5 Amazing Trips You Will Never Make

There are very few places in the world that remain inaccessible to the intrepid traveller these days. Yet, there are some that only the most adventurous of you will ever attempt to visit. Here’s our pick of 5 amazing trips that you will (probably) never make. Or will you?

Antarctica

One of the last untamed wildernesses, the frozen continent at the edge of the world is the ultimate trip. Antarctica is the only place on earth that has not been permanently occupied by man. Even for visitors, it becomes accessible only during the Antarctic summer – between November and March. Great hulking icebergs, elegant penguins, massive whales and the sheer remoteness of this continent make it worth a visit for nature and adventure lovers. Cruise ships are the best way to visit Antarctica though a visit to the southernmost continent can be almost prohibitively expensive. Cruises starting upwards of Rs. 4 lacs per person, not including the airfare to Buenos Aires or Santiago.

Siberia

Think of Siberia and your mind will likely conjure images of bleak mountainous vistas, freezing temperatures and very little by way of civilisation. And you wouldn’t be very wrong. Lake Baikal, Siberia’s greatest attraction, is the world’s deepest lake and is frozen over for half the year – from January to May – and displays almost schizophrenic climatic changes. Cruises and jeep rides around the lake are possible and if you’re up for it, you can also kayak across it! With its wild beauty, Siberia is certainly worth a visit, but only for the truly adventurous.

Afghanistan

One of the countries with almost a permanent travel advisory against its name, Afghanistan has been war-torn for almost three decades now. Therein lies the pity, since the country is home to some priceless treasures. One of these – the two giant Buddha statues at Bamiyan – was cruelly destroyed a few years ago, yet this World Heritage Site still inspires awe. The ancient town of Samangan (Aibak) was a thriving Buddhist centre in the 4th century. The wrecked capital of Kabul is also slowly limping back to a semblance of normalcy…

The Amazon

A massive and thriving ecosystem by itself, the Amazon basin is truly a natural wonder of the world. Spanning eight countries, this lush, tropical rainforest is practically teeming with flora and fauna, many of which are yet to be documented. Spotting wildlife is quite difficult but cruising the Amazon is more about the journey and the experience. You can access the basin from various points, but Brazil and Peru are most popular.

Mount Everest

Sixty years ago, the tallest mountain in the world was scaled successfully. And since then climbing Mount Everest has been on the bucket list of many a traveller. But very few actually make it to the base camp and fewer still to the summit. Climbing equipment, sherpas and other support are provided by the expedition guides – all you need to bring along is your sense of adventure and a serious mountaineering spirit.