Adventure travel is one of the most transformative experiences we’ll have in our lives. It allows us to learn more about ourselves as we take up new adventures. Whether it’s journeying across the ocean in a sailboat or mountain climbing in the Himalayas, travel can push us out of our comfort zones in the most beautiful ways. So, it’s not surprising why many books have been created around travel, inspiring others to roam and take up adventures.
Here’s a list of books that might inspire your next adventure travel. These inspirational, offbeat, and outdoor adventure books will make you want to forget about the real world and give you hope and courage no matter where you are at this point in your life!
What Adventure Travel Books Should you be Reading?
#1 Journey to Karabakh – Aka Morchiladze
Georgia is the second nation to have adopted Christianity as a state religion, which explains why it’s home to many historical and religious sites. But aside from this, Georgia is also famous for its stunning natural landscapes. Its topography boasts an immense number of varying landscapes, making it a great destination for outdoor adventures.
If you’re thinking of going to Georgia for your next travel adventure and are looking for some inspiration, you should read the Journey to Karabakhurn, a book written by Georgian author Aka Morchiladze. This book is a best seller in Georgia and has been an inspiration for two feature films. The setting is during the First Nagorno-Karabakh War in 1988, which lasted until 1994. It depicts the misadventures of a young Georgian who got accidentally involved in a conflict after a drug purchase went wrong.
The book is guaranteed to fuel the wanderlust in you, and you’ll find yourself getting more excited about your trip. Make your adventure even more memorable by heading out on small group Georgia trekking tours. Trekking in Georgia is surely one of the most rewarding experiences you could ever have.
#2 Into the Wild by Jon Krakauer
Into the Wild is a popular non-fiction, which centres around Chris McCandless, an American adventurer who sought a nomadic lifestyle growing up. Written by Jon Krakauer, this book was adapted into a film of the same name.
Immediately after McCandless graduated from college in 1991, he roamed through the West and Southwest on a vision quest inspired by his heroes, John Muir and Jack London. He abandoned his car at the Mojave Desert, took off the license plates, and burned his entire cash. He gave himself a new name. Left without any money and belongings, he wandered in the unfiltered and raw experiences that nature has presented.
In this book, Jon Krakauer has successfully pieced together the final journey of McCandless’ extraordinary experience. It’s a fascinating story of idealism and fantasy while giving a glimpse into the dark side of the wilderness experience.
#3 The History of Iceland by Gunnar Karlsson
If you’re seeking a destination that will give you a whole new level of adventure, look no further than Iceland. On your adventure in Iceland, expect to be amazed by the country’s scenic beauty and outdoor ambling opportunities. Daredevils from around the world will find numerous activities to keep themselves entertained.
If you need a book to inspire you to travel to Iceland as you search for adventures, grab a copy of The History of Iceland by Gunnar Karlsson. The book recounts the country’s rich history, which is unique among the European countries. Iceland was founded late, during the Viking Age, and Gunnar Karlsson, the country’s leading historian, has chronicled in this book the age of the sagas, describing an era without central authority or monarch.
When exploring Iceland, consider renting a car. Many of the country’s most scenic spots are far from the main cities and towns, so it’s hard to reach them without your own mode of transportation. The History of Iceland is a wonderful book to read as you travel by 4×4 around the country.
#4 Dark Star Safari by Paul Theroux
Another book to inspire your next travel adventure is the Dark Star Safari by Paul Theroux. It’s a written account of a trip taken by the author, starting from Cairo and all the way to Cape Town, where he travelled by car, bus, train, and armed convoy.
As a young man and an early member of the Peace Corps, Theroux had lived in Africa for a long time. One of the reasons he took the trip is to assess how the many years of aid from Western countries have impacted Africa. Generally, his assessment is critical of the long-term impact of the Western aid programs. During his journey, which he chronicled in the book, he visited some of the most beautiful landscapes on Earth, including some of the most dangerous places. For him, it’s a journey of discovery, which leads him to the unknown and the unexpected.
Discovering first-hand the real situation across Africa, Theroux is wittily observant and fanatically curious. He takes his readers on an epic and enlightening journey across the vast continent. If you need a book to satisfy your thirst for adventures, the Dark Star Safari is one of the best books you can read.
#5 Microadventures by Alastair Humphreys
Microadventures refer to short, simple, local, and cheap types of adventures. Yet, they are still fun, challenging, exciting, and rewarding. You’ll learn more about microadventures in this book written by Alastair Humphreys.
As the world becomes increasingly urbanised and many people are stuck in their work, microadventures offer a realistic escape into the wilderness. Providing simplicity and the great outdoors without travelling to faraway places and spending a lot of money. The main concept of microadventures is to make adventures accessible to people who do not have plenty of outdoor experiences.
With microadventure, you will not need lots of time and money to explore the great outdoors. The book will serve as your practical guide to microadventure. It’s filled with interesting tidbits and ideas to inspire you to take up microadventures either on your own or with friends.
Have you read any books on Adventure Travel? Are there adventure travellers that inspire you to get out of your comfort zone? If so, please let us know.
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Microadventures sounds perfect for me, thanks for sharing.