1. Queenstown, New Zealand
Queenstown is situated on the South Island of New Zealand, about an hour's flight from Wellington. Known as the adrenaline capital of the world, this city is perfect for thrill-seekers and adventurers alike.
We recommend this for adventurous spirits, because:
Extreme sports are embedded in the town's culture.
The city is nestled among some of the most spectacular landscapes in New Zealand, offering myriad outdoor activities.
It offers a range of adventures from mild to wild.
The best time to visit is during spring (September-November) because:
The weather is warming up and the outdoor scenery is at its most vibrant.
The city is less crowded, yet the ski season is still on for frosty adventures.
Attactions great for adventure:
- Kawarau Bridge Bungy — The world's first commercial bungy site, offering a 43-meter jump over the beautiful Kawarau river.
- Nevis Swing — The world's largest swing is an adrenaline-pumping experience for thrill-seekers.
- Skippers Canyon Jet — Conquer your fears with a high-speed jet boat ride in this dramatic gorge.
Pro tip: Rent a car and take a leisurely drive to Glenorchy for breathtaking views of the Southern Alps.
2. Huaraz, Peru
Huaraz is nestled in the heart of the Andes mountains in Peru, about an 8 hour bus drive from Lima. Often overshadowed by the more famous Machu Picchu, Huaraz is an unspoiled paradise for the adventurous.
We recommend this for adventurers because:
It's the gateway to Huascarán National Park, home to some of the highest peaks in South America.
The city offers a multitude of adventure sports, from mountain climbing to white-water rafting.
You can experience authentic Peruvian culture, different from the well-trodden tourist paths.
The best time to visit is during the dry season (May-September) because:
The weather is ideal for mountain trekking and climbing.
You can enjoy clear views of the Cordillera Blanca range.
Adventurous attractions:
- Laguna 69 Trek — Experience the magnificent views of snow-capped peaks and turquoise lakes on this challenging trek.
- Santa Cruz Trek — This 3-4 day trek leads you through the heart of the Cordillera Blanca and is a must for experienced hikers.
- Río Santa Rafting — An exhilarating white-water rafting experience in the Andean waters.
Pro tip: Acclimate to the high altitude by spending a day or two in the city before venturing out on rigorous treks.
3. Moab, USA
Moab is located in the southeastern region of the United States, about a 4-hour drive from Salt Lake City. Known for its characteristic red rocks and stunning landscapes, Moab is an adventurer's playground.
We recommend this for adventurous spirits because:
It offers some of the best rock climbing, mountain biking, and off-roading landscapes in the world.
Two incredible national parks, Arches and Canyonlands, are just a stone’s throw away.
The Colorado River flows right through, giving opportunity for rafting and kayaking.
The best time to visit is in spring (April-May) because:
The weather is idyllic for outdoor activities.
You can avoid the summer crowds and still enjoy blooming desert flowers.
Adventure-filled attractions:
- Slickrock Bike Trail — One of the most renowned bike trails worldwide, great for experienced mountain bikers.
- Jeep Safari — An iconic off-road adventure on the red rock cliffs.
- Fisher Towers Rafting — Experience thrilling rapids and absorb the stunning landscape.
Pro tip: Visit during April for the annual Jeep Safari event - a paradise for 4x4 enthusiasts.
4. Interlaken, Switzerland
Interlaken is situated in the Bernese Oberland region of Switzerland, about 2 hours by train from Zurich. Renowned as the adventure capital of Europe, Interlaken offers a thrilling mix of activities amidst a breathtaking alpine setting.
We recommend this for adventurers because:
It presents a diverse array of adventures from paragliding, bungee jumping to river rafting.
It's surrounded by mountain trails that literally invite you to explore them.
You can experience the thrill of ice climbing in the Swiss Alps.
The best time to visit is in summer (June-August) because:
Perfect weather conditions for outdoor adventures.
You can witness the iconic Swiss National Day celebrations in August.
Attractions for the fearless:
- Canyoning Chli Schliere — Slide down water-polished chutes, jump into clear pools, and rappel down waterfalls.
- Harder Kulm — Take a funicular ride to the top of Harder Kulm for a panoramic view of the Swiss Alps.
- Trift Bridge — Test your fear of heights by crossing this 170-meter high suspension bridge.
Pro tip: Pay a visit to the outdoor adventure center Alpin Raft to organise your adrenaline-inducing exploits.
5. Reykjavik, Iceland
Reykjavik is nestled in the southwest region of Iceland, about 45 minutes by car from the iconic Blue Lagoon. As the gateway to Iceland's rugged landscapes, Reykjavik promises an adventure of a lifetime.
We recommend this for adventurers because:
It provides easy access to the surrounding geologic wonders and outdoor activities.
From diving in the Silfra fissure to exploring ice caves, the astonishing variety is remarkable.
It's the launchpad for expeditions to the unspoiled Icelandic interior.
The best time to visit Reykjavik is during summer (June-August) because:
The weather is most conducive for outdoor exploits.
The days are extremely long (24-hour daylight), giving you enough time for adventures.
Exciting attractions:
- Laugavegur Trek — Trekking on this route will expose you to the diverse landscapes that the Icelandic highlands have to offer.
- Diving in Silfra — Experience the thrill of diving between two tectonic plates in the crystal-clear water.
- Volcano Tour — A helicopter ride over the active volcanic landscape is a pure adrenaline rush.
Pro tip: Don't forget to relax and soothe your muscles in one of Reykjavik's many geothermal pools after a day of adventure.
6. Cairns, Australia
Cairns is located in the far north of Queensland, Australia, about 2 hours by plane from Brisbane. Known as Australia's gateway to adventure, Cairns offers a unique mixture of rainforests, reefs, and adrenaline-pumping activities.
We recommend this for adventurers because:
It's the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, a mecca for divers.
The surrounding rainforests and waterfalls provide endless exploration opportunities.
There are numerous adrenaline-fuelled activities — from white-water rafting to bungee jumping.
The best time to visit is during winter (June-August) because:
The weather is cooler, ideal for exploring the rainforests.
You'll be able to witness the annual humpback whale migration.
Adventurous attractions:
- Great Barrier Reef Scuba Diving — A must-do for every adventurer. Swim with the colourful marine life in the world's largest coral reef.
- Whitewater Rafting on Tully River — Experience a day of pure adrenaline on one of Australia's best rafting rivers.
- Jungle Surfing in Daintree Rainforest — Zip-line through the world's oldest rainforest.
Pro tip: For a truly unforgettable adventure, consider a hot-air balloon ride at sunrise over the Atherton Tablelands.