Source: Pinterest
If lying on the beach drinking cocktails seems more like work than a vacation, check out these top 5 adventure destinations – perfect for thrill seekers looking for the perfect getaway.
New ZealandSource: Pinterest
New Zealand is the perfect destination for those looking for adventure, simply because it has so much variety to offer. Yes, the flight may be long but once there this friendly island nation will make you feel right at home. Comprised of both a North and South Island, New Zealand offers caving, bungy jumping, skiing, surfing, rafting, zip lining, abseiling and paragliding. Plus with an array of good backpacker hostels you don’t need to break the bank on accommodation.
Galapagos Islands, EcuadorSource: SuperStock
Located 1,000km off the coast of Ecuador, this volcanic archipelago in the Pacific Ocean was made famous by Charles Darwin due to its diversity of plants and animals. Considered to be one of the ultimate adventure vacations, tourists can experience the nature first-hand through nature hikes, snorkeling, boat tours or by walking on one of the many canopy trails dotting the main island. The Galapagos also offer some fantastic surfing.
The Swiss AlpsSource: Google
Ski and snowboard enthusiasts will appreciate the pristine snow conditions the Swiss Alps have to offer tourists in the winter. In summertime, vacationers will enjoy some truly stunning hiking trails. The breathtaking scenery is dotted by adorable chalets that are perfect for those wanting self-contained lodging. And at the end of a snow-filled day there is nothing better than lounging by the fire with a glass of wine and a bar of famous Swiss chocolate.
NamibiaSource: Pinterest
More than 40% of this African nation is dedicated to conservation, which makes it a wonderful destination for adventure enthusiasts who want to get up close with African wildlife. The Etosha National Park is famed for its lions, elephants and black rhinos. If beach side adventure is on the to-do list, Namibia’s Skeleton Coast offers sand-boarding – the sand dune equivalent of snowboarding! The beautiful Skeleton Coast is littered with whale and seal skeletons (remnants of the former whaling industry) and a slew of old shipwrecks.
Big Sur, CaliforniaSource: VisitCalifornia
This remote part of California is no place for novice swimmers and surfers. In these dangerous waters even the most experienced of water enthusiasts can run into trouble. Yet each year adrenaline junkies brace themselves to experience Big Sur’s epic waves. If that sounds a little too gnarly there is plenty to do on land from camping, hiking, fishing and enjoying the pristine 80 foot waterfall at Pfeiffer Burns State Park. For those hikers looking for something a bit more challenging Sykes Hot Springs is a difficult 10 mile hike with some breathtaking scenery along the way.