This is the number one bucket list experience in the world right now

Bali, Indonesia is at the top of everyone's list.

By Amanda Teague Published January 18, 2025

Bali — Sushuti / Pixabay

Go2Africa has just unveiled a global study revealing the world’s top bucket list experiences, based on search volume data. While iconic destinations like New York City, Machu Picchu, the Grand Canyon, and the Eiffel Tower dominate individual country preferences, one tropical paradise has captured the imagination of travelers everywhere.

The study found that visiting Bali, Indonesia, is the number one bucket list experience in the world right now. Famous for its jungles, rice terraces, beaches, and culture, Bali’s allure goes beyond its picture-perfect scenery. With spiritual retreats, thrilling adventures, and top-rated accommodations, Bali truly offers something for everyone.

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New York City, however, claimed the top spot for most countries individually, ranking as the ultimate bucket list city in 27 nations, including Argentina, Finland, and Taiwan. The Big Apple’s draw is especially strong in Europe, where 22 countries put it at the top of their travel wish lists.

The top 15 bucket list experiences for Americans

Northern Lights Canada — brigachtal / Pixabay

These are the bucket list experiences that came out on top for Americans

Northern Lights, various locations
Grand Canyon, United States
Bora Bora, French Polynesia
Eiffel Tower, France
Zion National Park, United States
Machu Picchu, Peru
Taj Mahal, India
Hot air balloon, various locations
Road trip, various locations
Great Wall of China, China
Scuba diving, various locations
Horseback riding, various locations
Whale sharks, various locations
Cappadocia, Turkey
Petra, Jordan

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People in a pool watch the sunset in Bali — Ern Gan / Unsplash

These are the top 20 overall bucket list experiences in the world.

Bali, Indonesia
Safari, Africa
Santorini, Greece
Disney World, United States
Bora Bora, French Polynesia
Northern Lights, various locations
Machu Picchu, Peru
Taj Mahal, India
Eiffel Tower, France
Grand Canyon, United States
Hike Patagonia, Chile
The Statue of Liberty, United States
Mount Everest, Nepal
Stonehenge, England
Antarctica, Antarctica
Mecca, Saudi Arabia
Big Ben, England
Niagara Falls, United States
The Empire State Building, United States
Colosseum, Italy

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Amanda, an accomplished freelance writer featured in several online publications, is a dedicated explorer of both the world…

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