There are exciting holidays – and then there are extreme getaways. For some of us, the ideal vacation involves spine-tingling, heart-in-your-mouth adventures that make for great conversation starters at the dinner table. WTM dares you to give these extreme sports a go this year!
Volcano sandboarding, Nicaragua
Hiking up Nicaragua’s most active volcano and sliding down its sandy side is an adrenaline junkie’s wildest dream come true. The Cerro Negro is a short distance from the exciting town of Leon and is primarily made up of fine grains of volcanic rock, which makes it possible to surf down the steep slope on a wooden board at speeds of up to 30mph. At the top of the hill, panoramic views of the Telica and San Cristobal volcanoes await your eyes.
Nicaragua offers vibrant Latin-American culture and plenty of other adventure sports, including zip lining and kayaking. The country also boasts incredible variety. Head to Granada for grand colonial Spanish architecture or Little Corn Islands for an almost Caribbean-like atmosphere.
Indulge in a traditional meal of eggs, beans, rice and plantains and don’t skip one of the many open-air dance clubs that play hip reggaeton music into the wee hours.
Heli-skiing in Southern Alps, New Zealand
Heli-skiing is being sought after by sporting enthusiasts because it involves helicopter access to remote areas and slopes of virgin powder snow. This also means no long lines queueing for ski lifts and wide, open terrain to explore. The spectacular Southern Alps of New Zealand, located near Queenstown, offer an experience that even intermediate skiers can enjoy.
New Zealand is considered to be the heli capital of the world. You can go almost anywhere in the country via a chopper for mountain biking, hot-springing, canyoneering, sightseeing, bungee-jumping and plenty more. Queenstown also has a plethora of entertainment unique to the location.
Waterfall abseiling in Malaysia
Just imagine sliding down a roaring waterfall while taking in the stunning view as the adrenaline gushes through your body. This extreme sport involves scaling up a 105-foot waterfall as it gushes down a rocky slope in Ulu Slim Park, and then sliding down with a rope. Malaysia also offers a magnificent smorgasbord of amazing sights and activities. Grab unbeatable bargains at Petaling Street or explore the natural limestone wonders of the Batu Caves. Marvel at the Petronas Towers and then head to Jalan Alor for some authentic eats.
