Ready to close out this year with a bang? Consider a family holiday to one of the world’s most enticing and unforgettable destinations. We’ve put together our top year-end destinations wtih handcrafted itineraries to places like the iconic Galapagos Islands, Iceland’s jaw-dropping landscapes, and Peru’s legendary Machu Picchu citadel that everyone from kids to grandparents can enjoy together. Mixing culture, adventure, history, wildlife, and the outdoors, we’ve curated trips to satisfy the entire family—all you have to do is show up. Here are some of our favorite end-of-year vacation spots for creating memories that will last a lifetime.
Galapagos Islands
When Charles Darwin first visited the Galapagos Islands in 1835, he happened upon an extraordinary archipelago of plants, birds, and reptiles that had developed in isolation. You and your family can experience that same world for yourselves on this popular seven-day Galapagos Wildlife Walking Adventure. From swimming alongside curious sea lions to walking among lumbering giant tortoises, get ready for some of the most amazing wildlife encounters imaginable. Blue-footed boobies, colorful marine iguanas, and massive sea turtles are all par for the course here, as is snorkeling with penguins, kayaking turquoise waters, and even hiking through lava fields to peer down into the caldera of an active volcano. Unlike most Galapagos excursions, you’ll bed down on land in a selection of seafront boutique inns, forgoing the endless to-and-fro zodiac rides for more time to soak in the flora and fauna, and make lifelong multi-generational memories in the process.
Costa Rica
From tropical white-sand beaches to waterfall-filled rainforests where hundreds of hummingbirds and butterflies reside, our six-day Costa Rica Walking Wildlife Adventure offers the ideal family getaway—especially at year’s end, with its warm weather and clear skies. The country’s wildlife alone is enough to stir imaginations, though this hub of biodiversity is also the place for unforgettable multigenerational escapades. From ziplining through the cloud forest, kayaking among mangroves, and spotting colorful toucans, iguanas, and sloths alongside our expert naturalist guide. Our well-rounded Costa Rica adventure that explores the bio-diverse Osa Peninsula offers a little something for everyone.
Peru
Whether it’s your first time seeing Machu Picchu or your tenth, laying eyes on this storied 15th-century Inca citadel tucked within the jungle never gets old, especially when you’re doing it as a family. Our seven-day Peru Cultural Walking Adventure offers a detailed look at both Inca and Andean culture for all ages, with plenty of archaeological sites, ancient ruins, and walking—often in the company of llama herders and Quechua villagers—along the way. Catch the sunrise over the Sacred Valley of the Incas, shop for ponchos and chullos (alpaca wool hats) at Pisac, and learn traditional weaving techniques from Andean women. Once at Machu Picchu, which you can reach either on foot via the iconic Inca Trail, or via a panoramic-view railcar along the Urubamba River to Aguas Calientes (so named for its hot springs), you’ll have two days to soak in the scenery, both on your own and with our expert guide.
Iceland
Get an up-close look at life in the ‘land of fire and ice’ for an otherworldly experience on our Iceland Walking Tour. Give your family the opportunity to snorkel between tectonic plates, hike on glaciers, ride Icelandic horses, walk up to waterfalls, relax in the steamy Blue Lagoon, and walk on a black sand beach (pictured above). Has seeing the Northern Lights been on your bucket list? The Aurora Borealis is a regular sighting in Iceland from fall through late spring, so you can get your chance to watch Mother Nature’s spectacular show with your loved ones. Our Viking-descended tour guides know exactly where to watch them and will share the scientific (as well as the folklore reasons) for them as you marvel at the sky.
Venice, Florence, and Rome
When it comes to art, architecture, and culinary delights, Italy is a true tour de force. This is especially true when it comes to the country’s trio of cultural hubs: Venice, Florence, and Rome. Join Classic Journeys on our seven-day Venice, Florence & Rome Cultural Walking Adventure for a deep delve into these remarkable cities. Take your family on a gondola ride through the famous canals of Italy’s “Queen of the Adriatic,” then stroll its iconic piazza in the company of a well-versed guide. In Florence, a city hailed for its Renaissance art and wealth of incredible palaces and museums, get skip-the-line access to Michelangelo’s masterpiece, David. And in Rome, Italy’s capital, tour the Colosseum, toss wish-granting coins in Trevi Fountain, and visit Vatican City for a special-access look at the Sistine Chapel’s frescoed ceiling. Along the way, you’ll have opportunities to stroll the scenic Tuscan countryside, engage with local cheese-making shepherds, toss your own pizza, and sample plenty of gelato—a perk for both kids and adults alike!
Morocco
Imagine walking through the bustling souks (markets), visiting the imperial cities of Marrakech and Fes, and trying flavorful new cuisine along the way. You may also be surprised to know that the climate in Morocco is moderate, as it is the coolest and most welcoming of the African nations for visitors from around the world. Pack your sense of adventure (and get your taste buds ready for some new spices) when you head to Morocco with your family. Whether you’re 8, 18, 48, or 80, you’ll enjoy immersing yourself in this enchanting destination and making the best Moroccan memories together.
Fun for all ages
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By Classic Journeys
