Top 10 Travel Experiences to Have Before You Die

Lisa Foley on 18 March 2025
Travel isn’t just about ticking places off a list—it’s about the moments that take your breath away, the experiences that change your perspective, and the memories that stay with you forever. If you’re looking for the ultimate bucket list, here are ten travel experiences that will leave a lasting impact.

1. Witness the Northern Lights in Iceland

There’s something truly magical about watching the sky come alive with dancing ribbons of green, pink, and purple. Iceland is one of the best places to see the Northern Lights, and the experience is even more incredible when paired with a soak in a geothermal hot spring.

2. Go on Safari in the Serengeti, Tanzania

Seeing the Big Five in their natural habitat is a moment you’ll never forget. Whether it’s witnessing the Great Migration or spotting a pride of lions at sunrise, a safari in the Serengeti is one of the most thrilling adventures you can have.

3. Sail Through the Fjords of Norway

Norway’s fjords are nature’s masterpiece—steep cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and tranquil waters that seem to stretch on forever. Whether you explore by cruise ship or kayak, the beauty of this landscape is simply breathtaking.

4. Sleep Under the Stars in the Wadi Rum Desert, Jordan

Spend a night in the Mars-like landscape of Wadi Rum, where the silence of the desert and the brilliance of the Milky Way above make for an unforgettable experience. Bedouin-style camping adds a cultural touch to this extraordinary journey.

5. Experience the Cherry Blossoms in Japan

For a few fleeting weeks each spring, Japan is transformed into a sea of delicate pink as cherry blossoms bloom. The hanami (flower-viewing) tradition, especially in Kyoto or Tokyo, is a cultural and visual spectacle unlike any other.

6. Trek to Machu Picchu, Peru

Following in the footsteps of the Incas along the ancient Inca Trail to the Lost City of Machu Picchu is a journey filled with history, breathtaking scenery, and a sense of accomplishment like no other. The sight of the ruins emerging from the mist at sunrise is worth every step.

7. Cruise Through the Galápagos Islands, Ecuador

A trip to the Galápagos is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see wildlife found nowhere else on Earth. Swim with sea lions, walk among giant tortoises, and watch blue-footed boobies perform their quirky dance—all in an ecosystem that feels almost prehistoric.

8. Walk Along the Great Wall of China

Spanning thousands of miles, the Great Wall is one of the world’s most iconic landmarks. Hiking a remote section, away from the crowds, lets you truly appreciate its grandeur and the history behind this incredible structure.

9. Take a Hot Air Balloon Ride Over Cappadocia, Turkey

Floating above Cappadocia’s surreal landscape of fairy chimneys and ancient rock formations at sunrise is one of the most awe-inspiring experiences imaginable. The colors of the sky, the silence of the morning, and the sheer beauty below make this a dreamlike adventure.

10. Dive the Great Barrier Reef, Australia

As the world’s largest coral reef system, the Great Barrier Reef is a paradise for divers and snorkelers. Swim alongside vibrant marine life, explore underwater caves, and witness the sheer beauty of this natural wonder before it’s too late.

Which of these experiences is at the top of your list? Let me help you make it a reality—get in touch to start planning your dream adventure today!