Let’s talk adventure for a second. While hanging out pool-side at a swanky resort is relaxing or going on a cruise vacation is easy, some of us just yearn for something more exciting. For all the adrenaline junkies and thrill seekers, danger enthusiasts and dreamers, here’s a list of extraordinary travel exploits around the globe that are sure to satisfy anyone’s appetite for adventure.
Explore Indonesia by Sea Kayak
The incredible archipelago of Indonesia is a surreal place to explore by kayak. You can see some of the planet's most remote and beautiful beaches, while offering you the opportunity to swim, snorkel or hike at will. Travelers have the ultimate freedom to create their own expedition as they look for monkeys swinging from the treetops, colorful birds swooping through the jungle, monks praying in the seaside monasteries, and locals fishing along the beach. You can go at it on your own, but if you'd like a local guide, tour companies like Responsible Travel can show you the ropes.
River Raft the Jungles of Madagascar
Few places on Earth can rival the exceptionally weird collection of life that abounds on Madagascar. It's home to some of the planet's strangest creatures, giving an almost surreal feel to the entire island. Traveling by raft along one of the country's many rivers is one of the most thrilling ways to venture out into the jungle. The Mangoky, Haute Matsiatra, Manankazo, and Mazy Rivers are a few of the most popular options for visitors, and tour companies like Pioneer Expeditions, Remote Rivers, and Madamax can get you geared up and out on the water in no time.
Fly Down the Fastest Zip Line in the World in the UK
Some zip lines are built for distance, some are built for views, and still others are built for speed. They've managed to incapsulate all three at Zip World in Penrhyn Quarry in Bethesda. Riders are transported up the quarry in the company’s signature red trucks before making their mind-warping steep descent along Velocity, the world's fastest and Europe's longest zip line. You'll freefall like SuperMan as you zoom over the glassy blue lake below (wondering how you won't end up in it), giving thrill seekers the ultimate adrenaline rush.
Try Scad Diving in South Africa
What's “scad diving” you may ask? Essentially it's bungee jumping backwards… but without the bungee cord. In layman's terms, it's a giant trust fall off a tall structure into a net. People usually reach speeds upwards of 60 miles per hour during a 50-meter scad dive, which means they're going so fast they hardly even feel the landing. If you’re into that idea, then you may want to check out Orlando Towers. Not only can you scad dive here, but you can bungee jump, swing, climb, paintball, and “rap jump” (a combination of abseiling and rappelling). Basically, it's a mecca for adrenaline junkies and adventurers.
Swing Over the Oribi Gorge in South Africa
While you’re in South Africa, you might want to head over to Oribi Gorge and try their massive swing, too. It is the largest ride of its kind in the world, and it is sure to get your blood pumping. The Wild Gorge Swing will leave you utterly breathless as you swoop down 55 stories.
Ride Europe’s Steepest Alpine Coaster in Austria
The Alps are a place of incredible beauty — and extreme adventures. In Mieders, Austria thrill seekers can experience Europe’s fastest alpine roller coaster. The track is only open in the summer months as the area is a ski resort in the winter. The track is just shy of two miles long, makes over 40 sharp twists and turns, and drops 2,100 feet! The coaster cars can hit speeds up to 30 miles per hour, but riders have complete control over the breaks if they want to take the corners a bit more conservatively. We have a feeling the real adrenaline junkies out there will just let gravity do its thing though.