10 Trips to plan a year in advance

As much as I enjoy a last-minute adventure there are some journeys that take planning. Right now hopping a flight is out of the question, so it is the perfect time to plan ahead for an epic return to the world.

Trips that take advance planning include:

• Events that occur infrequently
• Destinations and experiences that allow limited numbers of visitors
• Trips that require physical preparation

Here are ten of our favorite experiences that require advance planning.

1. Machu Picchu Inca Trail

You can visit Machu Picchu without the hike, but there is something magical about taking the Inca Trail to this wonder. In order to maintain the integrity of the trail, the number of visitors allowed to hike it each month is limited. Passes for the multi-day trek sell out well in advance. So if you would like to walk in the footsteps of history and knock this one off your life experiences list you need to plan ahead.

2. Patagonia

Patagonia is a remote region that has grown in popularity over the past several years and still holds many uncharted discoveries. It is a large place and can be overwhelming to begin laying out travel plans for. The distinct seasons offer different areas and activities to explore, but it also means accommodations and transportation can be hard to come by if there is a specific time you want to be there.

3. Galapagos

The Galapagos Islands are one of those once in a lifetime trips, especially if you are an animal lover. These beautiful islands have continued to see increased numbers of visitors which threatens the delicate balance of the ecosystem. As part of efforts to protect the islands, you can only visit many of the areas with a licensed guide which means visitor numbers are limited. Also, there are certain times of the year that are better for seeing the wildlife that draws people to the area and therefore those times tend to sell out.

4. Las Fallas Valencia

This unique festival was one we actually stumbled upon during a visit to Spain, but I highly recommend planning a trip to be there during this half month extravaganza. Each neighborhood creates giant paper mache sculptures in a friendly competition and you can enjoy delicious street food and traditional cultural performances. It is a sight to behold and one that hasn’t gotten as much attention as it deserves.

5. Climb Mt Kilimanjaro

While Mt. Kilimanjaro isn’t the most physically demanding climb out there, it is still one you don’t want to just roll out of bed one day and decide to do. The climb typically takes eight days to get to the summit so you need to have the endurance to take that trek. It is also worth planning ahead for the best weather to be able to get to the summit and leave some time to experience the beauty of the surrounding country off the mountain.

6. Gorilla Trekking Rwanda

Having the opportunity to see an endangered animal in their natural environment is a truly awe-inspiring experience. In order to protect the animals and visitors with well-organized experiences, there are only a set number of permits given for trekking. These tours don’t come cheap, but that doesn’t keep them from selling out. For those that love animals and believe in learning about the animal kingdom in order to help protect it there is nothing quite like a trip to Rwanda.

7. Safari in the Amazon

Africa has been known for safaris for decades, but a safari in the Amazon is something few people have considered. That is changing quickly however especially as the Amazon rainforest becomes more endangered from human and environmental factors. Planning an experience that includes animal treks and more active adventures takes a little more forethought than kicking your heels up at one of the boutique resorts.

8. Carnival in Rio or Venice

I’m not sure I’ve met a person who didn’t have Carnival at one of these places on their bucket list at one point. Although it is an annual occurrence they are experiences that can be very pricey and sell out. If you want to attend one of the private events during the festivities you definitely need to plan ahead and get tickets as they become available.

9. New Year’s in any big city

Whether it is Times Square or fireworks over the Sydney Opera House everyone wants to be somewhere on New Year’s. Rooms at the most popular festivities go at a steep price and can sell out fast. Many cities offer special viewing areas for more comfortable experiences so booking your space is important to have the best night possible. Besides, it has to be a great year if you kick it off in epic style, right?

10. Safari in Botswana

The Great Migration is a once in a lifetime experience and takes extensive planning. Smaller lodges often offer more intimate options for seeing the animals and getting to know the culture. However, these lodges can sell out well in advance. For most travelers a safari is something you will never do again so doing it right the first time is paramount.

Some travelers are planners while others fly by the seat of their pants. Whichever you typically are, there are some experiences that are better (and cheaper) when planned in advance. So if you have that once in a lifetime trip on your bucket list get it on the calendar!

Need help planning that epic adventure? Reach out to me at ashley@beinspiredtoexplore or fill out the travel form to get started. I’ll plan all the details, reach out to all my contacts to make sure you get treated like the travel royalty you are, and be there to make sure you have the time of your life.