The Only Travel Bucket List You Need: 19 of the Most Incredible Experiences on Earth
Have you ever wondered about the most amazing things you can do around the world? We’ve got the scoop on the most incredible experiences that are sure to amaze you.
This list is your ticket to adventure; let’s uncover these awesome activities that are just waiting for you to explore!
1. Witness the Aurora Borealis in Iceland
Iceland is your stage for one of nature’s most spectacular shows: the Northern Lights. These ribbons of color dance across the night sky and will leave you in awe. Planning your trip between September and April increases your chances to catch this breathtaking display.
Clear, dark nights away from city lights offer the perfect backdrop. And don’t worry, even if the lights are shy, Iceland’s stunning landscapes are well worth the visit.
2. Sail the Greek Isles
From the stunning cliff-side views of Santorini to the historic shores of Rhodes, sailing in Greece is an adventure through history and natural splendor. You’ll find yourself hopping from island to island, each with its own personality and secrets to share.
You can learn to harness the wind with sailing lessons or simply unwind on deck, the cool sea breeze mingling with the warm air.
3. Explore the Ancient Ruins of Machu Picchu, Peru
Discover the secrets of Machu Picchu, an ancient Inca sanctuary nestled high in the Andes. Your adventure through these ruins will reveal the mysteries of a civilization long gone. Each stone in this sacred city tells a story of ingenuity and spirit.
With breathtaking views of the Andean landscapes and intriguing remnants of temples and palaces, you’ll walk the same paths as Inca royalty. Delve into history as you stand among the marvels of engineering and architecture that have withstood the test of time.
4. Go on a Wildlife Safari in the Serengeti, Tanzania
Embark on a life-changing journey through Tanzania’s Serengeti. Picture yourself in an open jeep, cruising across golden savannas, as the wildlife surrounds you. You can witness the heart-pounding Great Migration, where millions of wildebeest and zebras make their epic journey.
Year-round, the Serengeti offers an array of wildlife, from the majestic elephants to the swift cheetahs. Have your camera at the ready to capture a pride of lions or a solitary leopard lounging in an acacia tree.
5. Walk Along the Great Wall of China
Taking a stroll on the Great Wall of China is like stepping through pages of history. This wonder stretches over 13,000 miles, and each section tells a story from a different dynasty.
If you have kids, or you’re in for an easy yet scenic hike, the Mutianyu section is perfect. Looking for a bit more challenge? The rugged trails at Jinshanling will reward you with stunning views and fewer crowds.
6. Experience the Cherry Blossoms in Kyoto, Japan
Spring in Kyoto welcomes you with a blush of color, as cherry blossoms or ‘sakura’ transform the city into a canvas of pink. Leisurely stroll through Maruyama Park, where the blooms create a stunning canopy above.
These floral displays signal a time of renewal, and locals celebrate with picnics under the trees. For a peaceful view, glide in a rowboat down the Kamo River, enjoying blossoms on every side. Don’t miss the illuminated evenings at Kiyomizu-Dera, where petals glisten under the night sky.
7. Take a Hot Air Balloon Ride Over Cappadocia, Turkey
Soar above the lunar-like landscape of Cappadocia in a hot air balloon! Gently drift over deep valleys, fairy chimneys, and vineyards as the sun paints the sky with morning hues.
Cappadocia is famous for its unique geological features and rich history, which are even more majestic from the basket of a balloon.
8. Dive in the Great Barrier Reef, Australia
The Great Barrier Reef awaits with its vibrant coral gardens and soothing blue embrace. You’ll marvel at the colorful marine life that calls this underwater paradise home.
If you’re chasing the extraordinary, add a plunge on the Ribbon Reefs, where the untouched world beneath boasts coral havens. The warm waters beckon you to a realm where manta rays glide and clownfish dart among anemones.
9. Visit the Grand Canyon, USA
Your next adventure awaits at the Grand Canyon, a staggering wonder that will leave you in awe. Spanning 277 miles, this vast chasm carved by the Colorado River is a sight to behold.
Taking in the view from a sky-high helicopter ride, you’ll see the canyon walls’ spectacular array of colors. If you prefer to keep your feet on the ground, stroll along the edge or challenge yourself with a hike down into its depths.
10. Trek to Everest Base Camp, Nepal
Everest Base Camp sits at a mighty 5,364 meters—a vantage point that not many can claim to have reached. Wake up to the crisp Himalayan air, with the world’s highest peaks as your daily backdrop.
This trek is a mix of challenge and inspiration, letting you follow in the footsteps of legendary mountaineers. Starting from Lukla, you’ll travel approximately 65 kilometers to reach this iconic spot.
Along the way, cross suspension bridges and walk through colorful Sherpa villages. You need to acclimatize, but every step brings new breathtaking views.
11. Wander Through the Lavender Fields of Provence, France
In the heart of Provence, the Valensole Plateau is a must-visit. Every summer, these fields burst into vibrant purples as far as the eye can see. The air is filled with a delightful scent, and the buzz of bees fills your ears.
Here, lavender is not just a plant; it’s a legacy of the region. Breathe deeply during a serene walk as you take in this marvel of nature.
12. Discover the Temples of Angkor Wat, Cambodia
Let’s uncover the majestic Angkor Wat, where ancient stones tell tales of a once-glorious empire. Your eyes will marvel at the world’s largest religious monument, sprawling across acres in northwest Cambodia. Every nook cradles carvings that echo the grandeur of the Khmer kings.
Wake up early for a sunrise tour and watch dawn paint the spires gold. Walk through galleries where intricate bas-reliefs bring myths to life. Here, history breathes in the roots of towering trees, and adventure calls.
13. Relax in the Maldives
Visiting the Maldives is like stepping into a vibrant postcard. With soft, white sands underfoot and the melody of the waves, the pure tranquility envelopes you. Indulge in luxurious relaxation at the resort of your choice, many offer indulgent spa treatments tailor-made to soothe your soul.
No visit is complete without mingling with the majestic manta rays. These gentle creatures elevate your vacation, bringing a sense of awe as you swim with them. The Maldives is teeming with these incredible animals, and you’re in the perfect spot to meet them up close.
14. Admire the Architecture of Barcelona, Spain
Barcelona’s streets are a canvas of architectural marvels that’ll have you snapping photos at every turn. Your eyes won’t believe the surreal shapes of Sagrada Familia, a true masterpiece still in the making. Gaudi’s vision springs to life in a symphony of spires and mosaic.
Don’t miss the wave-like façade of Casa Mila, where the rooftop chimneys stand like sentinels. Barcelona promises each moment with its buildings is a discovery in itself.
15. Cruise Through the Fjords of New Zealand
New Zealand’s fjords are a spectacle of nature’s artistry, and cruising through them is like gliding into a living postcard. The serene waters reflect towering cliffs and lush rainforests.
Your eyes will be treated to the dance of waterfalls tumbling down into the fjords, and if you’re lucky, you might spot playful dolphins leaping alongside your cruise ship.
16. Marvel at the Taj Mahal, India
When you visit the Taj Mahal, the sunlight makes the white marble glow, giving you a warm welcome. Built by Emperor Shah Jahan for his wife, it stands as a symbol of love.
Remember to explore beyond the main structure. The surrounding gardens and reflecting pools amplify the beauty, offering many angles to discover. Take a moment to soak in the craftsmanship, from the delicate inlay work to the grand design.
17. Explore the Amazon Rainforest
Traveling to the Amazon rainforest means you’re in for an adventure like no other. As you embark on this journey, picture the lush scenery and vibrant wildlife that awaits.
The Amazon isn’t just trees and trails; its diverse ecosystem is home to incredible species like three-toed sloths and colorful macaws, often spotted from canopy walkways.
Your exploration may lead you to Brazil’s heart of the Amazon, Manaus, a city with rich culture and a direct gate to the dense forest. From here, venture into the dense foliage, witness the vast river networks, and feel the pulse of nature.
18. Soak in the Blue Lagoon, Iceland
The Blue Lagoon in Iceland isn’t just another hot spring; it’s a geothermal marvel against the backdrop of stark black lava fields that will leave you speechless. Unwind in warm, milky blue waters, a natural spa that’s all yours to enjoy.
With waters rich in minerals like silica and sulfur, a soak here does wonders for your skin. Want to ramp up the luxury? You can pamper yourself with a silica mud mask right from the lagoon. And don’t stress about the chill in the air – the lagoon’s heat is just perfect, come snow or sunshine.
19. Experience the Vibrant Culture of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
In Rio de Janeiro, your senses come alive with dazzling samba rhythms and colorful Carnival parades. Picture yourself on Copacabana Beach, the sun kissing your skin as you watch the waves roll in. In the city’s heart, music fills the air and the energy is contagious.
Your visit isn’t complete without a cable car ride to Sugarloaf Mountain. There, Rio’s landscape unfolds like a live map beneath you. The view is simply breathtaking; with the city, ocean, and mountains all in sight, it feels like you’re on top of the world.
