Picture yourself in awe of the raw beauty of Antarctica’s icy landscapes, navigating the legendary Panama Canal, envisioning the breathtaking backdrop of Machu Picchu, or witnessing the vibrant wildlife of an African safari. Each of these exotic destinations promises a journey that will forever live in your memory.

You can access amazing offers on these and more incredible experiences during Expedia Cruises’ World Explorer Sale!

In a world brimming with awe-inspiring wonders, we’ve curated a list of the most exotic bucket-list destinations that will ignite your wanderlust and inspire your next adventure!

1. African Safari through the Serengeti

An African safari through the Serengeti is an unforgettable experience, offering views of some of the world’s most spectacular wildlife and natural landscapes. Located in Tanzania, the Serengeti is globally recognized for its biodiversity, expansive savannahs, and the Great Migration, where millions of animals move across the plains. The best time to visit and witness this incredible event is from June to October. Most travellers fly into Kilimanjaro for a typical 5–7-day Serengeti safari vacation which allows ample time to explore different parts of the park, witness wildlife, and fully immerse yourself in the experience.

2. Antarctica

Those seeking extreme adventure can appreciate the rare opportunity to visit one of the most remote areas on the planet – Antarctica! Expedition cruises that focus on this destination offer a truly once-in-a lifetime experience aboard powerful vessels designed specifically for extreme conditions. The polar season to Antarctica runs from November to March, during the Southern Hemisphere summer. These cruises typically depart from Ushuaia, Argentina, the southernmost city in the world, and cross the Drake Passage to reach the Antarctic Peninsula.

3. Panama Canal

Panama Canal cruises offer travellers the rare opportunity to experience one of the greatest engineering achievements in the world while also exploring a variety of diverse destinations in both the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. Starting in one ocean and ending in the other, these itineraries often include stops in Central America, South America, and the Caribbean. Though many itineraries are one-way, cruise lines such as Princess, Holland America, and Norwegian also offer round trip options with partial canal transits for the experience. Most cruises will depart from Miami, Tampa, or Fort Lauderdale for Caribbean-based itineraries. You can also depart from Los Angeles, San Francisco, or San Diego for Mexico and Central America itineraries.

4. Kimberley, Australia

Kimberley, Australia, is one of the most remote and rugged regions in the world, offering breathtaking landscapes, a glimpse into ancient Aboriginal culture, and unique wildlife. The best time to visit the Kimberley by cruise is April through September when the weather is cooler, and conditions are ideal for exploring. The closest city to fly into is Broome, the main gateway into the Kimberley and primary departure point for cruises exploring the western coast. G-Adventures offers itineraries for adventurous travelers and small groups while Globus Tours provides fully guided tours that include Kimberley as a part of a broader exploration of Western Australia.

5. Galapagos Islands

The Galápagos Islands attract nature enthusiasts who want to experience its pristine environment and diverse wildlife. The Galápagos can be visited year-round, but December to May offers warmer temperatures and calmer seas, while June to November brings cooler waters and excellent wildlife viewing opportunities. Cruises range from 5 – 8 days covering key islands, but longer 15-day itineraries are available for a more extensive experience. You can fly from North America to Quito or Guayaquil in Equador, then take a domestic flight to one of two cruise departure ports – Baltra or San Cristobal Island, before departing on an epic cruise across the Galapagos.

6. Machu Picchu, Peru

Perched high in the Andes Mountains, Machu Picchu is an ancient Incan city and one of the most iconic archaeological sites in the world. Explore the rich cultural heritage and stunning landscapes as you visit Cusco, and board the train to Aguas Calientes, the town closest to Machu Picchu. You can take a dedicated land tour offering ample time to get an in-depth understanding of Incan civilization, Peru’s rich cultural heritage and the significance of the historical sites you visit in the Sacred Valley and surrounding areas, or experience the highlight of Peru as a part of a larger South American itinerary.

7. Bora Bora, French Polynesia

Bora Bora, often called the “Jewel of the South Seas” is famed for its overwater bungalows, turquoise waters, and coral reefs. Visitors typically fly into Tahiti, then take a domestic flight or ferry to Bora Bora. Often a popular stop on a cruise, Bora Bora can be a part of a larger itinerary or enjoyed with a 2-3 day stay in an overwater bungalow to fully experience the island. Princess and Celebrity Cruises offer traditional cruise experiences, while Windstar and Oceania Cruises provide premium small-ship experiences. Most itineraries also include stops at Moorea, Tahiti, and Huahine, offering a comprehensive overview of French Polynesia’s stunning landscapes and warm hospitality.

Now is the perfect time to book your bucket list adventure. Leading cruise lines like Celebrity, Cunard, Holland America, Princess, Regent Seven Seas, Silversea, Seabourn, Oceania, Azamara, Viking, and Windstar Cruises, offer an unforgettable journey by sea. For a more in-depth, expertly guided exploration, G Adventures and Globus Tours bring you closer to the world's most iconic landscapes and cultures.

As your local Vacation Consultants, we are ready to make your travel dreams a reality. We can provide expert advice on booking every aspect of your epic adventure, so you can enjoy a stress-free vacation experience and fully embrace the excitement ahead.

You can access amazing offers on your bucket list vacation during our World Explorer Sale that runs October 8 – 31. Start planning your once-in-a-lifetime trip today and embark on a journey that will leave you with wonderful memories to cherish forever.

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