Buzz
Snowboarding down volcanic slopes in Japan, longboarding in Norway, or paragliding over Brazil... are among the thrilling activities adventurers seek when traveling the world.
In 2013, the estimated revenue of the global adventure travel market reached $63 billion USD.
Below are the top 10 most challenging adventure travel destinations in the world that you may have never set foot in.
World Travel: Snowboarding on Volcanic Slopes in Japan
For adrenaline junkies, nothing beats snowboarding down from the peak of a snow-covered mountain. But snowboarding into an active volcano is even more exhilarating, as it releases a large amount of adrenaline into your body. Located on the northern island of Hokkaido, Japan, Mount Yotei offers ideal terrain for those seeking an extreme snowboarding experience. Climbing to the summit requires a strenuous 6-8 hour hike. Every year, approximately 20 people successfully snowboard into the mouth of the volcano.
Experience Zorbing in New Zealand
New Zealand, known for its adventurous spirit, offers the thrilling activity of Zorbing. Originating in 1994 in Rotorua, Zorbing involves rolling down hills inside a giant inflated ball. Participants lie between two layers of the ball, rolling either solo or with others. Zorbing comes in two forms: with or without safety harnesses, each providing a unique experience. The rolling distance can span around 800m. Despite its adventurous nature, Zorbing is relatively safe, with maximum speeds reaching only 50km/h. However, like any extreme sport, there have been fatalities, but for those seeking excitement, Zorbing delivers.
Offroading - Conquering rugged terrains in Oregon, USA
For speed enthusiasts, renting a dune buggy or ATV and exploring the coastal dunes of Oregon, USA, offers an exhilarating experience. These speed demons thrive on the rough terrains. Oregon's national recreational area has become popular among adventure seekers, with a 65km-long route.
Bungee Jumping in Macau
From the 61st floor, the Macau Tower allows adrenaline junkies to bungee jump from a height of 233m. Participants plummet towards the ground at approximately 200km/h, experiencing a brief, adrenaline-pumping free fall for 5 seconds. For $320 USD, you can enjoy the breathtaking sensation of plunging from the Macau Tower. However, this activity is not for the faint-hearted, so those lacking resolve might prefer a leisurely stroll around the tower instead.
Longboarding in Norway
Longboarding downhill is becoming increasingly popular among extreme sports enthusiasts. Longboarding, not suited for urban areas, often requires vast, open spaces with long stretches of enticing curves. Visit Troll’s Path in Norway to experience 11 exhilarating curves in one ride.
Hang gliding in Brazil
This is a popular airborne activity among thrill-seekers in the capital city of Rio De Janeiro, Brazil. The Sugarloaf Mountain and the Christ the Redeemer statue are just two of the sights you can marvel at while soaring through the skies. The cool breeze and fresh air will dissolve any fear of heights within you.
Skydiving in Africa
Skydiving is one of the most popular extreme sports globally. You can admire Victoria Falls, one of the world's most beautiful natural wonders, after jumping out of a plane and gliding through the air like a bird. Participants can board a plane and take off from Livingstone, Zambia, to the Victoria Falls area before executing the jump.
Diving into shark-infested waters in Mexico
Getting close to one of the deadliest predators in the deep sea is something not many dare to do just for fun. But for true adventure enthusiasts, this is a thrilling experience worth trying. Along the coast of Isla Guadalupe lies one of the most shark-populated areas in the world. Here, you'll have the chance to swim with some of the most magnificent creatures, of course, while safely enclosed in a cage. Free diving alongside the white sharks is only for those seeking an adrenaline rush.
Base jumping from skyscrapers in Dubai
Imagine yourself leaping from one of the tallest buildings in the world with a parachute strapped to your back. In early 2014, Fred Fugen and Vince Reffett set a Guinness World Record by base jumping from the Burj Khalifa – the tallest building in the world. Only the most skilled daredevils would attempt such a jump. The duo, Fred Fugen and Vince Reffett, are members of an organization called Soul Flyers, which regularly organizes base jumping, skydiving, and paragliding events worldwide.
Ice climbing in Nepal
Among over 2,200 individuals who have attempted to conquer the world's highest peak, around 200 have perished. Setting foot on Everest's summit is one of the most challenging feats of human endurance on this planet. However, for adventure seekers and adrenaline junkies, climbing Everest is definitely on the bucket list before kicking the bucket. Earlier this year, 16 guides lost their lives due to avalanches. The more people participate, the more difficulties arise. Every year, guides must find new routes to ascend the mountain. The Khumbu Icefall is one of the most dangerous hazards during the climbing process. Hence, climbers typically start early in the morning before sunrise to minimize the risk of avalanches.
Source: Vietnamnet
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Reference: Travel guide from Mytour
MytourSeptember 26, 2014
