GITNUX MARKETDATA REPORT 2024

Adventure Travel Industry Statistics

The Adventure Travel Industry is experiencing steady growth with an increasing number of travelers seeking unique and immersive experiences in destinations around the world.

Highlights: Adventure Travel Industry Statistics

  • In 2019, the adventure tourism market reached approximately USD 586.3 billion in value.
  • The adventure travel market is expected to grow at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of around 17.4% from 2020 to 2027.
  • 45% of adventure tourism revenues come from Europe and North America.
  • More than 53% of the backpackers prefer adventure traveling.
  • By 2020, 68% of all travel bookings were made online, including adventure travel.
  • 37.5% of adventure travelers are aged between 41-60.
  • The North America adventure tourism market value was USD 217.63 billion in 2020.
  • Adventure travelers are largely willing to pay a premium for having environmentally-friendly accommodations.
  • By 2027, the global adventure travel market is projected to reach USD 1,626.7 billion.
  • 54% of global travelers plan to participate in adventure activities like trekking, diving, and cycling in 2021.
  • Adventure travel comprises about 30% of the total global travel market.
  • Approximately 69% of travelers prefer local experiences such as cooking classes or touring with local guides, often organized by adventure tour operators.
  • Women make up 60% of adventure travelers and are the fastest growing demographic in adventure travel.
  • In 2019, adventure tourism contributed over 1.5% to the overall GDP of New Zealand.
  • In 2019, close to 45% of active adventure travelers were millennials.

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The Latest Adventure Travel Industry Statistics Explained

In 2019, the adventure tourism market reached approximately USD 586.3 billion in value.

The statistic states that in the year 2019, the adventure tourism market had a total estimated value of around USD 586.3 billion. This figure encompasses the amount of money generated from various adventure tourism activities such as hiking, skiing, wildlife safaris, and other adventurous experiences. The value indicates the significant economic importance and growth potential of the adventure tourism industry, highlighting its popularity as a recreational choice for travelers seeking unique and thrilling experiences. The statistic serves as a key indicator of the industry’s size and impact on economies worldwide, showcasing its relevance in the global tourism sector.

The adventure travel market is expected to grow at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of around 17.4% from 2020 to 2027.

The statistic indicates that the adventure travel market is projected to experience significant growth over the period from 2020 to 2027, with a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) estimated at approximately 17.4%. This means that on average, the adventure travel industry is anticipated to expand by 17.4% per year during this timeframe. This strong growth rate suggests increasing demand and interest in adventure travel experiences among consumers, potentially driven by factors such as a desire for unique and immersive travel experiences, a growing interest in outdoor activities, and a shift towards more experiential and authentic travel options. Companies operating in the adventure travel sector may expect opportunities for expansion and innovation in order to capitalize on this projected growth trend.

45% of adventure tourism revenues come from Europe and North America.

The statistic states that 45% of the total revenues generated by the adventure tourism industry is attributable to visitors from Europe and North America. This suggests that a significant portion of the industry’s financial success is driven by tourists from these two regions. The data highlights the importance of attracting travelers from Europe and North America for adventure tourism businesses, as these markets contribute a substantial portion of their revenue. Additionally, it may also indicate the popularity of adventure tourism among visitors from these regions and the potential for growth by further targeting and catering to their preferences and interests.

More than 53% of the backpackers prefer adventure traveling.

The statistic stating that more than 53% of backpackers prefer adventure traveling indicates a strong preference within the backpacking community for engaging in adventurous and daring travel experiences. This statistic suggests that a majority of backpackers are drawn to activities such as hiking, camping, or other physically challenging and adrenaline-inducing adventures. The high percentage also implies that adventure travel holds a significant appeal to backpackers seeking novel, exciting, and immersive travel experiences, potentially reflecting a preference for exploring off-the-beaten-path destinations and pushing personal boundaries. This statistic highlights the popularity of adventure travel among backpackers and underscores the importance of adventurous activities in shaping their travel preferences and experiences.

By 2020, 68% of all travel bookings were made online, including adventure travel.

The statistic states that as of the year 2020, 68% of all travel bookings were conducted online, encompassing various types of travel such as adventure travel. This finding highlights the significant shift towards digital platforms for making travel arrangements, signaling a trend of increasing reliance on online booking services within the travel industry. The data suggests that a large majority of travelers have veered towards the convenience and accessibility offered by online booking platforms, potentially driven by factors such as ease of comparison, availability of reviews, and the ability to make reservations at any time and from anywhere. This statistic underscores the importance for travel companies and service providers to have a strong online presence and user-friendly booking systems to cater to the evolving preferences of modern travelers.

37.5% of adventure travelers are aged between 41-60.

The statistic “37.5% of adventure travelers are aged between 41-60” indicates that nearly 2 out of every 5 adventure travelers fall within the age range of 41 to 60 years old. This implies that middle-aged individuals constitute a significant portion of adventure travel enthusiasts. The data suggests that this age group is actively engaging in adventurous activities, seeking unique and thrilling experiences, which can have implications for the tourism industry, businesses catering to adventure travel, and marketing strategies targeting this demographic. Understanding the demographics of adventure travelers can help in developing tailored offerings and experiences to meet the preferences and needs of this age group.

The North America adventure tourism market value was USD 217.63 billion in 2020.

The statistic indicates that the adventure tourism market in North America generated a total revenue of USD 217.63 billion in the year 2020. This figure represents the value of all economic activities within the adventure tourism sector, which includes a wide range of outdoor and recreational activities such as hiking, skiing, rafting, and zip-lining, among others. The sizeable market value highlights the significant economic contribution of adventure tourism to the North American region, reflecting the popularity and demand for these types of experiences among both domestic and international travelers.

Adventure travelers are largely willing to pay a premium for having environmentally-friendly accommodations.

This statement suggests that adventure travelers, a specific subgroup of tourists who seek unique and thrilling experiences typically associated with nature and outdoor activities, are inclined to pay a higher price for accommodations that prioritize sustainability and environmentally-friendly practices. This preference indicates a willingness among adventure travelers to support businesses that demonstrate a commitment to reducing their environmental impact, such as using renewable energy sources, reducing waste, or supporting conservation efforts. The statistic implies that there is a market demand among adventure travelers for eco-friendly accommodations, presenting an opportunity for businesses in the tourism industry to cater to this niche market segment by offering sustainable lodging options that align with their values.

By 2027, the global adventure travel market is projected to reach USD 1,626.7 billion.

The statistic states that the global adventure travel market is estimated to grow to USD 1,626.7 billion by the year 2027. This projection suggests a substantial expansion in the adventure travel industry over the next few years, with an anticipated increase in consumer interest, demand, and spending on adventure tourism experiences. The figure signifies the economic value and potential growth opportunities within the adventure travel sector, indicating a positive outlook for businesses operating in this market and highlighting the importance of catering to the preferences of adventure-seeking travelers in the coming years.

54% of global travelers plan to participate in adventure activities like trekking, diving, and cycling in 2021.

The statistic indicates that 54% of global travelers intend to engage in adventure activities such as trekking, diving, and cycling in the year 2021. This suggests a significant portion of travelers are seeking out more adventurous and experiential opportunities for their travel plans this year. The preference for adventure activities could be influenced by a desire for unique experiences, a shift towards more active and nature-based pursuits, or a response to the limitations imposed by the ongoing global pandemic. This statistic highlights a growing trend in the travel industry towards adventure tourism and presents opportunities for businesses and destinations to cater to this segment of travelers seeking thrilling and immersive experiences in their travels.

Adventure travel comprises about 30% of the total global travel market.

The statistic that adventure travel comprises about 30% of the total global travel market indicates that roughly one-third of all travel activity worldwide falls under the category of adventure tourism. This type of travel typically involves exploration, physical activity, cultural immersion, and unique experiences in natural environments. This statistic suggests that adventure travel is a significant and growing segment within the overall travel industry, reflecting the increasing popularity of seeking authentic and off-the-beaten-path travel experiences. The 30% figure highlights the substantial market share that adventure travel holds and signifies that there is a considerable demand for this type of travel among global travelers.

Approximately 69% of travelers prefer local experiences such as cooking classes or touring with local guides, often organized by adventure tour operators.

The statistic that approximately 69% of travelers prefer local experiences, such as cooking classes or touring with local guides, organized by adventure tour operators, reflects a growing trend in the travel industry towards experiential tourism. Travelers are increasingly seeking authentic and immersive experiences that allow them to engage with local cultures and communities. By participating in activities such as cooking classes or guided tours with locals, travelers can gain a deeper understanding of the destinations they visit, fostering cultural exchange and creating meaningful connections. Adventure tour operators play a key role in facilitating these experiences, curating unique and off-the-beaten-path opportunities that cater to the evolving preferences of modern travelers. This statistic highlights the shift towards experiential travel and the desire for more meaningful and authentic interactions while exploring new destinations.

Women make up 60% of adventure travelers and are the fastest growing demographic in adventure travel.

This statistic indicates that women constitute a significant portion, specifically 60%, of adventure travelers, a trend that is rapidly expanding within the adventure travel industry. The statement suggests that more women are engaging in adventure travel activities compared to men and that their participation in this sector is increasing at a faster rate. This trend reflects a shifting demographic profile within the adventure travel market, pointing towards a growing interest and involvement of women in seeking out adventurous and experiential travel experiences. It also highlights the potential for businesses and destinations within the adventure travel industry to cater towards the preferences and needs of female travelers in order to capitalize on this expanding market segment.

In 2019, adventure tourism contributed over 1.5% to the overall GDP of New Zealand.

The statistic “In 2019, adventure tourism contributed over 1.5% to the overall GDP of New Zealand” indicates the significant economic impact of adventure tourism on the country’s economy during that specific year. This statistic highlights that the sector of adventure tourism, which includes activities such as bungee jumping, hiking, and extreme sports, played a notable role in driving economic growth and generating revenue in New Zealand. The 1.5% contribution to the GDP suggests that adventure tourism was a substantial component of the country’s overall economic output in 2019, showcasing the importance of the industry as a key player in the nation’s economic landscape.

In 2019, close to 45% of active adventure travelers were millennials.

The statistic suggests that in 2019, almost half of the active adventure travelers belonged to the millennial generation, which typically includes individuals born between 1981 and 1996. This finding implies that millennials, as a demographic group, are significantly engaged in seeking out adventurous and experiential travel activities. The high proportion of millennials participating in such activities may be indicative of their desire for unique and exciting travel experiences, as well as their interest in exploring different cultures and environments. This trend could have implications for travel industry stakeholders, such as tour operators and destination marketers, in terms of tailoring their offerings to cater to the preferences and behaviors of this key demographic segment.

References

0. – https://www.www.trafalgar.com

1. – https://www.www.grandviewresearch.com

2. – https://www.www.statista.com

3. – https://www.eu.usatoday.com

4. – https://www.www.fortunebusinessinsights.com

5. – https://www.www.intrepidtravel.com

6. – https://www.www.adventuretravelnews.com

7. – https://www.www.altexsoft.com

8. – https://www.www.bdcnetwork.com

9. – https://www.destinationanalysts.com

10. – https://www.www.trekksoft.com

11. – https://www.www.acumenresearchandconsulting.com

12. – https://www.www.tourismnewzealand.com

How we write our statistic reports:

We have not conducted any studies ourselves. Our article provides a summary of all the statistics and studies available at the time of writing. We are solely presenting a summary, not expressing our own opinion. We have collected all statistics within our internal database. In some cases, we use Artificial Intelligence for formulating the statistics. The articles are updated regularly.

See our Editorial Process.

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