Busting 4 Myths about Adventure Travel!

Adventure Travel is a rapidly-expanding segment of the travel industry.

The definition of “adventure travel” varies between travelers as well as tour operators and I'm here to bust some of the most common myths that revolve around adventure travel today. 

Let's go through some of the biggest myths.

MYTH #1 – Adventure travel is only for youngsters.

Absolutely false! The Adventure Travel Trade Association published a June 2023 report revealing the largest percentage of adventure travelers are between the ages of 51 - 60 years of age with a whopping 28% of the market. Following close behind them are travelers aged 41-50 at 22% of the market. So, let's call it what it is ~ the bulk of the adventure travel participants are not youngsters.

MYTH #2 – Adventure travel is very expensive.

This is simply not so. As a would-be adventure traveler, you have options to adjust the cost if needed. Choose to adjust the level of accommodation from a five-star hotel suite down to three-star hotel room prior to your trek. When considering an expedition cruise, allow us to help you choose a line that will suit your budget. Not all expedition-style cruises are created equal.

Next, consider traveling during the “off season.” Depending on desired trek, climb, or tour, it may be possible to visit during the shoulder season to reduce the cost. When thinking about air transportation – taking the red-eye flight or adding an additional layover in route may lower the flight cost significantly.

MYTH #3 – Adventure travel must be a vacation of extremes!

Extremely cold, extremely hot, extremely high on the mountain, extremely fast paced, extremely physical. This may not be your cup of tea – or maybe it is!  

Pushing oneself to the limits may be part of your definition for adventure travel, but keep in mind – one person’s limits are not the same as another. There are adventure trips geared toward photographing wildlife or birding in the Galapagos Islands. In comparison, there are expeditions that skirt the Antarctic region allowing adventurers to hop on dog sleds, spend the night on a glacier and see nature at its finest. Whatever your dream may be, climbing Kilimanjaro, paragliding in Paraguay, heliskiing in New Zealand, or kayaking with the whales in Alaska during the summer, it doesn’t have to include an “extreme” condition. You may be thrilled to go dog sledding on a shore excursion while on your Alaskan cruise!

MYTH #4 – Adventure travel involves staying in basic accommodations in a remote, rugged setting without electricity or toilet facilities.

Again, FALSE! Expedition ships have suites with all the bells and whistles available. Some safari companies have yurts and tents that rival the finest hotels in the world. All tour companies provide facilities that provide creature comforts you’ll appreciate.

Don't let the word "Adventure" sway you from considering this style of vacation. Today active travelers seek to immerse themselves in different cultures and experience activities that challenge them personally.

There is a wide range of hiking, cycling, ecotourism, culinary, and expedition cruise voyages for travelers to choose from and regardless of age, there is a trip for you! Just remember, don’t let the misconceptions about adventure travel keep you home. Get out and enjoy an adventure!

After reading this article, you may have some questions about adventure travel. If so, please reach out to me. I would be happy to help you sift through the many vacation options to find the perfect vacation that matches your needs.