With consistent performance, Germany has topped the Adventure Tourism Development Index, a global ranking of countries on their preparedness as an adventure tourism destination across nine different parametres.

According to a press statement issued by the Adventure Travel Trade Association, a leading global organisation of adventure tourism agents, the 2024 ADTI has been developed in partnership with George Washington University International Institute of Tourism Studies. It adds that this report is the first update since the pre-pandemic version in early 2020. The ATDI is an invaluable resource for those shaping the future of adventure tourism, particularly Destination Marketing Organisations (DMOs) and trade associations.

The statement adds that ATDI evaluates 186 countries across nine key pillars, namely sustainable development, safety, health, climate resilience, natural resources, cultural resources, entrepreneurship, infrastructure and image. This year’s index features a revamped methodology, reflecting the evolving priorities of the adventure travel sector, it says.

According to the statement, the index offers insights into emerging trends and destinations, empowering key players in the tourism sector to anticipate market shifts and ensure long-term competitiveness. The ATDI also underscores the vital connection between natural and cultural resources, adventure tourism, and sustainable development, encouraging responsible growth within the industry.

According to ADTI, in terms of advanced economies country rankings, the top three rankings are taken by neighbouring European nations, Germany, France and Switzerland. The top spots for emerging or developing economies country rankings have been claimed by Costa Rica, Chile and Thailand.

The statement adds that Germany’s top ranking underscores its consistent performance across all nine pillars. While not claiming the top spot in any individual category, Germany secures a place among the top five for Cultural Resources and Climate Resilience, reflecting its commitment to both preserving heritage and addressing environmental challenges.

France and Switzerland, ranked second and third respectively, also demonstrate well-rounded strengths. France shines in cultural resources, boasting a rich tapestry of historical sites and vibrant traditions. Switzerland, renowned for its stunning landscapes, excels in Image and also scores high in safety, climate resilience and natural resources.

The ATDI also showcases the growing prominence of emerging economies in the adventure tourism sector. Costa Rica claims the top spot among this group, driven by its strong commitment to sustainable development and its pristine natural beauty. Chile and Thailand follow closely, with Chile demonstrating robust performance in safety and climate resilience, and Thailand excelling in image and infrastructure.

Seleni Matus

“These rankings demonstrate that adventure tourism is not limited to traditional destinations. Emerging economies are increasingly recognising the potential of adventure tourism to drive sustainable economic growth and showcase their unique cultural and natural assets,” says Seleni Matus, Executive Director of the International Institute of Tourism Studies at George Washington University.

The statement adds that the 2024 edition of the ATDI accounts for the significant disruptions of recent years, including changes in travel patterns, labor markets, and global stability, all of which have profoundly impacted the adventure tourism industry.

To reflect these changes, the ATDI underwent a comprehensive methodological review. Factors, pillars, and indicators were all reassessed and updated, including the addition of a new Climate Resilience pillar to reflect the growing emphasis on sustainability. Unavailable or less relevant indicators were also replaced. This significantly revised ATDI marks a new chapter, making comparisons with previous years impractical.