together.

Thoughtful Itinerary Design

Meticulously planned and artfully executed itineraries, perfectly paced and with the ideal balance of activities, including unique off-the-beaten-path experiences.

Sustainable & Meaningful Travel

We are committed to environmentally conscious, locally focused travel, offsetting our trips’ carbon emissions and working to preserve the cultures and ecosystems we visit.

Best Trip Leaders in the Industry

Our Trip Leaders all have an extraordinary knowledge of their destinations, and a passion to share their worlds with you.

Request a Free Catalog

Get inspired for your next journey with our 2024-2025 Catalog of Adventures! With award-winning photography and over 200 journeys around the world, it is truly a Dream Book that will grace your coffee table and feed your wanderlust.

REVIEWS FROM OUR CLIENTS

“Absolutely EVERYTHING about this trip was perfect: itinerary, food, lodgings, trip leaders, educational opportunities. A perfect example of why Wilderness Travel will always be our first choice when planning adventures.”

“We were taught so much beyond the usual viewpoint given to a tourist that I felt I had a much deeper understanding of the culture and history than I would have if traveling with a different company.”

“An incredible variety of activities was packed into the trip, yet we never felt rushed. It would be impossible to do what we did in the same period of time without the expertise of WT guides.”

“I have dreamed of taking this trip for years. Truly this journey exceeded my expectations on all fronts. The wildlife, terrain, people, staff and fellow trip mates made it an adventure to always treasure. I feel blessed and fortunate. Thank you Wilderness Travel. You have my complete confidence.”

“Because of our Trek Leader’s vast experience in the area, we used several trails that aren’t known to many trekkers and we were invited into Sherpa homes, which was wonderful. I had been dreaming of this trip for 30 years and now those dreams are fulfilled.”

“Couldn’t have asked for a more interesting trip and two outstanding guides, accommodations, and meals. This was our fourth trip with Wilderness Travel and one of the best (although we say that about every trip we have been on!)”

“I love Wilderness Travel! You select the best guides, a variety of special places to stay, the food is always plentiful and cultural, and the adventure is top drawer! Thank you for offering trips that expand one’s knowledge of other cultures while making it enjoyable and fun.”

“We are still on a high a month after the trip, having had wonderful guides, camp crew, co-travelers, and the right mix of comfort and authentic experience.”

“WOW! This was an extraordinary trip. It was meticulously planned, but allowed for many spontaneous interactions and delightful surprises. Another WT success story.”

“This was my first trip to India and I cannot imagine a better introduction. Because of the care with which the trip had been planned and organized, I was able to relax, enjoy, and try to fully absorb the experience without spending even a moment concerned about the quotidian details of the trip. What a luxury.”

“Everyone was so thorough and helpful. It was like being whisked around on a magic carpet. Doors opened, every wish fulfilled, amazing service!”

“It was an indescribable, life-affirming experience that I will always cherish. In particular, I wanted to commend your selection of Trip Leaders. Their skill, thoughtfulness, and dedication made the entire trip seem effortless even though the challenge was great.”

Talk to an expert

Our Area Specialists know every detail about our adventures around the world. They will be happy to answer any questions and help you choose the journey that’s right for you. Contact us to learn more or book your trip today!

Aoraki / Mount Cook mountain in New Zealand

Get Daily Travel Tips & Deals!

By proceeding, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use .

travelers ride on camels in shara desert Staff FOC trip to Morocco Uncovered (XMKC)

The 10 Best Group Travel Tour Companies for 2023

Caroline Morse Teel

Caroline Morse Teel is the Managing Editor for SmarterTravel Media. Follow her adventures around the world on Instagram @TravelWithCaroline.

Travel Smarter! Sign up for our free newsletter.

For those truly epic, once-in-a-lifetime destinations, you want to leave your itinerary to the experts. Whether your dream is to see the Big Five on an African Safari, trek tall mountains, explore European cities, or something even wilder, a group tour is the easiest way to do it.

However, picking the wrong group tour company is the quickest way to ruin your trip. Make sure you choose a tour company that aligns with your goals and travel styles. Do you want an intimate group tour or do you prefer to make lots of new friends in a big group? Does the price line up with what you like (luxury vs. budget)? Is the itinerary going to all the places you want to see?

We’ve done the research and found the very best group travel tour companies for 2023 for every type of traveler.

Best Overall Group Travel: Exodus Travels

Images of nature around the mountains and lakes of Slovenia as seen on the Exodus Travels' Lakes and Mountains of Slovenia walking tour

With trips on every continent, Exodus Travels covers anywhere on this planet that you could possibly want to go, from popular destinations like the Amalfi Coast to well off-the-beaten path adventures like Tajikistan. This award-winning group travel company boasts thousands of repeat customers who sign up for trips year after year (97% of past participants would recommend Exodus Travels to a friend).

These small group tours operate with only around 12-16 people, and always feature experienced local leaders who can give you a unique insight into your destination. Exodus Travels caters to any type of travel style, including trips broken down by type of activity (think walking, cycling, multi-adventure, winter, or cultural) as well as type of traveler (family, age group, etc.). There are curated collections (coastal, “away from it all”, European wilderness, and trips of a lifetime) to inspire you, as well as self-guided options for when you want all the benefits of a group tour planner without the actual group. Looking for that special safari? Exodus Travels just partners with the African Wildlife Foundation to create carefully curated luxury adventures that go above and beyond the standard safari.

Exodus Travels tours work for almost any budget, with options that range from affordable to premium.

Top Trip: Explore under-the-radar Europe by foot on Exodus Travels’ Lakes & Mountains of Slovenia walking tour .

A Taste of the Sweet Life in Slovenia

Best Adventure Group Travel: World Expeditions

Groups of hikers walking and camping around the mountains of Kilimanjaro with World Expeditions

World Expeditions has been taking adventurous travelers to remote locations all over the world ever since its first group trek through Nepal in 1975. Today, World Expeditions offers active itineraries on every continent. Intrepid travelers can opt for trips themed around mountaineering, rafting, cycling, hiking, and more.

World Expeditions aims to leave communities and places where they operate tours better than they found them. Trips are created using the company’s Thoughtful Travel Charter as a guideline, which emphasizes respect for the environment, sustainability, having a positive impact on local communities, protecting wildlife, and more.

World Expeditions’ trips are capped at just 16 people to provide a good experience for participants, and there are no single supplements for solo travelers willing to share a room with someone of the same gender.

Top Trip: Summit Africa’s tallest mountain on a fully-supported trek up Kilimanjaro on World Expeditions’ eight day trip up the beautiful Lemosho Route .

Best Budget Group Travel: G Adventures

People visiting famous sites around China with the G Adventures' China Express group travel tour

For travelers on a budget, G Adventures offers cheap group tours that make dream destinations accessible to nearly anyone. (Think: sailing the Galapagos for just $1,124 , criss-crossing India’s Golden Triangle for $559 , or spending 8 days in Bali for less than $800.)

G Adventures is one of the best tour companies for solo travelers as well, as most trips don’t have a single-supplement. You can choose to share a room with another G Adventures solo traveler, or pay extra to have your own space.

G Adventures keeps costs down by opting for cheaper hotels and local meals, and making certain activities optional (for an additional cost). Pick your travel style—options range from “basic” to more luxe tours run in partnership with National Geographic. Family tours, local living tours (featuring homestays), and wellness-focused tours are also available.

Top Trip: G Adventures’ China Express trip is a great way to see the highlights of China if you’re short on both time and budget.

8 Trending Destinations to Visit in 2023

Best Educational Group Tours: EF Go Ahead Tours

When you really want to learn about a destination, consider a group trip with EF Go Ahead Tours . EF is the world’s largest private education company, and the Go Ahead Tours arm capitalizes on the company’s relationships with local educators, historians, and tour guides to create group trips that take you deep into a destination.

These small group tours generally cap at 38 travelers, and feature unique educational experiences. For a bucket list trip, EF Go Ahead Tour’s special event tours are particularly enticing, as they offer behind-the-scenes access to tough-to-plan trips like Oktoberfest in Munich or Cherry Blossom season in Japan.

Intimidated by solo travel? EF Go Ahead Tours is a great option for solo travelers, since it offers designated trips for solo travelers , where everyone is traveling alone, making it less intimidating.

Top Trip: Bring the tastes of Italy home with you on EF Go Ahead Tours’ Food & Wine: Piedmont & Tuscany tour (operated in partnership with America’s Test Kitchen), where you’ll learn how to make local dishes.

Best Responsible Group Travel: Intrepid Travel

Shots from around Uganda's Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and accommodations provided by Intrepid Travel's Premium Uganda & Rwanda trip

Looking for a responsible group travel operator that focuses on bettering the communities and destinations they visit? Intrepid Travel is the world’s largest travel B Corporation, a certification for companies doing good.

Intrepid Travel’s tours focus on sustainability, diversity, inclusion, and sustaining communities. The company has its own charity, The Intrepid Foundation , which has donated over 7 million dollars to over 130 community organizations.

Intrepid Travel’s small group tours attract a wide range of travelers, but they are especially great for younger travelers, as they have a large number of trips designed for people aged 18-29 . (Other trips, including family-focused trips, are geared toward any age.)

Top Trip: Experience unforgettable wildlife encounters on Intrepid Travel’s Premium Uganda & Rwanda trip which includes time with the mountain gorillas of Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable Forest.

The 10 Best Sites to Book a Cruise

Best Private Group Travel: Kensington Tours

Aerial shots of various islands and coastlines around the Croatia and Dalmation Islands and shot of sailboat belonging to Kensington Tours

Whether your group consists of just two people or involves taking the entire extended family, Kensington Tours will take all the hassle of planning out of the equation. This private group operator creates personalized trips and itineraries tailored to your preferences, while their experts handle all the logistics and bookings.

Plans are entirely flexible, and can even be changed while on the trip on a whim. Need some inspiration? Browse Kensington Tours’ travel ideas , to get some ideas for your next adventure.

Top Trip: Sail around the stunning shores of Croatia and the Dalmation Islands on a private luxury catamaran on Kensington Tours’ fully customizable tour .

Best Polar Group Travel: Chimu Adventures

Shots of the interior and exterior of the Ocean Adventurer ship and shots of nature around Antarctica as seen on the Chimu Adventures' Antarctica Fly Cruise

Whether you’re headed north to the Artic or south to Antarctica, Chimu Adventures has the perfect polar group trip for you. Chimu Adventures has some of the most variety for polar trips, with options to fly, cruise, or a combination of both to get to your destination.

For an ultra-unique Antarctica trip, Chimu Adventures offers cruises departing from Australia or New Zealand (most Antarctica trips depart from Argentina). Can’t stay long? Book one of Chimu Adventures’ scenic flights to Antarctica , which fly as far as the south pole in one spectacular 16-hour day.

Chimu Adventures is one of the cheapest group trips to Antarctica, with rates starting under $5,000.

Top Trip: If you’re pressed for time (or simply don’t have the stomach for the Drake Passage), Chimu Adventures’ Antarctica Fly Cruise will get you to the ends of the earth quickly and smoothly.

Program These Numbers Into Your Phones Before Traveling Internationally

Best Group Tours for Solo Travelers: For the Love of Travel

Collage of images from the For the Love of Travel Lapland Tour

Group tours can be a great way to meet new people, but they can sometimes skew on the older age range. If you’re between 25-39 and a solo traveler looking to meet new people, you’ll love For the Love of Travel . All participants on the trips are between 25-39, and according to the company, 80 percent are solo travelers—so you’ll make friends fast. Hoping to meet someone who will be more than just a friend on your next trip? Trips include a balanced number of “gal and guy spots” to ensure an even balance of genders within groups (and of course, non-binary genders are always welcome).

For the Love of Travel offers weeklong (or longer) international trips as well as shorter weekender trips to nearby destinations like Mexico or Denver—perfect for people without a lot of vacation time.

Top Trip: Sleep in a glass igloo under the Northern Lights, go sledding with huskies, and warm up in traditional saunas on For the Love of Travel’s Lapland tour , already booking dates for 2024.

Best Biking Tours Group Travel: DuVine Cycling

Collage of shots from DuVine's Holland Bike Tour

Biking through the rolling hills of Italy or across the mountain roads of Chile sounds like a dream, but the logistics seem daunting (especially if you don’t want to haul all your own stuff from point-to-point). Enter: DuVine Cycling , a luxury small group tour company that specializes in bike trips.

With trips across Europe, Latin America, Africa, Asia, and the United States, DuVine Cycling is a cyclist’s dream. Choose from all-biking trips or mix things up with a cycle and sail bike tour or a multi-sport adventure —no matter what, everything is included, from luxury boutique accommodations to top-quality name brand bikes.

Top Trip: DuVine’s Holland Bike Tour promises “tulips, windmills, beer, and cheese”—what more could you need?

Best Luxury Group Travel: Abercrombie & Kent

Collage of images from the different cities involved in the Abercrombie & Kent Wildlife Safari: Around the World by Private Jet trip

Abercrombie & Kent has been delighting discerning travelers since 1962. Today, they take travelers on unforgettable adventures across over 100 different countries and all seven continents. Although Abercrombie & Kent’s trips are pricey, they encompass once-in-a-lifetime experiences like private jet tours around the world or luxury chartered cruises .

There are trips designed for solo travelers and families , and the small group journeys max out at around 14-18 guests.

Top Trip: Swim with whale sharks in the Philippines, feed proboscis monkeys in Malaysia, and photograph wild tigers in India on Abercrombie & Kent’s Wildlife Safari: Around the World by Private Jet trip , already booking dates into 2024.

Book Your Stay With SmarterTravel Hotels

For independent explorers who don’t want to miss out on these amazing destinations, book your hotel stay for a great rate with SmarterTravel Hotels .

You Might Also Like:

We hand-pick everything we recommend and select items through testing and reviews. Some products are sent to us free of charge with no incentive to offer a favorable review. We offer our unbiased opinions and do not accept compensation to review products. All items are in stock and prices are accurate at the time of publication. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission.

Top Fares From

Don't see a fare you like? View all flight deals from your city.

Today's top travel deals.

Brought to you by ShermansTravel

9-Nt Dublin, Cork, Killarney & Galway...

Railbookers

Luxe, 7-Night Caribbean & Mexico Cruise...

Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Ohio: Daily Car Rentals from Cincinnati

Trending on SmarterTravel

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

Best Adventure Travel Companies

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

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

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

Let’s get to it!

Want to book your next adventure with a local guide?

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

Best Adventure Travel Companies In the World

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

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

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

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

#2. Audley Travel (9.2/10)

Best tailor-made adventure travel company for luxury.

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

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

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

#3. Exodus Travel (9.2/10)

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

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

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

#4. Intrepid Travel (9/10)

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

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

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

#5. National Geographic Expeditions (9/10)

Best operator for expert guides.

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

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

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

#6. Urban Adventures (8.8/10)

Best city adventures.

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

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

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

#7. World Expeditions (8.8/10)

Runner-up: best small group adventure operator.

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

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

#8. TrailFinders (8.2/10)

Best adventure travel agency.

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

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

#9. International Expeditions (8.2/10)

Best eco-travel operator.

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

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

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

#10. Kuoni (8/10)

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

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

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

#11. Flash Pack (8/10)

Best adventure travel company for 30-40-somethings.

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

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

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

Runner-up: best operator for expert guides.

Trekking in Morocco Essaouira Blue Boats

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

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

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

#13. Trek America (7.8/10)

Runner-up: best small group adventure travel operator.

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

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

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

#14. KE Adventure Travel (7.8/10)

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

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

#15. Classic Journeys (7.8/10)

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

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

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

#16. Austin Adventures (7.8/10)

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

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

#17. Abercrombie & Kent (7.6/10)

Trekking in Morocco Sahara Desert Camel Ride Caravan

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

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

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

#18. Butterfield & Robinson (7.6/10)

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

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

#19. UTracks (7.6/10)

Best active european adventure travel company.

Gjeravica-Mountain-Dinaric-Alps-MountainIQ

Photo by Sam & Jo

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

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

#20. Natural Habitat Adventures (7.4/10)

Runner-up: best eco-travel operator.

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

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

#21. Explore! (7.2/10)

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

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

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

#22. Peregrine Adventures (7.2/10)

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

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

#23. Tucan Travel (7.2/10)

Best latin american adventure travel company.

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

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

#24. Kandoo Adventures (7.2/10)

Best hiking adventure travel company.

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

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

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

#25. Adventure Alternative (7/10)

Runner up: best hiking adventure travel company.

Santa-Cruz-Peru-Best-Hikest-in-South-America

Photo by AJCHO

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

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

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

#26. REI Adventures (6.8)

Photo by NW Boating

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

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

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

Ranking Methodology

Criteria & scoring.

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

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

Review Profile

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

Responsible Travel Practices

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

Awards and Accreditations

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

Breadth of Offering

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

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

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

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

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

Table of Adventure Travel Company Data

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

We will revise these numbers annually.

One-of-a-kind-raking-of-adventure-travel-companies

About the author

Mark Whitman

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

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

Great Adventure Tours Inc.

Great Adventure Tours: Book Affordable Group Trips and Tours
Destinations
Fundraising Ideas
Performances
Destination Weddings
Meetings / Conventions

Group Tours

Student tours, campus tours, performance tours, specials and promotions.

Great Adventure Tours: Group Tours and Travel

Are you planning a group tour on a budget? Don’t know where to start?

Great Adventure Tours has you covered.

Great Adventure Tours is here to help you plan and manage your next trip. We remove the hassle of organizing your trip so that you can focus on enjoying your travel experience. We specialize in offering educational tour packages and many more.

Great Adventure Tours offers an incredible range of group tours and travel packages. We organize day trips, wedding travel options, student group tours, small group tours and corporate tours regardless of your group size, budget or travel style.

Great Adventure Tours provides group travel options from plenty of destinations in North America. Some of our popular destinations are Mackinac Island, New York City, Chicago, Boston, Washington DC, Orlando, Montreal, Quebec City, Orlando, Quebec, and Toronto.

WHY BOOK WITH Great Adventure Tours

Health, Safety, Comfort and attention to detail are our priorities.
Competitive and Low Pricing- we have a tour to fit your budget!
Flexible itineraries to meet the needs of your specific group.
Our supplier relationships allow us to offer the best pricing, unique experiences and behind the scene opportunities.
Professional and Experiences tour planners.
Proud Member of SYTA (Student Youth Travel Association) , which promotes student and youth travel and seeks to foster integrity, and professionalism amount Student Travel providers.
Proud Member of ABA (American Bus Association) and OMCA (Ontario Motorcoach Association).

Great Adventure Tours specializes in planning, organizing and managing handcrafted group tours and travel to meet the needs of tour operators, church groups, family reunion groups, alumni associations, bank clubs, etc. We create group travel itineraries for any destination for special interest groups of all types and sizes. This includes categories such as music and arts, historical tours, behind-the-scenes sports experiences, food and wine, wellness, etc. We design your group tour, your way!

We have a team of experienced professionals who offer you holistic services from complete itinerary planning (transport, hotels, attractions, restaurants) to arranging local tour escorts who represent your company.

We are dedicated to providing your group with outstanding services, extraordinary tour guides, unique hotels, attractions and restaurants. All our local tour managers/step-on guides are very professional, knowledgeable and friendly.

We are reputed as one of the premier receptive wholesale operators based on consistently delivering outstanding service at competitive rates.

FEATURED Destinations

Phone: 1 (519) 727-3661

Toll-Free: 1 (800) 638-3945

Fax: 1 (519) 727-6988

Email: [email protected]

TICO REGISTRATION #50012995

Canadian Address

12324 Riverside Drive East

Tecumseh Ontario Canada

Get Our Newsletter

Testimonials Us
Terms and Conditions

Great Adventure Travel

Go beyond ordinary to extraordinary….

Each trip is a unique, custom-curated unforgettable experience!

With over 30 years of experience, Great Adventure Travel Agency knows how to craft amazing personalized trips for our clients.

Tell us about your dream trip and we’ll make it happen. our adventure and destination options are practically limitless. , proudly owned and operated right here in columbus, ohio..

Amazing Destinations

Our most popular destinations include Europe, Africa, Australia, New Zealand, Tropical Island Getaways, and more. There's no place in the world where we can't create an unforgettable travel experience.

Thrilling Adventures

There are two groups of adventurers in this world. First, you have the ones always looking to top their last excursion. Second you have, those dreaming of stepping out of their comfort zone. Good news is, we have something for everyone.

Lasting Memories

These experiences are guaranteed to take up residence in your mind. Unforgettable is an understatement when you book your Wedding, Honeymoon or next Vacation with Great Adventure Travel.

Twitter / X
Readers' Choice
Food & Drink
Arts & Culture
Travel Guides

Vote for your favorite adventure tour operator!

USA TODAY 10Best Readers' Choice Awards

These 20 adventure tour operators — nominated by an expert panel — cater to travelers who crave excitement, challenge, and fun in their vacations. Whether you're looking for an individualized journey or group tour, they'll have something for you, with activities ranging from hiking and biking to rafting and kayaking. Which adventure tour operator would you most like to book with? Vote for your favorite once per day until polls close on Monday, May 27 at noon ET. The 10 winning tour operators will be announced on Wednesday, June 5. Read the official Readers' Choice rules .

Best Adventure Tour Operator Nominees

Photo courtesy of Todd Mintz

Adventure Canada

Equipped with a fleet of small-scale cruise liners, Adventure Canada has mastered the art of both Arctic and Antarctic excursions. Across Canada, the Northwest Passage voyage highlights the idyllic beauty of Nunavut, while those hoping to spot polar bears in the wild should spring for a Heart of the Arctic expedition, with both featuring highly educated naturalists and archaeologists aboard the ship.

Photo courtesy of Tyson Mayr

Aurora Expeditions

A pioneer of Antarctic travel in the 20th century, Aurora Expeditions has evolved into a force within the industry that offers trips all across the globe. Polar voyages are particularly popular, with options ranging from the shores of Antarctica to the High Arctic, while other cruise routes include Costa Rica, Scotland, and Iceland.

Photo courtesy of Bindlestiff Tours

Bindlestiff Tours

Bindlestiff Tours specializes in small group adventures with a focus on the American Southwest, Alaska, and western Canada. Guests enjoy fully customized touring vehicles with enlarged viewing windows, free Wi-Fi at most campsites, and the myriad benefits of insider expertise, like the best spots to photograph a sunset or favorite local restaurants.

Photo courtesy of Kirstie Mullikin

Explorer Chick Adventure Co.

From snorkeling around the Galapagos to gorilla trekking in Uganda, Explorer Chick’s curated tours span five separate continents — and each one is crafted specifically by women, for women. Founded in 2014 by Nicki Bruckmann, this adventure company provides ample opportunity to explore gorgeous landscapes and forge new friendships all across the globe.

Photo courtesy of GomezDavid / E+ Getty Images

Frontiers North Adventures

While northern Canada may not be the most easily accessed region, Frontiers North Adventures is perfectly equipped for making your dream excursion come true. In addition to polar bear safaris and beluga whale watching, the company's Northern Lights and Winter Nights excursion offers an opportunity to catch one of the planet's most stunning natural phenomena in real life.

Photo courtesy of G Adventures, Inc.

G Adventures

Launched in 1990, G Adventures has earned acclaim for their wide array of high-end tours and strong commitment to positive social impact. Whether it's hiking in Iceland or biking in Vietnam, each trip is designed to reflect the company's G for Good philosophy, a concept that seeks to benefit all people and communities visited during a trip.

Photo courtesy of HX & Espen Mills

HX (Hurtigruten Expeditions)

HX (Hurtigruten Expeditions) has earned widespread acclaim for their lavish cruises, with destinations ranging from the frigid depths of Antarctica to the sunny shores of the Caribbean. For wildlife lovers in particular, the company's Galapagos expeditions shine a spotlight on the rich biodiversity of the archipelago, while a Svalbard voyage is perfect for spotting polar bears in their natural habitat.

Photo courtesy of Intrepid Travel

Intrepid Travel

Toronto-based Intrepid is a treasure trove for small-scale sustainable tours, with more than 100 countries available to visit. With itineraries like lemur-spotting in the rural depths of Madagascar and cultural immersions across the Middle East, this storied adventure company is perfect for accessing some of the most remote corners of the globe.

Photo courtesy of Journeys International

Journeys International

Journeys International builds private and group trips to a variety of worldwide destinations, centering each adventure around the individual's or groups' travel goals. Each party is assigned an adventure specialist who makes personalized choices of locations and activities to include in the experience. All journeys are designed to give every person involved a special and unique trip of a lifetime.

Photo courtesy of Ralph Lee Hopkins, Lindblad Expeditions

Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic

New Zealand, French Polynesia, and Greenland are just a few of the dazzling destinations frequented by Lindblad Expeditions, a storied tour operator that's been working in tandem with National Geographic since 2004. While warm weather destinations span from Baja California to the Amazon, the company has earned abundant acclaim for their immersive Antarctic expeditions focusing on native wildlife amidst stunning scenery.

Photo courtesy of KenCanning / E+ Getty Images

Maple Leaf Adventures

The spectacular beauty of Canada is on full display with Maple Leaf Adventures, a small-ship cruise operator that's been in the business since 1986. While the bulk of their itineraries focus on showcasing locations across western Canada, gastronomes can also join in on the fun with a curated Craft Beer Cruise or Wines And Islands excursion across British Columbia.

Photo courtesy of Karin Watkins MT Sobek Photo File

MT Sobek has been a leader in the adventure travel industry for more than half a century. Today, travelers can choose from some 200 journeys around the world. Each one is designed to inspire and exhilarate, with interest categories like multi-adventure, family adventure, wildlife and safari, adventure cruising, hiking and trekking, cultural discovery, and rafting and kayaking.

Photo courtesy of Nantahala Outdoor Center

Nantahala Outdoor Center

Beginning as a small-scale rafting tour company back in 1972, Nantahala Outdoor Center has expanded far beyond just the rivers of North Carolina, operating tours from southern Iceland to the Zambezi River. Though their scope has expanded on an international scale, the company still excels at domestic adventure, showcasing the incredible rafting opportunities across the Southern United States.

Photo courtesy of REI Co-op / REI Adventures

Adventure travelers have long turned to REI to outfit their travels; with REI Adventures, they’ll also find more than 100 fully curated experiences across the United States. These active travel itineraries might involve cycling near Zion National Park, hiking through Yellowstone and Grand Teton, kayaking at Point Reyes, or enjoying a weekend of backpacking close to home.

Photo courtesy of Stubborn Mule Travel

Stubborn Mule Travel

A perfect fit for all ages, Stubborn Mule Travel has curated a wide variety of itineraries designed specifically for traveling families. Destinations span across five continents, and as an added bonus, the company also offers unique itinerary stops based off of the interests of each individual guest.

Photo courtesy of 104kelly // Getty Images

Thomson Safaris

Best known as the home of Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania has earned worldwide acclaim for its abundant natural beauty — a quality that Thomson Safaris has been highlighting for more than 40 years. While there’s no going wrong with a classic safari, the company also offers food-focused tours and even plane excursions, each one led by a team of expert local guides.

Photo courtesy of Urban Events Global Team

Urban Events Global

Kevin Knight founded Urban Events Global as a travel company for African American adventure seekers looking to explore with like-minded travelers. The company hosts regular camping weekends, as well as group tours to destinations like Ghana, Dubai, Greece, and Jamaica. They can also plan a custom trip itinerary for you.

Photo courtesy of Ren Fuller // Women High On Adventure

WHOA Travel

WHOA Travel works with women guides and business owners to build unique travel experiences. WHOA group adventures are scheduled all over the world, from Kilimanjaro and Peru to Iceland and Bavaria.

Photo courtesy of Wild Women Expeditions

Wild Women Expeditions

Wild Women Expeditions specializes in “amazing outdoor adventures for all women.” The company leads trips to more than two dozen countries around the globe, with activities like canoeing, kayaking, cycling, hiking, surfing, sailing, and yoga.

Photo courtesy of Beth Peluse / Zephyr Adventures

Zephyr Adventures

Equipped with a roster of trips that span from strenuous mountain hikes to e-biking excursions, Zephyr Adventures offers a diverse range of options for your next getaway. For a glimpse into the beauty of coastal New England, the Acadia National Park Hiking Adventure is a top choice, while those who prefer a more laid-back itinerary can spring for the Czech Republic Breweries and Walking Adventure.

About 10Best Readers' Choice Awards

Nominees are submitted by a panel of experts. 10Best editors narrow the field to select the final set of nominees for the Readers’ Choice Awards. Readers can vote once per category, per day. For any questions or comments, please read the FAQ or email USA TODAY 10Best .

The Experts

Brandon withrow.

Brandon Withrow is a travel journalist based in... Read More

Brandon Withrow is a travel journalist based in Northwest Ohio, covering ecotourism, wildlife, outdoor adventures, and eco-friendly stays, as well as the secrets of underrated cities. He appears in The Daily Beast, BBC Travel, Canadian Geographic, Business Insider, The Hill, and Sierra Magazine. You can find him at www.brandonwithrow.com , @bwithrow on Twitter, and @bgwithrow on Instagram.

Chez Chesak

‘Chez’ Chesak is Executive Director of the Outdoor... Read More

‘Chez’ Chesak is Executive Director of the Outdoor Writers Association of America, an adventure travel writer, board member of the Society of American Travel Writers and 22-year veteran of the outdoor and travel industries. While he’s lived all over the U.S. and traveled to more than 30 countries, he has the most fun when he’s exploring with his wife Sally and two daughters. An avid outdoors person, he’s happiest on a trail, on skis, or nestled into a sleeping bag. Learn more about him and his work at www.chezconnects.com .

Dave Stamboulis

Dave Stamboulis is a travel writer/photographer... Read More

Dave Stamboulis is a travel writer/photographer based in Bangkok. Born in Athens, Greece and growing up in the U.S., Dave first discovered Bangkok while on a 45,000-kilometer bicycle trip and moved there for good in 2005. Dave's photos appear in publications around the world. He's the author of Odysseus' Last Stand , which received the Silver Medal for Travel Book of the Year from the Society of American Travel Writers. In addition to updating the Fodor's Guidebook to Thailand, he is the author of 500 Hidden Secrets to Bangkok, and his travel stories and photography appear in publications around the globe.

Jacky Runice

Born in Bucktown when bulletproof was a home... Read More

Born in Bucktown when bulletproof was a home safety choice and not a coffee order, Jacky Runice has been knocking around Chicago as a professional print, online and broadcast journalist and editor specializing in separating the riff from the raff in culture, entertainment, food, travel and pure unadulterated fun. Jacky is a member of the International Food, Wine & Travel Writers Association (IFWTWA). In her best Chicagoese, Jacky asks, "Who has the time or money to blow on hotels, attractions, restaurants, exhibits and activities that blow?"

Jamie Davis Smith

Jamie is an attorney, writer and photographer. She... Read More

Jamie is an attorney, writer and photographer. She was born with deeply ingrained wanderlust and has visited 45 countries and counting. She often brings her children along for the adventure and is passing her love of travel on to the next generation. Jamie has written for Insider, Fodor's Travel , Yahoo , the Huffington Post , the Washington Post, Viator and Reviewed among many other publications. Jamie is from Philadelphia and now lives in Washington, DC, where she takes advantage of everything the region has to offer. Jamie can be reached at [email protected] and can be found on Twitter , Instagram and TikTok .

Marla Cimini

Marla is an award-winning writer with a passion... Read More

Marla is an award-winning writer with a passion for travel, music, surfing and culinary adventures! An avid globetrotter and guidebook writer, she has covered topics such as the Hawaiian islands (including food trends and luxury beachfront resorts), as well as European getaways and global destinations. Her articles have appeared in many publications worldwide, including USA Today. Marla lives in New Jersey (Philadelphia area) and is a frequent visitor to Hawaii and Southern California, and often covers those destinations. Her travel website is: www.marlacimini.com

Meg St-Esprit

Meg St-Esprit is a journalist based in Pittsburgh... Read More

Meg St-Esprit is a journalist based in Pittsburgh who covers family travel, lifestyle, education, and parenting. With their four kids in tow, she and her husband love to travel anywhere and everywhere — but have a soft spot for camping and outdoor adventures. In fact, her kids are well on their way to achieving their goal of visiting all 124 state parks in Pennsylvania. Meg believes travel doesn’t need to be luxurious or costly to be valuable, and aims to share that with her audience. Meg’s work has appeared in publications such as The New York Times, Thrillist, The Washington Post, Fodor’s, Yahoo, Good Housekeeping, Romper , and more. Follow Meg on Instagram and Twitter at @megstesprit or check out her work on https://megstesprit.com/

Melanie Reffes

Melanie is an island girl at heart . Born in... Read More

Melanie is an island girl at heart . Born in Manhattan, she now lives on the sunny island of Montreal and covers the Caribbean for a variety of publications including USA TODAY 10Best, CaribbeanTravel.com and MarryCaribbean.com. A journalist with a boatload of writer awards under her belt, Melanie's affection for the Caribbean started young when her family vacationed in Puerto Rico. An avid fan of spicy food, Melanie enjoys the diversity of Montreal - especially during the warmer months -when she's not en route to the Caribbean. She holds a Masters Degree in Social Work from the University of Toronto.

Nicky Omohundro

Nicky Omohundro is the founder and editor of Read More

Nicky Omohundro is the founder and editor of LittleFamilyAdventure.com , the popular family travel & lifestyle website that inspires families to leave no child left inside. Since 2013 LFA has been providing inspiration to get families outdoors, eat well, and travel everywhere from their own backyard to around the world. Always up for a family adventure, she has traveled to 37 states and 6 countries to zip-line through a Costa Rican rainforest, see Finland’s Northern Lights, and go camping throughout the US. Nicky is the co-founder of Tourism WorX a travel consultancy group. Connect with her Twitter and Instagram .

Olivia Christine Perez

Olivia Christine Perez is an outdoor + travel... Read More

Olivia Christine Perez is an outdoor + travel wellness expert, author, and the creator of O. Christine : a travel and wellness platform inspiring thousands of people to travel more and get outdoors for their wellness. Living with an autoimmune disease herself, Olivia helps people find wellness through the outdoors, self-care adventures, and mindful travel experiences. You can follow her work at ochristine.com and instagram.com/ochristine.

Shea Peters

Shea Peters is a NYC based writer and frequent... Read More

Shea Peters is a NYC based writer and frequent world traveler that looks to the history of a location in order to tell the story. Growing up in a Southern family that loves to travel, Shea has seen 44 of the 50 US states and believes that every place has a story worth telling, regardless of how populated or rural. She's currently a regular contributor discussing travel, culture, history, food, wellness, and business at Travel + Leisure, Elle, Harper’s Bazaar, Oprah Daily, Women’s Health, TripAdvisor, Cosmo, and Revolt TV. When she's not traveling, rooting for some unlikable sports team, or taking a pilates class, you can find Shea in her rooftop garden that is currently flourishing above the streets of New York City. You can follow Shea on Instagram and Twitter .

Tamara Gane

Tamara Gane is an expert panel member for 10Best... Read More

Tamara Gane is an expert panel member for 10Best Readers' Choice Awards. She's based in Reno/Lake Tahoe and in addition to USA Today 10Best, her work has been published in Travel & Leisure, Fodor's Travel, The Washington Post, SF Gate, Houston Chronicle, Lonely Planet, and more.

10Best Editors

USA TODAY 10Best provides users with original,... Read More

USA TODAY 10Best provides users with original, unbiased and experiential travel coverage of top attractions, things to see and do, and restaurants for top destinations in the U.S. and around the world.

Get a Quote!

14-night Sacred Temples & Serene Shores Cruise

Benoa to Bangkok

$400 per Couple Shipboard Credit

Signature Host: Monica Trevino

Enter for a chance to Win a Free Vacation!

Search for Cruises

There's nothing like a cruise to ease your tensions! Our Cruise Specialists will provide you with expert planning of the Cruise Experience of a Lifetime!

Find a Vacation

Whether you are looking for History, Adventure, Exciting Destinations or just a Peaceful Getaway, we can help you create the Perfect Vacation.

Hotels & Resorts Search

Enjoy valuable privileges at hundreds of the finest hotels & resorts worldwide.

Cruise Check-In
Air Check-In
Travel Insurance
Visas & Passports

Exclusive Offers

View All Offers

Cruise Deals

Vacation specials.

Signature Collection

In addition to exclusive amenities, select sailings offer the services of Experienced Hosts, "By Invitation Only" Events and Enriching Experiences. Or enjoy the exclusive privilege of Private Shore Excursions with your own personal car and driver.

more info +

With all of the award winning cruise lines at our fingertips, we can help you create your ideal Alaska cruise vacation.

River Cruises

Experience a vacation of a lifetime with cityscapes and countryside’s that will take your breath away. Indulge in gourmet meals and luxurious accommodations.

World Destinations

Discover the World! Find destination content, videos and vacation offers Worldwide!

Active Adventures

Whatever your travel style is; Active, Biking, Comfort, Expedition, Family Vacations or more, let us do the planning.

Family Travel

Benefit from our firsthand experience and insider connections to take your family on a vacation of a lifetime.

FREE Travel App

Our free app that allows you to carry all of the destination information you need while traveling, right in your pocket!

Our Travel Magazines

We're pleased to share our digital magazine, The Travel Magazine Online and the Ultimate Travel Magazine.

Why Use a Travel Agent

A travel agent can save you money with early booking discounts, special fares, hotel deals and travel advisories.

Book Your Shore Excursions

Save money and escape the crowds. Hot Deals and multi-port packages. Savings of up to 50%!

Great Adventures, Inc.

Local: (210) 829-7696 Fax: (210) 829-0705

Home Resources About Us Get a Quote! Terms & Conditions Privacy Policy Contact

Travel content powered by advaia.com

GREAT ADVENTURE TOURS

[email protected]

785-633-8761

GREAT ADVENTURE TOURS Travel Meeting Thurs.,May 2nd, 9:30am The Golden Corral Topeka, KS

Escorts are Oneta and Dick

CLICK THE BUTTONS BELOW TO SEE OUR NEWSLETTER AND TOUR LIST

GREAT ADVENTURE TOURS PO BOX 4126 TOPEKA, KS 66604 785-633-8761

REINDEER TEA

WED., MAY 1ST

REINDEER TEA Wed. May 1st $98 Coach spots at 8:30AM

This is a special tour to celebrate warm spring weather. We will get to meet the Reindeer, enjoy a wonderful lunch and enjoy a High Tea. Take a picture with one of the Reindeer, enjoy the beauty of the farm and have fun with all the special offerings and sights to see at this beautifuhere,.

ROYALS VS TEXAS RANGERS FRI., MAY 3RD $89 COACH SPOTS AT 5PM WE ARE IN THE LOGE LEVEL, GREAT SEATS!

May Mystery Adventure Wed., May 22nd $99

Coach spots at 7:45am at Fairlawn Plaza. We will travel to places unknown for fun sights, lunch, treats and just plain fun!

Step Back in Time, Jamesport Wed., May 8th $89 Coach spots at 7:30am, Fairlawn Plaza

Join me for a fun day of Amish Store shopping. Visit the Amish Greenhouse for their beautiful hanging baskets that are more reasonable then Topeka! Check what you need in spices! Lunch is at Gingrich Pantry Amish meal! There is plenty of room underneath the coach to take home hanging baskets. Home by 6pm.

Squabbles Starring George Wendt & Bernadette Birkett Wed., May 15th is sold out Sat., June 29th has room $78 Coach spots at 9:45am, Fairlawn Plaza. The good, the bad, and the in-laws. Jerry and Alice are happily married. Then her father moves in with them. Then his mother moves in with them. Then all hell breaks loose... family style! Includes delicious Buffet.

Bursting June Mystery on a Saturday Sat., June 15 $98

Coach spots at 7:45am at Fairlawn Plaza. A beautiful June Saturday awaits us for a thrilling Mystery Tour to places unknown except by me! We will have a delicious lunch and enjoy the surprises that will amaze you! Home by 5:30pm

Great Plains Theatre presents HELLO DOLLY Lunch at Legends Russell Stover Chocolate Sat., June 22nd $104 Motor Coach spots at 9:45am. This musical adaptation of Thornton Wilder’s hit play The Matchmaker bursts with humor, romance, energetic dance and some of the greatest songs in musical theatre history. The romantic and comic exploits of Dolly Gallagher-Levi, turn-of-the-century matchmaker and “woman who arranges things,” are certain to thrill and entertain audiences again and again. Lunch is at Legends that purchased Brookville Restaurant and we are having their fried chicken dinner with all the delicious trimmings! Russell Stover Chocolate Factory too!

JULY MYSTERY FUN & LAUGHTER Wed., July 17th $96 Coach spots at 7:45am. A lovely summer day to enjoy new sights and experiences. Includes lunch, attractions and surprises! Join me for a tour filled with fun, laughter and friends!

Chestnut Playhouse presents This is My Country Lunch at Jumpin Catfish Wed., July 24th $88 Motor Coach spots at 10:15am. This is My Country is a celebration of the courage, creativity and the heart of what it means to be an American. The show will uplift you with wonderful patriotic melodies. You’ll hear God Bless America, This Land is Your Land, America the Beautiful and more! Lunch is at Jumpin Catfish, choice of catfish or chicken strips

Great adventure tours.

We love meeting people from all over the world, and we make it our mission to provide memorable tours and experiences for our clients. We decided to become professional Tour Planners & Guides in 1987 and we have not stopped travelling since!

When we are not busy guiding, we spend time researching and exploring new options to help keep our tours fresh, interesting and relevant - which means returning clients will discover something new every time they tour with us. Take a look at what we offer and get in touch with us. We can’t wait to show you the world!

Sign up for our Newsletter

Thanks for submitting!

Choose your own adventure: Where to go and how to save on summer vacations

Revenge travel is so last year.

“It's not necessarily about just getting out of the house anymore,” said Sydney Stanback, Global Insights and Trends lead at Pinterest, which has seen more than 1 billion travel searches and more than 10 billion travel saves over the past year.

Sure, many of the usual suspects are once again among the most popular destinations across multiple search engines this year, but she said this summer, “It's more so about traveling with intention.”

According to NerdWallet’s Summer 2024 Travel Report , 45% of Americans plan to take a trip requiring a hotel stay or flight this summer with expenses averaging just under $3,600. A fifth of those travelers expect to go into debt to pay for vacations.

Here’s what to consider when booking a summer trip, including where to go, when to travel and how to save:

Learn more: Best travel insurance

What is the best place to travel in summer?

The answer is subjective, especially this summer.

“Everyone's kind of choosing their own adventure based off of what their needs are for travel,” Stanback said.

Pinterest’s Summer 2024 Travel Report found summer travelers are most interested in adventure, exploring mysterious or uncharted destinations, and rest. Searches for “quiet life” jumped 530%, but that doesn’t mean the same thing to everyone.

“My mother actually just took a yoga retreat to Panama,” Stanback said. “That's what she needed to do in order to get the rest that she needed and the well-being that she needed. But for me, when I think of rest and restoration, I simply think about going to a beach spa and just sitting and being by myself.”

Solo travel remains popular. Solo travel searches reached an all-time high in Google in January, but again, not for everyone.

“For Gen Z specifically, that need is to gather and reconnect with their community because they were in isolation for so long and during very meaningful moments in their lives,” Stanback said. She noted group travel and road trips are of keen interest to Gen Z.

“It's not necessarily about traveling and going out and going to restaurants and going to bars and clubs,” she added. “We actually see that a lot with younger generations. They’re kind of stepping away from that and really considering their well-being when they're taking time off.”

Where do most tourists go in summer?

Expedia’s Summer Outlook and Google Flights identified the same cities among their most searched summer 2024 destinations based on flights, though rankings varied by platform.

Top 5 domestic destinations

◾ Orlando, Florida

◾ Los Angeles

◾ Las Vegas

Top 5 international destinations

◾ Cancun, Mexico

◾ Paris, host of the Summer Olympics

Allianz Partners found slightly different results in their analysis of “more than six million flight itineraries for trips between five and eight days in length for travel booked between Memorial Day weekend and Labor Day.”

Instead of LA and Vegas, Allianz named Boston and Honolulu among this summer’s top five domestic destinations. Internationally, San Jose del Cabo, Mexico; Oranjestad, Aruba; and Punta Cana, Dominican Republic, made Allianz’s top five, instead of Rome, Paris and Tokyo.

“I am expecting crowds to rival last summer's in popular overseas cities,” Expedia’s travel expert Melanie Fish said, noting how places like Barcelona and Venice are trying to curb overtourism. “They're trying fees and if that's not enough, they're going to have to go even further.”

How can I save on a trip?

Summer trips are already costly for many travelers. “Americans with household income under $100,000 accounted for nearly half (46%) of intended leisure travel spend in summer 2023,” according to Deloitte’s Facing travel’s future report from April.

Expedia’s Fish shared five tips for booking summer 2024 vacations:

◾ Bundle your trip. Booking airfare and a hotel at the same time can earn you deep discounts.

◾ Travel midweek or later in the summer if it's an option. You'll save money and save yourself from fighting crowds.

◾ Fly early in the day … The early bird who takes the first flight of the day will typically get a better price and a lower chance of delays and cancellations. ◾ Book once, earn twice. You can stack rewards from your travel credit card (and) your airline.◾ Just go. Don't pressure yourself to create the trip of a lifetime … Do it in a bite-sized chunk if possible.

'Expensive in every way': What travelers should expect this summer

How far ahead should I book travel?

“The sweet spot is now,” Fish said. “We're within that 21- to 60-day pre-travel window to save around 15% on airfare, so now is the time to plan. That means ready, set, but maybe wait until August to actually go.”

She said travelers can save an average of $250 on international flights if they wait until the peak summer travel season passes.

“It's 15% cheaper on average to fly domestically in August versus June, 30% cheaper to fly to Europe in late summer, and 55% cheaper to fly to Mexico and the Caribbean in August,” she said. “Of course, August is peak hurricane season , so that has something to do with that price dip.”

Hrmm. Looks like you're using an older browser, which means some site features may not work they way they should. For the full gadventures.com experience, we recommend upgrading to the most recent version of your browser . It's worth it! Honest!

View all tours

North America

Central america & caribbean, south america, north africa & middle east.

Few travellers make it to this icy continent, but the lucky ones who do get to explore a frozen Eden ruled by the elements and teeming with wildlife.

G Adventures Land

G adventures sailing & cruises, g adventures private travel.

Whether it’s a family retreat or a girls trip, you can surround yourself with a hand-picked crew and customize a tour that fits you all perfectly.

The Geluxe Collection

Our new line of premium active adventures is officially here. With perfectly paced itineraries, one-of-a-kind accommodations and elevated dining, this is adventure at its finest.

National Geographic Journeys

Go deeper into the cultures and habitats of the places we explore. More is included and you’ll enjoy greater hands-on exploration, interactions with local experts, and freedom to roam.

National Geographic Family Journeys

Are you an adventure-loving family in search of meaningful ways to discover the world together? These tours are specially designed for travellers seven and up and their inquisitive families.

Jane Goodall Collection

Step deeper into the animal kingdom while respecting all of its inhabitants. Our incredible collection of wildlife-focused tours is endorsed by the world-renowned ethologist.

Roamies by Hostelworld

The thrill of adventure. The awesomeness of hostels. Get ‘em both on these immersive small group trips for 18 to 35-year-old travellers.

Why choose us

As the leader in small group travel for 30 years, we know how to do it right: flexible itineraries, freedom to roam, safety, peace of mind, and locally based guides.

Change the world just by having the time of your life. When you travel with us, you become a force for good by acting responsibly and creating positive impact.

Together with our non-profit partner, Planeterra, we ensure local communities touched by our tours benefit from our visits in as many ways possible.

Trees for Days

Leave your destination even greener than you found it! For every day on tour, we’ll plant a tree in your honour and ensure that our forests get to live their best lives.

Travel resources

Last minute deals.

Looking to have the time of your life in the next 90 days or so? You can save big if you’re ready to book now.

Loyalty discount

Back home from a G Adventures tour? Submit a quick trip evaluation to save 5% on your next tour with us.

Student discount

Got proof that you’re pursuing higher learning? Then we’ve got a travel voucher with your name on it.

All travel deals

New ways to save pop up all the time. Here’s where you’ll find every hot deal in one easy place.

CURRENT PRICES END MAY 12

Outside Festival feat. Thundercat and Fleet Foxes.

FROM JUST $44

A man sits in a hammock looking out at Concepción volcano in Nicaragua.

Should I Use a Travel Agent? Our Travel Expert Says It Makes All the Difference.

The new age of travel agents know how to find deals, book off-the-beaten path trips, and get you out of any jam. Here are our travel expert’s favorites.

Heading out the door? Read this article on the Outside app available now on iOS devices for members! >","name":"in-content-cta","type":"link"}}'>Download the app .

I’ve always thought that planning my own trips was the most cost-effective way, but I’ve been hearing more about travel agents making a comeback and saving their clients a lot of money. What kinds of outdoor trips should I turn to a travel agent for, and are there any who specialize in working with adventurers like me?

Technically, I’m a professional traveler. As a journalist, it’s my job to research and connect with locals to get beneath the surface of a destination. So I have never really used travel agents. What could they plan better than I could?

A lot, it turns out. Over the years, I’ve gotten to know many travel specialists, and I consider them magicians. My big aha moment happened two winters ago on a trip to Iceland . A massive storm shut down internal flights for a day, causing me to miss my return flight to the U.S. Normally, I would have spent frustrating hours on hold with the airline. But because I’d paid $65 to have Ana Gloria Garcia, an air-support specialist at the travel agency EmbarkBeyond, find and book the most affordable and convenient flight option for me, she handled the rebookings while I soaked in the Blue Lagoon.

During the pandemic, agents became advocates helping travelers get refunds on canceled flights and trips. As travel has come roaring back, an agent’s superpower is now their access to the best hotel rooms, most in-the-know guides, free amenities, and more, says Cory Hagopian, senior vice president of sales and partnerships for Virtuoso , a global network of travel agencies.

And they’re attracting a young clientele. According to a recent industry survey , 38 percent of millennials and Gen Zers are opting to use travel agents as opposed to booking on their own trips. That number is far greater than Gen Xers and baby boomers, of whom only 12 and 2 percent respectively use agents.

What Do I Gain from Using a Travel Agent?

I recently had a friend tell me she spent close to 40 hours researching a family trip online. She probably could have gleaned the same intel from an hourlong conversation with a travel adviser. Knowledge is priceless, and advisers act as your insiders. They know what you don’t and fill in the blanks for things you might not have considered, says Erika Richter, a spokesperson for the American Society of Travel Advisors (ASTA). Their firsthand knowledge, vast network, and on-the-ground connections all combine to provide a unique perspective for crafting the perfect itinerary for you.

Kayak, paddle, raft—a river trip down Costa Rica’s Pacuare is good fun. And Danielle Meyer of Coastline Travel likes to book clients in the riverfront, all-inclusive, 20-suite Pacuare Lodge. “The way to get to the property is by whitewater rafting, so you truly begin with adventure!”

Most travel advisers specialize in certain regions and countries and travel to them frequently, so they have up-to-date intel on not only the best safari camps but the perfect tent to book for the most incredible views and the best local restaurants you won’t find on Tripadvisor. They want their client’s trips to go well to keep them coming back, so it’s in their interest to have sussed out hotels and itineraries before they send you out into the world.

Nicole Forster, 29, considers herself a savvy traveler. She’s been to 20-plus countries and enjoys destination research. But when it came to planning her honeymoon in Africa, she felt overwhelmed, so she reached out to Danielle Meyer at Coastline Travel Advisors , which specializes in bespoke itineraries. “Originally, I wanted to go to South Africa, Victoria Falls, and Madagascar,” Forster recalls. “Danielle convinced me that if we wanted to relax, we should stay in South Africa and save the other countries for separate trips.”

Over five phone conversations and multiple emails, they crafted a 15-night itinerary that included Cape Town, the winelands, the Cape Peninsula, and a safari at the Thornybush Game Reserve. Forster established her budget early in the process, and Meyer sent her a variety of lodge options to choose from.

“I initially wanted to start with the safari, but she pointed out that we’d be jet-lagged and would need to wake at sunrise for game drives,” says Forster. “The safari was our highlight, so it was a perfect way to end the trip.”

A man sitting in an open-air vehicle while on safari in South Africa smiles at the camera while an elephant is just over his shoulder, approaching.

Not only did Meyer book all of the flights, hotels, and transfers, but she created a detailed, day-by-day trip app for the couple that included useful information like check-in times at hotels and how much to tip guides .

Agents also act as advocates. If something goes wrong during your travels, they’re on call 24/7 to handle it. When Forster left the battery and charger for her camera at a hotel, Meyer arranged for an on-the-ground contact to go to a camera store and buy new ones that would be delivered to her hotel the next day.

The cost for the honeymoon planning: $150 per person. “I wouldn’t use a planner for a trip to Hawaii ,” Forster says, “but if I ever took a big trip like this again, I’d 100 percent work with an expert.”

When to Consider Using a Travel Agent

For savvy trip planners, the best time to use a travel agent is for complicated international travel. It can save you hours of planning and peace of mind that if anything goes wrong in your chosen far-flung destination, there’s someone a What’sApp message away to handle it.

Domestically, I’d consider using a travel agent when planning a multi-week national park trip or multi-island trip in Hawaii. They will save you time, guarantee you get the best guides, and help you land reservations at always-booked lodges and hotels.

Dream Trips Delivered

Jessica Cook and her husband both work in the travel industry. Decision fatigued, they handed their honeymoon logistics over to the team at Askari Travel , an agency that specializes in South Africa. Their original plan was also an African safari, but just as they were about to put a deposit down, the Omicron variant of the coronavirus made headlines. Worried about getting stuck abroad, they reached out to Askari’s founder, Muriel Truter, who is from Zimbabwe, and upon her advice, changed their focus to South America.

Knowledge is priceless, and advisers act as your insiders. They know what you don’t and fill in the blanks of things you might not even have considered.

Truter suggested they stick to Colombia rather than country-hop. Cook supplied a budget and a wish list: 12 days, no more than three destinations, a barefoot-luxe feel, and adventures like horseback riding and mountain biking. The rest was a surprise that Askari pretty much nailed, with the exception of one hotel.

“Everything felt so authentic, but this one hotel on Barú island felt really fabricated and was full of American tourists,” recalls Cook. She immediately messaged the Askari team, saying, “Hey, this place really isn’t our vibe,” and within an hour they were on a water taxi headed to Blue Apple, a B Corp hotel—and an Outside pick for tropical adventures —on Tierra Bomba island. “It was honestly the best trip we’ve ever taken,” she says.

Tierra Bomba, a 15-minute boat ride from the Colombian capital of Cartagena, is an affordable Caribbean destination with a relaxed pace and soft white sands.

Are Travel Agents Expensive?

It depends. Cost varies. Some travel agencies won’t charge any fee, as they receive a commission from the bookings, while some high-end agencies will charge pricey annual membership fees for their services. Still others charge nominal “professional” fees starting at $150. Fees often fluctuate based on the length and intricacy of a trip and how far out you do the planning (6 to 12 months is recommended). You may occasionally come across agents who charge a percentage of the total trip price or hourly rates.

Basic travel enquiries are generally free. In 2016, Leah Smith, founder of Tafari Travel , opened an old-school brick-and-mortar location in Denver’s Cherry Creek neighborhood so her services would feel less intimidating to first-time users. “With our retail-office location, we’ve become part of the community, and both clients and non-clients are welcome to pop in and ask whatever questions they may have, no charge,” she says.

Matt Lindsay, founder of the surf-guiding and travel company LuxSurf Travel , builds relationships with resorts and property owners to get discounted rates that he can then pass on to guests.

Matt Lindsey of LuxeSurfTravel can arrange a surf safari on a 165-foot boat, complete with dive masters. surf guides, and a spa. Guests spend a week cruising around atolls in the Maldives seeking out perfect swell and swimming with whale sharks and manta rays.

Dominic Allan, the founder of Real Latin America , specializes in travel to Belize and Nicaragua and caters to independent travelers who are happy to book their own flights and hotels but are seeking his local intel. Allan’s three-tier pricing structure starts at $300 for up to three hours of phone calls, during which he might weigh in on where to eat (or not to), the best room to request in a certain lodge, or whether you really need a guide to hike.

”Totoro Eco-Lodge, in Nicaragua, has always been one of our favorites,” says Dominic Allen of Real Latin America. In addition to its laid-back vibe, it’s spectacuarly placed on Ometepe Island, with views out to the active Conception volcano. Allen recommends volcano hikes, rainforest excursions, tours of a chocolate farm, and sunset paddles in search of caiman.

Value Versus Savings

If you’re just looking for deals and steals, you might not be ready to work with a travel adviser, says Richter of the ASTA. “Anything you invest in with a travel adviser comes back to you in the form of amenities, customer service, peace of mind, better access to unique experiences, and handcrafted itineraries,” she says. “You could save money by cutting your own hair, too, but most people go to someone who knows what they’re doing.”

Agents work with preferred partners who can guarantee perks for clients, such as free upgrades, early check-in or late check-out, and resort credits. Those add-ons often translate into savings, says Justin Huxter, cofounder of the UK-based Cartology Travel . “We had a client go to Maui for a week, and because of our partnership with the resort, breakfast was included,” he says. When breakfast costs $120 for two, that’s a savings of $840.”

A meerkat sits atop a man wearing a ball cap and scans the horizon of Botswana’s Makgadikgadi Pans.

Some of the Best Travel Agents in the Adventure World

Some of my go-to resources for finding a person to work with include travel expert Wendy Perrin’s annual Wow List of tried and trusted agents, the Adventure Travel Trade Association’s adviser network , and the ASTA’s advisor directory .

In addition to the agents mentioned throughout this story, others I highly recommend for adventurous travelers include:

Dan Achber of Trufflepig , for Africa and the Middle East
Miguel Cunant of Sri Lanka in Style
Javier Echecopar of Journey Costa Rica
Daniel Fraser of Smiling Albino , for Southeast Asia
Elizabeth Gordon of Extraordinary Journeys , for Africa
Kleon Howe of the Art of Travel , for French Polynesia
Jay Johnson of Coastline Travel , for Hawaii and California
Antonello Losito of Southern Visions Travel , for Puglia, Italy
Rabia Malik of Fora Travel , for general worldwide travel
Robyn Mark of Mayamaya Travel , for Africa, the Alps, Patagonia, and Japan
Marisol Mosquera of Aracari , for Peru and Bolivia
Zach Rabinor of Journey Mexico
Raluca Spiac of Beyond Dracula , for Romania

The author immersed in the hot waters of Iceland’s Blue Lagoon, with mud on her face. It beats being on the phone trying to reschedule a flight cancellation.

Travel-advice columnist Jen Murphy is now a believer in using a travel agent. Thanks to their expertise and connections, she’s avoided dozens of trip catastrophes.

South Africa

Popular on Outside Online

Enjoy coverage of racing, history, food, culture, travel, and tech with access to unlimited digital content from Outside Network's iconic brands.

Healthy Living

Clean Eating
Vegetarian Times
Yoga Journal
Fly Fishing Film Tour
National Park Trips
Warren Miller
Fastest Known Time
Trail Runner
Women's Running
Bicycle Retailer & Industry News
FinisherPix
Outside Events Cycling Series
Outside Shop

Adaptive equipment is making national parks more inclusive

At Great Smoky Mountains National Park, adaptive mountain bikes and kayaks aid visitors with disabilities

New resources available at Great Smoky Mountains National Park help visitors with disabilities explore hiking trails, go mountain biking, paddle kayaks and camp overnight in the mountains of North Carolina and Tennessee.

After launching a program of free, adaptive activities last year, the country’s most-visited national park will expand the number and type of excursions this summer.

“The programs allow individuals with disabilities and their families and community to move beyond the pavement to explore and enjoy the Smokies,” said Emily Davis, a public affairs specialist with the national park.

For its inaugural year, the national park and its partners organized three hikes and one mountain bike outing for parkgoers who use adaptive gear. This year, the program will feature three hikes, two mountain bike rides, one kayak trip and one night of backcountry camping. The outings are scheduled for select dates in June, July, September and October.

Davis said the staff receives daily emails and phone calls from people inquiring about the special excursions and adaptive equipment, which the park loans out through a separate program. She said the messages come from locals and out-of-town guests planning to vacation in the popular park. Last year, more than 13 million people visited, according to National Park Service data .

Eric Gray, founder and executive director of Catalyst Sports , one of the program’s key partners, said the nonprofit will provide three hiking chairs (plus two from the park), seven adaptive kayaks and a dozen mountain bikes, in addition to snacks and drinks. Experienced staff members and volunteers will help with the fit and handling of the gear.

“We’re trying to remove as many barriers as possible,” Gray said. “All they need to do is show up.”

Types of adaptive equipment

Catalyst’s equipment is available to anyone with a physical disability and caters to a range of special needs. Some of the kayaks and bikes are built for two, ideal for people with visual impairments.

The organization uses three-wheel off-road trikes for people who can move their legs but have poor balance, and handcycle mountain bikes for cyclists without leg mobility. The bikes come with e-assist for powering through tough or steep terrain.
The hiking chairs have levers (easier to push than dirt-encrusted wheels) and a front wheel for steamrolling over large obstacles.
The kayaks have outriggers to prevent tipping, and a custom seat supports people with limited abdominal functions. Hand adaptations are tailored for amputees and others with restricted capabilities.

Participants can also bring their own gear. Folks who don’t require special assistance are invited, too.

“ It’s not just about making something accessible. It’s about making it inclusive, so that the entire family and friends can be part of it,” said Mark Bogosian, the director of engagement at the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation . “By offering these kinds of programs, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is really making sure that everybody in the community has the opportunity to participate and enjoy nature and be active.”

The inclusive outdoors

National parks are becoming increasingly more welcoming to outdoor enthusiasts with mobility issues. In addition to its adaptive-friendly excursions, the Great Smoky national park has three adult-size off-road wheelchairs (and one junior chair) available for use on accessible trails. NPS volunteers meet the guest at the trailhead for a safety overview and quick tutorial. The volunteer can accompany the hikers or wait at the trailhead. Davis said the park plans to expand its fleet as well as train more volunteers for this service.

Several other NPS sites also provide all-terrain wheelchairs (e.g., Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore and Rocky Mountain National Park ) or beach wheelchairs ( Golden Gate National Recreation Area , Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve , Gulf Islands National Seashore ). The rentals are complimentary. Because of the limited supply, reservations are strongly recommended.

The movement is also flourishing on the state and regional levels. All-Terrain Georgia supplies all-terrain wheelchairs to more than a dozen destinations in the Peach State, including Cloudland Canyon, Panola Mountain and Cumberland Island. Tennessee State Parks and the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources provide the trailblazing equipment in 13 parks each. A number of other state park departments are also onboard, including Kansas, Louisiana, Michigan, Oklahoma and Wyoming.

“I do see the domino effect,” said Carly Pearson, the ADA coordinator in Knox County, Tenn. “Other parks are catching on.”

Pearson, a former NPS wildland firefighter who suffered a spinal cord injury in 2002, said she assisted the Knoxville nonprofit Legacy Parks Foundation in creating one of the first adaptive mountain bike trails in East Tennessee. The Independence and Freedom Trail was completed in spring 2020. She said a number of local partners have since collaborated to develop more outdoor sites that can accommodate adaptive equipment.

People with mobility issues said one of the biggest obstacles to exploring the outdoors is acquiring or accessing the specialized gear. The equipment can be prohibitively expensive. Pearson said a fully kitted-out adaptive mountain bike can cost $22,000.

“Do I want to pay for my son’s college, or do I go and selfishly buy myself a recreational piece of equipment?” she said. “I’m going to take care of my kid, of course.”

Specialized guides

Though loaner programs help adventurers overcome that hurdle, availability isn’t always enough. Depending on the individual’s capabilities, the visitor might need help settling into the equipment and navigating the unfamiliar trail or body of water. That’s where the support team comes in.

For the Great Smoky Mountains program, Gray said guests will be accompanied by experts from his team, including an adaptive mountain bike director who lives in Asheville, N.C., a hiking director who will oversee the day treks and backcountry camping trip, and an adaptive kayaking specialist from Knoxville. Park rangers will cover the educational portion of the outings, sharing ecological and historical tidbits with the group.

For backcountry camping, Gray said guests will hike for about 1½ miles, cook over a fire and sleep in tents. They will rough it — to a point. Instead of digging a hole for a toilet, they will have access to a portable commode.

“We’re going to make it easier for them for their first experience in the backcountry,” he said.

Each national park shares information about its accessible trails and adaptive programs on its website and in its visitor center. For a broader scope, the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation created a search tool to help people locate accessible and adaptable programs, events and resources around the country. The organization also has a team of advisers who can help with trip planning and other recreational advice. The service is free.

“The information specialists are trained to help people locate areas for adaptive activities,” Bogosian said. “They help them think about the questions they need to ask as they plan their trips.”

‘Healing and restorative’ exercise

Matt Lee, a 43-year-old Asheville resident, suffered a spinal cord injury the summer after he graduated high school. He uses a wheelchair, which restricts his outdoor activities. Several years ago, he upgraded to a power-assisted device with off-road tires and a free wheel attachment. His range of exploration improved, but he still runs into stumbling blocks.

“You can get to a certain point,” he said, “but there might be a creek or a stream or some uprooted areas or lots of rocks that are just too challenging to navigate.”

In 2022, he attended an adaptive mountain bike clinic hosted by Catalyst Sports. He said it was the first time he had biked that hard and that deep into nature since his accident. He learned about the Great Smoky program during the clinic and signed up for two hikes last year. For the first trek, he borrowed a “passive” Joëlette all-terrain wheelchair from the North Carolina Spinal Cord Injury Association . He brought his own equipment for the second excursion on Deep Creek Trail.

“To venture off and experience being out in nature — it’s very healing and restorative,” he said. “Now that I’ve been able to get out there, I feel better. I’m happier. My overall well-being has improved.”

This year, he is considering the kayak outing and the backcountry trip, an adventure that is long overdue.

“I haven’t really done overnight camping in over 20 years,” he said. “So that would be a new experience for me since my injury.”

More travel news

How we travel now: More people are taking booze-free trips — and airlines and hotels are taking note. Some couples are ditching the traditional honeymoon for a “buddymoon” with their pals. Interested? Here are the best tools for making a group trip work.

Bad behavior: Entitled tourists are running amok, defacing the Colosseum , getting rowdy in Bali and messing with wild animals in national parks. Some destinations are fighting back with public awareness campaigns — or just by telling out-of-control visitors to stay away .

Safety concerns: A door blew off an Alaska Airlines Boeing 737 Max 9 jet, leaving passengers traumatized — but without serious injuries. The ordeal led to widespread flight cancellations after the jet was grounded, and some travelers have taken steps to avoid the plane in the future. The incident has also sparked a fresh discussion about whether it’s safe to fly with a baby on your lap .

Protect Your Trip »

The best swimming with pigs tours in the bahamas.

Discover how to responsibly swim with pigs in the Bahamas.

Swimming With Pigs in the Bahamas

Swimming pigs of the Bahamas in the Out Islands of the Exuma

Getty Images

Reels of people frolicking with pigs on a beach in the Caribbean have more than likely surfaced on your TikTok and Instagram feeds at one point or another. After all, millions of people partake in this quintessential Bahamas experience each year, and the attraction is so popular that it's been replicated in other destinations.

If swimming with pigs in the Bahamas is on your bucket list, read on to discover the best tour options as well as what to consider when you visit.

Which Bahamas island has swimming pigs?

Located in the Exumas, Big Major Cay – commonly known as Pig Beach – is the original Bahamas island with swimming pigs. It is accessible from several islands in the Bahamas as well as Florida. Most swimming pig tours include other tourist attractions and experiences, including snorkeling in Thunderball Grotto (a filming location for two James Bond movies) and swimming with nurse sharks at Compass Cay.

How to get to Pig Beach from the Exumas

Staniel Cay: Staniel Cay is the closest inhabited island to Big Major Cay. Guests of Staniel Cay Yacht Club can take a short boat ride to Pig Beach via a local charter. 3N's Vacation Services and Staniel Cay Adventures are both reputable companies that offer such options.

Great Exuma: The largest island in the Exumas, Great Exuma houses some of the best resorts in the Bahamas , including the family-friendly Grand Isle Resort & Residences and the adults-only Sandals Emerald Bay . To get to Pig Beach from Great Exuma, it's best to book directly with your hotel. You'll have the option to take a full-day tour (with a roughly two-hour boat ride to the attractions from Great Exuma) or fly to Staniel Cay and take a short boat ride to Big Major Cay from there.

How to get to Pig Beach from Nassau

Pig Beach is reachable from Nassau via plane and/or boat. Below are some of the top-rated swimming pig tours from the Bahamas' capital city:

3N's Vacation Services: Swimming Pigs Flight & Tour

Price: From $675 per person Duration: 3.5 to 4 hours

This full-day, all-inclusive tour transports passengers from Nassau to Staniel Cay by plane, where you'll continue your excursion via boat. The tour includes several stops and activities:

Swimming with pigs and feeding them tour-provided food at Pig Beach
Swimming with nurse sharks at Compass Cay
Snorkeling at Thunderball Grotto
Visiting the iguanas of Guana Cay
Strolling along a stunning sandbar
A stop near Pablo Escobar's mysterious sunken plane on Norman's Cay

Snacks, lunch, soft drinks, beer and water are covered in tour rates; snorkel gear and towels are provided. Children ages 2 and younger are free, though this tour is not recommended for young kids. While tour groups are limited to 12 guests at maximum, private tours are available for a more intimate experience. Recent reviewers say they enjoyed this tour, though some expressed mixed feelings about the captains.

Check prices & availability on:

Born Free Charters: Exuma Island Hopping and Swimming Pigs

Price: From $439 for adults; $329 for kids ages 2 to 6 Duration: 9 hours

This tour departs from Paradise Island by high-speed powerboat and stops at the following destinations:

Allen Cay, to visit Bahamian rock iguanas
Compass Cay, for swimming with the nurse sharks
Great Exuma, for a Bahamian-style lunch buffet (included in tour rate)
Norman's Cay, for snorkeling
A sandbar for some beach time

Recent travelers highly recommend this tour, praising the guides, the lunch and the overall experience. Per the tour provider, this tour isn't recommended for children younger than 2, pregnant women, or those suffering from chronic back and/or neck pain.

Tips on Trips and Expert Picks Newsletter

Travel tips, vacation ideas and more to make your next vacation stellar.

Sign up to receive the latest updates from U.S News & World Report and our trusted partners and sponsors. By clicking submit, you are agreeing to our Terms and Conditions & Privacy Policy .

How to get to Pig Beach from Florida

There are a few reputable companies that offer Pig Beach tours from Miami and Fort Lauderdale. Below is a well-rated option:

Bahamas Air Tours: Miami to Bahamas Day Trip

Price: From $949 per person Duration: 12 hours

This full-day tour starts with private transportation from Fort Lauderdale Executive Airport. It also includes in-destination transportation to Pig Beach, Guana Cay, Thunderball Grotto, Compass Cay and the sandbars at Staniel Cay. Both alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages are included in the price as well. Recent travelers rave about this experience, with some noting it's the best tour they've ever taken.

Note that passports are required for this day trip, and that while children are permitted on the tour, it's not ideal for young kids. This excursion is also ill-suited for pregnant women, and the tour operator requires a doctor's clearance for expectant mothers. Tours are limited to nine guests (but require a minimum of five participants); private charters are also available.

Is Pig Beach ethical?

Even though the Bahamas limits the number of tour operators allowed to visit Pig Beach per day, there's some controversy surrounding the island and whether or not it's ethical to visit.

In 2017, several pigs were found dead after an influx of tourists left snacks on the beach, causing the pigs to ingest too much sand. Also, travelers can be aggressive with the pigs, often chasing them, picking them up or even trying to ride them.

In recent years, a number of safety measures have been put in place to protect both the pigs and tourists. Per the Bahamas Ministry of Tourism, they include the following:

A trough provides a designated feeding place for the pigs.
Signage communicates rules to tourists, including what you can and cannot feed to the pigs. The pigs are restricted to a diet of fruits and vegetables, such as carrots, grapes, watermelon, apples and lettuce, and many guides supply these items for tourgoers. Some tour guides will provide bread as well, though processed food is not ideal for these animals.
A local taskforce of caretakers is on the ground daily to ensure visitors and tour operators are engaging with the pigs responsibly.

While the Bahamas Ministry of Tourism maintains that the attraction is sustainable, know that there aren't any legal limitations protecting the pigs at this time.

How to be a responsible traveler at Pig Beach

All tour guides are expected to share the following protocols with travelers; whether they do or not, it is important to respect these rules for both the safety of the pigs and you:

Remain calm at all times.
Do not chase, pick up or ride the pigs.
Do not engage with the pigs without supervision.
Only use approved food from your tour operator, and do not feed the pigs alcohol.
If you do not have feed, hold your hands up to show the pigs you do not have anything.

What to pack for your excursion

Pack a beach bag , dry bag or backpack with the following items:

Reef-safe sunscreen
Beach towel
Camera and/or phone
Waterproof phone pouch with lanyard
Change of clothing
Windbreaker or light jacket (in case of rain and because it gets chilly on the water)
Cash and/or credit card (for tour guide tip and other purchases)

It's best to wear a swimsuit and a cover-up or T-shirt with sandals for the trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

There are several theories about the origin of the swimming pigs. The most logical is that when the Exumas gained popularity with the rich and famous in the 1980s and '90s, the resident pigs were too smelly to stay and were hence moved to the uninhabited island of Big Major Cay.

It is generally safe provided you're respectful of the animals. However, you should keep in mind that the pigs are known to bite if they're hungry and think you might have food you're not sharing. Because Big Major Cay is their home, they also defecate on the shoreline and in the water.

Most tour operators do not allow children under age 2 on these excursions, and based on our experience, we don't recommend bringing toddlers and young children in general — even if rates are free or discounted for them. Wait until your kids are a bit older.

Swimming with pigs on Big Major Cay – the original Pig Beach in the Bahamas – will cost you several hundred dollars – in part because Big Major Cay is a remote destination only accessible by boat. Of course, it is also pricey because of its popularity. Copycat experiences like swimming with the pigs on Rose Island are cheaper, but less authentic.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Amanda Norcross previously visited Pig Beach during a press trip to the Bahamas. Disheartened by tourists' mistreatment of the pigs, she aims to educate travelers on how to visit Big Major Cay and other animal-centric destinations responsibly.

The Best Zoos in the U.S.

Young girl looking at a hippo at the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden

Tags: Travel , Tours

World's Best Places To Visit

# 1 South Island, New Zealand
# 4 Bora Bora

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

Top-Rated Newport Mansion Tours

Andrea McHugh May 6, 2024

The 9 New York City Boat Tours

Lyn Mettler May 6, 2024

The 13 Best Key West Tours of 2024

Gwen Pratesi May 3, 2024

Essentials to Pack for a Cruise

Gwen Pratesi and Amanda Norcross May 2, 2024

The 15 Best Chicago Tours for 2024

John Rodwan May 1, 2024

The 10 Best Harry Potter Tours in London

Marisa Méndez April 30, 2024

12 Cheap Fourth of July Getaways

April 29, 2024

The Best Tours of Buckingham Palace

Laura French April 29, 2024

Flight Canceled or Delayed? What to Do

Amanda Norcross April 26, 2024

Search Please fill out this field.
Manage Your Subscription
Give a Gift Subscription
Newsletters
Sweepstakes

If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.

Travel Products

The 10 Best Comfy Travel Pants at Amazon for Long Flights, Hiking, and Beyond — All Under $50

Stock up on comfortable travel pants ahead of your next trip.

Travel + Leisure / Marcus Millan

Ensuring that your flight and accommodations are booked is crucial, but on a travel day, nothing beats the importance of wearing a comfortable outfit . Think about it, the last thing you want is to be wearing an uncomfortable, ill-fitting pair of pants while you’re rushing through TSA. And if you weren’t aware, Amazon is full of comfortable, travel-friendly pants .

In fact, there are so many fantastic pairs of travel pants at the mega retailer that it can be a bit overwhelming navigating all of the options. That’s why I spent the past few hours sifting through the few hundred different options to present to you the best 10 travel pants at Amazon. These pairs are ideal for car rides , hiking trips , and even going to dinner straight from the plane , and even better, they’re all under $50.

Anrabess Women's Linen Palazzo Pants

My all-time favorite fabric to wear in the warm months is linen. I love that the material has moisture-wicking properties and a breathable feel, making it an excellent choice for beating the heat. I’m currently eyeing this Amazon best-selling pair of linen blend pants that feature a flattering smocked waist and wide-leg design for an extra bit of comfort. They’re also available in 23 different colorways including almond and baby blue and sizes small through 2XL.

Kingfen Women’s Linen Drawstring Shorts

And if you love linen-blend garments as much as I do, you’ll definitely want to make sure that you have a shorts-version to prepare for even the hottest of days. This pair comes complete with an elastic waistband and breathable roomy shape for a flexible, comfortable fit all day long. In fact, shoppers have hailed them as “perfect for summer” thanks to their lightweight feel and ideal length.

Baleaf Women's Quick Dry Hiking Pants

If you need a stellar pair of hiking pants ahead of your next trek, consider Amazon’s best-selling pair from Baleaf that feature a water-resistant design and elastic waistband for a flattering, functional fit. Shoppers have dubbed them the “best hiking pants ever” and even mentioned that they are planning to buy them in more colors. Lucky for those shoppers, and you, they're 34 percent off today.

VVK Women’s Hiking Cargo Pants

Cargo pants are super trendy this season, which is perfect for your travel stash because they also happen to be incredibly functional. These pants are designed with a lightweight, moisture-wicking material and feature plenty of spacious pockets making them the quintessential do-it-all adventure pants. Beyond their durability, they also look great with a t-shirt and fun sneakers to wear out on the town.

Promover Women's Wide-Leg Pants

Upgrade your wardrobe with these wide-leg yoga pants that offer a looser fit for constriction-free movement whenever, wherever. Designed with a super soft fabric, roomy front pockets, and a thick flattering waistband, these pants will keep you feeling supported and comfortable on any travel day. Available in 14 different neutral hues, these cozy, easy-wearing pants are exactly what your wardrobe needs ahead of your next adventure.

Tronjori Women’s Palazzo Trousers

While you might have done a double take seeing a pair of trousers in a comfortable travel pants list, I assure you that you need a pair of pants that you can throw on and go from the office to the airport. Buyers are happy to report that these pants are perfect for exactly that, with one sharing that they stayed comfortable and looked great after traveling “10 hours on a plane and then once again three days later to go out to dinner.” Snag a pair (or two) this week because they’re just $34.

The Gym People Women's High-Waist Leggings

More than 48,000 shoppers gush that these best-selling high-waisted leggings are “ buttery soft ” and “hug [you] in all the right places .” Whether you sport them to get coffee, at the hotel gym, or to board a busy flight, you’ll love these leggings’ flexible, four-way stretch and spacious side pockets that are large enough to carry your phone. And as an extra treat, they’re on sale for $25 today.

Champion Men’s Cotton Shorts

In the reviews section, I was shocked to see that one shopper has been faithfully “wearing these [shorts] for the past 40 years” and is still impressed by their exceptional quality and comfort. If you ask me, these shorts sound like the perfect pair of all-purpose comfortable shorts. And even more enticing, they’re available in an impressive size range of small through 4XL and are on sale for $19.

Tbmpoy Men’s Lightweight Hiking Pants

These lightweight hiking pants have been referred to as shoppers’ “go-to” pair of pants because they are “super lightweight, easy to pack, and they might just become your everyday pants… Good luck ever going back to regular denim pants!” If I were you, I’d take advice from that particularly happy shopper and add a pair to your wardrobe ASAP (especially while this pair is on sale for $23).

Hanes Men’s Knit Pants

One of my favorite brands for affordable comfortable pants is Hanes. My dad and brother have been wearing sweatpants from the brand for as long as I can remember and recently have added these breathable knit pants to their wardrobe to wear as pajamas, comfortable lounge pants, and even as chill travel day sweatpants. They’re also half-off right now, so I’d take a page from their book and stock up on a few pairs.

Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we’ll send you our favorite travel products each week.

Shop More T+L-Approved Picks

The 45 Best Sci-Fi Movies of All Time, Ranked

From classics like Metropolis and Alien to Everything Everywhere All At Once, this is Collider's ranking of the best science fiction movies ever.

The science fiction genre has been one of the most consistently thrilling to explore throughout the history of cinema. The way a visual medium like film can depict futuristic worlds or alternate realities means that almost anything that can be imagined can be depicted on-screen. Since the silent era, filmmakers have been using the medium to their advantage, commenting on humanity's present and hypothesizing about its future through the science-fiction genre.

There are countless great sci-fi movies that have been released since the birth of cinema as an art form, and it's ultimately futile to try and name every single amazing one. There are simply too many top sci-fi movies, and it's a genre that's still thriving, with new potential classics released seemingly every year. The following are among the best of the best from the sci-fi genre, being classics for their entertainment value, excellent technical qualities, and historical significance , and are ranked below in order from great to greatest.

45 'Beyond the Infinite Two Minutes' (2020)

Directed by junta yamaguchi.

Beyond the Infinite Two Minutes is one of the best Japanese movies of the last few years , and also stands as one of the most entertaining and rewatchable sci-fi films in recent memory. It deals with an initially limited form of time travel that involves a screen that shows footage from two minutes in the future, which leads to wonder, fortunes, and eventual chaos for the people who discover this strange phenomenon.

Made on a limited budget and filmed in a way that makes it appear like a single take , Beyond the Infinite Two Minutes is quite dazzling for such a small-scale movie, and endlessly inventive/clever. It’s got an infectious spirit and is overall the kind of movie that will provide significant entertainment value for just about anyone who seeks it out.

Beyond the Infinite Two Minutes

Watch on Amazon Prime

44 'Voyage of the Rock Aliens' (1984)

Directed by james fargo.

Calling Voyage of the Rock Aliens ridiculous would be underselling it to a considerable extent, but that’s obvious, given it’s literally called Voyage of the Rock Aliens . It functions as a surprisingly good (and wonderfully cheesy) musical, a comedy that feels like a throwback to teen movies of the 1950s and ‘60s, and a sci-fi movie about aliens coming to Earth and trying/failing to fit into life on the planet.

Voyage of the Rock Aliens is a cult movie through and through, and one of the most 1980s-feeling movies to come out of the decade. It’s sloppy, the music probably isn’t for everyone, and watching it is an undeniably chaotic experience, but there’s so much energy and vibrancy to the whole thing that it’s hard to resist , particularly for any sci-fi fans who have a particular fondness for science fiction of the B-movie variety.

Watch on Tubi

43 'August in the Water' (1995)

Directed by gakuryu ishii.

Blending some fantasy/supernatural elements with an odd yet compelling science fiction story, August in the Water is both a unique and underrated film. It focuses on several teenagers living in the Japanese city of Fukuoka, and explores what happens when one of them – a young girl – begins to develop mysterious powers, all the while strange occurrences continue to happen to the city’s population.

August in the Water isn’t exactly clear about the story it’s telling, nor is it particularly narrative-centered in the first place, but it is undeniably atmospheric and provides a distinct look/feel. It’s broad and open-ended enough to leave many things up to interpretation , and even those who get a bit lost in August in the Water will still be able to appreciate its visual style and singular tone.

Buy on Amazon

42 'Poor Things' (2023)

Directed by yorgos lanthimos.

Poor Things was surprisingly successful for such an odd and offbeat movie, but those willing to get immersed in something a little different will likely find the film to be a rewarding one. It’s a surprisingly funny and always visually dazzling sci-fi movie about a woman who’s brought back to life, and then goes on a strange and sometimes alarming journey, rediscovering life and effectively coming of age for a second time.

Yorgos Lanthimos is perfectly suited to this kind of story and this sort of style, with the cast also shining while digging into the strange material they’ve been given, especially Emma Stone in the lead role, who won a second Oscar for her performance. Poor Things is a movie that’s a highlight of the 2020s so far, and feels like the sort of sci-fi movie that will one day be held up as a classic .

Poor Things

*Availability in US

Not available

41 'Godzilla Minus One' (2023)

Directed by takashi yamazaki.

Speaking of relatively recent science fiction movies that already feel like modern classics, Godzilla Minus One was one of the biggest surprises of 2023, and one of the best Godzilla movies of the past couple of decades. It takes things back further in time than any other movie in the long-running series, taking place right after World War II, following people who are already struggling with surviving the war’s aftermath when the titular monster emerges and makes life even more difficult.

All the monster action in Godzilla Minus One is exciting and satisfying, but it’s the human characters – and their story – that give it the edge overall, and make it function as a genuinely good drama on top of being a kaiju movie . It’s very approachable and a perfect entry point into the series, particularly for anyone who’s more familiar with the American Godzilla movies and has yet to watch any from Japan.

Godzilla Minus One

Godzilla Minus One is currently not available to stream, rent, or purchase in the U.S.

40 'Woman in the Moon' (1929)

Directed by fritz lang.

The most famous sci-fi movie directed by Fritz Lang came out before Woman in the Moon (more on it a little down the line), but this 1929 shouldn’t be overlooked just because it’s his second-best science fiction film. It’s a remarkable cinematic achievement, considering it’s close to a century old, and remains an engaging film about an expedition to the moon – led by a scientist – in search of gold.

Now, given its age and premise, there are aspects here that feel more fictional than ever in a post-moon landing world , but considering Woman in the Moon predated humanity actually reaching the moon by 40 years, the sci-fi movie's predictions were still impressive . It’s also got inventive special effects and a surprisingly well-told and dramatic story, making it one of the best – and most underrated – films of the silent era, sci-fi or otherwise.

Watch on Kanopy

39 'Electric Dreams' (1984)

Directed by steve barron.

Perhaps feeling more like a quirky and heartfelt romantic comedy than a full-on science fiction movie, Electric Dreams does still center around an advanced computer that begins to fall for a young woman. The computer, in a sense, enters into a love triangle of sorts with the young man who purchased it, given the man also has feelings for the same woman, yet is too shy to approach her.

Electric Dreams then becomes like a sci-fi take on Cyrano de Bergerac , with the computer being Cyrano, helping a more conventional romantic partner while also having his own intense feelings of love toward a romance that can’t be. It might sound ridiculous, and Electric Dreams is kind of silly, but it’s also got a sincerity to it that makes it hard to resist . The cynical need not apply, but those open to the film’s odd charms might be it to be one of the more underrated sci-fi flicks of the ‘80s .

38 'Godzilla vs. Destoroyah' (1995)

Directed by takao okawara.

Throughout the remarkably long history of the Godzilla series , the titular monster has fought many other powerful and intimidating titans. For as mighty as foes like King Kong and King Ghidorah have been, there’s an argument to be made that his most powerful enemy wasn’t even a “King,” and that it was actually Destoroyah, a monster who’s only been featured in one Godzilla film to date: 1995’s Godzilla vs. Destoroyah .

Notable for being one of the most intense, frightening, and moving films in the entire series, Godzilla vs. Destoroyah serves as a grand finale for Godzilla ’s Heisei era, which comprised seven movies released between 1984 and 1995 that told a surprisingly continuity-heavy narrative spanning just over a decade. It might not be as powerful outside the context of the series/era, but it’s nevertheless one of the finest of all Godzilla films, and stands as a great work of science fiction as a result.

Godzilla vs. Destoroyah

Rent on Amazon

37 'Star Wars: The Last Jedi' (2017)

Directed by rian johnson.

There are certainly things to criticize when it comes to the most recent Star Wars movies, largely owing to the messily constructed and planned-out sequel trilogy. Yet buried within this flawed trio of films is a genuinely great sci-fi movie that itself is divisive: Star Wars: The Last Jedi . This eighth entry in the Skywalker Saga has passionate fans and vocal detractors, but that seemed inevitable, given it was directed by the guy who was behind what some people call the worst Breaking Bad episode (“Fly”) and what many call the best Breaking Bad episode (“Ozymandias”).

Star Wars: The Last Jedi brings Luke Skywalker back into the fold, taking his character in interesting directions while ultimately having him live up to his legacy by the film’s end. Other aspects of the film seem odd or disappointing at first, but all of it comes together in an interesting way by the end . It reckons with the history of Star Wars , celebrates it, and critiques it all at once, and does so while also being tremendously moving, emotionally speaking, and spectacular, from a visual standpoint.

Star Wars: Episode VIII - The Last Jedi

36 'forbidden planet' (1956), directed by fred m. wilcox.

Of all the science fiction movies made during the 1950s, Forbidden Planet is undeniably up there with the most iconic. It follows a crew of space travelers who go in search of another exploration party that's been missing for years, only to make some unusual and startling discoveries during their attempted rescue/recovery mission.

It has an undeniably distinct aesthetic that's inextricably tied to the look and feel of classic '50s sci-fi. It's also notable for having what's perhaps Leslie Nielsen 's best-known non-comedic role, given his career was rejuvenated in the 1980s thanks to starring in a range of iconic parody/spoof movies . Some may find Forbidden Planet to be a little old-fashioned and maybe even slightly cheesy by today's standards , but it's the aesthetics on offer here that might also prove charming to others.

Forbidden Planet

35 'inception' (2010), directed by christopher nolan.

Inception certainly was a cinematic highlight of 2010 , and it had some pretty tough competition that year, too. It's Christopher Nolan blending his affinity for action and science fiction in one , and making this blend go down smoothly with an engaging premise that's about performing a reverse heist within a target's subconscious, making it function well as an action/thriller movie as well as a piece of science fiction.

It's a movie that throws tons of fairly complex ideas at the viewer in rapid succession, and so if there's one criticism that can be thrown Inception's way, it's that it's a little heavy on the exposition at times. But the action-packed scenes serve well as payoffs, and the narrative does find interesting and sometimes unexpected places to go beyond the explanatory dialogue-heavy opening act.

34 'Under the Skin' (2013)

Directed by jonathan glazer.

Those who prefer their sci-fi conventional may want to steer clear of Under the Skin , or approach it very cautiously, given it's another strange, haunting, and unapologetic film directed by Jonathan Glazer . It's essentially an arthouse take on a story about an alien coming to Earth, perhaps being for the 2010s what the equally bizarre and captivating The Man Who Fell to Earth was for the 1970s.

Scarlett Johansson plays the alien at the center of Under the Skin , and much of the movie is about this life form - after taking on a human appearance - stalking and capturing various men who become prey. It offers little by way of easy answers, and much of the film is up to the interpretation of the individual viewer , for better or worse (probably more better, so long as you know roughly what you're in for).

Under the Skin

Watch on Max

33 'Avatar' (2009)

Directed by james cameron.

James Cameron might've referred to himself as the king of the world after his 1997 film Titanic swept the Oscars, but it's perhaps more accurate to call him the king of the sci-fi genre. He's made some of the biggest and most popular works of science fiction in cinematic history, with none being as successful (at least financially) as his 2009 film Avatar . Indeed, Avatar joins Titanic and its own sequel, Avatar: The Way of Water , as a movie that can claim to be the highest-grossing of its decade of release .

It recycles familiar tropes and story beats, but does so in a fantastical world and with breathtaking visual effects. Typical of Cameron, Avatar is also successful in blending genres to ensure it has mass appeal , with this movie being a sci-fi film, an action/adventure movie, and a romance all at once.

32 'Planet of the Apes' (1968)

Directed by franklin j. schaffner.

For as good as the reboot/prequel trilogy released throughout the 2010s was, it's hard to top the original Planet of the Apes film from 1968, at least when judging each movie in the series on its own merits. It's an eerie and oftentimes mysterious film, building to a fantastic conclusion that might still surprise those lucky enough to avoid knowing about it without having seen the movie.

It flips things around by having human beings be the subservient species, and forced to contend with an advanced race of apes who do indeed rule the planet they're on. It's not nearly as cheesy as you'd think (the sequels don't fare quite so well), and holds up as a compelling and entertaining sci-fi/action movie with some interesting things to say about humanity and its possible future.

Planet of the Apes (1968)

Watch on Starz

31 'District 9' (2009)

Directed by neill blomkamp.

Though some are clamoring for a sequel that will probably never arrive (never say never, unless you can cowardly include a "probably" in there), District 9 still stands on its own as a great film regardless. It's part mockumentary, part action movie, and part body horror, detailing what happens to an alien ship that becomes stranded over the city of Johannesburg.

It's also packed with social commentary regarding race and how refugees are mistreated in real life, considering in this movie, it's the aliens who find themselves in the middle of a large-scale refugee crisis. It's thought-provoking, unique, exciting, and one of the best science-fiction movies of the 21st century so far, as well as one movie that demonstrated how 2009 was an unusually good year for the sci-fi genre as a whole .

30 'Stalker' (1979)

Directed by andrei tarkovsky.

One of the most acclaimed films of 1979 , Stalker is also among the best-known titles in Andrei Tarkovsky 's filmography. It follows three men who are trying to find a mysterious location known only as the Zone, as it's rumored to grant great power to anyone who can locate it. Stalker feels less focused on the narrative necessarily, as its status as an arthouse science fiction movie means it's more concerned with exploring abstract themes and providing a unique (in this case, also eerie) mood.

It unfolds in a way that's very slow, but also surprisingly absorbing . It's an intensely psychological sort of science fiction, exploring the minds of its characters more so than putting them in a series of exciting set pieces or action scenes. It's the kind of approach to sci-fi that might not be for everyone, but it is undoubtedly interesting.

29 'Moon' (2009)

Directed by duncan jones.

One of many great science-fiction movies released in 2009, Moon is about one man dealing with isolation while being the sole person at a manufacturing facility on the Moon. Things take a turn into the unexpected as he's about to return to Earth, though, throwing the film's events into an entirely new direction.

The less said about the rest of Moon , the better, but it's fair to say that it's certainly engaging and surprising in all the best ways. It's also a showcase for the talents of Sam Rockwell , given he maintains a compelling presence on-screen, even though he doesn't really have any other actual actors to appear alongside, and act with, and Moon undoubtedly solidifies Rockwell as one of the best and most underrated actors working today.

28 'Ex Machina' (2014)

Directed by alex garland.

Before taking a turn into horror by directing movies like Annihilation and Men , Alex Garland had his directorial debut with the sci-fi film Ex Machina . It's a unique look at artificial intelligence, revolving around a series of experiments in a remote location with a new, unnervingly smart robot, the creator of said technology, and a young coder who's won a competition to visit said location.

It's an eerie and engaging look at familiar science-fiction tropes and ideas , presenting things that viewers might have seen before in ways that are confined, realistic, and eye-opening. It's small-scale, personal science-fiction done right, and though it's not particularly old, it feels like the kind of movie where it's safe to say it will age well, and continue to hold up in years to come.

27 'Minority Report' (2002)

Directed by steven spielberg.

Minority Report is set in a future where surveillance has become so widespread and powerful that the crime/justice landscape has completely changed. Violent crimes can now be predicted before they even happen, leading to people being arrested and charged for crimes they didn't actually commit, but were ultimately going to commit, or so those in the business of "Precrime" say.

It's an uneasy and thought-provoking premise, and was explored in a way that ensured Minority Report ranked among the best movies of 2002 . It's getting on in years, but what it has to say still feels relevant and unnerving, and time will ultimately tell how relevant it'll continue to feel, and how unsettling its premise will feel for viewers even further in the future. Undoubtedly, it's one of the very best sci-fi/thriller movies Steven Spielberg has ever directed.

Minority Report

26 'interstellar' (2014).

While Interstellar isn't Christopher Nolan's only great science-fiction movie, it might be his most pure sci-fi effort, given Inception ' s action-heavy nature and Tenet feeling like an espionage thriller with sci-fi elements. Interstellar 's also one of his longest movies, making it a true sci-fi epic in every sense of the word.

It centers on a group of astronauts who explore space through a wormhole, as humanity is in danger on Earth and may need to find a new planet to live on. On the technical side of things, Interstellar is spectacular, with amazing visual effects and a phenomenal Hans Zimmer score . It's a long but rewarding film, and in contrast to some science-fiction, also contains a surprising amount of heartfelt - maybe even sentimental - emotion.

Interstellar

COMMENTS

Adventure Travel & Tours
G for Good. When you travel with us, you experience first-hand our commitment to making travel a force for good is in everything we do. The official site of the world's greatest adventure travel company. We offer a wide selection of small-group tours, safaris and expeditions. Start exploring.
10 Best Adventure Vacations Around the World
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 ...
28 Adventure Travel Experiences, From Glacier Chasing in Greenland to
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.
50 of the Best Adventure Ideas Around the World
Some of the best adventure holidays in the world; from mountain biking and cycling challenges to far-flung hikes and kayak trips. ... Travel deep into the jungle on one of the most culturally mysterious hikes on the continent and discover a pre-Hispanic Lost City built 650 years before Machu Picchu. Trek through coffee zones, dense jungle, high ...
20 of the coolest travel adventures for 2024
Our annual Best of the World list ranks 20 great travel experiences, including bear-watching in Alaska, glacier-hiking in Chile, swimming Australia's Coral Coast, and more. Video by Nichole ...
25 big bucket list adventures
A Wanderlust favourite, Petra is one of the Middle East's great wonders. This UNESCO-listed archaeological site is carved into pink sandstones cliffs, hidden within Jordan's mountain and desert landscape. Many visit the 'Red Rose City' from Amman via a three hour car journey, but we prefer a more adventurous approach.
National Geographic Journeys
Change the world. National Geographic and G Adventures believe that travel can and should be a force for good in the world. By traveling with us, you support community projects and initiatives that improve livelihoods in the places we visit. You also help further the work of National Geographic's scientists, explorers, and educators around ...
Travel bucket list: 101 best adventures in the world
Hands on passports, people, because here are 101 of the greatest travel experiences to add to your bucket list in 2018. 1. Taste a real Reuben in Katz's Delicatessen, New York. You may have heard ...
Best Small Group Tours & Adventure Travel
The right trip for you. Whether near or far from home, your trip will be local led and full of unforgettable experiences, with everything taken care of. The best small group tour means you'll travel the local way. Affordable travel packages and the experience of a lifetime. Book an Intrepid tour today.
The 15 Best Tour Operators in 2022
The 15 Best Tour Operators in 2022. These are the companies Travel + Leisure readers trust to provide them with travel expertise and memorable experiences. DuVine Cycling + Adventure Co. bike tour ...
Adventure Travel: 15 Top Spots in the U.S.
Yosemite National Park. #3 in Best Adventure Vacations in the U.S. Yosemite National Park features mountains, meadows, massive sequoia trees and plenty of waterfalls - all less than 170 miles ...
21 Insane Bucket List Adventures You MUST Experience in 2024
An extreme bucket list adventure that will be sure to REALLY get your heart pumping is the famous bungee jump in Queenstown, New Zealand. At 134 m high, the Nevis Bungee jump is made for adrenaline junkies. After a 35-minute 4×4 ride, you'll find yourself at the highest bungee point in all of New Zealand.
10 Best Adventure Tours 2024/2025
10 Best Adventure Tours 2024/2025 - TourRadar. Get your adrenaline fix on an adventure tour, from snowboarding in Canada to cycling in Thailand to hiking in the Alps.
Adventure Destinations: 30 Best Places to Travel for Adventure
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 ...
Wilderness Travel
Pioneering Adventure Travel for 45 Years. Since 1978, we've remained dedicated to designing innovative trips to the most fascinating corners of the world. Our adventures offer something for every adventurous spirit—from African safaris to hiking odysseys in the Alps to expedition cruises in Antarctica. We invite you to join us!
The 10 Best Group Travel Tour Companies for 2023
G Adventures. For travelers on a budget, G Adventures offers cheap group tours that make dream destinations accessible to nearly anyone. (Think: sailing the Galapagos for just $1,124, criss ...
Best Adventure Travel Companies (Complete Ranking)
G Adventures is one of the world's largest and best adventure travel companies, with over 700 different trip offerings around the globe. Although they take over 200,000 travellers out on adventures each year, they're actually best known as a small group travel operator with a high focus on sustainability and authenticity.
Great Adventure Tours: Book Affordable Group Trips and Tours
Great Adventure Tours specializes in planning, organizing and managing handcrafted group tours and travel to meet the needs of tour operators, church groups, family reunion groups, alumni associations, bank clubs, etc. We create group travel itineraries for any destination for special interest groups of all types and sizes.
Great Adventure Travel
With over 30 years of experience, Great Adventure Travel Agency knows how to craft amazing personalized trips for our clients. Tell us about your dream trip and we'll make it happen. Our adventure and destination options are practically limitless. Proudly owned and operated right here in Columbus, Ohio. Our most popular destinations include ...
What is the Best Adventure Tour Operator for 2024?
Olivia Christine Perez is an outdoor + travel wellness expert, author, and the creator of O. Christine: a travel and wellness platform inspiring thousands of people to travel more and get outdoors for their wellness. Living with an autoimmune disease herself, Olivia helps people find wellness through the outdoors, self-care adventures, and ...
Great Adventures
A travel agent can save you money with early booking discounts, special fares, hotel deals and travel advisories. Save money and escape the crowds. Hot Deals and multi-port packages. Savings of up to 50%! Great Adventures, Inc.
Home
GREAT ADVENTURE TOURS Travel Meeting Thurs.,May 2nd, 9:30am The Golden Corral Topeka, KS. Escorts are Oneta and Dick CLICK THE BUTTONS BELOW TO SEE OUR NEWSLETTER AND TOUR LIST. GREAT ADVENTURE TOURS PO BOX 4126 TOPEKA, KS 66604 785-633-8761. ... ©2020 by Great Adventure Tours. Proudly created with Wix.com
Summer travel tips: Where (not) to go, how to save in 2024
Pinterest's Summer 2024 Travel Report found summer travelers are most interested in adventure, exploring mysterious or uncharted destinations, and rest. Searches for "quiet life" jumped 530% ...
Adventure Travel & Tours
G Adventures Private Travel. Whether it's a family retreat or a girls trip, you can surround yourself with a hand-picked crew and customize a tour that fits you all perfectly. Learn more. The Geluxe Collection. Our new line of premium active adventures is officially here.
When to Use a Travel Agent
Some of the Best Travel Agents in the Adventure World. Some of my go-to resources for finding a person to work with include travel expert Wendy Perrin's annual Wow List of tried and trusted ...
Adaptive adventures are making national parks more inclusive
Participants attend a hike in Great Smoky Mountains National Park using the Joëlette, an all-terrain wheelchair with a single wheel. (Catalyst Sports) New resources available at Great Smoky ...
The Best Swimming with Pigs Tours in the Bahamas
Snacks, lunch, soft drinks, beer and water are covered in tour rates; snorkel gear and towels are provided. Children ages 2 and younger are free, though this tour is not recommended for young kids.
The 10 Best Travel Pants at Amazon Under $50
Amazon has a plethora of leggings, cargo pants, hiking pants, and other travel pants that are perfect for your next adventure. We compiled a list of the 10 best comfortable pairs, all under $50.
The Best Airlines In 2024—According To J.D. Power
Southwest Airlines, however, is the best airline for economy travel, according to the study released on May 8 by J.D. Power, a data and analytics company that releases satisfaction ratings across ...
45 Best Sci-Fi Movies of All Time, Ranked
Beyond the Infinite Two Minutes is one of the best Japanese movies of the last few years, and also stands as one of the most entertaining and rewatchable sci-fi films in recent memory.It deals ...