Best trips of a lifetime

1. SUNRISE IN VIETNAM

The sunrise over Halong Bay in Vietnam is one of nature’s most attention-seeking sights. Imagine a blush-pink sky, painted with streaks of ruby and gold, and the sun rising above the bay’s tiny islands and rugged mountain outcrops. On our North Vietnam Up Close tour, you’ll experience it all like a local would – by taking part in a 6am tai chi class. Follow up with a refreshing breakfast, then head out and explore some limestone caves. Find out more.

Find out more about our Vietnam tours

2. JUNGLE ADVENTURES IN COSTA RICA

On our Costa Rica Grand Tour, home will feel a million miles away – especially during a pre-dawn trek through the rainforest. You’ll rise early and head out with a guide to walk the natural trails in Tortuguero amid brightly-coloured flowers and dew-drop-dotted trees. Listen to the sounds of the forest as you walk – you might hear the call of a howler monkey or the croak of a coral-pink-coloured tree frog. A big breakfast awaits at the end of your trek.

Find out more about our Costa Rica tours

3. OTHERWORLDLY VIEWS IN THE USA

Our West Coast Wanderer tour ticks off some of California’s biggest names. Think Los Angeles, the Grand Canyon, Las Vegas and Yosemite National Park. One of the best stops is the Bryce Canyon National Park. Under the heat of the searing Utah sun, you’ll drive straight through the Navajo heartlands and empty desertscapes. Park up and take a beer down to the canyons to watch an extraordinary sunset.

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4. BE DAZZLED IN SOUTH AFRICA

Few travel experiences beat going on safari in the Kruger National Park, and our South Africa Explorer tour heaps on the wildlife action. You’ll have the chance to spot big groups of animals – like a ‘tower’ of giraffes, a ‘leap’ of leopards, and a ‘dazzle’ of zebras. The most unforgettable experience is a sundowner game drive, when wildlife sightseeing comes with a backdrop of the sun sinking over the parkland.

Find out more about our South Africa tours

5. A WORLD WONDER IN CHINA

Beijing, the ancient city of Xi’An, the water town of Zhujiajiao and the Yangtze River – this tour’s not called Once-in-a-lifetime China for nothing. The jewel in the crown’s got to be China’s most famous landmark – nothing quite prepares you for the awe of standing on the edge of the Great Wall of China. Escape the crowds with a guide, who will take you to the Huanghuacheng area. It’s hidden away from the crowds and awash with wildflowers in the spring.

Find out more about our best tours in Asia

6. FOLLOW IN DARWIN'S FOOTSTEPS IN THE GALAPAGOS ISLANDS

Ecuador’s Galapagos Islands are home to a treasure trove of wildlife – from sea lions to penguins. Spot these fascinating creatures, while ticking off top nature sights on our eight-night, Natural Wonders of the Galapagos Islands tour. You’ll get up close to giant tortoises on Santa Cruz Island, hike to the summit of the famous Sierra Negra volcano – it’s the second-largest crater in the world – and swim alongside marine iguanas in Tortuga Bay’s bright blue waters. The best bit? You’ll do it all with the know-how of a local, English-speaking guide.

Feeling inspired? See our best tours in South America

7. CAMP UNDER THE STARS IN JORDAN

Leave your rose-coloured glasses at home on a trip to Jordan. This Middle Eastern gem isn’t only home to the ancient city of Petra with its impressive pink sandstone cliffs, it’s got the Dead Sea – the world’s second saltiest body of water – and the sweeping Wadi Rum desert under its belt, too. Discover all three on our Jewels of Jordan tour, plus the ruined Roman city of Jerash. You’ll go on a 4X4 adventure, sleep under the stars in a traditional Bedouin camp and soak up photo-ready views from the top of Mount Nebo.

Ready for an adventure? Check out the best places you didn’t know TUI travelled to

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Have a look at our full collection of TUI Tours. Then, take a peek at these Seven Wonders of the World, before sifting through some of our best tour and sightseeing holidays.

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Author: Rachel Bailey and Jessica Houtby