Forget flop and drop, a new darecation trend is taking off globally, and these high adrenalin getaways are proving popular with Kiwis looking for a holiday that’s far from relaxing.
Among the experts in more challenging trips is World Expeditions, and its New Zealand gm Natalie Tambolash reports growing inter est in travel that delivers personal growth and lasting memories, though she notes this is not a new concept for this market.
“While terms like ‘darecations’ may be new, the desire to challenge oneself through travel certainly isn’t,” says Tambolash. “For decades we’ve seen strong demand for adventures that combine physical challenge, cultural immersion and a genuine sense of achievement, and many travellers come to us specifically for these experiences…”
Her comments are backed up by Kiwi agents, including House of Travel Upper Riccarton’s Dalwyn Sinclair who says he’s been booking customers on darecations for many years. This includes mountain climbing in the Dolomites, hiking to Base Camp, and competing in the Hawai‘i Ironman or the Great Wall of China Marathon, he adds.
“Using extreme adventure activities as the purpose for travelling appears to be in the DNA of many Kiwis,” says Sinclair. “Our most recent client to qualify in the ‘dare cation’ segment competed in the Great Divide Mountain Bike Race, starting in Banff Canada, cycling 4339 kilometres criss-crossing the Continental Divide to Antelope Wells on the US/Mexico border.”
Kelly-Ann Thomas from HoT Lower Hutt says darecations are proving an opportunity for agents. “We’ve been booking clients participating in Hyrox events around the world and they often add on a family holiday afterwards or a long weekend away with their partner,” says Thomas.
“Kiwis absolutely love travel and challenging themselves in comps like this, so what a great opportunity for us to be able to book the travel booking of the journey.”
Darecations was among Pinterest’s big predictions for 2026, with it citing a 75% increase in searches for ‘adventure tourism’ as well as 50% increase in searches for ‘adrenalin rush aesthetic’. Check out its full predictions board HERE.
