50 of the Best Adventure Ideas Around the World

The world isn't as small and well-connected as we sometimes like to think it is. There are endless opportunities for adventure in wild mountain ranges, misty rainforest and vast deserts. Even destinations that have millions of tourists visiting each year still have some wonderfully unexplored corners. The only limit (aside from your bank balance) is your imagination.

We spend our days planning adventures, dreaming of adventuring, and even getting out there and having some type two fun ourselves. We've created a list of absolute belters for you, from a 400-kilometre cycle expedition across Uganda to a kayaking expedition in the Alaskan wilderness. If being fit enough for these feels unrealistic, no worries - we've got more moderate challenges which are equally exciting, like tree camping in Costa Rica.

These are just some of the best adventure holidays in the world, and hey - perhaps one could be the perfect gift for the adventurer in your life... or for yourself?

Best Adventures in Africa

1. The Ultimate Trekking Adventure in Madagascar

Trek the High Peaks of the Japanese Alps

Best for: lemurs!
Duration: 11 nights
Difficulty level: challenging

Trek and wild camp through the otherworldly canyons, plains, forests and peaks of the Isalo and Andringitra National Parks. Hike and scramble to the summit of Madagascar's second-highest mountain, the imposing Pic Boby (2658m). Eyes peeled for lemurs, the island’s most famous residents – from ring-tailed and red-fronted browns, to tiny mouse lemurs.

2. Cycle the Backroads of Morocco

Best for: exploring Morocco by bike
Duration: 7 nights
Difficulty level: moderate

Explore Morocco on two wheels, pedalling from the foothills of the High Atlas Mountains to the vast dunes of the Sahara Desert. You'll cycle through the Valley of the Roses, pausing at the ancient UNESCO ksar of Ait Ben Haddou. Take on the infamous Tizi n’Tazazert Pass (2220m) for panoramic views of the lunar-esque Jbel Saghro mountains, and bed down in a traditional Berber camp nestled among the dunes underneath a Saharan sky.

3. The Ultimate Adventure Through Rwanda

The canopy walk in Nyungwe National Park, Rwanda

Best for: tree canopy hikes and mountain gorillas
Duration: 8 nights
Difficulty level: moderate

An action-packed week that will see you kayaking, hiking and cycling through some of the wildest places in this little-explored African country. In Nyungwe National Park you’ll traverse a 160 metres long suspension bridge above the trees, giving you a birds-eye view of one of the oldest rainforests in Africa. You’ll paddle across the tranquil waters of Lake Kivu, the ‘Bay of Islands’ - and you’ll be the only group wild camping on Gishayu Island that night. You’ll also head to Volcanoes National Park where you can spend an hour with a troop of rare golden monkeys - or, if you prefer, the rare mountain gorillas.

4. The Ultimate Adventure Through Wild Botswana

Best for: iconic safari experiences
Duration: 9 nights
Difficulty level: easy

An epic overland odyssey from Namibia to Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe, through one of the most wildlife rich countries on Earth. Journey deep into the Okavango Delta for breathtaking bush walks, Mokoro safaris and wild camp on an island in the wilderness. Snake your way across 3 countries, from the Kalahari Desert to the thunderous Victoria Falls via the safari-goers dream of Chobe National Park. Eyes peeled for the perpetual parade of quintessential African wildlife: elephants, lions, cheetahs, hippos, rhinos, crocodiles and so much more.

5. Climb Mount Kilimanjaro via the Lemosho Route

Camping on Kilimanjaro under the Milky Way

Best for: climbing Kili...the scenic way
Duration: 9 nights
Difficulty level: challenging

There are six different routes up Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s tallest mountain at 5895 metres, but the Lemosho Route is the longest and features the most epic scenery. What’s more, because the altitude gain is gradual, it has one of the highest success rates (85% - 90%). You’ll ascend through rainforest and onto the rugged Shira Plateau, before traversing volcanic slopes to climb Lava Tower, (4640m) a 150,000 year old outcrop.

There’s a tough ascent of Barranco Wall, a steep ridge you’ll need to scramble up, before spending your final night before the summit at Barafu Camp, located on a rocky and exposed ridge. Summit day is the toughest, with a pre-dawn scramble to the crater rim and then the top of Uhuru Peak (5895m) - but reaching the top is a transformative achievement.

Want some downtime afterwards? Then head to Zanzibar for a couple of days of swimming, snorkelling and beach time.

6. Summit, Safari and Rafting Adventure in Kenya

Three people watching a herd of rhino on foot in South Africa.

Best for: a quieter alternative to climbing Kili
Duration: 9 nights
Difficulty level: challenging

Hike through bamboo forests, alpine meadows and lunar landscapes to summit Mount Kenya at Point Lenana (4985m). Head deep into the Ol Pejeta Conservancy to spot elephants, lions, zebras, giraffes and endangered black rhinos. Bunk down at a remote riverside adventure camp and raft the forest-flanked Tana – Kenya's longest river.

7. Hike, Kayak and Wild Swim South Africa

Overlooking the Drakensberg Mountains of South Africa

Best for: untouched trails in South Africa
Duration: 9 nights
Difficulty level: moderate

Explore South Africa from the Drakensberg Mountains to the Wild Coast of the Rainbow Nation, paddling and swimming along the way. Tackle amazing trails through the iconic rock formations of the Drakensberg, including Sentinel Peak and Amphitheatre. Paddle down the Tugela River and explore the valley on foot, stargazing and wild swimming from your riverbank eco-camp. Hit the stunning Wild Coast for hikes through dunes, beaches and forests to reach secluded waterfall swim spots.

8. Journey to the Equator in São Tomé and Príncipe

Best for: exploring the untouched islands of the 'African Galapagos'
Duration: 10 nights
Difficulty level: easy

Uncover the ‘African Galapagos’ on a truly off-the-beaten-path adventure in one of the world's least-visited destinations. Venture to West Africa's lost archipelago, hiking extinct volcanoes and primordial forest to secluded waterfalls and remote beaches, and trek through a biosphere reserve with greater density of endemic species per square mile than anywhere else on the planet.

Sail to Rolas Island to stand on the equator, hop between deserted palm-fringed beaches and swim with sea turtles. Dive deep into São Tomé’s colonial heritage, and learn about local sustainability and conservation strategies.

9. Cycle, Safari and Stargaze in Namibia

Best for: cycling from the desert to the sea
Duration: 8 nights
Difficulty level: challenging

Ride through a desert landscape beneath enormous open skies and watch the sunrise over the tallest dunes in the world. You'll cycle along the Skeleton Coast, the world's largest shipping graveyard and join a safari, keeping your eyes peeled for lions, elephants and rhinos. Visit thousands of breeding Cape Fur Seals in their enormous reserve and stand on the highest point in the country - Spitzkoppe Mountain.

Best Adventures in Asia

10. Cycle the Jordan Trail to Petra

Best for: desert cycle rides, Bedouin camps
Duration: 7 nights
Difficulty level: moderate

Ride through the desert landscapes and remote nature reserves of Jordan, stopping at Petra and Wadi Rum. You'll take on sections of the pioneering Jordan Bike Trail, all the way to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Petra and pedal ancient camel caravan paths to the majestic Wadi Rum, hopping in a desert Jeep in search of the sunset. Then swim, or float, in the Dead Sea - the lowest point on earth.

11. The Ultimate Adventure Through Japan

The sacred temple of Koyasan, Japan. Photo: Getty.

Best for: An immersion into Japan
Duration: 11 nights
Difficulty level: moderate

An 11 day adventure through some of the natural and cultural highlights of this fascinating, beguiling country. After exploring bustling Tokyo, you’ll kayak and cycle around Lake Yamanakako, then relax in a steaming onsen with views of Mount Fuji. From here you’ll head to Kyoto, where zen gardens and mountain hikes await you. You’ll head to the forested mountains of Koyasan to spend a night at a temple with Buddhist monks, bedding down in cosy ryokans serving tasty traditional food. You’ll even trek part of the remote Kumano Kodo - one of only two UNESCO-listed pilgrim routes in the world - through cedar forests and along mountain paths to reach Nachi, Japan's tallest waterfall.

12. Trek the Langtang Valley to Summit Yala Peak, Nepal

Best for: a non-technical Himalayan Climb
Duration: 11 nights
Difficulty level: tough

Climb one of the few non-technical peaks in Nepal and explore the mighty Himalayas away from the crowds. Trek through the Langtang Valley, close to the Tibetan border, dodging yaks and bedding down in remote teahouses along the way. You'll get up close to towering peaks and tumbling glaciers with panoramic views of Mt Shishapangma (8,027m) and Mt Gangchempo (6,387m) before setting off by torchlight as you navigate the tight ridge to the top.

13. The Ultimate Adventure Through Sri Lanka

A cyclist stands in front of one of the entrances to mighty Angkor Wat, in Cambodia

Best for: getting off the tourist trail in Sri Lanka
Duration: 10 nights
Difficulty level: moderate

Get to the heart of Sri Lanka via jungle trails and wildlife reserves, hiking to spectacular viewpoints, rural villages and tropical beaches. Clamber up the iconic Lion Rock of Sigiriya, tackle part of the long-distance Pekoe Trail, and hike to waterfalls near Kandy. Trek through remote, pristine forest in Gal Oya with the Vedda people – Sri Lanka's last indigenous community. Spot wild elephants bathing, practice yoga serenaded by exotic birds and ride the train to the tea hills of Nuwara Eliya.

14. Trek the Tian Shan Mountains of Kyrgyzstan

Best for: thru-hikes in an off-the-beaten-track country
Duration: 9 nights
Difficulty level: challenging

Hike dramatic, red sandstone canyons and swim in the pristine water of the Issyk Kul high alpine lake. Share a bowl of 'kumys' with Kyrgyz semi-nomadic shepherds, spend a night in their yurt and cross the epic Jukku Pass (3800m) - a spectacular climb surrounded by glaciers and meet Aitbek, one of the last remaining Eagle Hunters in Kyrgyzstan.

15. Kayak and Hike the Caves, Jungle and Coast of Vietnam

A string of people swimming into the dramatic Tra Ang Cave, Vietnam

Best for: an active adventure trip to Vietnam
Duration: 9 nights
Difficulty level: moderate

Paddle and hike Vietnam's natural wonders from cave to coast, navigating lush jungles, subterranean worlds and sub-tropical bays. You'll kayak and SUP in Lan Ha Bay, a jaw-dropping geographical phenomenon 500 million years in the making. Hike the otherworldly jungle of Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park and camp by the turquoise waters of Ma Da Lake, before delving into the enormous Elephant Cave and the ancient Tra Ang Cave, trekking along watercourses and swimming into the enigmatic caverns. Along the way, you'll sleep aboard an elegant junk-style sailboat and drift off to jungle sounds in an eco-lodge.

16. The Ultimate Volcano Adventure in Indonesia

A volcano glimpsed through a temple gate in Indonesia. — Temples and volcanoes in Indonesia. Photo: Getty.

Best for: a three peaks challenge in Indonesia
Duration: 10 nights
Difficulty level: challenging

A 'three peaks' challenge with a difference in Indonesia. You'll tackle the two tallest peaks in Bali - rainforest-covered Mount Batukaru (2276m) and the still-active Agung volcano (2690m) - followed by the towering Mount Rinjani (3726m) on the island of Lombok. You'll wild camp on the slopes of active volcanoes, watching the sunset and the stars. But there's time for a bit of R&R too, with dreamy waterfall swims and leisurely soaks in hot springs.

17. Island Hopping Adventure in the Maldives

Packraft and Wild Camp in Finland's Thousand Lakes

Best for: seeing a different side to the Maldives
Duration: 7 nights
Difficulty level: easy

Relax into authentic island life on this marine adventure in South Ari Atoll, paddling and snorkelling in protected tropical waters. Explore an incredible marine world teeming with life – swim with whale sharks and snorkel kaleidoscopic reefs. Hike, kayak and SUP your way around these pristine tropical islands, discovering dazzling sandbanks and beaches. Uncover the real Maldives by hanging out with local islanders and participating in marine conservation projects.

18. Wild Adventure in the Jungles of Borneo

A family of elephants in the Kenyan bush

Best for: hanging with orangutans in steamy Sarawak
Duration: 9 nights
Difficulty level: easy

Hang out with orangutans, stomp steamy rainforests and kick back on remote tropical beaches in the wilds of Sarawak. Explore jungles teeming with wildlife, including endemic proboscis monkeys, orangutans and nocturnal creatures. Hike through virgin rainforest to reach sparkling waterfalls, mysterious caves, remote beaches and traditional longhouses. Kayak the untouched Sarawak River and cycle to historic towns as you traverse the spectacular landscapes of Borneo.

19. Trek to Everest Base Camp, Nepal

Best for: following in the footsteps of the greats
Duration: 14 nights
Difficulty level: challenging

This has been a classic trek in Nepal ever since Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay tackled the world’s tallest mountain in 1953. The 15-day route combines trekking past yak pastures and fluttering prayer flags with those cloud-tickling giants in the background. Tourism is the primary source of income for the Sherpa people, meaning the Solukumbo’s infrastructure is incredibly well set-up for hiking.

Best Adventures in North America

20. Arctic Kayaking Expedition Through the Fjords of Greenland

Best for: a kayaking expedition in Greenland
Duration: 7 nights
Difficulty level: challenging

You’ll paddle for 100km past icebergs and through ancient arctic fjords, keeping your eyes peeled for seals, whales and polar bears. Then trade your paddle for a kayak and hike across the creaking and crawling Naajaat Sermiat Glacier, one of the oldest ice masses in the world.

21. Hike the Great National Parks of Western USA

Best for: iconic US National Parks
Duration: 10 nights
Difficulty level: moderate

Explore the most iconic national parks in the USA’s ‘Wild West’, in Utah, Arizona and California. Experience the vibrant landscapes of Zion and Bryce Canyon National Parks, wander among the towering redwoods of Sequoia National Park, and marvel at the geological wonders of the Grand Canyon and Antelope Canyon. Explore iconic landmarks like Horseshoe Bend and Yosemite National Park, where you'll encounter Half Dome, El Capitan, and Vernal Falls. Along the way, cruise Route 66, camp under the vast skies, and enjoy classic campfire dinners on this quintessential American road trip from Las Vegas to San Francisco.

Read more: 5 of the Best Hikes in Yosemite

22. Canoe Expedition in the Yukon Wilderness

A group of canoeists paddle the Yukon River, Canada

Best for: paddling through the wild heart of the Yukon

Duration: 10 nights

Difficulty level: moderate

A 350-kilometre canoe expedition through the unspoilt Yukon wilderness, paddling down the Teslin and Yukon Rivers. You'll need resilience for long days on the water, and to wild camp every night in the wilderness. You'll be rewarded with gorgeous mountain and forest scenery, and wildlife sightings - eyes peeled for brown bears! A once-in-a-lifetime adventure.

23. Hiking in the Canadian Rockies

A Mongolian woman walks towards some gers, surrounded by mountains.

Best for: the paths less trodden in the Canadian Rockies
Duration: 9 nights
Difficulty level: moderate

Tackle the Sentinel Pass and Bow Lake trails in Banff National Park, summit Mount Fairview (2744m) and camp near Lake Louise. Trek by the Athabasca Glacier in Jasper National Park and summit the Bald Hills (2345m) for epic views of Maligne Lake. Hit the paths less trodden in Yoho and Glacier National Parks, hiking by stunning Emerald Lake and taking on the Balu Pass. Swim in pristine alpine lakes, journey along the epic Icefields Parkway and keep your eyes peeled for bears and elk.

Best Adventures in Central America

24. Guatemala 5 Volcano Challenge

Best for: seeing active volcanoes
Duration: 9 nights
Difficulty level: challenging

Summit five of Guatemala's volcanoes - dubbed 'The Ring of Fire' and take in the views as you stand on top of Tajumulco volcano (4220m): the highest point of Central America. You'll see each of Guatemala's 3 active volcanoes, including the continuously erupting 'Volcan de Fuego' and watch the sunrise from Acatenango volcano with 360 degree views all the way to Mexico.

25. Kayak, Hike and Tree Camp the Hidden Rainforests of Costa Rica

Best for: tree camping in one of the world's most biodiverse countries
Duration: 6 nights
Difficulty level: moderate

Trek through lush jungle teeming with exotic wildlife and sea kayak Costa Rica's tropical shores in one of the country's most remote corners. You'll swim beneath secret waterfalls deep in the rainforest and snorkel amidst coral reefs and colourful fish on the coast. Finally falling asleep to the calls of monkeys, toucans and frogs while in your tent suspended among the trees.

26. 250km Self-Powered Coast to Coast Expedition Through Costa Rica

Best for: an expedition across Costa Rica
Duration: 11 nights
Difficulty level: challenging

Hike, bike and paddle yourself from the Pacific Ocean all the way to the Caribbean Sea, crossing the width of one of the most biodiverse countries on Earth under your own steam. You'll journey through cloudforest, mountain villages and virgin rainforest teeming with wildlife before heading up and over the Continental Divide. Resting up at beautiful eco-lodges on the banks of the pristine Pacuare River and cooling down with swims and dips at secret swimming spots in the rainforest.

Best Adventures in South America

27. Island Hopping Adventure in the Galapagos Islands, Ecuador

Best for: unique endemic wildlife
Duration: 9 nights
Difficulty level: easy

Hike, bike and snorkel this unique archipelago and encounter its special wildlife, on an adventure immersed in the natural world. You'll hike to the otherworldly Sierra Negra Volcano - one of the largest, and most active, volcanic craters in the world - before cycling to pristine beaches dotted with sea lions, blue-footed boobies, marine iguanas and flamingos. Come face to face with the Galapagos' most famous resident, the giant tortoise, and snorkel with reef sharks and sea turtles.

28. Hiking and Kayaking in Brazil's Costa Verde

Best for: discovering Brazil
Duration: 9 nights
Difficulty level: easy

A perfect introduction to Brazil's Costa Verde region. You'll explore the energetic city of Rio and hike the jungled mountains of Paraty. Kayak through the mangroves and swim in the idyllic beaches of Ilha Grande. You'll get to experience the quieter, more authentic side of this fascinating country.

29. Trek Across the Andes From Argentina to Chile

Hikers make their way down the Piuquenes Pass in the Andes

Best for: crossing a mountain range
Duration: 7 nights
Difficulty level: challenging

An epic trek which takes you on a high-altitude crossing of the spectacular Andes Mountains. You'll trek into the Argentinian wilderness, through deep valleys, remote gorges and ancient glaciers, while condors wheel overhead. Then it's up and over the Andes on the Portillo Argentino high pass (4,380m) wild camping under the stars. You'll descend down the historic Piuquenes Pass - marking the border between two countries - into Chile. End your trip with a well-deserved soak in Termas del Plomo, a natural hot spring.

30. 100km Jungle Expedition into the Heart of Colombia

Best for: blazing a trail through the Colombian wilderness
Duration: 7 nights
Difficulty level: challenging

Be one of the first explorers to set foot in a totally remote and untouched corner of Colombia. Start in the tropical mountains and blaze a trail through the wilderness as you descend into the mysterious Magdalena Basin. Pass through one of the most biodiverse regions on the planet with no less than five different ecosystems all teeming with life - if you’re lucky you might see a tigrillo, tapir or monkey.

31. Trek Ecuador’s Avenue of Volcanoes

Best for: volcano climbing
Duration: 9 nights
Difficulty level: tough

Hike through the snowcapped Andes to the top of the world's highest active volcano. Cross crevasses and snow bridges en route to the top of Ecuador’s most famous peak at a towering 5897m. You'll trek through rainforests and past snowcapped peaks, sleep in traditional haciendas set on ecological reserves and in remote mountain refuges, spotting condors soaring high above along the way.

32. Trek the Salkantay Route to Machu Picchu

Best for: a quieter alternative to the Inca Trail
Duration: 7 nights
Difficulty level: challenging

The younger, cooler sister of the over-crowded Inca Trail. Voted one of the top 25 treks on the planet by National Geographic you'll trek through rainforest, cloud forest, over high passes and around glaciers. You'll sleep in picture-perfect campsites, so close to the Milky Way you can almost touch it. Your feet might get tired but your eyes never will.

33. Trek Colombia's Mountains and Lost City

Best for: exploring the Lost City in Colombia
Duration: 10 nights
Difficulty level: challenging

Travel deep into the jungle on one of the most culturally mysterious hikes in South America and discover a pre-Hispanic Lost City built 650 years before Machu Picchu. Trek through coffee zones, dense jungle, high altitude paramos and wade across wild, waist-deep rivers, before climbing an extinct volcano and watching the sun go down on a secluded beach on the Caribbean coast.

The Best Adventures in Europe

34. Hike, Canyon and Kayak in Madeira

Best for: canyoning and hiking in Madeira
Duration: 5 nights
Difficulty level: moderate

Unleash the adrenaline as you go canyoning in the heart of Madeira's Laurisilva forest and abseil down a 25m waterfall. Hike among volcanic peaks and lush levadas to wild swim spots, dazzling ocean views and an unforgettable sunrise at the island's highest point – Pico Ruivo (1862m). You'll explore Madeira's eastern tip, Ponta de São Lourenço, a stark volcanic peninsula, hiking coastal trails and with a local marine biologist aboard a high-speed boat - eyes peeled for common and bottlenose dolphins, loggerhead turtles, and even sperm whales.

35. Hike From Coast to Coast in Madeira

A hiking trail in the mountains of Madeira.

Best for: a complete traverse of Madeira
Duration: 6 nights
Difficulty level: challenging

We happen to know that the Portuguese island of Madeira is a spectacular hiking destination. Embark on this coast to coast traverse of the 'Hawaii of Europe', and you'll soon agree. You'll begin by hiking a rarely-used trail that zig zags along the rugged coastline, before heading inland through verdant, UNESCO-listed laurisilva forest. Tackle the most exciting section of the island's exhilarating PR1 path, which takes you up the island's three highest peaks – Pico do Arieiro (1817m), Pico das Torres (1851m) and Pico Ruivo (1862m). We recommend a dip at the glorious Seixal Beach once your trek is complete!

Read more: 5 of the Best Hikes in Madeira

36. A Multi-Activity Adventure in Italy's Apennines

An aerial view of canoeists on Italy's Tirino River.

Best for: exploring 'Italy's rocky soul'
Duration: 4 nights
Difficulty level: challenging

Head to Italy to explore the remote region of the Appenines. You'll hike the lunar landscape of Maiella National Park, looking out for the endangered Marsican bear, wolves and golden eagles. Scramble to the teetering summit of Corno Grande (2912m), the highest mountain in the Apennines. Canoe the crystalline Tirino River, and pedal across the remote Campo Imperatore plateau, known as 'Little Tibet' after the karst mountains surrounding it. Accommodation is in remote ecolodges and agriturismos; the food is as delicious as you expect it to be.

37. The Balkan Three Peaks Challenge

A hiker waves from the steep summit of Mount Gjeravica, in Kosovo

Best for: an epic three peaks challenge in the Balkans
Duration: 6 nights
Difficulty level: tough

Test your mettle on this epic hiking challenge: to climb the peaks of Mount Gjeravica (2,656m) in Kosovo, Mount Zla Kolata (2,534m) in Montenegro and Mount Korab (2,764m), on the border between Albania and Macedonia. You'll scramble up rocky summits, and trek across high passes. This gruelling expedition ends with a scenic boat ride across Lake Kolman, and lunch in an Albanian slow-food restaurant.

38. Trek the Laugavegur Trail in Iceland

Best for: trekking one of the 'world's best hikes'
Duration: 5 nights
Difficulty level: challenging

Tackle Iceland's classic hut-to-hut trek - 55 km of multi-coloured mountains, gorges, glaciers and the active Eyjafjallajökull volcano. You'll trek through one of the world’s most iconic landscapes, including the otherworldly Landmannalaugar mountains, stay in atmospheric mountain huts and finish in the beautiful valley of Þórsmörk - 'The Valley of Thor' - included in National Geographic's, '20 Best Hikes in the World'.

39. Hike Through the Heart of Gran Canaria

Coast to Coast Hike Through the Heart of Gran Canaria

Best for: discovering a new side to Gran Canaria
Duration: 5 nights
Difficulty level: challenging

Hike from highlands to coast in volcanic Gran Canaria, a tropical mountainous gem in the Canary Islands archipelago. You'll trek to the summit of Pico de las Nieves, the highest point on the island at a hefty 1949m. Cross the craggy sun-baked mountain ranges through pine forests, sunken calderas and sky-skimming ocean views, and bask in a subtropical climate, traversing one of the sunniest islands in the world.

40. Ice Climb and Snow Shoe in Finnish Lapland

Best for: learning to ice climb
Duration: 3 nights
Difficulty level: moderate

Ice-climb a frozen waterfall, hunt for the northern lights and trek across untouched powder, eyes open for reindeer, moose and bear. You'll head beyond the Arctic Circle and into the frosty landscape of the Pyhä-Luosto National Park, before donning your crampons and ice axes and climbing the Korouma Canyon, the highest ice wall in Finland.

41. Kayak and Hike the Coast of Crete

Best for: sea kayaking in Crete
Duration: 7 nights
Difficulty level: moderate

Paddle your way along Crete's turquoise coastline and hike through majestic gorges, fuelled by Cretan feasts and tranquil swims. You'll kayak the calm glistening Aegean waters of the Eastern Mediterranean to hidden white sand beaches, sea caves and natural pools. Hike clifftop trails past olive groves, pine forests, tiny villages and through the epic gorge of Samaria, and settle into a classic Cretan taverna each day for delicious fresh feasts and local wine.

42. Trek the High Trails of Italy's Amalfi Coast

Best for: exploring little-known mountain trails in Amalfi
Duration: 7 nights
Difficulty level: challenging

Tackle one of Italy's most stunning yet little-known trails via rugged peaks and quaint villages, all with jaw-dropping views. Scramble from the highest peaks in the Lattari Mountains down to the sparkling Tyrrhenian Sea for cool swims. Rest weary legs in family-run agriturismi, where you can tuck into delicious regional cuisine and get spoiled with warm Italian hospitality.

43. Climb Mount Triglav, Slovenia

Best for: trying your first via ferrata
Duration: 2 nights
Difficulty level: challenging

Climb Slovenia's highest peak, Mount Triglav (2863m) – considered a rite of passage for locals. Explore the Triglav National Park, a preserved area of limestone rock walls, caves, rushing rivers and endless green hills and forests. Remembering to keep your eyes open for the huge variety of wildlife that calls this area home, including golden eagles, griffon vultures, lynx, chamois, marmots and ibex.

44. Hike the Sharr Mountains in Kosovo & North Macedonia

A hiker in the Sharr Mountains of North Macedonia. Photo: Butterfly Outdoor Adventure

Best for: exploring the remote reaches of the Balkans
Duration: 7 nights
Difficulty level: challenging

On this adventure you’ll trek 59 miles (95km) of the newly created High Scardus Trail, a long distance trek through the ‘Soul of the Balkans’. On your five day trek you’ll hike through the rugged Sharr Mountains along the border between Kosovo and North Macedonia, passing glacial lakes, alpine plateaus and towering limestone cliffs. You’ll tackle two mountains, Ljuboten (2498m) and Tito (2748m), and camp under the stars. The final night is spent in a spa hotel, where you can rest your weary limbs in the sauna and pool.

45. Climb Mt Kazbek, Georgia

Best for: hitting your first 5000m+ summit
Duration: 6 nights
Difficulty level: tough

Tackle the highest mountain in Eastern Georgia and trek one of the wildest routes in the Caucasus. Climb the visually stunning Mt Kazbek – a dormant stratovolcano made from hardened lava. Trek through the wilderness and across the hiker’s paradise of the Kazbegi National Park and follow a less-travelled route, including steep ascents, glacier crossings and an epic final climb to the summit.

46. Trek the Tour du Mont Blanc

Best for: an iconic Alpine thru-hike
Duration: 9 nights
Difficulty level: challenging

Trek through Italy, France and Switzerland on one of the world’s great hikes. You'll hike across three countries and through the heart of the Alps as you circumnavigate the Mont Blanc massif. Experience rustic mountain life - remote and authentic - and ride the Bellevue cable car for 360 panoramic views over the Aiguilles and the Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Valley.

47. Arctic Fat Bike Expedition

Best for: unique ways to travel
Duration: 5 nights
Difficulty level: challenging

Cruise through remote snow trails and enjoy the freedom of riding a fat bike across the Finnmarksvidda mountain plateau within the Arctic Circle. You'll travel with a team of huskies to carry your gear and share the plateau with migrating herds of reindeer and unwind with a post-ride sauna.

48. Hike, Kayak and Wild Camp the Isle of Skye

A hiker looks out over Loch Coruisk, on the Isle of Skye. Photo: Shutterstock

Best for: a mini-expedition across Skye
Duration: 4 nights
Difficulty level: challenging

Kayak and hike your way along the rugged coast, deserted lochs and craggy peaks of Scotland's revered 'Misty Isle'. You’ll sea kayak along the southern coastline, beginning in Loch Slapin – eyes peeled for whales, seals, basking sharks, sea eagles and otters. You’ll also circumnavigate Soay by kayak – an island with a population of three hardy souls – exploring secret caves and taking a dip in the 'Mermaids Pool'. Later, you’ll head to the Cuillin Mountains to hike to the summit of Blà Bheinn, for panoramic views over Skye. At night, you’ll wild camp in remote spots, savouring the quiet side of this popular island.

49. The Ultimate Norwegian Fjords Adventure

Hiker on Breiskrednosi overlooking the Naeroyfjord in Norway

Best for: Summiting Galdhøpiggen (2469m) – Scandinavia’s highest peak
Duration: 8 nights
Difficulty level: moderate

Hike and kayak through astounding landscapes, summit Scandinavia’s highest peak and clip on crampons to clamber across icy glaciers on this ultimate adventure in Norway. You'll paddle through the pristine Nærøyfjord, trek to the towering peaks above for unforgettable vistas, and hike through pristine forest to discover the wild and mighty waterfalls that spill into the fjords. As night falls, you'll bed down in quirky boutique hotels, cosy historic inns, and wild camp directly under the stars by the fjord’s edge.

50. Arctic Wilderness Adventure in Svalbard

Best for: being an Arctic explorer
Duration: 7 nights
Difficulty level: moderate

Set off on a true Arctic adventure as you explore the wild and beautiful Spitsbergen Island and sleep in the wilderness. Get up close to majestic glaciers from a kayak and hike amongst the insanely beautiful fjords and mountains. You'll take turns on polar bear lookout and brave the 'Polar Plunge'- a (quick) dip in the Arctic Ocean.

Inspired? Check out our epic handcrafted adventure holidays around the world, with a variety of different difficulty levels.

Stay safe out there: Our guides are well-researched, short summaries, designed to inspire but not for navigational purposes. While we strive for accuracy, we cannot guarantee completeness. Outdoor activities come with serious risk, and individuals must take full personal responsibility for their own safety. Much Better Adventures, and the authors, disclaim any liability arising directly or indirectly from the use of the information from this article.