A few weeks ago, I talked about the reasons to try adventure sports, and the truth is, everyone—depending on their circumstances—should give them a go regularly.
1. Rafting
When the weather warms up, this activity is perfect to share with your group of friends. If you’re a hardcore adventurer, I’d recommend doing it in April-May, during the snowmelt season, when the river water flows with much more force.
An instructor joins the group on the raft and will be in charge of giving necessary advice on how to navigate the different obstacles you’ll encounter along the river: paddling only on one side, shifting everyone’s weight forward or backward, etc. If conditions allow and there are multiple rafts on the same route, you can even play games with each other.
Starting from around £20, you can enjoy a thrilling rafting descent. Just gather your friends or colleagues, and the activity will be perfect!
2. Bungee Jumping
Not for the faint-hearted! Without a doubt, this is one of the most widely tried adventure sports. (According to Yumping.com’s booking data, it was one of the most popular in 2014.) Have you done it yet? Or will you miss out?
Contrary to what it may seem, it involves no real risk, though people with heart or back problems should avoid it. It’s practised on numerous bridges across Spain with professionals using certified equipment under the best conditions.
Prices usually range between £20-£30 per person, and it’s a unique way to completely shake off built-up stress.
3. Skydiving
A high-flying adventure where everyone who tries it says they’ve never experienced anything like it in their life—unlike anything else they’ve ever done.
Some may claim they have vertigo and can’t bring themselves to jump, but the truth is, our brains can’t process the extreme height (5,000 feet), and the fear of heights disappears. The adrenaline rush from freefall is so intense you’ll want to repeat it over and over.
The price depends on whether you want a basic jump or one with a media package (photos and video), with a difference of around £100. That said, it’s 200% worth waiting a bit longer to save up—this will be a memory you’ll cherish forever.
4. Heli-Skiing
This is for ski enthusiasts with a solid skill level, as it involves jumping from a helicopter and descending untouched, powdery off-piste mountain slopes.
The best part? You skip the exhausting ski touring route to the summit, and a guide accompanies the group to navigate and ensure safety. That way, your only focus is the pure joy of riding down the mountain!
It’s a bit pricey but worth every penny. Here’s a rough cost for heli-skiing in the Pyrenees to help plan your snowy getaway.
5. Hang Gliding
This sport offers the ultimate free-flight experience, guided by a professional pilot. It’s a guaranteed win, and the sensations you’ll feel are nothing short of magical.
You’ll be securely harnessed to an instructor, and the aluminium frame with its large fabric surface lets you ride air currents to gain altitude, make turns, and even perform manoeuvres. Takeoff can be done via tow or by running down a slope.
Prices range from £40 to £170, depending on flight duration. You can check out hang gliding prices here.
