Off-the-beaten-path adventures often lead to the most thrilling experiences for adrenaline junkies and hardcore explorers. For those seeking an unconventional getaway, here are five adventures sure to get the heart pumping:
Deep in the Costa Rican rainforest, thrill-seekers can embark on a canopy tour gliding from platform to platform 100 feet high in the treetops. After ascending into the upper reaches of the rainforest, guests coast through the canopy on ziplines, rope bridges, and rappelling lines. The lush greenery and wildlife spotting opportunities make the adrenaline rush that much more rewarding.
In the coastal town of Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, adventure awaits in the form of swimming with crocodiles. While caiman crocodiles are relatively small, their prehistoric appearance inspires a primal sense of danger. With a guide, visitors can swim just feet away from the crocodiles in their natural habitat. For the ultimate photo op, guides will even place a crocodile on your back as you float in the water.
The world’s most active volcanoes are found in Hawaii, and one of the most thrilling activities is lava tube caving. After hiking through lush rainforest, the ground gives way to a massive underground lava tube, formed when the outer layer of molten lava cools faster than the lava inside. With flashlights in hand, explorers can navigate the twists and turns of the lava tubes, ducking under low ceilings and scaling over massive boulders.
New Zealand is synonymous with adventure, and black water rafting in the Waitomo Glowworm Caves tops the list of thrill-seeking activities. After abseiling into the cave entrance, visitors board inflatable rafts to float down an underground river system. The only illumination comes from thousands of glowworms clinging to the cave ceiling, their bioluminescence creating a starry night sky effect. Shooting small rapids and cave waterfalls amid the glowworms make for an almost surreal experience.
From shark diving to volcano boarding, Nicaragua is a haven for adventure. One of the most extreme activities is sandboarding down the steep slopes of the Cerro Negro volcano. After hiking 45 minutes up the gravelly slope with boards in hand, thrill-seekers can enjoy the adrenaline rush of sliding, spinning and wiping out down the slope at speeds up to 50 miles per hour. The pitch-black sand and volcanic gravel add an extra element of danger and excitement. For adventure on a whole new terrain, Nicaragua’s sandboarding is tough to beat.