Explore the world like never before with our top 10 best experiences for travelers. Unearth hidden gems from Machu Picchu to Northern Lights!
11min
Ever dreamed of amazing travel experiences you could ever have in your life? Do you long for those extraordinary places that take your breath away, ignite a passion in your heart and create lasting memories? You're not alone.
We all yearn for those unique moments that transcend the ordinary. It's human nature to crave adventures that rattle our senses, ignite our curiosity, and transform us from within.
The beauty of these top 10 best experiences is they come wrapped in different packages – be it hiking ancient trails or feasting on street food in bustling cities.
Let's discover what we are talking about!
Suggested reading: How to satisfy your wanderlust without spending a fortune and 13 Bucket list adventure ideas around the world.
We shouldn't begin without mentioning that these is our selection of 10 of the best experiences you could have around the globe, but of course there are hundreds of other places that could have been on the list.
You're trekking through lush cloud forests, past ancient ruins. The air is crisp and thin at high altitude, but your spirit is as high as the towering Andes mountains surrounding you.
The Inca Trail in Peru, one of the world's most famous hikes, isn't just a walk in nature - it's stepping back into history.
At journey’s end awaits Machu Picchu. These 15th-century ruins take you deep into Incan civilization. Exploring these stone structures nestled among green peaks is like leafing through an epic tale etched by time itself.
The highest point on the trail, Dead Woman's Pass stands at over 4200m above sea level. As daunting as that sounds (and yes it does test your endurance), reaching its summit gifts hikers with sweeping views of mist-shrouded valleys stretching far below - truly worth every step.
Note: Remember that hiking the Inca Trail is a serious adventure. Make sure you're in good physical shape, under the company of a guide from a reliable travel agency (ask other travelers who have done it before and search for reviews on internet) and be respectful of this ancient path. It's an experience that demands effort but pays back with life-changing memories.
Read about when is the best time to visit Peru and safety in Peru.
Standing tall as a symbol of endurance and strength, the Great Wall of China is an absolute must-see. It's not just about Beijing's famed Mutianyu section; there are many lesser-known parts that offer a unique perspective.
The Jinshanling or Simatai sections are less crowded but equally impressive. These areas let you experience serenity while taking in stunning views with fewer tourists around. Exploring these places truly makes for an authentic adventure.
You'll feel like you're stepping back into ancient history, walking on paths tread by soldiers protecting their homeland centuries ago. The thrill is real.
The true beauty of this UNESCO World Heritage Site isn't only about the structure in itself, its lies in its cultural significance to Chinese history and civilization.
The fortification has been built over various dynasties, each adding their own architectural styles and enhancements - making every step along the wall feel like flipping through pages of a living historical book.
Imagine waking up to the roar of lions, surrounded by the wild beauty of Africa. That's what a safari adventure in Tanzania is all about.
A Tanzanian safari lets you spot incredible wildlife right where they belong - not behind bars or glass, but free and thriving in their natural habitat. From towering giraffes nibbling on acacia trees to majestic elephants lumbering across vast plains, every moment is a discovery.
You might even be lucky enough to witness one of nature's most awe-inspiring spectacles - The Great Migration. Millions of wildebeest and zebra traverse the dangerous path between Tanzania's Serengeti National Park and Kenya's Masai Mara Reserve annually.
But it’s not just about spotting animals. A Safari experience also means soaking up some truly breathtaking landscapes. Whether it’s the sun setting over Ngorongoro Crater or the sweeping savannahs dotted with baobab trees – these are sights that stay etched forever.
Discover one of the world’s most impressive archaeological sites, carved into rose-colored sandstone cliffs.
Once a bustling trade center and the capital of the Nabataean empire between 400 B.C. and A.D. 106, the ruins here tell tales of ancient civilizations and their incredible architectural prowess.
You can walk through the Siq, a narrow gorge leading you to the star of the show: Al-Khazneh (the Treasury), which might look familiar because it featured in Indiana Jones movies. But remember, there’s much more to explore beyond this iconic structure, like temples, tombs and an amphitheater that speaks volumes about life thousands of years ago.
No visit to Petra would be complete without climbing up to Ad-Deir or "The Monastery"—an awe-inspiring monument larger than even Al-Khazneh itself.
You're surrounded by towering peaks, walking in the footsteps of legendary mountaineers. That's what awaits you when trekking to Everest Base Camp.
The journey is as rewarding as reaching the destination itself. The trail winds through breathtaking landscapes filled with dense forests, Sherpa villages, and Buddhist monasteries.
Lukla is where most treks start after a short but thrilling flight from Kathmandu. From here on out, it's just you against nature (with some professional guidance). Beyond its natural beauty, Nepal’s rich culture will also leave an impression on you during your trek. You'll experience local life in quaint Sherpa settlements like Namche Bazaar - dubbed "the gateway to Everest".
You'll need a good level of fitness and determination for this experience. But don't worry, trekking agencies offer comprehensive packages that include accommodation, meals and porters. Do your homework and research thoroughly about the most reliable agencies around.
Trekkers should take care about altitude sickness; proper acclimatization is crucial. Always listen to your body – safety first.
Definitely one of the best experiences around the world is taking part in unforgettable celebrations side by side with local people.
India, the land of colors and festivals, invites you to partake in two of its most vibrant celebrations: Diwali and Holi. These festivities are not only about joyous gatherings but also reflect the rich cultural heritage of this diverse nation.
Diwali, often referred to as the festival of lights, usually takes place between October and November. The celebration signifies the victory of light over darkness, knowledge over ignorance.
Two of the best places to experience it are Jaipur and Varanasi, where streets are decked with oil lamps called 'diyas', creating a spectacle that's hard to forget. Firecrackers form an integral part so do ensure caution while participating.
Holi, celebrated in March represents the arrival of the spring season in full bloom. Known for throwing colored powders at each other in merriment, it makes for one fun-filled affair.
Vrindavan is a top pick among travelers looking for an authentic Holi experience due to its unique tradition known as Lathmar Holi. Here too safety should be your priority; protect your eyes from direct exposure and be aware of pickpockets due to large crowds. In this festival in particular girls should extreme precautions (read the first timer's guide to solo female travel in India).
Remember these experiences offer more than just merry-making—they're gateways into understanding Indian culture and traditions better.
No list of top 10 best experiences around the world can be complete without a street food tour.
Bangkok, the vibrant capital of Thailand, is renowned for its streets lined with tantalizing aromas that entice food enthusiasts from around the globe.
From grilled meats and stir-fried noodles to tropical fruits and sweet desserts, street food here is an explosion of flavors. This city offers a culinary journey like no other.
A walk through Bangkok's streets will reveal why it's often hailed as one of the top street food destinations globally. You'll see rows upon rows of vendors selling a dizzying array of dishes at surprisingly affordable prices.
Eating on these lively streets isn't just about filling your belly; it’s also about experiencing local culture firsthand. As you savor each bite, you're tasting centuries-old recipes passed down through generations.
To truly understand why this city ranks high among global gastronomes, one must taste iconic dishes such as pad thai (stir-fried rice noodles tossed with eggs, bean sprouts, coriander, peanut and more), mango sticky rice (dessert combining ripe mango slices atop glutinous rice drenched in creamy coconut milk) and som tam (spicy papaya salad) right where they originated - roadside stalls.
Imagine gliding along the world's longest river, absorbing ancient history and vibrant culture at every turn. Welcome to an unforgettable adventure down the Nile River in Egypt, a journey that should be on every traveler's bucket list.
Your Nile cruise experience begins in Luxor, often referred to as 'the world’s greatest open-air museum'. Here you'll explore breathtaking temples and tombs of pharaohs before embarking on your voyage downstream towards Aswan.
The duration of this mesmerizing trip can vary depending upon your chosen package - with options ranging from three nights to seven nights or more. Each day brings new discoveries as you travel through time across millennia-old landscapes.
You will have opportunities for guided tours at significant historical sites like Valley of Kings, Karnak Temple Complex and Edfu Temple. Your Nile adventure culminates in Aswan, known for its beautiful Nubian culture and stunning landmarks such as Philae Temple. If desired, extend your stay here to visit Abu Simbel — a monumental temple complex rescued from rising waters during construction of Aswan dam.
The Camino de Santiago, often called 'The Way', isn't just a single path. It's more like an intricate network of routes that spread primarily across Northern Spain and extend into parts of France and Portugal.
All trails have one destination in common: the magnificent Santiago de Compostela Cathedral. Imagine stepping into this grand edifice after a long journey on foot that can lasts for several weeks or even months. But before you lace up your boots, there are some things to consider.
The French trail is by far the most popular among pilgrims worldwide. If doing the Camino in summer months, rather than this trail which can get very crowded as you get closer to the end, opt for other routes with fewer people but that offer equally rewarding experiences, such as Camino Primitivo - known as the original way.
Beyond reaching your goal at Santiago's Cathedral, remember that every step along these ancient trails offers unique moments worth cherishing. Whether it's bonding with fellow travelers, trying traditional food, or simply taking time to reflect amidst nature's beauty - each day brings something new on this journey of inner growth and self-discovery.
Experiencing the spectacle of the Northern Lights, also known as Aurora Borealis, is one of top 10 best experiences into nature's most magical light show. This celestial ballet paints a breathtaking palette across Scandinavian skies.
Collisions between electrically charged particles from the sun entering Earth's atmosphere cause these dazzling displays of light in the sky. The colors can appear as pale green and pink but shades of red, yellow, blue, and violet can also be seen. These displays occurs near magnetic poles.
Scandinavian countries like Norway, Sweden, Finland and Iceland offer prime viewing spots for this natural wonder. Remote locations away from city lights provide clearer views. Tromso in Norway or Abisko National Park in Sweden are among some top choices for chasing these elusive lights.
You might need patience though. Solar activity isn't always predictable which means auroras may not be visible every night. Tracking solar activity levels (KP index) with specialized apps will help improve your chances to witness them.
Northern Lights season runs from late September to late March but it's generally agreed that December through February gives you higher odds due to darker nights.
Some of the Top 10 best experiences we've covered can be quite expensive, but we have very good news for you...
If you're a traveler on a budget, looking to explore the world and make meaningful connections along the way, then Worldpackers is just what you need. This platform offers an innovative solution that allows travelers like you to volunteer in exchange for accommodation around the globe.
Here's how it works: You sign up with Worldpackers and browse through thousands of opportunities in over 140 countries. These range from teaching English at local schools, helping out at eco-farms or hostels, assisting with permaculture projects and holistic centers, and much more. In return for your contribution as a volunteer, your hosts provide free lodging — thus saving you significant costs while traveling.
The beauty of volunteering through Worldpackers isn't just about cost-saving; it's also about immersing yourself fully into different cultures and communities. It gives travelers an authentic experience far beyond typical tourist activities or attractions.
Besides cultural immersion and making global friendships that could last a lifetime, there are many other benefits too. Volunteering can be incredibly rewarding personally - boosting self-confidence levels by overcoming challenges abroad all whilst contributing positively towards local projects.
The first step in any travel adventure is setting priorities and budgeting. Determine what you want to see, do, and experience most on your trip. Then research about travel costs in your chosen destination (accommodation, transportation and entrance tickets) and figure out how much money you can afford to spend.
Finding affordable flights and accommodation can be a challenge, but with some savvy strategies, it's possible.
First off, try booking well in advance of your departure date as prices tend to rise closer to the time of travel. Also avoid traveling during peak tourist season when demand (and therefore prices) are highest.
Consider using sites like Skyscanner for flights and compare prices in various hotel booking sites for accommodations, such as Booking, Agoda and Hostelworld - very often you'll get special deals that are exclusive to one of these platforms.
As we mentioned before, a great tool to save a lot of money is the Worldpackers' platform. It allows travelers like yourself to volunteer around the world while keeping costs low.
Packing smartly is key when travelling light. Stick with essentials such as versatile clothing items that can mix-and-match easily; toiletries in travel-sized containers; reusable water bottles; digital copies of important documents and a multi-tooled pocket knife. This way you'll have everything necessary without overpacking!
Check out the minimalist packing list for more tips.
Becoming culturally sensitive starts by learning about local customs before arriving at your destination - this shows respect towards host communities & enriches overall travel experience too.
Suggested reading: Ethical travel: How to support locals and be responsible during your travels and 7 tips to be a more conscious traveler.
Your health & safety should always come first when travelling. Make sure to research about local healthcare facilities, possible diseases, carry necessary medicines, travel insurance, and stay updated of local news and aware of sensitive issues.
Check out these tips to eat healthy while traveling.
If you like these tips, follow Worldpackers social media to keep up with the news: we are on Instagram and Tiktok!
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