20 Bucket-List Worthy Exotic Travel Destinations to Visit Now
The world is full of amazing and beautiful places. With endless beaches, amazing historical sites and cities to explore, there is plenty of unique places for a traveler to explore.
If you are a frequent traveler and looking for some amazing places to visit around the world, you’ve landed on the right article. We’ve compiled a list of 20 exotic travel destinations that will leave you speechless.
Exotic Travel Destinations That Will Blow Your Mind
Pack your travel bags, get your travel document, and discover these fascinating treasures across the globe.
Let’s dive right in.
1. Maldives: The Ultimate Luxury Getaway
Maldives, a beautiful paradise for travelers. This amazing travel destination offers clear crystal beaches, natural coral reefs and a lot of water sports like snorkeling, surfing and swimming along sharks.
If you are traveling to Maldives, make sure you experience the flavor of Maldives with some fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and aromatic spices.
Top Attractions:
- White Sand Beaches
- Coral Reefs
- Water Villas
Top Accommodations:
- Ayada Maldives
- Soneva Fushi
- Four Seasons Maldives
- Park Hyatt Maldives
Things to Do:
- Snorkeling
- Diving
- Spa Treatments
- Island Hopping
Best Time to Visit: December to April (Dry Season)
2. Bali, Indonesia: A Tropical Paradise
BIf you are looking for a blend of natural beauty, unique culture, and warm hospitality in a travel destination, Bali is the perfect spot for you to enjoy your vacations.
This is one of the affordable and exotic travel destinations that offers beautiful beaches, lush terraces, ancient temples and bustling markets with delicious foods. You can also enjoy water sports and a variety of things to do like surfing, snorkeling, and diving.
Top Attractions:
- Ubud Monkey Forest
- Tegalalang Rice Terraces
- Tanah Lot Temple
Top Accommodations:
- COMO Shambhala Ubud
- Amankila
- Oberoi Bali
Things to Do:
- Yoga
- Surfing
- Hiking
- Cultural Experiences
Best Time to Visit: April to October (Dry Season)
3. Marrakech, Morocco: A Vibrant Cultural Experience
Marrakech or Marrakesh is one of the most visited and famous city in Morocco. From rich history to unique architecture and bustling ancient souks, this amazing city has something for every type of traveler.
If you are visiting Marrakesh for the first time, don’t forget to enjoy lively street performances, aromatic tea and traditional crafts at Jemaa el-Fnaa market square.
Top Attractions:
- Visit Jemaa el-Fnaa Square
- Explore Bahia Palace
- Find peace at Koutoubia Mosque
Top Accommodations:
- La Mamounia
- Royal Mansour Marrakech
- Riad Yasmina
Things to Do:
- Do some souk shopping
- Exploring the Medina
- Take Cooking Classes
- Enjoy Hammam
Best Time to Visit: October to April (Cool and Dry)
4. Santorini, Greece: A Stunning Island Escape
Dreaming of a stunning island escape? Look no further than Santorini, Greece.
Renowned for its spectacular scenery marked by steep cliffs and the famous caldera vistas, Santorini is Romantic vacation destination and has something for every tourist.
This island is quite famous for its gorgeous white towns, especially Oia, that offers some of the most spectacular sunsets on Earth. Santorini also features distinctive beaches with black, red, and white sands, thereby offering a varied coastline view.
Top Attractions:
- Discover Oia Village
- Explore Akrotiri Archaeological Site
- Visit Santorini Caldera
Top Accommodations:
- Grace Santorini
- Canaves Oia
- Katikies Hotel
Things to Do:
- Do Wine Tasting
- Enjoy Sunset Watching
- Do Beach Hopping
- Hiking
Best Time to Visit: April to October (Warm and Sunny)
5. Cancun, Mexico: Sun, Sand and Adventure
With white sandy beaches and sparkly clean waves, Cancún is a one of the safest exotic places to travel in Mexico, noted for its natural beauty. Among the many activities and things to do the city provides, snorkeling, scuba diving, and water tours are well known among tavelers.
Travelers can also enjoy tours to surrounding Mayan sites such Chichén Itzá. With several all-inclusive resorts serving different budgets and tastes, Cancun offers its tourists convenience.
Another important thing why visitors love Cancún is its active nightlife, which guarantees amusement for everybody thanks to globally renowned pubs and clubs. This is one of the best and exotic travel destinations on a budget that offers overall leisure, adventure, and cultural encounters.
Top Attractions:
- Playa del Carmen
- Chichen Itza
- Xcaret Park
Top Accommodations:
- Moon Palace Cancun
- Hard Rock Hotel Cancun
- Hyatt Zilara Cancun
Things to Do:
- Swimming
- Snorkeling
- Diving
- Explore Mayan Ruins
Best Time to Visit: December to April (Dry Season)
6. Rio de Janeiro, Brazil: Samba and Scenic Views
Rio de Janeiro is one of the exotic travel destinations for couples that presents a special fusion of rich culture, natural beauty, and energetic environment. Its famous stunning beaches, which are ideal for tanning and socializing. Famous beaches include Copacabana and Ipanema that attracts tourists from different countries.
You can visit amazing places like Tijuca National Park, where tourists may enjoy rainforests and breathtaking sunset views.
Top Attractions:
- Christ the Redeemer
- Sugarloaf Mountain
- Copacabana Beach
Top Accommodations:
- Copacabana Palace
- Belmond Rio Palace
- Santa Teresa Hotel
Things to Do:
- Carnival
- Hiking
- Beach Activities
- Samba Dancing
Best Time to Visit: May to September (Dry Season)
7. Tokyo, Japan: A Fascinating Blend of Tradition and Modernity
Travelers should definitely visit Tokyo as it is a fascinating place that skillfully combines modernism with legacy. Rich cultural legacy of the city is well-known; old sites coexist with modern architecture and technologies.
From Tokyo’s street food to Michelin-starred restaurants, tourists may have great gastronomic experiences while still appreciating the warmth and safety of its citizens.
The public transportation system of Tokyo also makes everyone’s access to and convenience for visiting the city from one point to another of the city.
Top Attractions:
- Tokyo Tower
- Senso-ji Temple
- Imperial Palace
Top Accommodations:
- Park Hyatt Tokyo
- The Peninsula Tokyo
- Aman Tokyo
Things to Do:
- Explore Shibuya Crossing
- Visit Tsukiji Fish Market
- Try Japanese Cuisine
- Shopping
Best Time to Visit: March to May or September to November (Mild Weather)
8. Cape Town, South Africa: Where Nature Meets City Life
If you want to experience breathtaking natural beauty, rich history and culture, Cape Town is for you. For travelers who love food and wine, this amazing destination is a must-see place and offers plenty of cuisine options.
Cape Town is also well-known for Consistently recognized as one of the greatest towns in the world to visit Cape Town is for its laid-back attitude, friendly people, and year-round pleasant Mediterranean temperature.
Top Attractions:
- Table Mountain
- Victoria & Alfred Waterfront
- Kirstenbosch Botanical Garden
Top Accommodations:
- Twelve Apostles Hotel & Spa
- Taj Cape Town
- The Silo Hotel
Things to Do:
- Hiking
- Wine Tasting
- Safari
- Beach Activities
Best Time to Visit: September to November or March to May (Shoulder Seasons)
9. Puerto Rico: Caribbean Charm at its Finest
Puerto Rico offers great natural beauty, rich cultural places, and energetic local life. It’s a Perfect place to visit for those who love rich jungles and beautiful beaches. It’s bioluminescent bays blue shinning sand at night impresses those who like the natural world.
The friendly people of this island improve the experience by sharing their customs via music, dancing, and cuisine of great quality. Travel to Puerto Rico is also handy for American residents as a U.S. territory and calls for no passport.
Top Attractions:
- Old San Juan
- El Yunque National Forest
- Condado Beach
Top Accommodations:
- Condado Vanderbilt Hotel
- La Concha Hotel
- El Convento
Things to Do:
- Explore Historic Sites
- Hiking
- Beach Activities
- Water Sports
Best Time to Visit: December to April (Dry Season)
10. Sossusvlei, Namibia: Desert Adventures Await
Sossusvlei is a must-see site in Namibia that has some of the highest sand dunes in the world. This place offers amazing sunset views and breathtaking adventure for its visitors. Some of the popular things to do include sandboarding, stargazing under the bright night sky and climbing up the dunes.
If you are into travel photography and love exploring new places, Sesriem Canyon and Deadvlei are the ideal places to visit. Deadvlei is a dried-out clay pan littered with 900-year-old dead camel thorn trees.
For many international tourists and local visitors of Sossusvlei, it’s a well-known place for its unusual desert habitat and breathtaking views.
Top Attractions:
- Deadvlei
- Dune 45
- Sesriem Canyon
Top Accommodations:
- Sossusvlei Desert Lodge
- Desert Namib Lodge
- Little Kulala
Things to Do:
- Sandboarding
- Hot Air Balloon Rides
- Stargazing
Best Time to Visit: April to October (Dry Season)
11. Madagascar: A Biodiverse Wonder
Madagascar is a unique and fascinating travel destination that is quite famous for its diverse wildlife, stunning landscape and idyllic beaches. This unusual island with so much beauty and incredible places has something for everyone. Its rich culture, friendly people, and opportunities for adventure and exploration makes this destination on any traveler’s bucket list.
Top Attractions:
- Tsingy de Bemaraha National Park
- Andasibe-Mantadia National Park
- Baobab Avenue
Top Accommodations:
- Tsaranoro Hotel
- Anjajavy Le Lodge
- Pangalanes Luxury Lodge
Things to Do:
- Trekking
- Wildlife Viewing
- Beach Activities
Best Time to Visit: April to October (Dry Season)
12. Phuket, Thailand: Beaches, Temples and More
The Thailand’s largest Island, Phuket is a very famous travel destination for international travelers. You can explore vibrant nightlife, exotic beaches, diverse culture and food. As an anderaline junkie, you can enjoy a lot of adventure filled activities like Phuket Kart Speedway, explore Phuket Elephant Sanctuary and whitewater Rafting.
Top Attractions:
- Patong Beach
- Phi Phi Islands
- Wat Chalong
Top Accommodations:.
- Amari Phuket
- JW Marriott Phuket Resort & Spa
- The Surin Phuket
Things to Do:
- Beach Activities
- Island Hopping
- Snorkeling
- Diving
Best Time to Visit: November to April (Dry Season)
13. Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, Japan: A Serene Nature Escape
Arashiyama Bamboo Forest is very famous for its natural beauty, towering bamboo stalks and calm environment. Visitors can enjoy peaceful walks along well-maintained paths, surrounded by the calming sounds of rustling leaves. Additionally, the forest is conveniently located near other attractions, making it one of the safest exotic places to travel and a perfect spot to explore the rich cultural heritage of Kyoto.
Top Attractions:
- Tenryu-ji Temple
- Arashiyama Monkey Park
- Togetsukyo Bridge
Top Accommodations:
- Hoshinoya Kyoto
- Suiho-en Hotel Kyoto
- Ryokan Sumiya
Things to Do:
- Walk through the Bamboo Forest
- Visit Temples and Shrines
- Enjoy Traditional Japanese Culture
Best Time to Visit: Spring (March to May) or Autumn (September to November)
14. Tayrona National Park, Colombia: Pristine Beaches and Dense Jungles
If you are a nature enthusiast, you should really should visit Tayrona National Park. Imagine all in one location, beautiful beaches, rich jungles, and historic attractions. This exotic travel destination offers everyone something whether your interests are swimming, hiking, or exploration jungles.
Top Attractions:
- Cabo San Juan Beach
- Lost City
- Tayrona Beach
Top Accommodations:
- Ecohabs Tayrona
- Casa Encantada
- Eco Lodge Tayrona
Things to Do:
- Hiking
- Snorkeling
- Beach Activities
- Explore Ancient Ruins
Best Time to Visit: January to April or September to November (Dry Season)
15. Easter Island, Chile: Mystical Moai Statues and More
Explore Easter Island is an absolute gem that’s all about those iconic Moai statues and stunning landscapes. You can enjoy the clear crystal waters of the beautiful beaches like Anakena.
Immerse yourself in rich history and culture of Easter Island and enjoy the warm hospitality of the local people. Whether you’re hiking up volcanoes or soaking in the local vibe, it’s a trip you won’t forget!
Top Attractions:
- Moai Statues
- Anakena Beach
- Ahu Akivi
Top Accommodations:
- Explora Rapa Nui
- Hotel Manavai Easter Island
- Vai Moana
Things to Do:
- Explore Archaeological Sites
- Beach Activities
- Cultural Experiences
Best Time to Visit: September to April (Dry Season)
16. Dubrovnik, Croatia: Medieval Charm by the Sea
Dubrovnik is such an incredible and exotic travel destination with ancient architecture and vivid history. It is an exquisite treasure on the Adriatic.
You might search for Game of Thrones filming locations, lounge outside the famous city walls, or even tan on lovely beaches! Furthermore, the great local food and quaint streets make it the ideal place for a unique trip.
Top Attractions:
- Old Town
- Walls of Dubrovnik
- Lokrum Island
Top Accommodations:
- Hotel Excelsior Dubrovnik
- Hotel Dubrovnik Palace
- Villa Dubrovnik
Things to Do:
- Walking the Walls
- Explore the Old Town
- Island Hopping
- Beach Activities
Best Time to Visit: April to October (Warm and Sunny)
17. Maui, Hawaii
Maui is an amazig travel destination when it comes to exploring stunning natural beauty, from the towering Haleakala volcano to the lush Hana rainforest and clear crystal water beaches.
If you love adventure travel, this island is for you. Offering a lot of adventurous activities like snorkeling at Molokini Crater, hiking the Road to Hana, and whale watching during the winter months, Maui is the best vacation spot for families and couples.
Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, Maui offers everything a traveler needs.
Top Attractions:
- Haleakala National Park
- Road to Hana
- Kaanapali Beach
Top Accommodations:
- The Ritz-Carlton Maui
- Grand Wailea Maui
- Four Seasons Maui
Things to Do:
- Hiking
- Beach Activities
- Whale Watching
- Water Sports
Best Time to Visit: April to October (Dry Season)
18. Belize
Belize is one ideal holiday spot and sometimes known as the hidden jewel of Central America.
From rich jungles to snorkeling with sharks and exploring historic Mayan ruins, Belize has something for every tourist.
Top Attractions:
- Great Blue Hole
- Belize Barrier Reef
- Mayan Ruins
Top Accommodations:
- Caye Caulker Resort
- Robert’s Grove Belize
- Mahogany Bay Resort
Things to Do:
- Snorkeling
- Diving
- Explore Mayan Ruins
- Jungle Adventures
Best Time to Visit: November to April (Dry Season)
19. Sardinia, Italy
Sardinia is more than simply a exotic travel destination; it’s an experience. Imagine crystal-clear seas, ancient ruins, and quaint towns tucked among breathtaking scenery, Sardinia is an ideal holiday spot for couples.
From the rocky beauty of the Gennargentu Mountains to the beautiful beaches of Costa Smeralda, there is something to suit everyone. So, why not pack your bags and explore the enchantment of Sardinia?
Top Attractions:
- Costa Smeralda
- Cala Luna
- Cagliari
Top Accommodations:
- Hotel Pitrizza
- Hotel Cala di Volpe
- Cala di Luna Hotel
Things to Do:
- Beach Activities
- Sailing
- Hiking
- Wine Tasting
Best Time to Visit: May to September (Warm and Sunny)
20. Ibiza, Spain
Ibiza is the ideal combination of calm and excitement. There is something for everyone here, with its beautiful beaches, active nightlife, and wonderful food. Whether you want to dance all night or relax on the beach, Ibiza offers it everything.
Top Attractions:
- Ibiza Town
- Playa d’en Bossa
- Es Vedra
Top Accommodations:
- Nobu Ibiza Bay
- Palladium Hotel Palmyra
- Destino Pacha
Things to Do:
- Enjoy Nightlife
- Beach Activities
- Water Sports
- Explore the Island
Best Time to Visit: May to October (Warm and Sunny)
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, these 20 exotic travel destinations offer an ideal balance of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and adventure. Whether you’re searching for a luxurious vacation in the Maldives or visiting the vivid alleyways of Marrakech, these bucket-list destinations will leave you with memorable memories.
Before going on any vacation experience, make sure to conduct research, organize your budget, and take all essential measures. So, which location is calling your name?
Comment below and tell us which exotic destination is at the top of your travel bucket list. Have fun traveling!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are some off-the-beaten-path destinations that should be on my travel bucket list?
Svalbard, Greenland, and Bhutan are three unusual vacation places to consider for your bucket list. Socotra Island in Yemen, Palau in Micronesia, and the Faroe Islands all provide less-traveled experiences. For a genuinely unique trip, visit Easter Island or the remote St. Helena. Due to probable safety threats or travel limitations, do extensive research on these places.
2. What are some cultural customs and etiquette to be aware of when traveling to exotic destinations?
When going to foreign locations, it is essential to understand the local norms and etiquette. Research local customs before of time, dress accordingly, and follow local dress regulations. Understand cultural variances in communication, such as body language and gestures. Most essential, be respectful to religious views and traditions.
3. How can I budget for an exotic travel experience?
To budget for an exotic vacation, begin by studying the expenses of airfare, lodging, and activities in your selected destination. Travel during the off-season or shoulder season to save money. Look for vacation package offers or use credit card rewards points. Make a budget and prioritize your costs to ensure you can afford the vacation.
4. Are there any safety or health concerns I should consider before traveling to an exotic destination?
Before traveling to an unusual location, it is essential to consider safety and health. Conduct careful study about possible issues such as vaccines, food and water safety, and crime rates. Stay up to speed on US Department of State travel warnings and get advice from healthcare specialists on proper insurance coverage.
