As the new year begins, the Yampu team reflects on their accomplishments in the past year and excitedly looks forward to what is in store for 2018 in the world of experiential travel. With this in mind, Yampu’s travel experts have excitedly compiled a list of the top destinations to visit in the new year that simply cannot be missed!

As you dive into our list, take note of your personal top picks for 2018 travel and ask our Travel Gurus to assist with assembling your epic year of adventure…

10. Rwanda

Starting off on our list is none other than the primate capital of Africa, Rwanda. Tainted by the 1994 genocide, Rwanda has managed to make a full 180° turn around being dubbed “Africa’s Biggest Success Story” by CNN in 2009. The small landlocked country is roughly the size of the state of Maryland yet manages to hold unique geographic features including chains of volcanic mountains and deep lakes. Nestled in the great rolling hills is an abundance of wildlife including the elusive Mountain Gorillas. Venture along the Virunga Volcanoes with Yampu’s Complete Rwandan Primate Tour to meet the famous gorillas one on one.

9. Iguazu Falls, Brazil and Argentina

Often referred to as the “World’s Greatest Waterfall”, Iguazu is an essential destination that must be on every world explorer’s travel list. Straddling the border between two of South America’s largest countries, the 275 individual falls span nearly 3 miles (4.82km) in width! Although it is possible to make a singular day trip, it is not advised as there is so much to see and learn in both the Argentine and Brazilian sides of the falls. A must for an introduction trip to South America, feel the thunderous power of the rushing water via jet boat rides below the falls or walk along the catwalk above the breathtaking drops (some as high as 270 feet!). Visitors can also explore the subtropical rain forest of the surrounding national park to find plant and animal species unique to the area. Co-founder Monica Irauzqui highly suggests making a visit to Iguazu Falls during a full moon for a “fantastic and unique experience”. Be warned, this destination is not for those with a dry sense of humor…

8. Colombia

The fourth largest nation in South America offers immense volcanoes, long white beaches to stroll, jungles with vast wildlife to discover and so much more! Our most popular Colombia tours showcase attractions that are sure to appeal to all sorts of travelers, from eco-tourists and adventurers to coffee devotees. Even if you’ve “been there done that” Yampu knows all of the ins and outs on and off the beaten path…

7. Egypt

With cultural similarities to Middle Eastern destinations, not to mention being located within a continent known for its wildlife and big game experiences, Egypt is a destination like no other! The country has seen its ups and downs politically but is regaining popularity in recent years within the world of tourism. Home to the famous Pyramids of Giza and the world renown Sphinx, Egypt is a treasure trove for ancient history and the major focus of archaeological study of ancient ruins. Yampu’s Egyptian tours all include Egypt’s capital, the largest city in the Arab world, Cairo. Choose different combinations of tours featuring full and half day excursions in and around Cairo, cruises on the grand Nile, and even combine with unforgettable safaris throughout Africa.

6. Japan

The Land of the Rising Sun, one of Yampu’s newest destinations, has become one of the top sellers since its launch. With its ever-changing, eccentric and modern culture, Japan still manages to effectively hold on to its ancient history and values that all travelers can appreciate. Savor the local flavors and learn how to create iconic foods such as sushi after learning of the ancient art of Sumo. Hop onto the high-speed bullet train to explore other parts of the island nation. Away from the bustling city find your Zen at local hot springs, or onsens.  Home to many iconic children animated favorites, Japan is the perfect destination for family travel. Take a look at Yampu’s Japanese Pop Culture Experience for some inspiration for your next custom family adventure! Note that the country’s capital, Tokyo, will be hosting the 2020 Summer Olympics giving more reason to visit the flourishing country as it prepares for the big event.

5. Siem Reap, Cambodia

A humble retreat of stunning temples, glorious food, and warm people, Siem Reap marks the halfway point of Yampu’s Top destinations to visit in 2018! The gateway to the ancient Khmer kingdom, Siem Reap, showcases colonial Chinese-style architecture with several Buddhist temples scattered throughout the city, including the iconic Angkor Wat. Our General Sales Manager, Karolina, had the honor of exploring Siem Reap with her lovely family recently and highly recommends the area to all Yampu Travelers. Experience Cambodia via Planes, Trains and Tuk Tuks, similar to Karolina’s epic family trip.

4. Cape Town, South Africa

Cape Town easily makes Yampu’s list for its easy access to wine, wildlife, adventure, beaches, and everything in between! As Africa’s most popular tourist destination, Cape Town has much to offer. From its natural features such as Table Mountain, or Hout Bay with its views of the Atlantic Ocean, to its cultural attractions and several hundred shops, it has something for every traveler.

3. Patagonia, Argentina & Chile

At the height of our countdown comes nonother than the outdoor adventure capital of the world, Patagonia. Covering over 400,000 miles of the world’s most southern tip, Patagonia is an outdoor adventure enthusiast’s paradise with glacier trekking, horseback riding, kayaking and rafting among other exhilarating experiences. Whether you’re looking to explore Chile’s labyrinths of islands or want to learn of Gaucho life while admiring Argentina’s glorious ranch country, Patagonia is limitless when it comes to experiences. If you’re looking to experience all that Patagonia has to offer, Yampu’s Tour Consultants recommend the Ultimate Patagonia Vacation where you will venture through both Chile and Argentina with stays at luxurious lodges such as Tierra Patagonia Hotel & Spa.

2. Antarctica

Not often the first destination to come to mind when planning a trip abroad, Antarctica is a unique escape for adventure seekers, wildlife enthusiasts, and those who wish to explore every corner of the world. The Great White Continent has remained virtually untouched with its only permanent residents being a concentration of native wildlife including penguins, seals and whales, just to name a few. Whether you plan enjoying a cruise to the world’s end or taking a more direct route via airplane, Antarctica has numerous options for adventure from Kayaking along massive glaciers, skiing the shoreline, or participating in a polar plunge swim!

1. Machu Picchu, Peru

With 2018 being Yampu’s 20th year of operation it comes as no surprise that our number one destination to visit this year is located within the company’s birth country of Peru. The ancient Incan citadel of Machu Picchu stands as an icon of adventure and mystic wonder. Left behind by the ancient Incan civilization and untouched by Spanish conquistadors, Machu Picchu was rediscovered in 1911 by American explorer, Hiram Bingham. Be whisked up the mountain by the luxurious train of the same name, or choose from the many trekking options to explore this iconic destination. With new regulations put in place to better preserve the mountain top city, it has become more difficult to gain access without proper planning. Yampu takes the hassle out of arranging your Machu Picchu visit and makes all arrangements with you in mind. With 20 years of experience under our belts, we know the destination inside and out, making your experience flawless.

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No matter where you seek to explore in 2018, travel with Yampu Tours once and we’ll keep our eyes open for your next customized journey. Offering seamless logistics, local guides and luxury within reach.

Tags: 2018 , Atacama , Cambodia , Cape Town , Colombia , Countdown , Egypt , Featured , Iguazu , Japan , Machu Picchu , Patagonia , Peru , Rwanda , Siem Reap , South Africa , Travel