It turns out many of the most amazing places on Earth also happen to be the most dangerous. While most of us would prefer less stress on our vacations, sometimes we've got to takes risks! That's why we have compiled a list of 20 of the most dangerous tourist attractions around the world, so you have a better idea of what's worth it and can discover how much of a thriller seeker you really are!
1. Running of the Bulls, Spain
One of the more obviously dangerous tourist attractions is the Running of the Bulls. It's not for the faint of heart. The event literally has people running through the walled off streets of the city while being chased by a stampede of bulls. I’d recommend watching, rather than partaking, but if you do, make sure you’re a fast runner.
Photo by San Fermin Pamplona - Navarra on Unsplash
2. Mount Everest
Mount Everest, the tallest mountain in the world, is a dangerous trek if you want to reach the peak. While experienced Sherpas can guide you up the mountain, you’re still at the mercy of harsh weather and avalanches. If you do reach the summit though, you’ll be rewarded with some of the best views out there.
Photo by Sebastian Pena Lambarri on Unsplash
3. Half Dome, Yosemite National Park
Only very experienced hikers and climbers should attempt the Half Dome in Yosemite National Park. There a bunch of steep cliffs, slippery rocks, and difficult climbs. Thrill seekers will love it, just be prepared for anything to happen.
Photo by Tim Oldenkamp on Unsplash
4. Volcano Tours, Hawaii
There is always a risk when visiting an active volcano. While Kilauea Volcano in Hawaii is a beautiful sight to see, there is always a small chance of eruptions or inhaling dangerous gases.
Photo by Peter Vanosdall on Unsplash
5. Cliffs of Moher, Ireland
Make sure to be aware of the weather and slippery surfaces when visiting the breathtaking Cliffs of Moher.
People are always trying to get as close to the edge as possible, but don’t anticipate losing their footing. Just be careful!
Photo by Vincent Guth on Unsplash
6. El Caminito del Rey, Spain
Nicknamed the “most dangerous walkway in the world", make sure you can handle heights if you’re traveling to El Caminito del Rey. This high up and skinny pathway weaves along the sides of the El Chorro gorge. The route is not very safe and requires solid footing to make your way around.
Photo by Frayle on Wikimedia Commons
7. Acapulco Cliff Diving, Mexico
Cliff diving is an incredible experience everyone should try. Just be careful, in Acapulco, Mexico you can dive from up to 35 meters into the ocean inlet. The tides level are an important factor for when it’s safe to jump, so make sure you know you’re good to go.
Photo by Gharee on Wikimedia Commons
8. Colorado River System, USA
White-water rafting is both a thrilling and dangerous activity. The Colorado River’s treacherous currents can cause a lot of problems if you’re not prepared. Go with an experienced guide. They say falling off the raft is like falling into natures washing machine. Stay safe!
Photo by Chandan Chaurasia on Unsplash
9. Skeleton Coast, Namibia
If you ever want to check out the Skeleton Coast in Namibia and visit the shipwrecks, just make sure you have all the supplies you need. The area is largely uninhabited, so if anything happens, you better have a solution with you.
Photo by Sam Power on Unsplash
10. Death Road, Bolivia
Make sure to have an experienced driver if you’re ever on the North Yungas Road (Death Road). The road goes along the side of mountains and is both slippery and frighteningly narrow.
Photo by Florian Delée on Unsplash
11. Danakil Desert, Eritrea
Bring lots of water if you want to go to the beautiful but dangerous Danakil Desert. The desert is home to lava lakes, gas geysers, and acid pools, that can all harm you if you’re not careful. Make sure you have some one who knows their way around.
Photo by Sharanbhurke on Wikimedia Commons
12. Devil's Pool, Victoria Falls Zambia
At the top edge of Victoria Falls sits the Devil's Pool. Many daring swimmers attempt to get as close to the edge as possible, underestimating the power of the waterfalls strong currents. Just don’t be dumb, keep your distance and you’ll be okay.
Photo by Vince Russell on Unsplash
13. The Maze, Canyonlands, USA
In Canyonlands National Park sits the Maze. Essentially a naturally forming rock maze that you don’t want to get lost in. Make sure not to travel alone and know your route. The complex system of narrow passages is both beautiful and dangerous.
Photo by ThatShawGuy on Wikimedia Commons
14. Mount Hua, China
Many people consider the Mount Hua's plank walk in the sky to be the most dangerous hike in the world. It’s a hike along the edge of a mountain cliff, full of rickety wooden planks. Just go slow and take on step at a time.
Photo by chensiyuan on Wikimedia Commons
15. Chernobyl, Ukraine
You can now actually visit Chernobyl. It’s definitely a cool site to see, just make sure you have a guide with you. Many parts still remain radioactive and it will be deadly if you veer off course.
Photo by IAEA Imagebank on Wikimedia Commons
16. The Strid, UK
Go for a wonderful hike around the UK wilderness, but don’t get too close to the Strid. This unassuming stream of water appears safe from above, but underneath is a heavy current and sharp rocks. No one who has fallen in has ever survived. Keep your distance!
Photo by Peter Church on Wikimedia Commons
17. Valley of Death, Russia
The Valley of Death in Russia's Kamchatka Peninsula is a dangerous mountain range full of toxic gases. The mountains and remoteness are quite amazing, just make sure not to visit for too long. Even animals avoid the area.
18. Boiling Lake, Dominica
Don’t jump into Boiling Lake in Dominica! The lake has an opening to the Earth's crust, and maintains a constant boiling temperature. It’s a quite a unique site, from a distance.
Photo by XeresNelro on Wikimedia Commons
19. New Smyrna Beach, Florida
If you like water activities the New Smyrna Beach in Florida is probably not the beach for you. It’s famous for having the most shark sightings in the world. I wouldn’t go out too far from shore.
Photo by Gary J. Wood on Wikimedia Commons
20. Fukushima Exclusion Zone, Japan
If you want to get up close to the Fukushima Exclusion Zone, home of the 2011 nuclear accident, make sure you understand the health risks.
While locals are discouraged to visit, there are still tours that exist. It’s not recommended but share a pic if you go!
