Ski Retreats And City Suites: Salt Lake City’s Hotel Gems

BY  Sibashree Nov 5, 2025

I was relaxing after a bath at the Kuang Si Falls and suddenly, an electric blue dragonfly came to visit me. It sat on my knees for some time, and then came another. Within 15 minutes or so, I spotted hundreds of dragonflies making the trees appear blue. I was immediately transported to my childhood days when chasing a dragonfly or finding one with the most unique colors was a fun game. Suddenly, my guide called me and said, “Let me show you something unique.” He took me to the “Do Not Enter” board.  He asked, “Want to go there? There is a secret pool.” I said, “Why not?” I found out a milky-blue calm basin. Local teenagers were hanging out there, and they were eating sticky rice from banana leaves. They offered us some, and it was the best sticky rice I ever tasted.  Food in Luang Prabang is magical, just as is the Mekong River, temples, and Buddhist culture here.  While coming back, my guide handed me a plastic bottle. I asked him, “What to do with it?” He said, “Fill the bottle and take the water home. It carries blessings.”  Then, as I came down, I suddenly smelled the aroma of lemongrass and grilled chicken. I insisted. So, my guide had to take me to the local stalls. I had the best skewers there, and they tasted even better as I was hungry after hiking to the waterfall and having a bath.  The skewers were a little black on the edges, and that burnt flavor did the trick for me. Further, the aunty selling the skewers asked me to try the chili dip she had made. It was Fire and tears rolled down my face. She was so embarrassed! She gave me coconut pancakes to eat.  My visit to the waterfalls in Luang Prabang is filled with such amazing stories. In this blog, I will share them and talk about the best waterfalls in Luang Prabang, how to reach them, their spiritual significance, opening hours, entry fee, and everything you need to know.  What Are The Best Waterfalls In Luang Prabang?  Recently, Travel + Leisure has picked the Kuang Si waterfall as one of the 21 most beautiful waterfalls in the world in 2025. This recognition further enhances Laos's international tourism profile.  It is just an hour’s drive from Luang Prabang, and its stunning blue waters and turquoise pools formed with it, create the most dramatic landscape.  However, Kuang Si is not the only waterfall you will find in Luang Prabang. You must also explore the Tad Sae Waterfall, Tad Thong Waterfall, Hoi Khua Waterfall, and Dheva Waterfall.  1. Kuang Si Waterfall When I reached Kuang Si waterfall, I heard the monks' chants from the nearby Buddhist temple. Within an hour, the scenario changed completely, and the roar was so much that I could not hear my own voice.  Also, on my way back, my tuk-tuk driver was saying, “The old Kuang Si was way wilder, Ma’am. Its water has blessings.”  How To Visit Kuang Si Waterfalls In Luang Prabang? Taking a tuk-tuk or a bike is the best way to reach Kuang Si Waterfalls from Luang Prabang. It is located 30 km south of Luang Prabang. The journey takes around 45 minutes.  Here are the estimated costs of transport options and the expenses.  Mode of TransportEstimated CostTuk-tukAround 60000 KIPMinivan Tour250.000 KIP/ Per GroupMotorbike Rental100,000 KIP/dayPrivate Car250,000–300,000 KIP What Is The Entry Fee And Hours Of Kuang Si Waterfall?  The waterfall remains accessible from 8 AM to 5:30 PM. For the locals, the ticket price is Laotian 20,000k/person. The ticket is free for visitors below 12 years of age. Furthermore, for foreigners, the ticket price is 60,000k/person.  What Is The Best Time To Visit The Kuang Si waterfall? The dry season from November to May is the best time to visit Kuang Si waterfall. These months are ideal for swimming in the clear turquoise water of the pools. You can also go hiking and explore the nearby bear rescue center and butterfly park in these months.  Furthermore, these months are ideal for photo opportunities.  However, if you want a quieter experience, June to October is the ideal season. Fewer tourists visit the waterfall during these months. However, the water becomes muddy due to heavy rainfall.  Local people believe that this water carries power.  What To Expect At Kuang Si Waterfall? Swimming pools Bear Rescue Centre Jungle trails Picnic areas You cannot walk around the pools or waterfall with your shirts off or in bikinis. It is considered crude and does not go well with the local culture.  2. Tad Sae Waterfall With an elephant park nearby, Tad Sae Waterfall is a quieter alternative to the Kuang Si Waterfall. The decks crisscrossing the water make the visual all the more dramatic.  How To Visit Tad Sae Waterfall In Luang Prabang? To visit the Tad Sae Waterfall, you have to take a short trip out of town. Then, you need to take a trip down the river in a traditional long boat.  It is a 14 km trip from the town to the long boat launch area. Then, the boat ride is 8 minutes long. The cost of the tuk-tuk ride is around 150.000 kip.  Furthermore, the boat ride will cost around 25,000-35,000.  What Is The Entry Fee And Hours Of Tad Sae Waterfall?  The ticket price for Tad Sael waterfall is Laotian 15,000 KIP for locals. Tickets are free for children under 8 years old. For foreigners, the ticket price is 30000 KIP.  The waterfall remains open from 8 AM to 5 PM.  What Is The Best Time To Visit The Tad Sae Waterfall? August to October is the best time to visit the Tad Sae waterfall. From February to July, the waterfall remains almost dry.  What To Expect At Tad Sae Waterfall? The boat ride across the Nam Khan River felt like a time-travel for me. The Nam Khan river cuts through fog and jungle that smells like lemongrass and diesel. I also saw kids paddling in plastic tubs, laughing at me while my longtail boat sputters by.  Another fun thing I noticed is the monkeys near the top pools. Locals believe that these monkeys were the spirits who guarded the waterfall. Also, I saw some local visitors leaving a few grains of sticky rice on the rocks for good luck.  Tad Sae Waterfall is great for family picnics and boat rides.  3. Tad Thong Waterfall View this post on Instagram A post shared by Кирилл Дерябин (@deryabinkirill) The spring-fed Tad Thong waterfall emerged before my eyes after a 45-minute jungle walk. The walk starts from a point, around 6 km outside Luang Prabang.  Today, it stands in almost abandoned condition, and the hiking trails and bridges are nonexistent in several places.  How To Visit Tad Thong Waterfall In Luang Prabang? You can easily reach the hiking starting point by tuk-tuk, car, or bike. The tuk-tuk price will be around 800,000 KIP.  What Is The Entry Fee And Hours Of Tad Thong Waterfall? The Tad Thong Waterfall remains open from 8 AM to 5 PM. The entry fee is around 20000 KIP per person.  What Is The Best Time To Visit The Tad Thong Waterfall? From July to January, or the rainy season, is the best time to visit the Tad Thong Waterfall. The waterfall remains full and active in these months, and you can photograph the most dramatic visuals.  What To Expect At Tad Thong Waterfall? Tad Thong is not as massive as Tad Se, nor does it have the grandeur of the Kuang Si Waterfall. However, visiting Tad Thong felt like finding a precious old book under a heap of dust.  Throughout the jungle walk, butterflies kept fluttering around, and the silence echoed through the rocks, making me feel a little cold after some time.  Lesser-Known Waterfalls: The Hidden Gems Of Luang Prabang  View this post on Instagram A post shared by Bui Nhat Quang (@eziography__) Located near the Green Jungle Park, Hoi Khua Waterfall is a powerful waterfall with a height of 100 meters. Along with swimming in the crystal clear pool formed by the waterfall, you can also relax inside the open-air huts at the Green Jungle Park. Hoi Khua Waterfall also has an interesting lore associated with it. It is said that locals once took shelter behind this waterfall to protect themselves from the approaching soldiers. However, what happened to them is a mystery to date.  Are The Waterfalls In Luang Prabang Accessible? Summarizing The Accessibility Rating Of The Waterfalls  Have a look at the table below to see which waterfalls are accessible and which are not.  WaterfallWheelchair AccessStairsSuitable for KidsKuang Si✅Moderate✅Tad Sae❌ (boat only)Few✅Tad Thong✅Minimal✅Hoi Khua✅Flat terrain✅ What Is The Cultural And Spiritual Significance Of The Waterfalls In Luang Prabang?  The waterfalls in Luang Prabang have many fascinating stories and secrets. I am sharing a few as I heard from my local guide and a Kuang Si waterfall ranger. 1. The Golden Deer Legend Of Kuang Si Waterfalls Kuang Si in the local language means (Kuang) Deer and Si (Dig). Stories have it that a wise man chose this spot and started digging into the earth to summon water. A golden deer made its home beneath the rock where the waterfalls flow now.  The story suggests a harmonious bond between humans and animals. Furthermore, the golden deer is a common character in Southeast Asian spiritual and religious stories. It has a vital role to play in the Ramayana, and we get the mention of the golden deer many times in the stories about the previous lives of Lord Buddha.  In addition, the story has given the waterfall a distinct cultural identity cherished by the locals. So, today, the Kuang Si Waterfall is more than a waterfall with a grand physical beauty. Mr. Boun, a Kuang Si Park Ranger, told me, “We protect the forest and teach kids about the golden deer legend. Kuang Si is sacred to us.” 2. Waterfalls In General Have A Connection With Buddhism Waterfalls in Luang Prabang are mostly located near the temples. The water from these falls is also used in cleansing rituals conducted by temples and monks.  Furthermore, offerings are made to these waterfalls during Pi Mai Lao or the Lao New Year.  3. Bear Rescue Center’s Cultural Role The Tat Kuang Si Bear Rescue Centre is more than a tourist attraction in Luang Prabang. It is an important center for the implementation and education of the local conservation efforts. The center also raises awareness about illegal wildlife trade.  Furthermore, many locals consider black bears sacred.  4. Butterfly Park Near Kuang Si You cannot miss the Butterfly Park located within walking distance of the Kuang Si waterfall. This park is peaceful with colorful butterflies fluttering around.  Butterflies have deep symbolism in Buddhism. These lively creatures teach us the art of letting go and how we can evolve and transform.  5. Caves Behind the Falls The hidden caves behind the upper tier of the Kuang Si Waterfalls are a telltale of the rich geological history of the region. These caves are missed by most visitors. So, these are ideal for a short meditation period or spending some moments of introspection.  Cultural Etiquette Tips For Foreigners Visiting Luang Prabang Waterfalls Some areas and pools near the waterfalls are considered sacred, and they are reserved for religious and spiritual activities. Conde Nast Traveller says, “Luang Prabang’s waterfalls offer a spiritual escape into nature.” So, swimming or access to those areas is not allowed. So, you have to adhere to these norms.  There are many other dos and don’ts you need to follow while exploring the waterfalls of Luang Prabang.  Dos ✅Don’ts ❌• Dress Modestly.• Wear a sarong or a towel over your swimsuit when walking around. • Seek permission from the locals before photographing them. • If a sign says “No Swimming” or “Do Not Enter,” respect it. These rules often protect sacred zones, wildlife, or fragile ecosystems.• Locals value quiet and respectful behavior, especially around sacred sites. Ensure children don’t climb on statues, splash excessively, or disturb wildlife.• If invited to join a blessing or offering ceremony, observe first, follow others’ lead, and avoid interrupting or asking too many questions during the ritual.• Using shampoos or soaps while bathing in the natural pools. • Touching the monks or offering them money directly. • Playing loud music or expecting a party vibe at the waterfalls. Waterfalls are often used for meditation, rituals, and family gatherings.• Littering is deeply frowned upon. Waterfalls are natural and spiritual spaces, and locals expect visitors to treat them with reverence. Secrets And Lesser-Known Facts You Did Not Know About Luang Prabang Waterfalls  The turquoise color of Kuang Si’s pools comes from the calcium carbonate particles of the limestone rocks. These particles reflect sunlight. Thus, create the iconic blue shade.  This turquoise blue color looks the most beautiful during the dry season.  Also, locals often bring picnic baskets and spend entire afternoons at waterfalls. Vendors near Kuang Si sell grilled chicken, sticky rice, and jaew bong for this purpose. It’s a cultural experience and the locals are welcoming enough to often ask the tourists to join them in.  Food And Dining Near The Waterfalls In Luang Prabang  You can visit the following areas for food and dining near the waterfall areas.  AreaFood And Dining SpotsLocationKuang Si AreaKuang Si Kitchen and ResortClick HereTad Sae AreaMainland StallsLocal restaurants in the mainland boat landingTad Thong AreaThe Living Land FarmClick Here What Are The Photography Tips For Visiting The Waterfalls In Luang Prabang?  The beautiful waterfalls of Luang Prabang are ideal for photography, and they are quite popular on social media. You need to keep in mind the following instructions for photography at these waterfalls.  Best TimeGears RequiredInstagram Spots • Daily: Golden Hour: 7:00–8:00 AM and 4:30–6:00 PM• Annually: Rainy Season• Wide-angle lens• Tripod for long exposure• ND filter for silky water effect• Kuang Si’s top tier• Bamboo bridge near Tad Sae• Jungle trail at Tad Thong So, visit the Luang Prabang waterfalls and have the best moments exploring the mighty cascades and soaking in their cultural and spiritual vibe.  Luang Prabang Waterfall Guide: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Here are the frequently asked questions and answers about the Luang Prabang waterfall guide.  1. Can I Swim In Kuang Si Falls? Yes, you can swim in the designated pools of Kuang Si Falls and other waterfalls. However, some pools are reserved for spiritual and religious activities. So, swimming is not allowed there. 2. Are There Lockers Or Changing Rooms? Yes, there are changing rooms near the Kuang Si waterfall entrance. However, you will not get a locker. You have to carry a dry bag and keep your valuables there, or if you are traveling in a group, you can enjoy the swim in turns.  3. Is Tad Sae Open Year-Round? No, the Tad Sae waterfall is not open year-round. August to November, or the rainy season, is the best time to visit the waterfall. It does not have water in the dry season (February to July). 

BY  Ankita Nov 13, 2023

If you’re here, then it’s settled, you’re a travel enthusiast. But what about Travel to Africa? Are you eager to explore the world’s richest continent, or are you looking to return for more unforgettable experiences? Here’s a rundown of 20 of the best places to travel in Africa in 2024, based on data from the web— with their history and peculiarity, and wonderful activities that people generally do there. These are just a few of Africa’s top tourist locations, for your bucket list! 1. Serengeti National Park, Tanzania Location: Arusha Region, Tanzania The Serengeti National Park is one of the most well-known and iconic wildlife sanctuaries in the world. It is the most coveted of Tanzania’s top National Parks. It is home to the annual Great Migration, one of the largest natural events on Earth, where millions of wildebeest, zebra, and gazelle travel across the Serengeti plains in search of new grazing land. Unique and incredible things to do here: Go on a safari to see the Serengeti's incredible wildlife, including lions, elephants, giraffes, cheetahs, and rhinos. Visit the Ngorongoro Crater, the world’s largest caldera, which is home to a variety of wildlife. They include black rhinos, lions, and elephants. Take a ride on a hot air balloon over the Serengeti plains for a bird’s-eye view of the Great Migration. Interesting Facts & Figures Over 500,000 people visit the Serengeti National Park each year. It is the most popular tourist destination in Tanzania. The Serengeti National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 2. Victoria Falls, Zambia/Zimbabwe Location: Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, Zambia and Zambezi National Park, Zimbabwe Victoria Falls is the largest waterfall in the world by the volume of water flowing over it. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most popular tourist destinations in Africa. Unique and incredible things to do here: Take a helicopter or microlight flight over Victoria Falls for a stunning aerial view. Go white water rafting or kayaking on the Zambezi River below Victoria Falls. Take a sunset cruise on the Zambezi River and watch the sunset over Victoria Falls. White water rafting Kayaking Nature walks Interesting Facts & Figures Over 1 million people visit Victoria Falls each year. It is the most popular tourist destination in Zambia and Zimbabwe. Victoria Falls is one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. 3. Cape Town, South Africa Location: Western Cape, South Africa Cape Town is one of the most beautiful and vibrant cities in Africa. Tourists get the unique opportunity to explore iconic landmarks such as Table Mountain, Robben Island, and Victoria & Alfred Waterfront. It is also an amazing idea for people with a business mind. Yes! You can also launch a business in Cape Town with some key considerations. Unique and incredible things to do: Take a cable car to the top of Table Mountain for stunning views of Cape Town and its surroundings. Visit Robben Island, where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned for 18 years, and learn about the history of South Africa's fight for democracy. Take a walk along Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, a popular tourist destination with shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues. Real tourist statistics: Over 4 million people visit Cape Town each year. It is the second most popular tourist destination in South Africa, after Kruger National Park. Cape Town is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Africa. 4. Pyramids Of Giza, Egypt Location: Giza, near Cairo, Egypt History: Built over 4,500 years ago, the pyramids are a testament to ancient Egyptian civilization. The Great Pyramid is one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.  In 2021, Giza welcomed over 14 million tourists (Egyptian Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities). Must-Visit: Explore the Sphinx and Valley Temple. Take a camel ride around the pyramids. Kruger National Park, South Africa Location: Limpopo and Mpumalanga provinces, South Africa. Kruger National Park is one of the largest and most popular game reserves in Africa. Established in 1898, it is one of Africa's oldest and largest game reserves. For Safari enthusiasts, the Kruger National Park is also one of the most popular safari destinations in the world. Over 2 million people visit Kruger National Park each year. You’ll meet an incredibly wide variety of wildlife, including lions, elephants, rhinos, leopards, and buffalo. Unique and incredible things to do here: Go on a safari to see Kruger’s incredible wildlife. Visit the Blyde River Canyon, the third-largest canyon in the world. Take a  ride on the hot air balloon over the Kruger National Park and look at the stunning and breathtaking landscape from the top. 6. Zanzibar Archipelago, Tanzania Location: Off the coast of Tanzania The Zanzibar Archipelago is a group of islands off the coast of Tanzania. Known for its spice trade, Zanzibar has a rich blend of African, Arab, and European influences. Zanzibar is a popular tourist destination known for its beautiful beaches, turquoise waters, and rich culture. If you’re a scuba diver looking for greater experiences, by all means, visit Zanzibar. Unique and incredible things to do here: Go Scuba diving in Zanzibar and her sister Islands like the Pemba Island. The region happens to be one of the most popular scuba diving destinations in Africa. Relax on Zanzibar's beautiful beaches and swim in the crystal-clear waters. Visit Stone Town, the historic center of Zanzibar City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Take a spice tour around Zanzibar’s colossal spice farms. Learn about some of the world’s most used spices and take special cooking lessons directly on the farms to discover the best of East African food. Interesting Facts & Figures about Zanzibar It is the second most popular tourist destination in Tanzania, after the Serengeti National Park. Zanzibar is one of the most popular beach destinations in Africa. Over 500,000 people visit Zanzibar each year. 7. Chobe National Park, Botswana Location: Chobe District, Botswana Chobe National Park is one of the largest national parks in Africa and is known for its large elephant population. It is also home to a variety of other wildlife, including lions, hippos, crocodiles, and antelope. Unique and incredible things to do: Take a boat cruise on the Chobe River and see elephants swimming and bathing. Go on a game drive and see Chobe's incredible wildlife up close. Visit the Savuti Marsh, a unique ecosystem that hosts a lot of wildlife. Interesting Facts & Figures Over 490,000 people visit Chobe National Park each year. It is the second most popular tourist destination in Botswana, after the Okavango Delta. Chobe National Park is a popular safari destination for tourists from all over the world. 8. Okavango Delta, Botswana Location: Okavango Delta, Botswana The Okavango Delta is a unique wetland ecosystem in Botswana. It is fed by the Okavango River, which flows from Angola into the Kalahari Desert. The Okavango Delta is a piece of hot cake, famous for its variegated wildlife, including elephants, lions, hippos, crocodiles, and antelope. Unique and incredible things to do here: Take a mokoro boat ride through the Okavango Delta and see wildlife up close. Visit the Moremi Game Reserve, a protected area within the Okavango Delta. Go on a helicopter safari and see the Okavango Delta from above. Nature walks Go camping on the 60 or so camps and lodges in the Okavango Delta. Ensure you pick the right tour guide for camping. Here are skills to look for in your tour guide.   Interesting Facts & Figures Over 100,000 people visit the Okavango Delta each year. It is the most popular tourist destination in Botswana. The Okavango Delta is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is considered one of the most beautiful places in Africa. 9. Tsingy De Bemaraha National Park, Madagascar Location: Menabe Region, Madagascar People say Madagascar is the 8th continent, not for its Geographic isolation from Africa, but for its uniqueness– being home to some of the rarest animal species in the world. If you’re curious about wildlife in the universe, by all means, visit Madagascar. The Tsingy de Bemaraha National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its limestone karst formations. The stingy are sharp limestone pinnacles that can reach up to 40 meters in height. The Tsingy de Bemaraha National Park is a territory for a multitude of wildlife, including lemurs, chameleons, and birds. Must-do tourist activities here: Hike through the Tsingy de Bemaraha National Park and see the incredible limestone karst formations up close. Visit the Tsingy de Bemaraha Special Reserve, a protected area within the national park. Go on a boat cruise on the Tsiribihina River and see wildlife from the water. Interesting Facts & Figures Over 87,000 tourists visit Madagascar and the Tsingy de Bemaraha National Park each year. It is the most popular tourist destination in Madagascar. 10. Ngorongoro Crater, Tanzania Location: Ngorongoro District, Tanzania The Ngorongoro Crater is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is the world's largest intact caldera. The crater is home to a variety of wildlife, including lions, elephants, rhinos, leopards, and buffalo. Unique and incredible things to do: Go on a game drive through the Ngorongoro Crater and see wildlife up close. Visit the Olduvai Gorge, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where early human fossils have been found. Take a hot air balloon ride over the Ngorongoro Crater for a top view of the entire wildlife. Interesting Facts & Figures Over 600,00 people visit the Ngorongoro Crater each year. It is a popular tourist destination for tourists from all over the world. There goes your top 10 must-visit places in Africa this coming 2024! Add these to your bucket list. Here are some more amazing places to visit in Africa in 2024, with relevant images: 11. Masai Mara National Reserve, Kenya The Masai Mara National Reserve is one of the most popular safari destinations in the world. It is a heaven for lovers of wild beasts and the Great Migration, an endless, majestic voyage of wild beasts —which cuts across Tanzania and Kenya. On your safari tours, you’ll come close to incredible animals like lions, elephants, giraffes, zebras, and leopards. The annual wildebeest migration takes place between July and October. Must-do tourist activities here in Kenya: Go on a game drive through the Masai Mara National Reserve and see wildlife up close. Visit the Mara Triangle, a protected area within the national reserve. Go on a ride on a hot air balloon over the Masai Mara National Reserve for a bird’s-eye view of the wildlife. 12. Lake Malawi National Park, Malawi Lake Malawi is the third-largest lake in Africa and one of the deepest lakes in the world. It is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and UNESCO describes the National Park as an area decked with nature’s beauty and bounty and also with the rugged landscapes around it.  It indeed forms a  contrast with the clear waters of the lake. Lake Malawi is a popular swimming, snorkeling, diving, and fishing destination. Speaking of fishing, the area hosts hundreds of varieties of cichlid fish. Not only this, nearly all the fishes are endemic to that of the  Lake Malawi. Remember to practice sustainable fishing! Must-do Tourist Activities on Lake Malawi National Park: Visit the Likoma Island, a beautiful island in Lake Malawi. Go snorkeling or scuba diving in the clear waters of Lake Malawi and see a variety of marine life. Take a boat trip on Lake Malawi and enjoy the stunning scenery. 13. Rainbow Mountains, Morocco The Rainbow Mountains are a unique geological formation in Morocco. The mountains are made up of a variety of colorful rocks, which give them their name. The Rainbow Mountains are a popular tourist destination for photographers and hikers. Must-do tourist activities here: Hike through the Rainbow Mountains and see the incredible colors of the rocks up close. Take a photo of the Rainbow Mountains at sunset or sunrise to capture their magical colors. Visit the nearby Berber villages and learn about the local culture. 14. Dogon Country, Mali The Dogon Country is a region in Mali that is known for its unique culture and architecture. People here are known for their cliffside villages and their traditional masks. The Dogon Country is a popular tourist destination for people interested in learning about African culture. Incredible things to do here: Visit the cliffside villages of the Dogon people and see their unique architecture. Learn about the Dogon people's culture and traditions. See the Dogon people's traditional masks. If you’re planning for International Travel in 2024, here are 9 great tips for a more authentic travel experience. 15. Simien Mountains National Park, Ethiopia The Simien Mountains National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is known for its stunning scenery and its population of gelada baboons. The Simien Mountains are also home to a variety of other wildlife, including mountain nyala, Walia ibex, and Ethiopian wolves. Unique and incredible things to do: Hike through the Simien Mountains and see the incredible scenery, including the Ras Dashen mountain, the highest peak in Ethiopia. Visit the gelada baboon population and see these fascinating creatures up close. Take a photo of the Simien Mountains at sunset or sunrise to capture their magical beauty. 16. Dahab, Egypt Location: Sinai Peninsula, Egypt. Originally a Bedouin fishing village, now a popular diving destination. Dahab attracted over 1 million visitors in 2021 (Egyptian Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities). Dahab is peculiar for The Blue Hole, a renowned diving site that attracts thousands of scuba divers around the world. Things you just can’t miss: Dive or snorkel in the Blue Hole. Explore the Desert of Sinai on a camel safari. 17. Etosha National Park, Namibia Etosha National Park is a large national park in Namibia, reputed for its salt pan, which is one of the largest in the world. The park has now become the top tourist attraction of Namibia with more than 140 000 visitors recorded annually. Beyond the salt pan, Tourists visit Etosha National Park to experience a diversity of wildlife, including lions, elephants, rhinos, and giraffes. Unique and incredible things to do: Visit the Etosha salt pan and see the animals that come to drink from the waterholes. Go on a game drive through the Etosha National Park and see wildlife up close. Visit the Okaukuejo waterhole and see the animals that come to drink at night.   18. Addo Elephant National Park, South Africa Addo Elephant National Park is one of South Africa’s proud National Parks,  reputed for hosting arguably the largest population of elephants in the world. If you’re a fan of these giant creatures, you should be visiting South Africa’s Addo Elephant National Park in 2024. About 120,000 people check out this park every year. The park is also home to a variety of other impressive wildlife, including lions, rhinos, and buffalo. Things you can’t miss here: Go on a game drive through the Addo Elephant National Park and see elephants up close. Visit the Shamwari Game Reserve, a private game reserve within the Addo Elephant National Park. Take a helicopter safari over the Addo Elephant National Park and see the wildlife from above. 19. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Uganda Location: Southwestern Uganda, at the junction of the plain and mountain forests. Just realized we haven’t talked about Gorillas so far. Thankfully, there’s the Bwindi National Park, which is popular for the 400 Bwindi Gorillas and Mountain Gorillas. The Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is known for its exceptional biodiversity, with more than 160 species of trees and over 100 species of ferns 1. It is also home to many types of birds and butterflies. Impenetrable National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is home to the largest population of mountain gorillas in the world. Stuff you can’t miss here: Go on a gorilla trekking tour and see mountain gorillas up close. Visit the Mubwindi Swamp, a unique ecosystem within the national park. Take a hike through the Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and enjoy the stunning scenery. 20. Kilimanjaro, Tanzania Location: Kilimanjaro Region, Tanzania We’re ending the list with a place that’s known as Africa’s roof – The Kilimanjaro. A dormant volcano, Kilimanjaro is Africa's highest peak, a place that attracts around 50,000 climbers/hikers each year. As you hike the largest free-standing mountain in the world (20,000 ft), you’ll experience multiple climatic zones, from tropical rainforest to arctic ice cap. Visiting Kilimanjaro is different from hiking other mountains in the world, such as the Seven Magic Mountains in Vegas, because almost all the variants of the ecological system are traced on the mountain. Not only this, they are also traced to the rain forest, heath, moorland, alpine desert, cultivable lands, and an arctic summit. Did you know? Nearly every climber who has summitted Uhuru Peak has recorded his or her thoughts about the accomplishment in a book stored in a wooden box at the top. Activities you can’t miss here: Trek to the summit for a sunrise view. Explore the diverse flora and fauna along the trails. Need help planning your trip to Africa? Check out our Top planning tips for your next trip abroad. Read Also: Maldives’ Luminescent Secret: The Mesmerizing Sea Of Stars! The Stairway To Heaven Hawaii: Hiking Adventure’s Hidden Gem Walking On Sunshine: Exploring The Magic Of Vietnam’s Golden Hand Bridge!

BY  sagnika Mar 11, 2025

When planning a cruise trip, you need to know the departing docks along with whether it is a round trip! If you are someone who is planning to depart from Galveston, let me share with you some of the best cruises out of Galveston.   When you visit different destinations when going to the Caribbeans, such as Cancun, Cozumel, Europe, Alaska, and others. These places are perfect for you if you love diverse and vibrant cultures along with making your lifetime memories.   Let’s explore more about the different places when you book some of these cruises! Many of these places are some of the best places to visit in February. Let me share with them some of the coolest plans that you can make when booking these cruises.   Here is a List of Best Cruises Out of Galveston for 2025   Before you book your cruise, let me share with you some of the key factors that influence you to make the decision. If you are looking for a high-end experience, you can book one of the best cruises out of Galveston!   You can visit beautiful exotic places such as the Costa Maya, Cozumel, and other Caribbean destinations after catching the best cruises out of Galveston. Be it for adventure, exhilaration, or relaxation, you can book cruises for your trip!   Let me tell you the right time when you can catch the best cruises out of Galveston! You can either go in early spring or late winter. During these trips, you will enjoy the places, the people, and the culture. This can be one of the best cruises for couples!   Carnival Cruise Lines   If you are planning to go on a cruise to enjoy yourself, party, and have fun, this is the one for you. With both family-friendly activities and adult activities available on board, you cannot go wrong with this lively cruise.   Furthermore, this cruise line is also perfect for those who are looking for a shorter vacation period, probably somewhere between 3 to 5 days of traveling. Additionally, the western Caribbean is the perfect place to visit when you are booking one of the best cruises out of Galveston.   Simultaneously, the cruise line is known for its onboard experiences when departing from Galveston. It is synonymous with vibrant experiences, festivities, and fun helping you create a lifetime of memories.   Disney Magic   The cruise line, Disney Magic is perfect if you are traveling with your family! With kids accompanying you, the Disney ship will entertain young children who are Disney fans. It is owned by the subsidiary of The Walt Disney Company, bringing together vacation and entertainment.   The first vessel on the cruise line was Disney Magic and later, other ships were added such as the Disney Dream, Disney Treasure, Disney Fantasy, and Disney Wish. The trips are mostly four to six-night-long voyages departing from Galveston to various places such as Puerto Rico, San Juan, and others.   You get various amenities such as dining cuisine inspired by local food, culture, and people. One of the top-ranking ships, the Disney Magic cruise takes you to various places such as Fort Lauderdale, Florida, Port Canaveral, and others.   Princess Cruises   If you are looking for an adult experience, just relaxing and having fun, this is the cruise that departs from Galveston. You can discover a different you when you are on this cruise, especially with so much going on in our daily lives.   You will feel like you are in your stylish retreat, either relaxing or experiencing new adventures. The trip is mostly a seven-day trip taking on one of the most beautiful and exotic western Caribbean. If you are an adventurous type of person, you can go rock climbing walls along with surf simulation.   There are traditional comforts for couples in this couple line with various activities along with modern innovations. The Princess Cruises is one of the best cruises out of Galveston in 2025, you will make a lifetime of memories when on it.   Night Western Caribbean   When you are planning to go on a cruise to the western Caribbean, choose this cruise line because it is one of the best cruises out of Galveston. On a four-night trip, you will board the Voyager of the Seas ship with several amenities available on board.   You will be experiencing crystal-clear waters with sun-drenched beaches when on this cruise trip. Furthermore, there are vibrant cultures that influence the dining experiences of the ship along with the activities and services available on board and when the cruise docks at the port.   Additionally, every port for you will bring new experiences with beautiful exotic places to check out. You can remember these memories for a lifetime! Easily, one of the best Caribbean cruises taking you to an experience for a lifetime.   Norwegian Cruise Line   The cruise line offers one of the best trips with its Norwegian Prima ship across Northern Europe, Alaska, the Mediterranean, and the Caribbean. Galveston is the home port of this cruise line and once it commences from the port, it takes you across a beautiful journey.   There are beautiful ports such as Costa Maya creating a perfect itinerary for you, both on-board and off-board experiences. There are several other experiences for children if you are going with your family.   Additionally, you can have an amazing couple experience if you are planning to make a special trip. There are also some opportunities for you if you have plans to travel alone because, in recent times, there are individual cabins and suites for such travelers.   Carnival Breeze   A dream-class cruise ship, I am vouching for Carnival Breeze ship one of the best cruises out of Galveston. The cruise line has a variety of cabins where you get all the first-class amenities along with maintaining a quality and talented crew. Additionally, you can also highlight it as one of the best cruises for families!   There are several ships such as Carnival Breeze, Carnival Breeze, Carnival Valor, and others. You will get 24-hour services on these ships as you visit beautiful exotic locations such as Miami, Spain, Venice, Barcelona, and others.   You will get a water park on board the ship along with other activities such as a ropes course! There are several other activities such as mini-golf, dancing sessions, and movie dates. Furthermore, there is a buffet, eateries and additionally, and two main dining rooms for breakfast, lunch, and dinner!   When the cruise docks at various ports, you can visit various places such as national parks, museums, and restaurants. Let's not forget shopping at the local markets, creating a perfect opportunity for memories.   Regal Princess   The Royal-class cruise ship will take you to some of the most exotic places in the world. You can travel to Tahiti, New England, Asia, Mexico, Australia, and others if you book Regal Princess for your cruise vacation.   Additionally, there are basketball court, a laser shooting range, and a game lounge. If you and your partner are people who love adventure when on vacation, this is your place to be. Simultaneously, you can also make plans when the ship docks at the port.   There is a delicious itinerary based on local culture and food concerning your lunch and dinner plans. You can book your cruise whether with your family, your partner or individually traveling to beautiful places!   Royal Caribbean   The large ships of the Royal Caribbean like Allure of the Seas are just perfect for families! With its extensive activities, both outdoor and ship-based, it creates an unforgettable experience for you and your family members.   There are also several amenities available that you can do with your partners or family members. Places you can visit if you book one of the best cruises out of Galveston this year such as Tulum, Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and others. These places are also some of the best places to travel with kids!   Additionally, these places are beautiful along with the delicious meals you get offered on the cruise. Furthermore, there are beautiful lodgings on the ship and outdoor entertainment for adults and children.    Let’s Go on a Trip...   To wrap up, some of the best cruises out of Galveston offer you a variety of experiences such as indoor and outdoor entertainment, delicious cuisines, and lodgings. The cruises are beautiful when it comes to creating the whole travel package.   You can comment on which one is your favorite or have you made any plans to book one of these cruises soon? Additionally, also let me know if I have missed any cruises that depart from Galveston, and it is quite cool.  Also read Top 10 Most Popular Paraguay Food That You Must Try. 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