A thrill-seeker’s guide to the top adventure activities around the world

Does the idea of putting your feet up on holiday bore you? If so, you might just be an adventure traveller. It’s a booming industry, with thrill seekers spending more on their itineraries than before the pandemic and taking in multiple destinations along the way. Brits are especially keen. With so many high-adrenaline adventure holidays available, narrowing down your options can be as tough as the challenges themselves. Here’s just a small selection of the opportunities that await!

1. Sea Kayaking in Raja Ampat, Indonesia

Raja Ampat boasts some of the world’s most biodiverse coral reefs, making it a kayaker’s paradise! You can glide through the archipelago at your own pace, stopping to explore hidden lagoons, snorkel alongside vibrant marine life and witness unforgettable sunsets.

While traditional island-hopping tours are available, sea kayaking offers a unique perspective and the chance to truly connect with the environment. You can choose from various multi-day escapades that cater to different fitness levels.

1. Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania

Not for the faint-hearted, summiting Kilimanjaro – the highest peak in Africa at a staggering 5,895 metres – offers serious bragging rights. You’ll trek through diverse landscapes from savannah to glaciers, witnessing breathtaking sunrises from the “Roof of Africa.”

Climbing Kilimanjaro requires careful planning and preparation, of course, and it’s advised to stick with reputable tour operators and their experienced guides. Training beforehand is essential too, as altitude sickness can be a challenge. But the sense of accomplishment you’ll feel at the summit will be worth it!

1. Canyoneering in the Antelope Canyon, USA

Descend into a wonderland of sculpted sandstone in Antelope Canyon! This mesmerising slot canyon is carved by millions of years of wind and water. Located in Arizona, it’s a sacred place for the Navajo people and requires a permit for entry.

It’s split into two main sections: upper and lower. The first section is more accessible with wider passageways, allowing natural light to filter through and create stunning displays on the canyon walls. Exploring the lower portion is more strenuous, including climbing ladders and navigating narrow paths, but rewards you with a more intimate experience!

1. Rafting the Futaleufú River, Chile

Strap on your helmet and get ready for an epic ride down the Futaleufú River! Famed for its quantity and technicality of rapids, this roaring river carves its way through the breathtaking Patagonian Andes.

Rafting season typically runs from November to April, coinciding with the Southern Hemisphere’s summer. Multi-day trips are available, allowing you to explore the full range of the river’s power and beauty.

1. Wildlife watching in the Okavango Delta, Botswana

How about embarking on a mokoro (dugout canoe) safari through the lush Okavango Delta? This unique ecosystem is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and an amazing haven for wildlife. You’ll gently glide through the reed-lined waterways and spot a diverse array all around, from elephants and lions to zebras and giraffes. These traditional safaris offer a quieter, more authentic experience compared to jumping in a jeep. You’ll be guided by skilled polers who navigate these waterways like the back of their hand, sharing their knowledge of the Delta’s delicate ecosystem along the way! Have any of these ideas got you crafting an itinerary, planning your kit list and packing your backpack already?