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Home » Budget Travel » 21 Insane Bucket List Adventures You MUST Experience in 2024

21 Insane Bucket List Adventures You MUST Experience in 2024

There’s nothing I love more than dreaming about bucket list adventures, especially when they’re around the corner. If you’re reading this, you too, are likely in the need of some seriously epic inspiration right about now.

Don’t worry–you’re in for a heck of a virtual (which will hopefully turn into the real thing soon) adventure!

Whether it be a dream trek somewhere in the mountains of South Asia, or an unreal road trip through a can’t-miss national park, our planet is filled with bucket list trips that you’ll remember for a lifetime.

These are the types of journeys that stay with you forever, adventures that push your limits and make you reconsider what’s truly possible… AKA the best type of bucket list experiences.

So with consideration for all types of travelers in mind, here are 21 travel bucket list ideas that will be sure to make this year the most memorable yet!

The 21 Best Bucket List Adventure Ideas (to Knock Your Socks Off!)

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Crazy adventures, travel bucket list trips, wild experiences: you’ve dreamed it, you can do it. From the best destinations for adventure travel to the most absolutely insane adventures you can have, here are 21 ultimate bucket list ideas to change your life.

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Travelers, these are for you. Pack up and get ready for some of best international adventures around.

1. Road trip the Karakoram Highway

You can’t talk about bucket list travel destinations without mentioning Pakistan. It’s only adventure travel’s crown jewel, after all. And what better way to experience its magic than via a road trip through the 8th Wonder of the World, the Karakoram Highway? 

From the delicious history, culture and food of Lahore to the unbelievable beauty of Gilgit Baltistan , the entire country is epic, but the Karakoram Highway alone is enough of a reason to make a backpacking adventure in Pakistan a bucket list trip ASAP. 

The famous Karakoram Highway (which connects Pakistan with China) coasts along some of the most beautiful views I’ve personally ever seen. The iconic Passu Cones along with a multitude of other mountains and iconic scenery will greet you. 

Other must stops along the highway include:

• Hussaini Suspension Bridge
• Attabad Lake
• Batura Lake
• The Passu Glacier
• And if you like meat, the best restaurant I may have ever visited in my life: the Yak Grill near the Passu Cones!

A week is enough to get a good feel for the highway (including the Karakoram National Park where hundreds of yaks and marmots live), though you’d need a lifetime to truly get to know Pakistan.

484 pages with cities, towns, parks, and ALL the out-of-the-way places you will WANT to know. If you truly want to discover Pakistan , download this PDF .

2. Take in India by train

Traveling through India on its extensive railway network is a life-changing experience. I experienced it in 2019 (or part of the country anyway) and to say it’s a bucket list adventure is a massive understatement.

India is truly a multitude of worlds within worlds, and traveling by train is the best way to see it all. You can visit almost every part of the country via India Railways, except for some of its more mountainous regions. 

Start your trip in New Delhi, head to Rajasthan, and keep making your way south until you hit India’s magical beaches and coastline. Make a U-Shape to hit the East Coast, and don’t forget about Northeast India, the 7 sister states that will make you feel like you’re in a different country altogether.

3. Self-drive through Namibia 

Have you heard of Namibia? If not, you should! This African beauty should be on every stargazer/astrophotographer’s collection of bucket list countries. 

But even if you’re not too keen on either of those things, odds are you’ll love a self-drive through Namibia.

Exploring Namibia with your own vehicle will also allow you to go for a full-on independent safari–all at your own pace. 

The real highlight of a Namibia self-drive is a camp-out at NamibRand . The nature reserve is one of only a few gold-certified dark sky reserves, meaning on a clear night with little moonlight, you’re in for the best star show of your life!

4. Experience the magic of Bhutan 

Bhutan should be at the top of every traveler’s bucket list destinations list. The South Asian Kingdom borders both India and Tibet and is one of the few countries in the world that makes visitors pay a minimum daily rate.

While this might sound rather hefty at $250/day, Bhutan uses the money to preserve its heritage and provide for its citizens. It’s also the world’s only carbon-negative country! 

Taking a trip to Bhutan is tricky, but the rewards are well worth the effort. The beauty of Bhutan’s landscapes, delicious food, ancient and well-preserved historical sites, and a culture very few have been able to experience–it’s truly one of those places that’s worth saving up for. 

If you do make it to one of the most incredible countries in the world, must-do’s include:

• Entering the beautiful Tiger’s Nest monastery
• Checking out the phallus-fixated village of Sopsokha,
• And heading out on a trek or two. 

Since the $250/day package requires a guide, you can either choose a fixed route or exert some control over your itinerary.

5. Go Backpacking: Travel the world on $10/day!

And now for what I consider to be the best of all possible bucket list adventures: traveling the world on $10 a day . 

Traveling on a low budget in epic countries taught me more about life and the world than 18 years of school ever did. Eating street food, finding out what a hostel was, making unforgettable memories in the most beautiful of places…these are but some of the benefits of traveling the world on a shoestring. 

It forces you out of your comfort zone, thrusts you into new ways of life, and is absolutely 100% guaranteed to bring about some crazy adventures. If there’s just one thing on this adventure list that you ACTUALLY end up doing, let it be this one.

Everybody needs to try budget travel. At least once.

Our GREATEST Travel Secrets…

Pop your email here & get the original Broke Backpacker Bible for FREE.

The type of adventure ideas that really scream “bucket list.”

6. Sail to Antarctica 

Being the most unexplored continent by far, Antarctica is one of those bucket list trips of a lifetime. Unknown, dangerous and infrequently visited, a sailing trip to Antarctica might just be in a category all of its own.

A place where you can see nature at its most raw and wildlife at its least disturbed, a trip to Antarctica comes at a high price tag, and a high amount of penguins to be seen.

The journey will take you through rough seas to quite literally the end of the earth. But all that it entails is well worth the reward–there’s no bucket list inspiration on Earth quite like Antarctica!

7. Cycle the Pamir Highway 

Vast, magical, high and about as remote as it gets, the Pamir Highway (or M41) is typically ridden from Osh in Kyrgyzstan to Dushanbe in Tajikistan (or vice versa if you prefer).

Its highest point is over 4600m, and the landscapes along the way make the Pamir Highway an essential travel bucket list item. The sights you’ll see in Central Asia and, particularly, while traveling through Kyrgyzstan are nothing short of otherworldly.

While you can hitchhike, self-drive, or hire a driver, the most extreme way to see the highway is undoubtedly from the saddle of a cycle. 

With the ability to wild camp anywhere along the way, you’ll get to see Pamir at its rawest, and feel pretty damn accomplished after cycling over 1200 km through two countries!

8. Up the fear factor by bungee jumping in New Zealand

An extreme bucket list adventure that will be sure to REALLY get your heart pumping is the famous bungee jump in Queenstown, New Zealand. At 134 m high, the Nevis Bungee jump is made for adrenaline junkies. After a 35-minute 4×4 ride, you’ll find yourself at the highest bungee point in all of New Zealand.

Any last thoughts or prayers?

Joking! But you might want to keep in mind that dropping 134 m in less than 10 seconds might raise your blood pressure a little! There are TONS of companies in Queenstown to check off this crazy bucket list idea with, and you can expect to pay around $200.

9. Go paragliding in Interlaken, Switzerland

Yes, paragliding might be one crazy bucket list idea, but isn’t that the point of an adventure?

Switzerland is known for its state-of-art paragliding locales, and Interlaken is one of the best areas in Switzerland to head to if you’re serious about getting a taste of life as a bird. 

Clearly, paragliding isn’t something to be taken lightly! If you’ve never done it before, you’re going to need some lessons and a guide for your first few flights. 

Luckily, Interlaken has dozens of companies to choose from to help you make the most out of this big bucket list adventure!

6. Embark on a journey to K2 Base Camp

So you’ve probably heard of the EBC (Everest Base Camp) Trek, but have you heard of the trek to K2 Base Camp, a journey that allows you to get up close and personal with the 2nd highest (and MOST DANGEROUS) mountain in the world? The amount of incredible hikes in Pakistan is truly impressive, but few can compare to K2.

Known as the Savage Mountain, K2 has only been successfully summitted a handful of times due to its insane weather conditions and numerous other technical difficulties. But while reaching the summit is for trained professionals, you can make it to the basecamp with only moderate fitness.

While it certainly can be categorized as one of those extreme bucket list ideas, this trek is perhaps the most beautiful in the world as it allows you to take in some other-worldly scenery. 

Due to its extreme nature, you need a NOC and a licensed guide to check the K2 Basecamp Trek off this bucket list adventure. But, well, that feeling of pride…?

That lasts a lifetime .

The type of bucket list trips that you might not even have considered.

11. Get on the saddle of a horse in Mongolia

Mongolia is one of the wildest countries in the world: with rolling grassy plains that make up thousands of kilometers in area, it’s a landscape that’s best seen via horseback. 

Riding through the Mongolian plateau on four legs might just SOUND like one of those crazy bucket list ideas, but it’s seriously doable. If you’re extra experienced on the saddle, you can even potentially opt to go on a solo ride. 

But for most of us, arranging a trek with a Mongolian company is the best (and safest) option. Ulaanbaatar –the capital–is the best place to start your trip and plan further. Surprisingly, there are a few decent hostels in Ulaanbaatar , so it’s a decent base.

But keep in mind that travel in Mongolia is extremely seasonal–this is a bucket list country best experienced during the summer.

12. Get up close to volcanoes in Russia’s Kamchatka Peninsula

Russia’s Kamchatka peninsula is well known amongst Russians but is often left off of most other travelers’ adventure bucket list. The 1,250 km long peninsula is made up of some of the world’s rawest landscapes, tons of wildlife, and even active volcanoes.

Kamchatka is located in Russia’s far-east and has a dramatic climate with a short window of opportunity to visit. July-August is the best time to soak it all in, though you’d be able to manage without catching hypothermia any time from May-September. 

Make sure you don’t miss Klyuchevskaya Sopka , the highest volcano on Kamchatka as well as the highest active volcano in all of Eurasia!

13. Fly over Bagan, Myanmar, in a hot air balloon

Myanmar is a magical place to visit , but Bagan is an especially magical place. Over 2,000 ancient temples, pagodas, and a ton of greenery fill the ancient city which is best viewed at sunrise from above. 

Each morning, the sky above Bagan becomes filled with balloons, which is undoubtedly the best way to view this one-of-a-kind landscape. 

Personally, I’m a fan of the temples at sunset, but be sure to check them out at both breaks of day to see which one you prefer yourself. You can also visit the inside of some of the pagodas!

Balloon rentals can be arranged at MANY places nearby (including your Bagan hostel).

14. Visit the Ancient Angkor Wat

Cambodia’s signature bucket list inspo is a 900 year old temple complex that used to be covered in gold. 

Angkor Wat is located not far from the center of the city of Siem Reap which in and of itself is quite a small area of Cambodia to stay . The best way to take in the spiritual, ancient structures is via tuk-tuk, or better yet bicycle. Both are easy to rent from any accommodation in Siem Reap, but you can also do it online beforehand!

For the best adventure list experience, try to make it to Angkor Wat for sunrise. Cambodia is generally hot AF year-round, but it’s on another level in the summer. 

To enjoy the temples without feeling like you’re quite literally melting, visit during the “cool” months of December-February. 

It will take days to see all the temples, and whether you buy the 1, 2, or 3-day pass is entirely up to you, but make sure you don’t miss these specifically: Ta Prohm (where jungle meets history), Bayon , and of course, the namesake Angkor Wat which will greet you upon entry!

15. Drive across the Salar de Uyuni in Bolivia

Covering an area of more than 4,000 square miles, the Salar de Uyuni (AKA the famous Bolivian salt flats) is the largest in the world of its kind. It’s truly impossible to describe just HOW flat the region truly is. Basically, it’s one of those bucket list adventures that truly feels extraplanetary. 

Uyuni can be explored by bicycle, car, or with a tour. You also have the option to hire a driver if you prefer.  Salar de Uyuni is one of the best things to do while traveling in Bolivia , but also just one of the more unique bucket list adventures out there. It’s certainly not every day that you’ll have the opportunity to soak in one of the planet’s rarest landscapes.

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Bucket list trips that are sure to be remembered for years to come.

16. Trek to Machu Picchu, Peru

The secret city of Machu Picchu is known by all travelers–it’s one of those bucket list travel adventures everyone has had their eye on at one time or another. And for good reason–the trek to the ruins is truly one-of-a-kind. 

The best part is that there are MANY routes that lead to Machu Picchu, all of varying difficulty and length. The 26-mile Inca Trail is by far the most popular, and while beautiful, that means your experience will be far from private. A permit is also required to tread along the famous Inca Trail. 

For those that are looking for lesser-touristed Incan sites , off-beat alternatives include the difficult Vilcabamba Traverse or via the infrequently visited ruins of Choquequirao . Keep in mind that the dry season runs from April-October, and trust me take that seriously–you don’t want to hike in a downpour!

17. See the Great Barrier Reef

Situated along the North Queensland Coast, travellers on Australia’s East Coast will find the Great Barrier Reef. It’s hard to miss–it’s the longest in the world. Visiting the Great Barrier Reef is one of the world’s most well-known bucket list ideas. 

The Great Barrier Reef is the world’s largest coral reef system. Stretching along over 2,000 km and containing nearly 3,000 individual reefs, this is a bucket list adventure that you seriously won’t find anywhere else in the world. Because it’s one of a kind.

There are many places to choose to base yourself near the Great Barrier Reef, and considering it’s so long, there are plenty of stay options as well. 

Cairns is considered to be the main gateway to the reef, though if you’re on a budget you can opt for the more wallet-friendly Townsville .

18. Trek through Patagonia 

Patagonia in Argentina is one of the most stunning places you can trek IN THE ENTIRE WORLD. Period . 

The Torres del Paine Circuit (located in Torres del Paine National Park ) is the most popular of the dozens of hiking trails in Patagonia and will give you unreal multi-day views of jagged, snow-covered peaks and glacial lakes that come in shades of blue you never even knew existed.

The entire trek is about 80 km (50 miles) and the highest point is just below 1200 m. Though the distance may sound daunting, the altitude isn’t that high meaning anyone of average fitness should be able to enjoy this bucket list adventure.

19. See the Northern Lights in Scandinavia 

A bucket list for travel can’t leave out seeing the Northern Lights–this epic phenomenon is a top Earthly-adventure that you really have to see to believe! As great as photos are, they simply cannot do them justice. 

Finland, Norway, and Sweden are some of the best places to see the Northern Lights due to their polar locations. But don’t make the mistake of thinking you can see them all year-round; the window for Aurora Borealis sightings is within October-November and February-March . 

Self-guided trips and tours are both possible, if you decide to head out on your own make sure your itinerary dates are generous, it’s not a given that the lights will be visible every night.

20. Summit  Mt. Kilimanjaro

Few mountains can compare to Tanzania’s Mt. Kilimanjaro. Trekking to its summit is undoubtedly something to put on your once-in-a-lifetime adventure bucket list. At 5,895 meters, its summit is the so-called “roof of Africa” and will prove to be a meaty challenge. 

Unlike other bucket list adventure ideas, Mt. Kilimajaro can NOT be done independently. Luckily, there are dozens upon dozens of companies to choose from when booking your adventure tour.

When selecting a company, keep in mind you’ll get what you pay for in terms of comfort and food. Combine it with an independent backpacking trip through Tanzania to get the most out of flight prices!

21. Road trip through America’s National Parks

With 63 parks to choose from, America’s national park system is in a class of its own. Each of the very different park options offers a different kind of adventure bucket list item to experience. 

From seeking out alligators in the Florida Everglades to experiencing the White Sands Park in New Mexico to the many, many hiking opportunities each of the 63 holds, there’s no better way to see the US than via a road trip through some of its best natural assets. 

If you’re planning to visit a ton of parks, your most wallet-friendly option is to buy an annual pass, which will quite literally save you hundreds that you could be spending on other bucket list adventures!

You can’t show up to a bucket list trip of a lifetime unprepared! A good set of backpacking gear (and good travel insurance) goes a long way.

Here are some of our top recommendations on what should go in your pack, and as always, we recommend World Nomads Travel Insurance to protect it all with.

Osprey Aether 70L Backpack

Ya can’t go backpacking anywhere without a blasted backpack! Words cannot describe what a friend the Osprey Aether has been to The Broke Backpacker on the road. It’s had a long and illustrious career; Ospreys don’t go down easily.

Feathered Friends Swift 20 YF

My philosophy is that with an EPIC sleeping bag, you can sleep anywhere. A tent is a nice bonus, but a real sleek sleeping bag means you can roll out anywhere in a and stay warm in a pinch. And the Feathered Friends Swift bag is about as premium as it gets.

Grayl Geopress Filtered Bottle

Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator – so you can enjoy a cold red bull, or a hot coffee, no matter where you are.

Petzl Actik Core Headlamp

Every traveller should have a head torch! A decent head torch could save your life. When you’re camping, hiking, or even if the power just went out, a top-quality headlamp is a MUST. The Petzl Actik Core is an awesome piece of kit because it’s USB chargeable—batteries begone!

First Aid Kit

Never go off the beaten track (or even on it) without your first aid kit! Cuts, bruises, scrapes, third-degree sunburn: a first aid kit will be able to handle most of these minor situations.

And Pack Some Damn Travel Insurance!

Ok, so you can’t pack travel insurance BUT it’s absolutely daft not travel without it. You truly never know what’s going to happen on the road, and if something not so ideal does, you want to make sure you (and your wallet) are protected.

Do you want to be another sad case on GoFundMe of an adventurer who thought they were too cool for travel insurance?

Didn’t think so.

We highly recommend you choose from one of the top travel insurance companies that has a good reputation for assisting travelers in far out lands.

Here at The Broke Backpacker, we always recommend World Nomads for all your trust travel insurance needs. Check out our World Nomads review so you too can protect yourself, your valuables, and your trip!

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

And there, you have it: 21 absolutely epic bucket list adventures that are sure to tingle your travel senses! From road trips to climbing some crazy mountains, to seeing some of the world’s most unique landscapes, these adventure list ideas have something for every kind of traveler.

So what are you waiting for? Plan the trip, book the flight, and cross off those bucket list destinations!

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Samantha Shea

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Machu Picchu is absolutely mind blowing! Then when you factor in the various treks you can take just to get there, you gain an appreciation of the tenacity and intelligence of this ancient Indigenous society. Can’t wait to knock off the other trips recommended on this list! Angkor Wat especially.

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127 Most adventurous and crazy Bucket list ideas for adrenaline junkies

Want to put your adventurous side to the test? Here are the crazy bucket list ideas for adrenaline junkies that will inspire you.

In my quest to travel the world and discover popular destinations , hidden gems , small towns, villages and participate in adventurous activities, it’s not surprising that my bucket list keeps growing every single day.

Every day I find new things to put on a bucket list and new adventurous activities that I want to do.

In fact, if it was up to me and if only it was a perfect world, I would tick one bucket list idea off my travel bucket list every single day.

But since that is quite impossible (for now), all I can do is dream, hope, and work towards achieving those travel goals.

Some of the adventurous bucket list ideas listed here scare me and others excite me like nothing else.

So to keep track of my fun bucket list ideas and the adventurous things I want to do, I am writing them down (with the focus on the top 10 currently) in hopes that they will inspire you or even help you create your own adventure bucket list.

Note: I’ve not done any of these adventurous activities and I just long for that golden moment when I will get to do them.

However, even though there are so many items on my bucket list, this post is only about the adrenaline activities that make my stomach boil when I imagine myself doing them but at the same time make me feel like I’ve conquered something adventurous.

Literally, bucket list activities that would send me over the edge right before doing them but also bring me so much joy and memories afterward.

Well, let’s dive into the unique bucket list ideas plus the adrenaline rush activities before these goosebumps hinder me from actually writing the post.

My Crazy bucket list ideas

1. cage diving with the great white shark in south africa.

Photo By Alban – Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0 , Link

Wait what!! Did I just say that I want to dive with sharks while in a cage? What the crazy ….!!! Clearly, I must be insane to even consider it as one of my top bucket list items.

But thinking about it more is making me want to tick it off my crazy bucket list.

Imagine going deep underwater while caged and in close proximity to the most dangerous underwater species!!

Part of me is super scared of it but the crazy part of me that tells me how cool it would be to swim with a shark and see it with my own eyes just a few meters away makes me want to do it Asap.

Since it is one of the best adventure activities in the world, I will just keep it on my bucket list for now even if it makes my stomach boil a bit.

Related post: Bucket list destinations in Africa The most famous landmarks you must visit in Africa

2. Paragliding in Oludeniz, Turkey is One of my Crazy bucket list Ideas

One of the bucket list activities I want to do is go Paragliding. The idea of floating in the sky while admiring the world and mother nature in a birds’ eye is a dream.

Oh, of course, I can’t do it alone. I don’t have the courage and expertise to do it on my own but it would be cool to have a pro trainer do it with me so that I feel absolutely “safe”.

The photos that I’ve seen make me want to pack my bags and go to Oludeniz in Turkey right now to see the beautiful turquoise waters and long beaches from above while having a rush of a lifetime.

Related posts: Bucket list destinations in Istanbul, Turkey Bucket list places to visit in Turkey

3. Diving in the deep blue waters of Thailand or the Blue Hole in Belize

So my very first attempt to even come close to diving was when I went snorkeling in the Blue Hole in Dahab, Egypt .

I know it doesn’t even come close but if you know me personally, then you know that I am scared of deep waters.

And if you’re wondering if that snorkeling adventure went well, it didn’t LOL. I was a disaster “screaming” for help instead of enjoying the underwater species like everyone else.

But I still tell people that I snorkeled in the blue hole. Sshhh!! Don’t tell them that I didn’t have the best experience because I was terrified by the sinkhole.

But hey, I am not a quitter and this time around I want to push myself even further by going diving (either in Thailand or Belize, still deciding).

Of course, this time around I will try to be more prepared by taking a couple of lessons before hitting the sea.

But the thrill of diving deep into the ends of the sea not only makes me shake but also excites me.

I don’t want to just discover the highest points of the world (mountains) but also reach the deepest of the oceans.

So Blue hole in Belize and the countless diving spots in Thailand, I am prepping for you and perhaps one day I will have the guts to carry my mask, fins, the oxygen can on my back, adorn the diving suit, and conquer one of the adrenaline bucket list ideas I’ve had for so long.

Related posts: Cheapest Countries in Asia Dreamy bucket list places in Asia

4. Hot air ballooning in Cappadocia, Turkey

One of my dreamiest bucket list things to do is to go Hot air ballooning in Cappadocia, Turkey.

This place is incredibly beautiful even if it’s just taking in the views of the town from the different hills or meandering through the cave hotels – but riding in a hot air balloon is the dreamiest of all.

From seeing the fairy chimneys perch through Cappadocia’s sky to watching other balloons floating in the air, it can never get any better than this.

And no, Instagram doesn’t make it easy for us the dreamers. Seeing all those amazing sunset/sunrise photos from the Sultan Ahmed hotel makes all travelers including myself want to flock to Cappadocia immediately.

Related post: Bucket list things to do in Istanbul at night

5. Skydiving is one of the crazy adventure ideas to try

Ok, this is where I feel like I am pushing my limits to the extreme. Whom am I kidding!! I mean I get freaked out when we hit turbulence while flying and now I want to jump out of the plane?

Whoah!! I am truly crazy! But even with those facts, I still want to skydive at least once in my life.

If I am being honest, it’s just to tick it off my bucket list but I hope I don’t pee on myself while doing so.

I mean the idea of flying in space like a bird really scares me but it also makes me feel like I’ll be on top of the world, feeling the cool breeze as I admire nature’s most beautiful landscapes.

So if you’re looking for crazy and adventurous things to put on your bucket list, then skydiving is one of the craziest things to do.

6. Climbing Mt. Everest in Nepal; This is one of the extreme bucket list ideas

I’ve heard and read that climbing Mt. Everest is one of the most challenging hikes in the world.

In fact, many people give up on the way, and apparently, some people have got long life injuries and others died ( don’t hold me over this, I also just read about it).

But even with all that, I want to experience it myself. I want to ”brag” about the fact that I climbed the highest mountain in the world! I mean it’s one of those crazy bucket list ideas that are worth bragging about.

I know I’ve hiked and climbed a few mountains including Mt. Elgon in Uganda which is basically nothing compared to Mt. Everest but I believe I am up for the challenge.

Even though it’s not for the faint-hearted, I believe it’s one of the bucket list trips of a lifetime that all hikers should brave up for.

7. Bungee jumping at Bloukrans Bridge in South Africa or Anywhere

I am not sure whether I won’t give up right before the jump but I still want to do it.

I mean I almost chickened out right before going for a bridge swing at Victoria falls in Zimbabwe but I finally did it and I am so glad I did, otherwise, I’d be beating myself up to now.

So with that milestone in my bag, I think I can bungee jump without any issues ( just a scared face and a racing heart but I’ll manage).

If I managed the adrenalin-fuelled, 4 seconds free-fall at the Victoria falls bridge while bridge swinging, then I can definitely handle the 5 or so seconds free fall of bungee jumping.

(Don’t mind me, this is me giving myself a pep talk because jumping over a cliff with just ropes holding me freaks the hell out of me but it’s one of my ultimate bucket list ideas and I am not gonna give it up)

But whom am I kidding, bungee jumping is scarier than a bridge swing but am all in – Breathe in, Breathe out and jump!!

8. Dog sledding in Norway

One of the winter sports that I really want to do is dog sledding.

I want to be able to feel the rush of my heart as the dogs drag me around the snow with me probably screaming and holding onto tight like my life depends on it.

One thing that excites me most about dog sledding is how fast the dogs run through the beautiful landscape with a rush of adrenaline through your body.

It’s even more incredible when you go dog sledding and at the same time watch the Northern lights – these are truly some of the best bucket list adventure ideas worth experiencing and I can’t wait for that time.

Related post: Winter sun destinations in Europe Places to visit in Europe in winter Crazy fun things to do in winter

9. Go for an Edge Walk at the CN Tower in Canada

Photo By BarbaraAraya from Chile – Toronto_Canada Uploaded by Skeezix1000 , CC BY 2.0 , Link

This is got to be one of the most exhilarating adrenaline junkie bucket list ideas that is only possible for extreme adventure seekers – and since I am one of them (or I would like to think that I am), I clearly want to do it.

Imagine suiting up, harnessing yourself, and taking in the incredible views of the city while defying gravity at the CN Tower! It seems pretty simple but it’s so scary at least for those that are afraid of heights – and that includes me!

To give you an idea of how scary it is, The Edge walk is the world’s highest full circle hands-free walk on a 5 ft (1.5 m) wide ledge at the top of the CN tower – now I am really scared!!

But even with how scary it sounds, Edge walking is one of those adrenaline junkie activities that I want to do.

10. Swim with the Dolphins in The Bahamas

Well, this might not bring the adrenaline rush to many people but the idea of swimming with Dolphins is incredibly exciting to me.

The calmness that these incredible creatures display while with humans makes me want to cuddle them or at least kiss them on the “chin” (maybe I am just dreaming too much).

I am sure I will do it but if that fails, then I can just sit along the sidelines and watch them fly in the air while splashing water. I bet it’s a cool thing to watch.

Will I actually do these junkie adrenaline activities for real?

I am someone who always freaks out right before an adventurous activity and I am always on the verge of giving up but I never do! I always suck it in and go for it and I’ve never regretted a thing.

So even with me freaking out about all these crazy bucket list ideas while I am writing them, I know that when that opportunity of me doing any of these adrenaline junkie activities presents itself, I will almost chicken out but I will always end up doing them. SO BRING THEM ON!!

More Adrenaline Junkies bucket list ideas

While I’ve listed in detail the first 10 extreme adventure bucket list ideas, there are more fun activities that you should add to your bucket list as an adventurous person. Read on to discover more adventure bucket list ideas.

Please note that some of these bucket list ideas for adrenaline junkies can be risky and require you to be fully experienced! Use common knowledge to judge what you can do and what you can’t!

11. Go surfing

12. Ride a zipline

13. Sleep in an ice hotel

14. Try flyboarding

15. Go fat biking

16. Try indoor skydiving

17. Go Stargazing

18. Do a skinny dip

19. Jump off a cliff

20. Climb Mount Kilimanjaro

21. Swim with Pigs

22. Ride an ATV

23. Hike a glacier

24. Go winter camping; this is one of the winter bucket list ideas .

25. Abseil down a waterfall

26. Go white water rafting

27. Fly over Victoria falls in Zimbabwe

28. Climb Sand dunes

29. Learn how to rock climb

30. Try canyoning 

31. Watch a live volcanic eruption

32. Climb an active volcano; ofcourse with caution and with professionals

33. Go jet boating 

34. Go heli-skiing

35. Visit the Amazon Rainforest

36. Rappel down a waterfall

37. Ride a super-fast roller coaster

38. Boat in an Alligator Swamp

39. Go on an African safari

40. Do a Free Fall Human

41. Try speed skiing

42. Go kayaking

43. Zip line through the jungle

44. Go gorilla trekking in Uganda

45. Try Skijoring

46. Walk on a suspension bridge

47. Sleep in an underwater hotel

48. Go snowboarding

49. Try walking on hot coals

50. Go snowmobiling

51. Try fly fishing

52. Attend a Rodeo

53. Go Go-Karting

54. Ride a camel in the Sahara desert

55. Watch penguins in Antarctica

56. Go Parachute Jumping

57. Go base jumping

58. Go cave spelunking

59. Go sandboarding

60. Try aerial yoga; this is one of the fun things to do for adrenaline junkies.

61. Walk through a dust storm

62. Relax in a natural spring

63. Try SCAD diving

64. Chase a Tornado; this is one of the dangerous bucket list ideas if you’re not a pro.

65. Experience a wingsuit flight 

66. Ride a bobsleigh

67. Try wing walking

68. Try volcano surfing

69. Sleep in an Underwater Hotel

70. Ride a Horse Bareback

71. Go Pearl Diving

72. Try Rappelling

73. Sleep in a cabin

74. Camp in the Grand Canyon

75. Dive with manta rays

76. Swim in the Great Barrier Reef

78. Participate in a polar bear plunge

79. Try winter swimming

80. See a Coral Reef

81. Swim with Manatees

82. Sleep in a castle; you can sleep in one of these French castles .

83. Swim at the edge of Victoria Falls in the Devils pool

84. Trekk the world’s most dangerous hike; Mount Hua in China

85. Dine in an underwater restaurant

86. Run with the bulls in Spain

87. Swim with sea turtles in Costa Rica

88. search for real-life dinosaur footprints

89. Witness a Solar Eclipse

90. Go  Whale Watching

91. Visit all 7 wonders of the world

92. Drive a race car around a Formula One track

93. Take funny photos at the Bolivian Salt Flats

94. Chill with wild orangutans in Malaysia

95. Hike to Machu Picchu in Peru

96. Cycle Death Road in Bolivia

97. Go crocodile cage diving; probably the craziest bucket list idea for adrenaline junkies on this list.

98. Visit a ghost town

99. Go snowmobiling

100. Float in the Dead Sea

101. Visit a haunted house

102. Cruise on River Nile

103. Swim with humpback whales 

104. Hike the Stairway to Heaven in Hawaii

105. Visit all 7 continents

106. Visit Heaven’s Gate Mountain

107. Try Highlining

108. Walk on the longest pedestrian suspension bridge in Portugal

109. Swing on the world’s biggest swing in New Zealand

110. Go Trail running

111. Go camping; you can check out the different types of camping .

112. Go on a wreck diving adventure

113. Ride a bobsleigh

114. Ride a mechanical bull

115. Ride a gondola in Venice

116. Run a marathon

117. Attend Carnival in Brazil

118. Fly on a Trapeze

119. Fly in a Private Jet

120. Sleep in a Teepee

121. Visit the Galapagos Islands

122. Ride the Tour de France route; this is one of the things France is famous for .

123. Go Clam Digging

124. Swim in a Cenote

125. Watch an Eclipse

126. Visit Chernobyl

127. Go to space; this is one of the crazy ideas for a bucket list.

Final Thoughts of the Crazy Bucket List Ideas For Adrenaline Junkies

There you have it, fellow adrenaline junkies. Those were some of the bucket list examples and my bucket list things to do and I hope they inspire you to create your own bucket list.

Do you have any of these activities on your own bucket list? Share your unique bucket list ideas in the comment section and you might just inspire me to add them to my bucket list.

Was this post on the wild bucket list ideas helpful? Then please consider sharing it with others

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Just a few suggestions, when in South Africa do kloofing too. Regarding hot air balloon there is nothing more spectacular than doing it when visiting Tanzania, over the Savanna with all the amazing beasts underneath you. I also suggest glacier trekking in Alaska. Regarding the Edge Walk not as exciting as you imagine and I suggest New Zealand. White water rafting should be added to your list (unless you already tried it) and sailing on one of the America’s Cup sailing boats too.

Hi Maria, wow, all these are incredible ideas, and thank you for suggesting them! Kloofing in SA looks interesting for sure! I bet a hot air balloon in Tanzania is incredible, I mean just the safari itself is impressive and I can just imagine how mind-blowing it is to see everything from above – once in a lifetime experience for sure! Oh how I’d love to go glacier trekking in Alaska, you’ve just given me a new bucket list idea lol!

Oh really, the Edge walk looked interesting, I guess it’s just in the photos:) And yes, I’ve done White water Rafting on the Nile – such a thrilling experience it was, I would do it again for sure!

Thanks again for suggesting these cool bucket list ideas! You’ve inspired me already haha

I love and enjoy everything i am seeing on your blog. Thank you for sharing this information. You are inspiring me to travel around the world and i am looking forward to

Thank you so much Caroline for the kind words about the blog and I am so happy that I’ve inspired you to travel. There is soo much beauty in the world not to explore it for sure!

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Adventure Bucket List: 50 Crazy Ideas & Things to Do

No bucket list, whether for travel or for life, is complete without some items that seem a little crazy; dangerous, even. Perhaps you find yourself in need of even making an entire adventure bucket list, solely dedicated to the craziest and most adrenaline junkie type of activities you could possibly come up with?

To get you started on planning your next adventure, I’ve compiled a list of some crazy and adventurous things to do that can give you great ideas. Some of these may seem easy, while others just might get you nervous just thinking about them.

PS: I must preface this list by saying participating in these adventures is at your own risk!

Adventure Bucket List: Crazy Ideas & Things to Do

1. air boat across an alligator swamp.

Because if something goes wrong with this activity, it can go really wrong, this has deservedly earned its spot on an adventure bucket list for anyone. You can trust, though, that rather than being dangerous, it’s likely going to be a lot of thrilling fun, possibly with some gator sightings to be made. Just do your due research to find the tour that best soothes your nerves ahead of time.

2. Arrive By Seaplane

Some places in the world, such as the private islands on Maldives, can only be reached by a seaplane that will take-off and land on the water. Make a plan to visit an island or a similar sight with this in mind and you’ll find yourself adding a bit of additional thrill to your journey.

3. Base Jump With a Wingsuit

This one is definitely for those looking for the most crazy bucket list ideas! You’ll don on a wingsuit, get on the edge of a high point – such as somewhere on the Alps where this is a particularly popular sport – and then you leap off it. The purpose is to glide back onto the ground with the help of the webbing-sleeved jumpsuit, but this is understandably an incredibly dangerous sport to try and tackle.

4. Bungee Jump

Bungee jumping is a classic bucket list item for any daredevil out there. It’s possible to try out almost anywhere in the world, and if you happen to be particularly adventurous, you might want to choose to do it precisely based on where the nature around you is the most spectacular to look at as you are falling off that ledge attached to a large elastic cord.

5. Cage Dive with Sharks

Also featured in some thrilling movies, cage diving into waters with sharks is not for the fainthearted. Thankfully, it is also a lot more fun and a lot less dangerous than what the films make it seem like, as long as you join a reputable tour for it. A truly unforgettable adventure, especially when you do it in one of the World’s best places to shark cage dive !

6. Catch a Wave Surfing

While this may not be the craziest item on this bucket list, it does take a fair bit of practice to learn how to surf. And especially when you’re just getting started, it’s particularly thrilling to see whether the approaching wave is one you’ll catch successfully – or whether the wave’s going to catch you instead! The feeling that comes from catching those waves once you’ve finally got the handle on surfing is such a great and exhilarating feeling.

7. Cliff Jump

Another great item to get added and then checked off your adventure bucket list is cliff jumping. You’ll want to do your due research ahead of time for approved spots, and maybe go with people who know what they’re doing, but finding gorgeous spots for cliff jumping is the easy part of this. If you love water and aren’t scared of heights, maybe this one’s for you to try out?

8. Dive to a Shipwreck

The sea is vast and filled with treasures like shipwrecks to be explored. Not only is this one adventurous and memorable activity, but it requires a lot of practice and skills with diving before it should even be considered. But once you’ve got all that down, diving down to explore a shipwreck is a lot of people’s dream come true!

9. Dog Sled

While cold weather may not be many of our things, it’s undeniable that wintery scenes and landscapes aren’t absolutely beautiful, not to mention filled with totally awesome winter bucket list activities . Dog sledding is perhaps from the most family-friendly end of them, but that doesn’t mean it isn’t a thrilling activity in its own right, even for us adults.

10. Eat Fire

You’ve probably seen a performer or two eat fire before, and already got curious back then over how easy they make it seem. It’s a really cool act to master, especially with all the possible tricks you can do while eating fire, but this one’s crazy enough you definitely don’t want to start learning without a supervision from someone who’s mastered it. You can start by read this article: How do fire eaters eat fire?

11. Eskimo Roll in a Kayak

“Do what now?” may be the first thought that crossed your mind upon reading this one, but knowing how to Eskimo roll in a kayak is actually a useful skill to know! Of course nobody wishes for their kayak to roll over in the first place, but you never know what could happen, so perhaps it’s a good time to learn this before you hop into your kayak again. 

12. Explore a Cave

Could this adventure bucket list item be your next on your hobby list ? As with many other hobbies, to get into exploring caves, you’ll also want to start off easy and gradually move towards more challenging ones. Best way to go about this is to find a caving club near to where you’re living and join them for one of their easiest caving trips. Even if you want to progress to exploring caves independently, a great rule of thumb is to never do so alone.

13. Flip on a Trampoline

We’ve all jumped on trampolines here and there when we were kids, and these days it’s easier than ever to get one added onto your backyard or to go hang out at a trampoline park. But flipping on a trampoline isn’t something all of us can do, so why not make it a fun challenge for yourself to learn how to flip on a trampoline, and then do it?!

14. Fly on a Trapeze

Trapeze acts are performing acts we’ve all seen and admired from afar before, but it’s totally possible to get your own turn to shine as you fly on a trapeze! Especially for those of us who are afraid of heights, this can come across as quite a crazy bucket list item idea, but it’s thankfully possible to try out in a safe supervised environment. In fact, the Internet is full of websites offering just that and you can read about my experience here: A day at trapeze school: a circus-style aerial class .

15. Flyboard

In the last couple of years, flyboarding has really become a hit among water sports lovers. It is a water sport where propulsion drives you up in the air. Seems like it’s possible to do in so many spots these days, especially around Southern Europe and Dubai (I went flyboarding in Cancun, Mexico !). It’s not quite like riding a banana boat, though; you’ll have to spend a little bit of time learning the basics and even then it can be a challenge to successfully do it. However, it’s a fun and adventurous, but relatively safe way to challenge your mind and body once you get properly started with it. 

16. Free Dive for Abalone

You’re not allowed to scuba dive in order to catch abalone, which certainly makes this a unique adventure to try. This extreme sport is especially popular around Northern California, though it may be possible to do elsewhere too—and also illegal in some other places. Find a good spot for abalone, don on your swimwear, and get diving! 

17. Get a Tattoo

Although getting a tattoo isn’t among the craziest of ideas on this list at first glance, putting permanent ink on your body – and being in pain throughout the experience – is quite crazy after all, if you ask me. Many do it on a whim, but I do recommend you at least give it enough thought to come up with a tattoo you won’t regret five minutes later, let alone the next fifty years. Maybe check out on of these 27 Beautiful Tattoos That Tell Their Own Travel Stories for inspiration.

18. Go Bamboo Rafting

While opting for a bamboo raft may not make for an adventure as exhilarating as jumping on a whitewater raft would, it’s still a great and memorable, unique adventure in its own right. Not to mention it’s environmentally friendly! You can go bamboo rafting in Jamaica and Thailand’s Chiang Mai, but China’s Yangshuo is perhaps best known for it. 

19. Go Bobsledding

If you’re looking for a thrilling winter sport to try out with a friend or a loved one, bobsledding is a great one to give a go with. You’re going down narrow and icy tracks in high-speed with a sleigh that’s powered simply by gravity – what isn’t adventurous and exhilarating in that?!

20. Go Fat Biking

Fat bikes have such brilliantly thick tires they allow for biking in environments that’d be difficult on a regular bike, such as a thick forest or snowy grounds. That means that with your fat bike, you can take it off-road and go explore areas you otherwise might’ve only walked through or choose not to visit at all. 

21. Go Heliboarding

Are you a lover of snowboarding and downhill skiing, and now looking to kick it up a notch with it? Then you’ve got to hop on board a helicopter to reach a more remote slope, and then jump off it to ski or board all the way down. Talk about crazy bucket list ideas, this one is certainly not for the faint of heart! 

22. Go on a Police Ride Along

While this will likely not turn out to be as crazy of an experience as portrayed in some movies, it’s still a thrill to hop into a police car and spend a day shadowing officers on the job. It will definitely give you a more authentic image of what their job’s like than any TV show or movie could! 

23. Go on a Survival Weekend

This can be a hardcore challenge especially those of us entirely accustomed to the city life. It’s not dangerous by any means, but you have to camp outdoors, and essentially will have to also pick and hunt your food. It’s a great experience to make you in general more resilient and resourceful in life. 

24. Go Paragliding

Paragliding is an awesome and adrenaline pumping way to see your surroundings from the air! You’ll usually fly with an instructor attached to you and the paraglide, so whilst an extreme sport of sorts, it’s by no means one that’s particularly dangerous. Of course, if you’re experienced in this, you may fly on your own, too.

25. Go Whitewater Rafting

Now, this is the more adventurous way to go rafting. Although moving through a stream, sometimes at high speed, may seem like a dangerous activity, if you choose your course right and go with the right crew, you should lose nothing, and only be gaining spectacular memories! This cool activity can be done all around the world, from the US to Turkey to South Korea. 

For an even more adrenaline rush, try Tidal Bore Rafting Nova Scotia’s Bay of Fundy Tides !

26. Go Windsurfing

To get the best of both surfing and sailing in one fell swoop, why not add windsurfing to your adventure bucket list? It’s fun and thrilling, but also easy and safe enough for even a beginner to try out. Since even kids can start learning windsurfing, this can be a fun activity for the whole family to do together! 

27. Go Zorbing

Although many of us have probably yet to try this one, I’m sure you’ve all heard of zorbing, where you place yourself into a big, transparent orb, then roll down a hill in it. I’d say if you’re looking for crazy bucket list ideas, this is a good one to add to it!

28. Hang Glide

If paragliding isn’t enough for you, time to amp up your time in the air and go hand gliding! A hand glider is non-motorized, so it is simply you and your body controlling the movement of the glider. This can definitely feel like a crazy and scary activity, but you’ll at least be attached to your glider by a harness, so suddenly losing your grip and falling off the glider shouldn’t be an issue of concern.

29. Join the Mile High Club

Yup, you all know what this one’s about, right? Being intimate while flying in a plane is certainly on a lot of people’s sex bucket list . It may be a little bit dangerous, because it just may get you in trouble with the airline you choose to score the achievement on. So, better make it worth the while and bring on your best moves and spirit!

30. Kite Surf

Here’s another surfing-like water sport to get your adrenaline pumping with! You may not need just as badass skills to stay standing on your board as you would with surfing, but controlling that kite while flying through water and air is a game of its own to master. It’s possible to kite surf through snow and ground, too. 

For the ultimate experience, complete this on at one of the 10 Best Places in The World to Kite Surf !

31. Parasail

An alternative to paragliding, especially if you happen to be scared of heights, is to go parasailing instead. You’ll still be gliding in the air with a parachute attached to you, but instead of controlling your own movement, you’re attached to a boat driving you all around a water-area, like a lake or sea. 

32. Play a Game of Paintball

Looking for an activity to do with your friends that’s fun, but also challenging? Then paintball may be an amazing choice! The object is to shoot guns with paint-filled capsules at your opponents before they tag you! It can get a little painful, so dress up in many layers! 

33. Rappel Down a Mountain

Climbing up a mountain is one thing, and rappelling down a mountain is another. Both are a challenge, and especially for those of us scared of heights coming down a mountain may prove to be much scarier than getting high up in the first place. Tackling a mountain, especially heading down one, just may be the next adventure you go on. 

34. Rappel Down a Waterfall

Even more exhilarating than rappelling down a mountain is to rappel down a waterfall. This is an extreme sport that has been gaining a lot of popularity over the last decade, and numerous tours are being arranged these days to conquer waterfalls like this. It’s by no means an easy feat to complete and therefore another great and adventurous way to challenge yourself. 

35. Rappel into a Cave

You can also go exploring those caves we talked about above by rappelling into one! This is the way to go if it’s a cave with an opening only at its top. It’s a tad bit scarier than just walking into a cave, but can honestly be a lot of fun, not to mention picturesque.

36. Ride a Bull

Yes, to some extent it may still be possible to ride a bull in the way you’ve seen cowboys do in rodeo. But do note that this one does have potential to go awry. If you’re up for the challenge, find a way to do it; if you’re OK with a less thrilling experience, then find a bar with a mechanical bull.

37. Ride ATVs

Riding an ATV, whether it’s near your home or whilst somewhere on a trip, is another fun and easily accessible adventure to add to your list. If you’re completely new to it, I do encourage trying it with hired professionals for the first time, but if you end up getting your own ATV to ride down the line, many driving adventures can be had with this. 

38. Ride in a Hot Air Balloon

Riding high in the sky in a hot air balloon will give you a birds-eye view of the landscapes below. 

39. Ride in a Luge

Now here’s an experience you don’t hear everyone talk about, or might even know what it is yet! A luge is a self-driving car system, kind of like a go kart, except it relies on gravity and a downhill path to move. The only ride in the US is available in Michigan and it’s rather different from a traditional luge ride; to get the real thing, your best bets are Queenstown in Australia and Sentosa in Singapore.

40. Ride on a Scary Roller Coaster

Every big amusement park in the world seems to be equipped with at least one roller coaster these days that’s absolutely wild in how steep it can get or how fast it can go. Oftentimes it’s a combination of both! If you’re a thrill seeker, try to find the scariest roller coaster possible to tackle next. And if you’re one of those who’s been too fearful to get on that one particular scary roller coaster, now’s your chance to right that wrong!

41. Sail a Boat

Despite it seeming like a rather peaceful activity, sailing a boat can be surprisingly strenuous, and is most certainly always its own little challenge. If you’re looking for items for your adventure bucket list, but aren’t too much of a thrill seeker, this is a great one to add to your list.

42. Scuba Dive

Even if your scuba diving adventure doesn’t take you to exploring a shipwreck, at least not immediately, it’s always a fun adventure to embark on once you’ve learned its basics. There’s a lot of beauty to be discovered undersea, and while you can explore some of it by snorkeling, diving gets you properly close and intimate with life under the surface. 

43. Skydive

We’ve already covered paragliding and its equivalent forms, but skydiving is really where it’s at if you want to get as high in the air as possible. This is a truly gutsy hobby to embark on, but it can be incredibly rewarding if you just have the patience and courage for it. If this is just too scary for you, then how about having an indoor skydiving cxperience ?

44. Snowboard

Alternatively, you can go with skis as well. Either way, as long as you are going down a snowy hill, you’ll be doing a tremendous job checking this one off your bucket list. The world is full of amazing resorts with incredible slopes available, so you’ll likely end up going through a few of them once you get properly addicted to snowboarding or downhill skiing. 

45. Swim with Stingrays

While you’re advised to stay away from stingrays you come across in the wild, this is a fun and memorable activity you can do on a tour specializing in swimming with them. It’s possible elsewhere as well, but the most famous, and therefore most reputable, for swimming with Stingrays is Stingray City in the Cayman Islands .

46. Swim with Whale Sharks

Unlike the sharks you meet while cave diving, with whale sharks you don’t have to worry about them suddenly gaining interest in your flesh. Yes, they’ve got big mouths, and with everything we know of sharks you’ll probably be really nervous to get into waters with them. However, these gentle creatures are on a plankton diet, so you should be able to get in and out of the water with all of your limbs attached. 

47. Take a Geocaching Adventure

All you need to embark on a geocaching adventure is a GPS, which most of today’s phones come ready with, and perhaps some clothing and shoes appropriate for the weather. While the main purpose of geocaching is to find geocaches in your area, it can easily take you to places you’ve yet to discover, leading you to catch two birds with one stone. 

48. Try Skijoring

In this wintertime sport, you’ll be on skis, but instead of moving using ski poles to help you move, you’ll be attached to a dog, or a horse, or possibly a vehicle that’ll be pulling you forward. This originated in Norway, and is today mostly conducted as a competitive sport. 

49. Walk a Suspension Bridge

Suspension bridges are bridges where the deck of the bridge hangs on vertical suspenders attached to suspension cables above the deck. Even Brooklyn Bridge and Golden Gate Bridge are considered to fall under this category, so just by walking through those you can tick this item off your list. However, I encourage you to challenge your adrenaline levels and instead go for a bridge like Sidu River Bridge, for example. 

I walked this cool one while in Guyana :

50. Walk on Hot Coals

Also known as firewalking, walking on hot coals isn’t just a popular catchphrase, it’s an actual performance-type activity some skilled folks can do. But it’s possible for you to also learn firewalking, or at least try once! Though perhaps do so with a trained professional, so you don’t actually end up burning yourself.

51. Walk on the Wings of an Airplane

And yes, I’m talking about doing this while the plane is in the air! Just the thought of it may get goosebumps popping up all over your body, am I right? It’s actually considered relatively safe, though, as you will receive training for it and will also be attached to a harness all the way through.

52. Wrap a Snake Around Your Neck

Perhaps not the first thing you ever thought you’d do in your life, but turns out that sometimes the opportunity simply presents itself. Maybe don’t try to do this with any random snake you find in the wilderness, for both your and the snake’s safety, but it’s quite likely you’ll get lucky and find a moment where it’s possible to find yourself with a snake wrapped around your neck.

53. Zip Line

Finally, no adventure bucket list is complete without zip lining included in it. This is an extreme sport where you are attached to cords that “zip” you from one tree to the next. It has grown so popular over the years it seems to be possible to do just about anywhere – so easy to check off your bucket list! And while it can get your nerves on overdrive before setting off, it’s usually totally safe to do. 

How many of these adventure bucket list ideas have you already managed to complete? How many were you already planning on doing, and how many more dreams did just get added to your crazy bucket list?

While compiling bucket lists may seem like a corny idea, they can give an amazingly clear picture of all the things you want to complete in life, besides just getting that dream job and dream apartment. Going on adventures should be a big part of all of our lives, too! 

This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through my links, I earn a commission that helps to keep this blog running—at no extra cost to you. For more information read my full disclosure .

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8 thoughts on “Adventure Bucket List: 50 Crazy Ideas & Things to Do”

Hello! Every Traveler would love to read your blog like me. This blog is one of the best blogs that you’ve written, which took me here to leave a comment. Though I’m an adventurer, I will never wrap a snake around my neck! But would love to get the Bird’s eye view of the landscapes below by riding in a hot air balloon. Every adventurer will have a dream of trying bungee jumping at least once in a lifetime so as for me. I even want to swim with sharks. Your travel blogs are awesome and I’m looking forward to more such blogs to read.

Glad you liked the articles

Hey, It’s an Amazing Post. I liked it and I love to share it.

VERY GOOD EXCELLENT

Really liked your post, so unformatted. I am always for your new posts.

thanks for giving such a great information for us, keep sharing and keep it up

I was actually surprised that I’ve done more on this list than I thought haha I’ve zip lined, I’ve rode a bull (mechanical), I’ve done parasailing, walked across a suspension bridge and explored a cave! I love the print out too, really awesome.

Really good bucket list !

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Bucket list ideas travel facing fear & anxiety.

57 Crazy Bucket List Ideas for Adrenaline Junkies

Are you looking for your next adrenaline pumping adventure? Or would you like to face your fears and step out of your comfort zone ? Either way, this post full of crazy bucket list ideas and adrenaline rush activities will give you some inspiration to live life on the edge!

Most of these activities are suitable for the (adventurous) average Joe. However, some of them require some experience in specific fields, so make sure to do some research beforehand.

This list is not for the faint-hearted, and I’ve only ticked off ten of these activities myself. To be honest, there are things on this list that I wouldn’t want to do! But I can’t wait to tick off some others (like #41, for example).

So without further ado, here are 57 extreme bucket list ideas for adrenaline junkies and adventure lovers.

Bucket List Ideas in the Air

1. go paragliding.

One of my favourite activities in Nepal was paragliding in Pokhara. It felt absolutely wonderful to run towards the edge of a cliff and start flying in the air. And I haven’t mentioned the landscape yet – it was stunning!

But Nepal isn’t the only great country where you can go paragliding. Countries like Switzerland, Greece, Mexico, Columbia and Turkey have top paragliding locations too.

2. Go SCAD diving

SCAD diving is the same as bungee jumping… but without a cord.

After free-falling for about 50 m (164 ft) you will land into a safety net. Sounds like the ultimate thrill if bungee jumping isn’t adrenaline-rushing enough for you!

3. Bungee jump at the world’s highest bungee jump in Hong Kong

With a staggering height of 233 m (764 ft), the Macau Tower is officially the highest bungee jump in the world .

This tower is located just outside of Hong Kong, and skyrocketing down its platform is an incredible experience for thrill-seekers!

4. Try out the world’s biggest swing in New Zealand

Did you like swings as a child (or even today)? Why not take it to the next level?

Getting on New Zealand’s Nevis Swing is one of these sensational, adrenaline-rushing experiences out there. You will swing in a 300-m (984 ft) arc with a free fall of 70 m (230 ft) on this gigantic swing!

5. Fly in a wingsuit

Wingsuit flying is probably one of the most adventurous, adrenaline rush activities things that you can do!

However, as you can only fly solo and you have to land with a parachute, you will have to learn how to fly in a wingsuit first.

6. Take the world’s fastest zipline in the U.K.

Zip World Velocity 2 in North Wales is not only the fastest zipline in the world, but it’s also the longest one in Europe.

With a speed of up to 200 km/h (124 mph) over a length of 1,5 km (9 mi), this zipline is an experience you will remember for a lifetime!

7. Highlining

Highlining is basically slacklining (walking on a piece of nylon rope that is suspended above the ground) up high. Secured by a harness, you will walk from one cliff, mountain or building to another.

This is one of the most challenging things you can do, and you will need both mental and physical skills to achieve it!

8. Cross the world’s longest pedestrian suspension bridge in Portugal

The longest pedestrian suspension bridge in the world opened in Portugal in April 2021.

The bridge is called Arouca 516 , and as its name predicts, it’s a staggering 516 m (1.693 ft) long. Crossing it is a unique experience if you’re up for a thrill!

Skydiving – it’s one of these experiences that you will remember for a lifetime, and a post with crazy bucket list ideas wouldn’t be complete without it!

After all, you don’t get to jump out of a plane every day (unless, of course, you’re a professional skydiver).

I went skydiving in Spa, Belgium a couple of years ago, and it was an AMAZING experience!

There are many incredible places to skydive. Some examples are the Palm Jumeirah in Dubai, the Grand Canyon in the USA. and Mount Everest in Nepal .

10. Indoor skydive

If you want to experience the thrill of skydiving without actually jumping out of an aeroplane then indoor skydiving is the activity you’re looking for.

During this experience, you will get to fly in a vertical wind tunnel and learn how to control your movements, which believe me, isn’t as easy as it looks!

Indoor skydiving is a fun, adventurous activity nearly anyone can partake in.

11. Do the CN Tower’s Edgewalk in Canada

Located in Ontario, the CN Tower is one of Canada’s most popular tourist attractions.

You will have 360-degree views over the city from its viewing deck, but do you know what the best part about this tower is?

You can actually lean off the edge of its 356-metre (1.168 ft) high platform without using your hands! It speaks for itself that you will be secured with a harness when doing so.

12. Abseil down a mountain

Abseiling is basically the opposite of climbing. You will descend a steep slope, mountain, or cliff using a rope.

Contrarily to rock climbing, this is an adventurous activity that’s very accessible, as it’s suitable for all skill levels.

13. Go parasailing

Parasailing is similar to paragliding, but the difference is that your parachute is pulled by a boat.

This is a thrilling experience, and on top of that, you will also get to enjoy some amazing views from high up in the air!

14. Walk on the wing of a plane in the U.K.

Yep, walki ng on the wing of a flying plane is actually a thing, and you don’t need to be a professional wingwalker to try it out!

As you will be strapped into a specially designed harness before the plane takes off, you won’t need to do any crazy acrobatics to climb on the wing while flying. However, you will definitely need some guts!

If this is not adventurous enough for you, you can also learn how to actually climb out of a plane onto its roof in Washington State !

15. Fly in a hot air balloon

Flying in the basket of a hot air balloon is an unforgettable experience that can be done in many places.

Whether you decide to fly over the temples of Bagan in Myanmar, Cappadocia’s cave dwellings in Turkey or somewhere else, it will be an epic adventure.

Hiking & Climbing Ideas

16. camp next to an erupting volcano in guatemala.

Are you looking for a unique hiking experience? The Acatenango Volcano Hike is a two-day hike, close to the city of Antigua in Guatemala .

Although it’s not the easiest hike out there, climbing Volcano Acatenango was one of my favourite and most memorable travel experiences so far!

After all, camping next to a volcano that spits lava every 20 minutes is not something you get to do every night!

17. Descend into a volcano in Iceland

Thrihnukagigur Volcano in Iceland hasn’t erupted in over 4.000 years, and it’s the only volcano in the world that you can explore from the inside !

On a tour, you will descend into the volcano’s magma chamber from the top crater using a lift.

This is one of the most unique experiences out there, and one you will always remember!

18. Hike the Hua Shan Cliff Walk in China

The adrenaline-rushing Hua Shan Cliff Walk, near the Chinese city of Xi’an, is considered one of the scariest and most dangerous hikes in the world.

The hike is just 300 m (985 ft) long, but considering that you’re practically hanging off the side of a mountain, that might be long enough.

During the hike, you will walk on narrow planks bolted onto the cliff, with nothing but a 2000-metre (6.562 ft) abyss underneath.

19. Start trail running

Trail running is a sports activity where you’re running on unpaved surfaces, mostly hiking trails on mountainous terrains.

Due to the ascends and descends, trail running is way more challenging than regular running.

20. Go Rock climbing…

Ah climbing – one of my favourite hobbies! This is an adventurous sport that comes in many forms.

From top-rope climbing and bouldering on artificial walls to lead climbing on rocks. One thing is certain: if you’re an adrenaline junky, you might just fall in love with this sport!

It’s also good to know that not every type of climbing requires technical skills or taking courses. Indoor bouldering, for example, is easily accessible to everyone.

>> Read: 19 Best Climbing Documentaries

22. peak climbing …

Reaching the summit of a mountain is a dream of many mountaineers, and you will need some training and perseverance to ascend your first peak.

While some peaks are relatively easy to climb, some motivated mountaineers attempt to climb the Seven Summits : the highest mountains on each of the seven continents.

21. or ice climbing…

Ice climbing is a lot like rock climbing… on ice… with the help of crampons and ice axes.

You will need to learn extra technical skills if you want to become an ice climber, but imagine the thrill of climbing glaciers and frozen waterfalls!

23. Go vertical camping

Vertical camping is a form of camping combined with rock climbing. It’s basically camping in a hanging tent (called a portaledge) on the side of a cliff.

This form of camping was invented because some climbs can last for days. It’s quite challenging, and a unique place to spend the night!

24. Go on a walking safari

Away from the comfort of a 4×4, a walking safari is an incredibly rewarding experience. You will get to explore wildlife on foot just like explorers did in the olden days.

This is an authentic way to really hear and smell your surroundings. And on top of that, walking safaris are better for the animals!

25. Walk 100 km in 24 hours at the Death March in Belgium

Are you an avid hiker? Then this one might be for you.

The Death March ( Dodentocht in Dutch) is a yearly event held in Bornem, Belgium . Here, thousands of highly motivated hiking enthusiasts gather to walk 100 km (62 mi) in less than 24 hours.

It’s a tough challenge, and you will need a lot of perseverance to make it to the finish on time. The participants who complete this march usually don’t make it without aching blisters and painful bodies!

26. Hike the Snowman Trek in Bhutan

Famous for being one of the most challenging treks in the world, the Snowman Trek in Bhutan crosses ten high passes over 4.500 m (14.764 ft).

It’s said that only 500 people have completed it since 1982, so it comes as no surprise that you will need a lot of endurance to complete this 24-day journey.

The Snowman Trek is, however, one that will bring you to some of the most remote areas of the Himalayas, which makes for an experience of a lifetime!

27. Climb an active volcano

Climbing an active volcano is another one of these thrilling experiences!

You will get to see flowing lava and numerous vents with steam venting out of them up close.

There are several active volcanoes that you can climb , some more easily accessible than others. A few examples are Mount Etna and Mount Vesuvius in Italy, Mount Sibayak in Indonesia and Mount Ngauruhu in New Zealand.

28. Race the Marathon des Sables in Morocco

This is one of these crazy bucket list ideas that is not for the faint-hearted, but then again, none of the activities on this list is.

The Marathon des Sables is a 250-km (149-mi) long footrace that takes place in the Sahara Desert in Morocco every year.

You will have to finish it in six days while carrying your own equipment. Can you imagine the heat?

Extreme Bucket List Adventure Ideas in Water

29. wreck dive.

If you’re looking for an unusual underwater experience then wreck diving might be what you’re looking for! This is one of these adrenaline rush activities that you might want to try out if you’re an experienced diver.

There are various places in the world to go on a wreck diving adventure. Most of these places are home to shipwrecks, but sunken aeroplanes can also be found.

All in all, diving into a (ship)wreck is a unique and fascinating experience.

30. Deep-sea dive

Although the exact definition of deep-sea diving is not very clear, the limit one can descend when diving recreationally is 30 m (100 ft).

Diving deeper becomes more technical, and thus requires greater knowledge and more advanced courses. It is, however, one of these thrilling experiences that you will remember for a lifetime!

31. Go ice-hole plunging in Finland

This one might not be for everyone, but swimming in a hole in the ice is actually a popular activity in Finland!

Every winter, approximately 150.000 Fins take an icy plunge, and they swear it’s a super refreshing, stress-relieving experience.

32. Big wave surf

Places like the Banzai Pipeline in Hawaii, Shipsterns Bluff in Australia and Praia do Norte in Portugal are considered some of the wildest surf spots on the planet.

With waves reaching up to 10 m (33 ft), you need to be a daredevil (and experienced surfer) to surf these waves!

It’s good to know that big wave surfing is actually one of the most dangerous sports in the world .

33. Go extreme kayaking

Kayaking is a sport that comes in all shapes and sizes. Most of us might have heard about recreational kayaking, which is a relaxing experience by a lake or a pond, but have you heard about extreme kayaking?

The most popular extreme form of kayaking is whitewater kayaking, and some rivers will surely give you an adrenaline rush!

34. Go cliff jumping

Cliff jumping is a pretty simple, yet adventurous activity. You don’t need any special skills or gear to jump from a cliff, but you do need some courage.

There are many great places for cliff jumping, some of the most popular ones are Havasu Falls in Arizona, Kamari Beach in Santorini and Nusa Lembongan in Bali.

35. Go white water rafting on the Futaleufú River in Chile

White water rafting has a grading system that’s measured in classes between 1 and 6. In this system, class 1 is flat and class 6 is impossible for rafting.

So, if you’re looking for the ultimate adrenaline-rushing experience, you might want to consider class 4 or 5 white water rafting, which is described as having many of the following characteristics: big waterfalls, violent currents, large unpredictable waves, and steep gradients with abrupt drops.

36. Try out flyboarding

Invented in 2012, flyboarding is a relatively new activity. When you drive (or should I say fly?) a flyboard, you will be elevated up to 14 m (45 ft) in the air. This is possible thanks to water jet propulsion technology.

So, if you’ve ever wanted to jump in the air like a dolphin, this is your chance!

37. Go extreme canyoning

Regular canyoning is quite an adventurous thing to do, but extreme canyoning, which is a more intense version of the sport, is only reserved for real daredevils!

This adrenaline-boosting activity can be done in many countries, but it’s especially popular in Croatia and Slovenia.

Crazy Bucket List Ideas in the Snow

38. go heli-skiing.

Heli-skiing is a type of skiing that allows you to reach off-trail areas with untouched snow.

These remote places are reached by helicopter, and contrary to popular belief, you don’t need to jump out of the helicopter, as it will land to drop you off. It is, however, a thrilling adventure and a skier’s dream!

39. Ride a bobsleigh

With speeds reaching 130 km/h (80 mph) and more, bobsleighing is an amazing activity for adventure lovers.

After all, sliding down an ice-covered incline at such a high speed is not something you get to do every day!

40. Go snowkiting

Snowkiting or kite skiing is an outdoor sport where you’re holding a kite that will pull you across snow or ice. As the kite will pull you up, it’s a great activity for anyone who enjoys flying through the air!

Other Unique Bucket List Ideas

41. visit the gates of hell in turkmenistan.

This is one of the most unusual adventurous bucket list ideas on this list, and one of Asia’s most fascinating landmarks .

The Darvaza Gas Crater, also known as the Gates of Hell , has been burning since 1971. It was formed when a driller accidentally fell into a gas cavern while mining for natural gas. This caused the ground to collapse and the entire drilling rig to fall in, which then lead to poisonous fumes leaking.

To avoid an environmental catastrophe, Soviet geologists set the hole on fire, assuming the fire would die down within a few weeks. It didn’t however, and now, more than 50 years later, people from all over the world make a trip of a lifetime to this unusual place.

42. Cross a country on foot or by bike

Grab your hiking or backpacking gear and challenge yourself to cross a country (or maybe even a continent?) on foot or by bike.

This will be the adventure of a lifetime and you might even be able to write a book about it later!

43. Go caving

Descending into the earth and exploring its caves might be an incredible thing to do, however, it’s one of these crazy bucket list ideas that’s not for the faint-hearted.

Caving includes climbing, scrambling and squeezing yourself through narrow passages, which sends chills down my spine!

44. Go volcano boarding in Nicaragua

Does sliding down the steep slope of an active volcano sound exciting to you? Then Volcano Cerro Negro in Nicaragua is the place to go!

After hiking up the volcano and enjoying the surrounding view, you will get to slide down its slope on a wooden sledge – and it actually goes surprisingly fast!

45. Go sandboarding in the desert

When going sandboarding, you will get to slide down a sand dune while standing on a board. It’s a unique activity that’s pretty fun as well.

There are many places to go sandboarding in the world, from the U.S.A. and Peru to Egypt and Japan.

46. Ride the world’s tallest rollercoaster

With a maximum height of a staggering 139 m (456 ft), Kingda Ka at Six Flags, New Jersey is the tallest rollercoaster in the world.

It’s also the fastest rollercoaster in North America, reaching 206 km/h (128 mph). All in all: Kingda Ka is a must for adrenaline junkies!

47. Survive alone in the wild for a week (or more)

If you’re an out doorsy person , surviving alone in the wild for a while might be a pretty exciting challenge!

Make sure that you’re prepared and have the right skills before attempting this because it’s not a walk in the park (quite literally).

48. Spend the night in a haunted house

Are you eager (and brave enough) to find out if all these alleged ghost stories are true? Then why not spend the night in a haunted house? This is actually possible.

Take the haunted bedroom of this English house , for example. Word has it that the previous resident of the room, a young child, is still present.

49. Visit Chernobyl

Today, more than 35 years after the Chernobyl nuclear disaster, touring the Chernobyl area is becoming an increasingly popular activity among adventurous tourists.

Although the region still has levels of radiation, it is considered safe to visit. On a tour of Chernobyl, you will get to visit Pripyat, a town that was abandoned after the disaster.

50. Mountainbike on the world’s most dangerous road in Bolivia

Yungas Road, often called Death Road, in Bolivia is argued to be the most dangerous road in the world. Although its nickname may sound pretty scary, numerous mountain bikers cycle down this route every year.

The cycling trail is 80 km (50 mi) long, and it’s considered one of the most epic adventures you can have in the country!

51. Go on a zero-gravity flight

You don’t need to be an astronaut to experience weightlessness, nor do you need to go to space!

These days, there are companies offering flights on specially designed aircraft that allow you to experience zero gravity. Trained pilots will actually perform aerobatic manoeuvres that will make you float in the air like a superhero.

Although this must be an incredible experience, I have to warn you that it’s not cheap, so try not to fall off your chair when you see the price.

52. Try the world’s grossest fruit

Durian is a delicacy in Malaysia, Indonesia, Singapore and other Southeast Asian countries .

This fruit’s taste and smell, however, are quite intense, to say the least. It’s so smelly that it’s forbidden to bring in hotels, public transportation, etc.

And when it comes to the taste… you will have to try it for yourself. Some people love it, while others find it disgusting. And I belong to the second group. 😉

53. Travel to a foreign country by yourself

This is my personal favourite on this list. Travelling solo is one of the most liberating and enriching experiences you can have!

It expands your comfort zone, allows you to build confidence, and teaches you that you can rely on yourself.

54. Live in another country for a year

If you’re looking for one of these crazy bucket list ideas that will teach you a lot, this may be the one for you.

Living in another country will allow you to get a real taste of life abroad. It’s one of these terrifying, yet exhilarating experiences that you will remember for a lifetime.

55. Drive a race car

I probably don’t need to tell you that race cars are super fast. And that’s exactly why driving one is the ultimate thrill for speed lovers!

There are many places in the world where you can drive a race far, from Australia and the U.S. to Singapore, Germany and France .

56. Chase a tornado

While most people who chase tornados are scientists who study the weather, this can also be an adrenaline-pumping adventure for people who don’t work in the field. It speaks for itself that it’s important to be extremely careful when doing so, though!

57. Ride the bike in the Himalayas

This is actually one of the most fun adventures I’ve ever been on – though it wasn’t the smartest thing to do, as I only learned to ride the bike the day before heading off-road into the mountains.

Some of the best places to go on a motorbike adventure in the Himalayan Mountains are Spiti Valley or Ladakh in India or Hunza Valley in Pakistan.

Animal Bucket List Activities

You may have noticed that this post full of crazy bucket list ideas doesn’t include activities like cage diving with sharks, riding elephants, or lion petting. Although these activities may seem fun or adventurous at first sight, they actually harm animals.

This is why I chose not to include them. I’m not here to judge but do make sure to do some research before engaging in these types of activities.

Adrenaline Rush Activities: Final Thoughts

And that was it! I hope that you have found exactly what you were looking for in this post and that it inspires you to go on an adventure.

Do you have some other crazy bucket list ideas that would fit in this post? Let me know in the comments!

Pin it for later: Did you find this post helpful? Save it on Pinterest and follow me on Instagram and Facebook for more travel tips and inspiration.

Laura Meyers

Laura Meyers is the founder of Laure Wanders. She was born in Belgium and has travelled to over 40 countries, many of them solo. She currently spends most of her time between Belgium and South Asia and loves helping other travellers plan their adventures abroad.

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• Jan 26, 2023

110 Unique and Crazy Bucket List Travel Ideas [2023]

Updated: Mar 30, 2023

Do you have anything unique on your travel bucket list that strays from the typical bucket list ideas? Anything that perhaps isn’t for everyone, but is uniquely YOU?

I’m part of a fun Facebook group called Girls LOVE Travel . Someone recently posted this question and was met with over 400 responses! Not all of them are for me, but there are several that will be making it to my list.

If you want to add some unique travel bucket list ideas – or just spice up your life a little bit – check these out. And please, please, please add any more that you have or thought of after reading these so that we can grow this list!

World’s largest ball of twine (Cawker City, Kansas)

Visit the Amish and see how they live

Visit a goat race in Tobago

Eat Omaha steak in Omaha

World’s tallest filing cabinet (Burlington, Vermont)

Sex everywhere: plane, train, tent, RV, etc.

Visit the State of Texas Fair

Cuddle a cow

Do splits everywhere when traveling

Go to a nude beach

Lay in the Four Corners

Go to a Brazilian National Jiu-Jitsu tournament in Brazil

Dress up in historical period pieces at historical sites

Go ice fishing in Iceland ( Read my 10-day itinerary for Iceland )

Wear capri pants on the Isle of Capri

Jump into a fountain

Ride mopeds in the Florida Keys

Visit the rude-named places in Ireland

Visit Heidiland in Switzerland

Slide down the slide on the Great Wall of China

Crossing off sandwiches from the PBS show “Sandwiches That You Will Like”

Visit a speakeasy everywhere you go

Direct traffic

Visit cemeteries everywhere you travel (I love this book if you are into visiting cemeteries and yes, I am)

Mario kart racing through the streets of Japan

Get room service

Mud-wrestle

Take a picture in Pisa, Italy where it looks like you are holding up the Leaning Tower

Pirate watch around the Horn of Africa

Re-enact the Sound of Music

Take a nap on every safe form of transportation

Visit a dude ranch

Experience life on an Indian reservation

Visit the ancestral diary farm in the Netherlands

Have a bespoke suit made (we did this in Hoi An, Vietnam and it was so inexpensive and so much fun)

Ride an Icelandic horse in a lava field ( Read my 10-day itinerary for Iceland )

Have tea at the Ritz in London

Attend a star party (Hey Texans, do this at McDonald's Observatory - see my Texas Bucket list )

Stay in hotels that were converted from other things, e.g., a jail, courthouse, school

Stay in an ice hotel

Eat at the same places that Anthony Bourdain did, and as many as possible

Stop and take a photo at any place mentioned in a song

Learn Yiddish

Stay overnight in a castle

Be a Portland hippie for a weekend

Visit the most unique Starbucks around the world

Learning to drift…Tokyo Drift

Pretend to be a pirate on a boat at a Pirate Festival

Have an original Caesar salad from Caesar’s in Tijuana

Have a Gregg’s sausage roll in the U.K.

Get a street ice cream from a street person that makes you work for your cone in Turkey (apparently, it’s a thing across the country)

Stand on the corner in Winslow, AZ

Join the Mile High Club

Bungee jump naked

Join a flash mob

Attend a rally car racing school

Watch a Moulin Rouge Show

Take a picture with a Cuban cigar in Cuba

Salsa pose in La Boca, Argentina

Carnival Cosplay in Rio

Go to the last Blockbuster

The annual Mothman festival in West Virginia

Learn how to hotwire a car

Visit Roswell and see all the alien stuff

Visit all of the Disney parks

Go to a Star Trek convention and have Star Trek uniforms to wear

Visit places where Cryptids are associated with the location: Mothman, or camping in Big Foot country or seeing the Loch Ness Monster

Go horseback riding into the Grand Canyon while smoking a joint

Eat fondue in Switzerland

At 90 years old, try heroin in the Bermuda Triangle

Dress like Jackie Kennedy and take a picture in front of the Eiffel Tower

Visit all of the destinations in the Beach Boys’ song, “Kokomo”

Eat McDonald’s in every country (on a personal note, you can get the original fried apple pies in most McDonald’s outside of the U.S.

Visit a cat or hedgehog café

Stomp grapes and eat chocolate like in “I Love Lucy”

Pour tea into the Boston Harbor

Finding movie locations and taking pictures

Eat Sashimi in the fish market in Tokyo in the middle of the night

Go to all of the Ripley’s Believe it or Not museums in the world

Take a selfie with the cow like the cow is the celebrity and I’m a fan.

Attend a Berlin tram rave

Stand at the Grand Canyon edge and shout, “The Grand Canyon (pause)…What a Grand Canyon indeed” ( Read my article about Sedona and the Grand Canyon )

Visiting a Lego store in every city

Staying at kitschy hotels (e.g., Madonna Inn, Austin Hotel, Cheetah Hotel)

Attend the Anne Rice Halloween Ball in New Orleans

Eat a macaron in France

Cuddle a panda

Noodle a catfish

Learn a synchronized roller skate dance

Ride in a motorcycle side car

Ride in a blimp

Attend the annual Gloucester Cheese Rolling Race

See a narwhal

Skydive over every continent

Take a topless photo on a snowy mountain

Swim with pigs in the Bahamas

See the mermaids in Weeki Wachee Springs

Have crepes under the Eiffel Tower

Visit the German Christmas markets

Ride a Vespa scooter through Italy

Swim with whales

Go to a bear sanctuary

Take a picture like Belle in front of a fountain with a blue dress on and a book

Go gold panning

Spend Groundhog Day in Punxatawney, Pennsylvania

Eat a fresh durian

Comment below with what you would add!

And please SAVE this for later or SHARE with a friend that may enjoy this!

Happy Travels,

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50 Adventurous and Crazy Bucket List Ideas

• March 15, 2022
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Having a crazy bucket list is all about following your dreams and doing something that scares you.

Whether it’s swimming with sharks or jumping off a cliff, there’s no shortage of adventures to choose from when creating your travel bucket list.

With just a little bit of planning, you can check some of the most thrilling experiences off your list.

So what are you waiting for? Get started today!

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Table of Contents

What Is a Crazy Bucket List?

A crazy bucket list is a list of adventures and experiences that are so daring and out-of-the-box that they can make your jaw drop.

They may seem impossible, but with a bit of planning and determination, you will be able to achieve them all.

These ideas can include anything from reverse bungee jumping to eating a live scorpion.

The sky’s the limit when it comes to bucket lists, so don’t be afraid to dream big!

50 Crazy Bucket List Ideas To Do While Abroad

If you are looking for some inspiration on your next travel bucket list, check out our top 50 ideas that will push you out of your comfort zone!

Take a hot air balloon ride over Cappadocia

Riding in a hot air balloon is a popular bucket list item for a reason – it’s simply breathtaking!

Cappadocia , located in central Turkey, is home to some of the most beautiful landscapes in the world, making it the perfect place for a hot air balloon ride.

Bungee jump off a bridge in New Zealand

If you’re looking for a thrilling adventure, bungee jumping is the way to go!

New Zealand is known for its world-class bungee jumps, with some of the most daring jumps taking place off bridges.

One famous bridge is the Kawarau Bridge , which is home to the world’s first commercial bungee jump.

Swim with sharks in Australia

If swimming with dolphins is on your bucket list, why not take it up a notch and swim with sharks ?

Australia is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, as well as some of the deadliest sharks.

This is one of the most adventurous and incredible experience that you can experience on this crazy travel bucket list.

Cliff dive in Thailand

Cliff diving is a thrilling way to get your adrenaline fix.

Thailand is home to some of the best cliffs for diving, including Railay Beach and Tanote Bay, Koh Tao.

Take a road trip across America

If you’re looking for an adventure, take a road trip across America!

From the east coast to the west coast, America is home to some amazing landscapes and landmarks.

You could even visit all 50 states on your road trip!

Zip line through the forests of Costa Rica

Zip lining through the forest is a great way to see some of the most beautiful scenery in the world.

Costa Rica is home to lush rainforests and some of the best zip line courses in the world.

Climb Mount Kilimanjaro in Africa

Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro is no easy feat, but the views are worth the effort.

At 5895 metres, Mount Kilimanjaro is the tallest mountain in Africa and a challenge that many adventurers take on.

This adventure is one of the best in this crazy bucket list you will experience.

Drive a race car in Italy

If you’re looking for a heart-pounding adventure, Italy is the place to be.

Home to some of the most famous race tracks in the world, Italy is the perfect place to drive a race car .

Learn to Surf in Easter Island, Chile

Easter Island is one of the most remote places in the world and is known for its stunning ocean views.

What better way to take in the beauty of Easter Island than by learning to surf ?

The island offers some of the best waves for beginner and intermediate surfers.

Eat a live scorpion in Thailand

If you’re looking for a truly unique experience, eating a live scorpion is the way to go.

Thailand is home to some of the most exotic and daring foods, so why not give this one a try?

Swim with whale sharks in the Philippines

The Philippines is home to some of the most diverse marine life in the world, including whale sharks.

Swimming with these gentle giants is an experience that you will never forget.

Go alligator watching in Louisiana

If you’re looking for an adrenaline-filled adventure, alligator watching is the way to go.

Louisiana is home to some of the largest alligators in the world, making it the perfect place for an alligator hunt.

This is one of the most unique experiences in this crazy bucket list that you will always remember.

Try bull riding in Texas

Texas is home to the rodeo, and what would a rodeo be without bull riding?

If you’re looking for a thrilling experience, try your hand at bull riding .

It will be an unforgettable experience.

Ride a Harley Davidson in Death Valley

Death Valley is one of the most popular destinations in the United States for motorcycle enthusiasts.

What better way to take in the desert scenery than by riding a Harley Davidson?

Climb Mount Everest

Climbing Mount Everest is one of the most challenging and dangerous feats that a person can undertake.

But for those who are up for the challenge, the views from the top of the world are worth it.

Go dog sledding in Norway

Norway is home to some of the most beautiful scenery in the world, and what better way to see it than by dog sledding?

Dog sledding through the snow-capped mountains of Norway is an experience that you will never forget.

Hike an active volcano in Hawaii

Hawaii is home to some of the most active volcanoes in the world, making it the perfect place for hiking.

Hiking on an active volcano is a thrill seeker’s dream come true.

Imagine checking off this experience from this crazy bucket list and telling all your friends about it!

Do Heliboarding in British Columbia, Canada

Heliboarding is a new and exciting way to snowboard.

Instead of skiing down the mountain, you are pulled along by a helicopter.

British Columbia, Canada is one of the best places in the world to do Heliboarding.

Try pearl diving in Bahrain

Bahrain is home to some of the richest pearls in the world, making it the perfect place for pearl diving.

If you’re looking for an adventure, try your hand at pearl diving in Bahrain .

Take a ghost tour in Edinburgh, Scotland

Edinburgh, Scotland is home to some of the most haunted places in the world.

If you’re looking for a spooky adventure, take a ghost tour through the dark streets of Edinburgh.

Visit Dracula’s Castle in Romania

Dracula’s Castle is one of the most famous haunted castles in the world.

If you’re looking for a spine-tingling adventure, visit Dracula’s Castle in Romania.

It will leave you feeling scared and exhilarated at the same time.

Hitchhike through Europe

One of the best ways to see Europe is by hitchhiking.

Not only is it a fun way to travel, but you also get to meet some interesting people along the way.

This could be one of the best experiences you will have from this crazy bucket list, so take the chance and go for it.

But, make sure you are taking safety precautions, because even though hitch hiking can be an adventure, it can also be dangerous.

Visit the Aokigahara Forest in Japan

The Aokigahara Forest is one of the most mysterious and haunted places in Japan.

There are many legends and ghost stories associated with this forest, making it the perfect place for a spooky adventure.

Cycle the length of Vietnam

Vietnam is a beautiful country to cycle through.

Not only will you get to see the sights and sounds of Vietnam, but you will also get to meet the friendly people of this amazing country.

Snowmobile across the Arctic tundra

The Arctic tundra is one of the most inhospitable places on earth.

But that doesn’t stop people from snowmobiling across it.

It’s a once in a lifetime experience that you will never forget.

Go Storm chasing in the Midwest United States

The Midwest United States is home to some of the most severe thunderstorms in the world.

Tornado Alley is located in the Midwest, making it the perfect place for storm chasing.

It’s an adrenaline rush like no other, so go ahead and check this off your crazy bucket list.

Visit Chernobyl in Ukraine

The Chernobyl Exclusion Zone is an area that was abandoned after the Chernobyl nuclear disaster.

This area is now home to some of the most radioactive areas in the world.

If you’re looking for an adventure, visit the Chernobyl in Ukraine .

Volcano boarding in Nicaragua

Nicaragua is home to some of the most active volcanoes in the world.

One of the most exciting ways to see these volcanoes is by volcano boarding.

Volcano boarding is a new and exhilarating way to see an active volcano.

A popular location for this activity is in the Cerro Negro which is in western Nicaragua.

Rappel down a waterfall in Costa Rica

Victoria Waterfall in Costa Rica is considered the repelling capital of the world.

You will be going on a 45 minute horseback ride before reaching the waterfall and climbing up to the rugged cliff face.

If you’re looking for an adventure, rappel down this waterfall in Costa Rica .

Drink snake wine in China

Snake wine is a popular drink in China.

It is made by infusing whole snakes into rice wine.

If you’re looking for an adventure, try drinking snake wine in China.

Check this off your crazy bucket list and you will be sure to have some interesting stories to tell.

Sand boarding in the Sahara Desert

The Sahara Desert is the largest desert in the world.

It’s also the hottest!

But that doesn’t stop people from sand boarding in it.

Sand boarding is a new and exhilarating way to experience the Sahara Desert.

Cliff Jump in Acapulco, Mexico

Acapulco, Mexico is home to some of the most beautiful cliffs in the world.

One of the most popular spots to do this activity is La Quebrada, which is a famous beach town.

If you’re looking for an adventure, cliff jump in Acapulco, Mexico.

Try survival camping in the Canadian wilderness

The Canadian wilderness is a vast and rugged area.

If you’re looking for an adventure, try survival camping in the Canadian wilderness.

This will test your skills as a camper and will be a challenge you’ll never forget.

Ice climb a frozen waterfall in New Hampshire

New Hampshire is home to some of the most beautiful frozen waterfalls in the world.

One of the best places to do this activity is at Frankenstein Cliff.

Ice climbing is a challenging and amazing experience that you will never forget.

Zorb down a hill in Germany

Zorbing is a new and exhilarating way to experience a roller coaster.

You will be placed in a large plastic ball and then you will be sent rolling down a hill.

This is an adventure that you will never forget.

Swim with jellyfish in Palau

If you have ever been bit by a jelly wish, you know how painful it can be.

So why swim with them you ask?

Well in Palau the jellyfish are harmless because they have no stingers.

It’s a once in a lifetime experience that you will never forget, so go ahead and check this off your crazy bucket list!

Go skydiving over the Swiss Alps

The Swiss Alps are some of the most picturesque mountains in the world.

They are also home to some of the best skydiving locations.

If you’re looking for an adventure, go skydiving over the Swiss Alps.

Kayak through the Amazon River

The Amazon River is the largest river in the world.

It’s also one of the most dangerous rivers to kayak down.

If you’re looking to fulfill your adventure bucket list, kayak through the Amazon River.

This will be a challenge that you will never forget.

Go canyoneering in Zion National Park

Zion National Park is home to some of the most beautiful canyons in the world.

One of the best ways to experience these canyons is by going canyoneering.

Canyoneering is when you hike and climb through the canyons.

This is an adventure that you will love adding to your crazy bucket list.

Watch the penguins in Antarctica

Antarctica is the coldest and most isolated continent in the world.

But that doesn’t stop tourists from going there to see the penguins.

Penguins are one of the main attractions in Antarctica and it’s a once in a lifetime experience that you will always remember.

Swim in Devils Pool at Victoria Falls

Victoria Falls is a waterfall located on the Zambezi River.

One of the most popular activities at Victoria Falls is swimming in Devils Pool .

This pool is located right on the edge of the falls and it’s a thrilling experience that will be a great addition to your adventure bucket list.

Hang out with lions in Africa

Africa is home to some of the most beautiful and dangerous animals in the world.

One of the best places to see these animals is at a safari park.

If you’re looking for an adventure, hang out with lions in Africa.

This will be a once in a lifetime experience that you will never forget.

Be a cowboy for a day on a ranch in Wyoming

Wyoming is home to some of the most beautiful ranches in the world.

One of the best ways to experience these ranches is by spending a day or more as a cowboy.

This is a unique experience that should be on your crazy bucket list.

Climb the Sydney Harbour Bridge

The Sydney Harbour Bridge is a bridge that crosses the Sydney Harbour in Sydney, Australia.

It is the world’s tallest steel arch bridge.

If you’re looking for an adventure, climb the Sydney Harbour Bridge.

This will be a challenging and rewarding experience that will be amazing to check off your travel bucket list.

Float in the Dead Sea

The Dead Sea is the lowest point on Earth.

It is also one of the saltiest bodies of water in the world.

This makes it the perfect place to float.

If you’re looking for an adventure, float in the Dead Sea.

It will be a relaxing and unique experience that will be a highlight of your trip.

Ride a motorcycle through the Himalayas

The Himalayas are a mountain range in Asia that stretches more than 1,500 miles.

One of the best ways to experience these mountains is by riding a motorcycle through them.

You will be challenged by the terrain and rewarded with some of the most beautiful views in the world.

Explore the underground city of Derinkuyu

Derinkuyu is an underground city in Turkey.

It is one of the largest and oldest underground cities in the world.

If you’re looking for an adventure, explore the underground city of Derinkuyu .

There are tunnels, caves and rooms that have been carved into the rock over centuries and it’s an experience that you will never forget.

Get a tattoo in a traditional tribal style from an indigenous tribe in South America

South America is home to many indigenous tribes.

One of the best ways to experience their culture is by getting a tattoo from one of their members.

It can be a challenge to find a tribal tattooist, but it will be worth it when you see the beautiful and unique design that they create for you.

Run with the Bulls in Pamplona

Pamplona is a city in Spain that is most famous for its annual running of the bulls .

If you’re looking for an adventure, run with the bulls in Pamplona.

This will be a challenging and adrenaline-pumping experience that should be on your adventure bucket list.

Scuba dive in the Great Barrier Reef

The Great Barrier Reef is a coral reef system located off the coast of Queensland, Australia.

It is the largest reef system in the world and it’s home to some of the most beautiful marine life in the world.

If you’re looking for an adventure, scuba dive in the Great Barrier Reef.

You will be awed by the beauty of this natural wonder and the amazing creatures that call it home.

Isn’t it amazing how there are so many crazy bucket list ideas to experience out there in the world?

No matter what your interests are, you’re sure to find an adventure that’s right for you.

Final Thoughts

Now that you’ve seen our list of 50 crazy bucket list ideas, it’s time to get started on your own adventure!

Pick a few that interest you and get started on planning your next great adventure.

They say that the sky’s the limit when it comes to adventure bucket lists and we couldn’t agree more.

So go out and explore the world, have some fun and push your boundaries.

You never know what amazing experiences you might discover!

And make sure to comment below and let us know which of these adventures are on your travel bucket list!

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28 Adventures to Travel For, From Glacier Chasing in Greenland to Sand Surfing in the Sahara

By Caitlin Morton

As much as we love lounging on a faraway beach or revisiting our favorite city for the tenth time, sometimes our passports need some adventure travel—we’re talking about those once-in-a-lifetime trips that push us way outside our comfort zones. Adventure travel is a great way to see more of the world, while also testing your physical limits, and coming home with a lifetime's worth of stories to tell at parties.

Below, we’ve rounded up some of the most incredible outdoor adventures for intrepid travelers, ranging from climbing Machu Picchu to skydiving in Dubai . Even if you don’t consider yourself a daredevil, you’ll still find activities that feel exciting (hello, camping under the northern lights) without too much physical—or emotional—exertion required. So fasten your seatbelts, grab your best pair of hiking boots , and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime.

All listings featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. If you book something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

This gallery has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

Boat under the Iguazú Falls

South America’s Iguazú Falls, located on the border of Brazil and Argentina, make all other waterfalls look like mere trickles in comparison. The system of more than 200 cascades (reaching heights of around 270 feet) can be viewed from surrounding walkways and catwalks, but we’re fans of the more adventurous vantage-point—hopping on an Iguazú Jungle inflatable raft and sailing directly under the exhilarating, high-pressure falls.

Climb to Machu Picchu

No adventurer’s must-visit list is complete without Machu Picchu , the famous Incan citadel located in the Andes. While the site can be accessed via train and bus, more active travelers can take the five-day trek along the entire 26-mile-long Inca Trail. Or, thanks to local tour operator Sam Travel Peru , you can get dropped at kilometer marker 104 and do the whole experience in 24 hours .

Sand surf in the Sahara

The dunes of the Sahara are colossal, untouched, and tailor-made for extreme sports. The desert’s rows of barchans (meaning “crescent-shaped dunes” in Turkic) have ideal shapes for sand surfing (descending the slopes on a surfboard) and sandboarding (descending the slopes on a snowboard)—and those views don’t hurt, either. Stay at Erg Chigaga Luxury Camp in Morocco, which offers sandboarding in addition to other desert activities like camel rides and quad biking.

Heli-hike in British Columbia

With CMH Heli + Skiing , you can helicopter to the steepest and deepest powder in Canada for backcountry skiing. However, come summer , the company’s guides take guests on multi-day hiking trips to terrain otherwise inaccessible, along ridgelines, through alpine meadows, and to stunning viewpoints. While these high-altitude adventures are not for the faint at heart, the accommodations are quite comfortable, with log-hewn lodges complete with full-service restaurants, spa treatments, and a rooftop hot tub to relax in before another day on the trail.

CNT Editors

Steph Koyfman

Shannon McMahon

Hot air balloon over Cappadocia

A hot air balloon ride over central Turkey’s Cappadocia region provides 360-degree views of the famous limestone spires and “fairy chimneys”—something you can't get at the ground level. We recommend booking with Kapadokya Balloons , the first company that introduced hot air balloon tourism in Cappadocia. Services include transfers to and from your hotel, snacks, full insurance, and a champagne party after the flight.

Hunt for glaciers in Greenland

Greenland is relatively expensive and tricky to get to, but well worth the effort—especially since it’s one of the most untouched landscapes on the planet. Exhibit A: the hundreds-year-old icebergs and glaciers floating off the mainland, which you can get up close and personal with during a cruise excursion. ( Hurtigruten and Cruise Norway offer these sailings.)

Hop across Botswana on a mobile safari

While most safari camps stay in one place like a traditional hotel, the private canvas safaris by  Barclay Stenner Safaris are totally mobile, meaning you can pick up and move locations based on weather conditions and wildlife movements. The outfitter’s Botswana itinerary moves across the country to fauna-rich areas like the Okavango Delta and Makgadikgadi Salt Pans—get ready to follow groups of lions, hippos, elephants, and more.

Paraglide over Turkey’s Blue Lagoon

Oludeniz has one of the most beautiful beaches in Turkey, with pebble shores and a “blue lagoon” of aquamarine hues. The beach also happens to be one of the world's best places to paraglide, thanks to stable weather and gorgeous panoramic views. The launch site for most companies is from Babadağ mountain, with jumping-off points reaching 6,000 feet above sea level.

Explore the Great Barrier Reef

Divers and snorkelers everywhere need to experience the Great Barrier Reef at least once in their lifetime. Not only does the site have more than 400 different types of coral and 1,500 species of fish, but the natural wonder has been rapidly eroding due to coral bleaching and global warming . That means it’s more urgent than ever to see this sight in all its glory—and to understand what we are losing.

Swim through Mexico’s cenotes

Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula features a wealth of unique natural beauty, particularly when it comes to its cavernous cenotes. Floating in one of these natural sinkholes is an incredible experience, as is diving through the underground cave systems . When in Tulum , visit Dos Ojos (“Two Eyes”) to view one of the planet’s most beautiful underwater sites or Gran Cenote for rock formations that resemble Gothic architecture.

Free-fall over Dubai at 120 miles per hour

Dubai is one of the most over-the-top cities in the world, so are you really surprised that skydiving is one of its most popular activities?  Skydive Dubai is a company located near Jumeirah Beach, offering tandem skydiving for beginners and solo jumps for licensed divers. If you thought Dubai’s skyline was impressive already, just wait until you see it while falling from 13,000 feet in the air.

Scale Half Dome at Yosemite National Park

The Half Dome trail through Yosemite may be one of the most intense hikes you’ll ever take, stretching for 16 miles and ascending more than 5,500 feet. The final 400 feet are the trickiest—hikers must climb up the steep slope with two steel cables as their only support—but the breathtaking views from the top make the effort (and terror) worth it. Afterwards, stay at The Ahwahnee, one of the most beautiful national park hotels in the country.

Swim with great white sharks in South Africa

The fishing town of Gansbaai is often considered to be the birthplace of great white shark cage diving, an activity that would make most adrenaline junkies drool. Cage diving is totally safe (despite what some low-budget shark movies might lead you to believe), but we dare you to keep your heart rate in check as you come face-to-face with an apex predator.  Marine Dynamics is one of the most popular cage diving operators in town, with a marine biologist and videographer joining every tour.

Bungee jump in New Zealand

New Zealand practically invented adventure sports when the Kawarau Bridge Bungy opened in 1988. Here you join around 38,000 annual visitors to take the 140-foot jump from the South Island's historic, steel-framed Kawarau Bridge—an activity in which the views are almost as thrilling as the fall itself.

Climb Mount Fuji

Solitary Mount Fuji is probably Japan’s most iconic natural wonder , rising 12,388 feet above villages and reflecting on lakes’ surfaces. You can get views of the landmark from many places, like Lake Kawaguchi in Fujikawaguchiko and even the Park Hyatt Tokyo , but it’s the views from the mountain that will give you the most bragging rights. Visit from early July to mid-September to take advantage of the official climbing season, when the designated trails and paved roads are free of snow.

Go volcano boarding on Cerro Negro in Nicaragua

If you’re looking for action sports and adventure, we recommend booking a flight to Nicaragua right now. There you can kayak, surf, zipline through the jungle, and even sled down the side of an active volcano. Intrepid travelers love to climb up the 2,388-foot Cerro Negro and then “volcano board” back down (an activity where you sit or stand on a piece of plywood and slide your way down the slopes). You'll want to go with a guided group tour with this one. Bigfoot Hostels is one of many operators for excursions—for $25, you get transportation to the volcano, boards, safety equipment, snacks, and your speed clocked by a radar gun.

Take a white-knuckle drive in Norway

Who says your adrenaline can’t pump from the comfort of your car? Trollstigen is one of the world’s most popular (and  terrifying ) highways, known for its steep gradient and hairpin turns. The one-lane road passes such impressive wonders as the 1,050-foot Stigfossen waterfall, but be sure to pull over before you gawk and snap photos. There are several viewing platforms along the road that will let you take in the sites without risking a crash.

Dive Belize’s Great Blue Hole

Known for its circular shape and strikingly deep blue color , the Great Blue Hole is a 1,000-foot-wide sinkhole in the middle of Belize’s Lighthouse Reef. While an aerial shot is enough to convince anyone of its beauty, scuba divers are the ones who get to experience the wonders that lie beneath: massive, 40-foot limestone stalactites and stalagmites that formed during the last glacial period.

Go canyoning in the Azores

Portugal’s Azores Islands are equal parts adventurous and beautiful, inviting travelers to get up close and personal with nature while hiking, biking, and swimming. If you want to really push the envelope, try canyoning—an activity that has you rappel down a waterfall while navigating slippery rocks and fast-flowing water. Azores Getaways offers a comprehensive and easy-to-book experience. Training, equipment, on-site instructors, and snacks are all included in the excursion, which will no doubt become one of the most memorable of your life.

Kayak through Torres del Paine National Park

Chile’s Patagonia region is one of the most beautiful spots on the planet, and there are plenty of ways to explore the area. But while most people experience the sights while hiking, you can get a slightly different view from the water via a kayaking trip.  Kayak en Patagonia offers several tour options ranging in duration and difficulty levels, but all let you paddle past towering mountains, rugged glaciers, and other incredible vistas.

Sleep under the northern lights

Ah, the elusive northern lights . So many factors are at play when it comes to seeing the technicolor phenomenon—location, time of year, weather conditions—but it’s hard to lose with an excursion to Finnish Lapland. The Arctic area is one of the planet’s best for aurora viewing, especially if you get to sleep in an igloo hotel at Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort or mobile Aurora Bubble Sled . Up your viewing chances by planning a trip between December and March.

Go heli-skiing in Alaska

If you’re a seasoned traveler who’s conquered every black diamond slope in North America, there’s still one snowy adventure left to vanquish: heli-skiing. There’s nothing quite like hopping in a helicopter and being dropped onto untouched snow at the top of a mountain—especially in a setting as formidable as Alaska’s Chugach Mountains. The experienced guides at  Valdez Heli Ski Guides (VHSG) will help make this dream a reality, taking you to some of the best runs of your life and then letting you unwind (hot tub and massages included) at the cozy  Tsaina Lodge .

Snorkel between continents in Iceland

Iceland is one of the best countries in the world for adventure travel , with opportunities for everything from glacier hiking to snorkeling and diving. For the latter, head straight to Thingvellir National Park along the country’s Golden Circle route , where two tectonic plates slowly pull apart at the rate of about two centimeters (0.8 inches) per year. The phenomenon results in the Silfra fissure, a stunning rift valley where travelers can snorkel or dive in impossibly clear (and cold) waters. Tour company DIVE.IS offers tours for divers and every level of snorkeler—including those with no prior experience—and will snap an underwater photo of you touching two continents at the same time.

Float along the Amazon

Some remote destinations are best seen from the deck of a boat, and that includes the upper Amazon River. Aqua Expeditions ’ luxury cruises through the Peruvian stretch of the river tour the area’s wildlife and culture at a delightful, leisurely pace. You'll even have chef-prepared gourmet meals and five-star suites with floor-to-ceiling windows. Looking for something a little less luxe? Amazon Adventures offers kayaking trips along some Amazon tributaries, where you can fish for piranhas and camp out in the rainforest.

Surf ‘The Pipeline’ in Oahu

Oahu’s Banzai Pipeline (commonly referred to as The Pipeline) is easily one of the most sought-after surfing spots in the world. Located off the coast of the island’s north shore in Ehukai Beach Park, the surf reef break averages waves measuring nine feet high. This activity is definitely not for beginners, but even non-surfers will get a thrill out of watching the many surf competitions that take place at The Pipeline—all from the safety of a sunny beach.

Spot elusive wildlife in the Great Bear Rainforest

Canada’s Great Bear Rainforest is the largest intact temperate rainforest in the world—and one of the most magical, with elusive species like sea wolves and Kermode bears roaming its 21 million acres. Outer Shores Expeditions will take you on a nine-day excursion aboard a schooner, departing from British Columbia’s First Nations community of Bella Bella and stopping for sea kayaking along the way.

Soak in the planet’s most extreme infinity pool

Located on the border of Zimbabwe and Zambia, Victoria Falls attracts thousands of tourists each year. One of the biggest draws here is the Devil’s Pool , a naturally formed eddy sitting at the very edge of the falls, where daring swimmers can splash around between August and January (depending on water levels, that is). Given that a slippery rock barrier is the only thing separating you from going over the edge, this site is easily the planet’s most extreme infinity pool .

Camp in Antarctica

Antarctica is truly the final frontier when it comes to adventure travel, providing untouched landscapes, unique wildlife, and more activities than you’ll know what to do with (like cruising, caving, and thermal spring soaking , to name a few). If you can get yourself to Punta Arenas, Chile, Antarctic Logistics & Expeditions will fly you to Antarctica for three days of skiing and hiking before setting you up for a South Pole sleepover.

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12 crazy activities for your adventure travel bucket list

by Jeremy Scott Foster | Mar 13, 2019 | 0 comments

Note: All travel is subject to frequently changing governmental restrictions—please check federal, state and local advisories before scheduling trips. This article was last updated October 2020.

One of the best parts of traveling is the thrills you experience along the way. We’ve partnered with adventure travel expert Jeremy Scott Foster from TravelFreak,  as he talks about some of the most exhilarating travel bucket list items you can one day try around the world.

RELATED : Vacation rentals with beautiful waterfall views

What’s your favorite souvenir to take back home from a vacation? A few tacky magnets or maybe some cheap shot glasses?

How about bringing back memories from an unbelievably insane experience? Thankfully the world is full of hair-raising, spine-chilling, blood-tingling adventures that are just waiting to be ticked off of your travel bucket list.

That sounds way more exciting than a trinket you’ll immediately shove into your desk drawer.

Travel practically goes hand in hand with crazy experiences, and you don’t have to search far to find thrilling adventures . But just in case you need some inspiration, here are some of the wildest travel bucket list ideas.

1. Hot air balloon over Cappadocia, Turkey

While it’s possible to hot air balloon almost anywhere in the world, soaring high above the fairy chimneys in Cappadocia is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. The rocky peaks and steep valleys look as if you’re floating over the moon.

Want to know what makes this adventure even more spectacular?

You’ll be flying with upwards of a hundred other balloons, making the view even more stunning than you could ever imagine.

2. Hike China’s most dangerous mountain

Blurring the line between thrilling and dangerous, trekking Mt. Huashan is less like a hike and more like knee-shaking shuffle over thin, wooden planks. With only a steel cable chaining you to safety, you’ll have to rely on your balancing skills to make it to the end.

If being suspended on the side of a 2,000-foot cliff doesn’t scare you, then grab your chain and swing out on one foot for an unforgettable thrill.

3. Walk on the wings of an airplane in Essex, U.K.

Would you call me crazy if I said you could ride on an airplane 1,000 feet in the air while being strapped to the outside?

Wing walking is an adrenaline-fueled ride atop a 1940s biplane that twists, turns, and dips while flying a heart-racing 130mph. If you’re not afraid of flying, then check wing walking off your travel bucket list.

4. Bungee jump (naked!) in Queenstown, New Zealand

Free falling with one of the world’s largest bungee jumps might be hair-raising enough for some, but why not take it to the next level? Leave your underwear and pants on the side and jump the Nevis Bungy completely naked!

Your 8-second fall will feel like an eternity as you plunge 440-feet through the Nevis River Valley with nothing but your sneakers on.

5. Hike the Matanuska Glacier in Alaska

Trekking through the icy pools and deep crevices of the Matanuska Glacier is more than your average weekend hike. The 27-mile long trail winds you through 10,000-year-old dramatic glacier cliffs and glowing ice falls.

Although the setting may seem peaceful and serene, glacier hiking should always be done with an experienced tour guide. You don’t want to encounter a sudden steep cliff or fall through a thin sheet of ice!

6. Skydive over Mount Everest in Nepal

Don’t just hike the world’s highest mountain — fly over it! Skydiving over the Himalayan Mountains with Mt. Everest as your backdrop should be ranked high on your list of travel bucket items.

With adrenaline pumping through your veins and the crisp mountain breeze flowing through your hair, the 23,000-foot plunge over Mt. Everest is an adventure you will never forget.

7. Run the Marathon des Sables in Morocco

Even the most dedicated of athletics will break a sweat if you mention the Marathon des Sables. Considered the toughest race in the world, this ultramarathon will test your limits physically and emotionally.

Not only are you faced with running 156 miles over six days, but you’ll also need to run it through the Sahara Desert where the average temperature hovers around 105 degrees Fahrenheit.

8. Board Down the Cerro Negro Volcano in Nicaragua

With over a dozen active volcanos, it’s easy to see how Nicaragua earned the title, “The Land of Lakes and Volcanos.” While many tourists come to hike the molten Cerro Negro volcano, the best (and most thrilling) way to experience the mountain is by sliding down its slopes at 65mph!

After strapping on your sandboard, you’ll whizz down almost 2,500 feet through sand and ash while lava radiates the surface below you. Although you have a handbrake, the ever-present reminder that Cerro Negro could erupt at any time should propel you to go as fast as possible.

9. Race rickshaws through India

The quarter-yearly Rickshaw Race takes eager adventure seekers from one side of India to the other on nothing more than a broken down, three-wheeled rickshaw.

You must start and end your journey according to the rules, but the route along the way is entirely up to you. From exploring the lush Central Highlands or zipping through rural villages, the Rickshaw Race is the perfect way to explore a country while crossing off a few items from your travel bucket list.

10. Cave dive in Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula

If you’re looking to take your scuba diving to the next level, then think about plunging into the depths of Mexico’s cenote caves . The Yucatán Peninsula is home to the longest cave system in the world, with over 30,000 individual sunken cenotes to swim through.

Exploring the dark, dim underwater caves is not for the inexperienced or claustrophobic, but it’s a unique opportunity to discover the ocean from a perspective that few have ever seen.

11. Ice Karting in Levi, Finland

We’ve all heard throughout our lives that driving on ice is dangerous and should always be avoided, but ice karting flips that whole thought upside down. In Finland, you have the chance to race 13 horse-power go-karts as you speed and slide around corners of the icy, outdoor track.

Although it’s often compared to indoor go-kart racing, ice karting is in an entirely different league. Slippery sheets of ice may not be the easiest terrain to drive on, but it sure is an exciting idea to add to your bucket list.

12. Jump off Berlin’s highest building

Although the panoramic views from Berlin’s Park Inn Hote l are stunning, you won’t have time to admire them as you fall 400 feet towards the city street below you. Unlike bungee jumping, base flying decelerates your fall right before you hit the ground, so you don’t spring back up.

Base flying is even more spectacular at night, with the twinkling skyline and Berlin tower illuminating the sky.

Bucket lists exist for a reason. They remind us to step outside our comfort zones and tackle life head-on. The world is full of adventures , so don’t be afraid to do something completely and utterly unforgettable.

• Latest Posts

Jeremy Scott Foster

Latest posts by jeremy scott foster ( see all ).

• 17 cheap places to travel in Europe - April 26, 2019
• 9 essential packing tips for traveling carry-on only - March 27, 2019
• 11 Unbelievably Beautiful Scuba Diving Destinations in the Caribbean - March 26, 2019

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Our Top 10 Unique & Unusual Vacations

You’ve been there and done that. You’ve traveled well and you’ve traveled far. And now you want to do things differently . Well, our unusual vacations take you off the beaten path – and they keep on going.

Unusual – for us – isn’t about being a voyeur. It’s about really getting to grips with a very different way of life. Let a Mongolian nomad teach you how the eagle soars. Build your own igloo in Greenland’s endless North. Batten down the hatches as you sail across the arctic. This is all about the weird and wonderful.

Our Top 10 Unusual Vacations List Includes:

• Live With The Bürtkitshi Of Western Mongolia
• Walk Face To Face With Gorillas In Rwanda
• Learn The Art Of The Ninja In Japan
• Explore Prehistoric Lakes From The Base Of Your Camp
• Receive A Blessing In The Floating Villages Of Lake Titicaca
• Ski Unnamed Peaks In Lofoten
• A Different Kind Of Safari
• Join The Dani Tribe In Papua New Guinea
• Go Back To The Beginning In Ethiopia
• When India Opens Its Doors In The Summer

With the help of our Travel Experts, is your next unusual story around the corner?

Psst if you’re looking for something truly unique and unusual for you and your family then follow us down the rabbit hole and explore our adventures inspired by classic children’s stories, Take me on a Story .

#1 Live with the Bürtkitshi of Western Mongolia

In the far corners of the Bayan-Olgii region, Kazakh nomads traverse the plateau as their ancestors did before them. Goats wander, gers are packed and unpacked, milk is served, eagles sore, communities move to fresh pasture. The cycle continues. This is one of the most remote and unchanged communities in the world. 

Local legend says that whilst a man trains the eagle, the eagle trains the man. On this trip you’ll live the legend – learning the struggles and the euphoria of this way of life. The highlight will come when you ascend the Altai Mountains themselves, where your Great Eagle Hunter host – and guide – will show you how the community supports and sustains itself. You’ll become truly embedded in this alternative way of life.

Open your eyes – and your heart – and step inside an ancient tradition that’s still very much alive and kicking. And soaring, of course.

EXPERIENCE THIS

See all Mongolia experiences

#2 Walk face to face with Gorillas in Rwanda

It’s an early morning start. You’ve eaten breakfast, sipped bleary-eyed at your coffee. A last check of your bag and you head north, passing local communities where farmers are harvesting coffee beans and children run alongside you whispering with excitement about your destination and the mythical hosts you’ll meet. 

There’s nothing usual, even to the locals here in Volcanoes National Park, about coming face to face with the region’s most unusual inhabitants. The jungle is dense and mysterious, everyone’s energy is high with anticipation. It’s one of those moments you can see coming but don’t know what to expect.

What does it feel like to look back 10 million years? How will you react once sitting within feet of the Great Apes as they peer back at you? You can’t be sure before you go. One thing that is for sure though: a single journey into the jungles of Virunga can change your life.

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#3 Learn the art of the Ninja in Japan

You’re traditionally dressed, trained and educated in the way of one of Japan’s most ancient ways of life. There’s your moment, the story you’ll bring back. Born from half-man, half crow, the history and presence of the Ninja in Japan is mysterious and at times otherworldly. For over a thousand years the Ninja have been deployed for their espionage and strategy, to infiltrate, understand and – when needed – assassinate .*

Today, their descendants continue in this meditative, progressive way of life. Without the killing. But they do know their way around a sword. 

You’ll meet your Ninjutsu teacher at the sacred Dojo – a place of learning and peace. Here you’ll be taken on a journey through the history of the Ninja and learn to think, breathe and fight like these infamous warriors of ancient Japan.

* don’t worry, you won’t have to assassinate anyone. That costs extra.

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#4 Explore prehistoric lakes from the base of your camp

40,000 years ago Lake Minchin in the Altiplano region of Bolivia began to recede. Year by year it receded, leaving behind a 10,000 square kilometer crust of salt. The extraordinary Salar De Uyuni salt flat is an adventurer’s playground, where the vast horizon and reflective salt create visual illusions that feel like being pulled into a new world.

What’s different about our trip to this otherworldly place? Well, whilst others visit, you’ll be staying on the salt flats themselves. After all, a few hours isn’t enough to really immerse yourself in somewhere so ethereal. Whilst everyone else heads back to the world’s highest capital, La Paz, you’ll be sitting outside your custom dome camp, staring up at an infinite galaxy of stars. 

Welcome to Bolivia. This isn’t another planet. Even if it looks that way.

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#5 Receive a blessing in the floating villages of Lake Titicaca

This isn’t the capital. It’s not the beach town everyone goes to. This is the home of the Uros, a community that predates even the Incans. They say they’ve been here longer than the sun itself when the earth was dark and cold. They live high in the Andean mountains, on the shores of Lake Titicaca where Totora reeds are bedded down one atop the other until they’re stable enough to build entire communities on.

That’s what you’ll find here: an ancient tribe of people, relatively unchanged in a millennia, who have made reed beds the foundation of their community, one that floats on the surface of the spectacular Lake Titicaca.

If you want to find out more, the shaman here will take you into his shelter and tell you the stories of his people and how they outlasted the Spanish, the Incan’s and even the sun itself.

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Had a read of the above but still looking for something else? We have some more options for you below and if you’re looking to pick up some sunshine whilst exploring a weird and wonderful place, take a look at our unusual beach vacations here.

#6 Ski unnamed peaks in Lofoten

You’re in the arctic circle. Yesterday you were sailing through a wintery archipelago. Today you’re skiing unnamed slopes (go on, name one). Tomorrow you’re setting out in search of the Aurora Borealis. Welcome to Lofoten, not your usual adventure. Not your usual story.

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#7 A different kind of Safari

This is not Kenya, Botswana or South Africa. This is the Congo. And very different. Our eight day adventure through Odzala-Kokua National Park will take you into a new world. One of the most mysterious on earth. Lowland Gorillas, African grey parrots, and forest elephants await.

See all Congo experiences

#8 Join the Dani Tribe in Papua New Guinea

The world is getting smaller, the blank space on the map are all but filled in. Papua New Guinea however, is one of those wild untamed wildernesses where remote tribal communities continue today as they did 10,000 years ago. Ready to step back in time and join the tribe?

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#9 Go back to the beginning in Ethiopia

Not many people consider Ethiopia, simply because of the challenge of traveling there. We’ve unpicked this enigmatic destination however and will take you completely off the grid into the hidden monasteries in the Simien Mountains, the castles of Gondar and rock-cut monolithic churches of Lalibela.

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#10 WHEN INDIA OPENS ITS DOORS IN THE SUMMER

It can only mean one place – Ladakh. High in the north western region of India, hidden in Jammu and Kashmir you’ll find yourself in an ancient kingdom, impassible but for a few short summer months, when the place lets a few visitors sneak in to marvel at a region untouched, undiscovered and full of adventure to be had.

Experience this

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NOT WHAT YOU WERE LOOKING FOR?

Whilst there are some unusual destinations and events happening around the world that we tap into to create our experiences. We also take our own approach to travel, creating exclusive unique experiences from the ground up, ones that can only be enjoyed with Black Tomato. From wilderness survival to glamping on unconquered mountains, these are our unique services.

Designed for those looking for a once-in-a-lifetime challenge. Train with elite survival experts before traversing a polar, jungle, coastal, mountain or desert region in your mission back to civilization. Ready for the challenge?

The ultimate luxury camping retreat. From the Sahara desert to the Andean Mountains, with Blink anywhere you can envisage it, we will create it. Stay where no one has ever stayed before and where no one will ever stay again. An experience exclusively for you.

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Wander-Lush

35 Unusual Holiday Destinations for Alternative Travellers

The very best quirky, unconventional and unusual holiday destinations for travellers who love to go their own way.

Do you consider yourself an unconventional tourist, or are you happy enough to stick to the path well travelled?

‘Off the beaten track’ is one of the most overused phrases in travel writing. In this day and age, there are few destinations truly worthy of such a title. But it’s also true that there’s never been a better time to break from the crowd and travel off the radar.

Also read: 25 best alternative city breaks in Europe .

Some of these holiday destinations are considered unusual because they’re remote and difficult to reach. Others have a harsh climate or are misunderstood, while some are simply overlooked for more touristy alternatives.

Whether it’s pristine nature, complete solitude or authentic cultural encounters you seek, this list has something for you. Compiled by a list of expert travellers, each of these places is utterly underrated and more than worthy of your consideration as an alternative holiday destination.

Browse the full list or use the links below to find a favourite.

Please note: This post contains affiliate links, meaning I may earn a commission if you make a purchase by clicking a link (at no extra cost to you). Learn more.

35 unusual holiday destinations that should be on your radar

With the help of my favourite travel bloggers, I scoured every continent to find the best unusual travel destinations worthy of a mention. Here’s what we came up with!

If you have anything more to add, please leave your suggestions in the comments section at the end!

1. Azerbaijan, the land of fire

Editor’s choice

Azerbaijan is a strong contender for the world’s most underrated holiday destination.

Compared to its more-popular neighbours, Georgia and Armenia , Azerbaijan’s relatively strict visa policy has been a deterrent for many travellers. But an e-visa introduced in 2017 now makes it easier than ever to travel to Azerbaijan .

Baku, the biggest city, is one of the most curious capitals in the world . Enriched by decades of oil wealth, it boasts ambitious architecture and large-scale civic projects including the Bulvar, a massive seaside boulevard along the Caspian, and the world’s largest flag pole. Icherisheher , Old Baku’s historic core, is a complete contrast, with its Zoroastrian tower and stone caravanserais.

Beyond the city, the otherworldly landscape of the Absheron Peninsula includes mud volcanoes and flaming hillsides (a result of all that subterranean oil). Go mountain hiking, visit the small towns of Guba and Lahic where artisans ply their traditional trades, and visit Sheki , home of the legendary UNESCO Site , the Palace of the Sheki Khans.

2. Oman, for a Middle Eastern road trip

The Middle East is the last place most people think of when planning a road trip. But Oman is the perfect place for self-driving.

New highways, cheap fuel and a surplus of things to see make this the perfect spot for an adventurous holiday. If you’re on a budget , you’ll be pleased to know that it’s perfectly legal to pitch a tent almost anywhere you fancy in Oman. A night of glamping in one of the country’s desert camps is also a must.

Start your road trip in Muscat, where you’ll find Oman’s premier cultural institutions and the lively Muttrah Souq, before making your way down the coast. At Ras Al Jinz, the easternmost tip of the Arabian Peninsula, you can visit one of the world’s most active turtle nesting sights.

Inland, Oman offers sweeping deserts, dramatic mountains and valleys for hiking, and a variety of historic fortresses. Drop into some of the many wadis and sinkholes as you go to cool off from the desert heat.

Don’t judge Oman by it’s location on the map – this is an overwhelmingly safe, relatively budget-friendly and abundantly beautiful country with a strong tradition of hospitality and a vibrant, well-preserved cultural heritage.

3. The far north of Vietnam

Aside from super-popular Sapa and Bac Ha , far Northern-Vietnam is home to a number of lesser-visited national parks and alternative trekking spots. Second or third-time visitors to Vietnam should prioritise spending time in the north.

Ha Giang and Pu Luong both offer underrated landscapes largely free of crowds, while the charming colonial port city of Hai Phong has a similar vibe to Hanoi but with a much slower pace of life. Picking tea in Thai Nguyen, trekking in Moc Chau during spring bloom or tea-picking season , taking a boat out on Ba Be Lake and gazing up at the vertiginous rice terraces around Son La are just a few of the totally unique experiences you can have in Northern Vietnam.

Treat yourself to a local homestay while you’re there – this is far and away the best strategy to get an inside look at some of Vietnam’s many ethnic minority cultures. In Da Bac , yet another hidden gem in the far-north, you can stay with the community in traditional wooden houses while using the small villages as a base for trekking.

4. Transnistria, a breakaway state in Eastern Europe

By Luda from Adventures with Luda

Transnistria is an unconventional travel destination for two reasons. First, it’s referred to as ‘a country that doesn’t exist’. Even though it has its own constitution, army, currency, and citizenship, no other sovereign nation actually recognises it as such.

Secondly, Transnistria feels as though it’s stuck in time thanks to the Soviet posters, Lenin statues and 60s-style Khrushchyovka buildings sprinkled around town. Many travellers have called it a ‘Communist theme park’ because of how well-preserved everything is.

Transnistria is the perfect place for travellers who are interested in Soviet history and off-the-beaten-path experiences. It’s easy to reach from Chisinau, Moldova or Odessa, Ukraine and can be part of a day trip or a longer journey.

The majority of things to do in Transnistria are in Tiraspol, the capital. Start off with a walk along October 25th Street, the main road that runs through the city, before stopping at the colourful House of Soviets. See the historical moments on Suvorov Square and take a peek inside the City Library, which still has its Soviet-era murals.

5. Nicosia, the world’s last divided capital

By Helen from Helen on her Holidays

Nicosia, the capital of Cyprus, is the world’s last divided capital city.

Since 1983, the city has been split by the ‘Green Line’, a border between the Republic of Cyprus and Turkish-controlled Northern Cyprus.

The border was completely sealed and crossed only by UN peacekeeping forces for decades, but in 2008 the restrictions were relaxed. Today it’s possible to visit both parts of Nicosia . The border crossing and distinct character of the two sides of Nicosia make it one of the world’s most unusual city breaks.

The Greek-speaking Republic side of the border is much like other European capitals, with Starbucks, McDonalds and H&M all present. But at the end of the main shopping street there’s a border crossing, and if you cross into North Nicosia it’s immediately clear that you’ve stepped into a completely different culture.

Both sides of Nicosia have interesting sights, but North Nicosia has the edge in atmosphere and attractions. Don’t miss the stunning mosque set in a former cathedral and the medieval caravanserai.

6. Nova Scotia’s Annapolis Valley, a hidden gem in Canada

By Lee & Stacey from One Trip at a Time

Most visitors to Nova Scotia will likely visit Halifax, the South Shore, or drive the Cabot Trail. Those who are a little more adventurous might hike the Skyline Trail in Cape Breton , part of the coastal road that encircles the island.

If you’re looking for somewhere less travelled, check out the Annapolis Valley , which may be more than you expect!

History buffs will find places to learn about this part of Canada including the Grand-Pré, a UNESCO World Heritage site that tells the tragic story of Acadian expulsion, and Port-Royal, the first European settlement in Canada founded in 1605.

Food and wine lovers can savour the flavours of the region: Taste hand-picked berries, take a wine tour and tasting at one of the many vineyards, and try the apples the Valley is known for. Locals have been celebrating the annual Apple Blossom Festival here since 1933.

Outdoor enthusiasts will also find plenty to love. You can go whale watching in the Bay of Fundy, hike along coastal cliffs or forest trails leading to waterfalls, or canoe and back-country camp in one of the province’s parks or wilderness areas.

All of this is just a taste of what this vibrant region of Nova Scotia has to offer.

7. Mississippi Gulf Coast, the ‘secret coast’

By Charles from McCool Travel

The Mississippi Gulf Coast is one of America’s most underrated destinations and should top every intrepid traveller’s wish list.

This relatively undiscovered area – also called Coastal Mississippi (or The Secret Coast) – is located between New Orleans and Mobile Alabama, and highlighted by gorgeous beaches (with magnificent sunrises and sunsets), abundant waterways, fresh seafood, and a quirky culture.

Popular Coastal Mississippi outdoor activities centre around the USA’s largest man-made beach and largest free-flowing river. At 26 miles wide and 200 feet deep, the continuous beach from Pass Christian to Biloxi is a constant enticement for travellers on the Gulf Coast Scenic Byway. Explore the Pascagoula River on a guided McCoy’s Swamp Tour or rented kayak from Pascagoula River Audubon Center.

Mississippi Gulf Coast is a wonderfully unique and rare coastal ecosystem because of its magnificent live oak trees which magically enhance its two phenomenal small beach towns, Ocean Springs and Bay St Louis.

During your Coastal Mississippi visit, try every version of shrimp and grits and savour as many sunsets as you can.

8. Mongolia’s Gobi Desert, the ‘singing sands’

By Dean and Laynni from Routinely Nomadic

Despite being the most popular destination in Mongolia (which really isn’t saying much considering how few tourists make it there), most travellers still know very little about the sprawling natural beauty of the Gobi Desert .

Fascinating and diverse, it features an impressively desolate and atmospheric desert, along with the 300-metre high ‘singing sands’ of Khongoryn Els, the tallest and most picturesque of the country’s extensive series of wild sand dunes. But there is far more to the Gobi than just desert.

The most efficient way to visit is by rustic-but-adventurous jeep tour. On a typical 7-day, 6-night excursion, you can try horseback riding through the steppes and camel riding through the dunes, enjoy cosy nights and typical Mongolian BBQ in traditional gers , and explore the Flaming Cliffs, the Olgiid Khiid monastery, Yolyn Am gorge, and the deceptively named White Stupa (which is actually a set of stupa-like rocks).

Needless to say, the Gobi Desert has a little something for everyone, except maybe those looking for a decent toilet.

9. Lithuania, a history buff’s dream

By Monica from This Rare Earth

Lithuania is a little-known country in Eastern Europe filled with castles and forests, shore line and old-town charm.

The capital city of Vilnius was the first of four places in Lithuania to be named a UNESCO World Heritage Sight. A charming blend of old and new, Vilnius is a city of contradictions that any traveller can fall in love with.

Many of the notable sights in Vilnius, Lithuania are completely free to visit. St. Anne’s Church offers an amazing example of architecture, with its stunning gothic-style facade, and the Cathedral Square with its tall white bell tower is stunning. So much of the city’s history can be discovered on a walk around Old Town Vilnius .

An extensive bus system covers the country and can take you to locations such as Trakai Castle, the port town of Klaipeda, and – reachable by ferry – the unbelievable Curonian Spit.

Thirty percent of the country is covered with forest and nature. Between the unspoiled wilderness and the charm of the historical cities, there is truly something for everyone in unexpected Lithuania!

10. The Bahamas Out Islands, an unconventional island paradise

By Jackie from Enjoy Travel Life

If you’re thinking of a tropical getaway to the Caribbean but feel discouraged by overcrowded beaches and towering resort chains, look to The Bahamas Out Islands. This collection of small islands south of the popular Grand Bahamas offers deserted beaches, unspoiled nature and secluded bungalows.

Here you’ll find an exclusive, unconventional island paradise.

Perhaps you’ve heard about The Abacos or Eleuthera, but as you travel further south along the archipelago, the islands become almost unknown: Cat Island , Crooked Island and Ackins each offer unique island beauty. 

You’ll enjoy the laid-back beach vibe, fruity rum drinks and delicious Bahamian seafood dishes – try Conch and Grouper! If you’re seeking more adventure, you can scuba dive along the islands’ rich coral reef or kayak through the mangroves. You might even try bonefishing or wind-sailing.

Be sure to pack several bathing suits and leave your laptop behind. While some resorts may have Wi-Fi in the common areas, it’s spotty at best. Rest assured, there’s no better place for a digital detox.

11. The High Canadian Arctic

By Mikaela from Voyageur Tripper

Nunavut is a seldom traveled destination, but one that deserves a place on any traveller’s bucket list. The largest territory in Canada, Nunavut covers one fifth of the country and extends into the High Arctic, nearly reaching the North Pole.

This land is vast, characterised by rolling tundra and meandering icebergs, ragged cliffs and frozen sea ice. As one of the most remote regions on the globe, activities out on the land are varied and plentiful, including snowmobiling, dog sledding, hiking and kayaking.

Travellers on a budget can explore the capital city of Iqaluit and experience a taste of life north of the 60th parallel. Those with larger budgets can join wildlife safaris and witness wild animals including polar bears, narwhals, beluga, walrus and caribou.

Regardless of the type of trip, any time in Nunavut will leave you craving more. Its magical environment is one that lingers long after the flight home has landed.

12. Lichtenstein, a tiny country with big heart

By Derek & Mike from Robe Trotting

An amazing destination in Europe that doesn’t attract a lot of tourism is the micro-state of Liechtenstein. One reason this tiny country is so unconventional is the fact that it’s doubly land-locked by Austria and Switzerland. It’s also a mere 25 kilometres long. 

While it may lack territory, there are surprisingly a lot of things to do in Liechtenstein . There are five castles to visit, two of which have been fully restored and three more that are ruins. The royal family also maintains a vineyard and wine cellar in Vaduz, the largest city and capital. Visitors can enjoy a walk-in tasting and wine dinners can be arranged for larger groups. 

In Liechtenstein you’ll also discover beautiful natural wonders. Hiking is one of the most popular activities and Eschnerberg Trail is one of the most-hiked trails in the entire region. The views of the Alpine Rhine and mountains are reason enough to visit Liechtenstein.

13. Iran, the home of hospitality

By Coni from Experiencing the Globe

Iran is often portrayed in the media as a dangerous destination, but that couldn’t be further from the truth. It’s one of the most diverse countries in the world, which makes it a great destination for any kind of traveller.

In Iran, you’ll find rich history, nature, architecture, culture and adventure. But what defines this country is its people. The hospitality you experience has no comparison; it’s simply reason enough to book a ticket.

The country is big, so dedicate as much time as possible to explore it. In a couple of weeks, you can fit in the main sights: Tehran, Isfahan, Yazd, the Silk Road city of Shiraz and Persepolis. If you have more time, add Kerman and the Lut desert to the list, the ancient citadels of Rayen and Bam, and Qeshm and Hormuz islands for stunning nature.

If you want to go absolutely off the beaten path and experience the nation’s hospitality at its very best, also include Iranian Kurdistan in your itinerary.

14. Iraqi Kurdistan, a diverse corner of the Middle East

By Diana from The Globetrotting Detective

Iraqi Kurdistan  is not a well-known travel destination due to the negative portrayal and misconceptions fuelled by the media. First of all, it’s crucial that we understand that Iraqi Kurdistan is an autonomous region recognised by the Republic of Iraq.

It means that Iraqi Kurdistan has its own borders and their own government and military. Therefore, when you hear something about Iraq in the news, that’s most probably not valid for Iraqi Kurdistan.

To see the reality, we have to travel to Iraqi Kurdistan. Iraqi Kurdistan, similarly to Iran, is an extremely safe travel destination.

The first thing that you will learn about in Iraqi Kurdistan is Kurdish hospitality. Hospitality is definitely running in the veins of Kurdish people. They cherish their visitors like a precious jewel and treat them with utmost respect and care. People are so friendly and deeply kind that Iraqi Kurdistan will just get under your skin and you will not want to leave. One feeling that this place can give visitors is that the world would be a much better place just by simply being kind to each other.

In Iraqi Kurdistan, there are tons of mind-blowing places to visit.

Kurdistan offers a plethora of natural beauties such as the Rawanduz Canyon, Halgurd Mountain and Dukan Lake which are perfect hiking destinations as well. You can also witness a lot of cultural diversity in Iraqi Kurdistan. You can learn about Muslim, Christian and Yazidi cultures.

The capital, Erbil, is one of the oldest cities in the world where you can find historical sites, old bazaars, cosy cafés where you can get to know friendly locals.

Some of the oldest Christian monasteries of the world, namely Mar Mattai Monastery and the Rabban Hormizd Monastery are to be found in Iraqi Kurdistan. Another iconic and very important cultural site is Lalish, the most sacred place of the followers of Yazidi faith, where you can only enter barefoot.

15. Pakistan, mother nature at her finest

By Samantha from Intentional Detours

Pakistan might just be the most underrated holiday destination in the world. Dozens of record-breaking mountain peaks, lush green valleys, hundreds of kilometres of coastline, a rich cuisine that constantly awes the tastebuds – plus some of the friendliest people in the world – all make this South Asian destination a traveller’s dream.

Perhaps the best thing about Pakistan is that it yet remains mostly undiscovered by foreign tourists. Though numbers are steadily increasing, it’s not uncommon to go weeks without meeting a fellow foreigner when you’re on the road.

Pakistan’s mountains are its crown jewel, and no trip to the country would be complete with a visit to Gilgit Baltistan. Though the Hunza district gets all the glory, don’t be afraid to get a bit off the beaten path and explore places like Ghizer Valley, a beautiful hamlet filled with the bluest lakes and rivers you could ever dream of.

It’s easy to get lost in the mountains, but skipping out on Pakistan’s historical places would be akin to a crime. The country boasts thousands of years of human history, and cities such as Lahore reveal pieces of the Mughal Era everywhere, from the 300-year-old mosques to summer pavilions, tombs, and vast gardens.

The southern province of Sindh is also teeming with historically and culturally important sites and should not be missed, especially when it cools down come October.

16. Sumba, a Bali alternative

By Sarah from Hotels & Hand Luggage

Sumba is a relatively unknown Indonesian island that’s just an hour and a half flight from Bali.

The landscape is teeming with beautiful photo spots including deserted beaches, dancing trees, rolling hills, traditional villages and hidden lagoons. Unlike Bali however, it’s likely you’ll arrive at these enchanting places without any other tourists around.

Sumba is larger than Bali so hiring a driver is a must if you want to make the most of your time here. The island is divided into east and west, with the locals on each side holding different ancient traditions.

There aren’t many hotel options on the island and most offerings are still very basic, but the lack of comfort is worth it to experience a place still steeped in tradition. One accommodation option well worth a visit is Maringi Eco Resort by Sumba Hospitality Foundation, a small, eco-friendly hotel and restaurant that trains young Sumbanese students in hospitality.

17. Small-town Slovakia, one of the most unusual holiday destinations in Central Europe

By Kami from Kami & the Rest of the World

Slovakia isn’t exactly the most popular country in Europe Even if tourists decide to visit, they usually only go to the capital city, Bratislava. But Slovakia has so much more to offer. There are so many amazing yet lesser-known places to visit in Slovakia that you should visit before everyone else does.

While Bratislava is a nice place to see, the second-largest city, Kosice offers even more attractions – from historical monuments to amazing cultural spaces and a wonderful food scene.

In Slovakia, you can find one of the most beautiful and impressive mountain ranges in Europe, the High Tatras, with its highest peak Gerlachovský štít at 2,655 metres AMSL. The nearby Spiš Castle is one of the largest castles in Central Europe and a truly remarkable site.

If you like to visit charming Central European towns, you’ll find plenty of them in Slovakia. Bardejov, Banska Stiavnica and Levoca are inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List.

18. Grenada beyond the beach, for a unique holiday in the Caribbean

By Michele from A Taste for Travel

Although famous for its white-sand beaches, this fertile mountainous island might be one of the most overlooked destinations in the Caribbean when it comes to outdoor adventure and cuisine. And while beautiful Grand Anse beach does deserve its many accolades, unconventional travellers will discover it’s well worth exploring beyond Grenada’s beaches.

Top things to do include trekking to sky-high crater lakes, jumping into Concord Waterfall or snorkelling among coral-draped statues within the Underwater Sculpture Museum. After a full day of outdoor adventure, it’s possible to relax in comfort at one of the luxury hotels in Grenada where accommodation options include beach bungalows with plunge pools, hilltop suites and contemporary villas overlooking the sea.

Unlike other destinations in the Caribbean where all-inclusive resorts promote mass tourism, many of Grenada’s hotels are independently owned and operated. They offer travellers a way to experience the island’s unique rhythm, character and local cuisine.

Must-try dishes and drinks to try when visiting the ‘Spice of the Caribbean’ include rum punch topped with freshly-grated island nutmeg, oil down (a hearty stew featuring callaloo, root vegetables, coconut milk and chicken), bean-to-bar chocolate and doubles, a savoury spiced snack.

19. Chile’s Atacama Desert, the driest place on Earth

By Dalya from Sweet Little Journey

If you love extreme, unique and completely remote holiday destinations, the Atacama Desert should definitely be on your list.

Located on the northern tip of Chile and spanning over 40,000 square-miles, this is the driest place on Earth. Walking through the landscape will make you feel like you’re treading on a completely different planet. In fact, given its uncanny similarity to the surface of Mars, NASA uses this terrain to simulate conditions when testing their rovers!

Aside from the extraterrestrial landscapes, you’ll find various volcanoes, red and pink lagoons , salt lagoons, alpine lakes, and an abundance of wildlife. There’s only one small town in this whole desert, San Pedro de Atacama , which serves as the perfect home base for exploring all the different attractions here.

Given that there are no other settlements for many miles aside from San Pedro, the Atacama Desert has the clearest night skies on Earth.

20. Tajikistan’s Kulikalon Valley, prime hiking country

By Stephen from MonkBoughtLunch

Tajikistan’s Kulikalon Valley is off the beaten track even for a relatively un-touristed country. While most international travellers head primarily to the Pamir Mountains in the east of the country, the Fann Mountains in the northwest offer just as much in terms of scenery – and are arguably even better for trekking.

Of all the treks in the region, camping in Kulilkalon is one of the most popular – and for good reason. A string of sparkling mountain lakes that stretch across Kulikalon are fed by glacial streams that run down the valley, and on every side towering snow-capped peaks and a handful of beautiful glaciers dominate the view.

Though transport options are limited and expensive in rural Tajikistan, Kulikalon is made even more attractive by proximity to a rough road. It’s possible to hike up and back as a day trip from the nearby Artuch camp or to make a multi-day trek over the Alaudin Pass and down to the eponymous lake below, returning to a different trailhead in the Alaudin Valley or pushing on deeper into the heart of the Fann Mountains.

21. Asturias, Spain’s cheese capital

By Dagney from Cultura Obscura

The Asturias region of Northern Spain is definitely one of the most underrated parts of this otherwise highly touristed country.

For visitors from outside of Spain, the most likely reason for visiting is the Camino, which passes through the Asturian countryside. In general, it’s a nature lover’s paradise. The countryside is full of picturesque towns and beautiful lakes.

However, there is so much more to see and do here. Foodies in particular will love Asturias. The region produces over 50 different cheeses, while nearly every town and city has at least one local cider.

Oviedo, the capital of the region, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Just outside the city, you’ll find La Iglesia Skate, a church that’s been converted into a skate park and is full of beautiful, vibrant paintings.

In Gijón , another major Asturian city in Spain , you can visit the Universidad Laboral, the biggest building in Spain, or head to the International Bagpipe Museum.

22. Palestine, the heart of the Middle East

By Claudia from My Adventures Across The World

Palestine is a terribly underrated destination, and many who travel to the Middle East decide not to visit for fear that it may be dangerous or unwelcoming. It’s actually quite the other way around.

People in Palestine are the epitome of friendly, and they go above and beyond to make visitors feel like guests of honour. Add to that the rich, intricate history, the archeological sites, the natural wonders and the delicious food (and even wine and beer!), and it’s easy to see why this is a place you should not skip when you’re in the region.

Among the highlights of visiting Palestine there’s exploring the city of Bethlehem, where you will find the Church of the Holy Nativity, the Chapel of the Milk Grotto and the West Bank Separation Wall that has been adorned with many murals. There also are also a few Banksy pieces scattered around. Not far from Bethlehem, the Israeli-controlled Palace of Herodion is another very interesting site.

Hebron, a city terribly fought over by Jews and Muslims, should also be visited. Similarly, Ramallah – the current administrative centre – is a city thriving with life. Finally, make sure to go to the Baptismal Source at the River Jordan for a truly mystical experience.

The easiest way to get into Palestine is from Jerusalem. Take bus 231 from the bus station near Damascus gate. Be sure to bring your passport with you and the Israeli custom slip you get at the airport, as you’ll need it to get back into Israel to continue your journey.

23. Gopeng, Malaysia’s little-known heritage town

By Marco from Penang Insider

Gopeng is only 20 km south of Ipoh , but it’s shamefully overlooked, notwithstanding being one of West Malaysia’s top adventure eco-tourism destinations.

Set on a bend of the Kampar river, Gopeng is tiny but boasts natural wonders including Gua Tempurung and Gua Kandu, two of the country’s biggest caves, and tall waterfalls such as Ulu Geruntum, a popular abseiling spot. There are plenty of eco-friendly activities around, including stand up paddle boarding and a tree-top obstacle courses offered by Nomad Adventure.

Further inland is Ulu geroh, an orang asli (Malaysian aboriginal) village from where you can strike out on a short trek to see the Rafflesia in bloom. The world’s biggest flower can be a bit smelly, but the packs of rare rajah Brooke butterflies you’ll spot along the way make up for the stink big time.

Back in town, don’t forget to visit the Heritage House for a dive into the area’s colonial history, and the Gopeng Museum for a simple yet informative look at the town’s tin mining past.

24. Bhutan, for time-honoured traditions and unspoiled landscapes

By Sonakshi & Mainak from Places In Pixel

Bhutan is a tiny landlocked country perched in the Himalayas. Due to its location and restrictions around tourism, Bhutan remains an under-explored destination even today. But it’s exactly this reality that makes Bhutan scenically spectacular and a must-visit unconventional destination.

Apart from the usual things to do and places to visit in the major cities of Thimphu, Paro and Punakha, Bhutan has a lot to offer travellers who are willing to try something different. The most unique things to do in Bhutan include:

• Hiking up to the Tiger’s Nest Monastery – nestled high on a precarious cliff, it’s said that a Buddhist Master (Guru Rinpoche) flew on a ‘flying tigress’ and meditated here for months.
• Trying Ema Datchi (Chilli Cheese) – the national dish of Bhutan is a deliciously spicy stew made of chilli peppers, onions and locally produced yak cheese.
• Watching the ‘flag down’ ceremony in Thimphu – this takes place every evening at 5pm with great honour and traditional flair.

25. Benin, the birthplace of Voodoo

By Helen from Helen in Wonderlust

Benin is a magical place full of mystery and superstition. Whilst West Africa is a notoriously difficult area to travel to due to the heat, visa restrictions and lack of tourist infrastructure, Benin is an incredibly rewarding destination for the intrepid traveller.

It is also the birthplace of the Voodoo religion.

Voodoo is one of the oldest and most complex religions in the world. It’s often demonised in popular culture, and yet there’s a lot more to this ancient way of life than meets the eye. The word Voodoo itself means ‘spirit’; practitioners believe that everything is alive and connected spiritually.

As well as discovering the ‘secrets’ of Voodoo , there are plenty of other things to do in Benin. You can gain an insight into the trans-Atlantic slave trade on the Route des Enclaves, relax on the beaches of the south coast, see a very different way of life at the Ganvie Stilt Village, and learn about the history of the powerful Dahomey Empire in Abomey. 

Benin is a French-speaking country, therefore having a good understanding of the French language or having a guide that can translate for you is essential.

Go with an open mind and prepare to be blown away.

26. Northern Tunisia, for unusual beach holidays

By Stephanie from The Africa Cookbook

While most travellers think of Sousse and other popular beaches in Tunisia when they start planning a vacation, anyone who heads to the north instead of the south will find a wealth of hidden gems to discover.

The white-washed town of Sidi Bou Said on the water has a Greek-island feel, while Lake Ichkeul is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can also head to Cap Angela, the northernmost point in the country, where you’ll find a beautiful lighthouse and a statue of the African continent as well as some gorgeous seascapes.

If you’re interested in Carthaginian and Roman history, you can visit the ancient city of Utica, which you’ll find practically empty for much of the year. Yes, you can walk around a millennia-old city and imagine what it would have been like in its heyday without competing with noisy, modern crowds.

Be sure to enjoy the local Tunisian cuisine, which is both tasty and economical.

27. Greenland, for remote adventures

By Kay from The Awkward Traveller

There are many myths and stereotypes about Greenland , simply because it’s not the first country most people think of for a holiday.

Technically a territory of Denmark, it’s a challenging destination to visit due to expensive flights and limited availability. There are so few visitors that some airports don’t even have a baggage carousel.

However, if you can manage to get there, you’ll find this is a country full of colourful buildings, dramatic landscapes, and unique culture.

Although it’s one of the least populated capitals in the world with only 16,000 residents, Nuuk is the busiest and most active of all Greenlandic cities. Somewhat surprisingly, it’s filled with art and museums as well as nods to Greenlandic history and mythology in its various statues and memorials.

In Greenland, the availability of activities varies entirely based on the seasons. Summer offers hiking and festivals , while winter brings snowmobiling, sledding, and amazing displays of the Northern Lights.

28. The Falkland Islands, for extreme wildlife encounters

By Nadine from Le Long Weekend

The Falklands Islands, or Islas Malvinas as they’re also known, are a destination like no other. They’re a place where you can truly get away from daily life and enter a world that seems unencumbered by modern distractions.

Here, the wildlife rules, and you’ll get well-acquainted with many species as you tour some of the islands that make up this Southern Archipelago off the coast of Argentina. The penguins of the Falkland Islands are the main drawcard, and there are five different species to discover – from the regal King Penguins to the curious little red-eyed Rockhoppers.

Then there are the formidable elephant seals, the talkative sea lions, the hundreds of different birds, and a few unlikely additions too. Both reindeer and foxes roam on two of the islands.

Wildlife aside, the islands are an amazing place to go trekking, explore untouched beaches and enjoy old-school hospitality. Get around by using the Falklands’ dedicated air service, FIGAS, to island-hop.

29. Montenegro’s national parks, beyond the bay

By Dhara from It’s Not About the Miles

Most visitors to Montenegro spend their time in the Bay of Kotor. While undeniably beautiful, there is so much more to discover beyond the coastline.

Take the scenic and winding Kotor Serpentine to the village of Njegusi to visit the humble home where Njegoš, Montenegro’s most influential poet-philosopher, was born. Head further up to Lovcen National Park where you can hike and visit the mausoleum of Njegoš. Stop by the old Montenegrin capital of Cetinje to visit the iconic monastery and admire the architecture.

Lake Skadar National Park is another must-visit in Montenegro . Boat tours are available from Virpazar or the sleepy village of Rijeka Crnojevica. The surface of the lake is covered with lily pads, and you can see any number of birds here.

Up north, Durmitor National Park , the only UNESCO-designated park in Montenegro, offers stunning vistas and the chance to do some epic hikes. Go river rafting on the Tara River and visit the Tara Canyon Bridge, which spans one of the deepest canyons in the world.

30. The Faroe Islands, A self-governed archipelago in Europe

By Supriya from Fun Travelog

Europe has thousands of island destinations to choose from, but the Faroes still remain relatively unspoiled thanks to their location.

The Faroe Islands is an independent nation comprised of 18 small islands located between Iceland and Norway. Governed by Denmark, it’s a paradise for hikers and birdwatchers particularly.

Begin your journey by flying into the small and vibrant city of Torshavn, the country’s capital, which is connected by short flight from Copenhagen , Paris, Reykjavik, Bergen or Edinburgh . Make your first stop at the Gásadalur to see the famed waterfall from a marked trail.

From there, every moment of your journey in this small country will be replete with awe-inspiring sights. There are lots of hikes in Faroe Islands , but the most beautiful ones are definitely on the coast of Vagar Island and in Gjógv.

For a completely unique experience, take a 30-minute boat ride to the island of Mykines, which is home to thousands of puffins. They aren’t at all perturbed by human presence and watching them in their natural habitat is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

31. Ukraine, for budget-savvy travellers

By Inessa & Natalie from Through a Travel Lens

There are only a few destinations left in Europe that still remain under the radar. Ukraine is definitely one of them. 

Geographically one of the biggest countries on the continent, Ukraine offers something for every travel taste, from sunbathing by the Black Sea in Odessa to hiking in the Carpathians, wandering the magical streets of old Lviv, and exploring the caves of the UNESCO World Heritage Listed Pechersk Lavra in Kiev.

It’s best to save at least two weeks to explore Ukraine’s most popular locations. Kiev alone deserves at least four days, let alone the numerous great weekend breaks and trips you can take from the capital. In addition to the aforementioned Odessa, Lviv, and Kiev, smaller towns such as Uzhgorod, Chernihiv, Kamyanets-Podilsky, and Chernivtsi are also highly recommended.

Besides being an underestimated and unconventional destination, Ukraine also remains one of Europe’s most budget-friendly travel adventures, with the daily budget for food, accommodations, transportation, and activities remaining under 30 USD.

32. Latvia, the lesser-visited capital of Art Nouveau

By Eden from Rock a Little Travel

Home to a historic city centre, a thriving arts scene and vast countryside dotted with castles, Latvia is one of the world’s most underrated travel destinations.

Visitors to Latvia should experience Riga , the lively capital city best known for its beautiful Art Nouveau architecture. In fact, Riga has the world’s highest concentration of Art Nouveau buildings, examples of which are on display across the city.

Riga’s walkable centre also features local boutiques, cafes , restaurants, bars, and even a few city parks. Riga Beer District is home to several local breweries that serve a variety of craft beers. This is the perfect destination for a night out and a great opportunity to mingle with the locals.

Outside the capital, visitors to Latvia can tour the country’s many medieval castles and fortifications. Those looking to spend some time outdoors can head to Latvia’s beaches along the Baltic coast, or to one of the country’s many national parks.

33. North Macedonia, home of Europe’s Quirkiest capital city

The tiny nation of North Macedonia is quirky even by Balkan standards. Formerly known as the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, it may have undergone several name changes in its recent history, but it’s status as a unique destination in Eastern Europe has endured.

North Macedonia’s capital, Skopje, is a mix of archaic Ottoman architecture (the Old Bazaar is one of the largest in Europe) and brand new, shiny sculptures and facades installed as part of Skopje 2014, a huge project to give the city a facelift. The result is a Disneylandesque mix of styles that pushes the ambit of imagination.

Skopje makes for a wonderfully offbeat city break, but when visiting North Macedonia , you should also explore beyond the capital. Lake Ohrid is the biggest tourist draw, while the second-largest city, Bitola , and the alpine town of Krusevo – with its wonderful spomenik – both promise off-the-beaten-path, history steeped travel experiences.

34. Piacenza, a hidden gem in Northern Italy

By Helga from ShegoWandering

Piacenza is a small Italian city located near the Po river in Emilia Romagna. While still easily accessible by train from Milan or Bologna, it remains a hidden gem.

This town boasts over 1,000 years of local history. Discover the beautiful historic centre of Piacenza with its colourful houses and beautiful passages. Make sure the Piazza Cavalli, home to the town’s most famous landmark, the Palazzo Gotico, is also on your list.

Piacenza has some of the oldest, most important Romanesque churches in the region, including the Duomo di Piacenza, the St. Antoninus Basilica, and the Church of San Francesco. Another important landmark is the Palazzo Farnese, an immense palace now houses a collection of museums.

The region of Emilia-Romagna is famous for its food products. Be sure to sample Salame Piacentini , Coppa Piacentina and Pancetta Piacentina .

35. Brasov, the gateway to Transylvania

By Nicola Rae of See Nic Wander

The Transylvanian town of Brasov, Romania is tucked away in the Carpathian mountains just 2.5 hours from the capital on the way to Transylvania .

Since many people travel to Romania to explore Bucharest or relax on the Black Sea coast, the smaller Romanian city of Brasov often gets overlooked. But for travellers interested in great hiking, quirky historical sites and a bit of Dracula folklore, Brasov can’t be missed. 

Explore the 14th century Black Church, which got its name after being scorched in a fire, a 15th-century citadel that also served as a prison, and Rope Street, one of the narrowest streets in the world.

Brasov is just a short drive from Bran Castle, a fortress that dates back to the 1200s and is famously also known as ‘Dracula’s Castle’.

When in Brasov, make sure to take the Tampa Mountain Cable Car up to the prominent Hollywood-style ‘Brasov’ sign for the best views of the city and surrounding mountains.

Unusual holiday destinations: Share it on Pinterest

Wow, that’s a great guide.

That was an amazing article. Good work Keep it up!

Lichtenstein castle (named after the family) pictured above is in Germany and not in The Principality of Lichtenstein and hence that part of the article is misleading. One visiting Lichtenstein (the country) will not find this castle how hard one looks.

Good pick up, PK! That is my fault – I will update it immediately. Thanks for letting me know!

This was so helpful, I’m doing a school project and I have to find a unique travel destination. Got lots of ideas

Awesome Tshia, glad I could help!

Fantastic list! Considering many of your picks are also on my own list, I have a feeling we are of the same mindset. As I sit at home travel planning for a post-Covid-vaccine world, you have helped to add more places I hadn’t thought of but was searching for in concept.

Thank you and stay healthy!

So glad to hear you found this post inspiring, Nancy! Thanks a lot for the feedback. Happy future travel planning 🙂

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21 Life-changing Trips Everyone Should Experience at Least Once

From African safaris to must-visit cities, these once-in-a-lifetime trips will make you want to plan your next great adventure.

Elizabeth Rhodes is a special projects editor at Travel + Leisure , covering everything from luxury hotels to theme parks to must-pack travel products. Originally from South Carolina, Elizabeth moved to New York City from London, where she started her career as a travel blogger and writer.

What's next on your travel list? With so many places worth traveling to, it can be hard to narrow down your top spots to visit.

Sometimes, it's the famous attractions, delicious food, and stunning hotels that draw us to a certain destination, and other times, it's the bragging rights that come with checking off every continent, country, or state. Whatever your motivation, we've rounded up 21 incredible trips, complete with once-in-a-lifetime experiences and iconic sights you won't find anywhere else in the world.

So, what makes a trip truly life-changing? That answer varies from traveler to traveler, but one thing is for sure: From African safaris to classic road trips, this list will make you want to plan your next great adventure.

Deciding between the historic cities of Rome, Venice, Naples, and Florence for the top destination to visit feels impossible, so the entire country of Italy deserves a spot on your list. Start in the Eternal City and head north through the rolling hills of Tuscany to visit Florence, followed by Milan or Venice, or go south to the beaches of the beautiful Amalfi Coast and Sicily.

New York, New York

Visiting the Statue of Liberty , standing at the top of the Empire State Building, walking across the Brooklyn Bridge: These are just a few of the things you can only do in New York City. Whether you dream of visiting all the places you've seen on screen, catching a Broadway show, or eating your way through the city's diverse neighborhoods, there's no doubt that NYC deserves a spot on your list.

Tokyo, Japan

Old and new come together in Japan's bustling capital city. Historic temples and shrines, busy shopping districts, delicious food, and some of the world's best theme parks and attractions — whatever your interests, there's something for you in Tokyo.

Paris, France

From watching the Eiffel Tower sparkle and viewing famous works of art at world-renowned museums to eating delicious French pastries, there are innumerable reasons that Paris deserves a spot on your list. Of course, other dreamy French destinations like Mont-Saint-Michel, Chamonix, and the Riviera are well worth a visit, too.

Busy medinas, intricate architecture, and a unique combination of cultural influences make Morocco unlike anywhere else on the planet. Whether you're traveling to bustling Marrakesh, pretty coastal cities, or remote desert towns (or hopefully, all three), a trip to Morocco is bound to be one to remember.

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From the whitewashed homes of Santorini to the Ios party scene to the relaxing atmosphere of Milos, there's a perfect Greek Island for every type of traveler. Island hopping gives you the chance to experience more of what the country has to offer, but plan to spend a couple of days in Athens at the beginning and/or end of your trip.

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Machu Picchu

Seeing the historic ruins of the Incan Empire set among the breathtaking Andes at Machu Picchu is an undeniably life-changing experience. The stunning citadel ruins of Machu Picchu are worth the journey — and for some travelers, that trip, often taken by train or on foot as a multi-day trek , is a big part of the experience. Editor’s note: Machu Picchu is currently closed due to civil unrest in Peru. Visit the  official website  for the latest news and reopening details.

African Safari

Seeing majestic animals like lions, elephants, and rhinos in the wild is a dream best accomplished with an African safari . South Africa, Tanzania, Rwanda, and Kenya are among the most popular safari destinations — and in each of those countries, you'll find incredible lodges and tour operators who can help you spot these creatures in their natural habitat.

Whether you dream of cruising down the famed Nile River, seeing the Pyramids of Giza, or visiting the ancient Valley of the Kings, Egypt's historic wonders make the destination completely unique (and worthy of a spot on your travel list).

Unlike many of the action-packed trips on this list, the Maldives is synonymous with relaxation, luxury, and romance. A stay in an overwater bungalow set atop turquoise blue waters is the ultimate getaway that's worth the long-haul flight and oftentimes pricey accommodations.

Antarctica Cruise

Hoping to visit all seven continents? Cross Antarctica off your list with a cruise. Several major cruise lines have journeys to Antarctica, offering incredible views of the ice and wildlife from the comfort and safety of a ship. Travelers typically fly in and out of Buenos Aires en route to Ushuaia (where most cruises depart from); we recommend spending a few days in the fascinating Argentine city before your expedition.

Irjaliina Paavonpera/Travel + Leisure

Dubbed one of the natural wonders of the world, the Great Barrier Reef is a can't-miss for many wildlife lovers. Of course, Australia's gorgeous coastline, the iconic Sydney Opera House, and fuzzy creatures like kangaroos and koalas are also reasons to head to the destination. Fly into Sydney and spend a few days there before heading out to explore more of this expansive country teeming with natural beauty.

Galapagos Islands

Incredible and diverse plant and animal species make the Galapagos Islands another must-visit for nature-loving travelers. This stunning archipelago off the coast of Ecuador is best explored by cruise, so you can take in as many breathtaking landscapes and animals as possible during your trip.

Like the other countries on this list, India has countless destinations worth exploring, but one of the most famous attractions that travelers dream of seeing for themselves is the Taj Mahal. This 17th-century white marble mausoleum has drawn visitors to Agra for years. Luxury travelers might consider a train trip aboard the Maharajas' Express (with a stop at the Taj Mahal) as the ultimate experience. Travelers planning to visit the Taj Mahal or take the luxurious train ride will want to fly into Delhi, India's capital territory.

Petra, Jordan

The stunning ancient city of Petra is made up of several impressive structures carved into sandstone rock faces, including the famous Al-Khazneh. The city dates back thousands of years, making this UNESCO World Heritage site a must-visit for history buffs.

Passing through India, Pakistan, Afghanistan, China, Bhutan, and Nepal, the Himalayas are home to some of the world's highest peaks — and that means breathtaking mountain views, too. For adventurous and active travelers, climbing Mount Everest (or at least trekking to Everest Base Camp) is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

American National Park Road Trip

The classic American road trip is a mainstay on many travelers' lists — and for good reason. The country's incredible national parks , including Grand Canyon, Yellowstone, and Yosemite, are best explored on road trips with stops at charming small towns and kitschy roadside attractions.

Great Wall of China

Stretching across China for thousands of miles, with sections dating back nearly 2,000 years, the Great Wall is regarded as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Visitors can hike along parts of the wall — some areas are located within driving distance of Beijing, so it's a perfect day trip from the city.

Easter Island

The hundreds of monolithic moai statues have drawn curious visitors to Easter Island for years. This remote Polynesian island is worth the lengthy trip for travelers hoping to see these impressive human figures, while also soaking in some incredible coastal views.

Northern Lights Trip

Catching a glimpse of the elusive northern lights is possible in several destinations close to the Arctic Circle, including Alaska, Iceland, Canada, Greenland, Finland, Sweden, and Norway. All of these places have incredible viewpoints (and even hotels where you can see the phenomenon from your bed ), in addition to great, wintry scenery. (The lights are best viewed from late fall through early spring.)

Thailand and Vietnam

A trip through Southeast Asia is a must for any traveler, especially foodies who love street eats. While you could spend weeks in each of these countries, Thailand and Vietnam can easily be paired for an exciting trip packed with lush scenery, cultural experiences, and delicious food. Have a little extra time to spare? Add Cambodia to the mix and include a visit to expansive Angkor Wat.

100 Travel Bucket List Ideas

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Are you looking for travel bucket list ideas for your next trip? Running out of ideas or looking for fresh ones? From epic classics to exciting newcomers, we have selected the 100 best places to visit all over the world.

Where will 2024 lead you? 🙂

1. Get stunned by the Great Pyramid of Giza

The Great Pyramid of Giza defines bucket list goals. Built over 5000 years ago, it’s the oldest and the biggest of the pyramids, the last structure of the Seven Ancient Wonders of the World that survived.

It is a marvel of human engineering and construction, and a defining symbol of the Egyptian world.

Read more: Things to do in Cairo

2. Walk along the Great Wall of China

The Great Wall of China is a good reason for the existence of the Bucket List! It’s an astonishing relic of China’s history, and it’s a must for many travelers and tourists around the world, in fact, it is considered as one of the Seven Wonders of the World.

Identified as one of the most important symbols of China, it consists of numerous walls and fortification, many running parallels to each other for a measure of 8,850 km. The Great Wall can be visited from Beijing .

3. Explore Petra

Jordan’s rose-colored sandstone city is an extraordinary experience. On the border of the Arabian desert, hidden in the mountains of the Dead Sea, Petra is one of the most notorious archeological sites in the world.

The city’s architectural beauty comes from the fact that it was directly chiseled from the sandstone mountains. Temples, tombs, and monastery that you cannot miss!

4. Visit the Colosseum

Recognized as one of the Seven Wonders of the World, Rome’s great gladiatorial arena is the most exciting of the city’s ancient sights. Also known as the Flavian Amphitheatre, the Colosseum is the perfect example of Roman engineering and architecture.

It’s the largest amphitheater in the world and the site of some of the bloodiest and most brutal contests in history.

Read more how to book Colosseum tickets and the best things to do in Rome

5. Walk to Chichen Itza

Located in the Yutacan state of Mexico, Chichen Itza is the best place to visit in the world if you are interested in an ancient Mayan city featuring ruins and architectural wonders that captures the culture and history of the people from the past.

For a cultural experience and a chance to discern a significant part of Mayan heritage, this is the right trip.

Read more: Things to do in Cancun

6. Trek to Machu Picchu

A trip to Incas’ lost city in Perù is a dream trip for many travelers. Machu Picchu is an Inca citadel situated on a mountain of 2,430 meters above sea level, that can be reached by a hike on mountain trails or a train trip through the valley of the Urubamba River.

As one of the best places to visit in the world and most visited tourist destinations in South America, Machu Picchu is sure to fill travelers with high expectations.

Read more about how to visit Machu Picchu

7. Discover the Taj Mahal

An enormous mausoleum of white marble, built in Agra between the 1631 and 1648 by order of the Mughal emperor Shah Janan in memory of his beloved wife, the Taj Mahal is the jewel of Muslim art and one of the Seven Wonders of the World.

Nowadays, the Taj Mahal is one of the best places to visit in Agra , attracts over 3 million visitors each year and has become an unmissable attraction for anyone traveling in India.

Read more about Taj Mahal tickets price and timings .

8. Hike to Christ the Redeemer

Situated at the top of Mount Corcovado overlooking the city of Rio de Janeiro, the statue of the Christ the Redeemer not only captures tourists’ attention with its breathtaking views but also with the imponent statue of the Christ, considered as one of the Seven Wonders of the World.

Standing with his arms open, the Christ is one of the most recognized and photographed monuments in Brazil.

Read more about the best Rio De Janeiro tours and the best things to do in Rio de Janeiro .

9. Be intrigued by Stonehenge

One of the wonders of the world and best-known prehistoric monument located near the city of Salisbury, England.

The structure that we call Stonehenge was built between roughly 5,000 and 4,000 years ago and was one part of a most extensive sacred landscaped.

10. Discover the Amazon Rainforest and River

Also named “lungs of the world”, the Amazon rainforest produces an important share of the oxygen for the entire planet and is made up of a mosaic of eco-system and vegetation types.

Live an experience in the Amazon rainforest and its River is to experience a lifetime of moments in one single trip.

It is difficult to find another place in the world as rich in adventures and unique experiences as the Amazon. You can visit the Amazon from Manaus (Brazil) or Iquitos (Peru) .

11. Sail on Ha Long Bay

The ethereal beauty, Ha Long Bay is located in the area of the Gulf of Tangkia, in the north of Vietnam.

Frequently included in lists of natural wonders of the world, Halong Bay is famous for its scenic ocean karst topography and its crystal waters.

Read more: Best Halong Bay luxury cruises

12. Discover the Milan Cathedral

Standing proudly in the main square of the city center, Milan’s Duomo is decidedly the most impressive structure and the emblem of the city of Milan.

Stay speechless in front of the majestic and Gothic style of the church and admire the breathtaking views of Milan (and on clear days, the snow-capped peaks of the Alps) from the rooftop of the Church.

Read more: Things to do in Milan

13. Visit Notre Dame Cathedral

One of the major attractions in Paris , the Notre Dame Cathedral is known as one of the most notorious of the Gothic cathedrals of the middle age and is distinguished for its size, antiquity and architectural details.

Its stained glass windows and sculptures show the influence of naturalism that serves to contrast the Romanesque architecture. It’s also said that the cathedral’s tower has one of the best views of the city.

Read more: Things to do in Paris

14. Drink wine under the Eiffel Tower

The Eiffel Tower was the principal exhibition of the Paris Exposition of 1889. It was constructed for the commemoration of the centennial of French Revolution and to demonstrate France’s industrial power to the world.

Nowadays is the emblem of the city of Paris and it’s considered an architectural wonder of the world, in fact, each year attracts more visitors.

Read more how to book Eiffel Tower tickets

15. Enjoy the view from Marina Bay Sands rooftop

Visit Singapore’s best luxury attraction and soak in the world’s largest rooftop infinity pool with the glittering expanse of the city.

For the ultimate experience, head to Ce La Vi and dance all night long with your friends.

Read more: Fun things to do in Singapore , Best things to do in Sentosa

16. Visit the Acropolis of Athens

The Acropolis of Athens and its monuments are the universal symbol of the classical spirit and civilization and form the most significant architectural and artistic complex of the Greek antiquity.

The Acropolis in Athens was a military fortress during the Neolithic period, due to its position which offers a great view of the land and sea. Now it’s one of the most important ancient monuments in Europe.

Read more about Acropolis tickets price or the best things to do in Athens !

17. Visit Easter Island

Who wouldn’t want the opportunity to visit one of the most isolated and mysterious islands on Earth?

You can not miss the enormous volcanic craters, preserved stone villages, beaches and, in particular, 900 Moai giant stone figures. You should definitely add The Easter Island to your bucket list.

18. Enjoy yourself at Sydney Opera House

Opened in 1973, the Sydney Opera House is a multi-performing art center in Sydney and great architectural work of the 20th century that is synonymous with creativity and innovation.

Set in a remarkable waterscape, these shell-structures are nowadays a world-famous icon of architecture.

Read more: Things to do in Sydney , Top tourist attractions in Sydney

19. Discover the magnificent Angkor Wat

Angkor Wat is the ultimate expression of the genius of Khmer, an impressive temple that is stunning for its grand scale and its incredible details.

One of the most important archeological sites in Cambodia, the Angkor Wat is considered the largest religious monument in the world.

Read more: Things to do in Siem Reap

20. Visit the Summer Palace in China

The Summer Palace is a vast conjunction of lakes, gardens, and palaces in Beijing and is said to be the largest and most well-preserved royal park in China.

Known for being the playground for emperors during the summer of the old imperial city, the Summer Palace is a marvel of design and offers an exciting escape into the traditional Chinese landscape.

21. Visit Hagia Sophia

The most important Byzantine structure and one of the world’s great monuments. This church was built at Constantinople (nowadays Istambul) in the 6th century under the direction of the Byzantine emperor Justine I.

Hagia Sophia , that means “Church of Holy Wisdom”, each year attracts over 3 million visitors. The monument, which is now a museum, once was a church and then a mosque.

Read more: Things to do in Istanbul

22. Dive on the Great Barrier Reef

Located on the coast of Queensland in Australia, the Great Barrier Reef is famous for being the world’s largest coral reef system.

Viewing it from a greater distance, you can understand why it is considered as one of Australia’s most remarkable natural gift and one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World.

Due to its natural beauty, the Great Barrier Reef has become one of the most touristic destinations to enjoy many experiences, including scuba diving; it is definitely one of the best things to do in Cairns !

23. Participate in a hiking tour in the Grand Canyon

As one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, the Grand Canyon , located in the high desert of northern Arizona (USA) will take your breath away with its ever-changing scenery of enormous proportions.

Thanks to its forest, painted deserts, sandstone canyons, to the Colorado River and the waterfalls, Grand Canyon is one of the most beautiful sceneries in the world. Grand Canyon helicopter tours are an amazing way to visit the impressive scenery of the national park.

Around 5.5 million of people visit the Grand Canyon each year and its 277 miles of superlative beauty, making it the most visited National park in the United States, and also one of the top tourist attractions in the US .

Due to the vicinity to Las Vegas, it can be easily visited through day tours from Las Vegas to the Grand Canyon .

Read more: Things to do at the Grand Canyon

24. Sail to the Statue of Liberty

Inaugurated in 1886, the sculpture stands at the entrance to New York Harbour and from the beginning has welcomed millions of immigrants to the United States.

For this reason, the Statue of Liberty  more than a monument is a symbol of freedom to millions of people around the world and a point on your bucket list that you cannot miss!

Read more: Things to do in New York City

25. Visit the city of Lhasa and the Potala Palace

In the center of Lhasa (Tibet), literally “Land of the Gods”, you can find the Potala Palace, that once was the principal residence of the Dalai Lama.

If you want to live a spiritual experience, this is the right place because you can chat with monks, learn more about Tibetan culture and experience the mystical atmosphere of Lhasa. Setting eyes on Potala Palace for the first time is a moment you’ll never forget!

26. Climb the Kilimanjaro

The Kilimanjaro is famous for being the highest mountain in Africa and the tallest freestanding mountain on earth. It is a possible bucket list option for most people and 20.000 people every year climb it.

The Kilimanjaro is an extraordinary experience if you want to stand on the roof of Africa.

27. Discover the Wailing Wall

Erected initially as part of the expansions of the second Jewish temple begun by Herod the Great, it’s one of the holiest sites in the world.

The Western Wall is a surviving trace of the Temple Mount in Jerusalem, which was destroyed by the Romans.

The Temple was the center of the spiritual world, the primary conduit for the Godliness. For this reason, the Wall is the holiest place where Jews are permitted to pray.

Read more: Things to do in Jerusalem

28. Admire Mount Rushmore

Attracting approximately 3 million of tourists from all over the world each year, Mount Rushmore is one of America’s most important attractions. Mount Rushmore National Memorial is a large-scale mountain sculpture created by the artist Gutzon Borglum.

On it, you can admire America’s most prominent U.S. presidents: George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Abraham Lincoln and Theodore Roosevelt.

29. Swim in Palawan, Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park

It’s not complicated to understand why Palawan , in Puerto Princesa National Park, was chosen as one of the New Seven Natural Wonders of the World.

This park features a spectacular limestone karst landscape with an underground river, it’s considerate one of the world’s most impressive natural place. Famous because its lower portion is subject to tidal influences, emerges directly into the sea.

Read more: Fun things to do in Puerto Princesa

30. Visit St. Peter’s Basilica

Located in the Vatican city, the center of Christianity, St. Peter’s Basilica is Italy’s largest, most luxurious and most spectacular basilica. One of the largest churches in the world, St. Peter’s Basilica, was built during the Italian Renaissance and it’s located in the Vatican.

The imposing structure was built over a span of more than one hundred years by the most excellent Italian architects of the period. Learn hot to skip the line to enter the St. Peter’s Basilica .

31. Admire an aurora borealis in Norway

Every traveler’s bucket list should include viewing the Northern Lights , one of the most naturally spectacular phenomena that have the power of taking your breath away.

The Northern Lights are a natural light display in the sky, and Norway with its open spaces and little light pollution is one of the best places to try to see the most impressive lights show. So try to discern the Northern Lights!

32. Search for Nessie in the Loch Ness

Located in the Great Glen which stretches from Inverness, Loch Ness is the longest and deepest of all the loch in the area.

One of the best ways to enjoy the beauty of Loch Ness is by taking a boat cruise or a kayaking trip on the water of the lake where you’ll be able to appreciate the surrounding landscapes and villages and, who knows, maybe even catch a glimpse of Nessie.

In fact, this is the place, if rumors are to be believed, where Nessie the Loch Ness monster resides.

33. Explore the Incredible Temples of Bagan

Built between 1057 and 1287 by a series of kings, this massive expanse of thousands of temples (estimates over 2.000) is one of the most precious archeological sites in Asia. Bagan’s Temples are the key to experiencing authentic Myanmar’s life and understanding the religious devotion of its people.

The most exciting way to see the temples is doing a hot air balloon trip. With over 2000 pagodas and temples spanning across 40 miles of land, it is truly magical to stand in a hot air balloon and to look out over the countryside and the entire complex of Bagan.

34. Discover the Iguazu Falls

Recognized worldwide as natural beauties and one the best places to visit in the world, the Iguazu Falls are located on the border between Brazil, Argentina, and Paraguay.

If you are searching for an immersive experience in nature, this is the right place thanks to the possibilities to walk into the woods and to the proximity of the immensity of the Iguazu waterfalls in the Iguazu River. Iguazu Falls is one of the 100 best national parks in the world .

35. Tour in Patagonia

Wherever you visit, Patagonia maintains an exclusive, secretive charm. Well known for its picturesque mountains, grassland and windswept coastlines, Patagonia is famous for its precious wildlife that never fails to astonish.

It is the perfect bucket list material, including watching the Perito Moreno ice dam break, the whale watching or biking the Torres del Paine Circuit.

36. Watch whales at Saguenay-St. Lawrence Marine Park

Do you dream of seeing whales? The Saguenay-St. Lawrence Marine Park in Québec (Canada) is one of the best whale-watching sites in the world.

Not only you can admire these magnificent animals, but you can also see Québec’s famous coastal landscapes.

37. Trek through the Himalayas

The Himalaya is the world’s mightiest mountain system, containing nine of world’s ten highest peaks and stretching more than 2,500 km across India, Bhutan, Nepal, Pakistan, and Tibet.

Associated with high adventures and mountaineers, this place is like no other, with its remote and majestic scenery.

38. Get splashed at the Victoria Falls

Commonly referred to as “the smoke that thunders” due to the columns of spray that can be seen from miles away, the Victoria Falls are one of the greatest attractions in Africa and the most spectacular natural beauty on the Zambezi River.

Considered as the largest fall in the world, is a point on your bucket list that you cannot put into consideration!

39. Skydive the Great Blue Hole

A giant underwater sinkhole off the coast of Belize, the Great Blue Hole is one of the most famous destinations for scuba divers that are attracted by the chance of diving in crystal-clear waters and see millions of species of marine life including spectacular coral formations and tropical fish.

40. Participate in a wild safari at Serengeti National Park

Experiencing a safari in Africa has to be one of the points of your bucket list. Here, you have a lot of places where you can see an abundance of wild animals. Serengeti is one of the most famous national parks and is synonymous with wildlife and outstanding African scenery.

It’s Tanzania’s oldest park and a Unesco World Heritage Site. Furthermore, it’s home to the spectacular wildebeest migration and offers wildlife viewing throughout the year. Serengeti National Park is one the best places to visit in the world if you are interested in African wildlife safaris.

41. Be amazed by the Great Geysir in Iceland

Iceland is a magnificent country and one of the most spectacular and breathtaking geysers in Iceland is the Great Geysir.

It’s fairly active and erupts on a daily basis. See the mighty geyser erupt and send a spectacular water and stream column into the air have to be on your bucket list.

Iceland is the best place to visit in the world if you are interested in geological formations, geysers, volcanos, glaciers, etc.

Read more: Best things to do in Iceland

42. Admire Big Ben’s mighty clock

The Elizabeth Tower, known as the Big Ben, is one of the best tourist attractions in London ! Big Ben is the name of the impressive bell inside the clock tower, which weighs more than 13 tons.

The clock tower looks spectacular, in particular during the night when the four clock faces are illuminated. When you see Big Ben, it feels like you are in London.

Read more: Fun things to do in London

43. Visit the Louvre Museum

Unquestionably one of the most excellent art galleries in the world, the Louvre Museum contains thousands of classic and modern masterpieces.

As a symbol of the French culture and a testament to European art history, it’s not surprising that it’s also the most visited art gallery in the world. Every trip to France’s capital deserves a visit to the Louvre to discover the wealth of treasure it contains.

Read more how to book Louvre Museum tickets and discover the best museums in Paris .

44. Relax at Blue Lagoon

Surrounded by fantastic nature, the Blue Lagoon is an oasis of relaxation set in the pure heart of the Icelandic landscape. It is one of Iceland’s most popular attractions, and it’s not hard to understand why.

The beautiful milky-blue opaque water contrasts with the surrounding black lava field covered with green moss. Combined with its excellent location and its relaxing pools with their rich skin nourishment, the Blue Lagoon quickly became one of Iceland’s most visited attractions.

Read more: Fun things to do in Reykjavik

45. Walk around on Cinque Terre

A century ago the Cinque Terre (Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola and Riomaggiore) were merely five fishing villages on an unforgiving stretch of the Ligurian coast.

The vibrant color of the Mediterranean, the wild coastline with the tiny towns placed like puzzle pieces on the cliffs make the Cinque Terre a Unesco World Heritage Site.

Read more: Fun things to do in Cinque Terre

46. Visit Pompeii

Famous for being the Roman city that was destroyed by the Vesuvius eruption in 79 a.C. Two thousand people died, and the town was abandoned for many years. When a group of explorers rediscovered the site in 1748, they were surprised to find that Pompeii was practically intact under a layer of dust and debris.

Thanks to the buildings, artifacts and skeletons found in the buried city we were able to discover a lot about everyday life in the ancient world.

Read more: Pompeii skip the line tickets , Best Pompeii tours , Things to do in Naples, Italy

47. Visit the Sistine Chapel

The Sistine Chapel is a chapel in the official residence of the Pope and one of the greatest treasure of the Vatican city. Not only it is known for its decoration, but also for being the temple in which popes are chosen and crowned.

What captures the attention of the Sistine Chapel is not only its architecture but in particular the frescoes that completely cover the ceiling and the walls. All the frescoes of the roof of the Sistine Chapel are the work of Michelangelo. Read our guide about the Vatican Museums .

Read more: Best museums in Rome

48. Discover Venice on a Vaporetto

Italy is full of charm, but nowhere can be compared to Venice, the floating city. Not only it is known for its canals, its art and its rich cultural heritage, but it’s one of the world most romantic destinations.

Take a gondola ride through the canals of Venice is a point on your bucket list that you cannot miss.

Read more: Best things to do in Venice

49. Visit the mighty Sagrada Familia

The basilica Sagrada Familia is one of Barcelona’s most famous tourist attractions . One of the world’s most prized architectural marvels, despite the fact that the Gaudi’s construction has not yet been completed.

This Church will leave you breathless, not only because of its giant size but primarily because of its pioneering architecture, which perfectly shows off the genius of Antoni Gaudì.

Although the outside is a work of art, the interior of Sagrada Familia is inspired by nature. The columns seem tree trunks, giving the idea of being in a forest instead of inside a Church.

Read more how to book Sagrada Familia tickets and the best things to do in Barcelona .

50. See your reflection at Salar de Uyuni

It’s the world’s most significant and most unusual surface area. One of the things we insist you get on your bucket list is the stunning Salar de Uyuni salt flats in Bolivia.

A salt flat is an expanse of ground that is covered with salt and other minerals that make incredible patterns and visual wonders. The Bolivian salt flats are just fabulous, and they need to be discovered to be believed.

51. Walk in the Sequoia National Park

Known as “Giant Forest” the Sequoia National Park preserves the landscape that still resembles the Southern Sierra Nevada.

You’ll find yourself gazing by the towering, majestic and picturesque stretch of trees of the beautiful Sequoia National Park, located just next to the Yosemite National Park .

52. Ride through the Sahara

There are only a few beautiful places in the world that can be compared to the incredible landscape of the Sahara Desert, the most extensive hot desert in the world. Its landscape is so vast that it’s impossible to judge the distance.

The color palette makes it difficult to distinguish specific forms, and the intense sunlight that reflects on the sand will show you things that don’t exist. In Morocco, you can visit the Sahara Desert from Marrakesh .

53. Hike through the Antelope Canyon

The unbelievable beauty of Antelope canyon waits for the adventurous traveler who wants to discover one of the most spectacular attractions.

These impressive caves, the spiral rock arches, and stunning colors make the caves look seriously of another planet. It’s a canyon of thousands of years just outside of Page, in Arizona.

Read more: Best Antelope Canyon tours

54. Explore Bali island

Famed for its island vibes, stunning beaches and of course, its epic surf breaks, Bali is a must-visit destinations.

Go scuba diving, visit amazing temples, climb a volcano, enjoy the crazy nightlife, there is so much fun things to do in Bali .

Don’t miss to explore the Monkey Forest. Make sure to check out our list of activities in Ubud .

55. Climb the Mount Fuji

Mount Fuji is one of Japan’s pride that you should never let go when you visit this country. A beautiful snow-capped rising from the earth, it’s the highest Japan’s mountain.

The mountain may seem more beautiful seen from a distance, but the views on clear days and the experience of climbing it during the early morning hours it’s an experience that you won’t forget.

Read more about the best Mount Fuji tours and fun things to do in Tokyo .

56. Visit the British Museum

The British Museum is the house of a vast collection of world art and artifacts. Its collection includes fabulous Egyptian sarcophagi and mummies, hard of treasure from British archaeological digs, and Roman antiquities.

Furthermore, the museum is a Greek revival building designed by Sir Smirke.

Read more: Best museums and art galleries in London .

57. Explore the Moma Museum

The Museum Of Modern Art of New York is one of the largest and most influential museums of modern art in the world, in fact, it’s presenting one of the best in contemporary art.

It has been influential in developing and collecting modernist art, including artists such as Van Gogh, Cézanne, Dalì, Monet or Andy Warhol.

Read more: Best museums in New York City

58. Walk along the Canals of Amsterdam

A visit to Amsterdam isn’t complete without enjoying its canals. In fact, Amsterdam is famous for having more than one hundred kilometers of canals and wandering through the city along the canals is one of the favorite activities of the tourist.

The main canals, laid-out in a pattern of concentric half-circle, chronicle the growth of the city of Amsterdam. For this reason, they are considered as a symbol of the town!

Read more: Best Amsterdam canal cruises , Best things to do in Amsterdam

59. Discover the remains of the Berlin Wall

One of the most potent and strongest symbols of the Cold War, for 28 years the Berlin Wall sliced the city.

The construction of the wall began in the summer of 1961 by the authorities of the Communist East German that were trying to stop people from escaping to the Westside.

Read more: Best things to do in Berlin , Best tourist attractions in Berlin

60. Visit Versailles

Versailles is best known for being the site of the vast royal palace and gardens built by King Louis XIV on what had been the grounds of a royal lodge.

The Palace of Versailles has been the scene for several historical events, and it’s today inscribed on the Unesco World Heritage List. Versailles is definitely amond the best palaces in Europe .

Read more how to book Versailles tickets

61. Explore the Glowworm Cave

The Glowworm Caves include a labyrinth of limestone caves and formations which began developing about 30 million years ago. Thousand of tiny, glittering glowworms inhabit these subterranean caverns, making a light show that’s memorable.

62. Walk on Golden Gate Bridge

The Golden Gate Bridge that connects the city of San Francisco to Marin County (in California) is an architectural emblem nad one of the most famous SF tourist attractions .

It is stretching on over two miles across the Golden Gate river, and it’s a must-see iconic architectural marvel of the city of San Francisco.

Read more: Fun things to do in SF

63. Visit the Great Mosque of Cordoba

The Mosque of Cordoba is the most important monument of all the Western Islamic world, and one of the most amazing in the world.

A great symbol and reminder of the golden civilization that Muslims did in Europe over one thousand years ago, it’s now the symbol of Cordoba.

Read more: Fun things to do in Cordoba

64. Walk around on Mont Saint-Michel

On a rocky island in the middle of vast sandbanks between Normandy and Brittany stands Mont Saint-Michel, a gothic style abbey dedicated to the archangel St Michael and the village that grew up next to its great walls. In 1979 was classed by Unesco as a world heritage.

Read more: Best places to visit in Normandy , Best Normandy tours from Paris

65. Enjoy yourself at Las Vegas Strip

Las Vegas Strip offers so many gambling, restaurants and entertainment options, that you can take a trip there and never get bored.

A Las Vegas ‘ trip is one of the principal American experiences. From the Strip’s bright lights to the world-class museums, this little Nevada city is everything you’d expect it to be and much more.

Read more: Fun things to do in Las Vegas

66. Admire the Forbidden City

Located in the center of Beijing, the Forbidden city it’s the world’s largest and best-preserved palace complex. This palace served as the home of two Chinese dynasties and can give you an idea of the Chinese history.

The name is referred to the fact that no one could enter into the palace without the emperor’s permission.

67. Get splashed at Niagara Falls

Six million cubic feet of water flows over Niagara Falls every minute, offering what is considered one of North-America’s most spectacular views. In fact each year around 28 million people visit the Canadia-US border.

It consists of three distinct waterfalls: Horseshoe Falls, American Falls and Veil Falls, that functions as one of the primary power providers to the state itself.

Read more: Best things to do in Niagara Falls

68. Climb the Leaning Tower of Pisa

The Leaning Tower of Pisa is the campanile of the cathedral of the Italian city of Pisa, known worldwide for its unintended tilt. Humans make mistakes, and one error was made in the XI century with the tower of Pisa.

This calculation error would later become a symbol of civic pride. This tower represents an advanced understanding of weight and load characteristics, showing the Italian knowledge in architecture.

Read more: Things to do in Pisa

69. Walk on Giant’s Causeway

The Giant’s Causeway is a beautiful, mysterious geological formation on the Ireland’s North East. This formation it’s steeped in myths and legend.

The setting is a spectacular, dynamic coastal landscape of Atlantic waves, cliffs, fascinating geographical antiquity, bays, and magnificent views.

70. Visit the White House

Often seen as a symbol of American power and splendor, the official residence of the President of the United States of America, also known as the  White House  is a point of reference for all the American citizens.

So join the over 70.000 people who visit the White House each month, one of the best Washington DC tourist attractions .

Read more: Best things to do in Washington DC

71. Snorkel on Komodo Island

One of the islands that compose the Republic of Indonesia, Komodo Island is a place with unique fauna and flora, beautiful from the bottom of the sea to the top of the mountains.

This island is also known as the “dragon’s Island” since the world’s biggest lizard lives here.

72. Times Square

Square in Midtown Manhattan, formed by the intersection of Seventh Avenue, 42nd Street and Broadway, Times Square is one of the most tourist places in New York City .

Let yourself be conquered by the flashing neon lights and giant digital billboards, the brilliant Broadway marquees, the costumed characters and musicians. Times Square is big, bright and unforgettable.

Read more: Fun things to do in Times Square

73. Drive through the Black Forest

A different holiday destination , the Black Forest gets its name from its dark, slightly sinister canopy of evergreens.

With its mountains located in the southwest corner of Germany, the Black Forest has never been a distressing place, only enchanting and is an opportunity to tick this very picturesque place off your bucket list.

74. Climb the stairs at Tianmen Mountain

Has been defined one of the most beautiful mountains in the world by many travelers who have been in China.

The Tianmen Mountain is famous for its stunning views that include the “heaven’s door”, 99 bends, vertical cliffs, the thrilling cliff-hanging walk away, the glass skywalk and the world’s longest cable car ride.

75. Visit London’s Warner Bros Studio

At Warner Bros. Studio Harry Potter fans could experience the magic of the films and discover the real magic that brings the movies life.

The Harry Potter Studio Tour offers to its visitors the unique opportunity to explore the original sets, to see the animatronic creatures and the breathtaking special effects. Step into the world of everybody’s favorite boy wizard.

Read more about Harry Potter Studio Tour London Last Minute Tickets

76. Admire the view from Burj Khalifa

Dubai takes pride in having the tallest building in the world. Standing at 829,9 meters tall, the Burj Khalifa with its 360 degrees view on the 124th floor is one of the best tourist attracitons in Dubai . Get ready to enjoy the highest observatory in the world.

Read more how to book Burj Khalifa tickets and other 100 things to do in Dubai !

77. Explore the Lençóis Maranhenses National Park

It’s a vast area of undulating sand dunes between which are formed rainwater lakes at certain times of the year. The result is blue lakes surrounded by brilliant white dunes.

Stretching on for miles upon miles, the dunes in Brazil are so vast and so blindingly white that it’s easy to understand where the park got its name, Lençóis Maranhenses in Portuguese, that means “bedsheets of Maranhão”.

78. Admire The Great Sphinx

The first truly colossal royal sculpture in Egypt, and one of the oldest, largest and most mysterious monuments ever created by man.

The Great Sphinx with the lion’s body and the human’s head offers us an invaluable glimpse into the past.

79. Hike on the Rainbow Mountain

The Rainbow Mountain , otherwise known as Vinicunca Mountain, is about three hours away from Cusco. Towering at 6.000 meters, it’s coat of many colors is attributed to its sedimentary layers exposed for years to environmental conditions and mineralogy.

Hiking the colored mountain is no joke, due to the combination of the weather and the high altitude.

80. Sandboard at Huacachina

The natural oasis of Huacachina inside the expansive sand dunes, is a desert paradise with a dreamy lagoon surrounded by palm trees.

The perfect place for doing sandboarding and dune buggies, the most famous activities there.

81. Visit Quito

Quito , the Ecuadorian capital, is not only the largest and best preserved colonial center in Latina America but also the first Unesco World Heritage City. If you want to stand with one foot in each hemisphere, there you can find a monument and a museum marking the general location of the Equator.

Know as “The Middle of the World” because is located about 25 kilometers south of the equator and the city extends about 1 kilometer of zero latitudes.

Read more: Best things to do in Quito

82. See the changing of the guard at Buckingham Palace

London’s magnificent Buckingham Palace is more than just the home of the British monarchy, it’s one of the most visited attractions in London. It’s possible to visit this grand mansion and it’s over 700 rooms including 19 staterooms and 78 bathrooms.

You can also enjoy the Changing of the Guard ceremony, a unique celebration of British pageantry and the major event happening all year in front of the Palace that attracts the biggest crowds.

Learn how to book Buckingham Palace last minute tickets .

83. Take a boat to Jeju Island

With breathtaking natural wonders and hundreds of unique attractions, Jeju Island is one of Korea’s best travel destinations.

Korea’s largest island offers many attractions, including a volcanic Hallasan commanding the Island from the center, a 224 km semi-tropical forested national park, a wild coastline dotted with waterfalls and the most extended lava tube in the world.

84. Admire the Zocalo

The Zocalo is the center of Mexico City and one of the Mexican capital’s most well-known landmarks and squares. Formally known as Plaza de la Costituciòn, this grand square once constituted the ceremonial hub of the Aztec city.

Measuring 220 m from north to south, and 240m from east to west, it’s one of the world’s largest city squares. It’s undoubtedly one of the city’s most historically and culturally exciting destinations.

Read more: Best things to do in Mexico City

85. Enjoy a bath in Pamukkale

You can now relax and bath at Pamukkale so it should definitely figure on your bucket list.

86. Hike to the Vesuvius

Located on the Gulf of Naples, Mount Vesuvius is the only active volcano in Europe. It’s best known because of the eruption in 79 a.C. that destroyed the cities of Pompeii and Herculaneum.

Seen as one of the most dangerous Volcanoes in the world, is the emblem of the city of Naples!

87. Admire the Ganges River in Varanasi

Varanasi is a city on the banks of Ganges, the largest river in India who basin is the most populated river basin in the world, with over 400 million people.

Varanasi is the holiest of the seven sacred cities in Hinduism and Jainism, for this reason, many Hindus believe that death at Varanasi brings salvation.

Furthermore, there is a spectacular Hindu ritual called “Ganga Aarti” (consisting in a ceremony that dispels darkness) which takes place in the banks of the Ganges River.

88. Discover Al-Masjid an-Nabawi

Also known as Prophet’s Mosque, it’s a grand mosque in Medina and the second holiest mosque in the world. Built by the Prophet Muhammad, the construction stands on the site of a mosque and contains the tomb of the same Prophet.

One of the holiest sites in Islam and one of the principal destinations for religious pilgrimage.

89. Bath in the Dead Sea

Salty lake located on the lowest place on the face of the heart, the Dead Sea (431 m below sea level) is a breathtaking natural beauty surrounded by the stunning landscape of the Negev Desert.

Takes its name from the saline water of the lake because no fish can survive in the salty waters. The other result of the salty water is their renowned health and healing properties and the unique feature that one can float naturally in them.

90. Admire the blue flames at Ijen Volcano

Indonesia’s Kawah Ijen Volcano , on Java’s Island, has two of the most unusual occurrences on the hearth. The first is electric blue flames, difficult to see during the day but illuminate during the night.

This is possible because the sulfur combusts on contact with the air creating stunning blue lava. The second occurrence is the Kawah Ijen Crater acid Lake, at the top of the volcano, filled with blue water. In fact, it’s due to the acid that the water assumes this strange color.

91. Visit Meiji Jingu Shrine

It’s a large Shinto shrine in Tokyo, built in 1920 in memory of Emperor Meiji and his wife Empress Shoken, under whose reign Japan became a modern state. T

his shrine, surround by a vast forest, it’s the most visited religious site in Japan.

92. Ride a horse in Mongolia

It’s typical say that “a Mongol without a horse is like a bird without the wings”. Immerse yourself in the Mongolian nomad’s timeless way of life. You’ll ride through the vast, treeless steppes of Mongolia with the largest herds of horses the world has ever seen.

Enjoying a Mongolian ride means choosing to experience nomad’s life and experiment a way of life so different from ours.

93. Explore Sensoji Temple

Sensoji Temple, founded in 628, is the oldest and most visited temple in Tokyo. Many people believed that the temple brings good luck, happiness and make all wishes come true.

In front of the principal hall of the temple, you will see many people covering themselves with smoke. This because the smoke they are covering themselves with, is believed to make the part they covered better.

94. Visit the Grand Palace

Located in the heart of Bangkok, the Grand Palace is one of the most famous landmarks of the country. And offers spectacular sacred sites and buildings. This Grand Palace served as the official residence of the Kings of Siam since 1782.

Nowadays the Palace is used for many Royal rituals and other official functions. The Grand Palace is one of the best places to visit in the world and must-do in Thailand.

Read more: Best things to do in Bangkok

95. Walk on the Hollywood Walk of Fame

One of Los Angeles’s most famous tourist attractions, attracting 10 million visitors each year. The Hollywood Walk of Fame is the stars embedded in the sidewalks of Hollywood Boulevard and Vine St. in Hollywood.

The name on each star is the people in the field of television, music, drama, radio, and film that influenced the entertainment industry. Visiting the Walk of Fame is one of the most emblematic things to do in Los Angeles .

Read more: Fun things to do in Hollywood, California

96. Hike on Trolltunga

After an arduous hike, that takes 10-12 hours, there is a breathtaking view over lakes and snow-capped mountains, ending at the Troll’s tongue, a thin sliver of rock.

97. Visit Bourbon Street

If you’re looking for a street with lots of people, bars, and live bands, you are in the right place. Welcome to Bourbon Street in the famous French quarters of New Orleans.

Read more: Fun things to do in New Orleans

98. Visit the Paricutin Volcano

Located in the state of Michoacan (Mexico) near the city of Uruapan, the Paricutin Volcano is considered one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. Famous for being the youngest volcano formed in the Northern Hemisphere, developing in a farmer’s cornfield.

The eruption of the Paricutin scoria cone from 1943 to 1952 marks the first time that scientists have been able to observe the complete life cycle of a volcano, from birth to extinction.

99. Shop at Tsim Sha Tsui

Situated in the south of Kowloon Peninsula, Tsim Sha Tsui is known as the shoppers’ paradise thanks to its malls and colorful shopping streets. It’s a giant world bazaar, where Hong Kong ’s Harbour meet stands, shops, markets and malls.

Take a walk for Canton Road where you’ll see the best the world has to offer in luxury designer goods.

Read more: Fun things to do in Hong Kong

100. Admire the Golden Temple

The Golden Temple in India is not only a central religious place of the Sikhs but also a symbol of equality and human brotherhood and one of the oldest worship places in the Indian Sikh.

The Temple takes its name from the fact that the entire top of the temple is made of pure gold. Sikhs all over the world would like to make a visit and to pay obeisance at the temple. In fact, the tank is said to have healing powers, and pilgrims come from across the world to bathe in its sacred waters.

Hopefully, you could do most of them! Do not hesitate to tell us in the comments below which one you have already done and which one you recommend to us!

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The beautiful thing about bucket lists is that they look completely different from one person to the next. One can be filled with personal and career achievements, the next with culinary oddities. But almost all bucket lists include travel and at least one item that is a wild or extreme experience.

Good thing travel and crazy experiences tend to go together. Since you only get one life on this beautiful planet, we’ve brainstormed 17 travel adventures that are sure to remind you how great it is to be alive. Not for the faint of heart, here are some crazy bucket list ideas that you’ll be proud to have survived.

1. Base Jumping at Kjerag (Rogaland, Norway)

Towering more than 3,600 feet above the steep cliffside beneath it, the Kjerag peak in Norway attracts thousands of avid hikers each year. Not only does this destination include Kjeragfossen, one of the tallest waterfalls in the world, it is also one of the world’s most popular places for BASE jumping. With such steep drops, BASE jumpers will get a beautiful view along with an insane adrenaline rush.

2. Climb the South Peak of Mount Hua (Huayin, China)

One of the 5 Great Mountains of China, Mount Hua is a breath-taking geographical treasure with a great deal of religious significance. At over 7,000 ft, the South Peak is its highest and most treacherous. Parts of the climb include shimmying along boards drilled into the cliff side. But make it to the top and the view will be worth everything.

3. Travel Inside a Volcano (Reykjavik, Iceland)

The Thrihnukagigur volcano has been dormant since the 2nd century BC, and is the only volcano in the world that is safe to enter. If you’ve ever wanted to journey to the center of the Earth like Jules Verne, taking the nearly 700 foot elevator ride to the bottom of this magma chamber is the closest thing.

4. Swim with Sharks (Western Cape, South Africa)

With a population of 50,000 fat, furry seals, a narrow strip of ocean off South Africa’s western cape is a famous feeding place for the vicious Great White Shark. Known as Shark Alley, these chilly waters hold some of the world’s highest concentrations of Great Whites. Those looking to cage dive and tempt these carnivorous fish can do so without scuba licensing.

5. Cliff Dive into a Cenote (Yaxunah, Mexico)

Head to Yaxunah, in Mexico’s Yucatan for one of the most amazing cliff dive opportunities to be found. A Cenote is a natural sinkhole from collapsed limestone that shows the fresh ground water beneath. At the Lol Ha cenote in Yaxunah, you can toss yourself into the crystal clear 50 foot deep waters and spend your day snorkeling and diving.

6. Surf Shipstern Bluff (Australia)

Despite its distant location off the coast of Tasmania and shark infested waters, thousands of surfers travel every year out to Shipstern Bluff to catch the perfect wave. Also known as Devil’s Point, this island coast line has some of the biggest waves in the world. Beginners should wait safely on the shore.

7. Walk on the Wing of a Plane (Essex, England)

Not much can compare to soaring through the air at 220 KPH while strapped onto the wing of a Biplane! There are several locations in and around the Essex area (just 20 minutes outside of London) where you can experience the thrill of walking on the wing of plane with a great view of the countryside below.

8. Cycle Death Road (La Paz, Bolivia)

Connecting the cities of La Paz and Coroico, Yugas Road has come to be known as Death Road for claiming as many as 300 victims a year. Despite the dangers, tourists from around the world come to cycle this treacherous trek that includes steep cliff sides, waterfalls, a 40 mile stretch of continuous downhill, and striking rain forest views.

9. Swim at the Edge of a Waterfall (Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe)

The second largest waterfall in the world, Victoria Falls is a sight to behold all by itself. But what if you could get right on top of it? Devil’s Pool is small area at the top of the Falls where it is safe to swim right up to the edge. The Falls are known to locals as “the Mist that Roars,” and the Devil’s Pool is the best perch to truly experience this.

10. Take the World’s Fastest Zip Line Ride (Sun City, South Africa)

At a staggering 280 meters in the air and stretching the length of 2 kilometers, riders of the world’s fastest zipline can expect to reach speeds of over 160 KPH. And flying over a South African game reserve, you may even spot some elephants on your ride.

11. Take a Wingsuit Flight (Walenstadt, Switzerland)

Mankind has always dreamed of flying like a bird, and the closest we’ve managed is with wingsuits. Among the high cliffs and deep valleys of the Swiss Alps, you can suit up, jump off, and soar like Superman.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2c1j1Vh7tKo

12. Kayak over a Waterfall (Washtucna, WA, USA)

The Palouse River in Palouse State Park offers some of North America’s most intense white water rafting. Experienced kayakers have the opportunity to boat right off a waterfall and plunge for nearly 4 seconds of freefall for 57 meters to the river below.

13. Run with the Bulls (Pamplona, Spain)

  The San Fermin festival is a centuries-long tradition and a 9-day celebration filled with food, sangria, and music. The highlight is of course, the bull run, during which the live animals are released into the winding streets of Pamplona to chase after brave runners. To prepare , start working on your sprints, and make sure you bring appropriate footgear.

14. Free Dive into a Blue Hole (Clarence Town, Bahamas)

The second largest salt water sinkhole in the world, Dean’s Blue Hole is daunting even for experienced divers. Plunging nearly 700 ft below the surface, Dean’s Hole is twice as deep as most other blue holes on the planet and offers stunning visibility.

15. Skydive next to Mt. Everest (Sagarmatha, Nepal)

Climbing the world’s highest peak is a bucket list item for many, but is highly restricted due to its dangers. Skydiving near Everest, however, is accessible to those who choose a certified team. With stunning views of the treacherous Mahalangur Mountain Range, skydiving may be the closest you can get to climbing the giant yourself.

16. Plunge off the Highest Bungee Jump in the World (Macau, China)

In the city of Macau, the AJ Hackett tower offers the world’s highest bungee jump. Take on the terrifying 764 foot fall and jump off a tower so high you can see the Great Wall from the top. You can also do it at night!

17. Be a Jet Fighter Pilot For a Day (Europe, USA)

Like a living a video game (but a thousand times cooler), a handful of companies in the U.S. and Europe offer you the chance to fly a Jet Fighter yourself. You’ll even be trained to do cool maneuvers like loops and rolls!

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May Is The Best Time To Visit These 5 Insane Destinations

M ay is a magical time for travel, especially to some of the most incredible destinations around the world. The month of May offers the perfect blend of favorable weather, fewer crowds, and plenty of natural beauty coming to life as flowers bloom and greenery bursts with color. 

Here, you’ll find the best destinations to travel to in May for memorable getaways full of delicious foods, stunning views, fewer crowds, and even cultural events. 

1. Tuscany, Italy

Taking in the stunning views of endless rows of vineyards and rolling hills in one of the world’s top wine regions is an experience that defines a trip to Tuscany, Italy. The region’s landscape is like a beautiful painting, with hills covered in vineyards and olive trees creating an incredibly picturesque scene.

Having personally explored Italy during May, I can say firsthand how amazing Tuscany is during this time of year. The weather in Tuscany in May is just right, not too hot and not too cold, usually ranging from the mid-50s to upper 70s Fahrenheit.

It’s perfect for leisurely walks and enjoying the fantastic wines the region is known for. Plus, May brings the landscape to life with blooming flowers and lush greenery, making it even more beautiful.

One of the best things about visiting Tuscany in May is that it’s less crowded than it can be in the peak summer months. Fewer visitors are around, so you can enjoy popular spots, historical sites, and scenic views without dealing with large crowds.

It also makes it easier to find accommodations and creates a more relaxed vibe overall, allowing you to soak in the charm of Tuscany truly.

2. Santorini, Greece

Imagine strolling around a small Greek island bursting with color, sunlight, and warm weather. There’s nothing quite like Santorini, Greece, with its famous white buildings against the backdrop of the beautiful Aegean Sea. The island’s charm lies in its stunning architecture and the dramatic cliffs overlooking the blue waters.

The weather in Santorini during May is just right, with temperatures ranging from around the mid-60s to upper 70s. This makes it perfect for enjoying the island without the intense summer heat. It’s a beautiful time to wander through the narrow streets of Oia and Fira, each offering breathtaking views and countless shops and restaurants to explore.

One of the best things about visiting Santorini in May is the peaceful atmosphere compared to the busier summer months. With fewer tourists around, you can thoroughly soak in the beauty of the caldera, savor leisurely meals at local restaurants, and embrace the laid-back island vibe. 

May also brings out the vibrant colors of spring, with blooming flowers and lush greenery enhancing the island’s natural beauty. My personal favorite is the bright pink flowers that bloom on Bougainvillea Trees.

Exploring Santorini in May allows you to experience the best of the island, from its famous sunsets in Oia to boat trips to the volcanic hot springs. It’s a time when you can truly enjoy the essence of Santorini without the crowds and intense heat.

3. Marrakech, Morocco

Experiencing the lively atmosphere of Marrakech, Morocco, is like stepping into a vibrant world of colors and culture. Marrakech is famous for its bustling markets, lively streets, and historic sites that showcase its rich heritage.

May is perfect for exploring the city because it’s not too hot, with temperatures ranging from the upper 60s to the mid-80s Fahrenheit. It’s a fantastic time to wander through the maze-like streets of the old city, where you’ll discover a treasure trove of spices, textiles, and local crafts.

One of the best things about visiting Marrakech in May is the relaxed vibe compared to busier times of the year. With fewer tourists, you can enjoy the city’s attractions, such as the Bahia Palace, the Jardin Majorelle, and vibrant souks without crowds. 

4. Nassau, The Bahamas

Nassau is famous for its beautiful beaches, vibrant markets, and historical sites. It is also home to the world-famous Atlantis Paradise Island Bahamas Resort.

Having personally visited Nassau, I can say it’s a fun-filled place overflowing with a vibrant atmosphere and endless things to do. The weather in Nassau during May is absolutely perfect, with temperatures ranging from the upper 70s to mid-80s Fahrenheit, making it incredible for enjoying outdoor adventures and water activities without feeling too hot.

It’s the perfect time to lounge on the beautiful beaches, wander through the bustling Straw Market for local crafts, and explore historical landmarks like Fort Charlotte and the Queen’s Staircase.

One of the best things about visiting Nassau in May is that the temperature is just right, and it’s between spring break and summer crowds. With fewer tourists, you can fully enjoy the beach life, indulge in Bahamian cuisine at beachfront restaurants, and discover the underwater world through snorkeling or diving without the hustle and bustle. 

5. Brighton, United Kingdom

Brighton is known for its iconic pier, lively beachfront, and colorful neighborhoods that reflect its creative spirit.

The weather in Brighton in May is pleasant, with temperatures ranging from around 50 degrees to the mid-60s Fahrenheit. This makes it ideal for seaside strolls without the summer crowds.

It’s a wonderful time to wander along the pebbled beach, explore the quirky shops and cafes in the North Laine district, and marvel at architectural gems like the Royal Pavilion.

One of the highlights of visiting Brighton in May is the lively atmosphere and cultural events. With the city coming to life after winter, you can experience the Brighton Fringe Festival, featuring a vibrant mix of performing arts, music, and comedy.

May also brings opportunities to enjoy traditional fish and chips by the beach, take leisurely bike rides along the promenade, and discover local art galleries and museums.

Exploring Brighton in May allows you to embrace its seaside charm and artistic flair. Brighton captures the essence of a British seaside getaway, whether you’re relaxing by the sea, immersing yourself in cultural events, or savoring local cuisine.

Why You Should Visit These 5 Epic Destinations In May

May is an excellent time to explore each of these unique places known for their charm and experiences. 

Whether you’re captivated by Tuscany’s stunning vineyards, Santorini’s scenic cliffs, Marrakech’s bustling markets, Nassau’s tropical paradise, or Brighton’s seaside appeal, May brings a perfect mix of pleasant weather, cultural events, and fewer crowds.

So, grab your bags and head off on an unforgettable vacation full of all the excitement these destinations offer.

• Destinations

25 Best Vacations & Destinations in the USA

Last Updated By VI on February 1, 2024 in Things to Do in the USA & Places to Visit

Jules' Undersea Lodge, Key Largo, Florida

If you are looking for unusual vacations, you will not want to miss this incredible place. In addition to overnight stays in the underwater Lodge, Key Largo Undersea Park also offers scuba diving, pizza lunches in the lodge, and three-hour Mini-Adventures in the lagoon. (Phone: 305-451-2353). Jules' Undersea Lodge Map

Heceta Head Lighthouse, Cape Cove, Oregon

Heceta Head Lighthouse is situated in a wonderfully diverse area, with plenty of attractions and historical sites to explore. (Phone: 866-547-3696).

Casa Gallina, Taos, New Mexico

Outdoor enthusiasts will delight in the wealth of activities and adventures, from hiking, mountain biking, and white water rafting to snowboarding and skiing. For those wanting less action, the town boasts excellent shopping, art galleries and many restaurants and cafés at which to sit and watch the world go by. ( Casa Gallina , Phone: 575-758-2306).

Red Caboose Motel, Ronks, Pennsylvania

The Red Caboose Motel is located within close proximity to a variety of attractions, such as the Pennsylvania Train Museum, the Sight and Sound Theater and Dutch Wonderland. The kids will delight in the on-site interactive petting zoo, with sheep, goats, chickens, and ponies. ( Red Caboose Motel , Phone: 717-687-5000).

The Bivvi, Breckenridge, Colorado

Relax in the hot tub or around the outdoor fire pit with new friends, and have a glass of wine or craft beer from the bar. A delicious complimentary breakfast is served each morning. The the town is just a short walk away and offers a range of restaurants and bars for evening dining. ( The Bivvi , Phone: 970-423-6553).

Honor & Folly, Detroit, Michigan

Dine at Slows, downstairs from the apartment, or wander down the street where you will find an artisan coffee shop, which serves delicious breakfasts, and a craft cocktail bar packed with locals in the evenings. Charming, friendly and full of excellent restaurants, bars, and historical attractions, Corktown offers an array of things to see and do during your stay. Honor & Folly is a 15-minute walk from downtown Detroit. Honor & Folly

The Shady Dell, Bisbee, Arizona

Trailers sleep up to two people and are comfortably furnished with beds and linens, a small refrigerator, and a coffee percolator. The trailers do not provide cooking facilities for safety reasons. However, guests may use outdoor grills to barbecue. A few of the trailers have a toilet and sink, as well as bathroom and showers facilities just a few steps away. The Shady Dell welcomes guests over 15 years of age only (Phone: 520-432-3567, The Shady Dell ).

The Crash Pad, Chattanooga, Tennessee

Prepare your own meals in the full kitchen and relax in the homey living room, a popular gathering spot. There is also an outdoor terrace and fire pit, a complimentary ‘do-it-yourself’ breakfast and freshly roasted coffee. The hostel is within walking distance of a variety of restaurants and bars for evening entertainment. The Crash Pad

Rolling Huts, Winthrop, Washington

The award-winning Rolling Huts in Washington's Methow Valley is a campsite like no other. Designed by Tom Kundig of Olson Kundig Architects, the unique huts have modern amenities and breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. Rolling Huts have sleeping platforms for two, comfortable living spaces with furniture that can be converted to sleep two more people, cozy fireplaces, small fridges, and microwaves. Huts are equipped with free Wi-Fi for convenience and have portable toilets adjacent to each cabin. Full bathroom facilities with hot showers are housed in a large barn just a short stroll away. Larger groups of up to eight people can be accommodated in a beautifully preserved turn-of-the-century farmhouse, which has warm wooden interiors, spacious living areas, and a fully equipped kitchen. (Phone: 509-996-4442, Rolling Huts ).

Unique Vacations: Metro Hotel, Petaluma, California

The Metro Hotel is a small, self-service boutique hotel modeled after those in Paris, reflecting French charm and tranquility. Housed in a 140-year old building in Historic Downtown Petaluma, the hotel offers well-appointed standard rooms with queen beds and two luxury suites. Rooms and suites are ecclectically furnished with particular individual touches and have modern amenities, including flat screen televisions, and private bathrooms with glamorous ball and claw bath tubs and showers. Some rooms boast beautiful garden views. The Hotel’s in-house café serves an array of complimentary hand-baked pastries accompanied by freshly brewed coffee in the mornings with lunch and dinner for guests later in the day. There are a wide variety of activities and excursions available nearby ranging from wine-tasting at surrounding wineries, historic sojourns through the town’s oldest buildings, and sailing, kayaking and boat cruises on the Petaluma River. (Phone: 707-773-4900, Metro Hotel ).

Hicksville Trailer Palace & Artist Retreat, Joshua Tree, California

Home to an array of quirky themed trailers with just as quirky names, and surrounded by some of the most beautiful landscape in the country, Hicksville Trailer Palace and Artist Retreat in California’s renowned Joshua Tree provides a one-of-a-kind experience. Eleven individually designed and themed trailers offer guests a fun place to sleep, with themes such as a western cowboy theme (The Pioneer trailer), aliens and ghouls (the Integratrailor), and the 70’s disco shack of The Sweet. Trailers have comfortable beds, fresh linens, workstations, air-conditioning and heating and shared bathrooms. There is a range of facilities at the park to enjoy, including a solar-heated swimming pool, BBQ and bistro area for entertaining, a fire pit and a roof deck with a hot tub. There are games galore such as table tennis, archery, and mini golf, and even ‘Fort Dog’, especially designed for your canine traveling companions. Hicksville Trailer Palace & Artist Retreat

Rancholoma, Talpa, Texas

Situated near Flat Rock Park and Hords Creek Lake in Texas, Rancho Loma is a beautifully renovated 1878 ranch house that serves as an award-winning restaurant able to accommodate up to 32 diners. Attached to the farm restaurant is Rest, a modern five-room boutique inn that provides guests with luxurious overnight accommodation as a perfect complement to their meal. Set on a scenic 300-acre ranch, well-appointed rooms in the modern, flat-roofed inn are spacious and light, with wooden floors, high ceilings, and large glass sliding doors that embrace beautiful views of the surrounding terrain. Amenities include Italian linens , in-room espresso service and free Wi-Fi. An upgraded room features a private outdoor shower and tub. Relax in the outdoor swimming pool as you soak up the views, or head to Flat Rock Park and Hords Creek Lake to explore. (Phone: 325-636-4556, Rancholoma ).

Treehouse Cabins, Dora, Missouri

The Treehouse Cabins are located along the North Fork River in Southern Missouri and offer the perfect location if you want to canoe, kayak, or fly fish. This nationally recognized adventure region provides many options for fun in the sun and is an ideal setting for a romantic getaway. You will get to stay in a comfortable modern cabin while feeling like you are escaping to your own private tree house. This location is perfect for those that want to explore the outdoors or have a wedding at the lodge. Accommodations include the Rainbow Springs Lodge that sleeps 8 comfortably, and one of 8 tree house cabins with amazing views of the river and stars. Have breakfast, lunch or dinner at the Falls onsite rustic restaurant. (Phone: 417-261-7777, Treehouse Cabins ).

L'Banca Albergo, Lake Arthur, Louisiana

L'Banca Albergo, meaning The Bank Hotel in Italian, used to be the old Jeff Davis Bank in Lake Arthur, Louisiana. Inside you will find 8 luxury suites, with the three suites downstairs featuring king size beds and the five upstairs suites including two queen size ones. Some rooms still have features of the bank, such as the night deposit safe, teller window, and vault door, and there is a fully handicap-accessible room. L’Banca Albergo also features a store known as the Wine Vault where you will find a wide range of wines in addition to Classic Bayou Rum and Crown Royal. There are featured house wines as well, which guests can enjoy in their room, in the lobby, or on the balcony. (Phone: 337-774-7249, L'Banca Albergo ).

• 1. Jules' Undersea Lodge, Key Largo, Florida
• 2. Heceta Head Lighthouse, Cape Cove, Oregon
• 3. Casa Gallina, Taos, New Mexico
• 4. Red Caboose Motel, Ronks, Pennsylvania
• 5. The Bivvi, Breckenridge, Colorado
• 6. Honor & Folly, Detroit, Michigan
• 7. The Shady Dell, Bisbee, Arizona
• 8. The Crash Pad, Chattanooga, Tennessee
• 9. Rolling Huts, Winthrop, Washington
• 10. Unique Vacations: Metro Hotel, Petaluma, California
• 11. Hicksville Trailer Palace & Artist Retreat, Joshua Tree, California
• 12. Rancholoma, Talpa, Texas
• 13. Treehouse Cabins, Dora, Missouri
• 14. L'Banca Albergo, Lake Arthur, Louisiana

The places on our list are so amazing that you will want to pack your bags next weekend. Most are surprisingly affordable.

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What to wear when you travel: Tips from frequent flyers 

Jolie Hettena and Marli Hettena, 17, of Merrick, wear comfortable outfits and backpacks for their flight at MacArthur in Ronkonkoma on April 19. Credit: Morgan Campbell

In May, Michael Doyle and his wife head out from their Levittown home for a getaway to Copenhagen, where galleries, gardens, museums and more must-see sites will all be at their feet. Weeks before he departs for Denmark, Doyle, a flight attendant for a major carrier for 35 years, already knows what he’ll have on his feet during the flight: a pair of his trusty slip-ons. They come in handy passing through security and in the cabin.

“I like to wear loafers. You can slide them on and off at your seat,” he says, adding an inside tip of the trade. “Always wear shoes when you walk anywhere in the plane.” More than comfy, slip-ons come in a variety of styles for men and women — Cole Haan to Toms to Tom Ford.

Brayden, 5, Kaitlin, and Gemma Kenney, 6, from East Islip, travel in Disney-themed attire at MacArthur in Ronkonkoma on April 19. Credit: Morgan Campbell

With more than three decades of work experience in the sky, plus his frequent personal journeys, Doyle has solved the puzzle of what to wear when you’re at 35,000 feet.

To help make sure your next flight is nothing but blue skies when it comes to comfort, style and safety, we've rounded up advice for in-flight apparel from pros in the flying industry and parents who log frequent air miles.

Flight attendant tips

Stretch your style

Stretch jeans are a flyer’s best friend, if you ask Chris Riebli, a flight attendant for one of the “Big 3” U.S. airlines for more than three decades who lives in Long Beach. That goes double on a long-haul flight, where tight, binding clothes — as in, skinny jeans — are as unwelcome as turbulence.

“I always wear jeans because jeans are a little bit heavier and bulkier to pack so it takes packing space,” she says. “You can pretty much wear your jeans anywhere in the world and then fit into what everybody is wearing there.” Just make sure they're of the stretch variety, “so they're more comfortable,” she says, adding that jeans have “come a long way” from the old days of being stiff and unforgiving. On a nine-hour flight, that’s a top priority. You can find these wardrobe staples wherever you like to shop, from Nordstrom to Macy’s to Marshalls and beyond.

Layer it on

Like her fellow flight attendants, Leiann Cummings, who works for Breeze Airways and lives in Center Moriches, is a true believer in dressing strategically when she’s in the air. “My big thing is layers,” she says. “You want to layer up because being in the cabin is always unpredictable.”

Riebli echoes that sentiment, noting that the climate can turn from arctic to tropical as you go from tarmac to cabin. “You never know what the temperature is going to be,” she says. So she always pairs a top — short- or long-sleeve — with a “nice fashion sweatshirt, sweater or lightweight jacket.”

Focus on fabrics that breathe

Reign Small, 3, and Ryan Small, of Brooklyn, travel in casual and breathable attire at MacArthur in Ronkonkoma on April 19. Credit: Morgan Campbell

Choices for fashionable, travel-friendly tops are as vast as the open sky. Since you can boost in-flight comfort by wearing breathable fabrics, such as cotton, Uniqlo in Valley Stream, Uniondale and Huntington Station and the Gap (multiple locations) are two shops for in-flight inspiration. Moisture-wicking and quick-drying human-made fabrics found in athleisure wear are another option. Alo in Roosevelt Field and Lululemon in Uniondale, Manhasset and Huntington Station are two sources for going this style route.

Jill Hettena, of Merrick, wears comfortable shoes to travel. Credit: Morgan Campbell

Choose the right shoes

Flight attendants agreed that open-toed shoes are a no-no for flying, so stash your stilettos, strappy sandals and playful flip-flops in your bag. “I always recommend close-toed shoes,” says Cummings. “It’s a lot safer and your feet don’t get cold.”

Riebli is an ace at packing with maximum efficiency. She always matches her in-flight footwear to the environment of her destination. For a trip to Iceland, where hiking was on the agenda, she wore her comfy Nike running shoes. En route to Paris and England, she wears her suede tennis shoes. “They’re a little more fashionable and good for walking.”

Travel agent advice

Penny Cuomo has been running Sunset Travel in Bellmore since 1988. She’s logged countless miles planning trips for others (upcoming is one to the Canadian Rockies) and herself.

Cuomo figures she flies at least four times a year, and she dresses for the trip in essentially the same outfit. “I wear leggings or cropped pants, a T-shirt and a sweater or zipper top layer,” she says. “And comfortable shoes. Sometimes you have to walk a mile to get to the baggage.”

“I tell the women to take a shawl and men to take a sweatshirt,” says Cuomo. “It can definitely get cold in the cabin.” During a long flight, a wrap or pashmina easily doubles as a makeshift pillow and takes up practically no space in a carry-on bag.

Have it in the bag

Crossbody bags are designed to keep your essential documents including passports close at hand and safe. “I tell everybody to wear one,” says Cuomo. “Everything is at your fingertips — and no one else’s.”

There are many styles — Cuomo’s favorite is MZ Wallace in Manhattan — and most feature adjustable straps for just the right fit. Riebli seconds the crossbody bag tip — her go-to brand is Dakine, found at sporting good locations like REI in Huntington Station and Public Lands in Melville.

Sloane Grober, 34, a mother of three and retail consultant who lives in Syosset, reckons that she flies about eight times a year between family trips, jaunts with just her husband and the occasional girls’ getaway.

Flying with her three daughters — Hunter, 9, Harlow, 6, Hayden, 3 — brings out Grober’s strategic team captain. “I tend to dress all my kids in coordinating outfits,” she says. “It’s easy for everyone around us to know that we're kind of a pack or a pod.”

Sisters Harlow, 6, Hayden, 3, and Hunter Grober, 9, wear matching outfits when they travel. Credit: Howard Simmons

Have hoodie, will travel

“My number one rule for flying is that everybody wears a hoodie,” says Grober. “When my kids are sleeping on the airplane in their hoodies, I’m not so concerned about where their head is resting.” Her go-to shops include Blue Jean Baby in Woodbury and Gold Coast Kids in Jericho.

Prioritize pockets

When you’re flying, you can never have too many pockets, according to Grober. Leggings with a deep cargo-style pocket are a must-have in her plane outfit. “I always wear the same pair of black Lululemon leggings,” she says, adding that it’s ideal for boarding passes. “I love that they keep my hands free and nothing can fall out.”

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How much should I spend on a wedding present? Life Kit's tips of the month

The great thing about working on Life Kit is that the editors and producers get to pick up all sorts of nifty life hacks that save money, enhance our relationships and make our everyday lives more joyful.

Here are nine expert tips from our April episodes we were most excited to share — and put into practice in our own daily lives.

1. Planning a big trip? Consider traveling during "shoulder season," the period of time between a city's peak season and offseason. It's often less expensive and it can help your "destination deal with over-tourism and overcrowding," says Lale Arikoglu, articles director at Condé Nast Traveler magazine.

From food to finance, 9 life hacks from Life Kit experts

2. The rule that your wedding gift should cost as much as your plate is outdated , says etiquette coach Myka Meier. "That is kind of an old wives' tale that you have to spend what the couple spent on you, because that's often not possible for many people. At the end of the day, you need to stay within your budget."

3. To prevent digital eye strain, follow the 20-20-20 rule . For every 20 minutes of computer work, take a 20-second break and look 20 feet away, say eye experts.

4. To truly connect with a poem, don't worry about figuring out what the poet is trying to say . Instead, says poet Harryette Mullen, focus on how you feel. What impression do you get? What ideas float around in your mind as you read it?

24 nifty tips to make 2024 even brighter

5. Don't depend on an anti-choking device if your baby is choking , say pediatricians. The evidence-backed and proven method is to do back blows followed by chest blows on your child — and then, if they're unresponsive, proceed to call 911 and do CPR .

6. Start talking to your kids about vaping when they're in elementary school , says Dr. Deepa Camenga, a pediatrician and addiction medicine specialist with the Yale School of Medicine. You want to be the first person to have that conversation with them so they know what your expectations are.

7. Think of your birthday as your own personal holiday . A lot of people dislike their birthday — they don't like the attention or they've been disappointed by previous birthdays. Make your day special again by doing what you want to do, whether it's throwing yourself a giant bash or treating yourself to a spa day.

8. In negotiation, avoid simple yes or no answers by trying a tactic called "a menu of options," says career coach Joan Moon . For example: instead of asking for more flexibility at a new job and getting a flat-out no, you might propose a couple of options: working three days remote or a four-day workweek. It can help expand the possibility of a favorable outcome.

Having a roommate can be great, but it takes some work to make it work

9. Tired of having roommates? Consider "communal living." Communal living takes many forms, whether that's sharing a home with like-minded people or raising your kids on the same street as your friends. And it goes by many names: intentional communities, co-housing, co-ops or communes. But they all have one thing in common: people who co-live don't just simply live together as roommates. They make the long-term commitment to intertwine their lives with one another, says Gillian Morris, who co-runs a blog on communal living.

The digital story was written by Malaka Gharib and edited by Meghan Keane. The visual editor is Beck Harlan. We'd love to hear from you. Leave us a voicemail at 202-216-9823, or email us at [email protected].

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