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A big birthday – whether that’s big in its number or simply in its significance – is always a cause for celebration.

It’s possible the COVID-19 pandemic may have prevented you from embarking on your dream milestone birthday trip last year. Why not make up for the lost time (or birthdays in this case!) by marking this year’s big day with a once-in-a-lifetime trip with Enchanting Travels?

As well as putting together a fantastic personalized itinerary for the duration of your holiday, our Trip Coordinators always aim to go above and beyond to make any birthday trip feel extra special and unquestionably memorable. 

“It was my guest’s son’s 5th birthday and he really wanted to do something special. As a surprise, we decorated his bus with balloons. We also decorated his room with balloons, flowers and cake. I still remember the smile in the photograph of his special day!”

– Shivangi, Trip Coordinator for Asia

Whether you’ve always wanted to go on a sunrise safari or you’re craving some sand, sea and serenity, we’ve put together a list of some of the best birthday destinations around the world below.

Best birthday destinations for…

Relaxation and rejuvenation: the Maldives

The magical Maldives has long been one of the most idyllic locations for a beach getaway. It’s one of our best birthday destinations for those after luxury, too, with the country’s over-water villas providing the perfect backdrop for a special occasion. 

Book a milestone birthday trip to Fushifaru, a private island with just a handful of luxurious villas scattered along its shores. Indulge in treatments at the spa, dine on gourmet global gastronomy at one of two restaurants, and enjoy snorkeling or dive trips to nearby Fushifaru Thila – a reef teeming with all sorts of amazing marine life. 

Alternatively, the Six Senses on Laamu island offers the quintessential Maldivian over-water villa experience. The only resort on the palm-fringed island, it’s a haven for those eager to escape from reality and admire the stunning scenery of the Indian Ocean. 

As well as powder-soft sand beaches and luxuriously decorated accommodation, you’ll have the chance to add all sorts of incredible activities to your Maldives itinerary. Sunset dolphin cruises, private dining on deserted beaches and outdoor cinema screenings are just some of the ways you can make your getaway a little bit more special. You could also take part in fantastic cultural excursions to nearby communities or book a local cooking class with the resort’s highly qualified chefs. 

History and heavenly views: Agra, India

A true jewel of Northern India, the grand Taj Mahal is undoubtedly one of the world’s most visited attractions. If you’ve always wanted to see this incredible UNESCO World Heritage Site in person, a trip to Agra should definitely be on the list for your next milestone birthday.

Due to the popularity of the ornate complex, visiting can often be an overwhelming experience. After you’ve navigated the crowds and spent some time soaking up every inch of its beauty, you might be craving a little time to rest and reflect. The Oberoi Amarvilas ticks both of those boxes. 

The five-star resort is one of the most extraordinary places to stay in the area, with architecture that mirrors the Mughal palaces of the surrounding city. The Oberoi Amarvilas – one of several luxurious hotels run by the Oberoi group – is also less than a kilometer from the Taj Mahal and offers unbeatable views of the monument from every single one of its plush rooms and suites.

Beyond its outstanding outlook, the luxurious hotel boasts beautifully landscaped grounds, a selection of gourmet restaurants and a spa. Hospitality at The Oberoi Amarvilas is of the highest caliber; expect to be treated like royalty throughout your stay, especially on your birthday itself.

Wonderful wildlife: the Serengeti, Tanzania

There are many places across Africa where you can witness some of the most amazing animals on Earth in their natural habitats. The Serengeti National Park – which spans northern Tanzania – is undoubtedly one of the best birthday destinations for both first-time and experienced safari-goers.

Instead of spotting the Big Five and dozens of other extraordinary species from a jeep or on foot during a bush walk, why not make mesmerizing memories during a hot air balloon ride over the Serengeti? Take to the skies at sunrise and enjoy uninterrupted views of thousands of animals – from elephants to gazelles – strolling across the plains and coming together to drink at watering holes. 

As well as bird’s eye views of the wildlife, your balloon pilot will act as a guide and provide fascinating information about both sky safaris and what you can expect to see. Hot air balloon safaris are available in the Serengeti throughout the year, too, meaning you can book this magnificent excursion regardless of what month your birthday falls in. 

Action and adventure: Antarctica 

It’s really no surprise that the seventh continent is on many people’s bucket lists! And what better time to tick off Antarctica than a milestone birthday?

Book a cruise to Antarctica and get ready for an out-of-this-world experience where every day is as exciting and adventurous as the one before. You’ll get to soak up the region’s epic landscapes as you arrive by sea from Argentina, in addition to on foot during a series of exceptional daily outings.

Visit important research stations, glimpse whales frolicking in the ice-cold waters of the Antarctic Sea, and hike across dramatic landscapes to spot hundreds of penguins nesting. There are also opportunities to hear from Antarctic wildlife experts. You can choose to add other bespoke activities, like camping on the ice, to your itinerary to make it even more worthy of a big birthday celebration.

A kaleidoscope of culture: Sri Lanka

If you love your holidays to be as diverse and culture-packed as possible, Sri Lanka is a must-see destination. The island just south of India has seemingly endless attractions and activity options, making it ideal for those of you who have a wide range of likes and interests.

Sri Lanka’s coastline is fringed with beautiful beaches, from the gorgeous shores of Galle in the south to the relatively untouched islands of the Kalpitiya archipelago in the north. You could also choose to head inland to the country’s tea plantations in Nuwara Eliya, ride a vintage train through the Ella hills or stay in a sensational hotel in the lush mountains surrounding the ancient city of Kandy.

Animal lovers are additionally accounted for thanks to places like Sri Lanka’s Yala National Park which provide sanctuary for elephants, leopards, crocodiles and numerous native birds. Why not talk to our experts about planning a tailored milestone birthday trip to Sri Lanka that includes enchanting excursions, gastronomical experiences and exceptional accommodation options? 

Dramatic landscapes: the Galapagos Islands

The far-flung Galapagos Islands are another wonderful destination where you can expect to enjoy some truly life-changing experiences. 

The group of volcanic islands is nestled off Ecuador’s Pacific coast and is well-known for providing habitats for numerous astonishing animals and marine life. The region – which has UNESCO status – was first made famous by Charles Darwin nearly two centuries ago and its wildernesses remain almost as untouched today as they did when he first stepped foot on them in 1835.

You can’t book milestone birthday trips to the Galapagos without exploring the Parque Nacional Galápagos. The national park is fringed by crystal clear ocean waters which harbor huge marine iguanas, sharks and sea lions. On the shores, you might be lucky enough to spot turtles and penguins gliding across the sand. Bird-watchers will also be in paradise, with blue-footed boobies, albatross and frigates all calling the region home. 

The best time to visit the Galapagos Islands is between May and December, although you’ll still be able to enjoy most of its glorious landscapes and wildlife if your birthday falls outside these months. 

Eco-friendly luxury: Patagonia, Chile 

Undulating hills, glistening glaciers and vast lakes which can only be navigated by kayak or canoe await in Patagonia. The region, which straddles both Chile and Argentina, is a paradise for nature fanatics and easily one of the most remarkable regions for a milestone birthday trip.

Patagonia’s eco-friendliness also makes it a magnet for those who would like to be more sustainable in their travel experiences. There’s a wide range of eco-lodges to base yourselves in across the region, including the incredibly peaceful Explora Patagonia. The sustainable hotel sits within the spectacular Torres del Paine National Park in Chile and it’s one of the most peaceful places to stay in Patagonia. 

Spend your days exploring the surrounding reserve’s 2000 square kilometers of majestic landscapes via a range of personalized activity options. Among Explora Patagonia’s excursion offerings are guided horse treks through the park’s grasslands, hikes to epic viewpoints and bird-watching tours with local experts. 

Once the sun goes down, it’ll be time to relax in Explora’s plush yet sustainably designed suites which maximize the area’s natural beauty through large windows featuring breathtaking views. A lack of technology (besides the essentials, of course) allows you to switch off from the world and totally immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the picture-perfect Patagonia region…

Tell us what you REALLY want for your birthday and we’ll make it happen. Get in touch today to plan your perfect trip.

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Gorgeous islands, outstanding cuisine and a plethora of historic sites await when you travel to Greece. It’s one of our most popular European destinations to visit thanks to its sheer diversity, immensely rich culture and an endless list of incredible highlights.  

Ticking off major monuments will undoubtedly be on your agenda when you book Greece travel. If you want to dive a little further into the culture and history of the country, though, why not consider adding a few more meaningful experiences to your itinerary? From dining in a local’s home to joining terrific walking tours led by highly knowledgeable guides, we have a whole range of memorable insider experiences for you to look forward to during a tailored Greek holiday. 

While the best time to visit Greece for warm weather and endless sunshine is typically between May and September, you’ll be able to enjoy the following Enchanting Travels experiences all year round:

Combine a Plaka walking tour with a traditional cooking lesson in Athens

If you’ve visited Athens before, or have simply read a lot about the ancient city, you’ll know Plaka is its picture-perfect old quarter. Taking a walking tour of the area with a local is a fantastic way to get to grips with the Greek capital’s culture and how it has evolved over time. 

Stroll leisurely through the old town, stopping off at specific points to discuss how the city has been influenced by centuries of intriguing history. You’ll finish up your Plaka tour with a local cookery class which will see you creating tantalizing dishes specific to both Athens and the surrounding region. 

Alternatively, why not leave the cooking to the experts by accepting a private invitation to dine at a local’s home instead? Experience true Athenian living while indulging in delicious home-cooked Greek and Mediterranean dishes. Discover where all the ingredients in your meal came from and lose yourself in great conversation with your friendly hosts.

Learn how to make delicious pies in Galaxidi

Pretty Galaxidi is a sun-drenched fishing town tucked away on the Greek mainland, not far from Delphi. Up until the 1960s, it was only accessible by boat and that is still the most spectacular way to approach it today!

As well as relishing its idyllic vibe and admiring spectacular views of the Gulf of Corinth along the town’s wonderful promenade, a visit to Galaxidi gives you access to one of our favorite Greek travel insider experiences – a private pie-making lesson with a welcoming local woman.

The host for this activity is incredibly hospitable and always goes the extra mile to make the culinary activity as fun and informative as possible! In addition to leaving with some tasty homemade pies, you’ll gain great knowledge of all the locally sourced ingredients used to make them.

Enjoy a Cretan cooking lesson in a traditional olive mill

The island of Crete is well-known for both its stunning olive groves and its unique local gastronomy. Why not combine them next time you travel to Greece with this memorable activity? 

Journey in a private car to an 18th-century olive mill on the outskirts of Chania where you’ll be greeted by a local chef. They’ll then host an amazing cooking lesson where you’ll learn all the secrets of Cretan cuisine…

Cook with fresh, seasonal produce and create mouth-watering dishes infused with various Greek herbs and, of course, Cretan olive oil! You’ll be able to ask your host plenty of questions about the island’s food before sitting down to dine on the fruits of your labor. With a view across the olive groves, snack on freshly baked bread, sip on rich local wine and tuck into dishes that exemplify the island’s world-famous Mediterranean gastronomy. 

After some delicious food and stimulating conversation, you’ll be whisked back to your hotel with a full belly and some brilliant new recipes to recreate once you get home.

Discover the secrets of Cretan culture on a tour of Anatoli

If you’re staying on Crete’s east coast near the beautiful resort town of Elounda, this activity couldn’t be more ideal. It’ll see you venturing up into the hills (600 meters up, to be precise!) to the charming village of Anatoli. 

Anatoli’s sleepy atmosphere and traditional architecture make it appear permanently suspended in time. What’s more, its lofty location affords it stunning vistas of the sea, sky and splendid Cretan scenery. After you’re done soaking up the views, embark on a tour that allows you to fully immerse yourself in the local lifestyle. 

See how local herbs are harvested and used, visit a local beekeeper, and taste some of the fragrant olive oil that’s produced in the area. Rather than focusing on one activity, this remarkable Greece travel tour lets you enjoy various aspects of Cretan culture, which you’ll no doubt remember for years to come.

Greece travel highlight: Dine at a local home in Olympia

Olympia is one of the major highlights of travel to Greece’s mainland thanks to its legendary ruins. It’s not just the town’s nearby ancient archaeological site that should be on your agenda, though.

The Peloponnese region which envelopes Olympia is very fertile and produces a decent proportion of Greece’s fresh produce. Tempt your tastebuds with some of those ingredients by having dinner with one of the town’s locals in their beautiful – and very traditional – Greek home. 

During the exceptional evening, you’ll have a chance to learn about your hosts’ fascinating lifestyles, gain interesting facts about the local produce and treat yourself to some flavor-packed dishes.

If you’re nervous about planning Greece travel just after the COVID-19 pandemic, rest assured that our team will always be on hand to ensure your trip is well-organized, easily adaptable and above all, safe. Why not read our guest story about traveling around Europe during coronavirus to see how we were able to organize a once-in-a-lifetime trip to Portugal and Greece?

Dreaming of luxury travel to Greece? Let us help you make your trip even more meaningful and memorable. 

Do you love travel stories from around the world? Sign up for our newsletter or register for one of our free webinars! 

The post Real Greece Travel: See Our Insider Experiences appeared first on Enchanting Travels.

With team members spread around the globe, we have the most up-to-date information on what COVID-19 safe travel looks like in all our destinations. So if you’re ready to travel, hear from our experts as they share their COVID-19 travel tips for destinations around the world. If you have any questions about a dream destination or want more tips, just reach out to our expert team who will be happy to help you out.

Toronto, Canada

“Autumn has quickly hit Toronto! It’s the perfect time to enjoy a bike ride on the Toronto Islands or see the beautiful trees change color north of the city from the CN tower. Restaurants, Bars, Nightclubs, and Sporting Events are all open (with capacity and social distancing limits). Masks are required and proof of full vaccination is required for entry to most businesses other than essential services (Hospital, Pharmacy, Grocery).

Self-drivers will be able to enjoy many fall harvest activities like apple picking, pumpkin patches, farmers markets, and maybe a local Fall Fair in one of the Greater Toronto Area’s (GTA) smaller cities. While the city-stayers can also experience seasonal local beer brews, and fall food delights at a number of local hotspots Downtown.”

-Kris McKenna, Toronto, Canada

London, UK

“In the UK with over 80% of the population fully vaccinated, we are welcoming travelers with open arms here with very few travel restrictions. Restaurants and theatres are buzzing and indoor mask wearing is no longer mandatory in most public areas, the only exception for this is the London tube system. The UK is a safe and varied destination for travel with picturesque attractions such as the Lake District, a historical city break in London or exploring the sandstone colored villages of the Cotswolds.”

-Thidara Udomritkul, London, UK

Italy

“Italy is welcoming visitors and it’s a great time to travel. Crowds are moderately low and everything is open. Masks are required at all times indoors unless eating or drinking, whether you are vaccinated or not. It is required to show a Green Pass or COVID-19 certificate to enter some restaurants (for indoor dining), museums, and other popular tourist attractions that are indoors.

Note: I saw two tourists get turned away from entering the Blue Grotto in Capri because they didn’t have their COVID-19 certificates. Restaurant reservations are highly recommended unless you are flexible on where you eat and the time you eat. Some stores are strict on capacities and will limit the number of people entering at a time.”

-Shannon McAfee, visited Italy in October 2021

Greece

“Greece is completely open and largely functioning as normal. We visited Athens and three islands and had a great experience everywhere we went. Masks are required in any indoor space including taxis, ferries, shops, and while entering indoor restaurants. We mostly ate outside and felt very safe as all service staff were wearing masks at all times. Hand sanitizer was everywhere and the locals seemed to take it pretty seriously for the most part. We did a boat tour on each of the three islands and on one of them were asked to wear masks until we got a bit further away from the Coast Guard ship nearby. This was a bit strange considering we were outside but no big deal. Our vaccination cards were checked getting on each ferry but were not asked for at any other point on the trip (even though I believe the current laws require bars/restaurants to check it).”

-Bo Crew, visited Greece in September 2021

Germany

“Tourist overnight stays, restaurant visits and leisure activities are currently possible throughout Germany. In enclosed areas open to the public, everyone is required to wear a mask. When checking into accommodation, proof of vaccination or recovery must be presented; alternatively, a negative COVID-19 test can be shown (rapid antigen test, maximum 24 hours old, or PCR test, maximum 48 hours old). Those who are not vaccinated or recovered will need to produce a negative test twice a week for the duration of their stay. This so-called 3G rule also applies to indoor dining. In some states the 2G rule applies: Here, access will be granted exclusively to vaccinated and recovered visitors. In restaurants, museums and other attractions, visitors will have to leave their contact information. Pre-registration is often required to visit particularly popular attractions, and these must be visited within a certain time window.” 

-Christian Jankowski, Berlin, Germany

Kenya

“Traveling to Kenya during the pandemic is quite easy.  No countries are on a quarantine list, meaning that travelers don’t have to self-isolate on arrival, regardless of originating or transiting country. COVID-19 safety protocols have been meticulously implemented and visitors can feel safe whilst in the country. Masks are required in all public spaces. The flora and fauna of the country has flourished over the past few months when the world was at a stand still and is now more beautiful than ever before! Welcome to Magical Kenya!

– Vincentoes Osumba, Nairobi, Kenya

Mexico City, Mexico

Bienvenidos a Ciudad de Mexico! One of the best things about this bustling city are the museums and cultural sites, the great news is that many can be visited without pre-booking such as the outstanding Anthropology Museum, the colorful Museum of Popular Art, the epic archaeological site of Teotihuacan and the very impressive Basílica de Guadalupe. Restaurants, bars and the many, many taco stands are also open to ensure that the famous flavors of this city can be enjoyed!  Masks are required to be worn inside public spaces and most locals and tourists also wear them outside, although this does provide the opportunity to buy a local mask which unsurprisingly showcases the bright color and unique culture of Mexico.

-Lisa Fox, Mexico City

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Costa Rica

“Costa Rica is an excellent destination for travel in 2022. I traveled there with three children and it felt very easy and safe. There was some additional COVID-19 paperwork to enter the country but it was easy to complete digitally. Masks are required in public areas, national parks and to enter restaurants. Restaurants were open everywhere, and there are a lot of open-air choices which is great for small children who aren’t vaccinated yet. Almost every establishment had additional handwashing access or hand sanitizer.

We did miss out on a national park stop because we didn’t make a reservation in time. That’s definitely a bonus for working with a travel partner- they can be on top of arrangements like that while you’re splashing in the waves. Starting in 2022 proof of vaccination will be required to enter museums, national parks and some restaurants. The San Jose airport has 1-hour rapid COVID-19 testing available 24 hours a day, which made our exit from the country easy as well.

-Lucia Novara, visited Costa Rica in October 2021

If you’re desperate for a getaway, speak to our team who can share even more COVID-19 travel tips to ensure you have a safe and relaxing trip.

Do you love travel stories from around the world? Sign up for our newsletter or register for one of our free webinars! 

The post COVID-19 Travel Tips from Around the World appeared first on Enchanting Travels.

Dreaming of escaping to paradise in 2022? Two idyllic island destinations that fit the bill are the Maldives and Seychelles.

2,000 kilometers of balmy, crystal-clear sea separates these two tranquil countries. They’re among some of the most luxurious vacation destinations in the world, as well as being prime spots for romantic honeymoon retreats. Each one has so much to offer its visitors, from colorful culture and mouth-watering cuisine to wonderful wildlife. 

When it comes to which is the right destination for you, it can be almost impossible to decide!

The Maldives is a magnet for milestone birthday trips and it specializes in luxury all-inclusive getaways featuring private overwater villas and instant access to vibrant coral reefs. Seychelles vacations offer up world-famous beaches and amazing activity options for adventure-seekers and animal lovers. 

To help you solve the seemingly impossible dilemma of which of these Indian Ocean gems to visit next, here’s our expert analysis.

Wildlife

The azure waters of the Indian Ocean lap the shores of both nations and provide the perfect playground for those hoping to swim alongside mesmerizing marine life. 

It’s a really close call when it comes to which destination has more to offer animal fanatics. While Maldives vacations give you instant access to reefs from outstanding overwater bungalows, Seychelles has a much larger variety of wildlife. 

Venture to Bird Island to see thousands of sooty terns soaring through the sky or to glimpse nesting hawksbill sea turtles! There are also Seychelles’ giant tortoises that roam freely in places like lovely La Digue and the Victoria Botanical Gardens on Mahe. For lush plants, including the extremely rare coco de mer tree, pop over to Praslin to take a stroll around the gorgeous Vallee de Mai. 

Verdict: Seychelles

Crowds

The Maldives’ all-inclusive islands make it our top choice for total seclusion. Even in the peak season (between December and April), you’ll feel like you’re in your very own slice of paradise thanks to the nation’s numerous intimate resorts. Stroll barefoot along white-sand beaches and slumber in plush villas boasting uninterrupted sea views and their own butlers and private chefs.

That’s not to say Seychelles is overcrowded. It’s also home to tiny islands where you can have plenty of privacy. You could choose to split your vacation between several of them. You can enjoy a dose of culture on Mahe with trips to tea plantations and tours of the capital, Victoria, before hopping over the water to blissful Sainte Anne or catching a flight to divine Denis Island.

Verdict: Maldives

Cuisine

Succulent seafood, tantalizing tropical fruits and creamy coconut permeate the local cuisines of the Maldives and Seychelles. Their local gastronomies are somewhat similar, with both being heavily influenced by an eclectic mix of cultures. 

You’ll find the close proximity of Sri Lanka and India has lent Maldivian food a distinct Asian flare, with fragrant curries, crunchy samosas and soft chapati all on the menu. By contrast, Seychelles’ local Creole fare features grilled fish (from fresh tuna to barracuda), whole-roasted breadfruit and sticky bananas caramelized in coconut milk and sugar. You could also sample local favorites like goat or octopus curry!

Whichever destination you ultimately decide to visit, you can expect to leave with a very happy belly.

Verdict: Maldives and Seychelles

Adventure

The Maldives’ tiny isles might be an adventure to reach, but it’s the Seychelles that comes out on top in this category. 

A vacation to this blissful corner of the Indian Ocean allows you to visit multiple islands instead of basing yourself on just one. Divide your time between lazing around on the beach and embarking on various cultural activities, whether that’s exploring the bustling markets and local history museums in Victoria or meeting local artisans at the Seychelles Craft Village.

The terrain is also far more varied in Seychelles. Hike through ancient rainforests to lofty viewpoints with panoramic vistas of the sea and sky on Mahe or trek through the Vallee de Mai for a real-life Garden of Eden experience. 

There are opportunities for wonderful water sports on Seychelles vacations, too. Go parasailing or jet skiing at Beau Vallon Beach or take a catamaran tour to dozens of sensational snorkeling sites. Fishing, diving and swimming with whale sharks (only between August and November) are also on the agenda for those with a wild side. 

Verdict: Seychelles

Best time to visit

Now you’re clued up on both destinations’ many allures, let’s dive into the best times to visit:

The Seychelles

All-year-round sunshine and warm temperatures make a vacation possible 365 days a year. Nevertheless, Seychelles’ rainy season tends to fall between November and March, with tradewinds causing the weather to be a little more unpredictable. It’s a more affordable time to go, though, with accommodation and flights usually discounted.

In general, the best time to visit Seychelles is between April and May or September and October. June, July and August can also be fine times for a getaway, although they fall within the country’s ‘winter’ season, meaning the average daily temperatures sit around 68°F/25°C.

The Maldives

Despite its relative closeness to Seychelles, the best time for a Maldives vacation is very different. In fact, peak season falls between December and April once the monsoon season has passed. May can also be a good time to go; although you might experience a few rain showers, you’ll find some resorts are often half the price.

Still undecided between the Maldives or Seychelles vacations?

Call our experts to determine which island escape is the right one for you!

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The post Where Should I Go: Maldives or Seychelles? appeared first on Enchanting Travels.

South America never fails to amaze with its dramatic landscapes and fascinating cultures. Patagonia is on many people’s travel bucket lists, so why not experience it with a trip to Argentina and Chile during the 2022/2023 season?

Both nations give you access to numerous natural wonders within Patagonia’s nine national parks, in addition to an array of once-in-a-lifetime activities and intriguing attractions. From trekking through the Argentinian jungle to cruising through the breathtaking Chilean fjords, there are so many incredible experiences to add to your itinerary! Top that all off with a stay in a Patagonian eco-lodge and you have the recipe for the perfect vacation. Our Chile and Argentina tour allows you to enjoy the best of both beautiful nations. You could also choose to personalize your trip with some of the following extraordinary experiences.

1Glimpse the incredible Perito Moreno Glacier up close

The breathtaking Perito Morena Glacier near El Calafate forms part of Patagonia’s Los Glaciares National Park. Consisting of a huge slab of ice that seems to stretch on for miles in every direction, it’s an ideal location for those searching for total serenity and stunning vistas.

Plan Argentina travel in 2022 and book a private tour to this peaceful locale. As well as trekking to various viewpoints to gaze out across the glistening ice, you could embark on a mountain biking expedition, go bird-watching with a local guide or venture into the wilderness after dark to stare up at the stars scattered across the clear night’s sky.

2Tick off one of the seven natural wonders of the world at Iguazu Falls

You’ll find this spectacular site on Argentina’s border with Brazil. The Iguazu Falls, which are easily reached from Puerto Iguazu, were recently named one of the seven natural wonders of the world and you’ll be able to see why when you add them to your Argentina vacation itinerary. 

Getting up close to these tumbling cascades – which make up the largest waterfall system on the planet – is simple thanks to several marked trails and walkways. Wind your way through the lush vegetation of the surrounding national park on the lower trail until you reach the bottom of the waterfall. Alternatively, the upper circuit gives you a more elevated perspective. 

You could also hike to the Devil’s Throat Falls. It’s the most famous section of the Iguazu Falls and where you’ll be able to stand right next to the cascades. Feel the spray on your face and hear the thunder of the water as it hammers down the rockface in a huge curtain. 

Want to go one step further? Prepare for an adrenaline rush while rafting along the Iguazu River. As well as floating downstream and soaking up native flora and fauna along the river’s banks, you might spot a few creatures like alligators and monkeys lurking in the undergrowth.

3Spot Southern Right Whales in the Atlantic Ocean off Puerto Madryn

Hop over to the coast during Argentina travel in 2022 and you might just glimpse Southern Right Whales.

Puerto Madryn lies on the country’s central east coastline and it’s a gateway to Atlantic Patagonia. Set sail across the deep blue sea on a boat tour led by a knowledgeable local guide. Witness these magnificent creatures in their natural habitats before venturing to Península de Valdés to spot other unusual marine life. 

If you can’t get enough of amazing animal encounters, you can also book a half-day kayaking tour around the same stretch of the Patagonian coastline. Keep your eyes peeled for colonies of majestic sea lions and flocks of squawking seabirds flying overhead.

4Escape to Easter Island 

Easter Island – with its enchanting ancient sculptures and wild outlook across the Atlantic Ocean – is a must-see if you’re considering Chile travel in 2022. 

The island’s iconic statues are its main attraction. Known as Moai, the monolithic figures were carved over 500 years ago by the local Rapa Nui people. The largest collection sits within the UNESCO World Heritage Rapa Nui National Park, but you’ll also spot them scattered all along the island’s rugged coastline. 

Elsewhere, Easter Island’s volcanic landscapes and lush meadows provide the perfect backdrops for hikes. Finish up your visit to this far-flung corner of Chile with a day relaxing on pristine beaches like white-sand Anakena or tiny yet tranquil Ovahe, both of which are found on the north coast. 

5Marvel ancient petroglyphs and the colorful beauty of Rainbow Valley 

Journey deep into the arid Atacama – one of the best desert destinations on the planet for stargazing – to glimpse the perfectly preserved Hierbas Buenas petroglyphs. 

Base yourself in San Pedro de Atacama and enjoy an excursion to this under-the-radar attraction. These ancient carvings were created thousands of years ago and are a vital part of the region’s heritage. Look out for depictions of native animals like the llama, as well as symbols and shapes sacred to the indigenous Atacameño population. 

You can also explore Rainbow Valley in this region. The area’s rich mineral content has created a kaleidoscope of color across its undulating hills. Rich red, bright white, deep green and bold yellow hues contrast against a clear blue sky, providing the perfect backdrop for stunning pictures.

6Admire the Chilean fjords during a Puerto Natales cruise

Chile’s fantastic fjords rival those found in Scandinavia. The tranquil region on the country’s south coast is blessed with an array of rich landscapes which offer visitors utter solitude and epic vistas of the Pacific Ocean. 

One of the best ways to experience this stunning area is on a cruise. Set off from Puerto Natales and spend three nights on board the luxurious Skorpios III. During your three-day journey through the Patagonian fjords, you’ll trek to viewpoints on the Amalia Glacier and get up close to a string of spectacular fjords and idyllic frozen islands.

Why not combine a journey down the fjords with various other exciting excursions – including a trip to Easter Island – with our Best of Chile tour?

7Embrace your inner adventurer with action-packed excursions in Pucón 

The Pucón region has plenty of allures for adventure-seekers and is a prime destination to visit during Chile travel in 2022. It’s located in the country’s Central Lake District and features national parks, thermal springs and quaint villages with fascinating, long-standing cultural traditions. 

As well as visiting National Park Huerquehue to trek through lush flora and fauna, you’ll have the chance to add several exhilarating activities to your itinerary. Fish in lakes abundant with wildlife, raft down tumbling rapids, go horseback riding through enchanting woodland or swim in blissful, freshwater lagoons.

Pucón is additionally an excellent destination to learn about rural Chilean culture. Our Pucón tour gives you the chance to interact with the area’s local Mapuche community and learn all about their peaceful way of life. 

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Experience the best Chile and Argentina have to offer. Chat with our experts about each country’s highlights before booking your South American adventure.

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