There are so many cool places to travel around the world. But which ones are worthy of making it to your 2024 bucket list? We've carefully picked 30 epic places to travel this year, so you can experience the most up-and-coming places before they get crowded, as well as visit some awesome places before they disappear forever.
Whether it's chasing northern lights, erupting volcanoes, or wild parties, let 2024 be the year of adventure, and one where you climb out of your comfort zone.
This 2024 bucket list is for those ready to explore off-the-beaten path, party all night, and make memories that will last forever. So let's jump right into this exciting new chapter, and check out the most epic places to travel this year!
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2024 Bucket List: Epic Places to Travel This Year Around the Americas
From North to South, this area of the world has so many underrated places to travel this year for your 2024 bucket list! The Americas are where you can find an incredible variety of landscapes, delicious coffee, and some super affordable trips. Here are a few of our recommended places to travel this year in North, Central, and South America.
1. Argentina
Argentina is one of the most underrated countries in the world, and full of variety. From the icy mountains of Patagonia to the massive waterfalls of Iguazu, you could easily spend months exploring all that the southernmost country has to offer.
Not only is Argentina now offering more flights from the US, but the destinations have become more affordable than ever. Bring dollars and you'll be able to experience pretty much everything for half price! (Thanks to the Blue Dollar in Argentina).
But you'll want to go soon, because there is a new president, and we aren't sure what the future holds for the country financially. Take advantage now and see why Argentina is one of our favorite countries in the world!
Argentina is one of our top travel destinations for 2024.
2. The Galapagos Islands, Ecuador
The Galapagos Islands are one of the most protected places on Earth, and are full of the best wildlife you'll ever encounter!
More and more animals are in danger each year, so make sure to visit while you can. There was also just a massive controversy with these islands' New Years celebrations, which a creator we follow documented, ending in the termination of the Park Director.
We have a feeling that things are going to change drastically in the Galapagos Islands, so we suggest you make your way there as soon as possible!
3. Peru
Peru is a country that has become increasingly popular throughout the years, and is bound to start getting more expensive with its high demand.
Machu Picchu is this South American country's claim to fame, and word has it that it won't always be open to the public. So grab your spot now, and also check out the epic Glamping options and wildly colorful landscapes all around the country while you can.
Peru has an amazing variety of landscapes.
4. El Salvador
El Salvador may just be one of the most underrated countries in the Americas. Often overshadowed by the other popular countries in Central America, this country is super affordable and full of friendly people, and cool landscapes.
Expect epic volcanoes, black sand beaches, and some of the best coffee in the world. El Salvador also surprised us with its hot spring waterfall and geothermal springs.
The US has flights as low as $35 each way to San Salvador, and you can easily explore the country in a short period of time due to its small size, making it a fun option even for a weekend getaway!
El Salvador is one of the most underrated countries in the Americas.
5. Florida, USA
Florida is one of the most popular tropical getaways for Americans. But we're not here to tell you to party the night away in Miami or to go to Disney. We're here to share other reasons to add Florida to your bucket list.
For one, this state is full incredible springs, and has one of the most pictureque towns in the US, St Augustine.
But another reason Florida is one of the places to travel to this year is because it's where the America Cup will be held. This summer one of the biggest soccer tournaments will be held in the south of the US, and the finals will be in Miami.
Florida is so much more than just Miami and Disney.
6. Idaho, USA
While Florida is a very well-known and frequented destination in the US, Idaho is one of those up-and-coming states that no one ever thought they'd see on a travel list!
Here it is- but why exactly? Well, Idaho is actually full of natural hot springs and beautiful landscapes, which is also why we particularly love it for a winter bucket list destination, and for one of the top places to add to your 2024 bucket list as well.
Photo by Ashe Walker on Unsplash
7. Oregon, USA
Speaking of up-and-coming destinations, Oregon is definitely one of them. For the longest time I only knew Oregon for the game "the Oregon Trail" (if you know you know). But this state actually has so many incredible waterfalls, and is super green!
We suggest heading here for a summer road trip, and pairing it with Northern California or Washington state if you have extra time.
Photo by conner bowe on Unsplash
Photo by William Rudolph on Unsplash
8. Alaska, USA
Due to global warming and motions to conserve the planet, it's no surprise that some of our icier destinations should be at the top of your 2024 bucket list.
Alaska has become increasingly popular, and has so many cool reasons for visiting. It's personally been on my list of places to visit this year for a while, and I will finally be able to experience it in May!
Photo by Elijah Hiett on Unsplash
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9. Vancouver, Canada
Another great city to pair while heading to the west is one of Canada's most beloved destinations: Vancouver.
We've been seeing more and more hype around this island, and from pictures we can certainly see why! It's the perfect summer destination, full of gorgeous nature. Add it to your 2024 bucket list and we're sure you won't be disappointed!
For more Vancouver travel inspo, we encourage you to check out Fuel for the Sole's Instagram page which is packed with cool recommendations!
Photo by Mike Benna on Unsplash
2024 Bucket List: Epic Places to Travel This Year Around Europe
Europe is always a good idea, and there are an endless amount of places to visit this year. However, our picks for the 2024 bucket list have been determined for trending destinations, and those that are up-and-coming.
10. Iceland
Iceland is no longer new news. However, it's certainly a country that needs to be visited sooner or later! Due to the volcanic activity on the island, the nature is constantly changing. Not only that, but getting to witness one of the volcanic eruptions is definitely something to have on your 2024 bucket list.
If you want to get off the typical tourist path and escape the crowds, we suggest checking out the West Fjords, the Highlands, and the Westman Islands.
Iceland has some of the coolest landscapes on the planet.
11. Lofoten Islands, Norway
The Lofoten Islands are some of the most stunning islands on Earth, and should be on everyone's 2024 bucket list. The reason we think it is one of the places to travel this year, is because it is becoming increasingly popular, and will only keep getting more expensive and crowded.
Visit in the summer and you'll be able to experience 24 hours of sunlight, charming fishing villages, and some of the most gorgeous hikes we have ever experienced. Visit in the winter time, and you'll have an incredible shot at seeing the northern lights.
The Lofoten Islands are some of the most beautiful islands on the planet.
12. Faroe Islands, Denmark
Looking for another gorgeous archipelago in the north of Europe for your 2024 bucket list? Look no further than the incredible Faroe Islands.
Just like the Lofoten Islands they are full of incredible landscapes, and you can experience the midnight sun or the northern lights depending on when you decide to go. Unlike the Lofoten Islands though, the Faroe Islands still remain a pretty well-kept secret- so get there before the crowds follow!
Photo by Rogério Toledo on Unsplash
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13. Madeira, Portugal
Another incredible up-and-coming 2024 bucket list destination is the stunning island of Madeira. Situated in the middle of the Atlantic, this island belongs to Portugal, and is completely different than the mainland.
Covered with striking cliffs and green hills, the island is full of breathtaking beauty, attracting more and more adventure travelers each year. We suggest making it one of the places to travel this year, before it gets overcrowded with eager adventurers.
Photo by Tim Roosjen on Unsplash
14. The Canary Islands, Spain
The Canary Islands are some of the most beautiful and diverse islands in the world. Belonging to Spain, this 8-island chain is situated off the coast of Africa, and offers a variety of vacation vibes for all types of travelers.
The islands have perfectly moderate temperatures near round, fun nightlife, delicious food, and incredible landscapes. Each island has its own vibe, and you can easily get from one to the other by ferry or by a short flight.
We spent a total of 8 weeks in the Canary Islands, with 1 week on each island. As we were working while traveling, we certainly felt this was the perfect amount of time to see all of the highlights, while also getting a local feel for each Island.
The Canary Islands are super diverse.
15. Lapland, Finland
The northern lights are supposedly supposed to be the best they've ever been this year, and what better place to experience it than one of the highest points of the Arctic circle?
Lapland is the ultimate 2024 bucket list destination, and should definitely be one of the places you visit this year for the holiday season. It's home to Santa's village, reindeer and husky sledding, igloos, and everything you could ever want from a winter wonderland.
Photo by Judith Prins on Unsplash
Photo by Simon Smith on Unsplash
16. Slovenia
Slovenia is certainly one of the most underrated destinations in all of Europe, but it won't be for long! Full of incredible landscapes, delicious food, and friendly people, it has easily become one of our favorite countries in the world.
People are starting to catch on that it is cheaper, less crowded, and equally beautiful as its neighboring countries, so it's just a matter of time before that changes. Visit this stunning country now before the prices start to soar and the crowds start pouring in.
17. Albania
Albania is definitely another one of the most underrated countries in the word. While each year people flock to Greece and Italy, their neighbor is sitting there hardly noticed.
With gorgeous beaches in the south, stunning mountains in the north, and other unique landscapes between, this country is packed with plenty of things to see, and a ton of hidden gems.
When we visited in 2022 the Albanian Riviera was still not crazy busy, but we suspect that will change this summer, and the crowd-free days and ultra-low prices will be limited. So make sure to add Albania to your list of places to travel this year!
Albania is the perfect blend of mountains and beaches.
18. Romania
Just like Albania, Romania gets a pretty bad rep amongst Europeans. However, we have nothing but good things to say about this country!
Full of fairytale villages, beautiful landscapes, and some wildly unique attractions, Romania is a country that should be on everyone's 2024 bucket list.
Not only are there are ton of great cities to visit around the country, but the capital is home to one of the most epic spas in the world! It's certainly another great reason to have Romania on your list of places to travel this year.
Romania has a lot of unique places to visit.
19. Paris, France
The city of love is a pretty classic destination to visit, and typically wouldn't be on a list of must-visit places to travel this year. However, Paris is hosting the Olympics this year, making it the perfect reason to go visit!
The games will start July 26th, and will go until August 11th. The city will become super crowded, so make sure to make your reservations well in advance!
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20. Georgia
Georgia is hands down one of the most underrated countries in the world, and definitely needs to be on your 2024 bucket list before the word gets out.
This country is full of gorgeous landscapes, friendly people, delicious food, and super cheap prices. There is so much to do and see throughout the country of Georgia, and it is one of our top picks for places to travel this year. It's most popular to visit in summer, but we personally loved visiting in October as we were able to experience all 4 seasons.
2024 Bucket List: Epic Places to Travel This Year Around Africa & the Middle East
The Middle East and Africa used to be two regions of the world that were feared by many. But more and more people are starting to realize that they aren't as unsafe as people had always thought, and they are full of beauty and culture. Here are a few of the coolest places to travel this year around the Middle East and Africa.
21. Morocco
Morocco is such an incredible place because it is easily accessible from Europe, with a completely different vibe.
Bustling markets, fragrant spices, and massive deserts are just some of the reasons to add Morocco to your 2024 bucket list. But there are also so many hidden gems throughout the country, and we're here to help you discover them.
This year we are launching Off The Beaten Trips- carefully curated group trips for the adventurers out there, and Morocco will be one of the most epic destinations. After several times of visiting, we've gathered the most unique stays and local experiences, which will be available soon! In the meantime, we've included some helpful info below.
Morocco is full of adventure.
22. Tunisia
While Morocco is already pretty popular, Tunisia is one of the hidden gems of Northern Africa.
Located along the Mediterranean, you can experience stunning turquoise waters, picturesque medinas, and vast deserts. It's a country with a variety of places to enjoy, and is super affordable. We have a feeling it is going to become much more popular in the next few years, so we suggest adding it to your list of places to travel this year before that happens!
Photo by Haythem Gataa on Unsplash
23. Oman
The UAE has been hogging the Middle East spotlight for far too long. Meanwhile, the neighboring country of Oman has a ton of beauty and history to enjoy!
We've been seeing an upward trend in Oman travel the past year, which means you should certainly add it to your bucket list before it gets as crowded and expensive as the UAE has become.
Photo by Katerina Kerdi on Unsplash
24. Socotra, Yemen
Socotra is the gem of the Arabian Sea, and definitely one of our favorite places in the world! In 2023 the island of Socotra started te see a rise in tourism, and it is definitely the up-and-coming destination for adventure travelers.
With incredibly clear waters, massive sand dunes, and the most unique trees in the world, this is a must for your 2024 bucket list, and we're here to help you make it happen!
Check out our group and private tours in Socotra with Off The Beaten Trips to experience a once-in-a-lifetime trip!
Socotra, Yemen is one of the most exotic and beautiful places on Earth.
25. Kenya
Speaking of destinations that have been increasingly popular in the last year, Kenya has been climbing in the rankings!
It's one of the best places to experience a safari in Africa, and it has a variety of unique lodges, beautiful beaches, and cool activities to experience.
We're in the works of building a group trip to visit here! So make sure to sign up for our newsletter for when the trip goes live.
Photo by sutirta budiman on Unsplash
26. Namibia
Another incredible destination in Africa that is capturing the attention of adventure travelers is Namibia. Travelers used to flock to South Africa, but neighboring the popular country to its east is another epic country full of wildlife and sand dunes hugging the coast. Namibia is the next up-and-coming Southern African destination, so make sure to add it to your 2024 bucket list!
Photo by Ashim D’Silva on Unsplash
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27. Victoria Falls, Zambia/Zimbabwe
If you're looking for an epic adventure for your 2024 bucket list, then Victoria Falls is definitely one you should check out.
Located on the border of Zambia and Zimbabwe, these are the most impressive waterfalls in the world, and you can actually sit right on the top of them!
It's an activity that local guides offer, and due to the nature of the activity itself, we don't see it being one that will be offered forever. That's why Victoria Falls has jumped to the top of our 2024 bucket list, and one of the places we look forward to traveling to this year for the first time!
Photo by Sammy Wong on Unsplash
2024 Bucket List: Epic Places to Travel This Year Around Asia
Asia is a continent full of crazy food, impressive architecture, and vibrant colors. While Bali has been a bit overplayed as a travel destination, we've chosen a couple of places that are becoming increasingly popular, and you should visit as soon as possible!
28. Vietnam
For years Thailand has been the top destination in South East Asia. But Vietnam is creeping up as one of the most loved destinations for those looking to get a bit more off-the-beaten-path.
With stunning landscapes, unique temples, and a cool mix of cities and beaches, Vietnam should surely be at the top of the list for places to travel this yea. Hurry and get there before it becomes more commercialized like its popular neighbor, and while the prices are super affordable.
29. Japan
Japan was one of the hottest destinations for 2023, and 2024 doesn't look any different! People flock to this island country for its stunning cherry blossoms and the famous Mt Fuji. But there is so much more to Japan than just that!
The country has incredible cuisine, a rich history, and really unique nature, making it an epic destination year round to enjoy. It's actually on our list of places to travel this year, so stay tuned for some more Japan travel inspiration!
Photo by Manuel Cosentino on Unsplash
The Ultimate 2024 Bucket List Destination
We've taken you around the world, but there is a certain area we have been waiting to share (the best should always be last right?). Well- here it is!
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30. Antarctica
Antarctica is the most remote location on Earth, but it is becoming more and more accessible each year. However, due to glaciers melting and wildlife being in danger, this destination won't always be around for tourism. We highly suggest grabbing a cruise to Antarctica sooner than later!
There are larger cruise ships that sail around Antarctica, but if you get a small expedition ship, then you'll have the opportunity to step foot on the ice itself, and see all the incredible wildlife that Antarctica has to offer.
Photo by Torsten Dederichs on Unsplash
Travel Planning Tools
Here are some useful tools that you can use for planning your upcoming trip!
So are you ready to tick off some 2024 bucket list items? There are so many cool places to travel this year, and we urge you to check them out before the crowds start to follow!
Looking to travel a specific time of the year? Make sure to check out our monthly destination guides, where we outline the best places to check out each month.
Ready to start planning your trip? We're here to help! With Scratch Your Mapa Travel Planning you can save both time and money, as well as receive a customized itinerary for your travel type. Simply email us today for your free consultation.
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