Lonely Planet ranks top 10 ultimate travel experiences

The best places on the planet, ranked...
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We’ve all got a list of places that we want to see for ourselves and sometimes, our lists can be quite overwhelming. With so many places to see, we’ve turned to the Lonely Planet‘s list of ultimate travel experiences filled with the places you should see. Some may even surprise you…

1. Petra, Jordan

Get a glimpse into ancient history while visiting Petra. Trust us when we say that you’ll marvel at the architecture – more particularly, the intricate carvings into the dusty pink rock face, ancient tombs and the archaeological findings.

2. Galápagos

Dubbed as the islands that changed the course of science, the Galápagos Islands are known for its white-sandy beaches, its turquoise waters and in particular, its ecotourism. It’s something that is central to everything on the 17 islands that even its airport is made from mostly recycled materials and runs on wind and solar power, and each municipality has a strict sustainability plan.

3. Aṉangu at Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, Australia

One of the lesser-known touristic sites in Australia, the Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park is a living cultural landscape where earth and memories exist as one. It has become a symbolic heart beating in the country’s Red Centre and it is more than just a photo opportunity. The entire park is an awe-inspiring environment. 

4. Okavango Delta, Botswana

Botswana may be known for its wildlife safaris and beautiful nature but the floodwaters of the Okavango River is a sight not to be missed. Considered to be one of the world’s largest inland deltas, the Okavango River is special because it empties onto open land, flooding the savanna and creating a unique and ever-changing inland. Plus, you might see some elephants, buffaloes, giraffes, hippos, antelope, leopards, hyenas, zebras and crocodiles.

5. Yellowstone National Park, USA

Let’s be honest, there are plenty of reasons to visit Yellowstone National Park. A place of outstanding natural beauty, the first National Park in the world features geysers, waterfalls, forests and lakes, and is bursting with things to do and see.

6. Lake Bled, Slovenia

When you explore new places, you can never go wrong with picturesque spots to visit, and Lake Bled in Slovenia is one of the most breathtaking spots to come across. the small lake has all of the ingredients for the perfect getaway – think a castle, a pretty little island and adventurous opportunities – making the secluded spot a fantastic sweet treat.

7. Iguazú Falls, South America

Considered to be one of the planet’s most awe-inspiring waterfalls, the Iguazú Falls located between Argentina and Brazil is a jaw-dropping, visceral experience. If you’re the type of traveller constantly looking for adventure, Paraguay is just a short bus trip away. 

8. Angkor, Cambodia

There are plenty of reasons to visit Angkor. Not only is it home to some impressive architecture and is the centre of the Khmer Empire, but it is also a UNESCO World Heritage site because of the “most remarkable architectural and artistic accomplishments of the ancient world”. Also, Angkor Wat is just one of the several hundred temples at Angkor Archaeological Park, so there will be many others to explore.

9. Salar de Uyuni, Bolivia

The Salar de Uyuni in Bolivia is one of the most remarkable salt flat vistas on earth. The water turns the place into the world’s largest mirror, where it can become difficult to distinguish the water from the sky.

10. Annapurna Circuit, Nepal

If you’re looking for a good hike, the 128-mile route, which circles Nepal’s heaven-high Annapurna range, is a trek that is more remote and features huts that are more luxe, pilgrimage sites that are more holy and wildlife that’s more exotic.

Now, take a look at these five ways to be a better traveller post-lockdown

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