For seasoned travellers who have already ticked off the big-name destinations, finding unique and thrilling adventures can be a challenge. The world is smaller, flights can be cheaper and traversing the globe is no longer a superhuman feat. Whether influenced by your favourite travel TikToker or just having something to tick off your bucket list, you might want to consider as cool emerging tourist destinations.
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Emerging countries offer an untapped source of unusual activities that might be tough or at least expensive to find in other countries. From dune surfing in Namibia to paragliding over the mountains of Pakistan, these off-the-beaten-path adventures provide the perfect escape for those looking to do something different.
5 emerging tourist destinations and unique activities
1. Dune surfing in Namibia
Namibia is known for its stunning desert landscapes, particularly the towering dunes of the Namib Desert, which are among the tallest in the world. While some come to admire the beauty of the desert, adventure seekers can take things to the next level with dune surfing, also known as sandboarding.
Why dune surfing?
Imagine racing down the side of a massive dune on a board, wind whipping by as you experience the thrill of snowboarding, but in a warm, desert setting. The dunes of Sossusvlei are a popular spot for sandboarding, with slopes that range from beginner-friendly to expert-level. No snow is required, just a sturdy board, a sense of adventure, and a lot of courage.
What to expect
- Gear: Equipment for dune surfing is typically provided by local tour operators. This includes boards designed specifically for sliding down the sand.
- Physical exertion: Climbing the steep dunes can be physically demanding, but the ride down is exhilarating and well worth the effort.
- Best time to visit: The cooler months from May to September are ideal for sandboarding, as temperatures are more manageable in the desert.
2. Paragliding over the Karakoram Mountains in Pakistan
Have you ever considered travelling to Pakistan? This is one of those emerging tourist destinations that is often overlooked by mainstream travellers. The country is home to some of the most stunning landscapes in the world, particularly in the Karakoram Range, which includes the famous K2.
The Ultimate Aerial Adventure
Paragliding over the Karakoram Mountains provides breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks, deep valleys, and glacier rivers. The adventure begins in Skardu, a gateway to some of the highest mountains in the world. As you soar through the sky, you’ll be treated to panoramic views of untouched natural beauty.
What to expect
- Pilot assistance: Paragliding in Pakistan is available for beginners and experienced flyers alike, with tandem flights offered by trained professionals.
- Best spots: Skardu and nearby Hunza Valley are popular starting points for paragliding, offering ideal flying conditions and awe-inspiring scenery.
- Best time to visit: The ideal season for paragliding in Pakistan is from April to October when the weather is stable, and the winds are favourable.
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3. Volcano boarding in Nicaragua
Nicaragua is home to one of the most extreme sports in the world: volcano boarding. This unique activity involves racing down the side of an active volcano on a specially designed board, reaching speeds of up to 50 miles per hour.
The thrill of conquering Cerro Negro
Cerro Negro, an active volcano near the town of León, is the go-to spot for volcano boarding. After a hike to the summit, you’ll don a jumpsuit and goggles before sitting or standing on your board to ride down the black volcanic ash. It’s a fast-paced, adrenaline-pumping experience that’s unlike anything else in the world.
What to expect
- Gear: Protective gear, including a jumpsuit and goggles, is provided to protect against rough volcanic ash.
- Skill level: Volcano boarding is accessible to beginners, though having some experience with similar sports like snowboarding or sandboarding can be helpful.
- Best time to visit: The dry season from November to April is the best time for volcano boarding, as the trails are in optimal condition.
4. Cave diving in the cenotes of Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula
While Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula is best known for its beaches and Mayan ruins, the region’s cenotes (natural sinkholes) offer a unique underwater adventure for thrill-seekers. Cave diving in these cenotes provides an opportunity to explore subterranean worlds filled with crystal-clear water, stunning rock formations, and ancient history.
Discovering the mysteries of the underworld
The cenotes have deep cultural significance, having been used by the ancient Maya for rituals and as a water source. Today, they are a hotspot for adventure, particularly for divers looking to explore the underwater cave systems that run through the peninsula. The cenotes vary in depth and difficulty, with some ideal for snorkelling and others for more advanced cave diving.
What to expect
- Gear: Divers will need standard diving equipment, and many cenotes also require specialized cave diving gear. Local dive shops provide rentals and guided tours.
- Best cenotes for diving: Dos Ojos, Gran Cenote, and Angelita are some of the top spots for cave diving, each offering unique formations and varying levels of difficulty.
- Best time to visit: The dry season, from November to April, offers the best diving conditions, with clear water and less chance of rain disrupting visibility.
5. Hiking to the ‘Lost City’ of Teyuna in Colombia
For those looking for a challenging yet rewarding trek, hiking to the Lost City (Ciudad Perdida) in Colombia’s Sierra Nevada mountains is a must. The Lost City predates Peru’s Machu Picchu and offers an authentic, off-the-beaten-path adventure through dense jungle, river crossings, and steep climbs.
An epic trek through history
The journey to the Lost City is a multi-day trek through rugged terrain, requiring physical endurance and stamina. Along the way, hikers will encounter indigenous communities, stunning waterfalls, and diverse wildlife. Once you reach the ancient site, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the jungle and a sense of awe at the well-preserved terraces and structures.
What to expect
- Trek length: The hike typically takes 4 to 6 days, depending on the tour. Be prepared for long days of walking in hot, humid conditions.
- Guided tours: Due to the remote location and cultural significance, all treks to the Lost City must be done with a licensed guide.
- Best time to visit: December to March is the best time for the trek, as the weather is dry and the trail is more accessible.
Adventure awaits in emerging tourist destinations
For frequent travellers looking to add a sense of excitement and discovery to their itineraries, these off-the-beaten-path adventures in emerging countries offer the perfect blend of thrill and exploration. Whether you’re racing down volcanic slopes in Nicaragua, flying above the Karakoram Mountains in Pakistan, or diving into the mystical cenotes of Mexico, these experiences provide the kind of stories you’ll be telling for years to come.
By venturing into these less-visited destinations, you not only discover thrilling activities but also contribute to the growth of tourism in countries that are often overlooked. The world is full of incredible adventures—go out and find yours.
