Bucket List Holidays: The Ultimate Destinations and Adventures

At Skyhook, we're redefining the "Bucket List!"

We know you've heard of overcrowded tourist destinations and probably visited a few. That's why we're all about rare, challenging, and extraordinary adventures.

This article features iconic spots like Kilimanjaro and the Grand Canyon but with unique twists.

Our primary focus is on the gems that offer breathtaking and heart-pounding experiences.

From scaling peaks to diving deep, from ancient ruins to wildlife encounters, we've handpicked adventures that push your limits and expand your horizons.

These are life-changing journeys that will reshape how you see the world.

Ready to turn travel dreams into reality?

Imagine standing atop Africa's highest peak, watching the sunrise paint the clouds below in hues of gold and pink.

Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania is a favourite on the bucket list for a good reason. 

At 5,895 metres, this dormant volcano offers a challenging yet achievable trek for adventurers of various fitness levels.

Pro tip: The Kilimanjaro climb time is typically 5-9 days, depending on the chosen route. 

The Machame Route, often called the "Whiskey Route," is particularly popular for its scenic beauty and higher Kilimanjaro success rate due to its longer acclimatisation period. 

At Skyhook, we offer two Kilimanjaro trips on this route: the Kilimanjaro Machame (6-Day Trek) and the longer Kilimanjaro Machame (7-Day Route)

Any of the Machame vs Lemosho routes take you through diverse ecosystems - from lush rainforests to alpine deserts - to test your limits. Come prepared; the Kilimanjaro weather and climbing difficulty are formidable challenges.

However, the final push to Uhuru Peak Kilimanjaro, though gruelling, will be rewarding!

If you put Kilimanjaro on your bucket list of mountains to climb in Africa, you might want another African trip to cool down your muscles after hiking for days.

So, why not cross the border to the neighbouring East African country, Uganda?

We won't tell you to hike here, although you could check out Mount Elgon (4321m, on the border of Kenya and Uganda) if you need a hike to prepare for Kili. 

You can now prepare for an experience like no other - coming face-to-face with mountain gorillas in their natural habitat!

Uganda's Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is home to nearly half of the world's mountain gorillas.

In for the adventure?

You'll trek through the dense jungle in search of these gentle giants, and when you finally encounter a gorilla family, you'll have a magical hour to observe their behaviour closely.

It's a humbling and often emotional experience that underscores the importance of conservation efforts.

You can even combine your gorilla trek with a classic Queen Elizabeth National Park safari or chimpanzee tracking in Kibale Forest for the ultimate Ugandan wildlife adventure!

For many, the mere mention of Mount Everest stirs the soul.

While summiting the world's highest peak may be beyond most of us, trekking to Everest Base Camp is an accessible alternative that offers breathtaking views and a taste of Himalayan adventure.

We offer several tours here:

Our trips take 12-16 days to complete. They take you through the heart of Sherpa country, where you take in stunning vistas of snow-capped peaks, including Everest itself. 

You'll cross suspension bridges over rushing rivers, visit ancient monasteries, and experience the warm hospitality of the local people.

The trek culminates at Base Camp (5,364m), where you'll be in awe of the Khumbu Icefall and perhaps catch a glimpse of climbers preparing for their Everest ascent. 

You can swap mountain trails for rushing rapids with a rafting trip through the Grand Canyon in the United States.

This bucket list adventure takes you 445 kilometres down the Colorado River through some of the most spectacular scenery in North America.

Multi-day trips last from 3 to 18 days, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the canyon's grandness.

You'll tackle thrilling rapids, hike to hidden waterfalls, and camp on sandy beaches under star-filled skies.

You'll learn about the canyon's geology and Native American history from expert guides.

For a truly unique experience, consider a hybrid trip that combines rafting with a mule ride or helicopter flight in or out of the canyon.

Still eager to do some hiking while here? Check out the top mountains to climb in the US!

Few experiences can match the thrill of emerging from the Sun Gate to see the ancient city of Machu Picchu sprawled before you, bathed in the golden light of dawn.

This 43-kilometre trek through the Andes in Peru is a pilgrimage through Incan history and breathtaking landscapes.

We love hiking at Skyhook, so we will take you to Machu Picchu. We have several trips:

The classic Inca Trail takes you past lesser-known ruins, cloud forests, and high mountain passes.

Each day brings new wonders, from the challenging ascent of Dead Woman's Pass to the intricate stonework of Wiñay Wayna.

Remember, permits for the Inca Trail are limited and sell out months in advance. You can book: 

If you miss out on Inca trips, consider alternative routes like the Salkantay Trek or Lares Trek to Machu Picchu, which offer equally stunning scenery and a less crowded experience.

Book: 

Patagonia, straddling Chile and Argentina, is a vast region of dramatic peaks, pristine glaciers, and windswept plains.

When trekking Torres del Paine National Park, you'll hike the famous W Trek Patagonia to see the iconic granite towers that give the park its name.

For an even more immersive experience, try the Patagonia O trek, a longer and more challenging trek that takes you deeper into the park's stunning landscapes.

Across the border in Argentina, you can enjoy the advancing face of Perito Moreno Glacier or tackle the challenging trails around Mount Fitz Roy in Los Glaciares National Park.

For a unique perspective, you can consider a multi-day horse riding expedition through the Patagonian steppe or kayaking among the fjords and channels of Tierra del Fuego.

Wildlife enthusiasts should take advantage of the opportunity to see Magellanic penguins at Punta Tombo or spot orcas off the Valdes Peninsula.

Would you like a more considerable hike while here?

Why not climb Aconcagua? It is actually one of the highest mountains in the world and one of the seven summits in the world. Did we say the highest mountain in the Americas? Give it a try!

We recommend Thailand because it allows you to immerse yourself in culture, adventure, and natural beauty.

Also called the Land of Smiles, it's easy to see why this is our bucket list destination in Asia. 

You'll pilot your own tuk-tuk, an iconic three-wheeled motorised vehicle, across the stunning landscapes of Northern Thailand.

In both Skyhook trips—the Northern Thailand Tuk-Tuk Adventure and the Chiang Mai Tuk-Tuk Adventure—we'll kick off in the bustling cityscape of Chiang Mai, known for its ornate temples and vibrant street markets.

This will set the stage for a journey through the countryside. 

As you drive your tuk-tuk, you'll venture into the heart of Thailand's scenic roads, winding through lush jungles and traditional hill tribe villages.

You'll also enjoy opportunities for soft adventure activities like bamboo rafting or visiting elephant sanctuaries, where you can learn about and contribute to elephant conservation efforts.

The Tour du Mont Blanc offers some of the best views in Europe.

It circles the Mont Blanc massif and passes through France, Italy, and Switzerland.

This 170-kilometre journey typically takes 7-11 days and offers a perfect blend of challenging hiking and cultural experiences.

As you cross alpine meadows and high passes and descend into charming valleys, you'll be treated to ever-changing views of glaciers, jagged peaks, and idyllic mountain villages.

You can rest in comfortable Tour du Mont Blanc refuges or small hotels each night, sample delicious local cuisine, and mingle with fellow hikers.

No bucket list would be complete without experiencing the ethereal beauty of the Aurora Borealis.

For this, we recommend visiting two countries: Iceland and Norway:

You can start with a visit to Iceland and stay in a glass-roofed cabin for uninterrupted sky views, join a Northern Lights hunt by super jeep, or combine their aurora watching with a soak in a geothermal hot spring.  

Pro tip: The best time to visit Iceland for the Northern Lights is between September and April! 

As you wait for the Northern Lights to appear, why not hop on a quick hike in Iceland?

Norway is another option for the northern lights!

From March to April, you can witness the northern lights in the Norwegian fjords. 

While in Norway, join our ice climbing tours: the Beginners Ice Climbing, Ice Climbing Improver Course, and Advanced Ice Climbing courses!

Is ice not your thing? Then let's hike, kayak, and wild camp the Norwegian Fjords!

The last trip on our list involves exploring the world's largest coral reef system by diving into the warm waters of the Coral Sea. 

The Great Barrier Reef stretches for over 2,300 kilometres along Australia's northeast coast and has unparalleled marine biodiversity.

Swim alongside colourful fish, graceful sea turtles, and maybe even a curious reef shark. 

Plus, consider a scenic flight over the reef to appreciate its vast scale for a unique perspective!

With the reef facing threats from climate change, there's never been a better time to witness this natural wonder and support conservation efforts through responsible tourism.

These bucket list adventures offer a taste of our world's incredible experiences. Each will challenge, inspire, and leave you with stories to tell for years.

As you plan your bucket list trips, consider your travels' environmental and cultural impact. Opt for responsible tour operators, respect local customs, and strive to leave each place better than you found it.

So, which adventure will you tick off first? Whether you dream of conquering Kilimanjaro, sailing the Greek Islands, or coming face-to-face with mountain gorillas, the world is waiting!

It's time to turn those dreams into unforgettable memories. Happy adventuring!