If you have a taste for adventure, there are plenty of pulse-quickening ways to explore nearly every country. Whether hiking, climbing, cycling, surfing, or canoeing, the hardest part is often deciding where to go.
Wondering which destinations feature outdoor activities that fall into the ‘don’t-leave-without’ category? Here are some of the best action-packed experiences that define each destination.
Ride Mt Buller in Australia
Mt Buller’s 40km Australian Alpine Epic Trail in the Victorian highlands is the only track in the country granted official ‘epic’ status by the International Mountain Biking Association (IMBA).
Join the De Panne Beach Endurance Race in Belgium
Test your mettle at the De Panne Beach Endurance Race, a 52km ride over dunes and wet sand, all set against the stunning backdrop of the North Sea.
Cycle the Salar de Uyuni in Bolivia
Cycling the world’s largest salt flats, Salar de Uyuni, is a disorienting, surreal, and unforgettable experience. In the vast white expanse, encounter Dalíesque standing rocks, vividly colored hot springs, and miraculous colonies of chinchillas and flamingoes.
Hike the Tsodilo Hills in Botswana
A hike into the sacred Tsodilo Hills guides you close enough to examine some of the 4,000 prehistoric San rock paintings found there – an outdoor art gallery like no other.
Hang Glide over Rio de Janeiro in Brazil
The tandem hang-gliding flight from Pedra Bonita over Rio de Janeiro, landing on a beach below, offers a breathtaking, must-do experience. Ensure you check that the operator is certified by the Brazilian Hang-Gliding Association.
Cycle around Angkor Wat in Cambodia
Explore crumbling towers, ancient pagodas, and serene ponds at Angkor Wat, a 12th-century World Heritage monument and the world’s largest religious site.
Kayak around Haida Gwaii in Canada
Adventure abounds in Canada, the second-largest country in the world, with each province showcasing its own specialty; however, sea kayaking around British Columbia’s Haida Gwaii is particularly exceptional and worth a special trip.
Ski at Portillo in Chile
This renowned ski resort, located high in the Andes mountains, is a necessary experience for winter sports fans. The runs offer a mix of well-groomed trails with steeps and expansive slack country, all with breathtaking views of the road crossing to Mendoza, Argentina.
Surf the Salsa Brava in Costa Rica
This powerful wave can be found on the Caribbean Coast at Puerto Viejo de Talamanca. It is a big wave that breaks over a sharp coral reef, best suited for seasoned surfers only.
Visiting the Avenue of the Volcanoes in Ecuador
Ecuador’s Avenue of the Volcanoes offers limitless adventures for any outdoor enthusiast. From biking to trekking to mountaineering, there’s something for everyone amidst the shadows of one of the planet’s most active volcanoes.
Bouldering at Fontainebleau in France
Explore one of the world’s premier bouldering locations, just an hour south of Paris. Fontainebleau features flat, sandy landings, countless boulders, and unique shapes, creating an ideal location for climbers.
Paragliding over the Caucasus Mountains in Georgia
With numerous launch sites across the region, paragliding in the Caucasus is a serene experience that remains memorable long after your feet return to the ground.
Hiking to El Mirador in Guatemala
A 60km hike into the Petén jungle leads to the spectacular ruins of El Mirador, a remarkable and largely unexcavated Mayan city. The vast Maya Biosphere Reserve is among the most ecologically diverse regions globally, home to a wide array of wildlife.
Exploring Thrihnukagigur in Iceland
Iceland features the only volcano that can be explored from within: Thrihnukagigur. The volcano, located east of Bláfjöll Mountain, has not erupted in 4,000 years. An open elevator allows subterranean explorers a 120m descent directly into the magma chamber.
Climbing ancient Borobudur in Indonesia
The world’s largest Buddhist monument presents immense temple spires rising from the Kedu Plain valley floor, set against a picturesque backdrop of numerous volcanic peaks, including the active Mt Merapi.
Exploring the water around Ireland
While the water may be a bit chilly, Ireland is an excellent location for water sports. This island nation showcases some of the most varied surfing conditions in Europe, in addition to sea kayaking and canoeing opportunities.
Skiing Mt Fuji in Japan
In Shinto beliefs, it embodies nature itself, while for Buddhists, it serves as a gateway to another world. There is something truly special about skiing or snowboarding down Mt Fuji – Japan’s most iconic peak.
Scrambling up the 100 Waterfalls Trek in Laos
Accessed via Nong Khiaw village, the 10km ascent up the Waterfalls Trek is beautifully accompanied by cascades of water, with ropes and bamboo ladders aiding the trek beside the stunning waterfalls.
Caving in Ankarana National Park in Madagascar
Explore over 140km of subterranean rivers and caves in Ankarana National Park – just be cautious of cave-dwelling crocodiles.
Skydiving over Swakopmund in Namibia
The most spectacular way to view the stunning convergence of water and sand, where the Namib Desert meets the cold Atlantic Ocean, is from the air. Skydiving over this unique coastal landscape is available in the city of Swakopmund.
Getting in the water around the Corn Islands in Nicaragua
Explore excellent diving and snorkeling opportunities surrounding the Corn Islands, where diving sites with wrecks and reefs are easily accessible from the beach.
Exploring Jabal Shams in Oman
Often called ‘Arabia’s Grand Canyon,’ one of the most daring activities to experience at Jabal Shams is the nerve-wracking Balcony Walk around the rim.
Exploring the caves in Samoa
Venture underground to explore one of Samoa’s incredible caves, such as Pa’ape’a Cave on Upolu or Dwarf’s Cave on Savai’i, a surreal lava tube leading into the underworld.
Exploring the Drakensberg in South Africa
Whether you choose to explore on foot or by bike, this mountain range is the longest and highest in South Africa, making it a must-see for outdoor adventurers.
Exploring the oceans around Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka is a paradise for water sports enthusiasts, with abundant opportunities for diving, snorkeling, and surfing in its warm waters.
Getting out in nature in Sweden
For those seeking a more urban adventure, Stockholm offers endless opportunities to explore the outdoors. Paddle or ice skate around the city’s archipelago and camp on the islands.
Outrigger paddling in Tahiti and French Polynesia
Outrigger paddling is a way of life in French Polynesia. Visitors can choose between traditional dug-out experiences or modern sea kayaks to discover their own piece of paradise.
Paragliding Mt Babadağ in Turkey
Paraglide from one of the highest commercial sites in the world, located atop the 1960m Mt Babadağ. Experience a thrilling 30-40 minute journey back down, landing on the postcard-perfect Ölüdeniz Beach, followed by an exciting 4WD journey up to the summit.
Hiking Zion National Park’s Angels Landing Trail in the USA
Though this trail is just 8km long, its stunning scenery makes it utterly unforgettable. The final 100m traverses a ledgy via ferrata route to a pedestal positioned 460m above the canyon floor and the Virgin River below. This hike is not for the faint of heart or those with a fear of heights.
Kayaking Halong Bay in Vietnam
Many Halong tour boats carry kayaks, allowing visitors to explore the bay’s sea caves and arches. Kayaks can also be rented from operators and hotels on Cat Ba Island.
