2026 Bucket List Travel Experiences

Of all the astonishing destinations across the world, there are some places that offer truly life-changing experiences. We’re not talking about your average list of must-see attractions; we mean unexpected adventures and indulgent escapes in some of the most remote corners of the globe – as well as those closer to home.

These are the top bucket list travel experiences for 2026, hand-picked by our team of travel designers to help you plan the trip of a lifetime.

Each year, from late March to mid-April, South Korea‘s remarkable cities and natural sites are blanketed in pale pink cherry blossoms. The bloom begins in the warm southern regions of Jeju Island and Busan, before gradually moving northwards through Gyeongju and Seoul. If you can’t make it in time for spring, go later in the year for an equally stunning display of sunset-hued autumn leaves. Although Japan may be known for these seasonal spectacles, South Korea is just as gorgeous – and far less crowded.

Need to know: Plan your visit to coincide with the Jinhae Gunhangje Festival in early April. Enjoy military band performances and illuminated cherry blossom tunnels at Yeojwacheon Stream and Gyeonghwa Station. 

Morocco‘s High Atlas Mountains offer some of north Africa’s most dramatic scenery, with sharply rising peaks, deep valleys and ancient trails. You’ll set off from the village of Imlil, walking past walnut groves and over rugged mountain passes. Along the way, you might be invited to visit Berber villages (your guide translating while you chat with residents), admire glassy lakes and watch waterfalls that tumble into emerald ravines. Ascend further toward Mount Toubkal or stay at gentler altitudes to take in sweeping views of sunlit slopes and terraced valleys dotted with centuries-old kasbahs.

Need to know: We recommend staying at Kasbah Tamadot in the mountains, a peaceful base for exploring the surrounding trails.

There are many reasons to visit Colombia and this year we’re excited to delve deeper into one of it’s extraordinary adventures. With the small highland town of Barichara as your base, you’ll walk it’s narrow cobbled lanes, lined with sunbleached whitewashed villas until you reach the start of the Camino Real. Follow this ancient trail through the hills of Santander, promising plenty of panoramic views along the way. You can either do a short hike from Barichara to Guane, or embark on a two-day trip all the way to Los Santos.

Need to know: The best time to walk the Camino Real is during Colombia’s dry season (December to April) when trails are easy to access and skies are clear.

To fully experience Tanzania’s natural world we suggest embarking on walking safaris from Wilderness Usawa in the Serengeti National Park. This one-of-a-kind mobile camp moves location several times a year to wildlife rich and remote areas, meaning you can start your adventures on foot, straight from camp. Head out on guided walking safaris to fully immerse yourself in the wilderness.

Need to know: We particularly love visiting during Tanzania’s calving season, from late January to early March, when there are fewer travellers and young animals are taking their first steps.

There are plenty of reasons to visit Oman in 2026, including bespoke experiences that you simply can’t find anywhere else. Step aboard a dhow – a traditional wooden vessel – like the Ibra to cruise the coast of Salalah, Muscat and Musandam Peninsula in search of spinner, bottlenose and common dolphins. Venture a little further to the Dimaniyat Islands to find more marine life in the clear water and coral reefs.

Need to know: While dolphins can be seen year-round, they’re most active between October and April.

There’s no better place to spend the 2026 holiday season than Finnish Sápmi – especially if you’re travelling with kids. Among one of our best winter experiences in Europe is to meet Santa himself, you’ll also visit the toy factory and go on sleigh rides. Adults will be equally thrilled to witness the ethereal beauty of the northern lights – perhaps through the glass roof of a luxury igloo or the floor-to-ceiling windows at Jávri Lodge

Need to know: The best time to visit for snowy scenes is from late November to March, this is also one of the best times for aurora viewing in Finland.

Patagonia is undoubtedly among our bucket list travel destinations, but this year we’ve got our eyes on Aisén in particular. This far-flung region of Chile, perfect for remote travel, is home to Explora Patagonia National Park. This intimate lodge that invites you to discover the surrounding rivers and lakes on a scenic kayak trip. If you’d rather stay on dry land, you can also go hiking, biking or horse riding.

Need to know: October to November are the best months for experienced kayakers to paddle fast flowing rivers and rapids, while December to March offer calmer conditions.

A trip to Nepal might automatically bring to mind images of Mount Everest, but the famous peak is far from all this country has to offer. In the Annapurna region you’ll stay at one of our favourite mountain retreats to experience a bespoke programe of wellness and rejuvination. At Shinta Mani Mustang a traditional Tibetan health practitioner (Amchi) will prescribe a personalised experience inspired by Himalayan herbs, mindfulness and local wisdom.

Need to know: We love the glass walls of the spa at Shinta Mani Mustang, especially in the sauna. Completely relax as you become immersed in the piercing blue sky and snowcapped mountains just outside.

Is there anything more romantic than gliding between the grand capitals of Europe aboard a lavish luxury train? This is something every traveller has to experience at least once. In 2026, the world’s best luxury train journeys include the timelessly elegant Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, linking Paris, Venice, Prague and Istanbul, and the incredibly glamorous Belmond British Pullman. Whichever route you take, savour fine dining and enjoy ever-changing landscapes right outside your window.

Need to know: Explore more of Europe on Switzerland’s rail tours. Journey on the Glacier Express during September and October to see golden landscapes as the leaves turn, and before the high passes close for winter.

Sri Lanka may be a small nation, but it has more than one experience worth adding to your travel bucket list. The Pekoe Trail is the country’s first long-distance hiking route. The section that starts in Bandarawela is especially rewarding because you’ll pass tea nurseries and learn about tea picking and production from the experts. Whether you walk a short segment or embark on a full-day trek, the trail is a low-impact way to explore the tea country and sits in our Positive Impact Collection.

Need to know: We recommend ending the day with a tea-infused dinner, pairing regional brews with creative dishes such as Earl Grey-cured salmon or hibiscus tea panna cotta.

The culinary prestige of San Sebastián isn’t exactly a secret. This coastal city in northern Spain boasts one of the world’s highest concentrations of Michelin stars, making it an essential destination for anyone who appreciates exceptional food. Wander through the narrow streets of the old town, where pintxos bars overflow with creative small plates, sip the local txakoli wines and learn about the culture of the Basque Country.

Need to know: Be prepared for late nights in Spain. Dinner service doesn’t typically begin until after 8pm and it is customary to enjoy the different courses slowly, so meals can last well into the evening.

Certain parts of the English countryside seem to be plucked straight out of a storybook. Case in point: the Cotswolds, an area that abounds with green hills, blossoming gardens and golden buildings. Wander through the region’s tranquil towns, fertile fields and flowery meadows, and visit a medieval castle or the Gloucester Cathedral for a dose of history.

Need to know: We recommend visiting during spring (March to June) to see blooming flowers such as daffodils and glorious Magnolia trees, and autumn (September to November), when landscapes turn bright red and burning orange.

Set in the remote landscapes of northern Kenya, Reteti Elephant Sanctuary is the first community-owned elephant sanctuary in Africa. You’ll be accompanied by a local Samburu guide who explains the process behind caring for these majestic animals and helps you understand their natural behaviours. It’s an experience that allows you to connect with the local people, wildlife and place.

Need to know: One of our favourite accommodations is Sarara Camp, perfectly placed for early morning visits when you can watch the elephants’ daily feeding.

If your dream destination for 2026 involves total seclusion and complete relaxation, we suggest a stay at Kisawa Sanctuary. Located on Benguerra Island in Mozambique’s Bazaruto Archipelago, it’s one of the top private island resorts around the world. Imagine snorkelling excursions, rejuvenating spa treatments and moonlit dinners in your own little slice of paradise.

Need to know: Mozambique is one of our favourite countries to combine in Africa, beautifully complimenting South Africa, where you can enjoy days on safari followed by total relaxation by the sea.

There’s nothing quite like falling asleep under an open sky in Zimbabwe surrounded by the sounds of the African night. At Wilderness Linkwasha Camp, you can stay on an elevated star bed with the Milky Way stretching above you in complete silence. The camp occupies an enormous private area of Hwange National Park, one of the best places for stargazing in Africa.

Need to know: The best times to stargaze are from June to August or from September to October, when rainfall is least likely.

Spending a night on the ice in Antarctica is an exhilarating bucket-list adventure for 2026. The stillness of the White Continent as you sleep in a bivvy bag surrounded by absolute silence feels truly otherworldly. The best time to visit is from November to February, when you can witness the midnight sun and see abundant wildlife including penguins and seals raising their young.

Need to know: We recommend speaking with your travel designer in advance if you would like to camp as this activity, along with kayaking, may need to be arranged before you set sail on your luxury expedition cruise.

Norway‘s spectacular coastline, including it’s islands, inlets and fjords, is one of the longest in the world. The Norwegian fjords create a landscape of deep valleys, cascading waterfalls, rugged mountain peaks and mirror-still waters. And cruising them is the best way to uncover their natural beauty. You can begin your adventure in Bergen or Ålesund, weaving through fjords like Geirangerfjord and Nærøyfjord, where small villages sit quietly beneath towering cliffs.

Need to know: The best time for this experience is from May to September, when days are long and daytime temperatures are around 15–16°C (59–61°F).

Namibia’s landscapes and wildlife are strikingly diverse, and Damaraland is home to one of the most extraordinary wildlife experiences around the world. In the remote Palmwag Concession you can track endangered black rhinos on foot with expert trackers. Follow fresh prints across the sand and learn first-hand about vital conservation efforts in this vast desert setting. Stay at Wilderness Desert Rhino Camp who work alongside the Save the Rhino Trust to help protect these incredible animals.

Need to know: The best time to visit is during the dry season (July to October), particularly in the morning hours, when rhinos are most active.

Tuscany is home to some of Italy’s most celebrated vineyards, a landscape of rolling hills dotted with rustic farmhouses, medieval towns, cypress-lined roads and endless rows of vines. Spend your days exploring the region, tasting world-renowned Chianti wines and joining intimate cooking classes that showcase simple, time-honoured flavours.

Need to know: La Vendemmia (the grape harvest) runs from late August to September, when you can join grape-picking and watch the winemaking in action.

Visiting Borneo’s rainforests means stepping into one of the world’s oldest and most biodiverse ecosystems. Discover its dense rainforests on foot, glide along winding rivers by boat and look out across the jungle canopy for signs of movement. Along the Kinabatangan River, you’ll spot the Big Five of Borneo – orangutans, proboscis monkeys, Bornean pygmy elephants, hornbills and crocodiles.

Need to know: Borneo’s climate is hot, humid and often rainy year-round. Pack light breathable clothing and be prepared for sudden tropical showers while exploring.

Selecting the world’s greatest bucket-list adventures is no easy task – and choosing between them is even harder. Our expert travel designers can help you decide which destination is right for you, then create a completely bespoke itinerary for the grand tour, outdoor adventure, classic safari or family or romantic trip of your dreams.