20 Most Dangerous Tourist Activities in the World

Most-Dangerous-Tourist-Activities-in-the-World

Welcome to WatchMojo, and today we’re counting down the most dangerous activities for tourists around the world.

#20: Running of the Reindeer in Anchorage, Alaska

The Running of the Reindeer adds a festive twist to traditional running events. Occurring annually, participants navigate snowy streets alongside a herd of reindeer. While the event aims for a lighthearted atmosphere, it introduces unique challenges. Navigating slippery surfaces and interacting with these unpredictable animals requires a careful balance between holiday cheer and safety consciousness. As runners dash through the winter wonderland, the chilly Alaskan air adds an extra layer of excitement to this unconventional and seasonally themed race.

#19: Ziplining in Orocovis, Puerto Rico

Imagine an exhilarating, yet inherently risky, ziplining experience amidst lush rainforests and scenic landscapes. Participants glide along cables, taking in breathtaking views of the natural surroundings. While safety measures are in place, the high-speed nature of ziplining introduces an inherent thrill, making this adventure a favorite among adrenaline enthusiasts. The immersive journey through Puerto Rico's vibrant ecosystems, combined with the rush of soaring above the treetops, transforms ziplining into a memorable and heart-pounding escapade.

#18: Cliff Diving in Negril, Jamaica

The cliffs of Negril, Jamaica, beckon thrill-seekers to experience the adrenaline rush of cliff diving. Popular spots like Rick's Café provide platforms at varying heights for daring leaps into the crystal-clear Caribbean Sea. The activity demands precision and awareness of water conditions, adding an element of excitement to Jamaica's picturesque coastline. As participants take the plunge, the turquoise waters below and the stunning coastal backdrop enhance the thrill of this gravity-defying adventure.

#17: Sandboarding in Huacachina, Peru

Huacachina, a desert oasis in Peru, invites adventurers to try their hand at sandboarding on towering sand dunes. Participants carve down the slopes, resembling the experience of snowboarding amid the arid and captivating landscape. While the soft landing provides a safety cushion, the thrill of navigating the sandy terrain demands balance and control. The panoramic views of the vast desert surrounding Huacachina add to the allure of sandboarding, making it an exhilarating fusion of adventure, nature, and the sheer joy of gliding down South America's iconic sand dunes.

#16: Shark Cage Diving in Gansbaai, South Africa

Gansbaai, known as the "Great White Shark capital," offers a unique and adrenaline-charged opportunity for cage diving with these formidable marine predators. Participants submerge themselves in a protective cage, coming face-to-face with great white sharks. While operators prioritize safety, the unpredictable nature of these creatures adds an element of thrill to this close encounter. The combination of the underwater world, the powerful presence of sharks, and the controlled environment of the cage make shark cage diving in Gansbaai an unforgettable and heart-pounding adventure.

#15: Heli-Skiing in Revelstoke, Canada

Revelstoke, in British Columbia, Canada, stands as a mecca for heli-skiing enthusiasts, offering access to remote mountainous terrain via helicopter. Participants experience the exhilaration of pristine powder slopes and challenging descents, combining the thrill of helicopter flights with the excitement of navigating untouched snow. The breathtaking landscapes of the Canadian wilderness, paired with the rush of heli-skiing down untouched slopes, create an unparalleled adventure for advanced skiers and snowboarders.

#14: Paragliding in Interlaken, Switzerland

Interlaken, nestled between the stunning lakes of Thun and Brienz in Switzerland, provides a captivating backdrop for paragliding enthusiasts. Participants launch from elevated points, soaring gracefully over lakes and valleys. While tandem flights with experienced pilots enhance safety, the sport's inherent reliance on wind conditions and altitude adds an element of unpredictability. The panoramic views of the Swiss Alps, combined with the serene experience of gliding through the air make it worth the risk for some.

#13: Ice Climbing in Ouray, Colorado

Ouray, known by some as the "Switzerland of America," offers ice climbers a frozen playground amid stunning winter landscapes. The Ouray Ice Park features frozen waterfalls and vertical ice walls, attracting climbers equipped with specialized gear. The dynamic and challenging nature of ice climbing introduces a thrilling dimension to this cold-weather adventure. As climbers ascend the icy formations against the backdrop of Colorado's snow-covered peaks, the combination of technical skill and the raw beauty of the frozen terrain creates an adrenaline-pumping experience.

#12: Bungee Jumping at Victoria Falls in Zambia and Zimbabwe

Bungee jumping at Victoria Falls provides a breathtaking freefall experience against the backdrop of one of the world's most majestic waterfalls. Participants take the plunge from the Victoria Falls Bridge, suspended over the Zambezi River. The proximity to the powerful falls and the sheer vertical drop create an unforgettable adrenaline rush. The roar of the cascading water, the mist rising from the gorge, and the thrill of the descent make bungee jumping at Victoria Falls an iconic and heart-pounding adventure for those seeking an extraordinary leap into nature's grandeur.

#11: Whitewater Rafting in Futaleufú River, Chile

The Futaleufú River in Chile stands as a white-water rafting haven, attracting enthusiasts with its challenging Class IV and V rapids. Navigating the tumultuous waters demands teamwork, skill, and the ability to read the river's dynamic currents. The unpredictable nature of the river, set against the stunning backdrop of Patagonian landscapes, adds an element of excitement to this exhilarating water adventure. Rafters challenge the rapids and take in the pristine scenery in a thrilling exploration of Chile's natural wonders.

#10: Running with the Bulls in Pamplona, Spain

Often criticized for its danger and cruelty, Running with the Bulls in Pamplona is a centuries-old tradition, marking the San Fermín festival. Participants dash through narrow streets, sharing the route with charging bulls. While culturally significant, the race has witnessed injuries and fatalities. Navigating the unpredictable behavior of these powerful animals requires courage and caution, underscoring the importance of understanding the event's risks. The run spans more than half a mile, offering a brief yet intense encounter with the bulls.

#9: Hiking the Huashan Plank Walk in China

The Huashan Plank Walk is a thrilling yet perilous trek through narrow pathways attached to steep cliffs. Offering panoramic views, the trail demands nerves of steel as adventurers navigate rickety planks secured by chains. The popularity of this trail speaks to the allure of combining breathtaking scenery with the adrenaline rush of extreme heights. The elevation gain is approximately 2,100 feet, adding a challenging ascent to the breathtaking experience.

#8: Base Jumping from Trolltunga, Norway

Trolltunga, or "Troll's Tongue," in Norway, has become a base jumping hotspot. Participants leap off this iconic rock formation, freefalling before deploying parachutes. The limited margin for error and the need for precision make base jumping from Trolltunga a daring pursuit reserved for those with extensive training and expertise. The freefall distance is around 700 feet, heightening the intensity of this exhilarating leap.

#7: Cave Diving in the Blue Hole, Belize

The Blue Hole in Belize is a renowned diving site that includes intricate underwater cave systems. Cave divers explore dark passages with unique geological formations, managing challenges such as silt and tight spaces. This activity requires specialized training, emphasizing the allure of the Blue Hole for divers seeking a thrilling and visually stunning underwater adventure. The depth of the Blue Hole is approximately 407 feet, adding to the complexity, allure and danger of this underwater expedition.

#6: Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda

Gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda, combines the thrill of adventure with the inherent dangers of navigating challenging terrain and encountering wild animals. While the experience promises an intimate interaction with endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat, the trek through dense forests and steep slopes poses physical challenges. The gorillas, though habituated, are unpredictable, adding an element of risk. Trekkers must adhere to strict safety measures and guidelines, guided by experienced professionals.

#5: Wingsuit Flying in Chamonix, France

Chamonix, nestled in the French Alps, becomes a playground for wingsuit flyers seeking the ultimate descent. The extreme sport involves gliding at high speeds, skimming past mountainous terrain. The breathtaking landscapes provide a stunning backdrop, but the risks are inherent. Strict adherence to safety measures and top-notch skills are imperative for those attempting this adrenaline-fueled activity. Wingsuit flyers can reach speeds exceeding 120 miles per hour, emphasizing the sheer velocity of this breathtaking descent.

#4: Volcano Boarding on Cerro Negro, Nicaragua

Cerro Negro's volcanic slopes in Nicaragua beckon thrill-seekers who board down its ash-covered surfaces. With speeds reaching up to 59 miles per hour, protective gear is essential. The big risks include navigating uneven terrain and potential volcanic activity. Volcano boarding requires a unique set of skills and a fearless attitude. The descent covers approximately 1,600 feet, providing an exhilarating and rapid journey down the volcanic slopes.

#3: Climbing Mount Everest

Scaling Mount Everest, the world's highest peak, demands intense physical and mental fortitude. Many have perished in the attempt. Climbers face the harsh realities of altitude sickness, frostbite, avalanches, and treacherous crevasses. The ascent is a test of endurance, skill, and determination, with climbers navigating unpredictable weather conditions and overcoming substantial physical hurdles to reach the summit. Mount Everest stands at 29,032 feet, presenting a formidable challenge and making it the ultimate test of mountaineering prowess.

#2: Crocodile Cage Diving in Australia and South Africa

Cage diving with crocodiles provides an up-close encounter with these fearsome reptiles. Participants enter a protective cage, submerging themselves in crocodile-infested waters. The thrill lies in observing these powerful creatures up close, emphasizing the need for meticulous safety protocols and secure equipment to ensure a controlled and exhilarating experience. The protective cage offers an intimate view of crocodiles in their natural habitat, creating a heart-pounding adventure.

#1: Running the Marathon des Sables in the Sahara Desert

The Marathon des Sables unfolds as a grueling ultramarathon across the vast expanse of the Sahara Desert, spanning approximately 155 miles over six days. Participants endure scorching temperatures, challenging sand dunes, and limited resources in a true test of human endurance. The race requires not only exceptional fitness but also self-sufficiency and a profound understanding of desert survival, creating a unique and extreme experience for those willing to undertake this ultimate desert challenge. The scorching desert temperatures can reach up to 120 degrees Fahrenheit, intensifying the physical and mental demands of this extraordinary ultramarathon.

We know, there are a lot more dangerous activities for tourists. Tell us what they are in the comments!