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Choosing the best adventure resort for your next vacation can be intimidating. But with a little research and planning, you can find the perfect spot to enjoy all the outdoor activities you love. Discover the world’s best adventure resorts, from safari getaways to mountain trails. Unforgettable experiences and adventures await.

What is an Adventure Resort?

An adventure resort is a type of vacation destination where visitors can partake in physical activity such as horseback riding, ziplining, rafting, scuba diving, snorkeling, surfing and more. Many resorts offer packages tailored to different levels of experience and physical fitness. So whether you’re an experienced adventurer or just looking to explore nature in a new way, there’s something out there for everyone.

How to Choose an Adventure Resort

When choosing an adventure resort to visit, it is important to consider what types of activities you want to do and what level of difficulty or intensity best suits you. Research different resorts and packages, speak to a travel expert and read reviews from past guests to better understand the resort’s offerings, or have a luxury travel agent do it for you! Also, consider whether you need any special equipment, such as scuba gear or horseback riding supplies, as some resorts may provide these items while others will require you to bring your own. Remember to factor in the cost of renting equipment, shipping it to your destination or purchasing specific items when choosing between the resorts. It is important you have the proper clothing and gear for the adventure you choose to embark on.

Finally, make sure that the adventure resort has all of the necessary safety measures in place so that you can enjoy your time outdoors without worry or stress. Look for reviews about the quality of equipment, caliber of instruction and qualifications of the staff at the resort, as well as the type of environment they create for visitors. Resorts that offer activities centered around wildlife should participate in conservation efforts and be environmentally friendly. On the other hand, if you are looking for adventures that involve animal encounters, make sure to thoroughly understand the measures taken to ensure the animal’s health, safety and well-being. Taking a few extra steps before booking your trip can help ensure that it’s the best adventure resort.

Our Top 10 Adventure Resorts

No matter where you choose, an adventure resort will surely provide a unique and exciting experience that will be remembered for years to come. So start researching, plan your next trip, and prepare for unforgettable outdoor fun!

Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge, Canada 

Photos Courtesy of Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge

Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge, Canada 

To start our our list of the world’s best adventure resorts, The Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge is a luxurious getaway in the Canadian Rockies, providing visitors with plenty of outdoor activities and stunning scenery. Guests can explore the trails on foot or horseback, enjoy water sports such as canoeing, kayaking and paddle boarding, or take a scenic drive around the lake. With so many opportunities for adventure, it’s no surprise that this resort is consistently rated one of the best for outdoor exploration.

Jasper National Park in Alberta, Canada, is one of the best places to explore nature and participate in outdoor activities. The largest national park in the Canadian Rockies boasts a stunning landscape of peaks, glaciers, valleys, lakes and rivers. If you’d prefer a less active adventure, plenty of scenic drives around the lake offer breathtaking views. With its abundance of wildlife and diverse topography, Jasper National Park is an ideal escape for anyone seeking compelling outdoor adventures.

Nayara Tented Camp, Costa Rica 

Photos Courtesy of Nayara Tented Camp

Nayara Tented Camp, Costa Rica 

Nayara Tented Camp in La Fortuna Costa Rica is an eco-conscious paradise that offers guests the opportunity to explore and discover the lush jungles, rivers and pristine beaches of the region. From zip lining, waterfall rappelling, and canopy tours to horseback riding, hiking and wildlife observation, adventure seekers will find endless opportunities for discovery here. The resort also offers a variety of spa treatments as well as yoga classes for those looking for a bit of relaxation during their stay. Costa Rica is also a great place for families. 

Arenal Volcano National Park is located just outside of La Fortuna de San Carlos and is best known for its spectacular views of Arenal Volcano. The park features various trails ranging from easy to difficult that offer stunning views of the volcano and other landscapes. You can also take part in white water rafting excursions along the Toro River or explore nearby hot springs. We have already compiled a one-week Costa Rica itinerary for adventure travelers, be sure to take a look!

Resort at Paws Up, Montana

Photos Courtesy of Resort at Paws Up

Resort at Paws Up, Montana

The Resort at Paws Up in Montana offers guests a taste of the great outdoors while maintaining all the luxuries of home. Spend a few nights embracing your inner child while sleeping in one of the beautiful glamping tents along the Blackfoot River with floor-to-ceiling windows providing spectacular views of nature. Guests can choose from a plethora of activities including kayaking down the river, guided horseback riding tours, fly-fishing, archery, rock climbing and much more. The Resort at Paws Up is also on our top list of luxury dude ranches, read our previous blog for more resorts similar to this one!

Gateways Canyon Resort, Colorado

Gateways Canyon Resort, Colorado

Gateways Canyon Resort in Colorado is located in the Unaweep Canyon, one of the most beautiful and unique red rock canyons in the world. The resort is perfect for travelers looking for everything from low key adventures to extreme sports, there is no doubt this resort belongs on our list of the world’s best adventure resorts. There is no shortage of activities from world-class mountain biking trails, to white water rafting down the Arkansas River, to guided 4×4 tours through the San Juan Mountains. If you’re more of a thrill seeker, take a flight over Crested Butte or try your hand at paragliding off the nearby peaks.

Al Maha, Dubai

Photos Courtesy of Al Maha

Al Maha, Dubai

Al Maha in Dubai offers guests an exclusive experience in one of the most luxurious desert locations on earth. Here you can explore the wildlife sanctuary on camelback rides or safari jeep tours, take part in archery or falconry classes and enjoy a private candlelit dinner in the middle of the desert. This resort is perfect for those looking to experience the best of luxury combined with thrilling adventure.

Dubai’s desert landscape is a unique and mesmerizing destination for those looking for adventure. It offers endless possibilities for exploration, from sand dunes to oases, and vast deserts to wildlife sanctuaries. With so many ways to explore the rugged beauty of Dubai’s desert landscapes, it’s no surprise Al Maha has become one of the best resorts for adventure travel in the world.

world's best adventure resorts

Photos Courtesy of Airelles Courchevel

Airelles Courchevel, France

For those looking for a unique getaway, Courcheval France is the perfect destination. Located in the heart of the French Alps, this luxurious ski resort offers breathtaking views and unlimited opportunities for adventure. From skiing down world-class slopes to climbing glaciers, fly fishing or hot air ballooning over the spectacular landscape, there’s something here for everyone.

While the Airelles Courchevel in France is best known for its ski slopes and excellent winter sports opportunities, it also offers plenty of activities during warmer months. Enjoy exciting activities such as paragliding or take in scenic vistas with leg-burning hiking trails and various water sports on nearby lakes. Whether you’re an experienced skier, an expert hiker or just looking for a small taste of adventure, this resort has something for everyone.

world's best adventure resorts

Photos Courtesy of AlpenGold Hotel Davos

AlpenGold Hotel Davos, Switzerland

AlpenGold Hotel Davos in Switzerland is ideal if you’re looking for a more relaxing adventure escape. Surrounded by the majestic Swiss Alps, guests enjoy activities such as skiing and snowboarding, paragliding, mountain biking and even taking a chairlift ride up to one of the highest peaks. The area also has an abundance of picturesque hiking trails with breathtaking views, perfect for nature lovers or those simply wanting to escape city life for a few days.

The stunning Swiss Alps are home to a multitude of enchanting sights, making AlpenGold Hotel Davos the perfect destination for both thrill seekers and nature lovers alike.

world's best adventure resorts

Photos Courtesy of andBeyond Bateleur Camp

andBeyond Bateleur Camp, Kenya

For a truly exotic experience, head out on safari to the amazing andBeyond Bateleur Camp in Kenya. Located in the Maasai Mara National Reserve, guests experience unparalleled wildlife viewing opportunities that include the Big 5; lions, elephants, leopards, rhinocerous, and African buffalo. After a day of game viewing, take in the best of Kenyan culture with visits to local Masai villages or explore the breathtaking hot air balloon rides over the vast landscape.

The camp itself is an oasis of luxury, featuring beautiful tents that are designed for complete comfort and relaxation. With its stunning views and exclusive access to some of Kenya’s best wildlife experiences, it’s no wonder this resort is one of the best adventure resorts in the world. When planning a Safari, there are a lot of things to consider. Planning the safari of a lifetime needs to be done well in advance.

world's best adventure resorts

Photos Courtesy of Blanket Bay

Blanket Bay, New Zealand

For those looking for an exhilarating mountain adventure, Blanket Bay in New Zealand offers some of the best activities in the Southern Hemisphere, making it one of the world’s best adventure resorts.

Blanket Bay is set on the shores of Lake Wakatipu and surrounded by spectacular and majestic snow-capped mountains allowing guests to feel fully immersed in nature. However, the resort is also consistently ranked as one of the world’s most extraordinary luxury escapes. With an enviable location just 40 minutes’ drive from adventure hub of Queenstown guests have an incredible variety of activities to choose from.

Enjoy all the best of New Zealand offers from whitewater rafting down wild rivers, to hiking through pristine forests and snowboarding down some of the best slopes in the world. While in the region don’t forget to spend a day enjoying wine tastings in the local vineyards while sampling delicious farm to table cuisine.

After a few days in this stunning resort, we recommend you make your way to another one of the most beautiful destinations on earth – Milford Sound.

Milford Sound provides an unparalleled experience of nature’s best sights and sounds. With towering mountains, cascading waterfalls, lush forested valleys, and tranquil blue waters, it is a place of immense beauty. Whether you take in the captivating views by boat or on foot, Milford Sound is sure to leave you with a sense of awe and appreciation for the natural world. Spend the day kayaking or enjoy some excellent fishing opportunities – one thing’s for sure, there won’t be a shortage of breathtaking moments. For adventure-seekers looking to explore some of New Zealand’s best offerings, Milford Sound can’t be missed!

world's best adventure resorts

Photos Courtesy of Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort

Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort, Thailand

Last but not leas on our list of the world’s best adventure resorts is the Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort in Thailand. This resort is where luxury meets wildlife conservation. Here you can experience elephant trekking through rainforests, followed by spa treatments and private dining experiences overlooking rice paddies. Guests can also visit local temples or take a river cruise along the Mekong River.

One of our favorite things about the Anantara Golden Triangle resort is that it works alongside the local community to ensure elephants are well looked after, and their habitats are protected. With its beautiful settings and unique wildlife experiences, Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort is undoubtedly one of the best adventure resorts in the world.

Our list of the best adventure resorts in the world is just a small sample of what adventurous travelers can experience when exploring exciting destinations around the globe. Each of these resorts offers something for everyone—from luxury amenities and extraordinary views to thrilling activities and unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re looking for a ski holiday or an African safari, there’s sure to be something perfect here for your next dramatic getaway!

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Boutique Travel Advisors is a full-service, luxury travel agency. We specialize in creating bespoke itineraries for discerning clients around the world. Please visit our website or call 480-787-1477 to speak with a dedicated travel expert. 

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