The dictionary defines it as “a type of tourism involving travel to remote or exotic locations in order to take part in physically challenging outdoor activities.”
Add qualifiers like “soft”, “extreme”, “active”, “wilderness”, “exotic” and the term has gotten quite muddled.
Like most things, it’s relative. We all have different ideas of risk. Scuba diving, skiing, white-water rafting, zip-lining, mountain-biking may be for daredevils or just fun activities, depending on who you ask.
For some, adventure means out of your comfort zone. Try the fried insects in Cambodia or self-drive in Europe.
A few things adventure travel is not:
- Extremely physical. Sure, you must be in peak condition and highly trained to scale a mountain wall, but most activity-intense travel just means you need to be in reasonable physical shape; no need to complete a triathlon before you leave.
- Highly dangerous. Yes, swimming with the sharks or bungee jumping off the Macau Tower sound death-defying. Frequently, the hype is more impressive than the experience - no one benefits if you die. Not to mention there are plenty of less adrenaline boosting adventures to be found.
- Very expensive. Like almost everything travel-related, price runs the gamut. Do you want a five-star hotel or sleep under the stars? Do you want to book a private charter or are you willing to share the experience with others?
Most people when they are looking for adventure travel are looking for a unique experience, a physical experience, or both. The physical intensiveness, and the uniqueness of the adventure are relative to each person’s expectation.
Here are four adventures that won’t necessarily break the bank, your neck, or require you to spend six months at boot camp before taking off. And they are all ideal for small to mid-size groups.
Bike through Tuscany. Pedal through UNESCO recognized landscapes and vineyards. Learn traditional, family recipes as you cook with a local family. Enjoy local pastas, cheeses, and olive oils paired with Brunello, Chianti, and other local wines. At the end of each day’s ride, your room awaits you with your belongings delivered. What a great way to spend a week.
Encounter wildlife in the Amazon Rainforest. Beautiful, colorful, mysterious, and endangered. The Amazon Rainforest is one of the best place on earth to see wildlife. A river cruise or jungle lodge will provide you with the opportunity to see capybara, macaw, caiman, monkeys, parrots, and a whole host of other animals. Maybe even a jaguar!
Hike the Inca Trail. Follow the footpaths of the Inca over the Andes, passing ancient ruins. One of the most memorable hikes in the world, nothing will compare to the moment you walk through the Sun Gate and catch your first glimpse of the forgotten city of Machu Picchu. It’s a transformative moment. Contrary to popular belief, you do not have to be in peak, physical shape to manage this trek. The toughest obstacle is the altitude. But, take it slow and easy and you’ll make it if you are in reasonable shape.
Embark on an Antarctic Expedition. Small ship cruises are the primary means to access the white continent. Ships carry Zodiacs and/or sea kayaks to provide up-close encounters with penguins, whales, seals and other wildlife and to provide access to the islands. Hiking is led by trained guides to maximize your experience and ensure the least amount of impact to the environment.
Are you ready for some adventure travel? What’s your dream experience?