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Francesca Williams February 24, 2026

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Lumle HolidaysFrom unique cultures to breathtaking landscapes and ornate temples, there’s something magical about travelling to exotic, far-flung locations that offer something totally different to what we’re used to. These places can also have beautiful wildlife, exquisite cuisines, and storied pasts, making them fascinating to explore.

With this in mind, we’ve partnered with UK-based travel company, Lumle Holidays, to bring you nine ideas for your next exotic adventure.

Operating in 67 countries worldwide, Lumle Holidays carefully curates small-group, escorted tours that transform the act of exploring into an immersive, memory-rich adventure. Imagine standing in awe as the morning mist reveals a mountain gorilla observing you with gentle curiosity or feeling the exhilarating echo of your steps within the enchanting hollow of an ancient lava tube.

Whether you’re a seasoned explorer or planning your first trip, Lumle are there to make your journey as smooth as possible and to help you create vivid memories that linger long after your return.

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1. Japan

Japan

Japan is a country like no other. Here, tranquil temples sit harmoniously beside neon-lit cities, ancient traditions have as much influence as modern innovation, and remarkable natural beauty abounds.

In the futuristic capital, Tokyo, you can sample delicious street food, learn the art of calligraphy, and wander historic streets in the Asakusa district, while Hiroshima’s Peace Park is ideal for quiet reflection. And, in Kyoto, Japan’s cultural heart, over a thousand temples and shrines are waiting to be explored, including the Golden Pavilion and Nara’s Toai-ji Temple, home to the Great Buddha statue.

On the island of Honshu, nature and wildlife lovers will be drawn to the iconic Mount Fuji, where hikes to its snowcapped summit reward with panoramic views over peaceful Lake Kawaguchi. Nearby, the Japanese Alps hug glittering lakes, forested valleys, and natural hot springs where snow monkeys bathe. And, in the south of Japan, tropical paradise awaits on the white-sand beaches of Okinawa.

But, of course, no visit to Japan is complete without tracking down the best sushi and ramen, particularly in cities like Tokyo and Shiogama. Foodies will also want to try kaieski (a specialty in Kyoto), a multi-course haute cuisine meal as visually beautiful as it is delicious, as well as local delights like takoyaki (octopus balls) and okonomiyaki (savoury pancakes).

And for a truly special sight, why not visit Japan in spring when blankets of soft pink cherry blossoms turn hills and parks into otherworldly pastel landscapes?

2. Peru

Peru

Peru is a magical country separated into three distinct regions: the coast, the highlands, and the jungle.

While the western coast covers only a small percentage of land, it’s home to more than half the Peruvian population, several iconic landmarks, and Peru’s lively capital, Lima (which is also South America’s gastronomic capital!). Travel to the mysterious Nazca Lines, etched into the arid coastal desert; spot dolphins, penguins, and sea lions in Paracas National Reserve; or track down world-class ceviche and anticuchos (popular Peruvian street food) in the capital.

Meanwhile, the awe-inspiring Andes Mountains, which wind through the centre of Peru, are the historical heartland of the ancient Inca Empire. Here, a collection of inspiring walking trails lead to some of Peru’s most famous sites. Breathe in the surreal, multicoloured tiers of Rainbow Mountain, and pass cloud forests, vast Andean peaks, and raging rivers on the four-day Inca Trail hike towards Machu Picchu. Nearby, the Incan capital of Cusco, which is rich in Baroque colonial architecture and serves as the gateway to the Sacred Valley.

Then, in Peru’s mighty Amazon Rainforest (covering nearly 60% of the country’s territory), jungle trails and raised canopy walkways offer the chance to spot sloths, anteaters, jaguars, and macaws, while waterway tours pass caimans, pink dolphins, and giant river otters. In the dramatic Colca Canyon, mighty Andean condors, the world’s largest flying bird, soar overhead. And in rural villages like Puno, located on the shores of Lake Titicaca, indigenous communities live on islands made of totora reeds.

3. Vietnam

Vietnam

The long, narrow-shaped nation of Vietnam is home to emerald-green paddy fields, vibrant megacities, dramatic scenery, and no fewer than eight UNESCO Sites.

In beautiful Ha Long Bay, days can be spent kayaking beside dramatic limestone karsts, swimming in secluded lagoons, and exploring hidden caves; while Ninh Binh, known locally as ‘Ha Long Bay on Land’, promises memorable boat tours along peaceful waterways. Then, in Sapa, Vietnam’s adventure capital, world-class hiking trails wind through stunning rice fields, bamboo forests, and gushing waterfalls towards Fan Si Pan, Vietnam’s highest peak.

In Hue, once the political centre of imperial Vietnam, history lovers will be captivated by the city’s striking collection of ornate palaces, shrines, and temples – including the iconic seven-tiered Thien Mu Pagoda. Meanwhile, the beautifully-preserved Old Town of Hoi An, on Vietnam’s central coast, is home to Chinese shops, French colonial houses, Japanese bridges, and narrow Vietnamese tube houses, reflecting the country’s melting-pot history.

In the bustling metropolises of Ho Chi Minh and Hanoi, historical landmarks, museums, and tantalising food await. Savour the taste of pho (noodle soup), goi cuon (summer rolls), com tam (broken rice), and banh mi (French-Vietnamese stuffed baguettes), or refresh with a famous Vietnamese egg coffee.

4. India

India is a captivating blend of ancient history, vibrant spirituality, and stunning nature – a must-visit for adventure seekers.

The trekking routes of the towering Himalayas are unmatched, leading to mesmerising vistas of lush forests, serene turquoise lakes, and vast alpine meadows. And India’s myriad of national parks offer unique wildlife spotting opportunities. Go in search of the majestic Bengal tiger in Ranthambore National Park, or on a jeep safari through Kaziranga National Park, keep your eyes peeled for elephants, wild buffalo, one-horned rhinoceros, and a plethora of bird species.

Nicknamed “The Land of Diversity”, India’s culture is also as varied as its landscape, and world-famous UNESCO sites like Agra’s grand Taj Mahal, Rajasthan’s mighty Amber Fort, and Amritsar’s Golden Temple get to the very heart of it. But no visit here is complete without getting a taste for the vibrant festivals – particularly Holi, the festival of colours, and Diwali, with its dazzling lights.

India is also known for the high-energy, organised chaos of cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore, which are a feast for the senses. Plus, with flavours and dishes varying from region to region, the country offers a culinary adventure like no other – from the fiery curries of Punjab and mild, coconut-infused stews of Kerala to street food delights like chaat in Delhi and pav bhaji in Mumbai.

5. Colombia

Colombia

The fourth-largest country in South America, Colombia is popular for its beautiful wildlife, world-famous coffee, vibrant cities, and dazzling scenery.

As one of the most biodiverse places on Earth, Colombia is home to more bird species than any other country, including over 1,900 native and migratory species. Large swathes of hummingbirds, toucans, and tanagers are drawn to the vast orchid farm of Finca Romelia in Manizales, and in Chingaza Natural Park, you can glimpse the mighty Andean condor, Colombia’s national bird.

In stunning locations like Rosario Islands and Toyrona Natural Park, where the Sierra Nevada Mountains meet the Caribbean Sea, golden beaches await with crystal-clear waters. And, a multi-day trek through the mountains of the Santa Marta jungle will take you to the Lost City (Ciudad Perdida), an ancient indigenous settlement 650 years older than Machu Picchu.

Much of Colombian culture is centred around a love for music, dance, and social gatherings, best displayed in cities like Medellin, Cartagena, Bogota, and Cali, where lively plazas sit beside a musical backdrop of salsa and reggaeton. Meanwhile, the smaller, countryside towns of Colombia’s coffee-growing region (Eje Cafetero), like Salento and Filandia, offer a laid-back way of life and bucket list coffee tours where you can learn how to make the finest brews.

6. Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka

Known as the ‘Teardrop Isle’, the beautiful South Asian paradise of Sri Lanka is around the same size as Wales, but stands confidently with its unique culture and character.

Sri Lanka’s landscapes are punctuated with incredible heritage sites, including many Buddhist temples dating back over two millennia. Highlights include Kandy’s white-walled Temple of Tooth, the ancient Rock Fortress of Sigiriya, and the ancient cities of Polonnaruwa and Anuradhapura, home to the oldest living human-planted tree in the world, planted in 288 BC.

In cities like Colombo, modern high-rises and chic cafes coexist with bustling markets and historic landmarks like the Gangaramaya Temples, showcasing Sri Lanka’s evolving urban culture. Meanwhile, coastal towns like Galle and Mirissa thrive on a slower-paced, community way of life.

Sri Lanka’s prime location in the Indian Ocean also makes it ideal for whale watching. Blue whales are frequently spotted in southern waters off the coast of Galle, while ‘super-pods’ of up to 150 sperm whales fill the northern waters of Kalpitiya. On land, safaris in Yala National Park offer the chance to spot leopards, elephants, sloth bears, and jackals, while tea plantation tours tell the story behind Sri Lanka’s ‘green gold’.

7. Indonesia

Indonesia

With volcanic summits, sweeping beaches, mystical forests, shimmering reefs, and an intriguing culture, Indonesia is breathtaking in its diversity. Made up of over 17,000 islands, it’s the world’s largest archipelago, and adventure abounds.

The UNESCO-listed Komodo National Park, located between the islands of Flores and Sumbawa, is home to thousands of Komodo dragons (the world’s largest lizards), as well as many other endangered species. Meanwhile, on the island of Borneo, Tanjung National Park hosts families of orangutans, gibbons, and proboscis monkeys. And the underwater worlds of Raja Ampat, Bali, Nusa Penida, and the Gili Islands are roamed by whale sharks, sea turtles, and manta rays.

Indonesia also contains one-third of the world’s active volcanoes, so hiking to a summit is a must. Popular options include Java’s mighty Gunung Bromo, offering stunning sunrise views over a lunar-like landscape, and Mount Ijen, known for its turquoise acid crater lake and unique blue flames, best seen at night.

To connect with Indonesia’s rich culture, Yogyakarta’s ninth-century Borobudur Temple, the largest Buddhist temple in the world, impresses with its tiered structure reflecting a giant stupa. And in Ubud, the cultural heart of Bali, you’ll find artisan markets, traditional dance performances, and temples like Tirta Empul, famous for its holy water purification rituals.

8. Costa Rica

Costa Rica

When it comes to adventure and diversity, it’s difficult to top Costa Rica. Despite its small size, Costa Rica is one of the most biodiverse places on Earth, with an estimated 615 wildlife species per every 10,000 square kilometres.

Over 25% of Costa Rican land is protected. The country boasts 27 national parks, 13 forest reserves, and eight biological reserves, where sloths, crocodiles, jaguars, howler monkeys, and tropical birds like quetzals, toucans, and scarlet macaws reside. And that’s all without mentioning Costa Rica’s rich marine life, which includes sharks, dolphins, rays, and whales.

Thrill seekers can enjoy exploring mist-wrapped volcanoes, hiking over suspension bridges in tropical rainforests, and swimming, surfing, or kayaking in crystal-clear waters beside golden beaches. Meanwhile, the charming towns of San Jose, Tortuguero, and Monteverde are perfect for unearthing Costa Rica’s unique history and tantalising cuisine.

9. Thailand

Beautiful Thailand, known as the ‘Land of Smiles’, has been one of the most popular travel destinations for decades, and it’s not difficult to see why. Here, picture-perfect beaches contrast with bustling cities offering vibrant markets, exhilarating tuk-tuk rides, and mouthwatering street food, with a myriad of magical temples dotted in between.

The country’s coastlines are world-famous, and in popular destinations like Krabi, Phuket, and the Phi Phi Islands, you can swim in emerald lagoons, kayak through sheltered mangroves, and hike to stunning viewpoints, like Tiger Cave Temple. Meanwhile, the unspoilt charm of areas like Koh Samui and Koh Lanta is ideal for those seeking serenity away from the crowds.

For a culture hit, travellers can marvel at the magnificently ornate Wat Phra Kaew in Bangkok’s Grand Palace, Thailand’s most sacred Buddhist temple. Or, head to the historic UNESCO city of Ayutthaya, where a tree-entwined Buddha-head and towering stupas reflect the grandeur of ancient Siam.

When it comes to food, few cuisines are loved more than Thai, popular for its fusion of sweet, salty, spicy, and sour. On a culinary adventure, you can sample signature dishes like pad thai and tom yum soup, or test street food delicacies like satay skewers, mango sticky rice, and som tum (papaya salad).

Final thoughts…

Travelling is a profound gift, forming some of our most unforgettable memories. And there’s something particularly special about exploring exotic areas that expose us to stories totally different from our own.

Lumle Holidays is passionate about curating small-group, escorted tours that transform the act of exploring into an immersive, memory-rich adventure. Whether you’re a seasoned explorer or planning your first trip, Lumle are there to make your journey as smooth and enjoyable as possible – connecting you with some of the world’s most beautiful sights.

To find out more about Lumle Holidays and browse available tours, head over to their website.

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Francesca Williams

Francesca Williams is a senior lifestyle writer at Rest Less. She joined Rest Less in early 2021 after achieving a first-class degree in History at the University of Sheffield and qualifying as an NCTJ Gold Standard Journalist. Francesca is a qualified Level 3 Personal Trainer and writes across a range of lifestyle topics, specialising in health. In her spare time, Francesca likes to keep herself busy going to the gym, dancing, spending time with friends and family, and getting involved with her local church.

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