To feel the wind in your face, your heart racing, adrenaline surging through every vein - that's the thrill daredevils chase. These fearless individuals push the boundaries of what's possible, often in some of the most spectacular places on Earth. Whether you're chasing your own thrill or just keen to visit the jaw-dropping destinations where history was made, there’s an entire world of adventure out there.
Nik Wallenda – Tightrope Walk Over Niagara Falls
On 15 June 2012, Nik Wallenda became the first person to walk a tightrope directly over Niagara Falls, crossing from the United States into Canada. Suspended above the thundering water, he balanced his way across 550 metres of cable in front of a mesmerised crowd—125,000 on the Canadian side and another 4,000 on the American side. As he stepped off the wire, he even handed his passport to border officials. While you might not fancy a high-wire stroll, you can still feel the sheer power of the Falls up close - hop aboard the famous boat ride that brings you right to the base, where mist and roar combine for a rush.
Valery Rozov – Wingsuit Dive Off Mount Everes
In 2013, Russian BASE jumper Valery Rozov made headlines by leaping from the north face of Mount Everest in a wingsuit, soaring over the Himalayas in a flight that lasted nearly a minute. This death-defying stunt took place at an altitude of 7,220 metres and pushed the limits of what’s physically and mentally possible. While Everest isn't for everyone, adventure-seekers can trek to Everest Base Camp or explore other thrilling trails in Nepal surrounded by towering peaks and awe-inspiring scenery.
Sir Ernest Shackleton – Heroic Journey to the South Pole
Sir Ernest Shackleton's Antarctic adventures are legendary. During his Nimrod Expedition (1907 - 1909), he and his team got within 180 kilometres of the South Pole - a new record at the time. They were also the first to climb Mount Erebus and pinpoint the general location of the South Magnetic Pole. But it was the Endurance expedition that cemented his fame. After the ship was crushed by ice, Shackleton led his crew of 27 men through one of the greatest survival stories ever told. Today, you can cruise to Antarctica, take a polar plunge, see the icebergs and witness penguins and whales in their natural habitat. This is a surreal landscape of adventure.
Nik Wallenda – Masaya Volcano, Nicaragua
Never one to shy away from a challenge, Nik Wallenda conquered another feat in March 2020 - walking 1,800 feet (550 metres) across a steel cable over Nicaragua’s Masaya Volcano, ominously nicknamed 'The Mouth of Hell'. This was his longest ever walk and perhaps the most dramatic, as he crossed above an active crater venting steam and sulphur. While tightrope walking might not be on your travel list, a visit to Masaya Volcano National Park lets you drive right up to the rim and peer into the smoking abyss below. It’s a truly hair-raising experience.
Felix Baumgartner – Edge of Space, Roswell, New Mexico
In 2012, Austrian daredevil Felix Baumgartner jumped from a helium balloon at the edge of space - over 38,000 metres above Roswell, New Mexico. Breaking the sound barrier in freefall, he reached speeds over 1,300 km/h. It was a world-first that made history. While a space jump might be out of reach, Roswell welcomes curious travellers keen to explore its quirky alien-themed attractions, plus a wide-open desert perfect for stargazing and UFO lore.
Ready to feel the thrill? Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie or just a curious traveller, these destinations offer a mix of daring history and natural wonder. Contact your local Travellers Choice agent to start ticking off your own bucket list of bold and breathtaking places.
