Nuku Hiva, the largest island in the Marquesas archipelago, offers an unparalleled escape into Polynesian paradise. This rugged island is renowned for its dramatic landscapes, characterized by lush valleys, towering cliffs, and volcanic peaks.
Bali, an island province of Indonesia, has been shaped by centuries of Hindu influence, volcanic activity, and a deep connection between daily life and ritual. The island’s temples are a major part of its landscape as more than 20,000 exist across Bali. One of the most visited is Uluwatu Temple, perched dramatically on a cliff 70 meters above the Indian Ocean.
French Guiana, tucked between Brazil and Suriname on the northeast coast of South America, offers an unexpected blend of Amazonian wilderness, colonial intrigue, and French flair. As an overseas department of France, it uses the euro, speaks French, and has croissants alongside cassava bread at breakfast. Yet just beyond the cafés of Cayenne, vast rainforest stretches for hundreds of kilometers, home to rare wildlife, remote rivers, and Indigenous communities.
The Dades Gorges, carved by the Dades River in Morocco’s High Atlas Mountains, offer a winding stretch of road, towering rock walls, and centuries-old kasbahs perched on the cliffs. Located between the towns of Boumalne Dades and M’semrir, the gorge is especially known for its switchback road, often nicknamed “the snaking road of Tissadrine.” It’s a favorite among photographers and motorcyclists, with hairpin curves that reveal a new layer of landscape with every turn.
One of San Cristobal Island's most popular visitor sites is Cerro Brujo, with its expansive white sand beach and a lagoon that locals once used as a salt mine but now offers excellent snorkeling opportunities. Another must-see is Kicker Rock, a fascinating rock formation that looks like a boot from one angle (hence its English name) and like a sleeping lion from another (thus its Spanish name, Roca León Dormido).
Nestled in the heart of Peru's Amazon rainforest, Puerto Maldonado serves as a gateway to one of the world's most biodiverse regions. This vibrant city, often referred to as the gateway to the Peruvian Amazon, offers a unique opportunity to explore lush rainforests, encounter exotic wildlife, and experience the rich culture of the Amazonian tribes. The nearby Tambopata National Reserve and Manu National Park are prime destinations for eco-tourists and adventurers alike.
Visitors to Puerto Maldonado can embark on thrilling jungle expeditions, where they may spot the elusive jaguar, playful monkeys, and colorful macaws. The city's location along the Madre de Dios River makes it ideal for boat tours, providing a serene way to explore the waterways and spot wildlife from the comfort of your vessel. Guided tours often include visits to local indigenous communities, where travelers can learn about traditional customs and crafts, enriching their understanding of Amazonian culture.
The area's natural beauty is complemented by its commitment to conservation and sustainable tourism. The lodges and eco-resorts around Puerto Maldonado are designed to blend seamlessly with their surroundings, offering eco-friendly amenities and immersive experiences that minimize environmental impact. This commitment helps preserve the pristine environment and supports local conservation efforts.
Fun fact: Puerto Maldonado is named after the Spanish explorer Pedro Maldonado, who was one of the first Europeans to explore the Amazon basin. The city’s name reflects its deep connection to the history and exploration of the Amazon, making it not only a destination for nature lovers but also for those fascinated by the legacy of early explorers
Other Popular Destinations in Peru
Cusco
Cusco once served as the heart of the Inca Empire, and that legacy still shapes every corner of the city even as it serves as a gateway to Machu Picchu. Outside the historic center, the ruins of Sacsayhuamán overlook the city from a nearby hilltop. This ceremonial complex is best known for its massive zigzag stone walls, some weighing over 100 tons. During the Inti Raymi festival in June, thousands gather here to reenact ancient Andean rituals.
Machu Picchu
Machu Picchu is a story carved into stone, perched nearly 2,500 meters above sea level in the cloud forests of southern Peru. Built in the 15th century and later abandoned, this Inca citadel was unknown to the outside world until 1911, when explorer Hiram Bingham brought it to international attention. Today, it remains remarkably well-preserved, with more than 150 stone structures, terraced fields, ceremonial fountains, and temples aligned with astronomical events.