10 Must-Read Adventure Travel Books to Inspire Your Next Journey
Are you an adventure enthusiast who loves to explore new destinations and experience the thrill of adrenaline? If yes, then you must know the importance of proper planning and preparation before embarking on any journey. One of the best ways to prepare for a journey is by reading travel books that offer insights, tips, and inspiration to make your trip successful.
Here are the 10 must-read adventure travel books that will help you plan and execute your next journey:
1. The Alchemist, by Paulo Coelho
This book is a must-read for anyone who is on a quest to find their purpose and discover the meaning of life. The Alchemist is a story of a young shepherd boy who embarks on a journey to fulfill his dream of finding a treasure and discovers himself along the way. The book is a perfect blend of adventure, spirituality, and self-discovery that will inspire you to follow your dreams and explore the world.
2. Into Thin Air, by Jon Krakauer
This book is a gripping account of the deadly 1996 Mount Everest expedition that claimed the lives of eight climbers. Jon Krakauer, a journalist and one of the survivors of the expedition, recounts the events leading up to the disaster and the aftermath of the tragedy. The book is a thrilling tale of courage, survival, and the perils of mountaineering that will leave you on the edge of your seat.
3. The Great Railway Bazaar, by Paul Theroux
The Great Railway Bazaar is a classic travelogue that chronicles Paul Theroux’s four-month journey through Europe and Asia by train. The book is a fascinating account of his encounters with people from different cultures, customs, and traditions along the way. The Great Railway Bazaar offers an insight into the joys and challenges of long-distance travel and the importance of embracing different perspectives.
4. Wild, by Cheryl Strayed
Wild is a memoir of Cheryl Strayed’s 1100-mile solo hike on the Pacific Crest Trail. The book is a powerful account of her struggle to cope with the loss of her mother, divorce, and addiction, and her journey towards self-discovery and healing. Wild is a poignant tale of resilience, determination, and the healing power of nature that will inspire you to push your limits and chase your dreams.
5. Endurance: Shackleton’s Incredible Voyage, by Alfred Lansing
Endurance is a gripping account of Sir Ernest Shackleton’s ill-fated expedition to Antarctica in 1914. The book is a tale of survival, courage, and leadership, as the crew battles extreme weather conditions, hunger, and exhaustion. Endurance is an inspiring story of human endurance and camaraderie that will leave you in awe.
6. Dark Star Safari, by Paul Theroux
Dark Star Safari is another classic travelogue by Paul Theroux, which chronicles his journey from Cairo to Cape Town. The book is a reflection of the challenges and joys of traveling through Africa, as Theroux encounters poverty, corruption, and political upheavals. Dark Star Safari is an eye-opening account of the complexities of the African continent and the resilience of its people.
7. The Art of Travel, by Alain de Botton
The Art of Travel is a philosophical inquiry into the meaning and significance of travel in our lives. Alain de Botton explores the reasons why we travel, the expectations we have of travel, and how to derive the most value from our travel experiences. The Art of Travel is a thought-provoking book that will inspire you to re-examine your ideas about travel and its role in your life.
8. In Patagonia, by Bruce Chatwin
In Patagonia is a travelogue that documents Bruce Chatwin’s journey through Patagonia, a sparsely populated region in South America. The book is a narrative of his encounters with the people, wildlife, and landscapes of the region, as he uncovers the history and culture of Patagonia. In Patagonia is a lyrical and evocative book that will transport you to the wilderness of Patagonia.
9. Seven Years in Tibet, by Heinrich Harrer
Seven Years in Tibet is a memoir of Heinrich Harrer’s experiences in Tibet during the 1940s. The book is a fascinating account of his encounters with the Dalai Lama and his experiences of life in Tibet, including its customs, beliefs, and traditions. Seven Years in Tibet is an inspiring story of friendship, humanity, and the resilience of the human spirit.
10. Travels with Charley: In Search of America, by John Steinbeck
Travels with Charley is a memoir of John Steinbeck’s cross-country road trip with his dog, Charley, in the 1960s. The book is a reflection of his encounters with people, landscapes, and cultures that he encounters along the way. Travels with Charley is an insightful and humorous book that captures the spirit of America and the joys of traveling.
In conclusion, reading books is an excellent way to prepare for any journey, offering insights, inspiration, and practical tips. The adventure travel books listed here are some of the best in the genre and are sure to ignite your wanderlust and inspire your next journey.
