The top items on your bucket list may include snagging a pair of Louboutin pumps and making out with at least one of the stars of Magic Mike; but while these are great things to have on your bucket list, if you don’t include travel into your bucket list then you’re seriously missing out. We just so happen to live on a planet with an abundance of amazingly beautiful spots to visit. Sooooo, to make it a little easier for you, here are the ten incredible places that definitely need to be on your bucket list:
Warning: the travel bug is a real thing and once you visit one of these breathtaking locations you’ll want to drop everything and become a full-time traveler.
Lake Hillier: Western Australia
THIS. LAKE. IS. PINK. For a reason unknown to scientists, this super salty (but still swimmable) lake is bubblegum pink. The contrast between the beautiful lake, the white sandy beaches, and the lush green surrounding eucalyptus trees is insanely spectacular. You’ll feel like you’re on another planet and even if the flamboyant rose color isn’t your thing, the also-amazing ocean is just a short walk away.
Okavango Delta: Botswana
This is everything visiting Africa should be; that hot, sticky, swampy feeling of truly being in the wild. It’s a place so diverse in flora and fauna that the world’s best zoo could never even come close. Here, you can partake in the life-changing experience of floating through the delta on a Mokoro (pole-pushed canoe) with a local who knows all there is to know about the area. There are many small islands surrounded by the swampy water where, on a private game hike, you can get up close and personal to countless elephants, giraffes, and zebras, just to name a few. Look up pictures of the Botswana sunset and just try to fight the urge to visit this amazing location. You won’t be able to resist. Tip: leave your diamonds and Louboutins at home!
Bagan: Myanmar
Bagan, one of the major Asian historical landmarks, is a mecca for sacred geometry and archaeological amazement. This holy city is the location of magnificent Buddhist temples (called ‘Four Wonders of Bagan’) that will leave you filled with awe and wonder. To have a unique, enlightening and truly unforgettable holiday, climb to the Ananda (means bliss!) temple to watch the sunrise over the dramatic countryside.
Plitvice Lakes National Park: Croatia
Picture rugged Croatian mountains surrounding 16 stunning turquoise lakes, majestic waterfalls, and lush green flora… basically just miles and miles of unspoiled beauty and breathtaking vistas. This UNESCO World Heritage site is home to magnificent butterflies, over 100 different species of birds, and woodland animals including wolves and bears. This national park is the definition of paradise so before even going, you should probably figure out how you’re going to force yourself to leave.
Torres del Paine National Park: Patagonia, Chile
Patagonia is known for its jaw-dropping beauty and this remote national park definitely has it all. Spectacular mountains, rivers, glaciers, and lakes make Torres del Paine one of Chile’s largest and most visited destinations. Popular for hiking, TDP rarely disappoints and affords adventurers with not only awe-inspiring views, but also a chance to see unique wildlife like pumas, foxes, and many birds of prey.
Glowworm Caves: Waitomo, New Zealand
Okay, so glowworms. In a cave. Can you even picture anything more magical than that?! Mother Nature was totally showing off when she decided to exclusively bless the already gorgeous country with the glowworm, Arachnocampa luminosa. Imagine slowly drifting through the sparkling Glowworm Grotto, surrounded by a galaxy of biological luminescence… If you’re more of an adventurous type, black water rafting through this breathtaking cavern will most likely be the most memorable thing you ever do.
Provence: France
One of the more popular European destinations, Provence is perfect for anyone seeking a fairy tale adventure. Surrounded by spectacular scenery, fields of purple lavender, and picturesque vineyards, are many grand chateaux and villages you can visit. Enjoy a glass of local Chinon while pretending that you’re French royalty.
Benagil Sea Cave: Algarve, Portugal
You’ll feel like an explorer who’s just discovered the world’s most magical location when you make it to the picturesque Benagil Sea Cave. Sea caves are formed through the constant erosion caused by waves and the one close to Benagil Beach is absolutely glorious. The options of getting to this epic cave are few, either take a boat or brave the swim from the beach. Just be sure to go around midday when the sun illuminates the cavern and you’ll truly be able to revel in all of its glory.
Galapagos Islands: Ecuador
The awe-inspiring beauty and friendly animals just may make you think differently about the world. This isolated group of twenty volcanic islands and its fragile ecosystem has taken on almost mythological status as a showcase of biodiversity. Yet you don’t have to be an evolutionary biologist or an ornithologist to appreciate one of the few places left on the planet where the human footprint is kept to a minimum. About 80% of the land birds you will see, 97% of the reptiles and land mammals, 20% of marine life, and more than 30% of the plants can only be found here and do not exist elsewhere on Earth.
Bryce Canyon: Bryce, Utah, USA
There’s literally no place in the world quite like this national park. Hoodoos (tall, lanky pillars of rock) are the results of erosion and the spectacular highlights of this special place. Visit any time of year; during rain, snow, or a clear star-filled night — regardless of the elements the gorgeous geological hotspot will leave you breathless.
Whether you’re a first time traveler or you’re experienced, these top places should be on your bucket list so you can experience the joy and wonder of this beautiful planet. Which place are you visiting first?
I had a cousin who went to Africa and she would talk almost endlessly about the beauty of it. At first, I was surprised because I was never a fan of being in the wild. Almost like dining with Zebras and Giraffes all day… But then I realized that my cousin loved Africa and said she would definitely return if given the chance mostly because being in the wild isn’t your usual vacation. It gives the feeling of freedom and there’s a certain carefree feeling to it that’s so good you can’t even explain. Not sure if I’m adding it to my bucket list but maybe I will.
Just like what you said, “Freedom”. It says a lot about how humans have been feeling locked up by their busy lives, so being here in Africa reminds them of what they desire!
The world is full of these wonders, yet we can’t do our part in saving our environment. It saddens me that in time, after these places are exploited by mankind, it won’t look as beautiful as it is right now…?
Benagil Sea Cave is so nice. I’ve only seen it in pictures but there’s something about how other photos have sunlight peeking through those swirling caves!
You got me at THIS LAKE IS PINK. I’ve been eyeing that pink lake ever since I saw it on Instagram. I thought it was an edited photo at first until I did my research. But then I’m not sure if I want to travel to a place just because of a pastel pink lake! Sounds very tempting but I’m still trying to do a couple of research about other places that I can explore other than that very adorable pink lake. But I’m aware that I don’t think my bucket list would ever be complete if I don’t visit this place!
Very beautiful places that you’ve listed here. I’ve gone to a couple and I must say that these pictures can’t justify how it looks in person. It’s really breath taking.
I think my bucket list just filled up.?
i saw that pink lake when we got to Australia one time. pretty cool if you ask me, but the real kicker is the beach that t just a few steps away. really great beach! totally want to come back whenever given the chance.
OMG! That pink lake and glow worm cave is SO COOL! Such majestic places to visit. Saving up money for travel. Top of my list = that pink lake!
you had me at PINK LAKE!!!! now want to go out of my room and explore… thank you
PINK LAKE!!!! packing my bags as i write this comment, now just need someone to go therewith.