The Ultimate Guide to the Best Adventure and Adrenaline Experiences in Cape Town to Leon: Unforgettable Journeys of Thrill-Seekers

Get ready to experience the thrill of a lifetime as we take you on a whirlwind journey to some of the most heart-pounding destinations around the globe. From the rugged cliffs of Queenstown, New Zealand, to the electrifying streets of Las Vegas, we've scoured the world to bring you the best adventure and adrenaline experiences that will leave you breathless. Whether you're an adrenaline junkie craving that next adrenaline rush or simply seeking a taste of the extraordinary, get ready to buckle up and dive headfirst into a world of excitement. Brace yourself for a wild ride as we delve into the heart of the most daring activities, awe-inspiring landscapes, and adrenaline-infused encounters that will push your limits and leave you craving for more.

Cape Town, South Africa

Hidden beneath Cape Town's serene façade lies an adventurous side that will test even the most fearless thrill-seekers. Both land and sea offer excitement in Cape Town, but the real adrenaline rush comes from swimming with great white sharks in the waters known for having the highest population of these majestic creatures. Brave souls can enter a steel cage and experience the thrill up close. For the truly daring, surfing the monstrous waves around Cape Town is an option (yes, there are still sharks). And once you've dried off, there are plenty more adventures to be had, including exploring Table Mountain and the stunning coastline of the city.

Adrenaline checklist:

• Dive with great white sharks at Shark Alley
• Abseil down Table Mountain
• Take a gyrocopter flight along the coast
• Surf massive waves at Hout Bay at Dungeons Beach

Visit Victoria Falls, Zambia - Africa's adventure capital. Photo by GettingStamped.com

Livingstone, Zambia

Located at the base of a world wonder, Livingstone offers an adrenaline junkie's paradise. Most activities in the area revolve around the mighty Victoria Falls and the Zambezi river. Dare to hang over the edge at Devil's Pool or take a leap from the bridge that spans the massive canyon between Zambia and Zimbabwe. For more thrilling experiences around the falls, strap yourself into a microlight plane or ride a raft down the swirling waters of the Zambezi. Action-packed Livingstone is sure to get your heart racing.

Adrenaline checklist:

• Hang over the edge of Victoria Falls from Devil's Pool
• Bungee jump from Victoria Falls Bridge
• Whitewater raft down the Zambezi River, full of class 5 rapids, hippos, and crocs
• Take a microlight flight over the falls

Come skydive in the adventure capital of the word. Photo by GettingStamped.com

Las Vegas, NV

Las Vegas is not just about bright lights and slot machines; it's also a haven for adrenaline junkies. As a popular tourist destination, Las Vegas offers unique activities to get your heart pumping. Where else can you barrel-roll in a war plane or learn to drift drive exotic supercars? For a more traditional thrill, try leaping from the top of the 108th floor of the Stratosphere tower or flying like Superman down Fremont street.

Adrenaline checklist:

• Stratosphere's SkyJump - a 855-foot leap from the 108th floor
• Nascar and exotic car driving classes
• Slotzilla zipline over Fremont Street
• Fighter plane experience with Sky Combat Ace

There's no shortage of adrenaline rushes in Whistler. Photo by GettingStamped.com

Macau, China

Macau, Asia's gambling capital, offers more than glitz and glamour. It's also a destination for thrill-seekers. The world's tallest bungee jump awaits those who want an unforgettable experience. Free fall from the top of the 764-foot-tall Macau Tower with a giant rubber band tied to your ankles. While the other activities in Macau may be more mild-mannered, this thrill is worth the trip alone. And if you're feeling lucky, don't forget to try your hand at the casinos.

Adrenaline checklist:

• The World's Tallest Bungee jump - AJ Hackett Macau Tower, 764 feet high
• Test your luck at one of the main ultra-high roller tables in Macau

Challenge Angel's Landing in Zion National. Photo by Steven Newton - Flickr cc

Shaanxi, China

Shaanxi, home to the world's most dangerous hike, Mount Hua Shan ascent, is a must-visit for adrenaline junkies. This hike is known for its treacherous path with weathered boards clinging to sheer cliffs 7,000 feet above the ground. Built by monks and religious pilgrims thousands of years ago, it requires courage and faith to conquer this challenge.

Adrenaline Checklist:

• The Mount Hua Shan ascent

For a real adventure, skip Costa Rica and head to Nicaragua for volcano boarding! Photo by GettingStamped.com

Kathmandu, Nepal

The ancient city of Kathmandu, nestled among the towering Himalayas, offers access to epic treks and adventures. While conquering Mt. Everest is the most obvious feat, there are countless other summits and adventures to be had in this breathtaking region.

Adrenaline Checklist:

• Summit the world's tallest point or visit Everest Base Camp
• Skydive over the Himalayas and Mt. Everest

If you dare, come to China to challenge the world's most dangerous hike. Photo by Aaron Feen - flickr cc

Queenstown, New Zealand

Known as the "Adventure capital of the world," Queenstown lives up to its nickname. With its stunning surroundings, this South Island city offers a wide range of adrenaline-pumping activities. From skydiving over mountains and lakes to bungy jumping from the first-ever bungy site, there's no shortage of excitement in Queenstown.

Adrenaline checklist:

• Skydive at 15,000 feet over Queenstown's mountains and lakes
• Bungy jump from Kawarau Bridge, the first commercial bungy site
• Try the Nevis Swing or bungy jump from the Nevis high-wire platform (435ft)
• Hang glide from the misty mountains surrounding Queenstown
• Experience a thrilling jet boat ride on the Shotover River

Take a break from the party and embark on real adventures in Vegas. Photo by GettingStamped.com

Whistler, B.C., Canada

Regardless of the time of year, Whistler offers an abundance of adrenaline-pumping activities. From skiing and snowboarding in winter to mountain biking and ziplining in the summer, there's something for every thrill-seeker. Don't miss the opportunity to try bobsledding on the track from the 2010 Olympic Winter Games.

Adrenaline checklist:

• Sasquatch Zipline (longest line in Canada & USA)
• Conquer the black diamond runs of Blackcomb Mountain
• Mountain bike down the slopes in the summer
• Experience the Skeleton or Bobsled track from the 2010 Winter Games
• Winter bungee on Coast Mountain

ALSO: Looking for more thrilling rewards? Join Orbitz Rewards!

Macau is a must-visit for any adrenaline junkie due to the world's tallest bungee. Photo by GettingStamped.com

Zion National Park, UT

Zion National Park is one of the most daring national parks in the United States, offering epic adventures surrounded by pristine natural beauty. The towering sandstone cliffs that line the valley are famous for their challenging big wall climbs. For a thrilling experience, hike Angel's Landing, a narrow path flanked by sheer cliffs on both sides. Additional adventures can be found in the park's backcountry, but be sure to plan ahead as permits are required.

Adrenaline Checklist:

• Hike Angel's Landing
• Try rock wall climbing
• Trek to 'The Subway'
• Explore backcountry hikes

Embark on an adventure to Everest Base Camp in the heart of the Himalayas. Photo by Florian Rohart - Flickr cc

Ice Climbing

Credit: Visit Ouray

Scale frozen waterfalls and other ice formations using ice axes and special climbing equipment. The Ouray Ice Park, a human-made park, offers over 150 ice and mixed climbs in the Uncompahgre Gorge.

Where to try it: Ouray, Colorado

Cliff diving

Red Bull's Cliff Diving World Series has popularized this sport, where participants launch themselves from a 27m (89ft) platform, three times higher than the Olympic diving platform. In 2014, Red Bull introduced a women's category with a 21m (69ft) platform.

Bridge climbing

Bridge climbing originated in Australia with the Sydney Harbour Bridge climb. Now, it has expanded to New Zealand. Participants wear helmets, harnesses, and are securely clipped into a safety wire.

In Japan, you can also experience bridge climbing on the Akashi-Kaikyo Bridge, where a tour takes you to the top of the main supporting tower.

Edge Walking

Take a full circle walk on the ledge encircling the top of the CN Tower's main pod, 356m (1,168ft) above the ground. Participants are secured with a trolley and harness system, allowing them to lean back over the streets of Toronto without falling.

A similar venture in the UK offers a glass walkway 47m (154ft) above Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, followed by a descent via guided ropes.

Cage diving

Swim with whale sharks or opt for cage diving with great white sharks for a thrilling experience. Surface cage diving allows you to snorkel or hold your breath as the shark passes by, while the other option requires scuba equipment as the cage is lowered deeper into the water.

Wing walking

Originating in the 1920s, wing walking involves moving along the wings of a fixed-wing aircraft during flight. Today, participants are strapped onto a customized device on top of a plane, allowing the pilot to perform thrilling maneuvers.

Horseboarding

Horseboarding combines horse riding and skateboarding. Riders are towed on a skateboard by a horse around a course.

Paramotoring

Similar to paragliding, paramotoring involves flying with a motorized propeller strapped to your back. It is easy to learn and can be done in open areas without the need for a runway.

Bull riding

Despite the risks of concussions and broken bones, bull riding continues to attract adrenaline enthusiasts. Riders attempt to control a one-ton bull for at least eight seconds, using only one hand.

Buzkashi

Buzkashi is an equestrian sport popular in Central Asia. Riders compete to take control of a goat carcass and ride in any direction until no one can catch up. In the advanced version called Qarajai, riders must carry the goat to the end of the field, circle a marker, and then try to throw the goat into a ring.

Please note that these activities may have specific safety guidelines and requirements. Always ensure your own safety and follow any instructions or precautions provided by professionals.

Airborne Adrenaline Experiences

Sky Diving

Sky Diving over England

If you're looking for thrilling experiences, skydiving offers an ultimate adrenaline rush.

Tandem skydives are perfect for first-timers. Strapped to an experienced instructor, you'll be positioned just above an edge before taking off! The free fall lasts between 30 and 60 seconds, depending on the height from which you jump. As you glide back to earth, you'll experience the pounding force of gravity on your face while admiring the breathtaking landscape views.

Just the thought of it makes my heart race! If you're not yet ready for a skydive from an aircraft, consider indoor skydiving. Both options are exciting, but only the true airborne experience deserves a spot on your adrenaline junkie bucket list.

Wing Walking

Contributed by Roshni from The Wanderlust Within

Wing Walking in England

There's nothing quite like strapping yourself to a plane wing and soaring through the air at 150mph to get your heart racing! Wing walking offers the ultimate thrill for even the most daring adrenaline junkies.

The adventure begins with a safety briefing from a professional wing walker and the pilot, ensuring you're securely strapped in before take-off.

Flights last under 10 minutes and include an exhilarating series of flypasts, zoom climbs, steep dives, banks, and even loop-the-loops if you're up for it!

Your friends and family can cheer you on from the ground and capture some crucial snapshots of you speeding by, or you can opt to have a GoPro strapped to the plane in front of you, allowing you to relive your g-force face impressions (highly recommended!).

Having already experienced this twice, the stunning aerial views and sense of freedom make it an adventure I would happily do again – definitely an exhilarating addition to your adrenaline junkie bucket list.

Where: Cirencester, Cotswolds UK with Aerosuperbatics

Cost: Starting from £399

Duration: 8-10 minutes in the air, 3 hours for the whole experience 

Paragliding

Paragliding over Myrtos Beach, Greece

Have you ever trusted an experienced guide and run off the top of a mountain? Paragliding is the ultimate adrenaline adventure activity. The initial run toward the hilltop is the most challenging part, but for the rest of the flight, you can sit back, relax, and enjoy the beautiful panoramic scenery. Don't relax for too long, though. Your guide will add excitement with loops and turns that are as thrilling as a roller coaster ride. Soar left to right, up and down, and be amazed at how your paragliding instructor maintains complete control as you speed toward the rock faces.

Where can you do it: Myrtos Beach in Greece, as well as many other worldwide locations.

How much does it cost: approximately 90 euros upwards, depending on the desired flight duration

How long does it last: the whole experience takes about an hour, with approximately 15-40 minutes in the air, depending on your chosen option and the wind conditions of the day.

Related Read: Myrtos Beach Paragliding – See this iconic Kefalonia beach from the sky

Exciting Activities with an Adventurous Twist

Snowmobiling

Contributed by Aimee of Snap Happy Travel

Snowmobiling in Whistler, Canada offers a thrilling adventure for adrenaline junkies. Imagine zooming down well-groomed trails and venturing off-piste into a winter wonderland of snow-covered pine trees. Whistler Mountain, consistently ranked as one of the top ski resorts in the world, provides the perfect backdrop for this exhilarating activity. With its incredible snowfall, Whistler truly is a paradise for snow lovers.

The snowmobile can reach speeds of up to 120km/h, allowing you to get your adrenaline pumping. Keep an eye out for bears, as they may emerge from hibernation and add an unexpected element of excitement to your experience.

Where can you do it: Whistler is conveniently located a 1.5-hour drive from Vancouver CBD and is easily accessible by bus. Alternatively, you can rent a car from Vancouver airport for more flexibility.

How long does it take: There are various snowmobiling tours available, ranging from 2-hour beginner tours to more extreme 3-hour tours that also include lunch at a cozy cabin.

How much does it cost: Prices for snowmobiling in Whistler start at $185 USD per person.

Polar Plunge

Contributed by Pamela from The Directionally Challenged Traveler

Experience the ultimate adventure by taking a polar plunge in Antarctica, reserved for the bravest of adventurers. Plunging into the iceberg-infused water of one of the coldest regions on Earth will make you feel closer to the penguins than ever before.

There are two ways to take a polar plunge: jumping off a boat and cannonballing into the water or walking into the water from land. Whichever method you choose, the bragging rights will last a lifetime. With only a fraction of the 10,000 people who visit Antarctica each year daring to take the plunge, it's truly a unique experience.

Where can you do it: Various landing locations in Antarctica, depending on weather conditions.

Cost of activity: The polar plunge is free of charge.

Duration of Activity: Due to health concerns, participants are not allowed to spend more than 90 seconds in the water.

Ice Climbing

Contributed by Paula from Paula Pins the Planet

Add ice climbing to your adrenaline junkie bucket list when visiting Iceland. This thrilling activity allows you to explore the land of fire and ice in a unique way, providing a perfect combination of fun, adventure, and adrenaline. However, it's crucial to hire a local tour operator for safety, as the constantly moving and transforming glaciers can be treacherous to navigate without experience. Certified guides will provide the necessary permits and safety gear.

Where can you do it: The best place for ice climbing in Iceland is the Sólheimajökull Glacier, only a 2-hour drive from Reykjavik. Rental cars are suitable for reaching the glacier, or you can arrange transportation when booking your tour.

How much does it cost: Prices for ice climbing tours in Iceland range from US up to US$300, depending on the duration and inclusions.

How long does it take: You can choose from a shorter 3-hour tour or extend it to 12 hours, which may include glacier hikes, visits to ice caves, waterfalls, and the glacier lagoon.

Helicopter Landing on a Glacier

Contributed by Holly from Globeblogging

Embrace a truly breathtaking experience with a helicopter landing on the Tasman Glacier, located in New Zealand. Although lesser-known compared to other South Island glaciers, the Tasman Glacier stands out as the largest on the island, stretching an impressive 27 kilometers in length and 4 kilometers in width. Situated at the base of Mount Cook, the highest mountain in New Zealand, this glacier offers a stunning backdrop for your adventure.

When weather conditions permit, a helicopter will transport you above the clouds, providing a mesmerizing view of Mount Cook's summit and the vast expanse of the glacier. The pilot will gently guide the helicopter to rest on the glistening white snow atop the glacier, allowing you to absorb the magnificent alpine scenery. This experience is a must for any adrenaline junkie's bucket list.

Where can you do it: Helicopter tours depart from Mount Cook Airport on Mount Cook Road.

How much does it cost: Prices for helicopter flights start at NZ$299 for a 25-minute flight, with options to include a seaplane ride for an enhanced experience. Despite the cost, this experience is truly unforgettable.

How long does it take: The flight itself lasts approximately 55 minutes.

Skiing

Contributed by Sarah from A Social Nomad

Add skiing to your adrenaline junkie bucket list for an exhilarating experience. Skiing has come a long way since its early days, but the rush of adrenaline you feel when descending a slope remains the same. In addition to the fun and excitement, skiing engages core muscles, improves balance and posture, and enhances overall body strength.

Downhill skiing is the most well-known form of skiing, where you glide down snow-covered hills with your ski boots secured to fixed-heel bindings. It's an incredible way to immerse yourself in the beauty of the great outdoors. Ski resorts offer a variety of ski runs, ranging from gently sloping terrain to thrilling mogul-filled slopes. For the ultimate skiing adventure, consider venturing off-piste (off the managed trails) or trying heli-skiing, where a helicopter transports you to remote locations inaccessible by lifts.

Where can you do it: Ski resorts worldwide offer organized downhill skiing. Popular destinations include Whistler, Big White, Tahoe, Breckenridge (North America), and the French and Italian Alps (Europe). Bansko, Bulgaria, known as Europe's cheapest place to ski, is also gaining popularity.

How much does it cost: Prices for ski passes at Bansko ski resorts start at 35 euros per day for the mountain. Additionally, if you require ski equipment rentals, the cost adds approximately 45 euros per day.

How long does it take: While many people enjoy week-long ski vacations, recreational skiers often dream of dedicating an entire season to skiing, particularly for off-piste or heli-skiing adventures.

Dog Sledding in Tromso

Contributed by Niels Thomas from Tromso Dog Sledding

Embark on a thrilling dog sledding tour amidst the stunning Norwegian mountains and fjords in Tromso. Dog sledding is a long-standing tradition in Norway and has been one of the oldest forms of transportation in snowy landscapes. You don't need any prior experience, as knowledgeable guides will guide you through the process of navigating the snow with your trusty team of huskies.

Where can you do it: Tromso, Norway.

How long does it take: A typical dog sledding tour lasts approximately 4 hours, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the experience. For an even more immersive adventure, you can opt for a full-day camping trip with your furry companions.

How much does it cost: Tour prices range from 200 to 400 USD depending on the package you choose. Rest assured, the experience of cuddling with husky puppies is included!

Adventure Water Sports

Surfing

Contributed by Carryn at Torn Tackies Travel Blog

Add surfing to your list of adrenaline-pumping activities

Surfing has become incredibly popular recently, and it's easy to see why. Not only is it fun, but it's also a fantastic way to stay fit and meet new people while traveling. Surfing is a sport that anyone can participate in, regardless of age. If you're a beginner, don't worry about feeling intimidated by the experts. Everyone has to start somewhere!

Where can you do it: If you're new to surfing and want to learn, Hiriketiya Beach in Sri Lanka is the perfect destination for you. It's a great spot for beginners, with different areas to choose from depending on your progress. There's also a reef break for more experienced surfers. What sets Hiriketiya apart is the friendly atmosphere. Everyone is supportive and encouraging, whether it's your first time standing up on a board or you wipeout. You'll make lifelong friends, and even if you don't become the best surfer, you'll leave with unforgettable memories.

How much does it cost: Renting a surfboard starts at $1 per hour, and lessons are $15 per hour. It's recommended to take lessons first and then rent a board to practice on your own. Learning to surf takes time, so be patient with yourself. Once you start, you'll be hooked!

Swimming with Whale Sharks

Contributed by Natalie and Steve from Curious Campers

Experience the thrill of swimming with whale sharks in Australia If you love encountering wildlife, there's nothing quite like swimming with the world's largest fish – whale sharks. Every year from March to August, these magnificent creatures migrate to the Ningaloo Reef, a World Heritage site on the northwest coast of Western Australia. Don't let their name fool you; despite being sharks, these gentle giants, measuring 7-10 meters long, are filter feeders and pose no threat to humans. Seeing them up close is an awe-inspiring experience and a must-do for any adrenaline enthusiast.

Watching these majestic creatures emerge from the blue waters and swimming alongside them is truly breathtaking. During eco-friendly tours, you'll have multiple opportunities to be in the water with the whale sharks. On our trip, we had six swimming sessions with them and also enjoyed snorkeling near the reef, where we spotted whales, manta rays, sea turtles, and dugongs.

Where can you do it: Swim with whale sharks in Exmouth and Coral Bay, Western Australia. It's recommended to book in advance, especially during peak season in June and July.

How much does it cost: Tours cost around AUD$425 and include supervised whale shark swims, snorkeling gear, lunch, and sometimes photos.

How long does it take: Expect to spend 5-7 hours on the water, starting at around 8:00 am. Pick-up and drop-off services from your accommodation are usually provided in Exmouth.

Cage Diving with Great Whites

Contributed by Debbie Fettback from WorldAdventurists.com.

Experience the thrill of cage diving with great white sharks in South AfricaCage diving with great white sharks is the ultimate adventure for thrill-seekers. Gansbaai, South Africa, specifically Shark Alley, is the best location to encounter these magnificent predators, as it is known as the great white shark capital of the world.

In this adrenaline-pumping activity, you'll enter a large cage wearing a wetsuit and goggles. The cage is designed to provide protection while granting you up-close views of these incredible creatures. With lengths of up to 20 feet and weighing up to 5,000 pounds, your heart will race with excitement at the first close sighting. It's an eye-opening experience that teaches you to respect and appreciate sharks rather than fear them.

Where can you do it: Gansbaai, South Africa

How long does it take: Your turn in the cage lasts 20 minutes, with the opportunity to go in a second time. Even when you're not in the cage, you can witness numerous shark sightings from the boat. The whole trip takes approximately 3.5 hours. The crew attracts the sharks using chum but does not feed them.

How much does it cost: The cost in South Africa is around $100 USD (1500 ZAR).

White water rafting

Experience the thrill of white water rafting down the Rio Piccaue River in Costa Rica If you're a fan of extreme water sports and don't mind a bit of risk, white water rafting is the perfect adventure for you. While there is always an element of danger, that's what makes it exhilarating. Leave the steering to an experienced guide and brace yourself for a thrilling and soaking wet journey down the river.

There are numerous incredible locations around the world to experience class IV or higher rapids. One such place is the Piccaue River in Costa Rica. This river will take you over fast-flowing water, under waterfalls, and through narrow rock passages. It's a thrilling addition to any adrenaline junkie's bucket list. If you're not up for traveling far, there are also man-made white water rafting centers that offer just as much excitement.

Where can you do it? Various places in Costa Rica, but the Piccaue River is one of the best.

How much does it cost? Approximately

How long does it last? You'll spend approximately 4 hours on the river, but plan for a full experience of 5-6 hours.

Related Read:

Activities for Adrenaline Junkies on Land

Volcano Boarding in Nicaragua

Contributed by Mel from Mel on the Go

Embark on a volcano boarding adventure on Cerro Negro in Nicaragua Volcano boarding is a thrilling adventure that should be on every adrenaline junkie's list!

Cerro Negro, located in northwestern Nicaragua, offers a unique opportunity to try this extreme sport. In the vibrant city of León, you'll find multiple tour operators who provide everything you need for this exhilarating experience, including guides, gear, instruction, and transportation.

The necessary equipment includes a specially designed board with a metal sheet on the bottom, a hand-held brake, a coverall suit, and a face covering.

Once you reach the park, you'll hike up the black sand and pebbles to reach the top of the boarding hill. It may require some effort, but the stunning views and incredible descent make it all worthwhile. While gearing up, you can observe other boarders to get a sense of what to do. Most people choose to sit on the board, but some adventurous souls attempt to stand up like surfers or snowboarders. You can control your speed, but don't be afraid to push your limits and have fun!

Where can you do it: Cerro Negro in northwestern Nicaragua.

How much does it cost: Group tours are around $20.

How long does it take: The entire trip lasts a few hours, including transportation to the park, a one-hour hike up the slippery slope with your board, and the thrilling ride down.

Canyoning / Canyoneering

Edyta from Say Yes To Madeira

Experience the thrill of canyoning in MadeiraCanyoning (or canyoneering) is an exhilarating activity that involves exploring canyons and streams using various techniques such as hiking, waterfall jumping, rock climbing, rappelling (abseiling), and swimming. Participants wear special wetsuits and helmets for protection. Canyoning is one of the best activities for adrenaline junkies, offering both fun and adventure while pushing your comfort zone. It's also a great way to discover hidden natural spots, such as canyons and beautiful waterfalls, that aren't crowded with tourists. Canyoning often requires advanced navigational skills.

How much does it cost: Beginner tours start at around €60.

Where can you do it: Canyoning is available in many countries and is a popular activity for adrenaline enthusiasts. One great location is Madeira Island in Portugal. You can try canyoning in different areas around the island, such as Ribeira das Cales, Ribeiro Frio, or Ribeira do Inferno, catering to both beginners and experienced canyoning fans. Certified guides lead tours, and there are numerous tour operators to choose from on the island, offering beginner, intermediate, and advanced canyoning experiences.

Mountain go-karts

For those who prefer to stay close to the ground, street luging is the perfect choice. This sport involves lying on a customized sled with wheels, just inches above the road, and relying on gravity to accelerate down steep slopes at high speeds. With no mechanical brakes, you use your feet to slow down, protected by shoes with thick rubber soles.

The highest recorded speed achieved on a gravity-powered luge is 163.99 kph (101.90 mph), accomplished by American rider Mike McIntyre.

Canyoning

Credit: Photo by Ashim D’Silva on Unsplash

Also known as canyoneering or river trekking, this sport encourages participants to use a variety of techniques including climbing and rappelling to traverse scenic canyons. If you’re not afraid to get your feet (and knees) wet, Salome Jug is a water-filled canyon in Arizona that takes about 5 to 6 hours to hike.

Where to try it: Salome Creek, Arizona

Flowboarding

Credit: FlowRider

If you’re all about being in a state of flow, elevate your game by experiencing a FlowRider. This unique water sport involves the art of riding an artificial “sheet wave,” in which water is pumped over a surface that’s engineered to replicate an ocean wave, on an apparatus that looks like a skateboard. Flowboarding gained traction in the 80s and today, “flowhouses” are popping up around the world.

Where to try it: Across the USA

Goliath Grouper Dives

Credit: Andrea Whitaker / Pura Vida Divers

Grouper can grow to weigh up to 660 pounds and more and have been seen in groups of 40-plus during their annual aggregation after being nearly extinct some years back. Some may be fearful of large groups of fish this size, but they aren’t aggressive, and are quite a sight. Dive right in with Pura Vida Divers to experience these underwater beasts up close!

Where to try it: Singer Island, Florida

Bungee Jumping

Credit: iStock

This action-filled activity involves jumping from a tall structure with an elastic cord attached to your feet. That tall structure can be a building, crane, bridge or even a helicopter. The first modern bungee jump was in 1979, and since then the sport became widely popular. The jump from the Rio Grande Bridge, which stands over 600 feet above the river, is the highest jump in the US.

Where to try it: Taos, New Mexico

Mountain Biking

Credit: Rachid Dahnoun / Lake Tahoe Visitors Authority

Mr. Toad’s Wild Ride is a single-track mountain bike route that heads primarily downhill from the Tahoe Rim Trail—the total descent is more than 2,000 feet. It includes multiple steep drops and sections traversing nothing but rocks. Wanna Ride Tahoe can provide bikes, helmets and shuttles to trails.

Where to try it: Lake Tahoe, California

Waterfall Rappelling

Credit: Flickr David Ehringerr cc by nd 2.0

Swimming in waterfalls is one thing, but have you ever rappelled down one before? There are few things more exhilarating than lowering yourself down a rock face amid a deluge of foamy spray. Try it at Ripley Falls with Northeast Mountaineering.

Where to try it: White Mountains, New Hampshire

Thrill Seeking Activities

I’m far from an expert. However, here are my top tips before you try any new thrill seeking activity or adrenaline adventure:

• Do your research.
• Use property safety precautions.
• Go with a reputable guide or tour company.
• Have the proper gear.
• Be prepared to pay. Many of these adrenaline rush activities can be rather pricey. It’s always better to know what you’re getting into beforehand.
• Only do adrenaline activities that YOU want to do! Don’t let others pressure you into something that you don’t really want to do. But ask yourself: will I regret not doing this activity.

Adventure is out there friends!! What adrenaline activities do you want to try first?

Storm chasing

Each late spring (April to June), adventure seekers head to the ‘Tornado Alley’, a massive area in the south-central United States where whirling tornadoes often occur when the warm, moist air from the Gulf of Mexico collides with the cold, dry air from Canada.

There are quite a few storm chasing tours available; most of them start in Oklahoma and gradually move westwards to Colorado as the season progresses.

Animal encounters for thrill-seekers

Coming face-to-face with a wild animal is the ultimate adrenaline rush for many. However, unless such an encounter happens in the wild, the experience is staged. When we use animals for our entertainment, we ignore the cruelty behind the scenes. The animals are provoked, agitated and used for our enjoyment.

I have decided not to include animal encounters on this list because I don’t believe in animal cruelty and want to promote such activities. There are enough adrenaline adventures out there to keep us busy without resorting to abusing animals.

Leon, Nicaragua

A few simple pieces of plywood and a 2,400-foot black sand volcano put this little Central American town on the adrenaline junkies map. The sport of volcano boarding sends participants flying down an active volcano either seated or standing on a homemade board. It’s really caught on in tiny Leon, where the Cerro Negro volcano sprung out of the ground only 160 years ago. It’s the youngest in all of Central America and made from loosely packed black sand, perfect for sliding down. If you survive the 65-mph trip to the base of the mountain, you can trade boards and hit the waves on the nearby coast to keep your adrenaline levels up.

Adrenaline Checklist:

• Volcano boarding down an active volcano
• Surf the turbulent waters in Leon and further south in San Juan del Sur
• Volcano and Jungle trekking

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Tagged: Feature, Latin America, Top 10 Lists

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So whether you're craving heart-pounding thrills or seeking an adrenaline rush like no other, look no further than the magnificent destinations and exhilarating activities mentioned above. From the majestic landscapes of Cape Town, South Africa to the awe-inspiring Goliath Grouper Dives in Leon, Nicaragua, the world is your playground for adrenaline-fueled adventures. Take the leap and experience the best of adventure, pushing your limits, and feeling alive like never before.