As fulfilling and exciting as it is, climbing Kilimanjaro requires several contingencies that need to be planned beforehand. Trekking Kili is an experience that will remain in your memory for a long time, so avoid mishaps that will turn it into a recurring nightmare.

As fulfilling and exciting as it is, climbing Kilimanjaro requires several contingencies that need to be planned beforehand. For a start, you need permission to access the mountain and require specialized gear for mountain climbing. Trekking Kili is an experience that will remain in your memory for a long time, so avoid mishaps that will turn it into a recurring nightmare.
<h2>1. Do Your Research</h2>
Before you even start planning for the actual trip, do thorough research on what trekking Kilimanjaro entails. Learn about the cost of a trip, the legal requirements for accessing the mountain, and different travel options. Altitude sickness is a major concern for climbers, so make sure to look up the symptoms of this illness and understand its remedies.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-13729" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/10/shutterstock_1090627961.jpg" alt="Mount Kilimanjaro - the highest mountain in Africa" width="1000" height="602" />


<h2>2. Get Appropriate Hiking Gear</h2>
The quality and type of gear you use will have a direct impact on your climbing experience. High quality of warm clothes, hiking boots, and sleeping bags will ensure you a wonderful experience. Ideally, you should look for thermal gear made from high-performance materials such as fleece. Carry sunscreen to protect yourself from sunburns and frosty wind at high altitudes.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-13749" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/10/shutterstock_512574475.jpg" alt="Close up view of back tourist backpack mats and tripod, wearing on blue tourism jacket with a hood and standing on mountain" width="1000" height="665" />


<h2>3. Train Your Body</h2>
You will find that physical fitness and preparation are as important as financial resources. Make sure to engage in some physical exercises, such as jogging and hill-climbing, to prepare your body for altitude changes. Other conditions to be mentally prepared before mountain climbing are altitude sickness, dust, fatigue, and frostbite.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-13750" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/10/shutterstock_1399248662.jpg" alt="People hiking." width="1000" height="667" />


<h2>4. Practice Some Songs And Dance Moves</h2>
Endorphines are "feel-good" chemicals that can relieve pain and boost happiness. Climbing can become a difficult challenge, so it's important to keep your energy and morale up by releasing endorphins. Learning some happy songs to sing during the hike will stimulate and encourage you and your companions to keep going.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-13773" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/10/shutterstock_167769761.jpg" alt="A happy trekker above the clouds on the route to the summit of Kilimanjaro" width="1000" height="664" />


<h2>5. Good Company</h2>
Seek out people you trust to accompany you during the trip. They will watch out for your well-being and be aware of any possible dangers that may affect the group. You will also need companions who have climbed Kilimanjaro and are familiar with the routes. Typically, experienced climbers have tricks for helping the body adjust to the height difference.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-13787" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/10/shutterstock_1406292695.jpg" alt="A group of active tourists climbing to the top of the Kilimanjaro" width="1000" height="667" />


<h2>6. Time Your Trip</h2>
If you want your trek to be safe and enjoyable, plan for the months with minimal precipitation and cold. Tanzania experiences dry spells from January to March and August to October, so the ground is less prone to slippery slopes that can cause accidents. Additionally, consider scheduling outside the East African tourist season, which peaks in July and August during the wildebeest migration. You could also choose the earliest season because that is when most travel agencies are free.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-13794" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/10/shutterstock_472353151.jpg" alt="Orange tents on Kilimanjaro" width="1000" height="667" />


<h2>7. Walk At Your Own Pace</h2>
To avoid altitude sickness and other health conditions, walk at a pace that does not overstrain your body. Experienced climbers do not pressure novices to keep up with their pace, so make sure to travel in their company. They know the right speed for hiking and will manage the climb with timed breaks.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-13789" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/10/shutterstock_1311633980.jpg" alt="Hikers trudge weary to the summit of the tallest mountain in Africa" width="1000" height="750" />


<h2>8. Hiking Is Not a Competition</h2>
Hiking is more about the team than individual excellence. All hikers in the group should look out for each other. Don't feel embarrassed for lagging behind other climbers or forget to mind struggling members. Always work as a team because that’s how you will succeed.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-13753" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/10/shutterstock_156917717.jpg" alt="A team of trekkers gazing over the early morning clouds on the trek to Kilimanjaro summit" width="1000" height="664" />


<h2>9. Take Plenty of Fluids</h2>
Dehydration is a major cause of weakness in the African savanna, so arm yourself with a hydration pack to ensure that you can sip water at any time during the hike. This container is better than a water bottle because you won't need to remove your gloves to open it or stop to take a drink.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-13790" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/10/shutterstock_1047391990.jpg" alt="man in blue down jacket filtering water for drinking from a river" width="1000" height="667" />


<h2>10. High Attitude Challenges</h2>
Even if you are a top athlete and often outperform others during physical exercises, conditions at high attitudes are very different from those on the ground. At a high ground, your body is straining under the shortage of oxygen while metabolic systems struggle to perform critical functions. Make sure to heed the guides’ advice to slow down even when you feel you have much more in the tank.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-13769" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/10/shutterstock_741748669.jpg" alt="Evening view of Kibo with Uhuru Peak (5895m amsl, highest mountain in Africa) at Mount Kilimanjaro" width="1000" height="662" />


<h2>11. Carry Medication</h2>
Headaches and nausea are common amongst climbers, so make sure to buy all the medicine you might need to ease these symptoms. You can also consult your GP on the type of drugs to buy for your blood pressure, as it may be affected by altitude.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-13786" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/10/shutterstock_88413559.jpg" alt="First aid kit and hiking boots in the woods" width="1000" height="667" />


<h2>12. Have Fun</h2>
Climbing the highest free-standing summit in the world is a grueling task that will stretch you both mentally and physically. Trekkers need preparation for this experience of a lifetime. Get all the gear you'll need and ensure your body is ready for the trip. After all the preparation, you'll only need a camera to capture the journey to the roof of Africa.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-13735" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/10/shutterstock_285996095.jpg" alt="Uhuru Peak (highest summit) on Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania" width="1000" height="667" />

Experiences

Adventures

The Ultimate Guide for Climbing Kilimanjaro

If you're looking for adventures away from overpriced and crowded tourist locations, these rarely visited countries might be what you're looking for.

Why pay to visit a crowded beach or bustling city everyone has already seen when you could be living one-of-a-kind experiences in some of Earth's least visited countries? If you're looking for adventures away from overpriced and crowded tourist locations, these rarely visited countries might be what you're looking for.
<h2>1. Tuvalu</h2>
Tuvalu is a country made up of small islands scattered in the Pacific Ocean that boasts warm weather, beautiful sandy beaches, coral reefs, and several uninhabited islets. Only the main island of Funafuti features an airport and hotels, although guesthouses can be found on outer islands. The highest point is only 15 feet above sea level, meaning the country is threatened by rising oceans. Tuvalu is extremely remote and has no organized tours, which means you can organize your own tour around the islands.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-13398" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/10/shutterstock_654670795.jpg" alt="Tuvalu island paradise beach blue lagoon on pacific island sea and ocean" width="1000" height="667" />


<h2>2. Kiribati</h2>
Kiribati is a sovereign state scattered across 1.3 million square miles of the Pacific Ocean. Composed of 33 islands and atolls, it's the only country that is located in four hemispheres of the globe. The foodie in you will enjoy the authentic traditional food while your adventurous side will be excited to participate in local customs and activities, which include surfing, diving, and bird watching. Lodging in Kiribati is varied and easy to afford, so you can choose from traditional hotels to open-air bungalows on the beach.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-13399" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/10/shutterstock_1250888257.jpg" alt="Village on South Tarawa atoll, Kiribati, Gilbert islands, Micronesia" width="1000" height="667" />


<h2>3. Marshall Islands</h2>
The Marshall Islands can offer you a rare peek into history. Bikini Atoll was the site of the United States' nuclear testing during World War II and where the popular swimwear got its name. The Marshall Islands see only around 6,000 visitors per year, and parts of the islands remain radioactive. However, you can enjoy an incredible scuba diving experience in the surrounding waters. Coral reefs and colorful fish surround the shipwrecks, including the aircraft carrier USS Saratoga.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-13400" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/10/shutterstock_1223750188.jpg" alt="Majuro town centre aerial view, Central Business district, Marshall Islands" width="1000" height="663" />


<h2>4. Montserrat</h2>
If you're looking for a rarely visited place in the Caribbean, try the volcanic island of Montserrat. Plymouth was buried by volcanic ash and rock in a series of eruptions that began in 1995. The town is abandoned, but you will be intrigued by all the items left during the evacuation. The north part of the island has been largely unaffected by the volcanic eruptions in recent years, so you can find beaches, towns, and caves. Get awesome beach photos on the black sand at Bottomless Ghaut Beach.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-13401" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/10/shutterstock_767377366.jpg" alt="View to the active volcano in Montserrat with a large ash cloud." width="1000" height="666" />


<h2>5. Nauru</h2>
The coral reef and white sand beaches of Nauru would be packed if it wasn't so hard to get there. This tiny island nation is in the middle of the Pacific, north of New Zealand, and offers a single airport that operates five days a week. Although the island is inhabited, it doesn't offer many activities, so it's a great place to spend a quiet week on the beach away from people. Everyone will be jealous when you post a pic from a basically private beach.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-13402" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/10/shutterstock_1316498363.jpg" alt="Coral rocks on a Anibare beach, Nauru" width="1000" height="750" />


<h2>6. Turkmenistan</h2>
Turkmenistan sees very few tourists, in part because it can be difficult to obtain a visa. But if you go, you can snap a pic at the Darvaza gas crater. Also called the Door to Hell, this crater of natural gas has been burning continuously since 1971. A tourism zone along the Caspian Sea offers beaches and bougie hotels, although you may run into more travelers there than in other parts of the country.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-13403" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/10/shutterstock_1140177605.jpg" alt="Door to the Hell, Darvaza, Turkmenistan" width="1000" height="667" />


<h2>7. Solomon Islands</h2>
A lack of infrastructure can make traveling to the Solomon Islands challenging, but the lack of tourists means you can enjoy clean ocean water and abundant marine life. The Solomon Islands were once known for cannibals and then became the scene for bloody World War II battles between the United States and Japan. You can see historical relics and enjoy the unpopulated beaches.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-13404" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/10/shutterstock_713782759.jpg" alt="Old crashed ship on Solomon Islands from times of Second World War" width="1000" height="667" />


<h2>8. Mauritania</h2>
Mauritania is a risky place to visit due to its reputation for terrorism and kidnappings. It's an Islamic County located on the west coast of Africa where alcohol is illegal, and slavery still persists in the country despite being technically illegal. It's easy to understand why tourists avoid it, but it's a fascinating country. You can find giant sand dunes, medieval architecture, and rich traditional foods. You'll likely be the only person you know to visit this country.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-42221" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/10/shutterstock_1034271178.jpg" alt="Aerial panoramic view to Chinguetti mosque, symbols of Mauritania" width="1000" height="586" />


<h2>9. Guinea-Bissau</h2>
You can enjoy untouched nature and visit beaches your friends have never seen in Guinea-Bissau. Also located on Africa's west coast, the country is extremely affordable and offers beautiful pristine beaches that are relatively undisturbed by humans. Guinea-Bissau is a fairly tolerant country, and Portuguese beer and wine are very popular.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-13411" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/10/shutterstock_546740743.jpg" alt="West Africa Guinea Bissau Bijagos Islands" width="1000" height="667" />


<h2>10. Liechtenstein</h2>
Skip the boring European vacation that everyone else is doing and visit Liechtenstein, one of the least visited countries in Europe. The alpine landscape is rugged, but it also offers exceptional architecture and some of the oldest traces of human existence. You can have fun riding alpacas or drinking wine. Liechtenstein is also considered one of the safest countries in the world if you are looking for an unusual trip without risk.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-13420" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/10/shutterstock_502831507.jpg" alt="Vaduz, Liechtenstein" width="1000" height="667" />


<h2>11. Sierra Leone</h2>
Sierra Leone has been in the news in recent years over a long civil war followed by a deadly outbreak of the Ebola virus, which has undoubtedly kept tourists away from this otherwise beautiful country. It's relatively safe to visit, although you should be cautious of roads and strong tides at the beach. Locals are mostly friendly and English-speaking, making it easy to interact with them. Make your friends jealous when you post pics of the nightlife and beaches in Freetown.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-13442" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/10/shutterstock_756758821.jpg" alt="freetown the harbour of sierra leone west africa" width="1000" height="750" />


<h2>12. Djibouti</h2>
Located on the east side of Africa on the Gulf of Aden, Djibouti is mostly volcanic formations and dry shrublands. Visit Lake Assal, a saltwater lake with white sand beaches, or see steam from the Ardoukoba Volcano. Though the environment is harsh, you can watch camels and bright flocks of flamingos grazing. Djibouti is one of the safer countries to visit in Africa, so you can have a risk-free trip without bumping into lots of other tourists.

[caption id="attachment_13455" align="alignnone" width="3504"]<img class="size-full wp-image-13455" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/10/GettyImages-621229090.jpg" alt="Camel Farmers with Palm tree leaves on their way home near Lac Asal the Salt Lake in Djibouti," width="3504" height="2336" /> VUSLimited / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>13. Monaco</h2>
Monaco, one of the world's smallest and wealthiest sovereign states, is also the most densely packed. About 38,000 people live on less than one square mile of the Riviera near the Italian border. You can never be too glamorous for this expensive, exclusive resort. Whether you're playing for high stakes in the casino, cheering the Formula-1 Grand Prix, or lounging on the deck of a superyacht, if you've got it in Monaco, you flaunt it.

[caption id="attachment_42216" align="alignnone" width="2265"]<img class="size-full wp-image-42216" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/10/GettyImages-686005142.jpg" alt="Old town and Prince Palace on the rock in Mediterranean Sea, Monaco, southern France" width="2265" height="1324" /> Xantana / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>14. Tonga</h2>
Tonga, an archipelago of 169 islands in the South Pacific, is the only Pacific nation that has never been colonized. Its monarchy is 1,000 years old; its indigenous Polynesian culture strong. Nevertheless, Christian missionaries had a big impact, and Tonga is dotted with quaint, colorful churches. Visit Ha'amonga ‘a Maui, on the main island. This massive 13th century stone monument is known as the Stonehenge of the Pacific.

[caption id="attachment_42217" align="alignnone" width="2121"]<img class="size-full wp-image-42217" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/10/GettyImages-641978662.jpg" alt="Nuku'alofa, Tonga. Rugged shores of Nuku'alofa, Tonga." width="2121" height="1414" /> sorincolac / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>15. Niue</h2>
Niue, the world's largest coral atoll, attracts adventure travelers adventurous enough to get there. Fortnightly flights from New Zealand carry so few passengers that Niue is one of the world's least-visited countries. The island floats in the empty South Pacific, hundreds of miles from landfalls in Tonga, Fiji, American Samoa, or the Cook Islands. It's laced with secluded crystal-clear pools, and the deep ocean is close enough to watch whales from your window.

[instagram-image url="https://www.instagram.com/p/CJWb3pCgiLQ/" caption="hekau1" captionUrl="https://www.instagram.com/hekau1/"]


<h2>16. Comoros</h2>
Comoros is a union of three volcanic islands between the coast of Mozambique and Madagascar. Although relatively safe, Comoros tourism is limited. Nevertheless, natural wonders draw visitors. Ylang Ylang flowers grow on the slopes of Karthala, a large active volcano. And the islands are home to rare giant Livingstone's bats. Also known as flying foxes, they have a four-foot wingspan and are easy to spot because they fly in daylight.

[caption id="attachment_42218" align="alignnone" width="2125"]<img class="size-full wp-image-42218" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/10/GettyImages-184187584.jpg" alt="Moroni, Grande Comore / Ngazidja, Comoros islands: wooden boats at the dhow port and the Old Friday Mosque - photo by M.Torres" width="2125" height="1411" /> mtcurado / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>17. American Samoa</h2>
Why American Samoa is among the world's least visited destinations is a mystery since the territory is an eco-travel paradise. An archipelago of five volcanic islands and two coral atolls, at least 90 percent is covered in tropical rainforest. The National Park is known for steep volcanic mountains. And the National Marine Sanctuary's Valley of the Giants has the oldest and largest Porite coral heads on earth.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-42219" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/10/shutterstock_1761202865.jpg" alt="Typical tropical island houses in Pago Pago, Tutuila, American Samoa." width="1000" height="632" />

Plan a Trip to the World's Least-Visited Countries

There are few experiences as thrilling as leaping off a bridge and hurtling hundreds of feet toward the ground, secured exclusively by a powerful rubber band. Bungee jumping is one of the most accessible and exhilarating things that a traveling adventurer could try.

There are few experiences as thrilling as leaping off a bridge and hurtling hundreds of feet toward the ground, secured exclusively by a powerful rubber band. Bungee jumping is one of the most accessible and exhilarating things that a traveling adventurer could try. There is nothing like the feeling of your heart beating out of your chest as your stomach seems to lodge itself in your throat. Falling faster than most cars drive is a life-changing and visceral experience.

Not only do you get to experience the adrenaline-pumping thrill of the fall, but many bungee jumping sites sit in the middle of some of Earth's most stunning locales. The only thing that could beat a bungee jump is leaping and watching the towering mountains blur away as you accelerate towards a winding river, hundreds of feet below you. If you're a person who loves thrills but is also looking to take in scenic locations, bungee jumping is the perfect choice.
<h2>1. The Kawarau Bridge</h2>
New Zealand has many claims to fame but is particularly proud to be the homeland of commercial bungee jumping. Over 30 years ago, A. J. Hackett leaped off Auckland's Greenhithe Bridge using a custom rubber cord. This marked the beginning of a lifelong career in bungee jumping as he would open the world's first commercial bungee jump. The bridge is shorter than most bungee jumping locations at 140 feet, making it perfect for a beginner to try bungee jumping for the first time.

[caption id="attachment_1039450" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="size-large wp-image-1039450" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/09/GettyImages-1162474479-1-1024x678.jpg" alt="Bungee jumping at Kawarau Bridge" width="1024" height="678" /> Martin Vlnas / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>2. Victoria Falls Bridge</h2>
With an impressive height of around 365 feet, Zimbabwe's Victoria Falls Bridge is the ideal middle point for bungee jumpers. It has the added benefit of being one of the most beautiful locations in the world, not just among bungee jumping sites. As you jump off the bridge, you fall through the surrounding Batoka Gorge as you hurtle towards the Zambezi River. The mists of the gorgeous Victoria Falls often create arcing rainbows that perfectly frame each jump.

<img class="alignnone size-large wp-image-1039451" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/09/shutterstock_637434007-1-1024x683.jpg" alt="The famous Victoria Falls in Zambia. Bungee jumping from a bridge near waterfall" width="1024" height="683" />


<h2>3. The Colossus</h2>
Deep in the heart of the Biellese mountains, you can find the Colossus. No, this isn't some monster, though it may seem like one once you set eyes on the staggering 500-foot drop. As you might expect of a site that carries the name "Colossus," the bridge offers almost five seconds of freefall as you reach speeds of 60 miles per hour. The serene and calming area around the bridge provides the perfect contrast to the thrills that the bridge provides.

[caption id="attachment_1039467" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="size-large wp-image-1039467" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/09/GettyImages-839863566-1024x683.jpg" alt="Seen from the ground silhouette of bungee jumper falling down from a high stone bridge, summer day with blue sky" width="1024" height="683" /> Didi_Lavchieva / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>4. Macau Tower</h2>
When it comes to bungee jumping, there are few sites as simultaneously thrilling and terrifying as China's Macau Tower. The tower offers the world's tallest bungee jump with a massive 760-foot plunge. Because of this incredible height, jumpers can reach speeds of around 120 miles per hour as they fall past most of the tower's 63 floors. Once jumpers reach the end of the fall, a guided cable lowers them the remaining 100 feet onto a unique airbag, providing a soft end to the intense experience.

[caption id="attachment_1039468" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="size-large wp-image-1039468" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/09/GettyImages-1062232678-1024x683.jpg" alt="A person taking part in a 233meters / 764feet high bungee jump off the Macau Tower in Macau, the highest commercial bungee jump in the world, according to Guinness World Records." width="1024" height="683" /> ANTHONY WALLACE / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>5. The Navajo Bridge</h2>
Near the North Rim of the Grand Canyon sits the world-famous bungee jumping site, the Navajo Bridge. Unlike most jumps, the bridge doesn't have a surrounding landscape of lush greenery or misty mountains. However, it does have massive sandstone walls with natural paint-like patterns that frame the region around you. Once you finish your 470-foot jump, consider taking a relaxing swim in the cool water of the river that runs beneath the bridge.

[caption id="attachment_1039469" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="size-large wp-image-1039469" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/09/0360_Navajo_Bridge_Marble_Canyon_AZ-1-1024x682.jpg" alt="Navajo Bridge Marble Canyon, AZ" width="1024" height="682" /> Mark Averitt / Creative Commons[/caption]


<h2>6. The Last Resort</h2>
Despite its name, this famous site in Nepal should be at the top of any adventurer's travel list. The adventure-filled resort offers many exhilarating sports, such as canyon swinging, white water rafting, and, of course, bungee jumping. Visitors can head to the tallest suspension bridge in the Himalayas and dive over 500 feet toward the raging river below. Once you're finished, the resort also offers a variety of relaxing activities, including a plunge pool and spa.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-1039471" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/09/shutterstock_1052905697.jpg" alt="Bungee Jumping in Pokhara, Nepal" width="1000" height="667" />


<h2>7. Longqing Gorge</h2>
Many places in the world feel as though they have sprung directly out of a fantasy novel, but few compare to the Longqing Gorge in China. In fact, to reach the top of the gorge, you must travel through the belly of a dragon. Once you make it through the dragon, you'll be able to experience the almost 200-foot jump as you soar towards the grand waters of the gorge. Surrounding the area are dozens of beautiful caves, waterfalls, and temples.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-1039473" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/09/shutterstock_764815348.jpg" alt="Bungee Jump Station on the mountain of the Long Qing Xia Park" width="1000" height="667" />


<h2>8. Verzasca Dam</h2>
One of the most famous movie stunts of all time is James Bond's bungee jump from a dam in the movie <em>GoldenEye</em>. This stunt took place on Switzerland's Verzasca Dam, and if you're looking for a truly cinematic experience, you can step into Bond's shoes and take the leap yourself. Most of the jumps take place at night, creating a unique sensation as you plummet over 700 feet in total darkness. The jump ends just above the Verzasca River, which many consider the world's purest river.

<img class="alignnone size-large wp-image-1039474" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/09/shutterstock_583396651-1-1024x683.jpg" alt="Wide angle-lens shot of a man staying at the edge of Contra Dam, Verzasca, Ticino, Switzerland" width="1024" height="683" />


<h2>9. Europa Bridge</h2>
Nearly every weekend, people flock to Austria's Europa Bridge to participate in the thrill of bungee jumping. This bridge sits over 600 feet in the air and towers over a landscape of vibrant, green forests. Once you arrive, you notice the area looks like something out of a painting as the Alps provide the perfect backdrop for the bridge. The crisp mountain air is sure to give you a thrill as you fly toward the forest below.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-1039476" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/09/shutterstock_1099519253.jpg" alt="The Europa Bridge (Europabrücke) carrying the A13 Brenner Autobahn (and European route E45) over Wipp valley south of Innsbruck" width="1000" height="669" />


<h2>10. Bloukrans Bridge</h2>
One of the tallest bungee jumping sites in the world and the tallest bungee jumping bridge is the Bloukrans Bridge in South Africa. Many people find the height intimidating, but true thrill-seekers constantly attempt to conquer their fears and experience the 700-foot drop. The bridge covers the gap between two massive mountains covered in lush greenery. Once you leap, you'll speed past a backdrop of ocean waves in the distance as you speed toward the Bloukrans River below.

<img class="alignnone size-large wp-image-1039477" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/09/shutterstock_152079305-1-1024x698.jpg" alt="Bridge in Tsitsikamma national park, Garden route, South Africa" width="1024" height="698" />


<h2>11. Royal Gorge Bridge</h2>
You don't always need to travel abroad when looking for gorgeous and interesting bungee jumps. Colorado has America's highest suspension bridge, and one of the best bungee jumps available. As you stand on the bridge, the river sitting a thousand feet below looks more like a trickling stream. Of course, the jump itself doesn't include the entire height of the bridge, but you can freefall for up to 10 glorious seconds before the cord takes over.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-1039480" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/09/shutterstock_740268094.jpg" alt="Suspension Bridge Over Deep Canyon - Wide Aerial View Of Royal Gorge Bridge In Colorado, USA" width="1000" height="527" />


<h2>12. Volcano Bungee</h2>
If you were to describe the most thrilling and seemingly insane bungee jumping experience possible, it would probably include something like jumping into a volcano. Volcano Bungee does just that, as they fly participants 10,000 feet above a Chilean volcano. Then, you must leap out of the helicopter, falling almost 400 feet toward the boiling hot lava. Of course, they can't just drop you there, so you must dangle from the helicopter as they fly back to the airport.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-1039481" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/09/shutterstock_333077774.jpg" alt="The crater of the volcano Villarrica." width="1000" height="667" />

Top Picks for Bungee Jumping Thrills Around The Globe

Food tours, brewery tours, ghost tours, voodoo tours, wine tours, you name it, there's a tour in the USA for that. Some tours are even self-guided, so you'll save money on a tour guide.

Tours are evolving. A tour used to mean a big group of tourists following a guide around cities and towns, and maybe there would be a bus involved. Sure, those tours are still out there. Traditional tours can still be a good way to see the sights, but travelers are turning to non-traditional tours in increasing numbers. Food tours, brewery tours, ghost tours, voodoo tours, wine tours, you name it, there's a tour in the USA for that. Some tours are even self-guided, so you'll save money on a tour guide.
<h2>1. Boston's Freedom Trail</h2>
Follow the brick path of Boston's Freedom Trail, with or without a tour guide. The great thing about the Freedom Trail is it's marked on the sidewalk, and all of the 16 historic buildings and monuments have signs explaining their significance. That means visitors don't need a guide to get a feel for Boston's revolutionary history. Whether you go with a formal tour or not, be sure to grab a cannoli at Mike's Pastries in the North End, it's a local favorite.

[caption id="attachment_1035601" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="size-large wp-image-1035601" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/07/GettyImages-641302382-1-1024x977.jpg" alt="Benjamin Franklin Statue at Old City Hall - Boston, Massachusetts, USA" width="1024" height="977" /> diegograndi / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>2. South Dakota's Badlands</h2>
The Badlands are unlike any other place on Earth. These eerie rock formations look more like something that you'd find on the moon. Anyone can see them and do a self-guided tour, but some companies will take customers to the best views, like Mount Rushmore Tours.

[caption id="attachment_1035604" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="size-large wp-image-1035604" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/07/GettyImages-108128210-1-1024x683.jpg" alt="Badlands and Prairie Field at Sunset" width="1024" height="683" /> ericfoltz / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>3. Albuquerque Balloon Festival by Rail</h2>
This 9-day train trip offers so much more than just a balloon festival. The trip takes visitors to Utah, Colorado, and California. Along the way, riders can see canyons and red rock formations, including the 2,000 natural stone arches at Arches National Park. The tour caps off with the hot air balloon festival, where hundreds of balloons rise into the air all at the same time.

[caption id="attachment_1035606" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="size-large wp-image-1035606" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/07/GettyImages-1128967858-1-1024x683.jpg" alt="Various photos of hot air balloons in the air or launching at the 2017 Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta." width="1024" height="683" /> James O Jones / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>4. Dry Tortuga National Park, Key West</h2>
Florida's Key West is a cool place to visit for a lot of reasons, and Dry Tortuga National Park is one of them. Dry Tortuga is a remote island with an impressive fortress. The beaches are pristine, and there's a lot of wildlife to see. The site saw a lot of shipwrecks in the 17th and 18th centuries, so there may even be buried treasure still hidden off the island's shore. It's difficult to get to since it's so remote, but there are tours that will take visitors in by boat and show them around the island.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-1035607" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/07/shutterstock_568086439.jpg" alt="Dry Tortugas National Park, Fort Jefferson. Florida. USA" width="1000" height="527" />


<h2>5. Whitewater Rafting in Clear Creek, Colorado</h2>
Although Clear Creek has more rapids than any other river in the country, there are areas that are great for beginners and families, if that's what floats your boat. Colorado is probably the best place in the country to appreciate nature. It's chock full of parks, nature preserves, and mountain scenes, and a whitewater rafting tour is a perfect way to add adventure to all that scenery.

[caption id="attachment_1035608" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="size-large wp-image-1035608" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/07/GettyImages-133878255-1-1024x680.jpg" alt="A group of friends whitewater raft on Clear Creek in Colorado" width="1024" height="680" /> joshschutz / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>6. Strange True Tour, New Orleans</h2>
New Orleans is a unique place, with cultural roots from all over the world. To get the full picture of how unique this city really is, try a Strange True Tour. This company takes small groups around New Orleans and highlights the strange, sometimes spooky history of the city that only locals know about.

[caption id="attachment_1035609" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="size-large wp-image-1035609" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/07/GettyImages-157586464-1-1024x683.jpg" alt="Bourbon Street in the French Quarter in New Orleans, Louisiana at night" width="1024" height="683" /> DenisTangneyJr / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>7. Bison Expedition, Santa Catalina Island, California</h2>
Sure, you could see bison in Yellowstone, but why not search for one on gorgeous Catalina island off of southern California's golden coast? Most people don't know there are Bison in California, but Catalina island has a small herd descended from Bison used in a movie that was filmed in 1920. Tour guides take visitors to see them in open-air Hummers.

[caption id="attachment_1035611" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="size-large wp-image-1035611" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/07/GettyImages-516280349-1-1024x682.jpg" alt="Wild bison on Catalina, a species introduced to the island in the 1920's, believed to have been done for a movie shoot, which never actually used any shots of bison on the island" width="1024" height="682" /> GaryKavanagh / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>8. Clear Kayak Tour in Rock Springs, Florida</h2>
The water in Rock Springs is so clear that visitors can see everything below the surface in sharp detail. By touring the area in a clear kayak, you'll be able to see below the surface right from your boat. Explore the groves, keep an eye out for wildlife, and get some Instagram-worthy shots of yourself completely surrounded by the clear blue water, with no kayak blocking the view.

[caption id="attachment_1035612" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="size-large wp-image-1035612" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/07/GettyImages-693359786-1-1024x683.jpg" alt="A lone kayaker paddles the Weeki Wachee River in Florida." width="1024" height="683" /> Michael Warren / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>9. Saint Louis Food Tour, Missouri</h2>
For one price, visitors to Saint Louis can enjoy all the local favorites. Eat Saint Louis offers tours for all tastes. Enjoy Italian food, craft breweries or European style pubs, all while walking the streets of Saint Louis with a local well versed in the city's history. The tour has vegetarian-friendly options, too.

[caption id="attachment_1035613" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="size-large wp-image-1035613" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/07/GettyImages-910998292-1-1024x683.jpg" alt="Africa American Woman at a Hot Dog Stand" width="1024" height="683" /> ferrantraite / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>10. Seattle Underground Tour</h2>
Seattle, Washington's oldest neighborhood, Pioneer Square, is preserved in underground tunnels. Visitors on the Seattle Underground Tour will learn about the history of Seattle, from it's indigenous roots to modern-day fare, and about the fire that led to the Pioneer Square neighborhood to be buried underground. It's a small group tour, which is good because the underground tunnels can get pretty tight.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-1035614" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/07/shutterstock_1058717567.jpg" alt="Seattle Underground Tour" width="1000" height="667" />


<h2>11. Brooklyn Graffiti Tour, Brooklyn, New York</h2>
There's a lot to see and do in New York. Everyone stops by the major sites like the Empire State Building, Rockefeller Center, and Times Square. Not many tourists get a view of more authentic New York culture, and that's what the Brooklyn Graffiti Tour offers. Brooklyn Unplugged Tours brings visitors to the most stunning Graffiti murals Brooklyn in Brooklyn, so tourists can see the city from a New Yorker's point of view.

<img class="alignnone size-large wp-image-1035615" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/07/shutterstock_114440773-1-1024x683.jpg" alt="Example of urban street art on landmark Empire Store Building in DUMBO Brooklyn, NY" width="1024" height="683" />


<h2>12. Texas Barbecue Trail</h2>
This tour can be self-guided, thanks to meat lovers who have published their favorite Texas barbecue spots and the routes to take between each one. Remember, Texas isn't all about the barbecue. Each city has its own unique culture and history, so try to get a feel for the place in between bites.

[caption id="attachment_1035616" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="size-large wp-image-1035616" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/07/GettyImages-521997555-1-1024x683.jpg" alt="Sausages hanging over brisket smoking over a large BBQ pit." width="1024" height="683" /> SamyStClair / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>13. Washington D.C. Brewery Tour</h2>
The Capital City has a blossoming craft beer scene, and beer lovers shouldn't get so bogged down in politics and historical monuments that they miss it. Companies like D.C. Brew Tours will take visitors to all the best spots. Their guides are local, and they're experts in craft beer, so you'll get to know the town and the brews.

[caption id="attachment_1035617" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="size-large wp-image-1035617" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/07/GettyImages-696341838-1-1024x683.jpg" alt="Craft beer being poured." width="1024" height="683" /> Shane808 / Getty Images[/caption]

US Tours That Can't Be Missed

Traveling is fun, but that's not the only reason why people visit new places. Traveling provides you with experiences that probably aren't available in your normal, day-to-day life. Consider making a travel bucket list that's full of places that you'd like to visit before you die.

The world is full of exciting places, unfamiliar cultures, and phenomenal natural wonders you never knew you wanted to see. Traveling is fun, but that's not the only reason why people visit new places. It's exciting to step into an exotic locale, far from the well-beaten path. Seeing these places in photos is nothing like experiencing them in person. People often put off traveling for a variety of reasons. Sometimes they worry about the cost or being away from home or work obligations for too long.

Traveling provides you with experiences that probably aren't available in your normal, day-to-day life. Consider making a travel bucket list that's full of places that you'd like to visit before you die. Look into cultures, cuisines, or landscapes that interest you. There's an entire world out there for you to discover and thousands of opportunities for adventure. If you're concerned about cost, you don't necessarily have to travel thousands of miles from home. There are unique experiences everywhere in the world, and some may be closer than you think.
<h2>1. Glacier National Park, Montana</h2>
If you enjoy the great outdoors, you'll find your Nirvana in Glacier National Park. Hike the 700 miles of well-maintained trails. Experience the magnificent vistas, filled with alpine meadows, translucent-blue lakes, and 70 species of wildlife. While you're there, take the 50-mile Going-to-the-Sun Road scenic drive for breathtaking views of mountainous landscapes, cascading waterfalls, and glaciers.

[caption id="attachment_1033809" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="size-large wp-image-1033809" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/07/justin-kauffman-qsngjpG5I5s-unsplash-1-1024x683.jpg" alt="Glacier National Park" width="1024" height="683" /> Photo by Justin Kauffman on Unsplash[/caption]


<h2>2. The Great Wall, China</h2>
This centuries-old behemoth is the world's largest military structure. Not only is it significant in its history, but also in architectural significance, according to UNESCO. The Great Wall of China is 13,170 miles long. Researchers say it would take about 18 months for the average human to walk its length, but most visitors prefer to take selfies with the ancient structure and the surrounding majestic landscape.

[caption id="attachment_1033811" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="size-large wp-image-1033811" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/07/GettyImages-516063159-1-1024x738.jpg" alt="Section of Great Wall near Beijing - China" width="1024" height="738" /> Hung_Chung_Chih / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>3. Golden Circle, Iceland</h2>
This Nordic island country has some of the most spectacular landscapes in the world. One of the best ways to see the country's natural wonders is to travel the Golden Circle Tour. This popular route loops from Reykjavík to Iceland's southern uplands. Glaciers, volcanoes, majestic waterfalls, and the geothermal area of Haukadalur with its active geysers are just a few of the sites you'll see.

[caption id="attachment_1033812" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="size-large wp-image-1033812" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/07/GettyImages-887480100-1-1024x683.jpg" alt="Natural stone arch. Scenic landscape of Dyrholaey Nature Reserve, south coast of Iceland, Europe." width="1024" height="683" /> eugenesergeev / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>4. Bora Bora, French Polynesia</h2>
When people daydream about the perfect island paradise, the vision likely resembles the tropical Shangri-La of Bora Bora. Instead of a hotel room, try one of the glass-floored overwater bungalows. Spend your days relaxing under the sun, shopping the local boutiques, or exploring the waters around the island in an underwater safari. Join a 4X4 guided cultural tour around the island for amazing views of famous sites like Maupiti Island and Teavanui Pass.

[caption id="attachment_1033813" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="size-large wp-image-1033813" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/07/GettyImages-109718053-1-1024x680.jpg" alt="Lone Person Standing on Pier in Tropical Resort" width="1024" height="680" /> DNY59 / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>5. White Pass and Yukon Route Railroad, Alaska</h2>
Train travel was once a popular way to travel from one destination to another. Today, more people fly, but traveling by rail is a unique experience, especially if you travel along this scenic route through the Klondike country of Alaska. You'll climb 3000 feet in just over 20 miles in a vintage train car built in 1898, traveling between Skagway, Alaska and Whitehorse, Yukon. But the big payoffs are the unforgettable, panoramic views of a majestic mountain range, pristine glaciers, and nature at its unspoiled best.

[caption id="attachment_1033814" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="size-large wp-image-1033814" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/07/GettyImages-1003913034-1-1024x683.jpg" alt="Part of Alaska railroad in the Chugach National Forest with mountain range and Turnagain arm in background." width="1024" height="683" /> A&amp;J Fotos / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>6. Isle of Skye, Scotland</h2>
The Vikings called the area "cloud island" due to the foggy mist that surrounds it. Once you've seen the Isle of Skye, you'll understand why it's become one of Scotland's top travel destinations. The Quiraing is the northernmost summit on the Isle, offering an epic view of the area. Don't leave without visiting the fantasy-like Fairy Pools, a set of waterfalls that cascade over black mountain rock into a clear pool below.

[caption id="attachment_1033817" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="wp-image-1033817 size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/07/keith-bremner-Q0feEyWBIqQ-unsplash-1-1024x768.jpg" alt="Isle of Skye" width="1024" height="768" /> Photo by Keith Bremner on Unsplash[/caption]


<h2>7. Venice, Italy</h2>
The city of Venice is a picturesque mesh of small islands in northeastern Italy, linked together with bridges and canals. The city floods around 100 times each year. Yet, the Venetians have found ways to preserve its old-world architecture, such as the stone-arched Rialto Bridge, still standing since its rebuild in the late 1500s. The two-week Venice Carnival is an annual event where people wear elaborate masks, parade through the streets, eat lasagne di Carnevale, and party to live music.

[caption id="attachment_1033818" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="size-large wp-image-1033818" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/07/GettyImages-155601597-1-1024x683.jpg" alt="Bridge over a Venetian Canal." width="1024" height="683" /> gehringj / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>8. The Great Barrier Reef, Australia</h2>
The world's largest coral reef system is just off the east coast of Queensland. Spreading out along 1200 miles of coastline, the Great Barrier Reef is larger than the Great Wall of China. More than 1500 species of fish live among the vibrantly colored coral, and it is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Snorkeling and scuba diving experiences offer an up-close-and-personal reef adventure.

[caption id="attachment_1033819" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="size-large wp-image-1033819" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/07/GettyImages-461851027-1-1024x683.jpg" alt="This is the great Barrier Reef." width="1024" height="683" /> ltos / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>9. Patagonia, Argentina</h2>
Few people live in the sweeping grasslands, pampas, and deserts of Patagonia, a region shared by Argentina and Chile in the Andes mountains. Go whale-watching at the Peninsula Valdes marine wildlife sanctuary on the eastern side of Patagonia. Head to the south to experience the deserts and the gaucho life on the area's cattle ranges. The Cave of the Hands in Francisco P. Moreno National Park offers visitors an opportunity to see detailed murals and handprints of ancient people dating back to 10,000 BCE.

[caption id="attachment_1033820" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="size-large wp-image-1033820" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/07/GettyImages-117149827-1-1024x683.jpg" alt="Guanaco at Torres del Paine" width="1024" height="683" /> nicolamargaret / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>10. Cape Breton, Nova Scotia</h2>
If you can't make it to Scotland, the craggy cliffs of Cape Breton Island in Nova Scotia are the next best thing. The area is famous for its vistas, hiking trails, recreational activities, and Gaelic culture. Travel guides name Cape Breton the best island destination in continental North America. Those who enjoy scenic drives will love Cabot Trail, a 185-mile mixture of mountainous roads and paths that wind through the Cape Breton Highlands.

[caption id="attachment_1033823" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="wp-image-1033823 size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/07/GettyImages-92113339-1-1024x687.jpg" alt="Cape Breton, Nova Scotia" width="1024" height="687" /> Jason_V / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>11. Salar de Uyuni, Bolivia</h2>
The world's largest salt flat is also one of the most desolate and exceptional vistas on Earth. Salar de Uyuni isn't easy to get to. It covers more than 4000 square miles and has an altitude of nearly 12,000 feet. Yet those who do make it there are treated to a unique sight: quilted patterns of salt rising from the ground. During the rainy season, water overflow from area lakes spread across the surface, creating surreal mirrored reflections of the sky.

[caption id="attachment_1033824" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="size-large wp-image-1033824" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/07/GettyImages-161712154-1-1024x683.jpg" alt="Salt flat Salar de Uyuni in Bolivia at sunrise" width="1024" height="683" /> sara_winter / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>12. Saipan, Northern Mariana Islands</h2>
Year-round temperatures in the 80s and world-class windsurfing are just a few of the reasons Saipan is such a great getaway destination. In just an hour, you can drive from one end of the island to the other and visit places like Garapan, the main tourist district. The Northern Mariana Islands sit to the west of Hawaii and are just as much of a tropical paradise. Because the area is a U.S. territory, you don't even need a passport to visit.

[caption id="attachment_1033825" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="size-large wp-image-1033825" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/07/GettyImages-919504824-1-1024x673.jpg" alt="Island in the western Pacific Ocean near Saipan" width="1024" height="673" /> CampPhoto / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>13. Hobbiton, New Zealand</h2>
For avid fans of the <em>Lord of the Rings</em> movies, a visit to the Hobbiton movie set is essential. After the crew finished shooting the movies, they agreed to keep the 12-acre town intact for tourists and fans to visit and pay homage to the series' creator, J.R.R. Tolkien. Stop by the Green Dragon Inn for a complimentary beverage or traditional fare. You can book reservations for festivals year-round, including a beer festival, summer solstice festival, and the Hobbiton Christmas festival.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-1033826" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/07/shutterstock_668571190.jpg" alt="No entrance except party business" width="1000" height="662" />

Essential Trips to Take Before You Die

Anyone can book an amazing train trip. Some train routes are more expensive than others, but the higher cost usually translates to exquisite luxury when it comes to train rides. Riders can get amazing views while moving from destination to destination, without worrying about their carbon footprint.

Hollywood didn't invent breathtaking train rides. A lot of blockbuster movies have great train scenes, but those are usually based on real routes. Anyone can book an amazing train trip. Some train routes are more expensive than others, but the higher cost usually translates to exquisite luxury when it comes to train rides. Also, train travel is one of the most sustainable forms of travel. That means that riders can get amazing views while moving from destination to destination, without worrying about their carbon footprint.
<h2>1. The Orient Express</h2>
This isn't the original Orient Express, which ran from Paris to Istanbul. The modern version of this route starts in London and ends in Venice. Riders are treated to Europe's charming countryside, but the real jaw-dropper is the train itself. It's been designed with all the luxury and glamour of the original Orient Express.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-1034270" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/07/shutterstock_706605616.jpg" alt="The legendary Venice Simplon Orient Express is ready to depart from Ruse Railway station in a cloudy day. " width="1000" height="667" />


<h2>2. The Ghan</h2>
At more than 2,000 miles long, the Ghan covers Australia from top to bottom. The ride takes about three days to complete for riders who are in it for the whole journey, but those three days are packed with literally everything Australia has to offer. Because the route covers the whole country, riders experience almost all climates and ecosystems down under. This historic train route has been in service for more than 90 years.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-1034271" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/07/shutterstock_102826274.jpg" alt="South Australia railway line " width="1000" height="487" />


<h2>3. Flåmsbana</h2>
Also known as the Flåm Railway, this route runs down from Myrdal, in the mountains of Norway, to Aurlandsfjord. In just one or two hours, riders see Norway's well-known fjords, the country's green mountains, and everything in between. The train runs year-round, and the price point is reasonable.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-1034275" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/07/shutterstock_301195235.jpg" alt="blue train in mountains. natural summer background" width="1000" height="622" />


<h2>4. The TranzAlpine</h2>
Take a picturesque train ride through the Alps. Not the European Alps. These Alps are in the South Pacific. The TranzAlpine runs from New Zealand's Christchurch to Greymouth. These snow-capped mountains are famous for being the impressive, and sometimes imposing backdrop to the <em>Lord of the Rings</em> and <em>Hobbit</em> movies.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-1034276" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/07/shutterstock_1361640665.jpg" alt="iwiRail TranzAlpine scenic train, riding among beautiful plains and mountains, popular tourist transportation on South Island " width="1000" height="664" />


<h2>5. Trans-Siberian Railway</h2>
This route spans over 5,000 miles, making it the longest railway route in the world. It runs from Moscow to Vladivostok, a port on Russia's Pacific coast. That means that this route starts in Europe and ends in Asia, rounding Russia's border with Mongolia and China. The trains on the Trans-Siberian Railway aren't necessarily luxury; the price is very reasonable.

<img class="alignnone size-large wp-image-1034277" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/07/shutterstock_224060371-1-1024x656.jpg" alt="Autumn Circum-Baikal Railway on south lake Baikal" width="1024" height="656" />


<h2>6. Shongololo Express</h2>
The Shongololo Express began running in 2016. It connects five African countries: South Africa, Namibia, Mozambique, and Zimbabwe. The train offers views of everything from views of Africa's southern coast to the Kalahari desert. It's no quick trip, though, the tour lasts 12 days at a minimum.

<img class="alignnone size-large wp-image-1034278" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/07/shutterstock_3527687-1-1024x698.jpg" alt="Railway line in namibian desert" width="1024" height="698" />


<h2>7. Belmond Hiram Bingham</h2>
Experience Peru's ancient Incan culture by train. The Belmond Hiram Bingham line runs from Cusco to Machu Picchu. The train itself is steeped with antique style, so it's a great way to travel between two ancient cities. There are stops in traditional villages along the way, so riders will get to experience Peru's unique and colorful culture first hand.

<img class="alignnone size-large wp-image-1034279" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/07/shutterstock_362692058-1-1024x683.jpg" alt="Peru Rail from Cuzco to Machu Picchu" width="1024" height="683" />


<h2>8. Rocky Mountaineer</h2>
You don't have to go all the way to Europe for staggering mountain train views. The Rocky Mountaineer runs through Canada and connects a series of quaint mountain towns. It starts in Vancouver, but there are a few different options for where you end up depending on the exact route you choose.

<img class="alignnone size-large wp-image-1034281" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/07/shutterstock_1200001987-1-1024x683.jpg" alt="Long freight train moving along Bow river in Canadian Rockies ,Banff National Park, Canadian Rockies,Canada." width="1024" height="683" />


<h2>9. The Danube Express</h2>
Did you know you can see Dracula's castle by train? This 2,000 plus mile-long route passes through Transylvania and stops at Bran's Castle, also known as the home of Dracula in Bram Stoker's novel. That's not all there is, though. The Danube Express goes from Istanbul to Budapest and passes quite a few castles and other historic monuments on the way.

<img class="alignnone size-large wp-image-1034283" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/07/shutterstock_682572583-1-1024x683.jpg" alt="Brasov, Transylvania. Romania. The medieval Castle of Bran, known for the myth of Dracula" width="1024" height="683" />


<h2>10. The West Highland Railway Line</h2>
The Scottish highlands should be on everyone's bucket list. There, the sprawling green hills are interrupted by only by historic castles and the occasional sheep. What better way to see it than by train? The West Highland Railway takes riders from Glasgow to Mallaig along the Glenfinnan Viaduct, a long train bridge which was used in the filming of <em>Harry Potter</em>!

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-1034284" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/07/shutterstock_420271981.jpg" alt="Glenfinnan Railway Viaduct on the West Highland Line in Glenfinnan, Scotland " width="1000" height="667" />


<h2>11. The Glacier Express</h2>
The Glacier Express travels through the gorgeous Swiss Alps, over viaducts, and through mountain tunnels, from St. Moritz to Zermatt. The train offers a Panorama wagon, which is basically a glass train car, so you won't miss a thing. Interestingly, even though this train is called an Express, that just mean it doesn't make as many stops. It's actually quite slow and often referred to as the slowest express in the world. All the better to take in the views!

<img class="alignnone size-large wp-image-1034285" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/07/shutterstock_525106633-1-1024x683.jpg" alt="Train on famous landwasser Viaduct bridge.The Rhaetian Railway section from the Albula/Bernina area (the part from Thusis to Tirano, including St Moritz), Switzerland, Europe. " width="1024" height="683" />


<h2>12. The Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railway</h2>
This Colorado train route has been operating since 1882. It was originally constructed to move gold and silver from West to East, but now it only brings tourists views of the golden Colorado countryside. The 45-mile journey runs in tandem with the Animas River, through Colorado's San Juan National Forest.

<img class="alignnone size-large wp-image-1034286" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/07/shutterstock_1375400360-1-1024x684.jpg" alt="Historic steam engine train travels from Durango to Silverton through the San Juan Mountains along the Animas River in Colorado, USA" width="1024" height="684" />


<h2>13. Darjeeling Himalayan Railway</h2>
Go from the Indian plains of Jalpaiguri to Darjeeling, a mountain town where most of the tea in India is grown. The Himalayas will be your backdrop along this northern Indian train route. The price is reasonable, even for first class. Keep in mind that there are no concessions on board, so plan accordingly.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-1034287" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/07/shutterstock_1132290089.jpg" alt="A hilltop view of house' roof with mountains and blue sky with clouds from Darjeeling Himalayan railway station on a misty morning" width="1000" height="563" />


<h2>14. The Tokaido Shinkansen Line</h2>
Go from Tokyo to Kyoto, Japan with Mount Fuji out your window. The Tokaido Shinkansen was the first high-speed railway in a country now known for its bullet trains. This line takes riders from end to end on Japan's biggest island, Honshu. The bullet train passes through all of Japan's most picturesque landscapes at a speed of up to 250 miles per hour.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-1034288" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/07/shutterstock_640380994.jpg" alt="Shinkansen or Bullet train run pass through Mt. Fuji and Shibazakura at spring. Shinkansen, super high speed railway, operated by Japan Railways companies" width="1000" height="563" />


<h2>15. Tangier to Casablanca</h2>
Morocco is a great country for train travel. It's safe, affordable, and the rails connect most of the major tourist destinations in the country, if not all of them. The route running from Tangier to Casablanca is new as of 2018 and is home to the fastest train in Africa. The current route takes about two hours, and on the way, riders can catch views of sandy Moroccan palm trees and ancient Medinas.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-1034289" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/07/shutterstock_185166131.jpg" alt="Ottoman train in Arabian desert " width="1000" height="667" />

Must-See Train Routes Around the World

The world is a vast assortment of colors, languages, and intriguing locations that evoke our imaginations and nourish our spirits. Here are ten of the most beautiful places in the world to fire up your wanderlust! Which location will you travel to next?

The world is a vast assortment of colors, languages, and intriguing locations that evoke our imaginations and nourish our spirits. There are specific cities, beaches, and natural areas that connect us more deeply to our planet. Castles, coastlines, and cultural icons can all tempt you to dust off your passport. These ten places of remarkable beauty will fire up your wanderlust! Which location will you travel to next?
<h2>1. Route 119, Appalachia, U.S.A.</h2>
Technically, Appalachia extends from New York to Georgia. The area is famous for the Blue Ridge Mountains, which appear blue due to a naturally occurring gas. The scenic Blue Ridge Highway extends for almost 500 miles, connecting two of the country's most magnificent national parks: the Great Smoky Mountain and Shenandoah National Park. Explore eastern Kentucky where it meets West Virginia to take a scenic drive through the hills. Visit Pine Mountain while enjoying the rural views of million-dollar horse farms and charming small towns.

<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2018/08/628363148-1024x683.jpg" alt="628363148" width="1024" height="683" /><span class="image-caption">ablokhin / Getty Images</span>
<h2>2. Venice, Italy</h2>
Venice may be the best-known city in the world, and for good reason. The intricate and varied architecture, precious artworks, and labyrinthine streets draw millions of tourists every year. On a crisp day in November, you can see the Dolomite Mountains from the city. Fewer tourists brave the chill, but if you pack a coat, you'll enjoy the Festa Della Salute. The city builds a temporary third bridge, which crosses the Grand Canal, during the celebration. The festival honors the Virgin Mary for ending the 1630 plague which killed a third of the Venetian population. The Santa Maria Della Salute church holds choirs and special services during the festival.

<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2018/08/504887792-1024x683.jpg" alt="504887792" width="1024" height="683" /><span class="image-caption">cinoby / Getty Images</span>
<h2>3. The Maldives</h2>
The Republic of Maldives is a collection of islands crossing over 35,000 square miles. There are nearly 1200 paradisaical beaches in the country. This far-flung group of coral isles makes up the world's most low-lying nation at less than five feet above sea level. Six Maldive Coral Mosques are awaiting Unesco verification as heritage sites. Divers can swim with Whale Sharks at Maaya Thila while spotting several species of dolphin and sea turtles. Photography enthusiasts can inspire jealousy with pictures of Vaadhoo Island's magical, bioluminescent phytoplankton.

<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2018/08/879055218-1024x683.jpg" alt="879055218" width="1024" height="683" /><span class="image-caption">mbbirdy / Getty Images</span>
<h2>4. Arches National Park, Utah, United States</h2>
Utah's dramatic landscape ranges from red rock mountains to the Great Salt Lake; the state is a stunner. Arches is an ideal park for outdoor adventure sports like rock climbing, horseback riding, hiking, and biking. The Devils Garden is home to spires, narrow walls made from rocks called fins, and giant boulders balanced on top of one another. Park Avenue and Courthouse Towers are iconic symbols of the West that offer stunning vistas.

<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2018/08/174169118-1024x362.jpg" alt="174169118" width="1024" height="362" /><span class="image-caption">fotoMonkee / Getty Images</span>
<h2>5. Puerto Viejo de Talamanca, Costa Rica</h2>
The vibe in Puerto Viejo is best described by their saying, <em>Pura Vida</em>, which means "pure life" in English. This expatriate town is a few hours south of the port city of Limon. Black and gold sandy beaches flank the town while the jungle sits on the other side of the road behind the hammock hotel. Monkeys and sloths are your neighbors, and dolphins frolic with the surfers in the ocean. It's easy to mistake Puerto Viejo for a Caribbean town with the rhythm of reggae pumping from the dance clubs situated on the edge of the beach.

<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2018/08/628551226-1024x683.jpg" alt="628551226" width="1024" height="683" /><span class="image-caption">Tiago_Fernandez / Getty Images</span>
<h2>6. Sintra, Portugal</h2>
Sintra is less than an hour away from Lisbon, Portugal. The entire town of Sintra is a Unesco World Heritage Site. Lord Byron referred to the city as a "glorious Eden," and it's easy to see why he fell in love with the region. The pine tree-covered hills of the Serra de Sintra offer a refreshing reprieve from the heat. Romantic architecture is at home among the natural ecosystem of the Parque Natural de Sintra-Cascais. The lavish gardens, playful palaces, and mysterious mansions make this small city a must-see for visitors. Palacio da Pena is a grand palace that looks as if it's sculpted from Play-Doh. Quinta da Regaleira is a gothic mansion opulent with mythical symbols, while the grounds offer secrets around every corner.

<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2018/08/98072345-1024x683.jpg" alt="98072345" width="1024" height="683" /><span class="image-caption">LuisPortugal / Getty Images</span>
<h2>7. The Amalfi Coast, Italy</h2>
The Amalfi Coast is well known for its glamorous residents, glittering beaches, and staggeringly beautiful cities. The best way to see the Amalfi Coast is to take a bus ride from Sorrento to Salerno.  This trip isn't for the faint of heart; the bus takes hairpin turns at high speeds as the driver navigates the serpentine switchbacks that hug the mountainside, overlooking the sea.  There are plenty of charming towns to visit, like Vietri Sul Mare and Ravello, but if you're short on time make sure you at least explore Positano. The city is stacked high against the mountain, so wear comfortable shoes.

<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2018/08/584209898-1024x683.jpg" alt="584209898" width="1024" height="683" /><span class="image-caption">Cristinatrif / Getty Images</span>
<h2>8. Siem Reap, Cambodia</h2>
Siem Reap is in northwest Cambodia and is considered the 'gateway to the Angkor region.' The real attractions are the temples of Angkor Wat which cover over 400 acres and represent the largest religious monument in the world. Angkor Wat (which means Capital Temple in English) is all that remains of the Khmer civilization. The Angkor Wat Temples display the tenets of Hindu mythology. This Unesco World Heritage site is the oldest of the Seven Wonders of the World.

<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2018/08/589972408-1024x683.jpg" alt="589972408" width="1024" height="683" /><span class="image-caption">efired / Getty Images</span>
<h2>9. Pembrokeshire, Wales, United Kingdom</h2>
If you like the beach and castles, then Pembrokeshire should be your next vacation destination. Pembrokeshire is the only national park in the United Kingdom established for its coastline. The Pembrokeshire Coastal Path is 186 miles of astounding natural beauty. Along the way, you can stop by St. Govan's Chapel.  The legend states St. Govan hid in a cave from pirates. He was so grateful for the safe escape that he built a chapel there. The smallest city in the U.K. is Saint David's, which is home to St. David's Cathedral, considered a holy place since the 6th century.

<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2018/08/886019874-1024x684.jpg" alt="886019874" width="1024" height="684" /><span class="image-caption">Matt_Gibson / Getty Images</span>
<h2>10. The Antrim Coast of Northern Ireland</h2>
If you're a fan of Game of Thrones, then you've seen parts of the Coastal Causeway on television, but merely seeing it on TV doesn't do the region justice. Most visitors will arrive in Belfast, a friendly city with plenty to see and do in itself. Belfast was where they built the Titanic, and there's an impressive monument for history buffs. The Antrim Coast half a day's drive from the city is a lush, emerald landscape dotted with crumbling castles, ancient forests, and dazzling rock formations like the famous 'Giant's Causeway.'

<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2018/08/483667772-1024x584.jpg" alt="483667772" width="1024" height="584" /><span class="image-caption">HuyThoai / Getty Images</span>