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The 12 best adventure-travel experiences in the world

• RIDE A SEVEN-STAR TRAIN ACROSS JAPAN

Best for: stylish travellers looking for the Japan beyond Tokyo

There are trains and then there are trains . Japan’s Seven Stars in Kyushu slots firmly into the latter category, siding with the likes of the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express and South Africa’s Blue Train in terms of pure, uncompromising luxury. On my own journey across the verdant, onsen -dotted landscape of Kyushu, Japan ’s southernmost island, I was blown away by the astounding scenery and service alike, including 10-course banquets, live bands and a bedroom big enough to host my own cocktail parties. This is a perfect coupling of old-world glam and state-of-the-art tech, in spectacular surrounds.

FEAR FACTOR: 0/5 SHOW-OFF LEVEL: 4/5 BOOK IT: cruisetrain-sevenstars.jp **PRICE:**From about £5,900 for three nights

• TRAIN AS AN ASTRONAUT AT SPACE CAMP

Best for: those craving more space

With the 50th anniversary of the Apollo 11 moon landing in July 2019, why not take one giant leap of your own and sign up for Space Camp? The facility – next to NASA’s base in Huntsville, Alabama – welcomes guests of all ages for weekend retreats, where you’ll suit up and get hands on with the art of astronauting. On my recent visit, we learnt how to pilot shuttle simulators, walk in recreated lunar gravity (one-sixth that of the Earth’s) and perform repairs while floating in space suits. Not to mention the infamous Astronaut Trainer, which hurls you about like confetti at a wedding (tip – they aren’t joking when they suggest you don’t drink any alcohol the night before this particular experience, which is a problem as Hunstville has some really good bars ).

FEAR FACTOR: 2/5 SHOW-OFF LEVEL: 4/5 BOOK IT: spacecamp.com PRICE: Three-day Adult Space Academy about £435, including accommodation and food

• EXPLORE THE EMPTY QUARTER

Sand-lovers after the ultimate off-grid experience

It’s bizarre that Rub al Khali, the world’s largest desert , isn’t better known. Translated as the Empty Quarter, this is the heart of TE Lawrence’s Arabia: an ocean of sand covering a mind-boggling 400,000 square miles, taking in parts of Saudi Arabia, Oman and Yemen. It’s bested kings and adventurers alike over the centuries, but today you can explore its untamed magnificence in high style, with UK-based expert Wild Frontiers. 'The Empty Quarter is one of nature’s most remarkable creations,' says founder Jonny Bealby, who leads expeditions here. 'Standing on top of the world’s highest dunes, the sheer scale of the landscape and the utter silence blows you away. The tranquillity here is absolute.'

FEAR FACTOR: 2/5 **SHOW-OFF LEVEL:**4/5 BOOK IT: wildfrontierstravel.com PRICE: About £2,850

• TAKE A NUCLEAR ICEBREAKER TO THE NORTH POLE

Best for: those who’ve already set foot on all seven continents

Unlike Antarctica, which has become borderline mainstream in recent years, its polar opposite remains tantalisingly distant as a holiday destination. Distant, but not unachievable. Quark Expeditions runs three sailings a year to the North Pole, aboard a nuclear-powered icebreaker from the Russian port of Murmansk. On my recent trip, recorded by expedition photographer Mark Chilvers, above , we explored abandoned bases, witnessed polar bears on the hunt (with cubs in tow) and took the infamous polar plunge beneath the pack ice (invigorating and numbing in equal measure – they have plenty of whisky on standby afterwards). Even on a specialist ship such as Quark’s 50 Years of Victory , passage to the frozen north is only possible in July and August, with the entire 14-day voyage taking place under the perpetual daylight of Arctic summer. So pack an eye mask as well as thickest parka you can find.

FEAR FACTOR: 2/5 SHOW-OFF LEVEL: 5/5 BOOK IT: quarkexpeditions.com **PRICE:**From about £23,500

• TREK THE CLOUD FORESTS OF LAOS

Best for: those after a story very few others will have

When it comes to daydreaming about travel, it’s not just your head that could be lost in the clouds. Inside Asia Tours organises hiking expeditions into the incredibly diverse cloud forests of northern Laos , making for the summit of Phou Louey, or Forever Mountain, over five days. You will traverse meadow-carpeted valleys and endless green forests, with possible sightings of rare species such as sun bears, white-cheeked gibbons and clouded leopards – and overnight stays with hill tribes. 'This is a remote corner of the country where few visitors have ever been: you’ll be one of only a handful of people to set foot in this region every year,' says Inside Asia's Chris Greener. 'If Laos is little visited, this area feels positively uncharted.'

FEAR FACTOR : 3/5 SHOW-OFF LEVEL : 4/5 BOOK IT : insideasiatours.com PRICE: 9 nights from £1,495

• MOUNTAIN BIKE ONE OF THE WORLD’S MOST ACTIVE VOLCANOES

Best for: A fiery alternative to the fly-and-flop of neighbouring Mauritius

The Indian Ocean’s Réunion Island has already been tipped as one of 2019’s hot destinations – and the good news is that you can bike up to its hottest point. The Piton de la Fournaise (Peak of the Furnace) is one of the world’s most active volcanoes , but there are dedicated trails crisscrossing all the way up to its bubbling summit. Plus you can create a fire and water experience by canyoning some epic waterfalls on the way down. 'The trail descends across volcanic rock, through thick jungle and then cane fields before ending at the beach,' says Alexis Vincent of local outfit Ayapana. 'It might be stating the obvious, but nothing quite compares to the exhilaration of biking down the side of a volcano.'

FEAR FACTOR: 3/5 SHOW-OFF LEVEL: 3/5 BOOK IT: ayapanareunion.com PRICE: About £60

• ABSEIL DOWN TABLE MOUNTAIN

Best for: solo travellers who want to let loose

At 1,000 metres above sea level, Table Mountain isn’t just South Africa ’s most famous landmark – it’s also one of the highest commercial abseils in the world. As such, it’s the obvious spot to propel yourself from your comfort zone in immortal fashion. Group adventure-travel specialist Flash Pack can easily arrange the heart-in-your-mouth experience as part of a longer stay in the area. 'We did the big abseil on day one, so people were going straight from their desks to a literal cliff edge,' says one person who braved it. 'The views across the cityscape and the Cape Peninsula are absolutely spectacular, but edging over the rim can be terrifying. Once you’ve done it though, you’re buzzing for days afterwards – you feel like you can take on the world.'

FEAR FACTOR 5/5 SHOW-OFF LEVEL 4/5 BOOK IT: flashpack.com **PRICE:**13 days from £3,549

• JOIN THE GREATEST SHOAL ON EARTH

Best for: David Attenborough fans ready to take the plunge

Each June, one of the animal kingdom’s most thrilling spectacles takes place off the KwaZulu Natal coastline. The Sardine Run sees millions of sardines migrating north, following warmer currents towards the Indian Ocean. This moving smorgasbord attracts a who’s who of hungry ocean predators, from dolphins and game fish to sharks and whales. If you’ve got the nerve (and the swimming ability), Dive Worldwide can drop you into the thrashing heart of the action. 'During our five days at sea we were fortunate enough to jump into the water with a super pod of dolphins, swim alongside an enormous humpback whale and witness numerous bait balls as they were attacked from all angles,' says photographer Mat Howell-Reeve. 'The gannets dive-bombed from above, the dolphins orchestrated from below and the sharks make a wondrous mess of the middle. It was epic to witness nature on this scale.'

FEAR FACTOR: 4/5 SHOW-OFF LEVEL: 4/5 BOOK IT: diveworldwide.com **PRICE:**11 days for £2,695

• CYCLE THE WORLD’S MOST DANGEROUS ROAD

Best for: travellers with balance and backbone in equal measure

You don’t get a nickname like Death Road by accident. Hacked into the side of a mountain near the Bolivian capital of La Paz , Yungas Road earned its sobriquet thanks to a notoriously high fatality rate. Today, the bulk of local traffic takes a safer route, but the road remains – and mountain-bike crews such as Barracuda Biking will take you down it. Twisting rapidly to sea level from the snowy summit, you’ll pass everything from grazing alpacas to a government drugs checkpoint. Just keep your wits about you and both hands over the brakes – fatal accidents are less frequent now, but broken bones are an almost daily occurrence. On the plus side, the views are to die for.

FEAR FACTOR: 5/5 SHOW-OFF LEVEL: 5/5 BOOK IT: barracudabiking.com PRICE: About £65

• LEARN TO BE AN OLYMPIC SKI JUMPER

Best for: Experienced skiers looking for a new challenge

If you’ve ever felt like channelling your inner Eddie the Eagle, you can do so at Utah’s Olympic Park near Salt Lake City. After a couple of days’ training on smaller jumps, competent skiers graduate to the Olympic training ramps and eternal glory – or a large medical bill. The trick, as I learnt, is to lean forward and ‘attack’ the jump as you exit the ramp, forcing your body into the correct aerodynamic shape as you reach for the clouds. My take-off from the 40-metre jump ( photographed above ) was perfect – it was just the landing on my backside that left a lot to be desired.

FEAR FACTOR: 5/5 SHOW-OFF LEVEL: 5/5 BOOK IT: utaholympiclegacy.org COST: Single pass from about £35

• FIND YOURSELF BY GETTING LOST

Best for: outdoor enthusiasts eager to test their limits

In what has to be the world’s ultimate digital detox , intrepid-deluxe outfit Black Tomato will drop you into the wilderness from a helicopter, then leave you to fend for yourself. When you sign up for Get Lost, your precise location remains a secret, even to you, but it could be anywhere from Guatemala to northern Iceland . All you’ll have is a small pack of supplies, a satellite phone and a set number of days to work your way back to civilisation. 'Clients can choose what kind of terrain they want to be lost in: polar, desert, mountain or jungle, and then given the necessary survival training,' says co-founder Tom Marchant. 'The skills you acquire, and spending time in the wilderness , can really change the way you look at the world.'

**FEAR FACTOR:**5/5 SHOW-OFF LEVEL: 5/5 BOOK IT: blacktomato.com PRICE: From £15,000

• GO CLIFF CAMPING IN THE ROCKY MOUNTAINS

Best for: Insomniacs with a head for heights

When it comes to reflecting back on the sunlit plateaus of life’s long journey, this is one you’ll never forget. Colorado -based KMAC offers a cliff-camping experience deep in the Rocky Mountains , where you’ll spend the night suspended from a sheer rock face 200ft (or 18 storeys) up. After abseiling down to it, you’ll make yourself comfortable on a portaledge little wider than a church pew, then settle in till morning. You can see our attempt in the photograph above. Personally, I didn’t sleep a wink, but the spectacular view over the moonlit mountains was worth it – as was the hard-earned sunrise, incinerating any lingering night fears as it ignited the sky about me. (I was grateful to get my feet back on terra firma afterwards though).

**FEAR FACTOR:**5/5 **SHOW-OFF LEVEL:**5/5 BOOK IT: kmaconline.com PRICE: One person about £950

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[b] More epic adventures

Inside Japan's seven-star train

The Best Adventure Destinations For The Ultimate Vacations

Written By: The Planet D

Adventure Travel , Travel Bucket Lists

Updated On: February 9, 2024

While all countries offer an adventure of some kind, there are a few destinations that we have been to that seem to cater to the true adventurous spirit. We came up with a list of our top 10 favorite adventure vacations to tick off your travel bucket list.

Each of these destinations will let you do a lot of adventures in one place.

• Is a safari on your bucket list? Check
• What about Whitewater Rafting? Yep
• Or how about jumping out of an airplane? Oh yeah

Table of Contents

Adventure Bucket List Vacation Guide

Check out our favourite adventure destinations around the world that we’ve personally been to for the greatest adventure vacations on earth.

Have you got a favorite adventure destination? Share it with us in the comments. We’re planning our 2021 travels and are itching for a great adventure around the world.

1. New Zealand

New Zealand isn’t called the adventure capital of the world for nothing! New Zealand is the land of adventure and you can check off most of your travel bucket list dreams here. We took part in pretty much every adventure that we could dream of trying during our trips to New Zealand and can honestly say, this is the best place on earth for adventures.

From whitewater rafting  class 5 rapids  in freezing glacial waters to magnificent glacier walks and bunjy jumping to skydiving it’s the adrenaline junkies dream destination. With beaches, watersports, wildlife and glaciers, New Zealand has it all.

• Check out all the Things to do in New Zealand
• The Best Places to Visit in Wellington, New Zealand
• A Local’s Guide to The Best Things to do in Wanaka, New Zealand

2. Best Adventure Vacations for Wildlife – Tanzania

Tanzania is the ultimate safari destination . Going on a game drive through the Serengeti is an experience you’ll never forget. Looking for the big 5 is a thrill of a lifetime and seeing a large male lion for the first time is out of this world.

There is nothing like camping in the middle of a game reserve or viewing Jane Goodall’s chimpanzees at the Gombe Forest on Lake Tanganyika. Don’t forget to cycle, we had our greatest adventure cycling through the country!

But Tanzania also is an amazing vacation destination with a tropical escape to Zanzibar where you can go scuba diving and snorkelling, take a sailing trip or enjoy the beach life. But the ultimate adventure is to climb to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro and stand on the roof of Africa.

Check out all the things to do in Tanzania at 16 Amazing Things to do in Tanzania

3. Best Mountain Trekking Adventures in Nepal

One would think that the only thing to do in Nepal is trek in the Himalayas. While the biggest attractions are treks to  Mount Everest Base Camp and Annapurna Circuit there are so many more adventures in Nepal to be had!

Even travel through the country is exciting. The flight to Lukla is considered one of the scariest in the world making for thrills and spills in mid-air. Head out to Pokhara and try Paragliding over the valley below. There is awesome  mountain biking  and cycling trips are gaining speed all over the country.

Did you know that you can go on safari in Nepal as well?  The Chitwan National Park offers excellent opportunities to spot Rhinos and its considered one of the best tiger habitats in the world. There is White Water Rafting and kayaking as well that we didn’t get to try unfortunately because it was the dry season when we were there, but rest assured we’ll be back.

• The Complete Guide to the Everest Base Camp Trek
• Top Places to visit in Kathmandu, Nepal
• Tips for Planning and Trekking to Everest Base Camp

4. Best Adrenaline Rush in South Africa

South Africa is considered the adventure capital of Africa and with good reason. It caters to thrill seekers of all kinds. From bunjy jumping the highest commercial bungy jumping the world at Bloukrans Bungee Jump on the Garden Route to cage diving with great white sharks, South Africa has it all. We’ve done sandboarding and ziplining, kayaked with hippos and flying over Durban in a microlight plane !

South Africa is also an amazing safari destination where you can see all the amazing African animals like the Big 5 (lions, buffalo, elephants, leopards, and rhinos) to ostrich and cheetahs. There’s also great caving at the Cango Caves in South Africa.

• Check out all the things to do in South Africa here
• 20 Amazing Things to do in Cape Town, South Africa
• Ultimate Guide to Kitesurfing Cape Town – A Local’s Guidebook

And you thought the only thing to do in Peru was to go to Machu Picchu ! That couldn’t be farther from the truth. While the ruins are spectacular,  Peru  offers some of the most exciting adventure travel in the world. It starts with a trek on the Inca Trail and Sacred Valley, but the adventures continue with Paragliding over Mira Flores in Lima and surfing off the coast.

If you want dry land, try sandboarding in Huaccachina. But the real adventure for us was going on a wild dune buggy adventure in some of the highest dunes in the world.

And the ultimate backwater adventure vacation has to be exploring the Amazon. Explore the tributaries of the world’s largest river in search of wildlife. Or if the Amazon isn’t in the cards yet, we loved taking a boat trip to Isla Ballestas to view sea lions and penguins Peru’s answer to the Galapagos Islands.

• Fun Facts About Peru You Never Knew
• Paracas Peru – Adventures in the California Desert
• What To Expect When Hiking Rainbow Mountain Peru

Spending time at  Victoria Falls  will satisfy the adventure bug in any traveler. Try whitewater rafting in the sky as a helicopter whisks you through the deep maze of gorges and giving you a bird’s eye view of the largest waterfall in the world. Or even better, hop on a microlight flight for a birds eye view.

If you want the real deal, The Zambezi River offers some of the most exciting rapids on earth!

Or if heights are your thing…Bungy jump on the border of Zambia and Zimbabwe on the bridge spanning the Zambezi River below.   But we loved the Gorge Swing where you drop 50 meters in a matter of seconds, to be whipped across the Victoria Falls gorge at 95 miles an hour. If that’s too much for you, there’s abseiling and ziplining over the gorge as well!

There’s more relaxed adventures as well, take a day trip to Chobe National Park for some of the best game viewing in Africa and if you are very brave try Sitting in Devil’s Pool at the top of Victoria Falls during the dry season.

They don’t run the world’s toughest race in Fiji for nothing! It is paradise island destination filled with countless adventure activities! We went out to the adventure capital of Fiji on the Pacific Coast where we took part in some wild activities. Home to the eco-challenge in 2003 and 2019 this South Pacific Island is an adventure lover’s dream. From high-speed Jet boating on the Sigatoka River to riding the longest  Zip Line  in the world over a magnificent jungle canopy.

There’s jungle trekking and exploring caves with actual descendants of Head Hunters as your guides. World-Class diving sites, beautiful whitewater rafting on the Upper Navua River and island hopping on sailboats to explore it’s 300 islands. Oh yeah, this island paradise is a place you’ll never want to leave.

• 12 Things to do in Fiji – The Ultimate South Pacific Dream Trip
• Kava Ceremony in Fiji Etiquette
• Pacific Coast Fun with Zipline Fiji

9. Malaysian Borneo 

This place as it all! Start in Kota Kinabalu and make your way to Mount Kinabalu, Southeast Asia’s most beautiful peak. This is a challenging 2 day climb that will take your breath away two-fold. One for the rigorous hike and another for the spectacular scenery. Visiting Gunung Mulu National Park where you can hike the Headhunter’s Trail and trek to the Pinnacles is a thrilling experience.

Continue on to Sepilok where you’ll view Organgutans in their natural habitat and then pop over to the Kinabatingan River to view wildlife along the river banks from Wild Orangutans, elephants and crocodiles to name a few.

The best diving in the world is in Sipadan where you can dive within a swirl of a school of barracuda! And it’s an amazing wildlife adventure destination. There’s more wildlife viewing where you can spot the proboscis monkey and Borneo houses one of the largest cave systems in the world where you can view 2 million bats circle overhead nightly from Deer Cave.

• Great Things to do in Borneo – Malaysia’s Wild Jungle Island
• The Pinnacles of Borneo – Amazing Wonder of Gunung Mulu
• Mount Kinabalu – What it’s Really Like to Climb Borneo’s Highest Peak

10. Antarctica

It’s the final frontier for adventure travel. Not everyone has the opportunity to go to Antarctica, but it is at the top of everyone’s travel bucket list. Before going on an Antarctic expedition, we thought you simply sailed through the ice, but there are amazing adventures to be had.

From kayaking around icebergs to taking zodiacs close to the mouth of glaciers and taking part in the polar plunge jumping into the Antarctic Peninsula’s freezing waters. You’ll have bragging rights for years to come!

It is also one of the best safari destinations on earth with millions of penguins wanting to say hello. Fearless whales that surface for a closer peek and leopard and Weddell seals lounging on ice flows. Antarctica is the ultimate adventure vacation.

• 11 of the Best Things to do in Antarctica
• Fascinating Facts About Antarctica
• How to Pack for an Antarctica Cruise

11. Greenland

Heading to the other end of the world, Greenland blew our minds. With many of the same adventures as Antarctica, Greenland is the northern hemisphere’s final adventure frontier. We kayaked through uncharted fjiords, stood beside the world’s most active calving glacier and jumped into the freezing Arctic waters for the Polar Bear Plunge.

There’s awesome hiking, and dogsledding, zodiac tours and village visits. What unique about a visit to Greenland is all the chances to view the Northern Lights.

• Incredible Greenland – The Final Frontier for Adventure Travel
• Kayaking in Greenland – The Greatest Arctic Adventure in Photos
• Ilulissat Greenland – Icebergs are Born at Ilulissat Fjord

12. Off the Beaten Path Adventure Vacations – Kyrgyzstan

The Stans are one of the last places that haven’t been overrun by tourists in this world, and Kyrgyzstan is made for adventurers. Issyk Kul Lake is the place to be for great adventure where you can meet the mystical Eagle Hunters, stay in yurts and trek to the fairytale Skazka Canyon.

But it is going to Jygalan that the adventures really begin where you meet up with the horse people of Kyrgyzstan. Take a horse trek high into the mountains or go trekking on foot into the mountains. Going to Kyrgyzstan is an adventure unto itself as the country is remote and wild.

• Kyrgyzstan Trekking by Horse – Into Jyrgalan and the Boz Uchuk Lakes
• The Proud Eagle Hunters of Kyrgyzstan
• 10 Incredible Reasons to Visit Kyrgyzstan

14. Galapagos

The Galapagos Islands are home to the world’s most unique ecostystem with many animals endemic to the islands. It is truly one of the greatest wildlife destinations in the world for unique encounters. Swim cage free with the Galapagos Sharks, or frolic in the sea with playful sea lions.

Spot the massive Galapagos tortoise and see the Galapagos marine iguana. It’s an amazing destination for scuba diving, snorkelling and bird watching. But there is some amazing hiking through the jungle and along an active volcano on Isabella Island. Explore its lava fields and cones as you hike up to overlook the caldera.

• Unique Galapagos Islands Animals in Photos
• 27 photos that will transport you to the Galápagos Islands
• Playing With Sea Lions on San Isabella in the Galapagos

16. Costa Rica

It took us years to finally make it to Costa Rica and it did not disappoint. Costa Rica is a wild untamed land of jungles and volcanoes. We spied monkeys, sloths and toucans while searching for wildlife.

Kayaking and zodiac tours are a must and hiking through the jungle is an experience you’ll never forget. Take a tour to the cloud forest and see the incredible Arenal Volcano blowing its smoke as you stay in a treehouse. Costa Rica is the original home to the zipline and canopy tours so it is not to be missed!

• Things do to in San Jose, Costa Rica
• 23 Interesting Facts About Costa Rica
• What to Expect on a Panama Canal Cruise with Uncruise

It’s difficult to choose an adventure destination in Canada for a vacation, because each province has awesome adventures. We have an entire breakdown of adventures in Canada, but to help you check off your bucket list, here are a couple highlights from different provinces. Read more: Best Canada Adventures From Coast to Coast

Walk with polar bears and explore the arctic Tundra on tunrda vehicles. You’ll also see wolves, bears and moose on Canada’s most epic safari. Then head to Churchill for some kayaking or snorkelling with Beluga whales.

Read all about our time with polar bears here. Walking with Polar Bears – The Greatest Arctic Safari and check out the time we went Kayaking with Beluga Whales in Churchill

Alberta was home to the 1992 Olympics and besides the world class skiing there are plenty of adventures to be had. See all the great adventure to be had at Things to do in Alberta Canada – The Ultimate Guide

Explore North America’s largest glacier at the Athabasca glacier, go cross country skiing deep into the back country to stay in a remote lodge, take a high mountain trail ride through the rockies or search for grizzlies, moose and caribou in Jasper National Park . The possibilities are endless. Read more: Beautiful Places to Visit in Alberta

• The Best Things to do in Canmore, Alberta
• The Best Things to do in Banff
• 14 Best Hikes in Jasper National Park – Alberta Canada
• Driving the Icefields Parkway from Banff to Jasper Alberta
• Things to do in Drumheller, Alberta
• Where to Stay in Banff

Nova Scotia

The East Coast is home to the world’s highest tides and you can ride the waves while tidal bore rafting in Nova Scotia. If that’s a little too much of an adventure, you can walk on the ocean floor while the massive tide is out. There is incredible kayaking on the Bay of Fundy and the Atlantic Ocean, world class trekking and hiking and fantastic whale watching, boat tours and beaches. Read more: Best Things to do in Nova Scotia – The Ultimate Travel Guide

But there are so many other amazing adventures in Canada, you really need to read our full article to see them all and plan your own Canadian adventure vacation.

• Tidal Bore Rafting in Nova Scotia – The World Highest Tides
• The Stunning Skyline Trail in Cape Breton, Nova Scotia
• 22 Incredible Stops on the Cabot Trail in Nova Scotia
• Things to do in Lunenburg Nova Scotia – Top Activities
• The Best Things to do in Halifax, Nova Scotia
• The Ultimate Nova Scotia Road Trip Itinerary

18. Thailand 

Thailand has so many adventure activities it is difficult to know where to begin from sea kayaking through sea caves and entering hongs to snorkelling and scuba diving.  We’ve spent many a day rock climbing in Southern Thailand , it is one of the best sport climbing destinations in the world. There’s not only water sports, jungle trekking is a popular and mountain biking is gaining popularity. The toughest adventure we took part in was training in Muay Thai Kickboxing. It’s one awesome way to get yourself in shape.

For a less stressful adventure take a motorcycle ride to the Myanmar Border. We wound our way through steep mountain roads and witnessed hill tribes in their natural habitat. We went sea kayaking to untouched villages in the north of the country and hiked through tea plantations in Doi Mae Salong. The sky is the limit in Thailand imagine and adventure and you can probably do it here!

• The Best Things to do in Koh Samui
• 35 Amazing Things to Do in Thailand in 2021
• Beautiful Beaches in Thailand to Spark Your Wanderlust
• The Best Things to do in Pai Thailand
• 35 of the Best Things to do in Chiang Mai, Thailand

19. Mexico 

Sure it’s probably the number 1 vacation destination for North Americans to go and chill out on the beach, but there is so much more to Mexico than Margaritas and laying in the sun. Mexico has some of the most pristine scuba diving on the planet. It is also one fo the best places to swim with whale sharks. Which is a must on any bucket list.

For diving, there is the magnificent Palancar Reef which we still put up there as the best marine life views we’ve ever seen. And for the truly adventurous, there’s diving in the Cenotes near Tulum. Paragliding and Hang Gliding can be experienced all over the country including Tapalpa and Oaxaca. Mexico is known for its rock climbing too, there are sites all over the country most notably El Potrero Chico. There is surfing all along the Pacific Coast and mountain biking in Copper Canyon. Of course there is hiking too.

One of our greatest adventures in Mexico was kayaking through the Baja Peninsula for 10 days. It was a trip we’ll never forget. Mexico is such a giant country that it is impossible to pin down where to choose to do your vacation.

• 15 Fun Facts About Mexico
• Best Things to do in Cancun, Mexico
• 23 Amazing Things to do in Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula

Like Canada and Mexico, America i s huge and has many adventure destinations, but what sets it apart is that it has Alaska, so we could easily choose! Alaska is filled with adventures from seeing glaciers up close and personal to spotting wildlife like brown bears (coastal grizzlies) to moose.

But it also has North America’s highest mountain, Denali (aka Mount Mckinley) that you can either climb if you are an avid mountain climber or take a scenic flight over. There’s amazing hiking, whale watching, more zodiac tours and kayaking. Alaska is truly the best adventure vacations in the US.

• The Best Places to Visit in Alaska
• 28 Amazing Things to do in Juneau, Alaska
• Things to do in Alaska
• How to Pack for an Alaskan Cruise

And these are our favorite adventure destinations to add to your bucket list. They have definitely created lasting memories for us.

What destination or country did we miss? Add your bucket list adventure to our list in the comments below.

• 50 Most Beautiful Places in the World to Visit – That We’ve Been
• Beautiful Isolated Places on Earth – In Photos
• 41 Beautiful Places in Canada To Visit Right Now
• Bucket List Travels – 52 Places to Visit in Your Lifetime

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Book Your Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner. We have used them for years and have found that they have the best flight deals.

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor.

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

• Safety Wing - Occasional Travelers.
• Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Book Your Activities: Looking for walking tours, skip-the-line tickets, private guides, and more? Then we recommend Get Your Guide.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

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About The Planet D

Dave Bouskill and Debra Corbeil are the owners and founders of The Planet D. After traveling to 115 countries, on all 7 continents over the past 13 years they have become one of the foremost experts in travel. Being recognized as top travel bloggers and influencers by the likes of Forbes Magazine , the Society of American Travel Writers and USA Today has allowed them to become leaders in their field.

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12 thoughts on “The Best Adventure Destinations For The Ultimate Vacations”

EXCELLENT ARTICLE… WELL, ALL COUNTRIES HAVE IT’S OWN SPECIALITY & BEAUTY… & THESE 5 PLACES ARE THE BEST PLACES FOR ADVENTURES… I REALLY LOVE FIJI & NEPAL…

I’m glad Peru made your list! This place is definitely underrated in adventure travel!

Wow this a great round up. New Zealand is my stand out. I have not been to the others but nothing like starting at the top. I think Peru would be my next, once I have been round Australia seeing that I live here.

Awesome article!! One question: when you refer to Fiji, are you referring to the largest island (Viti Levu)? Or are you referring to other islands? Would like to know cause I it would be cool to visit Fiji and participate in some of these adventures. I tend to see Fiji as a beach destination but I guess is way more than that.

Hi Ruth, Good Question and yes, we are referring to Viti Levu. All of our adventures took place on the main island with an emphasis on the Pacific Coast. (the adventure capital!)

New Zealand definitely deserves that #1 spot, that’s for sure! You wouldn’t think so much adrenaline-inducing adventure could be contained in such a small country… but it is!

I would also add the US! Plenty of adventure to be had in this diverse country of mine.

Ah, wish I had seen that CTV segment! Is there a video?

Hi Candice, we are working on getting the video copied. We had friends and family record it on their PVR’s but CTV is working on getting us copies of future segments as well. We are on every Friday between 9 and Noon on CTV News Channel!

Go New Zealand!

You betcha, New Zealand is the tops for adventure in our books!

Well I’ve done New Zealand and Nepal. Sounds like I have a few more adventure destinations to visit 🙂

Wicked Dean, you’ve done some pretty awesome adventure destinations! Stay tuned for part two tomorrow for some more ideas!

• Adventure Travel

19 Best (and Most Thrilling) Adventure Trips in the World

Kaila is a recent graduate from the College of Saint Benedict in Minnesota, where she earned her ...

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If the thrill of adventure travel can be heard shouting your name, it might finally be time to answer...for real. But adventure means something different to everyone, which is why we've provided an extensive list of some insanely awesome adventure travel ideas—and the best adventure trips in the world.

With any luck, you’ll swing right into the perfect adventure trip for you.

Some programs combine volunteer work with adventure, while others focus on the exhilaration that can be found through speed and exploration. Whether you only have a few days or as much as a few months, there's something for you!

Are these truly the best adventure trips in the world? Maybe. You will just have to see for yourself!

19 awesome adventure travel ideas

1. go *way* down unda on this australia adventure tour .

Founded by two travel enthusiasts themselves, Welcome to Travel offers affordable 4 or 8-day adventures in Melbourne, perfect for those who love adventure but are short on planning time. The folks in charge have your planning covered...from airport shuttle to accommodations to the tours. All you need to do is bring your sense of adventure and your bucket list. Plus, if you’re looking to stay in Australia and find some work, they’re ready to provide a welcome package for a long-term kick-start to your new life in Australia. 

2. Install clean water filters in Cambodia & Vietnam  

ARCC provides participants with the opportunity to volunteer by constructing and installing clean water filters for Cambodians in need. But that isn’t all you will do. Teach at a local school while helping low-income Cambodian villages. Cross over to Vietnam, where you will get to travel around Halong Bay while taking in the view of the karst mountains. Past participants enjoy the opportunity to help others and experience new cultures of two diverse countries. 

Maybe pop in for a quick swim (or snorkel) at Halong Bay if you have time.

3. Study under a rainforest canopy in Costa Rica  

How does learning about ecology, biodiversity, and sustainability sound? Would it sound even more exciting in a rainforest? CIEE stations participants at a biological station nestled in all the tropics that a living, breathing rainforest has to offer. Take some Spanish classes, delve into biodiversity topics, and make time for some zip-lining on the side. Learning while having fun is just one of the few positive reviews fellow travelers boast about. 

4. Challenge yourself in New Zealand  

Pure Exploration is exactly as it sounds - 12 weeks of intense adventure travel providing outdoor enthusiasts with training and newfound skills to last a lifetime. Past participants rave about the experiences and knowledge gained from this program. Perfect your outdoor survival skills and become a wilderness expert with this surreal adventure program. 

5. Chase—and swim in—waterfalls in Costa Rica  

Sustainable Action Costa Rica provides participants with an intensive 8-day program of putting social and environmental sustainability to use while adventuring with your group through zip-lining, hiking, and waterfall swimming. Join this program during a winter break, gap year, or any other travel excuse you can think of. This program includes opportunities for volunteering and hands-on NGO experiences to enhance your Costa Rica adventure. 

Man, traveling can be so stressful… <3

6. Protect Mother Nature in New Zealand

With over 2,000 ongoing conservation projects, it might be hard to pick just one! A conservation program ideal for nature lovers, GoEco will have you volunteering in habitat restoration, seed collection, tree planting, and heritage restoration for at least four weeks. With a variety of tasks and the chance to hang with the locals, it’s a great way to give back to mother nature while exploring New Zealand.  

7. Become a sanctuary volunteer in Thailand  

Oyster Worldwide is a unique opportunity for animal lovers and conservationists alike. The program aims to conserve and protect birds, monkeys, gibbons, and sun bears (sounds adorable!). You'll gain insider knowledge and hands-on experience with many species that desperately need your help. Bonus: You'll actually live AT the sanctuary with other volunteers, waking up and falling asleep to the sweet call of the wild. Sign us up! 

8. Join a wildlife research expedition in South Africa 

GVI lets you get in the thick of things on a real wildlife research expedition...in South Africa no less! Participate in wildlife monitoring projects and learn how to track animals while living on a game reservation. The research you provide will be used for future conservation efforts in a country working to maintain natural resources and wildlife for future generations. 

Just one of your future coworkers. ;)

9. Wander temples in Thailand

The Experiment in International Living is highly rated by fellow travelers for its cultural experiences in Thailand. Create memories with your travel group while exploring street markets, visiting Buddhist temples, and learning the language. Best of all, you will get to experience life with a local family while living with a host family. Practice your newfound language skills on your new family or while you volunteer with a local NGO. Either way, life won’t look quite the same upon your return. 

10. Road trip through India  

Join GoEco for a road trip through 4 Indian states! Of course, the trip won’t be complete without a stop at the Taj Mahal. Also included is a 2-day mountain trek, camel ride, jeep safari, cave exploration, and a cooking class! Participants also have the chance to volunteer for a week in the city of Goa. Past participants loved being able to see so much of India in only 4 weeks! What more can you ask for while visiting India?

11. History comes to life in Cuba  

Rustic Pathways is the kind of adventure travel we all dream about. Take in Cuba by boat, horse, and foot while traveling to some of the country's most remote areas. For those brave souls, snorkel and take in some history at the infamous “Bay of Pigs”. Take a ride in a classic 1950s car or visit a national park. The experiences are all off the beaten path with a Rustic Pathways adventure. 

Some parts of Cuba are like a blast from the past. Definitely one of the best adventure trips in the world!

12. Volunteer in a wildlife sanctuary in Johannesburg  

GoEco welcomes volunteers for 2-12 weeks of work at a wildlife sanctuary. Help injured or orphaned animals hoping for a chance in the future. Some of the animals at the sanctuary include cheetahs, elephants, zebras, and others. Located just 40 minutes from Johannesburg, volunteers enjoy the ability to learn and work with animals, all while being close enough to explore one of South Africa’s most famous cities. 

13. Salsa the night away in Cuba  

Looking for the perfect adventure, but limited by time? For travelers short on time but still desiring some adventure, Discover Corps has the perfect weekend getaway in Cuba! Take in the nightlife with some salsa dancing and stroll through the Havana city square. Family-friendly trips are available, so bring the whole family along! Past travelers can’t get enough of their well-planned and culture-rich trip to Cuba. 

14. Teen travel, cultural immersion, and dance parties in Nepal  

Embark upon one of the best places to travel for adventure with Putney Student Travel . Take in the Himalayan villages while serving local NGOs and community organizations in Nepal. Participate in a Buddhist meditation retreat and talk to Tibetan refugees about their culture and homeland. Hike the base of Mount Everest, while meeting locals and sampling locally grown teas. With a focus on community service and medication, you are sure to come back home with a newfound sense of self. 

Wouldn’t it be cool to say you “hiked Everest”?

15. You’ll never tire of wine tasting in Argentina  

Mente Argentina is the program to enroll in if you can’t get enough of that merlot. Participants will learn how wine is made, wine-tasting techniques, food pairing strategies, and even some Spanish! During the program, participants will get to taste 50 Argentine and international wines. Choose between the intensive 2-week program, located in Buenos Aires, or the traditional one-month program, with trips to Argentina’s wine country (including Mendoza!) With a focus on Argentine Malbec, participants will come away with a great deal of knowledge and a belly full of wine. 

16. Empower women while volunteering in Nepal  

Empower women in this rewarding community service program through GoEco . Learn about the lives of women living in Kathmandu, where women struggle with daily sexism and inequality. Volunteers have the pick of a variety of programs including teaching women computer skills, English, health, safety, etc. While each of the programs will teach a valuable skill, volunteers are also encouraged to talk to the local women about the rights they have. 

17. Become business savvy in India 

Pave Internships offers a 10-day professional immersion for those looking to explore India’s business side. Learn how India is changing the economy and challenge yourself professionally with workshops, sightseeing, and engaging lessons. Gain in-depth international business knowledge, preparing you for a business career in the global economy. Participants will also visit Indian towns, learn about India’s legal system, and explore India’s vast history. Prepare for an experience unlike any other....and perhaps a job unlike any other.  

You’ll be a business tycoon in no time.

18. Take in the Andes in Argentina 

Say Hueque specializes in adventure travel in all of Argentina’s natural beauty. With flexible packages from 1-18 days, participants will be able to customize the cities and activities to make the most of their trip. It’s hard (but not impossible) to choose between visiting Buenos Aires, taking in the beauty of Iguazu National Park, witnessing the romance of Argentina’s cowboys (gauchos), visiting the famous Perito Moreno glacier, or taking in tango show. 

19. Preserve culture in Cambodia  

Globalteer offers the chance to volunteer with the indigenous people of Cambodia. The Bunong people have been increasingly under threat by the outside world. As a participant, you will get to learn about the issues they face and help preserve their history. Assist local staff to document and record their culture of music, language, and traditions. 

These best adventure trips are just scratching the surface

We hope you found a program that speaks to you.

So, there you have it. 19 amazing trips for the truly adventurous at heart. While we would LOVE to fit all of these trips into our soon-to-be-completed travel itinerary, one may have to do for now. So pick wisely...and remember, you can always revisit this list to find your top adventure trip.  

Use MyGoAbroad to Find & Compare Adventure Trips Abroad with Confidence

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The 15 Best Countries for Adventure Travel

We believe adventure travel comes in many forms—and that no matter which way you slice it, adventures can be found in every nook and cranny of the world. That being said, there are certain places that have a little more of an advantage in the adrenaline department, thanks to a combination of natural resources and tourist attractions. With this in mind, we dug into data from U.S. News and World Report to identify just which countries were best for adventurers—and added a few picks of our own. So if you tend to choose scuba diving and camping over spa treatments and lying on the beach, here are the 15 best countries for adventure travel.

This article was originally published in December 2017. It has been updated with new information.

10. Australia

With more than 30,000 miles of spectacular coastline , Down Under is ripe with adventure opportunities—most notably in the Outback and a little place called the Great Barrier Reef . Bonus: Given that its population-to-land ratio is so low (Australia is one of the least crowded countries in the world), you’ll even feel like you have huge stretches of it to yourself.

Adventures to try: Scuba diving off Lady Elliot Island; hiking through Tasmania's Bay of Fires; swimming under waterfalls in The Kimberley (just watch out for crocodiles).

Note: If you are interested in helping Australia during its current bushfire crisis, check out these resources .

9. Argentina

Snow-topped mountain peaks. Turquoise lakes. Wild tundra, treeless plains, and sprawling ice fields. If you’re an adventurer looking for a country with a seemingly endless rotation of landscapes, Argentina may be your best bet. The South American nation is also great for family travel , and Traveler 's top specialists can help design a trip suitable for all ages.

Adventures to try: Fly-fishing in Patagonia; riding horses on estancias ; learning to ski on Francis Mallmann's private island .

8. Costa Rica

Though Costa Rica is just 19,730 square miles (roughly the size of West Virginia), a quarter of its land is protected jungle. When you’re not hot-air ballooning over, zip lining through, or climbing in that very jungle, simply point in any direction to find a new adventure in a new landscape.

Adventures to try: Horseback riding on the beach; stand-up paddleboarding your way around Lake Arenal; rushing the rapids of Pacuare.

7. New Zealand

Name a landscape, and New Zealand most likely has it within its California-sized borders (though it has 34 million fewer people than the Golden State). Kiwis in the Traveler office say the country has every adventure you can think of—and then some—and we’re inclined to believe them.

Adventures to try: Caving in Waitomo; rafting rivers on the North Island; bungee jumping in Queensland.

6. Portugal

Though once the launching pad for explorers like Magellan and Columbus, who set off from its western shores, Portugal today has become a destination for, well, explorers. While the mainland has plenty of activities for outdoor enthusiasts, don’t forget about the Azores : An archipelago some 850 miles off of Portugal’s coast, the nine islands play host to some of the world’s best whale watching, lay claim to Portugal’s tallest mountain, and have volcanoes and crater lakes galore.

Adventures to try: Paddling down the Sabor and Tua rivers; surfing off of Guincho Beach; horseback riding through Alentejo , one of the world's burgeoning wine regions.

5. Thailand

Long a destination for gap year travelers and backpackers, Thailand’s combination of bustling metros, unforgettable street food culture, and blissed-out historical sites is attracting travelers of all ages. Whether you stay close to the cities or island hop to a cluster of jungle-covered islands off the coast, Thailand is as pretty as it is packed with opportunities for adventure at every turn. 

Adventures to try: Zip lining through 1,500-year-old rain forests; sea kayaking in Tarutao National Marine Park; caving in Pang Mapha.

With more than 6,000 islands and islets and a coastline of nearly 8,500 miles, Greece is more than just whitewashed buildings, sleepy beaches , and epic sunsets —though there are plenty of all of those, too. Seeking an island adventure without the crowds? Try Naxos, which is paradise for windsurfers, or Thassos (Greece’s northernmost island), which draws top mountain bikers.

Adventures to try: Sliding down waterfalls in Samothraki; diving WWII wreckage off the coast of Crete; climbing high for killer views on Kalymnos.

It seems as though Spain's geography was specifically carved out for adventure. Aside from its world-class beaches , the country is home to 15 national parks, including five in the Canary and Balearic Islands. So if you're looking to explore volcanos, sand dunes, marshes, or mountain ranges, you'll be set in this country.

Adventures to try: Hiking the Camino de Santiago; cycling through Andalucía ; camping and stargazing on the Canary Islands , one of our top places to go in 2020.

Few parts of the world can claim so intense a range of natural beauty as Italy, from craggy peaks and verdant hills to coasts of jaw-dropping beauty. There's nothing quite like driving through the winding, cyprus-lined roads of Tuscany , past rolling green hills and golden fields dotted with sunflowers. The Dolomites are some of the most beautiful mountains you'll find anywhere, too; San Pellegrino Pass is one of its best spots for rock climbing, skiing, and, well, just being in awe.

Adventures to try: Boating through Capri's caves and grottos; skiing in Cortina d'Ampezzo; scuba diving down to San Fruttuoso's haunting Christ of the Abyss statue .

South America’s largest country, Brazil, is also known for hosting Rio’s famous Carnival —the world's largest party, and an adventure in its own right. But it’s also a paradise for outdoor explorers, with the world’s largest waterfall system (Iguazú), biggest wetlands (Pantanal), and that thing called the Amazon, which comprises both the mighty river and rainforest.

Adventures to try: Boating under the Iguazú Falls; riding dune buggies in Natal; snorkeling in Fernando de Noronha .

Our pick: Canada

Canada may be the world’s second-largest country in terms of sheer size, but it has a population less than that of California—and 82 percent of that population lives in large or medium-sized cities. Got a few years? Hike, bike, ski, and paddle your way across the country on the Trans Canada Trail , which is a 14,864-mile network of paths—and the longest recreational trail in the world. Only have a week? There are plenty of options for that, too.

Adventures to try: Spotting polar bears in Manitoba; boating past glaciers in Torngat Mountains National Park; chasing the Northern Lights in Yellowknife.

Our pick: Iceland

Iceland’s landscape is so verifiably lunar that astronauts used to train here —if that doesn’t convince enough that the country is ripe for adventure, then we don’t know what will. A literal land of fire and ice, you can trek Snæfellsjökull, the snow-capped volcano that inspired Jules Verne’s Journey to the Center of the Earth , see geysers erupt in the Golden Circle, and hike across massive glaciers all in the course of a long weekend.

Adventures to try: Snorkeling between two continents in Thingvellir National Park ; exploring Vatnajökull glacier's underground ice caves; hiking behind the Seljalandsfoss waterfall.

Our pick: Peru

Machu Picchu 's panoramic views and mysterious stone walls are worth a plane ticket to Peru alone, but the country has more to offer than just Incan ruins. (Though climbing to the iconic citadel is definitely an adventure we recommend—and one you can even do in a day .) Once you cross that major item off your bucket list, head toward the country's national parks, lakes, and deserts for even more, less-crowded activities.

Adventures to try: Hiking past penguins in Paracas Natural Reserve; boating from island to island on Lake Titicaca; sand boarding in Huacachina, an oasis in the Ica desert. 

Our pick: Botswana

Botswana has plenty of national parks and safari camps for travelers, but the country's primary draw is the lush Okavango Delta —a 49-million acre river delta in northern Botswana. The area is real-world eden, where cheetahs, zebras, buffalo, and rhinos roam freely. Visit during Africa's winter (our summer), after the rains when the delta floods: The savanna’s grasses are low, while growth along the waterways attracts tons of wildlife.

Adventures to try: Camping under the stars near boulder-covered Kubu Island; river boating through Chobe National Park; zooming across the Makgadikgadi salt pans on quad bikes—another spot on our 2020 travel list.

Our pick: Sri Lanka

It's been just over a decade since the end of Sri Lanka's brutal civil war, but the country has bounced back to become one of our favorite travel destinations , complete with rambling temple ruins, leafy tea plantations, and wide, golden beaches. Animal lovers should take particular note, as the country has tons of options for wildlife viewing.

Adventures to try: Surfing off the country's southern coast; finding the world's highest concentration of leopards in Yala National Park; hot air ballooning over the Dambulla rock temples.

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30 top adventure trips to take before turning 30.

Your guide to bucket-list worthy, boundary-pushing trips best appreciated in your youth.

(Getty Images) |

Bookmark these action-packed itineraries.

Exploring far-flung places, immersing yourself in diverse cultures and venturing out of your comfort zone on a life-altering trip may be the best form of education. From hiking to Machu Picchu to navigating hair-raising turns along the Pacific Coast Highway, enriching adventures in unfamiliar locales offer profound experiences that shape your perspective of the world – and yourself. But while embarking on an epic journey has an unmistakable appeal in your 20s, when you hit the 30-year mark, suddenly your tastes, time constraints and career demands can get in the way. That's why there's no time like your youth to see the world. Keep reading to discover thrilling trips that inspire a lifelong curiosity and wanderlust.

(iStockphoto) |

Kauai, Hawaii

Getting a postcard-worthy photo of Kauai's captivating surf, scenery and dramatic cliffs isn't the only reason to plan a trip while you're young. Alex Howard, managing editor of the U.S. edition of Lonely Planet magazine, highlights kayaking the Na Pali Coast as an especially formative experience. "Regularly hailed as one of the best kayaking trips in the world, this route takes paddlers past the iconic, fluted coast of Kauai, best known for its cameos in films like 'Jurassic Park' and 'King Kong,'" he says. With the reputable outfitter Napali Kayak, you can take a guided 17-mile tour (starting at $225 per person) or paddle on your own among the mighty 3,000-foot cliffs.

New Zealand

New Zealand's rugged and diverse landscapes – punctuated by alpine ridges, volcanoes and sandy coastlines – are the stuff of dreams. You might recognize some of the spellbinding landscapes, such as Wellington and the Southern Lakes, from your favorite "Lord of the Rings" films. For an unforgettable, adrenaline-fueled adventure, visit Queenstown, which draws daredevils far and wide with active adventures such as hiking, whitewater rafting and bungee jumping. On Intrepid Travel's 11-day New Zealand South Island Explorer itinerary (from $3,115), you can scale the Franz Josef Glacier, marvel at Aoraki/Mount Cook – the tallest peak in the country – and paraglide, kayak, bungee jump or mountain bike in Queenstown, among other pursuits.

Machu Picchu, Peru

Sure, it's a legendary UNESCO World Heritage Site that merits a visit at any age, but your 20s offer the opportunity to easily hike the Inca Trail (the highest point sits at more than 13,800 feet) and marvel at the 500-year-old temples, structures and ancient ruins while you're able-bodied. The Lost City of the Incas offers plenty of archaeological gems to explore, from the photogenic Temple of Three Windows to Huayna Picchu, a pyramid-shaped mountain framed by jaw-dropping emerald peaks in the backdrop. For a mix of heart-pounding hikes through misty forests and exploring the ruins of the Sacred Valley, consider booking a seven-day Inca Trail tour (from $1,149) with reputable small-tour operator G Adventures.

The Trans-Siberian Railway

The Trans-Siberian Railway is a mind-boggling experience, says Tom Marchant, co-founder of luxury travel outfitter Black Tomato. The legendary seven-day, 5,772-mile journey from Moscow and Vladivostok weaves through seven time zones, stops at 120 locations and rolls past breathtaking backdrops, from Lake Baikal to the Ural Mountains. Aboard the Golden Eagle, a high-end private train, you can explore the Kazan Kremlin complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, admire wooden architecture in Irkutsk, Russia, and tour a national park and steppes in the countryside in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, on a 15-day trip (starting at $15,895). For a more cost-effective journey, book a 17-day Trans-Siberian journey with G Adventures (starting at $3,699).

With inspiring landscapes, impressive wildlife and ideal viewing locations for spotting the northern lights, Alaska often tops adventurous travelers' bucket lists. Howard highlights bear-watching at Katmai National Park and Preserve as an especially formative travel experience. "Every summer grizzly bears descend on a river in Alaska's Katmai National Park to feed on spawning salmon," he says. "The bears wait in the shallow rapids to snatch them out of the water – and sometimes pluck them from the air as the fish jump over the 6-foot falls," he adds. And the trip is about as off the grid as you can get. "The only way in or out of Katmai is via floatplane, giving this remote adventure a typical Alaska flair," he adds.

The Pacific Coast Highway

This iconic cliff-hugging route along California's Highway 1 is a rite of passage for nature lovers and road-trippers. And chances are, after admiring the cinematic coastlines, crashing waves and twisting turns in their natural grandeur on the drive from San Francisco to Los Angeles, you'll be awed and inspired to return. Along the way, take a detour at the Avenue of the Giants – home to towering redwoods – and cruise along Big Sur's rugged 90-mile coastline. Stretch your legs at Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park, which boasts marked trails, redwood grove forests and the photogenic McWay Falls for memories (and pictures) to last a lifetime.

For an eye-opening adventure, "explore the ruins of El Mirador," Howard says. The ancient Mayan settlement is tucked in Guatemala's Petén jungle, and "the largely unexcavated Maya city of El Mirador awaits exploration," he adds. Along the journey, "you'll pass through one of the most ecologically diverse regions in the world, although this two- to three-day hike isn't for the faint of heart," he adds. The site dates back 2,000 years and boasts spectacular wildlife in the Mirador Basin, including jaguars and colorful birds, such as the Caribbean dove and the hooded oriole. Consider making the village of Carmelita your home base, or make the 40-mile pilgrimage to Tikal, where you'll find ancient temples and pyramids and a mix of affordable hotels and inns.

Patagonia or the Atacama Desert, Chile

Trekking to wind-whipped Patagonia on the southern tip of South America offers the chance to explore untouched landscapes filled with magnificent glaciers, snow-capped peaks and turquoise lakes. But if you've already gone horseback riding, glacier trekking or fly-fishing in Patagonia's surreal setting, venture to the Atacama Desert, which boasts amazing landscapes that are "the stuff of dreams," Marchant says. The Atacama brims with salt lagoons, otherworldly backdrops and volcanic structures that beckon to thrill-seekers. Highlights include the El Tatio geyser, the wind-carved sand dunes in Valle de la Muerte (Death Valley) and Coyote Lookout. Consider staying at Explora, a luxury, all-inclusive outfitter that offers guided hikes, horseback riding and other excursions, along with an on-site observatory for stargazing .

(Getty Images). |

Scandinavia

If you're a cold-weather sports enthusiast, few experiences can match dog-sledding in Scandinavia, where you can "take in the wintry landscapes from the reins of a dog sled," Howard says. While you can book a daytrip dog-sledding excursion in places such as Tromsø, Norway, "the real adventure happens during multiday trips in the remote Svalbard and Finnmark regions in the frigid north," he adds. On National Geographic's nine-day Sweden: Dogsledding to the Icehotel round-trip tour from Stockholm (starting at $8,795), you'll explore snow-capped peaks, lush forests and frozen rivers across Sweden's Lapland region. Other trip highlights include meeting with a reindeer herder and staying in Jukkasjärvi at the Icehotel, which is composed of crystal structures, ice and snow.

A mecca for foodies, art enthusiasts and nature lovers alike, Mexico City offers plenty of world-class attractions, from the Frida Kahlo Museum to the Palace of Fine Arts. But if you're longing for more adventure, explore lively destinations across the country, from Oaxaca to Playa del Carmen on a snorkeling, swimming and hiking adventure. On Intrepid Travel's 15-day Mexico Unplugged tour (from $1,161), you can cross Mexico City, Puebla, Oaxaca and the Mayan ruins at Chichén Itzá and Playa del Carmen off your travel list and immerse yourself in vibrant landscapes and cultures. Highlights include exploring Oaxaca's vibrant markets, snorkeling in cenotes in Playa del Carmen and savoring spicy staples like El Yucateco hot sauce in Merida.

(iStockPhoto) |

Exploring Tokyo's fast-paced city streets, futuristic skyscrapers and dynamic food, fashion and design enclaves is a not-to-be-missed experience. After crossing Tokyo off your list, you'll want to discover deep-rooted cultural traditions, from authentic tea ceremonies to jaw-dropping temples and hiking trails in Nikko, Kyoto and beyond. With G Adventures' nine-day Japan Express itinerary (from $1,440), you can enjoy a blend of adventure and cultural enrichment. On the trip, you'll explore Nikko's storied Buddhist temples and shrines. Plus, you can immerse yourself in Kyoto's famed Gion district, where you'll find geishas and traditional teahouses – and enjoy a soothing dip in an onsen (a hot springs bath).

With its lenient, laissez-faire attitude, legendary coffeehouses and infamous Red Light District, Amsterdam has long been saddled with a risqué reputation. But for history buffs, culture vultures and thrill-seekers, the city and surrounding countryside offer a one-of-a-kind adventure amid striking canals and scenic cycling trails. You can pedal your way to Dutch beer institutions like De Blauwe Parade and In de Wildeman. And for a more action-packed trip – or if you need a break from museum-hopping – explore the city's top outdoor attractions. Book a tandem riding experience on the Amstel River, canoe in Waterland nature reserve north of the city or a take a guided four-hour countryside cycling tour (starting at $40) with reputable outfitter Yellow Bike.

From palm-studded landscapes to verdant jungles to iconic UNESCO World Heritage sites (we're looking at you, Taj Mahal), India lures world travelers of all kinds. On Intrepid Travel's 11-day Indian Getaway tour (from $637), you can stand in awe and snap photos of Agra's must-see site – the Taj Mahal – before checking out the Hall of Mirrors and catching a memorable sunrise along the sacred Ganges River in Varanasi. Other highlights include exploring the village of Tordi Garh and taking a walking tour in Jaipur to admire eye-catching architecture, including the Royal City Palace, the Amber Fort and the Hawa Mahal. For less activity and more sand and surf, head to Goa, where you'll find idyllic beaches and a mix of upscale and budget-friendly accommodation options.

South Africa

A trip to South Africa might seem out of reach, but with dynamic and captivating landscapes – from penguin-ringed coastlines to breathtaking national parks to unspoiled coral reefs – fascinating cultures and rare wildlife-viewing opportunities, the country is a must-see for any global citizen. On G Adventures' 16-day Cape to Kruger Adventure (from $2,464), you can form lifelong memories as you take a guided safari drive in Kruger and Addo Elephant national parks, where you can spot elephants, lions, leopards and other wildlife, hike or bungee jump in Tsitsikamma National Park and visit Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary in Swaziland. If time permits, tack on a few days in Cape Town to hike Table Mountain and admire the penguins at Boulders Beach.

Southeast Asia

Southeast Asia's arresting scenery and world-renowned sights, from the alluring beaches of Thailand to the ancient temples of Angkor Wat, has long lured 20-somethings – and for good reason. Whether you want to backpack across top destinations, such as Thailand, Vietnam and Cambodia, and stay in inexpensive hostels or join an organized tour, there are plenty of ways to experience must-see attractions and breathtaking landscapes on a shoestring budget. On the 18-day Discover Southeast Asia tour from Bangkok to Siem Reap with G Adventures in partnership with National Geographic Journeys (from $3,899), you can float along Ha Long Bay, visit the Angkor Wat complex on a guided tour and attend cooking classes in Chiang Mai, among other memorable experiences.

If you've always dreamed of marveling at world's highest peak – Mount Everest – it's hard to imagine a more exhilarating trip than visiting the Himalayas. With high-altitude conditions, the physically demanding journey is not for the faint of heart – or an inexperienced hiker. But if you have the strength and stamina, G Adventures' 15-day Everest Base Camp Trek (from $1,317), which starts and finishes in Kathmandu, is the adventure trip of a lifetime. Along the way, you'll wander past lush rhododendron forests, glacial moraines and tiny villages. Best of all, you can immerse yourself in Nepalese culture as you soak in breathtaking natural beauty in the Himalayas.

The Great Wall of China

Taking in the grandeur and majesty of the Great Wall of China is an unforgettable experience. While you will have to take a long flight to reach Beijing, you'll be glad you made the pilgrimage as you traverse the spectacular structure and take a sky-high cable car ride ascending the mountains. Of course, you won't be able to tackle the entire 5,500-mile structure, but with a guided expedition like G Adventures' 10-day Walk the Great Wall of China Tour (from $1,399), you can view spectacular angles along the Mutianyu and Crouching Tiger sections of the wall on challenging hikes and explore tucked-away villages along the way.

Party-loving Carnival revelers, white-sand beaches and emerald mountains may come to mind when you think of Brazil. But beyond Rio, there are plenty of natural wonderlands beckoning to adventure-seekers. Marchant likens the Pantanal and its sprawling wetlands to "the younger brother of the Amazon." Among the marshes, you'll find "incredible landscapes and amazing vegetation," he adds. The UNESCO World Heritage Site stretches across more than 70,000 square miles and boasts remarkable array of wildlife, including howler monkeys, alligators and jaguars. The Pantanal is an ideal place to fulfill an Indiana Jones–style adventure, Marchant adds. With G Adventures, you can embark on a 13-day round-trip adventure from Rio that includes spots in the Pantanal and the iconic Iguazú Falls (for $2,999).

When it comes to adventure, "there's no better place than Iceland," Marchant says. "You need to spend time trekking through the interior of Iceland," he advises. If you have a week, you can rent snowmobiles and glide over glaciers, Marchant adds. And of course, you can't miss out on classic experiences catering to intrepid 20-somethings, such as taking a dip in the Blue Lagoon or checking out the surreal Gullfoss (Golden Falls). For an epic, 190-mile drive, take the Golden Circle Tour, where you'll weave past the impressive dual waterfalls and Strokkur, a geyser that propels water 60 to 100 feet in the air. Howard highlights visiting a volcano as another must-do. "Visitors to the long-dormant Thrihnukagigur volcano descend almost 400 feet into the magma chamber, a giant cave full of fascinating rock formations," he says.

The Great Barrier Reef

This UNESCO World Heritage Site – a collection of about 2,900 unspoiled reefs comprising the planet's biggest coral reef system – is perhaps the world's greatest destination for marine life lovers. Start in Queenstown, Australia, (make Cairns your home base for bargain-friendly accommodation options) and then take an unforgettable diving or snorkeling adventure in the Cairns reefs, where you can spot humpback whales, sea turtles and colorful fish, or head to the Ribbons Reefs, a popular chain of reefs with the iconic Cod Hole diving site, where Maori wrasse fish and dwarf minke whales have been spotted. After all the activity, lounge along Whitehaven Beach's ivory sands.

Mont Blanc, France, Italy and Switzerland

There are many reasons to embark on a high-altitude trek of a lifetime, but a main selling point is the alpine scenery – from spectacular glaciers to tumbling valleys to pristine meadows to Mont Blanc's towering peak, the highest in the Alps. And while the flight across the pond will cost you, you can experience the mind-boggling route on a stringent budget. With G Adventures' 10-day Trekking Mont Blanc tour (from $1,699), which begins and ends in Chamonix, France, you can wander past awe-inspiring glaciers by day and savor memorable meals in storybook Swiss and Italian villages by night. And though the hikes are long and physically demanding, you'll fill up your camera with spectacular photos.

Utah's national parks are awe-inspiring. Whether you want to explore sand-carved deserts or crimson canyons, there are plenty of classic and off-the-beaten-path trails worth tackling. The Narrows in Zion National Park is a must-do, with its spectacular sandstone formations, hanging gardens and towering cliffs. However, the challenging trail is best-suited for experienced hikers, with about half of the journey spent traipsing knee-deep in the Virgin River. For a less challenging hike, consider trekking from Devils Garden Trail to Landscape Arch on a 1.6-mile journey in Arches National Park, where you can catch sight of the delicate and sprawling Landscape Arch amid sandstone structures and surreal junipers and pinyon pines.

The Middle East

Broaden your understanding of different cultures by making the pilgrimage to the Middle East. If you've already marveled at the futuristic, glitzy and over-the-top gems in Dubai – the Burj Khalifa, Burj Al Arab and Dubai Mall, to name a few – venture to Oman to discover stunning sand deserts, mountains and spectacular fortresses. Howard recommends driving past Oman's famous wadis, or ravines. "Wadi Ghul is known as the Grand Canyon of Arabia for a reason: the sheer cliffs regularly exceed 3,000 feet tall," he says. "Try the Balcony Walk along the rim to stretch your legs – and test your nerves," he says. At Wadi Ghul, adrenaline-pumping activities can include canyoning, biking and rock climbing, among other diversions.

Portugal offers plenty of storybook settings, from Lisbon, with its centuries-old architecture, terra-cotta buildings and ornate tiles, to Sintra, with its enchanting villas and rolling hills. But for an off-the-beaten-track trip, consider the less-visited Azores archipelago, where you can spend your days on whale-watching expeditions, hiking spellbinding cliffside paths and admiring volcanoes, before sitting back and relaxing on the picturesque beach. With Intrepid Travel's 10-day Azores and Mainland Portugal itinerary (from $3,180), you can take excursions to Pico de Pedro – Portugal's highest peak – and scale Capelinhos Volcano, among other invigorating activities. Best of all, Portugal's enchanting locales are as easy on the eyes as they are on the pocketbook, and affordable airfares on low-cost international carriers are easy to come by.

For world-class surfing, superlative wildlife-viewing and inspiring hiking trails, Costa Rica is an adventure and nature lover's playground. On G Adventures' 16-day Costa Rica Adventure Trip (starting at $1,463), your days can be filled taking surf lessons in the Manuel Antonio region, zip lining over Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Reserve, whitewater rafting in La Fortuna and exploring the nesting grounds of leatherback turtles at Tortuguero National Park. Craving more adventure? You can add on a canyoneering expedition to Arenal Volcano that includes exploring verdant rainforests (for $139). If you're looking to skim massive swells, consider booking a stay at Del Soul Surf Camp School, which offers lessons for all age levels for $60 per person.

Striking sand dunes. Desert fortresses. Lively souk markets brimming with lanterns, kaftans, and silks. Morocco is a study in contrasts, with camel trekking in the Sahara and bargaining with merchants in Marrakech's medina jockeying for your attention. It's hard to deny the appeal of Morocco for thrill-seekers looking for an outside-the-box adventure. On Intrepid Travel's 15-day Best of Morocco tour (from $1,115), you can meander through the spice markets of Marrakesh and the art deco buildings in Casablanca. Other highlights include driving among the sand tunes to the Sahara to take in the arresting scenery of the Todra Valley and exploring Essaouira, a lovely seaside city and gateway to the Atlas Mountains.

Pedaling across France requires stamina and strength, but it affords one-of-a-kind experiences for wine lovers, foodies, Francophiles and culture lovers. On G Adventures' eight-day Loire Valley Cycling tour (from $1,449) from Blois to Angers, you can cycle past rolling vineyards, stop at a charming châteaux, explore lively markets, weave through tucked-away villages and enjoy a detour for a wine tasting. Each day, you'll cycle between 21 and 70 miles, making the expedition a challenge, and well-suited for outdoorsy types. For a more high-end cycling adventure, consider a six-night hiking and biking expedition with outfitter Butterfield & Robinson (from $4,795) that wanders past the Loire Valley's castle-filled routes and vineyards, with daily routes around 28 miles.

Tasmania, Australia

One of the most rugged, beautiful and remote hikes on the planet, Tasmania 's 40- to 50-mile Overland Track (within the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area) rolls past UNESCO World Heritage sites, stunning lakes, dramatic mountains and impressive wildlife, including Tasmanian devils, wallabies and wombats. Get your heart racing as you take in striking scenes, such as Cradle Mountain and Lake St. Clair's memorable trails, where you'll find plenty of scenic and serene trails for self-reflection as you weave past rainforests, eucalyptus fields and pristine lakes. For more adventure, check out one Tasmania's other 19 national parks and storied sights, including Wellington Park and the Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens.

Whistler, British Columbia

If you love shredding powder, test your physical limits on the ski trip of a lifetime at Whistler Blackcomb. In your 20s – while you're still in peak physical condition – you can more easily navigate 200 runs (the double-black Spanky's Ladder is a crowd-pleaser), plunging vertical drops, challenging steeps and icy temperatures. Spread across more than 8,100 acres, the resort offers five terrain parks and other adrenaline-pumping winter activities, from snowmobiling to dog-sledding to snowshoeing. Best of all, after an exhilarating day on the slopes, you can check out the lively après-ski scene near the mountain, from low-key hangouts like Dusty's Bar & BBQ and Garibaldi Lift Co. to upscale high-altitude hot spots like Buffalo Bill's Bar & Grill.

Glacier National Park, Montana

With snow-covered peaks, glacier-sculpted landscapes, more than 700 miles of horseback riding trails and iconic routes, including the famed 50-mile Going-to-the-Sun Road , Glacier National Park is nothing if not enchanting. And as an added bonus for younger travelers, there are plenty of affordable camping, cabin and hotel options. The park boasts 13 drive-in campgrounds, with prices ranging from $10 to $23 per night. Outside of the park, you can make Glacier Park Lodge your home base, or you can venture to nearby Whitefish, Montana, where you'll find plenty of breweries and distilleries. And no trip to Glacier National Park is complete without sampling legendary huckleberry pie at Park Café & Grocery, at the park's east entrance.

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After a day full of activities, there’s nothing quite like soothing your muscles, kicking back, and taking a well-deserved break. That’s the beauty of an organized, active tour. Everything’s taken care of, from a hearty meal ready to fuel the day ahead to a hotel spa calling your name as dusk sets. Yes, please!

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Book together or go solo and make new friends—those adrenaline-filled moments are best when shared! Connect with other outdoor lovers on a group adventure , recount stories over a beer at an Old English pub, or huddle together over a campfire waiting for the incomparable Northern Lights to reveal themselves.

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You can’t quite describe an adrenaline rush until you’ve felt it, that overwhelming sense of pushing your limits, breaking down barriers, and just simply going for it! An Active tour guarantees endorphins and smiles, from shredding fresh-powdered slopes on a snowboard to an action-packed multisport adventure!

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Your adventure tours questions, answered, how do i know an adventure tour is right for me.

If your favorite thing about traveling is exploring new and exciting destinations where every day is different, and doing activities where you truly experience what your part of the world has to offer, then an adventure tour is for you. Remember that they come in different levels of difficulty, so even as a beginner adventurer, there’s something to get you started!

Are the activities included?

An adventure tour is centered around the activities on tour, so most of the time, they are included in the total cost. Many operators also offer optional activities designed for those who like to step it up a notch and seize the day! For a full list of optional activities on your adventure, just start an inquiry, and the operator will inform you of the possibilities.

Do I need to train for an Active tour?

Not unless you want to! The best thing about booking your adventure tour on TourRadar is that you can decide your own difficulty—from relaxing walks to heart-pumping challenges! Simply use our filters until you find one that ticks all of your boxes. If you’re not sure, just get in touch, and we will be happy to guide you to the perfect adventure for you.

What's the difference between an Active and Explorer tour?

We’ve curated our adventure styles to suit everyone’s taste, so you can easily find your footing. If you love a bit of everything when getting to know a new place, then an Explorer tour is for you, while Active tours tend to have more physical activities involved too, so you might also go ziplining in the jungle and cool off with a dive or snorkel.

What about travel insurance?

Travel insurance is  mandatory for most of the tours on TourRadar  and must be purchased before you start your travels. It covers trip cancellations, medical emergencies, lost or stolen baggage, and more. As you can imagine, this is extra important when taking an adventure tour, and in most cases, you can add travel insurance with Cover Genius directly to your TourRadar booking when placing it.

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Find your next active tour by searching our tours until you find one that tickles your travel bug. You can filter by destination, dates, must-see locations, and level of difficulty. Simply set your preferences and fill out your details to secure your trip. If you have any questions along the way, just make an inquiry, and the operator will respond with answers.

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The 36 Best Places to Visit in the U.S. for Adventure

We’re celebrating the grandeur of America, from beautiful rivers, beaches, and mountains to incredible glamping outposts and wild places. Our travel experts are constantly on the road finding new adventures, and their ideas will jump-start your next unforgettable journey.

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Creating our annual Travel Awards package takes months of work by a large team. This time out, our travel editors unanimously decided to celebrate trips in the United States, because the pandemic reinforced what we’ve long known: there is a bounty of spectacular American destinations to share.

Next we tapped our vast network of expert travel writers, many of whom have been working with Outside for 20-plus years. Our writers are constantly out there chasing adventure and collecting information on exciting lodging, trails, rivers, beaches, road trips, and other things to do. What they came back with was impressive—the research memo for this package was 117 pages long.

Then the really hard part began: whittling down an overwhelming number of choices into one winner and one runner-up in each category. This is when the heated debates arose, as we pored over research and advocated for favorites. The final decisions were based on many factors, including new travel options, improved-upon classics, accessibility, and sustainability, and we always strive to offer a variety of geographic locales, activities, and price points.

Our overriding goal? To inspire readers to get outside and explore the world, and provide them with great ideas for years to come. —Mary Turner, deputy editor and travel director

Beach Winner: Loggerhead Key, Dry Tortugas National Park, Florida

Dry Tortugas is one of the most remote parks in the national park system, located approximately 70 miles beyond Key West. It’s also one of the smallest. Depending on the tide, only 143 acres of sand, coral rubble, and rock make up the archipelago’s seven islands. But those islands are blessed with great beaches, including South Beach on Garden Key, home to the park’s main tourist facilities. The best, however, is on the northwest side of Loggerhead Key, accessible only via private boat or by undertaking a three-mile paddle from Garden Key. The islet is encircled by gorgeous white sand, and just offshore is a stunning coral formation called Little Africa, because it looks like a map of the continent from above. That’s one of the best places to snorkel. Paddling between the islands can be challenging, though shoals break up larger waves. For tourists coming from Key West, the Yankee Freedom catamaran offers day trips to Garden Key at 7:30 A.M. and returns at roughly 5:15 P.M. (Round-trip tickets start at $200 and include a snack, box lunch, and snorkeling equipment.) Plan to bring your own safety gear and kayak—and be sure to reserve a spot for it on the catamaran in advance—or rent what you require in Key West. You’ll also need to stop at the Garden Key dock house to pick up a free boating permit. There’s first-come, first-served camping on Garden Key ($15 per night). Come prepared to be entirely self-sufficient. —Ryan Krogh

Runner-Up: York Beach Surf Club, York, Maine

This historic cottage colony has been reimagined as a hip year-round hotel that pays homage to the 1960s surf club started by local legend L. F. “Sonny” Perkins. He and his son updated the oceanfront property starting in 2020 with Scandi-style bungalows, a restaurant serving lobster breakfast sammies, and a collection of vintage surf photos. Summer camps and lessons are held on the gentle waves and sandy shores of York Beach. Experienced surfers pack five-millimeter wetsuits and come for the area’s storied winter swell. From $350 —Jen Murphy

Lodging Winner: Oculis Lodge, Glacier, Washington

Travelers will soon have a new way to admire the Cascade Range’s pines and peaks: the Oculis Lodge , 12 igloo-shaped domes tentatively scheduled to open before summer. The project set a record as Indiegogo’s most funded lodging campaign to date, with over $1.2 million raised. The domes, designed with a bedroom, kitchen, and sunken living room, are next-level glamping. Each sleeps up to six guests and features a private jacuzzi, sauna, and heated deck for yoga or other exercise. What’s more, all have a 15-foot-wide skylight and an en suite telescope, to give the glittery cosmos a starring role. Sustainability is a staple here; the domes consist of reclaimed and recycled materials, and they require up to 50 percent less energy to heat and cool than conventional cabin structures. With their minimal profile, the structures blend into the surrounding forest. The seven-acre property is located within 30 minutes of Mount Baker Ski Area and Mount Baker Scenic Byway, and two hours from North Cascades National Park—one of the lower 48’s least visited. But travelers staying at Oculis don’t have to go far for adventure; hiking, mountain biking, and paddling trails abound in the area. From $300 —Stephanie Vermillion

Runner-Up: Turtle Bay Resort, Oahu

Few adventure resorts can compare to Turtle Bay, a 1,300-acre North Shore property set on land previously owned by the Hawaiian royal family. To celebrate its 50th anniversary last year, it underwent a $250 million renovation and now offers a paniolo luau dinner series, an on-site farm that supplies its restaurants and spa treatments, a surf school led by native Banzai Pipeline champ Jamie O’Brien, 12 miles of biking and hiking trails, five miles of beaches, four swimming pools, a free daily fitness class, cruiser bikes, and sunset horseback rides through the banyan trees. When you finally find yourself indoors, you’ll have a room with a view of the sea. From $680 —Tasha Zemke

River Winner: Devils River, Texas

The rough-and-tumble landscape of southwest Texas doesn’t seem like the most fitting location for one of America’s best float trips. Yet here it is, the Devils’ pristine spring water flowing through a magical limestone canyon that’s home to black bears and mountain lions, cactus and yucca. Paddlers embarking on the 47-mile float from Baker’s Crossing to Amistad Reservoir are rewarded with the finest of the state’s overlooked outdoors: fly-fishing for native Guadalupe bass, swimming holes so clear they may as well be rock bathtubs, and nonstop Chihuahuan Desert scenery. The river alternates between long, deep pools; stretches of flat, braided water; and Class II–III rapids. Not long ago this trip, which takes most paddlers four days, was nearly unmanageable because of private land rights along the shore that made overnighting difficult. But the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, which regulates access via a permitting system, opened a series of campsites to make the multiday adventure possible. A handful of outfitters offer shuttles, canoe rentals, and fully guided trips, including Amistad Expeditions , based in nearby Del Rio. In 2019, Devils River State Natural Area was designated the first International Dark Sky Sanctuary in Texas, and camping beneath oak and wild pecan trees with the Milky Way in view is transcendent. —R.K.

To learn more about the Devil’s River float, check out this map  from Gaia GPS.

Runner-Up: Great Falls Whitewater Project, South Carolina

Vitality is rushing through Great Falls, and its source is the Catawba River, one of the nation’s newest whitewater escapes, located an hour from Charlotte, North Carolina. Duke Energy, which spearheaded the project , modified two century-old dams to restore natural river patterns, creating recreational opportunities and encouraging ecotourism. Rafters and paddlers can run Class II–III rapids in one section and Class IV in another. The restoration is expected to foster biodiversity and provide an economic boost to Great Falls, a town struggling from the loss of a once booming textile industry. —S.V

Road Trip Winner: Highway 395, Eastern Sierra, California

While U.S. 395 goes through four states between the Mojave Desert and the Canadian border, it’s the roughly 200 miles that pass by the granite giants of California’s eastern Sierra that warrant top billing. Start in the town of Inyokern and point your wheels north toward Fossil Falls, where you can hike above a volcanic canyon carved by glacial melt. Forty-six miles away, in Lone Pine, the Eastern Sierra Visitor Center’s parking lot boasts epic views of 14,494-foot Mount Whitney, the tallest peak in the contiguous United States. Get cultured at the nearby Museum of Western Film History, packed with memorabilia from some of the hundreds of movies shot in the area. Afterward, meander (or rack up to climb in) the arch-studded Alabama Hills, mesmerizing at sunset when alpenglow drapes the bulbous formations. Refuel in Bishop at Great Basin Bakery, then venture north to view the burbling wonders of Hot Creek Geologic Site, which should inspire a soak at nearby Hilltop or Wild Willy’s hot springs. Pull yourself away and head to Mono Lake Tufa State Natural Reserve to admire the whimsical shoreline spires, then sit down to brews and bites at Whoa Nellie Deli in Lee Vining, quite possibly the best restaurant located inside a gas station in North America. Lone Pine, Bishop, and the Oh Ridge Campground at June Lake are good places to overnight, making this a perfect two- or three-day trip. —Shawnté Salabert

Runner-Up: Sunshine Route, Puerto Rico

A climatologist at the University of Puerto Rico calculated the average color of the sunbeams that shine across this popular Caribbean destination, and the result was a lovely red-orange hue, dubbed Puerto Rico Sunshine. This year that color inspired the creation of the new Puerto Rico Sunshine Route, which circumnavigates the island and links numerous sun-kissed spots. Start in San Juan, snorkel at places like La Parguera Natural Reserve, soak in Coamo Hot Springs, and surf in Rincón. —Tim Neville

Public Land Winner: The Colorado Plateau

Boasting 30 national parks, monuments, and recreation areas, the Colorado Plateau is arguably America’s greatest natural playground. Shaped by the Colorado River over millions of years, the landscape’s dramatic canyons, monoliths, and mesas form a 150,580-square-mile expanse of high desert straddling the region’s Four Corners and include the spectacular spires of Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park and the cliff dwellings of Mesa Verde National Park . Now is the time to appreciate such magnificence: the river is one of the country’s most hotly contested water resources, and it’s threatened by drought. New weeklong, Navajo-led trips from the Grand Canyon Conservancy’s Field Institute provide the ultimate deep dive into the greater national-park area and its Indigenous connections (from $2,800). To explore on your own, base out of Grand Junction; this western Colorado adventure hub is a 30-minute drive from Colorado National Monument and surrounded by top-notch hiking and mountain-biking trails, campsites, and wineries. Riverfront accommodations ranging from RV sites and tiny homes to Airstreams can be found at Camp Eddy (from $50), just half a mile from Las Colonias Park, a 140-acre space along the river that’s popular with paddleboarders and kayakers. Stargazing nearly anywhere on the plateau is epic, but the Star Tower at Canyon of the Ancients Guest Ranch ( from $475 ), scheduled to open this summer, is our choice for the annular eclipse, which this year falls on October 14. Located minutes from the namesake national monument in southwest Colorado—a designated International Dark Sky Park—the two-story building resembles Anasazi ruins, and its rock-exposed bedroom features a deck where you can watch the interstellar action. —J.M.

Runner-Up: Everglades National Park, Florida

This wild national treasure celebrated its 75th anniversary in December—all the more reason to plan a trip. Head down in the dry season, November through April, and book a room at the Ivey House Everglades Adventure Hotel in Everglades City ( from $179 ). The hotel has kayaks for rent, and staff provide expert area intel. Or sign up for an airboat tour with the guides at Gator Park to see the array of grassland wildlife. If you’d rather pitch a tent, Flamingo Adventures’ Long Pine Key Campground (from $30) is a convenient option near the Homestead park entrance. —Mary Turner

For more ideas on beautiful public lands to visit, read our story on the 18 Best State Parks in the U.S.

Wellness Winner: Castle Hot Springs, Arizona

The world starts to fade away on the dirt road to this resort an hour north of Phoenix. As you make your way down it, you’ll pass wild burros and saguaros and catch views of the jagged Bradshaw Mountains. Once you arrive at the 1,100-acre property , you’ve headed back in time. Native tribes sought out these springs for centuries. Since Castle’s inception in 1896, notable guests have included Theodore Roosevelt and JFK, who convalesced here with other veterans after World War II. The draws? Warm weather, a remote retreat from daily life, and three natural hot-spring pools of varying temperatures, whose mineral contents—magnesium, lithium, and bicarbonate, among others—are still popular with those eager to soak up health benefits. Parts of the original resort burned down in 1976, but Cindy and Mike Watts bought it in 2014 and began the process of restoring it. Today the main lodge, housing the Harvest restaurant and a small bar, is reminiscent of the past, while 30 new stand-alone bungalows and cabins, all of them with mountain views, welcome the future. There are activities by the hour, such as guided canyon hikes, e-bike rides, a via ferrata, and yoga. Or do what most guests do: chill out. (The Wi-Fi password, fittingly, is RUsureUwant2?.) A perfect day looks like this: Wake up and soak in the springs. Head to breakfast, and follow that with a hike up Salvation Peak. Return in time for lunch on the restaurant’s patio, then retreat to your room to nap or read on the porch. Late afternoon, soak in the springs again before a massage treatment. Soon enough it’s time for dinner. The food is delicious and healthy—as many of the ingredients as possible are grown on-site—but you can also get a bison burger and fries. You will leave nourished and refreshed. Recent additions include Sleep Retreats, with an expert to coach you on getting better rest. Castle is a splurge, but the price includes meals, gratuities, and many activities. From $1,575 for two people —M.T.

Runner-Up: Kah-Nee-Ta Resort, Warm Springs Reservation, Oregon

After an unexpected shutdown in 2018, Kah-Nee-Ta —a wellness-centered resort and spa 60 miles south of Mount Hood—is planning to welcome travelers back into its calming mineral waters before the end of the year. For 10,000 years, Indigenous communities have relied on the springs for healing. Now the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs have partnered with Mount Hood Skibowl to open Kah-Nee-Ta’s doors to visitors who want to learn about Native traditions. —S.V.

Mountain Winner: Catskill Mountains, New York

The Catskills and their namesake park—comprising about 700,000 acres of forested peaks, narrow valleys, and countless streams just 100 miles from Manhattan—are steeped in history. They’re also undergoing a renaissance, thanks to a handful of new lodges, hotels, and restaurants. Those catching our eye include the 11-room Chatwal Lodge, a log-cabin-inspired chalet overlooking the 833-acre Toronto Reservoir, and the Eastwind Oliverea Valley, with 27 cabins and rooms, A-frame saunas that nail the Scandinavian hygge vibe, and a restaurant called Dandelion that uses seasonal vegetables in its cuisine. The DeBruce, a onetime hunting lodge that’s been transformed into a 12-room inn, has a dining room with tasting menus sourced from the 600-acre property; think venison in a wild-berry reduction. The husband-and-wife duo behind the inn were semifinalists this year for a James Beard Award. As for recreational opportunities in the Catskills, not much has changed since the Gilded Age, which is a good thing. There are thousands of miles of well-maintained hiking trails, excellent mountain-biking opportunities (check out 60 miles of lift-accessed tracks at Plattekill Mountain), and dozens of lakes and ponds to explore with a paddle in hand. The Catskills are also the birthplace of American dry-fly fishing. —R.K.

Runner-Up: Frog Lake Backcountry Huts, Truckee, California

In 2020, the Truckee Donner Land Trust bought property on the back side of 9,103-foot Castle Peak as part of a conservation deal, and 3,000 acres became available for recreation. Four stunning huts overlooking their eponymous lake followed in December 2021, with bunk beds, gas stoves, morning coffee brewed by a hutmaster, and down slippers in a range of sizes. The huts are accessible to backcountry skiers from December through April, or can be reached via a five-mile hiking path—a spur off the Pacific Crest Trail—July through October. They are easily the nicest huts in the Lake Tahoe area, so when the semiannual booking windows open in fall and spring, hop on it. From $65 per person —Megan Michelson

For more information on trails near Frog Lake Huts, check out this map from Gaia GPS.

Biking Winner: Monument Trails, Arkansas

Arkansas has pumped a lot of energy and money into its mountain-biking trails. As a result, the state transformed into a world-class destination almost overnight. One of its most robust initiatives is a public-private partnership that created Monument Trails , an array of singletrack in Arkansas’s state parks. Many routes were designed and built by Rogue Trails, a firm based in the town of Rogers made up of former racers who take land management and sustainability seriously. The first were unveiled in 2019, another 17 were introduced in the past year and a half, and today some 75 miles span Hobbs, Mount Nebo, Pinnacle Mountain, and Devil’s Den State Parks. The shared-use trails traverse iconic landscapes, including the Ozark Mountains, pristine hardwood forests on rugged plateaus, and limestone domes, and you’ll find yourself wheeling across flowy cross-country terrain and bombing technical downhills. Bentonville, with its dynamic craft breweries, and Eureka Springs, boasting a vibrant art scene, are top choices for places to stay while you play. Funding for the expanding trail system is supported by the Arkansas Parks and Recreation Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to developing local outdoor offerings, with patronage from the Walton Family Foundation. This year marks the centennial for Arkansas State Parks, so go celebrate. —R.K.

To learn more about Arkansas’s bounty of rides, check out these Trailforks maps for Hobbs , Mount Nebo , Pinnacle Mountain , and Devil’s Den  state parks.

Runner-Up: Mulberry Gap, Ellijay, Georgia

Welcome to the mountain-biking capital of Georgia: a humble adventure base camp 90 miles north of Atlanta within Chattahoochee National Forest. This 15-acre property , formerly a private family retreat, was converted into a campground with cabins. Ride out the door to explore over 50 miles of the nearby Pinhoti Trail system. Breakfast and dinner are served family-style, and lunch is provided to stash in your daypack. On-site guides give clinics, host group rides, and organize shuttles, and a fleet of Specialized rigs are available to rent. Camping from $13; cabins from $55 —M.M.

Glamping Winner: Huttopia, New Hampshire

At this outpost in the White Mountains, fully furnished canvas tents are scattered throughout a 50-acre forest, complete with its own 68-acre lake and heated saltwater pool. Huttopia also offers a gathering area with fire pits, tables, chairs, and flatbread pizza served from a retro Airstream. Each tent has its own kitchen, bathroom, deck, fire pit, and electricity, or you can upgrade to a tiny home or chalet. Either way you’ll be able to swim, paddle, or fish Huttopia’s Iona Lake during the day and enjoy live performances by magicians and acoustic artists at night. The resort goes out of its way to welcome kids, with organized activities like treasure hunts and craft time. Venture off-site to hike 6,288-foot Mount Washington, tube the lazy Saco River, or pedal the 35-mile Kancamagus Scenic Byway, which curves through the heart of White Mountain National Forest. And it’s all just two and a half hours from Boston. From $88 —Graham Averill

Runners-Up: Glamping News Is Ridiculously Good This Year. Here Are Six More Places on Our Radar.

*You’ll forget that you’re camping at Open Sky , just west of Zion National Park, Utah, where spacious safari-style tents are tucked into the rocky surroundings, offering primo stargazing and quick access to park trails. From $599

* Ulum , outside Moab, Utah, is the latest venture from Under Canvas. Each tent has its own private deck and a rain shower, and is steps from hot and cool dipping pools. From $549. Under Canvas Yellowstone , located in Paradise Valley, Montana, opened in December along the Yellowstone River. From $329

*At Summit Big Bend , placed on 1,000 picturesque acres outside Big Bend National Park in West Texas, you can bed down inside a renovated mining cave tucked into a cliff. Caves $549, glamping from $198

*Book a tent at Kitfox , on 160 acres of conservation land outside Santa Fe, New Mexico, for one of the resort’s Dine in the Wild weekends, when a local chef prepares homegrown fare. Hiking and biking in Galisteo Basin Preserve are right outside your door. From $200

* Dunes Experiences’ Desert Camp is scheduled to launch in June next to Colorado’s Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve, featuring safari-style tents and guided excursions in the surrounding San Luis Valley. $250 —G.A.

Desert Winner: Joshua Tree, California

This dramatic desert landscape is having a moment, with plenty of new projects. The recently opened nine-mile Long Canyon Trail, for example, links Desert Hot Springs with Joshua Tree National Park, and a new stewardship agreement between the Park Service and the Twenty-Nine Palms Band of Mission Indians will involve the tribe in park management, interpretive services, cultural and historical training, and rescue and wildfire operations. Meanwhile, lodging options keep getting better. AutoCamp opened a property with decked-out Airstream trailers surrounding a modern clubhouse and a heated pool. You’ll find The Bungalows—newly refurbished mid-century modern cottages—at the 152-acre, wellness-focused Joshua Tree Retreat Center. While you’re in the area, knock out a through-hike of the California Hiking and Riding Trail, a 37-mile point-to-point path that forms a U through the northern section of the park and heads deep into the backcountry, with views of the Little San Bernardino Mountains to the west and Lost Horse and Hidden Valley to the north. The terrain ranges from rolling scrubland and valley floors thick with iconic Joshua trees to Jumbo Rocks, a field of massive boulders. Hit this trail in the early spring, when the terrain bursts with wildflowers. Hungry? The new Spaghetti Western Saloon in Morongo Valley is the brainchild of two Italian-born musicians; it offers live performances, locally and organically sourced ingredients, and Wild West–inspired cocktails. —G.A.

Runner-Up: Great Kobuk Sand Dunes, Alaska

Thirty-five miles north of the Arctic Circle in Kobuk Valley National Park , a curious sight rises 100 feet out of the forest—the Great Kobuk Sand Dunes. Spend two days hiking and camping in what seems like the Sahara, where summer temperatures can reach 100 degrees. The best way in and out is by bush plane via the town of Kotzebue or Bettles. The pilot will land right on the sand. —T.N.

Electric Travel Winner: Natchez Trace Parkway, Tennessee and Mississippi

The West Coast doesn’t have a monopoly on EV-charger density. The Natchez Trace Parkway, a 444-mile highway through rural Tennessee and Mississippi that’s managed by the National Park Service, has more than 300 charging stations in surrounding communities. Most are free, and more than half are level three—the fastest available. The road itself is packed with cultural touchstones, tracing a route once used by Native Americans, European settlers, and, lately, roadsters looking for a slice of Americana. With no stoplights, no billboards, and little development outside of the occasional restored barn or farmhouse, the Natchez Trace rolls through hills blanketed with hardwood and pine forests. Start in Nashville and end at the Mississippi River in the town of Natchez, checking out highlights as varied as Elvis’s birthplace in Tupelo (milepost 260) and the dome-shaped mounds built by Indigenous people 2,000 years ago (milepost 286.7). It’s a bike-friendly route, with campsites for bikepackers; form a rolling 22-mile loop by combining Highway 553 with the Trace between mileposts 10 and 20. If you’re driving, stop at the Chickasaw Village Site (milepost 261.8), a 90-acre prairie with the preserved homes of a Native village, and explore the Yockanookany section of the Natchez Trace National Scenic Trail (milepost 122) through the cypress swamp left behind when the Pearl River changed course thousands of years ago. —G.A.

Runner-Up: E-Biking in Maine

Cycling coastal Maine is beautiful, but add sailing, secluded beaches, and numerous chances to eat lobster, and you’ve got a winning combo. Ride with Summer Feet Cycling from Port Clyde to Acadia National Park—a six-day adventure—sleeping at inns along the way ($3,695). Your e-bike makes the climb up Cadillac Mountain all the more memorable. —T.N.

Hiking Winner: Arrigetch Peaks, Alaska

Think Mordor, but transported to Alaska. Set in the middle of Gates of the Arctic National Park and Preserve , an area that welcomed fewer than 9,500 visitors last year, these 7,000-foot granite peaks are so remote that most trekkers opt for a guided tour in July or August, when the weather is best and wildlife abounds. Between the peaks are six incredibly clear aquamarine lakes in the Aquarius Valley, and the journey to get there is just as stunning. Alaska Alpine Adventures, which has led group tours around the state for 25 years, offers a rigorous ten-day backpacking expedition starting and ending in Fairbanks that takes in the Alatna River, glacial valleys, and burbling waterfalls over the course of some 40 miles (from $6,000). For a less time-intensive way to check out the Arrigetch, Brooks Range Aviation and Coyote Air, based in Bettles and Coldfoot, respectively, offer flightseeing trips (from $785) that put the scope of the area into better perspective, plus glimpses of herds of roaming wildlife. While you’re in the Land of the Midnight Sun, take advantage of your proximity to the Alaska Railroad, which celebrates its 100th anniversary this year. From May through early September, the line’s scenic 12-day Centennial Special runs from Anchorage to Fairbanks via Seward—a 470-mile historic route that lets you gawk at Denali, the Kenai Fjords, and several glaciers through your panoramic window (from $5,155). —Emily Pennington

To plan your route in the Arrigetch Peaks, check out this map from Gaia GPS. For more hiking inspiration, read Outside’s trail expert’s guide to the 10 best hikes in the world .

Runner-Up: Urban Hiking in Boston

The pandemic may have put city trails in the spotlight, but urban treks have long been a staple in Boston, one of the country’s most walkable burgs. There’s the lauded Freedom Trail, Boston’s signature colonial-history jaunt to churches, cemeteries, and other sites from the American Revolution. And last year, a Bostonian created the 27-mile Walking City Trail, linking green spaces in 17 neighborhoods. —S.V.

Family Trip Winner: New River Gorge, West Virginia

West Virginia has been getting the word out about all its spectacular nature of late—notably the churning whitewater, forested trails, and sandstone cliffs of America’s 63rd national park, New River Gorge . With so many recreational opportunities for every age and expertise level, this is our pick for families. Base out of Adventures on the Gorge, a 350-acre resort in Lansing, for all things outdoorsy. There are hiking trails, a disc-golf course, a zip line, and a swimming pool, plus multi-bedroom home rentals. Staff organize half-, full-, or multiday outings for your river crew. (Children from 6 to 11 raft free with an accompanying adult Sundays through Thursdays.) Plan your trip to coincide with Gauley Season, a six-week whitewater extravaganza—beginning this year on September 8—that draws thousands of people to test their skills on the Class III–V rapids let loose by scheduled releases of the Summersville Dam. Plenty of dryland activities beckon, too, including treks to historic mining communities, rock climbing for all skill grades, and horseback riding to the rim of the gorge. It’s easy to see why West Virginia’s slogan is Wild and Wonderful. —E.P.

Runner-Up: Philipsburg, Montana

In winter, families head to Philipsburg’s Discovery Ski Area—known as Disco to locals—for its easy frontside groomers. In town you’ll find a community ice rink, old-fashioned candy at the Sweet Palace, and cold craft beer at Philipsburg Brewing Company. Come summer, Philipsburg (population 847) is a quaint base camp for mellow hikes in the Anaconda Pintler Wilderness, fishing for brook trout in Georgetown Lake, and downhill mountain biking at Discovery Bike Park. At nearby Gem Mountain, you can even pan for sapphires—the treasure that put this former mining town on the map. —Jacob Baynham

Cabins Winner: Getaway House

Jon Staff was a burned-out East Coaster when he and a partner at Harvard Business School came up with a plan that focused on doing what he needed most: getting into nature to reset his mood, with zero distractions. Getaway House was born from that impetus. What started as one small house in a New Hampshire forest has grown into more than 780 tiny homes, set in clusters called outposts, in at least 15 states, all of them within a couple of hours of a major city. The idea behind each stay is for guests to fully disconnect from day-to-day life so they can reconnect in a healthier way upon reentry. Each white pine home is no bigger than 200 square feet and designed with a small kitchen, a large window for taking in the trees, and a lockbox for your phone. TV? Wi-Fi? Don’t ask. Instead, you’ll find an outdoor fire pit, a mini library, and a landline for emergencies. More than two dozen popular outposts now dot the country. One of the newest, near Asheboro, North Carolina, has trails and fishing, and sits within day-tripping distance of Birkhead Mountain Wilderness; there’s also a 12-mile round-trip hike up 938-foot Coolers Knob Mountain in the Uwharries. From $109 —T.N.

Runner-Up: Jet Hospitality

Looking to hook a gorgeous Montana rainbow trout, dig razor clams in Washington, or pick wild huckleberries on a stroll in Idaho? Jet Hospitality has you covered throughout the western U.S., with cabins, bungalows, and inns, along with glamping, tent, and RV sites, in Fort Smith, Montana; Pacific Dunes, Washington; and Teton Peaks Resort, Idaho, where you can hike or ride along the 30-mile Ashton-Tetonia Rail Trail or enjoy a wolf-watching adventure in Yellowstone National Park. —T.N.

Lake Winner: Burntside Lodge, Minnesota

In January, the Department of the Interior announced withdrawal of more than 225,000 acres of public land from federal mine-leasing programs near Minnesota’s Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. The 20-year hiatus allows campers to finally relax and reserve one of the 248 coveted permits allowed per day to enjoy paddling season, which starts May 1 and ends September 30. Not everyone who wants to explore the pristine north woods must sleep in a tent. Burntside Lodge on Burntside Lake—one of dozens of Boundary Waters entry points—has been owned by the LaMontagne family for more than 80 years. Its third-generation head chef, Nicole LaMontagne, serves up walleye as fresh and flaky as you could catch and fry yourself. With kayaks, canoes, and SUPs for rent, guests can paddle across the water to the Crab Lake Portage, then hike a mile overland for a taste of the wilderness. But most are happy to stay put. Reserve cabin 26. This one-bedroom shorefront log structure was built in the 1920s by Finnish craftsmen. The floors slope a bit, but with a cozy bed, a hot shower, a fireplace, and sunset views, who cares? —Stephanie Pearson

Runner-Up: Keweenaw Peninsula, Michigan

The Keweenaw Peninsula, off Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, juts into Lake Superior like a thumb ringed by thick forests, craggy shores, and a white-sand beach. You can see it all while paddling a sea kayak on the 100-mile-long Keweenaw Water Trail as it hops between wilderness campsites. If you’d prefer to be guided, go with the Keweenaw Adventure Company . —T.N.

Island Winner: St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands

St. Croix is the largest of the U.S. Virgin Islands, which offer five National Park Service sites and require no passport for American citizens. Sitting 40 miles south of the more popular Caribbean counterparts St. Thomas and St. John, St. Croix is often overlooked by island-hopping visitors. It’s newly in the spotlight, however, after Congress designated the entire island a national heritage area in December. This step helps protect its mix of history and culture. A stroll through the colonial structures of Christiansted National Historic Site transports you back to Alexander Hamilton’s day, when the downtown district was a Danish port. Wander the shores of Salt River Bay, a somber reminder of the centuries when migrants, colonizers, and enslaved people passed through the territory. The island is also covered with trails that deliver incredible sea views, and snorkelers of any skill level will relish a day trip to Buck Island to marvel at massive reef systems where elkhorn coral may reach 30 feet high. For accommodations, consider the recently renovated King Christian Hotel, right on the waterfront. From $229 —Theresa McKinney

Runner-Up: Dauphin Island, Alabama

Visiting Dauphin, a 35-mile drive from Mobile on the Gulf Coast, will be a revelation once you glimpse the six miles of sugar-soft white dunes at West End Beach. The island is also home to a 137-acre Audubon bird sanctuary, with a three-mile-long National Recreational Trail, as well as excellent kayaking and paddling. This sliver of land has just 1,800 residents, the restaurants tend toward the bar-and-grill variety, and most vacation rentals are on stilts to protect against hurricanes—all of which contributes to its relaxed charm. —R.K.

Ski Winner: Taos Ski Valley, New Mexico

Operating a ski resort is an inherently resource-intensive business. Taos Ski Valley , however, has long taken a more conscientious approach, proving itself a maverick in the industry by committing to clean-energy initiatives. Taos was the first major ski resort to become a certified B Corp, which means that its operations meet the highest social and environmental standards. Late last year, it became carbon-neutral certified after reducing its footprint. It now uses renewable energy to power snowcats, snowmaking machines, and chairlifts; it has undergone green-building upgrades; and it invests in offset projects like reforestation and biofuels. Aside from its reputation for driving change, the main reason skiers flock to this resort in northern New Mexico is for the uncrowded, low-key vibe. That and the quick hike to steep chutes off the West Basin, bird’s-eye views of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains from atop 12,481-foot Kachina Peak, and the green-chile-stuffed breakfast burritos from Bumps Market in the village. Stay at the 80-room Blake Hotel (from $300) and you’re steps from Lift 1. (The historic Hotel St. Bernard, another favorite, is undergoing a renovation and is slated to reopen in 2025.) Start this off with Al’s Run for a leg-crushing warm-up, and at day’s end join those in the know for beer and soft pretzels on the deck of the Bavarian at the bottom of Lift 4. —M.M.

Runner-Up: Bluebird Backcountry, Kremmling, Colorado

When Bluebird Backcountry opened three years ago, it offered a unique way to get into ski touring—with trail maps, guides, and gear rentals. You won’t find chairlifts at this 1,200-acre ski-patrolled area 45 minutes southeast of Steamboat Springs; it’s all human-powered. Over the winter, Bluebird added lodging options, including van-camping sites, a hostel, rustic cabins, and ski-to domes (from $25 for camping, $59 for hostel rooms, and $109 for cabins and domes). There’s no fancy slopeside hotel, but that’s partly why Bluebird’s so awesome: it’s an affordable escape from crowded resorts. —M.M.

The Wildest Place Winner: Black Hills and Badlands, South Dakota

The nation’s 17th largest state has a population of just under one million, about a fifth of whom live in Sioux Falls. The entire western third of the state is prairie grasslands, dense pine forests, geologically fascinating rock formations, and national parks filled with sacred caves and fossilized creatures from another era. See it all along the 111-mile Centennial Trail. Accessible to hikers, horseback riders, and, in some places, mountain bikers, the trail traverses state parks, federal wilderness, national forests, and a national park. It begins eight miles northeast of Sturgis in Bear Butte State Park, named for a plug of black igneous rock sacred to both the Lakota and Cheyenne. It then climbs into the wild geology of the Black Hills, home to pronghorn, bighorn sheep, elk, and turkey, winding around seven trout-filled lakes, crossing streams, and eventually topping out at 7,242-foot Black Elk Peak, before ending in Wind Cave National Park . Camping options vary from primitive tent sites to full campgrounds. Two-thirds in, the trail passes within a mile of Mount Rushmore, where hikers can peel off and sleep in a comfortable glamping tent at Under Canvas Mount Rushmore. To ensure no wrong turns, pick up the definitive guide, Hiking Centennial Trail, by Cheryl Whetham and Jukka Huhtiniemi. —S.P.

Runner-Up: Basin and Range National Monument, Nevada

Even in a state known for vast, empty landscapes, this 704,000-acre national monument two hours north of Las Vegas takes the prize. With no paved roads or designated hiking trails and unreliable cell service, you’re on your own to climb, roam, and suss out primitive camps in this desert terrain, where peaks rise to almost 9,000 feet. A lucky six people per day can visit City, a monumental sculpture of dirt, rock, and concrete mounds and depressions created over 50 years by artist Michael Heizer. Submissions to visit in 2023 are closed. Try again for 2024 at the Triple Aught Foundation’s website. —S.P.

Gaia GPS and Trailforks are owned by Outside Inc., the same company that owns Outside .

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Explore the best travel destinations in Russia with our wide range of sightseeing tours to Moscow, St Petersburg, Golden Ring, Kazan; Northern Lights viewing tours; wildlife & nature tours to Lake Baikal tours, Altai, Kamchatka tours, Trans-Siberian train tours, and more. Find the best guided trips and expert planned Russian holidays 2023-2024.

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Home » Europe » Moscow

EPIC MOSCOW Itinerary! (2024)

Moscow is the heart of Mother Russia. Just the mention of this city conjures images of colorful bulbous pointed domes, crisp temperatures, and a uniquely original spirit!

Moscow has an incredibly turbulent history, a seemingly resilient culture, and a unique enchantment that pulls countless tourists to the city each year! Although the warmer months make exploring Moscow’s attractions more favorable, there’s just something about a fresh snowfall that only enhances the appearance of the city’s iconic sites!

If you’re a first-time visitor to Moscow, or simply wanting to see as much of the city as possible, this Moscow itinerary will help you do just that!

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Best Time To Visit Moscow

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Here is a quick look at the seasons so you can decide when to visit Moscow!

The summer months (June-August) are a great time to travel to Moscow to take advantage of the enjoyable mild temperatures. This is considered peak travel season. Bear in mind that hotel prices rise along with the temperatures!

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If you’re planning a trip to Moscow during fall (September-November) try to plan for early fall. This way the temperatures will still be pleasant and winter won’t be threatening.

Russian winters (December-February) are not for the faint of heart as Napoleon learned to his peril. Some days the sun will be out for less than an hour, and snow is guaranteed. Although winters are exceptionally cold, this is when you’ll get a true glimpse of the Moscow experience!

The best time to visit Moscow is during spring  (March-May). The temperatures will begin to creep up and the sun begins to shine for significant portions of the day. Hotel rates will also have yet to skyrocket into peak ranges!

With a Moscow City Pass , you can experience the best of Moscow at the CHEAPEST prices. Discounts, attractions, tickets, and even public transport are all standards in any good city pass – be sure invest now and save them $$$ when you arrive!

Moscow is a large city with many accommodation options to choose from. Staying in a location that fits with your travel plans will only enhance your Moscow itinerary. Here is a brief introduction to a few great areas of the city we recommend checking out!

The best place to stay in Moscow to be close to all the action is Kitay-Gorod. This charming neighborhood will put you within walking distance to Moscow’s famous Red Square, thus cutting down on travel time. This will allow you to see more of the city in a shorter amount of time!

It’s surrounded by restaurants, cafes, bars, and shops. If you’re a first-time visitor to Moscow, or just planning a quick weekend in Moscow, then this area is perfect for you!

Another great area to consider is the Zamoskvorechye district. This area of the city offers a blend of new and old Moscow. It has an artsy vibe and there are plenty of fun sites you can explore outside of the main touristy areas of Moscow.

Of course, as in all areas of Moscow, it’s close to public transportation that will quickly connect you with the rest of the city and make your Moscow itinerary super accessible!

Best Airbnb in Moscow – Exclusive Apartment in Old Moscow

Modern and cozy, this apartment is in the heart of Old Moscow. Bordering the Basmanny and Kitay-Gorod districts, this two-bedroom flat is walking distance to the Kremlin and Red Square. Safe, quiet, and comfortable, this is the best Airbnb in Moscow, no question!

Best Budget Hotel in Moscow – Izmailovo Alfa Hotel

The Izmailovo Alfa Hotel is a very highly rated accommodation that provides all the components necessary for a comfortable trip to Moscow. There is an on-site restaurant, bar, fitness center, and an airport shuttle service. The rooms are modern and spacious and are equipped with a TV, heating/air conditioning, minibar, and more!

Best Luxury Hotel in Moscow – Crowne Plaza Moscow World Trade Centre

If you’re touring Moscow in luxury, the Crowne Plaza Moscow World Trade Centre is the hotel for you! Elegantly furnished rooms are equipped with a minibar, flat-screen TV,  in-room safes, as well as tea and coffee making facilities! Bathrooms come with bathrobes, slippers, and free toiletries. There is also an onsite restaurant, bar, and fitness center.

Best Hostel in Moscow – Godzillas Hostel

Godzillas Hostel is located in the center of Moscow, just a short walk from all the major tourist attractions and the metro station. Guests will enjoy all the usual hostel perks such as self-catering facilities, 24-hour reception, Free Wi-Fi, and security lockers. This is one of the best hostels in Moscow and its wonderful social atmosphere and will make your vacation in Moscow extra special!

An important aspect of planning any trip is figuring out the transportation situation. You’re probably wondering how you’re going to get to all of your Moscow points of interest right? Luckily, this sprawling city has an excellent network of public transportation that will make traveling a breeze!

The underground metro system is the quickest and most efficient way to travel around Moscow. Most visitors rely exclusively on this super-efficient transportation system, which allows you to get to pretty much anywhere in the city! It’s also a great option if you’re planning a Moscow itinerary during the colder months, as you’ll be sheltered from the snow and freezing temperatures!

If you prefer above-ground transportation, buses, trams, and trolleybuses, run throughout the city and provide a rather comfortable alternative to the metro.

Moscow’s metro, buses, trams, and trolleybuses are all accessible with a ‘Troika’ card. This card can be topped up with any sum of money at a metro cash desk. The ticket is simple, convenient, and even refundable upon return to a cashier!

No matter which method you choose, you’ll never find yourself without an easy means of getting from point A to point B!

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Red Square | Moscow Kremlin | Lenin’s Mausoleum | St. Basil’s Cathedral  | GUM Department Store

Spend the first day of your itinerary taking your own self guided Moscow walking tour around the historic Red Square! This is Moscow’s compact city center and every stop on this list is within easy walking distance to the next! Get ready to see all of the top Moscow landmarks!

Day 1 / Stop 1 – The Red Square

• Why it’s awesome: The Red Square is the most recognizable area in Moscow, it has mesmerizing architecture and centuries worth of history attached to its name.
• Cost: Free to walk around, individual attractions in the square have separate fees. 
• Food nearby: Check out Bar BQ Cafe for friendly service and good food in a great location! The atmosphere is upbeat and they’re open 24/7!

The Red Square is Moscow’s historic fortress and the center of the Russian government. The origins of the square date back to the late 15th century, when Ivan the Great decided to expand the Kremlin to reflect Moscow’s growing power and prestige!

During the 20th century, the square became famous as the site for demonstrations designed to showcase Soviet strength. Visiting the Red Square today, you’ll find it teeming with tourists, who come to witness its magical architecture up close!

The square is the picture postcard of Russian tourism, so make sure to bring your camera when you visit! No matter the season, or the time of day, it’s delightfully photogenic! 

It’s also home to some of Russia’s most distinguishing and important landmarks, which we’ve made sure to include further down in this itinerary. It’s an important center of Russia’s cultural life and one of the top places to visit in Moscow!

In 1990, UNESCO designated Russia’s Red Square as a World Heritage site. Visiting this historic site is a true bucket-list event and essential addition to your itinerary for Moscow!

Day 1 / Stop 2 – The Moscow Kremlin

• Why it’s awesome: The Moscow Kremlin complex includes several palaces and cathedrals and is surrounded by the Kremlin wall. It also houses the principal museum of Russia (the Kremlin Armory).
• Cost: USD $15.00
• Food nearby: Bosco Cafe is a charming place to grat a casual bite to eat. They have excellent coffee and wonderful views of the Red Square and the Moscow Kremlin!

The iconic Moscow Kremlin , also known as the Kremlin museum complex, sits on Borovitsky Hill, rising above the Moscow River. It is a fortified complex in the center of the city, overlooking several iconic buildings in the Red Square!

It’s the best known of the Russian Kremlins – citadels or fortress’ protecting and dominating a city. During the early decades of the Soviet era, the Kremlin was a private enclave where the state’s governing elite lived and worked.

The Kremlin is outlined by an irregularly shaped triangular wall that encloses an area of 68 acres! The existing walls and towers were built from 1485 to 1495. Inside the Kremlin museum complex, there are five palaces, four cathedrals, and the enclosing Kremlin Wall with Kremlin towers.

The Armoury Chamber is a part of the Grand Kremlin Palace’s complex and is one of the oldest museums of Moscow, established in 1851. It showcases Russian history and displays many cherished relics. Definitely make sure to check out this museum while you’re here!

The churches inside the Moscow Kremlin are the Cathedral of the Dormition, Church of the Archangel, Church of the Annunciation, and the bell tower of Ivan Veliki (a church tower).

The five-domed Cathedral of the Dormition is considered the most famous. It was built from 1475–1479 by an Italian architect and has served as a wedding and coronation place for great princes, tsars, and emperors of Russia. Church services are given in the Kremlin’s numerous cathedrals on a regular basis.

The Grand Kremlin Palace was the former Tsar’s Moscow residence and today it serves as the official workplace of the President of the Russian Federation (Vladimir Putin seems to have bagged that title for life) .

Insider Tip: The Kremlin is closed every Thursday! Make sure to plan this stop on your Moscow itinerary for any other day of the week!

Day 1 / Stop 3 – Lenin’s Mausoleum

• Why it’s awesome: The mausoleum displays the preserved body of Soviet leader Vladimir Lenin .
• Cost: Free!
• Food nearby: Khinkal’naya is a charming Georgian restaurant with vaulted ceilings and exposed brick. It’s a popular place with locals and right next to the Red Square!

Lenin’s Mausoleum, also known as Lenin’s Tomb, is the modernist mausoleum for the revolutionary leader Vladimir Lenin. It’s located within the Red Square and serves as the resting place for the Soviet leader! His preserved body has been on public display since shortly after his death in 1924.

It’s located just a few steps away from the Kremlin Wall and is one of the most controversial yet popular Moscow attractions!

Admission is free for everyone, you’ll only need to pay if you need to check a bag. Before visitors are allowed to enter the mausoleum, they have to go through a metal detector first. No metal objects, liquids, or large bags are allowed in the mausoleum!

Expect a line to enter the building, and while you’re inside the building, you’ll be constantly moving in line with other visitors. This means you won’t be able to spend as long as you’d like viewing the mausoleum, but you’ll still be able to get a good look. Pictures and filming while inside the building are strictly prohibited, and security guards will stop you if they see you breaking this rule.

The mausoleum is only open on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday – unless it’s a public holiday or a day scheduled for maintenance. The hours it’s open for each day are limited, make sure to check online before you visit to make sure you can fit this into your Moscow itinerary for that day!

Insider Tip: The Lenin’s Museum is there for people to pay their respect; remember to keep silent and move along quickly, it’s not intended for people to congregate around. Also, men are not allowed to wear hats and everyone must take their hands out of their pockets when inside the building.

Day 1 / Stop 4 – St. Basil’s Cathedral

• Why it’s awesome: A dazzling designed cathedral that showcases Russia’s unique architecture. This cathedral is one of the most recognizable symbols of the country!
• Cost: USD $8.00
• Food nearby: Moskovskiy Chaynyy Klub is a cozy cafe serving food items and pipping hot tea; it’s the perfect place to go if you’re visiting Moscow during the winter months!

Located in the Red Square, the ornate 16th-century St. Basil’s Cathedral is probably the building you picture when you think of Moscow’s unique architecture. Its colorful onion-shaped domes tower over the Moscow skyline!

The cathedral was built from 1555-1561 by order of Tsar Ivan the Terrible. It was designed with an iconic onion dome facade and enchanting colors that captivate all who see it. Fun fact: If you’re wondering why Russian churches have onion domes, they are popularly believed to symbolize burning candles!

This iconic cathedral has become a symbol of Russia due to its distinguishing architecture and prominent position inside the Red Square. It’s one of the most beautiful, wonderful, and mesmerizing historical cathedrals in the world!

The interior of the church surprises most people when they visit. In contrast to the large exterior, the inside is not so much one large area, but rather a collection of smaller areas, with many corridors and small rooms. There are 9 small chapels and one mausoleum grouped around a central tower.

Visiting the inside is like walking through a maze, there are even small signs all around the cathedral tracing where to walk, and pointing you in the right direction! The walls are meticulously decorated and painted with intricate floral designs and religious themes.

The church rarely holds service and is instead a museum open for the public to visit.

Insider Tip: During the summer months the line to go inside the cathedral can get quite long! Make sure to arrive early or reserve your tickets online to guarantee quick access into the cathedral!

Day 1 / Stop 5 – GUM Department Store

• Why it’s awesome: This is Russia’s most famous shopping mall! It’s designed with elegant and opulent architecture and provides a real sense of nostalgia!
• Cost: Free to enter
• Food nearby: Stolovaya 57 is a cafeteria-style restaurant with a variety of inexpensive Russian cuisine menu items including soups, salads, meat dishes, and desserts. It’s also located inside the GUM department store, making it very easily accessible when you’re shopping!

The enormous GUM Department Store is located within the historic Red Square. It has a whimsical enchantment to it that sets it apart from your typical department store.

A massive domed glass ceiling lines the top of the building and fills the interior with natural sunlight. There are live plants and flowers placed throughout the mall that give the shopping complex a lively and cheerful feel! A playful fountain sits in the center, further adding to the malls inviting a sense of wonder and amusement!

The GUM department store opened on December 2, 1893. Today, it includes local and luxury stores, including Fendi, Louis Vuitton, Prada, and many more! There are numerous cafes, restaurants, and even a movie theater inside!

For a special treat, head into Gastronom 1. This 1950s-style shop sells gourmet food items, like wine, freshly-baked pastries, cheese, Russian chocolate, and of course, vodka! Also, be on the lookout for a bicycle pedaling ice cream truck with an employing selling ice cream!

The ambiance is simply amazing, a trip to this idyllic shopping mall is an absolute must on any Moscow itinerary!

Insider Tip: Make sure to carry some small change on you in case you need to use the restroom, you’ll need to pay 50 rubles – or about USD $0.80 to use the bathroom in GUM.

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

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Novodevichy Convent | Gorky Park | State Tretyakov Gallery | All-Russian Exhibition Center | Bolshoi Theater

On your 2 day itinerary in Moscow, you’ll have a chance to use the city’s excellent public transportation service! You’ll explore a few more of Moscow’s historic highlight as well as some modern attractions. These sites are a little more spread out, but still very easily accessible thanks to the metro!

Day 2 / Stop 1 – Novodevichy Convent

• Why it’s awesome: The Novodevichy Convent is rich in imperial Russian history and contains some of Russia’s best examples of classical architecture!
• Cost: USD $5.00
• Food nearby: Culinary Shop Karavaevs Brothers is a cozy and simple place to have a quick bite, they also have vegetarian options!

The Novodevichy Convent is the best-known and most popular cloister of Moscow. The convent complex is contained within high walls, and there are many attractions this site is known for! 

The six-pillared five-domed Smolensk Cathedral is the main attraction. It was built to resemble the Kremlin’s Assumption Cathedral and its facade boasts beautiful snowy white walls and a pristine golden onion dome as its centerpiece. It’s the oldest structure in the convent, built from 1524 -1525, and is situated in the center of the complex between the two entrance gates.

There are other churches inside the convent as well, all dating back from many centuries past. The convent is filled with an abundance of 16th and 17th-century religious artworks, including numerous large and extravagant frescos!

Just outside the convent’s grounds lies the Novodevichy Cemetery. Here, you can visit the graves of famous Russians, including esteemed authors, composers, and politicians. Probably the most intriguing gravestone belongs to Russian politician Nikita Khruschev!

The Novodevichy Convent is located near the Moscow River and offers a peaceful retreat from the busy city. In 2004, it was proclaimed a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The convent remains remarkably well-preserved and is an outstanding example of Moscow Baroque architecture! 

Insider Tip: To enter the cathedrals inside the complex, women are advised to cover their heads and shoulders, while men should wear long pants.

Day 2 / Stop 2 – Gorky Central Park of Culture and Leisure

• Why it’s awesome: A large amusement area in the heart of the city offering many attractions!
• Cost: Free! 
• Food nearby: Check out Mepkato, located inside Gorky Central Park for a casual meal in a cozy setting. There are indoor and outdoor seating options and the restaurant is child-friendly!

Gorky Central Park of Culture and Leisure is a large green space in the heart of Moscow. The park opened in 1928, and it stretches along the scenic embankment of the Moskva River. It covers an area of 300-acres and offers a lovely contrast from the compact city center.

You’ll find all sorts of wonderful attractions, from boat rides to bike rentals to tennis courts and ping-pong tables, and much more! there are an open-air cinema and festive events and concerts scheduled in the summer months.  A wide selection of free fitness classes is also offered on a regular basis, including jogging, roller skating, and dancing!

Although many of the options you’ll find here are more suited for outdoor leisure during the summer, you’ll also a selection of winter attractions, including one of Europe’s largest ice rinks for ice-skating!

If you’re trying to decide what to do in Moscow with kids, the park also offers several venues designed specifically for kids. Check out the year-round Green School which offers hands-on classes in gardening and art! You can also feed the squirrels and birds at the Golitsinsky Ponds!

The park is very well maintained and kept clean and the entrance is free of charge, although most individual attractions cost money. There is also Wi-Fi available throughout the park.

With so many attractions, you could easily spend all day here! If you’re only planning a 2 day itinerary in Moscow, make sure to plan your time accordingly and map out all the areas you want to see beforehand!

Day 2 / Stop 3 – The State Tretyakov Gallery

• Why it’s awesome: The gallery’s collection consists entirely of Russian art made by Russian artists!
• Food nearby : Brothers Tretyakovs is located right across the street from the gallery. It’s a wonderfully atmospheric restaurant serving top quality food and drinks!

The State Tretyakov Gallery was founded in 1856 by influential merchant and collector Pavel Tretyakov.  The gallery is a national treasury of Russian fine art and one of the most important museums in Russia!

It houses the world’s best collection of Russian art and contains more than 130, 000 paintings, sculptures, and graphics! These works have been created throughout the centuries by generations of Russia’s most talented artists!

The exhibits range from mysterious 12th-century images to politically charged canvases. The collection is rich and revealing and offers great insight into the history and attitudes of this long-suffering yet inspired people!

All pictures are also labeled in English. If you plan to take your time and see everything inside the museum it will take a good 3-4 hours, so make sure to plan your Moscow trip itinerary accordingly! This gallery is a must-see stop for art lovers, or anyone wanting to explore the local culture and history of Russia in a creative and insightful manner! 

Insider Tip: When planning your 2 days in Moscow itinerary, keep in mind that most museums in Moscow are closed on Mondays, this includes The State Tretyakov Gallery!

Day 2 / Stop 4 – All-Russian Exhibition Center

• Why it’s awesome: This large exhibition center showcases the achievements of the Soviet Union in several different spheres. 
• Food nearby: Varenichnaya No. 1 serves authentic and homestyle Russian cuisine in an intimate and casual setting.

The All-Russian Exhibition Center is a massive park that presents the glory of the Soviet era! It pays homage to the achievements of Soviet Russia with its many different sites found on the property.

The center was officially opened in 1939 to exhibit the achievements of the Soviet Union. It’s a huge complex of buildings and the largest exhibition center in Moscow. There are several exhibition halls dedicated to different achievements and every year there are more than one hundred and fifty specialized exhibitions!

The Peoples Friendship Fountain was constructed in 1954 and is a highlight of the park. The stunning gold fountain features 16 gilded statues of girls, each representing the former Soviet Union republics. 

The Stone Flower Fountain was also built in 1954 and is worth checking out. The centerpiece of this large fountain is a flower carved from stones from the Ural Mountains! Along the side of the fountain are various bronze sculptures.

You will find many people zipping around on rollerblades and bicycles across the large area that the venue covers. It’s also home to amusement rides and carousels, making it the perfect place to stop with kids on your Moscow itinerary! Make sure to wear comfortable shoes and allow a few hours to explore all the areas that interest you!

Day 2 / Stop 5 – Bolshoi Theater

• Why it’s awesome: The Bolshoi Theater is a historic venue that hosts world-class ballet and opera performances!
• Cost: Prices vary largely between USD $2.00 –  USD $228.00 based on seat location.
• Food nearby: Head to the Russian restaurant, Bolshoi for high-quality food and drinks and excellent service!

The Bolshoi Theater is among the oldest and most renowned ballet and opera companies in the world! It also boasts the world’s biggest ballet company, with more than 200 dancers!

The theater has been rebuilt and renovated several times during its long history. In 2011 it finished its most recent renovation after an extensive six-year restoration that started in 2005. The renovation included an improvement in acoustics and the restoration of the original Imperial decor.

The Bolshoi Theater has put on many of the world’s most famous ballet acts! Tchaikovsky’s ballet Swan Lake premiered at the theater in 1877 and other notable performances of the Bolshoi repertoire include Tchaikovsky’s The Sleeping Beauty and The Nutcracker!

Today, when you visit the theater, you can expect a magical performance from skilled singers, dancers, and musicians with the highest level of technique!

If you don’t have time to see a show, the theater also provides guided tours on select days of the week. Tours are given in both Russian and English and will provide visitors with a more intimate look at the different areas of the theater!

The stage of this iconic Russian theater has seen many outstanding performances. If you’re a fan of the performing arts, the Bolshoi Theater is one of the greatest and oldest ballet and opera companies in the world, making it a must-see attraction on your Moscow itinerary!

Godzillas Hostel

Godzillas Hostel is located in the center of Moscow, just a short walk from all the major tourist attractions and the metro station.

• Towels Included

Cosmonautics Museum | Alexander Garden | Ostankino Tower | Izmaylovo District | Soviet Arcade Museum

Now that we’ve covered what to do in Moscow in 2 days, if you’re able to spend more time in the city you’re going to need more attractions to fill your time. Here are a few more really cool things to do in Moscow we recommend!

Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics

• Hear the timeline of the ‘space race’ from the Russian perspective
• This museum is fun for both adults and children!
• Admission is USD $4.00

The Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics is a museum dedicated to space exploration! The museum explores the history of flight, astronomy, space exploration, space technology, and space in the arts. It houses a large assortment of Soviet and Russian space-related exhibits, and the museum’s collection holds approximately 85,000 different items!

The museum does an excellent job of telling the full story of the exciting space race between the USSR and the US! It highlights the brightest moments in Russian history and humanity and is very interesting and fun for all ages!

If you’re a fan of space or just curious about gaining insight into Russia’s fascinating history of space exploration, make sure to add this to your 3 day itinerary in Moscow!

The Alexander Garden

• A tranquil place to relax near the Red Square
• Green lawns dotted with sculptures and lovely water features
• The park is open every day and has no entrance fee

The Alexander Garden was one of the first urban public parks in Moscow! The garden premiered in 1821 and was built to celebrate Russia’s victory over Napoleon’s forces in 1812!

The park is beautiful and well maintained with paths to walk on and benches to rest on. The park contains three separate gardens: the upper garden, middle garden, and lower garden.

Located in the upper garden, towards the main entrance to the park is the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier with its eternal flame. This monument was created in 1967 and contains the body of a soldier who fell during the Great Patriotic War!

The park stretches along all the length of the western Kremlin wall for about half a mile. Due to its central location in the city, it’ll be easily accessible when you’re out exploring The Red Square.

It provides a bit of relief from the city’s high-energy city streets. Bring a picnic lunch, go for a walk, or just sit and people watch, this is one of the best Moscow sites to wind-down and relax!

Ostankino Television Tower

• Television and radio tower in Moscow
• Currently the tallest free-standing structure in Europe
• Make sure you bring your passport when you visit, you can’t go up without it!

For spectacular views of the city, make sure to add the Ostankino Television Tower to your itinerary for Moscow! This impressive free-standing structure provides stunning views of the city in every direction. The glass floor at the top also provides great alternative views of the city!

It takes just 58 seconds for visitors to reach the Tower’s observation deck by super fast elevator. The tower is open every day for long hours and is a great site in Moscow to check out! There is even a restaurant at the top where you can enjoy rotating views of the city while you dine on traditional Russian cuisine or European cuisine!

The tower is somewhat of an architectural surprise in a city that is not known for skyscrapers! To see the city from a new perspective, make sure to add this stop to your Moscow itinerary!

Izmaylovo District

• The most popular attractions in this district are the kremlin and the flea market
• Outside of the city center and easy to reach via metro
• Most popular during the summer and on weekends

Travel outside the city center and discover a unique area of the city! The Izmaylovo District is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, and one of the coolest places to see in Moscow! The two main attractions we recommend checking out are the Kremlin and the flea market.

The Izmailovo Kremlin was established as a cultural center and molded after traditional Russian architecture. This colorful complex is home to several single-subject museums, including a Russian folk art museum and a vodka museum!

Next to the Kremlin is the Izmailovo open-air market, which dates back to the 17th century! The market is connected to the Izmailovo Kremlin by a wooden bridge. Pick up all your Russian souvenirs here, including traditional handicrafts, paintings, books, retro toys, and Soviet memorabilia!

You will find many hand-made and hand-painted options available at higher prices, as well as mass-produced souvenir options at lower prices!

Museum of Soviet Arcade Games

• Closed on Mondays
• Filled with old arcade games that visitors get to try out!
• The museum also includes a small cafe and burger shop

For something a little different, check out the Museum of Soviet Arcade Games! The museum features roughly 60 machines from the Soviet era, including video games, pinball machines, and collaborative hockey foosball! The machines inside the museum were produced in the USSR in the mid-1970s.

The best part is, most of the games are still playable! Purchase tickets and try the games out for yourself! The museum also has a neat little screening room that plays old Soviet cartoons and an area with Soviet magazines! This unique attraction is a fun addition to a 3 day itinerary in Moscow, and an attraction that all ages will enjoy! 

Whether you’re spending one day in Moscow, or more, safety is an important thing to keep in mind when traveling to a big city! Overall, Moscow is a very safe place to visit. However, it is always recommended that tourists take certain precautions when traveling to a new destination!

The police in Moscow is extremely effective at making the city a safe place to visit and do their best to patrol all of the top Moscow, Russia tourist attractions. However, tourists can still be a target for pickpockets and scammers.

Moscow has a huge flow of tourists, therefore there is a risk for pickpocketing. Simple precautions will help eliminate your chances of being robbed. Stay vigilant, keep your items close to you at all times, and don’t flash your valuables!

If you’re planning a solo Moscow itinerary, you should have no need to worry, as the city is also considered safe for solo travelers, even women. Stay in the populated areas, try and not travel alone late at night, and never accept rides from strangers or taxis without a meter and correct signage.

The threat of natural disasters in Moscow is low, with the exception of severe winters when the temperature can dip below freezing! Bring a good, warm jacket if you visit in Winter.

However, please note that Russian views on homsexuality are far less accepting than those in Western Europe. Likewise, Non-Caucasian travellers may sadly encounter racism in Russia .

Don’t Forget Your Travel Insurance for Moscow

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.

Now that we’ve covered all the top things to see in Moscow, we thought we’d include some exciting day trips to other areas of the country!

Sergiev Posad (Golden Ring)

On this 7-hour guided tour, you’ll visit several scenic and historic areas of Russia. Start your day with hotel pick-up as you’re transferred by a comfortable car or minivan to Sergiev Posad. Admire the charming Russian countryside on your drive and enjoy a quick stop to visit the Russian village, Rudonezh!

You’ll see the majestic Saint Spring and the Church of Sergiev Radonezh. You’ll also visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius, one of the most famous Orthodox sites in Russia!

Lastly, you’ll swing by the local Matreshka market and enjoy a break in a nice Russian restaurant before returning to Moscow!

Day Trip to Vladimir and Suzdal

On this 13-hour trip, you’ll discover old Russia, with its picturesque landscapes and white-stoned beautiful churches! You’ll visit the main towns of the famous Golden Ring of Russia – the name for several cities and smaller towns north-east of Moscow.

Your first stop will be in the town of Vladimir, the ancient capital of all Russian principalities. The city dates back to the 11th century and is one of the oldest and the most important towns along the Ring! Next, you’ll visit Suzdal, a calm ancient Russian town north of Vladimir with only 13,000 inhabitants!

The old-style architecture and buildings of Suzdal are kept wonderfully intact. If you’re spending three days in Moscow, or more, this is a great option for exploring the charming areas outside the city!

Zvenigorod Day Trip and Russian Countryside

On this 9-hour private tour, you’ll explore the ancient town of Zvenigorod, one of the oldest towns in the Moscow region! As you leave Moscow you’ll enjoy the stunning scenery along the Moscow River, and make a few stops at old churches along the way to Zvenigorod.

Upon arrival, you’ll explore the medieval center, including the 14th-century Savvino-Storozhevsky Monastery. Next, you’ll take a break for lunch (own expense) where you’ll have the chance to try out the Russian cuisine! Next, you’ll visit the Museum of Russian Dessert and sip on tea at a Russian tea ceremony.

The final stop of the day is at the Ershovo Estate, a gorgeous place to walk around and enjoy nature!

Day Trip to St Petersburg by Train visiting Hermitage & Faberge

On this full-day tour, you’ll enjoy a a full round trip to St Petersburg where you’ll spend an exciting day exploring another popular Russian city! You’ll be picked up from your hotel in Moscow and be transferred to the train station where you’ll ride the high-speed train ‘Sapsan’ to St Petersburg.

Upon arrival, you’ll start the day by touring the Hermitage Museum and the Winter Palace. Next, you’ll visit the Faberge Museum, where you’ll explore the impressive collection of rare Faberge Eggs! In the afternoon, enjoy a sightseeing boat ride and a traditional 3-course Russian lunch.

If you’re spending 3 days in Moscow, or more, this is an excellent trip to take!

Trip to Kolomna – Authentic Cultural Experience from Moscow

On this 10-hour tour, you’ll escape the city and travel to the historic town of Kolomna! First, you’ll visit the 14th-century Kolomna Kremlin, home to the Assumption Cathedral and an abundance of museums!

Next, enjoy lunch at a local cafe (own expense) before embarking on a tour of the Marshmallow Museum – of course, a marshmallow tasting is provided!  Your final stop is the Museum of Forging Settlements, where displays include armor and accessories for fishing and hunting.

Discover this beautiful Russian fairytale city on a private trip, where all of the planning is taken care of for you!

Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.

It looks exactly like a normal belt  except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)

Find out what people want to know when planning their Moscow itinerary.

How many days you need in Moscow?

We recommend that you spend at least two or three days in Moscow to take it all in.

What’s the best month to visit Moscow?

The best time to visit Moscow is over the spring, from March to May as temperatures are mild, crowds are thin and prices are reasonable.

What are some unusual things to do in Moscow?

I mean, queuing up to see an almost 100 year old corpse is pretty unsual! Check out Lenin’s Mausoleum if you fancy it!

What are some fun things to do in Moscow?

The Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics is a fun place to explore the famous space race from the perspective of the ‘other side’!

We hope you enjoyed our Moscow itinerary! We’ve made sure to cover all the Moscow must-sees as well as some unique attractions in the city! Our addition of insider tips, favorite food stops, and day trips from Moscow is an added bonus and will guarantee you make the most out of your exciting Russian vacation!

Immerse yourself in the modern and traditional Russian lifestyle! Get lost in museums, witness awe-inspiring architecture, and indulge in Russian cuisine! Spend the day strolling through all of the charming sites of Moscow, admiring the beautiful scenery and discovering the city’s fairytale-like enchantment!

Buy Us a Coffee !

A couple of you lovely people suggested we set up a tip jar for direct support as an alternative to booking through our links. So we created one!

You can now buy The Broke Backpacker a coffee . If you like and use our content to plan your trips, it’s a much appreciated way to show appreciation 🙂

Alya and Campbell

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Moscow Tours & Travel Packages 2024/2025

Our 60 most popular moscow trips. compare tour itineraries from 45 tour companies. 308 reviews. 4.7/5 avg rating., popular moscow tours.

Lower Volga Voyage

• Visit magnificent Red Square and Kremlin and examine the collection at theKremlin’s State Armory.
• Experience Russia’s diverse musical traditions at lively folk music performances
• Explore Volgograd, the site of the decisive battle of World War II’s eastern front

St Petersburg & Moscow in Style - Winter

• Explore the majestic St Petersburg & Moscow on private city tours
• Admire the rich Russian history, art and architecture
• Travel to Moscow on a highspeed train
• Enjoy the local cuisine in stylish restaurants

Volga Dream Russian River Cruise

St Petersburg & Moscow in Style - Summer

White Russian - 7 days

• Discover Moscow's UNESCO-listed Red Square, home to spectacular St Basil’s Cathedral, Lenin's Mausoleum and the historic GUM Department store
• Explore the grounds of Moscow's mighty Kremlin, with its numerous governmentbuildings, gold-domed cathedrals and the giant tsar bell
• Celebrate New Year's Eve in Moscow!
• Take in the highlights of St Petersburg including a guided tour of the exquisite Church on Spilled Blood, Peter & Paul Fortress and Cathedral
• Take a guided tour of the remarkable Hermitage Museum at the Winter Palace

Vodka Shot - 6 days

• Explore the beautiful city of St Petersburg, including the exquisite Church on Spilled Blood, Peter & Paul Fortress and Nevsky Prospekt
• Marvel at the dazzling array of art and exhibits in the world-famous Hermitage Museum, at the Winter Palace in St Petersburg
• Discover a lavish residence of the tsars on a day trip to Catherine Palace at Tsarkoe Selo (winter: mid-October to April) or Peterhof Palace and gardens (summer: May to mid-October)
• Take in the highlights of the capital on a walking tour, visiting Moscow's famous Red Square, home to the historic GUM Department Store, Lenin’s Mausoleum and spectacular St Basil’s Cathedral
• Take a guided tour of the Moscow Kremlin, Russia’s political power house. Stroll around the grounds of this fortified complex, visit the Kremlin's cathedrals and see the mighty Tsar Bell

Route of the Romanovs - 10 days

• Learn about the last days of the Romanovs in Yekaterinburg, visiting the sites where Tsar Nicolas II and his family were assassinated and buried
• Straddle two continents at the famous obelisk Europe/Asia border marker in Yekaterinburg
• Experience the Trans-Siberian railway on an overnight train journey from Moscow to Yekaterinburg

New Year's in Moscow - 9 days

• Visit Catherine Palace at Tsarkoe Selo on Christmas Day and marvel at the incredible Amber Room
• Spend a night in Novgorod, an ancient city by the Volkhov River - explore the kremlin, cathedral and other sights and enjoy a traditional Russian banya (sauna)

All Moscow , expedition cruises, self guided adventures and vacation packages. Find the best guided and expert planned vacation and holiday packages. Read more about Moscow

Small Group Moscow Tours

Back in the USSR - 7 days

Russian Revolution - 9 days

• Visit historic Novgorod, an ancient city which straddles the Volkhov River. Explore the attractive riverside kremlin and experience a traditional Russian banya (sauna)

The Snowball - 6 days

• Visit Catherine Palace at Tsarkoe Selo and marvel at the incredible Amber Room

Mood for Moscow - 4 days

• Head underground to visit a Stalinist-era Soviet Bunker on an optional excursion
• Stroll to the vibrant Izmailovo Market, which lies behind the walls of an ancient Kremlin, and shop for an array of souvenirs

Best Moscow Tours by Duration

Tours, Cruises & Private Trips

Best Moscow Tours by Price

Top Moscow Attractions

Moscow Tours & Travel

Moscow Attractions & Landmarks Guide

Trip reviews, capitals of the north.

some hotels could have been better

It was jam packed with every place I wanted to go and see. I especially love my photo of us setting out on the night time river cruise in St Petersburg and the Peter...

I really did not buy much and what I did buy was small gifts for others .

Johanna-Marie

Good hotels, some better than others. Interesting itinerary

Too rushed. Optional tour rather too short

See all Moscow reviews

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