For some, a vacation means relaxation on a sunny beach, but for adrenaline junkies, it’s all about adventure. If you’re the type to seek excitement — like ziplining through forests or scaling glaciers — you’ll want to check out the latest list of top destinations for thrill-seekers.
Travel and Leisure recently ranked the 15 best countries for adventurers, considering factors like roller coasters, casinos, rock climbing spots, mountain biking routes, hiking trails, and off-road adventures. Using this data, they assigned each destination an “adrenaline score” out of 10.
France claimed the top spot with a score of 8.86. Known for its stunning mountain ranges, France boasts over 720,000 hiking trails and thrilling experiences like conquering Mont Blanc, Europe’s highest peak at 4,810 meters, and enjoying 227 roller coaster rides.
In second place is Mexico, with a score of 8.56, thanks to its snow-capped peaks and renowned rock climbing area, El Potrero Chico. Mexico’s 360+ casinos also contribute to its appeal for indoor thrill-seekers.
Spain took third with a score of 8.41, earning high marks for its extensive network of hiking, rock climbing, and mountain biking trails. The country is home to more thrill-seeking routes than any other destination on the list.
Argentina placed fourth with a score of 8.34, largely due to Aconcagua, a towering peak that draws over 3,000 mountaineers annually, and its vast casino complex, Trilenium.
Rounding out the top five is the United States, scoring 8.16. With nearly 3,000 casinos and over 900 roller coasters, including the world’s second-fastest, Kingda Ka, the U.S. offers plenty of adrenaline-pumping activities.
These destinations are perfect for those craving adventure, with a mix of outdoor thrills and indoor excitement.