People need an escape sometimes—a chance to ditch the devices and get back to basics. Camping delivers. You start small, pitching a tent out back. But soon, that backyard vista gets old. The world awaits just beyond, full of natural wonder and new frontiers. International camping adventures call to those craving wilder, grander views.
Everyone camps a little differently. Some scramble up mountainsides with little but their boots and backpacks or glamping in luxury with wine bottles chilling at the bedside. Whatever your style, incredible spots around the world beckon adventure-seekers who answer the call of the wild. The “best” depends on personal tastes, but a few coveted sites stick out from the rest.
For Adventure Seekers
1. Ladakh, India
Journey through Ladakh, an arid mountain region nicknamed the ‘Roof of the World.’ Encounter blue sheep and yaks, and if you’re incredibly lucky, you might spot the elusive snow leopard. Spend nights camping beside calm lakes reflecting the stars.
Aside from the usual camping attire, embracing local styles like tunics for casual outings can enrich your experience. They blend beautifully with the area’s vivid landscapes, and traditional tunics are worn by many women in India to shield them from brisk winds while exploring this rugged paradise.
2. Saxon Switzerland National Park, Germany
As the name suggests, the sandstone rockscapes of Germany’s Saxon Switzerland thrust adventurers into Alpine-esque terrain without crossing borders. Hike amidst pinnacles divvied by the Elbe’s canyon waters slicing 150 meters below for a wilderness escape so close to Dresden city conveniences.
Pitch your tent near one of the park’s few camping refuges to access iconic formations like the Bastei’s bridge and vistas stretching as far as Prague. Remember your climbing gear. Over 1100 marked routes of varying grades crisscross nearly every towering cliffside and tabletop summit.
3. Mount Cook National Park, New Zealand
New Zealand’s highest peak, rising to over 12,000 feet, sits among the epic Southern Alps, home to Tasman glaciers, turquoise lakes, and sheer U-shaped valleys perfect for experienced climbers. Prepare to hike challenging terrain across the Mueller Glacier’s ice falls on an ascent to Mount Cook’s summit.
For a slightly less intense hike with equal rewards, embark on a steep trail to the Blue Lakes. This glacial basin reflecting New Zealand’s highest peaks creates a mirrored paradise in nature best experienced in optimal weather between November and March.
For Nature Lovers
1. Isle of Skye, Scotland
From otherworldly rock pinnacles to moody sea lochs, Scotland’s Isle of Skye landscape astounds at every turn. Head over to Loch Coruisk for a secluded wilderness experience—no roads lead to this glacial carved lake. Cross challenging, steep paths en route to the Fairy Pools, where emerald waters tumble down from the Cuillins, demanding a breathtaking trek.
Pitch your tent in designated areas and hike to view the Old Man of Storr’s pinnacle. Rise at dawn to catch the first light illuminating this iconic pillar amid the rolling Trotternish Ridge. Then lace up your boots to explore trails winding through Quiraing’s landscape of green hills, a sight appearing hand painted.
2. Yungas Cloud Forest, Argentina
Snaking along Argentina’s spine from Bolivia to Tucumán province, the Yungas Cloud Forest remains a refreshing hidden gem where few tourists venture. Giant ceibos, fragrant chirimoya fruit trees, and verdant ferns harbor jaguars, toucans, and monkeys in their branches.
Base yourself out of Tafí village to access multi-day treks into lush hillside wilderness with well-marked trails leading to waterfalls, organic farms, and hamlets where villagers happily host campers needing refuge. Remember, the higher you hike, the greater your chances of catching mist bathing vibrant rainforest mountains.
3. Corcovado National Park, Costa Rica
Covering part of Costa Rica’s remote Osa Peninsula, Corcovado National Park surrounds you with the country’s most diverse ecosystems. Pick up a reliable guidebook, preferably annotated, to match easy or rugged hikes to your abilities. Whether you seek waterfalls, wildlife, or deserted beaches, Corcovado delivers adventure wrapped in the arms of Mother Nature herself.
Keep your eyes peeled for sloths napping in the canopy and scarlet macaws flitting overhead. Choose beach camping on deserted stretches of the Pacific accessed only by foot, allowing you to drift off to sleep beside crashing waves and awaken to monkeys’ chatter.
For Cultural Explorers
1. The Seto Inland Sea, Japan
Spanning over 350 miles of Japan’s southern coastline, the island-dotted Seto Inland Sea offers plentiful adventures. Base yourself on peaceful Shiraishi Island, hiking among fruit orchards by day while sampling freshly grilled seafood caught that very morning by night.
Venture off-island to traverse the vine-clad hillsides enveloping Teshima. Explore Teshima’s cultural sites, such as the Teshima Art Museum, separate from your camping adventure. Let the ferry be your transportation method, then pitch your tent beneath starlit skies on any number of sandy beaches.
2. Simien Mountains, Ethiopia
Soaring above northern Ethiopia’s spectacular highlands, the Simien Mountains contain unique Afro-Alpine habitats found nowhere else on Earth. The park’s endemic walia ibex and gelada monkey thrive alongside local human inhabitants preserving age-old traditions. Join a guided trek to immerse yourself in the Amhara people’s vibrant culture.
Spend the day following wildlife spotting Ethiopian wolves, then accept your local guide’s invitation for traditional gursha dinner fare eaten only by hand. Expect injera crepes and stewed wat dishes offered with abundant hospitality and lively conversation.
3. Ha Long Bay, Vietnam
Drifting upon the emerald waters of Ha Long Bay feels like entering another world dotted with hidden lagoons and floating villages. Base yourself on Cat Ba Island to access less-traveled routes through ethereal seascapes aboard old-school junk boats that double as your lodging.
Days slip lazily by sea, kayaking through pirate cave coves while nights promise local seafood barbecues aboard deck under the stars, followed by karaoke complete with rice wine shots.
Essential Tips For A Perfect Camping Adventure
While passion propels campers to faraway places, proper preparation prevents issues from dampening the dream. Assess your destination’s climate, terrain, and restrictions to choose suitable shelter, bedding, clothing, and sustenance. Lightweight backpacking gear differs greatly from family car camping setups.
Check entry and license requirements, trailhead access, weather projections, and even fire regulations at campsites. While complete self-reliance in remote regions seems romantic, small comforts like bug spray, hydration packs, and blister bandages boost enjoyment. Carry a translation guide or app to assist with basic communication, especially in emergencies.
When camping, visitors experience beautiful places that locals call home. Make minimal environmental impact a priority by strictly following Leave No Trace principles. Preserve that special sense of freedom and timelessness for future adventurers by respecting it today as a considerate traveler.
Conclusion
Camping connects you to the natural world, marked by starry night skies and golden dawns. By escaping hectic life to reboot in the wilderness, you return renewed with a fresh perspective.
Where will you pitch your tent next? Let it lead you on a personal pilgrimage—somewhere promising that speaks to your spirit. Craft your own story, cultivating memories that remind you the planet offers magnificent adventures if you just wander out to explore them.
