Embarking on a round-the-world trip is an adventure of a lifetime, offering the opportunity to experience diverse cultures, awe-inspiring landscapes, and unforgettable moments across multiple continents. From ancient wonders to modern marvels, each region of the world has its own unique charm and must-see attractions. This comprehensive guide explores the highlights of each major region, providing inspiration for your globe-trotting itinerary and ensuring you make the most of your journey around the world.
Asia: ancient wonders and modern metropolises
Asia, the world’s largest and most populous continent, offers an incredible mix of ancient traditions and cutting-edge innovation. From the towering peaks of the Himalayas to the bustling streets of Tokyo, Asia presents a captivating blend of experiences for the intrepid traveller.
Exploring the temples of angkor wat in cambodia
No round-the-world trip is complete without a visit to the magnificent Angkor Wat complex in Cambodia. This sprawling archaeological site, dating back to the 12th century, is the largest religious monument in the world. As you wander through the intricate stone carvings and towering spires, you’ll be transported back in time to the height of the Khmer Empire.
The best way to experience Angkor Wat is to arrive at sunrise, when the temple’s iconic silhouette is reflected in the still waters of the surrounding moat. Spend at least three days exploring the complex, including lesser-known temples like Ta Prohm, famously featured in the film “Tomb Raider”. For a unique perspective, consider taking a hot air balloon ride over the site for a truly unforgettable view.
Navigating tokyo’s Cutting-Edge technology scene
In stark contrast to Cambodia’s ancient wonders, Tokyo offers a glimpse into the future with its high-tech gadgets and futuristic architecture. The Japanese capital is a paradise for technology enthusiasts and pop culture aficionados alike.
Start your exploration in Akihabara, Tokyo’s electric town , where you can browse the latest electronics and immerse yourself in otaku culture. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit teamLab Borderless, a mind-bending digital art museum that pushes the boundaries of interactive exhibitions. For a taste of traditional Japan amidst the neon lights, take a stroll through the serene Meiji Shrine, a perfect example of how old and new coexist harmoniously in this dynamic city.
Trekking the himalayas: from everest base camp to annapurna circuit
For adventure seekers, the Himalayas offer some of the world’s most challenging and rewarding trekking experiences. The two most popular routes are the Everest Base Camp trek in Nepal and the Annapurna Circuit.
The Everest Base Camp trek takes you through breathtaking Sherpa villages and monasteries, culminating in a view of the world’s highest peak. This 12-14 day journey is physically demanding but offers unparalleled mountain vistas and a sense of accomplishment.
The Annapurna Circuit, often called the “apple pie circuit” due to the prevalence of this dessert in local teahouses, offers a more diverse landscape. Over 14-21 days, you’ll pass through subtropical forests, arid landscapes, and high-altitude deserts, crossing the challenging Thorong La Pass at 5,416 metres.
Trekking in the Himalayas is not just about reaching a destination; it’s about the journey, the people you meet, and the personal growth you experience along the way.
Diving the coral triangle: indonesia’s raja ampat
For underwater enthusiasts, the Coral Triangle in Southeast Asia is a must-visit destination, with Indonesia’s Raja Ampat archipelago being the crown jewel. This remote area boasts the highest marine biodiversity on Earth, with over 1,500 species of fish and 75% of the world’s known coral species.
Raja Ampat offers world-class diving opportunities for all levels, from beginners to experienced divers. You’ll have the chance to swim alongside manta rays, explore vibrant coral gardens, and possibly encounter rare species like the wobbegong shark. For the best experience, consider joining a liveaboard dive trip, which allows you to access more remote dive sites and maximise your time in this underwater paradise.
Europe: cultural heritage and scenic landscapes
Europe’s rich history, diverse cultures, and stunning natural beauty make it a perennial favourite for round-the-world travellers. From ancient ruins to Renaissance masterpieces, the continent offers a wealth of experiences for culture enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
Uncovering rome’s archaeological treasures
The Eternal City of Rome is a living museum, where ancient history coexists with modern life. Begin your exploration at the iconic Colosseum, the largest ancient amphitheatre ever built. Book a guided tour to fully appreciate the structure’s fascinating history and architectural brilliance.
Next, visit the nearby Roman Forum, once the centre of political and social life in ancient Rome. As you walk among the ruins, you can almost imagine the bustling marketplace and political debates that once took place here. Don’t miss the Pantheon, a marvel of Roman engineering with its perfect dome and oculus, still standing after nearly 2,000 years.
For a unique perspective on Rome’s layered history, visit the Basilica of San Clemente. This 12th-century church is built atop a 4th-century church, which in turn stands above a 1st-century Roman house and a 2nd-century Mithraic temple. Descending through the levels is like travelling back in time, offering a tangible sense of Rome’s long and complex history.
Cruising norway’s fjords: from geirangerfjord to nærøyfjord
Norway’s fjords offer some of Europe’s most dramatic landscapes, with towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and crystal-clear waters. Two of the most spectacular fjords are Geirangerfjord and Nærøyfjord, both UNESCO World Heritage sites.
A cruise through Geirangerfjord reveals the famous Seven Sisters waterfall, plunging 250 metres into the fjord. For a more active experience, consider kayaking in the calm waters or hiking to viewpoints like Skageflå farm, perched precariously on the cliffside.
Nærøyfjord, often considered Norway’s most beautiful fjord, is best explored by a small cruise or traditional fjord safari boat. The narrow passage, flanked by 1,700-metre cliffs, creates an intimate and awe-inspiring experience. Don’t miss the charming village of Undredal, famous for its goat cheese and Norway’s smallest stave church.
Exploring the art nouveau architecture of barcelona
Barcelona is renowned for its unique architecture, particularly the whimsical creations of Antoni Gaudí. Begin your architectural tour at the iconic Sagrada Família, Gaudí’s unfinished masterpiece. The basilica’s organic forms and intricate details continue to captivate visitors over a century after construction began.
Continue your Gaudí exploration with visits to Casa Batlló and Casa Milà, two of his most famous residential buildings. The undulating facades and imaginative interiors showcase Gaudí’s innovative approach to architecture and design.
For a broader perspective on Barcelona’s Art Nouveau movement, known locally as Modernisme , visit the Sant Pau Recinte Modernista. This former hospital complex, designed by Lluís Domènech i Montaner, is a stunning example of the style and offers a less crowded alternative to Gaudí’s more famous works.
Hiking the tour du mont blanc circuit
The Tour du Mont Blanc is one of Europe’s most famous long-distance hiking trails, circling the Mont Blanc massif and passing through France, Italy, and Switzerland. The complete circuit covers approximately 170 kilometres with 10,000 metres of ascent and descent.
Most hikers complete the trek in 7-11 days, staying in mountain refuges or small villages along the way. The trail offers stunning alpine scenery, including glaciers, meadows filled with wildflowers, and of course, views of Mont Blanc itself.
While the full circuit is challenging, it’s possible to tackle shorter sections or use cable cars to skip some of the more strenuous parts. Whichever approach you choose, the Tour du Mont Blanc provides an unforgettable mountain experience and a chance to immerse yourself in Alpine culture.
Africa: wildlife safaris and ancient civilizations
Africa, the world’s second-largest continent, offers an unparalleled combination of wildlife encounters, ancient history, and diverse cultures. From the savannas of East Africa to the pyramids of Egypt, a round-the-world trip to Africa promises unforgettable experiences.
Witnessing the great migration in serengeti national park
The Great Migration in Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park is often described as one of the greatest wildlife spectacles on Earth. Each year, over two million wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles make a circular trek through the Serengeti ecosystem in search of fresh grazing lands and water.
The best time to witness this incredible event depends on which part of the migration you want to see. From December to March, the herds gather in the southern Serengeti to give birth. By July and August, the animals reach the northern Serengeti, where they face the perilous crossing of the Mara River, dodging crocodiles and other predators.
To fully appreciate the scale and drama of the migration, consider booking a hot air balloon safari. Floating silently above the plains at dawn, you’ll have a bird’s eye view of the vast herds and the predators that follow them.
Discovering egypt’s pharaonic history in luxor and giza
Egypt’s ancient wonders have captivated travellers for millennia, and no round-the-world trip is complete without exploring the land of the pharaohs. Begin your journey in Luxor, often called the world’s greatest open-air museum.
On the east bank of the Nile, visit the Luxor and Karnak temples, marvelling at the colossal statues and intricately carved hieroglyphs. Cross to the west bank to explore the Valley of the Kings, where pharaohs were laid to rest in lavishly decorated tombs. Don’t miss the Temple of Hatshepsut, an architectural marvel dedicated to one of Egypt’s few female pharaohs.
No visit to Egypt is complete without seeing the Pyramids of Giza and the enigmatic Sphinx. These iconic structures have stood for over 4,500 years and continue to inspire awe and wonder. For a unique experience, consider visiting at night for the sound and light show, which brings the ancient monuments to life through storytelling and illumination.
Trekking morocco’s atlas mountains and exploring marrakech’s medina
Morocco offers a diverse range of experiences, from the rugged peaks of the Atlas Mountains to the bustling souks of Marrakech. Start your Moroccan adventure with a trek in the High Atlas, where you can summit North Africa’s highest peak, Jebel Toubkal (4,167 metres).
A typical trek takes 2-3 days and offers stunning mountain vistas and insights into traditional Berber culture. Along the way, you’ll pass through remote villages and stay in simple mountain refuges or local guesthouses.
After your mountain adventure, immerse yourself in the sensory overload of Marrakech’s medina. Get lost in the winding alleys of the souks, where you can shop for everything from intricate carpets to aromatic spices. Don’t miss Djemaa el-Fna, the main square that comes alive at night with food stalls, storytellers, and musicians.
Diving with great white sharks in gansbaai, south africa
For an adrenaline-pumping experience, head to Gansbaai, South Africa, known as the “Great White Shark Capital of the World”. Here, you can come face-to-face with these magnificent predators through cage diving experiences.
The best time for shark encounters is between June and October when visibility is at its peak. You’ll be lowered into the water in a secure cage, while the crew attracts sharks using a mixture of fish chum and tuna heads. As the sharks investigate the bait, you’ll have an up-close view of their power and grace.
Diving with great white sharks is not just about the thrill; it’s an opportunity to gain a new appreciation for these often misunderstood creatures and learn about marine conservation efforts.
For those who prefer to stay dry, many operators offer topside viewing experiences where you can observe the sharks from the boat deck. Either way, an encounter with great white sharks is sure to be a highlight of your round-the-world adventure.
South america: diverse ecosystems and lost cities
South America’s vast landmass encompasses everything from tropical rainforests to glacial landscapes, along with some of the world’s most iconic archaeological sites. A round-the-world trip to this continent promises unparalleled biodiversity and cultural experiences.
Navigating the amazon rainforest: from manaus to iquitos
The Amazon Rainforest, covering over 5.5 million square kilometres, is a biodiversity hotspot that no world traveller should miss. Two popular gateways to the Amazon are Manaus in Brazil and Iquitos in Peru, each offering unique experiences.
From Manaus, you can witness the Meeting of the Waters , where the dark Rio Negro meets the sandy-coloured Rio Solimões, flowing side by side for several kilometres without mixing. Take a river cruise to explore remote areas of the rainforest, spot pink river dolphins, and visit indigenous communities.
Iquitos, the world’s largest city inaccessible by road, offers a more rustic Amazon experience. Stay in an eco-lodge deep in the jungle, take night walks to spot nocturnal creatures, and learn about traditional plant-based medicines from local shamans.
Hiking the inca trail to machu picchu
The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is one of the world’s most famous treks, combining stunning mountain scenery with fascinating Incan ruins. The classic four-day trek covers 43 kilometres, passing through cloud forests and alpine tundra before reaching the Sun Gate for your first glimpse of Machu Picchu.
Along the way, you’ll explore lesser-known Incan sites like Wiñay Wayna and pass through the challenging Dead Woman’s Pass at 4,215 metres. The trek culminates in a guided tour of Machu Picchu itself, where you can marvel at the ingenuity of Incan engineering and architecture.
Remember that permits for the Inca Trail are limited and often book out months in advance. If you can’t secure a permit, consider alternative treks like the Salkantay or Lares routes, which also offer beautiful scenery and Incan ruins before ending at Machu Picchu.
Exploring patagonia: torres del paine and los glaciares national parks
Patagonia, straddling Chile and Argentina, is a land of dramatic landscapes, from towering granite peaks to vast ice fields. In Chile’s Torres del Paine National Park, the iconic W Trek takes you through some of the park’s most stunning scenery, including the base of the famous granite towers.
Across the border in Argentina, Los Glaciares National Park is home to the Perito Moreno Glacier, one of the few advancing glaciers in the world. Take a boat trip to get close to the 60-metre-high ice wall, or strap on crampons for a guided ice hike on the glacier itself.
For a unique Patagonian experience, consider staying at an estancia (traditional ranch) where you can learn about gaucho culture and horseback ride across the vast Patagonian steppe.
Discovering the galápagos islands’ unique wildlife
The Galápagos Islands, located 600 miles off the coast of Ecuador, are a living laboratory of evolution and home to some of the world’s most unique wildlife. A visit to this archipelago offers unparalleled opportunities for close encounters with species found nowhere else on Earth.
The best way to explore the Galápagos is on a multi-day cruise, which allows you to visit several islands and see a diverse range of wildlife. You’ll have the chance to snorkel with playful sea lions, observe giant tortoises in their natural habitat, and watch the courtship dance of blue-footed boobies.
Each island in the archipelago offers something unique. On Isabela Island, hike to the rim of Sierra Negra, one of the largest volcanic craters in the world. On Fernandina Island, witness the largest colony of marine iguanas basking on black lava rocks. And on Santa Cruz Island, visit the Charles Darwin Research Station to learn about ongoing conservation efforts.
The Galápagos Islands are not just a destination; they’re a transformative experience that will change the way you view the natural world and our place within it.
North america: natural wonders and iconic cities
North America offers an incredible diversity of experiences, from the bustling metropolises of the East Coast to the rugged wilderness of the West. A round-the-world trip through this continent allows you to experience both natural wonders and cultural icons.
Road tripping US national parks: yellowstone to yosemite
A road trip through America’s national parks is the quintessential way to experience the country’s natural beauty. Start your journey at Yellowstone, the world’s first national park. Here, you can witness the clockwork eruptions of Old Faithful geyser, marvel at the rainbow-hued Grand Prismatic Spring, and spot wildlife like bison and elk in the Lamar Valley.
From Yellowstone, head west to Grand Teton National Park, where jagged peaks rise dramatically from the valley floor. Continue on to Utah’s “Mighty 5” national parks: Zion, Bryce Canyon, Capitol Reef, Arches, and Canyonlands. Each park offers unique geological wonders, from Zion’s narrow slot canyons to the otherworldly hoodoos of Bryce Canyon.
End your journey in California’s Yosemite National Park, where you can stand in awe beneath towering sequoias, hike to thundering waterfalls, and take in the panoramic views from Glacier Point. For the adventurous, consider securing a permit to climb Half Dome, Yosemite’s iconic granite monolith.
Experiencing new york city’s broadway and museum mile
No round-the-world trip is complete without experiencing the energy and culture of New York City. Start your urban adventure with a night on Broadway, the pinnacle of American theater. Whether you choose a long-running classic like “The Phantom of the Opera” or a cutting-edge new production, the experience is sure to be unforgettable.
The next day, immerse yourself in world-class art along Museum Mile on Fifth Avenue. Begin at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, where you can explore over 5,000 years of human creativity. Continue to the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum, as much an architectural marvel as it is an art museum. End your cultural tour at the Neue Galerie, which houses an impressive collection of early 20th-century German and Austrian art and design.
For a unique perspective on the city, take a walk across the Brooklyn Bridge at sunset, then explore the trendy neighborhoods of Brooklyn for dinner and drinks.
Whale watching in alaska’s inside passage
Alaska’s Inside Passage offers some of the best whale watching opportunities in the world. The nutrient-rich waters attract a variety of whale species, including humpbacks, orcas, and gray whales. A cruise through the Inside Passage allows you to combine whale watching with stunning scenery and opportunities to spot other wildlife like bald eagles and brown bears.
Juneau, Alaska’s capital, is an excellent base for whale watching excursions. From mid-April to September, humpback whales feed in the waters around Juneau before migrating south for the winter. For a truly immersive experience, consider kayaking in the calm waters of Glacier Bay National Park, where you might find yourself paddling alongside these gentle giants.
Don’t miss the chance to witness bubble-net feeding, a sophisticated hunting technique used by groups of humpback whales. This rare behavior is most commonly observed in the waters of Southeast Alaska.
Exploring the French-Canadian culture of quebec city
Quebec City, with its cobblestone streets and European charm, offers a slice of old-world culture in North America. Start your exploration in the Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Wander through narrow streets lined with stone buildings and cozy cafes, and don’t miss the iconic Château Frontenac, the world’s most photographed hotel.
Immerse yourself in French-Canadian culture by attending the Festival d’été de Québec in July, one of the biggest music festivals in North America. For a taste of local cuisine, try poutine, a hearty dish of fries topped with gravy and cheese curds, or indulge in a traditional sugar shack meal during maple syrup season.
In winter, experience the magic of the Québec Winter Carnival, featuring ice sculptures, night parades, and the famous ice palace. For a unique accommodations experience, spend a night at the Ice Hotel, rebuilt each winter using snow and ice.
Oceania: island paradise and outback adventures
Oceania offers a diverse range of experiences, from the tropical islands of the South Pacific to the vast, rugged landscapes of Australia. A round-the-world trip to this region promises unforgettable adventures both above and below the water.
Snorkeling australia’s great barrier reef
The Great Barrier Reef, stretching over 2,300 kilometers along Australia’s northeast coast, is the world’s largest coral reef system and a bucket-list destination for many travelers. While the reef faces challenges from climate change, large areas remain stunningly beautiful and teeming with marine life.
Cairns is a popular starting point for reef excursions. From here, you can take day trips to the outer reef for snorkeling or diving. For a more immersive experience, consider a multi-day liveaboard trip, which allows you to explore more remote areas of the reef.
While snorkeling, you’ll have the chance to see an incredible diversity of marine life, including colorful parrotfish, giant clams, sea turtles, and perhaps even a reef shark or two. For a unique perspective, take a scenic flight over the reef to appreciate its vast scale and the stunning contrast between the azure waters and the sandy cays.
Trekking new zealand’s milford track
Often called the “finest walk in the world,” the Milford Track in New Zealand’s Fiordland National Park offers 53 kilometers of breathtaking scenery. The four-day trek takes you through lush rainforests, past cascading waterfalls, and over alpine passes, culminating in a boat ride on the spectacular Milford Sound.
Highlights of the trek include the panoramic views from Mackinnon Pass, the tallest waterfall in New Zealand at Sutherland Falls, and the opportunity to spot native birds like the kea, the world’s only alpine parrot. The track is well-maintained with comfortable huts along the way, making it accessible to reasonably fit hikers.
Due to its popularity, bookings for the Milford Track often fill up months in advance, especially during the peak season from October to April. If you can’t secure a spot, consider alternative multi-day hikes in the area, such as the Routeburn or Kepler tracks, which offer equally stunning scenery.
Immersing in māori culture at rotorua
Rotorua, located on New Zealand’s North Island, is the heart of Māori culture and a geothermal wonderland. Begin your cultural immersion with a visit to Te Puia, where you can watch skilled artisans creating traditional carvings and weaving, and witness the famous Pohutu geyser erupting.
For a deeper understanding of Māori traditions, attend a hangi feast, where food is cooked in an earth oven. Many local marae (meeting grounds) offer overnight stays, allowing visitors to participate in traditional ceremonies, learn about Māori history, and even try your hand at the haka, the famous Māori war dance.
Between cultural experiences, take time to enjoy Rotorua’s natural wonders. Relax in a natural hot spring, walk through a redwood forest canopy, or mountain bike through the stunning Whakarewarewa Forest.
Exploring the remote landscapes of Uluru-Kata tjuta national park
In the heart of Australia’s Red Centre lies Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, home to some of the country’s most iconic landscapes. Uluru, also known as Ayers Rock, is a massive sandstone monolith that rises 348 meters above the surrounding desert plains. Watching the rock change colors at sunrise or sunset is a truly magical experience.
While climbing Uluru is no longer permitted out of respect for its cultural significance to the local Anangu people, there are many other ways to appreciate its beauty. Take a guided walk around the base to learn about Anangu culture and see ancient rock art, or cycle around the rock for a different perspective.
Don’t miss Kata Tjuta, a group of 36 red rock domes located 40 kilometers west of Uluru. The Valley of the Winds walk offers stunning views of these unique formations. For a memorable finale to your visit, consider the Sounds of Silence dinner, where you’ll dine under the stars while learning about Aboriginal astronomy.
A visit to Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park is not just about seeing a famous landmark; it’s an opportunity to connect with one of the world’s oldest living cultures and experience the raw beauty of the Australian Outback.