A woman on a dune buggy in Brazil (Brastock/Shutterstock)
Looking for a trip that gets your adrenaline pumping? Adventure tourism is all about pushing boundaries and embracing unforgettable experiences in some of the world’s most stunning destinations. From climbing towering peaks to riding wild waves, these countries are top picks for thrill seekers. We’ve rounded up the best countries for adventure tourism, based on recommendations from eight expert sources. Ready to explore? Let’s jump in!
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Top Travel Destinations for Adventurers
1. Brazil
South America’s largest country is famous not only for the world’s biggest party, the Carnival, but also for its many natural wonders, serving as magnets for adventurers. Brazil is home to the world’s largest waterfall system (Iguazú), the vast wetlands of the Pantanal, and the iconic Amazon rainforest and river. Condé Nest Traveler recommends boating under Iguazú Falls, riding dune buggies in Natal, and snorkeling in the pristine waters of Fernando de Noronha.
For those craving even more adventure, Worldpackers recommends the Vale do Pati trek, hailed as one of the world’s most breathtaking hikes. Other must-try experiences include a boat ride on the Amazon River or a hike deep into the jungle. Top adventure destinations in Brazil also include Chapada Diamantina, Bonito for ecotourism, and Serra do Cipó for mountain biking and parachuting.
When is the best time to visit Brazil? From September to November. The Travel says to be prepared to spend a lot to satisfy your sense of adventure. An Amazon river cruise can set you back up to $2000.
2. Costa Rica
Costa Rica offers everything from sailing the canals of Tortuguero to diving in Puerto Viejo’s vibrant coral reefs. Thrill seekers can zip line through the treetops in Monteverde, raft down the Pacuare River, or witness the awe-inspiring Arenal Volcano. Worldpackers promises a trip of endless excitement!
According to CEO World Magazine, Costa Rica may be small, but it’s bursting with adventure. Ranked 2nd for adventure tourism, this 19,730 sq mile gem attracts thrill seekers from around the globe. Whether you’re zip-lining through the jungle, paddle boarding on Lake Arenal, braving rapids, or even taking a hot air balloon ride, Costa Rica offers countless ways to fuel your wanderlust.
Trip Savvy recommends starting your adventure in Costa Rica by rafting the Rio Pacuare, one of the world’s best whitewater rivers. Then move on to ziplining through rainforests, hiking Arenal Volcano, and mountain biking in the jungle. You won’t be bored!
3. Australia
The land down under is another outdoor enthusiast’s paradise, offering everything from shark diving at Port Lincoln to exploring the ancient Daintree Rainforest. The Travel suggests must-do adventures including snorkeling the Great Barrier Reef, driving the Great Ocean Road, and watching the sunset at Uluru. The best time to visit is from March to May and September to November.
For thrill-seekers, Worldpackers says a seven-day rafting trip down Tasmania’s Franklin River is a must. Prefer something less intense? Try tree climbing in Queensland’s Daintree Forest.
While snorkeling and scuba diving are exciting, World Wide Schooling says that the best way to see The Great Barrier Reef is on a boat. Dotted with over 100 tropical islands, it’s an unforgettable experience in the Coral Sea.
4. New Zealand
According to Trip Savvy, no adventure list is complete without New Zealand, the birthplace of bungee jumping and jet boat tours. While adrenaline junkies will love the thrill, the country also boasts some of the world’s best hiking trails, along with incredible kayaking and mountain biking.
In addition to bungee jumping, paragliding, and skydiving, The Travel also recommends exploring the Fiordland National Park, Abel Tasman, and Tongariro for even more thrills. Must-do adventures include cruising Milford Sound and canyoning in Auckland, with the best time to visit between December and March.
Condé Nast Traveler agrees with the locals: New Zealand has every adventure imaginable—and then some! From caving in Waitomo to rafting North Island rivers, and of course, bungee jumping in Queenstown, the thrill-seeking options are endless.
5. Iceland
Iceland may seem like an unlikely addition to the list, but it’s a winter playground for thrill seekers. Here, you can explore vast ice caves, kayak along stunning coastlines, trek across glaciers, and unwind in hot springs after a day of whitewater rafting. And Trip Savvy points out that you may even get a chance to spot the Northern Lights! Don’t miss the ice caves of Vatnajökull Glacier, too.
According to The Travel, must-do experiences include whale watching, soaking in the Blue Lagoon, and exploring the Golden and Diamond Circles. The best time to visit is between June and August, or September for fewer crowds.
With volcanic peaks, cascading waterfalls, glaciers, and geothermal zones, the landscape is nothing short of spectacular. World Wide Schooling says add in black and multicolored sand beaches, and Iceland becomes an outdoor paradise like no other.
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