Best Travel Experiences to Celebrate a Milestone

Is this year particularly significant for you? Perhaps you are celebrating a big '0' birthday, a special anniversary, or marking a milestone achievement like a child graduating from university. While you could just throw a party or make a reservation at your favourite restaurant, why not try something a bit different to mark the occasion. The memories created will last a lifetime.

Whether you prefer a physical challenge or simply to discover and explore a new corner of the world , these 14 'milestone adventures' will make your anniversary the most memorable yet.

1. Trek to Machu Picchu on the best alternative to the Inca Trail

Hiking along the flanks of Mount Salcantay. Photo credit: Mark Tipple

If you haven’t already been to the breathtaking Machu Picchu ruins in Peru, then a big life event is a good excuse to cross it off your bucket list. The Salcantay Trek is our favourite alternative trek to Machu Picchu. It will take you on a less trodden path high in the mystical Andes and away from the crowds of the Inca Trail.

With fewer trekkers, no permits and the same incredible destination – the Salcantay Trek certainly gives the Inca Trail a run for its money. Experience the contrasting high alpine and low cloud scenery on the 7-day Salcantay Trek to Machu Picchu.

2. Explore the Angkor Wat temples by bike

Built for King Suryavarman II in the early 12th century, the temples of Angkor Wat epitomise the classical style of Khmer architecture that has become a symbol of Cambodia. Photo credit: Rachel Imber

Exploring the Temples of Angkor by bike is a great way to get away from the tourist fray. You'll be able to soak up the solitude of the lesser-known shrines that are along quiet trails. You’ll almost feel like you’re alone in one of the world's most visited ancient marvels as you ride along shady tree-lined dirt trails from temple to temple.

Embark on a multi-activity adventure in Cambodia, including a bike tour of the Temples of Angkor on the 12-day Bike, Hike and Kayak Cambodia.

3. Spot the ‘big 5’ on a wildlife safari

Springs and waterholes with surrounding elephants at Chobe National Park. Photo credit: Peter Walton

Seeing the ‘big 5’ on a wildlife safari in Africa is a must-do experience. The big five include the lion, elephant, leopard, buffalo and rhinoceros. Viewing these great animals in their natural habitats is something you’ll never forget.

Spot the ‘big 5’ on the 22-day Africa Wilderness in Comfort, a quality overland traverse through South Africa, Namibia, Botswana and Zimbabwe.

4. Sleep under the stars along the Larapinta Trail in Central Australia

Around the campfire at Charlie's Camp. One of our exclusive semi-permanent campsites. Image credit: Graham Michael Freeman for GWOA - Classic Larapinta Trek

The Larapinta Trail that stretches from east to west along the West MacDonnell Ranges is one of Australia’s most iconic walks. Picture yourself sleeping under a blanket of twinkling stars after a day of walking along the magnificent ridge-lines of the stunning Australian outback.

Soak up the glorious desert night sky from the comfort of our exclusive semi-permanent campsites on the 6-day Classic Larapinta Trek in Comfort.

5. Follow in the footsteps of the nomads in Mongolia

Local herders with their camels. Photo credit: Cam Cope

Mongolian pastoral herders make up one of the world’s last remaining nomadic cultures. Despite the draw of modern life and the city, hundreds of thousands of Mongolians continue to live a nomadic way of life that goes back at least a millennium.

Celebrate your milestone event by taking a unique 18-day journey In the Footsteps of the Nomads with Tim Cope, Australian adventurer, author and trekking guide.

6. Walk part of the famous Camino de Santiago pilgrimage trail

Pilgrims walking on the Camino in Spain. Photo credit: Tim Charody

For centuries the Camino de Santiago has represented an important pilgrimage route from France, across the Pyrenees and the north of Spain to the tomb of St James in Santiago de Compostela. Travellers along the path are often moved by the rhythm and simplicity of life on the trail.

Walk the 13-day Best of the Camino de Santiago and visit the highlights including the Guggenheim, Pamplona and the best sections of the trail.

7. See Everest without the crowds

Exploring the Everest region around Gokyo Lakes. Photo credit: Heike Krumm

If you want to see Mount Everest – there is no better time to see it than when celebrating a milestone event! Gokyo and the Renjo La is an ideal trek for those who wish to avoid the busier trails in the Everest Region, while gaining incredible views of Everest. Some say even better views than those found along the popular Everest Base Camp trek as you take in the mountain from a different perspective.

The 17-day Gokyo & the Renjo La is a spectacular high altitude trek to the sublime Gokyo Lakes. It includes a crossing of the Renjo La into the Thame Valley, offering one of the finest views of Mount Everest and the surrounding Himalaya peaks.

8. Ride the most epic train journey ever on the Trans-Siberian Railway

Terelj National Park, Mongolia. Photo credit: Caroline Mongrain

The Trans-Siberian train journey has captured the imagination of travellers for decades.  The route unite experiences and diverse landscapes from the Gobi Desert to the Great Wall for the adventure of a lifetime.

The 23-day Trans Siberian Explorer is a superb itinerary that combines the classic route from Beijing, with stopovers at many of the unique and exciting destinations enroute to Moscow.

9. Trek on the world’s longest wall - the Great Wall of China

Breathtaking shot while walking on one of the more remote sections of the Great Wall. Photo credit: Victoria Earl

The Great Wall winds its way across northern China for over 20,000 kms and is one of the world’s most incredible man-made sights. Trekking along the wild sections of the wall is one of the best ways to experience the more remote, untouched sections without the crowds.

Explore remote sections of the Great Wall in Hebei Provine on the 8-day Great Wall of China Trek while you camp in comfortable exclusive locations alongside the wall. Camping near villages provides you with a glimpse into the rural hospitality in the 'real China', allowing you the opportunity to interact with local people.

10. Cruise the island paradise of the Maldives

Cruising through the beautiful azure waters on the Maldives Dhoni Cruise.

Can't think of many better ways to celebrate an anniversary! Clear translucent water, coral reefs and white sand…the Maldives are a glorious chain of more than a thousand small islands that are stretched out like a string of pearls. What’s more relaxing than island hopping and snorkelling in the vibrant blue waters of the Maldives?

Spend your days watching the world go by on a converted traditional Arab sailing vessel on the 6-day Maldives Dhoni Cruise. Learn about the local way of life, snorkel, swim and enjoy fresh seafood BBQ’s on pristine uninhibited beaches.

11. See polar wildlife in the Canadian Arctic

Polar Bear relaxing on the ice in the Arctic. Photo credit: Andrew Stewart

Canada is home to the second largest area of the Arctic and expansive regions of nearly pristine natural ecosystems, including a large majority of the world’s polar bears, narwhal, beluga and bowhead whale populations. An arctic safari is an incredibly special experience where you will come face-to-face with such animals.

Embark on a voyage to the mysterious Canadian Arctic on the 12-day Arctic Safari and have the opportunity to see spotted walrus, polar bear, muskox and caribou. What a great way to celebrate a special life event!

12. Challenge yourself on the Kokoda Track

Trekking through the verdant scenery of Papua New Guinea. Photo credit: Ken Harris

A pilgrimage for many Australians, the Kokoda Trail could be one of your most memorable trekking experiences. Following the footsteps of the ANZAC soldiers through dense jungle, the Kokoda track offers an incredible physical and mental challenge. With spectacular scenery, friendly and welcoming locals and important mark on Australian history, the Kokoda Track will make for a very memorable anniversary trip.

Challenge yourself on fully-supported 11-day Kokoda Trek with an expert guide. Or alternatively join the Women’s Kokoda Track walk for an all female departure in a supportive and encouraging environment.

13. View the Twelve Apostles from above by helicopter

The Great Ocean Walk includes spectacular coastal scenery such as the 12 Apostles.

A walk along Victoria’s famous Great Ocean Road will take you to some of Australia’s most spectacular scenery, including the Twelve Apostles. An incredible collection of limestone stacks that tower out of the ocean in the rugged coast of Port Campbell National Park. The Twelve Apostles are one of the most iconic natural formations in the world.

Spend four days walking along the scenic Great Ocean Road on the 4-day Twelve Apostles Lodge Walk, staying in a comfortable lodge each night. End the walk with a 10-minute helicopter flight above the 12 Apostles for unparalleled views of this spectacular coastline.

14. Explore India’s incredible Golden Triangle

The spectacular Taj Mahal from within the gardens. Photo credit: Rachel Imber

India’s vibrant cultural, bustling cities and elaborate architecture are sure to blow you away. For those who haven’t been, the Golden Triangle route is a great introduction to India. The route goes between Delhi, Agra and Jaipur and will take you to the must-see highlights of Northern India including the spectacular Taj Mahal and Amber Fort.

Join the 5-day guided Golden Triangle tour to see the highlights of Northern India.

Prefer a private trip?

If you prefer not to travel with a group or need to customise your dates and activities, then you've come to the right place. A custom made itinerary gives you complete freedom to choose what you want to see, where you want to go and when you want to do it. Contact us to start putting together your perfect celebration adventure.

Travel - the perfect gift!

"Travel is the only thing you buy that makes you richer." If you know someone celebrating a big event this year, then help give them an experience they will never forget. Gift vouchers can be purchased in any amount, applied to any trip within the World Expeditions Travel Group and used on trips departing up to two years from the voucher's date of issue. To buy a gift voucher simply call, email or visit us in person.