When it comes to travel, everyone has a different mindset. Some are happy with an easy, relaxed week abroad, while others seek out adventure and new thrills. However, we think you’d be hard pushed to find anyone who’d turn down an incredible, once-in-a-lifetime experience.
In the Americas, there are plenty of these to be found – and we’ve picked out eight of our favourites to add to your bucket list. Whether you enjoy hiking through seriously impressive surroundings, or want to find excitement in your city explorations, this list will surely offer some perfect, memorable travel moments.
Helicopter flight over the Grand Canyon
You can walk the rim or take a trip into the canyon itself, seeing this natural wonder from all angles. But what about taking it all in from above?
You’ll bear witness to a truly incredible spectacle as your helicopter first launches over the edge of the canyon. The carved, layered rock stretches in both directions as you soar above, and you’ll be blown away by the immense vastness.
For both first time visitors and those who’ve been many times, the Grand Canyon is truly one of the greatest sights in the United States – and a helicopter ride is a worthwhile investment for an amazing memory that will last a lifetime.
Experience a helicopter ride over the Grand Canyon on our Western Explorer Tour.
Private tour of Monument Valley
The Wild West landscape here is known to many, however, the movie set views only just scratch the surface of Monument Valley. Every year, hordes of visitors will stare up at the towering red rock buttes – but few will experience it from the perspective of the Navajo who call it home.
Taking a private guided tour from a Navajo guide will not only take you to parts of the park visitors don’t normally see, but it will also give a real insight into the history and culture of the site and the Native American people of the Southwestern United States. When visiting, you’re also able to stay in a Navajo-run guesthouse, featuring the work of local artists and incredible views of the valley itself.
Experience a private tour of Monument Valley on our Canyons and Navajo Lands tour.
Discover the Incas and Macchu Picchu
Lost to the jungle, Macchu Picchu has a lot of stories to tell. This lost city is as fascinating as it is beautiful, and although you’re able to get a train to the site, hiking the Inca Trail is easily the best way to experience the area on a deeper level.
Starting at the vibrant city of Cusco, you’ll make your way through diverse ecosystems, past ruins and mountain views, until you finally reach The Gate of the Sun for your first, indescribable view of Machu Picchu itself.
Hike the Inca Trail on our The Inca Trail tour.
Road trip the whole of Route 66
The ultimate road trip adventure, the historic Route 66 is an iconic symbol of Americana. The freedom of the open road stretches before you as you make your way from Chicago to Santa Monica, tracing the entire route.
Crossing eight states, you’ll encounter a world of roadside stops, including Texas’ famous Cadillac Ranch and the town of Seligman, the birthplace of historic Route 66. From sno-cones and corndogs to cowboys and rock’n’roll – this is true American history.
Hike across Exit Glacier and Harding Icefield
The Kenai Peninsula is like something from a larger-than-life children’s novel. Here, you’ll discover staggeringly beautiful glacial formations, dramatic fjords and an abundance of wildlife and birds. Truly, it really is spectacular.
Making your way from Exit Glacier to Harding Icefield offers incredible glacier views unlike any other in the world. Rated as one of Alaska’s finest hikes, it’s a strenuous excursion that offers unbeatable rewards.
Explore Alaska on our Alaskan Wildlife & Wildnerness trip.
Discover the roots of Rock’n’Roll and Blues in Memphis, Tennessee
Sticking with Tennessee, we move 200-odd miles down the road to Memphis, where music lovers are spoilt for choice when it comes to attractions. The first stop on your tour must be Graceland – the home of the King of Rock’n’Roll himself, Elvis Presley. Once you’ve paid your respects to the king, head down to the legendary Sun Studio, the alleged birthplace of Rock’n’Roll.
The Sun Studio was the recording studio for Elvis, Johnny Cash, Roy Orbison and other musical legends. Today, you can have a guided tour of the studio, exploring memorabilia and old recordings from the studio’s history.
Don’t leave Memphis without walking ten feet off Beale Street. The colourful, neon-lit street in Downtown Memphis are lined with blues bars and filled with crowds soaking up the electric atmosphere.
Beale Street, Memphis
Explore Memphis on the Deep South and Delta Blues tour
Discover wild wolves in Yellowstone National Park
Yellowstone National Park is known for its wildlife spotting opportunities – Grizzly Bear, bison and elk all make their home here, and are regularly spotted by visitors. However, although wolves also inhabit the park, they’re less easy to spot – which is why a trained wolf tracker guide gives you the best chance to see these intriguing creatures.
Starting off early in the morning, you’ll head around the park with an expert, keeping your eagle eyes peeled for wolves in the wild. Discover more about them and their reintroduction to the park as you go, for an unforgettable wildlife experience.
Explore our Yellowstone Wildlife Trails tour.
