Innholdsfortegnelse for 101 Epic Adventures i 101 Epic Adventures

We might all have different ideas of what is meant by an ‘adventure’, but can probably all agree that an adventure is something that excites us or moves us in some way. Perhaps it’s something that’s been on your bucket list for many years, or maybe it’s something you stumble across and the spontaneous nature of it makes it exhilarating. Whatever you consider to be adventurous, there’s something in this book to suit all desires, budgets and ages. From the highest heights to the very depths of the ocean; from once-in-a-lifetime wildlife encounters to immersing yourself in local cultures; from high-speed challenges to slow but awe-inspiring experiences – whatever floats your boat, be inspired and start planning your next adventure today!…

Many adventures require you to travel somewhere by plane, but sitting inside an air-pressured cabin for hours on end isn’t the most exhilarating of experiences. If the idea of flying tires you, then why not turn expectations upside down? Instead of going inside a plane, you can travel outside and enjoy the journey while being strapped to the wing! Wing walking is life-affirming and you don’t need to be a daredevil stunt performer in order to take part. There are opportunities at airfields across the United Kingdom and they typically enable you to enjoy the thrill of being on the top wing of a Boeing Stearman biplane as the pilot performs an assortment of moves, some of which will cause butterflies in your stomach. Flying at speeds of up to…

“This impossible inhabited oasis is a marvel you won’t be expecting” Sand dune surfing is one of those adventurous activities that is often used as the example for which all self-professed adventurers must adhere to, a sort of standard bearer for a lifestyle. It’s easy to see why though, isn’t it? It’s a little uncanny, what with its similarities to snowboarding, except it takes place in empty, barren landscapes. Riding down sun-laden dunes is sort of like flouting the laws of nature, and perhaps that’s the reason it’s so appealing for adventurers: it truly is an incredible adrenaline rush. Naturally there are a few places in the world where you can partake in some sand surfing, in fact wherever there are sizable mounds of tiny rocks you’ll likely find an…

Usually when we travel, the accommodation is at best an enhancement of the overall experience. In some rare cases, it is the solo reason to travel to a destination. And then there are those temporary abodes that you build your travel itinerary around. That’s the case for Sweden’s ice hotels, which make use of the country’s arctic temperatures for a unique stay. Interestingly, it all began as an ice-inspired creative experience and art gallery, with the original Icehotel back in 1989, and it’s this artistic endeavour that continues to drive the popular frozen hotel. The hotel itself sits beside the Torne river, which is the source of the frozen blocks used to craft a new hotel each and every year. Once winter comes, the team carve the icy bricks from…

Nobody would expect you to hike the entire length of the Great Wall, although if you had the time and the energy, it would certainly be quite some feat. After all, it stretches 21,196 kilometres (13,171 miles) in length, which means you’d end up walking half the distance of the equator. The trick, though, is to pick one section – avoiding the parts that have sadly fallen into disrepair and are still being worked on. Those close to Beijing are the most popular. The Badaling section, for example, can be accessed by train and it’s been a hit with tourists since it opened to all in 1957. It benefits from a host of amenities including a cable car and market stalls, but while that means it can feel chaotic at…

Gansbaai, SOUTH AFRICA More than 100 species of sharks prowl the waters off South Africa where the Atlantic and Indian Oceans meet. A shallow channel off Gansbaai in Western Cape known as Shark Alley has become renowned for cage diving, where six or so customers are dropped into the water in a protective metal cage to view copper and great white sharks as they prowl for prey. Some cages plunge a few metres down and require scuba diving experience; others sit on the surface and are suitable for snorkellers. However you view them, fear often makes us forget the majesty of these serene creatures as they silently glide past. Isla Guadalupe, MEXICO Don’t confuse Isla Guadalupe in the Pacific with the Caribbean island of Guadeloupe. Part of the Mexican state,…

If you’re an experienced cyclist who is up for a new challenge, taking a route through the French Alps could be classed as an essential adventure. The Alps always feature along the Tour de France route, providing incredibly technical sections for even the most elite athletes. Following in their footsteps – or track marks – you can take a similar or more leisurely route through some of the most famous mountain ranges, allowing for a similar alpine course that you can succeed in too. The French alps provide a dramatic setting for hikers and cyclists alike, as steep rugged crags meet at refreshing streams and often snowcapped peaks tower high above you. It is one of the few places that makes you feel both on top of the world and…

There are many places throughout Egypt where you have the chance to channel your inner Lawrence of Arabia and climb atop a camel to explore the desert. Hurghada, Sharm el Sheik and Dahab are popular spots, but perhaps the most famous place in the country to ‘get the hump’ is at the Giza Pyramids. As the Great Pyramid is one of the Ancient Wonders of the World, the area is teeming with tourists, but once you’re on your camel, the guide will lead you further into the desert – and away from the crowds – where you’ll be treated to some unforgettable views. Camels in Egypt come equipped with either single or double saddles, so you can enjoy the experience with a pal if you like. Wherever you choose to…

Great Barrier Reef, AUSTRALIA The Great Barrier Reef is the world’s largest coral system spreading across some 344,000 square kilometres (133,000 square miles), and one of Australia’s most iconic natural spaces. There’s plenty to see across this smattering of islands, even if the most you’re able to do is go snorkelling, but for the avid diver you’ll have an abundance of natural phenomena to see. In addition to the varieties of colourful coral, there is a plethora of tropical fish, a high chance of spying dolphins and all sorts of other rarely seen marine life. If you are in Australia, make this a must-do experience. Red Sea, MIDDLE EAST It’s perhaps the variety on offer that makes the Red Sea such a popular destination for scuba divers. It has it…

You can tell a true hiker by one thing: they always have a plan of which route or mountain they want to conquer next. For some it might be a list of the world’s best, most inspiring hikes; others might prefer to focus on just one trip away and all the planning that might go into it. In any case, most hikers will have heard of the Three Peaks Challenge, even if there aren’t many who have actually completed it. This specific set of hikes focuses on the three biggest mountains in Great Britain, or rather the three biggest in the respective countries of England, Scotland and Wales – what with Scotland having numerous peaks taller than anything in England, Wales or Northern Ireland. There are no specifics to the…

Once a year, the biggest names in motorsport descend on a small city-state for a street fight. The Monaco Grand Prix has taken place on the roads of Monte Carlo since 1929, while Formula 1 cars have battled it out for the FIA World Championship on its narrow streets since its debut season in 1950. However, for the other 51 weekends of the year, the tight corners and fast straights rejoin the busy street map of Monte Carlo and anybody can drive them. It’s a unique challenge of urban navigation. Formula 1 drivers take around 75 seconds to rocket around the 3.3-kilometre (two-mile) track, the shortest they race on. However, don’t expect to match Hamilton or Leclerc on your journey. Monte Carlo may be small, but it’s still Monaco’s principal…

There is nowhere quite like the Australian outback, and nowhere better to truly connect with the country. When camping in these vast lands, you will be greeted each day with an epic sunrise to match the glowing red earth. And, after the sun sets, perhaps the most vivid view of the night sky you have laid eyes upon will be revealed, thanks to the untouched and unpolluted expanse of the outback. Far from the cities, many animals have claimed the land as their home. While camping in Australia’s most remote regions, keep an eye out for wild kangaroos and wallabies, snakes, unique lizards and dingoes. It’s important to know which animals to be wary of when camping in the outback. If you are camping independently, be sure to set up…

Mount Etna, ITALY If you’re looking for a break from eating pasta on the beautiful island of Sicily, why not head to Mount Etna? Europe’s tallest and most active volcano offers stunning views across the Mediterranean from the summit at 3,350 metres (10,990 feet). A cable car takes adventurers halfway up, and from there you can hike to the top to see the steam billowing from the crater. Before you head out, it’s worth checking to see if the trek is open. Volcanic activities will close the trail if it’s deemed too dangerous. Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, HAWAII Hawaii is known for its volcanic activity, and its national park is certainly no exception. The longest trail is 17.7 kilometres (11 miles) around the rim of Kilauea, which could include a…

Exploding from the flat Tanzanian plains, Mount Kilimanjaro’s snow-capped summit is instantly recognisable. Standing 5,895 metres (19,340 feet) tall, it’s Africa’s tallest peak and the highest free-standing mountain on Earth. Despite the impressive credentials, no technical skill is required to reach its summit – giving uninitiated climbers the rare opportunity to conquer one of the world’s Seven Summits. On average, it takes about a week to summit Kilimanjaro, and park regulations prevent anyone from climbing without a certified guide – which can cost anywhere from £1,600 ($2,000) to £4,900 ($6,000). Whichever operator climbers choose, there are seven routes to take them to the Roof of Africa – Marangu, Machame, Rongai, Lemosho, Shira, Umbwe and Mweka. The 35-kilometre (22-mile) Marangu trail is the oldest and most direct route. It snakes through…

If you’ve always wondered how Tarzan felt swinging from vine to vine through the rainforest, head to the beautiful island of Antigua and join a zipline canopy tour (loincloth optional). Ranging in length from 16 metres (52 feet) to 100 metres (328 feet), the various ziplines criss-crossing through the trees are interspersed with suspension bridges, rope obstacles, platforms, aerial walkways and treehouses. Heights of the ziplines vary, with the loftiest being a dizzying 91 metres (298 feet) above the ground. If you’re feeling gutsy, you can opt to do the vertical descent… as well as ‘The Leap of Faith’ and ‘The Screamer’. Might be best if you don’t look down! Do look all around you, though. Located in the lush Fig Tree Drive rainforest, you’ll be met with greenery galore…

Usually if you are presented with a meal that has the potential to kill you, it’s as a result of a disaster in the kitchen. However, eating fugu in Japan is the exact opposite – it’s the result of some incredibly skilled work in the kitchen that needs to go very, very right. Fugu is a Japanese delicacy, the flesh of the blowfish that can be served in a variety of ways, including grilled, stewed and as sashimi. It has a delicate flavour and a slightly chewy texture, but the main draw is the possibility that it could be your last meal. That’s because the fish’s ovaries and liver contain neurotoxins that could prove fatal if eaten. Dozens used to die each year after eating poorly-prepared fugu, now it’s down…

Many of those who have travelled around South East Asia have commented on the incredible two-paced nature of the region. The cities are full of hustle and bustle, tooting horns and quick-tongued salespeople, while the rural areas are among the most peaceful and serene they have ever encountered. If you’re after the latter kind of adventure, what could possibly sound more relaxing than taking a two-day slow boat journey through some of Laos’ most stunning countryside? The Mekong River is one of the longest in the world, meandering through China, Myanmar, Laos, Thailand, Cambodia and Vietnam, before spilling out into the South China Sea. One of the most popular ways to enjoy the waterway is to take a slow boat from Huay Xai on the Thai-Laos border across to Luang…

Monarch butterflies, MEXICO Who knew that butterflies are such sunseekers? Every winter, more than half of the monarch butterflies in the eastern United States and Canada escape the chill and migrate to the warmer climes of Mexico. Up to a billion monarchs rest up in just 14 colonies in the Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve located near Mexico City. So impressive is their sense of direction that family groups hibernate in the same trees for generations. Viewing the kaleidoscopes (is there a better collective noun in the natural world?) of butterflies as they end their 5,000-kilometre (3,100-mile) journey is one of the world’s finest wildlife spectacles. Wilde beest and zebra, KENYA AND TANZANIA The grass actually is greener on the other side. Every year, two million wildebeest and zebra trek across…

“Mount Fuji has long been revered as a spiritually significant place by members of the Fujiko folk faith” One of the planet’s most recognisable natural landmarks, Mount Fuji in Japan has long been revered as a spiritually significant place by members of the Fujiko folk faith. Today, it’s a beacon for adventurers from across the globe – a mighty mountain to be conquered, with views through the clouds of glistening lakes and luscious mountains wrapped in 1,000-year-old cedars. Towering 3,776 metres (12,390 feet) tall, Fuji invites hikers to follow along ancient pilgrimage routes, past the Shinto shrines and Buddhist temples that punctuate its storied slopes. The mountain’s hiking season runs from early July to September, with trails most crowded in the middle of August during the country’s Obon holidays. Although…

Ever wondered how you’d cope in the clink? What it’s like to bed down as the door slams and the lock turns? If so, Shrewsbury Prison is the place to go. Don’t worry, the door is soon unlocked and you are at liberty to explore this recently closed Victorian gaol. Built in 1877 – though a previous prison sat on the same site from 1793 – Shrewsbury Prison is a bleak icon amidst a pretty English town near the Welsh border. Those unlucky enough to be incarcerated behind its walls once looked across railway tracks to an 11th-century castle, while the barred windows on the other side had a view of Shrewsbury Abbey on the opposite side of the River Severn. The 12-hour sleepover begins at 8pm, with guests who…

Jeffrey’s Bay, SOUTH AFRICA Commonly known as J-bay, the perfect waves here are due to the cold water of the Atlantic Ocean meeting the warm Indian Ocean. Depending on the conditions, J-bay produces a wide variety of waves suitable for different skill levels. Between April and September, when low pressure weather systems move around the nearby peninsula (Cape of Good Hope), the world’s best right-hand waves are formed. These waves can form tubes that continue to break for around 300 metres (984 feet), called ‘supertubes’. Supertubes attract the best surfers in the world every July – but you don’t have to be one to surf there. Softer waves form at this beach, allowing for other surfers to perfect their techniques safely. Biarritz, FRANCE If you’re looking for some of the…

There’s no doubting the splendour of the Sydney Harbour Bridge, and walking along its 503-metre (1,650-foot) length is a real thrill. If you want to go a step further, however, then consider going up high. With the BridgeClimb tourist attraction, you can walk across the upper arch, heading from the southern end to the northern side and back again. And while you will have to pay for the experience, as long as you have a head for heights, it’ll be worth every Australian cent. The ability to climb the bridge was introduced in 1998 and, if you decide to embark on the adventure, you’ll get the chance to see the stunning structure and its surroundings from an entirely different perspective. It’s a great way to get up close to this…

If you’re passionate about travel and history, then journeying along the Silk Road is an epic adventure for you. The Silk Road is a network of ancient land and maritime trade routes that connected the east to the west, bridging the gap between civilisations around the world. This ultimately led to the dissemination of beliefs and ideas, influencing the cultural, political and economic development of civilisations located along the Silk Road. The effect of this can still be seen today, with beautiful cities and diverse cultures to explore across the Silk Road, which stretches all the way from East Asia to the Mediterranean and goes through various countries. The Silk Road has many different sights to offer, from the mountains and lakes in Kazakhstan and Georgia, to the deserts of…

Every July, hundreds of toned, ultracompetitive, Lycra-clad athletes line up in France on the start line of the most physically demanding cycling race on the planet – the Tour de France. The three-week-long race culminates in one of the most iconic finishes of any event in the world, riders cruising down the Champs-Élysées, champagne in hand. What could be more French? Most of us will never be part of that throng, jostling in the peloton, leading a breakaway or bursting clear in a sprint finish to take a stage win. But you can do the next best thing. Roads are closed, bunting laid out and water stations set up along the route for the professionals, but there is nothing stopping anyone tracing that route and doing it themselves either before…

Generally speaking, Hell is the kind of place that people generally try to avoid if at all possible. However, the so-called Gateway to Hell in Turkmenistan is one place that thrillseekers should definitely try to see. At 70 metres (230 feet) wide and 20 metres (65 feet) deep, the Darvaza gas crater is a sink hole that was accidentally created in 1971 in the Turkmenistani desert (although there are debates as to whether it was formed in the 1960s), allowing trapped underground methane to start escaping. Officials set the crater on fire, expecting it to burn out relatively quickly. They probably didn’t expect it to still be ablaze decades later! It is a simply incredible sight, seeing pools of fire endlessly crackling away, a recreation of the foothills of Middle…

In the waterfall family album, Iguazú Falls seems to be destined to always be the bridesmaid and never the bride. It’s neither the tallest (Venezuela’s Kerepakupai Merú, aka Angel Falls, takes that title), the largest by flow (this is Inga Falls in DR Congo), the widest (see Laos’ Khone Phapheng Falls) nor the most visited (Niagara Falls on the US/Canada border). But when you arrive at this rainbow-filled complex of cascades amidst the lush forest straddling Brazil and Argentina, its lack of worldrecord credentials could not matter less. You can enjoy this waterfall wonderland from both countries, though around 80% of the 250-plus falls lie within Argentina. Ideally, allow enough time to visit both sides, as the panoramic vistas from the Brazilian banks are arguably more spectacular. What’s more, Argentina’s…

Erupting from the Himalayan massif, Mount Everest stretches heavenward in all its 8,849-metre (29,029-foot) splendour. The world’s tallest mountain, Everest has lured climbers and hippies for decades. Though the first recorded summit attempt was made in 1921, Everest remained unconquered until 1953, when Tenzing Norgay and Sir Edmund Hillary first reached the origami-fold peak. Since then, around 4,000 people have stood at its peak, and around 800 attempt the feat each year. The ultimate mountaineering adventure, those determined to stand at the Top of the World need two things: nerves of steel and deep pockets – expeditions with reputable companies start at £60,000 ($76,000), though many charge north of £80,000 ($100,000). While there are more than a dozen routes to Everest’s summit, most expeditions follow one of two routes. From…

Aboriginal Australians AUSTRALIA Receiving an Aboriginal perspective on Australia is arguably more eye-opening than most other experiences of this ilk, simply for the vast contrast between their understanding of the country and the Western influences that shape it nowadays. There are myriad tours available that each offer something new and unique to that particular group of indigenous people, but staying among the traditional Aboriginal huts and learning about the history, culture and values will teach you so much more. Whether it’s why they won’t climb Uluru or how to survive the bush, the insight you’ll gain is far more ancient and revered than any non-Aboriginal tour of Australia. Chiang Rai THAILAND The people of Thailand are incredibly varied in their individual practices, experiences and cultures, and so there are a…

Driving Route 66 is sure to be an unforgettable experience. With 3,940 kilometres (2,448 miles) ahead of you (should you decide to embark upon its entire length), it’s a journey that takes you through a host of diverse and exciting locations, each one offering the chance to view many amazing sights while catching up with lots of interesting and diverse people. Designated in 1926, Route 66 connects eight states and crosses three time zones, taking drivers from Chicago to Los Angeles. As such, you can venture from Illinois, Missouri, Kansas and Oklahoma to Texas, New Mexico, Arizona and California. And, if you’ve ever wanted to ‘see’ America, this is just about one of the best ways of doing so. Not that it’s as straightforward as you may imagine, but that’s…

The Boiling Pot… Devil’s Toilet Bowl… Commercial Suicide… Gnashing Jaws of Death… Oblivion… Just a few names of the rapids you’ll encounter on the Zambezi River while white-water rafting. If these terrifying monikers that suggest a watery death don’t put you off, you’ll actually have the time of your life as you navigate part of this 2,574-kilometre (1,600-mile) free-flowing river, affectionately referred to as the ‘Slambezi’. Yes, you’ll probably fall out of your raft… but you’ll also fall in love with this extreme, frothy sport. Sure, your raft will likely flip… but so will your stomach – with adrenaline-fuelled excitement. With Class 3 (Intermediate) to 5 (Expert) rapids interspersed with peaceful pools, the section of the Zambezi River below the Victoria Falls is widely considered as one of the best…

Green fingers stretch out across the rich vastness of space, projecting a brilliant luminous presence across the night sky. They burst into curtains of colour, intersected by sweeping nets of yellow and purple beams, protruding in all directions. Bouncing off the snow-laced ground, they return to the night, repeating like a hall of mirrors. The aurora borealis, better known as the northern lights, are a sight to behold; an elusive series of marvels that defy all attempts to encompass them. And yet, for the determined traveller, for much of the year, they are within reach. Several countries fall within the auroral zone, where the lights are most commonly seen, between 60 and 75-degrees latitude. While they can be observed from Alaska, Canada, Greenland and Russia, they are best enjoyed from…

If you want to rest your head somewhere that is smooth and crisp, then an igloo is going to suit you down to the ground. Although the temperature outside will be well below freezing, you can snuggle up inside and enjoy the unique surroundings of your temporary home. There are a number of igloos made of snow that you can stay in dotted around Canada, in addition to some found in Finland and Sweden. You could check out those located at the Lucky Ranch Saloon in Pelkosenniemi, Finland, for example, each of which are built every year from scratch. But there are also others around Finnish and Swedish Lapland and while there’s no denying that the facilities are basic, the experience is sure to be a rich one. With these…

Known today as the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, this historic train service is known for its unique combination of vintage charm and 21st-century luxury, and has appeared in countless novels and films. This long-distance sleeper train travels through Europe, so you can alight and disembark in the European cities of your choice. Options range from destinations such as London, Amsterdam and Paris, with the full range of stops available online. Travel in style and indulge in decadent food and delicious cocktails, and listen to the onboard pianist while enjoying picturesque views and top-quality service. Dining is available either in your cabin or in the fabulous 1920s dining car, where you have a wide range of delicious options regardless of the time of day. There’s something for everyone aboard the Orient Express, whether…

Crystal Ice Cave Located within Vatnajökull National Park, the Crystal Ice Cave has naturally formed deep under Europe’s largest glacier. It exudes a breathtaking blue colour thanks to the scattering of light, creating a translucent-looking ceiling dripping with icicles and sculptures that pretty much demand you whip out your camera. Visitors to the caves must go as part of a tour group, and the overall experience can take up to half a day with around 30 minutes inside. You’re given a safety helmet and crampons, and you’re allowed to reach out and touch the ice. It’s always a good idea to book early, too. Katla Ice Cave These caves are beneath the Kötlujökull Glacier, which is close to the Icelandic capital, Reykjavík. Open all year round and formed by the…

Hot air ballooning is a must during any visit to Turkey, and the place to do it is Cappadocia. Found towards the centre of the country, domestic flights typically run daily from Istanbul Airport. The hot air balloons themselves are flown throughout the year, meaning that you can choose whether to experience the panoramic views in the summer sunshine or through a blanket of snow. Prepare yourself for an early morning; the first 100 balloons are launched before sunrise with another 50 flying half an hour later. It is worth the early start, though – the balloons can reach a height of up to 3,000 metres (9,843 feet), providing guests with stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The direction of the flight is at the mercy of the wind, and…

Tucked unassumingly between Nova Scotia and New Brunswick in eastern Canada, the funnel-shaped Bay of Fundy might not look much on the map, but it’s home to the world’s most extreme tidal range. In some spots, the water line can vary by 16.8 metres (54 feet) between high and low tides. An unexpected bonus of 100 billion tonnes of seawater crashing into the bay each day is an ocean-powered thrill ride that every adrenaline junkie should add to their bucket list. At a handful of rivers, the usual flow is temporarily reversed as the sea pushes back up to 40 kilometres (25 miles) inland. One of the best of these ‘tidal bores’ plays out in Nova Scotia’s Shubenacadie River, where you can experience it first hand for £45 ($50). The…

High above the clouds, hidden for centuries, lie the ruins of Machu Picchu, a 15thcentury sacred site built during the peak of the short-lived Inca Empire. Remarkably constructed on a precarious mountain ridge 2,430 metres (7,972 feet) above sea level, it remains one of the greatest marvels of human history; a rare location that inspires genuine awe, mystery and fascination. Adding to the intrigue, modern explorers can follow in the footsteps of the Inca, painstakingly climbing overgrown mountains and terraced ruins before finally tumbling out over the UNESCO World Heritage Site. Born at the Sacred Valley, the storied four-day Inca Trail is walked by thousands each year and catapults hikers 39 kilometres (24 miles) over three high Andean passes. It snakes past snowy mountain peaks, crumbling ruins and gurgling rivers,…

There is no doubt that the River Nile is a magnificent stretch of water, steeped in myth and legend. Slithering 6,650 kilometres (4,130 miles), it snakes through 11 countries and is fringed by breathtaking sights and historic monuments. Following in the footsteps of Egypt’s 19th-century explorers, cruises aboard a traditional sailing boat, known as a dahabiya, offer a time-honoured way to explore the storied waterway, its tombs, mosques and temples, while also experiencing the natural ebb and flow of life on the river. The river between Luxor and Aswan, in Egypt, is perhaps both the most remarkable and most accessible for travellers. Good quality dahabiya cruises along this busy stretch take four or five days, with costs starting at £300 ($350) per person, per night. After breakfast, mornings start with…

Sunseekers’ holidays are often spoiled by people hogging the best part of the beach, but in this tropical paradise, the hogs are the best part of the beach. Just 129 kilometres (80 miles) southeast of Nassau (the capital of the Bahamas), you’ll find a group of more than 365 islands known as the Exumas. Home to luxury resorts, unspoiled beaches and tropical reefs, one of the biggest draws of this stunning destination is that it’s the only place in the world where you can go swimming with pigs. It’s not known exactly how they got there, but the pigs first arrived on Pig Beach, as it’s known, in the 1990s. Whether they survived a shipwreck, were deserted by sailors or raised by farmers searching for a solution to the Y2K…

It’s easy to judge two-wheeling it around Vietnam as cliché, but the fact is that’s just a very normal way of getting around in the country. Motorbikes are so prevalent that the Vietnamese have made it as much an identity of the nation as a means of transport. It’s hardly surprising, then, that this is an experience that calls to many travellers, and the Ho Chi Minh Trail – with its historical Vietnam War significance – in particular is a memorable option for more seasoned riders. This route was created during the war and was used to transport supplies across the country. These days it connects north and south Vietnam, but there remains many visible impacts of the war and the various military structures and outposts used during that time.…

What is it about the great American road trip? More than any other country, it is synonymous with tourists heading out to the United States with one goal in mind: take an epic journey from one side to the other. Most try to aim for the iconic Route 66 as the way to go, and certainly that’ll get the job done. But it’s no surprise given the sheer size of the USA that its landscapes are as eclectic and varied as the people that inhabit them. And so to truly see the USA, you need to take a journey that will wind its way across the entirety of its vast landmass. That’s why a road trip to pass through each of the country’s national parks is such an enticing endeavour.…

Nestled among the hills of southwest Turkey, the beautiful white water pools of Pamukkale are famed for their alleged miraculous healing properties, and have been used as a spa since the 2nd century BCE. There are 17 thermal springs in total, and today there are two main pools that are available for visitors to bathe in. Many of those other springs are now closed off from the public in order to preserve their natural beauty, but even though you can’t swim in them, they are still gorgeous to observe from a distance. Tickets for entry to the hot springs are currently priced at £9.30 ($11) per person, with an additional charge of £5.92 ($7) for the Cleopatra Pool, and these are subject to change. There’s so much to see nearby,…

Boundaries are there to be pushed, right? Well, how about you push boundaries while being pushed yourself at a mind-bending 100 kilometres (62 miles) per hour over a raging river? If you’re still reading, that probably means that the Nevis Catapult is the adventure for you. You’ll likely be familiar with the concept of the bungee jump. Participants stand on the edge of a ledge before leaping off into the void, trusting their life to a rubberised rope that sends them yo-yo-ing up and down before rescue arrives. Now imagine that, but horizontally. That’s what the team at AJ Hackett Bungy in New Zealand started offering in 2018. Thrillseekers are strapped into a harness, attached to a bungee cord and floated out of the pod at a 45-degree angle so…

Much has been made of the wonders of sleeping outdoors, beneath the beauty of the night sky, but nowhere is it more magical than in Jordan. Whether bedding down in the Martian landscapes of Wadi Rum, nicknamed the Valley of the Moon, or in the shadows of the Lost City of Petra, the country is a camping bucket-list mainstay. Following the footsteps of Lawrence of Arabia, many campers head straight to the otherworldly and beautifully desolate Wadi Rum. Though this vast ocean of undulating sand dunes and colossal red-rock formations seems uninhabitable, Stone Age petroglyphs and lingering Bedouins testify to 12,000 years of human history. Today, camping and glamping sites punctuate the rugged desert, offering weary travellers a place to rest their heads after an evening of hearty food, shared…

The breathtaking experience of hang gliding is the perfect activity for any true adventure lover. Although hang-gliding experiences are available in various countries, the Interlaken District in Switzerland is frequently cited as one of the best locations for it in the world. In this picturesque region, you’ll be able to take in an epic bird’s-eye view of the Swiss Alps and all of its lakes, mountains and meadows. There are a few guide companies that provide hang-gliding tours and all flights are conducted with a professional pilot. While hang gliding is considered a safe activity, each tour will include a safety briefing and it is very important that you listen to the instructor’s advice, to ensure that you have the best – and safest – experience you possibly can. Hang-gliding…

When erupting, active volcanoes spew a thick flowing substance called magma and eventually this leaves behind layers of volcanic ash. In the case of the active volcano Cerro Negro in the Cordillera de los Maribios mountain range in Nicaragua, this has provided a golden opportunity that has been seized by many adventurers: the chance to slide or surf down the side of the volcano at breakneck speed. Invented by Australian Darryn Webb in 2005 and called volcano boarding, this amazing experience is not for the faint hearted and it takes quite a bit of effort, too. First, you need to spend an hour climbing the 728 metres (2,388 feet) of Central America’s youngest volcano. Then, with goggles, gloves and a head scarf to protect you, it’s time to get on…

On the last Wednesday of August every year, thousands of people head to a small town that lies 38 kilometres (24 miles) to the west of Valencia on the Spanish coast. The main square of the 9,000-person town of Buñol becomes packed with 20,000 locals and tourists, all with one thing in mind: tomatoes. When the water cannon fires, around midday, the fight begins. Tomatoes brought in from Extremadura, a Spanish region bordering Portugal, are hurled in every direction by participants. The smart ones wear goggles – the last thing you want is acidic tomato juice in your eyes, especially if you wear contact lenses. Old clothes are also a must; there’s no way you’ll be leaving the plaza in the same state you arrived. Many wear a swimsuit under…

Few humans are lucky enough to fly in space, but watching astronauts leave Earth is an epic adventure in itself. The east Florida coast from Titusville to Cocoa is a place of pilgrimage for space geeks eager to witness a rocket launch from Cape Canaveral or Kennedy Space Center. The exact timing and location of launches depend on mission requirements and the weather, but a new mission typically lifts off every week or so. The majority are unmanned supply vehicles and rockets delivering new satellites into orbit, but even the smallest rocket launch is an impressive sight. Kennedy Space Center offers the closest public viewing for daytime launches. Space centre staff provide expert commentary, and normal admission tickets are enough to see many launches, although special or crewed missions are…

Morocco is famed for its vast deserts and is one of the countries that arguably the most iconic desert in the world – the Sahara – spans. It’s perhaps no surprise to learn that the country offers a number of ways to explore its various barren yet uniquely fascinating deserts. For most, that will likely mean camels, the go-to Moroccan mode of transport for navigating sand dunes. But why not trade four legs for four wheels? Quad bikes are particularly fun vehicles for tours: they’re open-air, they feel unsafe, they’re capable of great speeds, and yet when handled properly a quad bike is actually a fairly flawless means of transport. And their heavy torque and thick, sand-smashing wheels help get you around places that might otherwise be a struggle. Tall…

BORNEO While you may know Borneo for its orangutans, it’s also home to some of the best dive locations in the world, including the Sipadan and Lankayan islands. With more than 3,000 species of fish, you’ll swim through colourful shoals off Sipadan Island, but the best part is you can dive with 20 to 30 turtles at once. Plus you can visit the infamous turtle tomb – a turtle graveyard. Lankayan Island is quieter and this marine protected ‘turtle corridor’ is just as beautiful if you’re looking to flip your fins alongside green and hawksbill turtles, as this is a key nesting site. A one-day dive costs around £150 ($170). AUSTRALIA Where better to get up close with sea turtles in the wild than the world’s largest coral reef? As…

The range of gushing water that separates the Canadian edge of Ontario and the north border of New York in the US is, even by itself, the sort of bucket-list feature that most will want to get around to seeing at some point. There’s likely not a person alive who visited Niagara Falls and was unmoved at witnessing the sheer power of nature on display. Whether it’s wandering the overlooking platforms or getting drenched lower down, it’s a must-see tourist spot that will forever remain popular. But you may well think that it’s all a little passé to simply gaze upon the mighty Falls. As its popularity as a tourist attraction has grown over the years (reaching well over eight million visitors each year!), the variety and breadth of the…

The word adventure can mean so many different things to so many people. For some people, it isn’t an adventure unless you’re leaping out of something very high, driving something very fast or generally in mild fear for your life. For others, adventure simply means getting out of the house and seeing something unique. Whether you’re a gap year student heading out on your own for the first time, or a seasoned traveller looking for a new thrill, each individual’s definition of adventure depends on so many things – age, gender, health, culture, personality type – that there’s no way to pin down an exact definition of ‘adventure’. However, if you’ve picked up this book, there’s a pretty good chance that you’re interested in seeing something extraordinary, getting out of…

Death Road isn’t the kind of place for a nice, relaxing Sunday afternoon bike ride. But it is a once-in-a-lifetime, thrilling descent down one of the world’s most infamous roads that will leave you breathless in more ways than one. Yungas Road in Bolivia is a narrow route through the Andes with rocky cliffs to one side and a terrifying sheer drop on the other. The road from La Paz to Coroico has claimed hundreds of lives as vehicles tumbled into the ravines far below due to poor visibility, wet conditions or a failed pass on a track barely wide enough for one car. So what kind of crazy person would hop onto a bicycle to descend such a death trap? Mountain biking down Death Road sounds more dangerous than…

A visit to Lapland isn't complete without meeting the country’s native canine friends: the huskies. Dog sledding, usually pulled by a team of huskies, has a fascinating history and is offered to tourists all year round. Humans have worked with huskies in the Arctic region over hundreds of years – they were once crucial for communication and trade before the invention of modern transportation. The dogs are well known for their love of running, and have been bred specifically for their thick coats and ability to traverse blankets of wintry snow and ice. Nowadays the huskies are hugely popular with visitors to the country, with sledding just being one of the activities offered with the pups. While dog sledding is widely regarded as an ethical activity, take care to book…

Generally, waterfalls are things to be admired from afar or below, especially mile-wide ones that see 500 million litres of water thundering over its edge per minute. However, like Beelzebub himself, the Devil’s Pool is tempting, alluring, exciting, intoxicating and something you know your mother is going to tell you to steer clear of. However, what is life without the occasional devil-may-care attitude? Devil’s Pool is an area on the lip of the Victoria Falls where the water flow is less like a deafening power-washer and more like a watering can. The gentle water flow, the high ridge, the stony crop known as the Devil’s Armchair and the fact that no tourist has fallen over the edge, all perfectly combine to enable thrill-seekers to leap into the Zambezi River and…

Skydiving is a common item on many bucket lists, and rightly so! The exhilarating experience is a major achievement for even the biggest adrenaline junkies. Nothing compares to falling from 4,500 metres (15,000 feet) towards Earth, so why not perform this often once-in-a-lifetime experience over one of the world’s most stunning landscapes. Mission Beach (Queensland, Australia) is sandwiched between ancient rainforest and the Great Barrier Reef, providing extensive views of coastline, islands and the turquoise outline of the world’s most famous reef. For around £260 ($300), you can experience the drop from the plane at the highest altitude available (4,500 metres (15,000 feet)). This includes a tandem dive, with a 60-second freefall time. Sixty seconds may sound short, but when experiencing the intense sensations as air hits your skin and…

Just a half-hour drive from the centre of Iceland’s capital Reykjavík lies the dormant volcano Thríhnúkagígur, the home of the Inside the Volcano tour. Whether you’re into volcanoes and geology or not, it’s well worth a visit if you’re ever in Iceland – and it’s the only place in the world where you can have this one-of-a-kind experience. After getting picked up from your hotel (which is included in the price), you’ll make your way across a lava field to get to base camp. Here you’ll be fitted with a helmet and harness before you explore the crater of the volcano and then descend 120 metres (400 feet) to the bottom in an open cable lift. You’ll be so close to the magma that you’ll be able to feel the…

No trip to western USA is complete without a stop at the iconic Grand Canyon. The downside when a location reaches such heady heights of fame is that you have to share it – with a lot of others. We’re talking some five million visitors each year, which is around a million more than the Empire State Building and half a million more than the Statue of Liberty. The vast majority drive here, pay the permit to enter the park (£29/$35 per vehicle), take the same-old snaps of vistas like Eagle Point from the clifftops, then leave. A percentage fork out a little extra to stroll on the Skywalk, which since 2007 has enabled people to put their vertigo capacity to the test with a glass-bottomed walkway that juts out…

“You have the option of combining your snowmobile experience with other activities” Invented in the early 1900s, snowmobiles are often considered the fastest way to travel around the wintry landscapes of Scandinavia. Commonly used across the region in countries such as Norway and Sweden, snowmobiling is a fantastic way to explore the expansive forests and lakes up close. The cost of a snowmobile trip will often depend on the length of the excursion. Shorter trips of two hours will typically cost around £100 ($117), while longer and more expansive trips can cost up to £250 ($294) for a few hours. You also have the option of combining your snowmobile experience with other activities such as ice fishing, wilderness dining, and opportunities to view the iconic northern lights. Knowledgeable guides will…

The Color Run, founded in 2011, is an event that is all about having fun and making memories while promoting health and happiness. Referred to as the ‘Happiest 5k on the Planet’, it is a five-kilometre (3.1-mile) race that makes running accessible to almost everyone – regardless of ability – and is a great adventure for people from all walks of life. All participants of the Color Run have to wear white clothing and as you run (or walk!) along the course, you are doused with bright, colourful powder by people lining the course. When the Color Run has ended, there is a Finish Festival for all participants and spectators, with music, dancing, activity booths and so on, allowing you to let loose and celebrate your achievement with your fellow…

When it comes down to it, Rio de Janeiro is arguably one of the top destinations for tourism in the world. It has it all: from glorious beaches to awesome mountains, iconic landmarks to grand parties, delectable food and great local company. You could visit for weeks and do something different every single day. The beach at Copacabana is likely to be on most to-do lists in Rio, if not for its white sands and clear waters, then just to sing along to the Barry Manilow song inspired by the destination. But there’s a lot of impressive coastline to see in the area, and you won’t get a much better opportunity to take it all in than from the skies on a parasail tour. These tandem trips will have you…

Serengeti National Park The jewel in Tanzania’s crown, Serengeti National Park is famed for its big cat predators – especially the lions, leopards and cheetahs who stalk the open plains. The endless savannah is vast, quieter than its counterparts and known to deliver fast and furious game-viewing. Not to be outdone by the felines, the reserve’s winged residents are just as impressive, with 600 species calling the Serengeti home. While visitors can expect to pay £130 ($150) a day to visit the park, for just £170 ($200) more, they can also sleep among the beasts, in an array of accommodation offerings, ranging from mobile camps to luxury lodges. Kruger National Park Sprawled across 20,000 square kilometres (7,725 square miles), South Africa’s Kruger National Park is a terrific place to spot…

With its postcard-perfect beaches, replete with powdery white sand, lush foliage and the turquoise waters and reefs of the Caribbean Sea, Mexico isn’t short of Instagram-worthy locations to cool off. But arguably some of its most memorable swimming spots are not on the coast but nestled among the vast swathes of jungle that dominate the interior of the Yucatán Peninsula. Cenotes are water-filled caves in the limestone landscape that have collapsed in on themselves – some more so than others. To the ancient Mayans, they were vital sources of fresh water and considered sacred gateways to the underworld. To this day, it’s not hard to see why they inspired such awe. One of the best things about cenotes is their sheer variety: there’s one for every type of traveller. Whether…

Want to meet a modern dinosaur bouncing back from the brink of extinction? The Galápagos giant tortoise can grow up to 1.5 metres (five feet), weigh more than 227 kilograms (500 pounds), and live for more than 100 years (the oldest Galápagos tortoise lived until 175). Not many people get to see them in person, but you could. If you’re looking for a close encounter with some of the world’s most unique species in pristine habitats, a trip to the Galápagos Islands is a must. After all, 80% of the archipelago’s land animals are endemic – found only on the Islands. Of these, the Galápagos tortoise is probably the most famous. These giant reptiles not only give the Islands their name (galápago is old Spanish for tortoise), but they were…

Some epic adventures require you to simply pay your money and turn up. Some require a little more preparation. Some require years of training and dedication. The Marathon des Sables is one such challenge. The 900 or so competitors who tackle the world’s most famous endurance race cover approximately 251 kilometres (156 miles) over the course of six days. The route varies from year to year and the stages are not uniform in length – the fourth day has the longest slog and few competitors complete it before dusk (thankfully a rest day follows). The greatest distance competitors have been asked to travel in a single day was 91 kilometres (57 miles) in 2009. That’s more than two back-to-back London Marathons – in hot desert temperatures reaching 50 degrees Celsius…

The Mermaid Inn, ENGLAND If you’re looking for a spooky hotel, one consideration should be the Mermaid Inn, Rye, East Sussex. Located in a picturesque village (that’s worth a visit anyway), the Mermaid Inn is thought to be one of the most haunted sites in England. A plethora of ghost sightings have been reported there, and figures are often seen walking through bedroom walls along with stories of rocking chairs moving on their own and rooms turning cold. Rates are upwards of £100 ($118) a night. Ballygally Castle, NORTHERN IRELAND Nestled into the stunning coastline of the Causeway Coastal Route is a 17th-century castle-turned-hotel. But its patrons aren’t all living – there are at least three reported phantoms roaming the halls. The most famous is Lady Isabella Shaw, the wife…

Without a shadow of doubt, the most iconic way to traverse Japan’s three main islands of Honshu, Kyushu and Hokkaido is on the lightning-paced bullet train, known as the Shinkansen. Linking several cities across the country, the bullet train throttles past mountainous, forest-drenched terrains, intersected by lowlands of pastoral perfection, and even tropical paradise. The most thrilling way to soak in Japan’s dramatic landscapes, the trains are a true sight to behold. While the country’s scenery varies wildly from north to south, and east to west, the Shinkansen’s service is among the most consistent in the world. The trains in Japan are famously punctual, safe and comfortable. Visitors hoping to explore the farthest reaches of the country should purchase a JR Pass, which enables them to travel on most bullet…

Cuban beats, rum cocktails and a line-up of vintage American cars against a backdrop of charming pastel colonial buildings. This is the image that comes to mind when you think of Havana. So what better way to get a taste of the Caribbean’s biggest metropolis than jumping into the backseat of a Cadillac or Buick to discover this modern city’s vibrant present and revolutionary past. A classic car tour of Havana is a memorable experience. After all, how often do you take a nostalgic ride in a vintage American car? Step back in time to the 1940s and 50s as you relax in a Chevrolet Bel Air or Plymouth to see the sights. With more than 60,000 cars, ranging from hard tops to convertibles, you’ll be spoilt for choice. Either…

Rallying is one of motorsport’s simplest formats: drive from one point to another to test speed, endurance and navigation. The Dakar Rally relies on expensive machinery, often supplied by works teams. The Mille Miglia is the preserve of professional racers and those who have the funds to buy their way in. But the Mongol Rally – now that’s different. The quirky Mongol Rally sees competitors leave various starting points in Western Europe to reach the official launch in the Czech Republic capital of Prague in July. From there, they make their way to the finish line at Ulan-Ude, Russia, by September. There’s no set route, though competitors usually travel via the steppes of Mongolia, hence the name. Instead of supplying a long list of waypoints, the rally organisers encourage a…

Alaska, USA As with any prospective wildlife-spotting adventures, sightings require a degree of luck. But there are ways of stacking the odds in your favour. Take the village of Kaktovik on Alaska’s Arctic coast. The indigenous Inupiaq people have for centuries hunted bowhead whales for food and retain a permit to do so to this day (now limited to three whales a year). The leftover carcasses are placed on a nearby beach, which is essentially a free polar-bear picnic that few can resist. Between late August and mid-October, get some great shots from a small boat just offshore of sometimes multiple bears tucking into this bowhead buffet; half-day tours start at £420 ($500). What’s more, this is also prime season for the northern lights, so the magic continues even when…

Within these pages we’ve (hopefully) given you inspiration for all sorts of new and unexpected experiences. Some are thrilling, some are moving, and some are even tiring. But to visit Rwanda and explore its jungles in search of an endangered animal like the mountain gorilla is all three. There are few experiences that can leave an indelible mark on you and perhaps even change your outlook on the natural world. There are a handful of places where you’ll be able to head out to find mountain gorillas in the world, but with half of the planet’s mountain gorilla populace inhabiting Rwanda, you’ll have a better chance here than anywhere. Unsurprisingly a portion of Rwanda’s tourism industry is dedicated to jungle safaris tracking these stunning mammals, so you’ll find a number…

In the historic town of Wieliczka, about 13 kilometres (eight miles) away from Kraków, there’s a stunning, hidden city like no other on Earth. Comprising more than 287 kilometres (178 miles) of jaw-dropping chambers and tunnels linked in an intricate maze, it reaches a maximum depth of 327 metres (1,073 feet). More astonishing than that, it’s also made predominantly of salt! But that’s because it’s actually a mine – the Wieliczka Salt Mine, to be exact. Located in the south of Poland, the first shafts were dug in the 13th century and, over many subsequent decades, the miners not only unearthed mineral deposits but created numerous focal points, among them a set of chapels, the grandest of which is St Kinga’s Chapel. Stretching to a length of 54 metres (177…

How would you like to be part of the ‘Greatest Show on Earth’? We don’t mean tapping your feet and swaying along with the music from your nosebleed seat; we mean marching, dancing and sweating in the actual Rio Carnival parade! Dressed in fabulous feathers, gorgeous glitter and sensational sequins, you can be one of the six million people getting their samba on in Brazil’s yearly passion-fuelled, multiple-day celebration. The parades during Rio Carnival are a contest between various samba schools and, along with their core performers, every school allows a number of other participants to be part of their parade – many joining in the fun from around the globe. That’s where you come in. Selecting your school and costume online prior to the event, you pick up your…

South Luangwa National Park, ZAMBIA Considered the birthplace of walking safaris, a method of viewing wildlife pioneered in the 1960s, Zambia’s South Luangwa National Park still offers one of the best opportunities to view the Big Five on foot. There’s also a chance to see subspecies that you won’t find anywhere else, including Thornicroft’s giraffe, Cookson’s wildebeest and Crawshay’s zebra. Itineraries often follow the path of the Luangwa River, beginning in lodge accommodation before spending five days under tent canvas and ending at a different safari lodge. Facilities en route are best described as basic, with long-drop toilets and showers hanging off trees, but that’s all part of the experience. Kruger National Park, SOUTH AFRICA Renowned as being one of the most accessible and family-friendly wildlife destinations in Africa, Kruger…

Don’t panic, this epic adventure has nothing to do with the mafia. Your invitation to sleep with the fishes comes from the Conrad Maldives Rangali Island resort, which has opened an underwater suite in the clear blue waters of the Indian Ocean. Guests pay a minimum of £7,700 ($10,000) per night for the privilege of staying at The Muraka. Access to the holiday home is via a long wooden jetty that ensures privacy. The above-water level contains a kitchen, living area, gymnasium and three bedrooms. The infinity pool and pristine décor make it a luxurious water villa by itself, but it’s what lies beneath that makes The Muraka unique. Down a spiral staircase, below the waterline, is a master suite comprising a bedroom, lounge and bathroom with floor-to-ceiling windows for…

How would you like to have your adventure with a side of buffalo wings? Established in 1974, and set into some seriously commanding Jamaican cliffs, Rick’s Cafe invites visitors to eat, sip, chill… and jump 11 metres (36 feet) to join the schools of tiny fish swimming below. As you plunge under the clear, turquoise water, your world will go quiet – time momentarily standing still – before your head punches through the surface and you hear a cheering crowd, fuelled by the joy of watching you jump and, quite possibly, a few Mai Tais. Indeed, Rick’s Cafe will provide the perfect combination of rum and fun. There are lower areas to leap from, too, if you want to work up to ‘the big one’. Brave/crazy locals frequently climb to…