adventure trips for 20 year olds

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North America

Central america & caribbean, south america, north africa & middle east.

Few travellers make it to this icy continent, but the lucky ones who do get to explore a frozen Eden ruled by the elements and teeming with wildlife.

G Adventures Land

G adventures sailing & cruises, g adventures private travel.

Whether it’s a family retreat or a girls trip, you can surround yourself with a hand-picked crew and customize a tour that fits you all perfectly.

The Geluxe Collection

Our new line of premium active adventures is officially here. With perfectly paced itineraries, one-of-a-kind accommodations and elevated dining, this is adventure at its finest.

National Geographic Journeys

Go deeper into the cultures and habitats of the places we explore. More is included and you’ll enjoy greater hands-on exploration, interactions with local experts, and freedom to roam.

National Geographic Family Journeys

Are you an adventure-loving family in search of meaningful ways to discover the world together? These tours are specially designed for travellers seven and up and their inquisitive families.

Jane Goodall Collection

Step deeper into the animal kingdom while respecting all of its inhabitants. Our incredible collection of 20 wildlife-focused tours is endorsed by the world-renowned ethologist.

Roamies by Hostelworld

The thrill of adventure. The awesomeness of hostels. Get ‘em both on these immersive small group trips for 18 to 35-year-old travellers.

Why choose us

As the leader in small group travel for 30 years, we know how to do it right: flexible itineraries, freedom to roam, safety, peace of mind, and locally based guides.

Change the world just by having the time of your life. When you travel with us, you become a force for good by acting responsibly and creating positive impact.

Together with our non-profit partner, Planeterra, we ensure local communities touched by our tours benefit from our visits in as many ways possible.

Trees for Days

Leave your destination even greener than you found it! For every day on tour, we’ll plant a tree in your honour and ensure that our forests get to live their best lives.

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18-to-Thirty somethings tours

On your terms.

So you’re thinking of adventuring around the world? Good call. Sure, there’s no right way to do it. But there is “your way.” Want days filled with culture, followed by nights of just going with the flow? Do it. Want to go where the entire planet hasn’t already been, with free time to explore how you want? Make it happen. Want to travel far and wide with new friends from far-off places? You do you. Because in your life, you call the shots. Make sure you travel that way, too.

Five reasons to travel with us

Travel with an, international.

Going on our tours means travelling with people (22 or less, if you want to get precise) from all over the world. So on top of learning about the local culture, you'll also learn from your international crew.

The numbers speak for themselves: group travel is a safer way to see our world. Plus, our expert CEOs (Chief Experience Officers) have local knowledge you can count on as they lead you on your adventures.

Making it rain:

Not required.

Seeing the world shouldn’t require spending all your savings. With us, you’ll get the travel experience of a lifetime, plus good bang for your buck.

do your thing

We built our tour itineraries to feature a lot of free time, giving you the freedom to explore on your own, with your new crew, or whatever way suits your style.

A bit of this

A bit of that.

Like balance in your life? We can help. Our tours give you a healthy dose of culture during the day, before letting you get a taste for local bars and restaurants as the sun goes down.

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Sure, we’ve won some awards over the years. But what really makes us giddy is what they mean: that you, our travellers, have loved what we’ve been doing.

Things you’ll get to experience.

Sweet rides.

Travel in style and in comfort on our private rides. Our Landos in Africa have oversized windows for easy picture-taking, and USB ports at every seat. Sit back, relax, and soak in the experience.

So many ways to stay.

Hostels, hotels, homestays, camping — on our tours, you’ll stay in a number of accommodation styles specifically chosen to give you that oh-so-authentic travel experience.

First Night Out

On the First Night Out, we’ll take you to local hot spots where you’ll have the chance to get to know the crew you’ll be travelling with, plus the destination itself.

Big Night Out

Towards the end of your trip, you and your new BFFs will hit the town to celebrate all the crazily-unbelievably-inspiring moments you’ve had together so far. Oh, and your first drink is on us.

Protect Your Trip »

30 top adventure trips to take before turning 30.

Your guide to bucket-list worthy, boundary-pushing trips best appreciated in your youth.

(Getty Images) |

Bookmark these action-packed itineraries.

Exploring far-flung places, immersing yourself in diverse cultures and venturing out of your comfort zone on a life-altering trip may be the best form of education. From hiking to Machu Picchu to navigating hair-raising turns along the Pacific Coast Highway, enriching adventures in unfamiliar locales offer profound experiences that shape your perspective of the world – and yourself. But while embarking on an epic journey has an unmistakable appeal in your 20s, when you hit the 30-year mark, suddenly your tastes, time constraints and career demands can get in the way. That's why there's no time like your youth to see the world. Keep reading to discover thrilling trips that inspire a lifelong curiosity and wanderlust.

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Kauai, Hawaii

Getting a postcard-worthy photo of Kauai's captivating surf, scenery and dramatic cliffs isn't the only reason to plan a trip while you're young. Alex Howard, managing editor of the U.S. edition of Lonely Planet magazine, highlights kayaking the Na Pali Coast as an especially formative experience. "Regularly hailed as one of the best kayaking trips in the world, this route takes paddlers past the iconic, fluted coast of Kauai, best known for its cameos in films like 'Jurassic Park' and 'King Kong,'" he says. With the reputable outfitter Napali Kayak, you can take a guided 17-mile tour (starting at $225 per person) or paddle on your own among the mighty 3,000-foot cliffs.

New Zealand

New Zealand's rugged and diverse landscapes – punctuated by alpine ridges, volcanoes and sandy coastlines – are the stuff of dreams. You might recognize some of the spellbinding landscapes, such as Wellington and the Southern Lakes, from your favorite "Lord of the Rings" films. For an unforgettable, adrenaline-fueled adventure, visit Queenstown, which draws daredevils far and wide with active adventures such as hiking, whitewater rafting and bungee jumping. On Intrepid Travel's 11-day New Zealand South Island Explorer itinerary (from $3,115), you can scale the Franz Josef Glacier, marvel at Aoraki/Mount Cook – the tallest peak in the country – and paraglide, kayak, bungee jump or mountain bike in Queenstown, among other pursuits.

Machu Picchu, Peru

Sure, it's a legendary UNESCO World Heritage Site that merits a visit at any age, but your 20s offer the opportunity to easily hike the Inca Trail (the highest point sits at more than 13,800 feet) and marvel at the 500-year-old temples, structures and ancient ruins while you're able-bodied. The Lost City of the Incas offers plenty of archaeological gems to explore, from the photogenic Temple of Three Windows to Huayna Picchu, a pyramid-shaped mountain framed by jaw-dropping emerald peaks in the backdrop. For a mix of heart-pounding hikes through misty forests and exploring the ruins of the Sacred Valley, consider booking a seven-day Inca Trail tour (from $1,149) with reputable small-tour operator G Adventures.

The Trans-Siberian Railway

The Trans-Siberian Railway is a mind-boggling experience, says Tom Marchant, co-founder of luxury travel outfitter Black Tomato. The legendary seven-day, 5,772-mile journey from Moscow and Vladivostok weaves through seven time zones, stops at 120 locations and rolls past breathtaking backdrops, from Lake Baikal to the Ural Mountains. Aboard the Golden Eagle, a high-end private train, you can explore the Kazan Kremlin complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, admire wooden architecture in Irkutsk, Russia, and tour a national park and steppes in the countryside in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, on a 15-day trip (starting at $15,895). For a more cost-effective journey, book a 17-day Trans-Siberian journey with G Adventures (starting at $3,699).

With inspiring landscapes, impressive wildlife and ideal viewing locations for spotting the northern lights, Alaska often tops adventurous travelers' bucket lists. Howard highlights bear-watching at Katmai National Park and Preserve as an especially formative travel experience. "Every summer grizzly bears descend on a river in Alaska's Katmai National Park to feed on spawning salmon," he says. "The bears wait in the shallow rapids to snatch them out of the water – and sometimes pluck them from the air as the fish jump over the 6-foot falls," he adds. And the trip is about as off the grid as you can get. "The only way in or out of Katmai is via floatplane, giving this remote adventure a typical Alaska flair," he adds.

The Pacific Coast Highway

This iconic cliff-hugging route along California's Highway 1 is a rite of passage for nature lovers and road-trippers. And chances are, after admiring the cinematic coastlines, crashing waves and twisting turns in their natural grandeur on the drive from San Francisco to Los Angeles, you'll be awed and inspired to return. Along the way, take a detour at the Avenue of the Giants – home to towering redwoods – and cruise along Big Sur's rugged 90-mile coastline. Stretch your legs at Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park, which boasts marked trails, redwood grove forests and the photogenic McWay Falls for memories (and pictures) to last a lifetime.

For an eye-opening adventure, "explore the ruins of El Mirador," Howard says. The ancient Mayan settlement is tucked in Guatemala's Petén jungle, and "the largely unexcavated Maya city of El Mirador awaits exploration," he adds. Along the journey, "you'll pass through one of the most ecologically diverse regions in the world, although this two- to three-day hike isn't for the faint of heart," he adds. The site dates back 2,000 years and boasts spectacular wildlife in the Mirador Basin, including jaguars and colorful birds, such as the Caribbean dove and the hooded oriole. Consider making the village of Carmelita your home base, or make the 40-mile pilgrimage to Tikal, where you'll find ancient temples and pyramids and a mix of affordable hotels and inns.

Patagonia or the Atacama Desert, Chile

Trekking to wind-whipped Patagonia on the southern tip of South America offers the chance to explore untouched landscapes filled with magnificent glaciers, snow-capped peaks and turquoise lakes. But if you've already gone horseback riding, glacier trekking or fly-fishing in Patagonia's surreal setting, venture to the Atacama Desert, which boasts amazing landscapes that are "the stuff of dreams," Marchant says. The Atacama brims with salt lagoons, otherworldly backdrops and volcanic structures that beckon to thrill-seekers. Highlights include the El Tatio geyser, the wind-carved sand dunes in Valle de la Muerte (Death Valley) and Coyote Lookout. Consider staying at Explora, a luxury, all-inclusive outfitter that offers guided hikes, horseback riding and other excursions, along with an on-site observatory for stargazing .

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Scandinavia

If you're a cold-weather sports enthusiast, few experiences can match dog-sledding in Scandinavia, where you can "take in the wintry landscapes from the reins of a dog sled," Howard says. While you can book a daytrip dog-sledding excursion in places such as Tromsø, Norway, "the real adventure happens during multiday trips in the remote Svalbard and Finnmark regions in the frigid north," he adds. On National Geographic's nine-day Sweden: Dogsledding to the Icehotel round-trip tour from Stockholm (starting at $8,795), you'll explore snow-capped peaks, lush forests and frozen rivers across Sweden's Lapland region. Other trip highlights include meeting with a reindeer herder and staying in Jukkasjärvi at the Icehotel, which is composed of crystal structures, ice and snow.

A mecca for foodies, art enthusiasts and nature lovers alike, Mexico City offers plenty of world-class attractions, from the Frida Kahlo Museum to the Palace of Fine Arts. But if you're longing for more adventure, explore lively destinations across the country, from Oaxaca to Playa del Carmen on a snorkeling, swimming and hiking adventure. On Intrepid Travel's 15-day Mexico Unplugged tour (from $1,161), you can cross Mexico City, Puebla, Oaxaca and the Mayan ruins at Chichén Itzá and Playa del Carmen off your travel list and immerse yourself in vibrant landscapes and cultures. Highlights include exploring Oaxaca's vibrant markets, snorkeling in cenotes in Playa del Carmen and savoring spicy staples like El Yucateco hot sauce in Merida.

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Exploring Tokyo's fast-paced city streets, futuristic skyscrapers and dynamic food, fashion and design enclaves is a not-to-be-missed experience. After crossing Tokyo off your list, you'll want to discover deep-rooted cultural traditions, from authentic tea ceremonies to jaw-dropping temples and hiking trails in Nikko, Kyoto and beyond. With G Adventures' nine-day Japan Express itinerary (from $1,440), you can enjoy a blend of adventure and cultural enrichment. On the trip, you'll explore Nikko's storied Buddhist temples and shrines. Plus, you can immerse yourself in Kyoto's famed Gion district, where you'll find geishas and traditional teahouses – and enjoy a soothing dip in an onsen (a hot springs bath).

With its lenient, laissez-faire attitude, legendary coffeehouses and infamous Red Light District, Amsterdam has long been saddled with a risqué reputation. But for history buffs, culture vultures and thrill-seekers, the city and surrounding countryside offer a one-of-a-kind adventure amid striking canals and scenic cycling trails. You can pedal your way to Dutch beer institutions like De Blauwe Parade and In de Wildeman. And for a more action-packed trip – or if you need a break from museum-hopping – explore the city's top outdoor attractions. Book a tandem riding experience on the Amstel River, canoe in Waterland nature reserve north of the city or a take a guided four-hour countryside cycling tour (starting at $40) with reputable outfitter Yellow Bike.

From palm-studded landscapes to verdant jungles to iconic UNESCO World Heritage sites (we're looking at you, Taj Mahal), India lures world travelers of all kinds. On Intrepid Travel's 11-day Indian Getaway tour (from $637), you can stand in awe and snap photos of Agra's must-see site – the Taj Mahal – before checking out the Hall of Mirrors and catching a memorable sunrise along the sacred Ganges River in Varanasi. Other highlights include exploring the village of Tordi Garh and taking a walking tour in Jaipur to admire eye-catching architecture, including the Royal City Palace, the Amber Fort and the Hawa Mahal. For less activity and more sand and surf, head to Goa, where you'll find idyllic beaches and a mix of upscale and budget-friendly accommodation options.

South Africa

A trip to South Africa might seem out of reach, but with dynamic and captivating landscapes – from penguin-ringed coastlines to breathtaking national parks to unspoiled coral reefs – fascinating cultures and rare wildlife-viewing opportunities, the country is a must-see for any global citizen. On G Adventures' 16-day Cape to Kruger Adventure (from $2,464), you can form lifelong memories as you take a guided safari drive in Kruger and Addo Elephant national parks, where you can spot elephants, lions, leopards and other wildlife, hike or bungee jump in Tsitsikamma National Park and visit Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary in Swaziland. If time permits, tack on a few days in Cape Town to hike Table Mountain and admire the penguins at Boulders Beach.

Southeast Asia

Southeast Asia's arresting scenery and world-renowned sights, from the alluring beaches of Thailand to the ancient temples of Angkor Wat, has long lured 20-somethings – and for good reason. Whether you want to backpack across top destinations, such as Thailand, Vietnam and Cambodia, and stay in inexpensive hostels or join an organized tour, there are plenty of ways to experience must-see attractions and breathtaking landscapes on a shoestring budget. On the 18-day Discover Southeast Asia tour from Bangkok to Siem Reap with G Adventures in partnership with National Geographic Journeys (from $3,899), you can float along Ha Long Bay, visit the Angkor Wat complex on a guided tour and attend cooking classes in Chiang Mai, among other memorable experiences.

If you've always dreamed of marveling at world's highest peak – Mount Everest – it's hard to imagine a more exhilarating trip than visiting the Himalayas. With high-altitude conditions, the physically demanding journey is not for the faint of heart – or an inexperienced hiker. But if you have the strength and stamina, G Adventures' 15-day Everest Base Camp Trek (from $1,317), which starts and finishes in Kathmandu, is the adventure trip of a lifetime. Along the way, you'll wander past lush rhododendron forests, glacial moraines and tiny villages. Best of all, you can immerse yourself in Nepalese culture as you soak in breathtaking natural beauty in the Himalayas.

The Great Wall of China

Taking in the grandeur and majesty of the Great Wall of China is an unforgettable experience. While you will have to take a long flight to reach Beijing, you'll be glad you made the pilgrimage as you traverse the spectacular structure and take a sky-high cable car ride ascending the mountains. Of course, you won't be able to tackle the entire 5,500-mile structure, but with a guided expedition like G Adventures' 10-day Walk the Great Wall of China Tour (from $1,399), you can view spectacular angles along the Mutianyu and Crouching Tiger sections of the wall on challenging hikes and explore tucked-away villages along the way.

Party-loving Carnival revelers, white-sand beaches and emerald mountains may come to mind when you think of Brazil. But beyond Rio, there are plenty of natural wonderlands beckoning to adventure-seekers. Marchant likens the Pantanal and its sprawling wetlands to "the younger brother of the Amazon." Among the marshes, you'll find "incredible landscapes and amazing vegetation," he adds. The UNESCO World Heritage Site stretches across more than 70,000 square miles and boasts remarkable array of wildlife, including howler monkeys, alligators and jaguars. The Pantanal is an ideal place to fulfill an Indiana Jones–style adventure, Marchant adds. With G Adventures, you can embark on a 13-day round-trip adventure from Rio that includes spots in the Pantanal and the iconic Iguazú Falls (for $2,999).

When it comes to adventure, "there's no better place than Iceland," Marchant says. "You need to spend time trekking through the interior of Iceland," he advises. If you have a week, you can rent snowmobiles and glide over glaciers, Marchant adds. And of course, you can't miss out on classic experiences catering to intrepid 20-somethings, such as taking a dip in the Blue Lagoon or checking out the surreal Gullfoss (Golden Falls). For an epic, 190-mile drive, take the Golden Circle Tour, where you'll weave past the impressive dual waterfalls and Strokkur, a geyser that propels water 60 to 100 feet in the air. Howard highlights visiting a volcano as another must-do. "Visitors to the long-dormant Thrihnukagigur volcano descend almost 400 feet into the magma chamber, a giant cave full of fascinating rock formations," he says.

The Great Barrier Reef

This UNESCO World Heritage Site – a collection of about 2,900 unspoiled reefs comprising the planet's biggest coral reef system – is perhaps the world's greatest destination for marine life lovers. Start in Queenstown, Australia, (make Cairns your home base for bargain-friendly accommodation options) and then take an unforgettable diving or snorkeling adventure in the Cairns reefs, where you can spot humpback whales, sea turtles and colorful fish, or head to the Ribbons Reefs, a popular chain of reefs with the iconic Cod Hole diving site, where Maori wrasse fish and dwarf minke whales have been spotted. After all the activity, lounge along Whitehaven Beach's ivory sands.

Mont Blanc, France, Italy and Switzerland

There are many reasons to embark on a high-altitude trek of a lifetime, but a main selling point is the alpine scenery – from spectacular glaciers to tumbling valleys to pristine meadows to Mont Blanc's towering peak, the highest in the Alps. And while the flight across the pond will cost you, you can experience the mind-boggling route on a stringent budget. With G Adventures' 10-day Trekking Mont Blanc tour (from $1,699), which begins and ends in Chamonix, France, you can wander past awe-inspiring glaciers by day and savor memorable meals in storybook Swiss and Italian villages by night. And though the hikes are long and physically demanding, you'll fill up your camera with spectacular photos.

Utah's national parks are awe-inspiring. Whether you want to explore sand-carved deserts or crimson canyons, there are plenty of classic and off-the-beaten-path trails worth tackling. The Narrows in Zion National Park is a must-do, with its spectacular sandstone formations, hanging gardens and towering cliffs. However, the challenging trail is best-suited for experienced hikers, with about half of the journey spent traipsing knee-deep in the Virgin River. For a less challenging hike, consider trekking from Devils Garden Trail to Landscape Arch on a 1.6-mile journey in Arches National Park, where you can catch sight of the delicate and sprawling Landscape Arch amid sandstone structures and surreal junipers and pinyon pines.

The Middle East

Broaden your understanding of different cultures by making the pilgrimage to the Middle East. If you've already marveled at the futuristic, glitzy and over-the-top gems in Dubai – the Burj Khalifa, Burj Al Arab and Dubai Mall, to name a few – venture to Oman to discover stunning sand deserts, mountains and spectacular fortresses. Howard recommends driving past Oman's famous wadis, or ravines. "Wadi Ghul is known as the Grand Canyon of Arabia for a reason: the sheer cliffs regularly exceed 3,000 feet tall," he says. "Try the Balcony Walk along the rim to stretch your legs – and test your nerves," he says. At Wadi Ghul, adrenaline-pumping activities can include canyoning, biking and rock climbing, among other diversions.

Portugal offers plenty of storybook settings, from Lisbon, with its centuries-old architecture, terra-cotta buildings and ornate tiles, to Sintra, with its enchanting villas and rolling hills. But for an off-the-beaten-track trip, consider the less-visited Azores archipelago, where you can spend your days on whale-watching expeditions, hiking spellbinding cliffside paths and admiring volcanoes, before sitting back and relaxing on the picturesque beach. With Intrepid Travel's 10-day Azores and Mainland Portugal itinerary (from $3,180), you can take excursions to Pico de Pedro – Portugal's highest peak – and scale Capelinhos Volcano, among other invigorating activities. Best of all, Portugal's enchanting locales are as easy on the eyes as they are on the pocketbook, and affordable airfares on low-cost international carriers are easy to come by.

For world-class surfing, superlative wildlife-viewing and inspiring hiking trails, Costa Rica is an adventure and nature lover's playground. On G Adventures' 16-day Costa Rica Adventure Trip (starting at $1,463), your days can be filled taking surf lessons in the Manuel Antonio region, zip lining over Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Reserve, whitewater rafting in La Fortuna and exploring the nesting grounds of leatherback turtles at Tortuguero National Park. Craving more adventure? You can add on a canyoneering expedition to Arenal Volcano that includes exploring verdant rainforests (for $139). If you're looking to skim massive swells, consider booking a stay at Del Soul Surf Camp School, which offers lessons for all age levels for $60 per person.

Striking sand dunes. Desert fortresses. Lively souk markets brimming with lanterns, kaftans, and silks. Morocco is a study in contrasts, with camel trekking in the Sahara and bargaining with merchants in Marrakech's medina jockeying for your attention. It's hard to deny the appeal of Morocco for thrill-seekers looking for an outside-the-box adventure. On Intrepid Travel's 15-day Best of Morocco tour (from $1,115), you can meander through the spice markets of Marrakesh and the art deco buildings in Casablanca. Other highlights include driving among the sand tunes to the Sahara to take in the arresting scenery of the Todra Valley and exploring Essaouira, a lovely seaside city and gateway to the Atlas Mountains.

Pedaling across France requires stamina and strength, but it affords one-of-a-kind experiences for wine lovers, foodies, Francophiles and culture lovers. On G Adventures' eight-day Loire Valley Cycling tour (from $1,449) from Blois to Angers, you can cycle past rolling vineyards, stop at a charming châteaux, explore lively markets, weave through tucked-away villages and enjoy a detour for a wine tasting. Each day, you'll cycle between 21 and 70 miles, making the expedition a challenge, and well-suited for outdoorsy types. For a more high-end cycling adventure, consider a six-night hiking and biking expedition with outfitter Butterfield & Robinson (from $4,795) that wanders past the Loire Valley's castle-filled routes and vineyards, with daily routes around 28 miles.

Tasmania, Australia

One of the most rugged, beautiful and remote hikes on the planet, Tasmania 's 40- to 50-mile Overland Track (within the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area) rolls past UNESCO World Heritage sites, stunning lakes, dramatic mountains and impressive wildlife, including Tasmanian devils, wallabies and wombats. Get your heart racing as you take in striking scenes, such as Cradle Mountain and Lake St. Clair's memorable trails, where you'll find plenty of scenic and serene trails for self-reflection as you weave past rainforests, eucalyptus fields and pristine lakes. For more adventure, check out one Tasmania's other 19 national parks and storied sights, including Wellington Park and the Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens.

Whistler, British Columbia

If you love shredding powder, test your physical limits on the ski trip of a lifetime at Whistler Blackcomb. In your 20s – while you're still in peak physical condition – you can more easily navigate 200 runs (the double-black Spanky's Ladder is a crowd-pleaser), plunging vertical drops, challenging steeps and icy temperatures. Spread across more than 8,100 acres, the resort offers five terrain parks and other adrenaline-pumping winter activities, from snowmobiling to dog-sledding to snowshoeing. Best of all, after an exhilarating day on the slopes, you can check out the lively après-ski scene near the mountain, from low-key hangouts like Dusty's Bar & BBQ and Garibaldi Lift Co. to upscale high-altitude hot spots like Buffalo Bill's Bar & Grill.

Glacier National Park, Montana

With snow-covered peaks, glacier-sculpted landscapes, more than 700 miles of horseback riding trails and iconic routes, including the famed 50-mile Going-to-the-Sun Road , Glacier National Park is nothing if not enchanting. And as an added bonus for younger travelers, there are plenty of affordable camping, cabin and hotel options. The park boasts 13 drive-in campgrounds, with prices ranging from $10 to $23 per night. Outside of the park, you can make Glacier Park Lodge your home base, or you can venture to nearby Whitefish, Montana, where you'll find plenty of breweries and distilleries. And no trip to Glacier National Park is complete without sampling legendary huckleberry pie at Park Café & Grocery, at the park's east entrance.

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Family Vacations With College Kids and 20-Somethings

From Montreal to Granada, Wonderful, Adventure Packed-Destinations for Families

Teens and 20-somethings are adventuresome travel companions, who enjoy a mix of outdoor adventure, cultural immersion, fine dining, and cool shopping. Continue reading for tips on structuring the ​ perfect family vacation when everyone's grown up, then check out this sampling of great vacation destinations for families with young adults.

Montreal, Canada

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The combination of European feel, museums, boutiques and club scene made Montreal a top pick among teens and 20-somethings, as well as their parents. Old Montreal bustles with museums, boutiques, fine dining and café culture.

Street performers, jugglers, and musicians fill the former marketplace of Place Jacques-Cartier. And Mount Royal rises above the center of the city, offering beautiful parks, hiking trails, and horseback riding. A 23-year-old intern at TravelMuse.com sold us on the idea after she called it her favorite all-around city. This gorgeous 2-minute video sealed the deal. We're booking our tickets now for the  summer . Winter is icy.

San Diego, California

San Diego 's beautiful beaches—so alluring for surfers, sunbathers, divers, and kayakers—are an outdoorsy counterpoint to the city's fabulous museums, world-famous zoo, and the clubs and cafes of its Gaslamp Quarter, where 20-somethings will want to hang after mom and dad go to bed.

Nearby La Jolla boasts swanky boutiques and posh shops, and Coronado Island lends a retro vibe and powdery soft beaches to your must-see list.

Other places to see include coastal towns nearby like Leucadia, Cardiff-by-the-Sea, and Del Mar, home of the famous race track. The Del Mar Racetrack season runs from mid-July through early September. There's also the very popular Del Mar Fair.

New Orleans

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New Orleans' French Quarter provides jazzy nightlife and outrageously wonderful dining possibilities, but teens and 20-somethings may also be very interested in the ample opportunities for voluntourism. Among the groups working here: Hands on New Orleans and Habitat for Humanity .

Other great things to do in New Orleans and the surrounding area include bayou tours, architectural tours, and museums. 

Dublin, Ireland

Gian / Stock.Xchng Photos

Europe offers so many exciting destinations, but Dublin has a particularly cool vibe, says TravelMuse 's Donna Airoldi, that combines "outdoorsy days and then at night, live music, restaurants, and clubs."

In addition to the historical attractions and hiking possibilities, Dublin's Temple Bar area, the narrow, cobblestoned streets near Christ Church Cathedral, is home to bohemian shops, a thriving arts scene, and plenty of late night clubbing. In short, there's plenty to do here for teens, as well as enough nightlife to satisfy the 20-something crowd.

If your family enjoys hitting the links, there are plenty of gorgeous golf courses in Ireland for you to try out. Going outside of the city to see the countryside is a day trip that's worth the time, as the Irish countryside is unique and beautiful.

Granada, Nicaragua

Costa Rica is an undeniably popular vacation destination, but Airoldi calls neighboring Nicaragua , with its Pacific and Caribbean coasts, an undiscovered jewel.

It's not "uber-developed," she says, so prices are still low, but it's only a matter of time before the rest of the world discovers the Central American country's beach towns, towering volcanoes, lush jungles, and great cities. They include Granada, a colonial-era jewel on the shores of Lake Nicaragua, one of the largest freshwater lakes in the world.

There are ample opportunities to explore, she says, everything from coffee farm tours to petroglyphs, jungle hikes, and other adventures that will keep teens and 20-somethings enthralled.

 Mint Images / Getty Images

If you haven't yet heard about glamping, check into it for a fun and adventurous vacation with your family. Head to Montana, California, upstate New York or lots of other places across the country to try out camping for those who prefer running water and a mattress to sleep on. Horseback riding, hiking , gourmet meals, and more are part of the glamping experience. 

More Suggestions

New York City, Seattle, Portland, and Austin are all great cities for families traveling with older teens and 20-somethings . Got skiers? Vail or Aspen, with their lounge and restaurant scenes and celebrity factor, are always popular too. 

Dass-Brailsford P, Thomley R, Hurtado de Mendoza A. Paying it forward: The transformative aspects of volunteering after Hurricane Katrina . Traumatology. 2011 Mar;17(1):29-40. doi:10.1177%2F1534765610395619

Brochado A, Pereira C. Comfortable experiences in nature accommodation: Perceived service quality in Glamping . Journal of Outdoor Recreation and Tourism . 2017 Mar 1;17:77-83. doi:10.1016/j.jort.2017.01.005

By Jackie Burrell Jackie Burrell is a former education and parenting reporter, experienced in issues around parenting young adults as a mother of four.

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The Adventure Treks Blog

The group journal.

Adventure Treks and the Battle Against Phone-Based Childhoods

I was reading through college essays the other day, shared by current and former Adventure Treks students who’d written about the impact their AT experiences (climbing Mt. Shasta, backpacking in Alaska, etc.) have had on their lives. I then came across an essay on letgrow.org by a student named Finn Fox. One quote in particular […]

Social Media’s Effect on Dopamine and Teenagers

Recently, I read Habits of a Happy Brain by Loretta Graziano Breuning and Dopamine Nation by Dr. Anna Lembke. Both of these books made me sit up and reevaluate my interactions with my phone and social media, and the ways in which we as a society seek gratification. In Habits of a Happy Brain, the author […]

The Incredible Power of Experiencing Awe in the Outdoors for Teens

One of the reasons that Adventure Treks travels to beautiful outdoor spaces—and why so many of those landscapes have become designated recreation sites like national parks—is because nature often inspires us to feel awe. Experiencing awe can lead to significant benefits in our lives and communities, especially for teenagers. As an Adventure Treks instructor, I […]

Allowing Teenagers to Reclaim Independence

Recently, our office team was discussing the varying levels of independence we were given as teenagers. During my youth, I was often dropped off in a nearby national forest with a friend and a mountain bike. Long before the days of cell phones and GPS trackers, my parents told us what time and where they’d […]

Our Adventure-Inspired Reading List for Fall and Winter

If you’re anything like me, the next-best thing to going on an epic adventure is reading about someone else’s! At the same time, I can only handle so many memoirs about climbing Everest before I start to wonder what else counts as adventure, exploration, or going beyond a “normal” life. Below are some of my […]

How to Use AT Experiences in College Application Essays

Fall is the season for pumpkin spice, colorful leaves, and apple picking, but it’s also the season for college applications! For Adventure Treks students with college in their future, a unique and well-written personal essay is an important part of the process. Adventure Treks students are talented, active, and community-oriented people with busy lives and […]

What to Expect on Opening Day at Adventure Treks

You are all signed up for Adventure Treks this summer—WOOHOO!!! You picked your destination, you’ve started packing, you’ve booked flights, and you can’t wait for the adventure to begin! Even so, you may be feeling some butterflies in your stomach about arriving to Adventure Treks, especially if this is your first trip. Perhaps you’ve never […]

Physically Preparing for Your Adventure Treks Trip

Flowers are blooming and temperatures are rising—spring is here, and that means summer is soon to follow! Unbelievably, the first Adventure Treks trips of 2023 begin in less than two months. As you check items off of the packing list and get in touch with friends from previous summers, make sure you also take time […]

Service Close to Home: Adventure Treks’ Volunteer Day

Every year, the Adventure Treks team takes time out of the office to volunteer for local organizations. Most recently, we spent time with MANNA FoodBank in Asheville, NC! We have volunteered with MANNA before, but this time was even more special: Their new volunteer coordinator is none other than alumni instructor Nic Ames! Nic worked […]

Instructor Spotlight: Max Minichiello and Kate Wojeck

Our students will agree that Adventure Treks instructors are pretty incredible people. From planning 30-person meals for 30 days to fixing broken tent zippers to tending wounds to making sure we’re in the right place at the right time, AT instructors are constantly working to make sure our students are having the best and most […]

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20 Places to Travel in Your 20s

Whether you're trying to find yourself or just experiencing a healthy dose of wanderlust, get inspired by some of the best places to travel in your 20s.

Your 20s are for rich dishes, late nights, and lazy, hazy mornings after. Sure, you could do all of this in the city or town you’ve chosen to spend your early adulthood. Or , you could do it on the beach in Tel Aviv. 

There’s nothing like traveling in your 20s. You’ve got a good amount of freedom and flexibility in your schedule, and (hopefully) the financial support of your first “real world” job. And as someone who’s stepping out into the world for the first time, you probably need a good point in the right direction.

Here, we've compiled a list of trips that every 20-something should consider taking, from the eye-rollingly obvious to the off-the-beaten-path obscure. We based our selections on factors of safety and accessibility, as well as on personal experiences and input from well-seasoned travelers. Some of these destinations are better suited for slow travel over the course of weeks or even months — they're best experienced in between life phases, jobs, or semesters of college — while others can be conquered in a long weekend. 

Consider this your new travel mood board. We’re taking you from New Zealand for skydiving to Peru for its cevicherias to Goa for all the spicy foods. This list is a source of wanderlust that may spark your curiosity about a part of the world you've never considered before. 

From street tacos in Mexico City to volcanic springs in Iceland to classic cocktails in Louisiana, these experiences are perfect for any 20-something’s next trip.

Go Backpacking in Southeast Asia

From Thailand to the Philippines , Southeast Asia has some of the most beautiful landscapes in the world. And one of the best ways to see these sights is on your own two feet. Southeast Asia is incredibly welcoming, particularly for young backpackers. 

Activities here are plentiful, from breathtaking volcano hikes in Bali to world-class scuba diving in Malaysia . Explore small villages like Pai, Thailand, or crazy, sprawling cities such as Bangkok — and almost everything in between. Make time for dragon boat rides in Vietnam, temples in Cambodia, and an awe-inspiring UNESCO World Heritage Site in Myanmar (the ancient city of Bagan).

For English speakers, the language barrier is better than in other common backpacker circuits like South America or even Western Europe. And while flights to and from may be on the pricier side, once you arrive, you can live like a king for a fraction of the cost of a single night out in New York City. It’s also easy to country-hop on budget airlines for shockingly low fares. 

Drink the Original Cocktail in New Orleans

Denny Culbert

Legal drinkers, here's a place that appreciates your newfound pastime as much as you do.

For a city with international appeal without having to renew your passport , head down to the Big Easy for culture, cocktails, and Cajun cuisine. Laissez les bons temps rouler in the city known as the birthplace of the first cocktail (the Sazerac, if you don’t know — you can order one at the Carousel Bar  in Hotel Monteleone). You'll certainly have your fill of hurricanes, French 75s, Ramos Gin Fizzes, vieux carrés, Pimm's Cups, brandy milk punches, and daiquiris (did we mention the city is known for its mixed drinks?).

Bar hop on Bourbon Street before a late-night, live jazz session at Preservation Hall , then recover with coffee and beignets at Café Du Monde the next day. Even beyond parades and Mardi Gras, New Orleans ’ laidback energy and out-of-this-world food mean it’s a good time all year long .

Explore Tokyo's Many Neighborhoods

yongyuan/Getty Images

Tokyo could be called the city with 1,000 faces because, in addition to being the most populated city in the world, it’s an eclectic blend of past, present, and future with a variety of unique neighborhoods. Spend the day sampling ramen and touring ancient temples before bellying up to a bar for genuine Japanese whisky and Michelin-starred cuisine.

The extensive train system makes Tokyo easy to navigate (as long as you don’t get lost — Google Maps is a necessity for any first-time tourists!), and you’ll want to take advantage when exploring the city’s various neighborhoods, like Shibuya and Shinjuku. Eat your way through the sushi and seafood in Tsukiji Market , or head to the Land of the Rising Sun in the springtime to experience the famous cherry blossom trees in Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden.     

Eat Your Heart Out in Mexico City

Stephanie Pollak/Travel + Leisure

Come for the gorgeous weather and stunning architecture, stay for the tacos al pastor. Mexico City  is one of the most walkable, culturally stimulating, and refreshingly cosmopolitan cities in the world. And it’s a foodie’s dream, with cheap, delicious street food options around every corner. Think tamales, elotes, chicharrónes, churros, agua frescas, and, obviously, tacos, tacos, tacos. Maybe you're even daring enough for chapulines: the Mexican delicacy of roasted grasshoppers seasoned in chili powder and lime.  

The city is also home to attractions like the Frida Kahlo Museum and the giant city park, Bosque de Chapultepec. Either the Condesa, Roma Norte, or Polanco neighborhoods make a great home base for your stay. There’s a lively nightlife scene spread throughout Mexico City, as well as tequila and mezcal tastings that easily count as “cultural exploration.”  

Take a Food Tour in Peru

Getting a selfie at Macchu Pichu isn’t the only reason to head to Peru . Peruvian cuisine is known throughout the world as some of the best — and healthiest — on the planet.

You haven't tasted ceviche until you’ve been to one (or more) of Lima ’s cevicherias. Whether you embark on an organized food tour or simply hop from hole-in-the-wall joint to five-star restaurant, it’s hard to go wrong with any meal choice. And it’s not just fresh fish: Even self-declared carnivores will find the quinoa in this country delectable.

Tango in Buenos Aires

Lauren Breedlove/Travel + Leisure

Buenos Aires is a 20-something's paradise — and not just because of the astonishing selection of affordable Malbecs. Neighborhood hopping around Buenos Aires, from Palermo Soho to Recoleta to downtown, is an ideal way to explore the city’s multifaceted offerings.

Go on a street art tour. Visit the San Telmo market. Buy yourself a mate gourd, learn how to drink the traditional tea properly, and hang out in the park to people watch. Eat dinner at 10 p.m. like a true Argentinian, and then stay out on the town dancing until sunrise on a Saturday. Or a Tuesday.

If you can swing it, take a flight down to Patagonia and gape in slack-jawed wonder at some of the most stunning natural landscapes in the world.

Get Sporty in New Zealand

New Zealand isn’t the easiest or cheapest destination to reach, but it’s an adrenaline enthusiast's dream. Both Auckland and Queenstown have emerged as a popular travel destinations for young people.

Whatever your thrill-seeking heart desires, New Zealand offers it bigger and better than most: Bungee jumping, sky diving, sea kayaking, or wildlife hikes are only a few of the adventurous activities available in the land of the Kiwis.

And not to mention, New Zealand is almost painfully beautiful. It has everything from mountains to rainforests to tropical beaches. We’re talking about a part of the world where the Lord of the Rings trilogy was filmed, so you know the scenery is eye-poppingly epic at pretty much every turn.

Explore Israel on Your Own Two Feet

Roman Krykh / EyeEm/Getty Images

Whether you’re winding through the old streets of Jaffa, soaking up the lively culture of Tel Aviv, or floating in the Dead Sea, Israel provides an experience like no other. The entirety of Israel is approximately the size of New Jersey, which makes it easy to explore from top to bottom.

To the north, luscious waterfalls cascade through a verdant landscape. In the South, huge craters in the desert give off the appearance of an otherworldly planet. Here, camping and stargazing are prime summertime activities. There’s also an extensive  hiking trail  that spans the entire country, which may appeal to the more adventurous traveler.

Get Away From the Crowds in Portugal

The capital city of Lisbon looks exactly like what you imagine when you think of quintessential romantic European getaways: narrow cobbled streets, stunning architecture, and fresh, authentic cuisine that holds true to its cultural roots. Although the city has no shortage of charms to capture your attention, travelers in the know won’t regret renting a car and heading out of town to explore the less-frequented parts of Portugal . 

The northern region of the country is an unexpected delight and an ideal location for outdoorsy activities. Porto, famous for port wine, is easily worth a visit, and to the southwest, beaches and national parks provide optimal sunset-watching opportunities. Backpackers will find the party in Lagos, while couples seeking quieter surroundings will find the region just outside of Lagos dotted with romantic bed-and-breakfasts.

The Madeira Islands are another hidden gem in the Atlantic full of gorgeous beaches, cable cars, and (what else?) flowing Madeira wine.

Ride a Bike Through Amsterdam

Michela Sieman/Travel + Leisure

Sure, Amsterdam has a bit of a reputation to uphold, but there’s more to this city than its famous coffee shops.

First and foremost, Amsterdam seems to contain more bikes per square meter than it does people. It’s one of the most bike-friendly cities in the world, and exploring via two wheels opens up a world of possibilities for tourists. There’s art, culture, food, and music galore, and a quick conversation with a local will point you in the direction of a spot to hang for whatever floats your boat.

In the warmer months, travelers will want to visit the beautiful parks smattered throughout the massive city, including Vondelpark , the largest and arguably most famous park in all the Netherlands.

Navigate the Colorful Sites of Morocco

Morocco  is a once-in-a-lifetime destination with sweeping, cinematic sights, delicious cuisine, and an energy all its own. If there’s one word for this country, it’s vibrant: vibrant culture, vibrant flavors, vibrant markets. Marrakech is a sensory smorgasbord you'll never forget, alive with unfamiliar, enticing aromas, and visual splendor. Hit the beach in Agadir, explore the Sahara, wind through markets in Marrakech, dine on couscous at Casablanca restaurants, and head to the oyster capital of Oualidia on the coast.  

Go Lion Spotting on the Savanna in Africa

On the costlier end of experiences on this list, African safaris are nevertheless well worth the price tag. A tableaux of natural beauty and menageries of wildlife abound in this part of the planet. In Botswana , you’re likely to get up close and personal with lions. In Kenya , the diverse landscape of the savanna is like something out of a childhood storybook. In Rwanda, trek among gorillas and get an unparalleled peek into the majestic world of these awe-inspiring, intelligent creatures.

In addition to costing a pretty penny, these safaris tend to be a minimum of five to seven days, so they’ll require more of a time commitment than something planned on a whim. And it goes without saying, this is one excursion you’ll definitely want to book with a reliable, trustworthy tour company .

Get Spicy in Goa

India can be overwhelming, particularly for young travelers in their 20s, but Goa, on the western coast along the Arabian Sea, is a solid place to start. The cuisine is resplendent in local flavors like chili, clove, cinnamon, and cardamom, as well as coconuts, pineapples, and mangoes.

Whether you’re eating your way through the hip local food scene or relaxing on palm-lined beaches or bird-watching in the Western Ghats, you’re guaranteed a tranquil, meaningful trip. There’s a wide range of accommodations in Goa — anything from cheap backpacking hangouts to luxury villas — so whatever your tastes may be, it’s likely you’ll find somewhere to hang your hat.

Take a Road Trip on the Best Coast

Valerie de Leon/Travel + Leisure

There's nothing more classically American than traveling with the top down and the sun in your eyes. And there’s no better drive than the Pacific Coast Highway . California is rife with scenic routes — be it San Francisco to L.A. or a trip through wine country.

Take Highway 1 through Carmel-by-the-Sea and  Big Sur for some of the most beautiful sights in the country, or hit the beach in Malibu. Or, opt for a wine country romp through Napa Valley . Of course, there are plenty of lodging options along the way — be it breathtaking campsites or luxury hotels, but if you’re headed toward Palm Springs, spend a night or two in Joshua Tree National Park for a true West Coast experience.  

Hop Around Eastern Europe

Alisha McDarris/Travel + Leisure

Eastern Europe is often stereotyped as Western Europe’s less hip sibling, but it’s home to some of the most culturally interesting and architecturally compelling cities in the world. Not to mention that the cost of living (and visiting) is generally lower than in London or Paris.

Prague and Budapest are prime hot spots for college students and young people, particularly in the summer months. Thousands of hostels, bars, clubs, and cafes run the gamut from dive-y to luxury. (Note: The Czech Republic consumes more beer per capita than any other nation in the world, which means that beer is frequently cheaper than water.)

A few other cities to hit on this circuit include Belgrade, Serbia; Bucharest, Romania; and, Varna, Bulgaria . And the cities are really only about a third of the real attraction: Venture into the countryside for scenery that feels like stills from Planet Earth .

Get Festive in Germany

With fairytale forests and elaborate celebrations, Germany is one for the books. Rent a car and wind through the forests , countryside, and national parks to see the mythic German landscape and its storybook castles (just be wary of any witches you may meet on the way). Go clubbing in Berlin , or take a train to some of the country’s small towns for medieval history, beer steins, and half-timbered houses.

Speaking of beer steins, of course you'll want to head to Munich for an authentic Oktoberfest celebration in the fall — just make sure you plan ahead, as flight prices skyrocket, the cost of traditional accommodations can be astronomical, and Airbnb hosts are notoriously picky about their tenants. Or, consider visiting in the wintertime for a classic Christkindl market experience.    

Explore Nature in Slovenia

For nature lovers , Slovenia is a country of boundless treasures. From mountain biking to camping on beautiful Lake Bohinj to summiting the daunting Mount Triglav, adventure sport opportunities are around every turn in this quiet corner of the planet. (A word of warning: Beware of the local Slovenians’ definition of the phrase “beginner-level hike.”)

Driving through the countryside is a slightly more serene way to spend a few days exploring the outskirts of Ljubljana, the capital and largest city in Slovenia . The Dragon City, as its sometimes referred to, is a quaint European tourist destination that has perfected the art of riverside patio dining.

Though not exactly a party destination, Slovenia in general is an idyllic setting for a reset or for getting in some quality time with Mother Earth. English is reasonably prevalent in Ljubljana, and locals are quite amiable, but outside of the city prepare to rely on Google Translate to converse with village dwellers.

Jump Around the Greek Islands

Tryfon N. Georgopoulos/Courtesy of Red Savannah 

Their whitewashed walls and turquoise waters make the Greek Isles feel like stepping into a postcard. There are actually six main archipelagoes to explore, and most people choose to spend their time island hopping within a particular group, made easy with local ferry operators. 

You’ll want to consider the Cyclades, where you’ll get the classic Greek experience (think blue roofs, bougainvillea, and party beaches) in Mykonos and Santorini. There are also the tony hotels on Crete (the largest Greek Island) and the cinematic views of the Sporades made famous in “Mamma Mia!” No matter where you end up, there’s plenty of fun to be found. Tour olive groves and vineyards, indulge in fresh Mediterranean meals, gaze out a deep blue caldera, or just relax on the beach, ouzo cocktail in hand.   

Dip Into the Hot Springs of Iceland

The Blue Lagoon, black-sand beaches, and the northern lights await in this beautifully austere landscape. Iceland is a mythic destination (literally, for the Vikings) where you’re sure to see natural wonders you won’t find in many other pockets of the world.  

Head here sometime between September and March for peak conditions to see the northern lights (read: darkness — there are only about five hours of daylight this time of year). Whereas in the summer months, the sun sets for only three hours and you’ll find better sightseeing weather if you want to tour the glacial lagoons and volcanic islands that make this the "Land of Fire and Ice.” 

Reykjavik makes a great home base and gives you a taste of the local culture (literally, if you slide into a table at one of the city’s many delectable restaurants). Of course, you can also stay directly at the Blue Lagoon (or many of the country’s other hot springs ) or hunker down in a prime northern lights viewing destination .   

Camp at the Grand Canyon

Make the ultimate southwestern pilgrimage to one of America’s most famous national parks for the views and camping of a lifetime. Featuring the gorgeous red rocks that make Arizona famous, the canyon runs for 278 miles with plenty of opportunities for backcountry hiking, stargazing, and whitewater trips down the Colorado River.

Hiking in Grand Canyon National Park takes a good amount of preparation (this is the desert, after all, with plenty of steep cliffs and drop-offs), but the payoff will be well worth it once you’re gazing out at one of the Hermit Road scenic overlooks. Whether you decide to tackle the more accessible South Rim or the less-crowded North Rim, you’ll be rewarded with world-class views and bragging-worthy campsites . If you prefer a less rugged experience, however, Under Canvas does have a Grand Canyon location where you’ll sleep soundly in your safari-inspired glamping tent just 40 minutes from the Grand Canyon Village.  

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250+ trips for '18 to 30 somethings' in europe with 10,666 reviews.

All About Balkans (4 Star Hotels)

Great package with a very passionate tour guide and a great driver

• €150 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

• In-depth Cultural

Zagreb to Athens: Adriatic & Ancient Capitals

A great fast-paced tour that was well led by our wonderful guide Ivan!

• Christmas & New Year

Balkan Discovery (4 Star Hotels)

I really enjoyed my trip to the Balkans. Simon was a fantastic guide and always went above and beyond to make sure everyone was comfortable. He was very knowledgeable and even brought his own stories too. The tour exceeded all expectations I had and I would recommend to anyone.

Rome to Berlin: Piazzas, Prague & the Past

Great diversity of countries and cities but WAY too fast paced. One night in Slovenia and Poland was ridiculous and with travel time some days we spent less than 15 hours in the city. The guide was a but inexperienced so we didn't have a good description of some of the cities. Great way to make friends and see cities! Would recommend going end of August or later as it was still very hot going through the cities!!

• Coach / Bus

Rome to London Quest (Summer, 10 Days)

Maite was absolutely amazing. She planned everything well, knew so much about the history of every city we went to, played great music, was hilarious, and always had us ready to go and do all the things the next day. I miss Maite all the time, she becomes like a best friend and you miss having her organize your life.

• €100 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Get Social: Central & Eastern Europe

Go for it. traveling with people in your own age group , it's alot of fun and very safe.

• €75 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

• Walking Adventure
• Sightseeing

European Discovery (Summer, Start London, Classic, 12 Days)

Croatia Sailing Adventure

It was one of the best experiences with so many fun activities great food and super helpful staff. We got to see some many beautiful islands and unique places I loved it.

Play & Pause: Central Europe Highlights

Essential Turkey

Burak was amazing! Best experience I could have asked for. If you're considering doing this tour, book it. RIGHT NOW! :D

Highland Fling

Had an amazing week doing the Highland Fling tour with Haggis Adventures/Highland Explorers. Our driver and guide Tom was fantastic navigating us safely around the country. We also had the pleasure of new guides Sophie and Cliff. All 3 guides were extremely knowledgeable, funny, great story tellers and very helpful with all questions, local advice and insights. We really enjoyed seeing and hearing the folklore about the beautiful landscapes of Scotland and being immersed in the culture on this intimate tour. Highly recommend. Thanks for a great tour!

5 Day Skye & Highland Fling

My trip with my wife was so amazing. Our tour guide Branka was so fascinating, funny, informative, and interesting. Each day was a true adventure, following both an itinerary and improvising based on weather, location and time of day. We met really cool people on the tour and had fun with them when we had some free time to roam around. Cool part was you can hang with them or just do your own thing with no problem. This trip was one my wife and I have never done before. Yet I would certainly recommend it for those who want to experience a unique and fun trip filled with awesome adventures throughout Scotland!

• Train & Rail

Central Europe Group Rail Tour (18-35)

I have just been on the Central Europe trip, which was my first time solo travelling and joining a group. I can honestly say that this trip has been one of the best experiences of my life. It has been incredible to see Europe with the new friends I made in my group, who were all so lovely. Our leader Tom has also been amazing, and his knowledge and positivity while leading us through different cities to see as much as we could really helped to make the experience even better. I will definitely be recommending Euroventure to my friends, and hopefully I will be able to sign up for another tour in the future.

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Mamma Mia! - 13 Days/12 Nights

Excellent tour! Emma and Manolo were very knowledgeable and accommodating. Great tour to see a lot in the 13 day time frame.

Whole of Europe Group Rail Tour (18-35)

Absolutely amazing experience, well organised and no problems which made my adventure run smoothly. Would definitely book threw this company again :)

What people love about Europe Tours for Young Adults

Enjoyed every moment. Highly recommend

excellent, highly recommended

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USA Hiking & Camping trips

USA National Parks offer some of the most spectacular scenery, hiking, and outdoor experiences in the world. Our trips aim to deliver true adventures in nature while keeping you safe and comfortable. You might find yourself learning to set up a tent, cook around a campfire, or better understand "Leave No Trace" principles while hiking in these beautiful national parks.

-Meet authentic sled dogs -Spot wildlife in Denali National Park -Enjoy the seaside town of Seward -Kenai Fjord National Park -Hike the Exit Glacier Trail -Wildlife cruise in Kenai Fjords

San Francisco & Yosemite

-Wine Tasting -Endless Hiking Options -See Great Sequoias -3 nights Camping -Explore San Francisco -Adventure in Yosemite National Park

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More about hiking and camping trips & tours, what's included on a hiking or camping trip.

Don't own camping gear? No worries, we provide tents, sleeping pads, and all cooking supplies needed to enjoy the campsite. Each trip also includes a trained guide to help you set up and be comfortable during your trip! Any national park entry fees and permits will be included. We do not provide sleeping bags or pillows. Please review your trip's exact itinerary for details.

Does every trip include camping?

No. Most USA National Park trips will include at least one night of camping, but some trips like Las Vegas to Zion Bryce Canyon does not include camping at all. All trips will include some hiking and plenty of outdoor time!

How should I pack for my trip?

As mentioned above, you will not need much camping gear but if your trip does include camping you should bring a sleeping bag and pillow. If you would like to shower at the campground, please bring a towel, shower shoes, quarters (depending on the campsite), and toiletries. We also highly recommend a day hiking backpack, water bottle, hiking shoes/boots, and a lightweight rain jacket. Each trip has more recommendations on the Trip Details pages. We also strongly recommend checking the weather report before leaving for your trip. Some locations are at high elevations and can be cool even in the summer months. If traveling in the spring or fall you may encounter a variety of weather during your trip as the seasons are changing.

What is the best time of year to go hiking or camping in a National Park?

This varies by the region you want to explore. Western mountain locations like Yosemite National Park are great in the summer months and into early fall. If you are looking for winter trips then you’ll want to focus on desert trips like Zion & Bryce Canyon National Park.   ‍ We only run trips during months that we believe are great for visitors based on the weather.  Some of our trips run off-peak so you can enjoy the park to yourself while still hoping to have decent weather.

Why sign up for a group hiking or camping trip?

Here are just a few of the reasons we see travelers join our group trips:

• Not everyone owns camping gear or has set up a tent on their own. We provide all the essential equipment and assist with setup so you can enjoy your trip without any of the hassle!
• A guide is with you throughout your camping trip to help with equipment, lead you on hikes and teach you about the area.
• If you encounter any wildlife like bears or moose your guide will know what to do.
• Meeting great people! When you join an Under30Experiences camping or hiking trip you know you will be with a group of like-minded people in your age range. 

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"Go with a friend, go alone...either way you're guaranteed to have an amazing time." - Courtney B.|  Yelp Review

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Authentically Del

Self-Care, Mental Wellness, & Self-Improvement

in Goals , Self-Improvement · January 27, 2023

Ultimate Bucket List for Your 20s | 100 Exciting Ideas

This post may contain affiliate links meaning that, I may make commission if you purchase through my links. Learn More . 

My big 2-0 birthday is coming up at the end of this week! I’ve found myself reflecting a lot but, most of all, I am looking ahead into my coming years in my 20s.

One of the biggest things I’ve been working on is my 20s bucket list filled with all the things to do before 30. I figured why not share this bucket list for your 20s with you?!

Let’s Make Our Ultimate 20s Bucket List Together!

So, you’re in your 20s! Woohoo!

Your 20s are really unique.

Of course, everyone’s situation is different, but I feel like your 20s are a great time to focus on yourself and your freedom! I am lucky enough to have the ability to kick off my 20s selfishly.

And that doesn’t mean “ selfish ” in a bad way. Not at all.

Being selfish can actually be really beautiful. It is a gift to have the ability to be selfish with your time and energy.

It is actually a goal of mine to be more selfish in my 20s.

With that, I have developed a huge bucket list for my 20s.

This before 30 bucket list includes all the fun, exciting, and liberating things I want to experience before 30.

To keep this bucket list clear and concise, I have separated it into some individual categories: personal, travel, health, entertainment, relationship, and miscellaneous!

I could keep rambling about all the things to do in your 20s but, to avoid boring you, let’s just jump right into this bucket list for your 20s!

Ultimate Bucket List for Your 20s

Let’s explore a before-30 bucket list full of travel, adventure, relationships, fun, and more!

20 Travel Bucket List Ideas

Your 20s are such an incredible time to travel. Bask in your freedom and take advantage of this liberation by setting and tackling a travel 20s bucket list.

• Travel to X new states
• Go for a hike in a new place
• Visit Europe
• Drive across a border
• Swim in an Ocean You’ve Never Been In
• Fly first class
• Take a helicopter tour
• Visit an Island
• Take a selfie with an iconic landmark
• Stay in a bungalow
• Rent a house on the beach
• Take a spontaneous weekend trip
• Visit a friend that lives far away
• Kiss someone from another country
• Drive across X state borders
• Take a boat to an island
• See a new animal species
• Travel solo

20 Health Bucket List Ideas

Mental, physical, emotional, spiritual… all of them play a role in your health! Let’s make a healthy bucket list for your 20s so you can become the healthiest version of yourself.

• Cultivate self-love
• Go to therapy
• Take a barre class (I love using Alo Moves for fitness classes! Get 14 FREE days if you click here !)
• Go on a hike
• Start a journal
• Learn how to do a handstand
• Try kickboxing
• Build a healthy relationship with food
• Practice body confidence
• Take time for self-care routinely
• Develop a book of favorite recipes
• Stay up to date on medical appointments (doctor, dentist, etc.)
• Schedule a weekend away alone at least twice a year
• Get outside for at least 10 minutes every day
• Drink enough water every day
• Have a no-phone day once a month
• Discover your faith and how it connects to you
• Find inner peace; are you truly happy?

20 Entertainment Bucket List Ideas

There are so many miscellaneous fun things that I want to experience in my 20s. This entertainment bucket list for 20 years olds is perfect for those nights when you want to do something but don’t know what!

• See an outdoor movie
• Go to a baseball game
• See your favorite band live
• Go mini-golfing
• Read X new books per year (my current goal is 20!)
• Play outside like a kid again
• Go to a water park
• Have a movie night every other week (popcorn and all!)
• Conquer an escape room
• Take yourself on a date
• Go to an NFL game
• Follow a Bob Ross painting tutorial
• Go to a carnival/fair
• Play an instrument
• Learn something new every month (no matter how small)
• Go ziplining
• Spend a full day shopping
• Have a picnic
• Go to the Seattle Selfie Museum
• Go to Disneyland/Disneyworld

20 Relationship Bucket List Ideas

Relationships are important! Family, friends, or even that special someone… there are certain things on my relationship bucket list for my 20s that I want to cross off in these 10 years!

• Go on a blind date
• Be a bridesmaid
• Kiss a stranger
• Fall in love
• Get engaged
• Travel with a romantic partner
• Make a new friend
• Be social, even if it feels awkward (social anxiety is something I am trying to overcome!)
• Go on a double date
• Hang out with an old friend
• Get married
• Go to a high school reunion
• Pull an all-nighter talking to someone
• Write a love letter
• Dance in a bar
• Go on a family vacation
• Have a mother/daughter date
• Open up to someone new (vulnerability is tough!)
• Meet an online friend in person
• Say ‘I Love You’ and mean it

20 Miscellaneous Bucket List Ideas

• Be on a Podcast
• Work for yourself
• Have a job you’re passionate about
• Start a family
• Find your passion/purpose in life
• Meet someone famous
• Build my perfect morning routine
• Graduate college
• Make a toast on my 21st birthday

• Sponsor a family at Chrismas
• Make meals for someone in need
• Go skinny dipping
• Take photo booth pictures
• Make a vacation video montage
• Host a holiday meal
• See a TV show being taped
• Have a spa day

What’s on Your Bucket List for Your 20s?

This is my personal list of things I want to do in my 20s! A bucket list for 20-year-olds can look really different depending on your own dreams, goals, and personal situation!

For me, this is perfect for all the bucket list things I want to do before I turn 30.

More Posts I Think You’ll LOVE

21 Ways to Pursue Personal Growth in Your 20s

50 Good Habits to Start in Your 20s

101 Goals for 1001 Days

20 Things No One Tells You About Life After College

Share your 20s bucket list!

I would love to see your own bucket list for your 20s! Share your favorite ideas with me in the comments!

Hi! I’m Delaney (but you can call me Del)! Welcome to Authentically Del where we discuss all things self-care, productivity, self-improvement, mindset, and more. I'm here to offer authentic tips and advice in hopes that I can help make your life a bit brighter! More About Me...

Reader Interactions

Elaine says

August 1, 2021 at 10:47 am

Wow I love this! I just turned 24 and life has been so chaotic lately that I almost forgot that my life is for making memories! Especially in my 20s🤩 youve opened my eyes again and I’m gonna work on getting through my own list once more, and being more adventurous 🥰

Delaney says

August 1, 2021 at 6:31 pm

Thank you so much! I totally get that! It’s so easy to get wrapped up in the busyness of life and forget that we are supposed to be ENJOYING it too! Proud of you for making that a priority! ❤️

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Striking out on your own needn’t be lonely or expensive. We round up group trips that increasingly cater for solo travellers and waive single premiums The highs and lows of travelling alone

Sailing and socialising in the Mediterranean

Med Sailors runs skippered sailing holidays for 20- to 35-year-olds, many of whom travel solo. Everyone shares a bunkbed cabin with someone else of the same gender; each yacht sleeps eight and travels in a flotilla of up to eight boats, so there is plenty of socialising. The yachts island-hop around Greece, Turkey, Croatia, or Italy (and the Caribbean too), making ports of call at villages and historic sights. Guests can try watersports, such as wakeboarding, join in the weekly regatta and enter a fancy dress contest on the last night. Each boat has large sunbathing decks, snorkelling gear and paddle boards. From £495 for seven nights half-board, flights extra, medsailors.com

Stripped-back safari in Southern Africa

EcoTraining runs year-long courses for professional safari guides – but it also offers week-long tasters for nature lovers who want to experience life in the bush. The Wilderness Trails Skills course for adventurous travellers is great value, offering a stripped-back safari at a fraction of the usual cost. The setting is the Makuleke Concession, a remote part of the Kruger national park in South Africa, or the Mashatu game reserve in Botswana; sightings may include lions, leopards, elephants and rhinos. Guests walk up to 10km a day, carrying their own supplies, and learn to track animals, navigate, set up camp, make fires and leave no trace. Nights are spent wild camping under the stars. From £458 for five nights for an all-inclusive course, flights and transfers extra, next departure 9 August, ecotraining.co.za

Camino de Santiago, Spain

Solo travellers planning a pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostela in Spain won’t be short of company – 300,000 people completed the journey in 2017, an increase of nearly 200,000 in a decade. The Camino Francés is by far the most popular path, but the oldest route, the Camino Primitivo, is also good for lone pilgrims. The full 311km over the Cantabrian mountains is challenging, but the last 100km can be walked in a self-guided week with Camino Ways. Setting off from the walled town of Lugo, the first three days are spent following quiet Roman roads through forests and farmland. At lively Melide, the path merges with the Camino Francés, so the second half of the walk is more sociable. £440 for six nights including half-board and luggage transfers, April to October, caminoways.com

‘Poshtel’ stay, Barcelona

Hostels have always been a great places to meet fellow travellers – and these days, staying in one doesn’t have to mean roughing it. Casa Gracia , in a modernista mansion in Barcelona, is one of the new breed of poshtels. It has lots of stylish communal areas for hanging out and making friends, including a roof terrace; regular activities such as yoga, wine tasting and cooking classes; as well as events such as comedy nights and quizzes. Twice a week, there are tapas tours around the Gràcia district. Dorms sleep six, and there are single rooms for those who prefer not to share (from around £100). Dorm beds from £32 a night, hostelworld.com

Canyoning and hiking in Serbia

Much Better Adventures runs sociable and affordable long weekends to wild places in Europe and north Africa (plus a few lengthier trips further afield). This is a great option for time-poor travellers, filling one or two days off work with adventure. About 55% of customers are single, and there are lots of repeat bookings by people who struck up friendships on their first trip. One recently added options is a three-day canyoning and hiking trip to Serbia’s Valjevo mountains, with monastery visit and full-board riverside accommodation. From £2 30 for two nights full board, excluding flights to Belgrade, next departure 6 July, muchbetteradventures.com

Party on a Greece island

Friendship Travel takes over the Apollon hotel in Tsilivi on the island of Zante each summer, hosting house-party holidays for single guests. This year there are five new rooms, taking the total to 24, plus a new roof terrace. The hotel has a bar, restaurant and small pool; there is a sandy beach 100 metres away, and a water park within walking distance. Five three-course dinners with wine are included, and there are lots of local tavernas to try on the remaining nights. From £660 for seven nights including breakfast, some meals and flights, departures weekly (last departure 11 October), friendshiptravel.com

Brazilian road trip

Dragoman runs overland tours lasting from eight to an epic 211 days in purpose-built trucks across Africa, Asia and the Americas. Passengers tend to be a mix of ages and nationalities, with plenty of people travelling solo. One of the newest trips is a 17-day journey through Brazil from Salvador to Rio: highlights include hiking in the Chapada dos Veadeiros and Chapada Diamantina national parks, exploring the gold mines of Ouro Preto and touring Brasilia. Accommodation is 60% camping and 40% hotels and hostels. From £1,025 for 16 nights (plus £340 kitty) including board and most meals, excludes flights, next departure 6 November, dragoman.com

Tour of Sicily

In addition to its existing “no single supplement” holidays, this year Jules Verne has started solo group tours for single travellers . The nine destinations are France, Italy, Albania, Turkey, Egypt, Jordan, India, Botswana and Peru. There are themed trips and tours as well as holidays based in one place. Its Treasures of Sicily holiday has stays in Catania, Agrigento, Palermo and Taormina, plus visits to ancient Siracusa, coastal Cefalù (pictured), Mount Etna and the Valley of the Temples. One-week trip from £1,095, including B&B, flights, local travel and guides, next solo departure 1 November, vjv.com

Savings for cyclists, Belarus

Nearly 50% of people on Explore’s small group trips are solo travellers. Those who book by 2 July get their own room at no extra cost, saving up to £530. This is an annual special offer for bookings made between 1 June and 2 July – outside that period, solo travellers can share a twin room for no extra charge, or pay a single supplement. One unusual trip among more than 60 on offer is a exploration of Belarus by bike, taking in the capital, Minsk, Unesco-listed castles and a self-sufficient eco-village. Belarus trip from £599 for four nights including some meals and board, excludes flights, explore.co.uk

Yoga in Ibiza

Your average retreat offers a couple of classes a day and lots of downtime, but this action-packed week at the Cala Blanca beach resort, eastern Ibiza, has almost 200 yoga and fitness sessions to keep solo travellers extremely busy. Lots of guests attend on their own and there are initiatives to get everyone chatting, from sharing tables in the restaurant to conversation benches and even (cringe) hug spots. And Primal Beat , a new retreat just for men, starts this autumn (6-13 October). From £775 for seven nights all-inclusive (classes, food, shared room) but excluding flights. Three- to six-night breaks available from £365. Single occupancy extra (from £425). Next retreats 14-21 October and 14-21 April 2019, yogafitretreats.com

Swimming in Slovenia

Solo swimmers are very welcome on Strel’s swimming adventures – 40%-50% of participants are lone travellers. The swim tours take place in Slovenia, Croatia, Montenegro, Greece, Turkey and the US. The Slovenia Lakes and Rivers trip has a real variety of aquatic challenges, including swimming across Lake Bled, stopping for a breather on its island with its 17th-century church, going for a dip at the base of the Kozjak waterfall, swimming down the River Soča, and tackling the length of Lake Bohinj (4km). Swimmers stay in the four-star Hotel Jezero on the banks of Lake Bohinj. £510 for three nights including shared room B&B, excludes flights. Single occupancy an extra £61, strel-swimming.com

Family fun in Morocco

After finding that 16% of its family bookings were made by single parents, Intrepid Travel has this year started running adventurous trips specifically for solo parents and their children . There are six destinations so far: Costa Rica, Thailand, India, Egypt, Vietnam and Morocco. Its Morocco tour takes in Marrakech, Berber villages, the Altas mountains and an afternoon camel-trekking on a beach by the Atlantic. The company has also expanded its range of adult solo-only tours this year, adding Peru and Bali. Morocco trip from £336 for seven nights (kids from £297 ) including B&B and some meals, excludes flights. Next departure 28 July, intrepidtravel.com

Foodie weekend in Turin

Solos was founded in 1982, making it the UK’s first specialist holiday company for single travellers. Today it has five hotels exclusively for solo guests, and holidays from tennis breaks to ski trips. One of its city breaks is a foodie trip to Turin, Italy’s chocolate capital and the birthplace of the Slow Food movement. The itinerary includes a walking tour of the city, and chocolate-tasting and vermouth-making experiences. Other Solos city breaks with a food focus include Bilbao (for pinxtos) and Lisbon (custard tarts). Turin from £605 for three-night weekend including B&B plus one dinner and flights, solosholidays.co.uk

Painting and drawing in France

GoLearnTo has a huge range of holidays with no single supplements, including cooking, wellbeing, language, sport and creative pastime breaks. Its French painting holiday, based at a farmhouse with extensive gardens and two pools, is particularly good value, with at least 30 hours of tuition, pre-dinner champagne, all meals and a day on location at Penne d’Agenais, a medieval hilltop village. After lessons, guests can borrow bikes to cycle to the River Lot for wild swimming. From £820 for seven nights all-inclusive with shared room , next departure 8 September, golearnto.com

The Trans-Mongolian from Moscow to Beijing

Solo passengers are a common sight on long-distance trains such as the Trans-Mongolian. Lots of Russian, Mongolian and Chinese people take this route alone, as do western tourists – it is perfectly safe and a good way to meet fellow travellers. It also offers excellent value: from £492 for a 5,000-mile journey, with incredible scenery and a bed for six nights. The Man in Seat Sixty-One website is a great source of information for this and other long-distance rail journeys, such as London-Istanbul (four nights, from £241) or New York-San Francisco (three nights, from £140). Trans-Mongolian from £492 for six nights for a bunk in a four-berth sleeper

Climbing in Spain

Well over half of Bristol-based Rock and Sun’s customers are solo travellers. And Spain’s Costa Blanca is home to, in its words, “an endless amount of limestone”, offering a huge variety of rock climbing experiences for all levels of ability. Accommodation is in a spacious villa in the Jalon valley, handy for shops and restaurants. From £740 for seven nights including shared accommodation, some meals, coaching and transfers, rockandsun.com

Coastal walking, the Channel Islands

Ramblers Walking Holidays has a selection of trips with no single room supplement. Its week-long trip to Guernsey takes walkers to the island’s best stretches of rugged coast, along clifftop paths with fine views out to sea and historic sights ranging from second world war German-built fortifications to megalithic tombs over 4,000 years old. Inland, Guernsey is crisscrossed by quiet, picturesque footpaths and a there’s also a day trip to car-free Sark, a short ferry ride away. From £799 for seven nights including half-board accommodation, bus and boat fares, flights and transfers, ramblersholidays.co.uk

Hike, bike and kayak in Vietnam

The customers on trips with G Adventures are roughly 40% solo travellers, and its hike, bike and kayak Vietnam holiday keeps everybody active from the first day, when guests cycle from Ho Chi Minh City to the famous Cu Chi tunnels. After a flight north, there’s more cycling in the cities of Hue and Hoi An, plus trekking in the rural Mai Chau valley and an afternoon kayaking among the amazing limestone karsts of Halong Bay. From £841 for nine nights including all activities, entrances fees, one internal flight and some meals. International flights extra, gadventures.co.uk

Independent cycling in Lithuania

The website of the non-profit Lithuanian Cyclists Community has several independent cycling itineraries around the Baltic state. One of the most appealing is the Lithuanian Seaside Cycle Route . Its suggested itinerary can be followed independently, but for a little more support with accommodation and routes, try local operator Baltic Bike Travel . From €499 for seven nights including shared B&B accommodation (single room from €698), local transport and luggage transfers, bbtravel.lt

Learn to kitesurf in Morocco

Sitting right in the path of the north-easterly trade winds, breezy Essaouira, halfway down Morocco’s Atlantic coast, offers perfect kitesurfing conditions from April to September. Kite Worldwide offers a beginner’s package with guide, 12 hours of tuition, and launch and landing service. Participants should come away with a basic VDWS qualification. From £911 for seven nights including flights from Luton to Essaouira, B&B accommodation in a riad, all equipment and two dinners, kiteworldwide.com

Browse The Guardian’s selection of self-guided and escorted holidays designed for solo travellers on the Guardian Holidays website

• Travelling solo
• Group trips
• Learning holidays
• Adventure travel

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Most viewed.

I thought I was a solo adventurer for life. Then I went on a group trip…

Ever since packing away all of the worldly possessions my 26 years of life had acquired into a humbling 5’ x 10’ storage unit on a December day in Denver, I thought I had travel figured out.

The spring before, I had taken a solo trip, my first, to Peru and the quick 10-day adventure had me absolutely hooked on the concept.

New connections had come with ease and often, spur-of-the-moment travel decisions were mine alone to make, and the person I had to be – fearless, outgoing, confident, adventurous – was someone I hadn’t met before in large doses. Solo travel brought me out of my shell in a way that nothing else did, so much so that I converted to this way of travel and never looked back.

That is, until a tempting group tour of Egypt entered the realm of possibilities.

When Egypt taunted me with its desert scenes and visions of busy bazaars and crumbling pyramids, I was in the midst of settling in to my latest South American city of choice – Cartagena, Colombia. And though I knew every enticing word of the Essential Egypt trip description came with the strings of an ever-present group to experience it with and a need to stay on itinerary from start to finish, I found myself caring less and less about these strings as I realized Egypt had suddenly gone from a far off dream to a very real, near-term possibility.

READ MORE: WHY A GROUP TOUR IN THE MIDDLE EAST WAS THE RIGHT DECISION FOR ME

Usually I travel solo… but then I discovered Intrepid

Egypt was a place I’d always had on my travel bucket list, a place I’d always told myself I’d visit eventually. Though I’m not proud to reveal this, the thought of exploring it alone completely intimidated me. Besides the anxiety-inducing fact that I didn’t speak a lick of Arabic, the thought that I’d be a female traveling solo in a country so different from anywhere I’d visited before weighed heavily on me.

While I never imagined I’d eventually travel Egypt on a guided group tour, it quickly started to feel like the most logical way to do it. The travelers in my group would be roughly my own age, our guide would be a local Egyptian, and the activities that filled the itinerary were everything I would have wanted to see and do on my own anyway.

CHECK OUT INTREPID’S 9-DAY EGYPT TRIP FOR 18- TO 35-YEAR-OLDS

Touching down in Cairo was my first taste of what I consider to be the guilty pleasures of traveling on an organized tour. Waiting for me just beyond security was a man holding a sign with my name on it. In my red eye-induced stupor, I fell into my role as passenger faster than my independent self would care to admit. I allowed him to guide me through the process of getting a visa, going through customs, and locating baggage claim. It was refreshing to be taken care of on the other end of a long flight to a foreign land in which I knew no one. I wasn’t used to that.

BROWSE ALL INTREPID 18 TO 35S ADVENTURES

You can’t go wrong with like-minded travelers

At the hotel, I met a few of my travel companions while the rest trickled in throughout the afternoon. The conversations mimicked those I’d had countless times before in hostels all over South America. It was a welcome relief to know I actually liked the people I’d be glued to for the remainder of the week. They were just like me in the sense that they lived for travel and knowing new places intimately.

We all seemed to be pulled to this particular trip for many of the same reasons – the comfort of a group in an otherwise daunting destination, the chance to visit a place high on our travel lists, and the itinerary’s promise of both on- and off-the-beaten-path experiences.

READ HOW INTREPID SUPPORTS ANIMAL WELFARE IN EGYPT

This was never more apparent than when we hopped off the overnight train in Aswan. Hend walked us through the next 72 hours with a glint her eye. It was as if she already knew exactly what would unfold in this southern Egyptian city. Looking back, what made Aswan so special wasn’t as much the sights (though those were incredible), but the way it brought our little travel group closer. I thank Hend for that.

READ MORE ABOUT INTREPID’S FEMALE LOCAL LEADERS

Posing with our amazing local leader, Hend

That glint in her eye, however, could have never predicted what came to pass – from an impromptu night of dancing to drumbeats on Elephantine Island to the headache-inducing marathon of riddles Sam plagued us with as we sailed down the Nile or the moment Mia and Georgia felt inspired to try on the belly dancing garb in the Aswan bazaar to give us all a hilarious show.

Moments like these made the trip for me.

They showed me that traveling on a guided tour with a group of people my own age not only leads to moments I otherwise would have never had in Egypt, but it allows for lasting connections to form as you travel about the country together, bonding even more with each passing day.

Bonding aboard a felucca on the Nile!

Before my trip to Egypt, I would have said guided group tours are like traveling with training wheels. As someone who is addicted to discovering the edges of my comfort zone, that just didn’t appeal to me at all.

Now, having tasted the reality of traveling on a guided group tour, I can say that it’s officially become another option for me, one that I’ll be trying again…and again and probably again.

Ready to explore Egypt like Amber did? Check out Intrepid’s Essential Egypt trip.

Looking for other 18-to-35s adventures? Browse them all.

(All images taken on Intrepid’s Essential Egypt trip.)

Feeling inspired?

Amber Dunlap

Amber Dunlap is a digital nomad currently parked in South America, originally from Colorado USA. Between writing in coffee shops (or wherever the wifi proves functional), she’s happiest exploring new places, especially through the local cuisine. She’s traveled to 16 countries already and has no plans of stopping anytime soon. Follow her nomad lifestyle and adventures on Instagram @amber_dun.

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Out of Your Comfort Zone

The art of backpacking & adventures to get out of your comfort zone – tips and advice, 5 best group tour companies for young solo single travelers.

Last Updated on February 19, 2024 by Talita

Traveling alone is wonderful, but it can also be intimidating. Especially if your destination has a language or a culture completely different from your own.

And sometimes, making friends while traveling can be difficult and many worry about getting lonely. So, a good option for anyone who wants to begin adventuring around the world on their own is to use a tour excursion company that specializes in trips for young adults.

Of course, traveling is always about visiting a place and seeing new things, but one of the highlights is often meeting new people along the way. This is what is called social traveling .

Table of Contents

• 0.1 Is it worth going on a group tour as a young solo/single traveler?
• 0.2 What are travel groups for young solo/single travelers like?
• 0.3 How to choose a tour company for young single/solo travelers
• 0.4 5 Best Tour Companies for Young Solo/Single Travelers
• 0.5 Comparison table of the best group tour companies for young solo/single travelers:
• 1 Bonus: World Tours for Women Only
• 2 Planning your next trip?

Is it worth going on a group tour as a young solo/single traveler?

As with all types of travel, there are pros and cons to going with a tour company, especially with companies specialized in tours for young travelers since many include lots of partying and going out and daily bonding with the same group. So, it’s possible that this isn’t the right choice for you.

(PS: still a young adult traveler who is interested in group tours but not the party aspect of them? See tour companies # 3 & #4 below or see my article with the 5 Best Small Group Tour Companies for International Travel  for  some more options) 

So it’s important to know some things beforehand about this type of trip so you can decide for yourself if it’s your style or not.

What are travel groups for young solo/single travelers like?

How to choose a tour company for young single/solo travelers

To help you choose an excursion that works for you and fits your travel type, we’ll separate out the companies that specialize in guided trips for young single/solo travelers with the best reputations (and prices) on the market here, including a comparison table.

It’s also worth remembering that some of these companies offer guided tours beyond those just for young adults. So no matter what, you should be able to find one a tour that works best with your personality, your wallet, and your patience.

Note: And if you are a woman and want to take a solo female small group tour, take a look at our bonus option after the comparison table: Solo Female Travelers Tours

5 Best Tour Companies for Young Solo/Single Travelers

Contiki is the most well-known tour company for young travelers worldwide. It’s been around since 1962, so its name carries quite a lot of weight.

But don’t worry if this sounds a bit intense for you…the options below are a bit more “calm.”

So, as you can imagine,  most of Contiki’s excursions involve lots of partying and going out with “pub crawl” kind of nights. And since there’s plenty of cool stories online of young travelers who traveled and would travel again with Contiki, it must be one of the best companies available if this is the type of travel you’re looking for.

Contiki has more than 328 distinct tours for many destinations across the 6 continents. According to their website, 55% of travelers who chose Contiki are single and are traveling alone, but the trips can also accommodate groups of friends and couples.

One thing to keep in mind is that the groups are usually quite big, around 30 people, and the main form of travel is the company’s coach bus.

Finally, their tours have a bit of everything: physical activities , exploration of local culture and food, and visits to ethical and sustainable organizations and projects in your destination. In other words, you are capable of a journey full of different attractions, sounds, and experiences!

Topdeck is a company that offers“epic trips and tours for young adventurers aged 18-39.”With 40 years of experience, alongside Contiki, Topdeck is one of the most well-known companies in terms of group travel for young solo/single travelers.

Their trips are divided into several categories:

• Hotel tours: designed for couples or singles who want to travel a bit more comfortably through Europe, the U.S., Canada, or Asia. All hotels have, at least, 3 stars and the excursions give you a lot of free time to relax or explore on your own.
• Explorer trips: these are shorter trips, between 6 days and 3 weeks, with just one country for those who want to explore local culture more deeply. The groups are small and accommodation is in shared or private hotel rooms.
• Hostel plus trip:  low-cost tours with accommodation in hostels , cabins, or vans and with itineraries with multiple destinations/countries.
• Camping trips: these trips are the cheapest way to travel through Europe with Topdeck. The accommodation is camping with private chefs cooking meals daily. The bunks are for two people and include mattresses.
• Sailing trips: these trips are an awesome option for anyone who dreams of sailing the world but doesn’t have an idea of where to start. Accommodation is within a sailboat in double, triple, or quadruple rooms with meals included.
• Festivals and events: these tours are specifically for events like Oktoberfest or the Sziget festival (in Hungary) and other festivals in the United States, Canada, and Europe .
• Ski trips: these trips are perfect for anyone who loves snow and skiing . With destinations in Canada, New Zealand, Bulgaria, and Japan . Accommodation is in private or shared hotel rooms.
• Gap year: this trip is made for young travelers 17-18 who want to travel in Europe after graduating high school. It’s a great idea for anyone who wants to travel on their own without freaking their parents out. Accommodation is in hostels and the destinations usually include 8-10 countries.

Created in 1990, G Adventures was born with the idea of offering authentic adventures responsibly and sustainably. Their excursions have reasonable prices and cover all the continents, including Antarctica!

The groups are small and the itineraries are designed so you have time to explore on your own. The trips are themed and have different options for all ages, including a category for young travelers aged 18-39.

The trips in this category are faster-paced and designed for young travelers. In other words, you explore during the day and stay up at night. Their motto for these excursions is “live fast now.” So, their trips are usually longer than the others and offer more activities.

Plus, this category of travel groups is a bit more affordable with accommodation in hostels and a few meals included to guarantee a cheaper price. You can read more about these trips here . 

Or, just click in the link above, go to G Adventures main page, click “Travel Styles” and select “18-to-Thirtysomethings!” 

It’s worth remembering that these trips follow the basic principles of G Adventures: small groups and free time. Plus, the trips are done in a responsible and sustainable way, prioritizing small businesses and the welfare of animals, children, and indigenous communities.

And finally, like Intrepid, G Adventures is a partner of Planeterra, an NGO dedicated to ensuring that communities touched by tourism benefit from it, rather than be exploited by it. The organization helps to empower local populations, preserve their cultures, and create support systems by managing 50 organizations across the 7 continents with the aim of benefiting women, at-risk youth, and indigenous and rural communities. You can read more about Planeterra here .

Intrepid is considered by many to be one of the best options for those who want to travel as part of an excursion with small, adventure-focused groups .

All trips offered by Intrepid are sustainable, and because of this Intrepid is known and respected as the global leader in sustainable travel.

The company has zeroed its carbon footprint and supports the Intrepid Foundation, a foundation that finances the planting of trees worldwide creates jobs and local education, and helps the world achieve 8 of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals of the United Nations. You can read more about the foundation at https://www.theintrepidfoundation.org/.

Intrepid has many types of trips for all budgets and personalities. That said, the company prides itself in organizing small groups of up to 10 people. This is because Intrepid believes that this is the maximum number of people that still allows a true connection with locals without you simply feeling like just a face in the group. The trips are also always designed to give you some time to explore on your own.

The trips made for young travelers aged 18-29 (called their “18 to 29s” trips) are designed specifically for the new generation of socially-conscious explorers. In other words, they were created for travelers who want to discover new places and cultures, make new friends , and also make a difference in the world.

There are many destinations and the cost of the trips are relatively low given that they are designed for young travelers. You can see all of Intrepid’s tour options here .

Unlike the other companies mentioned above, Trek American only offers excursions for North and Central America. And in general their tours are quite small, just 13 people, with the exception of their “plus” tours of up to 30 people.

Trek America is also quite well-known and has been running since 1972. Like Contiki, the tours are exclusively for young travelers aged 18-38 and include itineraries of 3 days to 3 months.

The reputation of Trek America is that they offer experiences which change your life with a balance between visiting big cities, national parks, and other activities that explore the most incredible places in North and Central America.

And, unlike Contiki, Trek America trips don’t include the “pub crawl” culture. So if you are a young traveler who is more interested in exploring and making new experiences instead of partying, Trek America might be good for you.

They have 3 types of tours:

• Original tours: small group tours with the aim of having an authentic “ road trip ,” with cheap accommodation that includes hostels, camping, and budget hotels. The groups have 10-13 people, which gives you a bit more flexibility in the itinerary.
• Plus tours: offered just to explore North America, these tours offer more comfort, primarily when it comes to accommodation, and you’ll stay in hotels, eco resorts, and apartments. Plus, breakfast is included as is more activities than the original tours. The only “con” is that the groups are usually bigger (up to 30 people).
• BOLT tours: offered exclusively for Central America with a combination of private transportation and local transportation. The groups are 12-18 people with accommodation in hotels and with a bit more flexibility, meaning the most famous tourist spots will be included, but you’ll still have lots of free time to explore on your own.

Comparison table of the best group tour companies for young solo/single travelers:

Bonus: world tours for women only.

Solo Female Travelers Tours is a company that serves women travelers from all over the world. It is focused on facilitating women’s adventures around the world with all the confidence, safety, and comfort needed by its clients.

Some of the destinations served by SFT Tours are Mongolia , Antarctica, Sudan, Tanzania, Tuscany, and Iceland. There are tours for all tastes, from luxury tours in Tuscany to extreme adventures like climbing Kilimanjaro (with a female guide!).

In addition to empowering diverse women to embark on journeys around the world, all trips taken by Solo Female Travelers Tours are supported by women-owned businesses and partnered with entrepreneurs whose mission is to empower female figures.

In conclusion…

Traveling is always an enriching experience. And for anyone who just likes to travel solo, group tours can be a fun and safe opportunity to explore a new country.

And the truth is, by traveling in a group with a guide, you’ll have an incredible experience and return filled with stories, friends, and memories. What matters is that you get out and explore the world, whether solo or with a group, because the world is big and waiting for you!

Planning your next trip?

 Already reserved your hotel or hostel? If not, our article with The 6 Best and Cheapest Websites to Find & Reserve Accommodation can help you out. You’ll also find some promotions and discount codes .

 Still haven’t booked your plane ticket and want to save big? Take a look at our page with 16 Tips to Save on Flights where you’ll also find the 4 best websites to buy your plane tickets. 

And finally, will you need to rent a car during your trip? Then surely our page with The 5 Best and Cheapest Websites to Compare and Rent Cars Around the World will help you choose the best rental car and find a good deal.

14 Responses

[…] the major difference between tourists is their desire to explore the world alone or in a group of like-minded people. In the post below, we will take a deeper dive and discover the […]

It is always fun to travel with a group tour whether as a solo traveler or couple. There is so fun when you meet people and network.

Hi Magdalene! I completely agree. Traveling is not just about the tourist attractions, but also the people you meet during the process! 🙂

[…] of the option you choose to travel in Norway, whether independently or on a group tour, each has its positive and negative […]

[…] summary, the choice between traveling independently or in a group in Italy depends on your personal preferences. Evaluate your interests, time availability, budget, […]

Rodrigo, do you have any updated or more recent article like this one?

Hi Josias, thank you for your comment! The article is supposed to be updated. Do you see any old information that is not relevant anymore? Please let me know! 🙂

[…] of the option you choose to travel to New Zealand—whether independently or on a group tour—each has its advantages and […]

[…] the other hand, a group tour with a guide offers the company of fellow travelers and the opportunity to meet people with similar […]

[…] of the option you choose to travel through Egypt—whether independently or on a group tour—each has its advantages and […]

[…] summary, the choice between traveling independently or in a group in Vietnam depends on your personal preferences. Evaluate your interests, time availability, […]

To your list I would also recommend Italy on a Budget Tours for Italy tours

How Irene, thank you for your comment and suggestion! Now it’s here for all the readers to take a look! Thanks!

[…] of these types of companies have 100+ excursions across the 7 continents for groups of all kinds for you to choose from. Whether you want to travel […]

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Next stop….The DMZ, South Korea

Best all-inclusive resorts for teens for spring break trips, family vacations and more

If you've been postponing traveling with your teen because of, well, you know, the eye rolling, phone scrolling, shoulder shrugging and video gaming that is often all you see of them, we have good news for you. An all-inclusive vacation where you and your teen — plus the rest of the family — can fully relax, have everything prepaid so you don't have to think about money or logistics, try new activities, indulge in comfort foods and perhaps even unplug for a while is a foolproof way to reconnect with your big kid.

Recommended: The best travel credit cards

We've made planning a vacation with your teenager even easier by rounding up some of the best all-inclusive resorts for families in North America and the Caribbean, including hotels with water parks and hotels with lazy rivers . All you need to do is pack your bags and let them know by text, instant message or even in person that they're going on vacation.

Opened in 2021, Club Med Québec Charlevoix is an all-inclusive mountain resort that sits just 90 minutes away from Quebec City in Le Massif de Charlevoix. The property is Club Med's first in Canada and is currently the brand's only location in North America. Part of the company's "Exclusive Collection," this chalet-style getaway feels especially luxe, but happily, it's still very teen-friendly.

Spread across 300-plus acres, the family resort has sweeping views of the scenic St. Lawrence River and surrounding mountains. There are hiking and mountain biking in the warmer months, but one of the main selling points here is the unlimited ski-in/ski-out access on the biggest vertical drop east of the Canadian Rockies, clocking in at 2,526 feet. There's even dog sledding, plus snowboarding and snowshoeing.

The teen club at this Club Med outpost operates under the idea of "nothing mandatory and endless options." There are ski and snowboard group lessons especially geared to guests ages 11 to 17, plus teens can join the rest of the family for show times with dancing, singing and circus acts. Family tournaments and games like puzzles, treasure hunts and skill challenges are available, too, in addition to the "Family Big Snack," which includes special tasty activities (think: pancake parties, baking workshops, picnics and more) that are ideal for the whole family.

A range of family-friendly accommodations is bookable here, including connecting rooms and family rooms with two bedrooms. There are only a handful of dining venues, which is the norm for Club Med, but dining options change daily and reflect the seasons, so you can savor delectable dishes like decadent fondue in winter.

Rates at Club Med Québec Charlevoix start at $1,049 per night for double occupancy on a two-night stay .

Let's start with what will wow any teen: A 45,000-square-foot water park , which includes a 42-foot-tall SkySlide (the tallest of its kind in the Turks and Caicos Islands), plus six swimming pools and a surf simulator. There's also a teen-centric camp with activities ranging from karaoke to boat cruises, as well as an Xbox Play Lounge and even a teens-only nightclub.

The property comprises five distinct villages, each featuring architecture inspired by a different destination: Italy; France; Key West, Florida; the Caribbean; and the sea. Within these areas are 51 styles of rooms, providing plenty of options for families to sprawl out in spacious seaside villas and suites.

Additionally, there are nearly 20 restaurants to choose from — including two different pizzerias, plus poolside food trucks — so even the pickiest of eaters can find something to satiate their appetites. One surefire teen hit is Mac Daddy, which serves 10 gooey varieties of macaroni and cheese.

As a family, you can also enjoy 12 miles of pristine beaches that are perfect for swimming, lounging and trying out a bevy of included water sports. Better yet, Beaches Turks & Caicos is the only resort on the island to offer a comprehensive scuba program as part of the all-inclusive rate, so you and your teen can dive deep beneath the water's surface for a memorable aquatic adventure.

Rates at Beaches Turks & Caicos start at $1,035 per night for double occupancy on a seven-night stay.

If you're worried about your teens racking up extra charges on specialty sports and activities, Tamarind will come as a pleasant surprise. Teens can take advantage of Tamarind's crystal-clear waters to try out a plethora of water sports, from adrenaline-pumping banana boat and tube rides to water skiing and exploratory snorkeling tours to discover Barbados' famous sea turtles and marine ecosystem — all at no extra cost.

The boutique size of this Marriott-affiliated resort — there are just 104 guest rooms — means it's easy for parents and teens alike to sign up for lessons to learn how to water ski or sail without lots of other people around. The resort also offers another rarity: free excursions outside the resort.

Accommodations here are designed with families in mind. There are a number of junior and regular suites with pullout couches in separate living spaces so teens can rest easy without being right on top of their parents.

Dining is available in two main water-facing venues: The Sugar Cane Room and 246. They offer expansive breakfast buffets and theme nights focusing on everything from barbecue to Asian fare, as well as local seafood and other Bajan dishes. For a change of pace, you can also take advantage of the resort's "Stay in One, Play in Many" amenity to enjoy restaurants at nearby sister resorts without incurring extra fees.

Rates at Tamarind by Elegant Hotels start at $564 or 88,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night for double occupancy .

Costa Rica is a foolproof option for teens. Educational programs escort droves of high school students to the wild wonders of this peaceful Central American country every summer. Instead of sending your kiddo off with a group, though, make it a luxurious all-inclusive family trip so you can all enjoy the mountains, beaches and wildlife together.

The Westin Reserva Conchal, an All-Inclusive Golf Resort & Spa is both eco- and family-friendly, and it sits in a prime location with easy access to both the rainforests and beaches of Costa Rica's North Pacific Riviera. There's a sprawling lagoon-style pool, plus recreational activities such as golf and tennis. Additionally, guests will find a golden expanse of sand that overlooks beautiful turquoise water.

To take advantage of the incredible natural diversity of the area, this Westin outpost has a local tour operator on call that arranges hikes to the rainforest and visits to the Arenal Volcano, Monteverde Cloud Forest and Palo Verde National Park. You can also arrange for a zip lining excursion, though keep in mind that all off-property activities incur an extra cost.

The property's 406 rooms have a number of configurations that will suit families with big kids. The deluxe junior and family junior suites with two double beds and separate living rooms would work especially well with teens.

Among the multiple dining options are a few taste-bud pleasers for older kids. The Spirula Trattoria serves wood-fired pizzas near the beach, while Bamboo dishes up pan-Asian offerings such as dumplings and pad thai.

Rates at The Westin Reserva Conchal start at $596 or 100,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night for double occupancy.

Just a 20-minute drive from Cancun International Airport (CUN), the Hyatt Ziva Cancun is a family resort oasis with 547 luxury suites, loads of activities and lots to keep teens busy either on their own or with a cohort of new friends.

Moods Lounge and Club is the resort's exclusive teens-only spot where older kids can chill out and socialize. There are both virtual reality simulators and foosball tables for head-to-head fun.

Teens can also try stand-up paddleboarding or kayaking when they're not busy taking dance or Spanish lessons. Other daily resort activities include water polo, virtual golf and life-size chess.

When choosing a room, there's a big bonus that comes with traveling with big kids: The swim-out suites with direct access to the pool are only available if your kids are at least 13 years old, so a double room with water access might be a great choice to let your teen swim to their heart's content.

Also sure to be one of your teen's favorite experiences is Pasteles, a Willy Wonka-style candy store with ice cream, a chocolate fountain, cookies, candy and much more. Since the resort is all-inclusive, treats at this dessert parlor are complimentary. You'll find 16 other food and drink venues with everything from tacos to burgers to teppanyaki, too, should you wish to balance out all the sweet treats.

Rates at the Hyatt Ziva Cancun start at $600 or 21,000 World of Hyatt points per night for double occupancy .

Nestled on the shore of Montego Bay, Jamaica, about a 35-minute drive from Sangster International Airport (MBJ), Royalton White Sands Montego Bay is an all-inclusive resort that caters to families with teenagers. Age-appropriate amenities include a teens club stocked with video games and billiards and pingpong tables, as well as an extensive water park with a wave pool and a range of thrilling slides.

All kinds of water-based pursuits are available for the entire family, too. You can try nonmotorized water sports such as snorkeling and kayaking when you're not taking an introductory scuba diving lesson so you can all learn a new skill together. There's also a lazy river at the adjacent Royalton Blue Waters Resort, should you prefer to have a more leisurely day in the sun.

When your stomachs start to grumble, sit for a meal at one of 11 dining venues. Teen-friendly options range from a teppanyaki spot to a Tex-Mex restaurant to an international buffet.

As for lodging, each family suite includes a king bed and bunk beds, plus a separate living room with a pullout couch. There are two-bedroom suites as well, so you can each have your own personal space without being too far away from one another.

Rates at Royalton White Sands Montego Bay start at $480 or 100,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night for double occupancy.

Hilton's first all-inclusive offering in Tulum, Mexico, is part of the expansive leisure campus that includes the Conrad Tulum Riviera Maya .

Newly opened in 2022, the massive Hilton Tulum Riviera Maya All-Inclusive Resort includes 735 rooms located throughout three-story, villa-style buildings. One perk of the rooms is that all accommodations with two beds have queen-size beds instead of two doubles, so teens have plenty of room to stretch out. Plus, accommodations have separate sitting areas for some extra elbow room.

There's an entire zone devoted to families at the property, including the aptly named Teens Club, which houses a movie theater, video game consoles and air hockey and billiards tables. The space is open every day from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Teens will also love the variety of pools available on-site, though some are reserved exclusively for adults or little kids.

Additionally, there are 13 all-inclusive dining experiences. The steak and seafood restaurants and the eateries specializing in Italian, Mexican and Asian cuisine are among the top choices.

Rates at the Hilton Tulum Riviera Maya All-Inclusive Resort start at $549 or 90,000 Hilton Honors points per night for double occupancy.

Situated on 85 coconut palm-fringed acres along St. Lucia's south coast, Coconut Bay Beach & Spa Resort is massive, offering 250 rooms, nine restaurants, seven bars, five pools, a full-service spa, the island's largest water park and the only paintball facility in St. Lucia, the latter of which is a particularly big hit with teens but does incur an additional fee.

Families have their own wing of Coconut Bay called Splash, which has colorful rooms designed and decorated with parents and children in mind. Each of these accommodations features one king-size bed and two trundle beds, or two queen-size beds and a pullout couch so every member of the family can sleep comfortably every night. Because this section of the property faces the ocean and overlooks the water park, families will enjoy easy access to the resort's lazy river, waterslides, large pool and beach.

There are six dress-up dining spaces, including a steakhouse and an Asian venue, though your teen will likely gravitate toward the three casual venues. Two are traditional restaurants that serve pizza and jerk barbecue, while the third is a buffet venue offering all kinds of comfort classics, such as sandwiches and pasta.

Rates at Coconut Bay Beach & Spa Resort start at $1,244 per night for double occupancy.

The all-inclusive Sonesta Maho Beach Resort, Casino & Spa has a number of highlights that make it appealing to those in middle and high school. There are a small water park with several slides, seven eateries (including a pizzeria and a tavern that hosts karaoke nights) and an array of activities that the whole family can try out together on land and in the water.

For teens who love music, the Teen Zone has a big draw: DJ decks to create beats and karaoke to belt out tunes. There are plugged-in gaming options on offer as well in addition to lots of daily social programming that includes movie nights and barbecue parties on the beach.

The resort's sugary white stretch of sand is a major perk of staying here. When you and the big kids aren't snorkeling or swimming, be sure to look up at the sky. The resort is located less than a mile from Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM), giving planespotters and budding AvGeeks front-row seats to daily takeoffs and landings.

After getting your fill of planes or Caribbean sun, retreat to one of the property's 420 accommodations. The resort offers a number of connecting rooms, though the standout options are the Skyloft Suites, which give teens their own floor of a duplex.

Rates at the Sonesta Maho Beach Resort, Casino & Spa start at $332 per night for double occupancy.

Found on a 2,000-foot stretch of sand along the Caribbean, Club Med Punta Cana caters to families with unlimited land and water sports, plus a full array of age-appropriate kids and teens clubs.

The new "Amazing Family" program features an itinerary of weekly activities for families to enjoy together, including treasure hunts and pickleball, as well as cooking (and eating, always a favorite teen pastime) as part of Club Med's "Family Big Snack" offering. But what stands out at this Club Med outpost is the high-flying circus school. Teens (and parents, too) can get hands-on instruction in 25 acrobatic and artistic activities, perfect for showing off aerial stunts on TikTok.

Teens craving some time away from their parents can head to Passworld, a teens club that hosts activities like group lessons in archery, sailing and tennis. They can also spend a leisurely day at the pool or beach after challenging new friends to a friendly game of basketball or beach volleyball.

Family Deluxe rooms are the ones to book here, as they give your teen their own sleeping space separated from the main room by a heavy curtain. An additional 90 two-bedroom family accommodations equipped with balconies and upgraded contemporary furniture will also open later in 2023.

Rates at Club Med Punta Cana start at $1,190 per night for double occupancy.

Even if your teen has never come within 10 feet of a horse before, they will still love Vista Verde Guest Ranch. In fact, this luxury dude ranch is the perfect spot for every member of the family to bond over learning a new skill.

Log cabins with multiple bedrooms and bathrooms are available so you can fit the whole brood in one spot without having to share a bathroom with your teenager. They also have fireplaces and hot tubs for cozy lounging after an active day outdoors.

While horseback riding is the main thing to do here, you'll find plenty of other seasonal activities as well. You and your teen can try archery, fly-fishing, mountain biking and paddleboarding during the warmer months. There are also winter adventures like downhill skiing, snow tubing, sleigh rides and snowshoeing. Don't miss the overnight camping experience for teens, which gives them the chance to explore and bond away from their parents.

When you're ready to reconnect over a meal, partake in a campfire cookout at lunch or savor a gourmet plated meal at dinner. Evening options include homemade gnocchi with short rib ragu and a molten chocolate cake for dessert. Teens are welcome to join the younger kids for the "Dine and Dash" dinner, which offers quicker-to-prepare options so kids don't have to sit for a lengthy meal.

Rates at Vista Verde Guest Ranch start at $585 per night for double occupancy on a seven-night stay. Gratuities are included.

25+ Bucket List Adventures to do with your Kids before they Grow Up

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You only have so many years with your kids at home with you and like it or not, time is ticking by FAST!  If you’re like me, you look back on your childhood and the memories are endless, so as a parent, it’s only natural to want to provide our kids with the most amazing adventures that we can.  Because like we talk about a lot around here, adventures mean memories and memories strengthen relationships.

If you do it right and get your kids loving adventure when they’re young, you’ll probably create your best travel and adventure companion FOR LIFE!

Best Adventures to do with your kids BEFORE they grow up.

We’ve searched all over and are highlighting some of the absolute best adventures you can do with kids while they’re still young.  If you have suggestions for more, we’d love to hear about them in the comments!

Swim with Whale Sharks in the Maldives with Kids

We’ve gone swimming with whale sharks in a couple of places, but our kids favorite experience was swimming with whale sharks in the Maldives (we did the whole trip for $50/person/day , so it’s much more affordable than people think).  This excursion was the highlight of our time in the Maldives since we got to get so close to the whale sharks.  Other places where we have been swimming with them, the sharks were much more scared of people, so we only got glimpses of them, but in the Maldives, they were calmer so we got to spend a lot of time in the water with them, and at one point, one of the whale sharks just hung out with us for 30-45 minutes!  Our youngest kids were a little nervous about the size of the whale sharks and just wanted to stay on the boat, but our 6 and 9 year old thought it was incredible.

Swim in a Mexican Cenote with Kids

If you’re planning a trip to the southern end of Mexico (Cancun, Merida or Cozumel areas), make sure to check out a few cenotes while you’re there.  Cenotes are freshwater sinkholes that are deep in the jungle and this area has THOUSANDS of them.  Some are the size of a swimming pool, others are the size of a lake, and some go underground for miles and miles making them the prime area for divers to explore.  We’ve written all about the best cenotes with kids where we share which ones are the most accessible, the most affordable, and especially the most fun (lots of rope swings or ziplines which make them perfect with kids!).  Many of them have life jackets at them, so they are really suitable for all ages and swimming abilities.

Crawl through an Egyptian Pyramid with your Kids

There are few places in the world where history comes to life quite like Egypt.  Probably because Egyptian history is so unique and most schools teach it from a young age.  Egypt is a great place to travel with kids (and yes, we felt totally safe with our kids there – read about it here ).  While seeing the sights there is a great experience that kids will think is fun, one of the most exciting things that you can do there is to explore the inside of a pyramid.  There are several pyramids that you can explore, including the Pyramids at Giza, but we recommend getting off the beaten path and avoiding the crowds.  We took our family inside the Red Pyramid and we were the only people there.  Sure, it was a bit creepy and unknown, which was exactly what going inside a pyramid should be, since it let us really experience what it might have been like thousands of years ago (which is an experience you WON’T get with hundreds of other tourists there).  Our imaginations where running wild as we explored and crawled through tunnels, making this one of the most memorable experiences we’ve done with our kids.

Take a Hot Air Balloon Ride with Kids in Cappadocia Turkey

Explore the tombs of Petra Jordan with Kids

Ready to channel your inner Indiana Jones?  There’s no better place to do it than at the site in Petra Jordan.  What is left of the ancient city of Petra is a series of canals, carvings, and of course tombs!  The best part is that you can go inside most of them and really explore around inside.  You’ll see where bodies were placed, but the real wonder is just trying to fathom how this city was carved out of the rock by hand over a thousand years ago.  While many visitors just make the walk into the treasury and turn around, you should really plan on spending at least 2 days in Petra, with one of those going all the way out to the Monastery.  Petra really is a wonderland for kids a nd the Jordanian people are some of the most kind we’ve ever met (especially if you have really young kids!).  It’s one of the top stops we recommend that people visit with their kids!  Though don’t make the same mistake that we did and visit Petra BEFORE you head to the Dead Sea…head here to read all about what a disaster the Dead Sea was for us!

Hiking with Kids in the Swiss Alps

Learn How to Surf with your Kids

Learning how to surf doesn’t require that you live on the beach or have bleached blonde hair.  But if you want to be successful at learning how to surf, it does require several lessons on a good beginner beach.  If you’re traveling to somewhere like California or Hawaii, expect to pay several hundred dollars for lessons, in addition to getting a good wetsuit so you can stay in the water long enough to learn.  However, if you’re looking for an amazing cultural experience and some spectacular beaches, you could do what we did and learn to surf somewhere unique.  Our family learned to surf in El Salvado r, and we paid only $10 a lesson (yes, $10!!).  We got to learn on some great beginner waves and had almost the entire place to ourselves.  Not to mention the fact that El Salvador is one of the most beautiful places that we’ve ever visited.  Don’t forget to read all about what you need to know before you visit El Salvador as well as why El Salvador topped our list for adventure travel in 2018 .

Take Your Kids on a Multi-Day Whitewater Rafting Trip

Whitewater rafting is one of the very best adventures that you can do as a family.  If you choose your river carefully, you can find the perfect balance of fun and extreme which will leave you with amazing memories and experiences you can look back on for the rest of your life.  While most people think about a trip down the Grand Canyon that takes WEEKS, the reality is that there are rivers all over the place that are suitable for multi-day trips with kids that don’t have the take all your time (and money).  We’ve taken our kids as young as age one down the Colorado River on some calmer sections, and it has worked out great.  We’ve also taken our older kids on sections of the Green River on the Gates of Lodore as well as Desolation Canyon as young as age 6.  Obviously where you choose to go depends on your location, kids ages, and how wild of a ride you are looking for.  While our family has done this for years and have all our own equipment, the easiest way to go on a big rafting trip is with a guided tour.

Teach Your Kids how to Ski

Learning how to ski is a must do for a winter vacationers .  And because it’s not limited to a specific destination, it’s really accessible all over the world (yes, you can even skin in Dubai!)  The feeling of gliding across the snow is so exhilarating and it’s something that anyone can learn how to do!  Whether you choose to teach your own kids to ski (we’ll how you how here , here , here , and here ), or choose to put them in ski lessons, it’s something that they can learn the basics of in a few days.  While there are TONS of options for where to ski, if you’re a beginner, choose where to go based on price.  Once your skills are more advanced, then choose a resort that suits your style (our current fave is Solitude in Utah , though Arapahoe Basin in Colorado is a close second!)

Read Next: Why we Love Arapahoe Basin

Let Your Kids Roast Marshmallows on an Active Volcano

This is one of those experiences that our kids will absolutely NEVER FORGET.  Hiking the Pacaya Volcano with young kids was kind of a surreal experience.  Starting out from the town of Antigua Guatemala, this volcano, is about a 90 minute drive, and there are many tour operators that will take you up for a great price (we paid about $10/person for a guided tour).  To make the hike easier for our kids, we hired 2 horses and guides for them to ride ($10 each, and can be arranged when you arrive).  Once you start hiking, it feels like a regular jungle hike – that is until you start hearing the booms and the rumbling.  Yes, you guessed right – volcanic eruptions happening right then!  As you get closer to the top, you’ll start seeing glimpses of the volcano with its tufts of smoke rising out of it.   We were lucky enough to get some drone footage so that we could get an up close view of what was happening, and we were MIND BLOWN.  While the top of the volcano is a couple of miles from where the trail is, you can still see lava shooting out of the top and the occasional boulder being shot out as well.  After you reach the top of your hike, there are several steam vents where the heat from the lava is vented out.  This is where you roast your marshmallows, but be careful – they cook VERY quickly and the steam is super hot!  It’s a great place for a s’more unlike any other!  This is accessible for all ages and we took our kids at ages 1, 4, 6, 8, and 11.

We also reached out to some of our favorite travel writers to ask them their suggestions for the absolute best kid friendly adventures.  Here’s what they came up with:

Take Your Kids to Antarctica

If your family has a sense of adventure and enjoys natural beauty and wildlife, then they will love visiting Antarctica. There is no shortage of things to see and do in Antarctica with numerous opportunities to view the abundant wildlife including numerous species of penguins, whales, seals and seabirds. There is a lot to see from the ship and you will also have the opportunity to take Zodiac excursions to explore the area and make landings.  Some expeditions also offer additional adventures and activities such as sea kayaking, hiking, cross-country skiing, and camping overnight.  Visiting Antarctica is very educational, there are daily onboard lectures offered by scientists, researchers and other specialists about the environment and Antarctic wildlife.  Expedition cruises to Antarctica are VERY expensive – expect to pay at least $8,000 to $15,000 USD per person but the cost varies depends on your ship, cabin and travel dates.

Contributed by Matilda from The Travel Sisters

Chase the Northern Lights with your Kids

Chasing the Northern Lights is one thing we recommend everyone do once in their lives. The magical auroras are something we believe everyone should try to see. And when they say “chase the Northern Lights”, sometimes it’s quite literal. There are several countries you can find the northern lights, like Iceland, Finland, Canada, Norway, and even some parts of the U.S. to name a few. It doesn’t cost anything if you head out on your own, but if you opt for a tour, you’re more likely to find the best spots to catch them. There are snowmobile tours, driving tours, snow ski tours, and several other ways to chase the lights. As soon as you spot the lights, you’ll be so mesmerized that you’ll want to stay as long as possible, watching them dance across the sky. It’s truly an amazing sight to see! We recommend giving your kids that experience before they leave the house for good.

Contributed by Sara from Our Kind of Crazy

Canyoneering with Kids in or near Zion National Park

Canyoneering is an ideal outdoor family adventure that combines hiking, rappelling, down-climbing, stemming, squeezing through slot canyons, and even wading or swimming. Zion National Park in Utah is the perfect place for this sport. However, to go canyoneering inside the park, you must obtain a backcountry permit, you’ll need your own ropes and gear, and you should really know what you’re doing.

For newbies to canyoneering, book a commercially guided tour with a local vendor in the town of Springdale your gateway to Zion. They will teach you simply, while providing modern, safe equipment, tell you how to dress for the day, drive you to the canyoneering site, and guide you every step of the way on this bucket list family adventure. In a guided group, you are looking at spending $110-155 per person for 4-5 hour excursion, depending on the size of your group.

If your kids are older tweens and teens with stamina, I’d consider booking an eight hour canyoneering experience so you can all really get the hang of things! Since commercially guided canyoneering trips are not allowed inside Zion National Park, the canyoneering company will take you to slot canyons just outside the park — like those found in the nearby Kolob Terraces.

See why our rad family loved canyoneering just outside Zion National Park here . 

Contributed by Tanya from Rad Family Travel

Exploring the Ruins of Machu Pichu With Kids

Heading to Machu Picchu in Peru is often considered one of those things that you do either before kids or once they’ve grown up. But after exploring this magical Incan city with kids, I can tell you, it’s an amazing and unforgettable place for family travel.

Many people are concerned about altitude sickness in kids during a visit here. While Machu Picchu is located among some of the most stunningly beautiful mountains in the Andes, contrary to popular belief, this ancient city isn’t actually at that high of an altitude. The Incan capital of Cusco sits far higher in elevation. And you must pass through Cusco to get to Machu Picchu.

Kids will be mesmerized by the magical train journey up to the city of Aguas Calientes. The towering, glacier-topped mountains are a thrill to take in. But the real treat is when you first take in the Machu Picchu overlook. Standing there, hand-in-hand with your kids while you stare at the postcard-perfect city is an experience you will want to live over again and again.

Getting to Machu Picchu isn’t cheap. Tours often run in the thousands of dollars. And it does require some planning. This includes a local guide while you are at the historic site. You also need to navigate a series of flights or land excursions between Lima to Cusco and Aguas Calientes. But the journey is as memorable as the ultimate destination.

And as you explore Machu Picchu with your children , the magic continues. From the roaming llama’s and Alpaca to the wild and creative buildings, families will find adventure everywhere in Machu Picchu. And, if that doesn’t sell you, know that Hiram Bingham, who re-discovered this lost city, was actually guided there by two local children whose family still live at the base of the mountain.

Contributed by Kevin from Wandering Wagars

Take your Kids Kayaking in Bioluminescent Waters

One of the most incredible adventures to take with your kids before they leave is kayaking in bioluminescent waters. One of the easiest ways to see this from the US is to visit Puerto Rico . You can take a kayak tour where you will glide through a mile of beautiful mangroves in the moonlight. Once you reach the end of the mangroves you’ll see the water start to sparkle!

The bioluminescence (meaning the water actually glows in the dark) is caused by special plankton in the water. It’s tough work kayaking through the dark, but the amazing site makes it all worth it!  It’s such a great bonding experience to see such a rare occurrence in nature together. The bioluminescence is nearly impossible to photograph. But that makes it an even more special experience that just you and your child will remember for the rest of your lives!

Contributed by Vanessa from Wanderlust Crew

Family Safari in South Africa

A South African safari is a magical experience and a truly amazing adventure to share with kids before they leave home. I have so many incredible memories with my mum chasing the Big 5 in the South African wilderness. We have taken our own kids along on the journey and, although he is still too young to remember, we’ve even done a safari with a baby !

A South African safari is a bucket list adventure and an amazing one to share with kids. Together we caught our first glimpses of majestic elephants, rhino, buffalo, leopard and rhino roaming the plains. We’ve giggled as monkeys tried to break into our bedroom, held our breath as lions walked alongside our truck and watched in awe as a 3-day old elephant took its tentative first steps. The remote camps are a total escape and an amazing opportunity to disconnect, make memories and appreciate the magic of each and every moment.

As a family, we’ve explored Kruger National Park and the Sabi Sands and Madikwe Game Reserves in South Africa where our nights in safari lodges have cost anything from US $200 to US$2000 per night. The rates include accommodation, food and twice daily game drives.

Contributed by Elaine from Show Them The Globe

Backpacking the Havasu Falls Trail with Kids

The Havasu Falls Trail is a really unique backpacking trail located in the United States Grand Canyon in Arizona and would make for a fantastic adventure to go on with your kids before they left home. People come from all over the United States in order to see the beautiful, crystal blue waters and the 5 amazing waterfalls along this iconic trail. The hike is roughly 25 miles long round trip if you hike all the way down to Beaver Falls which is the final waterfall of the hike, and you should plan to spend at minimum 3 days doing this hike.

The biggest thing to know about this trail is that it requires a bit of advanced planning. The Havasu Falls trails is becoming one of the most popular hikes in the entire United States. Permits easily sell out the day they open up. Be ready to apply for permits early February and be prepared to spend a bit of money to get them. In 2019, permits cost up to $125 per person per day, but trust me, it’s worth the cost. If you are lucky enough to score permits, this will most certainly be a once-in-a-lifetime experience for you and your kids. All 5 of the waterfalls along the trail are absolutely breathtaking and like nothing else you can see in the United States. Be sure to put the Havasu Falls hike high on your bucket list! You won’t regret it!

Contributed by Allison from She Dreams of Alpine

See the Monarch Butterfly Migration With Your Kids

It was almost a decade earlier that we had watched the BBC Life episode showing the monarch butterfly migration from as far as Canada down to Mexico. I recall being in awe and it was swiftly added to our “must see” list. Fast forward to 2018, when we were booking our flights to Mexico City, and we were looking for one more spot in Mexico to fill our two weeks. We chose Valle de Bravo because of it’s nearby mountains and reputation for having some good hiking. It wasn’t until we dug a little deeper that we realized it was exactly where you could see all the monarch butterflies who had traveled so far for the winter. Even better, we would be there in late February, just in time to see them before they started the long journey north. It felt like this had fallen into our laps and there was no question, we had to go! And not only that, we would get to witness it with our two kids!

There are a few monarch butterfly sanctuaries that can be reached from Mexico City, but the closest one to Valle de Bravo was the Piedra Herrada Sanctuary. It takes 2-3 hours to get from Mexico City to Valle de Bravo, depending on traffic, which makes a day tour possible but a long day. We recommend staying at least one night if traveling to Valle de Bravo with kids . It’s a charming town with incredible scenery and some amazing food.

Seeing the butterflies is pretty easy. The ride by taxi from Valle de Bravo is approximately 1 hour (slightly less). The entry ticket is quite cheap at around $4 USD and includes a mandatory guide. From there you can choose to hike up or hire a horse. We opted to hike up the 1.2 miles (2km) and though it was quite dusty, it was a pleasant walk in the forest. Both our kids, who were 3 & 5 years old, were easily able to manage it. Once at the top, the trail gets a little trickier in the trees with some steep spots, but again with a little help our kids did fine.

Once you make it to the top, you sit in absolute amazement (and silence) at the millions of butterflies hanging on the trees and flying around. We were fortunate to be there on a sunny day and got to witness the butterflies being quite active as the sun shone through the trees. In all, we were there for about 45 minutes and left shocked at how quiet our kids were the entire time. We expect they were as mesmerized by the butterflies as we were!

Contributed by Celine from Family Can Travel

Travel on the Trans Siberian Railroad as a Family

One of our best family travel adventures has been an epic, overland trip by train from Hong Kong to the U.K. For part of this trip, we achieved a long-held dream and travelled on the iconic Trans Siberian Railway across Russia. We travelled from the Mongolia border to St. Petersburg making stops along the way in Irkutsk in Eastern Siberia and in Moscow. It was an incredible, once in a lifetime trip.

Travelling by train allows you to see the diversity of landscapes, flora and architecture within one country. In Russia, we journeyed through dense birch and larch forests, past Lake Baikal (the deepest lake in the world), alongside beautiful wildflower meadows and through modern industrial cities and tiny country towns with wooden houses. You have time on a train journey to interact with your fellow passengers. The cost of travelling on the Trans Siberian railway varies dramatically. There is no one, overall Trans Siberian rail ticket; you must buy a ticket for each segment of your trip depending on the stops you wish to make. Travelling long distance by train was great with kids; we played lots of games and caught up on school work. Our three children loved looking out the window, wandering the different carriages and sleeping in the rocking bunk beds!

Contributed by Sinead from Map Made Memories

Visiting Acadia National Park with Kids

One of the best family adventures on the East Coast is Acadia National Park located in Maine. This beautiful national park features easy to moderate hikes, beautiful sunsets from Cadillac Mountain, a sandy beach to explore as well as tidal pools to find little sea creatures. More adventurous families can look into kayaking the shore, rock climbing up the cliffsides and stargazing late at night. Everyone can enjoy a horse-drawn carriage ride along the carriage roads and popovers with ice cream at the Jordan Pond Tea House. With the town of Bar Harbor minutes away from the entrance to the park, you can find easy lodging with something to suit every price point. From a cozy B&B to full-service hotels along the shore and camping options nearby. Bar Harbor also offers many restaurants to choose from and plenty of lobster dishes if you’d like. Speaking of Lobster, take a boat ride out to the harbor and learn about why Maine is one of the biggest exporters of Lobster. Check out these articles to see why Acadia National Park with the neighboring town of Bar Harbor Maine are an absolute delight.

Contributed by Chelsea from Pack More Into Life

Visiting the Grand Canyon with Kids

  National Park holidays make for some of the best family adventures – for kids of all ages! We went to the Grand Canyon with our toddler recently, and I was fascinated watching him take it all in. We did two things in particular that were pretty awesome: some great family-friendly hikes and a helicopter tour.

Our hike to Shoshone Point wasn’t just kid-friendly, it was stroller-friendly! Flat and easy, it’s definitely the trail to choose if you have kids a wide range of ages, because it can accommodate the whole family. Even though our son was too young to walk it, we cheered him on anyway as we strolled him along (he’ll be hiking by himself as soon as he’s able, so we figured we should start early with the encouragement!) . Bonus: there’s an open area with picnic tables at the point, so it’s a great place to take a packed lunch.

Our hike on the South Kaibab trail to Ooh Aah Point was narrow, steep and uneven – not the slightest bit stroller-friendly, so we used a baby carrier. But older kids, especially tweens and teens, could probably tackle this trail with mom and dad and feel a pretty great sense of accomplishment at the end!

The helicopter tour was a pretty big splurge for us, at about $200 each. But it was well worth it, being able to see such a spectacular natural wonder form a birds-eye perspective. Our trip to the Grand Canyon was such a success, we plan on visiting a different national park every year until he moves out!

Contributed by Mary Beth from MB Sees .

Family Cruise on Vietnam’s Halong Bay

A Halong Bay cruise in Vietnam is an experience we were so grateful to have had with our eldest daughter, and while she was quite young at the time, she had a blast too! This would be best for kids who are school age, so they can really appreciate the environment and culture. It also means they can participate in all the different activities along the way too.

This was our daughters first cruise experience and cruising Halong Bay is nothing like the big luxury cruise ships with loads of on board entertainment. This is more about the scenery, food and excursions you have off the boat! Although in saying that, the cruise staff make it loads of fun on board too!

We did our cruise with Au Co Cruises and the cost for a 3 night Halong Bay cruise is around $400US per person. It includes all meals and excursions, although there are cheaper alternatives available too. We went with this option to give us a family friendly option suited to cruising with a toddler .

Experiencing Halong Bay is a great reminder for kids to disconnect and enjoy their surroundings. During our cruise we did loads of family fun activities, like kayaking around rock formations, walking through caves and visiting local villages. Showing your children how other cultures live is an experience they don’t get in the classroom.

Halong Bay is one of the most scenic places in the world and it will encourage you to connect as a family, with minimal distractions from the outside world.

Contributed by Holly from Four Around The World

Stay in a Mongolian Ger with Your Kids

Arriving off the Trans Mongolia into the capital of Mongolia was a moment we will always cherish. After 48 hours of travelling on a train we were keen to explore, stretch our legs and head for the hills! We had booked an Airbnb which was actually a traditional Mongolian home called a Ger . The nomadic families in Mongolia will set up their Ger and it’s able to be transported across the country to follow the weather and landscape for their herds. We loved living in s Ger without any electricity, running water or any modern day conveniences. It allowed us to reconnect as a family, to live simply, to appreciate nature and to enjoy star gazing at night. While galloping across the plains on a horse I actually cried as I was so thrilled to actually be there with my family, living our best lives and really challenging ourselves.

Contributed by Bron from Smiths Holiday Road

Take the Kids to India

For some of us, adventure travel is often defined by the degree of difference to home. Of far flung countries with foreign language, food and culture. Rajasthan in northern India is one such place.  From ancient palaces in Jaipur, white marble temples in Ranakpur, the blue city of Jodhpur and the desert fort of Jaisalmer, there are impressive sights to see wherever you go.

But the real reason why India is so great with kids is the everyday is an adventure too. Cows wander the streets, marching bands lead wedding processions through town and street vendors sell anything and everything. Foreign children are treated like superstars and every meal is an adventure as you try the delicious snacks, curries and desserts on offer.

Better still for family travelers, India is an affordable country to travel in. Food is cheap and plentiful. There is a huge range of accommodation available, and there are opportunities to organise home stays for a unique travel experience. Getting around is possible on trains, buses or private cars with drivers.

India is an assault on the senses in every way. It can be a challenging place to visit, but it is also one of the most memorable adventures to take with kids before they leave home.

Contributed by Rachel from Adventure and Sunshine

Learn to Scuba Dive with your Kids

Scuba Diving in Curacao It’s not easy for a mother to finds ways to bond with her teenage son that that don’t include video games, dirt bikes or soccer.  While planning a family vacation to the Caribbean island of Curacao, I had an epiphany… why not ask my teenage son to join me on a dive?  Scuba diving could be a great multi-generational activity.

Curacao’s calm east coast beaches offer up to 100 feet of visibility and warm, inviting, reef-laden waters which were perfect for his first dive.  Like me, he was mesmerized by the otherworldly sights and sounds of the sea.  The clear turquoise water contained many varieties of coral and sea grasses.  Marine life was abundant with trumpet fish darting about, lionfish splaying their spire-like fins, and the toothy grin of a moray eel as we glided past.  What teenage boy wouldn’t love such visual treats?

It was a fantastic, memorable adventure, and the opportunity to experience the underwater world through the eyes of my offspring was priceless.  The cost for an introductory dive, sometimes called a “resort dive,” in the Caribbean varies widely, from $125 to $250 depending on the location.

Contributed by Patti from Luggage and Lipstick

Take your kids Ziplining

If you want to score absolute Brownie points with your kids then put Ziplining on your bucket list. Lago Maggiore ZIPline is a 80mph 2k flight across some of the most stunning scenery in the foothills of the Italian Alps close to Lake Maggiore. A single flight costs 48 Euro’s per pair as part of a family ticket and hiring a Go-Pro for evidence you did it is optional. You meet at The Nest and get to watch a few flights coming in first which kickstarts the old adrenaline and gets you pumped before you make a 15 minute car journey to the top. All harnessed in you’re all set for the next few minutes of breath-taking views with your child of choice. It looks terrifying, however this will be the most euphoric experience you will ever have and is made even more memorable that you get to share it with your kids – they will be dining out on tales of your petrified shrieks for years to come! You may not believe it now but you’ll be wanting to fly again once you come into land. Brilliantly The Nest is set up for you to enjoy everyone else’s incoming flights too, complimented unquestionably with a rewarding cold beer and the epic views you just flew over. For more information you can read about our full experience here. 

Contributed by Alex from My Life Long Holiday

Interrailing across Europe as a Family

Europe is such a beautiful and diverse continent it can be hard to decide exactly where to take the kids during their precious holiday time. Why not make it into the ultimate adventure and show them as much as possible by Interrailing across Europe.

Interrail is essentially a train ticket which allows you to travel throughout the whole of Europe on just one ticket. You can buy different time periods and choose either first or second class travel. We chose 7 days of travel within 1 month which is currently £295 for an adult ticket, a youth (anyone between 11 and 27) is £228 and the best part is that kids under 11 are completely free! So much cheaper than flying!

If you want guaranteed seats on certain trains, you’ll have to make reservations which add a little more to your overall cost, some are free, some can be as little as £5 and some countries such as Spain and Italy require compulsory reservations which can get pricey.

You’ll need to put in a lot of research to plan where you want to visit and work out the best route. For an itinerary which shows you as much of Europe as possible, we left London on the Eurostar and visited Brussels, Amsterdam, Utrecht, Prague, Innsbruck, Bologna, Tuscany, Como and Milan. We took in modern cities, the history of Central Europe, the breathtaking mountains of the Austrian Alps and the charming hill towns of Italy.

My daughter learned so much as we went and soaked up all the different locations like a sponge. The best thing about an interrail adventure is the time spent as a family on the trains. You will really talk and connect without outside distractions, play cards and learn to switch off together.

Contributed by Karen from Are We There Yet Kids

Hi, I’m Jessica, a mom of 5 kids and married to my favorite adventure partner. I love to bike, ski, camp and hike. We've visited over 40 countries with our kids, but are equally happy on the road as we are exploring our home state of Utah.

Worldschooling – The Exact Curriculum You Need To Take Your Kids Education On The Road

Best things to do in cappadocia turkey with kids (and what to avoid), 1 thought on “25+ bucket list adventures to do with your kids before they grow up”.

What a fantastic list of adventures with kids around the world. So many great bucket list ideas — we often talk of interrailing across Europe with our kids. Thanks so much!

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Charging elephant kills an American woman on 'bucket list trip' in Zambia

An American woman who was on what she had called her "last big trip" was killed when a charging elephant flipped over the car she was traveling in at a national park in Zambia .

The “aggressive” creature buffeted the vehicle carrying six tourists and a guide, tour operator Wilderness said in a statement Tuesday. It said the 79-year-old victim died after Saturday's incident on a game drive at the Kafue National Park in western Zambia.

The company did not name the victim but Rona Wells, her daughter, identified her as Gail Mattson in a post on Facebook. She said her mother died in a “tragic accident while on her dream adventure.”

A video circulating on social media apparently showing the incident shows a large elephant running toward a car, which slows down as the animal approaches its left side. The elephant then flips the vehicle over and the passengers can be heard gasping as the car rolls over.

NBC News does not know the condition or identity of the person who filmed the video.

Photos shared online of the car, which is emblazoned with the logo of the tour operator, show it tipped onto its side after the incident, with a deep dent in two of its side doors.

Wilderness, which describes itself as a “leading conservation and hospitality company” operating in eight African countries, including Zambia, did not respond to NBC News when asked to confirm the authenticity of the video and the photos.

But the tour operator’s CEO, Keith Vincent, said in the statement that the company’s “guides are all extremely well trained and experienced.”

"Sadly in this instance the terrain and vegetation was such that the guide’s route became blocked and he could not move the vehicle out of harm’s way quickly enough,” he added.

Another woman was also injured in the incident and taken to a medical facility in South Africa, the Wilderness statement said, adding that four others were treated for minor injuries.

“It’s extremely rare to see an elephant that irate,” Marlon du Toit, a wildlife photographer and safari guide, told the “TODAY” show Thursday. “Across Africa, there are thousands and thousands of guests on safari on a daily basis with no negative consequences.”

The exact cause of Mattson’s death was unclear, but the company said her body would be repatriated to her family in the United States with the support of local Zambian authorities and the U.S. Embassy in the capital, Lusaka.

“This is a tragic event and we extend our deepest condolences to the family of the guest who died,” the statement added.

NBC News has reached out to Mattson's family for further comment.

Kafue National Park is Zambia’s largest and oldest national park, according to its website, and spans an area of more than 8,000 square miles. Vast regions of the park remain unexplored and the website says it is home to a variety of untamed wildlife.

A 'bucket list trip'

Mattson spent her winters in Sun City West, Arizona, playing bridge and cards, but during the rest of the year, she "travels all over the world," her friend Brenda Biggs told NBC News. Biggs and her husband, John Longabauth, became friends with Mattson when they moved to the area 6 ½ years ago.

Longabauth said Mattson spoke to the couple about her upcoming safari trip about two weeks ago, and called it "one of her bucket list trips." He said she was very excited for the adventure.

Before she left, she gave the couple concert tickets for a show that would happen while she was traveling, telling them to enjoy the concert and "I'll see you when I get back," Longabauth recalled of the conversation.

Biggs said Mattson, who was almost 80 years old, told her that the African safari was her "my last big trip." She said Mattson was "super excited because it was like the culmination of all the trips that she had gone on."

An avid traveler, Mattson took to trips to Europe and Asia, Longabauth recalled, noting that she might have been to South America, too.

Biggs called her friend "flamboyant," "friendly" and "fabulous" and said she loved bright colors. Mattson had taken over Biggs’ job as the event planner for their 200-member bridge club, she said.

"Gail was one of the more up people you'd ever want to meet," Longabauth said. "She was always up. She was always optimistic. She was always seeing the good side of everybody."

Yuliya Talmazan is a reporter for NBC News Digital, based in London.

Rebecca Cohen is a breaking news reporter for NBC News.