Adventure Travel
Experience the world through one-of-a-kind excursions! Hike, canoe, skydive, safari, and surf your way across the globe.
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This Month’s Recommended Adventure Programs

MAXIMO NIVEL
Maximo Nivel’s Volunteer Adventure program in Guatemala lets you experience this beautiful country from a whole new perspective! This is your chance to make an impact in local communities while exploring ancient ruins, colorful markets, volcanic landsc...

Seamester Study Abroad at Sea
Seamester is the educational adventure of a lifetime! For more than 40 years, we have offered unparalleled educational voyages where students spend a semester at sea sailing between islands, countries, and even continents. We design our programs to pro...

International Volunteer HQ [IVHQ]
At International Volunteer HQ (IVHQ), we unite people from over 96 countries who want to make a meaningful difference while exploring the world. With 300+ projects in 40+ destinations, IVHQ offers the widest selection of volunteer programs globally fro...

Gapforce
Visit two of South America’s most iconic countries—Peru and Ecuador—and discover the lost lands of the Incas! Start your adventure in South America with intensive Spanish lessons, then step up the adventure with an epic trek across the Andes to Machu P...

Pacific Discovery
This program for individuals ages 17-22 has just the right balance of adventure and environmental service in New Zealand, followed by the laid-back island living in Fiji. In New Zealand, we'll mountain bike in Rotorua, raft over the world's highest com...

Global Work & Travel
Turn four weeks off into one unforgettable Southeast Asia adventure across Thailand and Vietnam, built for 18–35ish travellers who want beaches, culture, nightlife and social travel without planning every detail themselves. Start with Thailand’s buzzin...
How to Adventure Travel Abroad
Overview
What is adventure travel?
Adventure travel is a type of meaningful travel that revolves around exploration, whether that be the adrenaline-junkie type (like bungee jumping and hang-gliding) or the slower, more intentional type (like homestays and cultural immersion).
Typically speaking, adventure tourism activities include a physically challenging element, cultural exchange, and/or the opportunity to get up close and personal with Mother Nature herself.
Getting Started
How to go on an adventure
Believe it or not, it’s actually not that difficult to go on an adventure tour. You just have to know where to want to go and when, and the rest will fall into place! Here’s how to find the best adventure travel for you:
- Figure out what you want to do. Before you peruse adventure travel companies, decide what you want to do on your adventure—because there’s a lot of possibilities! Whether it’s an extended hiking trip, water sports, cultural heritage tours, or a spiritual retreat at an ecolodge, it’s important to set goals and intentions for your adventure.
- Pick a destination. There are tons of destination options for many kinds of adventure tourism activities. For other kinds, like seeing glow worms or the Northern Lights, your options will be a bit more limited. Once you know what you want to do, you can choose your destination based on the best or safest location to do that activity, or you can throw caution to the wind and go wherever the wind blows you!
- When do you want to go? Are you looking for summer adventures or winter wonders? Don’t forget that the seasons are different depending on what hemisphere you’re headed to, and that adventure activities get considerably more expensive during tourist seasons.
- Solo or group travel? Maybe you want to pursue adventure in solitude, or maybe you’ll feel better having a group to share the experience with. Either way, going alone or with other people will shape your adventure travel experience, so it’s important to decide what the right choice is for you.
- Apply for your program. After you’ve figured out all of the above, it’s time to start finding the perfect program for you! Of course, you can plan and take your trip without the help of adventure travel companies. However, if you’re a first-time traveler, or your intended destination is completely unfamiliar to you, it may be a good idea to go on an adventure through an organization that has experience in the activities you’re looking for. You don’t want to get in over your head, or have your trip ruined due to circumstances you may not have known to prepare for.
Locations
Where are the best places for adventure?
If you’re wondering where to go on an adventure, spin the globe and point! In other words, you can find adventure literally anywhere. However, if you really want an experience that will stay with you for the rest of your life, it’s not a bad idea to push yourself as far out of your comfort zone as reasonably possible.
That could mean going somewhere where you don’t speak the language, confronting one of your phobias, or trying your hand at something you never thought you would. But if you really want names, some of the most renowned countries in the world for fun, reputable adventures include New Zealand, Australia, Costa Rica, Peru, Thailand, Kenya, and South Africa.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is adventure travel?
Adventure travel is meaningful travel that takes you out into the world for active, hands-on experiences. Popular types of adventure travel include scuba diving, hiking, eco-tours, and white-water rafting.
What are the best adventure trips?
This depends on your goals and preferences. However, some of the most iconic adventure trips include trekking in New Zealand, surfing in Australia, cooking classes in Italy, and going on safari in South Africa.
How can I go on adventures abroad?
To go on an adventure trip, you need to think about where you want to go, what you want to do, and what your budget is. Once you've set some goals for yourself, it'll be easier to find and apply to adventure travel programs.
Latest Program Reviews
My first TFT trip, and definitely not my last!
October 17, 2026by: Emma Raymond - United StatesThis trip was honestly one of the best experiences of my life. It was my first TFT program, and I could have not picked a better one. One of my favorite parts was how much of Costa Rica we got to see. We did not just stay in one area and we got to experience different parts of the country. Every single day we had something excited to look forward to, whether it was going on boat rides, swimming, jumping off waterfalls, or tubbing down a river. The trip definitely lived up to the name, but what I loved most was that I could choose when I wanted to step outside of my comfort zone and when I wanted to relax. There was such a good balance between exciting activities and free time. I ended up doing almost all of the activities, and I am so glad I did because looking back, those are some of my favorite memories from the trip. We also had plenty of time to hang out and bond with everyone, which I think is such an important part of the program because you spend so much time with the people you meet. As a picky eater, I was pleasantly surprised by how easy the food situation was. We got to look at the menus and choose what we wanted, so it was never an issue. I made so many amazing memories, and I would recommend this program to anyone looking for an unforgettable summer experience!!
Rome travels
October 17, 2026by: Sophia Lippman - United StatesIn rome me and my roomates had so much fun! We all hung out in eachothers room and talked about ourselves. It was exteremly helpful while meeting new people. I really enjoyed shopping in rome as well and getting to explore all over. There was a lot of indepence and I really enjoyed that part of the trip.
The best trip ever!!
October 17, 2026by: Emma Goldberg - United StatesI had the most amazing time on the Hawaii Sea Turtle trip!! I met my best friends and went on so many exhilarating adventures. I ate the best food and learned so much about the culture and the sea life!
The best trip ever!!
October 17, 2026by: Emma Goldberg - United StatesI had the most amazing time on the Hawaii Sea Turtle trip!! I met my best friends and went on so many exhilarating adventures. I ate the best food and learned so much about the culture and the sea life!
The best trip ever!!
October 17, 2026by: Emma Goldberg - United StatesI had the most amazing time on the Hawaii Sea Turtle trip!! I met my best friends and went on so many exhilarating adventures. I ate the best food and learned so much about the culture and the sea life!


Best trip ever!
October 16, 2026by: Arianna McCarthy - United StatesProgram: TFT Older Teens: London, Paris, French Riviera & Barcelona
This past summer I went on Travel for Teen’s London, Paris, French Riviera, and Barcelona trip! I went with around 14 other teens who were all super nice!! On this trip we participated in fun activities like a bike tour of Paris, the beach, shopping, climbing the Eiffel Tower, visiting a perfume factory and more. We also had some freedom to choose what we would like to do and had free time on our own within safe perimeters. The locations we ate at had a variety of food options and we also visited different restaurants that offered a variety of cuisines like Indian and traditional English food! It was so much fun!

An incredibly unique and fun experience
October 16, 2026by: Anja Eckelhoff - United StatesThe Croatia island hopping trip for travel for teens was incredible! I loved spending a week living on the boat. Not only did it bring everyone to get supper close it also allowed us to go to so many different islands. It was amazing to have slow morons on the boat but in the afternoon or evening being able to explore a new town I learned so much.


This trip was so much fun!!
October 16, 2026by: Lyla Oman - United StatesProgram: TFT Older Teens: Florence, Cinque Terre, Switzerland & Paris
This trip was such a good experience! Everyday we would have a group activity and we would also get free time which was nice because we got to explore around each city. All of the accommodations were really nice and clean. The meals were very flexible and the restaurants were nice and had some good variety. Overall I’d say this trip was amazing and if you’re considering going you should!
This trip was so much fun!!
October 16, 2026by: Lyla Oman - United StatesProgram: TFT Older Teens: Florence, Cinque Terre, Switzerland & Paris
This trip was such a good experience! Everyday we would have a group activity and we would also get free time which was nice because we got to explore around each city. All of the accommodations were really nice and clean. The meals were very flexible and the restaurants were nice and had some good variety. Overall I’d say this trip was amazing and if you’re considering going you should!
My Mamma Mia Summer
October 15, 2026by: Evan Cronin - United StatesThe summer of 2026 was my first time adventuring abroad through Travel For Teens. I really enjoyed my counselor’s enthusiasm upon arrival. Meeting new people my age from different parts of the world is always so awkward or silent at first, but getting to know them as the days go by makes me realize how fun it is to get to know others. My Greece and Italy trip was so fun. I played Mamma Mia music because I was in Greece and everybody joined in which is so cool. I got to see so much history, and the views were incredible. I really enjoyed my time and that’s why I’ll be going to another country using Travel For Teens!

Life altering!!
October 15, 2026by: Claire Oemig - United Statesnot only did go to Greece last summer for the first time, but i traveled alone for the first time too!! not only did TFT allow me to have a comfortable fun experience, but they also made opportunities for me to make some of the best friends ive ever had, to enjoy cultural experiences i would've otherwise never experienced, as well as feel safe and welcomed enough to be brave enough to experience the country to its fullest!
Best Program ever!
October 15, 2026by: paisley knisley - United StatesTFT is an amazing way to meet new people and get outside your comfort zone! You get to explore a country or multiple countries of tour choice with completely random people who will turn into great friends! TFT offers dance classes, cooking lessons, food tastings, boat rides, scuba diving, kayakimg and so much more!

The BEST Experience for High Schoolers!
October 15, 2026by: Hayley Krause - United StatesI was on the Italy, Switzerland, and France TFT trip the summer before my junior year, and it was the best experience. It was such a good blend of destinations, from Italian beaches, Swiss Mountains, and city life in Paris. The trip was filled with fun excursions such as paragliding, canyoning, and hiking, but also gave kids enough down time to be able to walk around towns or relax on the beach. As someone who is adventurous and has always loved to explore, this trip was perfect as TFT made time for exploring the local culture and daily life of the places we visited. Seeing the leather market in Firenze and eating local Parisian food was so much fun and also allowed me time to talk to locals about their home country. The staff of TFT were incredible and they always made sure everyone was happy with the trip through consistent check-ins, asking if there was anything else we needed or wanted to do to make our trip even better. If you have a kid who is adventurous and wants experience being more independent before college, I highly recommend TFT trips.
Best Summer Experience!!
October 15, 2026by: Lucy Rainwater - United StatesWhen going into a trip abroad, young and without your family, this trip truly strengthens you through the trust you can have in your counselor. I will forever cherish this trip for the strength it gave me. I have made many of my best friends through these trips.

Best way to spend summer!
October 15, 2026by: Livi Buhler-Lieberman - United StatesProgram: TFT Older Teens: Florence, Cinque Terre, Switzerland & Paris
I have done other teen tours but nothing compared to Travel for Teens. Starting with both of my chaperones (Noah and Claudia), they were genuinely amazing, the sweetest, coolest, and “older sibling” energy. Then, the places we went: My favorite was Switzerland so beautiful and between canyoning and paragliding COULD NOT have asked for anything better. Italy was beautiful and Paris was so much fun. All of the other students on my trip were great, after a couple hours together we all clicked. I came into the trip on my own and left with 15 new friends. I know my parents really appreciated the daily updates from my trip leaders and the pictures they would send. I felt super safe and comfortable the entire time. I would 110% recommend going on a trip with TFT!
Best Trip Ever!
October 15, 2026by: Ananya Saraf - United StatesThis trip was honestly so fun. I went with my friend, but I went alone the year before to Greece and Italy and had no problem making friends. I’d say it’s important to remember to be open to meeting new people of you’re thinking of going with a friend. I had the best time ever! Our counselor was the sweetest, and the itinerary is great. Easy to feel supported in the environment, and we even went to a spooky exhibition that wasn’t on the itinerary! Totally recommend
Life altering
October 14, 2026by: Kimathi Mathiu - KenyaProgram: Warriors Gap Year Experiences
This program is extremely well organized in terms of activities and trips, all accommodations are of high quality and safe. Activities are extremely safe, and promote self growth, as well as give a thrilling experience. The base camp is beautiful and nature filled. 10/10.👍

I never knew so much about myself before Warriors
October 14, 2026by: Brett Geyser - NamibiaProgram: Warriors Gap Year Experiences
Doing MAI is so worth it I learnt even more this year than I did last year. Being in a leading position taught me patients and how to deal with many different people and personalities. Each adventure made me closer with each person whether they were facilitators or students
The people made me feel at home
October 14, 2026by: Divan De klerk - South AfricaProgram: Warriors Gap Year Experiences
My experience at Warriors Academy has been one of the best experiences of my life. When I first arrived, I knew I was going to do a lot of activities and meet new people, but I never expected to leave with so many memories, friendships, and lessons that would change the way I look at life. Warriors has taught me so much about myself. I have learned to push myself out of my comfort zone, face my fears, and try things I never thought I would be able to do. From hiking mountains and rafting rivers to abseiling, swimming, and taking part in different challenges, every activity taught me something new. There were times when things were difficult, but those moments helped me realise that I am capable of more than I sometimes believe. One of the biggest things I will take away from Warriors is the people I have met. The friendships I have made mean more to me than words can explain. The people on the farm have become like a family to me, and I will always be grateful for the role they have played in my life. I have met people I look up to, people who have challenged me to become better, and people who have made me laugh even when things were tough. The memories we have made together are something I will carry with me for the rest of my life. The staff and instructors have also played a massive role in my journey. They have helped me learn new skills, overcome challenges, and understand the importance of responsibility, teamwork, and leadership. They have shown me that growth does not always happen when things are easy, but often when we are uncomfortable and have to push through challenges. Warriors has also helped me appreciate the small things in life. Spending time around the fire, having conversations with friends, enjoying the outdoors, and laughing together are moments I will miss more than I can explain. Sometimes, it is the simplest moments that become the best memories. Looking back, I can honestly say that I did not leave Warriors as the same person who arrived. I have grown in confidence, learned more about who I am, and gained a better understanding of the person I want to become. I still have a lot to learn, but Warriors has given me a strong foundation to keep growing. Leaving is not easy because I am leaving behind people and a place that have become such a big part of my life. However, I know that the purpose of this journey was never to stay comfortable forever, but to grow and take what I have learned into the world. I will forever be thankful for my time at Warriors Academy. The experiences, friendships, lessons, and memories will always have a special place in my heart. Warriors was more than just a gap year. It was a chapter of my life that helped shape the man I am becoming, and I will never forget it.
I had the time of my life.
October 14, 2026by: Sarah Handley - South AfricaProgram: Warriors Gap Year Experiences
The MAI program at Warriors Academy was an incredible experience that pushed me out of my comfort zone and helped me grow both personally and professionally. I gained valuable qualifications, developed my leadership and guiding skills, and discovered just how much I’m capable of. The program challenged me in ways I never expected, while giving me the opportunity to learn, grow, and experience amazing adventures. I’m so grateful for the skills, friendships, and memories I’ve gained, and I would highly recommend MAI to anyone who loves the outdoors and wants to challenge themselves!
Latest Interviews

Lilas Hampe
RealStep
I was inspired to go abroad by the idea of experiencing something completely different from my everyday routine. The thought of waking up just steps a...

Olivia Haan 2018
Travel For Teens
I have been abroad a few times now but I was very drawn to China based on its history and culture. I have been to Thailand before but wanted to explor...

Carmen Ruiz Ricca
Worldwide Friends Iceland
I have always loved travelling around, so when I came across this program I thought it was such a great way to get to know this thrilling country.

Savannah Petrelli
Travel For Teens
Ever since I was young, I had an urge to travel. I believe that everyone should have the opportunity to travel in their lifetime. Being able to see an...

Rachel Lyon
The Real Uganda
My passion to work with children in childcare and my desire to travel whilst also volunteering

Daan de Kraay
Nullarbor Traveller
I wanted to see the world and explore to see how Australia looked. I've heard many many stories about this country and they were all true!

Kimberley Maessen
Nullarbor Traveller
I always enjoyed traveling and exploring new countries, which was also the main reason for choosing to study tourism.

Blake Powel
International Volunteer HQ [IVHQ]
I love to travel and, specifically traveling abroad, as a way to broaden my cultural awareness. As I am usually traveling with friends or family, I wa...

Ashley Allen
Travel For Teens
Ultimately my love for adventure, cultural exploration, and stories. I wanted to experience life abroad before I went to university that would allow m...

Michaela Rubenstein
University Studies Abroad Consortium
My parents really pushed me to go abroad because they knew it would make me a well-rounded individual and they regretted not doing it themselves. I al...

Ivanya Johnson
Broadreach
My Mom found Broadreach for me; she knew that I loved adventure, meeting new people, and learning more about the world we live in. Each year I choose ...

Dallas Fawson
Discover Corps
This contrast can be seen in the beautiful church facade in San Andrés Xecul; though it is a Catholic church, it was constructed by Mayan slaves, and ...

Matthew Ambrogi
Where There Be Dragons
First off, it wasn't an easy decision. But, for me, it was something I had to do. I was in my freshman year of college, working so hard everyday for a...

Natalie Craun
Global Leadership Adventures
I wanted to discover what life was like in a developing country, step outside of my comfort zone, and sharpen my social and leadership skills.

Sydney Harned 2014
Broadreach
I’d always had a hunch that I wanted to go on to get my Divemaster certification, and after diving the past two summers with broadreach I knew that Sc...

Sydney Harned 2011
Broadreach
I’d always been interested in traveling abroad, especially to study marine science. I thought it would be a great experience for me to learn more abou...

Sally Short
Tropical Research and Conservation Centre
I love to Travel and I love to dive, The UK is too cold!!!
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