Some trips are worth the extra planning and these once-in-a-lifetime experiences book up fast—so you’ll want to lock in your spot at least 9-12 months ahead. Here’s your guide to the top bucket-list trips that need early planning.
1. Go on an African Safari
An African safari is the ultimate adventure for wildlife enthusiasts. The best time to visit depends on your desired experience:
The Great Migration (Tanzania & Kenya): Witness millions of wildebeest cross the Serengeti and Masai Mara. Best seen July–October (Kenya) and December–March (Tanzania).
Birthing Season (Tanzania): See thousands of newborn wildebeest and predator action in the Southern Serengeti (January–March).
Gorilla Trekking (Rwanda & Uganda): Secure permits early for treks in Bwindi or Volcanoes National Park, best during June–September and December–February.
Botswana’s Okavango Delta: Experience water-based safaris during the May–October flood season.
Spots in top safari lodges fill up fast, so booking early ensures front-row seats to one of nature’s greatest spectacles.
2. See Cherry Blossoms in Japan
Japan’s famous cherry blossoms, known as sakura, bloom for only a few short weeks (late March to early April), creating a breathtaking landscape. Whether you're strolling through Kyoto’s ancient temples or enjoying a picnic under Tokyo’s pink canopy, you’ll want to book your stay early. Hotels and flights sell out fast during this season, so planning ahead means you won’t miss out on this moment.
3. Sail Away on an Around-the-World Cruise
If you’ve ever dreamed of visiting multiple continents in one epic trip, an around-the-world cruise is the way to go. These luxurious, multi-month adventures take you to bucket-list destinations across the globe. Since cabins are limited and itineraries are exclusive, booking a year (or more) in advance guarantees your dream route and best accommodations.
4. Explore Antarctica: The Last Frontier
Want to see glaciers, penguins, and the most untouched landscapes on Earth? An Antarctica cruise is the definition of an off-the-beaten-path adventure. Since the travel season is short (November–March) and visitor numbers are restricted to protect the ecosystem, securing your spot early is a must.
5. Experience Christmas Magic in Lapland
If you love winter wonderlands, Christmas in Lapland is pure magic. Think cozy igloos, reindeer sleigh rides, and Santa's village. Because it’s one of the most festive (and busiest) times of the year, booking your Arctic adventure early ensures you get the best lodges and unforgettable experiences with Santa himself.
6. See the Northern Lights in Iceland
Watching the Northern Lights dance across the Icelandic sky is pure magic. The best time to see them is between September and March, but since the best remote lodges and aurora tours sell out quickly, planning ahead is a must. Pro tip: staying in a glass igloo or a cozy cabin in the middle of nowhere makes the experience even more unforgettable!
These bucket-list trips are more than just vacations—they’re experiences that will stay with you forever. A little extra planning goes a long way, and we can help secure the best spots, accommodations, book flights, and organize all the details so you can focus on those once-in-a-lifetime moments.