Off-the-Beaten-Path Adventures: 9 Unique Thrills from Lonely Planet's Atlas of Adventures
Experienced adventurers, you've conquered the iconic trails of the USA's Sierra Nevada and Chile's Torres del Paine. Now, elevate your journeys with these lesser-known yet unforgettable alternatives, curated from Lonely Planet's Atlas of Adventures.
From land sailing across a dried lakebed in Argentina to belly-boarding colossal dunes in Namibia, these expert-recommended experiences will reignite your sense of wonder and bragging rights.
Land Sailing in Argentina
At Argentina's Pampa El Leoncito, 25km from Barreal, a vast clay lakebed transforms into a playground for carrovelismo, or land sailing. Wheel-equipped 'wind cars' hit speeds over 100km/h across the 13km surface, powered by evening conchabado winds up to 80km/h amid towering Andean peaks nearing 7,000m. Opt for a guided tandem ride or pilot your own single-seater.
Cave Tubing in Belize
In Belize's Nohoch Che'en Caves, the Caves Branch River creates perfect tubing conditions. After a jungle hike, float on inflatable tubes through illuminated caverns featuring stalactites and ancient Maya artwork. For thrill-seekers, join a full-day spelunking expedition into the depths, navigating streams and rocks to reach the stunning Crystal Cave.
Mokoro Trips in Botswana
Glide silently through the Okavango Delta's channels in a traditional mokoro dugout canoe. This slow-paced adventure immerses you at water level amid reeds, wildlife, and vibrant birdlife—touch the vegetation, spot tiny frogs, or relax under the endless blue sky.
Bog-Walking in Estonia
Estonia's mires span a fifth of the mainland, steeped in folklore and ancient history (up to 10,000 years old). Don bog shoes for guided summer walks revealing unique peatlands and wildlife. Prime spots: Lahemaa and Viru in the north, Soomaa and Matsalu in the south.
Ski-Exploring in Greenland
Channel the spirit of Fridtjof Nansen's 1888 crossing on a 500km ski traverse of Greenland's ice sheet. Starting from Ammassalik (east) to Kangerlussuaq (west) or reverse, marvel at the abandoned DYE2 station. Trusted operators like Adventure Consultants, Jagged Globe, or Icelandic Mountain Guides handle logistics.
Pony Trekking in Lesotho
Lesotho's sure-footed Basotho ponies conquer steep mountains effortlessly. Multi-day treks from Ts'ehlanyane National Park, Bokong Nature Reserve, Malealea, or Semonkong lodges offer rugged paths and breathtaking vistas.
Volcano Trekking in Vanuatu
On remote Ambrym Island, trek to the smoking peaks of Mt Marum and Mt Benbow with a local guide (activity monitored for safety). Choose a day hike to Marum or an overnight cross-island adventure peering into active magma chambers amid jungle trails.
Dune Boarding in Namibia
In the world's oldest desert near Swakopmund, board towering Namib dunes. Hike up, then carve down or schuss at 80km/h lying prone. Alter Action offers daily trips from this adventure hub.
Coasteering in the UK
Coasteering blends scrambling, cliff jumping, swimming, and climbing along rugged coasts—no boats or ropes needed. Wear wetsuits, helmets, and shoes for safety. Pioneered in 1986 by TYF Adventure in Pembrokeshire, it's now available UK-wide, especially in Wales, Cornwall, and Devon.
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