Top 10 wild rides for travelers

Reuters

GIDDY UP: A jockey competes in an ostrich race in Kenya, number 1 on travel website VirtualTourist.com's list of the top 10 wild rides for tourists.

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HOW I ROLL: A mantries out the Zorb ride in Rotorua, number 5 on travel website VirtualTourist.com's list of the top 10 wild rides for tourists.

Reuters

OLDIE BUT GOODIE: An Indian rickshaw puller runs with passengers in India, number 7 number 5 on travel website VirtualTourist.com's list of the top 10 wild rides for tourists.

Reuters

GO DOG, GO: Dog sledding in Switzerland, number 10 on travel website VirtualTourist.com's list of the top 10 wild rides for tourists.

Reuters

TOEING THE LINE: A camel ride in Egypt, number 5 on travel website VirtualTourist.com's list of the top 8 wild rides for tourists.

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For travelers looking for modes of transport with a difference, travel website VirtualTourist.com has compiled a list of top 10 wild rides.

This list was compiled by VirtualTourist.com and is not endorsed by Reuters.

1. Ostrich Rides, Nairobi, Kenya

Although elephant rides are the first thing most people think of when weighing transportation options in Kenya, the ostrich is not to be ruled out. The animal equivalent of a unicycle may take a few tries before novice riders find their balance.

2. Balloon Rides, Goreme, Turkey

You'll have to get up at the crack of dawn, but most who try it agree that there's no better way to watch the sun come up and take in the "wow factor" of Goreme's ancient landscape.

3. Swan-shaped Boat Rides, Boston, Massachusetts

For a genteel experience, try the famous Swan Boats of Boston's Public Garden. A tradition since the late 1800s, these man-powered boats are as much a part of the Boston experience as a trip to Fenway.

4. Ox-Cart Rides, Nepal

They're not great on the freeway, but for short stretches, riding an ox-cart is a great experience. It will take you through Nepal's rugged, rural terrain, but also on a trip back in time.

5. Zorb Riding, Rotorua, New Zealand

It may look tame, but one spin down a hill in a Zorb, or giant inflatable ball, and you'll see this is one serious adrenalin rush. Single and tandem "rolls" can be arranged, and those with weak stomachs can ask for a little water in their capsule to insure a smooth ride.

6. Helicopter Ride, Grand Canyon, Arizona

An exhilarating option for those who don't have enough time to do the canyon on foot, there is no better way to take in the grandeur of this centuries-old crater than by air.

7. Rickshaw Rides, India

Some call them death machines, others call them glorified golf carts. Whatever you call them, don't let a few white knuckles stop you from taking a spin.

8. Camel Ride, Mt Sinai, Egypt

Yes, it's touristy, but how many other opportunities are you going to get to do this? These desert taxis can be as expensive as real ones, but with a little pre-ride negotiation you may be able get the fare down considerably.

9. Submarine Ride, Barbados

It's not for the claustrophobic, but if you can keep your calm when the door closes, it's a pretty spectacular experience. From marine life, to coral reefs, to sunken ships, you'd have to be a mermaid to get a better view.

10. Dog Sledding, Bern, Switzerland

When in doubt, hold on tight and yell "mush!". You may be shivering, but the dogs love it and seeing them do what they do best is an invigorating experience. A toast with a hot drink at the end is customary - for you, not the dogs.

- Reuters