Ready to trade room service for a rush of adrenaline? I’ve been there—and I found places that left me breathless in the best way. Think rugged hikes, wild rivers, and epic scenic rides that push you out of your comfort zone and into something unforgettable. These are the kinds of trips where you and your travel buddy get to face challenges, share laughs, and collect those can’t-stop-talking-about-it memories.

If you ask me, these vacations are all about bold experiences, breathtaking backdrops, and making memories together—one heart-racing moment at a time.

Highlights:

  • Hiking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, Peru – I’ll never forget that feeling of seeing the ruins after days of climbing through cloud forests and high passes. If you’re up for the challenge, it’s magic.
  • Whitewater rafting and ziplining in Costa Rica’s rainforests – I’ve screamed (with joy) through treetops and paddled down wild rivers—this place is pure adventure from every angle.
  • Glacier trekking and kayaking in Alaska – Walking on ancient ice and paddling past fjords? I still get chills thinking about it. You’ll feel small in the best possible way.
  • Motorbiking through the rice terraces of Vietnam – I cruised past emerald hills, tiny villages, and waving kids. If you love the open road, this one’s a dream ride.
  • Hot air balloon rides and desert safaris in Morocco – Floating over the Sahara at sunrise was surreal. Add in camels and campfire dinners, and you’ve got a story you’ll tell for years.

Unique Adventure Vacations for Couples:

Incredible Adventures

Le Bouil Baptiste/stock.adobe.com

Incredible Adventures - Join small-group eco tours and explore wild landscapes on an exciting adventure trip.                                    

The Three Camel Lodge, Gobi Desert

The Three Camel Lodge

The Three Camel Lodge, Gobi Desert - Sleep in luxury gers and discover nomadic culture on an unusual retreat.                                    

Sun Mountain Lodge in Washington State

Sun Mountain Lodge

Sun Mountain Lodge in Washington State - Hike scenic trails and savor gourmet meals during a peaceful summer escape.                                    

Churchill Wild

Churchill Wild

Churchill Wild - Track polar bears and walk Arctic tundra during an unforgettable adventure getaway.                                    

Longitude 131 Near Ayers Rock in Central Australia

Longitude 131

Longitude 131 Near Ayers Rock in Central Australia - Glamp in the outback and admire Uluru views on a once-in-a-lifetime trip.                                    

Shakti 360 Leti in India

Shakti 360 Leti

Shakti 360 Leti in India - Relax in Himalayan serenity and explore remote trails on a peaceful retreat.                                    

Hotel de Glace - Ice Hotel Quebec

Ice Hotel Quebec

Hotel de Glace - Ice Hotel Quebec - Sleep on ice beds and sip cocktails in a magical winter escape.                                    

Lilianfels Blue Mountains Resort

Lilianfels Blue Mountains Resort

Lilianfels Blue Mountains Resort - Enjoy spa treatments and explore cliffside views on a relaxing couples’ weekend.                                    

Palacio Nazarenas

Palacio Nazarenas

Palacio Nazarenas - Stay in a former palace and explore Cusco’s sights on a luxury cultural trip.                                    

In Summary...

(and if you want to revisit my photo journey)