If you are a thrill seeker, there is truly no better time to be alive than right now. The rise of social media in the past two decades has led to global communication which, combined with intense competition driving down prices in the travel industry, adventure and exploration is more accessible now than ever before. Below is a list of my top 20 bucket-list items for thrill seekers, ranging from mind-blowing nature destinations to truly once-in-a-lifetime experiences.
Camping & Hiking
Some may not believe the slower pace associated with outdoor activities to be “thrill seeking” but trust me, you don’t need to jump out of an airplane to have the adventure of a lifetime. There are so many camping and hiking experiences that will blow your mind, so here are my top recommendations out of the thousands to choose from.
- Climb Mt Kilimanjaro- Tanzania, Africa
If you are an avid hiker, you have likely heard of this challenging expedition. Peaking at 19,341 feet, this mountain is famously known as Africa’s tallest summit. Unless you are a highly experienced climber, I would strongly recommend finding a tour company to guide you, as the hike can be very challenging at times. Having said that, this expedition is completed by novice hikers all of the time, so expertise is not necessarily required. Just be sure to do your research beforehand, so you can come fully prepared with the best chance at success.
- Hike the Precipice Trail – Acadia National Park, Maine
The Precipice Trail is a great choice for US travelers seeking a physical challenge that won’t break the bank. Located in Maine’s Acadia National Park, this hike is famous for its narrow ledges along steep drop-offs and cliffside ladders. Though the trail loops at a mere 1.6 miles, the 1,000-foot vertical climb results in a very high difficulty rating for the trail, so prepare adequately. The best time to travel here is between early fall and late spring,
- Camp The Reflective Salt lakes – Salar de Uyuni, Bolivia
Though less physically demanding than hiking a mountain, experiencing the surreal wonder of the world’s largest completely reflective landscape can be equally as life changing. Located in Southwest Bolivia, the Salt Lakes of Salar de Uyuni are the ultimate campsite for outdoor explorers. For the best experience, book your trip during the rainy season (between December and April) and consider a multi-day 4WD tour to guide you. At high altitude, the weather can be cold, so plan accordingly.
Swim, Surf & Sail
If you are a water-lover looking to take your adventures to the next level, these destinations are for you! From rafting the Grand Canyon to swimming with sharks in Mexico, these next few suggestions explore some of the best water-related experiences nature has to offer.
- Kayak down the Amazon- Amazon River, South America
The Amazon River is famous for its jungle landscape but trekking through endless plant and animal species is not the only way to experience this vast landscape. Several tour companies offer short, multi-day kayaking trips down the world’s largest river. Experienced kayakers craving a true adventure may even consider attempting the entire route from source to sea, spanning from the Andes Mountains to the Atlantic Ocean.
- Dive with giant sea turtles – Galapagos Islands, Ecuador
If you are a science lover, the Galapagos Islands may ring a bell as the location where Charles Darwin first studied evolutionary science. If you are a scuba diver enthusiast, you are likely familiar with the unique array of incredible marine life these islands have to offer. Ranging from sharks and manta rays to sea turtles, sea lions and countless fish species, this archipelago is a must-visit for diving lovers!
Several tour companies offer liveaboard dive trips throughout the year. For calmer waters and clearer visibility, it is generally recommended to visit between December and May. However, more experienced divers may want to plan their trips for the colder months, when they are most likely to encounter whale sharks and hammerheads.
- Snorkel the Great Barrier Reef- Queensland, Australia
If you love the idea of ocean exploring but diving is not your thing, consider snorkeling as a more accessible alternative. Located just off the coast of Queensland, Australia, the Great Barrier Reef contains the world’s largest coral reef ecosystem. Teeming with diverse marine life amid vibrant coral, these crystal-clear waters are a snorkeler’s dream come true. Travelers are recommended to plan their trips between the months of May and October, when the water is at its calmest and clearest.
- Raft the Grand Canyon- AZ, USA
The iconic landscapes of the Grand Canyon have attracted millions of tourists and hikers for years, but few have considered exploring the whitewater rapids flowing 277 miles from the Colorado River, all the way down through the canyons. Adventurers can choose their difficulty level, with options ranging from motorized day trips to 18-day paddle raft camping excursions. For private trips, permits are required and with rafting season spanning just a few summer months, advanced planning is recommended.
- Raft the Zambezi River – Zambia, Africa
If you prefer a more challenging rafting experience, the Zambezi River should be on your bucket list. Situated beneath the Victoria Falls, the Zambezi River is particularly famous for its Class 5 rapids along stunning scenery amid African wildlife. Intense rapids occurring during low water season between July and January, whereas the winter months provide a more calming experience. Like the Grand Canyon experience discussed above, the Zambezi Rapids caters to a variety of adventurers, from day trip tourists to intense thrill-seekers.
- Swim with whale sharks – Baja, Mexico
What’s an adventure bucket list without at least one shark-swimming voyage? Thanks to its natural abundance of plankton, Baha, Mexico has become known as one of the top destinations for spotting the great whale shark. Tours departing from La Paz offer single-day or multi-day boat excursions for swimming, diving or snorkeling amongst these incredible sea creatures. Please note these tours are typically closed between the months of May and October, so it is best to plan your trip in the winter or spring.
- Surf the Pipeline- Oahu, Hawaii
Located on Oahu’s North Shore, the pipeline is every thrill-seeking surfer’s dream. With massive barrel waves crashing over a shallow reef, this scenic destination is a famous go-to for surfers looking to challenge their skills. The highest swells occur in the winter months between October and May, with waves reaching as high as 30 feet. If you are ready to put your surfing skills to the ultimate test, consider signing up for the Pipeline Masters Competition in December.
- Sand Surf in the Sahara Desert- Morocco
Ok, so this last recommendation may not technically fit into the “Swim, Surf & Sail” category, but I’m going to add it as a bonus. Also known as sandboarding, sand surfing is a little like snowboarding, only you are coasting down a sandy desert mountain, instead of a snowy one. The adventure begins by climbing or biking to the top of a large sand dune. Once you have summited, all you need is to strap into your sandboard, before cruising down the mountain at top speeds.
There are lots of locations to try this, but the vast desert dunes of the Sahara have got to be the most epic. Popular sandboarding destinations in the Sahara include Erg Chebbi and Erg Chigaga, which are both located in Morocco. Bear in mind temperatures can reach extreme highs, so prepare adequately for the heat.
Jaw-Dropping Heights
If you love stomach-dropping heights, then read closely. From plank walks along the Huashan Cliffs of China, to paragliding over blue lagoons, this list compiles some of the most adrenaline-raising adventures for height lovers.
- Ride the World’s longest zipline- Mossel Bay, S Africa
Spanning about 1/3rd of a mile over ocean, the Mossel Bay Zipline is the world’s largest of its kind. The starting platform is located on a clifftop, 295 ft above sea level, with speeds up to 50 miles per hour. Dress comfortably and prepare for heart-dropping speeds above stunning coastline views.
- Hike the Plank Walk- Huashan Cliff, China
Originally constructed by a Taoist priest over 700 years ago, the Plank Walk in Shaanxi, China is likely the oldest manmade structure on this list. Though the wooden road has since been reinforced for optimal safety, this cliffside hike is known as one of the most dangerous in the world.
The Plank Walk spans 427 ft and is divided into 3 sections; each of which provides its own set of challenges, from shimmying along guardrails, to descending with iron chains. Safety ropes are provided, and it is recommended to wear anti-skidding shoes and gloves for the trek.
- Bungy Jump in New Zealand- Queenstown, NZ
If you have ever wanted to try bungy jumping, New Zealand is your destination! In Queensland, you can choose between the world’s first commercial bungy jump, or the country’s highest. In 1987, the first ever bungy-jumping experience opened to the world at the Kawarau Bridge. Though historic, true thrill-seekers may opt instead for Nevis Bungy, which is located 439 ft above the Nevis River. Of course, New Zealand’s famously stunning scenery only adds to this jaw-dropping adventure.
- Paraglide over the blue lagoon- Oludeniz, Turkey
What’s an adventure bucket list without at least one paragliding suggestion? With gorgeous views of the Babadağ Mountains and blue lagoons, Ouldeniz, Turkey offers the ultimate paragliding experience. Every expedition includes transfer, a flight suit, insurance, and an accompanying pilot, so even nervous beginners can be rest assured they are in good hands. Prices typically increase in the summertime (winter for us in the northern hemisphere), so budget travelers should look into booking in the off-season.
Once-in-a-Lifetime
With adventure travel, there are two categories: the kinds of trips we have all heard of, and the ones so outrageous they can only be classified as once-in-a-lifetime. Most of the recommendations until this point fit into the former category but the following five suggestions are so unique, they deserve their own class. From experiencing the lifestyle of an indigenous Ecuadorian tribe, to volunteering in the Arctic Circle, these voyages will go down in your family history books for generations to come.
- Go Gorilla Trekking- Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Uganda
Starting off strong, first on my Once-in-a-Lifetime list comes a truly unique experience. Deep in the dense forest of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, local tour guides offer the chance to experience gorillas interacting with their natural habitat. With steep and uneven terrain, the trek can be physically demanding, and at $700 per permit, this is an expedition that requires ample preparation in advance. Although Bwindi is open to tourists year-round, it is recommended to arrive in the dry seasons (summer or winter), to avoid the rainy months.
- Board Down a Volcano – Cerro Negro, Nicaragua
You’ve heard of boarding down snowy mountains, ocean waters and- if you have reached this far down the list- sand dunes, but how about active volcanoes? If you love extreme sports but can’t get enough adventure, consider booking a trip to Nicaragua. Here, you can hike the active volcano of Cerro Negro, before coasting down its ashy slopes at top speeds. The experience passes quick, with the descent lasting about a minute, so try and enjoy the moment as much as you can. Safety gear will be provided, but it is advised wear long pants and bring your own water.
- Volunteer in the Arctic Circle
To many, remote parts of the world such as the Arctic Circle may seem off-limits but true thrill-seekers will always find a way. If you are looking for a life-changing challenge on a budget, a volunteer expedition in the arctic may be your calling.
If you wish to volunteer in the Arctic, there are many opportunities to choose. From scientific research to dogsledding with huskies, there’s a prospect for everyone. Many organizations have opening throughout the year, such as the Student Conservation Association (SCA), Friends of Alaska National Wildlife Refuges and Volunteer World. To learn more, find a program that suits your needs and interests, and check out their website for more information.
- Live among the Cofán tribe – Sucumbíos Province, Ecuador
If you are looking for the kind of life-altering adventure to someday tell your grandkids about, you will need to go far out of your comfort zone and truly experience foreign culture. One such opportunity is provided by the Cofán people of Ecuador, who are known for their welcoming, community-based tourism for those wishing to learn about their way of life.
Like with the Arctic Circle, there are ample volunteer opportunities for those interested in immersing themselves in the Cofán lifestyle. Alternatively, you can reserve your own accommodations at a local lodge and sign up for one of the tour programs. While you’re in the area, consider visiting one of the local community centers to book a jungle or canoe trip.
- Ride a Hot Air Balloon over Cappadocia- Cappadocia, Turkey
For my last item, I want to end with an experience that may not be as adrenaline-rushing as paragliding over blue lagoons or diving among whale sharks, but an undertaking that will create lifelong memories all the same. With their slower pace, many adventure travelers wouldn’t even consider adding a hot air balloon ride to their bucket list. However, the feeling of hovering hundreds of feet above the otherworldly rock formations of Cappadocia, as the landscape around you glows softly in the sunset, is a truly unforgettable experience. After your hour-long flight, celebrate with a post-flight Champaigne toast while receiving your commemorative flight certificate. For best conditions, plan your trip between the months of April and November, so you can enjoy a smooth ride in the warm weather.
I hope you enjoyed this curated list of bucket-list items for adventure travelers. I tried to incorporate as much variety as I could, taking into account the differing budgets, destinations, skills and interests amongst my readers. If you have something to add, please drop a comment below as I would love to hear from you! To plan your next trip, send me an email at r.travelwithrachel@gmail.com. Thank you for reading and happy travels!
