20 Extreme Sports Around the World
Have you been wanting to get out of the house and go on an adventure? Get your heart pounding with these extreme sports around the world. Experience the incredible rush of adrenaline as you ride the killer waves in Bali, tackle the towering rocks in Yosemite or go glacier hiking in the stunning landscapes of Iceland. Here are the top 20 extreme sports you can do around the world.
Europe
Paragliding in Switzerland
A fantastic sport for thrill-seekers and adventure junkies of all kind, paragliding in Switzerland is a mesmerising experience. No matter the season, you'll be blessed with some of the most incredible views you've ever seen as you glide through Interlaken.
Canyoning in the Azores
There is no better place in the world to go canyoning than in the beautiful Azores. The best islands that offer plentiful options for canyoning are São Miguel, São Jorge, and Flores. As you make your way past the gorgeous river gorges, stunning waterfalls, and crystal blue pools, you will love the feeling of adrenaline rushing through you.
Glacier hiking in Iceland
Enjoy the spectacular landscapes Iceland has to offer as you make your way around its majestic glaciers. A must-visit here is the Svínafellsjökull, also known as the 'pig mountain glacier'. As one of the bluest glaciers in Iceland, it is a popular filming spot for movies and TV shows like Game of Thrones. Truly an experience of a lifetime.
Skiing in France
The ultimate skiing destination, France is known around the world for its world-class French Alps and gorgeous ski resorts. Home to the majestic Mont Blanc, skiers of all experience levels can be found here, having the adventure of a lifetime. Adventure junkies can also go zip-lining, mountain-biking and other extreme sports here as well.
Asia
Cliff Jumping in Thailand
A popular activity for locals and tourists alike, cliff jumping is a must-do when you are in gorgeous Thailand. The best place to do it is at Phi-Phi island, where the locals offer guided tours, and you can work your way up from making a 5-metre jump, then 8, 10 and even 14 metres if you dare. You can also spend some time snorkelling after your jump.
Surfing in Indonesia
The Indonesian archipelago is the major destination for all kinds of surfers. Although Bali is known as the surfer's paradise, the other Indonesian islands are just as fantastic and home to some of the best waves on Earth. Enjoy the stunning beaches and ride the waves in Java, Lombok or Nias for an unforgettable experience.
Studded with breathtaking mountains and limestone islands, the only way to explore exotic Vietnam is by renting a motorbike and going on one of the many established bike routes in the country. The most popular route is from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City, where you will come across plentiful highlights, including temples, national parks, ancient villages and more.
Skydiving in Nepal
The ultimate bucket list activity, skydiving is on everyone's list, and what better place to do it than the majestic Mt. Everest? Skydiving in Nepal is one of the most extreme experiences, but also the most rewarding. As you free fall past some of the highest mountain peaks on Earth, admire the breathtaking views of the Himalayas.
Kitesurfing in the Philippines
With over 7000 islands, each with crystal blue waters and ideal winds, the Philippines is the ultimate spot for kitesurfing. Adventure junkies and thrill-seekers will love the Philippines, as it is full of thrilling activities and experiences. Beginners need not worry, as many islands also host their courses where you can learn to kitesurf.
Americas
Rock climbing in the United States
Known as one of the most incredible climbing spots on Earth, Yosemite in California is full of challenges for rock climbers of all expertise. Surrounded by majestic cliffs, huge sequoias and striking waterfalls, climbers from all over the world come to Yosemite not just to tackle its gigantic rocks, but also to enjoy its picturesque views and natural beauty.
Diving in Colombia
Home to some of the most beautiful dive sites in the world, along with lush valleys and alpine lakes, Colombia is a stunning country to visit. With numerous hammerheads, sharks and even humpback whales, there is much to explore. You can choose between going diving in the clear, calm waters in the Caribbean or the wilder waves in the Pacific.
Mountain biking in Canada
Enveloped with gigantic rocky mountains, dazzling lakes and immaculate coastlines, Canada offers some of the most beautiful backdrops for mountain biking. Autumn is a great time to visit as you can watch the leaves turn orange and crisp. For an extra challenge, go mountain biking in the winter months. Although, the views are breathtaking year-round.
Zip lining in Costa Rica
One of the best places in the world to get your heart pounding is in Costa Rica, where you can zipline through marvellous jungles and enjoy the alluring natural beauty. Zipline cables stretch from mountain to mountain, making your ride wonderfully unique and equally breathtaking. Enjoy the best views while also experiencing an incredible adrenaline rush.
Cave diving in Mexico
Mexico is renowned for its breathtaking natural sinkholes, called cenotes, in the Yucatan Peninsula. With mesmerising crystal clear blue waters and rich marine life, cave diving here is a unique and thrilling experience. It's definitely not a sport for the faint-hearted, as an important element of cave diving is the ability to stay calm under pressure.
Whitewater rafting in Chile
Whitewater rafting in Chile is one of the greatest adventures you can go on in the country. Discover gigantic mountains, pristine valleys and stunning waterfalls as you journey down the rapids. Chile has rivers for newbies as well as more experienced rafters, with slopes and currents that go past grade 5.
Other Regions
Sandboarding in the United Arab Emirates
Sandboarding is one of the most popular adventure sports in the UAE due to its abundance of sand dunes. This desert activity is something you can do with the whole family as it's completely safe and appropriate for all ages. The best part? Due to the country's climate, you can enjoy this sport throughout the year - certainly a must-do on your desert safari.
Bungee Jumping in New Zealand
As the go-to destination for a lot of extreme sports, New Zealand sets the bar high with its numerous bungee jumping spots. The most famous one is, of course, the Nevis Bungee, the biggest in New Zealand, and the third-highest bungee jump in the world. At some bungees in New Zealand, you can even touch the water. How thrilling!
Windsurfing in Morocco
Home to the most exciting windsurfing locations, Morocco is a popular destination for all kinds of tourists due to its excellent weather and incredible winds. Essaouira and Taghazout are the best places to go for windsurfing, as they have perfect winds and steady waves. Make sure to stay at the beach after to enjoy the Moroccan sunsets.
Quad biking in South Africa
One of the best ways to travel around South Africa is by quad biking; a fun-filled activity that also takes you to the less-travelled, off beaten paths. Go on South Africa's quad biking trails for a unique and fun adventure. You'll also get to explore the country's natural beauty and enjoy its stunning mountains, dunes, waterfalls and more.
Jetskiing in Fiji
What is more thrilling than going jet-skiing in the crystal clear waters and reefs of Fiji? Explore all that this lovely paradise has to offer by jet-skiing around its blue lagoons and swimming alongside its exotic sea creatures. You can even take a trip to the beautiful Modriki island where Tom Hanks' movie 'Castaway' was shot.