Ten wild rides for travelers looking for modes of transport with a difference!
1. Ostrich Rides
Nairobi, Kenya
(image credit: Yodod)
(image credit: *Kicki* (busy))
Although elephant rides are the first thing most people think of when weighing transportation options in Kenya, the ostrich is not to be ruled out. The animal equivalent of a unicycle may take a few tries before novice riders find their balance.
2. Balloon Rides
Goreme, Turkey
(image credit: Liezel&Ed)
(image credit: Verity Cridland)
You'll have to get up at the crack of dawn, but most who try it agree that there's no better way to watch the sun come up and take in the "wow factor" of Goreme's ancient landscape.
3. Swan-shaped Boat Rides
Boston, Massachusetts
(image credit: David Paul Ohmer)
(image credit: David Paul Ohmer)
For a genteel experience, try the famous Swan Boats of Boston's Public Garden. A tradition since the late 1800s, these man-powered boats are as much a part of the Boston experience as a trip to Fenway.
4. Ox-Cart Rides
Nepal
(image credit: The Shifted Librarian)
(image credit: pyjama)
They're not great on the freeway, but for short stretches, riding an ox-cart is a great experience. It will take you through Nepal's rugged, rural terrain, but also on a trip back in time.
5. Zorb Riding
Rotorua, New Zealand
(image credit: Trick Kid)
(image credit: misterbisson)
It may look tame, but one spin down a hill in a Zorb, or giant inflatable ball, and you'll see this is one serious adrenalin rush. Single and tandem "rolls" can be arranged, and those with weak stomachs can ask for a little water in their capsule to insure a smooth ride.
6. Helicopter Ride
Grand Canyon, Arizona
(image credit: over.expozed)
(image credit: sbisson)
(image credit: slideshow bob)
An exhilarating option for those who don't have enough time to do the canyon on foot, there is no better way to take in the grandeur of this centuries-old crater than by air.
7. Rickshaw Rides
India
(image credit: Andifeelfine)
(image credit: pinreader)
Some call them death machines, others call them glorified golf carts. Whatever you call them, don't let a few white knuckles stop you from taking a spin.
8. Camel Ride
Mt. Sinai, Egypt
(image credit: Nataraj Metz)
(image credit: Yodod)
Yes, it's touristy, but how many other opportunities are you going to get to do this? These desert taxis can be as expensive as real ones, but with a little pre-ride negotiation you may be able get the fare down considerably.
9. Submarine Ride
Barbados
(image credit: snippet78)
(image credit: snippet78)
It's not for the claustrophobic, but if you can keep your calm when the door closes, it's a pretty spectacular experience. From marine life, to coral reefs, to sunken ships, you'd have to be a mermaid to get a better view.
10. Dog Sledding
Bern, Switzerland
(image credit: papworth)
(image credit: EclecticBlogs)
When in doubt, hold on tight and yell "mush!". You may be shivering, but the dogs love it and seeing them do what they do best is an invigorating experience. A toast with a hot drink at the end is customary — for you, not the dogs.
(sources: Reuters & VirtualTourist.com)
Previously on Lists Galore!
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10 of the most extraordinary places to take a bath
