101 Bucket List Travel Destinations

Everyone has that list of dream destinations that are always in the back of their mind: the ancient ruins of Machu Picchu; the natural wonders of the Grand Canyon; iconic cities like Paris; or tropical locales like Australia’s Great Barrier Reef. Bucket list travel destinations like these promise the experience of a lifetime. 

This comprehensive travel bucket list covers 103 of the best places to travel, spanning every continent and appealing to every travel style. Put your wanderlust into high gear and pick from our bucket list travel destinations so you can finally see ancient wonders and historic sites, stunning scenes and natural wonders, must-see cities, tropical and beach locations and more adventurous destinations.

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The last remaining Wonder of the Ancient World, these 4,500-year-old pyramids never fail to astound. The Great Pyramid of Khufu and the enigmatic Sphinx represent human ambition at its peak. Try visiting at sunrise when the golden light hits the limestone blocks for the best possible views.

This 13,000-mile architectural marvel snakes over mountain ridges and valleys. It can’t actually be seen from space, but it’s amazing to see in person. The Mutianyu section has restored walkways and stunning views, and the Jiankou offers unrestored sections for a more authentic experience. Just know that Americans have to get a visa before visiting China. 

Machu Picchu is perched at almost 8,000 feet above sea level, appearing to simply float on the clouds. You’ll have to hike the last leg of the trip to enjoy the sweeping views and stunning architecture. Look out for the precisely cut stone walls fitting together without mortar, showcasing engineering that has withstood centuries of earthquakes. 

Petra’s rose-red sandstone cliffs emerge after a dramatic walk through the narrow Siq canyon. This 2,000-year-old Nabataean capital was once a thriving trading hub, and now contains elaborate tombs and a remarkable facade. 

Maximize your enjoyment by joining a tour group that can guide you through Petra’s Siq, the ceremonial entrance to the city, directly to the Dead Sea.  

Angkor Wat is the world’s largest religious monument, spanning 400 acres of Cambodian jungle. Built in the 12th century, its five lotus-shaped towers represent Mount Meru. Join a sunrise tour for the magical, life-changing experience of visiting the most popular temples Angkor Wat has to offer. 

Rome’s iconic amphitheater once held 50,000 spectators for gladiatorial contests. Now you can walk through the underground passages where lions once prowled. The adjacent forum served as the heart of political life, and helps you imagine what ancient Roman life was once like. Book a guided tour or timed-entry ticket to avoid long wait times. 

This ancient citadel represents the pinnacle of Classical Greek civilization. The temple dedicated to Athena has stood watch over Athens for 2,500 years. Visit at sunset to watch the marble turn to gold. Try buying tickets in advance so you can dodge the long lines. 

Emperor Shah Jahan built this white marble mausoleum as a tribute to his beloved wife. The symmetrical perfection of the Taj Mahal creates an almost ethereal beauty. This one’s worth waking up early for, so you can avoid the crowds. 

These massive sarsen stones arranged in a circle have puzzled archaeologists for centuries. The mystery of how Neolithic people moved 24-ton stones from quarries over 100 miles away still endures to this day. Either rent a car to take a look for yourself or reach this destination by bus. 

This Mayan archaeological site sits in Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula and has a few highlights you need to see. El Castillo, the famous stepped pyramid, is the star of the show. The Great Ball Court gives you a glimpse into ancient games, and the Sacred Cenote — a massive natural sinkhole — reveals a place sacred to the Mayan people. 

This 9th-century Buddhist temple is made of nine stacked platforms topped with a central dome. It includes over 2,600 relief panels illustrating Buddha’s story, with 504 statues sitting in meditation. The temple is especially magical at sunrise, still wreathed in mist from the surrounding peaks. 

Once Asia Minor’s greatest port, Ephesus showcases remarkably preserved Roman urban planning. Visitors can walk marble-paved streets past the Library of Celsus facade, or enjoy the Great Theater, which once held 25,000 spectators for performances and political gatherings. 

Tikal’s towering pyramids emerge from the Guatemalan rainforest, poking just above the jungle canopy. At its peak in 800 A.D., Tikal housed over 100,000 people. Now visitors can climb Temple IV for views across the rainforest to other pyramid tops. 

Easter Island is home to almost 900 massive stone heads, some standing 30 feet tall and weighing over 80 tons. At Ahu Tongariki, 15 restored moai face inland while the rest look out to the sea. Visit in the early morning or late evening to avoid the crowds. 

Mount Vesuvius buried this thriving Roman city under volcanic ash in 79 A.D., creating a time capsule of what life used to be. Visitors can walk the ancient streets, peering into bakeries with intact ovens and vibrant 2,000-year-old frescoes. Just make sure to prepare yourself since plaster case victims are on display, which can be a lot to see. 

The Palace of Versailles was Louis XIV’s vision — his father’s hunting lodge, turned into Europe’s most opulent palace. The Hall of Mirrors has 357 mirrors and is nothing short of dazzling. Check out Marie Antoinette’s bedroom for a peek into her personal life. Make sure to give yourself three to four hours to see the main palace and grounds without rushing.

The wonders of Moorish architecture make this fortress-like palace look like paradise on earth. The walls and ceiling are covered with intricate geometric tile work and delicate stucco arabesques. The Generalife gardens’ bubbling fountains and views over Granada’s Albacin quarter are not to be missed. 

Want to skip the line with popular attractions? Get a guide to access popular sites like the Alhambra fortress and Generalife Gardens. 

Egypt’s Valley of Kings features the elaborately carved tombs of pharaohs stretched across the limestone hills from the Nile to Luxor. Visit the tomb of King Tut — whose treasures have been moved to Cairo — and stop by the brilliantly colored ceiling frescoes of Ramses VI’s tomb.

There are 11 monolithic churches representing a new Jerusalem. Made in the 12th century, each is carved entirely from living rock. The cross-shaped Church of St. George, carved 40 feet deep into the earth, is the most popular for photographing. 

Try flying in from Addis Ababa to avoid unsafe roads, and don’t forget to drink lots of water to stay well-hydrated.

These Ancestral Puebloan cliff dwellings, built into the canyon alcoves, date between 600 and 1300 A.D. Visitors can join guided ranger tours to walk through the ruins of Cliff Palace, which contains 150 preserved rooms. Just make sure you’re ready to climb some ladders if you want to get a closer look.

Sigiriya features a 5th-century fortress perched atop a 600-foot rock monolith. Visitors must trek into the jungle and climb the vertiginous metal staircase. Just know that passing the Lion’s Paw gateway is not for those with fears of heights. If you can survive the hike, expect to be rewarded with stunning panoramic views and ruins.

The Terracotta Army in Xi’an was discovered in 1974 by a farmer, and ranks as one of archaeology’s greatest finds. It contains over 8,000 life-sized clay warriors, poised in battle formation. 

This army was made to guard China’s first emperor in his journey to the afterlife. Each soldier has unique facial features and expressions, modeled after the emperor’s actual army. American citizens should make sure to get their Chinese visa before planning a visit.

The Vatican acts as the spiritual center of the Catholic Church. It packs extraordinary historical art into 109 acres. Popular destinations include the Sistine Chapel, where you can see Michelangelo’s painting “The Creation of Adam,” and St. Peter’s enormous Basilica. 

Just don’t forget to bring your passport — it’s required for entry into the Vatican Museums, even for EU residents.

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In Norway, the aurora borealis turns the sky green, purple and pink. Visit Tromsø, 200 miles above the Arctic Circle, for front row seating. Your phone may pick up the lights more vividly than your eyes, so get your camera ready. Try to plan your trip between late September and March, when the polar night gives you the best odds of spotting the aurora.

There’s a reason the Grand Canyon is one of the seven wonders of the world. The Colorado River carved this mile-deep chasm over millions of years, exposing rock layers that tell two billion years of geological history. Adventurous visitors can take the 20+ mile hike from the North to the South Rim for stunning views.

Australia’s Great Barrier Reef holds the title of the world’s largest coral reef system. Stretching over 1,400 miles along Queensland's coast, it’s a popular attraction for snorkeling and diving. Swim among the tropical fish, sea turtles and reef sharks in water so clear you can see hundreds of feet.

Iguazu River is the world’s most powerful waterfall system. It plunges over a basaltic cliff, with 275 individual cascades generating an earth-shattering roar and a permanent mist. Visit the Devil’s Throat to enjoy its 14 falls that converge on a 269-foot drop.

Ha Long Bay earned its UNESCO World Heritage title because of its stunning 2,000 limestone karst islands. Cruise in traditional wooden junks through the lovely emerald water. Explore the karsts and hidden caves and grottoes, all crowned with stalactites. 

Salar de Uyuni is known as the world’s largest salt flat. During the rainy season, it turns into the planet’s largest mirror, perfectly reflecting the sky. This blindingly white landscape stretches across 4,000 miles at 12,000 feet elevation. Enjoy everything these breathtaking salt flats have to offer by joining a Uyuni Tour group.

Explore the Milford Sound to enjoy the sheer rock faces draped with waterfalls that plunge directly into the fjord. Mitre Peak rises 5,560 feet straight from the water. Fur seal colonies bask on the rocks. Join a boat cruise to navigate the dramatic cliffs and venture into the Tasman Sea.

Everyone should want to go on an African Safari. Enjoy one of the best at the Serengeti National Park. Watch the Great Migration of over 1.5 million wildebeest moving in a continuous circuit to follow the rains. 

There’s something life-changing about seeing a predator stalk prey across the endless grasslands. Join a tour to watch wildlife viewing at its most dramatic. We aren’t supposed to play favorites, but this is probably one of the most beautiful places on this list to visit.

Mt. Everest is not for the faint of heart. Prepare yourself for life-changing views and join a 12-day trek to the base of the world’s highest peak. Pass Sherpa villages adorned in prayer flags, and make your way to base camp at 17,600 feet. Stand among the mountaineers preparing to summit, and watch the ice formations crack above.

Locals call Victoria Falls “The Smoke That Thunders.” This Zambezi River drops along a mile-wide basalt cliff. It’s one of the world’s largest waterfalls, with spray visible from 30 miles away. 

Just make sure to pack your waterproof gear. You’ll get wet just from the waterfall’s spray, even if you travel outside the rainy season.

Want to see half of Earth’s remaining rainforests all in one trip? Then you should visit the Amazon Basin, which supports more biodiversity than anywhere else on the planet. You can join a tour and stay at a lodge to visit the pristine jungle. Keep an eye out for pink river dolphins — and an ear out for howler monkeys.

Norwegian Fjords contain all the wonders of the Nordic islands. Glaciers that carved deep valleys into the earth back in the ice ages, cliff waterfalls, and the Nærøyfjord, a colossal wonder that’s 800 feet wide at its narrowest. Visit in the summer for endless days or in the winter for a chance to experience the Northern Lights.

America’s first national park sits on top of a supervolcano, which means it’s rife with geysers and springs. Old Faithful erupts about every 90 minutes, and the Grand Prismatic Spring’s rainbow colors come from vibrant, heat-loving bacteria. Drive slowly around Yellowstone for a chance to spot bison, elk, and even wolves. Be aware that Yellowstone can get very busy, but there are ways to avoid the largest crowds when visiting this national park.

Rising 2,831 feet above the flat Outback, Uluru is a rust-red massive stone monolith sacred to the Anangu people. Visit it for rich culture, beautiful cave drawings and ancient stories. Make sure to purchase your national park pass online ahead of time for easier entry.

The Dead Sea is 10 times saltier than the ocean, creating an otherworldly experience at Earth’s lowest elevation on land — 1,410 feet below sea level. Float in the waves and enjoy face masks made from the mineral-rich black mud harvested there.

Tucked in western Turkey, Pamukkale is a town known for mineral-rich thermal waters that flow down massive white travertine terraces. It’s just across from Hierapolis, an ancient Roman spa city founded in 190 B.C. Traverse well-preserved ruins featuring a theater and necropolis, with sarcophagi stretching for miles.

Located in the Hunan Province in China, Zhangjiajie is one of China’s most renowned national parks, with thousands of sandstone pillars rising from the misty forest floor. This is the landscape that inspired Avatar’s floating mountains. If you’re feeling bold, walk across glass-bottomed walkways and cling to cliff faces, or ride cable cars up and down the mountain.

The Dolomites are part of the Southern Limestone Alps located in Northern Italy. Hikers journey on the Tour de Mont Blanc, climbing towering peaks and returning to alpine meadows all within the day. The Tre Cime di Lavaredo, with its three distinct towers, ranks as one of Europe’s most photographed mountains.

Plitvice Lakes features 16 terraced, interconnected turquoise and emerald-colored lakes, all linked by waterfalls and boardwalks. Visitors can wind across wooden walkways, inches above rushing water. Visit in the shoulder seasons, like spring or fall, to avoid the crowds.

Considered the “Galapagos of the Indian Ocean,” Socotra Island is known for its unique biodiversity. Its unique umbrella-shaped Dragon’s Blood trees are found nowhere else on Earth.

Colca Canyon is one of the deepest in the world, with a depth of about 3,300 to 6,600 feet, making it twice as deep as the Grand Canyon. Sharp-eyed tourists can spot local Andean condors with wingspans up to 10 feet riding thermals into the canyon depths.

Enjoy the milky blue geothermal water heated to a cozy 98 to 102 degrees Fahrenheit, no matter the weather. Silica, algae and minerals give the waters their distinct colors — and supposed healing properties. Join a Blue Lagoon tour so you don’t have to worry about planning and can simply enjoy all Iceland has to offer.

Just be aware that the spa sits in an active volcano zone, so follow local safety alerts and be prepared for itinerary changes. Eruptions are unlikely, but not impossible.

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The city of lights — and love — captivates with iconic monuments like Notre Dame, world-class museums like the Louvre and charming cafe culture. Paris truly has everything from history to cuisine. 

Enjoy French croissants and meals into the late hours, and visit the sparkling Eiffel Tower at night for a full experience.

Rome’s streets are paved with history, which is why it’s one of the best cities in the world to visit. Enjoy authentic pizza and pasta and walk to the ancient Colosseum all in the same block. Don’t forget to toss a coin in Trevi Fountain and climb the Spanish Steps for a complete Rome experience.

The city that never sleeps has so much to give. Travel from Times Square in the early morning or late at night to experience all of the neon, or take a break in tranquil Central Park. World-class museums, Broadway shows and diverse neighborhoods make this city one of the top travel destinations in the U.S.

Kyoto is the historical heart of Japan, with over 1,600 Buddhist temples and 400 Shinto shrines. Visit this prefecture to enjoy traditional Japanese culture — keep your eyes peeled for geisha on Gion’s streets and make sure to stop by Arashiyama’s bamboo grove.

London has everything from history to culture to food. Experience timeless sights from the Tower of London’s medieval walls to Buckingham Palace’s changing of the guard. Stop by world-class theaters like West End and museums like the British Museum — and stay within budget with London museums’ free admission.

Istanbul straddles two continents and has so much to offer. With the Blue Mosque’s interior tile creating an ethereal atmosphere and the Grand Bazaar’s 4,000 shops offering a labyrinth of treasure, you’ll never run out of things to do. For something a little different, try a Turkish coffee-making and fortune-telling workshop where you can brew your own coffee and have the patterns in your cup read for you. 

Learn more about all the fun things to do and amazing places to stay in our Istanbul travel guide. 

Escape to this car-free place and navigate by gondola in this improbable city built on wooden pilings. There are endless Gothic and Renaissance palaces on the Grand Canal to explore, and small bridges to stop for picture-perfect moments throughout the city.

Barcelona is defined by Gaudí’s fantastical architecture. There’s a reason many know Barcelona as Spain’s most artistic city. Park Güell’s mosaic dragons are one of the best examples of the city’s trademark architecture. If you’re hungry, satisfy your appetite with delicious local cuisine and tapas bars.

Marrakech’s Jemaa el-Fnaa square transforms nightly into an open-air theater of snake charmers, acrobats and food stalls. Navigate the medina’s souks through mazes of vendors selling leather goods, spices and metal work. 

Pack light, conservative clothing to prepare for the hot days and cool evenings.

Check another world wonder off your list by visiting Christ the Redeemer. For a perfect view, take Sugarloaf’s cable car to gaze at the sun-soaked beaches. Hit up local samba clubs if you’re in a dancing mood and want to get out of the sun.

Tokyo is one of the biggest cities in the world. This neon-lit prefecture blends traditional Japanese culture with modern technology. Take pictures at Shibuya Crossing’s organized chaos, and visit the calm of Meiji Shrine. Don’t forget to sample sushi at Tsukiji.

Visit the birthplace of the Renaissance. There’s a little something for everyone in Florence, Italy, from food to culture to history. Masterpieces fill every church and palace, with Michelangelo’s “David” standing in the Accademia and Brunelleschi’s dome crowning the cathedral. 

Join a private tour so you can visit Florence's two must-see museums: the Uffizi Gallery and Palazzo Vecchio.

Many are drawn to Vienna for its stunning cityscape and architecture and unique coffee house culture. As the birthplace of composers like Mozart, Beethoven and Strauss, Vienna is the place to go for nightly classical concerts at venues like the State Opera house or the Mozarthaus.

Havana is rich with history and culture, with old colonial landmarks, museums and its UNESCO World Heritage Site in Old Havana. Visitors enjoy riding in classic cars, walking the famous seawall at sunset and experiencing live Cuban music.

Dubai is the perfect mix of modern and historical, with marvels like Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building, as well as neighborhoods and souks like Al Fahidi. Travelers looking to escape the city can go on desert adventures like dune bashing and sandboarding, or try water activities like jet skiing.

Medieval towers, Gothic churches and Baroque palaces create a fairy-tale cityscape with plenty of unique things to do in Prague. Crowds gather around the astronomical clock for its hourly shows. Prague Castle overlooks the city from its hilltop perch. Visit later in the year to see Prague dusted in snow like a winter wonderland. 

For something different, try a beer spa so you can soak in a warm bath infused with hops and enjoy a cold Czech beer. It’s the best hack for an ultimate chill vacation day.

Amsterdam isn’t just museums and history. It’s a city that moves on the water and two wheels — there’s a reason Amsterdam is known for having more bicycles than people. 

One of the best ways to take it all in is an open-boat canal tour, where you can float under historic bridges and past charming canal houses to get a feel for daily life in the city. It’s a relaxing, up-close way to see the real Amsterdam. 

This walled city became famous as King’s Landing in “Game of Thrones.” Walk on the medieval walls for views of terracotta rooftops and azure waters, or follow the Stradun’s polished limestone pavement to visit the old town.

Old meets new in Hong Kong, a city where bamboo scaffolding clings to gleaming skyscrapers. Victoria Peak’s tram offers stunning harbor views, while the Symphony of Lights illuminates the night skyline. Stop by Temple Street Night Market for an endless sea of vendors and food like you’ve never tasted. 

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A thousand coral islands scattered across the Indian Ocean create a beach lover’s dream. Stay in overwater bungalows with glass floors, relaxing while watching marine life swimming in the pristine waters below. 

Go to Bora Bora if you’re looking for a scuba diving escape. Relax on bungalows perched on water stilts, and take in crystal clear blue waters. Enjoy some of the best beaches in the world in sunny Polynesia.

Find stunning natural beauty, limestone cliffs, pristine beaches and rich marine life in Palawan. This province has unique wonders like the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River, and the WWII shipwrecks of Coron Bay offer stunning scenery, a bit of history and something for hobbyist divers to enjoy.

Santorini is known for its iconic scenery, featuring whitewashed villages built into cliffsides overlooking breathtaking volcanic beaches. Visit in the shoulder season, from April to May or September to October, so you can still enjoy the pleasant weather without the crowds. 

This is one of the best islands to visit because it has something for everyone, with a romantic atmosphere, luxury resorts, delicious food and wine, historical sites and outdoor activities like hiking, sailing and snorkeling.

Seychelles regularly tops “world’s best” lists because of its 115 granite and coral islands. Hike along Anse Source d’Argent’s massive pink granite boulders or watch giant tortoises roam around the soft, white sand. 

While Mahé is the largest island and home to the international airport, Praslin offers the famous Vallée de Mai UNESCO site, and La Digue provides a quieter, bicycle-friendly escape. 

Fiji has over 300 islands scattered across the South Pacific. Visitors enjoy warm Fijian hospitality and swimming through the coral reefs encircling the many islands. Traditional villages welcome tourists to experience kava ceremonies.

The Garden Isle offers a wide range of landscapes, from the Na Pali Coast’s fluted cliffs to Waimea Canyon’s red rock gorges. Hike along the Kalalau Trail to enjoy one of America’s most famous hikes. Pack your eco-friendly bug repellent, sturdy shoes and a rain jacket so you’re ready for anything Kauai has to offer. 

Bali has become a popular bucket list destination in recent years. Its tiered rice terraces, the soft white sands of its beaches and iconic water temples make it a great choice for those who want to bask in the sun and enjoy great food and even better culture. 

This Indian Ocean island blends African, Indian, Chinese and French influences. It offers endless pristine beaches, coral reefs perfect for swimming and an “underwater waterfall.” If you want a true local experience, join a tour that introduces you to Mauritius’s vibrant cultural past and all the rich foods and history it has to offer.

The Whitsunday Islands consist of 74 tropical islands dotting the Great Barrier Reef’s edge. Among the most popular beaches is Whitehaven Beach, with its pure silica sand. Common activities include sailing, snorkeling and beach barbeques.

Regular trade winds keep this Caribbean island always at a pleasantly cool temperature. Eagle Beach and Palm Beach stretch for miles with calm turquoise water and white sand. Year-round sunshine and beachfront hotels make Aruba the ideal choice for relaxation, no matter the month.

With over 700 islands offering everything from luxury resorts to deserted beaches, the Bahamas is a favorite escape for those looking to take a cruise to beach paradise. Nassau and Paradise Island provide casinos and water sports, while crowd-free solitude awaits on the Out Islands.

Turks and Caicos’ Grace Bay Beach consistently wins awards for its perfectly powdery white sand and calm turquoise water. Bask in the sun for a perfect day of relaxation, or partake in water sports, shopping or snorkeling in Smith’s Reef and Bright Reef.

The Amalfi Coast’s dramatic landscapes, charming cliffside towns and rich cultural history are why this destination has made a mark on the map. Enjoy the delicious local cuisine while appreciating the colorful buildings clinging to steep cliffs that drop directly into the sea.

Zanzibar blends African, Arab and Indian influences. It offers pristine beaches, turquoise waters and Stone Town, with its narrow alleyways. Join spice tours and visit fields of cloves and vanilla for new sights and delightful smells. 

Make sure to stay safe by checking on requirements for health precautions and vaccinations, like for malaria, before traveling.

St. Lucia is known for its dramatically tapered mountains, the Pitons. Its volcanic beaches, luxury resorts, reef-diving sites and fishing villages make it a haven for ocean lovers. If you’re looking to get away from the sand, venture deeper inland to enjoy rainforests and waterfalls.

Curaçao is one of the most beautiful places to visit when it comes to beaches, with its hidden coves and expansive coral reefs. Visit for rich marine life and popular diving sites like Blue Bay. Check out Queen Emma Bridge and the sand-floored 17th-century Mikvé Israel-Emanuel Synagogue. 

Make sure to pack your sunscreen, hats and water shoes to safely walk on the rocky beaches.

These ancient Mayan ruins perch on cliffs overlooking stunning Caribbean beaches. Keep an eye out for hidden cenotes tucked away in the jungle, or try out one of the many beach clubs. If you’re looking for health-conscious activities, there are also endless yoga retreats to join.

The Indigenous Guna people maintain autonomy on these 365 pristine islands. Come here for a truly unplugged experience, with no Wi-Fi and limited electricity. Take snorkeling day trips to explore nearby sunken shipwrecks and other underwater wonders.

This small island in the Andaman Sea offers Thailand’s tropical beauty with fewer crowds. Tourists can visit three main beaches, each offering different vibes. Longtail boats ferry snorkelers to nearby islands with untouched coral reefs.

Fifteen islands scattered across the South Pacific offer a slower pace of life. The largest island, Rarotonga, is home to rugged mountains, and Aitutaki Island to the north has a vast lagoon encircled by a coral reef and sandy inlets. 

For jaw-dropping snorkeling and scuba diving experiences, visit from April to June or September to October to avoid the crowds and higher prices. 

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Kenya’s premier wildlife reserves offer the classic African safari experience, with abundant big cats, elephants and the Great Migration’s dramatic river crossings. Join dusk or dawn game drives for the best animal viewing. 

And no, safaris don’t have to break your budget. Try out a cost-friendly safari to still experience life-changing views without breaking the bank. 

Experience a truly otherworldly landscape in the seventh continent’s vast ice sheets, towering icebergs and penguin colonies. Expedition cruises from Ushuaia navigate the Drake Passage to carry you to the Antarctic Peninsula for the best whale watching the world can offer.

Riding in Cappadocia’s hot air balloons is one of Turkey’s most popular activities, offering unique and breathtaking views. Flights usually last about an hour and include a post-flight commemorative toast. Try to book at sunrise for the best possible sights.

Patagonia’s most famous trek takes you through Torres del Paine National Park. You’ll pass glaciers, turquoise lakes and iconic granite towers. Plan for four to five days to complete the route. You won’t need to carry any camping equipment since you can stay in mountain refugios.

The Yucatan Peninsula’s cenotes and underwater cave systems are a diver’s paradise. Swim through crystal-clear freshwater with visibility extending over 300 feet. Join a diving tour group so you can stay safe and have fun on this adventure.

Hiking through mountain forests to find endangered mountain gorillas is an unforgettable experience. Volcanoes National Park protects several gorilla families from human presence, but small groups can spend one hour observing some of these magnificent primates. Hire a porter to help with the trek, and pack neutral-colored clothing and waterproof boots.

Looking for a hiking challenge? Then you need to add this destination to your travel bucket list. Africa’s highest peak rises to 19,341 feet. You can join one of multiple routes ranging from five to nine days and travel through ecosystems including rainforest, alpine desert and arctic summit to watch the sunrise from Uhuru Peak.

Paddle between towering cliffs and past cascading waterfalls to get up close and personal with Norwegian fjords. Join multi-day trips and camp on remote beaches alongside seals basking on the rocks.

Iceland’s natural ice caves form when glacial meltwater carves tunnels through ancient ice. Crystal Cave and other formations in Vatnajökull glacier turn brilliant blue from the light filtering through the compressed ice. Join a guided tour to safely enjoy these fragile formations.

The Great Blue Hole is exactly that — a perfectly circular sinkhole that drops 400 feet into the Caribbean seafloor. Diving in reveals ancient stalactites formed when the cave was above sea level. Experience it all in a 10-day tour for the ultimate traveler experience.

Looking for bucket list places to visit that challenge you? This adventure capital offers adrenaline rushes from bungee jumping to jet boating, with canyon swings at Nevis sending you across canyons in a 300-foot free fall. Less adventurous travelers can enjoy options like scenic hikes and wine tours.

Make your bed in red sand dunes and sandstone mountains, enjoying dramatic desert landscapes from your pillow. Bedouin camps offer overnight experiences sleeping beneath star-filled skies, while jeep tours can take you to natural arches and ancient petroglyphs.

If you want bucket list places to visit in the U.S., you’ve come to the right place. Helicopters can help you access pristine powder on remote Alaskan peaks for top-tier skiing. The Chugach Mountains near Valdez offer world-class terrain for expert skiers, with descents of 3,000+ vertical feet through untouched snow. 

Plan your trip for March or April for a more stable snowpack.

Costa Rica’s Pacuare River carries you through pristine rainforests on Class III and IV rapids for an exhilarating multi-day adventure. Join a white water rafting tour for hours of fun. Take breaks at riverside camps, or enjoy less intense, more family-friendly options on the Sarapiqui River.

Thrillseekers will love Oslob and Donsol’s opportunities to snorkel alongside the world’s largest fish. Despite being up to 40 feet long, whale sharks pose no dangers to swimmers — but that doesn’t mean the experience of floating alongside these behemoths is anything short of breathtaking. 

Remember to wear reef-safe sunscreen before you go for a dip so you can keep the whale sharks and other sea life safe.

Snorkel with protected marine wildlife, swim with sea lions and explore volcanic landscapes like you’ve never seen before in the Galapagos Islands. There’s no shortage of wildlife to enjoy, from giant tortoises to blue-footed boobies. 

One of the best ways to experience the Galapagos is from the water. Embark on a private cruise to see the most marine wildlife in complete comfort.

Choosing from so many incredible experiences can be daunting. These are some frequently asked questions that address common bucket list travel planning concerns. 

The Serengeti National Park in Tanzania and the Masai Mara in Kenya offer some of the best opportunities to see Africa’s “Big Five” and witness the Great Migration. For marine life, the Galapagos Islands offer unique experiences with some of the most unique animals on earth. 

Reaching Everest Base Camp requires good cardiovascular fitness, but not technical climbing skills. You should be comfortable with walking six to eight hours a day while carrying a light daypack. The trek’s main challenge is the altitude. Make sure to take rest days so you have time to acclimate. 

The Pyramids of Giza are relatively budget-friendly compared to other ancient wonders, with Egypt’s lower cost of living making food and accommodation more affordable. Angkor Wat’s entry fee allows you entry for several days, and Cambodia offers very cost-friendly guesthouses and street food. 

These bucket list travel destinations span every corner of the globe, from ancient wonders to natural marvels to sprawling cities. No matter if you’re looking to travel for cultural immersion, adventurous experiences that push you to your limits, tropical paradises or foodie heavens, you’ll find your next dream vacation on this list. 

Planning these once-in-a-lifetime trips requires expertise and support that you can trust. AAA Travel helps you create complex itineraries, finding the best value for your investment and giving you peace of mind with 24/7 travel assistance. 

Whether you need help booking an overwater bungalow in Bora Bora or arranging travel permits for gorilla trekking in Rwanda, AAA’s travel professionals can handle the details so you can focus on the experience. Become a AAA member today to access exclusive travel benefits, trip planning resources and full-time support.