3 Types of Adventure Travel

Are you ready to add a little excitement to your life and break away from vacationing the same way and in the same place every single year? Adventure travel might be just what you’ve been looking for! Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or simply seeking a break from the ordinary, adventure travel has something for everyone. So today, let’s explore three types of adventure travel: land adventures, water adventures, and adventure tours.

Land Adventures

Adventure travel land activities are all about stepping outside your comfort zone and trying new things! Whether it’s hiking and simply enjoying nature and the fresh mountain air or a heart-pounding adventure like ATV riding, you get to choose your adventure. Sure, you might feel a bit nervous if you’re doing something outside your comfort zone; I know I do, but trust me, it’s worth it. You’ll have a newfound sense of accomplishment and a great story to share.

Take, for example, my Cathedral Rock hiking experience. It’s one of my favorite Sedona hikes, but did I almost chicken out the first time? Yes, that’s a resounding YES!      

Cathedral is a short hike with an 800-foot elevation climb. In one short section of the trail midway up the mountain, you reach a steep section of rocks, requiring you to use your feet and hands to navigate up for a bit. It’s not the type of hiking I’m used to, and I was nervous. I pushed through, mostly because of family peer pressure, but the views from the top were as promised—simply amazing! 

Hiking

Speaking of hikes, hiking is perhaps the most accessible type of land adventure. You can find great trails everywhere, even in your own backyard, and for a couple of dollars, you are off and on your way. Whether exploring local trails or embarking on a more epic wilderness trek, hiking is a great way to unplug, stay active, and reconnect with the great outdoors.  

Other Land Adventures

For those seeking an extra dose of adrenaline, you have many land adventures, such as ziplining, rock climbing, horseback riding, mountain biking, and ATV riding. Zooming along rugged trails and conquering challenging terrain will get your heart racing.

Not to be overlooked is backcountry camping. If you’re ready to step up your hiking game, then a multi-day wilderness hike might be right up your alley. 

Water Adventures

If you’re drawn to the water, like me, you’ll find no shortage of thrilling water adventures. From kayaking to snorkeling, there’s something so refreshing about being around water. 

Kayaking & Whitewater Rafting

Kayaking a serene, peaceful river or lake is a great way to dip your pinky toe into the world of adventure travel. It’s perfect for beginners and still one of my favorite ways to enjoy a day on the water.  

For those craving more excitement, whitewater rafting is sure to deliver. Buckle up as you navigate roaring rapids and cascading waterfalls, working as a team to conquer nature’s obstacles. It’s a thrilling adventure that will leave you breathless and exhilarated. With an experienced guide, you’ll have an expert at the helm, steering you safely through the rapids.

Snorkeling & Scuba Diving

If the ocean is calling your name, choose a water adventure like snorkeling and scuba diving. Explore the wonders beneath the surface as you dive into crystal-clear waters teeming with vibrant marine life, colorful coral reefs, and ancient shipwrecks. While diving requires training and certification, snorkeling is something that anyone, regardless of age or ability, can learn to do with ease. Every time you snorkel or dive, it’s a new, unique experience, allowing you to see the world in a different way.

Adventure Tours

Guided Adventure Tours 

If planning your own adventure seems daunting, no worries! Adventure tours offer a convenient and hassle-free way to experience the thrill of exploration without the stress of planning. 

Guided adventure tours are a great way to enjoy an adventure while having the comfort of having a local expert who can share valuable information, take you to “secret spots,” and ensure a great experience. 

We traveled to Belize last summer and went on several guided adventure tours. The tours were excellent ways to learn more about the culture, navigate the Belizean countryside, and enjoy new experiences. One tour in particular, the Actun Tunichil Muknal (ATM cave for short), was incredible. Add it to your adventure list if you’re heading to Belize! 

Our guide, Emilio, led us through the jungle. We traversed a river, not once, but twice, and then swam in to reach the mouth of the cave. Emilio guided us through the nooks and crannies of the cave, explaining the ancient Mayan underworld and pointing out artifacts and skeletal remains along the way. Yep, you read that right! Just Google “The Crystal Maiden” and see for yourself! The tour was the highlight of our Belize vacation. 

Charter Boat Tours

For guided adventures on water, look for a guided snorkel tour or scuba trip. Island and waterfront destinations typically have a variety of charters to suit every traveler’s desire. A snorkel tour will take you to the best spots, provide gear, and often even have a guide in the water to highlight extraordinary things to look for. It is always a fun experience! 

Cultural Tours

For those with a taste for the exotic, cultural tours provide a fascinating insight into different cultures and traditions around the world. Whether you’re exploring ancient ruins in Mexico or immersing yourself in the vibrant street life of Old San Juan, cultural tours offer a rich and rewarding travel experience.

Types of Adventure Travel – Final Thoughts

There are many types of adventure travel for those willing to step outside their comfort zone. From land adventures like hiking to water adventures like kayaking, the possibilities are endless. And with guided adventure tours at your disposal, taking the guesswork out of planning, there are no excuses. So why wait? Say yes to adventure, try something new, and go make some memories! 

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