12 Most Popular Adventure Travel Destinations
Adventure travel has surged in popularity in recent years, becoming a favorite choice for those seeking more than the standard beach holiday or city sightseeing. Travelers are increasingly drawn to destinations that offer exhilarating experiences, rugged landscapes, and the opportunity to connect with nature in a raw and transformative manner.
This article explores some of the most popular adventure travel destinations worldwide, each with unique offerings that appeal to the adventurous spirit within us all.
We are constantly searching the world & adding new Adventure Holidays to Inspire & allow people to do the Extraordinary. However, Experience & Skill Levels vary greatly.
That’s why we provide the most Extreme Challenges as well as options for first-time adventure travelers. And, everything in between. Use our Activity Level filter. So you can always find your Next Adventure.
The Lowest Possible Impact on the Environment & Local Cultures. Our Partners, big & small, are selected based on their dedication to meet these standards of sustainable travel.
Ultimately, our goal is that all of our Active Holidays have a Positive Impact on their Destinations & Local Cultures, as well as the Travellers.
Defining Adventure Travel
At its core, adventure travel is defined by experiences that emphasize exploration and engagement with the natural world, often involving physical activities and a touch of uncertainty.
Unlike conventional travel, which may focus on comfort and relaxation, adventure trips challenge participants to push their limits and reshape their perceptions of the world around them. From trekking through dense jungles to scaling icy peaks, adventure travel encapsulates a vast array of activities that cater to thrill-seekers and nature enthusiasts alike.
The Adventure Travel Trade Association (ATTA) describes adventure travel as “any travel that includes physical activity, a connection to nature, and an interaction with different cultures.” This definition underscores the multifaceted nature of adventure travel, which encompasses everything from cultural immersion in remote villages to extreme sports such as white-water rafting and rock climbing.
Preparing for Adventure Travel
While the excitement of adventure travel can be exhilarating, adequate preparation is essential for a smooth and safe trip. Here are some key considerations:
1. Physical Preparation
Engaging in physically demanding activities requires a certain level of fitness. Before embarking on an adventure trip, travelers should assess their physical readiness, considering the demands of specific activities. Regular exercise, stretching, and practicing the required skills can greatly enhance the adventure experience.
2. Research and Planning
Thorough research is vital to ensure a successful adventure. Prospective travelers should familiarize themselves with potential risks, the chosen activities, the terrain, and local customs. Booking with reputable adventure travel companies can provide additional support and guidance.
3. Safety Precautions
Safety should always be a priority during adventure travel. Equip yourself with appropriate gear, such as helmets, proper footwear, and first-aid kits, and be prepared to adhere to safety guidelines provided by instructors or local professionals.
1. Adventure Holidays
As your Adventure Travel Agent, we find the world’s greatest adventure travel. Therefore, we have a wide range of prices from budget activity holidays to complex supported expeditions.
However, if you find the same tour for a lower price anywhere, we’ll match or beat that price
Excitement heightens your senses, making experiences more meaningful. That’s why adventure travel & active holidays are so rewarding.
Innovative Tours: We love constantly searching for the latest & greatest adventure holidays from around the world, and we hope you’ll be surprised & thrilled by what you can do with ACTION…
we work with adventure travel partners & professional guides that are local to the region, whenever possible.
We believe, working with local guides is the best way to ensure sustainability & to benefit from local knowledge while also contributing to local communities & cultures
2. Biking Holidays
A great option for those that need to recharge quickly, and make the most of their precious free time.
Small riding groups are set up so that you will be riding at the level that suits you best. So, this is a great active holiday for beginners to expert mountain bikers. The groups will be led to trails that fit with their ability.
This is a down-to-earth break, staying in a chalet-style accommodation and focusing on great mountain bike rides. You don’t have to think about anything, just relax and enjoy.
It’s a great mountain biking holiday for solo travelers, as you’ll meet new friends immediately.
It’s also a good choice for couples or older families that can enjoy staying and getting active together.
3. Climbing Holidays
It’s a fantastic introduction to high alpine touring.You learn theory and get to practice it in the Alps with your own mountain guide.
We think Zermatt is one of the most beautiful adventure destinations on the planet.Experienced and trusted local mountaineering partner.
You don’t need to have any previous experience. However, you should be able to hike for at least a few hours at a time.
This is one of the easier 4,000M peaks to summit. It’s mostly high alpine hiking to the top.
If you’d like to summit your first 4,000M peak or learn more about how to stay safe and successful on high alpine hikes, then this is perfect for you. It’s also a good first tour for mountaineering beginners.
Join this classic week-long tour and explore the magnificent Monte Rosa Massif. You’ll ascend five 4,000 M peaks, stay in classic Italian alpine huts.
You’ll also get to stay in the highest hut in the Alps, the Margherita Refuge at 4,554 M. A stunning and unforgettable high alpine tour.
4. Surfing Holidays
You really can surf secret spots and escape the crowds.Your guides know exactly where the best waves for you are, along this coast.Experience the Sahara desert.Experienced and trusted surf guides.
You should be able to surf, but don’t have to be a pro. Your surf guide will help find the right spots each day, making sure that the waves are suited to the level of surfing.
If you’re not sure, just get in touch and we’ll be happy to talk it through with you.
During this Southern Morocco Surf Trip, you’ll get to explore the waves of Morocco’s southern coast, surf great un-crowded waves, stay in local accommodation and discover local culture and cuisine.
5. Ski Holidays
It’s operated by one of Switzerland’s most experienced and trusted mountain experience companies. Plus, you learn hiking techniques as well as avalanche forecasting and the use of modern avalanche safety equipment.
All while snowshoeing amongst the beauty of the Swiss Alps.
Be guided and instructed by professional mountain guides, learning hiking techniques as well as safety in the mountains.
All while exploring the magic of this high mountain pass area, and staying in an authentic Swiss Alpine Club mountain hut.
You don’t require any technical knowledge or experience. You’ll be hiking for 4 to 6 hours per day, 1,000 vertical meters. If you’re still not sure, just get in touch and we’ll talk with you to ensure it’s the right choice.
6. Cultural Holidays
Sailing Greenland is a truly unique experience, a bucket-list holiday for many. On this sailing holiday, you’ll explore the Scoresby Sund a stunning arctic region of East Greenland.
Sailing Greenland is a once in a lifetime opportunity to visit one of the most spectacular remote regions on earth. Sail around icebergs, encounter polar bears and explore Scoresby Sound, East Greenland.
You’ll be sailing in traditional sailing boats with a small crew through some of the most spectacular and remote arctic landscapes and seascapes.
Experience the wildlife and explore one of the world’s largest and most remote fjords.
7. Polar Expeditions
On this Antarctic expedition, you’ll discover the magic of the Antarctic Peninsula and its vast wilderness. If it’s an adventure holiday you’re looking for, then this is the perfect expedition
Discover Antarctica’s magical scenery, vast wilderness & abundant wildlife. Choose from a variety of onshore activities like Kayaking, Zodiac Trips, Mountaineering, Snowshoe Trips & Photography. All activities free of charge (except Scuba Diving).
It really is an unforgettable once in a lifetime Antarctic Adventure.
The Antarctic Peninsula is seen by many as the ‘Last Frontier’ due to its remote location and difficulty of access, this is a destination very few people have the opportunity to experience.
We offer five ship-based Antarctic Voyages & Expeditions to the Antarctic Peninsula each season.
We cross the Drake Passage in a comfortable ship before our vessel becomes our Basecamp for daily activities such as mountaineering, ski touring, snowshoeing, kayaking, camping, hiking, photo workshops and landings ashore.
There is something for everyone on this journey: this trip is an opportunity to discover Antarctica at a range of different activity levels.
8. Activity Holidays
Sea Kayaking Scotland Trail is Europe’s first long-distance sea kayaking holiday. Stretching from Gigha in the south to the wonderful Summer Isles in the north, it’s a breathtaking experience
The Sea Kayaking Scotland Trail is Europe’s first long-distance sea kayaking trip, stretching from Gigha in the south to the wonderful Summer Isles in the north.
It’s an amazing place to sea kayak, with beautiful beaches and crystal clear waters.An environmentally sustainable holiday, just add water.
Experienced and trusted local tour operator.
The kayaking will be in coastal waters with few open crossings but you can expect to be paddling in some choppier conditions during the trip.
9. Active Holidays
During your Alps Mountain Bike Week, you’ll be mountain biking Verbier, a magnificent scenic area of the Alps. You’ll ride epic Swiss Alps mountain bike single trails on different rides
Alps Mountain Bike Week. One week of pure mountain biking in The Alps. Ride Swiss Alps mountain bike single trails. We’ll take you on new MTB trails every day.
Staying in the comfort of our Swiss chalet in Verbier. Where you’ll be treated to great local food and where you have plenty of space to relax.
One of the top destinations in the world for mountain biking.Experienced local hosts that share the love of mountain biking.
Everything is looked after, food, wine, coffee, so you can relax and focus on the trails.Ride in an incredibly scenic setting (on amazing trails).
Small riding groups are set up so that you will be riding at the level that suits you best. So, this is a great active holiday for beginners to expert mountain bikers. The groups will be led to trails that fit with their ability.
This is a down-to-earth week, staying in a chalet style accommodation and focusing on great mountain bike rides. You don’t have to think about anything, just relax and enjoy.
It’s a great mountain biking holiday for solo travelers, as you’ll meet new friends immediately.
It’s also a good choice for couples or older families that can enjoy staying and getting active together.
10. Family Friendly Active Holidays
This self-drive family holiday was recently voted 6th best in the world. An active family holiday in the Cairngorms with all activities, gear, guides, and accommodation provided.
This self-drive family holiday was recently voted 6th best in the world. An active family holiday in the Cairngorms with all activities, gear, guides, and accommodation provided. Returning on the Harry Potter train.
This is a great way to have an active holiday that the whole family can enjoy.We feel that by staying active and trying new things together you can have a more rewarding family holiday.Bring your own car or rent one here.
This gives you freedom as a family, between destinations and activities.Experienced and trusted tour operator.Ride The Harry Potter Train back. How cool is that?
This family adventure holiday is designed specifically so that everybody can enjoy it. You don’t need any experience with any of the activities as our guides are there to look after you.
We’ll adjust all activities to suit your level.
So, yes this is an adventure holiday for the whole family, regardless of skill or fitness.
11. Active Holidays & Expeditions to The Arctic
Ski to the North Pole on this polar expedition, supported by professional Arctic expedition leaders. Arctic survival training pre-expedition. Charter flights in and out of the pack ice.
This is one of the greatest journeys on Earth.You have to achieve this through determination and persistence.
Therefore, it’s a moving and character-building experience.Experienced and trusted tour operator with a record of success.
It’s important to have experience in cold weather environments and cross country ski ability. We can help you with training courses in preparation.
12. Active Holidays, Courses & Expeditions in Europe
Join our family sea kayak course and enjoy a family adventure holiday together, and learn or improve your sea kayaking.
Take a family adventure holiday together and learn or improve your sea kayaking. With family-friendly accommodation by the sea, all equipment, and friendly expert local guides. A very sustainable and rewarding family holiday.
Sea Kayaking is a great way to have fun, share new experiences and wear the kids out.It’s an amazing place to sea kayak, with beautiful beaches and crystal clear waters.
An environmentally sustainable holiday, just add water.Experienced and trusted local tour operator.
This family kayaking holiday is designed for families with children from 8 years old and up, however, if you have even younger children that you feel are ready to join, just let us know.
You don’t need any experience, skill or special fitness for this trip. As long as you’re ready to try sea kayaking we’re ready to help you learn and have a great time.
As we have very small groups, our sea kayak guides will be able to help you develop your skill from whatever current level you have.
13. Active Holidays,Adventure & Expeditions to The Asia
The Nenets Reindeer Migration Expedition in Siberia is a rare opportunity for cultural immersion. You get to join the Nenets as they herd the reindeer across this harsh and stunningly
Join the epic Nenet reindeer migration and experience the harsh beauty of Siberia and the Arctic Circle, as well as the spectacle of cooperation between humans and animals.
Travel and live with the Nenets in their traditional clothes and tents. Join the annual reindeer festival and have a true cultural immersion.
It’s a rare opportunity to experience timeless cooperation between humans and animals.By participating in the migration, you become closer and have a more deeply personal experience.
It’s a breathtaking thing to witness.Experienced and trusted tour operator.
You will need to be fit and motivated to join. But we will talk through everything as soon as you are interested in joining. We will ensure that you are both suited to this challenge and completely prepared.
14. Active Holidays, Courses & Expeditions in Central & South America
A Cultural experience never to forget. Live with & experience the working daily life of the Gauchos on this multi-day horseback expedition to the dormant volcanic region of Cerro Negro.
Very limited places on this small group South American cultural experience expedition.
Argentinian Patagonia’s peaks and rolling grasslands appear empty, yet the solitude of the steppe is broken by fertile, self-sufficient ‘Estancias’ worked by South America’s original cowboys: the Gauchos.
Experience the working daily life of the Gauchos and join a multi-day horseback expedition to the dormant volcanic region of Cerro Negro.
The cultural aim of this immersive, hands-on horseback expedition is to experience life as an Argentinian gaucho – a hard-working South American cowboy.
The secondary, physical aim is to reach the dormant volcanic region of Cerro Negro, at the culmination of a multi-day horseback trip made in traditional gaucho style.
You’ll be several hours by car (and three more on horseback) from the next settlement.
This underlines the independent and self-sufficient nature of life as a gaucho on an estancia that makes the very most of its abundant natural resources.
Initially, you’ll get involved in a period of estancia-based activities – from fishing and riding to farming and blacksmithing.
Next, you’ll embark on an exploratory pack trip into the remote volcanic peaks at the estancia’s furthest edge, on the border with Chile.
On this self-sufficient, expedition-styled journey, you’ll wild camp beneath Patagonian stars and share fireside anecdotes with your fellow adventurers and local support team.
The team will also call in at the ‘puesto’ or summer pasture to learn about the life of the ‘puesteros’ who live there all summer.
15. Asia Pacific
An unforgettable Vietnam Holiday. On our Saigon to Hanoi Vietnam bike tour, we’ll cover 1,700 km of beautiful Vietnam. You’ll travel by bus, boat, train, and bike
Vietnam has a fascinating culture and history.Travel by bus, train, boat, and bike.You’ll eat amazing fresh seafood.Being fully supported in small groups allows you to relax and enjoy your experience completely.
Perfect to escape the day-to-day and feel rejuvenated. Being active while discovering the culture, nature, and beauty is incredibly rewarding.Experienced and trusted cycle tour operator.
You don’t need any previous experience on bike tours. This trip is manageable for anybody with average fitness.
There is always an air-conditioned support van traveling with the group, so if needed you can jump on the van and rest through any sections of the riding day.
It’s a great trip for people who would like to experience Vietnamese culture at ground-level.
You get plenty of rest days and time to really explore Vietnam. Also, if you enjoy Asian food and especially seafood, you’re in for a real treat.
A great trip for solo travelers, couples or groups of friends.
16. Africa Holidays
Come on an African safari and discover the incredible Serengeti, with the world’s largest animal migrations and best opportunities for big animal observation.
As this is a glamping wildlife safari, you’ll be staying in glamorous and luxurious tents.
A chance to experience some of the world’s most iconic big animals.10% of the tour cost is reinvested into the local economy by supporting local entrepreneurs.Luxury camps allow you to feel the epic grandeur of the Serengeti, in style.
This adventure holiday is suitable for all fitness levels. No skill or fitness is required. It’s a fantastic tour for photographers and animal lovers.
17. Antarctica Tours
Join a polar expedition and ski the last degree to the South Pole. One of the ultimate adventures on earth. Ski to the South Pole and achieve something truly extraordinary
One of the ultimate adventures on earth has to be Antarctica’s South Pole Ski the Last Degree expedition.
This incredible journey involves skiing the final ten days of the trek to the South Pole, using sleds to haul our provisions.
You will fly over the vast white interior of the continent to reach the starting point at 89º South.
Each day we face the big white expanse of the polar plateau working our way inexorably towards our ultimate destination; the southernmost point on earth.
Our arrival into the South Pole itself is often an emotion-generating moment, signifying the transition from the austere beauty of the great white south to the imminent comforts of civilisation and homeward travel about to commence. Join us on our exceptional South Pole Ski expeditions.
The South Pole Ski the Last Degree Expedition is a fabulous expedition for those who would like to ski to the South Pole without the time constraints of the full South Pole expedition.
If you are someone who loves being in the wildest environments on earth, then this expedition is a ‘must do’ adventure of a lifetime.
As adventure travel continues to capture the imagination of modern explorers, it’s clear that the desire for thrilling experiences, personal growth, and authentic connections go beyond mere tourism. These journeys not only push the boundaries of physical capability but also foster a profound appreciation for the diverse and awe-inspiring planet we inhabit.
In an increasingly interconnected world, adventure travel invites us to disconnect from our daily routines and embrace the limitless possibilities that await in the great outdoors. Whether soaring above mountain ranges or plunging into the depths of a river, every adventure holds the promise of transformation, discovery, and newfound courage. With the right preparation, the world lies before you, ready to be explored.
Adventure travel has expanded into a thriving industry, attracting thousands of explorers eager to create memories through unique experiences. Whether it’s trekking through untamed wilderness in Patagonia, experiencing bungee jumping in Queenstown, or exploring otherworldly landscapes in Iceland, these popular destinations cater to every adventurer’s fantasies.
By immersing ourselves in the beauty and thrill of our natural world, we not only indulge our adventurous side but also enrich our understanding of the cultures and ecosystems that define our planet. When planning your next escape, consider these remarkable destinations to ignite your adventurous spirit and create stories worth sharing for years to come.
