August Bucket List: 10 Unmissable Experiences Around the World

If you’ve been looking for the ultimate bucket list in August, you’ve come to the right place! Summer is the perfect time for traveling, because not all destinations are as hot and humid as most areas in the U.S. It’s an excellent time for traveling worldwide to enjoy incredible, once-in-a-lifetime experiences!

Whether you want to go camping in Wadi Rum, search for Nessie in Loch Ness, or take a balloon ride in Bagan, August is excellent for the adventurous Traveler. In our August bucket list, we’ll dive deeper into unforgettable experiences from all over the world!

10. Go Camping in Wadi Rum

Are you itching to feel velvety sand under your toes, wanting to see a magical desert sunset? If you’ve answered yes, camping in Wadi Rum is an experience you’ll want to add to your bucket list!

While camping, you can see endless sand stretches and fascinating rock formations and take camel rides and jeep tours. Typically, overnight camping features these activities in addition to breakfast in the camp of your choosing.

You can choose from various camps, each giving you a taste of Bedouin life. Some even offer yoga retreats or cultural insights.

9. Swim in a Cenote in Mexico’s Yucatan

If you’ve never heard of a cenote, it’s a formed well, and sacred place where you can observe the world’s natural wonders. In Mexico, the cenotes are well protected since they’re a tourist hot spot.

Unlike the ocean with undertows and waves, cenotes are closed off, assuring you’ll swim in calm waters, making for a restful bucket list experience. If you don’t know much about this once-in-a-lifetime experience, don’t fret!

Enjoy the crisp waters and crystal blue waters in this magical water-based atmosphere.

8. Search for Nessie in Loch Ness

If you’re on a quest for something mysterious, head to Loch Ness in Scotland. This place is famous for its legendary monster, Nessie.

The first sighting dates back to the 6th century, and there have been over 1,100 reports since. While many views have been dismissed as hoaxes, the thrill of the hunt keeps people coming back.

When searching for Nessie, you can book a paddle adventure to get right on the water in a kayak or canoe. Dores Beach is the perfect spot, giving you fantastic views of Loch Ness. Loch Ness has endless opportunities if you’re ready to discover your own stories of Nessie.

Whether you’re looking to see the Loch Ness monster or want to enjoy the atmosphere, this will surely be a luxury retreat.

7. Climb the Leaning Tower of Pisa

Found on many postcards, the Leaning Tower of Pisa is one of the most known and visited landmarks in the world. As a signature sight, many travelers aim to climb to the top.

With more than 200 steps to get you there, it has an incredible winding spiral staircase, making it an easy climb. Don’t worry; it will only take around 30 minutes to reach the top.

Once you climb the tower, return to the grassy area for a fantastic photo shoot. Many travelers like to create the optical illusion of holding the Leaning Tower of Pisa in their hand.

6. Learn Scuba Diving in Koh Tao

When it comes to scuba diving, Koh Tao is one of the top locations in the world for this water-based activity.

Koh Tao is also a fantastic spot to learn scuba diving. They have over 70 diving schools on their island! The warm waters, usually between 28-29 degrees Celsius, make it comfortable for beginners. Plus, the calm seas have minimal currents, which is perfect for learning.

You’ll start with some theory, then practice skills in a pool. After that, you can dive into the beautiful waters. You can complete an open water diving course for three to four days which includes exploring diving sites.

Some of the best diving sites in Koh Tao are Twins, White Rock, Southwest, Shark Island, and Chumphon.

5. Take a Balloon Ride in Bagan

The best way to view the mystical land of Bagan is by taking a hot air balloon ride. While this bucket list item is a big splurge, it’s worth the cost to experience this bird’s eye view of this gorgeous place.

The best time to take a hot air balloon ride in Bagan is sunrise. As the sun comes up, you might be lucky enough to see the morning mist on the ground, getting to view this magical landscape.

For around 45 minutes, you’ll fly over Bagan and get to see over 2,000 Hindu and Buddhist temples, farms of peanuts and cotton, and endless palm trees. There is no better way to see Bagan during sunrise or sunset than from a hot air balloon!

4. Walk Through a Slot Canyon

If you didn’t already know, slot canyons are a narrow gorge, with many found in Utah. One of the top slot canyons is Antelope Canyon. Located in Northern Arizona, Antelope Canyon has been a top traveling location known for its tours.

As you walk through, you’ll see beams of light, take a million photos, and try to figure out which spot you love the best (you’ll love them all). Antelope Canyon can only be explored with a tour guide due to its intense popularity.

Antelope Canyon is one of the prettiest slot canyons in the southwest and a must-see to view the curves and shapes of this unique rock formation.

3. See the Sunset in Santorini

Known as a photographer’s paradise, Santorini has breathtaking views and gorgeous sunsets. As a Travel enthusiast, you will be in for a real treat.

One of the top sunset spots in Santorini is at the Castle of Oia. Eager to grab the perfect photo, many tourists Travel to this location up to two hours in advance. While you’ll have an awe-inspiring view, there are also less crowded areas on the island.

One of the less crowded spots to see the sunset is Imerovigli. Often unvisited by travelers, when the sunset approaches, the entire town is covered in a beam of light. The Imerovigli View will give you the perfect lookout for breathtaking sunset views.

2. Admire the Ganges River in Varanasi

Visiting the Indian city of Varanasi offers a chance to see the stunning Ganges River. This river is sacred to many and is full of life and activity. Taking a boat ride at sunrise is a special experience.

You’ll see the beautiful ghats and get to witness rituals that have been performed for centuries. The sight is both serene and captivating.

Walking along the river, the energy of the city surrounds you. You can also watch the flower ceremonies and local celebrations. Each moment by the Ganges feels unique.

1. Peddle the Gorges du Verdon

Want to Travel to the South of France in hopes of paddle-boating the Gorges du Verdon? The Gorges du Verdon is one of the most breathtaking places to visit, with its turquoise waters shimmering during the day.

With tall, gorgeous, and emerald waters, the scenery is something you’d only see out of a movie. While it’s easy to make paddle boating the Gorges du Verdon a day trip, we recommend spending at least a day or two to get a better feel for the area.

The best time to visit the Gorges du Verdon is August, when there is consistently sunny and warm weather! With perfect weather, paddle boats will always be available for rent.