If 2027 is already on your travel wish list, now may be the perfect time to start making plans. From wildlife encounters in Africa and luxury rail journeys through Europe to remote wilderness retreats and sun-soaked coastal escapes, some of the world’s most extraordinary travel experiences are best secured well in advance.
Planning a year ahead isn’t just about avoiding last-minute stress. It can also mean better accommodation choices, access to exclusive experiences and more favorable travel arrangements. Just as importantly, having a memorable trip on the calendar gives you something exciting to anticipate.
With travelers increasingly seeking meaningful, experience-driven holidays, advance planning is becoming more valuable. Booking.com’s 2027 travel predictions indicate that 77 percent of travelers are interested in experiences that take them beyond their comfort zones, while 81 percent say they would choose destinations based on how they want to feel.
Whether you’re dreaming of an adventurous expedition, a romantic escape or a culturally immersive holiday, here are some destinations and experiences worth booking ahead for 2027.
1. A Countryside Escape in England
England offers an impressive variety of landscapes, making it ideal for travelers seeking outdoor adventure, history and relaxation. From the dramatic scenery of the Lake District to Cornwall’s coastal walking routes and the charming villages of southeastern England, there is plenty to explore.
Adventure seekers can hike along coastal trails, paddleboard through Devon’s estuaries or discover the ancient woodlands of the New Forest. Those looking for a slower experience can enjoy vineyard lunches at Chapel Down in Kent or Rathfinny in Sussex, explore sculpture parks and spend time in picturesque countryside villages.
For an elevated country-house experience, The Grove in Hertfordshire offers expansive grounds, championship golf and family-friendly activities. The Tawny in Staffordshire provides distinctive treehouse and lakeside accommodations, while Avington Park Estate in Hampshire combines historic surroundings with fishing, wild swimming and lakeside wellness experiences.
Because popular British country retreats often sell out during school holidays and peak weekends, early reservations are recommended.
2. A Scenic Road Trip Across Greece’s Peloponnese
For a Greek holiday beyond the crowded islands, the Peloponnese offers an appealing combination of coastal scenery, historic landmarks and traditional villages.
The peninsula’s winding roads lead through mountain landscapes, secluded beaches and ancient archaeological sites. Travelers can explore the fortified town of Monemvasia, visit the ruins of Mycenae and admire the historic theater of Epidaurus.
The Mani Peninsula is particularly striking, with its stone tower settlements and rugged coastline. Further west, Gialova Lagoon attracts migratory birds, while the beautiful Voidokilia Beach provides an ideal stop along the coast.
May, June and September are particularly appealing months for a 2027 road trip, offering more comfortable sightseeing conditions than the height of summer. Allow at least a week to explore several areas, with Nafplio, Monemvasia, Mani and Pylos serving as convenient bases.
3. A Romantic Anniversary Escape in Hawaii
With dramatic volcanic landscapes, beautiful beaches and vibrant marine life, Hawaii remains a compelling destination for couples celebrating an anniversary or planning a honeymoon.
Choosing the right island can shape the entire experience. The Big Island offers volcanic scenery and peaceful coastal escapes, while Oahu combines beach relaxation with Honolulu’s restaurants, nightlife and cultural attractions.
Accommodation options range from the traditional-style villas at Rosewood Kona Village to the renovated Mauna Lani, Auberge Collection. Couples seeking a more intimate atmosphere can also consider White Sands Hotel and Surfjack in Waikiki.
For travel during Christmas, New Year’s or the summer holidays, booking flights and accommodation early is especially important. Couples planning to visit multiple islands should also leave sufficient time for inter-island flights.
4. Discovering Dinosaur History and Natural Wonders in Utah
Utah is a dream destination for travelers fascinated by geology, archaeology and dramatic desert landscapes. Its sandstone formations, red-rock cliffs and winding slot canyons provide a spectacular backdrop for exploration.
One major attraction is Utahraptor State Park, approximately 15 miles northwest of Moab. The park protects the Dalton Wells Dinosaur Quarry, an important fossil site where thousands of dinosaur bones have been discovered.
Another remarkable stop is Newspaper Rock, famous for its extensive petroglyph panels depicting centuries of Indigenous history.
Travelers can also consider Canyon Spirit’s two-day rail journey between Denver and Moab, which is scheduled to operate from April through early November 2027, with an overnight stop in Glenwood Springs.
With panoramic train windows showcasing mountains, river valleys and red-rock scenery, the journey is an experience in itself. Booking train tickets and accommodation early is advisable, particularly during the popular spring and autumn travel seasons.
5. A Wilderness Retreat on Vancouver Island, Canada
Vancouver Island offers an extraordinary combination of ancient forests, rugged coastlines, mountain lakes and wildlife encounters.
The region’s Indigenous heritage is an important part of its identity, with the traditions and knowledge of the Kwakwaka’wakw, Nuu-chah-nulth and Coast Salish peoples continuing to shape the island.
Visitors can explore the Salish Sea with Indigenous guides, join marine wildlife excursions, take fishing trips with Indigenous-owned outfitters or participate in cultural storytelling walks.
Wildlife enthusiasts may encounter orcas, black bears and other native species along the coast and within the island’s forests.
Summer is particularly attractive for hiking, kayaking and whale-watching, although sightings vary by location and season. Travelers should arrange ferry crossings, campsites and popular guided experiences well ahead of time, especially for July and August.
6. An Adventure-Filled Family Holiday in Costa Rica
Costa Rica is an excellent choice for families hoping to combine relaxation, wildlife encounters and outdoor adventure.
One of the world’s most biodiverse countries, it has protected more than a quarter of its territory for conservation. Children and adults alike can discover colorful butterflies, macaws, tree frogs and sloths in their natural habitats.
A single itinerary can include rainforest walks, hanging bridges around Arenal, pineapple plantations, mountain scenery and Pacific coastline escapes.
For accommodation, Aguas Claras in Puerto Viejo offers Victorian-inspired bungalows and family-friendly activities, while Lapa Rios Lodge on the Osa Peninsula provides guided rainforest experiences and conservation-focused excursions.
Families can also explore private villas and distinctive treehouse rentals around Santa Teresa.
Planning the route is just as important as choosing accommodation. Because mountain roads and travel distances can make ambitious itineraries tiring, particularly with younger children, selecting a few convenient bases is a better approach. Popular national parks and guided excursions may also require advance reservations.
7. A Culinary Journey Through South Korea
South Korea is attracting food-focused travelers interested in exploring regional cuisines beyond Seoul’s celebrated restaurant scene.
In the southern regions, visitors can discover local ingredients, traditional cooking techniques and dishes shaped by coastal communities. Jeollanam-do, for example, is known for seafood specialties such as soy-marinated crab, alongside comforting dishes including beef-rib soup.
Responsible Travel offers an eight-day culinary experience with departures throughout much of 2027. The itinerary includes traditional food markets, kimchi-making lessons and an overnight stay at a Buddhist temple near Gyeongju.
Another memorable experience is visiting Baekyangsa Temple, where Buddhist nun and chef Jeong Kwan shares her meditative approach to cooking. Guests can arrange an overnight experience featuring a demonstration of temple cuisine, with sessions generally held monthly.
In Seoul, food lovers can explore acclaimed restaurants such as Mingles, led by chef Mingoo Kang, and Jungsik, founded by chef Jungsik Yim.
For a more traditional stay, consider booking a hanok in Seoul’s historic Bukchon neighborhood. Visitors should be aware of sightseeing restrictions in designated residential streets, where access is limited between 5 p.m. and 10 a.m.
8. A Luxury Rail Adventure on the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express
Few travel experiences capture the romance of European exploration quite like the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express.
Operated by Belmond, the legendary train combines vintage glamour, elegant interiors and exceptional dining with spectacular views across Europe.
With approximately 70 routes available, travelers can choose journeys such as Paris to Verona or Amsterdam to Venice. Those traveling from Florence to Paris can enhance the experience with a pre-journey stay at Castello di Casole in Tuscany.
Once aboard, passengers are immersed in the atmosphere of a bygone era. The experience includes Champagne, three-course lunches in restored 1920s dining cars, cocktails in the Art Deco bar carriage and elaborate evening dinners accompanied by live piano music.
Private cabins provide a comfortable overnight retreat before breakfast and coffee are served as the train approaches its destination.
With 2027 departures already available, early reservations are recommended for travelers seeking particular routes, dates or cabin categories.
9. A Summer Escape in Uruguay
Uruguay is an appealing destination for travelers seeking South American sunshine, beautiful beaches, art and sophisticated culinary experiences.
The summer season generally runs from December through February, with warm conditions often extending into March.
Montevideo offers city beaches, cultural attractions and lively markets, while José Ignacio has evolved from a quiet fishing village into a fashionable coastal destination popular with international visitors.
Among its notable properties is Posada Ayana, home to James Turrell’s Skyspace installation, Ta Khut, which guests can experience at sunrise and sunset. Wine enthusiasts may also enjoy Luz, a wine lodge surrounded by vineyards and olive groves.
Other standout properties include Playa Vik, known for its striking architecture and art-filled interiors, and Sacromonte Landscape Hotel, where contemporary cabins overlook the vineyards and countryside of Maldonado.
Food lovers can also visit Casa Anna, a guesthouse associated with celebrated chef Francis Mallmann, which offers separately arranged culinary experiences featuring his signature open-fire cooking.
Late December is particularly lively in José Ignacio, although February and March can provide a quieter alternative. Travelers hoping to visit during the festive period should secure accommodation early.
10. A Winter Ski Holiday in Hokkaido, Japan
Hokkaido continues to attract international skiers and snowboarders with its famously light powder snow, impressive mountain scenery and excellent resort facilities.
Niseko is among Japan’s most popular winter destinations, offering four interconnected ski areas, a lively restaurant scene and opportunities to relax in traditional hot springs after a day on the slopes.
Park Hyatt Niseko Hanazono stands out for its ski-in, ski-out access, extensive dining options and Molière Montagne restaurant, led by three-Michelin-starred chef Hiroshi Nakamichi.
Another option is Sansui Niseko, which provides direct access to Grand Hirafu’s Family Course, spacious suites and onsen facilities.
Although autumn brings colorful foliage around Sapporo, winter is when Niseko truly shines. January and February generally offer the best conditions for the region’s celebrated powder snow, although weather and snowfall are never guaranteed.
For the 2026–2027 season, skiing is scheduled to begin on November 28, with some areas expected to remain open into early May, depending on conditions.
Accommodation, ski lessons and equipment rentals should be arranged well in advance, particularly for Christmas and New Year’s travel.
11. Stargazing and Desert Adventures in Jordan
Jordan offers an extraordinary combination of ancient history, desert landscapes and Red Sea experiences.
Petra, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, is famous for its monumental architecture carved directly into sandstone cliffs. The archaeological city is reached through the dramatic Al Siq canyon.
Further south, Aqaba offers warm waters, colorful coral reefs, scuba diving and traditional markets.
However, Wadi Rum may be the highlight for travelers seeking a more adventurous escape. Its enormous sandstone formations and expansive desert valleys create a spectacular setting for guided excursions with local Bedouin communities and overnight stays beneath the stars.
Spring and autumn are particularly suitable for exploring Petra and the desert, thanks to milder temperatures.
In Amman, visitors can discover social enterprises such as SEP, a fashion and lifestyle brand working with Palestinian refugee embroiderers, and Beit Sitti, a cooking school founded by three sisters that introduces visitors to traditional Arabic cuisine.
Travelers planning to combine Petra, Wadi Rum and Aqaba should organize accommodation, transport and local guides ahead of time. The Jordan Pass may also be worth considering for eligible visitors, as it includes entry to more than 40 attractions and a tourist visa fee waiver subject to applicable requirements.
12. An Expedition Cruise to Antarctica
Antarctica remains one of the world’s most extraordinary travel frontiers, offering dramatic ice formations, remarkable wildlife and an experience unlike any other destination.
Tourism has grown significantly, with the International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators recording more than 113,000 visitors during the 2025–2026 season. That growing popularity also highlights the importance of protecting the continent’s fragile environment.
The main travel season runs from November through March, during the austral summer, when reduced sea ice and longer daylight hours create better conditions for exploration.
Visitors may encounter enormous penguin colonies, seals resting on ice floes and humpback whales feeding in the Southern Ocean.
Expedition cruises typically include guided shore landings and Zodiac excursions, while larger vessels may focus on scenic cruising without allowing passengers to disembark.
For travelers prioritizing environmental responsibility, Ponant’s Le Commandant Charcot offers hybrid-electric propulsion and onboard scientific laboratories. Other operators, including Abercrombie & Kent and White Desert, offer different approaches, from expedition cruises to fly-in experiences and luxury camps such as Whichaway Camp.
Because the travel season is short and specialist expeditions have limited capacity, booking 12 months ahead can be particularly worthwhile.
13. Tracking Snow Leopards in Ladakh, India
For wildlife enthusiasts and adventurous travelers, Ladakh offers the rare opportunity to search for snow leopards in the spectacular Himalayan landscape.
However, this is not an ordinary wildlife holiday. High-altitude conditions, challenging terrain and freezing winter temperatures require careful preparation.
Leh sits at approximately 11,500 feet above sea level, making acclimatization essential. Local tourism authorities recommend allowing at least 48 hours to rest before traveling to higher elevations.
Hemis National Park is among the best-known locations for snow leopard sightings. Experienced local guides and trackers search the rocky slopes and valleys for signs of these elusive animals.
The main snow leopard expedition season generally runs from November through April, when specialist wildlife tours operate. Visitors interested in exploring monasteries and the region’s warmer-weather scenery may prefer June through September.
Voygr Expeditions, andBeyond and Responsible Travel are among the operators offering specialist experiences.
Some itineraries also incorporate visits to local communities and conservation projects, including andBeyond’s support for the Snow Leopard Conservancy.
With some 2027 departures already sold out, booking six to 12 months ahead is advisable. Travelers should also allow sufficient time for physical preparation and altitude adjustment.
14. Mountain Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda
Rwanda offers one of Africa’s most remarkable wildlife experiences: the opportunity to encounter endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat.
The country’s commitment to conservation, reforestation and carefully managed tourism has helped establish it as a leading ecotourism destination.
Mountain gorilla trekking takes place in the Virunga Mountains, where visitor numbers are strictly controlled. Only eight people are permitted to visit a particular habituated gorilla group each day, and encounters are limited to one hour.
Visitors are instructed to maintain a distance of at least 23 feet to reduce the risk of transmitting human diseases to the animals.
Luxury accommodation options include Singita Kwitonda Lodge and One&Only Gorilla’s Nest, both offering convenient bases for gorilla trekking. Magashi Camp provides traditional Big Five safari experiences in Akagera National Park, while Nyungwe Tea Forest Resort is well positioned for rainforest exploration and chimpanzee tracking.
For another perspective on the country, travelers can explore Lake Kivu aboard the Kivu Queen uBuranga, a luxury floating hotel offering opportunities to visit local communities and discover the region’s traditions.
Gorilla trekking permits currently cost $1,500 per person for most international visitors. Given the limited number of daily permits, reservations several months ahead are strongly recommended, particularly during the drier periods from June to September and December to February.
Combining a trekking experience with a stay at one of Rwanda’s exclusive lodges requires even earlier planning.
Make 2027 the Year of Meaningful Travel
From the peaceful countryside of England to the icy wilderness of Antarctica, these destinations demonstrate how rewarding it can be to plan beyond the usual holiday calendar.
Whether your priority is adventure, romance, wildlife conservation, cultural discovery or culinary exploration, booking early can open the door to experiences that might otherwise be difficult to secure.
The best journeys begin long before departure. A little preparation now could make 2027 your most memorable travel year yet.
