Traveling the world gives you endless opportunities to discover and personally witness natural wonders that you cannot find anywhere else. Even the most seasoned travelers or those who travel for work will never run out of places to explore. However, there are more sites to see than there is time to do so in this world. Most people can only travel at certain times of the year, so trips have to be planned out strategically. When time is limited but you still want to see the world, this travel bucket list is for you.
This list highlights the top 10 spots to visit across six different continents. The destinations include beautiful resorts, ancient archaeological sites, snow and ice wonderlands, traditional cities, natural wonders, and more. This bucket list also offers an opportunity to discover what places make most of Earth’s seven continents magnificent and unique.
Discover your dream travel destination below.
North American Travel Bucket List Destinations
Antelope Canyon, Arizona: Antelope Canyon is a slot canyon known for its smooth, flowing sandstone walls that create mesmerizing light beams when the sun shines directly overhead. Divided into Upper and Lower Antelope Canyon, these narrow passageways with stunning hues and light play make it a photographer’s paradise.
Grand Prismatic Spring, Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming: This vibrant hot spring is famous for its rainbow-like colors caused by microbial mats around the mineral-rich waters. It is the largest hot spring in the United States and the third-largest in the world.
Banff National Park, Canada: Nestled in the Canadian Rockies, Banff National Park features stunning mountain scenery and pristine lakes. It’s also the site of the iconic Lake Louise, surrounded by glaciers and snow-capped peaks.
Zion National Park, United States: Zion National Park in Utah offers more than its famous rainbow mountains. There are also towering red cliffs, slot canyons, and the emerald waters of the Virgin River.
Cenotes of the Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico: These natural sinkholes, filled with crystal-clear freshwater, are scattered across the Yucatan Peninsula. Cenotes provide a refreshing swimming experience while also serving as a unique marker to the region.
Pitons, Saint Lucia: The Pitons are two volcanic spires, Gros Piton and Petit Piton, rising dramatically from the sea on Saint Lucia’s southwest coast. These UNESCO World Heritage Site landmarks offer hiking trails and stunning views of the lush landscapes and the Caribbean Sea.
Kenai Fjords National Park, Alaska: Experience dramatic fjords, tidewater glaciers, and abundant marine wildlife in this stunning Alaskan park. Visitors can explore the park by boat tours during their stay to witness tidewater glaciers calving into the ocean. Hiking various trails, taking in the stunning scenery, and experiencing the natural diversity is also a must while in Alaska.
The Baths, British Virgin Islands: This iconic destination on Virgin Gorda features massive granite boulders forming grottoes, pools, and tunnels along the beach. Visitors can swim, snorkel, and explore these enchanting natural formations.
White Sands National Park, New Mexico: White Sands National Park is in the Tularosa Basin of southern New Mexico and spans about 275 square miles. The park is renowned as the world’s largest gypsum dune field. The dunes constantly shift and create a mesmerizing landscape. Visitors can hike the trails through the dunes, sled down the sand, or stargaze in this International Dark Sky Park. Plant lovers can also learn about the unique plants and animals native to this environment.
Na Pali Coast, Hawaii: This destination is a remote and stunning coastline worth exploring while on the island of Kauai. Highlights include towering sea cliffs and lush valleys. Pristine beaches are also accessible by hiking or boat tours.
South American Travel Bucket List Destinations
Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca), Peru: Similar to Utah’s rainbow mountains, Vinicunca offers colorful striations of mineral deposits. The must-see phenomenon results in a stunning natural canvas of vibrant hues at high altitudes in the Andes.
Iguazu Falls, Argentina and Brazil: Iguazu Falls is one of the world’s most magnificent waterfalls. You’ll have to travel to Argentina or Brazil to experience it, as the falls span the border of both countries. The thundering cascades and lush surrounding rainforest create an awe-inspiring spectacle for travelers.
Galapagos Islands, Ecuador: This volcanic archipelago in the Pacific Ocean is renowned for its unique wildlife and landscapes. Visitors can encounter diverse species, including giant tortoises, marine iguanas and blue-footed boobies.
Patagonia, Chile and Argentina: This region boasts breathtaking landscapes. The awe-inspiring Torres del Paine National Park in Chile and the Perito Moreno Glacier in Argentina offer stunning vistas and diverse ecosystems.
Salar de Uyuni, Bolivia: The world’s largest salt flat lies in Bolivia. Salar de Uyuni presents a surreal landscape during the rainy season when it transforms into a giant mirror, reflecting the sky.
Amazon Rainforest, Brazil, Peru, Colombia: The world’s largest tropical rainforest is a biodiversity hotspot. While exploring the Amazon, take in the unparalleled opportunities for wildlife encounters and exploration of lush, dense jungles.
Angel Falls, Venezuela: The world’s highest uninterrupted waterfall, Angel Falls cascades from the Auyán-Tepuí mountain in Canaima National Park. Visitors can also take in the surrounding tepui plateaus.
Atacama Desert, Chile: This desert is known as one of the driest places on Earth. The Atacama Desert features stunning salt flats, geysers, colorful rock formations, and an otherworldly, lunar-like landscape.
Easter Island (Rapa Nui), Chile: Famous for its monumental Moai statues, Easter Island offers a unique blend of mysterious archaeological sites, volcanic landscapes, and Polynesian culture.
Pantanal Wetlands, Brazil: The world’s largest tropical wetland area, the Pantanal, is a wildlife paradise where visitors can spot diverse species, including jaguars, caimans, and capybaras.
European Travel Bucket List Destinations
Santorini, Greece: Santorini is a volcanic island in the Cyclades group of Greek islands in the Aegean Sea. Although the city is famous for its stunning sunsets, most people are familiar with its white-washed buildings and blue domes, and dramatic cliffs overlooking the Aegean Sea. The sunsets in Santorini are particularly famous for their breathtaking beauty. Explore charming villages, visit ancient sites like Akrotiri, enjoy stunning beaches, and savor the local cuisine and wines.
Plitvice Lakes National Park, Croatia: Situated in central Croatia, this national park is renowned for its chain of 16 terraced lakes interconnected by waterfalls. The turquoise lakes, cascading waterfalls, and lush forests create a stunning natural landscape. The park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Northern Lights, Scandinavia: Witness the mesmerizing Aurora Borealis in regions like Norway, Sweden, and Finland during the winter. These are the only places during this specific time of year when you can see these colorful night sky displays.
Alhambra, Spain: Alhambra is a palace and fortress complex in Granada, Spain. This UNESCO World Heritage Site showcases stunning Moorish architecture, intricate courtyards, and beautiful gardens like the Generalife, and the Nasrid Palaces. Visitors can explore the Alhambra’s various sections, including the Alcazaba fortress, the Palace of Carlos V, and the Generalife gardens. It’s the perfect travel bucket list destination for history lovers.
Fairy Pools, Isle of Skye, Scotland: The Fairy Pools are a series of crystal-clear pools fed by waterfalls in the Scottish Highlands on the Isle of Skye. While surrounded by dramatic mountain scenery, enjoy the mystique and picturesque setting of these natural pools, perfect for hiking and photography.
Cinque Terre, Italy: Cinque Terre is a string of five colorful fishing villages perched on cliffs overlooking the Ligurian Sea. Connected by scenic trails, these villages offer breathtaking views worth taking in while visiting this part of Italy.
The Swiss Alps, Switzerland: The Swiss Alps cover a significant portion of Switzerland, offering majestic mountain landscapes and pristine lakes. It is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering majestic mountain peaks, pristine lakes, and charming villages amid stunning alpine scenery.
Plaza de España, Seville, Spain: Plaza de España is an architectural masterpiece featuring a stunning semi-circular building adorned with colorful tiles, bridges, and a beautiful central fountain.
The Blue Lagoon, Iceland: The Blue Lagoon is a geothermal spa located in a lava field in Grindavík, Iceland. The milky-blue, mineral-rich waters of the lagoon are renowned for their healing aura and surreal beauty. The surrounding volcanic landscape adds to the unique experience. Visitors can relax in the geothermal waters, apply silica mud masks, and enjoy various spa treatments while surrounded by the otherworldly scenery.
Neuschwanstein Castle, Germany: Neuschwanstein Castle is a fairytale-like castle in the Bavarian Alps. The castle is popular among travelers for its picturesque setting, towers, and opulent interiors.
African Travel Bucket List Destinations
Serengeti National Park, Tanzania: The Serengeti spans approximately 12,000 square miles and is located in northern Tanzania. Renowned for its vast savannas, the park is famous for the annual Great Migration of wildebeest and zebras, as well as its diverse wildlife, including the “Big Five” (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, rhino). Visitors can experience game drives, hot air balloon safaris, and, of course, witness the incredible wildlife and stunning landscapes.
Victoria Falls, Zambia/Zimbabwe: Victoria Falls is one of the largest waterfalls in the world. Its thundering curtain of water plunges into the Zambezi River, creating a mesmerizing spectacle. While visitors can view the falls from various vantage points, boat cruises and adrenaline-pumping activities are also available for the adventurous.
Maasai Mara National Reserve, Kenya: This reserve is famous for its diverse wildlife. It’s also the backdrop to the Great Migration, offering thrilling safari adventures and another opportunity to see the “Big Five.”
Pyramids of Giza, Egypt: During any trip to Egypt, a visit to this iconic archaeological site goes without saying. The site features the Great Pyramid of Giza, the Sphinx, and several ancient tombs. This is the perfect location for a firsthand view of the grandeur of ancient Egyptian civilization.
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Uganda: Bwindi is a UNESCO World Heritage Site in southwestern Uganda. It’s home to endangered mountain gorillas and is known for its dense forests and mountainous terrain. Gorilla trekking experiences allow visitors to observe these magnificent primates in their natural habitat.
Namib Desert, Namibia: The Namib Desert is the oldest desert in the world, characterized by vast red sand dunes, striking landscapes, and the surreal beauty of Sossusvlei. Visitors can explore the dunes, including Dune 45 and Big Daddy, or enjoy sunrise/sunset views. Visiting unique sites like Deadvlei, a clay pan with ancient trees, is also worth adding to your plans.
Table Mountain, South Africa: Table Mountain is a prominent landmark overlooking Cape Town in South Africa. Here, the opportunity to experience panoramic city and coastline views along with hiking and outdoor activities await.
Ngorongoro Crater, Tanzania: The Ngorongoro Crater is a UNESCO World Heritage Site in northern Tanzania. The crater is a natural amphitheater, home to a dense concentration of wildlife, including lions, elephants, and rhinos. This is yet another location that offers stunning scenery and a diverse ecosystem.
Okavango Delta, Botswana: The Okavango Delta in northern Botswana is the world’s largest inland delta. The Okavango River fans out to create a labyrinth of water channels, attracting abundant wildlife and offering scenic boat safaris.
Marrakech, Morocco: This vibrant city is a cultural hub with more to do than the time you’ll have in your itinerary. With its bustling souks, stunning palaces like the Bahia Palace, and the lively Jemaa el-Fnaa square, Marrakech delivers a sensory experience of sights, sounds, and flavors.
Asian Travel Bucket List Destinations
Taj Mahal, India: This iconic white marble mausoleum in Agra is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The symbol of love is also renowned for its stunning architecture and intricate craftsmanship.
Great Wall of China, China: Spanning thousands of miles, this ancient wonder winds through rugged landscapes, offering breathtaking views and a glimpse into China’s history.
Angkor Wat, Cambodia: The largest religious monument in the world, this ancient temple complex and UNESCO World Heritage Site in Siem Reap is a marvel of Khmer architecture and a testament to Cambodia’s rich history. Visitors can explore the temple complex, climb to the top for panoramic views, and witness stunning sunrise or sunset views.
Mount Everest, Nepal: Mount Everest in Nepal is a classic while also making many people’s travel bucket list. It is the world’s highest peak and attracts adventurers and climbers from around the globe. Even witnessing it from nearby regions provides awe-inspiring views worth seeing when exploring the area.
Borobudur, Indonesia: This UNESCO World Heritage Site is the largest Buddhist temple in the world, adorned with intricate stone carvings and surrounded by lush landscapes. Visitors can explore the temple’s levels, admire the detailed reliefs depicting Buddhist teachings, and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes.
The Maldives: The Maldives is an island nation in the Indian Ocean with crystal-clear waters and white sandy beaches. Its overwater bungalows offer relaxation while vibrant coral reefs are great for snorkeling and diving.
Petra, Jordan: This ancient city carved into rose-red cliffs is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, showcasing impressive rock-cut architecture including the Treasury and Monastery, reflecting the ancient Nabatean civilization’s craftsmanship. Visitors can explore the ancient city through the Siq (narrow canyon), and discover tombs, temples, and amphitheaters while appreciating the historical significance of Petra.
Kyoto, Japan: Kyoto is a city in central Japan brimming with tradition and culture, featuring historic temples, serene gardens like the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, and traditional tea houses. Visitors can participate in tea ceremonies, explore historic districts like Gion, and also visit iconic temples and gardens.
Bagan, Myanmar: Bagan is an ancient city in central Myanmar known for its archaeological sites. It boasts over 2,000 temples and pagodas dating back to the 9th century. The area showcases stunning architecture, religious monuments, and beautiful landscapes. Explore the temples by bike or hot air balloon and appreciate the cultural and historical significance of Bagan.
Cappadocia, Turkey: Known for its fairy chimneys, rock formations, and underground cities, Cappadocia offers a surreal and otherworldly atmosphere. Hot air balloon rides over the landscape are particularly popular. Activities include exploring the rock-cut churches, hiking, and hot air balloon rides. Visitors should also experience the region’s rich history and geological wonders.
Oceania Travel Bucket List Destinations
Great Barrier Reef, Australia: A marine haven teeming with color and biodiversity, the Great Barrier Reef is home to the biggest coral reef system on Earth. To see the abundant marine life, take a glass-bottom boat tour of the reef, snorkel, or scuba dive.
Bora Bora, French Polynesia: A jewel in the South Pacific, Bora Bora is the epitome of tropical luxury. Stay in an overwater bungalow while swimming with sharks and rays or indulging in the island’s peacefulness. A lagoon cruise at sunset is also a must for any romantic getaway.
Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, Australia: Visit Australia’s Red Centre and lose yourself in its landscapes and fascinating Aboriginal culture. Witness the majestic Uluru (Ayers Rock) at sunrise or sunset when its colors change magically. The nearby Kata Tjuta formations are equally impressive and steeped in indigenous legends.
Rotorua, New Zealand: Rotorua is a geothermal wonderland home to bubbling mud pools, geysers, and hot springs. It’s also a hub for learning about Māori culture, featuring traditional performances and hangi feasts cooked using geothermal heat.
Fiji: The archipelago is synonymous with postcard-perfect beaches, clear waters, and warm hospitality. In addition to sunbathing and water sports, visit a local village, partake in a kava ceremony, and savor the flavors of Fijian cuisine.
The Cook Islands: The Cook Islands are a castaway’s dream, unspoiled by mass tourism. Rarotonga, the main island, is circled by a reef that creates a serene lagoon. With its enormous lagoon, Aitutaki offers some of the best snorkeling and bonefishing spots in the world.
Tasmania, Australia: Tasmania is an island of rugged wilderness, dense rainforests, and fascinating wildlife. Hike through the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area, spot the elusive Tasmanian devil, and taste the local food and wine scene.
Vanuatu: Vanuatu is a cultural and natural wonder with active volcanoes like Mount Yasur and a thriving Melanesian culture. Tanna Island’s blue cave is a surreal snorkeling spot. Similarly, the underwater post office off Hideaway Island is a quirky must-see.
Papua New Guinea: Papua New Guinea is perfect for those looking for a little more off the beaten path. Tribal communities, stunning natural scenery, and astonishing biodiversity characterize this country.
New Caledonia: This French territory is home to one of the largest lagoons in the world. Its barrier reef is also second only to Australia. New Caledonia’s mix of Melanesian culture and French influence creates a unique travel experience.
