Your next big adventure: experts answer questions and share tips on what’s hot in 2025
Scott Dunn’s bespoke itineraries are designed to evoke moments that resonate strongly with travellers
Travel isn’t just about exploring new places – it’s about the emotions it stirs within us. The awe of standing before the thundering majesty of a waterfall, or the joy of connecting with a different culture – each journey leaves an indelible mark on travellers.
Given that travel is deeply personal, luxury travel operator Scott Dunn crafts bespoke itineraries designed to evoke those moments that resonate the most.
To help you decide where to go, it has put some of the most pressing travel questions for 2025 to its experts, who share their insights and recommendations. Read on to find out what should be on your travel list this year.
I’m looking for a nature-centric adventure in 2025. What’s a must-visit destination?
Ria Santamaria, Americas travel specialist
Iguazu Falls, which boasts 275 waterfalls, tops our list of South American wonders. The waterfalls are a Unesco World Heritage Site that spans Argentina (Upper Circuit) and Brazil (Lower Circuit), so you can easily access both sides of the falls and immerse in the culture of these amazing countries. Take a helicopter trip over the waterfalls for an incredible view, followed by a boat ride into them. Marvel at the panoramic views at the Three Borders Landmark, where you can see the confluence of the Iguazu and Parana rivers.
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Combine this with another nearby adventure, such as exploring the wetlands of the Pantanal, which teem with wildlife – from jaguars to capybaras. Then venture into the heart of the magical Amazon rainforest, where the mighty Amazon River flows through untouched wilderness, and the air hums with the calls of exotic birds, monkeys and other incredible wildlife.
I’d like something different on my next safari. Suggestions?
Gwen Ho, Africa travel specialist
Northern Kenya is home to such diverse tribes as the Samburu, Kikuyu and Boran, and combines abundant wildlife with exceptional scenic beauty. For a breathtaking experience, explore this unique region in a helicopter, and visit places inaccessible by land and untouched by most humans.
With some of East Africa’s most remote geographical wonders here – hidden valleys, sparkling lakes, extreme deserts and volcanic craters – a truly authentic and intimate connection to Kenya’s incredible wildlife and culture awaits. Increasingly, guests are opting for visits in the shoulder season as the rates are more attractive, the landscapes just as stunning, but the crowds far fewer.
Where else in Asia, apart from Japan and South Korea, would you recommend?
Lucien Lau, Asia travel specialist
Mongolia offers an immersive journey into untouched wilderness and nomadic culture. Imagine staying in a traditional ger (yurt) in complete luxury, waking up to panoramic views of the steppe and riding horseback through the Gobi Desert with expert guides.
Time your visit with the Naadam Festival in July where you’ll witness the “three games of men” – archery, wrestling and horse racing. Or, travel in September or October to see the Kazakh eagle hunters in action at the famed Golden Eagle Festival, thus combining tradition and dramatic landscapes. You could also visit the Altai Mountains, where you’ll revel in vast green pastures and soak up the view of millions of stars – and possibly even the Milky Way – at night.
I love tropical escapes; any recommendations that go beyond the usual?
Ying Ying Koo, Europe & Asia travel specialist
Raja Ampat in Indonesia – often labelled “the last paradise on Earth” – is an incredible option. This remote archipelago has one of the world’s richest marine biodiversity, housing 75 per cent of its coral species. It’s best explored onboard a private yacht or phinisi (traditional Indonesian schooner) for an aqua safari experience. Dive or snorkel in crystal-clear waters teeming with vibrant coral reefs and marine life, kayak through limestone karsts and hidden lagoons, or enjoy sunset cocktails as you cruise through tranquil waters. Pair your cruise with other activities such as volcano cooking and a visit to the world’s first firefly conservation facility.
Alternatively, Maldives’ various resorts offer experiences with an ecological twist. Join expert biologists for guided dives, participate in conservation or sustainability projects, or take an epic swim with majestic manta rays. At night, witness the magical spectacle of glowing Maldivian beaches as millions of phytoplankton light up the ocean waves as they meet the shore, as if stars have fallen into the sea.
Any tips for planning a European getaway in 2025?
Geraleine Yap, Europe specialist
Iceland continues to captivate. Beyond its iconic landscapes of glaciers, black beaches and waterfalls, it’s also the only place in the world where you can explore the interior of a volcano. It’s an ideal summer destination to consider, as it offers refreshing temperatures and endless daylight coupled with unique activities such as glacier-hiking and whale-watching. Having just returned from a trip to Iceland in November, I was struck by its raw beauty and the warmth of its people. From soaking in geothermal lagoons after exploring its stunning landscapes to catching the Northern Lights on my very first night, it’s a place that lingers in my memory.
Morocco has been on my travel list for a while; is it worth planning a trip this year?
Jean Tay, Scott Dunn Private relationship manager
Morocco is open and ready to welcome travellers. Cities such as Marrakech and Fez are thriving, and the tourism industry has made significant recovery since the September 2023 earthquake. Beyond the bustling souks of Marrakech, consider visiting Rabat, where a wave of new luxury properties is redefining Moroccan hospitality.
Explore the city’s stunning architecture, elegant gardens and coastal charm. For a more serene escape, the Atlas Mountains and Sahara Desert offer opportunities for glamping under the stars and immersive cultural experiences with Berber communities.
This article is sponsored by luxury travel tour operator Scott Dunn
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