With so many destinations on the list, it’s impossibly difficult to create one definitive list of just five places to see, however, here are five that belong on any adventurer’s bucket list!
Reykjavik, Iceland Northern Lights
Iceland, in general, is one of the best places to see the Northern Lights, and its capital is no exception. One of the most popular Icelandic destinations, Reykjavik, is one of the most incredible places in the world to appreciate the Aurora Borealis.
While there are several ideal places to see the Northern Lights, Reykjavik wins for density of outdoor activities. You’ll have plenty to do during the day while you wait to chase the lights! Not only does the allure of international travel beat domestic Northern Lights locations like Fairbanks, Alaska, but Reykjavik and the surrounding areas also offer white water rafting, hiking, and hot springs, all within driving distance!
Banff National Park
Next on the list is Banff, Alberta. Alberta as a whole is a ruggedly beautiful Canadian province, but Banff National Park is a thing of wonder for avid hikers and campers. If you’re making a road trip out of it, don’t forget to add in Glacier National Park on the Montana side of the border at just about a four-hour drive away.
Whether you want to hit Banff during the winter for ski season or summer for backpacking season, you want to spend some serious time in the Canadian section of the Rocky Mountains. The summer season has the advantage of up to 16 hours of sunlight for you to enjoy, though winter is in a class of its own for the snow-savvy adventurer.
Grand Canyon
Grand Canyon National Park holds some of the most spectacular views in all of the US and deserves a spot on any good bucket list. The Grand Canyon is also a place to truly test your mettle. If you’re looking to take on one of the toughest physical challenges you can find, consider hiking or (running) the Rim to Rim hike. Either 21 or 24 miles depending on which side you start from, this challenge isn’t for the faint of heart but will net you eternal bragging rights.
New Zealand
New Zealand offers some of the world’s most beautiful views and most memorable activities. This country makes bucket lists in multiple categories, but the biggest thing here is the Te Araroa Trail. Te Araroa has come into vogue more recently as a long trail and is surpassed in difficulty only by beauty.
This 1,900-mile thru hike has some of the most breathtaking greenery you’ll ever see and is worth every step. If you’ve got three to six months to hike the whole thing, you’ll gain a lifetime of memories. However, if you’re shorter on time, you want to at least check out the Northland east coastline section as well as the Tararuas mountain range.
Machu Picchu
This ancient symbol of the Incan empire pushes up towards 8,000 feet in elevation and is no easy feat. Varying weather patterns mean you’ll have to carry plenty of gear and be prepared for an adventure you’ll never forget.
The Inca Trail is the most popular way to climb Machu Picchu. About a marathon in length, most who traverse the trail take three to five days to reach the top. However, if you’re short on time, there’s a separate trail that will take roughly a day to complete.
Get Preparing!
With any new destination on your list, you want to make sure you have the right gear. Trekking around the world calls for a bag that works as hard as you do!
Whether you’re checking a bag or going the one-bag route, The Vipr has you covered. With a 36-liter capacity, innovative roll-top design, and Global Digital Bag Tag (lost luggage is a thing of the past), you’ll be covered for all travel, foreign and domestic. Want a quick way to take to the skies? The Meta Kit provides you with a backpack, dopp bag, travel belt, and wallet so you can be out your door and on the road in no time!
