By travel experts, Go2Africa
After two years of restricted travel caused by the pandemic, it is no wonder that many of us are now itching to start travelling again. Travel and Safari experts, Go2Africa reveal that one of the biggest trends for travelling in 2022 and beyond is to make up for lost time and ticking once-in-a-lifetime trips off their bucket list. In fact, Google searches for “once in a lifetime holidays” has seen an enormous 9900% uplift in the last month alone.
By analysing Google trend data, Go2Africa reveal the top 5 bucket list destinations, as visited and documented by wildlife and all-around travelling guru, David Attenborough, across his impressive career history.
- Safari – Google searches for “Africa safari” saw a 396% uplift
When did Attenborough visit: the TV series “Africa” aired in 2013, showing Attenborough’s journey through the continent. The series took four years to film across 27 countries.
Why you should visit too: An African safari is truly a magical experience. Unfortunately, our way of living means the animals we see tend to be in captivity, and while some zoos do work hard in conservation and protecting endangered species, nothing can beat seeing animals in their natural habitat. By going on a safari, you are also contributing to the preservation of both the land and the animals themselves. Most reputable tour operators also provide eco-friendly and conscious lodging and activities on their tours, meaning you can enjoy your holiday knowing you’re doing your bit for the prolonged protection of the animals.
- Madagascar – Google searches for “Madagascar travel” saw an incredible 9900% uplift
When did Attenborough visit: Attenborough’s series aired back in 2011. The production team spent eighteen months travelling the island, finding the rarest species.
Why you should visit too: Madagascar is known for its unique wildlife and diversity. If wildlife spotting is your thing, then not only can you spot lemurs in their natural habitat, but the marine life is also bustling. As Madagascar is close to their migration route, whales can be seen from the coast. However, if action and adventure are your holiday preference, then there’s ample opportunity to take part in water sports, such as surfing or kayaking.
- Galapagos islands – Google searches for “Galapagos travel” has seen a 230.2% uplift
When did Attenborough visit: Attenborough has visited the Galapagos numerous times and has stated that this is one of his favourite places to visit. The most recent documentary aired back in 2013.
Why you should visit too: The Galapagos Islands is known for its variety of wildlife, all of which has evolved with minimal human contact or predators for hundreds of years, resulting in animals that are noticeably more at ease with visitors than other parts of the world. The Islands also boast some of the most pristine lands and waters in the world, as its human influence and presence are minimal. Conscious conservation efforts are consistently made to keep human activity as minimal as possible. In fact, only 3% of the Galapagos islands are open to tourism.
- Great Barrier Reef – Google searches for “Great Barrier Reef” have increased by 822.2%.
When did Attenborough visit: Attenborough first visited the Great Barrier Reef back in 1957, where he scuba-dived along with an array of species to get the best look.
Why you should visit too: one of the seven natural wonders of the world, the Great Barrier Reef is the largest coral reef system and biggest living structure on Earth, coming in at over 1400 miles. Found along Australia’s east coast, the UNESCO World Heritage site boasts coral formations, rare whale species and over 1,600 different species of fish. Visits to the reef can vary, from snorkelling and scuba diving to boat trips visiting one of the many islands, making it the perfect destination to suit any type of traveller.
- Antarctica – Google searches for “Antarctica travel” have seen a 206.3% uplift.
When did Attenborough visit: originally Attenborough visited back in 1993.
Why you should visit too: Antarctica is home to a variety of wildlife, making it the perfect trip for enthusiasts. From king penguins to blue whales, the landscape homes a variety of incredible animals that you would otherwise never get to see in its natural habitat. Antarctica also has one of the last remaining pristine ecosystems in the world, meaning there has been no human influence.
The effects of global warming are unavoidable when visiting Antarctica and a tour guide will be able to give you in-depth information about the changes that have developed in recent decades. Many say after their trip to Antarctica, they return home with a deeper understanding of the climate crisis and take steps to reduce their carbon footprint.
