For adventure seekers and thrill-seekers, the world is full of exciting and challenging travel quests to undertake. From hiking to the top of Mount Everest to surfing the biggest waves in the world, there are countless ways to push your limits and test your mettle. In this blog post, we’re going to take a look at 20 of the most challenging travel quests in the world.
- Hiking to the top of Mount Everest
- Trekking the entire length of the Appalachian Trail
- Biking around the world
- Sailing solo around the world
- Trekking to the South Pole
- Canyoneering the Grand Canyon
- Scuba diving the Great Barrier Reef
- Hiking the Pacific Crest Trail
- Climbing the Seven Summits (the highest peak on each continent)
- Trekking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
- Surfing the biggest waves in the world
- Trekking the length of the Nile River
- Biking the Tour de France route
- Rafting the Grand Canyon
- Climbing the toughest rock climbing routes in the world
- Trekking the Himalayas
- Kitesurfing across the Pacific Ocean
- Backpacking the entire length of the Continental Divide Trail
- Exploring the Amazon Rain Forest
- Trekking to the North Pole.
1. Hiking to the top of Mount Everest Reaching the summit of Mount Everest is considered the ultimate challenge for mountain climbers. Standing at 29,029 feet (8,848 meters), Mount Everest is the highest peak in the world, and the thin air and extreme cold make it a formidable challenge for even the most experienced climbers. Those who successfully reach the summit of Mount Everest can take pride in having achieved one of the most difficult and dangerous feats in the world.
2. Trekking the entire length of the Appalachian Trail For hikers and backpackers, the Appalachian Trail is the ultimate challenge. Stretching for 2,190 miles (3,524 kilometers) from Georgia to Maine, the Appalachian Trail passes through some of the most beautiful and rugged landscapes in the United States. Trekking the entire length of the trail is a grueling undertaking that can take several months to complete, but those who succeed can take pride in having accomplished one of the longest and most challenging hikes in the
3. Biking around the world For cyclists, there’s no greater challenge than biking around the world. This involves cycling for thousands of miles across multiple continents, facing a wide variety of terrain and weather conditions along the way. Biking around the world is a physically and mentally demanding quest that requires a high level of fitness, endurance, and determination. But for those who succeed, the sense of accomplishment and the memories of the places and people they encounter along the way will be well worth the effort.
4. Sailing solo around the world Sailing solo around the world is considered one of the ultimate challenges for sailors. This involves navigating a sailboat around the globe, facing the challenges of the open ocean and the harsh conditions of the sea. Sailing solo around the world is a lonely and dangerous quest that requires a high level of skill, experience, and self-reliance. But for those who succeed, the sense of freedom and the rewards of achieving such an epic feat will be unparalleled.
5. Trekking to the South Pole Trekking to the South Pole is a challenging and unforgiving quest that requires extreme physical fitness and mental toughness. This involves trekking for hundreds of miles across the frozen wastelands of Antarctica, facing sub-zero temperatures, strong winds, and other extreme conditions. Trekking to the South Pole is a grueling and dangerous undertaking that should only be attempted by the most experienced and well-prepared adventurers. But for those who succeed, the sense of accomplishment and the memories of the stunning beauty of the polar landscape will be unforgettable.
6. Canyoneering the Grand Canyon Canyoneering the Grand Canyon is a thrilling and challenging quest that involves exploring the canyons of the Grand Canyon by a variety of means, including hiking, rappelling, and swimming. This requires a high level of fitness and technical skill, as well as a willingness to take on some extreme challenges. Canyoneering the Grand Canyon is a demanding and dangerous quest that should only be attempted by those who are well-prepared and have the right equipment and training. But for those who succeed, the rewards of exploring this stunning and iconic landscape will be well worth the effort
7. Scuba diving the Great Barrier Reef For scuba diving enthusiasts, the Great Barrier Reef is the ultimate destination. With its crystal clear waters and incredible marine life, the Great Barrier Reef is a paradise for divers. But exploring the Great Barrier Reef can also be challenging, with strong currents, deep waters, and potentially dangerous marine life. Those who succeed in scuba diving the Great Barrier Reef can take pride in having accomplished one of the most challenging and
8. Hiking the Pacific Crest Trail: Stretching from the Mexican border to Canada, the Pacific Crest Trail is one of the longest and most challenging hiking trails in the world. It takes most hikers about 5 months to complete the entire trail, which traverses some of the most rugged and remote terrain in North America.
9. Climbing the Seven Summits is a mountaineering challenge that involves climbing the highest peak on each of the seven continents. The Seven Summits are:
- Aconcagua, South America (6962m)
- Denali (also known as Mount McKinley), North America (6,190 m)
- Elbrus, Europe (5,642 m)
- Kilimanjaro, Africa (5,895 m)
- Vinson Massif, Antarctica (4,892 m)
- Puncak Jaya (also known as Carstensz Pyramid), Australia (4,884 m)
- Mount Everest, Asia (8,848 m)
Climbing all of the Seven Summits is considered a major mountaineering achievement, as it requires a high level of skill, experience, and physical fitness. Additionally, the Seven Summits are located in remote and often inhospitable locations, and climbing them requires a high degree of self-sufficiency and problem-solving skills. The Seven Summits are also weather dependent and climbers need to be prepared to wait for the right conditions. Climbing each mountain will require different gear, skills and preparation and climbers need to be familiar with each mountain’s specific hazards and challenges.
It is important to note that climbing the Seven Summits is a significant undertaking and requires significant planning, training and investment. It is also important to be aware of the risks involved and to be properly equipped and guided by experienced professionals. It is also important to note that climbing the Seven Summits is not without risks, and climbers have to be aware of the potential hazards such as altitude sickness, falls, avalanches, and other accidents.
10. Trekking the Inca Trail. The Inca Trail is a famous trek in Peru that leads to the 15th-century Inca citadel of Machu Picchu. The trail is approximately 26 miles (43 km) long and takes 4-5 days to complete. It passes through a variety of landscapes, including mountains, cloud forest, and subtropical jungle, and offers stunning views of the Andes. The trek is considered moderate to difficult and requires a good level of physical fitness. It is also necessary to obtain a permit in advance, as the number of trekkers allowed on the trail is limited to 500 per day, including support staff.
11. Surfing the biggest waves in the world. The biggest waves in the world are typically found in the open ocean, where wind and swell combine to create huge swells that can reach 100 feet or more. Some of the most famous big wave surf spots include Mavericks in California, Jaws in Hawaii, and Nazaré in Portugal. These spots are considered extremely dangerous and require a high level of skill, experience, and fitness to surf. Many of the top big wave surfers also use specialized equipment, such as tow-in surfboards and jet skis, to help them catch and ride these massive waves. It’s important to note that only experienced and professional surfers should attempt to surf these waves, as the risks of injury or death are high.
12. Trekking the length of the Nile River, which is approximately 4,135 miles (6,650 km) long, would be a significant undertaking and would likely take several months to complete. The Nile flows through several countries, including Egypt, Sudan, and Uganda, and passes through a variety of landscapes, including desert, savannah, and rainforest. It would be a challenging trek that would require a good level of physical fitness and preparation, as well as the necessary permits and visas for the countries through which the Nile flows. The trek would also require careful planning and preparation for safety, as well as dealing with logistics such as food, water, and accommodation. It is also important to be mindful of the political and security situation of each country before embarking on the trek.
13. Biking the Tour de France. The Tour de France is a professional cycling race that takes place annually in France and sometimes in neighboring countries. The route changes every year, covering approximately 2,100 to 2,300 miles (3,400 to 3,700 km) over the course of 3 weeks.
Biking the Tour de France route would be a significant physical challenge and requires a high level of fitness and training. The route passes through hilly and mountainous terrain, and riders must be able to handle long distances and steep climbs. It’s also important to note that the Tour de France route is closed to the public during the race, and trying to bike the route at the same time as the professional race is not allowed and dangerous.
Many cycling enthusiasts, however, choose to bike parts of the route during non-race periods, this is called “cyclotouring” and it’s a way to experience the tour and the beautiful landscapes of France. Some companies offer guided tours, which take care of logistics such as accommodation, food, and support.
14. Rafting the Grand Canyon is a popular and challenging adventure that takes you through one of the most spectacular and remote wilderness areas in the United States. The Grand Canyon is a massive gorge carved by the Colorado River, and it is considered one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World.
Rafting the Grand Canyon typically takes place on the Colorado River, and it can last from several days to a few weeks, depending on the itinerary. It is a challenging trip that requires a high level of physical fitness, as well as experience in white-water rafting, as the river is known for its powerful currents and rapids. The trip also requires preparation and packing appropriate gear as it will be a self-sufficient trip.
There are several ways to raft the Grand Canyon, including:
- Commercial rafting trips: These trips are guided by experienced outfitters and they provide all necessary equipment and supplies.
- Non-commercial trips: These trips are self-guided and require a permit from the National Park Service.
It is important to note that the Grand Canyon is a remote wilderness area, and it is essential to be aware of the potential hazards such as flash floods, heat exhaustion, and hypothermia. Additionally, the trip may also require a high degree of self-sufficiency and problem-solving skills. It is also important to be aware of the park rules and regulations and to follow Leave No Trace principles.
15. Climbing the toughest rock climbing routes in the world is a challenging and demanding endeavor that requires a high level of skill, experience, and physical fitness. Some of the most difficult climbing routes in the world are considered to be “Grade VI” or higher, and are located in remote and rugged locations.
Some of the most challenging climbing routes in the world include:
- The Dawn Wall on El Capitan in Yosemite National Park, USA
- The Shark’s Fin on Mount Meru, India
- The Compressor Route on Cerro Torre, Argentina
- The climb of The Nose on El Capitan, USA
- The climb of The Punks in the Gym on El Capitan, USA
- The climb of The Fish on El Capitan, USA
Climbing these routes requires not only physical strength and endurance but also a high level of mental focus, as climbers often have to overcome fear and uncertainty while navigating challenging terrain. Furthermore, these routes are also dangerous, and climbers have to be aware of the risks of falling and equipment failure. It is essential to have a partner with the same level of experience, and to be familiar with proper safety techniques, equipment, and rescue procedures. Climbing routes like these are also often weather dependent and you may have to be prepared to wait for the right conditions.
16. Trekking in the Himalayas is a challenging and rewarding adventure that takes you through some of the most spectacular mountain scenery in the world. The Himalayas is a vast mountain range that runs through several countries, including India, Nepal, Bhutan, Pakistan, and China, and it is home to the highest peaks on Earth, including Mount Everest.
There are many trekking routes in the Himalayas, ranging from easy to challenging, and varying in length from a few days to several weeks. Some popular trekking routes include:
- The Annapurna Circuit in Nepal
- The Everest Base Camp Trek in Nepal
- The Markha Valley Trek in India
- The Bhutan Cultural Trek
However, trekking in the Himalayas is not without its risks, and it is important to be well-prepared with the proper gear, supplies, and physical fitness. The trekking routes in Himalayas often go through high altitude, and trekkers have to be prepared for altitude sickness, which can be fatal if not treated immediately. It is also important to be aware of the weather, as it can change quickly and unexpectedly. It is recommended to hire a local guide and porter, who know the routes and conditions, and can help you navigate potential hazards.
17. Kitesurfing across the Pacific Ocean is an extremely ambitious and dangerous endeavor. It would require a significant amount of planning, preparation, and skill. The Pacific Ocean is the largest and deepest ocean on Earth, and it is known for its strong currents, high winds, and unpredictable weather patterns. A kitesurfer would also have to contend with large swells, as well as the risk of encountering sharks and other marine life. Additionally, the trip would take a considerable amount of time, likely several months, and the surfer would have to be self-sufficient for the duration of the journey. It is also important to note that crossing international waters may require certain permits and the surfer would have to be aware of the laws and regulations of each country crossed. It would be advisable to have a support team and a rescue plan in place.
18. Backpacking the entire length of the Continental Divide Trail (CDT) is a challenging and rewarding adventure that takes several months to complete. The CDT is a long-distance hiking trail that runs from Mexico to Canada through the Rocky Mountains and the Great Divide. The trail is approximately 3,100 miles long and passes through five states: New Mexico, Colorado, Wyoming, Idaho, and Montana. The trail is known for its rugged and remote terrain, as well as its spectacular views of the mountains and wilderness. If you plan to hike the entire trail, it is important to be well-prepared with the proper gear, supplies, and fitness level, as well as to be aware of the potential hazards such as high altitude, wildlife and weather.
19. Exploring the Amazon Rain forest: The Amazon Rain forest is the largest and most bio-diverse rain forest in the world. It covers over 5.5 million square kilometers and is home to an incredible array of flora and fauna. Exploring this vast wilderness can be a challenging and rewarding adventure, but it requires careful planning and a willingness to rough it in the jungle.
20. Trekking to the North Pole: For the ultimate polar adventure, try trekking to the North Pole. This grueling expedition requires months of preparation, as well as specialized training and equipment. You’ll need to be in peak physical condition to withstand the harsh polar conditions, including extreme cold and unforgiving terrain.
Many of the locations mentioned in this blog will be included in XploreGEO quests. We are hoping to launch the companion app in mid 2023 as well as the game itself. To learn more about XploreGEO check out this video which will explain more about what XploreGEO and how to play the game. CLICK HERE to check out the video.
