I’ve decided to put my Travel bucket list of places I would like to visit and mark the ones I’ve already visited in this list.
Table of Contents
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To Visit New Seven Wonders of the World
Great Wall of China
The Great Wall of China, one of the world’s largest construction projects, is believed to be about 5,500 miles (8,850 km) long, though a disputed study claims 13,170 miles (21,200 km). Construction began in the 7th century BCE and continued for two millennia. The structure includes lengthy stretches of two parallel walls, watchtowers, and barracks. Despite being built to prevent invasions, the wall largely failed to provide security, serving more as “political propaganda.” It is UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Visited in 2009 as part of a backpacking trip in China, but would love to see the other parts of the wall, especially the one that goes under the water.
Colosseum, Italy
Built in the first century by Emperor Vespasian, Rome’s Colosseum was an engineering marvel, holding up to 50,000 spectators. This vast amphitheater staged diverse events, most famously gladiatorial combats and fights between men and animals. Mock naval battles were even held by flooding the arena. While the martyrdom of Christians there is debated, the Colosseum witnessed immense bloodshed, with estimates of around 500,000 human deaths and the potential extinction of some animal species due to the sheer numbers killed. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
By now I’ve visited it 4 times already: 2011, 2018, 2022 and 2024, just because I love Rome and as they say: “All roads lead to Rome”.
Taj Mahal, India
India’s Taj Mahal in Agra, a stunning example of Mughal architecture, was built by Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife Mumtaz Mahal, who died in 1631. This iconic mausoleum complex, featuring a vast garden and reflecting pool, took about 22 years and 20,000 workers to complete. Crafted from white marble inlaid with semiprecious stones in intricate designs, its central dome is flanked by four smaller ones. Legend says Shah Jahan planned a black marble mausoleum for himself, but he was overthrown before its construction began. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
I visited it in 2016 and in 2022.
Petra, Jordan
The ancient city of Petra, Jordan, is located in a remote valley among sandstone mountains and cliffs, and was purported to be one of the places where Moses struck a rock and water gushed forth. The Nabataeans, an Arab tribe, made it their capital, and it flourished as a major trade centre, especially for spices. Noted carvers, the Nabataeans chiseled dwellings, temples, and tombs into the sandstone, and constructed a water system for lush gardens and farming. At its height, Petra reportedly had a population of 30,000. The city declined as trade routes shifted, and major earthquakes in 363 CE and 551 CE led to its gradual abandonment. Although rediscovered in 1912, Petra was largely ignored by archaeologists until the late 20th century, and many questions remain about the city. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Machu Pichu, Peru
This Incan site near Cuzco, Peru, was “discovered” in 1911 by Hiram Bingham, who believed it was Vilcabamba, a secret Incan stronghold used during the 16th-century rebellion against Spanish rule. Although that claim was later disproved, the purpose of Machu Picchu has confounded scholars. Bingham believed it was home to the “Virgins of the Sun,” women who lived in convents under a vow of chastity. Others think that it was likely a pilgrimage site, while some believe it was a royal retreat. (In 2000 a crane being used for a beer commercial fell and cracked a monument.) What is known is that Machu Picchu is one of the few major pre-Columbian ruins found nearly intact. Despite its relative isolation high in the Andes Mountains, it features agricultural terraces, plazas, residential areas, and temples. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
I finally did it in October 2024 after a decade thinking about it!
Chichén Itzá, Mexico
Chichén Itzá, a Mayan city on Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula, flourished in the 9th and 10th centuries CE. Under the Itzá, influenced by the Toltecs, significant monuments and temples were built. Notably, the stepped pyramid El Castillo (“The Castle”), rising 79 feet (24 metres) above the Main Plaza, has 365 steps, mirroring the solar year, and during the equinoxes, displays a serpent shadow descending its north stairway. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Christ the Redeemer, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Rio de Janeiro’s iconic Christ the Redeemer statue atop Mount Corcovado was conceived post-World War I by Brazilians concerned about secularism. Designed by Heitor da Silva Costa, Carlos Oswald, and Paul Landowski, its construction spanned 1926-1931. This colossal Art Deco sculpture, the world’s largest, stands 98 feet tall with a 92-foot arm span (excluding its 26-foot base). Crafted from reinforced concrete covered in roughly six million tiles, the statue has frequently been hit by lightning, even damaging its thumb in 2014.
Peru
Paracas, Peru
Paracas, Peru is famous for its natural beauty and rich biodiversity. Located on the Pacific coast, Paracas is renowned for the Paracas National Reserve, which protects a unique marine ecosystem and provides a habitat for various species of birds, marine mammals, and fish. The area is also known for its stunning beaches, rugged cliffs, and unique rock formations.
Huacachina, Peru
Huacachina in Peru is famous for its stunning desert oasis. Nestled in the Ica region, Huacachina is a small village built around a natural lagoon surrounded by towering sand dunes. It is a popular tourist destination known for its unique desert landscape and thrilling activities such as sandboarding and dune buggy rides.
Nazca lines, Peru
The Nazca lines are a series of enormous geoglyphs located in the Nazca Desert in Peru. They were created by the ancient Nazca civilisation between 500 BCE and 500 CE. The lines depict various animals, plants, and geometric shapes, some of which cover several kilometers.
Arequipa & Hiking Colca Canyon, Peru
Arequipa, a city in southern Peru, is famous for its stunning colonial architecture built with white volcanic stone. It is known as the “White City” and has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Arequipa also boasts a vibrant culinary scene, with traditional dishes such as rocoto relleno and chuño prepared with local ingredients.
Hiking Colca Canyon, located near Arequipa, is famous for being one of the world’s deepest canyons. It is more than twice as deep as the Grand Canyon in the United States. The Colca Canyon offers breathtaking views of terraced agricultural fields, traditional villages, and the flight of the Andean condor, one of the world’s largest birds. Adventure enthusiasts flock to the area for multi-day treks, where they can explore the diverse flora and fauna, soak in hot springs, and interact with indigenous communities.
Rainbow Mountain, Peru
Rainbow Mountain, also known as Vinicunca, in Peru is famous for its vibrant and multicolored striped landscape. This natural wonder gained popularity in recent years due to its unique geological formations and stunning array of colors. The mountain’s distinct hues, ranging from red, pink, yellow, and turquoise, are a result of different minerals and sediments present in the soil. Rainbow Mountain has become a popular hiking destination for adventurous travelers seeking to witness its breathtaking beauty. The hike to the summit can be challenging, as it reaches altitudes over 5,000 meters (16,400 feet), but the reward is the unparalleled panoramic views of the surrounding Andean peaks and the mesmerizing colors of Rainbow Mountain itself.
Visited in October 2024.
China
Zhangiajie mountains, China
Zhangjiajie mountains, located in the Hunan province of China, are a breathtaking natural wonder that has captivated visitors from around the world. Renowned for their towering quartzite sandstone pillars, the mountains offer a surreal and ethereal landscape that seems straight out of a fairytale. The picturesque beauty of Zhangjiajie was further popularized by its inclusion in the movie “Avatar,” which showcased the stunning floating mountains. The area is part of the larger Wulingyuan Scenic Area, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and offers a variety of attractions such as the glass-bottomed Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon Bridge and the Tianmen Mountain with its thrilling cliff-hanging glass skywalk.
Japan
Kyoto, Japan
In the air-plane to China (in 2009) I read an interesting article about Kyoto. It turns out you can stay in the Buddhist temple. Every morning you start with a meditation at 7am after that the master brings you green matcha tea and discuss your mediation. The goal of those meditations is to get rid of bad feelings like jealousy, passion, anger. It would be quite nice to stay a week or two there. I loved visiting Tokyo in Japan and it quite stuck to my mind. Their culture and deep traditions makes it very interesting to visit.
Miyajima Island, Japan
Forget ordinary views – Miyajima Island has been turning heads for centuries, and it’s easy to see why it’s one of Japan’s top scenic spots.
Miyajima isn’t just about pretty beaches; it’s a place where you can hike mountain trails and get lost in stunning views of the Seto Inland Sea. Make sure to hit up those Mt. Misen observatories for views that’ll stick with you.
But Miyajima is more than just natural beauty. It’s also a spiritual place, dotted with traditional Japanese architecture. Itsukushima Shrine is a must-see. This vivid vermilion shrine seems to float on the water at high tide, a truly magical sight.
And the grand finale? Picture this: the sun setting behind Miyajima’s Great Torii. The torii, standing in the sea, glows in the warm light, creating a scene that’s pure magic.
Yakushima, Japan
Yakushima, a small island off southern Kyūshū, is a must-see for its magical, primeval forests. I plan to explore this unique landscape, home to ancient yakusugi cedars with their massive, tentacle-like roots, and hike through the moss-covered trails. It’s incredible to think that this otherworldly terrain is believed to have inspired Studio Ghibli’s Princess Mononoke.
Nara Park, Japan
Nara Park is a must-visit in Japan, renowned for its unique blend of cultural heritage and natural beauty. Here, you can wander among ancient temples and shrines, including the iconic Todai-ji Temple with its giant Buddha statue, while freely roaming friendly deer add a magical touch to the serene landscape.
Tateyama Snow Corridor
I really want to visit the Tateyama Snow Corridor and see those incredible, towering walls of snow that reach up to 20 meters high! I can just imagine walking between them on the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route, experiencing that almost surreal environment known as “Yuki no Otani.” It must be an absolutely breathtaking visual spectacle to be surrounded by such colossal white cliffs with the bright blue sky above, and I know I’d love to go during the spring when it’s accessible to witness this unique phenomenon in the stunning Northern Japan Alps.
Tanzania
Kilimanjaro summit trek
A future goal of mine is to embark on a 7-9 day trek to climb Kilimanjaro and experience the unique challenges and rewards it offers, with the ultimate aim of reaching its 5,895-meter (19,341 feet) summit, the “Roof of Africa.” I’m drawn to the idea of a physically and mentally engaging journey through its diverse landscapes over that timeframe. I wish to see those unforgettable views, especially the sunrise from Uhuru Peak, and the profound sense of personal accomplishment that comes with such an adventure to that incredible height after days of trekking.
I found this organiser that charges £ 2k or less (depending on the date).
Other reputable local Tanzania companies for Kilimanjaro trek include include Altezza Travel, Twende Africa Tours, Kandoo Adventures, and Ultimate Kilimanjar.
Animal Safari
If you go on a Tanzanian safari, you’d be amazed by the wildlife. In the Northern Circuit (Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater), you’d see millions of wildebeest and zebra during the Great Migration (best from December to March in the Southern Serengeti for calving, or July to October in the Northern Serengeti for river crossings), plus lions, cheetahs, leopards, elephants, giraffes, hippos, and the rare black rhino (often seen year-round in Ngorongoro Crater, but more easily from June to October when vegetation is shorter). It’s also a birdwatcher’s paradise with flamingos and vibrant Lilac-breasted Rollers (birding is generally excellent from November to April when migratory species are present). Head to the Southern Circuit (Nyerere National Park) for a chance to spot African wild dogs (best during their denning season from June to August), as well as crocodiles and lots of elephants on boat safaris (overall game viewing in Nyerere is best from June to October). For a truly unique experience, the Western Circuit’s Mahale Mountains National Park offers incredible chimpanzee trekking (easiest sightings from July to October when they are lower on the slopes).
I found these two option of 9 and 12 days for £ 3k.
A list of some reputable local Safari companies in Tanzania are Taswira Africa Safaris, Macpace Tours and Safaris, Makasa Tanzania Safari, and Bright African Safaris. Though I struggled to find the price lists on the websites of these providers and you need to ask for a quote.
Venezuela
Roraima Mountain, Venezuela
Tepuy Roraima, a mist-shrouded, flat-topped stone giant on the Gran Sabana, feels otherworldly and is steeped in mystery and legend. As one of the oldest tepuis, it has inspired tales and expeditions for centuries, boasting unique landscapes, endemic flora, and a profound silence broken only by wind and water. Beyond its majesty, Roraima embodies the Venezuelan spirit of adventure; its challenging ascent offers an incredible, life-affirming experience. For Venezuelans abroad, Roraima serves as a powerful reminder of their homeland’s strength and their own resilience in overcoming obstacles.
Canaima, Venezuela
Canaima speaks of a dreamlike landscape: endless jungles, golden rivers, and ancient tepuis – gigantic flat-topped mountains that have stood for millions of years. This national park in Bolívar is home to the striking Canaima Lagoon with its reddish waters and spectacular waterfalls like Sapo and Axe. Walking behind Salto el Sapo offers a unique, otherworldly experience. The Pemón Indians, who have inhabited this land for centuries, consider the tepuis sacred, the home of spirits and ancestral gods. Listening to their stories while navigating the rivers in a wooden curiara provides a profound connection to the heart of Venezuela.
The Gran Sabana in Canaima, Venezuela
The Gran Sabana evokes an infinite landscape of golden hills, crystalline rivers, and guardian tepuyes within Canaima National Park, a truly impressive and special region of Venezuela. Treasures like the shiny red Jaspe Creek and the 50-meter Kama Falls dot this land. What truly sets the Gran Sabana apart is its overwhelming sense of immensity, where the sky feels vast, the air pure, and time slows down, with only the sounds of wind and water breaking the tranquility.
Los Roques, Venezuela
Los Roques, a Venezuelan Caribbean archipelago, embodies the dreamy white-sand, crystal-clear beach postcard. This magical place boasts pristine cays, vibrant coral reefs, and a unique tranquility. For many Venezuelans, Los Roques is a cherished destination, a place where time seems to pause, the sea shimmers in every shade of blue, and each sunset is a just stunning.
Angel Falls, Venezuela
Angel Falls, the world’s highest waterfall at 979 meters, located in Canaima National Park, is a powerful symbol of Venezuela’s wild beauty. Reaching this awe-inspiring spectacle is an adventure, but the sight of its plunging waters, the resulting mist, and the surrounding endless jungle leave a lasting impression. For many Venezuelans abroad, Angel Falls, once pictured on the 100 bolívares banknote, remains a cherished dream to experience firsthand.
Colombia
Lost City Trekking (Camino a Ciudad Perdida), Colombia
Okay, so I’m seriously considering this Lost City Trek in Colombia. I keep hearing it’s an incredible experience, and honestly, I’m itching for an adventure.
From what I’ve gathered, it’s not just a walk in the park. We’re talking about a 4 to 6-day trek and 48km, deep into the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta mountains. The destination? Ciudad Perdida – the Lost City. Apparently, it was the capital of the Tayrona civilization, and get this, it’s even older than Machu Picchu!
I know I’d be hiking through some pretty intense terrain. Think lush jungles, river crossings, and steep climbs. And the heat and humidity? I’ve heard it can be brutal. But the thought of reaching that ancient city, climbing those 1,200 stone steps… that’s a huge motivator.
What really intrigues me, though, is the cultural aspect. I’d get to meet and learn about the indigenous communities – descendants of the Tayrona people like the Kogi, Wiwa, Arhuaco, and Kankuamo. To witness their way of life and learn about their history… that would be amazing.
Logistically, it seems like most people start near Santa Marta, and the tours handle everything – meals, accommodation in campsites or lodges, and guides. I’d definitely need a good level of fitness, and I’d have to pack smart: light clothing, insect repellent, sunscreen, and sturdy hiking boots are a must.
Cocora Valley – Acaime (House of the Hummingbird)
I’ve been also looking into visiting Cocora Valley and Acaime in Colombia, and it sounds absolutely incredible.
Cocora Valley itself is famous for these towering wax palm trees, Colombia’s national tree. Just imagining the landscape filled with these giants is breathtaking. I’d love to hike through that scenery.
And then there are hummingbirds. Apparently, it’s a sanctuary where you can see multiple species of hummingbirds up close. That’s a total must-do for me – I can already picture myself surrounded by these tiny, colourful birds. There are other spectacular treks in Colombia.
Ecuador
Galápagos Islands, Ecuador
The Galápagos Islands is my dream destination as an animal lover. This isolated archipelago, located off the coast of Ecuador, is home to a remarkable array of unique and fearless wildlife. Here, you can encounter giant tortoises roaming freely, swim alongside playful sea lions, and observe blue-footed boobies performing their comical mating dances. The islands’ remote location and volcanic landscape have allowed these species to evolve in ways found nowhere else on Earth, resulting in an unparalleled opportunity for close encounters with extraordinary creatures.
The lack of natural predators has made the animals of the Galápagos exceptionally tame, allowing for intimate and unforgettable experiences. You can snorkel with marine iguanas as they graze on underwater algae, watch penguins waddle along the shore, and witness Darwin’s finches, which played a key role in his theory of evolution. Every island offers a unique chance to witness different species. I can only imagine how many pictures I would take in there.
Tortuga Bay Beach near Bellavista in Santa Cruz island is not to be missed too.
Ingapirca and the Inca Trail, Ecuador
The Ecuadorian Inca Trail, a 3-day, 40-kilometer hike of moderate-to-difficult intensity, offers a worthwhile alternative to the Peruvian path to Machu Picchu. Despite the destruction of much of the original route by Spanish conquistadors, the trail reaches a maximum elevation of 4,200 meters, matching the highest point on the Peruvian section, and features the impressive Temple of the Sun at Ingapirca, sweeping through cloud-height peaks with canyon, lagoon, and mountain views. A guided tour provides insights into Inca history and later Indigenous struggles for independence.
Volcano Cotopaxi hike
Volcán Cotopaxi, Ecuador’s second-highest peak (5897 meters) and one of the world’s highest active volcanoes, offers a challenging guided climb for motivated hikers. For those preferring lower elevations, Parque Nacional Cotopaxi’s 33586.64-hectare trails provide a sanctuary with the volcano as a backdrop. The flat Lake Limpiopungo trail suits all fitness levels, offering abundant wildlife sightings, including white-tailed deer, Andean fox, soaring condors, and the occasional spectacled bear. Visitors can also enjoy horseback riding and guided treks from traditional haciendas to explore the park’s flora, fauna, and geology.
Condor Trek, Ecuador
The Trek of the Condor, a 5-day, 50.5-kilometer journey renowned as one of Ecuador’s best treks and a National Geographic bucket list adventure, is a challenging but accessible high-altitude (over 3,000 meters) route through Indigenous pueblos and páramo grasslands. Starting near Papallacta, where trekkers can prepare in outdoor thermal pools, the trail demands acclimatization and fitness but rewards with stunning scenery and wildlife encounters.
Lake Cuicocha hike
f you’re headed to Otavalo, Lake Cuicocha is an easy add-on day hike. This flooded, extinct volcano is surrounded by vegetation, making for a beautiful four- or five-hour walk around the rim of around 12km. Two small lava islands resemble guinea pigs, from which the lake gets its Kichwa name. Since Cuicocha Lake is one of the lesser-known caldera hikes in Ecuador, you’ll encounter fewer people on the trail. The Otavalo area also offers the 18 meter Peguche waterfalls, easily reached by foot or bike. An Indigenous water-purification ceremony takes place here during Inti Raymi in June.
Mount Chimborazo Trek, Ecuador
South of Riobamba, Chimborazo, Ecuador’s highest peak (6309 meters) is a majestic sight. The Devil’s Nose railway offers a marvel of engineering, switchbacking down the Andes with early train views of Chimborazo. Fit and acclimatised travellers can attempt a challenging ascent of Chimborazo with a certified guide, requiring crampons and serious gear, and an overnight stay at a high-altitude refuge. For those preferring lower elevations, Reserva de Producción de Fauna Chimborazo offers trails for day-trekkers and mountain bikers, with opportunities to see vicuña, llama, and alpaca. Nearby, views of Altar and Tungurahua volcanoes, Parque Nacional Sangay, and Colta Lagoon provide further exploration, with the lagoon offering beautiful reflections of Chimborazo. It is difficult 2-3 day hike covering 38.4km (~24 miles).
Quilotoa crater hike, Ecuador
The scenic Quilotoa crater, one of Ecuador’s most beautiful locations, can be trekked. The longer Quilotoa Loop takes up to five days (40km, moderate to difficult), allowing for a real dive into local villages and highland culture, where you can pick up phrases in the local Kichwa language as you pass by villages and rainforest vegetation. A number of markets take place on the loop, from Zumbahua on Saturday to Saquisilí on Thursday. Indigenous markets are one of the highlights of any visit to the Ecuadorian Andes. Everything is accessible with local transport.
Argentina
Bariloche and Lake Nahuel Huapi
Nestled in an Andean valley on the shores of Lake Nahuel Huapi, Bariloche stands as the foremost tourist destination in Argentine Patagonia, renowned for its stunning scenery of temperate forests and pristine lakes. The nearby Seven Lakes district, connected by a road between Villa la Angostura and San Martín de los Andes, is a popular camping spot and an iconic experience for Argentines. Bariloche is also home to Cerro Catedral, South America’s largest winter sports resort, offering extensive trails and scenic views. Beyond outdoor activities, the city is celebrated for having the world’s best chocolate. A recommended short excursion is driving or taking a bus along the Seven Lakes Scenic Road for breathtaking views of Andean lakes.
Parque Nacional Los Glaciares and Perito Moreno Glacier
Parque Nacional Los Glaciares and its star attraction, the Perito Moreno Glacier, offer a truly compelling travel experience in Argentine Patagonia. Visiting provides a rare opportunity to witness a massive, actively advancing glacier, a phenomenon not commonly seen worldwide. The dramatic calving of enormous ice chunks from the Perito Moreno’s face into Lago Argentino creates a stunning and thunderous spectacle observable from well-placed walkways and boat tours. Beyond this iconic glacier, the park encompasses a vast wilderness of rugged mountains, including the renowned Fitz Roy and Cerro Torre peaks, and numerous pristine glacial lakes. This breathtaking landscape is a haven for nature enthusiasts, hikers, and photographers, showcasing the immense power and beauty of ongoing geological processes and supporting diverse Patagonian wildlife.
To reach this remarkable region, the primary gateway is the town of El Calafate in Argentina, served by an airport with flights from major cities like Buenos Aires. From El Calafate, the Perito Moreno Glacier is easily accessible via a paved road, with options including regular bus services, rental cars for flexibility, or guided tours and private transfers. For those interested in the park’s northern section, known for its exceptional trekking routes around Fitz Roy, the town of El Chaltén serves as the main base, connected to El Calafate by bus and road. Entry to Parque Nacional Los Glaciares requires an admission fee. Visitors should also consider the season, as winter conditions can impact accessibility and available activities.
El Calafate
El Calafate serves as the essential hub for exploring the southern sector of Parque Nacional Los Glaciares, most notably providing the primary access point to the stunning Perito Moreno Glacier. Situated on the shores of the immense Lake Argentino, the town offers visitors a range of accommodations, restaurants, and tour operators, making it the ideal base for experiencing the glacier’s dramatic ice calving and navigating the breathtaking landscapes of the surrounding national park.
You can get to El Calafate by flying into its international airport (FTE). There are direct flights available from several major cities in Argentina, including Buenos Aires.
El Chaltén
Located in the Santa Cruz province of Patagonia, the small town of El Chaltén is recognized as one of the world’s top trekking destinations. Situated near the striking Fitz Roy mountain and within Parque Nacional Los Glaciares, it offers unparalleled views and extensive hiking opportunities. The same vast national park, accessible via the nearby city of El Calafate, is home to the iconic Perito Moreno Glacier. This massive ice formation, measuring 30km long, 5km wide, and 60m high, is famous for the dramatic ice calvings that occur in the summer near its viewing platform. When planning a visit, it is advisable to avoid the winter months due to potential trail closures and harsh weather; packing a windbreaker is recommended for any season. Must see: Mirador Río de las Vueltas.
Iguazú Falls
Located at the tri-border area of Argentina, Brazil, and Paraguay, the Iguazú region is home to the world’s most impressive network of waterfalls, the Iguazú Falls. Set within a dense rainforest, these falls were recognized as one of the seven “Natural Wonders of the World” in 2011 and designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1984. Accessible from both Argentina and Brazil, a highlight is the Garganta del Diablo (Devil’s Throat), the dramatic centerpiece of the falls, with the Argentine viewing platform offering a superior vantage point despite the chute being technically in Brazil. While many attractions are on the Brazilian side, crossing the land border is generally easy, though bringing your passport is essential for this often-frequented crossing.
Quebrada de Humahuaca and Salinas Grandes, Jujuy
The Andes in Northwestern Argentina’s Jujuy province present breathtaking landscapes comparable to Patagonia. The region encompasses the Quebrada de Humahuaca, offering unforgettable sights such as grazing guanacos and mountains displaying striking color variations, from near white to deep purple. The Hornocal mountain range exhibits almost psychedelic hues, and the Salinas Grandes are among the world’s largest salt flats, collectively challenging perceptions of nature’s scale and color. Historically, the area holds some of the earliest evidence of human habitation in the Southern Cone and was part of the Southern Inca empire, contributing to a rich indigenous cultural legacy maintained by the Kolla, Atacama, Quechua, and Omaguaca peoples. The local cuisine is notable, featuring ancestral dishes like Humita en Chala and tamales. Llama meat is a regional delicacy often prepared as salami. The town of Tilcara is home to El Nuevo Progreso, an award-winning restaurant that elevates traditional dishes using avant-garde techniques. Visitors should be aware of the high altitude, with the Humahuaca Valley exceeding 3000m and some attractions reaching over 4350m. Remedies for low oxygen, such as coca leaf candies, are widely available.
United States of America
Mooney Falls, Arizona
Mooney Falls is a stunning waterfall located within the Havasupai Indian Reservation in Arizona, not the Navajo Nation. Plunging dramatically around 200 feet, its vibrant blue-green waters cascade into a beautiful pool below, characteristic of the Havasu Creek waterfalls. Visiting Mooney Falls typically requires obtaining a permit from the Havasupai Tribe and is part of a strenuous, multi-day hiking experience into the remote Havasu Canyon, known for its challenging descent involving tunnels, chains, and ladders. The view there is spectacular!
The primary method of access is a challenging hike into the canyon. The journey begins at Hualapai Hilltop, the designated trailhead. From the hilltop, visitors embark on an approximately 8-mile descent to the remote Supai Village. The trail is unpaved and can be steep and strenuous, particularly on the return hike out of the canyon.
From Supai Village, the hike continues for another 2 miles downstream to reach the main campground area. Mooney Falls is located roughly another 0.5 to 1 mile past the campground. Reaching the very base of Mooney Falls involves a separate, particularly adventurous descent down a steep cliff face using a system of hand-cut tunnels, chains, and ladders. This part of the route is exposed and can be challenging for those with a fear of heights. Making it approximately 10.5 to 11 miles (35.4 km) one way and hiking up the hill to come back, so 22 miles (35.4 km) in total.
While hiking is the most common way to experience the full journey into the canyon, a helicopter service is also available for transport between Hualapai Hilltop and Supai Village. However, this service primarily serves tribal members and is not always consistently available for tourists. Even if opting for the helicopter, visitors still need a valid permit and must hike from Supai Village to the campground and then to Mooney Falls.
The giant trees of the Redwood Forest, Northern California
Visiting the giant trees of the Redwood Forest in Northern California would be an awe-inspiring experience that could connect you directly with the raw power and ancient beauty of nature. Standing beneath these towering giants, some of the tallest and oldest living things on Earth, might provide a profound sense of scale and perspective, making you feel small in the most humbling way. The quiet, misty atmosphere of the forest, with filtered sunlight dappling through the canopy high above, would create a serene and almost spiritual environment, offering a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of modern life and a chance to witness a truly magnificent natural wonder.
Glacier National Park, Montana
visiting Glacier National Park would be an unforgettable journey into a landscape shaped by ice and time. Located in Montana, bordering Canada, exploring this park might reveal stunning glaciated peaks, pristine alpine lakes, and the famous Going-to-the-Sun Road, an engineering marvel offering spectacular views. This park could provide me with incredible opportunities for hiking through subalpine meadows, spotting mountain goats and other wildlife, and experiencing the raw, majestic beauty of the Rocky Mountains. It’s a place for a dramatic mountain scenery and the awe-inspiring remnants of ancient glaciers. I should probably hurry with this one, as glaciers are melting!
Zion National Park
Zion National Park would be an experience of navigating towering sandstone cliffs and exploring unique slot canyons. Located in southwestern Utah, exploring Zion might reveal the stunning Virgin River carving its way through the famous Narrows, and iconic viewpoints like Angels Landing and Observation Point. This park could provide me with incredible opportunities for challenging hikes, wading through canyons, and being surrounded by immense, colourful rock formations that feel almost otherworldly. It’s a place for dramatic desert geology and adventurous exploration.
Yosemite National Park, California
I’ve added Yosemite National Park to my list of places to visit as it would introduce me to some of the most breathtaking granite landscapes and powerful waterfalls imaginable. Located in California’s Sierra Nevada mountains, exploring Yosemite Valley might reveal iconic sights like the towering granite monoliths of El Capitan and Half Dome, and the stunning Bridalveil Fall. This park could provide me with incredible opportunities for hiking, photography, and simply standing in awe of nature’s artistry on a grand scale. It’s a place of enchanting mountain scenery and the sheer beauty of cascading water.
Yellowstone National Park in Wyoming
Yellowstone National Park would be an absolutely incredible experience, offering me a chance to witness some of the most dramatic geothermal activity on Earth. Located primarily in Wyoming, with parts extending into Montana and Idaho, exploring its vast landscapes might reveal bubbling hot springs, vibrant multi-coloured pools, and the iconic eruptions of geysers like Old Faithful. This unique environment could provide me with unparalleled opportunities to see diverse wildlife in their natural habitat, from bison and elk to bears and wolves. It’s a place one should consider visiting if seeking to be amazed by powerful natural forces and encounter North America’s magnificent fauna in a truly wild setting.
The Great Basin Desert in Nevada, Utah, Oregon and California
Even if I’ve traversed the sands of the Sahara and Merzouga, a journey to the Great Basin Desert would offer me a distinctly different kind of arid landscape experience. This isn’t a classic hot, sandy desert; instead, its high elevation might reveal a cold desert environment characterized by vast sagebrush flats punctuated by dramatic, isolated mountain ranges – the unique “basin and range” topography. Exploring this region could provide me with a profound sense of solitude and scale, different from the sweeping dunes of warmer deserts. The clear, unpolluted skies would be a stargazing paradise for me, and the subtle, resilient life adapted to this specific climate – from unique plants to elusive wildlife – might offer fascinating discoveries that showcase the diverse forms desert ecosystems can take. It’s a place I should consider visiting if I seek to understand the varied and often surprising nature of the world’s dry lands.
Iran
Also plases to visit Hormuz, Yazd, Isfahan city, Urmia Lake, Piran and Sultan Amir Ahmad Bathhouse.
Persepolis
Persepolis, meaning “the Persian city” in Greek, was the ceremonial capital of the Achaemenid Empire, founded by Darius I around 518 BCE in what is now Fars Province, Iran. This UNESCO World Heritage site stands as a monumental testament to the power, wealth, and sophisticated artistry of ancient Persia.
Built on an immense, partially artificial terrace, its ruins showcase grand palaces like the Apadana and the Throne Hall, elaborate gateways such as the Gate of All Nations, and intricate bas-reliefs depicting delegations from across the vast empire bringing tribute. Though largely destroyed by Alexander the Great in 330 BCE, Persepolis remains a crucial archaeological site offering profound insights into the Achaemenid dynasty’s architecture, administration, and imperial ideology.
Gran Canyon of Middle-east – Chahkooh Canyon
Chahkooh Canyon is a remarkable geological attraction located on Qeshm Island in Iran, renowned for its deeply eroded sedimentary rock formations that create a surreal, almost otherworldly landscape. This 100-meter-deep canyon features narrow passages, intricate grooves, and various holes and forms carved by centuries of wind and rainwater, making it a key part of the Qeshm UNESCO Global Geopark. Its name, “Chahkooh,” meaning “mountain well,” refers to the ancient wells dug by locals within the canyon, which historically served as crucial freshwater sources in the arid region.
Lut Desert (Dasht-e Lut)
The Lut Desert (Dasht-e Lut), located in southeastern Iran, is a vast and hyper-arid expanse recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site and renowned for its extreme geological features. It is famously known as one of the hottest places on Earth, with satellite measurements recording surface temperatures as high as 70.7°C (159.3°F) in 2005.
This harsh environment has sculpted extraordinary landforms, including some of the world’s best examples of yardangs—massive, corrugated ridges carved by centuries of strong winds and sandblasting—some reaching up to 155 meters in height and stretching for over 40 kilometers. The desert also boasts extensive sand seas with some of the tallest sand dunes globally, reaching heights of up to 475 meters, alongside unique salt pans and stony deserts. Despite its extreme conditions, the Lut Desert presents a visually stunning and unique landscape that attracts adventurers and researchers alike.
Bam Citadel (Arg-e Bam)
The Bam Citadel (Arg-e Bam), located in the city of Bam in southeastern Iran, is the largest adobe (mud-brick) building in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Its origins date back to at least the Achaemenid Empire (6th to 4th centuries BCE), and it flourished particularly between the 7th and 11th centuries CE as a vital crossroads along the Silk Road, known for its textile production.
This massive fortified city once encompassed a complete urban complex, including living quarters, military barracks, a bazaar, a mosque, and the governor’s residence, all constructed entirely from earthen materials. Tragically, the citadel was almost entirely destroyed in a devastating 6.6 magnitude earthquake on December 26, 2003, which also claimed tens of thousands of lives in the surrounding city of Bam. Since then, significant international and national efforts have been underway to conserve and rebuild this extraordinary historical monument, slowly restoring its former grandeur.
Kandovan
Kandovan is an extraordinary ancient village in Iran, located in the foothills of Mount Sahand in East Azerbaijan Province, renowned for its unique rock-cut architecture. It is one of the very few inhabited cave villages in the world, where residents still live in hand-carved, cone-shaped homes, locally known as “Karaans,” sculpted into volcanic rock formations. This remarkable settlement, often compared to Cappadocia in Turkey, showcases a traditional way of life that has persisted for centuries, with some dwellings believed to be over 700 years old.
According to a popular legend, Kandovan’s first inhabitants arrived in the 13th century, seeking refuge from the invading Mongol army. They initially dug hideouts within the soft volcanic rock formations but eventually decided to settle permanently, gradually expanding and transforming these caves into the multi-story homes seen today.
Turkey
Cappadocia – Balloon City
Cappadocia, in central Turkey, is a region famous for its surreal, otherworldly landscapes shaped by volcanic activity and erosion. Its most iconic sights are the “fairy chimneys,” tall, cone-shaped rock formations that dot the valleys.
A top attraction is taking a hot air balloon ride at sunrise, offering breathtaking panoramic views of these unique formations as hundreds of balloons fill the sky. Visitors can also explore ancient cave dwellings and churches carved into the soft rock, particularly at the Göreme Open Air Museum, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Additionally, there are vast underground cities like Kaymakli and Derinkuyu, which once served as hiding places for early Christians. Other activities include hiking through picturesque valleys like Rose Valley, Love Valley, and Pigeon Valley, visiting Uchisar Castle for panoramic views, and exploring the pottery-making town of Avanos. Many visitors choose to stay in unique cave hotels carved directly into the rock formations.
Morocco
Fez City
Fez, one of Morocco’s imperial cities, is renowned for its rich history and vibrant cultural heritage, offering a mesmerizing journey back in time. The city is primarily known for Fes el-Bali, its medieval medina, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the largest car-free urban areas in the world. Visitors can easily get lost (in a good way!) in its labyrinthine alleyways, bustling souks, and hidden courtyards.
Key attractions to see include the Chouara Tannery, the largest and oldest tannery in Fez, where visitors can observe the traditional dyeing process from terraces overlooking the colorful pits. The Al-Attarine Madrasa and Bou Inania Madrasa are stunning examples of Marinid architecture, featuring intricate zellij tilework, carved stucco, and cedar wood. The Al-Qarawiyyin University, one of the oldest continually operating universities in the world, and its adjoining mosque are also central to the medina’s historical and religious significance. Beyond the medina, the Bab Bou Jeloud (Blue Gate) serves as an iconic entrance, and the Jewish Quarter (Mellah) offers a different architectural style and a glimpse into Fez’s diverse past. Exploring the various artisan quarters, from metalworkers to leather goods, provides an authentic insight into the city’s enduring crafts.
“Blue City” – Chefchaouen
Chefchaouen, Morocco, is famously known as the “Blue Pearl” for its distinctive blue-washed buildings that create a serene and picturesque atmosphere throughout its medina. Beyond simply wandering the enchanting blue streets and alleys, visitors can explore Place Outa el Hammam, the main square, which is often bustling with activity and surrounded by cafes and restaurants.
Other key attractions include the Kasbah Museum, an old fortress with beautiful gardens and an ethnographic museum offering insights into the region’s history, and the Spanish Mosque, perched on a hill above the town, providing breathtaking panoramic views of the blue city, especially at sunset. Nature lovers can also venture out to the nearby Ras El Ma (a natural water source and popular local gathering spot) or take day trips to the Akchour Waterfalls and God’s Bridge in the surrounding Rif Mountains for hiking and natural beauty.
Antarctica
The most common and generally considered cheapest and easiest place to take a boat to visit Antarctica is Ushuaia, Argentina. I saw some options for £3.7k p.p., but not sure how reliable they are.
The best time to visit Antarctica is during the austral summer, from November to March, with each part of the season offering distinct advantages. November, the early season, presents a pristine, snow-covered landscape with dramatic ice formations and the beginning of penguin and seal courtship rituals, often with fewer visitors. The peak season in December and January boasts the longest daylight hours and mildest temperatures, coinciding with the hatching and early growth of adorable penguin chicks and increasing whale activity. As the season draws to a close in February and March, whale sightings are generally at their peak, penguin chicks are fledging, and the receding ice allows for exploration of more southerly areas, often with the added benefit of fewer crowds and stunning autumnal light, making the ideal time to visit dependent on whether your priority is untouched landscapes, peak breeding activity, or prime whale watching opportunities.
Visiting Antarctica offers an unparalleled opportunity to experience a truly wild and pristine continent, a place of immense natural beauty and unique ecosystems unlike anywhere else on Earth. It’s a chance to witness dramatic landscapes of towering icebergs, vast glaciers, and snow-covered mountains under incredible polar light. The abundant and often unafraid wildlife is a major highlight, with opportunities to see various species of penguins waddling and porpoising, seals lounging on ice floes, and whales breaching in the frigid waters – a truly immersive wildlife viewing experience. Furthermore, traveling to Antarctica provides a profound sense of being at the edge of the world, following in the footsteps of legendary explorers and gaining a unique perspective on the planet’s fragile environment and the impacts of climate change.
Other Total Solar Eclipses
I’ve already seen one in Egypt in 2006, another one in 2009 in China and in 2017 in USA, but there are more upcoming Eclipses in 2026, 2027, 2028 and 2030.