As a travel photographer I have the privilege to spend about half the year on the road, visiting new countries and revisiting “old” favourites. Just last year I had the chance to discover Bhutan and Uganda for the first time, as well as going back to Zambia, Zimbabwe and Kenya. With each of these trips comes a wealth of experiences, fostering my knowledge about many different destinations and what makes them special and worth a visit in the new year.
To kick off 2025 I’m sharing my predictions for which places you should definitely put on your bucket list in 2025.
The 7 countries on this list are my personal recommendations for those who, like me, seek nature & wildlife experiences and meaningful travel experiences while taking care to explore responsibly and ethically. From the savannas of South and East Africa to the mystique of Southeast Asia, these destinations are making waves for all the right reasons—be it new lodges or experiences, major milestones, or simply their untouched natural beauty.
Here’s why Zambia, Kenya, Malaysia, Bhutan, India, Zimbabwe, and Uganda should top your travel list in 2025.
Zambia: Still flying under the radar in 2025
Zambia has long been a haven for experienced safari lovers, but is still not widely recognised as a prime safari destination. 2025 might change that with a new tourism initiative by the government, but the year brings even more reasons to visit, even for first time safari travellers. Having explored this stunning country myself multiple times in the last years, I can vouch for its breathtaking landscapes, incredible wildlife density and warm hospitality. In 2025 the country is celebrating the completion of new eco-luxury lodges like Kutandala in the remote North Luangwa National Park (for those more intrepid among you), but also easy access with direct flights from Johannesburg or Capetown to Livingstone to visit Victoria Falls, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. With its wealth of well-protected and managed National parks, like Lower Zambezi and South Luangwa, Zambia is also emerging as a leader in sustainable tourism. Don’t miss venturing out to Kafue National Park—a park the size of the country of Slovenia—with only a few camps scattered in the vast wilderness.
Find our complete Zambia travel guide here.
Kenya: The remote North and private conservancies
Kenya has been a safari favourite since decades and is offering a well-established tourism industry with professional services, from commercial flight connections to it’s many National Parks as well as industry-leading lodges and camps. Having been to Kenya a handful times I know there’s still a more wild experience to be found, venturing out of the main reserves like the Maasai Mara into private conservancies or visiting the remote Laikipia plateau in the North of Kenya. Additionally, Nairobi is blossoming into a must-visit metropolis with boutique hotels, gourmet restaurants and it’s very own National Park (yes, you can go on safari and see lions within the city!). andBeyond will open their new Suyian luxury lodge in Northern Laikipia where you can track the melanistic leopards, while established providers like Elewana Collection still offer the best spot to see large herds of elephants in Amboseli. For travelers who love both comfort and natural immersion, Kenya has it all.
Find our complete Kenya travel guide here.
Malaysia: A Southeast Asian surprise
Malaysia holds a special place as one of my best surprise destinations of the year. The vibrant mix of cultures and breathtaking natural beauty is what convinced me, alongside wonderfully quirky cities like Penang and Kuala Lumpur, heavenly beach resorts like The Datai in Langkawi and hip Michelin star-clad eateries. Kuala Lumpur’s burgeoning food scene is earning global recognition, with fusion dishes that blend traditional Malay, Indian, and Chinese influences. The same goes for the culture and history, you can sense the mingling of cultures, religions and history everywhere, which makes Malaysia intriguing and unique among the surrounding more established South East Asian destinations. If you love nature then Langkawi is a must visit, with incredible stretches of beach hidden in coves and surrounded by lush jungle. For adventure lovers, Borneo offers pristine rainforests, wildlife encounters (Orang-Utans! still on my personal bucket list), and diving spots that are now more accessible thanks to new transportation routes. If you’re drawn to diversity and adventure, Malaysia is a must.
Find our complete Malaysia travel guide here.
Bhutan: A Journey into Tranquility
When we’re speaking of Asia one country cannot be overlooked: Bhutan. The Land of the Thunder Dragon wasn’t high on my personal bucket list, because I always fell into the traps of the myth, that it’s impossible to visit. Yet, none of it is true – there’s no quota on tourist numbers and the tourist visa isn’t a riddle that cannot be solved. Also it’s worth mentioning, that Bhutan has reduced its Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) by 50%, lowering it from $200 to $100 per person per night. This reduced rate will be valid throughout 2025, making it an ideal time to visit. Last year only around 150,000 tourists visited the mountain kingdom, that’s why Bhutan remains one of the least visited countries in the world. Limited visitor numbers make Bhutan an exclusive and serene experience. My journey from Paro all the way to Gangtey was nothing short of mesmerising. Together with my lovely guide Karma we traversed stunning landscapes and ancient monasteries that offer an intimate connection to Bhutanese culture, which is very much alive in the everyday lives of the people. In 2025, Bhutan’s increased efforts to focus fully on sustainable & ethical tourism with locally-owned home stay accommodations and eco-treks are inspiring global admiration. This is the ultimate destination for mindful travelers.
Full travel guide will be available soon.
Rajasthan, India: Tiger safaris, palaces & more
During my time in India, I was captivated by the grandeur of its palaces and the vibrant energy of its markets, the well-preserved history of the Moguls and former empires and of course, the majestic presence of the Bengal tiger. Jaipur, Udaipur, and Jodhpur continue to fascinate with their rich history, while desert breakouts add a sense of calm and serenity in an otherwise exhilarating, but equally exhausting adventure full of sensory overload. There’s smells, there’s colours, there’s noise, until there suddenly isn’t. In the Thar desert as well as in Ranthambore National Parks you can find reprieve from the beautiful madness of the streets of Rajasthan. And if you’re lucky you can spot a tiger on a safari there too, not the worst reason to go!
Find our complete Rajasthan travel guide here.
Zimbabwe: A Renaissance in Tourism
Zimbabwe’s tourism renaissance is taking center stage in 2025, with major investments in infrastructure and hospitality. I fell in love with the country’s stunning scenery during two separate trips in the last years, from the majesty of Victoria Falls to the tranquility of Mana Pools and the elephant heaven Hwange. Victoria Falls remains an unmissable highlight, but lesser-known gems like Hwange National Park are also drawing visitors for all the right reasons. This is where I had one of my all time favourite wildlife encounters ever with a lioness carrying her newborn cubs in her mouth – one by one. An experience I will never forget. But there’s more! A new focus on community-led tourism initiatives offers travelers a chance to experience authentic Zimbabwean culture while supporting local livelihoods. You can stay in exquisite camps by brands like Wilderness or locally owned African Bush camps. For those seeking both adventure and purpose, Zimbabwe delivers.
Find our complete Zimbabwe travel guide here.
Uganda: The Pearl of Africa Shines Bright
Uganda is stealing the spotlight in 2025 as gorilla trekking becomes more accessible with the introduction of new eco-friendly lodges and the same relatively affordable price for permits (800 USD). My time trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest remains one of my most cherished travel moments of the year. Spending time with gorillas is an experience that will be forever inscribed in my memory, you feel connected to them in a way that evades any description. While many only visit Uganda for primate trekking, there’s more to be seen. Of course you cannot miss a chimpanzee habituation in Kibale forest, which is more intense, but also more rewarding than a regular trek – affording you more time with the chimps and learning how the habituation process works. Also a boat safari on Kazinga channel in the famed Queen Elizabeth National Park should be on your bucket list. This is where you can get on eye level with elephants feeding at the water bank or even bathing next to your boat. Walking with rhinos, boat safaris on the Nile and game drives in Murchison Falls round up a perfect Uganda itinerary. The best part: It’s relatively affordable to travel and you can visit much of it on a road trip.
Full travel guide will be available soon.
Final Thoughts on 2025 travels
Travel in 2025 is all about meaningful experiences and discovering places that resonate with natural beauty, cultural richness, and sustainable initiatives. These destinations, which I’ve had the joy of experiencing firsthand, promise unforgettable journeys for travelers who value responsible and ethical exploration.
Whether it’s the remote corners of Kenya, the serene mountains of Bhutan, or the vibrant palaces of Rajasthan, there’s something for everyone. Start planning your trips early, as these trending countries are bound to attract adventurers from around the globe. Happy traveling!
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