Recently updated on December 4th, 2023 at 03:31 pm
If you’re like us, you’ve probably got a never-ending bucket list packed with all kinds of amazing experiences. But we’re looking for the best of the best – the most unforgettable, ultimate bucket list experiences that really are worth the hype. So we turned to you for help and asked our past guests on Trafalgar’s Facebook page to share which Trafalgar experiences should be on everyone’s bucket list. Here are their top 13…
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1. Safari in Africa
There are few travel experiences more iconic than a safari in Africa… So we can see why this one made the list. This incredible continent is famous for its unique safari experiences, from the Masai Mara in Kenya and the Ngorongoro Crater in Tanzania. Our guest Jenni Brusca voted for a “safari on the Serengeti during the great migration”, while Christine Sorochinsky said “Africa (South, Kenya or Tanzania)….so many!”
Whether you want to see the Big Five wildlife in South Africa, huge elephant herds in Botswana, or rare rhinos in Namibia, a safari tops any ultimate travel bucket list.
GET INSPIRED BY: African Safari Adventure
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2. The Northern Lights
Witnessing the Northern Lights, or the Aurora Borealis, is surely one of the most magical travel experiences of all time. As you lock eyes on the vibrant green, blue and purple lights dancing across the sky, jaws are sure to drop. This natural phenomenon only occurs in the Northern Hemisphere in winter and you can see them in places like Norway, Sweden, Finland, Iceland, Canada, and Alaska… So you’ll also get to enjoy the beautiful snowy scenery while you wait for the lights to make their surreal appearance.
GET INSPIRED BY: Scandinavian Northern Lights
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3. Manitoba, Canada
Our guest Wanda Jefferies said, “polar bears and belugas in Churchill, Manitoba, Canada” should be on the ultimate bucket list, and we agree! Head to Manitoba in Canada and you’ll discover a natural wonderland. The area is famously home to polar bears and beluga whales and it’s a moving experience to see these great creatures up close. Whether you see arctic foxes and bears in the snow or ride a thrilling tundra buggy, this is definitely one of the most memorable bucketlist experiences you can have with Trafalgar.
GET INSPIRED BY: Polar Bears in Manitoba
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4. Egypt
Lots of our guests voted for Egypt as one of the ultimate bucket list experiences to do before you die. But where in Egypt? Well, as Christine Sorochinsky put it, “pretty much all of it”…. And we think that sums it up nicely. From the Great Pyramids of Giza and the temples and tombs of Luxor Valley to the mighty Nile River, Aswan Dam, and cities like Cairo and Alexandria, you can’t go wrong with a Trafalgar trip to Egypt.
GET INSPIRED BY: Best of Egypt
5. Borromean Islands, Italy
If you’re looking for the best travel experiences in Europe, you’ve got to put Lago Maggiore on your list. Located in Northern Italy, the lake itself is absolutely gorgeous. But sail out to the Borromean Islands and you’ll marvel at all the beauty. There’s Isola Madre, famed for its rare botanical garden and Isola dei Pescatori, the gorgeous Fisherman’s Island. And don’t miss Isola Bella, with its 17th-century Borromeo Palace and magnificent garden. From the ornate terraces, obelisks, and grottoes, to the lush lawns, trees, and roses, this is a little oasis in the middle of Lago Maggiore. And as our guest Laurie Kuhns recommended, don’t forget to seek out the famous white peacocks on Isola Bella!
GET INSPIRED BY: Northern Italy including Cinque Terre
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6. Thailand
Thailand scored some of the most votes for our ultimate travel bucket list, and we can see why. This beautiful country is all about remarkable experiences, from gorgeous islands and beaches to mountains, jungles, and waterfalls. Gaze at dazzling temples or see the remnants of ancient cities. Our guest Valoree Schurpf said you’ve got to visit the Elephant Nature Park in Thailand. Whatever you’re into, Thailand has got it.
GET INSPIRED BY: Treasures of Thailand
7. Cornwall, England
You chose Cornwall in England as one of your ultimate bucket list experiences, and we think you’ve got great taste. This spectacular region is famed for its gorgeous beaches, charming villages, and ancient ruins, but it’s also home to a slice of paradise at the Eden Project. Once an abandoned clay mine, the crater has been transformed into a stunning garden covering 30 acres. There are enormous Biomes where you can trek through the world’s largest indoor rainforest. You’ll also find Mediterranean hillsides and outdoor gardens filled with artworks, performances, and all kinds of plants and flowers. It’s a jaw-dropping feat of engineering and a wonderful way to learn about sustainability. Our guest Dawn Weigand said “Visit the Eden Project in Cornwall, England. [It will] blow your socks off.”
GET INSPIRED BY: Best of Devon and Cornwall
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8. Machu Picchu, Peru
There is no doubt that Machu Picchu in Peru is one of the ultimate bucket list experiences of all time. Exploring this mystical ‘Lost City in the Clouds’ is one of the most awe-inspiring adventures you can have. From the ancient engineering marvels to the gorgeous mountain-top location, this is an icon that’s truly worth the hype.
GET INSPIRED BY: Land of the Incas
9. Sydney, Australia
It may just be the most iconic city in Australia – and you can’t miss visiting Sydney on a bucket list trip Down Under. This beautiful, beachy city is famed for everything from its unique Opera House and sunny Sydney Harbour to the golden sands of Bondi and Manly. Our guest Debbie Goodson said you’ve got to climb the Sydney Harbour Bridge. Whether you meet koalas and kangaroos at Taronga Zoo, or make the trip to the Blue Mountains to explore the bush, Sydney is something special.
GET INSPIRED BY: Wonders of Australia and New Zealand
10. Alaska, United States
Alaska is a place that stirs the soul, so it’s no wonder you chose it as one of the ultimate bucket list experiences. Home to the tallest mountain in North America, Denali is just the beginning of this scenic land. Whether you want to see whales and glaciers at the Kenai Fjords and Prince William Sound, spot moose and bears, or visit an Athabascan village on a riverboat, Alaska is unforgettable.
GET INSPIRED BY: Majestic Alaska
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11. Galapagos Islands, Ecuador
Wildlife experiences don’t get more inspiring than in the Galapagos Islands. These ancient, volcanic islands are brimming with the most unique wildlife you can’t find anywhere else in the world. From giant tortoises and iguanas to adorable sea lions and penguins, this is one of those travel experiences you’ll never forget.
GET INSPIRED BY: South America Revealed with Brazilian Amazon and Galápagos Legend East Cruise
12. Isle of Capri, Italy
You voted for the dreamy Isle of Capri in Italy as one of the ultimate bucket list experiences – and for good reason. As you sail across the sparkling turquoise ocean, you’ll see why this island has inspired countless artists and writers over the year. From the magical blue grottoes and beach coves to the glamorous beach clubs, vibrant squares, and the ancient Roman Palace, the Isle of Capri is simply the place to be.
GET INSPIRED BY: Italian Concerto
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13. Orkney Islands, Scotland
If you’re planning a trip to Scotland, you’ve got to add the Orkney Islands to your list. It may be one of the more underrated destinations, but our discerning guests picked this as one of the ultimate bucket list experiences you can do with Trafalgar. Ringed by rugged cliffs and beaches, these enchanting islands are home to amazing wildlife like puffins and penguins. You’ll also find history dating back 5,000 years here and you can see ancient ruins and the UNESCO Heart of Neolithic Orkney. Whether you want to go hiking, stargazing, or tuck into the delicious local produce, Orkney is a truly remarkable experience.
GET INSPIRED BY: Scotland’s Highlands, Islands and Cities
What experiences do you think should be on everyone’s travel bucket list? Let us know in the comments below!