Are you a seasoned traveler looking for the ultimate adventure? Or perhaps a wanderlust-filled dreamer yearning for an escape to far-off lands? Whether you prefer meticulously planned itineraries like me, or the thrill of spontaneity, I have got you covered. From witnessing the stunning cherry blossoms in Japan to exploring the untouched beauty of the Amazon rainforest, these 18 epic trips are worth planning at least a year in advance. So, pack your bags and let's explore the world together!
Note: I have also added the best seasons to travel to each of these countries. Note, the flight rates are an approximate round off of how much to spend on travel if you book a year in advance. Most of these rates are from Bangalore, Mumbai, Delhi and Kolkata. Please check the rates in real time and book accordingly.
1. Cherry Blossom Bliss in Japan: Embrace the Beauty of Sakura
When it comes to Japan, a quick visit won't suffice. To truly immerse yourself in the country's beauty, plan for a couple of weeks exploring Tokyo to Osaka and beyond. For an enchanting experience, visit during cherry blossom season in late March to early April. The fleeting beauty of the blossoms can best be enjoyed in rural areas, though Kyoto and Tokyo offer stunning views too. To secure an unforgettable journey with an expert guide, make your bookings 1 year in advance.
Low season: February, March, April, May, September, October
High season: June, July, August, November, December
Cheapest flight: ₹ 13,132
Good deal round-trip: ₹ 54,432
Good deal one-way: ₹ 36,668
2. Witness the Thrilling Palio di Siena in Tuscany
Among Italy's many attractions, the Palio di Siena stands out as a unique and exhilarating experience. This iconic horse race takes place only twice a year, on July 2 and August 16, in Siena's Piazza del Campo. Don't miss this 90-second spectacle of bareback riders racing to victory. Due to its immense popularity, securing tickets well in advance is a must.
Low season: January, February, March, April, May, September, October
High season: June, July, August, November, December
Cheapest flight: ₹ 32,000
Good deal round-trip: ₹ 90,000
Good deal one-way: ₹ 58,000
3. Sail the Nile River: Unravel the Wonders of Ancient Egypt
For history enthusiasts, a journey to Egypt's ancient wonders is an incomparable adventure. Combining a Nile river cruise with land exploration is the ideal way to experience the country's marvels. Book your Nile cruise, such as Viking's Osiris, months in advance to ensure availability. As demand for these cruises has grown, early planning guarantees you the perfect itinerary to explore the red stone temples of Esna, the High Dam and Temple of Philae in Aswan, and the grand temple of Dendera in Qena.
Low season: January, February, March, April, May, September, October
High season: June, July, August, November, December
Cheapest flight: ₹ 8,000
Good deal round-trip: ₹ 20,000
Good deal one-way: ₹ 12,000
4. Revel in the Extravagance of Rio de Janeiro's Carnaval
Experience the vibrant energy of Carnaval in Rio de Janeiro, the world's largest celebration of its kind. To partake in the famous Sambodrome parade and secure the best accommodations, such as the Fairmont Rio de Janeiro Copacabana, make your reservations early. Joining in the festivities with a connected travel specialist opens doors to unique experiences, like marching alongside performers in full costume.
Low season: February, March, April, May, September, October
High season: June, July, August, November, December
Cheapest flight: ₹ 56,000
Good deal round-trip: ₹ 112,000
Good deal one-way: ₹ 72,000
5. Trek to the Enigmatic Machu Picchu
Machu Picchu remains a bucket-list destination for travelers worldwide. Due to its soaring popularity, visitor caps have been implemented to protect the site. Plan well ahead for a trek during the dry season (April to October) to secure one of the coveted 400 daily tickets to climb Huayna Picchu. Balance your visit by exploring the rest of the Sacred Valley's hidden ruins and savoring Andean cuisine.
Low season: May and September
High season: June, July, August, November, and December
Cheapest flight: ₹ 95,000
Good deal round-trip: ₹ 2,40,000
Good deal one-way: ₹ 1,40,000
6. Celebrate the Festive December in Ghana
Ghana comes alive during the festive December season, making it a perfect time to experience the country's vibrant culture. From Afrochella festival to beach club pop-ups, there's something for everyone. Book your trip early, coordinating with a travel group or agency to ensure you secure accommodations and event tickets to celebrate like a local.
Low season: April, May, and October
High season: June, July, August, November, and December
Cheapest flight: ₹ 28,631
Good deal round-trip: ₹ 71,893
Good deal one-way: ₹ 43,528
7. Bask in the Magic of European Christmas Markets
Europe's Christmas markets bring winter wonderlands to life with the scent of mulled wine and sweet treats. To fully immerse yourself in the festive spirit, plan your trip well in advance, allowing you to secure the best hotels and restaurant reservations. Wander through markets in Prague, Berlin, Edinburgh, and more, experiencing the enchanting holiday traditions.
Low season: January, February, March, April, May, September, October
High season: June, July, August, November, and December
The exact flight rates will vary depending on the city you are flying from, the time of year, and the airline you choose. However, you can expect to pay anywhere from ₹ 35,000 to ₹ 1,50,000 for a round-trip flight from India to Europe in December 2024.
8. Embark on an Adventure in Indonesia's Raja Ampat
Indonesia's Raja Ampat offers a remote and breathtaking archipelago that demands early planning. With over 17,000 islands to choose from, crafting a multi-stop itinerary is a must to experience the region's rich marine biodiversity. Snorkelers, divers, and nature enthusiasts will find themselves in paradise with careful planning.
Low season: April, May, September, October
High season: June, July, August, November, and December
Cheapest flight: ₹ 17,000
Good deal round-trip: ₹ 68,000
Good deal one-way: ₹ 43,000
9. Sail to Antarctica: A Journey to the Bottom of the World
A cruise to Antarctica is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, making reservations a year in advance essential. Given the short season (December to January) and limited itinerary options, early planning ensures you secure the cabin and ship of your choice. Make up for lost time and embark on a voyage to the southernmost continent, encountering awe-inspiring landscapes and wildlife.
There are a few different ports that you can depart from for a cruise to Antarctica from India. The most common ports are Ushuaia, Argentina; Punta Arenas, Chile; and Cape Town, South Africa. You can expect to pay anywhere from $5,000 to $50,000 for a 7-day cruise to Antarctica from India
10. Chase the Northern Lights on an Arctic Cruise from Norway
Sailing to the Arctic to witness the enchanting Northern Lights is an unforgettable adventure. Trips from Northern Norway to Svalbard offer the best chances to witness this natural wonder. Plan ahead for a mesmerizing journey through pristine Arctic landscapes.
The best way to chase the Northern lights is by taking a flight to Oslo, Norway, flying from Oslo to Tromso and booking a coach to Svalbard from Tromso.
Low season: December 2-8, 2024
High season: December 15-22, 2024
Cheapest flight: ₹ 12,144
Good deal round-trip: ₹ 43,360
Good deal one-way: ₹ 21,680
11. Discover the Unspoiled Beauty of the Faroe Islands
The Faroe Islands, with their colorful villages and unique wildlife, limit visitor numbers to preserve their unspoiled charm. To witness this remote territory's breathtaking landscapes, book well in advance to secure your visit during the summer months when the weather is ideal for exploration.
12. Cruise Along Alaska's Stunning Coastline
Alaska's stunning scenery is best explored through a cruise. While the cruises themselves may not require booking a year in advance, the popular tours and excursions do. Reserve your spot early for on-land adventures in Denali National Park and up-close encounters with glaciers, ensuring a memorable Alaskan experience.
You can expect to pay anywhere from ₹ 60,000 to ₹ 500,000 for a 7-day cruise across Alaska's coastline depending on the time of the year and the cabin you choose.
13. Conquer the Vastness of Patagonia
Embark on a journey to Patagonia, the land of breathtaking alpine lakes and glaciers. This vast region requires planning and connection through South American hubs, like Buenos Aires and Santiago. Plan ahead to explore the majestic Torres del Paine National Park and interact with adorable Magellanic penguins.
The cost of flights from India to Patagonia if booked in advance, can vary depending on the time of year, the airline you choose, and the specific dates you travel. However, you can expect to pay anywhere from ₹ 50,000 to ₹ 1,50,000 for a round-trip flight.
14. Trace the Historic Silk Road through Central Asia
The ancient Silk Road trade networks offer a journey through the rich history and architecture of Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, and Kyrgyzstan. Delve into Islamic culture, UNESCO World Heritage sites, and exquisite landscapes. Connect it all with the help of a reputable travel company to ensure a seamless experience.
Low season: January, February, March, April, May, September, October
High season: June, July, August, November, December
Cheapest flight: ₹ 25,000
Good deal round-trip: ₹ 75,000
Good deal one-way: ₹ 45,000
15. Experience the Enchanting Day of the Dead in Oaxaca
Oaxaca's Day of the Dead celebration is a vibrant and captivating event. Witness the transformation of the city's graveyards with marigolds and incense smoke. Join in the lively parades and immerse yourself in the local culture. Due to its popularity, planning in advance is crucial for finding accommodations and participating in this unique tradition.
16. Embark on a Thrilling Safari in the Amazon
The Amazon rainforest is a wildlife wonderland that offers unforgettable experiences for nature lovers. Whether you choose a jungle lodge or a boutique Amazon river cruise, plan ahead to make the most of your adventure. From night safaris to encounters with pink Amazonian dolphins, there's a myriad of activities awaiting you.
There are no direct flights from India to the Amazon rainforest. You will need to fly to a major airport in South America, such as Lima, Peru, and then take a connecting flight to an airport in the Amazon region. The cost of flights from India to the Amazon rainforest if booked in advance, can vary depending on the time of year, the airline you choose, and the specific dates you travel. However, you can expect to pay anywhere from ₹ 50,000 to ₹ 300,000 for a round-trip flight.
17. Road Trip Through the Vastness of Australia
Australia's vastness may seem daunting, but a well-planned road trip can cover many of its highlights in just two weeks. Rent a car and explore the Great Ocean Drive, surf at Bondi Beach, and dive the Great Barrier Reef. Early planning also helps you find flight deals and potentially fit in a stopover in Hawaii.
High season: December-February
You can expect to pay anywhere from ₹ 35,000 to ₹ 150,000 for a round-trip flight.
18. Discover the Allure of Bhutan: Land of Happiness
The mystical kingdom of Bhutan offers a unique travel experience. With a limit on tourist numbers, early planning ensures you secure your visit to this mesmerizing destination. Immerse yourself in the culture, visit ancient monasteries, and trek through stunning landscapes with
Low season: January, February, March, April, May, September, October
High season: June, July, August, November, December
Cheapest flight: ₹ 19,000
Good deal round-trip: ₹ 68,000
Good deal one-way: ₹ 43,000
Which one of these are planning for the next year? Let me know in the comments below.
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