Not Optional: 9 Bucket List Destinations You Absolutely Need to Visit

Bucket list destinations

Have you been hit by an unshakable feeling of wanderlust? Well, you’re not the only one. So many people have been bitten by the travel bug that, as a whole, Americans spend $32,800 on travel every second. That’s $2.8 billion every day!

With so much money going towards traveling, you bet that there are countless amazing sites to see both in the United States and abroad. There are so many bucket list destinations that it may seem overwhelming trying to choose your next vacation.

While every continent and every country has several amazing trips to offer, there are a few trips of a lifetime that you absolutely must take.

Have we peaked your interest? Keep reading to discover 9 bucket list destinations you absolutely need to visit.

1. Visit the Galapagos Islands

The Galapagos Islands are one of the best places to visit because of the sheer uniqueness they offer. This is where Charles Darwin came up with the theory of natural selection which has completely shaped our way of thinking when it comes to biological evolution.

You’ll get the chance to see such a vast array of wildlife that can’t be found anywhere else in the world. Just be sure to keep an eye out for Darwin’s finches – the particular animal that influenced his theory of natural selection.

2. See the Northern Lights

Alright, so this one can be a little tricky. The Northern Lights are only visible between late September and early April. But that doesn’t necessarily mean you’ll get to see them. They are extremely difficult to track as they make sporadic appearances.

Among the best places to see the Northern Lights are Alaska, Finland, and Norway. Since the lights are unpredictable, we recommend picking a place that interests you for more than just the lights. But, if you happen to witness them, it’ll be one of the greatest once in a lifetime trips you can imagine.

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3. See the 7 Wonders of the World

We’ve all heard of the 7 Wonders of the World, but did you know that there are several different “7 Wonders of the World“? That’s right; there are the 7 Wonders of the Ancient World, 7 Wonders of the Modern World, the New 7 Wonders of the World, and more!

That’s a lot of wonders, so we recommend choosing just one list. While all the lists contain some amazing trips, we think the New 7 Wonders of the World tops them all! This list includes the Great Wall of China, Petra in Jordan, Christ the Redeemer in Brazil, Machu Picchu in Peru, The Roman Colosseum, and the Taj Mahal in India.

4. Visit an Ancient City

Ancient cities offer so many benefits to travels. They offer a true feeling of adventure as you walk around the crumbling walls and explore what used to be a thriving city. There is also ample opportunity to expand your knowledge and learn all about the city and the people who used to live there.

Many ancient cities around the world are available to visit. Among the most well-known are Pompeii in Italy, Petra in Jordan, and Machu Picchu in Peru. You may even recognize two of these well-known ancient cities as being on the 7 New Wonders of the World list!

5. Swim with the Pigs in the Bahamas

Adventure is great, but so is lazing around on the beach! The Bahamas offer gorgeous beaches where you can relax with a drink in hand soaking up the sun.

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But, you can take your tropical destination to the next level. On your next trip to the Bahamas, schedule a stop to Big Major Cay where you can have one of the greatest once in a lifetime trips. Here you’ll find a beach full of adorable pigs! Though the pigs are wild on this uninhabited island, they are very friendly, and you can spend the day swimming with them.

6. See the Great Barrier Reef

If you love the ocean and marine life, then the Great Barrier Reef must be one of your bucket list destinations. You’ll get an amazing opportunity to snorkel or scuba dive among colorful coral reefs, bright fish, and other stunning sea life.

While there are other barrier reefs around the world, Australia’s Great Barrier Reef is the largest in the world and would be a truly unforgettable experience for anyone who loves the ocean.

7. Go on an African Safari

If you’re more of a land-lubber, don’t worry – there are tons of bucket list destinations for you too!

One of the best bucket list destinations is Africa. While here, you should be sure to take a safari (or several). These amazing trips will give you the chance to see lions, elephants, and giraffes up close and personal.

Most of us have seen these majestic animals behind glass at the zoo, but it’s nothing compared to what you’ll experience seeing them in their natural habitat. Going with a guide will give you the chance to learn more about these animals and any conservation efforts taken to protect them.

8. See the Grand Canyon

One of the most amazing trips of a lifetime that you should add to your bucket list is to see the Grand Canyon. This natural wonder is truly breathtaking. It stretches on for about 1,900 miles, meaning that you could spend days or even weeks exploring this site.

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For those nature lovers out there, trekking the Grand Canyon will take this trip to the next level. Not only is the canyon beautiful, but you’ll get to witness some of the best stargazing at night as there is very little light pollution.

9. See the Eiffel Tower at Night

Many people dream of jetting off to Paris. Thoughts of macaroons, world-class art, and wine may fill your head. These are some of the things that make Paris getaways must take vacations.

The most iconic part of any Paris vacation is the Eiffel Tower. One of the best bucket list places to visit is the Eiffel Tower at night. Lay a blanket down on the long green field, grab a bottle of wine, and watch this monument come to life with sparkling lights.

The Best Bucket List Destinations

This world has so many wondrous places to visit that it can be hard to choose your next few must-take vacations. Whether you like the mountains, the city, or the ocean, there are hundreds of once in a lifetime trips that you should add to your list.

Don’t know where to start? Well, we think that the Galapagos Islands, the Northern Lights, the 7 New Wonders of the World, ancient cities, Big Major Cay, the Great Barrier Reef, an African safari, and the Grand Canyon are all bucket list destinations that you can’t miss!

Do we have you itching to travel? Check out our blog for more great travel posts like this.