Everything on Curious Animal’s most exciting destinations for 2015 looked very familiar to us -- the destinations, the activities, the sites, the operators. We agree wholeheartedly with the list and congratulate our ATTA members who are operating in the best places on the planet for adventure. We’ve highlighted the ATTA operators mentioned in the Hot List below.
Haiti
For voodoo culture, music, markets, rum and surfing. G Adventures and Wild Frontiers offer adventures in Haiti, the most mountainous of the Caribbean islands.
Namibia
With dramatic desert scenery, wildlife galore, tribal culture and sand skiing opportunities, no one was surprised we hosted the 2013 Adventure Travel World Summit in Namibia. World Expeditions, African Bikers, and Expert Africa offer trips.
Ireland
Another Top 10 destination that wasn’t a surprise to us. Wilderness Ireland, Atlantic Sea Kayaking & Wild Atlantic Walks, Extreme Ireland, Adventure Burren and Connemara Wild Escapes show off Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way with world-class seafood, rich history, stunning scenery, innovative adventure sports and friendly local storytellers.
Palestine
A destination that remains off most adventurers’ radars, Palestine offers long treks and cycling options along with Holy Land pilgrimages. Aeolus Tours and Siraj Center arrange powerful adventures that show Palestine as more than just a conflict zone.
New Zealand
Rotorua specifically got New Zealand on the list. The north island of New Zealand is a mountain biking mecca. Add to that hot springs and Maori culture and you’ve got an ATTA definition of adventure. Check out trips by Discover the World.
Ethiopia
Exodus Travels and National Geographic Expeditions are leading adventures to Ethiopia while it remains relatively undiscovered. It’s reputation for unique wildlife, volcanic terrain, ancient rock churches and nomadic tribes is spreading fast and the infrastructure is catching up.
Copper Canyon, Mexico
Hiking, biking, running, climbing, or simply riding a train through a canyon larger than the Grand Canyon is enticing adventurers to Chihuahua in Northern Mexico. See Journey Mexico or Amigo Trails for ATTA-style trips.
Iran
What you hear on the evening news about Iran is 180 degrees from what you hear travelers saying when they return from Iran. Sumptuous cuisine, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, mountains, caves, bazaars and art await adventurers. Take a look at itineraries from G Adventures, Wild Frontiers, and Journeys International.