Top 11 Long-Haul Travel Destinations for 2025

While short-haul trips have their appeal, the allure of long-haul travel is unmatched. Exploring vibrant lands with distinct climates, cultures, and landscapes offers a truly extraordinary experience. These trips are often the subject of travel brochures and the inspiration for postcards that stir a sense of adventure. From idyllic beaches to stunning jungles and breathtaking waterfalls, here are some must-visit long-haul destinations to consider for your travels in 2025.

1. Australia

Australia continues to draw travelers from the UK, with popular spots like Sydney, the Outback, and the Great Barrier Reef leading the way. Attractions include stunning beaches, exquisite wines, and unique wildlife such as koalas and kangaroos. Notably, Qantas plans to launch a non-stop flight between London and Sydney in late 2025, making travel even more convenient. Additionally, the Shepparton Art Museum has recently reopened following a £27 million renovation, showcasing an extensive collection of indigenous and First Nations art just a short drive from Melbourne.

Plan Your Visit

Begin your journey in Melbourne, staying at the historic Hotel Windsor, known for its luxurious accommodations.

2. Charleston, South Carolina

Charleston is rich in history, including its somber past as America’s largest slave port at Gadsden’s Wharf, where almost half of the enslaved Africans arrived in the U.S. In honor of this history, the new International African American Museum near the waterfront offers an in-depth look at the cultural and historical impact of slavery. This $106 million museum, designed by renowned architect Henry Cobb, enhances Charleston’s appeal, complemented by its charming boutiques and acclaimed culinary scene famed for its seafood dishes.

Plan Your Visit

Stay at 86 Cannon, an adults-only boutique hotel in a historic area, offering amenities like complimentary bicycles and a saltwater pool.

3. Kenya

Kenya has recently broadened its safari experience with the introduction of the JW Marriott Masai Mara Lodge, offering luxury accommodations in the heart of the safari but also emphasizing sustainability at Emboo River Camp. Here, half of the guides are female, and the camp operates using solar energy and vegetarian cuisine, making it a model for responsible tourism. While Marriott attracts attention, Emboo River Camp sets a high standard.

Plan Your Visit

Visit Emboo River Camp to enjoy its natural pool and hydroponic garden.

4. Senegal

New weekly flights from Gatwick to Dakar make Senegal an appealing winter sun destination. The country boasts a blend of colonial architecture, vibrant surfing hubs, and natural beauty in Niokolo-Koba National Park, home to diverse wildlife. Sénégal’s coastal resorts, such as Saly and Pointe Sarene, are growing in popularity, providing excursions to explore local markets and wildlife reserves.

Plan Your Visit

The Riu Baobab features extensive pools and beach access for a relaxed stay.

5. Guyana

British Airways has introduced flights connecting Gatwick, making Guyana a newfound opportunity for exploration. The country offers stunning natural wonders, including the extensive Shell Beach, ecologically rich areas perfect for jaguar tracking, and the majestic Kaieteur Falls. The capital city, Georgetown, is a vibrant mix of various cultures.

Plan Your Visit

Customize your travel itinerary through a specialist in Guyana to discover its highlights.

6. Rodrigues, Mauritius

Rodrigues, an isolated island northeast of Mauritius, features a laid-back atmosphere, absent of large-scale developments. Visitors will enjoy pristine beaches and one of the largest lagoons in the Indian Ocean, where activities abound, from nature visits to scenic explorations.

Plan Your Visit

Consider staying at C Rodrigues Mourouk, which offers comfort and access to beautiful beach areas.

7. Nagoya, Japan

Situated on a major bullet train line, Nagoya is often overlooked as a travel destination, yet it boasts beautiful temples, local parks, and a burgeoning food scene. Nearby, the new Studio Ghibli theme park is a must-visit for fans of the studio’s iconic films.

Plan Your Visit

Book a stay at a traditional ryokan for an authentic Japanese experience.

8. Uzbekistan

Uzbekistan is experiencing a renaissance, thanks to modern transportation that connects its historic cities. Samarkand is particularly inviting, with its stunning mosques and mausoleums, and new luxury accommodations enhance its charm. Qatar Airways offers consistent flights to Tashkent, facilitating visits to this rich cultural destination.

Plan Your Visit

Stay at the family-run Jahongir hotel for an experience close to the cultural heart of Samarkand.

9. Benguerra Island, Mozambique

Benguerra Island offers a sanctuary for eco-conscious travelers, featuring the stunning Kisawa Sanctuary, which integrates luxury with sustainability. The facilities are designed to minimize environmental impact while providing a unique getaway experience.

Plan Your Visit

Enjoy breathtaking views and premium services at Kisawa Sanctuary.

10. Maldives

The Maldives is becoming more accessible with new airline routes, opening the door to more budget options. New resorts are emerging, enhancing the tourist experience with unique activities such as diving, snorkeling, and stunning sunset cruises.

Plan Your Visit

Explore various resort options ranging from budget-friendly to luxurious stays.

11. India and Nepal

For nature enthusiasts, India and Nepal present incredible opportunities to see wildlife, such as the elusive red panda in Nepal’s Singalila National Park. Combine adventures in both regions, visiting the scenic tea estates of Darjeeling and the iconic Ranthambore National Park, known for its Bengal tigers.

Plan Your Visit

Participate in guided tours focusing on wildlife sightings and cultural experiences.

Additional insights provided by Qin Xie.