Two factors come to play when choosing a trip best suited for adventure enthusiasts – destination and activities. So, if you’re ready to get out and explore, refer to our list of the top destinations for adventure enthusiasts. These destinations will push you out of your comfort zone and encourage you to take on new adventures. From the jungles of Myanmar to the beautiful national parks of Lithuania, here are the best destinations to satisfy your quest for adventures.
1. Myanmar
Myanmar lies in Southeast Asia, recognised by its former name, Burma. While it may not be as famous as its neighbours, Thailand and Vietnam, in terms of tourism, it has plenty to offer for adventurous visitors. Much of its countryside remains undeveloped, making it a top destination for those who want to venture off the beaten path.
Trekking is one of the best ways to explore the stunning countryside of Myanmar. Many trails lead you to lush jungles while passing through local villages. One of the most remote places to go trekking in Myanmar is in a small town called Mrauk U. It lies in Rakhine State and is famous for its thousands of pagodas, much like the more famous archaeological sight of Bagan. However, unlike Bagan, Mrauk U is more difficult to get to, which adds to its charm. Also, you won’t find many foreign visitors making the trek here, so it’s the perfect destination to avoid the tourist crowd.
Follow your local guide as you walk into small villages and rice paddies. You will stumble on thousands of pagodas along the way, built out of stone to protect against harsh winds around the 15th to 18th centuries.
2. Mongolia
Mongolia is another country in Asia that’s off the beaten track. It’s a rugged wilderness unknown to many, but those who venture will be rewarded with the incredibly stunning beauty of untouched landscapes without a single soul. One of the most adventurous group expeditions you can take in Mongolia is horse trekking.
Trekking by horse in Mongolia is an exciting way to dive deep into the fascinating history and culture of the country. You’ll ride the famous Mongolian horses as you explore the country’s breathtaking natural landscapes and get an authentic insight into the local nomadic life. Enjoy the fascinating views as you gallop on horseback through the steppe as the famous Genghis Khan did and journey back in time on the tracks of the Silk Road.
Aside from horse trekking, you’ll find many other adventurous activities in Mongolia. The Gorkhi Terelj National Park, about 55 km north of Mongolia’s capital city, Ulaanbaatar, is a popular destination for outdoor adventures. The park’s cool alpine forests and majestic hills and valleys offer numerous opportunities for scenic hikes. It’s also a popular spot for horse trekking. If you come here during the colder months, you can enjoy winter sports like skiing and dog sledding.
3. Wales
Wales is one of the UK’s best destinations for those who are fond of outdoor adventures. It has everything that adventure-seeking visitors seek – dramatic cliffs, world-renowned beaches, gorgeous national parks, and mountainous terrains. Unlike the other more popular adventure hotspots in the UK, Wales is a relatively untapped destination for those searching for an adrenaline rush.
Hiking the stunning Pembrokeshire Coast Path should be on top of your list. It’s an incredible trail with views of cliffs, beaches, and glacial valleys. If you don’t have the time to tackle the entire route, you can choose a small section of the path to explore. Wales is also home to the world’s fastest zip line, a must-try for adventure enthusiasts. Head to North Wales, where you’ll find the Zip World. Here, you can zip at 125 mph – a truly exciting feat!
Coasteering is another adventurous activity you’ve got to try in Wales, which features a mix of cliff jumping, rock climbing, cave exploration, and swimming. It is an adventurous way to explore the stunning coastal scenery of Wales with possible wildlife sightings.
4. Lithuania
Lithuania is one of the most beautiful countries in the Baltics, offering many adventurous pursuits for an adventure-filled holiday. Bordered by Latvia and Estonia, Lithuania remains relatively undiscovered by many. It is best to book holidays and tours in Lithuania, allowing for an adventure around a less frequented destination.
One of the most exciting activities you can try in Lithuania is treetop walking in Anyksciai, a picturesque town about an hour and thirty min drive from Vilnius. The structure is perched on a tree in the stunning national park of Anyksciai, with a thick forest of pine and spruce trees in the surroundings. It’s a circular walk about 300 metres long, beginning at a viewing platform atop a forest floor.
If you want to take on thrilling water activities, head to Lake Plateliai, Lithuania’s largest water reservoir, offering the perfect setting for various water sports. Windsurfing has long been a popular activity on the lake, dating back to the 1950s.
5. The Scottish Highlands
The Scottish Highlands offer a mixture of culture, history, and mind-blowing landscapes, making it a top destination for adventure enthusiasts. Hiking is a popular activity in this region, with many established routes taking hikers to stunning places like the town of Fort William, the mighty peak of the Ben Nevis, and the glistening Loch Ness.
When hiking in Scotland, expect to see a picture-perfect paradise of rolling mists, rugged mountains, and serene lakes. Novice walkers will find a range of gentle hikes to conquer around Fort William, with stops at famous landmarks like the Old Fort and Inverloch Castle.
In the South, you’ll find the stunning Glencoe valley, featuring dramatic scenery at its best. Long-distance walkers will love ambling through the tranquil Great Glen Way trail, a 73-mile hike that should be on every avid hiker’s bucket list. The towns of Thurso and Wick offer excellent stop-off points if you’re looking for cosy pubs and bed and breakfasts to relax between walks.
