* Thirst for knowledge: The Renaissance humanism and intellectual curiosity contributed to the European exploration age. Explorers were driven by a desire to learn more about the world, its geography, and its diverse cultures and ways of life.
* Religious motivations: Missionaries and religious zeal played significant role in European exploration. Spreading Christianity was seen as crucial religious duty, with the hope of expanding their respective faiths. The Portuguese and Spanish, in particular, were keen on spreading Catholicism during the Age of Exploration.
* Cultural exchange: European explorers sought new lands to establish trade relations, which often led to cultural exchanges and the introduction of new ideas, technologies, and commodities to both Europe and the explored regions.
* Expansion of territories and empires: The era of exploration also coincided with the rise of powerful nation states and the ambitions of European countries to expand their territorial holdings and establish colonies. Competition among European powers further propelled the exploration activities.
* Escape from social pressures: Some individuals found exploring and venturing into new lands as an escape from societal pressures, political conflicts, or economic difficulties in their home countries.