Many of us have a bucket list or as some prefer to call it, a living list, of some description, and we can guarantee the majority of things on that list involve travel. The trouble is, the more we travel the longer the list tends to get as new places crop up and new-found friends pass on their recommendations. But for many, it’s about more than travel, it’s about embarking on a journey of discovery, adventure and wonder. Whether that’s a journey into self-discovery or just wanting to see what the world has to offer.

From the heights of majestic mountain peaks to the depths of vibrant coral reefs, these 10 bucket list or living list excursions offer a glimpse into some of the most awe-inspiring locations on the planet. So pack your bags, fuel your sense of adventure and get ready to embark on a journey of a lifetime – or two.

1. Hike the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, Peru: Trek through the Andes Mountains to reach the ancient ruins of Machu Picchu, experiencing breathtaking landscapes and archaeological wonders along the way.

2. Safari in the Serengeti, Tanzania: Witness the incredible migration of wildebeests and zebras, while spotting lions, elephants, and other wildlife in their natural habitat on the plains of the Serengeti.

3. Explore the Galápagos Islands, Ecuador: Encounter unique wildlife like giant tortoises, marine iguanas, and blue-footed boobies while snorkelling in crystal-clear waters and hiking volcanic landscapes.

4. Cruise the Norwegian Fjords: Sail through dramatic fjords, surrounded by towering cliffs and cascading waterfalls, while exploring picturesque villages and encountering Arctic wildlife like whales and seals.

5. Road trip along the Pacific Coast Highway, USA: Drive along the stunning coastline of California, from Los Angeles to San Francisco, passing through Big Sur’s rugged cliffs, quaint coastal towns, and iconic landmarks like the Golden Gate Bridge.

6. Trek to Everest Base Camp, Nepal: Embark on a challenging trek through the Himalayas, following in the footsteps of mountaineers while enjoying breathtaking views of the world’s highest peaks. This one certainly isn’t for the faint-hearted.

7. Dive the Great Barrier Reef, Australia: Explore the world’s largest coral reef system, teeming with vibrant marine life, colourful coral gardens, and underwater caves, offering unforgettable diving and snorkelling experiences.

8. Explore the Amazon Rainforest, Brazil: Embark on a jungle adventure deep into the Amazon, encountering diverse flora and fauna, indigenous cultures, and the mighty Amazon River.

9. Hot air balloon over Cappadocia, Turkey: Drift over surreal landscapes of fairy chimneys, also known as hoodoos, and ancient rock formations at sunrise, experiencing panoramic views of Cappadocia’s unique terrain from above.

10. Experience the Northern Lights in Iceland: Witness the mesmerising dance of the aurora borealis in Iceland’s winter night sky, framed by snow-capped mountains and icy landscapes, for an unforgettable celestial spectacle.

Whether this is the first tick off your list or the tenth, these excursions offer a mix of cultural immersion, adventure, and natural beauty. All that’s left to do now is decide where you want to go – oh, and get your travel insurance sorted!

While bucket list holidays are guaranteed to provide an unforgettable experience, it is important to check the activities you are taking part in are covered by your travel insurance company. More often than not, a number of activities are covered as standard however those that carry a little more risk may require you to pay for an add-on or activity pack. If you are injured while taking part in an activity which is not covered by your travel insurance policy, it is highly unlikely your claim will be paid. You can read more about Activity Holidays Here.