As the old saying goes, people only live once. With that wise quote in mind, many wanderlusters come to terms with the stark reality that they really only do live once. As a result, passionate wanderlusters are encouraged more than ever to see the world, dreaming of faraway destinations, whether it's soaking up the black sand beaches in Iceland or going snorkeling in Canary Island's Tenerife.
The world is an oyster, with tons of interesting things to see and people to meet. Furthermore, there are some destinations and experiences on earth that may be considered a once-in-a-lifetime phenomenon. That's why travelers who are keen on living their life to the fullest should check out these travel experiences that are considered once-in-a-lifetime opportunities!
8 Volcano Surfing In Nicaragua
Riding massive waves and feeling the power of the mighty ocean is already adrenaline-inducing to many people. Surfers love the thrill of navigating ocean waves and feeling the saline waters crash over them. However, some people like to increase that adrenaline rush and try their hand at volcano surfing, also known as ash boarding. Because it's considered a relatively new activity, only a handful of places around the world offer this exciting excursion. Specifically, Nicaragua's Cerro Negro is known for this extreme sport, with tours offered at local hostels and accommodations for tourists.
7 Watching The Flowers Bloom In Munnar
Kerala's sandalwood forest, cascading waterfalls, and wildlife sanctuaries make it a breathtaking location that's precisely perfect for honeymooners. However, Munnar's national parks will be a sight for travelers with sore eyes. That's because Munnar's parks are home to the local Neelakurinji, a vibrant purple flower that only blooms once every 12 years!
6 Visit The "Gates Of Hell" In Turkmenistan
Ever wondered what the underworld feels like? Tourists can get a taste of it when visiting The Gates Of Hell, also known (less menacingly) as the Darvaza Gas Crater in Turkmenistan. Reportedly, this popular tourist destination's origins started in 1971, when Soviet engineers drilled a hole into the earth, thinking that they struck a valuable oil deposit. Instead, this activity created a massive crater that spewed out noxious gas. To get rid of this gas, it was advised to "burn it off" by setting the cavern on fire.
Since then, the fire has burned strong, attracting a multitude of tourists (and some gnarly spiders) to its emanating glow. However, tourists hopeful about seeing this attraction may want to hold their breath however; in 2022, the Turkmenistan president ordered the Darvaza Gas Crater to be extinguished, though much debate is still up in the air as to whether extinguishing it is viable.
5 Watch The Blooming Of A Corpse Flower
Foodies enjoy the butter-like quality of soft cheese, but some varieties emanate a foul odor. However, many people may agree that the smell that comes from a healthy portion of blue cheese doesn't begin to compare to the rotting smell of a blooming corpse flower. Also known as the titan arum, this smelly flower is gigantic and beautiful. However, this flower is equipped with a secret: it smells like a rotting animal while it blooms! Aside from its notorious stench, the titan arum only blooms every seven to ten years, so catching it at the right time (and at the right place) can be a little tricky for travelers. It may be difficult to see them blooming in the wild, but several greenhouses and botanical gardens around the world house a titan arum in their facility.
4 Climbing Mount Everest in Nepal
Climbing Mount Everest is not a new concept. In fact, people have been climbing Earth's highest mountains for decades. Despite its popularity in recent years, the climb is not for the faint of heart and is reserved for seasonally experienced climbers, because the conditions on this terrain are no joke. Avalanches, blizzards, and winds of around 157 miles per hour are common occurrences on Mount Everest. Additionally, this expedition is long and costly, with the average price costing about $47,000 in 2017!
3 Dine Inside The Thrihnukagigur Volcano
Those looking for a little luxury in Iceland can book a unique experience inside this Hafnarfjordur volcano. Thanks to Y.CO Yacht Charter Team, guests can experience the magic of the Thrihnukagigur Volcano over an exquisite dinner prepared by a personal chef for the night. Guests will be taken on a lift and journey towards the crater. While inside, they can enjoy a fine dining experience within its walls!
2 Visit Majuli Island, The Sinking River Island In India
Known as the largest river island in the world, Majuli is renowned for its lush vegetation and tranquility along the Brahmaputra River. Though Majuli attracts international tourists for its views and Neo-Vaishnavite culture, it is in constant environmental threat. For decades, Majuli Island faced riverbank erosions, forcing locals to relocate to other areas while threatening the local landscape. Proponents of this beautiful tourist attraction warn that the beauty of Majuli may face further environmental hardship over time (and may even disappear in a few decades).
1 Visit the Glaciers At Glacier National Park In Montana
With lush forests and dramatic glaciers overlooking a pristine lake, what more can a tourist ask for at Montana's Glacier National Park? The Glacier National Park is perfect for both adventure seekers and travelers seeking a tranquil refuge, away from the harsh noise of the city. The park is equipped with miles of trails, diverse wildlife, and various activities suitable for both cold and winter adventures. Unfortunately, however, a globally changing climate has caused the glaciers to melt over the centuries, disappearing before the eyes of hopeful tourists. As a result, according to Research Ecologist Dan Fagre, the glaciers at this Montana park may disappear within decades.