The countries of the world have been put to the test. Here are the Top Five greatest destinations for thrill-seekers around the globe.
A list of the world’s must-visit countries for thrill-seekers, has been shared by Travel & Leisure. This list was compiled after carefully examining the number of hiking and off-road trails, mountain bike routes, rock climbing spots, and roller coasters. After this data was collected for each country, the figures were normalized before giving each country an “adrenaline score” out of 10. Whether you prefer the natural thrills like rock climbing or man-made ones like roller coasters, these Top Five countries will offer every thrill-seeker a personalized, unforgettable experience.
Best Worldwide Destinations for Thrill-seekers: Ranked Scores out of 10
5. United States — Score: 8.16
The United States reaches the Top Five due to the abundance of national parks, each with breathtaking views, scenic hikes, rock climbing, whitewater rafting, and countless other thrills. In addition to all of this, the US also features over 900 roller coasters, including the world’s 3rd fastest coaster, Top Thrill 2. There are plenty of unique thrills to find here no matter the kind of thrill-seeker you are.
4. Argentina — Score: 8.34
Argentina received its high marks mainly because of the Aconcagua. The Aconcagua is a formidable mountain to hike, but even with this reputation it still sees nearly 3,000 mountaineers a year attempting to hike it. But actual success rates range from 30% to 40%, with many usually forced to turn back due to extreme high-altitude winds and, most commonly, acute mountain sickness.
3. Spain — Score: 8.41
Spain reaches the Top 3 due to its sheer number of thrill-seeking adventures, including 6,430,000 destinations for mountain biking, 10,300,000 destinations for hiking, and nearly 10,600 destinations for rock climbing.
2. Mexico — Score: 8.56
Mexico nearly ties the winning country, and it’s not hard to see why. El Potrero Chico, a large canyon, is known by locals as “Mexico’s Sport Climbing Paradise,” with many rock climbers around the world traveling to Mexico specifically to climb it.
1. France — Score: 8.86
France offers travelers over 720,000 hiking trails all across the country. France is also home to Europe’s highest peak, the Mont Blanc range, which towers at nearly 4,810 meters. If the natural thrills don’t suit you, you could instead hop on one of the country’s 227 roller coasters. No matter what kind of thrill you might be seeking, you’ll find it here.
