17 Epic Travel Experiences You Absolutely Need on Your Bucket List!
The 17 meticulously selected epic experiences in this list will drive you to step outside your comfort zone while allowing you to see the most beautiful natural wonders, traditional celebrations, and thrilling experiences.
These once-in-a-lifetime excursions will enable you to fly above magnificent terrains as you explore conventional ancient historical locations, creating permanent memories in your spirit. Prepare your luggage while feeding your desire for adventure, then fulfill your traveling ambitions.
Hike the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, Peru
Walk along the incredible Andes Mountains over four days until you arrive at the historic archaeological gem that ranks among Earth’s most significant monuments. During this trek, participants can see a spectacular combination of verdant valleys, primeval vestiges, and exclusive plant and animal species.
Your hard work will lead you to witness the breathtaking Sun Gate view of Machu Picchu during sunrise. The site requires visitors to reserve trekking services in advance because annual permits have set restrictions to maintain site preservation.
Witness the Northern Lights
View an enchanting aurora borealis display that paints the dark sky with green, purple, and pink hues from your proper position on the ground. Between November and March, you can see the remarkable phenomena in Iceland, Finland, and the Canadian Yukon territory.
The lights are caused by particles from the sun colliding with Earth’s atmosphere—an awe-inspiring reminder of the universe’s vastness.
Explore the Great Barrier Reef, Australia
Immersion into the vivid marine environment of the Great Barrier Reef reveals the most extensive coral reef system on this planet. This underwater destination provides divers and snorkelers the perfect natural environment due to its colorful corals, exquisite fish, and threatened marine life.
The UNESCO World Heritage Site can be discovered through beach walks in Cairns or underwater exploration using snorkeling. The site must be treated with care for its delicate environment, and responsible tourism activities must be endorsed.
Safari in Serengeti National Park, Tanzania
See the Great Migration in Serengeti National Park, a coastal home to over 2 million wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles as they migrate between East Africa.
You can take magnificent views of predators such as lions and cheetahs in the wild. The best time to do this is typically from June to October, when migration is at its peak.
Walk Along the Great Wall of China
The Great Wall of China is one of the Seven Wonders of the World, and if you have time, it will be one to marvel at as you walk along China’s Great Wall. This historic structure stretches well over 13,000 miles and presents stunning views of mountains and valleys.
Head to sections like Mutianyu, known for fewer crowds, beautiful scenery, and stories about the ancient emperors and laborers who built this monumental architectural wonder.
Cruise the Galápagos Islands, Ecuador
Sail through the pristine waters of the Galápagos Islands, renowned for their fascinating biodiversity. You will find giant tortoises, blue-footed booby, and marine iguanas, some of which inhabit no other part of the world.
Conservation-focused tourism ensures a sustainable adventure with the inspiration for Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution characterizing the islands.
Hot Air Ballooning in Cappadocia, Turkey
Cappadocia is on the bucket list; take to the skies above to see the fairy chimneys, caves, and rocky wonders. At sunrise, hundreds of hot air balloons scatter the sky, providing an unforgettable scene.
If you stay on the ground, discover the region’s unique history and underground cities.
Visit Petra, Jordan
The narrow Siq canyon approaches Petra, an archaeological treasure carved into rose-colored sandstone cliffs. Al-Khazneh (The Treasury) and The Monastery are fascinating ruins within this ancient Nabatean city.
Visit early morning or at night, under the glows of thousands of candles, to experience an adventure movie-like experience.
See Victoria Falls, Zambia/Zimbabwe
Water cascading down one of the world’s largest waterfalls offers you the power of “The Smoke That Thunders.” Victoria Falls is a border town between Zambia and Zimbabwe, and its best view can be had during the rainy season (February to May). If thrill-seeking is your thing, dip in Devil’s Pool atop the falls.
Trek to Everest Base Camp, Nepal
Trek to Everest Base Camp in the Himalayas and gain a once-in-a-lifetime sense of accomplishment. Ascend from the lower valley on the route to 17,598 feet, the HEIGER PASS, through Sherpa villages, suspension bridges, and mountain panoramas.
Trekking for 12–14 days is physically and mentally arduous, but the labor is well rewarded.
Kayak in New Zealand’s Fjords
Cruise through the ethereal beauty of Milford and Doubtful Sounds in Fiordland National Park. This place is summed up by playful seals, towering cliffs, and cascading waterfalls.
Paddling through misty fjords at dawn is an intimate way to connect with one of the world’s most idyllic landscapes.
Explore Antelope Canyon, USA
Learn what the swirling sandstone walls of Antelope Canyon in Arizona have to offer the photographer. Shafts of sunlight that look beam-like illuminate the canyon, turning it into a gallery.
Lighting is best all morning since the canyon is so colored and textured.
Witness Rio de Janeiro’s Carnival, Brazil
Soak up ancient and modern life in muffled Old Town, watch tarts zigzagging their way to churches, grab a classic pate à choux and tea while you’re at it during Montreal’s fun weekend, enjoy a festival of food and entertainment at the women of Telus World of Science.
This five-day festival before Lent, which converts the city into a kaleidoscope of energy and joy, is held annually.
Cruise Down the Amazon River, Brazil
The Amazon River will wind its way into the very midst of the world’s biggest rainforest. Exotic native wildlife like pink dolphins, toucans, and jaguars allowed them to explore lush jungle landscapes along the way. Enjoy being at an eco-lodge and enjoying the area’s biodiversity and cultural richness.
Admire Japan’s Cherry Blossoms
Travel to Kyoto and Tokyo and experience Japan during the Sakura season, when the cities are covered in soft pink and white hues by the seasonal, beloved cherry flowers.
As peak bloom usually happens, parks and temples become peaceful dreamscapes between March and April.
Drive Australia’s Great Ocean Road
Get on Australia’s fabulous Great Ocean Road for a lovely scenic road trip. Along its winding cliffs, the Twelve Apostles, lush rainforest, and charming coastal towns lie.
Don’t skip Kennett River to admire koalas in the wild!
Watch Sunrise Over Angkor Wat, Cambodia
At sunrise, watch the sun light up Angkor Wat, the world’s largest religious monument. The early morning stillness and the temple’s inwardly intricate carvings create a sense of wonder.
One can never get enough of its history and the greatness that it represents by having a person with experience guide you through its history and cultural meanings.
Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information. It is not intended to be professional advice.