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Small group travel that's good all over.

Good views, good friends and good times on over 1000 trips in more than 100 countries.

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Finding the secret sauce to a great group in Patagonia

Intrepid’s new Women’s Expedition is exploring Saudi Arabia through a different lens 

10 ways 2023 was Intrepid’s most impactful year ever

An agricultural renaissance is underway on the outskirts of Rome

Why 2024 is the best year to see the northern lights

What it’s like to spend a day gorilla trekking in Uganda

A trio of Intrepid women is shaking up Botswana’s safari scene  

The silly side of small group travel you have to experience to understand 

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Dreaming of visiting a place is one thing, making it happen is something completely different. At Adventure Travel, we not only make your luxury vacation happen, we take it to the next level with our planning services. Our experience has given us the knowledge and the partnerships to provide exclusive access to sites and experiences you can’t find on your own. Wherever you want to go, your adventure starts here.

Get deeper travel insights through:

• Complimentary upgrades on flights, hotels, cruises, and more.
• Behind-the-scenes access to the world’s top attractions.
• An array of included amenities at no extra charge.
• Exclusive pricing you can’t find online.

Our world is an endless ocean of cultures just waiting to be experienced. Our team of seasoned travel experts thrives on helping people experience new things and has devoted their lives to traveling to new and faraway places. This gives us the ability to build custom itineraries uniquely suited to your preferences.

Booking with Adventure Travel gives you access to:

• 15 Travel Advisors, each with a specific area of expertise.
• More than 100 combined years of travel experience.
• Intimate knowledge of traveling to and within all 7 continents.
• Expert tips and secrets to get the most out of your travel.

To truly experience a place, you need to be free from the stress, worry, and uncertainty that can come from booking and managing your own travel. By serving as your travel expert and liaison, we empower you to be fully present wherever you are to get the most out of your vacation. With us, you can travel farther and rest easy knowing we’re here for you no matter what.

Eliminate worry and stress.

• A dedicated travel advisor throughout your booking process and vacation.
• Direct access to your travel advisor via phone, email, or travel app throughout your vacation.
• Visible savings on air, cruise, hotel, and excursion fares and fees.

Explore Our Trips

Third night free in boston at fairmont copley plaza.

Fairmont Copley Plaza is located just one block from Back Bay Amtrak Station and less than 5 miles from Boston Logan International airport. Enjoy a complimentary 3rd night with the purchase of two nights for stays now through May 31,

Exclusive Amenities at Luxury Nashville Hotel

Located near Music Row, the epicenter of Nashville’s unique sound, Hutton Hotel is the city’s original boutique hotel and a hub for creative expression. From the deals being made over lunch at our modern steakhouse, to the artists performing in

Exclusive Amenities at Wyoming Ranch

Nestled across 30,000 acres of expansive, rolling wilderness in south central Wyoming outside the historic town of Saratoga This Iconic ranch offers an unsurpassed collection of luxury ranch destinations inclusive of lodging, amenities, and gourmet dining Enjoy a vast array

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From big wows to hidden gems, our tours leave you feeling that you've really explored.

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Chosen for their great knowledge of your destination and a passion to make your trip extraordinary.

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Average groups of 11; solos, couples and friends, united by a desire for authentic experiences.

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How we operate sets us apart; our flexible booking policy, our loyalty scheme & sustainable approach.

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It's not too late to book your summer getaway

A first-timers' guide to Japan

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Discover our tours to Europe, from hiking in Italy to cycling in Provence

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Explore has always been known for its flexible booking conditions and since the Coronavirus pandemic, we've gone even further to ensure you can continue to book your next adventure with confidence.

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Pioneering Adventure Travel for 45 Years

Since 1978, we’ve remained dedicated to designing innovative trips to the most fascinating corners of the world. Our adventures offer something for every adventurous spirit—from African safaris to hiking odysseys in the Alps to expedition cruises in Antarctica. We invite you to join us!

Award-Winning Journeys

Crafting Trips for Every Travel Style

Browse our trips based on your specific interests. Whether you are looking for hiking and trekking adventures, snorkeling excursions, in-depth cultural encounters, or more, we have the trip for you.

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We have more than 200 trips in over 80 countries throughout the world. Check out some of our most popular destinations below or browse our full selection.

Experience Tanzania

Take a classic wildlife safari with skilled trackers in Serengeti National Park or climb Kilimanjaro—the roof of Africa! Enjoy expert guides, exclusive private camps, and luxury lodges.

Join us in the Alps

Experience the Alps the right way with our world-class mountain guides. Hike among soaring peaks, hidden hamlets, and lush valleys—this is the way to see the Alps.

Explore Peru

Savor fine hotels and cultural exploration in the Sacred Valley of the Incas, hike the classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, and trek the spectacular alpine trails of the Cordillera Blanca.

Discover Egypt

Enter a mysterious world of soaring temples in a timeless desert landscape, from the Great Pyramids to Abu Simbel to a luxury cruise on the Nile.

Hike the Himalayas

Be welcomed in tiny villages and mountainside temples, meet red-robed monks, explore colorful markets, and discover a unique Shangri-La kingdom.

Providing Unparalleled, Best-in-Class Service

Thoughtful Itinerary Design

Meticulously planned and artfully executed itineraries, perfectly paced and with the ideal balance of activities, including unique off-the-beaten-path experiences.

Sustainable & Meaningful Travel

We are committed to environmentally conscious, locally focused travel, offsetting our trips’ carbon emissions and working to preserve the cultures and ecosystems we visit.

Best Trip Leaders in the Industry

Our Trip Leaders all have an extraordinary knowledge of their destinations, and a passion to share their worlds with you.

Request a Free Catalog

Get inspired for your next journey with our 2024-2025 Catalog of Adventures! With award-winning photography and over 200 journeys around the world, it is truly a Dream Book that will grace your coffee table and feed your wanderlust.

REVIEWS FROM OUR CLIENTS

“Absolutely EVERYTHING about this trip was perfect: itinerary, food, lodgings, trip leaders, educational opportunities. A perfect example of why Wilderness Travel will always be our first choice when planning adventures.”

“We were taught so much beyond the usual viewpoint given to a tourist that I felt I had a much deeper understanding of the culture and history than I would have if traveling with a different company.”

“An incredible variety of activities was packed into the trip, yet we never felt rushed. It would be impossible to do what we did in the same period of time without the expertise of WT guides.”

“I have dreamed of taking this trip for years. Truly this journey exceeded my expectations on all fronts. The wildlife, terrain, people, staff and fellow trip mates made it an adventure to always treasure. I feel blessed and fortunate. Thank you Wilderness Travel. You have my complete confidence.”

“Because of our Trek Leader’s vast experience in the area, we used several trails that aren’t known to many trekkers and we were invited into Sherpa homes, which was wonderful. I had been dreaming of this trip for 30 years and now those dreams are fulfilled.”

“Couldn’t have asked for a more interesting trip and two outstanding guides, accommodations, and meals. This was our fourth trip with Wilderness Travel and one of the best (although we say that about every trip we have been on!)”

“I love Wilderness Travel! You select the best guides, a variety of special places to stay, the food is always plentiful and cultural, and the adventure is top drawer! Thank you for offering trips that expand one’s knowledge of other cultures while making it enjoyable and fun.”

“We are still on a high a month after the trip, having had wonderful guides, camp crew, co-travelers, and the right mix of comfort and authentic experience.”

“WOW! This was an extraordinary trip. It was meticulously planned, but allowed for many spontaneous interactions and delightful surprises. Another WT success story.”

“This was my first trip to India and I cannot imagine a better introduction. Because of the care with which the trip had been planned and organized, I was able to relax, enjoy, and try to fully absorb the experience without spending even a moment concerned about the quotidian details of the trip. What a luxury.”

“Everyone was so thorough and helpful. It was like being whisked around on a magic carpet. Doors opened, every wish fulfilled, amazing service!”

“It was an indescribable, life-affirming experience that I will always cherish. In particular, I wanted to commend your selection of Trip Leaders. Their skill, thoughtfulness, and dedication made the entire trip seem effortless even though the challenge was great.”

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Our Area Specialists know every detail about our adventures around the world. They will be happy to answer any questions and help you choose the journey that’s right for you. Contact us to learn more or book your trip today!

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We promise outstanding adventure travel experiences for people with an adventurous spirit..

Every active travel experience Boundless Journeys creates is complemented by signature accommodation, regional cuisine, and remarkable local guides who can show you the greatest hits and hidden gems of each destination. No matter where you want to go—or what you want to do—Boundless Journeys delivers unique, flexible, and exclusive travel at its best.

So, What are you in the mood for?

Hiking & walking.

We offer what every seasoned traveler looks for: the opportunity to truly experience a destination by slowing down, stepping out of your everyday life, and immersing yourself in places often only accessible on foot.

Nature Tours & Safaris

Boundless Journeys’ active nature tours and African safaris immerse you in a world where “all good things are wild and free.”

Cultural Encounters

Our small group cultural tours carefully uncover, gently explore, and quietly meander through some of the most exceptional and unspoiled places in the world.

Experience the rewards of hiking through hidden valleys, over mountain passes, and into seldom-traveled areas where foreigners rarely visit.

Special Departures

Our special departure tours feature unique and exclusive vacations that are truly a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

Custom Tours

Whether you are planning a family reunion for 16 in Costa Rica, or want to meet with old friends in Europe, Boundless Journeys’ Custom Tours allow you to make your most amazing travel dreams a reality.

A few of our favorite tours

France, italy, and switzerland: tour du mont blanc hiking.

$4,995 / person 9 days

Peru: The Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu

$6,095 / person 8 days

South Africa: Ultimate Cape Town & Kruger Safari

$6,995 / person 8 days

Bhutan: Hiking in the Peaceful Kingdom

$6,795 / person 12 days

More Than Just A Travel Company

Boundless Journeys delivers the world’s great adventures and exceeds expectations on every trip.

If diversity of adventure is what you are seeking, Boundless Journeys has trips to satisfy your most imaginative spirit. Our worldwide adventure tours offer everything from wilderness treks to cultural expeditions, and we always find the hidden gems of each destination.

Small group or private itineraries, memorable accommodations, and expert local guides define the signature Boundless Journeys active travel experience.

What Our Guests Say About Us

Each trip has been unique and wonderful with its own charms. I have been repeatedly impressed with is the guides. Every guide has been exceptional! Very different personalities, but all knowledgeable, friendly, adaptive, good leaders, patient, and all amazing representatives of their countries.

Travel Your Way

From flexible itineraries for small groups to handcrafted tours for you and your traveling companions: There is a Boundless Journeys adventure just right for you.

Amazing Local Guides

Local to the region you’re exploring, our trusted friends have unique perspectives that take you beyond the usual to reveal the most authentic places, people, and food.

Award-Winning Itineraries

We take great pride in the experiences we deliver, as evidenced by the prestigious awards that Boundless Journeys receives year after year.

Our Philosophy

A great travel experience doesn’t begin and end on the trail. It’s the little things that make the difference—and at Boundless Journeys, we take that philosophy to heart.

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We are committed to traveling responsibly, striving to preserve traditions and cultures around the world, as well as to protect fragile natural habitats.

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Autumn in Europe

Where golden leaves and harvest flavors meet extraordinary stays..

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Take Over a Trip for Your Private Group

Our private trips are a great way to see the world - with friends, family or colleagues.

Explore a captivating region under your own power and at your own tempo. From easygoing to avid, all activity levels are welcome – and fully supported! Your adventure. Your day. Your pace. Learn more

Multiple daily routes each day give you the freedom to enjoy the best of the region at your own pace. Take it easy or take it up a notch—it's up to you.

Our local connections and insider knowledge allow us to offer stays at luxurious hotels and the best cuisine—from Michelin stars to back-room bistros.

We offer 3 or more leaders per trip. Rated by our guests an average of 9.8 out of 10, you’ll be supported by the best leaders in the active travel industry.

Leveraging our 40+ years of experience, Regional Managers (avg. tenure of 14+ years) and Trip Experts are dedicated to crafting one-of-a-kind trips.

We polled our Trip Leaders about what trips they would take if they were guests in 2024 and the results are in!

Recommended by Calissa Anderson

Sardinia & Corsica

“I love the ocean and this trip has a lot of it. Plus… I’ve heard the food is off the charts on this trip!”

Recommended by Jess Summerling

Norway's Lofoten Islands

“Jagged peaks & ridgelines, looking down to stunning white sand beaches, surrounded by the calm & outdoor-loving Norwegian culture, and fueled with the best cinnamon buns of your life! Vast and beautiful nature to take your breath away.”

Recommended by Sam Jenkins

Portugal’s Azores

“I grew up reading about the Azores in sailing books. It’s a paradise for active adventure with winding mountain roads and the sea all around. Totally off the beaten path.”

Recommended by Emma Silver

California’s Yosemite

“Impossibly tall cliffs, giant sequoias and magical waterfalls. Yosemite is legendary and I can’t wait to get there!”

Recommended by Cal Kevorkian

“Japan seems like a place unlike any other and I know Backroads will bring me up close and personal with it. I’m eager to explore the geology of the islands, but immersing myself into the deep, rich culture really gets my blood pumping.”

Recommended by Sasha Tcherepanov

“The culture of the state sets it apart. The hospitality of the locals, the rich traditions of bourbon distilling and horse racing. You really get a local’s perspective on this trip. And the riding is divine.”

Recommended by Anna Lynch

“Gorgeous views, great café huts on the hikes with delicious strudel and coffee, and cows with bells around their neck. You feel like you’re in The Sound of Music !”

Check out these upcoming adventure tours with availability or explore more destinations  here .

Spain's Mallorca

Portugal's Azores

Palm Springs & Joshua Tree

Santa Barbara to Ojai

Costa Rica Highlands to Coast

Nobody describes the magic of the Backroads experience quite like our guests.

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Polar Bear Tours

Meet the King of the Arctic roaming its wild tundra home on the edge of Hudson Bay in Churchill, Canada

Intimate wildlife adventures featuring uncrowded private reserves and remote luxury bush camps

Galapagos Tours

Meet unique and amiable wildlife up close on expertly guided small-group explorations in the Enchanted Isles

Get close to brown bears, explore Denali and see abundant marine life by private boat in Kenai Fjords & Prince William Sound

Look for wolves in Yellowstone, gape at the Grand Canyon, hike Glacier's alpine heights, watch the sunrise in Acadia...and more!

Watch whales, heli-hike in the Canadian Rockies, see icebergs calve in Greenland, witness the northern lights

Explore the wild side of Europe as we leave big cities behind to explore less-discovered natural wonders

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Ecotourism adventures with gray whales, monarch butterflies, sea turtles, scarlet macaws & more!

From the Amazon to the Andes, from the Pantanal to Patagonia, explore this continent's amazing biodiversity 

View endangered pandas, tigers, orangutans, pygmy elephants, rhinos, koalas & other wildlife

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Commune with penguins, puffins and polar bears in the most remote wilderness areas on the planet

Small-ship expedition voyages to the ends of the earth: explore polar regions, Amazon, Alaska & beyond

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For avid photographers of all ability levels, with coaching from an expert naturalist–photographer guide

Women's Adventures

Led by Nat Hab's top women Expedition Leaders, these departures have a special focus on the contributions of women in our destinations

Discover, explore and have fun in nature as you build lifelong memories across generations!

Check out our newest trip offerings and first-run adventures all around the world!

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Together, Natural Habitat Adventures and World Wildlife Fund have teamed up to arrange nearly a hundred nature travel experiences around the planet, while helping to protect the magnificent places we visit and their wild inhabitants.

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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.

Lauren Burvill

Sarah James

Matt Ortile

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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I've Traveled Alone to 65 Countries – Here Are My Top 5 Destinations for Flying Solo

Where to find adventure, group activities, affordable luxury hotels, and total relaxation as a solo traveler.

Katie Jackson/Travel + Leisure

Lewis may have needed Clark, but for most trips, I think it’s OK to be a party of one. In fact, my favorite style of travel, # solotravel , is now trending on TikTok and in real life. But if there’s anything I’ve learned from adventuring alone in 65 countries, it’s this: some countries cater to lone wolves better than others. Whether you’re looking to lay on the beach, climb a volcano, or explore the big city, here are my top five destinations for flying solo. 

Giacomo Augugliaro/Getty Images

Western Europe’s most affordable country, Portugal has been my second home since 2016. Whether in Alentejo or the Algarve, I can always find a €2 glass of wine and five-star hotels, including IHG’s new Vignette Collection properties in Porto and Lisbon , for under €200 per night. It’s the fifth safest country in Europe, according to the Institute for Economics & Peace 2023 Global Peace Index (for comparison, Spain ranked 23rd and France 34th) and is home to the world’s largest standing wave. Since surfing solo is dangerous, I go with Onda Pura . In Lisbon , visit the Oceanário , voted the world’s best aquarium . Alone, you can linger at exhibits for as long as you want. I’ve traveled the country by train and bus, but I recommend renting a car for as little as €25 per day. Pro tip: Learn how to drive manual first.

South Africa

Katie Jackson/Travel + Leisure

While it’s not the safest country on the Mother Continent, ranking 32nd in Sub-Saharan Africa in the Global Peace Index , South Africa is the easiest for Americans to visit. United Airlines offers nonstop service from multiple U.S. cities to Cape Town, English is widely spoken, and there are restaurants catering to every diet. I use Facebook to join group hikes and dinners and Airbnb to book guided, local experiences. I recommend doing the “From Prisoner to President Tour” hosted by Nelson Mandela’s former prison guard and friend, Christo Brand . To visit the wineries, take the Franschhoek Tram . I’ve also enjoyed solo safaris. Alone, you can choose your start time (I hate waking up at 5:30 a.m. for game drives), and you always have the best seat. During low season, some lodges waive the single supplement. Year-round, the new Loapi Tented Camp only charges solo travelers 62% of what it would charge a couple. For travel within the country, book a package with a company like Kensington Tours ; it includes all transfers.

Since I lived in Nicaragua, I have an impressive collection of passport stamps from Costa Rica . It’s the safest place in Central America , and it offers everything from volcano trekking to beach hopping on two incredible coastlines. I want to check out the new SP Corcovado Wilderness Lodge , which hosts wellness retreats and is part of the Red Sofia Program (designed to make travel safer for single women). Meanwhile, in Monteverde, solo travelers can’t go wrong at Hotel Belmar where you don’t have to venture off site for adventure (book the canopy immersion and coffee tasting). For an all-inclusive, I recommend Secrets Papagayo .  It’s not the place to stay if you don't want to be around couples, but it’s adults-only and hosts theme nights, beach games, and cocktail parties where singles can mingle.

FilippoBacci/Getty Images

Good news! You don’t need to be with a romantic partner to visit the Maldives . I solo-mooned there and had a blast falling back in love with me, myself, and I. Highlights include visiting Coco Palm Dhuni Kohlu’s turtle rescue center , reading by my plunge pool (“Eat, Pray, Love” is a must for solo travelers), and when I wanted company, hitting up the beach barbecues. You also don’t have to be a millionaire. The island of Maafushi caters to backpackers, and even at a resort, I stayed under $350 per day. Have a bigger budget? Consider booking the Gili Solo Experience . Boasting an underwater suite and restaurant, the Conrad Maldives is also on my list. For flights, try Emirates ; round-trip fares from New York's JFK to Malé start at $1,265.

Not having anyone to split expenses with, domestic travel is cheapest. I explore my backyard in Montana where I staycate at Lone Mountain Ranch . With its queen bed, the Meadowlark Cabin is ideal for one, and the group activities offer opportunities to socialize. For an urban escape, I prefer New York City , where I stay at NH Collection New York Madison Avenue . Its lobby has a community table, fireplaces, and live jazz most nights. Since there’s no shame in doing the Great White Way without a date, I went to see “ The Notebook ” in April. Finding one center orchestra seat is easier than finding seats together. For getting around, use the MTA’s new OMNY credit/debit card tap program ; it’s the best value.

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USA TODAY 10Best

Go on epic expeditions with the best adventure tours of 2024

June 5, 2024 // By 10Best Editors

By 10Best Editors June 5, 2024

Summer is calling, and adventure awaits at every turn. Imagine the spray of water on your face as you navigate the rapids, the thrill of reeling in a catch on a sunlit sea, or the wind in your hair as you cycle through scenic trails. This season, embrace the call of the wild with our guide to the most amazing summer activities, from serene boat tours to heart-pounding white water rafting.

To help you plan your greatest adventure yet, we asked readers to cast their votes for the best outdoor adventures across nine categories, and the results are in.

Click on each category below to see the full winners list:

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Best Adventure Tour Operator: Wild Women Expeditions

Wild Women Expeditions specializes in “amazing outdoor adventures for all women.” The company leads trips to more than two dozen countries around the globe, with activities like canoeing, kayaking, cycling, hiking, surfing, sailing, and yoga.

Full list of winners: Best Adventure Tour Operator »

Best Aerial Adventure Park: Botanical World Adventures in Hakalau, Hawaii

See Hawaii from a new perspective as you zoom across eight zip lines that run above and through Botanical World Adventures' rainforest canopy. Fly over waterfalls, pools, and flowering trees, and view exotic plants in the gardens.

The zip lines get faster and longer as you fly through the jungle, and the ride includes two side-by-side ziplines that allow you to race your friends to the finish! This experience is great for both young and old and all expertise levels of “zipping.”

Full list of winners: Best Aerial Adventure Park »

Best Bike Tour: Carolina Tailwinds

Carolina Tailwinds offers multiday, inn-to-inn bicycle tours to destinations largely around the eastern United States, with all bicycle vacations providing a nice balance between physical activity and relaxation.

From flat and easy to hilly and challenging, there are bike routes to choose from for all levels of riders. Guests stay at boutique hotels and country inns, with breakfasts and most lunches and dinners included.

Full list of winners: Best Bike Tour »

Best Boat Tour: Chicago's First Lady Cruises in Chicago, Illinois

The Chicago Architecture Center River Cruise aboard Chicago's First Lady is led by highly trained docents. On this 90-minute cruise, you'll hear highlights of the city's history, including stories about the visionaries who shaped Chicago's skyline. Options include both daytime tours and evening cocktail cruises.

Full list of winners: Best Boat Tour »

Best Fishing Charter: Hubbard's Marina in Madeira Beach, Florida

In business since 1928, Hubbard's Marina is one of the top authorities for water-based recreation along Florida's Gulf Coast. Fishing trips range from half-day jaunts to 44-hour marathon excursions under the glow of the full moon. Beyond the realm of the reel, guests can also take part in sunset cruises, dolphin tours, and even camping trips on stunning Shell Key.

Full list of winners: Best Fishing Charter »

Best Helicopter Tour: Island Helicopters Kauai in Lihue, Hawaii

There are few things more scenic than seeing the world from a helicopter, and the splendor of Kauai provides an ideal backdrop. Experienced pilots with Island Helicopters share facts about Kauai as you enjoy a bird's-eye view of lush greenery, cascading waterfalls, coastlines, and famous landmarks.

Full list of winners: Best Helicopter Tour »

Best Hot Air Balloon Ride: Grand Adventure Balloon Tours in Winter Park, Colorado

Grand Adventure Balloon Tours in Winter Park offers year-round flights above spectacular Colorado scenery. Views include the Continental Divide and Rocky Mountain National Park, with the chance to fly low and spot local wildlife or splash and dash in a nearby pond or river.

Full list of winners: Best Hot Air Balloon Ride »

Best Kayak Tour: Santa Barbara Adventure Company in Santa Barbara, California

Renowned for its balmy Mediterranean climate, Santa Barbara is the perfect city for a lengthy kayak tour. Outdoor adventure aficionados can book both wildlife and sunset excursions along the coast with Santa Barbara Adventure Company, and as an added bonus, there’s no shortage of voyages to nearby Channel Islands National Park.

Full list of winners: Best Kayak Tour »

Best White Water Rafting Tour: Mild to Wild Rafting & Jeep Tours in Durango, Colorado

Mild to Wild Rafting & Jeep Tours leads rafting trips in Colorado, Utah, and Arizona, with a river for just about any thrill level and trips lasting anywhere from a few hours to several days.

Full list of winners: Best White Water Rafting Tour »

Congratulations to all these winners! Remember to visit 10best.usatoday.com daily to vote in more Readers' Choice Awards.

Can’t decide on a vacation? Choose your own adventure with our quiz.

Now all you have to do is pack..

Illustrations by Jiaqi Wang for The Washington Post

Sometimes the hardest part of vacation is deciding where to go. Whether you’re team do-nothing or a Type II adventurer , browsing options across the world can be overwhelming enough to sink your plans before they begin.

So we’ve created this quiz to help you decide where to go this summer and beyond. Answer the five questions below, and we’ll tally your results and make destination recs tailored to your travel style. Bon voyage!

Question 1 of 5

Are you collecting stamps on your passport.

Question 2 of 5

Do you want to mellow out by the water.

Question 3 of 5

Do you thrive in the great outdoors.

Question 4 of 5

Do you plan your travel around restaurants and bars.

Question 5 of 5

Are you checking big places off your bucket list.

You need to answer every question to see your result. You’re missing questions 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 .

About this story

Editing by Gabe Hiatt . Illustrations by Jiaqi Wang. Art direction and design by Katty Huertas . Development support by Garland Potts. Design editing by Christine Ashack . Photo editing by Lauren Bulbin , Monique Woo , Haley Hamblin , Olivier Laurent and Amanda Voisard. Destination photography by The Washington Post, unless otherwise specified. Copy editing by Thomas Heleba.

More travel tips

Vacation planning: Start with a strategy to maximize days off by taking PTO around holidays. Experts recommend taking multiple short trips for peak happiness . Want to take an ambitious trip? Here are 12 destinations to try this year — without crowds.

Cheap flights: Follow our best advice for scoring low airfare , including setting flight price alerts and subscribing to deal newsletters. If you’re set on an expensive getaway, here’s a plan to save up without straining your credit limit.

Airport chaos: We’ve got advice for every scenario , from canceled flights to lost luggage . Stuck at the rental car counter? These tips can speed up the process. And following these 52 rules of flying should make the experience better for everyone.

Expert advice: Our By The Way Concierge solves readers’ dilemmas , including whether it’s okay to ditch a partner at security, or what happens if you get caught flying with weed . Submit your question here . Or you could look to the gurus: Lonely Planet and Rick Steves .

75 Best Quotes About Traveling With Friends

Because your epic adventures together call for the perfect saying.

It’s no secret that traveling can open your eyes to new experiences, cultures and perspectives. What can make those memorable journeys even better? A companion, of course! Traveling with friends can enhance trips in unimaginable ways. For starters, they can be your personal photographer when selfies won’t suffice. That’s what friends are for, right ?

Exploring the world together can create enlightening experiences that you will look back on for years to come. But, before you embark on your next adventure, we’ve rounded up some of the best traveling with friends quotes to get you excited about the trips that you have yet to take.

From short and sweet to deep and meaningful, these quotes will boost your anticipation for your future travels. If you’ve taken trips together in the past, these travel quotes can help you reflect and reminisce. Text them in your special group chat or post as captions on Instagram . Regardless of how you share them, these quotes and messages are sure to resonate with your travel buddies.

No matter if you’re going with one friend or a group of your closest buds, traveling with friends presents an opportunity to strengthen bonds while having fun. So, pack your bags and get ready to create memories that will last a lifetime.

• “ Sharing adventures means enjoying them 100% more .” – Anonymous
• “ There are no strangers in this world, only friends I haven’t met yet. ” – William Butler Yeats
• “Friends make everything better, vacations included! ” — Anonymous
• “ A friend may be waiting behind a stranger’s face .” – Maya Angelou
• “ Traveling with a friend is like stepping into a storybook adventure together.” – Unknown
• “It’s not the destination, it’s the journey” – Ralph Waldo Emerson
• “Travel far, travel wide, but always travel with a friend by your side. ” – Unknown
• “ Just as the stars shine brighter in the night sky, so do friendships glow stronger amidst the wonders of the world discovered together .” – Unknown
• “ As the road stretches out before us, I’m grateful for the company of my best friend, knowing that no matter where we end up, the journey together is what truly matters. ” – Unknown
• “ No matter where our journey takes us, friendship will always be our guiding light. ” —Anonymous
• “ I can speak to my soul only when the two of us are off exploring deserts or cities or mountains or roads. ” – Paulo Coelho
• “Good company on a journey makes the way seem shorter.” — Izaak Walton
• “A good friend listens to your adventures. A best friend makes them with you.” — Unknown
• “A journey is best measured in friends rather than miles.” — Tim Cahill
• “No adventure is complete without you by my side.” — Unknown
• “Friends that travel together, stay together.” — Unknown
• “It doesn’t matter where you’re going — it’s who you go with that makes it fun!” — Unknown
• “As soon as I saw you, I knew a grand adventure was about to happen.” — Winnie The Pooh.
• “Life was meant for great adventures and close friends." — Unknown
• “You can pack for every occasion, but a good friend will always be the best thing you could bring!” — Unknown
• "We all have that one friend who is either on a road-trip or planning a road-trip or thinking about a road-trip or talking to people who are on road-trip or posting quotes about road-trip." — Crestless Wave
• “It’s the friends we meet along the way that help us appreciate the journey.” — Unknown
• “You never know where life will take you, but it will always be better with friends.” —Unknown
• “We are all travelers in the wilderness of the world, and the best we can find in our travels is an honest friend.” — Robert Louis Stevenson
• “The tans will fade but the memories will last forever.” — Unknown
• “Wherever it is you may be, it is your friends who make your world.” — Chris Bradford
• ​​“When traveling life’s journey, it’s good to have a friend’s hand to hold on to.” — Unknown
• “If you want to go fast go alone. If you want to go far, go together.” — African Proverb
• “A good trip is an even better one with your bestie.” — Unknown
• “The more I traveled the more I realized that fear makes strangers of people who should be friends” —Shirley MacLaine
• “Embarking on new adventures is a million times better with close pals.” — Unknown
• “Life was meant for great adventures and close friends.” —Unknown
• “I have found out that there ain’t no surer way to find out whether you like people or hate them than to travel with them.” —Mark Twain
• “Adventure awaits — all you need is your best buddy to make it a reality.” — Unknown

• “Life is a beach, enjoy the waves.” — Unknown
• “Frozen drinks are better with friends.” — Unknown
• “With friends by your side, every journey becomes an opportunity to discover the beauty of the world and the depths of your bond.” — Unknown
• “If you go looking for a friend, you’re going to find they’re very scarce. If you go out to be a friend, you’ll find them everywhere.” — Zig Ziglar
• “On the road, strangers become friends, sharing stories and laughter, creating bonds that last beyond the journey.” — Unknown
• “ The best way to travel is to always pack light, with the exception of a friend . ” —Anonymous
• " If you want to have fun, bring a friend.” — Unknown
• “ Nothing makes the journey more enjoyable than a friend who can make you laugh.” — Unknown
• “ I soon realized that no journey carries one far unless, as it extends into the world around us, it goes an equal distance into the world within .” —Lillian Smith
• “ In the tapestry of life, friends are the threads that weave together our most cherished travel stories .” – Unknown
• “ May your travels be filled with the magic of friendship, the wonder of new experiences, and the warmth of shared memories that last a lifetime .” —Unknown
• " T raveling the world is great, but nothing tops going around the world with a friend ." —Unknown
• “ The beach and my besties are all I need to have a good time." —Unknown
• "Travel memories we make alone may fade, but those made with friends will last a lifetime." — Unknown
• “Away is a place where it’s not about the money you spend. It’s about the moments you share.” —Unknown
• “Just grab a friend and take a ride, together upon the open road.” —The Goofy Movie
• Life is about doing things that don’t suck with people who don’t suck.” —Unknown
• “I would like to travel the world with you twice. Once, to see the world. Twice, to see the way you see the world.” —Unknown
• “Everyone needs this friend that calls and says, “Get dressed, we’re going on an adventure.” —Unknown
• “Getting to know new people and gaining new friends is one of life’s greatest pleasures. So, conquer your fears and get out there.” —Tony Clark
• “Traveling with friends is always better.” —Unknown
• “No road is long with good company.” —Turkish proverb
• "Each friend represents a world in us, a world possibly not born until they arrive, and it is only by this meeting that a new world is born." —Anais Nin
• "In life, it’s not where you go – it’s who you travel with.” — Charles M. Schulz
• “Exploring new places is always sweeter with your favorite people.” — Unknown
• “Getting lost with you is a risk I’m always willing to take.”— Unknown
• “As with any journey, whom you travel with is more important than the destination.” —Unknown
• “At the end of the day, your feet should be dirty, your hair messy and your eyes sparkling.” —Shanti
• “May your adventures bring you closer together, even as they take you far away from home.” — Trenton Lee Stewart
• “I get a friend to travel with me… I need somebody to bring me back to who I am. It’s hard to be alone.” —Leonardo DiCaprio
• “Travel should make friendships stronger and memories sweeter.” —Unknown
• “Never go on trips with anyone you do not love.” —Ernest Hemingway
• “Sometimes all you need is a great friend and a tank of gas.” — Thelma & Louise
• “One of the great things about travel is that you find out how many good, kind people there are.” —Edith Wharton
• “We are travelers on a cosmic journey, stardust, swirling and dancing in the eddies and whirlpools of infinity. Life is eternal. We have stopped for a moment to encounter each other, to meet, to love, to share. This is a precious moment. It is a little parenthesis in eternity.” — Paul Coelho
• “Sometimes all you need is a great friend and thirst for adventure.” —Unknown
• “Nothing makes a good trip more memorable than experiencing it with your best friends.” —Unknown
• “Traveling with a pal can be the foundation for a lifelong friendship.” —Unknown
• “Good times and crazy friends make the best memories.” —Unknown
• “The best things in life are the people we love, the places we’ve been, and the memories we’ve made along the way.” —Unknown
• “Don’t be dismayed at good-byes. A farewell is necessary before you can meet again. And meeting again, after moments or lifetimes, is certain for those who are friends.”— Richard Bach

@media(max-width: 64rem){.css-o9j0dn:before{margin-bottom:0.5rem;margin-right:0.625rem;color:#ffffff;width:1.25rem;bottom:-0.2rem;height:1.25rem;content:'_';display:inline-block;position:relative;line-height:1;background-repeat:no-repeat;}.loaded .css-o9j0dn:before{background-image:url(/_assets/design-tokens/goodhousekeeping/static/images/Clover.5c7a1a0.svg);}}@media(min-width: 48rem){.loaded .css-o9j0dn:before{background-image:url(/_assets/design-tokens/goodhousekeeping/static/images/Clover.5c7a1a0.svg);}} 100+ Quotes For Any Occasion

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The best Father’s Day gifts for adventure-loving dads

Upgrade dad’s travel game, whether he loves campfire cooking, sleeping under the stars, or fixing things while he’s on the go.

Growing up with an adventurous dad means he may be less interested in receiving a fancy tie or printed socks for Father’s Day and more hyped on the idea of a weekend spent together at his favorite National Park. While that might make him more fun than your average pops, it also tends to make him hard to shop for. What do you get for the guy who (rarely) wants anything?  

The answer is any of the Father’s Day gift ideas on this list, each of which will upgrade his travel game and help him get prepared for his next adventure, from a solar-powered fitness watch to cooking gear that is perfect for breaking out on camping trips.  

Our picks for the best Father’s Day gift ideas for 2024

Stanley adventure full base camp cook set.

Buy it now at Stanley

If Dad is the chef of the family, this comprehensive 21-piece cook set by Stanley gives him a chance to show off his skills outside of the home kitchen. It’s ideal for bringing along on a camping or road trip , stocked with all of the kitchen necessities for making and serving a pro-level meal around a campfire. It includes everything from a stainless steel pot and 3-ply frying pan to plates, bowls, sporks, and even a dish drying rack. This is a great gift for Father’s Day if your pop loves camping.  

( 8 camping cookware sets we love )

Snowpeak Takibi Fire & Grill

Buy it now at REI

Grilling over an open flame is a beloved pastime for Dads and nature lovers alike, thanks to the easy, hands-on experience it provides, as well as the ability to cook up something delicious anywhere you go. This Takibi Fire & Grill by Japanese brand Snowpeak can make it even easier for him to fire up some burgers, shrimp or seasonal vegetables, whether he’s in the backyard, at the park, or at a campsite. The modular five-piece set includes a Grill Net, Grill Bridge, Pack & Carry Fireplace, Baseplate, and Carrying Case and is crafted from high-quality stainless steel.  

Marshall Stockwell II Portable Speaker

Buy it now on Amazon

A good portable speaker is a must for any adventurer, and this timeless option by Marshall delivers both function and aesthetics. Three class D amplifiers power this compact speaker’s subwoofer, as well as its front and rear-facing tweeters, delivering clear sound that will turn wherever Dad is into a party. It’s quick-charging, reaching six hours of playtime in only 20 minutes, connects to smartphones via Bluetooth, and is water-resistant, so he can easily bring it to the lake or by a pool.  

( The best camping gear, according to National Geographic staff )

Yellow Leaf Signature Hammock

Buy it now at Yellow Leaf

There are few moments more relaxing than those spent gently swinging in a hammock, which is what makes this one by Yellow Leaf a great gift for Dad. Made from a soft-feel yarn that is both quick-dry and fade resistant, it can be hung outdoors or indoors for achieving that down time he deserves. It’s available in a wide range of color options, from bold to neutral, and is handwoven by craftswomen of the Mlabri Tribe in northern Thailand, helping to empower ethical job creation.  

( 10 of the best hammocks for camping and backpacking )

Parks Project Yellowstone Geysers Trail High Pile Fleece

Buy it now at Parks Project

This cozy fleece sweatshirt from Parks Project is made from high-pile fleece, offering a stylish and comfortable option for Dad to throw on whether he’s relaxing at home or off on an adventure. Button snaps at the top allow him to adjust the warmth level of the fleece, and the wavy retro design, available in both blue and green, is inspired by the geysers of Yellowstone National Park. A certified B Corporation, Parks Project also contributes funding, education, advocacy and more to vital park projects in the United States.  

Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV Camera

A picture says a thousand words, and using the right camera always helps to tell the story. This mirrorless DSLR by Olympus is compact and lightweight, making it ideal to bring along while traveling. Besides offering a 20.3-megapixel Live MOS sensor, it also has in-body 5-axis image stabilization, helping Dad capture crisp images even if he or the subject of his photos is in motion. It has other unique features as well, from a dedicated Selfie mode to art filters that can be employed to add a specific feel to his photos.  

( The 9 best digital cameras for travelers, according to National Geographic )

AeroPress Go Travel Coffee Press

Compact and portable, this brewing device was designed for coffee lovers on the move and would make for a great gift, especially paired with a nice bag of beans. Despite its small size, it’s durable, making it perfect for Dad to bring backpacking or camping or simply to brew a cup at the office. Its all-in-one design includes a mug with a lid that doubles as a carrying case, and it brews up to three cups of hot coffee in about a minute or cold brew in around two.  

Aesop Departure Kit  

Buy it now at Aesop

Keeping fresh while traveling can certainly be a struggle, but the Departure Kit by Aesop offers a helpful solution for maintaining hygiene on the go, containing essential products like toothpaste and hand wash, as well as more luxurious additions that Dad can add to his routine, like a hydrating face mask and lip salve. Proper hygiene while traveling not only safeguards his health but also keeps him feeling clean and comfortable throughout his journeys. Aesop products are all unisex, with refreshing and herbaceous scents and non-toxic ingredients, making them ideal for gifting.  

( The essential camping checklist for beginners )

Away The Everywhere Bag

Buy it now at Away

When it comes to weekend trips, a versatile luggage companion is key. The Everywhere Bag from Away is just that, providing a roomy but not bulky bag that Dad can bring along whether traveling across the country or just a few counties away. Crafted with water-resistant nylon, it helps ensure your belongings stay safe and dry in any weather, while minimalist leather straps make it an attractive bag. Multiple pockets and compartments can help keep his essentials organized and easily accessible, and you can pick from several classic colors depending on his style.  

( The 8 best travel backpacks )

Nimble CHAMP Portable Charger

Buy it now at Best Buy

A dying cell phone can be inconvenient at best when exploring a new city and a major concern when exploring a new trail. Make sure Dad doesn’t encounter either situation by equipping him with a reliable portable charger, like this compact option by Nimble. Smaller than a deck of cards, it can fit into his pants pocket or a front backpack compartment and is able to charge two devices at once, from a phone to headphones or a portable speaker. For the eco-conscious recipient, they’ll be glad to know it's crafted from 90 percent recycled plastic.  

( The hiking gear you shouldn’t leave home without )

KREWE Colton Aviator Sunglasses

Buy it now at Krewe

This pair of sunglasses by KREWE has an effortlessly cool vibe and is available in both polarized and unpolarized colors. If Dad spends a lot of time outdoors, polarized sunglasses would be a good choice to help protect his eyes from glare that he might encounter from water, snow, or roads, providing him with clear vision while he’s biking, boating or walking around. The sturdy shape of these aviator glasses is flattering on most face shapes, with a durable frame made from 12K gold-plated stainless steel.  

LifeStraw Go Series Stainless Steel Water Bottle  

LifeStraw first launched at the turn of the century to strain Guinea worm larva out of drinking water in Africa, and since then has been innovating in the name of bringing clean water to vulnerable communities. Most recently, their unique filter has been developed into a water bottle, making it a helpful travel companion for visiting places without reliable, potable water. The membrane microfilter in their attractive water bottle, available in several colors, filters out contaminants and lasts up to one thousand gallons.  

( 6 of the best water bottles )

Arc'teryx Gamma AR Soft-Shell Pants

Outdoor gear is rarely stylish, which is what makes pieces by Arc’teryx stand out. Their designs, including these soft-shell pants are both classic and durable, with a wind- and water-resistant fabric that helps keep the wearer’s legs dry. A gusseted crotch and articulated knees make them easy to move in, even when hiking or rock climbing—a great addition to Dad’s closet for his next adventure.  

Garmin Instinct Crossover Solar    

If Dad has been using the same old watch for as long as you can remember, you might want to consider an upgrade for him this Father’s Day. Garmin is an outdoor-minded company that specializes in GPS technology and wearables, and their Instinct Crossover Solar is a rugged outdoor GPS smartwatch that harnesses solar power to extend its battery life. Its durable design is built to withstand harsh environments, making it ideal for Dad’s outdoor adventures, along with GPS functionality that offers navigation and tracking features for when he goes hiking or running. He’ll also be able to use it to track his health and fitness, from stress tracking to his sleep scores and more.  

( 6 of the best sleep trackers, from rings to smart watches )

Leatherman Arc Multi-tool

Buy it now at Cabela's

The right multi-tool will help Dad lighten the load of his toolbelt, like the Arc by Leatherman, which weighs less than nine ounces and features 20 different handy gadgets in one. It’s the first multi-tool with a MagnaCut steel blade and also contains everything from multiple drivers to a bottle opener, a pry tool, and even a mini saw. This is one of those simple Father’s Day gift ideas that can give a ton of value.  

( Everyone needs a multi-tool. Here are 10 we love )

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More From Forbes

Father’s day gift guide 2024: the best travel gifts for new dads.

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Traveling with little ones can be a day at the beach, thanks to these thoughtful gifts.

Just because he’s become a dad doesn’t mean your favorite traveler has to also become a homebody. Sure, it can be tougher to get around with a little person pretty much attached to him but it can be done more enjoyably than he might think.

We’ve found a variety of gifts that make travel so much easier with babies and toddlers that he won’t want to go anywhere without them – both the gifts and the kids – ever again.

Doona Liki Trike S5

He already loves and trusts Doona because of their must-have all-in-one car seat & stroller travel system so he will be thrilled to see that they’ve created the world’s most compact folding trike. Designed for children 10 months to 3 years old, it transforms into five different modes so parents can push little ones in it and leave older kids to ride on their own. So much more fun than a stroller, it will get him and his mini me through the airport without tears. It then folds up easily to toss in an overhead bin. Price: $300

Graco Turn2Me 3-in-1 Car Seat

Getting little ones in and out of car seats can be challenging but Graco has changed the game with a rotating feature that will make Dad’s life so much easier, especially if he’s planning to make frequent stops on a road trip. Of course, safety comes first and this seat protects kids on all sides and can be used rear or forward facing or as a booster. It also has a headrest that adjusts to 10 different positions to keep children safe and comfortable as they grow. Price: $349

7 AM K-Poncho

One of the best inventions ever, this baby carrier cover is perfect for dads headed to coolcation destinations. With its water repellent outer shell and plush lining, it keeps babies cozy, whether they’re facing Dad or the world. It even has hand slits so he can hold on to them. The cover also adapts to all strollers and car seats, making it indispensable at home or away. Price: $100

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Dagne Dover Indi Neoprene Diaper Backpack

A diaper bag is a new parent essential but Dad is probably more interested in practicality than cuteness. Luckily, this one has both in spades so anyone will feel good about carrying it around, even on the most luxury vacation — especially in sophisticated black. It easily clips onto a stroller and features lots of pockets, pouches and even a mini changing pad. Plus, it features a dedicated safe space for his laptop so he can get some work done while baby sleeps. Price: $215

Regalo Play Mat with Travel Case

Whether they’re waiting for a flight or spending the night in a hotel, this cushy foam mat gives Dad a clean, safe place to put little ones down. It’s even waterproof so he can use it outdoors and clean it right up afterwards. Older kids will get a kick out of the design, with its roads and parks, and will enjoy playing with their own toy cars and trucks on it. Babies will just find it soft and comfortable and dads will be glad they can give their arms a rest. Price: $49.99

Magnetic Me Lake You A Lot Grow With Me Convertible Coverall

Having to change a baby on a plane or at a rest stop is way easier with one of these adorable, magnetized rompers. Made of super soft, breathable and temperature regulating Tencel modal, it features a magnetic closure, which means no snaps and zippers that can take forever to do properly. It also has foldover cuffs to keep little hands and feet cozy on over-air conditioned flights. You can choose from dozens of cute prints but this one is perfect for spending long weekends at the lake. Price: $40

KeaBabies Baby Car Seat Mirror

Rear facing car seats are safest for babies but, if Dad is driving alone with his little one, it can be disconcerting not to be able to see what’s going on back there. This shatterproof mirror is a game-changer, letting him keep his mind on the road while keeping an eye on his precious cargo. Price $19.96

Looky Lou Bundle

Vacations offer lots of cute photo ops but, let’s face it, babies are not always the most cooperative subjects. Thanks to the innovative Looky Lou, all Dad has to do is clip this cute little rattle to his phone and suddenly everyone’s looking in the right direction and smiling. The bundle comes with a board book introducing little ones to Lou the lion so they’ll be especially happy to see him whenever Dad feels like capturing the moment. Price: $29

Keep Going First Aid Kit Bundle

Because kids are unpredictable and accidents happen, give Dad some peace of mind with this trio of different sized first aid kits to prepare him for anything. He can keep one in the car, toss one in the diaper bag, pack one in the luggage. Well organized and easy to access, the kits include everything from bandages and ointments to nosebleed plugs, tick removers and burn gels. Hopefully he’ll never have to use it but, if he does, it will absolutely be the gift he’s most thankful for. Price: $124.97

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A Groundbreaking Scientific Discovery Just Gave Humanity the Keys to Interstellar Travel

In a first, this warp drive actually obeys the laws of physics.

If a superluminal—meaning faster than the speed of light—warp drive like Alcubierre’s worked, it would revolutionize humanity’s endeavors across the universe , allowing us, perhaps, to reach Alpha Centauri, our closest star system, in days or weeks even though it’s four light years away.

However, the Alcubierre drive has a glaring problem: the force behind its operation, called “negative energy,” involves exotic particles—hypothetical matter that, as far as we know, doesn’t exist in our universe. Described only in mathematical terms, exotic particles act in unexpected ways, like having negative mass and working in opposition to gravity (in fact, it has “anti-gravity”). For the past 30 years, scientists have been publishing research that chips away at the inherent hurdles to light speed revealed in Alcubierre’s foundational 1994 article published in the peer-reviewed journal Classical and Quantum Gravity .

Now, researchers at the New York City-based think tank Applied Physics believe they’ve found a creative new approach to solving the warp drive’s fundamental roadblock. Along with colleagues from other institutions, the team envisioned a “positive energy” system that doesn’t violate the known laws of physics . It’s a game-changer, say two of the study’s authors: Gianni Martire, CEO of Applied Physics, and Jared Fuchs, Ph.D., a senior scientist there. Their work, also published in Classical and Quantum Gravity in late April, could be the first chapter in the manual for interstellar spaceflight.

POSITIVE ENERGY MAKES all the difference. Imagine you are an astronaut in space, pushing a tennis ball away from you. Instead of moving away, the ball pushes back, to the point that it would “take your hand off” if you applied enough pushing force, Martire tells Popular Mechanics . That’s a sign of negative energy, and, though the Alcubierre drive design requires it, there’s no way to harness it.

Instead, regular old positive energy is more feasible for constructing the “ warp bubble .” As its name suggests, it’s a spherical structure that surrounds and encloses space for a passenger ship using a shell of regular—but incredibly dense—matter. The bubble propels the spaceship using the powerful gravity of the shell, but without causing the passengers to feel any acceleration. “An elevator ride would be more eventful,” Martire says.

That’s because the density of the shell, as well as the pressure it exerts on the interior, is controlled carefully, Fuchs tells Popular Mechanics . Nothing can travel faster than the speed of light, according to the gravity-bound principles of Albert Einstein’s theory of general relativity . So the bubble is designed such that observers within their local spacetime environment—inside the bubble—experience normal movement in time. Simultaneously, the bubble itself compresses the spacetime in front of the ship and expands it behind the ship, ferrying itself and the contained craft incredibly fast. The walls of the bubble generate the necessary momentum, akin to the momentum of balls rolling, Fuchs explains. “It’s the movement of the matter in the walls that actually creates the effect for passengers on the inside.”

Building on its 2021 paper published in Classical and Quantum Gravity —which details the same researchers’ earlier work on physical warp drives—the team was able to model the complexity of the system using its own computational program, Warp Factory. This toolkit for modeling warp drive spacetimes allows researchers to evaluate Einstein’s field equations and compute the energy conditions required for various warp drive geometries. Anyone can download and use it for free . These experiments led to what Fuchs calls a mini model, the first general model of a positive-energy warp drive. Their past work also demonstrated that the amount of energy a warp bubble requires depends on the shape of the bubble; for example, the flatter the bubble in the direction of travel, the less energy it needs.

THIS LATEST ADVANCEMENT suggests fresh possibilities for studying warp travel design, Erik Lentz, Ph.D., tells Popular Mechanics . In his current position as a staff physicist at Pacific Northwest National Laboratory in Richland, Washington, Lentz contributes to research on dark matter detection and quantum information science research. His independent research in warp drive theory also aims to be grounded in conventional physics while reimagining the shape of warped space. The topic needs to overcome many practical hurdles, he says.

Controlling warp bubbles requires a great deal of coordination because they involve enormous amounts of matter and energy to keep the passengers safe and with a similar passage of time as the destination. “We could just as well engineer spacetime where time passes much differently inside [the passenger compartment] than outside. We could miss our appointment at Proxima Centauri if we aren’t careful,” Lentz says. “That is still a risk if we are traveling less than the speed of light.” Communication between people inside the bubble and outside could also become distorted as it passes through the curvature of warped space, he adds.

While Applied Physics’ current solution requires a warp drive that travels below the speed of light, the model still needs to plug in a mass equivalent to about two Jupiters. Otherwise, it will never achieve the gravitational force and momentum high enough to cause a meaningful warp effect. But no one knows what the source of this mass could be—not yet, at least. Some research suggests that if we could somehow harness dark matter , we could use it for light-speed travel, but Fuchs and Martire are doubtful, since it’s currently a big mystery (and an exotic particle).

Despite the many problems scientists still need to solve to build a working warp drive, the Applied Physics team claims its model should eventually get closer to light speed. And even if a feasible model remains below the speed of light, it’s a vast improvement over today’s technology. For example, traveling at even half the speed of light to Alpha Centauri would take nine years. In stark contrast, our fastest spacecraft, Voyager 1—currently traveling at 38,000 miles per hour—would take 75,000 years to reach our closest neighboring star system.

Of course, as you approach the actual speed of light, things get truly weird, according to the principles of Einstein’s special relativity . The mass of an object moving faster and faster would increase infinitely, eventually requiring an infinite amount of energy to maintain its speed.

“That’s the chief limitation and key challenge we have to overcome—how can we have all this matter in our [bubble], but not at such a scale that we can never even put it together?” Martire says. It’s possible the answer lies in condensed matter physics, he adds. This branch of physics deals particularly with the forces between atoms and electrons in matter. It has already proven fundamental to several of our current technologies, such as transistors, solid-state lasers, and magnetic storage media.

The other big issue is that current models allow a stable warp bubble, but only for a constant velocity. Scientists still need to figure out how to design an initial acceleration. On the other end of the journey, how will the ship slow down and stop? “It’s like trying to grasp the automobile for the first time,” Martire says. “We don’t have an engine just yet, but we see the light at the end of the tunnel.” Warp drive technology is at the stage of 1882 car technology, he says: when automobile travel was possible, but it still looked like a hard, hard problem.

The Applied Physics team believes future innovations in warp travel are inevitable. The general positive energy model is a first step. Besides, you don’t need to zoom at light speed to achieve distances that today are just a dream, Martire says. “Humanity is officially, mathematically, on an interstellar track.”

Before joining Popular Mechanics , Manasee Wagh worked as a newspaper reporter, a science journalist, a tech writer, and a computer engineer. She’s always looking for ways to combine the three greatest joys in her life: science, travel, and food.

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