10 Best Global Adventures

Courtesy of our mates at REI recreational equipment, we bring you the 10 best adventure spots on the planet at the moment

REI's Adventure Programmes Manager Andy Kronen is responsible for designing new and exciting itineraries for members in some of the world's most far-flung destinations. He recalls walking through the Costa Rican rainforest with a local guide when he spotted a boa constrictor dangling in the branches of the trees. But not only was a giant man-eating snake just a short slither away, but hanging from the snake’s mouth, being chewed and digested at a molasses pace, was a sloth – limbs and all. It's fair to say Kronen is a man who takes adventuring seriously.

Kronen's REI Adventures division offers over 140 worldwide adventure travelling programmes on every continent, including kayaking, hiking, biking, mountain climbing, sailing, camping, diving and rafting, so he knows what he's talking about when it comes to expeditions.

Here, in no particular order, are Kronen's pick of the 10 best worldwide adventures:

1. Epic Cycle Climbs of France

Located in the South of France, this adventure tour begins in the Alps and then heads South-West along the coastline, taking the same path as Tour de France and allowing bikers to experience what the pros endure. Travellers also get to bike through the Pyrenees mountains and do a little bit of mountain climbing. Between the months of June to September are best.

2. Antarctica Adventure Ships

Starting at the tip of Argentina and making a clockwise circle to Antarctica and back, this tour is offered for those ambitious travellers who are eager to see the world's Polar region. Because of the ice build-up in the ocean during the coldest times of year, this adventure tour is only available through the months of November to March. Not particularly physically strenuous.

3. Australia Great Barrier Reef and Rain Forest

This trip has an abundance to offer recreationally: white water rafting, snorkelling, diving, camping in the rainforest, and sea kayaking in the Barnard Islands. The flora and fauna in the Barrier Reef are mesmerizing and visually intriguing. All participants must be able to swim. The best times of year are between the months of May-October.

4. Costa Rica Tropical Multisport

Mountains, rainforest, white sand beaches and wildlife: Costa Rica is an adventure tourist's dream. Offered at all times of year, with the exception of January and June, this trip offers the following activities: rafting, biking, ziplines, wildlife safaris, and eco-lodges. Travellers also get to see Arenal volcano and ‘observe lava flows and take a dip in a natural thermal spring.’  The rainforests are stunning and offer a surplus of wildlife, such as exotic frogs and the endangered squirrel monkey.

5. Everest Classic Trek

The trek begins in Nepal, ultimately taking travellers to a height of 18,192 feet on Kala Patar: a high point that is a favourite of documentary and movie-makers. Hiking through forested valleys, witnessing ice-capped mountains, bare rock, glaciers, and towering ice spires, this trip is rated strenuous and heavy training is required beforehand. However, technical climbing is not required. Spring and fall are best travelling seasons for the Everest Classic Trek.

6. New Zealand South Island Multisport

Beginning in the seaside village Punakaiki, 'The West Coast Jewel' and trekking through gorgeous rainforests, travellers also get to sea kayak through Milford Sound. You can spot dolphins on these kayak cruises and the scenery – where mountains seem to grow from the sea – is breathtaking. There's also bungee jumping and wine tastings.

7. Kilimanjaro Climb and Safari

Kilimanjaro is the highest mountain in Africa, standing at 18,000 ft. in Tanzania. The Kilimanjaro Climb and Safari requires physical preparation for the non-technical six-to-seven day hike. The other half of the trip is designated to mountain climbing. The tour also swings through the Serengeti National Park where you'll be able to see buffalo, lions, cheetahs, elephant, giraffes, hippos, crocodiles, and more. The only months tourists cannot do this tour are March to May, and November.

8. Mount Washington Winter Climb (Weekend Getaway)

Choose between a three-day extensive trek or a two-day, slightly easier hike. Located in New Hampshire, wind gusts ranging around 230 mph and icicles (and rime ice) are two great possibilities a traveller may endure during this short getaway. Often tourists also experience thunderstorms, hail, and heavy rain: this is a challenging climb.

9. Mt. Whitney Summit Climb (Weekend Getaway)

This classic alpine route in the Sierras features rock-scrambling, cross country hiking, and even a bit of team rope travel with crampons and ice axes for rock climbing. This is a challenging climb for fit and experienced hikers, and a true travel adventure for any climber.

10. British Columbia Whistler Multisport

Whistler Valley, located in Western Canada, has become a celebrated ski destination. Beginning in Vancouver and ending in Whistler, this tour entails hiking, mountain biking, ziplines, white water rafting (class 3 and class 4), and climbing. Whistler is stunning: mountains adjacent to the sea, marine life, wildflowers, and waterfalls.

REI's adventure programmes are all-inclusive, with the exception of airfare. The trips range in price, duration of trip, and activities. For more information, visit: www.rei.com/adventures

Kronen advises all travellers should undergo two to four months of prior training/physical activity in order to enjoy the adventure tours to the fullest. The more active and in-shape travelers are prior to departure, the more enjoyable the trip will be. REI/REI Adventures is committed to sustainability and maintaining a zero carbon footprint.