While others are just beginning to explore the world’s hottest destinations, you’ve already hit all of the most popular bucket list spots. So, what’s next? There’s a whole world of opportunity just waiting to be explored. From lesser-known Incan ruins in Peru (hint: it’s not Machu Picchu) to watching the Northern Lights in the far reaches of Greenland, we’ve got all your alternative destinations covered. You’ve never seen a bucket list like this before.

 

Instead of Iceland, Go to Greenland

The secret is officially out on Iceland’s incredible natural beauty and the crowds are moving in. One of the most unique destinations in the world. Offering vast stretches of untouched wilderness with a few colorful little villages sprinkled here and there, Greenland gives anyone willing to travel there the opportunity to experience a corner of the world not many people get to see.

 

Instead of Machu Picchu, Try Choquequirao

Machu Picchu is one of those destinations that you need to see once in your life. But, if you’re looking for something a little different, Peru’s lesser-known, more remote Choquequirao is a perfect bucket list alternative for the more adventurous traveler. Located in southern Peru, this lost Incan city is estimated to be about 3 times the size of Machu Picchu and sees far fewer visitors each day. It’s a 4-day trek to get to these remote ruins, but that means it sees just under 6,000 visitors per year, so you won’t be fighting to get the best view of the ruins.

 

 

Instead of the Wildebeest Migration, Head to Botswana's Bird Migration

The wildebeest migration in Kenya and Tanzania draws in countless visitors each year, and for good reason, but Botswana’s bird migration deserves our love, too. With over 500 species of birds living in Botswana, you’re in for a treat no matter which part of the country you’re visiting. The best time of year for birdwatching depends greatly on what you’re hoping to spot, but in general November – March is when their migration takes place.

 

Instead of Angkor Wat, Watch the Sunrise at Borobudur

If you loved your early morning sunrise visit to Angkor Wat, then Indonesia’s Borobudur is for you. The massive Buddhist complex offers the same sunrise views but in an even more peaceful environment. As the sun peaks up over the horizon, it shines the light on the surrounding volcanoes, rice paddies, and lush vegetation, as well as the 72 beautiful stupas rising out of the rainforest. If the impressive location isn’t enough to draw you in, the complex is also UNESCO-listed and is the single biggest Buddhist structure in the world!

 

 

Instead of the Camino de Santiago, Try the Walk to Rome

For over 1,000 years travelers have made their way across northern Spain to Santiago via one of the world’s oldest pilgrimage routes, the Camino de Santiago. If you’re looking for even more history, culture, and scenic vistas for your next walking holiday, then look no further than Italy’s Francigena Way. Though it stretches all the way from England into Italy, the last 150km are truly magical.

 

Instead of the traditional African Safari, Explore Madagascar

The African Safari: the ultimate bucket list adventure. Nothing compares to the first time you catch a glimpse of an elusive leopard in the bush or a herd of elephants at the watering hole. That feeling never really goes away, no matter how many animals you spot on safari. If you’ve already driven the plains of the Serengeti and experienced South Africa and are looking for a more unique safari experience, set your sights on Madagascar.

 

 

Instead of Costa Rica, Visit Nicaragua

Costa Rica will always be a fabulous tropical getaway with its sandy beaches, yoga retreats, natural wonder, and abundant wildlife, but it has gotten BUSY. With crowds come higher prices and suddenly your peaceful paradise is overrun with zip lines and other tourists. That’s where Nicaragua comes in. It has all the same volcanic landscapes, jungle treks, and world-class beaches for surfing and relaxing that you fell in love with in Costa Rica, with the added bonus of smaller crowds, lower prices, ancient ruins, and captivating history.

 

For more information, visit exodustravels.com