Nature trail walks, hiking, wildlife safaris, and island hopping are considered the top “adventurous” activities to take part in on an adventure holiday, a survey has found.
A poll of 2,000 adults found that more than half (53%) want to push themselves out of their comfort zone to try new things on holiday – such as snorkelling (31%), wilderness camping (22%), and cliff diving (19%).
Snowboarding (21%) and husky sledding (23%) were also named among the top 20 adventure holiday activities.
And when it comes to locations that are considered the most daring, Antarctica (57%), the Galapagos Islands (50%), South America (43%), and West Africa (41%) top the list.
The research, commissioned by adventure travel company Hurtigruten Expeditions, found that the average adult goes on at least one holiday a year, and has travelled to 12 different countries in their lifetime – although one in five (19%) like to revisit the same destinations.
But over a third (36%) are looking to broaden their horizons in the next 12 months, according to the study.
And while 30% considered it bold to try a new dish abroad, 23% saw anything less than exploring a truly remote part of the world, or camping out in the wilderness, as not “daring” enough.
Anthony Daniels, UK general manager for the travel brand, said: “More than ever, travellers are looking to break away from their usual holiday habits.
“And as our research shows, we are continuing to witness the emergence of the adventure traveller who is looking to explore new destinations and experience once-in-a-lifetime trips.”
The study also found that more than half (54%) go on adventure holidays with their partner, while 26% prefer to be adventurous with their friends.
And with 66% wanting to try new things on holiday, even if they have to step out of their comfort zone, 61% prefer the idea of doing so if they had an expert guide or helping hand, according to the OnePoll data.
Of those who do take the plunge, it makes them feel excited (37%), happy (25%), and proud (23%).
And the characteristics most associated with an adventurer were found to be active (51%), courageous (45%), and spirited (40%).
It also emerged that, in the past, a fifth considered going on a rollercoaster to be adventurous – but now, 49% view exploring remote parts of the world as daring.
Anthony Daniels, from Hurtigruten Expeditions – which takes guests to some of the most adventurous parts of the world, with excursions including camping in Antarctica, dogsledding through the Arctic, and sea kayaking in Alaska – added: “With the Galapagos Islands and Antarctica featuring highly as adventurous destinations, these once-deemed fantasy escapes are now a reality for those looking to discover incredible parts of the world.
“With our Expedition team on hand to guide you, and state-of-the-art expedition ships, our team take you to places you might only have dreamt of – where you can discover your inner explorer.”
THE TOP 20 ACTIVITIES BRITS EXPECT ON AN ADVENTUROUS HOLIDAY:
- Nature trail walks
- Wildlife safari
- Hiking
- Island exploration/hopping
- Snorkelling
- Trying a new dish
- Tasting local cuisine specialities
- Kayaking
- Jet skiing
- Rainforest tour
- Quad biking
- Mountain climbing
- Paddle boarding
- Husky sledding
- Surfing
- Wilderness camping
- Skiing
- Stargazing
- Overnight jungle stay
- Snowboarding
