Top 10 Epic Adventure Holidays You Need to Take in 2024
The market for adventure holidays has grown exponentially in recent years, as travelers seek ‘roads less traveled and more agents incorporate adventure and exploration activities into package holiday itineraries. Whether you’re interested in focusing your vacation on cycling, sailing, surfing, hiking, caving, or climbing, there are options available to suit every adventurer. If you’re looking to book an extraordinary getaway for next year, consider these exciting adventure holidays for this year:
1. Everest Base Camp Trek
Considered the highest point on Earth, Mount Everest is the tallest of all the Himalayan mountains – standing at 29,035 feet, the peak of Everest is an iconic expedition point that was first conquered in 1953. The peak continues to attract hundreds of ambitious climbers each year, but this highly dangerous undertaking is only suitable for experienced hikers and climbers.
If you feel like taking on the mountain safely and under professional supervision, consider the famous Everest Base Camp Trek, which will see you reach the 5364-meter point in as little as 5 hours.
2. The Three Peaks Challenge
If you’re looking for a mountainous adventure holiday a little closer to home, consider Planning a trip to the UK to take on the famous Three Peaks Challenge. Your mission (should you choose to accept it) is to conquer the highest peaks of Scotland, England, and Wales within 24 hours – between Ben Nevis, Scafell Pike, and Snowdon, that’s a combined total ascent of 10,052ft across 462 miles!
3. Paddle the Zambezi
Stretching approximately 1599 miles, the mighty Zambezi River flows through Angola and traverses the borders of Namibia, Botswana, Zambia, Zimbabwe, and Mozambique before meeting the Indian Ocean.
If you’re considering exploring Africa by boat, paddling the Zambezi could be just the ticket – you can even soak up iconic natural wonders such as Chavuma Falls and Victoria Falls along the way.
4. Cycle the Swiss Alps
Famed for their tranquility and natural beauty, the Swiss Alps are the perfect picturesque location for an adventure holiday – because the Alps are well-served by cycling tours, it’s incredibly easy to find a guided or self-guided cycle route to suit your needs, whether you’re looking for a relaxing, family-friendly cycle or a no-holds-barred competitive ride.
5. Trek to Machu Picchu
One of the New Seven Wonders of the World, Machu Picchu is an ancient fortress located 2,430 meters above sea level in the Andes Mountains. Visiting Machu Picchu involves a 4-day trek, where you adjust to altitudes of 4,200 meters – there are plenty of organized tours and vacations to guide you to the top, some even involving extra adrenaline-filled activities such as zip-lining and paddle boarding along the way. The Inca Empire boasts extraordinary architectural works and it’s easy to see why it is a notable feature on many people’s travel bucket lists!
6. A Safari in South Africa
South Africa is well-known for its extensive wildlife, which includes endangered and rare species of animals that you’re unlikely to find anywhere else in their natural habitat. Longing to witness your favorite animal in its natural habitat? Whether it’s one of the Big Five, or an animal unique to Africa, such as the Lemur, safaris are a great way to safely see these animals up close.
They have been a tourist staple in the region for years now, so it couldn’t be easier to book a spot with an off-road safari guide who can show you the ropes safely and securely.
7. Raft the Grand Canyon
If you fancy an adventure in the good ol’ USA, nothing comes close to channeling your inner pioneer and going white water rafting in the iconic Grand Canyon. The Canyon attracts around 5 million visitors each year and there are plenty of professional rafting guides at your disposal, should you wish to take the plunge!
8. Sea-Kayaking in Scotland
If the budget is tight, for a fairly cheap price you could sea-kayak in the Scottish Highland lochs. Sounds tempting? The package includes a 5-day course, teaching you the necessary skills to sea-kayak safely, as well as cozy accommodation by the loch.
There is something calming and aweing about paddling in the sea, and with the dramatic landscapes and charming history, the Scottish Highlands is a great destination for an adventure vacation.
There are plenty of great destinations to visit for your next adventure vacation in this year; whether it be a challenging trek up to Mount Everest Base Camp, a cycle around the Swiss Alps, or a calming sea kayak down the Scottish Lochs. Why not book one of the above adventure vacations to fulfill your adrenaline needs?
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