March 6, 2024
Every traveler looks for those bucket-list-worthy trips that earn a spot in their memory bank of unforgettable travel experiences. Destinations are fine as a stand-alone reason for a vacation, but there’s something truly meaningful about having a unique experience in these idyllic places. While you might try cutting costs on normal trips, there are a few special trips that are worth going all out. Be sure to update your passport and charge your camera for these 6 once-in-a-lifetime travel experiences worth the price tag.
Hiking the iconic Inca Trail.
Allow yourself to be swept away by Peru’s stunning landscapes and captivating history by hiking the famed Inca Trail. Hidden high in the Andes Mountains, this 26-mile hike traverses through a diverse series of environments and ancient ruins before eventually culminating at Machu Picchu’s sun gate. It’s a breathtaking route that remains limited to a certain number of participants each year. This exclusivity adds to the aura of excitement and mystery surrounding this ancient trek.
Feeding Giraffes while enjoying local Kenyan cuisine.
What’s better than enjoying a delicious spread of local delicacies in a converted 1930s manor in Kenya? Having the opportunity to dine with giraffes, of course! Kenya’s aptly-named Giraffe Manor offers lucky guests an intimate encounter with these endangered animals that live on the hotel’s premises. Guests can hand-feed these stunning creatures from the comfort of their own room or while eating in the hotel’s dining area. This all-inclusive hotel features complimentary food and drinks to ensure you and the resident giraffes don’t go hungry. Free game drives are also included in the overall price.
Experiencing the ancient Bedouin way of life.
Abandon the trappings of modern society for a few days in exchange for a once-in-a-lifetime experience as a desert nomad. Become an honorary member of a Bedouin tribe as guides show you what it’s like to thrive in the wild. Take a camel ride out into the desert, sink your teeth into a centuries-old cuisine, sleep under the stars, and wake up for an unforgettable desert sunrise. There are many places in the Middle East and Africa offering this unique experience, although the Wadi Rum desert in Jordan is currently one of the most sought after destinations.
Searching for gorillas in the Ugandan jungle.
With less than 900 mountain gorillas left in Central Africa (the only place to see them), this is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park offers visitors a front-row seat to see one of man’s closest relatives in its natural habitat. Park rangers lead treks deep into the forest until a group of mountain gorillas is found. All of the sweat and soreness you get from navigating uphill, around trees, and through vines will instantly disappear when you come face-to-face with these magnificent creatures.
Watching the northern lights from bed.
The Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort is what you get when you mix one of nature’s most awe-inspiring phenomenon and a world-class hotel. Instead of braving the north’s arctic climate, guests get to watch the Northern Lights dance across the sky from the comfort of this resort’s toasty glass igloos. No need to worry about obstructed vision as you’ll have expansive views of the Aurora Borealis through the specially-designed transparent dome ceilings. Be sure to book in the spring or fall when the northern lights are most active.
Taking a road trip around the Land of Fire and Ice.
The Land of Fire and Ice boasts bubbling geysers, towering waterfalls, ancient glaciers, and unique mountains – all while easily fitting into the square area of Colorado. The best way to experience Iceland’s raw beauty first-hand is by driving the iconic Ring Road. This scenic loop connects visitors with some of the island’s most picturesque highlights – so get your camera ready! You can either rent a vehicle yourself or opt for a guided tour to get around the island.
While these once-in-a-lifetime experiences might seem out of reach, they’re quite accessible when working with experienced travel agents. That’s where the staff at CI Azumano Travel can help. Our team of expert planners can help you realize those unforgettable travel moments by handling the process from start to finish. All you have to do is focus on making lasting memories.