top 20 trips in the world

World’s 30 Best Travel Destinations, Ranked

Best places to visit in the world.

The ultimate ranking of travel destinations aims to solve a serious problem: so many places to visit, so little time.

But even in a world with a trillion destinations, some manage to stand out and rise to the top. From the sleek skyscrapers of Dubai to the emerald-green waters of the Bora Bora lagoon, you’re sure to find at least one vacation that piques your interest (and likely several!).

These are the 30 best places to visit in the world. Which ones have you already been to? And which ones stoke your wanderlust most?

30. Argentine Patagonia

In this region of the Andes, you’ll find glaciers, evergreen trees, deep blue lakes and clear skies everywhere you look. For a trip full of adventure and discovery, there are few better destinations on the planet.

No trip is complete without a visit to the craggy Mount Fitz Roy, the historic (and mysterious) Cave of the Hands, the Punta Tombo wildlife preserve, the Peninsula Valdes marine wildlife refuge and the impressive Perito Moreno Glacier. Be sure to bring your camera and your sense of wonder.

* Rankings are based on U.S. News & World Report's " World's Best Places to Visit ," traveler ratings as well as our own editorial input.

What to Know Before You Go to Argentine Patagonia

Where to stay: Cyan Soho Neuquen Hotel

Hot tip: Since springtime occurs in the southern hemisphere in October and November, those months are your best bet when planning a trip.

Fun fact: The largest dinosaur fossils ever unearthed were found in Argentine Patagonia. They belong to the largest-known titanosaur, believed to have weighed about 83 tons. 

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29. Amalfi Coast, Italy

Set in the Sorrentina Peninsula, the Amalfi Coast has long been renowned for its natural beauty and idyllic coastal towns. During the golden age of Hollywood, it was a preferred vacation spot for glamorous movie stars.

Days here are spent eating Italian food, drinking wine and walking around colorful cobblestone streets. You can also expect to drink copious amounts of wine as you look out into the Mediterranean Sea.

The best way to see the coast is to rent a car and then drive to different towns each day.

What to Know Before You Go to the Amalfi Coast

Where to stay: Hotel Marina Riviera

Hot tip:  If you're planning on using a beach chair to work on your tan, make sure you wake up early, as they are usually first come, first served.

Fun fact:  The Amalfi Coast is featured in Sofia Loren's 1995 Film, "Scandal in Sorrento."

28. Cancun, Mexico

For years, Cancun has been the preferred getaway for East Coast Americans (particularly Floridians) who want an international getaway that's still close to home. But despite the droves of tourists, the area has managed to keep the charm that attracted people in the first place.

The city is known mostly for its luxury hotels, wild nightlife and warm beaches. Definitely indulge in all of these — as well as the Mexican food! — but also consider other activities like visiting Mayan ruins, swimming in cenotes and snorkeling. One thing is certain: You won't run out of things to do in Cancun .

What to Know Before You Go to Cancun

Where to stay: Hyatt Zilara Cancun

Hot tip:  While you're in Cancun, make a plan to visit one of Grupo Xcaret's six eco-tourism parks, with the best ones being Xcaret and Xelha. The Mexican-owned company is credited with starting the eco-tourism trend in the Yucatan Peninsula, and the parks offer incredible and varied local experiences.

Fun fact:  The Yucatan Peninsula, where Cancun is located, was the cultural, political and economic center of the Mayan civilization. Many locals have Mayan ancestry and Mayan continues to be widely spoken in the area.

27. San Francisco, California

Everyone should visit San Francisco at least once in their lives. Though tech companies grab all the headlines these days, it remains down-to-earth, diverse and packed with things to do.

Where to start? No matter your style, you’ll want to check out the world-famous Golden Gate Bridge, see the sunbathing sea lions at Fisherman’s Wharf, take a tour of the historic prison Alcatraz and relax in one of the city’s many parks, especially Dolores Park for its epic people-watching on the weekends. 

For dinner, treat your tastebuds and make a reservation at one of the many Michelin-starred restaurants in the Bay Area .

What to Know Before You Go to San Francisco

Where to stay: The Westin St. Francis San Francisco on Union Square

Hot tip: Want similarly beautiful landscapes and rich cultural attractions, but at lower prices and with (slightly) fewer crowds? Head to Oakland just across the Bay Bridge, named one of the most exciting places on earth to travel by National Geographic. 

Fun fact: The fortune cookie was invented in San Francisco by a Japanese resident. Random!

26. Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls is one of the largest waterfalls in the world . The power with which water storms down cliffs on the border between the United States and Canada has captivated the imagination of humans for centuries. 

This natural wonder is comprised of three awe-inspiring falls. One of the best ways to experience them is on a boat tour.

What to Know Before You Go to Niagara Falls

Where to stay: Sheraton Niagara Falls

Hot tip: There is some debate about which side of the falls is better, but the general verdict is that the Canadian side offers better views. This is because you can (ironically) get a better view of the American Falls as well as get up close to Horseshoe Falls. 

Fun fact:  Established in 1885, Niagara Falls State Park is the oldest state park in the U.S.

25. Yellowstone National Park

Located mostly in Wyoming as well as Montana and Idaho, Yellowstone is America’s first national park and remains one of the most popular in the country, welcoming more than around 3.3 million people in 2022. With unpredictable geysers, rainbow-colored hot springs, craggy peaks, shimmering lakes and tons of wildlife — from elk to boars to bison — it’s easy to see why so many people flock here. 

The park makes for an awesome family trip and is well-suited to budget travelers since it offers so many campsites ( over 2,000! ). 

What to Know Before You Go to Yellowstone

Where to stay: Stage Coach Inn

Hot tip: You’ll never fully beat the crowds at this wildly popular park, but April, May, September and November are your best bets for finding some solitude.  

Fun fact: Yellowstone is larger than Rhode Island and Delaware combined.  

24. Great Barrier Reef, Australia

As the largest reef in the world, the Great Barrier Reef is home to thousands of marine species. This makes it a paradise for scuba diving or snorkeling. 

The reef system is truly gigantic, with over 600 islands and about 2,900 individual reefs. This is one of Australia's greatest prides, but it's also a planetary national treasure. Seeing it with your own two eyes is an experience that is incredible beyond words.

What to Know Before You Go to the Great Barrier Reef

Where to stay: Crystalbrook Flynn

Hot tip: Though going underwater to see the reef is a must, we also recommend booking a helicopter tour to experience the magic of it from above.

Fun fact:  Made of corals, which are animals that live in collectives, the Great Barrier Reef is the largest living structure on the planet.

23. Santorini, Greece

With its picturesque blue-domed churches, whitewashed buildings and colorful beaches, the island of Santorini is a photographer’s paradise. If you want to snap photos to post to Instagram and make everyone back home jealous, this is the place to go. 

Also make sure to experience some of Santorini’s archaeologically significant sites, like Ancient Akrotiri (an ancient city preserved by volcanic ash) and Ancient Thera (where humans lived as early as the 9th century BC). And don’t forget to visit the smaller islands that surround it, including Thirassia, Nea Kameni and Palea Kameni. 

What to Know Before You Go to Santorini

Where to stay: Nikki Beach Resort & Spa Santorini

Hot tip: To optimize your vacation, visit in September and October or April and May — when the weather is still warm, but there aren’t as many other tourists milling around.

Fun fact: While it’s difficult to prove, locals like to say there’s more wine than water on this island where it hardly rains (and vino abounds).

22. Florence, Italy

For art and history buffs (and anyone who appreciates delicious Italian food), Florence is a must-visit city. 

As the birthplace of the Renaissance, it’s home to some of the most iconic artworks by the world’s premier artists throughout history — Michaelangelo, Brunelleschi and Donatello, just to name a few. In addition to art museums and architectural wonders, Florence is also home to chic shops, quaint cafes and spectacular gardens. 

What to Know Before You Go to Florence

Where to stay:  NH Collection Firenze Porta Rossa

Hot tip: Keep Florence in mind if you want to spend your honeymoon in Europe without spending a fortune, according to U.S. News & World Report.

Fun fact: The city’s famed “El Duomo” cathedral took over 140 years to build .

21. Yosemite National Park, California

Yosemite, one of the most-visited national parks in America with more than 4 million annual guests, encompasses 750,000 acres of wilderness just waiting to be explored.

It’s home to scenic waterfalls, like the 317-foot Vernal Fall and the 617-foot Bridalveil Fall, as well as iconic rock formations like El Capitan and Half Dome, two popular spots for the world’s best rock climbers to test their mettle.

Not surprisingly, the wildlife here also impresses. Dozens of species of butterflies, marmots, bobcats and mule deer are just some of the animals that call Yosemite home. And keep your eyes peeled for black bears; some 300 to 500 roam the park . 

What to Know Before You Go to Yosemite

Where to stay:  The Ahwahnee

Hot tip: Summer can get really busy here, so if you want to camp, be sure to book a spot early. Want to beat Yosemite’s notoriously bad traffic? Ditch the car and take advantage of the park’s extensive free bus system.

Fun fact: This is one of the only places in the country where you can catch a moonbow — like a rainbow, but created by the light of the moon instead of the sun. 

20. St. Lucia

Whether you’re visiting on a cruise ship or just relaxing at an all-inclusive resort or boutique hotel, stunning St. Lucia is a clear winner. This Caribbean island offers diverse terrain for vacationers, from its pristine beaches to its lush rainforests to its volcanic peaks, the Pitons, that loom over the landscape. 

Adrenaline-junkies love hiking, climbing and zip-lining, while newlyweds (and soon-to-be-married couples) enjoy the romantic mix of fine dining, adults-only resorts and exotic activities. 

What to Know Before You Go to St. Lucia

Where to stay: Rabot Hotel From Hotel Chocolat

Hot tip: Visit when temperatures are moderate, which is typically in May and June.

Fun fact: St. Lucia is the only country named after a woman: Christian martyr Saint Lucia of Syracuse.

19. Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Everything is bigger and better in Dubai, home to one of the world’s largest shopping malls, tallest towers, largest man-made marinas — and the list goes on. 

This Las Vegas-like urban center in the United Arab Emirates has an eclectic mix of activities for visitors to enjoy, including beaches, waterparks, tons of shopping and even an indoor ski resort. Outside the skyscraper-filled city, the vast desert awaits, best enjoyed via quad-biking or sandboarding.

What to Know Before You Go to Dubai

Where to stay:  Five Palm Jumeirah Dubai

Hot tip: Though you’re likely to pay a pretty penny for a trip to Dubai no matter when you visit, you can save a little cash by visiting during the scalding-hot summer months and by booking your hotel room two to three months in advance.

Fun fact: Dubai’s man-made Palm Islands were constructed using enough imported sand to fill up 2.5 Empire State Buildings . 

18. Machu Picchu, Peru

Many travelers describe their visit to Machu Picchu as life-changing. Why? It’s an archaeological wonder, the remains of an ancient Incan city dating back more than 600 years. No wonder this is one of the Seven Wonders of the World, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the most-visited attraction in all of Peru. 

Be sure to visit significant sites like Funerary Rock, where it’s believed Incan nobility were mummified, and Temple of the Condor, a rock temple sculpted to look like the impressive bird in its name.  

What to Know Before You Go to Machu Picchu

Where to stay: Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel

Hot tip: If you’re planning a trip, be sure to get your ticket in advance, as only 2,500 people can visit Machu Picchu each day. (And a lot of people have this destination on their bucket list.)

Fun fact: The site contains more than 100 separate flights of stairs . 

17. Sydney, Australia

With its iconic Opera House and lively Bondi Beach, Sydney is the perfect spot to vacation if you’re looking for a blend of culture, arts, nightlife and relaxation. 

Spend the day on the water at Darling Harbour, then head to the Royal Botanic garden for even more fresh air. Want to travel like a local? Get a ticket to a rugby match and order a Tim Tam, a popular chocolate-covered cookie that pairs well with coffee. 

What to Know Before You Go to Sydney

Where to stay: Four Seasons Hotel Sydney

Hot tip: You can make your trip more affordable by visiting during Sydney’s shoulder seasons, which are typically September through November and March through May.

Fun fact: In 2007, Bondi Beach was the site of the largest ever swimsuit photoshoot ; 1,010 bikini-clad women participated, enough to earn it a spot in the Guinness World Records book.

16. Grand Canyon, Arizona

The Grand Canyon is truly massive (277 river miles long and up to 18 miles wide!), which helps explain why so many people feel the urge to see it in person. 

In 2022, 4.7 million people visited, making the Grand Canyon the second-most popular national park in the country (behind Great Smoky Mountain Nationals Park). Established in 1919, the park offers activities for all ability levels, whether you want to do an intense hike down into the canyon and sleep under the stars (with a backcountry permit, of course) or simply want to saunter along the South Rim Trail, an easy walking path with views that wow.

What to Know Before You Go to the Grand Canyon

Where to stay:  The Grand Hotel at the Grand Canyon

Hot tip: If you’ve wanted to visit the Grand Canyon for a while now, this is the year to do it. The park is celebrating its 100th birthday with musical performances, lectures, screenings and other special events.

Fun fact: The most remote community in the continental U.S. can be found in the Grand Canyon. At the base of the canyon, Supai Village — part of the Havasupi Indian Reservation — has a population of 208. It’s inaccessible by road, and mail is delivered by pack mule. Want to see it for yourself? The village houses a collection of campsites , accessible via a hiking trail.

15. Bali, Indonesia

In recent years, Bali has become a popular expat destination, where groups of "digital nomads" work and play. 

But the island hasn't lost its original charm to this added tourism and continues to be an incredible destination. Divide your time between swimming in the beach, hiking active volcanoes, visiting temples and enjoying views of tiered rice terraces.

What to Know Before You Go to Bali

Where to stay: Hotel Indigo Bali Seminyak Beach

Hot tip:  Though shoulder season (January to April and October to November) means fewer crowds and cheaper prices, it also means rain. Tons of it. We'd recommend avoiding the rainy season if possible.

Fun fact: On the Saka New Year, Balinese people celebrate Nyepi. This Hindu celebration is a day of silence when everything on the island shuts down and no noise is allowed.

14. New York, New York

As the saying goes, New York City is “the city that never sleeps” — and you won’t want to either when you visit, lest you run out of time to take it all in. 

Be sure to check out newer attractions, like the High Line (an elevated park) and Hudson Yards (a mega-mall along the Hudson River), but also make time for some New York City classics, like catching a Broadway show or standing under the lights of Times Square. 

Foodies will have a hard time choosing where to eat (the city is home to almost 100 Michelin stars !), which is why an extended trip is always a good idea.

What to Know Before You Go to New York City

Where to stay: The Beekman, A Thompson Hotel

Hot tip: Yes, January and February get cold here, but this is also the best time to lock in relatively reasonable hotel rates. You can spend your time eating in the city’s restaurants, exploring its fabulous museums and catching its world-class theater shows without needing to spend much time in the chilly outdoors. 

Fun fact: There’s a birth in New York City about every 4.4 minutes — and a death every 9.1 minutes. 

13. Banff National Park, Canada

Some of the world’s most stunning mountain scenery and vistas are located in Banff, the tiny Canadian town located at 4,537 feet above sea level inside the national park by the same name. Banff is the highest town in Canada, and Banff National Park was Canada’s first, established in 1885.

Shred some powder at Banff’s three ski resorts in the winter, then come back in the summer for activities like hiking, biking, fishing and scrambling (scaling steep terrain using nothing but your hands).

What to Know Before You Go to Banff

Where to stay: Fairmont Banff Springs

Hot tip: June to August and December to March are the best times to visit if you want to take advantage of summer and winter activities. 

Fun fact: Banff National Park has more than 1,000 glaciers.

12. Maldives

You can look at picture after picture, but you still really need to visit the Maldives to believe its beauty. If rich sunsets, flour-like beaches and vibrant blue waters are your style, this is the destination for you. 

Though it’s somewhat difficult to get to this small island nation southwest of Sri Lanka, that also means it’s incredibly private and secluded, which makes it the perfect spot for a honeymoon or romantic beach getaway. 

And don’t worry about getting bored, either — explore the water by snorkeling or scuba diving, relax in the spa or wander around the bustling Male’ Fish Market.

What to Know Before You Go to Maldives

Where to stay: Velassaru Maldives

Hot tip: May to October is the island-nation’s rainy season — but that also means it’s the best time to go for fewer crowds and better rates.

Fun fact: In 1153 AD, the nation’s people converted to Islam. Today, the Maldives remains the most heavily Muslim country on earth.

11. Barcelona, Spain

Soccer, architecture, shopping, nightlife, world-class food and wine, arts and culture — is there anything Barcelona doesn’t have? If there is, we honestly can't think what it would be. 

This cosmopolitan Spanish city is home to some awe-inspiring architecture, including several buildings designed by Antoni Gaudi, so be sure to book tours of his whimsical creations like Park Guell and the yet-to-be-finished Church of the Sacred Family (La Sagrada Familia). 

For nightlife and shopping, Las Ramblas is always bustling; for an enriching arts experience, follow the progression of famed artist Pablo Picasso at Museo Picasso.

What to Know Before You Go to Barcelona

Where to stay:  Hotel Bagues

Hot tip: It can get really humid here, so it's best to plan your trip in May and June before things really heat up.

Fun fact: In preparation for its 1992 hosting of the Olympics, the city flew in sand from as far away as Egypt to make Barceloneta Beach a place where people would want to go. Though largely man-made, the beach remains a wonderful spot for seaside R&R. 

10. Glacier National Park, Montana

The crown jewel of beautiful Montana, Glacier National Park is every outdoors traveler's dream.

Of course, the most defining natural feature of the park are its glaciers, which provide spectacular views as well as a number of pristine lakes. There are hundreds of trails that will take you up peaks, down through valleys and across some of the most beautiful landscapes you'll ever see.

What to Know Before You Go to Glacier National Park

Where to stay: Firebrand Hotel

Hot tip:  Plan to spend a day or two in the nearby town of Whitefish. This gateway to Glacier National Park is one of the best small towns in America and a destination in its own right. 

Fun fact: During your visit, you're very likely to run into mountain goats, which are the official symbols of the park.

9. Tokyo, Japan

The Japanese capital is one of the most exciting cities on the entire planet. It is notoriously fast-paced, with neon lights illuminating the multitudes that are constantly rushing to their next destination. 

But Tokyo is also a city of temples, of taking time to picnic under the cherry blossoms and of making sure you enjoy the abundance of delicious food that can be found on basically every corner.

What to Know Before You Go to Tokyo

Where to stay: The Prince Gallery Tokyo Kioicho, a Luxury Collection Hotel

Hot tip: Visit between the months of March and April or September and November for more comfortable temperatures. Of course, spring is when the city's cherry blossoms are famously in full bloom.

Fun fact: Tokyo happens to be the largest metropolitan area in the world, with more than 40 million people calling the greater metro area home.

8. Phuket, Thailand

If you’re looking for a vacation destination that feels luxurious but won’t break the bank, start searching for flights to Phuket now. 

This island in southern Thailand, which is just an hour flight from Bangkok, is surrounded by the Andaman Sea, so white sandy beaches abound. If a stunning sunset is what you’re after, head to Promthep Cape, the southernmost point on the island and a popular spot for photo-ops. For views of the island and beyond, climb to the top of the massive alabaster statue called Big Buddha.

You can even learn something during your vacation by visiting the Soi Dog Foundation, an innovative animal shelter that’s fighting the meat trade and taking care of the thousands of stray cats and dogs in the area.

What to Know Before You Go to Phuket

Where to stay: InterContinental Phuket Resort

Hot tip: Visit between November and April for the best weather — and ideal conditions for beach activities like swimming and boating. 

Fun fact: The island is not pronounced in the rather colorful way it appears to be. The correct way to say it is “poo-ket” or “poo-get.”

7. Rome, Italy

Though Rome’s historic significance cannot be overstated, don’t assume that this Italian city is stuck in the past. On the contrary, you’ll find posh storefronts and luxurious hotels not far from iconic structures like the Pantheon (built in 120 AD) and the Colosseum (built in 80 AD).

And then, of course, there’s the city’s art. Stroll through Rome, and you’ll stumble upon some of the greatest treasures the world has ever seen — an astonishing collection of frescoes, paintings, ceilings and fountains created by icons like Michelangelo, Caravaggio, Raphael and Bernini.

After all that exploration, take advantage of ample opportunities to eat and drink, including at several Michelin-starred restaurants. City staples include suppli (deep-fried balls of risotto, mozzarella and ragu meat sauce) and cacio e pepe (a deceptively simple mix of al-dente pasta, pecorino romano and fresh black pepper). 

What to Know Before You Go to Rome

Where to stay: Radisson Blu Ghr Hotel

Hot tip: Tourists congregate here in the summer when temperatures are also sweltering. Go instead between October and April, when there are thinner crowds, better rates and cooler temps. Just make sure to bring a light jacket.

Fun fact: Each year, travelers throw about $1.7 million worth of coins into the Trevi Fountain. The money is donated to Caritas, a Catholic nonprofit that supports charities focused on health, disaster relief, poverty and migration.

6. London, England

English writer Samual Johnson once said, “When a man is tired of London, he is tired of life.” 

From live performances of Shakespeare to truly world-class (and free!) museums like the National Gallery, London will enrich your mind and enliven your senses. Of course, no visit would be complete without a stop at Buckingham Palace to see the famous stone-faced guards outside and the 19 lavish State Rooms inside (though, unfortunately, you can’t see the queen’s private quarters). Another must-see landmark is the Tower of London, the historic castle on the north side of the River Thames.

What to Know Before You Go to London

Where to stay: Vintry & Mercer

Hot tip: Many U.S. cities now offer direct flights to London, so set a price alert and act fast when you see fares drop.

Fun fact: London’s pubs are worth a visit for their names alone; fanciful monikers include The Case is Altered, The Pyrotechnists Arms, John the Unicorn and The Job Centre. 

5. Tahiti, French Polynesia

Flavorful French cuisine, top-notch resorts, warm waters — need we say more? Though Tahiti can be pricey, travelers say it’s so worth it. 

The largest of the 118 French Polynesian islands, Tahiti is split into two main regions (connected by a land bridge). Tahiti Nui, the larger region, is home to the island’s capital Papeete and surfing hotspot Papenoo Beach, while Tahiti Iti, the smaller region, offers more seclusion and the bright white sands of La Plage de Maui.

What to Know Before You Go to Tahiti

Where to stay: Hilton Hotel Tahiti

Hot tip: Visit between May and October, Tahiti’s winter, when there are less humidity and rain. 

Fun fact: Overcrowding is not a concern here; Hawaii gets more visitors in 10 days than all of French Polynesia does in a year.

4. Maui, Hawaii

If you’re short on time or you just can’t decide which Hawaiian island to visit, Maui is right in the sweet spot: not too big, not too small, but just right.

There are five regions to explore on Maui, including the popular West Maui and South Maui, home to some of the island’s best-known attractions and beaches (Wailea Beach is in South Maui, for example). But don’t overlook East Maui, where you can travel along the Road to Hana, or the Upcountry, where you can explore the world’s largest dormant volcano, Haleakala. 

What to Know Before You Go to Maui

Where to stay:  Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea

Hot tip: This is Hawaii we’re talking about, so your trip will be on the pricey side. Be sure to budget for add-ons if you need them (think gym access and WiFi at your hotel), and do some research on insurance before you head to the car-rental counter.

Fun fact: How’s this for a selling point? Maui has more beach than any other Hawaiian island — 60 miles of it, with red, white and black sand.

3. Bora Bora, French Polynesia

Don’t write off the French Polynesian island of Bora Bora just because of its size. Though it’s a little more than 2 miles wide and just 6 miles long, Bora Bora packs in an abundance of natural beauty. To start, you won’t be able to take your eyes off the island’s turquoise lagoon surrounded by lush jungle.

If you’re looking for more than relaxation on your trip, consider hiking or booking a 4X4 tour of Mount Otemanu, part of an extinct volcano that rises 2,400 feet above the lagoon. You can also snorkel among the coral reef of Coral Gardens, where you might catch a glimpse of reef sharks, eels and stingrays.

Because of its remoteness, flying into Bora Bora Airport will be quite a journey, no matter where you're departing from. But you'll forget everything as soon as you see this Polynesian paradise that is beautiful beyond words.

What to Know Before You Go to Bora Bora

Where to stay: Conrad Bora Bora Nui

Hot tip: Though Bora Bora can be wildly expensive to visit, you can cut costs by visiting between December and March (though you should avoid the Christmas holiday) and by bringing your own alcohol and sunscreen with you.

Fun fact: Bora Bora is one of the countries that no longer exists . The Kingdom of Bora Bora was an independent state until it was forcefully overtaken and annexed by France in 1888.

2. Paris, France

Paris has it all — incredible cuisine, legendary landmarks and centuries of history. Those are just some of the reasons it’s the second-best place to visit in the world.

Though you’ll want to spend your time hitting up popular tourist spots like the Eiffel Tower and the Musee d’Orsay, you should also carve out time to explore other parts of Paris — the city’s 20 diverse neighborhoods, called arrondissements, for instance. Standouts include the 2nd arrondissement, which touts covered passages and some of the city’s hippest restaurants, and the romantic 18th arrondissement, with charming squares, cafes and bars, set apart from the city’s more tourist-packed areas.

What to Know Before You Go to Paris

Where to stay: Grand Hotel Du Palais Royal

Hot tip: Yes, summer in Paris is busy, but the weather is also ideal — average highs are in the 70s.

Fun fact: Built for the 1889 World Fair, the Eiffel Tower was originally meant to be temporary , and was almost torn down in 1909. Luckily, local officials saw its value as a radiotelegraph station, preserving the future tourist icon for generations to come. 

1. South Island, New Zealand

South Island, the larger but less populated of the two islands that make up New Zealand, earn this top-spot honor for its gorgeous scenery, adrenelin-pumping experiences and affordability.

The 33.5-mile hike on Milford Sound, which is limited to 90 people at a time, is considered one of the world’s best treks, with stops at Lake Te Anau, suspension bridges, a mountain pass and the tallest waterfall in the country, Sutherland Falls.

For a heart-pumping experience, you can jump out of a helicopter while flying over the Harris Mountains with skis on your feet. Still not satisfied? Roam Fiordland National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage area, and explore the Fox and Franz Josef Glaciers, two of the most accessible glaciers in the world.

What to Know Before You Go to New Zealand

Where to stay: QT Queenstown

Hot tip: Book your trip for the fall, when South Island is temperate, not overcrowded and offers great rates. Bonus: This is also when the island is at its most stunning.

Fun fact: New Zealand natives, called Kiwis, are among the most hospitable you’ll ever meet. The local saying “He aha te mea nui o te ao. He tangata, he tangata, he tangata” translates , appropriately, to “What is the most important thing in the world? It is people, it is people.”

• BEST OF THE WORLD

20 of the coolest travel adventures for 2024

From a horseback safari in Kenya to river rafting in West Virginia, here’s our ranked list of the top travel experiences right now.

This page is a portal.   No, really, it is: Our annual Best of the World feature is a gateway to the streets of Paris , the snowy Caucasus Mountains of Georgia , the ancient rock art of Algeria . To help us engage with places more deeply and meaningfully, we drew on National Geographic’s global community of experts to create the following ranked list of 20 great adventures for 2024. Read on and you’ll discover that this page is also a celebration—of travel’s power to transform us and our connections with one another.

#1: Go on horseback safari in Kenya

A safari in Africa usually conjures an image of mud-spattered 4x4 vehicles bouncing through the bush. But there’s another way to travel: on horseback .  

Although horse safaris originated in Kenya in the 1970s, they’re a perfect fit for today’s growing number of travelers looking for more engaging, sustainable wildlife encounters. At the 32,000-acre Borana Conservancy , two stables house thoroughbreds and ex-polo ponies for riders of all skill levels. Visitors can book half-day, full-day, or overnight rides. July through September is the prime time to go.

Since wildlife perceive equines as just another animal, exploring the landscape atop a horse makes for an intimate experience. “To journey on horseback is to break down the walls—meant to protect but also to separate—between oneself and the natural world,” says Nichole Sobecki , a photographer and equestrian who’s ridden in Borana. “Your horse is a translator, responding to the low growl of the lion, the soft scent of a herd of elephants.” A horse’s ears are an advance warning system, she says, helping knowledgeable guides navigate routes.

#2: Run an Olympic marathon in Paris

For the first time, members of the public will be able to run their own marathon during the 2024 Summer Olympics , in Paris, France , just one initiative aimed at creating a more inclusive Games.  

Slated to be held the evening of August 10, between the men’s and women’s official races, the Marathon for All will allow 20,024 qualifying lottery winners on the 26.2-mile route that links Paris and Versailles , a loop beginning at the Hôtel de Ville (City Hall) and passing through nine arrondissements before finishing at Les Invalides on the banks of the Seine. Before or after the big event, learn the route to follow in their tracks.  

#3: Ski tour UNESCO sites in Georgia

Long a means of transportation, exploration, and hunting, skiing is still a way of life in the mountainous republic of Georgia. Now visitors can enjoy some of the nation’s best backcountry skiing in the Caucasus with the help of outfitters such as Svaneti Ski and Georgia Ski Touring . In Svaneti, excursions may lead skiers through panoramic Gvibari Pass or to medieval Ushguli villages, among the highest continuously inhabited in Europe. The best times to experience this are December to April.

#4: Bear watch in Katmai National Park

Alaska ’s Katmai National Park is home to one of the highest concentrations of brown bears in the world. Far from the crowded viewing platforms of the Brooks Camp Visitor Center, a guided trip along the Katmai coast with outfitters like AK Adventures reveals a different side of the park.

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Here, the bears feast on a diversity of foods: sedges, grasses, razor clams, salmon. “For me, seeing a single brown bear in the wild is meaningful because it is a sign that the landscape is healthy enough to support it,” says Alaska photographer Acacia Johnson , a frequent National Geographic contributor.

#5: Hear legendary live music in Kyoto

Guidebooks speak of Kyoto as frozen in time, with hushed temples and meditative gardens. But after hours, Japan ’s former imperial capital reveals a live music scene that can be loud and irreverent. At venues like Jittoku and Field , rock, swing, and even Irish music echo into the night. Whatever you’re into, from jazz to punk, there’s a community to share your jam. “This is what happens in Japan when the mask comes off,” says Kyoto guide Van Milton.

#6: Cruise an epic river in Colombia

About 80 percent of Colombia ’s population lives in the river basin of the Magdalena, which flows for nearly a thousand miles from the Andes to the Caribbean. AmaWaterways’ new cruises on the river—said to be the first by a major cruise operator—take seven-night trips from Cartagena via Mompós to Barranquilla. Stops at colonial towns, performances of vallenato   and cumbia music, and visits to a stilt-house village highlight the region’s culture along this mighty waterway.

#7:   Road trip Route 66 in New Mexico

For nearly a century, Route 66 has beckoned to travelers. A trip along the Mother Road through New Mexico hits timeless landmarks , such as quirky motels and curio shops in and around Tucumcari and symbolic etchings in Petroglyph National Monument . In Gallup—mentioned as one of the places to “get your kicks” in Nat King Cole’s 1946 hit song “Route 66”—you can take in performances featuring Zuni, Lakota, and Diné (Navajo) dancers.  

Some 18 miles of the highway traverse Albuquerque , the longest urban interlude of the route in the United States. And it’s getting a half-million-dollar glow-up with the ongoing restoration of vintage neon signs along Central Avenue.  

While cruising down the brightened strip, stop at the new West Central Route 66 Visitor Center , with its museum and outdoor amphitheater. The center will host events like lowrider car shows, drive-in movies, and artisan markets.

#8: Explore ancient art in Algeria

Algeria is home to Africa’s largest national park, which holds one of the world’s greatest concentrations of ancient rock art. Tassili n’Ajjer National Park is a geologic wonderland of sandstone towers, arches, and sculpted outcrops. But these rock forests are only half the story.  

Neolithic herders and hunter-gatherers carved 15,000 petroglyphs here, including images of elephants, giraffes, and rhinos. These animals are more commonly associated with sub-Saharan Africa—a hint that this arid wilderness was once a grassland crisscrossed by waterways. Five- to seven-day guided tours with Fancy Yellow take in the most spectacular works of Tassili’s art, like the “Crying Cows,” engraved at the base of a stone pinnacle 7,000 years ago.  

Travelers with more time might want to combine a trip to Tassili with a visit to the Algerian Sahara’s other great geologic marvel: the extraordinary mountain range of Ahaggar National Park .

#9: Dive with sharks in Western Australia

Stretching almost 700 miles along the Indian Ocean north of Perth, Western Australia’ s Coral Coast is studded with natural wonders. But Ningaloo Reef is the star. Here, you can dive with giants: Some 300 to 500 whale sharks ,   one of the largest congregations on Earth, gather along the reef each year between March and July. Ethical outfitters ensure divers give the sharks space and avoid feeding them or using flash photography.  

Even more megafauna abound from July to October, when about 40,000 humpback whales migrate along the Coral Coast. You can also commune with more than 10,000 dugongs in Shark Bay or swim with manta rays at Coral Bay.  

#10: Hike a volcano in Panama

A sustainability leader, Panama recently launched its “1,000 Kilometers of Trails” project , which seeks to bring outdoor recreation and green tourism to rural communities and protected areas.

First out of the gate is the Ruta de la Caldera , a system of five trails around the extinct Valle de Antón volcano . The treks take in waterfall-speckled landscapes, according to photographer Rose Marie Cromwell , who hiked sections of the Ruta de la Caldera over five days.

“There were some spectacular views on top of the volcanic crater—interesting land formations covered in so much green,” she says.

#11: Catch the eclipse at Niagara Falls

Directly in the path of totality, Niagara Falls will offer views of a total solar eclipse, which won’t occur again in the contiguous U.S. until 2044. For about three and a half minutes, beginning at approximately 3:18 p.m. on April 8, the sky will darken over the thunderous cataract as the moon crosses between Earth and the sun.  

On the U.S. side of the falls , Terrapin Point, Prospect Point, and the Observation Tower will be prime viewing areas (if clouds stay away). From the Canadian side, an excellent vantage point is Table Rock. A side bonus: The sunny-day rainbow that hovers above the falls will become pink.  

#12: Trek a glacier in Chile

In Chilean Patagonia‘s Laguna San Rafael National Park , visitors can trek to glaciers, taking in a panorama of pale blue ice massifs and glacial waterways. Some 17,300 glaciers still cover the whole of Patagonia’s ice fields, but rising temperatures are rapidly melting them. Climate scientists say sustainable tourism , such as hikes with Chilean outfitters like Turismo Valle Leones , supports local communities and inspires travelers to learn more about how to protect glaciers.

#13: Step back in time on Menorca

Spain ’s Balearic Islands are best known for the jet-set beach destinations of Ibiza and Mallorca . But quiet, less developed Menorca has a unique mother lode: The archipelago’s greatest repository of ancient architecture.

In an area of just 270 square miles, Menorca has a total of 1,574 inventoried archaeological sites , ranging from the foundation blocks of small dwellings to well-preserved village centers that existed long before the Roman Empire. Most striking are the navetas,   megalithic tombs dating back to 1600 B.C.; talayots, watchtowers built from mortarless blocks of limestone; and   taulas,   shrines exclusive to Menorca that evoke Stonehenge pillars. These remnants of the Talayotic Menorcan culture, the first civilization to inhabit the island, have now been inscribed on UNESCO’s World Heritage List .  

The open-air monuments are easy to visit; the island’s Me-1 road passes by some of the best-preserved sites, including the settlements of Talatí de Dalt, Naveta des Tudons, and Taula de Torretrencada.

Reenter the 21st century at the new Hauser & Wirth gallery in the picturesque town of Mahón. Housed in repurposed 18th-century hospital buildings, the cultural venue presents contemporary art exhibits and has an outdoor sculpture trail with works by Louise Bourgeois and Joan Miró.

#14: Ride classic rails in Scotland

Exploring Scotland ’s wild, scenic Highlands doesn’t have to mean roughing it. The Royal Scotsman train glides among the moody lochs and dramatic peaks in style. New suites debuting in May 2024 sport interiors that reflect the compelling landscapes through dark woods, wool tweeds , and richly patterned bespoke tartans crafted by Scottish brand Araminta Campbell . After a day spent hiking to waterfalls or playing rounds of golf (a sport inextricably tied to the nation), guests can wind down with a massage at the onboard spa.

Departing Edinburgh ’s Waverley Station, the two- to seven-night rail journeys cross the heart of the Highlands, from Perthshire to Inverness to the rugged west coast. During stops guests can tour castles, stargaze in Cairngorms National Park , sample whisky at revered distilleries, and even take a dip in a loch.

#15: Find authentic flavor in Thailand  

The Isaan region in northeastern Thailand is known for its distinctive cuisine that reflects influences from bordering Laos and Cambodia. “Isaan is a hidden gem of Thailand,” says Weerawat “Num” Triyasenawat, the chef at Samuay & Sons , a Michelin Guide -recommended restaurant in the Isaan city of Udon Thani.

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One key ingredient of the region’s delicious food is pla ra, a fermented-fish seasoning that boosts umami flavor. Local dishes include laab   (minced meat salad), traditionally served during celebrations.

#16: Wander tea trails in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is virtually synonymous with tea. The island nation is one of the world’s top producers of tea leaves. British colonists introduced the first bushes about 200 years ago. Now visitors can trace the footsteps of historic planters on the new, nearly 200-mile Pekoe Trail , the country’s first long-distance walking route.  

Starting just outside Kandy, the trail follows the 19th-century tracks upon which workers and horse-drawn carts transported freshly plucked leaves. Hikers pass through hill towns and tea estates and can stop to take a cooking class or savor a cup of aromatic Ceylon tea.

#17: Gallery hop in São Paulo

São Paulo, Brazil ’s largest city, is an art lover’s paradise, home to numerous galleries, exhibitions, and street murals. The crowning jewel is the Museu de Arte de São Paulo (MASP), which is expanding to showcase more of its 11,000-plus artworks, from pre-Renaissance paintings to contemporary sculptures. Departing from the usual model of exhibiting works on walls, MASP hangs some pieces against clear panels, allowing visitors to view the art from all angles.

#18: Raft the rapids in West Virginia  

Despite its name, West Virginia ’s New River is actually one of the oldest on Earth, perhaps as old as 360 million years. The river falls 750 feet in only 50 miles between sandstone cliffs. It eventually merges with the Gauley River.   Outfitters such as ACE Adventure Resort can arrange whitewater rafting trips here on Class III to V rapids through the longest and deepest river gorge in the Appalachians.  

#19: Go antiquing in Hudson Valley

The bucolic Hudson Valley is booming, thanks to an influx of New York City residents during the pandemic. But it’s long been a mecca for creatives: Its landscapes inspired America’s first artistic fraternity, the Hudson River School. Antique collectors will be drawn to the hundreds of stores, boutiques, craft shops, and flea markets that sell everything from colonial furniture and rare books to mid-century modern decor. For vintage finds, head to the Antique Warehouse in Hudson, Sister Salvage in Catskill, and Opera House Co. in Athens.

“There’s a common denominator here—the charming historic villages,” says Sarah Gray Miller, owner of Coxsackie antique store UnQuiet . From Stuyvesant to Saugerties, these towns “share a strong commitment to preservation.”

#20: Sleep on the water in British Columbia

The newly reopened Tofino Wilderness Resort , owned by the Ahousaht First Nation, is an idyllic base from which to explore the western coast of British Columbia ’s Vancouver Island. In the heart of Clayoquot Sound, the luxury floating lodge was renovated with lumber cut from timber which fell on-site. Through guided whale-watching trips or visits to the Freedom Cove artists’ sanctuary, the Ahousaht share with guests their philosophy, hishuk ish tsawalk (“everything is one”), celebrating the interconnectedness of people and nature in a land they’ve occupied for thousands of years.

Editor's note

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• CROSS-COUNTRY SKIING
• SNOWMOBILING

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27 Top-Rated Bucket List Destinations

Written by Shandley McMurray Updated May 3, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

What's on your bucket list? You know, that record you keep of all the places you have to see before you die? Or maybe it's a list of the spots you need to visit in the next few years.

Whatever your time span, heading on a bucket list trip is even more thrilling than taking a regular vacation. At the end of your holiday, you can cross that location off your "must-sees" and add a new one to the mix.

Whether you're hoping to go on safari in Africa , visit one of the world's greatest natural wonders (i.e. The Pyramids of Giza, the Grand Canyon, or Niagara Falls), or tour a historic city like Rome or Paris, the world is your proverbial oyster — all you need to do is open it and explore.

Can't decide where to head next? Plan your sightseeing with our list of the best bucket list destinations in the world.

1. Machu Picchu, Peru

2. the maldives, 3. africa on a safari, 4. the taj mahal, agra, india, 5. paris, france, 6. the amazon rainforest, brazil, 7. santorini, greece, 8. bali, indonesia, 9. bora bora, french polynesia, 10. the pyramids of giza, egypt, 11. the great wall of china, china, 12. dubai, united arab emirates, 13. iceland to see the northern lights, 14. new york city, usa, 15. venice, italy, 16. angkor wat, cambodia, 17. niagara falls, canada, 18. grand canyon, usa, 19. australia to snorkel the great barrier reef, 20. tokyo, japan, 21. tahiti, french polynesia, 22. iguazú falls, argentina, 23. rome, italy, 24. the dalmatian coast, croatia, 25. cinque terre, italy, 26. galápagos islands, ecuador, 27. new orleans, usa, map of bucket list destinations.

It's hard to see a picture of Machu Picchu without wanting to jump right in. The vibrant green grass, majestic craggy peaks, and remarkable stone ruins are breathtakingly beautiful. No wonder this magical spot has been dubbed one of the top places to visit in the world .

This archeological masterpiece was once an Inca City (in the 15 th and 16 th centuries). Today, it's one of the most phenomenal of all the UNESCO World Heritage Sites , and one that millions have placed at the top of their bucket lists for good reason.

Not surprisingly, Machu Picchu is one of the most visited tourist attractions in Peru . To get here, you'll have to plan your visit well. Entry is only permitted twice a day (in the morning or afternoon), and you'll have to either hike along the famed Inca Trail or take a bus from the nearby town of Aguas Calientes for access.

Most visitors stay in historic Cusco , the oldest continuously inhabited city in the Americas, for easier access to the site. The swanky, five-star Palacio Nazarenas, a Belmond Hotel is your best bet for a luxurious stay in Cusco.

It's easy to picture Nirvana when you're staring at an unblemished Maldivian shore. Topping the list of the most beautiful islands in the world , this lush wonderland is literally the stuff of dreams and one of the most bucket-list-worthy destinations.

A romantic archipelago (it's made up of over 1,000 islands), the Maldives are set just off the coast of Sri Lanka . The area features the most crystalline turquoise water gently lapping sugar-white sandy beaches. Below the waves, you'll find fish of all shapes and colors darting about, while on shore, tall, waving palm trees sway in the warm breeze.

Add a few luxurious overwater bungalows to this scene, and you've found a version of paradise even the greatest writers couldn't make better. You'll also understand why it's been deemed one of the best honeymoon destinations , especially if you're traveling in January. Tons of Hollywood A-listers and others with deep pockets flock to this exotic locale to ring in the New Year.

Families are more than welcome to visit the Maldives, and large luxury bungalows make it easy to house your entire crew, but if you're looking for a romantic getaway for couples, this serene spot should top your list!

Who hasn't added an African safari to the top of their bucket list vacations? Guaranteed to be a trip of a lifetime, it's no wonder so many people crave this incredible experience. A safari is thrilling, awe-inspiring, and picturesque, especially when conducted in one of the world's most phenomenal landscapes.

Whether you're hoping to catch sight of the "Big Five" (lions, elephants, leopards, buffalo, and rhinos) in Kenya, bounce along in a jeep through Kruger National Park , or soar through the air in a hot air balloon over the Serengeti National Park , an African safari won't disappoint.

With so many fantastic game reserves (including many in Namibia, South Africa, Kenya, and Tanzania), you'll have plenty of places to choose from when booking your trip.

Not a fan of sleeping rough? Ramp up the luxury at one of these stellar safari lodges in South Africa .

Craving a more intimate and unique animal encounter? Head to one of the best places to visit in Tanzania (on Mafia Island , to be exact) to swim with whale sharks (from January through March, or October through December).

The Taj Mahal was built in the mid-1600s by Shah Jahan in memorial to his third wife — it's said she made him a deathbed promise to build her the most beautiful of structures. He definitely fulfilled his duty! Well, over 20,000 workmen finished this duty for him, and it took them over 17 years to complete this top bucket list destination.

Today, this magical marble mausoleum is one of the most recognizable (and captivating) buildings on the planet. The Taj Mahal is also one of the most famous sites in all of India . Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983, this ornate masterpiece lies amid almost 17 hectares of an immensely gorgeous Mughal garden, on the banks of the sparkling Yamuna River .

Not surprisingly, it's been deemed one of the New Seven Wonders of the World .

Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Places to Visit in Agra

Europe's most revered city of love, Paris has so much more to offer than its iconic Eiffel Tower . You'll find some of the world's best stores selling clothes so fashionable they haven't yet hit the North American market. The restaurants serve food so divine, you'll crave seconds (and sometimes thirds).

Famous Paris attractions like the Arc de Triomphe and Panthéon beckon photographers, while museums such as the Museée du Louvre and Musée d'Orsay beg history buffs to while away hours within their lavish halls.

Hold hands while wandering the banks of the Seine , enjoy a café al fresco on the Champs-'Elysée , and take a few moments to reflect while traipsing within the hallowed walls of the Cathédral Notre-Dame . You certainly won't be bored while sightseeing on this bucket list vacation.

Read More: Top-Rated Day Trips from Paris

All becomes right with the world when you putter down the mystical Amazon River in Brazil. Beside you towers the incredible Amazon Rainforest, chock full of wildlife so beautiful, it will take your breath away.

A chorus of birdsong guides you along, while monkeys swing from nearby vines and sloths slowly climb their way to a better view. Snakes, turtles, and jaguars are also set to make an appearance, if you're patient enough to spot them.

To experience the Amazon's splendor first-hand, you'll need to board a boat from Manaus to the Encontro das Aguas (the point at which the Rio Solimões meets the Rio Negro). From here, you can join a boat tour through the heart of the rainforest.

It's hard not to feel nature's pulse here, providing life to the planet through its essential ecosystem. Known as the "planet's lungs," the Amazon rainforest is responsible for 20 percent of the world's oxygen.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Brazil

You'll be hard-pressed to enjoy a more romantic sunset experience than that found in Santorini . Whether you visit the picturesque capital of Firá or watch the sun descend over the sparkling water in front of beautiful Oia , stepping foot on Santorini is akin to walking into a postcard. This is an ideal honeymoon or bucket list destination for couples.

The iconic pearly white, blue-domed buildings are made even lovelier by colorful blooms. It's as if an artist was set loose upon each home with only the most tasteful of colors. A bright teal door here and a vibrant yellow wall or red gate there add just the right pop to a perfect natural backdrop.

Set upon jagged cliffs jutting out from the most turquoise of seas, Santorini's towns are flanked by narrow, winding streets and terraced homes that butt into each other at all angles. Walking through the area, you may find yourself unwittingly tramping upon someone's roof.

• Read More: Best Beaches in Santorini

A tropical paradise tops our list of the best bucket list vacation spots. Indonesia's most romantic destination, Bali is a wonderland bursting with natural gems so beautiful, they'll leave you breathless, and people so friendly, you'll want to invite them home.

While Bali likely conjures images of soft, white sand gracefully meeting the watery embrace of turquoise waves, this isle has much more to offer than its spectacular beaches . That's not to say you'll want to skip the beach — you won't! Trust us, they're phenomenal.

Bali's heart, though, can be found farther inland, in its verdant rice paddies, craggy volcanoes, and lush tropical jungles. Tigers, orangutans, elephants, and Komodo dragons roam these less populated areas.

Ancient temples and a monkey forest grace the village of Ubud , while resort towns like Seminyak and Nusa Dua will round out that beach holiday you were expecting. They contain luxury resorts and hotels that are perfect for families and couples, as well as shops and restaurants.

Luckily, the island is small enough that you can see most of its towns and popular tourist attractions in one trip.

One of the top bucket list travel destinations in the world, Bora Bora sets the bar high for an ideal beach vacation. A utopia set in the heart of French Polynesia, this fabulous archipelago is all turquoise waters; soft white sand; and lush, volcanic peaks. It's going to be almost impossible to beat the islands' spectacular beauty.

It's easy to see why Bora Bora has become a popular honeymoon destination. With lagoons to explore, coral reefs to snorkel, and rainforests to hike, there's no shortage of romantic and exciting things to do in this tropical wonderland. Plus, some of the world's best beaches are found on these idyllic shores.

Peppered with high-end resorts featuring private huts standing on stilts above the water, visitors are rewarded with an unforgettable and utterly relaxing vacation. If you're hoping for sunny skies, low humidity, and fun festivals, the best time to visit Bora Bora is during summer (June through August).

Read More: Most Beautiful Islands in the South Pacific

Cairo plays host to one of the world's most recognizable World Heritage Sites, the iconic Pyramids of Giza . While the most famous of these incredible structures include the Sphinx , Pyramid of Khafre , Pyramid of Menkaure , and the Great Pyramid of Khufu , the site is peppered with other archeological masterpieces you won't want to miss.

The farther you wander through this top bucket list destination, the more interesting things you'll find at what is now the sole example of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World . These unique marvels include tombs, mini pyramids, and The Solar Boat museum , which boasts a remarkably preserved ceremonial solar barque.

Those who favor adventure (and don't suffer from claustrophobia) will enjoy an intimate journey into the bowels of the Great Pyramid of Khufu. Since this is one of the best tourist attractions in Egypt , expect to share the site with hoards of travelers if you're traveling during peak season (December through February).

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Cairo & Things to Do in Cairo

The Great Wall of China is one of the most famous landmarks in the world and China's most popular tourist attraction . It winds its way through 15 provinces and boasts portions that date back over 2,000 years. Millions of tourists have added it to their bucket lists for centuries.

Walking the Wall's entirety would be a massive feat, as it stretches from the fortresses of Shanhaiguan in the east to the Jiayuguan Pass in Jiayguan in the west. It also includes towers to climb for fabulous views. We're talking months of exploring on foot for those who'd like to see the whole thing.

The best base for exploring the wall is the bustling city of Beijing . From here, visitors can join guided tours and ride a cable car. Day trips to the Badaling Pass section of the wall are also easy when launched from Beijing.

You will never explore a more opulent part of the desert than Dubai. A bucket list destination for those who love to shop, eat, and admire futuristic architecture, this one-of-a-kind Middle East haven is so unique, you'll have to see it to believe it.

Giant skyscrapers like the famed Burj Khalifa stretch to the clouds, shopping malls serve as entertainment destinations where you'll find everything from stores to restaurants to massive aquariums to indoor ski slopes. Here, you'll also find man-made islands featuring their own beaches and luxury resorts so swanky, you'll feel regal.

While you're here, be sure to make the most of the city's cultural highlights, like the historic Al Fahidi Quarter , the Jumeirah Mosque , and Sheikh Saeed Al-Maktoum House .

Fancy a more authentic Middle Eastern shopping experience than the high-end stores found in Dubai Mall? Head to the Souks of Deira , situated on the north bank of Dubai Creek . Wind your way through the streets of the various markets selling wares ranging from fish to gold to spices.

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Dubai

As one of the 7 natural wonders of the world , witnessing the aurora borealis is one of life's greatest pleasures. Whether you catch sight of a delicate green glow or are privy to vivacious crimson lines streaking across the horizon, this wonderful spectacle is breathtaking and unforgettable.

To see them, though, you'll need to be patient. The northern lights are as unpredictable as the weather, so you'll have to budget in a few days to make your viewing attempt.

Iceland is one of the best places to catch a glimpse of the northern lights . While you can likely see them at any point of the year, the best time to see the most spectacular shows happen between mid-October and early April. At this time, the night skies are at their darkest, which presents a remarkable contrast.

Fairbanks , Tromsø , and Yellowknife are three other great places to catch Mother Nature's spectacular light show.

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Iceland

New York is one of the most exciting bucket list places to visit. It's also one of the most popular.

With so many diverse and interesting attractions (i.e. The Empire State Building , Metropolitan Museum of Art , Central Park , and Guggenheim Museum ), it's no wonder people keep returning to this cosmopolitan mecca.

No matter your interests, be it eating, dancing, shopping, or theatergoing, Manhattan has something (or likely many "somethings") to whet your appetite. Want to visit an exhibit like one you've never seen? Taste samples at the Museum of Food and Drink , try your hand at espionage at Spyscape , or practice a bit of magic at the Houdini Museum.

Read More: Best Free Things to Do in New York City

There's something magical about Venice. Between the intricate canal system, beautiful stone bridges, and harmonious singing of the gondoliers, there's a unique vibe in this Italian city that can't be found elsewhere.

A boat ride along the aptly named Grand Canal rewards visitors with an intimate look at the highlights of Venetian architecture lining its banks — from historic churches to ornate palaces like the Doge's Palace (a.k.a. Palazzo Ducale), which you'll want to spend at least a couple of hours exploring.

Piazza San Marco is one of the main attractions in Venice and serves as a meeting place for locals, but mainly tourists. It's home to the famous and intricate St. Mark's Basilica , but it's so crowded (and filled with pigeons) that you won't get a true glimpse of the city's heart.

Perhaps the best way to tour Venice is by getting lost, which is easy to do. Only then will you stumble upon some of the local's favorite haunts, as well as the small, winding alleyways that present so much charm.

Bringing the family on your bucket list vacation? Great idea! Check out these top things to do in Venice with kids .

Read More: Top-Rated Beach Destinations in Italy

The remarkable Angkor Wat is so vast, you'll need more than one (or even several) visits to see it all. This massive Hindu temple is surrounded by a large moat, adding to its impressive stature. Built in the 12 th century by the Khmers, this World Heritage Site serves as the veritable heart of Cambodia .

It's also the largest religious structure in the world and one of the best places to visit in Southeast Asia . Set upon over 400 acres of land within a jungle, the temple was dedicated to the gods Shiva, Brahma, and Vishnu. Angkor Wat's main towers were created to symbolize the peaks of Mount Meru (a place Hindus believe to be home to the gods).

The best time to visit Angkor Wat is between December and February, when the temperature is comfortably in the 20s Celsius. Be warned, though, this is also the most popular time for tourists, so you'll have to elbow your way through the crowds.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Siem Reap

One of the Natural Wonders of the World (it's often referred to as the "New 8 th Wonder of the World), Niagara Falls is impressive even if you aren't a fan of waterfalls. Over 3,100 tons of water crash over the falls every second, creating a mist that covers visitors who board the Maid of the Mist or Hornblower Cruise to get a closer look. It's easy to see why this has been voted one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the world .

The small Canadian town of Niagara Falls provides the best viewing spot. As a result of its heavy visitor population, the town is quite touristy. It boasts carnival-type arcades, an aquarium, sky wheel, Odditorium , wax museum, and Ripley's Believe it or Not! Museum . You'll also find a ton of restaurants and plenty of hotels to choose from.

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Niagara Falls, Canada

An area of immense natural beauty, it's no wonder the Grand Canyon tops so many vacation bucket lists. No photograph can do this spectacular place justice. You just can't fathom the landscape's innate beauty, the deep orange of the rock, or the canyon's immense size without seeing it in real life. No wonder it's one of the most famous attractions in the United States .

Touring the Grand Canyon can be done from multiple locations, but the most popular is by entering the Grand Canyon National Park 's South Rim. This is also where you'll find many of the park's best hikes .

You can get here quite easily from nearby cities like Las Vegas and Phoenix .

Once you're here, you'll be amazed, and we guarantee you'll snap about a zillion pictures. Catch the canyon in the light of the sunrise or sunset, and you'll swear you've witnessed the most gorgeous spectacle of your life.

The best time to visit the Grand Canyon is generally the spring and fall, but this is a year-round attraction that you can work into your itinerary any time of year.

Snorkeling Australia's Great Barrier Reef is one of the most incredible experiences you'll ever have. A magical underwater world welcomes adventurers to this incredible locale. Bursting with color and teeming with life, this impressive coral reef spans 2,300 kilometers from the tip of Queensland to the southern town of Bundaberg .

A World Heritage-listed area, the Great Barrier Reef is home to a rich ecosystem filled with everything from the smallest zooplankton to tropical fish to marine mammals like dugongs and dolphins.

A truly peaceful experience, swimming around the magical reef is a gift. Whether you choose to scuba dive or snorkel, you'll experience only the quiet sound of fish nibbling on coral as you roam about this vast marine playground, being constantly amazed by the beauty on display before you.

Sadly, global warming has been bleaching (and killing) large sections of this reef (especially in the north), so if you're planning to go, you should book a trip to this popular bucket list travel destination soon. And whatever you do, don't touch the coral.

• Read More: Top-Rated Attractions in the Whitsunday Islands

There's no question that Tokyo earned its position as the best city to visit in Japan . A heady mix of old and new, this vibrant place offers tourists a chance to explore phenomenal attractions , eat delicious (and healthy) food, and enjoy a range of entertainment.

From watching sumo wrestling to attending festivals to cheering on various sports teams to tapping your toes to live music, there's no lack of fun things to do in Tokyo.

The best time to visit is in either fall or spring, depending on whether you want to be present for the breathtaking show of blooming cherry blossoms. The city gets uber crowded at this time, but the blossoms are beautiful enough to cause goosebumps of excitement.

Hoping to see Mount Fuji ? You're not alone. This bucket-list destination is easy to get to from Tokyo , especially if you choose to book a private tour.

Read More: Best Cheap Places to Travel in March

Slightly livelier than its laid-back neighbor, Bora Bora, Tahiti offers travelers the same beautiful azure lagoons, lush mountainous landscapes, and lively coral reefs, with a little more excitement thrown in.

In Papeete , the island's capital, you'll find plenty to help you while away the hours you're not spending on the beach. An impressive mix of French and Polynesian cultures, the city boasts great restaurants, popular resorts, spas, museums, and plenty of places to shop.

Outside the city, visitors are greeted by cascading waterfalls, sheltered lagoons, and beautiful valleys. Book a 4WD tour of the island, learn to dive in a lagoon, or board a whale-watching tour boat (between July and October).

Read More: Best Black Sand Beaches in the World

The glorious Iguazú Falls gives Niagara Falls a run for its money. Set on the border between Argentina and Brazil , this amazing spectacle leaves visitors awe-struck. A massive chain of hundreds of waterfalls spanning nearly three kilometers, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of South America's most impressive sites.

The thunderous sound of water overpowers visitors as it crashes over the edge from between 60 and 80 meters high. They can be enjoyed from Devil's Throat , a nearby viewing spot based at the bottom of the falls, as well as from the lush rainforest in Brazil's Iguaçu National Park and Agentina's Iguazú National Park.

Read More: Most Beautiful Waterfalls in the World

Rome is home to some of Europe's most recognizable landmarks, like the Colosseum , Pantheon , and St. Peter's Basilica . While these tourist hot spots are unmissable, this beautiful city has so much more to offer, including mouthwateringly good gelato on almost every street corner.

An outstanding mix of past and present, Rome boasts haunted ruins (i.e. the Roman Forum ); iconic churches (i.e. the Basilica of St. John Lateran ); and modern restaurants serving the freshest, most delectable food.

Wandering the city's winding cobblestone streets is a treat, with spectacular prizes popping out when you least expect them. From ornate fountains (i.e. the Fontana dei Fiumi) to sprawling Baroque plazas (i.e. Piazza Navona ) to designer clothing boutiques, there's always something to amaze.

Read More: Top-Rated Museums and Palaces in Rome

Taking a cruise along Croatia's captivating Dalmatian Coast is a must-do for any traveler. From atop the Adriatic Sea's translucent, azure water, visitors can catch the most picturesque views of the coast's phenomenal attributes. From jagged limestone cliffs to ancient walled towns to hilltop palaces and spectacular ports, there's so much to see from the water.

On land, you'll find an endless list of things to do, such as, visiting charming island villages, dining on fresh food along the Stradun in Dubrovnik , or exploring UNESCO World Heritage Sites like the Diocletian's Palace in Split or the Stari Grad plain on lovely Hvar . Then there are the beaches. Oh, those marvelous beaches . Be sure to pack a towel and sunblock, as you'll want to stay all day.

Accommodation: Top-Rated Beach Resorts in Croatia

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Croatia

There's a reason stores in Cinque Terre (a.k.a. "Five Towns") sell so many postcards — it's insanely gorgeous. This northwestern region of Italy embodies the type of beauty that makes visitors gasp when they first catch sight of it. It's literally impossible not to be awed by the area's loveliness.

A national park spotted with five villages that would make Crayola proud, this Italian paradise is the stuff of dreams. Cliff-top houses perch above sparkling blue water with a vibrant green backdrop of lush and rugged mountains. It's hard to find a more beautiful setting. No wonder the entire area was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The locals' laid-back vibe is contagious, making you want to do nothing but eat pasta (or pizza) and gaze out at the Ligurian Sea. Walking along cliff-top trails or wandering the crooked and narrow streets through quaint villages tops the list of things to do in Cinque Terre .

It's easy to reach from Milan and Florence , making this a perfect day-trip destination for both cities.

Read More: Top-Rated Day Trips from Milan

If you want to feel small, head to the Galápagos Islands, a paradise so remarkable, you'll feel Mother Nature's presence with every barefoot step. An extensive archipelago of volcanic isles located about 600 miles west of Ecuador , this UNESCO World Heritage Site is considered one of the best tourist attractions in Ecuador .

A bucket list destination for nature lovers across the globe, this untouched gem is one of the best places in the world to view wildlife in their native habitat. Its main draws include: chances to witness turtles nesting on pristine beaches ; spying on penguins frolicking on Bartolome Island ; and wiggling your toes into fine, red sand.

If you're a fan of the water, head to Devil's Crown , an underwater volcanic cone teeming with life. This is one of the best places to go snorkeling in the world .

You're not alone if attending Mardi Gras in New Orleans tops your vacation bucket list. One of the most famous (and outrageous) festivals in the world, it's one of the top tourist attractions in Louisiana .

If your goal is to witness the eclectic floats, vibrant parades, and jazzy music in person, be sure to time your visit well. The best time to visit New Orleans for Mardi Gras festivities is from February through May.

As for visiting the best tourist attractions in New Orleans, you'll need to set aside at least a couple of days. With everything from horse-drawn carriage rides to steamboat cruises to shopping on offer, there is a slew of stellar things to do in New Orleans .

Let your stomach guide you to the French Quarter , where you'll find Cajun dishes so tasty, you'll beg for seconds. The buildings you walk by burst with historic Southern charm, ready to be photographed in all types of light. Keep wandering to soak up the live music serenading Bourbon Street before settling in for a show at a neighborhood jazz club.

There's so much energy in New Orleans that you may leave feeling more tired than when you arrived — that won't matter a bit since your vacation was packed with fun.

More on Canada

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BEST OF THE WORLD

20 of the coolest travel adventures for 2024.

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NatGeo's top 20 travel locations featured in 'Best of the World 2024'

National Geographic announced their list of top travel destinations in "Best of the World 2024."

National Geographic's team of experts and editors around the globe makes the list each year.

"National Geographic is synonymous with the best in travel, adventure and exploration, and now our editors are sharing the full breadth of their insight across a variety of categories with our fans all over the world," said Courteney Monroe, president of National Geographic Content. "Whether through the pages of National Geographic magazine, @NatGeo on Instagram, TikTok or YouTube, our Best of the World franchise has the power to ignite the explorer in everyone, from the professional traveler to the family looking for their next adventure."

It's not just locations that the "Best of the World" offers, it's also including wellness retreats, hotels, cultural gems, and restaurants.

Their goal was to find things to do that were "worth building a trip around."

"This year, we wanted to give travelers more ideas than ever before to jumpstart their travel planning for 2024 and beyond, so we grew our lists to include curated hotels, restaurants, wellness retreats and cultural spots that we believe are worth getting on a plane for, and gear that will make your travels smoother. And because we know that people can also be a great source of inspiration, we're sharing our picks for Travelers of the Year-those individuals who, through their example, make us all want to get out there and experience something new," said Nathan Lump, National Geographic's Editor-in-Chief.

BEST OF THE WORLD 2024 Categories:

Top 20 travel experiences.

- A selection of must-do adventures right now. From the total eclipse in Niagara Falls in April to glacier treks in Chile, this year's highlights include a ranking system - another first. The full list of animal-watching, rapid-rafting and road-trip experiences can be found at NatGeo.com/BestOfTheWorld.

WORTH A TRIP:

Hotels, Restaurants, Cultural Spots and Wellness Retreats - The definitive guide to the best hotels, restaurants, cultural gems and wellness retreats to plan your trips around in 2024. Each of these places is a gateway to a destination, helping travelers explore the culture, history, landscape or wildlife in a deeper and richer way.

TRAVELERS OF THE YEAR

- Global trendsetters who inspire individuals to explore and experience the best of the world. From PastaGrannies to Liliana Palma Santos to Dolly Parton, these creatives, guides, influencers and adventurers excel at exciting people about the wonders of our world, illuminating diverse cultures and showing them how to travel smarter.

GEAR OF THE YEAR

- 18 expert-approved innovative products every traveler will want to pack, whether the next big trip involves a first-class ticket or a full tank of gas. With tips from pro cyclists to adventure photographers on everything from bike racks to binoculars, Gear of the Year highlights the latest equipment travelers will be most excited to take with them in 2024.

You can also find new content on YouTube with a three-part series on three different locations featured in the "Best of the World" guide.

"Best of the World 2024" is available online now at NatGeo.com/BestOfTheWorld .

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29 Best Tropical Vacations Around the World

Looking for a warm-weather escape? Here are 29 incredible tropical vacations to consider.

When a warm-weather getaway is calling, set your sights on the best tropical vacation spots around the world, and aim close to the equator to maximize visions of palm trees, balmy waters, and cute cocktails. From French Polynesia to the Caribbean and beyond, read on for some of the best tropical vacations in the world — whether you're traveling as a couple , with family, or going solo.

Sloths, toucans, and howler monkeys — oh my! Let us count the ways we love a tropical beach vacation in this Central American country that comes with volcanoes, hot springs, and jungle-lined beaches that are as popular with surfers as they are with nesting sea turtles. For a romantic couples retreat, Origins Lodge has villas with sprawling terraces and wood-fired tubs overlooking the volcanic landscapes and Lake Nicaragua. And to vacation with a group, consider booking Cayuga's Pasha , a ten-room beachfront estate on Costa Rica's lush Nicoya Peninsula.

This South Pacific nation is undoubtedly one of the best tropical vacation spots in the world if it's rainbow-colored coral reefs and palm-fringed private islands you're after. Nowhere has the variety of soft corals — in every pastel hue you can imagine — that Fiji offers. Surfers with means beeline it to Tavarua Island Resort to chase epic waves while the honeymoon crowd might opt for a secluded stay at Six Senses Fiji on Malolo Island instead. For stays that appeal as much to couples as families (two words: free childcare), Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort and VOMO Island Fiji take getting away to the next level.

Bora Bora, French Polynesia

It's impossible to mention the best tropical beach vacations without giving a nod to the belle of the ball. Bora Bora is French Polynesia's legendary honeymoon destination, where a stay in an overwater bungalow and snorkeling with reef sharks and stingrays is pretty much mandatory. Make it a vacation to remember when you stay at The St. Regis Bora Bora , home to the largest overwater bungalows in all of the South Pacific, overlooking what's arguably the region's most storied lagoon.

Mérida, Mexico

For a city break in a tropical place with lots of natural appeal, head to Mérida, the capital of the Mexican state of Yucatán. The city is home to scenic squares, art galleries galore, and tropical temperatures year round. The city is surrounded by ancient Mayan ruins like ​​Dzibilchaltún, where the Maya lived from 300 B.C. until the 16th century Spanish invasions, and cenotes where you can cool off from the heat (especially if you forget any of these essentials ) in crystal-clear waters. Stay in style within a short stroll of the city center at Wayam Mundo Imperial , an art-focused and LEED-certified boutique hotel with a rooftop pool and bar and one of the best restaurants in town, Cuna .

Bali, Indonesia

An affordable tropical vacation is within reach when you venture to Bali, Indonesia's legendary island that appeals as much to budget backpackers as it does the international jet set. Snorkeling, scuba diving, surfing, volcano hikes, cultural tours, yoga retreats — is there anything you can't do in Bali? Just make sure you make time to bask in the island's indescribable beauty at a resort someplace stunning — Uluwatu's oceanfront cliffs and the remote north of Bali, around Menjangan Island, are good places to start.

Islands of Hawaii

Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure

With six visitable islands, Hawaii offers up tropical beach vacation options for every type of traveler. Families love Maui and Oahu, and the latter is also a popular stop for the surf set. Lush and ridden with rainbows and extreme hiking trails, Kauai is a favorite among couples and those in search of eco-adventures. The Big Island (also called Hawaii) has excellent hiking and scuba diving options. And you'll never go wrong with a vacation on Lanai or Molokai, either. Humpback whales migrate through the islands from roughly mid-December to mid-May, and you can spy them from your room at resorts like Mauna Kea Resort on the island of Hawaii and Maui's Ka'anapali Beach Hotel .

Palm Beach, Florida

Along Florida's gold coast, one of the state's best beach vacations awaits in Palm Beach. Stay somewhere iconic and full of Sunshine State history like The Breakers Palm Beach , opt for an oceanfront wellness oasis like Eau Palm Beach Resort & Spa , or set your sights on newcomer Amrit Ocean Resort . When you're not enjoying the beautiful blue waters of Palm Beach, it's fun to rent a bike to pedal the 5.5-mile long Palm Beach Lake Trail past historic mansions and streets lined with "security hedges" that keep prying eyes away from their famous residents.

Dominican Republic

Bachata music and rum fuel fun nights in one of the best tropical vacation destinations in the Caribbean. From the beaches of Punta Cana and Cap Cana to the kite-surfing hot spot of Cabarete, the golfing paradise of La Romana, and the inimitable stretches of sand along the spectacular Samaná Peninsula, the Dominican Republic has something for everyone. For an all-inclusive stay that will blow you away with its food and entertainment options — with designated spaces for adults and families, to boot — Club Med Michès Playa Esmeralda is hard to top.

Ask connoisseurs of white-sand beaches, and they'll surely point to the Maldives for one of the best beach vacations around the world. Some of the planet's most decadent luxury resorts await here on private islands surrounded by interrupted Indian Ocean views, many of which require a seaplane to reach. With so many luxury options in the overwater bungalow category, narrowing down where to stay can be tricky. But for a few epic places to start your search, consider Six Senses Laamu , The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands , and Velaa Private Island .

Tuamotu Islands, French Polynesia

French Polynesia's Tuamotu Islands make for a more intrepid spot if you want to explore beyond the popular islands like Moorea and Bora Bora. Hop a flight from Tahiti's capital, Papeete, with Air Tahiti and you can land roughly one hour later on Rangiroa , the second-largest coral atoll in the world. Here, Tahitian black pearls are farmed in crystal-clear waters and the scuba diving is second to none. There are overwater bungalows to stay in on Rangiroa and Tikehau atolls ( Le Tikehau is on its own private island) if that's your scene, as well as less expensive, family-run guest houses in the Tuamotus.

Reggae music, jerked meats, and all-around irie vibes are just a few of the reasons to plan a tropical beach vacation to Jamaica. Opt for an affordable vacation in one of the many small hotels and guest houses lining Seven Mile Beach or the West End in laid-back Negril, or go for something more resort-oriented with a stay at Half Moon or The Tryall Club in Montego Bay. Adventurous travelers can make their way to Port Antonio to swim in tropical coves shaded by towering palms and stay in the rainforest at unique boutique properties like Geejam Hotel . There's even a bioluminescent lagoon near Falmouth where you can swim in water that glows a deep blue hue thanks to single-celled organisms called dinoflagellates.

The Florida Keys

Make your way south of Miami to the archipelago that makes up the Florida Keys. This is as tropical as the mainland U.S. gets, and you'll feel it in the balmy turquoise waters. Many travelers beeline it to Key West for the lively nightlife, but you'd be remiss to overlook great stops along the way, including Playa Largo Resort & Spa in Key Largo, the lovely Isla Bella Beach Resort on the island of Marathon, Bahia Honda State Park , and the many wrecks for scuba diving along the Florida Keys Wreck Trek .

Puerto Rico

Art, culture, nightlife, and world-class beaches combine to make Puerto Rico one of the best tropical vacation spots in the world. Of the many adventures to be had in this U.S. territory, there's visiting El Yunque (the only tropical rainforest in the U.S. National Forest Service), paddling through Vieques' famous bioluminescent lagoon, and dancing salsa while sipping mojitos at La Factoria in Old San Juan. Stay close to the action at the Fairmont El San Juan or splurge at Dorado Beach, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve , which fronts a gorgeous stretch of sand west of San Juan.

Once you lay eyes on Grenada's Grand Anse Beach — a golden sweep of sand lapped by waters best described as Robin's egg blue in color — you might be ruined for life. And that's just one of the beaches where you can soak up some of the Caribbean's most laid-back vibes on this stunning spice island famous for growing nutmeg. Stay in style at Silversands Grenada , which claims to have the longest infinity pool in the Caribbean. And couples resort Sandals Grenada has rooms with private infinity pools fronting Pink Gin Beach that set the scene pretty perfectly for a tropical beach vacation to remember.

Dominica's mostly black-sand beaches put a different spin on the typical tropical beach vacation. And most visitors who come to the Caribbean's self-proclaimed "Nature Island" have things like hiking, waterfall hopping, and soaking in geothermal hot springs on their vacation to-do list, too. Cabrits Resort & Spa Kempinski opened in 2019 and has incredible swimming pools overlooking the beach. And Coulibri Ridge is a new eco-retreat with just 14 studios and duplexes built into the hillside with views of the Caribbean Sea and the neighboring island of Martinique.

The Bahamas

Courtesy of Baha Mar

If you've ever visited the Bahamas, you know the white-and-blue swirl of islands and sea makes for one of the best tropical vacation destinations in the world. Will you go full luxury and sleep aboard the magnificent Loon Yacht that plies these waters in exquisite style, stay in the heart of Nassau's resort action at Baha Mar, or go off the beaten path for a guest house stay at one of the Out Islands, like San Salvador or Bimini? The Bahamas is one of those unique destinations with something for every type of traveler.

What's better than pairing a mainland safari with a beach getaway to the island of Zanzibar, located roughly 22 miles off the coast of Tanzania? Take in the wildlife of the Serengeti and Ngorongoro and then head to the island of Zanzibar, known for its world-class beaches and Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

The tiny Micronesian nation of Palau is about as physically removed from most places on the planet as you can get. But it's worth trekking here for a tropical vacation in some of the most pristine islands on the planet. Palau is most famous for its limestone Rock Islands and Jellyfish Lake. And scuba divers revere the outer coral reefs and walls here for their abundance of marine life — including sharks, manta rays, and much more — which can easily be experienced on boat trips with Sam's Tours or Fish 'n Fins . One of the very best things you can do in this tropical wonderland is head out into the Rock Islands atop a kayak for a day tour or camping expedition with Paddling Palau .

Los Cabos, Mexico

Who said a desert can't be a tropical vacation? Nobody in Baja California Sur, anyway, where Cabo San Lucas reigns supreme as the most vibrant tropical desert locale on the entire Baja Peninsula. Come for incredible oceanfront golf where you might see migrating whales in the winter as you tee off at epic courses like Quivira Los Cabos . And check out world-class luxury hotels like the adults-only Pueblo Bonito Pacifica Golf & Spa Resort , Grand Solmar Rancho San Lucas Resort & Spa , and boutique stay Acre Baja (with tree houses!). You'll be surprised by the wildlife just offshore in the Cabo San Lucas Marine Reserve, where Dive Ninja Expeditions can put you in the water to snorkel or dive with sea lions and schooling fish.

Cancun, Mexico

Everything from an affordable beach vacation to something entirely luxurious awaits in Cancun, a destination known throughout the world for its turquoise waters and soft beaches with chalk-white sand. Whether you bed down in an affordable Airbnb or vacation rental set back from the beach or stay oceanfront with the family at the all-inclusive Club Med Cancun or an incredible property like Grand Fiesta Americana Coral Beach Cancun , tropical vacation vibes are sure to be in the mix (along with margaritas).

Riviera Maya, Mexico

South of Cancun in the Yucatan Peninsula and encompassing coastal spots like Puerto Morelos, Playa del Carmen, and Tulum, Mexico's Riviera Maya is another sure bet for a memorable tropical beach getaway for all types of travelers. Families rave about Nickelodeon Hotels & Resorts Riviera Maya , where all 280 suites are oceanfront with swim-out pools, and encounters with Sponge Bob and the Paw Patrol pups happen on the regular. For a romantic couples getaway, you'll never go wrong staying just south of there at the luxury Grand Velas Riviera Maya , where spa treatments and an incredible wellness water circuit await at the spa and there's a lounge chair with your name on it along the uncrowded beach. It checks all the boxes when it comes to all-inclusive adults-only Mexican resorts .

Lamu Archipelago, Kenya

For a beach escape to remember off the coast of Kenya, head to one of coastal East Africa's first Swahili settlements and the incredible islands of Lamu and Manda in the Lamu Archipelago. On the northern tip of Manda Island, Manda Bay Lodge offers a private island stay in palm-thatched bungalows, most of which front the beach. You'll want to venture to Lamu Island across the water, too, to see the towns of Shela and Lamu, with inexpensive guest houses for a more affordable vacation.

Palawan, Philippines

A favorite with budget backpackers and intrepid couples, the Philippines offers an inexpensive tropical beach vacation in Southeast Asia. Palawan's towering limestone mountains that plunge into the turquoise sea make a postcard-worthy backdrop. When you're ready for a splurge, set your sights on the private island resort of Amanpulo in Northern Palawan, where green and hawksbill sea turtles nest on the beach and you can snorkel and scuba dive over pristine reefs just offshore.

The stunning Seychelles conjure images of white-sand beaches backed by fascinating granite boulder formations. Cruise around the archipelago in style aboard a yacht with Variety Cruises on itineraries that depart from Mahe and Praslin. Or stay land-based at Six Senses Zil Pasyon or the Club Med Seychelles Resort , which opened in 2021 within a marine reserve at the heart of the archipelago. And with just 11 villas in the brand's first private-island destination,  North Island, a Luxury Collection Resort, Seychelles  is a good place to offload any Marriott Bonvoy points you might have hanging around for a truly remarkable tropical vacation.

Koh Chang, Thailand

Most of Thailand's roughly 2,000 miles of coastline have the makings for fun in the sun, with easy access to some of the best and cheapest street foods in the world. Perhaps you've heard of Koh Samui and Phuket. But if the lush Thai island of Koh Chang has never registered on your radar, it's worth seeking out for an inexpensive tropical vacation in Southeast Asia. The hilly and verdant island lies in the Gulf of Thailand and is part of Mu Ko Chang National Park. You'll find family-run guesthouses everywhere here for an affordable stay, but even boutique hotels won't break the bank. Spend your extra baht indulging in the delicious local seafood and heading out on eco-tours into the jungle.

Zakynthos, Greece

Your best bet for a tropical-feeling beach vacation in Europe is on Zakynthos, Greece, an Ionian Sea island where the famous Navagio Beach (also known as Shipwreck Beach) can only be reached by boat. While the climate here is Mediterranean, the vegetation skews semi-tropical thanks to ample rainfall that keeps things green. Couples can look forward to an adults-only stay at Lesante Blu , where yachts leave from the resort pier to tour you around the island.

Fernando de Noronha, Brazil

Brazil's best tropical destination — where you can guarantee the waters to be balmy and the air to be silky warm — lies off the country's northern coast in the volcanic archipelago of Fernando de Noronha. Mountainous terrain and incredible white-sand beaches pair with some of South America's very best scuba diving right offshore for plenty of vacation adventures. Incredible views of the island's interesting topography overlooking the Bay of Sueste await when you stay at Pousada Maravilha, an eco-luxe property known for its excellent onsite restaurant serving fresh seafood and Brazilian specialties.

Heron Island, Australia

Australia is home to more than 16,000 miles of glorious coastline. But when you want the best tropical vacation spot on the world's smallest continent, head to Heron Island, a tropical island of pristine natural beauty located along the Great Barrier Reef off Queensland. You can snorkel right from the island's protected beaches or take short boat rides to scuba dive on nearby reefs. All of Heron Island's accommodations are keyless, so you don't have to worry about taking along a room key or card while you splash in the sea, go kayaking, or head out on nature walks.

Ibiza, Spain 

Visit Spain's legendary Balearic Island of Ibiza during the summer months, and you're in for one of Europe's top tropical-feeling vacations. The island is famous for its club scene and upscale seaside restaurants that draw the yacht set, but there are incredible natural sights here, too, including Ses Salines Natural Park in the southern stretches of the island. For a peaceful stay, make Ibiza Gran Hotel your base, and make sure to book a coveted table at the hotel's celebrated restaurant,  La Gaia by Óscar Molina , which snagged its first Michelin star in 2021.

The 10 best road trips in the world

By Rory FH Smith

While there are limitless ways to experience the full force of a country or continent, there's nothing quite like buckling up, hitting the open road and embarking on an epic road trip across a country (or two). Behind the wheel, you're in full control of the agenda, steering the trip wherever your heart or mind takes you. Put simply, it's all about the journey.

Our list of the 10 best road trips in the world covers everything from Alpine mountain passes and arid desert drives in western America , to lush forests in Japan and India , and the rugged coastlines of Norway and Scotland . With that, indulge in some route planning and prepare to be inspired.

Blue Ridge Parkway, USA

Afton to Cherokee, 469 miles (755km)

Just over three hours southwest of Washington DC lies the start of the most phenomenal scenic byway that carves its way through the lush, mountainous forests of Virginia and North Carolina . Named the Blue Ridge Parkway – due to the surrounding mountains having a bluish colour when seen from a distance – the route starts in Afton, Virginia, and runs for 469 miles (755km) down the spine of the Blue Ridge, before finishing up in Cherokee. Driving along here at any time of year is a treat but prepare to be blown away in autumn , when the forests turn to iridescent shades of brown, orange and red. Linking the Shenandoah National Park to the beautifully named Great Smoky Mountains National Park, this route down the eastern states of the USA is one to savour.

Great St Bernard Pass, Italy

Turin, Italy to Montreux, Switzerland, 143 miles (230km)

For movie fans, this road is a must-drive after it was immortalised in the iconic opening scene of the original Italian Job , starring Michael Caine. The film opens with a Lamborghini Muria dancing its way over the Great St Bernard Pass, which, aside from a few safety improvements, is still as unspoilt and spectacular as it was back in 1969. Its blend of sheer drops, hairpin bends and tunnels give way to vistas across the Alps, making it the model Alpine mountain pass. Added to that, the starting point in the charming Italian city of Turin is only topped by finishing up on the shores of Lake Geneva in the jazz town of Montreux.

The Carretera Austral, Chile

Puerto Montt to Villa O'Higgins 770 miles (1240km)

Patagonia is a place that should appear on everyone's bucket list. This remote, pre-historic wilderness is made of mountains, lakes, forests and fjords, which can all be absorbed from the comfort of a car driving down Chile 's Southern Highway (Route 7) – the ‘Carretera Austral’. At 770 miles long, this route is for those seeking adventure off the beaten track and is best undertaken between October and April . Starting in Puerto Montt – a busy town in the Chilean Lake District – the route heads south through Santa Lucia, Coyhaique and Tortel before finishing in Villa O'Higgins. Leave plenty of time to take in everything Patagonia has to offer and be prepared to get out of the car and hike, ride or swim to experience the very best views and nature.

The North Coast 500, Scotland

Inverness to Inverness loop around Scotland's coastline, 516 miles (830km)

One of the best road trips the United Kingdom has to offer is the North Coast 500. As the name suggests, the 500-mile route loops its way around Scotland 's rugged northern coastline, taking in everything from white sandy beaches to mountains and remote fishing villages. Heading north from Inverness, the route takes in the Black Isle, Easter Ross and Caithness around the top of the British Isles, including the most northerly point, John O'Groats. After that, the route heads back down the western coast and south through Sutherland, Wester Ross and back to Inverness.

Read our ultimate guide on the North Coast 500 .

Wayanad Ghat Road, India

Kozhikode to Wayanad, 53 miles (86km)

Clinging on for dear life as you negotiate the twists and turns of the Wayanad Ghat Road in Kerala is an exhilarating experience. Cutting through the lush forest of the Western Ghats, the road snakes its way past waterfalls, misty mountains and vast tea plantations that date back centuries. Driving the Thamarassery Churam mountain pass, which sits 800m above sea level, it's worth stopping along the route to take in some of the spectacular scenery, or hiking to explore the waterfalls and trails – just watch out for wild elephants who occasionally stray across the road!

The Japanese Alps

Kyoto to Tokyo (the long way around), 460 miles (740km)

Getting off the train and into a car in Japan is one of the best things you can do. While the Shinkansen – or Bullet Train – is a marvellous feat of engineering, exploring Japan by car is how to access the country's best-kept secrets. Taking the long way round from Kyoto to Tokyo , head north from the historic city and up to Kanazawa. From here, the route heads east across the Japanese Alps, taking in the onsen – hot spring – spa towns high in the mountains. With some epic and well-kept driving roads that twist their way through the mountains, the route is a must for any keen drivers. After navigating your way through the hills, the route takes in some historic sights, like the Samurai city of Matsumoto, before it heads towards the hill resort town of Karuizawa and south, to the bright neon lights of Tokyo.

Atlantic Road, Norway

Molde to the Gjemnessundbrua suspension bridge – 69 miles (111km)

Navigating Norway's extensive road network, which is punctuated by bridges, tunnels and ferries, is one of the best ways to take in its mighty landscape. With towering, sheer-faced and snow-capped peaks rising from the depths of its icy fjords and glacial lakes, inspiration isn’t hard to find. One particular route, the Atlantic Road, is perhaps the best example of Norway's sightseeing routes as it sweeps its way from the city of Molde and over to the island of Averøy, giving way to some spectacular views across the Atlantic. If you tackle this stretch on a calm summer's day, it's possible to soak up the stillness as you breeze across the sparkling water, but head there as a blustery northwest storm rolls in and be prepared to feel the full force of the Atlantic's awesomeness.

Southern Utah National Park Circuit, USA

Dead Horse Point to Zion National Park, 475 miles (764km)

In the land where scorched red pillars of rock rise majestically from the earth, the sense of scale soon becomes apparent as you travel across vast swathes of rocky desert in the wild west of Southern Utah. Although this route has no official name, it's the amalgamation of several routes that carve their way through some of the most impressive landscapes on earth. Each bend in the road – which can be few and far between on some stretches – reveals an awe-inspiring view, reminiscent of Hollywood Westerns. Setting off from Dead Horse Point near Moab , the route takes in the Canyonlands National Park, Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, Capitol Reef National Park and Bryce Canyon before finishing in the enchanting Zion National Park, nearly 500 miles later. For those looking to indulge en route, it's hard to resist a night or two at the remarkable Amangiri hotel – a luxury oasis that blends into the vast, surrounding landscape of canyons, mesas, ridges and gorges.

Paul Richardson

CNT Editors

Arati Menon

Olivia Morelli

The Panorama Route, South Africa

Hoedspruit to Pilgrim's Rest, 130 miles (209km)

Heading up and over South Africa 's Drakensberg Escarpment, the route takes in wildlife reserves, fruit fields, gold-rush sites, cascading waterfalls, gorges and, of course, the imposing peaks of the Drakensberg Escarpment. Once over the peak, the aptly named 'God's Window' reveals views over the Blyde River Canyon, the famous Kruger National Park and the Lebombo Mountains on South Africa's border with Mozambique . Known as one of the world's greatest wildlife reserves, you have a good chance of encountering the Big Five in the Kruger National Park, which is just an hour's drive east from the end point in Pilgrim's Rest.

The Great Ocean Road, Australia

Melbourne to the 12 Apostles and back to Melbourne, 340 miles (550km)

Australia ’s most famous road blends rugged coastal vistas with dense forests, national parks and beach towns. Starting in the city of Melbourne , the route heads southwest to the beach town of Torquay, which is where the Great Ocean Road officially starts. From here, it hugs the Victorian coastline all the way along to a group of limestone sea stacks called the 12 Apostles, just before Port Campbell. While the weather has taken its toll, reducing the number of sea stacks over the years, the route is still a popular sightseeing trip from Melbourne and is frequented by campervans and cars alike. Turning back towards Melbourne at the 12 Apostles, make sure you loop back, inland at Cape Otway taking in the dense forests of the Otway National Park before heading back into the hustle and bustle of the city.

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• Trip Styles
• Destinations

25 Best Backpacking Trips in the World

• All Inspiration and Destinations
• Canadian Rockies
• New Hampshire
• New Zealand
• North Carolina
• Vancouver Island
• Washington State

Earth is expansive, beautiful, and diverse. From windy mountain tops to narrow desert canyons, the sights are limitless. Walking trails cover our planet, allowing travelers the opportunity to intimately connect with their environment. This list of 25 of the best backpacking trails in the world takes you across the globe, spanning over 20 countries and dozens of ecosystems. We’ve sprinkled in a little bit of everything: overnight adventures, off-trail excursions, and long-distance thru-hikes. Anyone—from the beginner hiker to the experienced backpacker seeking more technical terrain—will find joy in this list. Below, you’ll find trails that inspire us. They’re listed by mileage because, let’s be real, we can’t choose just one favorite.

1. Kamikochi-Yari-Hotaka Circuit, Northern Japanese Alps, Japan

Trail Overview

Mileage: 21 mi roundtrip |  length: 3 days  |  difficulty: strenuous  |  elevation gain: 5500 ft.

This quintessential Northern Japanese Alps hike may be short, but it is undoubtedly an undertaking. The trail traverses from the low mountains to the highest peaks, from the serene river valley of Kamikochi to the windy summit of Mt Yarigatake. After a lazy walk through the deciduous forest along the Azusagawa River, the path steepens and heads into the alpine. The pinnacle-like summit of Yarigatake is within sight as hikers use their hands to cling to old metal ladders attached to vertical rock faces. An exhilarating ridgeline, the Daikiretto (meaning “the big cut”), awaits bold hikers with chains to help navigate the knife-edge. Backpackers do not need technical skills for these sections but would benefit from confident footing and unwavering nerves.

Mountain lodges situated high in the alpine, create a network of shelters that host all hikers attempting these trails. Step outside to gaze at the stars before retreating inside to cozy up by the wood-burning stove at night. In the mornings, watch as blankets of clouds roll among the rocky peaks and enjoy a leisurely breakfast before setting out on the trail once again.

Accommodations and Reservations

Mountain huts along the route provide hikers with shelter from potentially harsh mountain conditions. Many lodges do not require reservations for parties under 3 people, but you can make  reservations  before you hike. (These reservations must be made over the phone; the huts do not accept email reservations.)  Tent sites  are also available at many of the huts and do not require reservations. Camping outside of designated areas is prohibited.

Hot breakfast and dinner are available at the mountain lodges for an added fee. Embrace the communal nature of these huts and take the opportunity to interact with hikers from all over the world.

Late July through September are most likely to be snow-free. However, the mountain huts open their doors from April through November. Those visiting outside of the summer climbing season should be prepared for snow mountaineering. Due to the alpine nature of this route, the  weather  is highly variable. September and early October see the best conditions: fewer crowds and an array of colors as the fall foliage transforms the landscape.

All Inclusive Backpacking Trips

2. Kalalau Trail, Na Pali Coast, Hawaii, USA

Mileage: 22 mi roundtrip  |  Length: 3 days  |  Difficulty: Moderate  |  Elevation Gain: 800 ft

The Nā Pali Coast is a little slice of paradise along the northwestern shore of Kauai. The rugged grandeur of the pali, or sea cliffs, becomes apparent as you hike along the famed Kalalau Trail. Dramatic, fluted cliffs enclose Kalalau Beach, adding a touch of remoteness to this adventure. This pristine landscape looks much like it did when native Hawaiians traveled this stretch of land to connect their settlements. Campsites tucked in beneath the trees are sprinkled along the coast. Most hikers opt for three nights on the trail, stopping at Hanakoa for their first and third nights, and then ultimately at Kalalau Beach. You’ll want to pack light for this backpacking trip. A heavy pack will only weigh you down along the more strenuous sections of trail, such as Crawler’s Ledge.

For hikers who can secure permits, dazzling ocean, towering waterfalls, rushing streams, and steep spires surround this trail as you hike. Experienced swimmers will have many opportunities for body-surfing, while avid hikers will enjoy the chance to head into the Kalalau Valley.

Permits & Reservations

Due to previous overcrowding, the State of Hawaii created a strict system for visiting this incredible region.  Reservations  are required for any visitors, even day-use, to enter Hāʻena State Park. There is one caveat: Hawaii residents may visit without a reservation. If you wish to stay overnight or even hike past the Hanakāpīʻai Beach on the Kalalau Trail, you will need a Nāpali Coast State Wilderness Park camping  permit . You can reserve these $20 per person per day permits online up to 90 days before your trip.

If you’ve obtained a permit to camp along the Kalalau Trail, you will need to arrange a shuttle or private drop off in the park, as no overnight parking is allowed.

This hike is accessible year-round, but summer weather (May through October) is drier and more predictable. Be sure to check  weather  and  trail  conditions before heading out. Flash floods can dramatically raise stream levels, making essential river crossings impassable. Occasionally, these unpredictable storms cause trail closures.

3. Long Range Traverse, Newfoundland, Canada

Mileage: 22 mi point-to-point  |  Length: 4-5 days  |  Difficulty: Strenuous (& requires navigation skills)  |  Elevation Gain: 2300 ft

This rugged, unmarked cross-country route takes hikers deep into the Gros Morne National Park wilderness. Sparkling freshwater fjords weave beneath soaring granite cliffs. Caribou, moose, and black bears meander across the high plateau and near marshy ponds. The alpine tundra of western Newfoundland is stunning, wild, and raw: the ideal physical and mental challenge for bold backpackers willing to attempt this traverse. Take your time and settle into the wilderness: five days in the Long Range will allow you side trips to summit Gros Morne Mountain, or to take in the views on the precipice overlooking Ten Mile Pond.

Permits and Reservations

Quotas exist to minimize the impact of hiking groups on this mountainous environment. Three groups per day are allowed to attempt the Long Range Traverse, so  reservations  are recommended and can be made starting in mid-January for the upcoming season. Hikers can only make reservations for trips between June 25th and September 30th. During peak months, from mid-July through August, reservations should be made well in advance. There is a $25 reservation fee per group, as well as $85 in backcountry travel fees per person.

Technical Skills

Parks Canada requires hikers to participate in an orientation session before attempting the Long Range Traverse. These orientations are offered daily at 2:30 PM at the Visitor Center and must be completed the day prior to your departure.

Backcountry navigation skills (including the use of a map and compass) are essential to completing this traverse. Potential backpackers have to pass a navigation exam before obtaining their permit. A GPS device can help avoid navigation errors in frequent low-hanging fog.

September is one of the best months in the Long Range Mountains. Moderate temperatures, fewer bugs, and low precipitation create ideal hiking conditions. Accessibility to the Long Range Traverse is only guaranteed from June 25th through September 30th.  Weather  conditions and boat availability dictates whether or not backpackers can access this terrain.

4. Rim to Rim, Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona, USA

Mileage: 24 mi point-to-point  |  Length: 3-4 days  |  Difficulty: Strenuous  |  Elevation: 5000 ft gain, 5500 ft loss

The Grand Canyon is an  Arizona  iconic, and at GCNP there is no hike more all-encompassing than the  Rim-to-Rim . Starting at the North Rim, hikers descend to the canyon floor, and cross over the Colorado River before climbing steep switchbacks to the South Rim. While the views from atop the rim are mind-blowing, three nights spent in the canyon will fully immerse you in this unique place. Watch the layers of sandstone change colors in the setting sun at Plateau Point. Chat with fellow hikers at the historic Phantom Ranch, and revive your sun-parched body at Ribbon Falls. As soon as your trip is over, you’ll be daydreaming about the hidden hanging gardens of side canyons, the red dirt in your shoes, and the smell of sagebrush along the trail.

Backcountry permits are required for all overnight trips in Grand Canyon National Park (except at the developed car camping sites along the North or South Rim). Reservations are made in advance and are so popular that the NPS organized a  cheat sheet  for when to apply. Last-minute walk-up permits are available for some of the corridor campsites along this route (along with a wait list system), so you could always try your luck by visiting a Backcountry Information Center the day before you intend to hike.

Parking & Shuttles

Most backpackers hike from the North Rim to the South Rim, but either direction requires a shuttle. Drop your car at the South Rim then, at the end of your adventure, you’ll be able to hop in the car. Various shuttle services bring hikers between the rims. Reserve your  transportation  in advance.

If you’re staying at the Grand Canyon Lodge or embarking from the North Rim Visitor Center,  a free shuttle takes hikers to the trailhead two miles away. It runs a couple of trips each morning, so talk to the reception desk at the Grand Canyon Lodge to put your name on the list.

The road to the  North Rim  is generally open from mid-May through December.  Spring and fall are ideal for hiking in the canyon, as summer temperatures have dropped, but winter conditions have not yet set in.

From May to September, heat precautions should be taken, and backpackers should avoid hiking at mid-day between 10 AM and 3 PM.

In winter months, backpackers can access the canyon from the South Rim. However, ice could be encountered near the top of the canyon, so  microspikes  are advised. Temperature changes from the rim to the canyon bottom can be extreme, so hikers should be prepared for differing  weather conditions .

Hike the Grand Canyon with a Guide

Guided  Grand Canyon backpacking treks  are available and are a stress-free, exciting way to hit the trail. The four-day  Rim-to-Rim trip  should be booked well in advance, but additional  iconic Grand Canyon hikes  are also available. The tour company handles gear, snacks, and lunch, and provides a professional, knowledgeable guide so you can focus 100% on enjoying your adventure.

Top Rated USA Hiking Tours

5. Coyote Gulch, Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, Utah, USA

Mileage: 26 mi point-to-point  |  Length: 3-4 days  |  Difficulty: Moderate  |  Elevation Gain: 1600 ft

The Jacob Hamblin Arch in Coyote Gulch is a sight to behold. This 100-ft natural feature spans a narrow canyon and sunlight beams through its cathedral-esque windows, sending an orange glow onto the sandstone walls. This is an arch that commands your attention, but it isn’t all this renowned backpacking trip has going for it. A hike into Coyote Gulch gives backpackers a glimpse at what life was like before Glen Canyon was flooded by the dam. This trek back in time reveals natural sculptures of Jurassic sandstone and ancient Fremont dwellings and pictograph panels. Water flows plentifully in this lush desert oasis, and small cascades pour over red cliffs, adding a little bit of magic to an already magnificent landscape.

Permits are required for all overnight trips and can be obtained at the Escalante Interagency Visitor Center in Escalante, Utah, or at the trailhead. Picking up your permit at the Visitor Center is advised, as local staff can update hikers on water availability, route descriptions, and weather and trail conditions. If you choose to pick up your permit at the trailhead, refresh your  knowledge  on backcountry etiquette before you head out. This fragile desert is unique and vulnerable to human impact, so specific features of this landscape (such as  cryptobiotic soil ) should be respected.

As of the time of this article, no reservations are required.

This hike is accessible year-round but requires special considerations in certain seasons. Spring (March to June) or fall (late-September through early-November) are the best and most popular times to hike Coyote Gulch.

Summer heat can be hazardous, so avoid hiking mid-day if you attempt this backpacking trip in the summer. Late summer brings rainstorms to the desert, and flash floods happen frequently. Check  weather conditions  before you go and do not hike into Coyote Gulch if there is a risk for a flash flood.

In winter months, cold temperatures can sweep through the region, so winter backpackers should be prepared for freezing temperatures and potentially icy conditions.

Avoid the Stress: Go Guided!

Guided  Coyote Gulch hikes  are available and are a stress-free, exciting way to do this hike. The tour company handles gear, snacks, and meals, and provides a professional, knowledgeable guide so you can focus 100% on enjoying your adventure. Additional treks in the  Escalante region  are also available, including the adventurous  Boulder Mail Trail .

6. Cordillera Huayhuash, Peru

Mileage: 36 mi roundtrip (up to 81 miles roundtrip)  |  Length: 7-14 days  |  Difficulty: Strenuous  |  Elevation Gain: over 15000 ft

The  Cordillera Huayhuash  is a subrange of the Peruvian Andes, a stunning 18-mile long collection of impressive snow-capped mountains that stand high above turquoise alpine lakes. The entire circuit is above treeline, giving hikers non-stop views of grand mountainous scenery. This trek is remote and rugged, and hikers will enjoy the relative solitude comparable to nearby treks. Experience the wonder of the Andes as you roam through valleys that lie beneath 20,000-foot monoliths. This adventure is not for the faint of heart. High elevations and rugged terrain tax even the most experienced hiker. For those looking for a challenge, the Cordillera Huayhuash is an exceptional destination.

Many route options exist, making this loop customizable to your preferences. The entire Huayhuash loop is 81 miles; however, many  guided treks  shorten the mileage but pack in the best scenery of the circuit.

Acclimatization

Sections of this trail weave through alpine terrain that sits at over 15000 ft, so acclimatizing to high elevations is necessary before starting your trek. Guided trips extensively plan rest days and hiking days around proper acclimatization. If you decide to hike this trail without a guide, know the signs and symptoms of  acute mountain sickness  before you go, and allow yourself sufficient time in Huaraz before trip departure.

No permits or reservations. However, bring money to pay campsite/land use fees that are charged by the mountain communities (totaling around $60-$70.)

May through September (aka the dry season). In other seasons, snow often prevents hikers from traveling over mountain passes. No matter the time of year, cold temperatures are frequent in the high mountains of the Andes, so go prepared for freezing temperatures.

Join a Guided Cordillera Huayhuash Trek

Guided  Cordillera Huayhuash treks  are a stress-free, exciting way to do this hike. The tour company handles gear, snacks, accommodations, transportation, and meals. It also provides professional, knowledgeable guides so you can focus 100% on enjoying your adventure and learn about the region you are visiting.

Explore Your World. Award Winning Hiking Guides

7. Copper Ridge Loop, North Cascades National Park, Washington, USA

Mileage: 34 miles roundtrip  |  Length: 4-5 days  |  Difficulty: Strenuous  |  Elevation Gain: 8600 ft

The North Cascades is a range of dark, jagged spires and glacier-capped summits that sprawls as far as the eye can see. Lush wildflower-filled meadows give way to expansive views of icy blue hanging glaciers and striated granite boulders, evidence of past glacial eras. Nowhere in the continental US is there such a high concentration of glaciers as the North Cascade range in Washington. The  Copper Ridge Loop  takes backpackers high into the alpine, through miles of meadows amidst these peaks, without the necessity of technical skills.

Waltz through wildflowers, your face glued in a permanent grin, as lofty views of Mount Shuksan, Mount Baker, and the ominous Picket Range stare you head-on. Lower elevation sections of the trail weave through old-growth forests, across crystal clear streams, and even involve a cable car river crossing. By the end of the trip, you’ll be wondering why most people have never heard of the North Cascades.

Backcountry permits are required and can be difficult to obtain during busy periods—summer weekends and holidays. Walk-up  permits  are first-come, first-served the day before or day of your desired trip. Hikers can reserve some campsites in advance, and  reservations  can be submitted from March 15 to April 15 for the upcoming summer season. Either way, head to the Wilderness Information Center in Glacier, WA, to grab your permit before hitting the trail.

A  parking pass  is required at the trailhead.

Hiking Season

This trail is best hiked from late-July through September. Snow lingers in the mountains late into the summer, and sections of this trail are often impassable without an ice ax until late-July.

Hike the North Cascades with a Guide

Guided  Copper Ridge Loop  backpacking trips take the stress out of trip planning, and allow you to relax while your guide provides meals, gear, and permits for this trip.

8. Kepler Track, South Island, New Zealand

Mileage: 37.3 miles roundtrip  |  Length: 3-4 days  |  Difficulty: Moderate  |  Elevation Gain: around 3600 ft

New Zealand has nine iconic “Great Walks” (all worthwhile destinations), but of those, the Kepler Track was designed to pack the best of Fiordland National Park into one trail. Better yet, this exquisite hike is accessible to all backpacking levels. Relatively gentle grades mix with long ridgeline miles, giving hikers endless alpine views without too much elevation gain.

Tussock grasses wave in the breeze, clouds settle on high peaks, and the fiord of Lake Te Anau glistens far below you. Keep an eye out for birds along the trail: kea—curious alpine parrots—swoop in to say hello, while kārearea—New Zealand falcons—zip overhead.

Hikers must  reserve  huts or campsites in advance. For international visitors, huts are $130/person/night, while campsites are $40/person/night. New Zealand residents pay $65/person/night for the huts and $20/person/night for camping. These prices drop significantly in the off-season, but off-season hiking should only be attempted by very experienced backpackers.

The Great Walks season runs from late October through late April. This is the best time to hike for most backpackers. Outside of this season, facilities are reduced, and potentially hazardous conditions exist along the trail. If you’re an experienced hiker, the off-season provides fewer crowds, and the beds in huts are first-come, first-served. If you intend to hike in the off-season,  be prepared  for winter conditions and have avalanche awareness and necessary equipment.

9. Toubkal Circuit, Morocco

Mileage: 37.3 miles roundtrip (or 44.7 mi with a peak ascent)  |  Length: 4-6 days  |  Difficulty: Moderate

The Toubkal Circuit takes trekkers across high mountain terrain and through local Berber villages, where mud-brick houses sit perched atop lush terraced fields. This section of the Atlas Mountains is referred to by the local inhabitants by its Berber name— idraren draren,  meaning “mountains of mountains.” Trails weave over rocky mountain passes and down into river valleys, as Jebel Toubkal—the highest peak in Northern Africa—towers above. Nights spent at camp along a bubbling stream are balanced by nights sipping tea with the locals at  gites.  On the last night of the trek, hikers have the opportunity to climb to the summit of Mt. Toubkal, where the peaks of the Atlas Mountains and the plains of Marrakech stretch before you.

Reservations & Accommodations

It is mandatory to hike in this region with a  guide : multiple police checkpoints along the route require you to verify this fact. Multi-day treks should be booked in advance, but can also be booked when you arrive in Imlil.

Hikers generally stay in mountain gites or huts, but some companies offer trips that involve tent camping, as well. There are many opportunities to try local cuisine in villages along the trail.

Place Awareness

As you trek through Berber villages, backpackers should be mindful of respecting the locals and their traditions. Morocco is a fairly conservative country, and hikers should wear modest clothing throughout their stay in the villages. Local trekking companies recommend that both men and women cover their shoulders and above the knee.

Late spring and autumn have lower temperatures ideal for trekking. If you hike early in the season, you may encounter snow in the high mountains until June. Summer brings high temperatures, less water, and more crowds, but it is a popular time to attempt this circuit.

10. West Coast Trail, British Columbia, Canada

Mileage: 46.5 miles point-to-point  |  Length: 5-8 days  |  Difficulty: Strenuous  |  Elevation Gain: 5000 – 6000 ft

The West Coast of Vancouver Island is wild, beautiful, remote, and—most importantly—unforgiving. The trail that runs along over 40 miles of this coastline is a rite-of-passage for experienced backpackers. Ladders, knee-high mud, roaring river crossings, and torrential rain showers are just some of the obstacles that hikers face along the route. But year after year, permits continue to fill for the entire season. This trail surely has to have some redeeming qualities, right?

Those with the mental fortitude to brave this tough trail are rewarded by a vast, pristine wilderness. Seals sun themselves on rocks, whales breach in rolling waves, and beach waterfalls plummet directly into the sea. Tidepools full of colorful sea stars, anemones, and scurrying crabs are revealed when the tide is out. The West Coast Trail traces the paths taken by First Nations residents— the Huu-ay-aht, Ditidaht, and Pacheedaht residents who established villages and camps along the shore.

This trail immerses you in an unspoiled ecosystem of temperate rainforests and rugged shorelines. But, one of the biggest takeaways is a sense of empowerment as you learn about yourself and your capabilities.

Permits, Fees & Reservations

Permits are required to hike the West Coast Trail and often fill quickly. Make  reservations  as early as possible; they open for the upcoming season in early January.

Hiking the West Coast Trail is expensive. Fees include a $25 reservation fee per person, a $10/person/day National Park Entry Pass, a $130 Overnight Use permit per person, and a ferry fee of $20 each way.

Orientation Session

Each hiker must attend an orientation session before starting the West Coast Trail. These sessions are offered daily from 10 AM – 2 PM at the WCT Information Centers at Gordon River and Pachena Bay. This process takes an hour and can be completed as early as 2 PM the day before your departure.

The West Coast Trail is open from May 1 through September 30th.  Weather  can be unpredictable even during this season, with heavy rainstorms likely any time of year—especially in May and June.

11. Dana to Petra on the Jordan Trail, Dana Biosphere Reserve, Jordan

Mileage: 46.5 miles point-to-point  |  Length: 4-6 days  |  Difficulty: Moderate

You may recognize Petra as a famous archaeological site, with its grand facade of the Treasury carved into a gradient of pink and red sandstone. This impressive civilization created a town of caves and temples, woven in sandstone labyrinths which served as thoroughfares for residents and visitors. But the landscape surrounding this kingdom is equally as impressive, and backpackers can get a more authentic sense of this region’s history by accessing it on foot.

This trek through the desert of Jordan is remote and powerful, mixing amazing natural wonders with impressive archaeological remains. A hike through this land of sun and dust will have you rejoicing in the sounds of trickling water or the scurrying steps of blue lizards across the sand. Bedouin shepherds lead their herds across high trails, stopping under lone trees to rest in the shade. After the sun sets, campers catch glimpses of the twinkle of campfires across the flatlands.

The Dana to Petra section of the Jordan Trail traverses through the Dana Biosphere Reserve. Contact the reserve in advance to pay entrance fees.

Permits are not required to hike the Jordan Trail. However, this path is sparsely marked and often hard to follow, so many visitors will want to hire a guide.

Entering Petra requires a pass that must be purchased at the front entrance. However, hikers following the Dana to Petra route will approach from the back entrance, so backpackers will need to buy a pass in advance.

Accommodations

Wild camping is allowed along the route, except in the Dana Biosphere Reserve. These campsites are established and marked on maps of the region. Additionally, locals often operate guesthouses or Bedouin camps.

February and March are the best times to hike this trail, as springtime temperatures are moderate, water is abundant, and the hillsides are lush.

October and November also bring cooler temperatures, but less greenery than in the spring. Winter months are pleasant, but temperatures may fall low at night, and rainfall is more likely.

Generally, late-May through September are too hot to trek comfortably.

12. Arthur Range Traverse, Tasmania, Australia

Mileage: 48.5 miles point-to-point  |  Length: 10 – 14 days  |  Difficulty: Extremely strenuous  |  Elevation Gain: 10,200 ft

The Arthur Range is a rugged, wild spine of mountains that juts from the earth in the Southwest Wilderness in Tasmania. Starting in the button grass plains, you are soon greeted by a sea of serrated quartzite peaks. Scrambling is often required, as you hoist yourself up and over boulders along ridgelines. The miles are slow, yet stunning, and the trail is often vertigo-inducing.

Unpredictable, horrid weather conditions add a touch of spice to this rough trail. When the weather rolls in, hikers should hunker down. Fog sweeps low, rendering the path useless. Torrential rain showers soak weary backpackers, and the  roaring forties  winds make movements difficult. However, the weather moves quickly. And when the sun shines behind the jagged peaks, illuminating lush valleys, it’s easy to forget about the hardships.

The full traverse of the Arthur Range is a demanding hike that should only be attempted by very experienced backpackers. However, for those seeking something a bit more mellow (but still with a hint of masochism), the Western Arthur Traverse is a great alternative. It is more popular, requires less route-finding, and takes up to a week.

As of December 2019, no permits are needed to hike this route.

Established campsites line the route and consist of timber tent pads and backcountry toilets—both of which exist to minimize hiker impact on the alpine ecosystem. Make sure to bring a shelter that can withstand high winds and a whole lot of water.

December to March. However, this region is known for unpredictable  weather  at any time of the year. No matter the forecast, be prepared for snow, heavy rain, and high winds whenever you travel in the Arthur Range. These gale-force winds come from the west. We recommend hiking this traverse from west to east so that the winds are at your back.

13. Laugavegur-Skogar Trail, Iceland

Mileage: 65 miles point-to-point  |  Length: 7-9 days  |  Difficulty: Moderate  |  Elevation Gain: 5500 feet

In the past few years,  Iceland  has skyrocketed as a tourist destination. Even if you’re a traveler who enjoys a more solitary experience, don’t let its popularity deter you. Iceland is home to an incredible landscape of velvety moss-covered mountains, turbulent rivers, and a rainbow of rhyolitic rock. This hut-to-hut hiking trail from Landmannalaugar to Skogar immerses you in otherworldly terrain as you walk between rustic mountain refuges.

Observe geothermal features in action, cross rolling black sand deserts, and watch torrents of water cascade over jagged, green cliffs. Skogafoss, one of the last waterfalls along the trail, produces mesmerizing double rainbows. According to Viking legend, there just might be a treasure chest of gold behind the glistening curtain of water. The magic of this trail is undeniable: the spectacles and memories from this Laugavegur-Skogar backpacking trek are sure to stay with you for years to come.

Huts  are available all along the route and provide shelter for backpackers in often wet, cold mountain conditions. These huts are often fully booked months in advance, so make reservations early. Huts generally cost around $60/night.

Camping is also permitted near the huts for $18/night. Backpackers choosing to camp can pay extra to access the hut kitchens, which can help to reduce pack weight. Camping outside of these designated areas is prohibited. Reservations for campgrounds are optional.

Mid-June through mid-September. All other times,  roads  may be closed, and buses to trailheads do not run. However, the weather is notoriously unpredictable. You can encounter cold, rainy, and windy weather even during this season. June and July in Iceland stay light at all hours, so make sure to bring a buff or something comparable to aid with your sleep.

Hike the Laugavegur-Skogar Trail with a Guide

Guided  Laugavegur-Skogar hut-to-hut treks  are available and are a stress-free, exciting way to do this hike. The tour company handles gear, snacks, accommodations, and meals, and provides a professional, knowledgeable guide so you can focus 100% on enjoying your adventure.  Read more…

14. Annapurna Circuit, Nepal

Mileage: 72 – 143 miles roundtrip depending on the route  |  Length: 9 – 21 days  |  Difficulty: Strenuous

In Central  Nepal , there is a chain of peaks, 30 miles long, known as the Annapurna Massif. Trekking in this region combines incredible mountain scenery with rich Nepalese tradition. There are many trails through this region; however, the Annapurna Circuit, which opened in 1977, is one of the finest long-distance trails. Travelers hiking this immensely popular trail must abandon their notions of wilderness trekking. Come prepared to embrace the crowds, eat and sleep in dorm-style housing, and meet other backpackers from all over the world.

This trail begins sub-tropical rainforests, where monkeys dangle from trees. Hikers then travel through terraced fields, over swinging suspension bridges, and into deep gorges before emerging in the heart of the Himalayas. Thorong La Pass—at 17700 feet—will test even the heartiest hiker. However, pack weight can be minimized by eating and sleeping in teahouses along the route.

Alternatively, the Annapurna Base Camp trek is slightly shorter and reaches elevations of up to 13550 feet. This trail takes you to the base camp where you stare straight at the massive, fluted face of Annapurna I.

Sections of this trail weave through alpine terrain that sits at over 17000 ft, so acclimatizing to high elevations is necessary before starting your trek.  Guided trips  extensively plan rest days and hiking days around proper acclimatization. If you decide to hike this trail without a guide, know the signs and symptoms of  acute mountain sickness  before you go, and allow yourself sufficient time to acclimatize as you hike higher.

Teahouses along the route provide ideal accommodations for travelers looking to add local flavor to their adventure. These basic shelters are close together, so you never have to travel far to find one. Here, you can dine on dahl bat and fall asleep on a basic bed. However, bring a sleeping bag to ensure that you will be warm enough.

Backpackers must obtain both an Annapurna Conservation Area Permit ($30) and a TIMS card ($20) to hike in this region. Purchase both at the Nepal Tourism Board Office in Kathmandu or Pokhara before hiking.

The fall trekking season runs from October to early-December. Spring trekking is accessible from March through early-May.

Hike to Annapurna Base Camp with a Guide

Joining a guided  Annapurna Base Camp trip  is a stress-free, exciting way to do this hike. The Annapurna Base Camp hike is a shorter, less strenuous alternative to the Annapurna Circuit. The tour company handles gear, snacks, and lunch, and provides a professional, knowledgeable guide so you can focus 100% on enjoying your adventure.

15. Wind River High Route, Wyoming, USA

Mileage: 79 – 100 miles point-to-point  |  Length: 7-18 days  |  Difficulty: Extremely strenuous  |  Elevation Gain: 20,000 – 30,000 ft

The Wind River Range is a fantastically wild range in Western Wyoming. This collection of glacially-sculpted granite monoliths and towers encircles dazzling alpine basins, hosting over 100 lakes. And one of the most adventurous trips in the range is Wind River High Route. This is definitely more “route” than established trail: it follows close to the crest of the Continental Divide, and over half of the trip requires off-trail travel.

But the incredible scenery is worth the effort; hikers bounce through talus fields, across granite slabs, and up and over mountain passes to get an intimate experience of these lofty peaks. Down in the valleys below, sunshine glitters on the surface of icy-blue lakes, while marmots dash across grassy meadows back to their rocky kingdoms. This traverse gets you the best of the best. You get into the heart of the range and see classics, like the majestic Cirque of the Towers, while experiencing equally stunning and less visited parts of the range, like Pronghorn Peak.

Many  variations  of this route have been  proposed  and extensively documented; however, this adventure requires the hiker to take some action, look at maps, and plan a lot of logistics.

Alternatives

The Wind River High Route should only be attempted by experienced backpackers capable of hiking rugged, off-trail miles for days on end. Scrambling experience is essential, and backpackers should feel comfortable covering rough terrain with a heavy pack. However, many trails take hikers deep into the Wind River Range, without the added excitement of off-trail travel and the class 3 terrain (scrambling) in the High Route. Alternative excursions range from a three-day loop into the Cirque of the Towers to  a week-long one-way hike  through incredibly remote regions.

Permits & Fees

No permits are needed to hike in the Winds. Know the  regulations  specific to the Bridger Wilderness, such as campsite usage and food storage, before starting your trip.

Late-July to mid-September is the ideal season for this trek. During this time, most of the trails will be snow-free. However, if you attempt the Wind River High Route, expect to encounter snow year-round. Crampons/microspikes and an ice axe can be beneficial, even during late summer.

Hike in the Wind River Range with a Guide

Guided  backpacking  and  llama  treks are available in the  Wind River Range  and are a stress-free, exciting way to explore this region. The tour company handles gear, snacks, and meals, and provides a professional, knowledgeable guide so you can focus 100% on enjoying your adventure.

16. Torres Del Paine ‘O’ Circuit, Patagonia, Chile

Mileage: 85-mile loop  |  Length: 6- 11 days  |  Difficulty: Moderate

The  Torres del Paine ‘O’ Circuit  in  Torres del Paine National Park  in Patagonia is a full circumnavigation of the Cordillera Paine, a stunning mountain range of dramatic spires. This ‘O’ circuit incorporates the famous  W Trek  while adding extra mileage into the backside of the park. Hikers pass by the iconic rock formations on the W Trek before entering into a vast wilderness of glacial lakes and ice fields.

While the smooth spires of the center of the range are enthralling, the northern portion of this loop makes the ‘O’ Circuit special. As you hike towards John Gardner Pass, you’ll catch views of the Grey Glacier and the Southern Patagonia Ice Field, which stretches over 215 miles and is one of the largest extrapolar ice fields in the world. These sights are breathtaking and chilling, as jagged blue chunks of ice jut up against Lago Grey. You can even hop in a kayak to see this mesmerizing glacier ice up close.

Accommodations & Reservations

Accommodation reservations must be made to hike the O Circuit. Refugios and campsites should be booked in advance via  Vertice  or  Fantastico Sur . Backpackers must camp at established campgrounds: wild camping is prohibited. Campsites range from $6 – $20 (with two  free campsites  along the route), while refugios cost between $60-$80 for a bed. There are no refugios on the northern side of the circuit, so those who wish to hike the entire trail must plan to camp for part of the excursion.

Fees & Permits

A park entrance of about $26/person is required and can only be paid in Chilean pesos. No permits are required to hike the trail, beyond your accommodation reservations.

The ‘O’ Circuit is not accessible from April 15th through November 15th. The peak hiking season is in December through February. March is Autumn in the park, with fewer crowds at the end of the month and lovely colors. However, the  weather  is less predictable, and rain is more frequent. Spring is in full swing in November, and the latter half of the month can be a great time on the O Circuit.

Hike in Torres del Paines with a Guide

Guided  ‘O’ Circuit  treks are available and are a stress-free, exciting way to do this hike. The tour company handles gear, snacks, accommodations, and meals, and provides a professional, knowledgeable guide so you can focus 100% on enjoying your adventure.

17. Alta Via 2, Dolomites, Italy

Mileage: 100 miles point-to-point  |  Length: 11 – 14 days  |  Difficulty: Strenuous  |  Elevation Gain: 39,000 ft

Serrated limestone peaks characterize the landscape in this UNESCO World Heritage Site in Northeast Italy. The  Dolomites  are a dramatic mountain range speckled with rifugios, idyllic mountain huts set on mountain passes and in verdant meadows. But the trails that weave through this seemingly impassable landscape aren’t for the faint of heart. Iron rungs— via ferratas— and cable hand-wires help hikers past exposed terrain and up steep rock faces. These systems speak of the history of this region: WWI troops installed these to function as efficient routes through the mountains.

This trail is long, rough, and technical. If you have a fear of heights and exposed terrain, you may want to opt for the more popular  Alta Via 1  or an  alternative trip  in the Dolomites.

Rifugios are the classic accommodation for most travelers in the Italian Alps. These mountain huts rest in spectacular settings, and travelers can only access them on foot. They offer both meals and beds, which range from exquisite to simple, depending on your preference.

For this hut-to-hut adventure, we recommend that you book your accommodations in advance during the peak season (July & August). However, if you want the flexibility to change your hiking mileage by the day, you can often find last-minute accommodations.

Mid-June through late-September is ideal for all backpackers, as rifugios are open during this time. However, backpackers experienced with snow travel and mountaineering can hike the Alta Via 2 in the off-season, as free, simple bivouac huts are open year-round.

Hike in the Dolomites with a Guide

Wildland Trekking offers an  eight-day hiking tour through the Dolomites  that covers the best of what the region has to offer, including the Sennes Range, Antorno Lake, and Tre Cime di Lavaredo. We’ll also take care of everything during your trip — gear, meals, and accommodations — so that you can spend more time enjoying your vacation.

Perhaps the greatest aspect of our company is our friendly, expert guides. At Wildland Trekking, we’re dedicated to providing you with the most enjoyable and memorable experience possible, all while adhering to strict safety protocols.

18. Arctic Circle Trail, Greenland

Mileage: 102 miles  |  Length: 7 – 10 days  |  Difficulty: Moderate

The Arctic Circle Trail traverses magnificent alpine tundra along the Southwestern coast of Greenland. This route immerses hikers in deep wilderness, where navigation skills are crucial. Here, solitude exists in excess. Often, hikers trek for days without seeing another human. The grazing of musk oxen or reindeer—a sign of life!—warms the soul of many ACT hikers.

Along the trail, boggy lowlands make way for rolling mountain-enclosed meadows. Small, red cabins perfectly contrast endless green fields. The few hikers on the trail often congregate at these shelters to swap stories before setting off into solitude once again.

The magic of this trail comes in its wild nature. Pristine landscapes, unique wildlife encounters, and the surprising kaleidoscope of colors along the trail engross those who walk through this landscape.

Basic cabins  exist along the route where hikers can take refuge for free. There are ten shelters spread along the trail, and they consist of bunks for backpackers. However, pack a tent, as these cabins are first-come, first-served. You can wild camp anywhere along the trail.

Hike this trail from June through September, when it is free of snow. June can be challenging, as river levels rise with snowmelt and mosquitos swarm.

19. Walker’s Haute Route, French and Swiss Alps

Mileage: 125 miles  |  Length: 9 – 12 days  |  Difficulty: Moderate to Strenuous  |  Elevation Gain: 39,000 ft

This high alpine route winds from Chamonix, France, to Zermatt, Switzerland, through stunning glaciated peaks in the Alps. The Haute Route links two iconic peaks—Mont Blanc and the Matterhorn—by way of mountain passes and rustic villages.  Alpine huts are perched in otherworldly locales, and host groups of international trekkers.  This European trek requires you to rejoice in the social aspect of hiking. At these welcoming shelters, you will share hearty meals and delicious libations with hikers from all over the world.

This network of trails provides hikers with a wonderland of dazzling mountain scenery and a classic European atmosphere.

Various trail options exist as you hike. The Col de Balme to the Chalet du Glacier is one variant. Most remarkably, the Fenetre d’Arpette is an alternative route that provides stunning views of the Trient glacier. However, it should only be attempted in prime weather conditions.

Mountain huts are situated along the Walker’s Haute Route. Here, hikers can find meals and  nightly accommodations . We advise booking your accommodations in advance for the peak season (July & August).

Backpackers can choose to wild  camp  in higher, less-developed regions along the trail, or at designated campgrounds.

In mid-June through mid-September, the snow has melted from  most  of the trails (depending on the year). In June, hikers may still encounter stretches of snowfields, so bring along  microspikes , just in case. July and August are peak season, meaning accommodations are most likely to be full.

Afternoon thunderstorms are common in the summer, so plan your mileage accordingly.

Go Guided in the European Alps

Wildland Trekking Company offers a  Tour de Mont Blanc trek  for hikers looking to experience the European Alps in fewer miles. The tour company handles all the logistics—from gear to accommodations—and provides a professional, knowledgeable guide so you can focus 100% on enjoying your adventure.

20. Drakensberg Grand Traverse, South Africa

Mileage: 140 miles point-to-point  |  Length: 10 – 15 days  |  Difficulty: Strenuous & technically challenging  |  Elevation Gain: 30,000 ft

This traverse of grand proportions in South Africa has no established route or trails. Rather, it is a series of checkpoints that adventurers must tick to complete this trek officially. Backpackers must rely on their navigation skills and backcountry savvy.

This escarpment consists of undulating ridgelines and valleys, fresh mountain streams, and spiny summits. As the sun sets on the velvety hills and the stars rise in the midnight-blue sky, the Drakensberg Mountains feel worlds away from civilization. Hikers may encounter Basotho shepherds and their flocks, but will otherwise be in solitude.

For explorers keen to forge their own path, this choose-your-own-adventure route is the ultimate undertaking.

Hikers need to pay an entrance fee of $3 to  Royal Natal National Park.  Additionally, backpackers should obtain a permit for any overnight stay before trekking. Permits cost $4/night.

April—May or September—November. Hikers should avoid both winter and summer extremes.

21. Sierra High Route, California, USA

Mileage: 195 miles  |  Length: 15 – 17 days  |  Difficulty: Extremely strenuous

This rugged, high alpine route parallels the John Muir trail and takes hikers through the most impressive parts of the Sierras. The trail crosses through two national parks—Sequoia-Kings Canyon and Yosemite–as well as the John Muir and Ansel Adams wilderness areas.

And only 40 of the almost 200 miles are on a trail. The rest of the time, you’re bumping along on rocky ridgelines, balancing on scree fields, and praying that your feet will touch soft dirt instead of granite  just for a minute .

But the rewards come from the sense of adventure that is achieved by traveling through unmarked terrain. Smooth granite spires tower above boulder-strewn meadows. As you curse the talus—and your ankles—on mountain passes, layers of peaks fan out on the horizon. And as the alpenglow casts rich reds and oranges on the polished rocks, you’ll have the view all to yourself.

Know Before You Go

The Sierra High Route (the SHR) isn’t for everyone. This route requires that backpackers be well-versed in mountain travel, extremely comfortable on rocky terrain, and able to make good choices about their abilities. Hikers will encounter class three terrain (scrambling) and should feel confident with their off-trail travel skills.

Beginner and intermediate-level backpacking trails exist en mass in the  Eastern Sierras ,  Sequoia National Park , and  Yosemite National Park . Even the famous  John Muir Trail  is substantially easier than this off-trail trek.

Pick a trail that matches your skills and fitness level, and you won’t go wrong with any backpacking trips in this area.

A permit is required to hike the SHR. Pick up your permit through the agency managing the land where you begin your journey.

If you start at the southern terminus at Road’s End in Sequoia National Park, obtain a permit through the National Park Service. You can reserve this permit  in advance  to avoid chancing a walk-up permit. If you start in  Yosemite National Park , reserve a permit well in advance, if possible, as backcountry permits there are exceedingly popular. If you start in the north, the  Inyo National Forest  has both reservation-based and walk-up permits.

You only need one permit for your entire hike. Each land agency charges different fees for park entrance, permits, and overnight trips.

Trails will be increasingly snow-free later in the season, so shoot for July through October.  However, backpacking in late-September through October increases the chances you’ll encounter early winter weather.

Explore the Sierras on a Guided Trip

If you want to test your hiking comfort zone with the help of a guide, Wildland offers many excursions in the Sierras that include off-trail travel or adventurous components.

The  three-day Mount Conness  trip includes a thrilling third-class summit attempt, while the  Mammoth Crest  backpacking trip incorporates off-trail travel. Knowledgeable, trained guides help you to feel safe and empowered as you challenge yourself in the mountains.

In addition,  Wildland  provides all gear and meals and makes necessary permit arrangements.

22. Camino Primitivo, Spain

Mileage: 200 miles  |  Length: 14 days  |  Difficulty: Moderate

The Camino Primitivo, or the “Original Camino,” is the oldest of all the Camino de Santiago routes, yet less than 10% of Camino hikers choose this trail. This pilgrimage through Northern Spain takes you through rolling hills, past historic churches, and into charming villages. Hikers of the Camino are called pilgrims, and the “albergues”, or hostels, become places to rest and connect with fellow travelers.

This trek begins in the Asturia capital city of Oviedo, marked by beautiful cathedrals and medieval buildings. The first half of the route is steep and rolling. One of the most memorable parts of the trail, the “Hospitales”, takes pilgrims high atop a ridgeline for miles of sweeping countryside views.

The half-way point comes at Lugo, a historic city surrounded by Roman walls. Finally, as pilgrims trek south towards Santiago de Compostela, the Camino Primitivo joins with the Camino Frances for the end of the journey.

Keep in mind, this entire route is more challenging than its popular counterpart, the Camino Frances.

Credentials

Every pilgrim should have a  credential —”passport”—that gets stamped at hostels, churches, and cafes along your route. At the end of your trek, this credential allows you to apply for a “ Compostela “, or accreditation, at the Cathedral of Santiago.

Obtain your credential through your country’s Camino de Santiago organization prior to your trip, or pick one up in Oviedo before setting out.

Accommodations & Meals

Government-run albergues are first-come, first-served and cannot be booked in advance. However, you can book private hostels in advance.

Hikers encounter grocery stores frequently, so pack weight can be minimized by picking up food as you go. Backpackers also pass numerous cafes and restaurants, getting the choice to dine out or cook at the hostels.

May through September. Early and late season are more likely to be cold and rainy, but July and August are peak season with the most crowds. However, if you’re hiking the primitive route, you may welcome the summer company.

23. Kungsleden Trail, Sweden

Mileage: 270 miles  |  Length: About a month for the whole trail, or 3 – 10 day segments  |  Difficulty: Moderate

This long-distance hiking trail crosses the mountains of the Swedish Lapland. It follows fresh mountain streams through moorland and grassy valleys, often with incredible mountain views. The terrain is ever-changing, and the transitions between birch forests, wetlands, and high mountains keep the trail compelling. Low clouds dance around the peaks, casting shadows onto the grasslands.

This trail is part of the Sámi cultural landscape, and indigenous Sámi people have lived with this land for over 7,000 years. Today, they still utilize this trail for reindeer herding. Watch as large herds graze under the low sun, but remember to keep your distance. It is a magnificent place to witness and learn from a living wilderness, where humans and nature symbiotically exist.

Here, water dominates the landscape. Many lakes require passage via boat: some have free rowboats for hikers to use, others require a motorboat  ferry .

Stay at the mountain huts or choose to wild camp, but don’t forget to enjoy the wood-fired saunas at least once on your adventure.

Section Hiking

The 70-mile stretch from Abisko to Nikkaluokta is a great option for backpackers who cannot commit to the full trail. This portion’s alpine nature draws travelers to experience a classic Swedish landscape. Hikers can complete this section in a week.

For an even shorter adventure, either the Kebnekaise to Saltoluokta (32 miles) or Saltoluokta to Kvikkjokk (45 miles) sections can be completed in three to six days.

The 97-mile stretch from Kvikkjokk to Ammarnäs is a wild, hut-less section of trail, for those seeking a true backcountry experience. Trekkers generally complete this section in seven to ten days.

Backpackers and skiers can stay at simple mountain huts along the route. These huts are well-spaced, so hikers don’t have to travel far before encountering a shelter.

Dormitory-style beds await weary travelers, but backpackers should bring their own sheets or sleeping bag. Hut wardens assign beds, which cannot be reserved in advance. However, hikers who  pay online  receive a discount, and can use that advance payment any time in a two-week span.

You can keep your pack weight light and buy food at the small  shops  at some of the huts. Cabins come equipped with kitchens for backpackers to cook their own food.

If you plan to tackle the entire King’s Trail, you must be prepared for the section between Kvikkjokk and Ammarnäs. No huts exist along this stretch, and backpackers must tent camp.

And if you’re looking to save money, you can pitch a tent outside the huts for a small fee, or find a remote spot to wild camp.

STF Membership

If you plan to hike a significant portion of the Kungsleden, you should consider getting an  STF membership . This membership reduces the cost of overnight stays, as well as allows you to utilize huts for a day visit. In the middle of the day, you can use the kitchen, toilet, and drying room.

Mid-to-late June through mid-to-late September for hiking. The winter season from late-February through late-April or early-May is ideal for ski touring. Huts close in the off-season.

24. Great Divide Trail, Canadian Rockies

Mileage: 746 miles  |  Length: 40 – 50 days  |  Difficulty: Strenuous

This trail of epic proportions runs along the border between Alberta and British Columbia through the Rocky Mountains. As it currently stands, this bare-bones thru-hike is still in its infancy. While it is mostly singletrack, long stretches of unmarked wilderness travel—complete with the need to navigate and bushwack–make this long-distance trail especially challenging.

For experienced hikers up to the task, this trail immerses you in a vast wilderness spanning five national parks, seven provincial parks, three wilderness areas, and countless unique ecosystems. Grizzly bears scrounge in berry bushes. Glacial ice calves into alpine lakes. Bighorn sheep clamber on rocky slopes. This landscape and its inhabitants are vast, dynamic, and powerful.

Section Hiking & Canadian Rockies Backpacking

Beginner hikers will find beauty and challenge in the established trails found in the various national parks along the route. The  Canadian Rockies  offer all levels of backpacking trips. The  Skyline Trail  in Jasper National Park is a popular backpacking destination (so it’s tough to get permits) but is well worth the effort.

The Great Divide Trail is separated into  Sections A – G , with A starting at the Canadian/USA border and running north. Each section runs about 100 miles.

A  Parks Canada Discovery Pass  will allow you to enter every park on the route. National Park Backcountry permits (around $10/night) are required for all stays in national park backcountry campgrounds. Hikers must reserve these campsites in advance. Wild camping with a random camping permit is allowed along some sections of the trail in the National Parks. To obtain this permit, call the park’s visitor centers directly—they are not available online.

Three Provincial parks also require  campground reservations , including Mount Assiniboine, Peter Lougheed, and Mount Robson.

All other campgrounds along the route are first-come, first-served.

July through mid-September when the trail is free of snow. In the past few years, wildfires have caused trail closures in the summer months. Check for  trail updates  before hiking sections of the GDT.

Hike in the Canadian Rockies with a Guide

If you want to explore the majesty of the Canadian Rockies without tackling this strenuous trail, join a  guided trek  to witness epic wildlife, piercing mountains, and turquoise lakes. Wildland provides all gear, meals, and permits, as well as knowledgeable guides who help you make the most out of your trekking adventure.

25. Via Dinarica, Balkans

Mileage: 1200 miles  |  Difficulty: Ranges from moderate to extremely strenuous

The  Via Dinarica  is a long-distance network of trails that follows the Dinaric Alps, a karst landscape sculpted by years of water flowing over porous limestone. Caverns and deep canyons exist in the wake of ancient rivers. This route is comprised of three main trails across eight countries in the Balkans—Slovenia, Croatia, Bosnia & Herzegovina, Montenegro, Serbia, Kosovo, Albania, and Macedonia.

This in-progress trail system is stitched together with old shepherd routes, modern-day hiking trails, and the paths taken by soldiers in battle. In towns, birds flutter between the bullet holes in the buildings of recent war zones. Back in the mountains, the ring of cowbells sounds across the valley, as hikers trek past stone churches and simple dwellings. Locals offer up hand-made cheese and espresso. A comforting silence rests in the spaces that the mix of languages can’t fill.

This trail may be more difficult to navigate and plan than many in Europe, but it rewards you with its authentic charm, staggering limestone, and rural villages. Start researching and find a section of the trail that calls to you.

Hiking the Via Dinarica in its entirety (or in sections) takes a lot of logistical know-how. It is an unpopulated trail that is still in development, and accommodations vary from country to country.

Backpackers will have many options for  accommodations  along the trail. You can find mountain huts, hostels, guesthouses, and B&Bs in small villages. When possible, book ahead. However, there are stretches along the trail where having camping gear might ease your mind.

Hikers will sporadically encounter small convenience stores to restock supplies. Depending on the country, you may not even need to leave the trail to do your shopping. Do research on each section you intend to hike and figure out whether or not you’ll need to send yourself supplies.

Border Crossings

You need to apply for a border crossing permit if you intend to hike from Montenegro to Albania (or the reverse). Find a local tourism agency to assist you with the application forms.

May through October. However, the karst mountains are very dry and exposed, and hikers can be limited by summer temperatures.

Mountain conditions bring unpredictable weather at any time of year, so be prepared for both hot and freezing temperatures while hiking.

Wildland Trekking Hiking Adventures

As the world’s premier  hiking and trekking company , Wildland believes in connecting people to fantastic environments in amazing ways. Wildland Trekking Company offers an array of incredible hiking and trekking experiences in 9 states and 11 countries. Read more about our  world-class destinations.

To learn more about our  guided backpacking trips  and all of our award-winning  hiking vacations , please visit our website or connect with one of our Adventure Consultants: 800-715-HIKE.

About Hannah Singleton

Hannah is a content strategist, writer, and guide for Wildland Trekking Company. She was born and raised on the East Coast but currently resides in Salt Lake City, UT where she spends her time exploring the wonders of the Rocky Mountain West. You can check out more of her freelance writing at www.hannah-singleton.com.

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Google Reveals Top 20 Destinations For Summer Vacation 2024. See Full List

The most popular destination for summer 2024 is london, while paris - which is set to host the upcoming summer olympics - landed in the second-place spot..

The list features a lot of trendy and unexpected locations.

Google recently released its top 20 destinations for summer 2024. The list is based on the destinations most searched for by travellers within the US on Google flight for travel between June 1 and August 31. The tech giant shared insights based on past flight booking data and search trends with 'Good Morning America'. The list features a lot of trendy and unexpected locations. The biggest change from 2023, according to Google, is that Cancun moved down from the number two spot to number six, while Tokyo rose from number eight to number three. 

The most popular destination for summer 2024 is London, while Paris - which is set to host the upcoming Summer Olympics - landed in the second-place spot. According to ABC News , newcomers to the top destinations list include San Juan, Puerto Rico, and Madrid, Spain. Chicago and San Francisco didn't make the list this year.  

Here's the full list of top summer 2024 destinations on Google flights: 

• Los Angeles
• Fort Lauderdale

According to ABC News , the tech giant gathers insights from mid-January to mid-March from US users to find out what travel-related queries are top of mind ahead of summer. The outlet reported that searches for "travel itinerary" and "solo travel" reached an all-time high in January. 

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Two of the top trending "weekend getaway" destinations are Palm Springs and Florida Keys. The top trending "romantic getaway" destinations were Napa in California and Key West in Florida. La Romana and Saint John were the top trending destinations searched with all-inclusive resorts.

Meanwhile, last year, Google Flights introduced a new feature to help travellers book cheaper flights. This feature offers guidance from Google on the most budget-friendly period for booking flights. For example, the new insights could tell you that the cheapest time to book similar trips is usually two months before departure, and you're currently in that sweet spot. Or you might learn that prices have usually dropped closer to takeoff, so you decide to wait before booking. Either way, you can make that decision with a greater sense of confidence.

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Best islands in the world for 2024.

Sprawling beaches , rich cultures and untouched pockets of wilderness are just a few alluring characteristics of the best islands in the world. According to experts and U.S. News readers, each of the beautiful islands listed here boasts a little something extra that keeps travelers enchanted – whether it's impressive coastlines, immersive experiences or the ease of getting there. Use this list to start planning your island getaway, then cast your vote below to help us rank next year's list.

Whitsunday Islands

South island, new zealand, galapagos islands, turks & caicos, kaua'i.

This Philippine archipelago's 1,700-plus islands and islets entice adventure seekers and beach bums alike. Here, island hoppers can swim in the exceptionally clear Kayangan Lake in Coron, tour the lagoons of Bacuit Bay in El Nido and kayak through caves on the Puerto Princesa Underground River. Those who prefer to vacation at a slower pace can lounge on serene beaches overlooking limestone formations or catch a glimpse of marine life on a snorkeling tour. While Palawan's dry season (November through May) is the best time to visit, it's also the most popular. Plan your accommodations and tours in advance.

A popular Mediterranean cruise stop, this Italian island has garnered international allure with its subtropical climate, sprawling beaches and a culture steeped in tradition. Sardinia's Costa Smeralda boasts 12 miles of powdery sand and shallow turquoise water, along with plenty of luxurious resorts and quaint villages. Meanwhile, those who want to soak in some culture, as well as sunshine, can visit Cagliari, the island's hilltop capital, to explore museums, historic churches and an ancient Roman amphitheater. Visitors should save time to immerse themselves in the local lifestyle through one of Sardinia's many festivals, its distinctive cuisine and its own language (Sardo).

This surprisingly cheap tropical destination is revered for its coastline and often serves as a post-safari oasis. Sitting 22 miles off the coast of Tanzania in the Indian Ocean, Zanzibar's fine sand beaches paint an idyllic picture, and its clear waters make for great snorkeling excursions. But visitors would be remiss to skip out on exploring the island's heritage. UNESCO-honored Stone Town showcases Zanzibar's collision of African, Indian, Arabic and European cultures through its architecture, cuisine and markets.

You've heard the adage that the best places are often the most difficult to reach, and that certainly rings true for this African island, situated about 500 miles east of Madagascar. While it takes nearly 24 hours to reach Mauritius from the U.S., this island's calm beaches and natural beauty welcome travelers who don't mind a journey. Plus, its cultural diversity makes it like nowhere else on Earth. Spend your days exploring waterfalls, mountains and geological wonders, or while away the hours on palm-fringed beaches. No trip is complete without exploring local cuisine and sega music, which is recognized by UNESCO for its important heritage.

This popular honeymoon spot is more than a hideaway for amorous duos. Oenophiles can savor top-notch vino during a winery tour . Meanwhile, history buffs can explore the remains of Ancient Thira and Akrotiri. Plus, the Greek island's volcanic setting gives travelers the chance to admire unique red and black sand beaches, such as Red Beach and Kamari Beach, before hiking to the top of the caldera for awe-inspiring views of whitewashed villages and blue-domed churches. After taking in their surroundings, visitors can stroll through the famous cliffside village of Oia, which features multiple restaurants, shops and stunning sunset panoramas.

If ring-tailed lemurs come to mind when you think of Madagascar, there's a good reason. This Indian Ocean island off the east coast of Africa is home to more than 100 species of lemurs, along with rare frog, bird, chameleon and plant species that make it one of the most biodiverse places in the world. Beyond its wildlife, this vast island (it's nearly the size of Texas) attracts visitors with its scenic national parks and reserves and pristine beaches. Get lost in the otherworldly limestone formations at Tsingy de Bemaraha Strict Nature Reserve, or venture off-shore to the beaches and resorts on Nosy Be.

With its white sand beaches, forested nature trails and ancient ruins, Cyprus appeals to a wide array of travelers. Beach lovers can head to Nissi Beach to swim in its crystal-clear water, while history and architecture enthusiasts can admire the Hala Sultan Tekke mosque. This Mediterranean island is home to both Greek and Turkish descendants, giving it a wealth of culture and a unique cuisine full of wine, slow-cooked meat and lots of halloumi cheese. Work up an appetite with a hike through Cyprus' jagged mountains or a walk around the town of Paphos – the mythical birthplace of Aphrodite.

When you're not surfing or sipping tropical cocktails in your overwater bungalow , explore Tahiti's striking natural wonders, including the white sands of Plage de Toaroto and the cascades at Faarumai Waterfalls. Looking for more adventure? Hop on a boat and head to Tahiti's sister island, Moorea, to hike breathtaking Magic Mountain. Then, return to Tahiti to explore the shops and markets in the bustling Papeete, French Polynesia's capital. No visit would be complete without traveling roughly 10 miles east of central Papeete to the lesser-known Papenoo Beach, where you can lounge on the gorgeous black sand shore.

Head to this beautiful collection of 74 islands off the coast of Queensland, Australia, to enjoy a laid-back vacation filled with swimming, sunbathing, sailing and lots of snorkeling. The Whitsundays' proximity to the world-renowned Great Barrier Reef makes it an excellent place to base yourself when visiting iconic sights like Heart Reef. When you're not exploring above or beneath the water's surface, sink your toes into the soft white sand at some of the best beaches in the world. Admire the incredible scenery at Whitehaven Beach on Whitsunday Island or hike to the top of Passage Peak on Hamilton Island.

A dream Bora Bora vacation includes days spent lounging on Matira Beach, boat trips through clear aquamarine waters and four-wheel-drive tours through the French Polynesian island's lush forests. Gazing at extinct Mount Otemanu from above during a helicopter tour or from below in the lagoon is a must. Adventurous travelers should also save time for swimming with sharks and stingrays. Although this destination is already pricey, vacationers should save up to splurge on an overwater bungalow for a once-in-a-lifetime Bora Bora experience.

New Zealand's South Island is the place to go if your ideal island vacation has less to do with lounging on a beach and more to do with having an adventure. On the larger of New Zealand's two main islands, you'll discover ice blue lakes, towering mountains, cascading waterfalls, pristine glaciers and lush forests waiting to be explored. Start your trip hiking or boating through Fiordland National Park on the island's southwest side. Then, sign up for a bungee jumping excursion in Queenstown before heading east to the Otago Peninsula, where it's common to spot wild animals like penguins and albatrosses.

A 21-square-mile British territory in the Atlantic Ocean, the small but breathtaking Bermuda features hidden coves, pink sand beaches , friendly people and a relaxing atmosphere – all of which draw vacationers in droves. Easily accessible from the East Coast, Bermuda offers posh stores and restaurants, as well as several picturesque golf courses. The island boasts the world's highest concentration of golf venues per square mile. When travelers are not hitting the links, shopping or sunbathing, they can admire St. George's colonial architecture or snorkel at Horseshoe Bay Beach or Tobacco Bay Beach.

Composed of nine lush islands in the Atlantic, the Azores have grown in popularity over recent years (and are accessible via direct flight from New York City). These Portuguese paradises are perfect for hiking, whale watching and eating fresh seafood. Choose to visit the largest island of São Miguel for its lakes and charming downtown, the smaller island of Flores for its waterfalls and jagged coastline, or the picturesque island of Pico for its towering volcano. Regardless of which unique island you pick, you'll find a relatively untouched setting that exudes authenticity and promotes sustainability.

In the nearly 200 years since Charles Darwin discovered this natural wonderland about 600 miles west of mainland Ecuador, the Galápagos Islands have yet to lose their magic. Countless birds, iguanas and tortoises roam this archipelago, and herds of sea lions and sharks swim in the surrounding waters. Bring your hiking shoes so you can make your way to the islands' sky-high rock formations and Sierra Negra Volcano, home to the second-largest crater on the planet. While the Galápagos are certainly not your typical beach getaway and you won't find many luxury resorts, you can still enjoy relaxing beaches like La Lobería and Tortuga Bay.

This South Pacific archipelago's white sand shores offer fantastic scenery, but there's more to Fiji than what you'll see from your beach chair. You can hike to hidden beaches on the Mamanuca Islands, peruse the boutiques of Suva or venture beneath the surface and snorkel with the islands' colorful fish. Plus, Fijians are known for their warmth and close-knit communities, and the islands offer unique cultural experiences like firewalking ceremonies and tastings of a traditional plant-based beverage called kava. Just be sure to bring a small gift, or sevusevu, to present to the community you're visiting.

Just uttering the name of this island chain in the Atlantic Ocean conjures images of tropical sun, fine sand and drinks in hand, but there are also plenty of action-packed activities to enjoy in this popular beach destination. Escape the crowds of Nassau and head to Harbour Island for its pink sand beaches or the cays of Eleuthera for its prime surfing. And as the islands are home to the third largest fringing barrier reef in the world, underwater cave systems and crystal clear water, snorkeling and diving excursions are not to be missed.

Located off Croatia's Dalmatian Coast, Hvar is as beautiful and energetic as it is historic. With many of the island's top attractions located within Hvar Town's centuries-old medieval walls, you should make a beeline here as soon as you arrive. Touring St. Stephen's Cathedral and the Fortica Fortress are must-dos, but don't forget to set aside time for wandering through Hvar's romantic cobblestone streets. When you need a history break, head to Dubovica Beach to cool off in the glittering Adriatic Sea or take a day trip to the nearby Pakleni Islands. In the evening, unwind with a drink at one of Hvar's many bars and nightclubs.

With breathtaking mountains and pointed pagodas, it's no wonder why Bali is home to the "gates of heaven" (at Lempuyang Temple). On this Indonesian island, you can tour ancient sacred sites like the waterfront Uluwatu Temple and Tirta Empul, where you'll see worshippers praying in a large pool. You should also save time for exploring Bali's photogenic rice terraces and simply lounging on resplendent stretches of sand like Sanur Beach and Geger Beach before bedding down at a five-star resort in Jimbaran or Nusa Dua.

Home to one of the largest coral reef systems in the world, the Turks and Caicos Islands are a diver's paradise. Visit the Bight Reef to see hundreds of colorful fish near the shore, or head to Smith's Reef to swim with stingrays and turtles. Above the surface, this network of dozens of named islands and cays plays host to a bevy of luxurious hotels and picturesque beaches perfect for sunbathing or horseback riding. Families should spend time in Taylor Bay's shallow, crystal-clear water, while others will want to check out Grace Bay's beautiful white sand and adjacent restaurants.

Renowned for its stunning resorts and sun-drenched stretches of sand, Mallorca is a popular summer beach getaway for Europeans. Beyond its nearly 300 beaches, the largest of Spain's Balearic Islands also lures visitors with its natural wonders (think: caves and mountains) and enchanting towns and villages. If you can tear yourself away from the sand, you'll find the capital of Palma de Mallorca is chock-full of history and vibrant city life, with attractions like Palma Cathedral and the Royal Palace of La Almudaina, bustling markets and shaded gardens.

Malta is ideal for those who want to take a step back in time. The ancient city of Mdina dates back to A.D. 60 and features narrow streets, stone gates and well-preserved city walls, while Valletta offers 16th-century wonders such as St. John's Co-Cathedral and Casa Rocca Piccola. That's not to say that Malta can't compete with other islands' beaches. Golden Bay, situated on Malta's northwest coast, is one of the region's most popular shorelines, and on Gozo, Malta's sister island, Ramla Bay is popular for its unique red sand. And when the sun goes down, St. Julian's offers a vibrant nightlife scene.

This dreamy Thai island in the Andaman Sea balances cosmopolitan flair with rugged beauty. Here, you'll find white sand beaches like Nai Harn and Kata Noi sidled up next to mountainous rainforests and towns full of ornate Buddhist temples, such as Wat Chalong. For the best views of the sea, venture to Promthep Cape, the southernmost point of the island, or sign up for a boat tour. Don't miss the chance to enjoy the shopping, dining and rollicking nightlife scene in Patong.

Kaua'i is the oldest and most rugged of the Hawaiian archipelago. Adventure seekers will love hiking Waimea Canyon's crested buttes and gorges, while the Napali Coast beckons to photographers with its 17 miles of dramatic cliffs and gorgeous ocean vistas. Those who would rather spend their vacation swimming and sunbathing on Hawai'i's tranquil beaches should head to the shorelines of Po'ipu Beach Park and Hanalei Bay, both of which typically offer calm waters. Think about renting a car to easily get around this unique island, and make sure to bring your best walking shoes or hiking boots, as some of Kaua'i's most beautiful sights are only accessible on foot.

Vote to Add these Destinations to the Rankings

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The BEST Road Trips In America And Around The World: The Ultimate List

Posted: February 16, 2024 | Last updated: February 16, 2024

Roadside highlights

From the wilds of Chile to the kitsch Americana of Route 66, there’s nothing quite like a road trip for giving you the freedom to explore. We’ve sought out the unmissable experiences and hidden treasures on some of the world’s most incredible drives.

Click or scroll through this gallery to discover the most incredible road trips around the world and their standout experiences...

The Badlands Loop, South Dakota, USA

It's home to a variety of native wildlife, including a large colony of prairie dogs. At the Badlands Ranch Store you can buy peanuts and feed the furry rodents, but to see them in a wilder and more natural setting, take a five-mile detour down the bumpy track from Sage Creek Rim Road to Prairie Dog Town.

Sit back and watch as the champion diggers scurry about in the grasslands, popping in and out of their maze of holes.

After dark, it’s the Badlands’ starry night skies that seduce you with their beauty. Camp at Cedar Pass and enjoy star-spotting sessions. In July the Badlands Astronomy Festival takes place, with the park's Ben Reifel visitor center the place to find out what's happening.

In past events, there have been nightly telescope viewings with astronomers on hand to point out the Milky Way, Saturn’s rings, and Jupiter’s moons.

The Garden Route, South Africa

From glorious beaches to lush green hills, the Garden Route traces South Africa’s south-eastern coast. Flanked between the Indian Ocean and verdant mountains, the 125-mile journey extends from Mossel Bay in the Western Cape to Storms River in the Eastern Cape, taking in Knysna, Plettenberg Bay, and Tsitsikamma National Park.

Knysna is the golden child of the Garden Route, but make sure you also pay a visit to peaceful Noetzie Beach, just 10 minutes away. There are six quirky, privately owned ‘castles’ set in the lush hills behind the beach, some of which are available to rent.

Play at being royalty for the day as you watch dolphins frolic in the Indian Ocean beyond.

With wild forests plunging down to sandy bays, Tsitsikamma National Park is dramatic and enchanting. Tourists flock to the suspension bridge dangling over the mouth of the Storms River but try paddling up the gorge itself using a lilo.

Untouched Adventures uses the inflatables to explore hard-to-reach watery nooks and crannies.

Ring Road N1, Iceland

The famed cascading waters of Selfoss and Dettifoss are spectacular, but for a phenomenon with an otherworldly feel, head to the so-called lava falls at Hraunfossar in West Iceland. Here the water bubbles out of the Hallmundarhraun lava flow, tumbling down into the Hvita River below.

Tourists flock to the Blue Lagoon in their thousands, but for a more peaceful place to wallow, head to Seljavallalaug in the Highlands of the South Coast. Getting to the geothermal swimming pool, said to be the oldest in Iceland, involves a short detour off the Ring Road and a rocky 20-minute walk, but the valley views from the hot thermal waters are well worth it.

The Great Ocean Road, Australia

Australia’s Great Ocean Road skirts along Victoria's coast to the border with South Australia, with jaw-dropping views at every stretch. Start in Torquay, Victoria to take the 148-mile route west that takes in golden arcs of secluded sand, verdant rainforest, and plunging cliffs.

The coastline's most famous rock formations can be seen in Port Campbell National Park, towards the end of the route, including the Twelve Apostles – although sadly erosion means that only eight of these magnificent rocks remain.

When it comes to beaches, Bells Beach is famous for its surf and Apollo Bay is one of the area’s big hitters. Many gorgeous stretches lie between Lorne and Anglesea, including Aireys Inlet, a quiet hamlet with a towering lighthouse and glorious sweep of sand.

Explore the rock pools beneath the lighthouse, paddle in the waves, and climb up to take a tour of the historic structure.

The Basque Circuit, France and Spain

Kick things off in the Basque city of Bilbao, famous for its art, architecture, and food. While hordes descend on the Guggenheim Bilbao, the more understated Bilbao Fine Arts Museum is well worth a visit too, with masterpieces by Velazquez, El Greco, and Murillo.

Take an umbrella as you explore, as it rains in Bilbao around 12 days a month.

Montréal to the Gaspé Peninsula, Québec, Canada

Traveling in winter? You can seek refuge in the spectacular Hotel de Glace, a luxurious hotel made entirely of ice, just north of Québec City. It takes 60 people 45 days to build and only lasts from January until March.

The next day, refuel at Trois-Pistoles, where you can pick up freshly made breads, pastries, and cheese at locally-renowned Fromagerie des Basques.

Once on the peninsula, look out for blue and humpback whales among other cetaceans in the Gulf of St Lawrence and visit the crimson Pointe A La Renommee, one of Québec’s 43 lighthouses. Venture to the Mont Lyall open pit mine where, armed with a pick hammer and bucket, you collect geodes by the dozen. The resident stone-cutter will then slice open your most promising rocks, revealing their hidden sparkles.

The Atlantic Ocean Road, Norway

Stop at Bjartmars Favorittkro Tavern, with its grass-clad roof. Here you can tuck into locally caught cod stew and watch the storms roll in. Driving here in winter can seem hairy, as the ocean waves wash over the road.

For a different perspective, drive the road in both directions and, if you stop at one of the lookouts by night, you might catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights.

Obvious attractions include wildlife watching and fishing from the specially constructed walkways but take things up a notch by diving in the clear Atlantic waters.  Strømsholmen  offers guided dives locally and organizes fishing expeditions with likely catches being codfish, pollock, mackerel, and halibut.

Route 66, USA

For a classic slice of Route 66 history, stop for a photo at the Ambler’s Texaco gas station in Dwight, Illinois. Once the longest-running gas station on the highway, it was donated to the village of Dwight and lovingly restored.

There’s no gas though, so fill up elsewhere!

Wild West fans should head to Holbrook, Arizona. Take a walk up Holbrook’s Bucket of Blood street, so named because two rival groups of cowboys had a bloody shoot-out here in 1886.

Stay in one of the giant wigwams at the quirky  Wigwam Motel , somewhere you can expect oodles of character if not luxury.

The North Coast 500, Scotland

They may be on the well-trodden tourist trail, but Urquhart Castle and Loch Ness deserve a visit. Favorite haunts for Inverness locals include the Ness Islands, connected by a series of pretty suspension bridges in the middle of the river.

Afterward, head to Leakey’s vast second-hand bookshop, then the Milk Bar for handmade Highland ice cream.

Carretera Austral, Chile

Yes, it’s a crowd pleaser, but don’t miss the raw power of Petrohué Falls, with the staggering Osorno Volcano as its backdrop. Hire a boat to take you to El Rincón, then walk three hours through rainforest and overhanging bridges to Termas de Callao hot springs.

Ease aching muscles in the hot baths, before turning back.

Now discover 50 essential experiences to enjoy in South America...

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The 13 summer trips Americans are searching for the most, according to Google Flights

• Google Flights revealed the top searched destinations on its platform for summer 2024.
• The data is based on the most searched travel destinations from US users between June and August.
• Neither New York nor Paris took the top spot.

If you're looking to get away this summer, you may find inspiration from Google Flights' list of the top searched destinations for the summer of 2024.

The list is based on US users' most searched destinations on Google Flights for travel between June 1 and August 31.

The list remained largely consistent from 2023, but Chicago and San Francisco didn't make the top 20 this year. The insights also revealed that searches about travel itineraries and "solo travel" reached an all-time high in January 2024.

Here are the top 13 destinations.

13. Barcelona

There's a long list of tourist attractions in Barcelona including renowned museums featuring Picasso and Joan Miró, exploring the Gothic Quarter's architecture. Barcelona is also well known for its iconic nightlife.

Miami is known for its clear beaches and vibrant culture. It's also rated second in US News and World Report's "10 Best Party Cities " in the US.

The travel destination is also a popular site for families, and made the third spot in Google searches for top places to do things with kids, according to Google trend insights from for January 14 to March 14.

11. Los Angeles

Located in Southern California, LA is known for its beaches, Hollywood glamour, Mediterranean climate, and wellness culture. The city has a number of tourist sites, including the iconic Hollywood sign, Universal Studios, and the Getty Center.

If you plan to visit LA, make sure you factor in the cost of transportation — and the time you may spend in traffic .

Athens is rich in history and has a number of tourist attractions. BI has previously suggested visiting the Athens National Garden National Garden, the Acropolis, Panathenaic Stadium, Areopagus Hill, and Mount Lycabettus.

Seattle , often referred to as the Emerald City, is home to major companies like Amazon, Starbucks, and Tableau. Surrounded by water, mountains, and forest, it's also known for classic attractions like the Space Needle, Pike Place Market, and its grunge music scene.

8. Las Vegas

Las Vegas is known for its extravagant gambling scene and luxurious hotels . It was also ranked the number one city to party as of August 2023, according to US News and World Report.

It's not just a hot spot for bachelor parties though — according to Google travel insights from January 14 to March 14, it was the number one location people searched in the US for places to go as a couple.

Orlando was the first ranked location for searches that led with the prompt "things to do" with kids, according to Google travel insights from January 14 to March 14. The Florida destination is filled with family-friendly tourist attractions , like Disney World, Universal Studios, and SeaWorld.

Located on the Yucatan Peninsula in Mexico, Cancún is a popular vacation destination known for its Caribbean waters, luxurious all-inclusive resorts , and vibrant nightlife. That, and it's often budget-friendly for the experience you're getting.

Cancún moved down from second to sixth place in Google Flights' 2024 destination list. The popular vacation spot was also listed in the top five locations for couples and families searching to get away, according to Google search insights from January 14 to March 14.

5. New York

New York City, also known as the Big Apple or the city that never sleeps, has a seemingly endless list of tourist attractions. It has iconic landmarks, like the Statue of Liberty; world-renowned museums; a vibrant theatre scene; eclectic nightlife; and some of the world's best restaurants.

New York has something for everyone — but it's expensive. Prepare to spend more on everyday items if you visit New York City.

Rome is filled with rich history and architecture that makes it an easy site for tourists to occupy themselves. Vatican City, St. Peter's Basilica, and the Colosseum are a few of the most popular spots.

If you do visit Rome, make sure you avoid common tourist mistakes and tip the servers.

Tokyo rose from eighth place to third in the last year, according to Google Flights.

The city in Japan has a convenient public transportation system and is relatively affordable. It also includes culturally rich sites like Shibuya Crossing, Tokyo Tower, and Sensō-ji Temple .

Paris is known for its authentic culture, charming architecture, and buttery croissants.

If you visit Paris, you'll want to visit some of the famous tourist attractions like the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, and the Palace of Versailles. That, and you may want to brush up on your French too.

London maintained its spot as the number one searched tourist destination for summer travel. While living in London can be expensive and cloudy, the city is lively and vibrant during the summer.

Buckingham Palace, the Tower of London, and the thriving theatre scene are just a few of the activities this city has to offer.

• Main content

The 17 best Disney World hotels for your 2024 stay

Things have certainly changed since Walt Disney World opened more than 50 years ago . There used to be just a handful of hotels and one theme park. Now, you have the magic — and the challenge — of choice. There are more than 25 hotels to choose from and multiple parks to visit when you embark on a Disney vacation.

Related: The best travel credit cards

Choosing the best Disney hotel is a fun challenge, but a challenge all the same. The resorts at Walt Disney World range from those with views of live zebras and giraffes to treehouse villas and even log cabins in the woods.

When you choose a Disney World hotel, you not only stay in the "Disney bubble" but also gain access to the parks 30 minutes early each morning. Additionally, you can purchase individual Lightning Lanes for newer rides — like Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind and Tron / Lightcycle Run — before non-resort guests, starting at 7 a.m. This means you'll have a better chance of snagging those coveted ride passes.

Related: 14 reasons to stay at a Walt Disney World Resort property

Still, not all Disney resorts are created equal. Fortunately, TPG is here to help sort through the best hotel options at Walt Disney World. We've tried dozens of Disney-area hotels and carefully considered the best (and less-than-stellar) features of nearly every on-property resort to bring you this list.

Whether you're looking to be treated like a fairy tale princess or a grown-up who happens to be staying near a theme park, Disney World has you covered.

Here are our top picks:

• Best Deluxe Disney World resorts: Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge , Disney's Contemporary Resort , Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa and Disney's Wilderness Lodge
• Best Moderate Disney World resorts: Disney's Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter , The Cabins at Disney's Fort Wilderness Resort and Gran Destino Tower at Disney's Coronado Springs Resort
• Best Value Disney World resorts: Disney's Art of Animation Resort and Disney's Pop Century Resort
• Best Disney World resort pools: Disney's Yacht Club Resort and Disney's Beach Club Resort , Disney's Caribbean Beach Resort and Disney's Polynesian Village Resort
• Best Disney World resorts for large families: Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa , Disney's All-Star Music Resort
• Best Disney World resorts for adults: Disney's BoardWalk Inn , Disney's Riviera Resort

FOR NO-COST ASSISTANCE WITH PLANNING AND BOOKING YOUR NEXT DISNEY VACATION, CHECK OUT TPG'S DISNEY BOOKING PARTNER, MOUSE COUNSELORS .

Best Deluxe Disney World resorts

The cream of the crop among Disney World hotels in terms of amenities, quality and price are the Deluxe resorts. These resorts have multiple on-site full-service restaurants and extensive pool areas with waterslides. Some are within walking or monorail distance of the theme parks.

All of this comes at a cost, though. Deluxe Disney resorts can range from $400 to $800 per night for a standard room. Renting Disney Vacation Club points can help bring this cost down at times, but a Deluxe resort stay will be an investment compared to the other tiers of Disney hotels.

As mentioned, Deluxe resorts are the most expensive of Disney's hotels.

While some offer luxury amenities like spas and fine dining venues, others emphasize great themes and proximity to the parks. You also get access to select parks two hours later than everyone else when staying in a Deluxe resort on eligible nights.

A true safari involves incredibly long flights and the possibility of malaria pills. For a safari-style vacation closer to home, there's Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge .

Offering an unforgettable wildlife experience within U.S. borders, Animal Kingdom Lodge is its own ecosystem away from the hustle and bustle of most of the Disney World complex.

The soaring ceilings at Jambo House are adorned with traditional decor. If you want to see giraffes, zebras, ostriches and a host of other animals, all you have to do is merely walk past the lobby's expansive windows.

Dining at this Deluxe resort is another highlight of a stay here. Boma and Jiko are excellent choices if you want to experience an authentic African meal at the resort.

Look into the nighttime Starlight Safari , which comes with loaner night vision devices, for a unique experience.

The property is an example of an excellent time to rent DVC points, especially if your family wants more space while saving money. During low seasons, rooms start at just 7 points per night, with DVC points typically available to rent from David's Vacation Club for $21 to $25 per point.

Rates for standard rooms at Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge average around $485 per night.

Disney's Contemporary Resort is another original Disney World resort from the 1971 opening. It's about as close as you can get to The Magic Kingdom without pitching a tent inside the gates (and subsequently getting kicked out by security).

It may have been built over five decades ago, but its amenities have recently been updated. The rooms now sport an incredible new look. While the theme and renovations are a big step up, the main draw of this property is undoubtedly its monorail design and Magic Kingdom-adjacent location.

We prefer tower rooms over garden-wing options as they are more centrally located to the amenities and monorail, and many offer superb views of The Magic Kingdom's nightly fireworks.

When you've worked up an appetite, you'll find a few of our favorite Disney World restaurants on-site, including Chef Mickey's. At this popular eatery, you can dine with characters like Mickey, Minnie, Donald, Goofy and Pluto. For something more upscale, there's California Grill. If you time it right, it has some of the best views of The Magic Kingdom fireworks around.

Related: The 3 best Disney World character meals you've never heard of — and how to book them

If you're ready for a splurge-level stay at the Contemporary, there is also a club level where bites and beverages from the aforementioned restaurants are included.

Rates for standard rooms at Disney's Contemporary Resort average around $575 per night.

Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa is arguably the most traditional and iconic of Disney World's high-end hotels. You won't find many bright, in-your-face character themes here, but you will have access to some of Disney's most upscale amenities, including a spa and the fanciest (and priciest) restaurant at Disney.

It's one of Disney World's most expensive resorts thanks to its proximity to The Magic Kingdom, top-notch facilities, and over-the-top Christmas displays, including a gingerbread house in the lobby.

Fortunately, the Grand Floridian is undergoing a resort-wide renovation involving converting one of the hotel buildings into beautiful DVC studios. So, there's now one more reason to visit.

Dining is another highlight here. The acclaimed Victoria & Albert's experience is unparalleled, with a dress code and a no-little-kids policy to match. For an equally excellent but more affordable option, grab a cocktail or mocktail at the "Beauty and the Beast"-inspired Enchanted Rose bar on the second floor of the Grand Floridian's lobby.

Related: More rides and fewer crowds: What to expect at Disney After Hours

Rates for standard rooms at Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa average around $750 per night.

A short drive or boat ride away from The Magic Kingdom, Disney's Wilderness Lodge is equal parts Great Wolf Lodge , Yellowstone National Park and Disney magic. There are great attractions and restaurants on-site, including a water feature that starts in the lobby and becomes a creek that feeds into one of two outdoor pools.

For a fun, reasonably priced family dining experience, try Whispering Canyon Cafe — and be aware that if you ask for ketchup, you may get a lot of ketchup. If rare Disney characters are more your jam, enjoy dinner with the Evil Queen at Story Book Dining at Artist Point .

Those who want more space and ambience than a standard hotel room should reserve one of the Copper Creek Cabins in the woods adjacent to the Wilderness Lodge or the truly spectacular two-bedroom Yosemite Suite . Both are pricey, but we promise you'll love staying in either option.

If you do opt for standard rooms (or even club-level rooms ), the good news is that Disney's Wilderness Lodge is generally one of the more affordable of the Deluxe Disney resorts. So, you can rest easy knowing you're paying a little less than average for Disney's high-end properties.

Rates for standard rooms at Disney's Wilderness Lodge average around $500 per night.

Best Moderate Disney World resorts

If you want a balance of price and amenities, the Moderate category of Disney resorts can be a sweet spot. At Moderate Disney resorts, there are some full-service restaurants, more on-site amenities, waterslides at the pools, and a great variety of themes and locations to choose from.

Expect rates at these hotels to range from $250 to $400 on most nights for a standard room.

One of the best Moderate resorts at Disney World is Port Orleans. We're especially partial to the French Quarter side, with its charming wrought-iron railings, bubbling fountains and an eatery serving tasty Mickey-shaped beignets.

This property is much more compact than other Moderate resorts like Disney's Coronado Springs Resort and Disney's Caribbean Beach Resort. This makes everything from parking and catching a Disney bus to grabbing dinner that much easier.

It isn't the newest or fanciest option in Disney's resort portfolio, but it is a calm and lovely balance of theming and easily accessible amenities. Although you'll need a bus or car to get from this resort to any of the Disney World theme parks, you can catch the free boat to Disney Springs for shopping and dining.

In addition to the property's relaxing vibe and manageable size, the greatest asset of Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter is the price.

Rooms here are often more affordable than what you'll find at other Moderate properties, most likely because it's not connected to the theme parks by anything other than ground transportation (and Minnie Vans ).

Rates for standard rooms at Disney's Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter average around $300 per night.

One of Disney World's lesser-known Moderate resorts is also one of its most entertaining.

Disney's Fort Wilderness Resort has plenty of campsites for tents and spots for recreational vehicles .

However, if you're not interested in either, The Cabins at Disney's Fort Wilderness Resort are an excellent choice. It gives you the best of many worlds regarding space, price and resort activities — especially if you're not planning to spend all your time at the theme parks. The cabins sleep up to six and offer a queen-size bed, a set of bunk beds and a relatively comfortable pullout sofa bed. And soon, Disney will replace the current cabins with 350 all-new cabins .

Related: How to enjoy Disney World without park tickets

Trust us, there is one essential Fort Wilderness expense you'll want to budget for — golf carts .

It costs $65 to $84 per day to rent one. However, it makes it much easier to travel to the Meadow Trading Post for snacks, the docks for transportation to The Magic Kingdom, and other parts of the 700-acre property. Lock in your golf cart reservation as far in advance as possible since they're known to sell out.

Fort Wilderness has a nonstop list of activities you probably didn't know you could do at Disney World, including pony rides, archery, fishing, and rides in wagons and horse-drawn carriages.

When the day winds down, you can also check out the Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Revue , a lively performance full of dancing, singing and comedic moments.

Rates for standard cabins at The Cabins at Disney's Fort Wilderness Lodge average around $460 per night.

Disney's Coronado Springs Resort is the poster child of a Moderate Disney property. It's an older resort with two-story buildings spread across a large area.

Complimentary theme park transportation is limited to buses, and on-site dining venues are mostly quick-service options, given the resort's large convention clientele. Additionally, the rooms are on the smaller side, though they were recently renovated.

But one thing changed a couple of years ago that catapulted part of this property onto our favorites list: the new Gran Destino Tower .

This "hotel within a hotel" has a stunning lobby and an equally snazzy lobby bar. If you're looking for a completely different perspective, let an elevator whisk you up to the 16th floor, where the rooftop Dahlia Lounge awaits — along with an award-winning wine list. Gran Destino Tower is light on a Disney theme, but otherwise, its accommodations are on par with many Deluxe resorts.

Gran Destino is also the only Moderate option at Disney World that has a club lounge, should you prefer an exclusive space to visit and grab refreshments throughout your stay.

Rates for standard rooms at the Gran Destino Tower at Disney's Coronado Springs Resort average around $400 per night.

Best Value Disney World resorts

Value Disney resorts are the most affordable Disney World hotels.

Nightly rates start around $125 and increase to about $300 on peak dates. None of these hotels are walkable from the theme parks, but some are close to the Skyliner. Others require bus transportation.

Value Disney hotels don't have full-service restaurants or fun extras like waterslides, but they do offer grab-and-go food outlets, lively pools and colorful themes.

Disney's Art of Animation Resort is the king of Value resorts at Disney World.

The resort features bright colors and memorable Disney cartoon characters. It's also accessible from both Epcot and Disney's Hollywood Studios thanks to the Disney Skyliner gondola system .

Art of Animation really shines with its family suites, which provide a lot more room and have three beds in each suite (one traditional bed, one Murphy bed and a pullout sofa bed). The family suites have your choice of "The Lion King," "Cars" and "Finding Nemo" themes, while standard rooms feature decor inspired by "The Little Mermaid."

When it comes to pools, the Big Blue Pool at Art of Animation is actually the largest option available at any Disney World resort.

While the food here won't blow you away, Landscape of Flavors is a reliable cafeteria-style venue that can be a nice, easy option for families.

Rates for standard rooms at Disney's Art of Animation Resort average around $240 per night.

Disney's Pop Century Resort is across from Art of Animation. While it doesn't have our favorite theme (it's themed to bygone decades), it is usually the lowest-priced Disney resort that isn't one of the All-Star properties.

We generally prefer it to the All-Star resorts, as Pop Century is a stand-alone property that doesn't have to share a bus service. It's less likely to be packed with thousands of cheerleaders and children's sports groups. In addition to the included bus service to the parks, it also sits on the Skyliner route, so you can soar in a gondola to various parks and resorts.

Rates for standard rooms at Disney's Pop Century Resort average around $200 per night.

Best Disney World resort pools

Nothing beats an afternoon dip in your hotel's pool, so if you want to know which Disney resort hotels have the best pools, here are our top picks.

Disney's Beach Club Resort and its sister property, Disney's Yacht Club Resort , share access to Stormalong Bay, which offers top-notch poolside fun for the whole family.

Both resorts have the distinct feel of a beach in an otherwise landlocked resort thanks to sand-bottomed pools, a lazy river, a pirate ship and a wicked waterslide, among other amenities that will keep young swimmers entertained for hours.

Related: The best pools at Walt Disney World

The Yacht Club is marginally more convenient to the large pool complex, but the Beach Club is a little closer to Epcot. Choose accordingly. No matter which property you pick, don't miss the huge sundaes at Beaches & Cream Soda Shop, steps from the pool.

Rates for standard rooms at Disney's Yacht and Beach Clubs average around $540 per night.

Disney's Caribbean Beach Resort is one of Disney's Moderate resorts and one of the largest. Because the resort is so spread out, there are multiple pools across the property — six in total. The main Fuentes del Morro Pool is themed to resemble a Spanish fortress, with two waterslides, a zero-entry area, a 12-person hot tub and a pirate-themed splash area for kids.

The resort has a colorful island style, and some guest rooms recently received a Little Mermaid makeover. Despite the resort's size, it does offer convenient transportation options, including bus service and a Disney Skyliner station that can take you to Epcot and Hollywood Studios.

Rates at Disney's Caribbean Beach Resort average around $300 per night.

One of the original Disney World resort hotels inspired by Walt Disney himself, Disney's Polynesian Village Resort sits on the monorail only a few minutes from The Magic Kingdom. Yet, it transports you to a lush Pacific island the moment you enter. It's such a great property we almost warn against staying at Disney's Polynesian Village Resort because it will set the bar pretty high for future Disney resort stays.

At "the Poly," you'll find a couple of our favorite Disney restaurants. Notably, there's Ohana — a Polynesian-inspired dining venue within the resort's main building that serves delectable noodles and a mouthwatering bread pudding — among other options on the family-style, all-you-care-to-enjoy menu.

There are plenty of activities and amenities on the grounds, such as free outdoor movies at night and a 142-foot waterslide that drops riders into the main Lava Pool (there is a secondary quiet pool, as well). There's also a large splash area with several smaller waterslides for younger guests, a zero-entry section, a separate quiet pool and a nearby stand to grab Dole Whip. The icing on the on-site Dole Whip is being able to watch The Magic Kingdom fireworks from the pool in the evenings as the perfectly timed music pipes in.

Rates for standard rooms at Disney's Polynesian Village Resort average around $640 per night.

Best Disney World resorts for large families

Large families and groups can really rack up a bill when visiting Disney World since most on-property rooms are designed for no more than four or five people. As a result, your choices tend to be limited if you have at least five or six people in your group. Fortunately, a few resorts offer plenty of space for larger families.

Related: The best Orlando hotels for large families

Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa is another DVC property, with room sizes ranging from studio suites to one-, two- and three-bedroom villas. Deluxe studio rooms have a kitchenette and a balcony or patio, and villas have separate bedrooms, a full kitchen, in-room laundry and a balcony or patio.

The resort also has multiple pools, bike rentals, tennis and basketball courts, and a Community Hall with movies, video games and daily activities like crafts and games.

In the woods behind Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa are several Treehouse Villas that sleep up to nine people. Offering three bedrooms, two bathrooms and a kitchen, these spacious accommodations can easily fit an extended family.

Rates for Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa average around $500 per night, while the Treehouse Villas average around $1,300 per night.

Best Disney World resorts for adults

We love Disney, but we're not afraid to admit that having a brief break from its intensity is sometimes nice. Luckily, a couple of options are ideal for those who want to stay near the magic without living with Mickey and his friends 24 hours a day.

Disney World's newest stand-alone hotel is easily one of the larger resort's best options for adults who want to balance a Disney trip with some less in-your-face Disney elements.

On the Disney Skyliner route, Disney's Riviera Resort offers easy access to Disney's Hollywood Studios and Epcot without placing you right in the heart of all the theme park action.

The real highlight of this easygoing property, though, is its Mediterranean vibe. The blue-and-white decor, music and cuisine will transport you to the Mediterranean coast.

You'll find all the usual Disney amenities at this Deluxe resort, but it's just a touch more refined and grown-up without being stuffy.

We're serious Riviera fans thanks in part to its design, which includes everything from "Tangled"- and "Peter Pan"-inspired mosaics to marble bathrooms that may be the nicest in all of Disney.

Don't worry if you want to bring the kids, though. There's plenty for them to enjoy, including poolside gelato, a waterslide and our favorite toddler splash area at Disney World.

Rates for standard rooms at Disney's Riviera Resort average around $500 per night.

Disney's BoardWalk Inn is a DVC resort along Disney's BoardWalk in the Epcot resort area. That means you can easily walk to Epcot to eat and drink global cuisine around the World Showcase or to Disney's Hollywood Studios to fly the Millennium Falcon at Galaxy's Edge. The resort also offers water taxi and bus service around Disney World.

Related: Is a Disney annual pass worth it?

Guest rooms range from standard rooms to multi-bedroom villas, and the resort has three pools. You can splash and slide at the Luna Park Pool (or soak in the hot tub) or head for one of the quieter leisure pools.

This resort is all about location. In addition to being close to Epcot and Hollywood Studios, Disney's BoardWalk Inn is close to the dining, shopping and nightlife that line Disney's BoardWalk area. When you are done visiting the parks, you can visit Abracadabar, a magic-themed cocktail lounge, or Jellyrolls, a dueling piano bar.

Rates for standard rooms at Disney's BoardWalk Inn average around $600 per night.

Bottom line

Choosing the best resort hotel at Disney World gets easier once you identify your budget and priorities.

Do you want a great pool, more space, proximity to the parks or perhaps an immersive theme? No matter what is most important to you, you'll find a Disney property that will likely satisfy your needs.

Whether you're itching to splash around in the Stormalong Bay pool complex at Disney's Yacht Club and Beach Club resorts, stretch your budget at Disney's Pop Century Resort, retreat to a cabin at Disney's Fort Wilderness Resort or get an iconic eyeful of the monorail coming through Disney's Contemporary Resort, there's a Disney resort that will have every member of your family excited to be on vacation at Walt Disney World.

• 19 Disney World secrets that can add 'pixie dust' to your vacation
• Tips for visiting Disney World in 2023: 18 ways to save money and have more fun
• Does Disney Genie+ have enough magic to make it worth the added cost?
• 9 things you should never, ever do at Disney

Top 20 Destination Spa Resorts in the World: Readers’ Choice Awards 2023

View all of the 2023 Reader’s Choice Awards winners here .

All listings featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. If you book something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

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Solar eclipse 2024: Follow the path of totality

Solar eclipse, what you need to know to watch monday's total solar eclipse.

The NPR Network

A stunning celestial event is visible across the country Monday, when the moon crosses directly in front of the sun: a total solar eclipse. For those in the path of totality, there will be a few brief moments when the moon completely covers the sun and the world becomes dark.

Traveling for totality? Skip ahead.

This will be the last chance to catch a total solar eclipse in the continental U.S. for about 20 years, so here's what you need to know to safely enjoy!

When is the eclipse?

April 8, 2024 there will be a total solar eclipse that crosses from the Pacific coast of Mexico through the United States.

What is totality and why it matters

According to NASA , totality will start around 11:07 a.m. PDT/1:07 EDT in Mexico and leave Maine at around 1:30 pm PDT/3:30 pm EDT.

Here's what time the eclipse will be visible in your region

Check out this table for when the partial eclipse and totality are visible in each region or check by zip code here.

A partial solar eclipse will be visible across the contiguous United States, so even if you're not directly in the path, you should be able to see something special, weather permitting.

Unable to get to totality? We'll be sharing highlights here from across the NPR Network throughout the day Monday if you can't see it in real time.

Where to see totality?

More than 30 million people live in the path of totality for Monday's eclipse, and many more in nearby areas.

Here's what we know about Monday's weather forecast.

Why totality matters

As NPR's Neil Greenfieldboyce explains , "During a total eclipse, the sky darkens suddenly and dramatically . The temperature drops. Stars come out. Beautiful colors appear around the horizon. And the once-familiar sun becomes a black void in the sky surrounded by the glowing corona — that's the ghostly white ring that is the sun's atmosphere."

Eclipse Science

For april's eclipse, going from 'meh' to 'omg' might mean just driving across town.

A partial eclipse, while still a fun experience, is hardly as dramatic. Those with a view of the partial eclipse will see crescent-shaped shadows like those seen here in 2017.

How to watch safely

If you plan to look directly at the eclipse (partial or totality), you're going to need eclipse glasses handy because looking directly at the sun without proper protection ( traditional sunglasses don't count! ) can be harmful to your eyes.

The perfect celestial soundtrack to the total solar eclipse

As NPR's Joe Hernandez explains, "Proper eye protection must be worn throughout a total solar eclipse — except for the roughly 3 1/2 to 4 minutes when the moon fully obscures the sun, a brief period known as 'totality.' (You will need to take your glasses off during totality to actually see it.)"

If you don't have access to eclipse glasses, you can get crafty with things you have around the house ( like some of us did back in 2017!) More on that here.

Traveling for totality?

The celestial event is driving a ton of domestic travel to the path of totality. If you're headed out of town to view the eclipse, here are some NPR Network resources for areas in the path of totality:

Texas The path of totality crosses through the Lone Star State, with some areas expecting a possible influx of visitors in the hundreds of thousands to catch prime viewing. Our member stations across the state have gathered local resources to help you navigate the region and the eclipse!

• San Antonio: Check out the latest from Texas Public Radio
• Dallas: Explore KERA's coverage for the latest
• Austin: Head to KUT for the best local resources

Arkansas The eclipse will be cutting through the state, putting Little Rock in the path of totality. Check out Little Rock Public Radio for local resources.

The southwestern edge of the state will be well-positioned to witness the total solar eclipse this year. Kentucky Public Radio is covering the eclipse throughout the region, from Kentuckiana eclipse mania to the University of Louisville's free class about the celestial event. Keep an eye on WKMS for the latest local updates.

Missouri The southeastern corner of the state will be in the path of totality, crossing across towns like Whitewater and Ste. Genevieve. Head to St. Louis Public Radio for local coverage and resources. Illinois Carbondale seems to have won the eclipse lottery, being in the path of totality both in 2017 and for this year's eclipse . For resources from across the state, check out Illinois Public Media .

Indiana A huge portion of the state will be within the path of totality, giving cities across Indiana, including Bloomington and Indianapolis, prime viewing of the eclipse.

• Bloomington: Check out Indiana Public Media
• Indianapolis: Head to WFYI for the latest
• Fort Wayne: Just north of the path of totality, WBOI has resources for the Allen County area

Ohio The Buckeye State is getting bisected by this year's path of totality, plunging a number of the state's most populous areas into darkness for a few minutes on Monday.

• Cleveland: Head to Ideastream Public Media for the latest.
• Columbus: With the capital city just south of totality, head to WOSU for regional resources.
• Cincinnati: Totality will just miss the border town. Here are some tips from WVXU on how to navigate the eclipse in the region.

Pennsylvania Only the northwestern-most corner of the state will catch totality, with views from the lakeside in Erie being particularly well-positioned for a stunning viewing experience. WESA has more from across the region.

Plan to watch the eclipse from a wild mountain summit? Be ready for harsh conditions

New York Buffalo, Rochester, Syracuse and Plattsburgh will fall under the path of totality on Monday. If you're planning to travel to the region for the best views, here are some local resources to stay safe and informed:

• Buffalo: Head to WBFO for the latest
• Syracuse: WAER has more on plans in the Salt City
• North Country: NCPR has the latest from across the region, as well as information on local viewing events to check out

Vermont The Green Mountain State will see totality across its most populous region, including Burlington and Montpelier, as well as the Northeast Kingdom on the Canadian border. Vermont Public has everything you need to know to navigate your time in the region to enjoy the eclipse safely. New Hampshire The northernmost region of the Granite State will be in the path of totality, providing prime viewing to those in Coos County. NHPR has info on local events, travel updates as well as special coverage with New Hampshire Public Television. Maine The last state in the path of totality in the U.S., much of Northern Maine will be positioned for prime viewing. The rural region is preparing for an influx of visitors, and safety officials are encouraging visitors and locals alike to be prepared. Maine Public will be covering the eclipse and has everything you need to know to navigate the region safely.

How to document the eclipse safely

With the ease of cell photography , it can be tempting to reach for your phone to document the eclipse and the moments of totality, but make sure to do so safely.

As NPR's Scott Neuman explains , "For starters, you'll need to wear eclipse glasses or similar protective eye gear while aiming your camera or even just observing the eclipse."

Feeling ambitious? Here are a few more tips.

Or if you're not inclined to capture the moment visually, you lean into some other forms of creative expression. Indiana, for example, has named Linda Neal Reising the official poet in the state for this year's eclipse.

As former NPR reporter and eclipse superfan David Baron shared with Life Kit , viewing totality "[is] like you've left the solar system and are looking back from some other world."

So consider focusing on being present in the moment to enjoy the celestial spectacle.

More resources to enjoy the eclipse

• Sharing the eclipse with tiny humans? Check out these kid-friendly total solar eclipse learning guides from Vermont Public's But Why, and this great explainer from KERA Kids on the difference between a solar and a lunar eclipse.
• Want to see how a solar eclipse alters colors? Wear red and green on Monday
• Plan to wander into the wild for the best view? Here are some tips from outdoor experts.
• Tips from Bill Nye on the best ways to enjoy the eclipse.

NPR will be sharing highlights here from across the NPR Network throughout the day Monday if you're unable to get out and see it in real time. NPR's Emily Alfin Johnson compiled these resources.

• 2024 eclipse

When is the next total solar eclipse in the US after 2024 and what is its path? What to know

The highly anticipated 2024 total solar eclipse will cross North America on Monday , giving millions of sky-gazers the chance to see a rare cosmic event that won't be viewable again for 20 years.

The eclipse's  path of totality  will travel over a portion of northern Mexico before entering the U.S. It then it will cross 13 states  from Texas to Maine, where the spectacle is expected to attract huge crowds.

If you aren't lucky enough to be in the path of totality this time around, you will have another chance - you'll just have to wait until the 2040s.

Here's what we know about the next total solar eclipse to cross over the U.S.

Eclipse playlist: Fans return to Bonnie Tyler's 'Total Eclipse of the Heart' ahead of total solar eclipse

When is the next total solar eclipse visible from the U.S.?

It will be 20 years before there's a chance to  witness a total solar eclipse  in the United States again.

According to NASA, after Monday's total solar  eclipse , the next one viewable from the contiguous U.S. will be on Aug. 23, 2044.

2044 total solar eclipse path of totality

Unfortunately, the 2044 total  solar eclipse  won't have the broad reach across the U.S. as the 2024 eclipse.

The path of totality during the 2044 eclipse will only touch three states, according to the Planetary Society, a nonprofit involved in research, public outreach, and political space advocacy.

The eclipse will begin in Greenland, sweep through Canada and end around sunset in Montana, North Dakota and South Dakota.

Pets and the eclipse: Will my pets be safe during the April 2024 solar eclipse? What experts say.

2045 solar eclipse

While the 2044 total eclipse will only touch three states, a 2045 eclipse will have a more robust path across the U.S.

Expected to occur on Saturday, Aug. 12, 2045, this solar eclipse will trace a path of totality over California, Nevada, Utah, Colorado, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Kansas, Texas, Arkansas, Missouri, Mississippi, Louisiana, Alabama, Florida, and Georgia.

A partial solar eclipse will also be viewable in 35 other states, according to National Eclipse.com

What is a total solar eclipse?

Any celestial object like a moon or a planet that passes between two other bodies can create  an eclipse  by obscuring the view of objects like the sun.

In the event of a solar eclipse, the moon comes in between the Earth and the sun, blocking its light from reaching a small part of our planet. Partial eclipses, when some part of the sun remains visible, are the most common, making total eclipses a rare sight to behold.

Total eclipses can lead to a period of darkness lasting for several minutes, during which time nocturnal animals stir while confused birds and insects may fall silent, NASA says.

When a solar eclipse reaches totality, people are able to see the sun’s outer atmosphere called the corona, which is usually obscured by the sun's bright surface. This offers scientists an uncommon opportunity  to study the corona .

Totality also offers spectators a chance to gaze upon the spectacular sight with the naked eye, though  proper  safety  glasses  are still required for the rest of the time.

What states are on the 2024 eclipse path of totality?

Mexico's Pacific coast will be the first location in continental North America to experience totality, which is expected to occur at about 11:07 a.m. PDT,  according to NASA .

As the moon's shadow will northeast, totality in the U.S. will begin in Texas at 1:27 p.m. CDT. The path will then cut diagonally across the country, traveling through Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont and New Hampshire.

The eclipse's path is expected to end in Maine at 3:35 p.m. EDT before visiting the maritime provinces of Canada, according to estimates.

See  interactive maps of the 2024 path .

Contributing: Doyle Rice, Ramon Padilla & Janet Loehrke, USA TODAY

Solar eclipse 2024: Photos from the path of totality and elsewhere in the U.S.

Images show the Great American Eclipse, seen by tens of millions of people in parts of Mexico, 15 U.S. states and eastern Canada for the first time since 2017.

Millions gathered across North America on Monday to bask in the glory of the Great American Eclipse — the moment when the moon passes between the Earth and the sun. 

The path of totality measures more than 100 miles wide and will first be visible on Mexico’s Pacific coast before moving northeast through Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois and upward toward New York, New Hampshire and Maine, then on to Canada.

Total solar eclipse 2024 highlights: Live coverage, videos and more

During the cosmic spectacle, the moon’s movements will temporarily block the sun’s light, creating minutes of darkness, and will make the sun's outer atmosphere, or the corona, visible as a glowing halo.

Here are moments of the celestial activities across the country:

Breaking News Reporter

Elise Wrabetz is a Senior Photo Editor for NBC News digital

Chelsea Stahl is the art director for NBC News Digital