Photo of Luke looking out over the coast from the Great Ocean Road in Victoria, Australia.

7 of the World’s Best Adventure Travel Destinations

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Are you a thrill-seeker looking for your next big adventure? Look no further than these seven destinations that offer some of the most thrilling and unforgettable experiences in the world. From exploring ancient ruins in Peru to snorkeling in Belize, these adventure travel destinations are sure to get your heart racing.

Please enjoy this list of some of our favorite adventure travel destinations in the world!!

Peru

Peru is a fascinating destination for adventure travel enthusiasts. The country is home to the iconic Machu Picchu, one of the most famous archaeological sites in the world. The trek to Machu Picchu is a bucket list experience that takes you through the Andes Mountains, past remote villages, and over high mountain passes. The Inca Trail is the most popular route, but there are several other less crowded trekking routes as well.

Aside from Machu Picchu, Peru offers a wide range of other adventure activities. The Huacachina Oasis is located in the Ica Desert and is a popular spot for sandboarding and dune buggy rides. The Colca Canyon is twice as deep as the Grand Canyon and offers some of the best hiking in South America. The Apurimac River is also a popular destination for white water rafting, with Class III to V rapids.

Thailand

Thailand is a perfect blend of adventure, culture, and relaxation. The country is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, including Maya Bay on the island of Koh Phi Phi. If you’re interested in history and culture, be sure to visit Bangkok’s Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew, home to the famous Emerald Buddha.

Photo of Stephanie mid-hike to the highest point of Khao Ra Island in Thailand
Stephanie mid-hike to the highest point of Khao Ra Island in Thailand

Thailand is also an excellent destination for outdoor adventure. You can go on a jungle trek to see waterfalls and wildlife, including elephants and monkeys. The northern city of Chiang Mai is a popular base for trekking tours, which can range from a day trip to multi-day expeditions. Other adventure activities include rock climbing, zip-lining, and bungee jumping.

Belize

Belize is a small country in Central America that offers a range of adventure activities. The country is home to the second-largest barrier reef in the world, making it a paradise for water-based activities such as snorkeling, scuba diving, and fishing. Ambergris Caye and Caye Caulker are popular islands for diving and snorkeling.

Photo of San Pedro, Belize public beach decorated for the Easter holiday.
San Pedro Town on Ambergris Caye all decorated for the Easter holiday.

If you’re interested in exploring the jungle, you can go cave tubing through the underground rivers and cave systems. Belize is also home to several ancient Mayan ruins, including Xunantunich and Caracol. The Actun Tunichil Muknal cave, also known as the “ATM cave,” is another popular attraction for adventure travelers, offering a unique opportunity to explore underground Mayan ceremonial sites.

South Africa

South Africa is a destination that has something for everyone. If wildlife adventures are your thing, South Africa is the place to be. You can go on a safari to see the “Big Five” animals (lions, leopards, rhinos, elephants, and buffaloes), cage dive with great white sharks, or bungee jump off the Bloukrans Bridge. The Kruger National Park is one of the most popular safari destinations, but there are several other private game reserves that offer a more exclusive experience.

If you’re interested in culture and history, South Africa has a rich and complex past that is worth exploring. The Apartheid Museum in Johannesburg provides a sobering look at the country’s recent history, while Robben Island, where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned, is a must-visit destination for history buffs.

Australia

Australia is a vast continent that offers a wide range of adventure activities. One of the most popular destinations for adventure travelers is the Great Barrier Reef. You can go scuba diving or snorkeling to see the incredible array of marine life, including colorful fish, sharks, and sea turtles.

Photo of Luke and Stephanie standing in front of a brighton beach box painted with the Australian flag in Melbourne Australia
Luke and Stephanie at Brighton Beach in Melbourne, Australia.

If you’re looking for a more adrenaline-fueled adventure, head to the Whitsunday Islands for skydiving, or bungee jumping in Cairns. If you’re a surfer, the beaches on the Gold Coast are a must-visit destination.

Australia is also home to some of the world’s most unique wildlife. You can see kangaroos, koalas, and wallabies in their natural habitat by visiting the Kangaroo Island or the Blue Mountains.

Photo of Luke looking out  over the coast from the Great Ocean Road in Victoria, Australia.
Luke looking out over the coast off the Great Ocean Road in Victoria, Australia.

Mexico

Mexico is a vibrant country that offers a range of adventure activities. If you’re a water sports enthusiast, head to the Caribbean coast for some of the best snorkeling and scuba diving in the world. The Riviera Maya is a popular destination for cave diving, with underwater cave systems and cenotes that are a must-visit for experienced divers.

If you’re interested in culture and history, Mexico has a rich Mayan heritage that is worth exploring. The ruins of Chichen Itza and Tulum are two of the most famous archaeological sites in the country. The colonial city of Oaxaca is another popular destination for history buffs, with its beautiful architecture and rich cultural heritage.

Colorado, USA

The state of Colorado in the USA is a paradise for adventure travelers. The Rocky Mountains provide an incredible backdrop for outdoor activities such as hiking, rock climbing, and skiing. The state is home to several national parks, including Rocky Mountain National Park, which offers some of the best hiking trails in the country.

Photo of boulder filed in Gunnison National Forest - Adventure Travel
Boulder field at timberline in Gunnison National Forest in Colorado

If you’re interested in water sports, Colorado has several rivers that are perfect for white water rafting, including the Arkansas River and the Colorado River. The state is also home to some of the best skiing destinations in the country, including Vail, Aspen, and Winter Park.

Final Thoughts on the World’s Best Adventure Travel Destinations

These seven destinations are just a few examples of the incredible adventure travel opportunities that await you around the world. Whether you’re seeking an adrenaline-fueled experience or a more relaxing adventure, these destinations offer something for everyone. So pack your bags and get ready to embark on an unforgettable adventure!

Luke Hanna

Luke Hanna is a sociologist, entrepreneur, and a veteran of the US Navy. He was born and raised in the beautiful state of Colorado where he gained a deep appreciation for nature and all the outdoor activities that come along with it. Luke is co-founder and CEO of Applied Worldwide, a digital content production and consulting company based in the US.