5 Daunting Travel Experiences You Probably Wouldn’t Tell Your Parents About

5 daunting travel experiences you probably wouldn’t tell your parents about. Credit: iStock

“Adventures don’t come like unexpected relatives; you have to go out and find them.” Mark Jenkins’ words perfectly sum up what adventure travel is for intrepid explorers. While travel alone is rewarding, there are some experiences that take the cake when it comes to exhilaration. There are times and places that take us out of our comfort zone and test our limits. Here are five Daunting travel experiences Which you may not want to share with your parents if you want to have them under your belt!

Travelling on an iron ore train in Mauritania

Imagine boarding a train longer than the Eiffel Tower and carrying over 3,000 tonnes of iron ore. This is a unique experience in Mauritania, where you can join the train crew and witness the vastness of the Sahara Desert from a moving platform. A vital artery connecting the iron mines of Zouérat to the port of Nouadhibou, Mauritania’s desert train is a free ride for adventurous travellers, who can sit on the ores and make the tiring but intriguing journey even when temperatures exceed 45°C during the day.

Diving near an underwater volcano in Indonesia

For the more adventurous, diving near an active volcano is an unforgettable experience. In places like Indonesia’s Sangihe Islands, you can dive next to an active underwater volcano or explore the base of another and admire ancient lava flows on an extinct volcano. The water in this area is rich in minerals, making the marine life incredibly diverse, with colorful fish, corals and even sharks.

Watching an active volcano in the Philippines

Hiking to the top of an active volcano is a challenging but rewarding experience. For example, if you like easy hikes, Taal Volcano in the Philippines, the smallest active volcano in the world, is a simple 20-minute hike to the top, from where you can watch the volcano emit hot fumes since it erupted in 1970. The caldera, with Taal Lake, is a sight to behold.

Cycling along the death road in Bolivia

Bolivia’s infamous Death Road, a 70km stretch between La Paz and Coroico, is a harrowing journey that has earned a reputation as one of the most dangerous roads in the world. The narrow, winding road, often shrouded in fog, clings to the mountainside, offering stunning views but also a dangerous descent. For many ambitious cyclists, it is a favourite tourist site, where thousands of thrill-seekers embark on cycling tours each year. Day trips typically include bike rental, a guide and lunch. Guides are experienced cyclists who are familiar with the dangers of the road and can provide valuable advice and support.

Hiking on Mount Hua in China

Mount Hua, one of China’s Five Sacred Mountains, is synonymous with the Plank Walk – a narrow wooden plank suspended over a sheer cliff – making this hike one of the most dangerous in the world. Nonetheless, known for its sheer cliffs and stunning scenery, Mount Hua is a popular destination for adventure lovers. While the hike can be dangerous, the rewards are unmatched, with stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.