5 Adventures Not on Your Bucket List (But Should Be!)

When it comes to making your bucket list, it’s easy to pick the destinations you already know about.

The famous cities in Europe or the tropical islands of the Caribbean are go-to spots, but what about the adventure-filled trips? Lindblad Expeditions offers exciting journeys around the world that take you into the destination with experienced guides so you can connect on a deeper level with each place you visit. So as you brainstorm, don’t forget these five adventures that SHOULD be on your bucket list.

ANTARCTICA

Why:

Antarctica is one of those destinations that is so far away that most people just don’t go. But seeing is truly believing when it comes to the southernmost point of the world. As you cross the Drake Passage the anticipation of spotting the first growlers* and bergy bits* is amazing. And then when you see the huge icebergs towering above you dotted with penguins, you will simply be overcome with emotion. There is nowhere else in the world like it.

*A growler is an iceberg that is smaller than a car, and a bergy bit is a slightly larger iceberg, about the size of a house. Now that you can talk the talk it’s time to walk the walk!

What makes it special?

If you go to Antarctica, you are part of the tiniest percentages of the population that makes it to the Great White Continent. As the first company to take travelers to Antarctica, Lindblad Expeditions ensures travelers safely experience all that Antarctica has to offer. Lindblad’s custom ships, the Explorer and the Orion , are built for polar travel. And with these small ships, the onboard team has the flexibility to adapt plans to the unpredictable weather so you don’t miss anything due to a restrictive schedule.

Sunset, Galapagos Sea Lion (Zalophus wollebaeki), National Geographic Explorer,Cerro Brujo, San Cristobal Island, Galapagos Islands National Park, Ecuador

GALAPAGOS

Why:

The Galapagos have been on the top lists of travel spots for years, but have no fear – this destination is not overrun or packed with tourists. Regulations keep numbers low, so your experience in the Galapagos allows you to deeply understand the wonder and the fragility of the region. In 2017, Lindblad Expeditions is celebrating its 50 th anniversary in the Galapagos. With that kind of experience, you know you will see the best of the best!

What makes it special?

Nowhere else in the world can you get so close to wildlife. You’ll see sea lions, giant tortoises, blue-footed boobies, marine iguanas, and Galapagos penguins – and that’s just part of what’s on the land. Underwater is a whole new world with sea turtles, fish, and so much more.

THE ARCTIC

Why:

If polar bears or the Northern Lights are on your bucket list, head north! When you travel to the Arctic, explore fascinating cultures, see wildlife, and enjoy active adventures. This region has experienced major changes in the past few decades, so now is the time to go so you can see it in it’s true glory in your lifetime.

What makes it special?

The Arctic isn’t just rich in wildlife – the region’s history of explorations takes you back to the days of the Vikings and North Pole explorers. As you take in the extraordinary beauty of this region, you are standing in the footsteps of legends. Lindblad’s Arctic adventures let you get out and explore the region up close and connect on a deep level.

PATAGONIA

Why:

On the very end of South America lies Patagonia, one of the most renowned regions of the world. During your adventure with Lindblad Expeditions , you can immerse yourself into the region by land and by water. Experience the sea during a kayaking or zodiac adventure – be sure to look for rockhopper penguins along the coast! On the land, hike to a retreating glacier, explore national parks, and spot fur seals.

What makes it special?

Fjords, glaciers, rivers, mountains, and so much more! And during a Lindblad expedition, you can be one of the few to visit Isla de los Estados, a tiny island that was the inspiration behind Jules Verne’s The Lighthouse at the End of the World .

THE AMAZON

Why:

There are many ways to explore the Amazon, but an adventure on the Delfin II with Lindblad Expeditions is top of our list. Their knowledgeable and experienced guides teach you about this area during your journey. Daily excursions by skiff, kayak, or hiking take you into the jungle where you can spot sloths, monkeys, and macaws. And as you explore on the water, keep an eye out for the rare pink dolphins and the infamous piranhas.

What makes it special?

Welcome to the jungle – literally! The Amazon has so much biodiversity that you must experience it in person. Clamoring monkeys and wild birdcalls are the soundtrack to your adventure down the river. On board the 28-room vessel, relax in comfort and style with 5-star cuisine.