Best Holiday Destinations for 2025

From an Antarctic cruise to a Kenya safari, we have handpicked the best places to visit in 2025. Our holiday destinations cater to every kind of traveller. For an off-the-beaten-path adventure, a beach holiday or epic wildlife encounters, our guide to the best holiday destinations for 2025 has you covered.

Our team of travel experts will help you plan your tailor-made holidays in 2025: +44 (0) 2039 933538 or make an enquiry.

Beyond being known as the gateway to the Galápagos Islands, Ecuador is a place rich in history, wildlife and natural beauty. Home to the UNESCO World Heritage city of Quito, the former capital of the Inca Empire, and countless market towns like Otavalo, one of Ecuador’s biggest draws is its vibrant culture and friendly hospitality.

If you are seeking adventure, trek through the Ecuadorian Amazon rainforest to search for a vast array of wildlife including giant otters, spider monkeys, jaguars and the rare pink river dolphin. For those seeking epic landscapes, explore the great outdoors by hiking in the Andean highlands to the emerald green lake of Quilotoa and through the snow-capped Avenue of Volcanoes.

Cemented in history by Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution, the Galápagos Islands are a true embodiment of the name ‘Enchanted Isles’ and one of the best holiday destinations for anyone who is passionate about natural history. Lying 600 miles off the coast of Ecuador, the Galapagos Islands are home to some of the most extraordinary wildlife both on land and sea. Spot the infamous giant tortoises that have been roaming the islands for over two million years, or creep through the bushes and trees to observe the beautifully bizarre ritual mating dance of the blue-footed booby.

If you head to the shoreline on your Galápagos Islands holiday, you will have the chance to see the green sea turtles laying their eggs, marine iguanas changing colour as they moult, and sea lions playing on the beach as well as the iconic Galápagos penguin. The Galápagos archipelago is unlike anywhere else on earth, and combining a voyage to these islands with a journey through the wild Amazonian jungle or winding mountain trails of the mainland is the perfect way to discover one of the best off-the-beaten-path destinations in the world.

Best time to visit Ecuador and the Galápagos Islands: All year round
Our favourite travel itinerary for Ecuador and the Galápagos Islands holidays: Ultimate Ecuador & the Galapagos Islands
One of our favourite hotels in Ecuador & Galápagos Islands: Hacienda Zuleta
Our favourite cruise for Ecuador & Galápagos Islands: Origin, Theory & Evolve

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The mythical seventh continent of Antarctica, a land perpetually encompassed in ice and snow, is a must for the intrepid traveller. Despite its seemingly inhospitable environment, Antarctica is considered home for some extraordinary wildlife including colonies of emperor, gentoo and Adélie penguins, as well as elephant, fur and leopard seals. Humpback and minke whales are also known for gliding through the near-frozen waters before they migrate to warmer waters, and giant petrels and albatross can be seen soaring across the skies overhead. Considering that the resident wildlife is unfamiliar with humans, there are plenty of opportunities for up-close encounters on an Antarctica expedition and Antarctica cruise.

Beyond the exciting wildlife, you will see first-hand the pristine and monumental glaciers unlike anywhere else on the planet and will have the opportunity to embark on guided shore excursions in Zodiac boats, kayak among the icebergs and hike along the Antarctic Peninsula. The best way to discover Antarctica is aboard an expedition Antarctica cruise, some of which will take you to the sub-Antarctic islands of South Georgia and the Falklands to uncover more historic explorer sites and fascinating wildlife.

Best time to visit Antarctica: November – March
Our favourite travel itinerary for an Antarctica expedition: Classic Antarctica
One of our favourite Antarctica cruises: Sylvia Earle

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As one of our best holiday destinations 2025, Zambia is a country full of natural beauty, extraordinary game viewing and exciting adventure.

As one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, the awe-inspiring spectacle of Victoria Falls stretches along the borders of Zambia and Zimbabwe and is a must-see on any trip to Zambia. With its 100m deep gorge and a mile-long curtain of cascades, you can hear the falls from miles away and whether you are soaring above in a helicopter ride or embarking on a sunset river cruise, you will be astonished by the sheer scale of this incredible landmark.

Zambia is home to South Luangwa National Park, the famous birthplace of the walking safari. During the dry seasons of July to October, you can walk along the banks of the Luangwa River to see some extraordinary wildlife congregating around the water sources. Known as the ‘Valley of the Leopard’, South Luangwa National Park has a high density of leopards and is one of the best places in Africa to see this iconic Big Cat, but a variety of remarkable species such as lions, hippos, elephants, buffalos and a dazzling array of birds from prehistoric-looking storks to colonies of carmine bee-eaters also reside in the park.

For those looking for a safari experience that promises variety and adventure, head to Lower Zambezi National Park. With its spectacular scenery of oxbow lagoons, miombo woodland and river lined with a thick fringe of ebony and fig trees, Lower Zambezi National Park is renowned for its huge herds of elephants, but is also home to hippos, leopards, lions, buffalo and over 400 bird species. Along with bush walks and game drives, you will have the opportunity to canoe, fish or boat along the Zambezi River.

If you are seeking a more remote African safari destination, we recommend heading to Zambia’s oldest and largest game reserve, Kafue National Park, where large tracts of the park remain unexplored and there are relatively few visitors each year. Here you will see an incredible population of lions, huge herds of puku and red lechwe which are unique to the area and some rare species including the blue wildebeest.

For the intrepid travellers, you could find yourselves in a hot air balloon flying over the floodplains of Kafue National Park, sleeping under the stars surrounded by the sounds of the incredible African wild and embarking upon a white water rafting excursion below the mighty Victoria Falls.

Best time to visit Zambia: July – October
Our favourite travel itinerary for a Zambia safari: Classic Zambia
One of our favourite safari lodges in Zambia: Chiawa Camp

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Oman is a destination that may not initially spring to mind when planning your tailor-made holidays, but it should be.

With its extraordinary natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, imposing historical forts, beautiful sand beaches and world-class hotels, the ancient kingdom of Oman is a perfect off-the-beaten-path getaway. You can start your trip in the dazzling capital city of Muscat and discover the majestic Sultan’s Palace, the bustling Old Mutrah Souq as well as the magnificent forts of Jalali, Miran and Mutrah. A visit to the ancient oasis city of Nizwa is one of the best places to visit in Oman for those who wish to immerse themselves in the country’s history and culture. Visit the Souk and Goat Market, discover the infamous Round Tower Fort and admire the ceiling paintings in Jabrin, one of Oman’s finest castles.

Oman’s golden desert dunes and white-sand beaches are perfect for a romantic honeymoon. Explore Oman’s beautiful coastline, plan a night in the Wahiba Sands desert in a luxury tented accommodation under the star-filled skies, and hike or bike around the Jabal Akhdar mountains for some of the most stunning views in the Middle East. It is worth noting that the Jabal Akhdar region is home to some of Oman’s cultural treasures including Nizwa Fort, Jabreen Castle and the UNESCO-listed Bahla Fort.

Best time to visit Oman: October-March
Our favourite travel itinerary for Oman holidays: Ultimate Oman
One of our favourite Oman hotels: Alila, Jabal Akhdar

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The Maldives are one of the best places to go on holiday for a relaxing beach escape or honeymoon getaway.

A typical day in the Maldives is another day in paradise. Bathe on one of the white-sand beaches and dive into the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean alongside colourful marine life, manta rays and dolphins. You can also embark on a sunset cruise or a night fishing trip aboard a traditional dhoni, and if you are interested in water activities, plan a kayaking or snorkelling excursion at the most celebrated dive sites.

The Maldives are renowned for their immaculate high-end resorts, each of which has an island to itself. Be pampered by relaxing spa treatments, dine in exquisite restaurants and stay in lavish overwater or beach bungalows.

Best time to visit Maldives: December – April
One of our favourite Maldives hotels: Constance Moofushi

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As one of the best places to visit in 2025, the Balearic Islands are a great destination for those planning an idyllic winter sun beach holiday.

Mallorca is the largest Balearic Island and certainly promises a perfect holiday full of sun, sea and spectacular scenery. Visit Deia, a picturesque artist’s village in the mountains; stay in a secluded retreat among olive, almond, lemon and walnut groves in Pollenca and plan a trip to Palma, Mallorca’s capital, for an authentic Spanish experience.

The pine tree-framed coast, turquoise crescent bays and isolated sand beaches of Son Bou in Menorca are a slice of paradise tucked away in the Balearic Sea and offer a more tranquil beach holiday for those seeking an island escape. However, if you are looking for a more active beach holiday, the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ibiza is home to many cultural attractions, rich biodiversity and archaeological sites at Sa Caleta and Puig des Molins, all of which are waiting to be explored.

Best time to visit Balearic Islands: April – October
One of our favourite hotels in Balearic Islands: Belmond La Residencia, Mallorca

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The pure white-sand beaches, traditional thatched villas and vivid turquoise lagoons of the French Polynesia islands are some of the best places to go for a relaxing beach holiday.

Even though many of the islands were created by volcanic eruptions, the French Polynesia islands are now considered some of the most tranquil and paradisal destinations in the world. Amongst the deep blue waters of the Pacific Ocean, you will find the volcanic mountains of Tahiti, the incredible overwater bungalows of Bora Bora, the deserted island of Moorea and the Tuamotu Atolls, also known as the ‘Strand of Pearls’, just to name a few.

Bora Bora is considered one of the most beautiful places on the planet. Bathe on the white-sand beaches, snorkel in the topaz lagoon and quad bike across the island to see the extinct volcano of Mount Otemanu. You can end your days in paradise sleeping above the sea in an overwater bungalow.

Best time to visit French Polynesia: May – October
One of our favourite hotels in French Polynesia: Four Seasons Bora Bora

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With its idyllic golden-sand beaches and extraordinary views of the Indian Ocean, Sri Lanka is a great place to visit for a beach holiday.

If you are planning a beach escape over the winter months, we recommend travelling to the south coast. Here you can surf, kayak, swim and snorkel in the sparkling waters of the Indian Ocean and embrace the easy-going atmosphere of the sleepy fishing villages that are dotted throughout the coastline. The town of Tangalle is perfect for those who are seeking a secluded and tranquil spot to relax and rejuvenate. The south coast of Sri Lanka also offers an incredible opportunity to uncover the history and culture of Sri Lanka if you so desire. Explore the characteristic coastal town of Galle and its historic Fort area or discover the beautiful Kalutara temple which offers spectacular views at sunset.

Sri Lanka’s east coast is the perfect tropical haven during the summer months. Picture bathing on a string of palm-fringed beaches, swimming in the crystal-clear waters of the Indian Ocean and immersing yourself in a tranquil and friendly atmosphere. Take some time to tour the vibrant markets and stunning scenery of Trincomalee and see one of Sri Lanka’s most important Hindu places, the exquisite Koneswaram Temple that sits on the highest point of Swami Rock.

Best time to visit Sri Lanka: December – April
Our favourite travel itinerary for a Sri Lanka holiday: Ultimate Sri Lanka
One of our favourite places to stay in Sri Lanka: Ceylon Tea Trails

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With beautiful beaches, incredible diving and endless sunshine, the Caribbean has been a one of the best beach holiday destinations for decades.

Beyond the velvety white-sand beaches of Anguilla, you can watch the sunset at the top of Crocus Hill, capture the astonishing beauty of Island Harbour and pay a visit to Sandy Ground, a charming and quiet village by day and the island’s entertainment capital by night.

If you are seeking a dream beach destination, a trip to one of the 365 deserted, silvery beaches of Antigua is a must.

For those who are interested in natural wonders as well as an incredible beach holiday, St Lucia is one of the most beautiful of the Windward Islands in the lesser Antilles. Home to the Pitons Management Area, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, you will have the opportunity to witness some of the most breathtaking views of the two volcanic spires covered with natural vegetation. If you wish to stay in a hotel with views of the pitons, we recommend the Rabot Estate from Hotel Chocolat where you will stay in the heart of St Lucia’s rainforest and learn more about Hotel Chocolat’s home of cacao.

If you want to discover Jamaica, the Caribbean’s most scintillating island, you will be welcomed by some of the most fun and friendliest people before drinking rum cocktails, dining on freshly-caught seafood and climbing the paradisal Blue Mountains for magnificent views at the highest point of the island. The beach resorts in Jamaica are some of the most iconic, including GoldenEye, the now luxury resort that was once the home of renowned author and creator of James Bond, Ian Fleming, and then sold to Chris Blackwell, the infamous record producer who was instrumental in forging the careers of Bob Marley, U2 and more.

Whether you are island-hopping across the Bahamas or the British Virgin Islands, enjoying delicious Bajan cuisine on the coastline of Barbados or snorkelling among the most colourful coral reefs of the Cayman Islands, the Caribbean is full of year-round adventures.

Best time to visit the Caribbean: December – April
One of our favourite hotels in the Caribbean: Viceroy Sugar Beach, St Lucia

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Aside from being renowned as the heartland of the Inca Empire, Peru is full of exciting places to visit and is one of the most diverse holiday destinations that truly has something for everyone.

For those seeking a world-class dining experience, look no further than Lima. The capital of Peru is not only full of colonial squares and baroque churches, but is considered as the gastronomic capital of South America with its world-renowned restaurants and excellent hotels that promise panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean.

You can take a trip through history with a pilgrimage by train or on foot from the Inca capital of Cusco to the infamous Lost City of the Incas, Machu Picchu, or wander into the depths of Peru’s natural beauty by visiting the snow-capped mountains and volcanoes of the Colca Canyon, a canyon which is twice as deep as the Grand Canyon in the USA. In the Colca Canyon, it is an absolute must to look to the skies to see the Andean Condors, one of the largest flying birds in the world, soaring overhead.

Peru also shares the largest freshwater lake in South America and the highest navigable lake in the world, Lake Titicaca, and with a short boat trip from the city of Puno, you can witness the enchanting floating reed islands of Uros and Taquille. The intrepid travellers among you must see the enigmatic howler monkeys and rare pink river dolphins of the Peruvian Amazon Rainforestand hike along the 26-mile Inca Trail to witness the natural beauty of Peru by foot. If you are a skilled hiker, we recommend embarking on the challenging Choquequirao trail to visit the sister city of Macchu Picchu on your Peru holidays.

Best time to visit Peru: April – November
Our favourite travel itinerary for Peru holidays: Ultimate Peru and Amazon
One of our favourite Peru hotels: Titilaka

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Canada is the second largest country in the world and is renowned for its great outdoors. From vast lakes, sky-scraping mountains and a quarter of the planet’s trees, those interested in adventure can kayak in the crystal-clear waters of Lake Louise, hike in the natural beauty of the Canadian Rockies and ski down the peaks of the Laurentian Mountains. No holiday to Canada is complete without a soak in the hot springs of Banff National Park, a self-drive along the scenic Icefields Parkway and a trip to the wilderness of British Columbia where you can to see grizzly bears and whales in their natural habitat.

Canada’s infamous sights and cities are waiting to be explored. Discover one of nature’s greatest phenomena in-person, the thundering Niagara Falls, or for incredible golf and wine tasting, head to Kelowna and Okanagan. Tour Vancouver’s artisan studios and eclectic markets, uncover the history of Canada in Ottawa, visit the cobbled streets of old Quebec, witness the exquisite architecture of Montreal and stop in the mesmerising city of Toronto.

If you are looking to explore off-the-beaten-path, set off on an expedition cruise to the Canadian Arctic and encounter over 60% of the world’s polar bears, tour the Maritime Provinces for some incredible whale watching excursions or visit the untouched province of Yukon to see the midnight sun in summer and the Northern Lights in winter. We also recommend planning a Rocky Mountaineer train journey if you wish to sit in comfort while seeing the stunning natural landscapes around you.

Best time to visit Canada: All year round
Our favourite travel itinerary for Canada holidays: Classic Western Canada
One of our favourite places to stay in Canada: Sonora Resort

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The Kingdom of Nepal is a country of stunning mountain scenery, ancient temples and sub-tropical jungles that are sanctuary to a rich and varied wildlife.

Home to eight of the world’s fourteen 8,000-metre peaks, Nepal is renowned as a trekking paradise. Whatever your experience, there are trails to cater for all levels. The most iconic area is the Solukhumbu in the shadow of Mount Everest, where you will be met by ancient villages, golden-roofed monasteries and the warm hospitality of the Sherpas who farm the local lands.

If you are looking for something equally spectacular but at lower altitude, then the well-trod paths that criss-cross the terraced rice fields, wildflower hillsides and oak forests of the Annapurna Himal offer some wonderful hiking and equally wonderful mountain views.

But Nepal is so much more than just the trekking. Within the Kathmandu Valley are no less than seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites, while the narrow winding streets and vibrant markets of the capital are a delight to explore. To the west of Kathmandu is the lakeside town of Pokhara, where you can visit the World Peace Pagoda or simply soak up the majestic Himalayan vistas.

To the south on Nepal’s lowland terai, the jungles and grasslands of the Chitwan National Park are sanctuary to the Royal Bengal tiger, Indian one-horned rhinoceros, sloth bear and wild oxen, as well as more than 500 species of resident and migratory birds. Far to the west are the unspoilt confines of the remote Bardia National Park, where guided safaris in open-topped 4×4 vehicles and on foot take you in search of tiger, leopard, rhino and elephant.

And those of you in need of further thrills can challenge the rapids of the Seti and Karnali rivers on a white-water rafting adventure from highland to lowland.

Best time to visit Nepal: March – April and October – December
Our favourite travel itinerary for Nepal holidays: Adventure in Nepal
One of our favourite lodges in Nepal: Tiger Mountain Pokhara Lodge

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Namibia is a holiday destination that is full of spectacular scenery, remarkable wildlife and a true sense of adventure.

Often coined as a ‘photographer’s paradise’, Namibia’s spectacular scenery of fiery red desert, fossilised tree trunks and white clay pans should be at the top of everybody’s bucket list. Quad bike across the smaller sand dunes of Sossusvlei, see the historical rock engravings of Twfelfontein, visit the million-year-old trees of the Petrified Forest, hike along the enormous Fish River Canyon, look across the Atlantic Ocean in the coastal towns of Swakopmund and Walvis Bay, and take a trip to the hauntingly beautiful Skeleton Coast to see the graveyard of rusting shipwrecks along the beach.

For those interested in wildlife, the 20,000 km² of Etosha National Park is the place to go in Namibia for a safari. As one of the largest parks on the continent, Etosha National Park is home to lions, leopards, elephants and more. You may even have the chance to spot rare and unusual species such as the black rhino, the black-faced impala and the Damara dik-dik. The Etosha National Park is also renowned for its white salt pan that covers almost a quarter of the park, and during the rain season becomes a shallow lagoon frequented by pelicans and flamingos.

Best time to visit Namibia: May – October
Our favourite travel itinerary for Namibia holidays: Ultimate Namibia
One of our favourite Namibia lodges: Hoanib Valley Camp

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With its natural beauty, rich culture and hidden treasures at every turn, India is one of the top holiday destinations that truly has something for everyone.

From the ancient forts of Rajasthan to the architectural elegance of the Taj Mahal to the ethereal Golden Temple of Amritsar, the north of India promises endless sightseeing opportunities for those who wish to dive into the country’s history and culture. Explore the bustling capital city of Delhi before travelling to Varansi, India’s holiest Hindu city that sits on the banks of the river Ganges, and visiting the 22 sculpted temples in Khajuraho. In the ‘Pink City’ of Jaipur, you can tour the royal residences, gardens and courtyards which are bursting with India’s history. No holiday to India is complete without a stop at the ‘Golden City’ of Jaisalmer, the Hill Station of Shimla and Udaipur, one of India’s most romantic cities.

As the heart of India’s wildlife, Central India is home to an abundance of rare, endangered and extraordinary species including the iconic Bengal tiger. For an incredible tiger safari, head to the great forest reserves of Pench, Kanha and Bandhavgarh. When you are not exploring the jungles of Central India, visit the region’s countless hillside forts and palaces, see the carvings on medieval Jain and Hindu temples and witness the spectacular scenery of Madhya Pradesh’s Satpura National Park.

When you head to the regions of Southern India, you will be met with the picturesque backwaters of Kerala; secluded coffee, tea and spice plantation areas such as Munnar, Wayanad and Coorg as well as extraordinary wildlife safaris through Nagarhole National Park to see elephants, tigers, leopards, Asiatic wild dogs, striped hyenas and more. For those who wish to see the sights, discover some of India’s marvels including the famous ruins of Hampi in Karnataka, the French colonial town of Pondicherry and the wondrous temples of Tamil Nadu, in particular the Meenakshi Amman Temple.

The lively paint-throwing Holi Festival that typically falls between the end of February and the middle of March, and the Diwali festival which usually falls in either October or November, are magnificent opportunities to immerse yourself in the culture and colours of India.

Best time to visit India: October – March
Our favourite travel itinerary for India holidays: Classic Rajasthan
One of our favourite hotels in India: The Oberoi Udaivilas, Udaipur

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Renowned for its rich game reserves and beautiful national parks, Kenya has well and truly cemented itself as one of the best safari destinations in Africa. The Maasai Mara, for instance, is home to the legendary Big Five, the thunderous Great Migration of wildebeest and zebra, and the largest population of lions in Kenya. Yet beyond the extraordinary world of the Maasai Mara, there is also Laikipia Plateau, a reserve with more endangered species than anywhere else in East Africa, and the more remote and off-the-beaten-track safari areas such as Meru National Park and Chyulu Hills. With its incredible variety of unforgettable experiences, a Kenyan safari is an absolute must for those seeking an epic wildlife adventure.

A safari in Kenya is about more than game drives and bush walks across the open savannahs and rolling hills. You can plan a hot air balloon flight across the 370,000 acres of the Maasai Mara or a horse riding safari across Northern Kenya, and your nights will be spent in one of the luxury lodges where you will wake up and fall asleep to wildlife roaming right outside of your window.

Aside from its epic wildlife safaris, Kenya is a country bursting with experiences. The stunning network of lakes, extinct volcanoes and array of wildlife in the Great Rift Valley is one of Kenya’s greatest landmarks. It is also worth visiting Kenya’s stunning coastline as you will be transported to a different world entirely from the adventures inland. Recharge along the 300 miles of white-sand beaches, dip into crystal clear waters and partake in an exciting variety of water sports. Alternatively, we recommend a trip to the wondrous and pristine sand beaches of Zanzibar or the Seychelles for some post-safari R&R as part of your Kenya safari package.

Best time to visit Kenya: January – March, July – October and December
Our favourite travel itinerary for Kenya holidays: Ultimate Kenya
One of our favourite safari lodges in Kenya: Lewa Wilderness

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With over a quarter of the country protected as national parks and reserves, Costa Rica is a natural paradise bursting with wildlife.

Named as the ‘Land of the Turtles’, Tortuguero National Park sees thousands of green sea turtles nesting on its golden shores every year. Beyond this wondrous phenomenon, Tortuguero is also home to an astonishing array of amphibians, reptiles, birds and mammals that inhabit its rivers and rainforests such as spider, howler and white-faced monkeys as well as sloths, poison dart frogs, spectacled caimans and the ever elusive jaguar.

For those ready to explore the mist-shrouded forests set high in the Tilaran mountains, the Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Preserve is brimming with rare birds, colourful amphibians and all six of Costa Rica’s wild cats: jaguars, ocelots, pumas, oncillas, margays and jaguarundis. Aside from the soaring canopy walkways, there are opportunities to partake in horseback riding, zip lining and a nocturnal nature walk where the cloud forest really comes alive.

No trip to Costa Rica is complete without a visit to the unspoiled tropical paradise of Corcovado, Costa Rica’s most beautiful and largest national park. With its pristine beaches, beautiful lagoons and tropical forests, the Corcovado National Park is full of rare animals such as tapirs, ocelots and jaguars, and for avid bird watchers, we recommend looking to the skies to see tanagers, harpy eagles, scarlet macaws and more.

Best time to visit Costa Rica: December-April
Our favourite travel itinerary for your Costa Rica holidays: Family Costa Rica
One of our favourite places to stay in Costa Rica: Playa Cativo

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From the iconic Great Barrier Reef to the fascinating Kangaroo Island, Australia is a great holiday destination in 2025 for those seeking to immerse themselves in the great wilderness down under.

The Great Barrier Reef in Queensland is a mighty chain of reefs, cays and atolls that harbour over 400 types of coral and countless species of marine life. When you are not sandboarding on Fraser Island and whale watching at Hervey Bay, we recommend visiting the predominantly uninhabited Whitsunday Islands where you can snorkel alongside manta rays, turtles and an array of colourful fish.

A short trip away from Australia’s mainland lies the unspoiled landscapes of Tasmania where wildlife is in abundance. On the island, you will have the opportunity to see wallabies, possums, wombats, echidnas, quolls, bettongs and the legendary Tasmanian Devil. If you visit Freycinet National Park, you will be met with dramatic and spectacular landscapes full of pink granite mountains, deserted white beaches and dry eucalypt forests.

As Australia’s third largest island and one of the country’s most pristine natural wildernesses, Kangaroo Island is one of the best places on the continent to see Australia’s native animals in their natural habitat. You will see koalas, wallabies, emus, goannas, penguins, seals and of course, the iconic kangaroo.

Best time to visit Australia: All year round
Our favourite travel itinerary for Australia holidays: Wildlife and Scenery
One of our favourite places to stay in Australia: Southern Ocean Lodge, Kangaroo Island

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Home to the world’s oldest rainforest, Borneo is one of the best places to visit in Asia for those seeking incredible wildlife viewing amidst unspoilt and lush landscapes.

On a trek through the vast jungles of Sabah in the north of Borneo, you will have the chance to witness an extraordinary array of wildlife in their natural habitat. On an open-top boat ride through the Kinabatangan River, you will be able to catch glimpses of some of Borneo’s most iconic animals including pygmy elephants, long-tailed macaques, proboscis monkeys, saltwater crocodiles, Irrawaddy dolphins, wild orangutans and a fascinating variety of exotic birds flying overhead. Watch the orangutans in the natural forest of the Semenggoh Wildlife Centre or for those who are particularly adventurous, we recommend planning a hike through the ancient forests of Danum Valley across the soaring suspension bridges and secret jungle paths to see the red leaf monkeys, hornbills, gibbons and other wild creatures of northern Borneo.

The Gunung Mulu National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a spectacular rainforest full of the largest caves on earth and exciting canoeing adventures. Home to 116 mammals including 54 species of bats, 305 species of birds and more, the Mulu National Park is a must for those seeking an incredible wildlife experience in Borneo. Explore Deer Cave, a cavern that harbours an estimated two million bats that you can see emerge from the cave in one huge cloud at dusk, and the Clearwater Cave, one of the longest caves in the world which is full of rare orchids, subterranean river and floating bridges.

In the month of August, you will also find turtles hatching on the white-sand beaches that are just a stone’s throw away from Borneo’s mainland.

Best time to visit Borneo: April – September
Our favourite travel itinerary for Borneo holidays: Ultimate Borneo
One of our favourite lodges in Borneo:Borneo Rainforest Lodge

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With more than 25 percent of its land set aside for national parks and game reserves, Botswana is one of the best holiday destinations in 2025 for an exciting wildlife safari.

Having adopted a low-volume tourism policy, Botswana promises an exclusive safari experience that is rich in diverse wildlife. Travel to the banks of the Boteti River to see the zebra migration, or head to the winding waterways of the Okavango Delta and embark on a traditional mokoro trip or scenic helicopter ride to see an incredible array of wildlife, a myriad of endangered mammals and countless other species congregating around the floodwater sources. As the world’s largest inland delta and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Okavango Delta is also a birdwatcher’s paradise and is home to over 500 species of resident and migrant birds.

In the arid plains of the Kalahari Desert lies the wondrous sugary white salt flats of the Makgadikgadi Pans. Aside from quad biking and sleeping under the star-filled skies, you will have the chance to encounter a fascinating array of desert-adapted wildlife including the infamous meerkats, the spectacular flamingos and the elusive brown hyena.

Best time to visit Botswana: May – October
Our favourite travel itinerary for Botswana safaris: Ultimate Botswana
One of our favourite lodges in Botswana: Duba Plains

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If you are looking for holiday ideas or are excited about the places we mentioned, speak to our travel specialists at The Ultimate Travel Company. We will help you plan your dream tailor-made holidays in 2025, 2026 and beyond: +44 (0) 2039 933538 or make an enquiry.