As we enter the final stretch of 2024, it’s natural to reflect and take score of tasks done and memories made. If your year-in-review could use some umph, there’s still time to plan a year-end adventure worthy of the memory books. From witnessing the Northern Lights to sampling high-altitude wines in the desert, our experts have selected five unique experiences that offer a chance to escape the everyday and immerse yourself in some of the world’s most breathtaking landscapes.

South America's High Altitude Deserts

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A2A’s Michael recently journeyed off the beaten path, traveling overland from Salta, Argentina to Chile 's Atacama Desert and onward to the Uyuni Salt Flats in Bolivia . Along the way, he uncovered hidden luxury in the unlikeliest places. Think high-altitude wineries, technicolor hills and lagoons, the Salvador Dali Desert and never-ending landscapes that inspired artists like James Turrell. Come enjoy a blend of adventure and refinement in one of South America's most remote regions.

Northern Lights in the Arctic

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A rare opportunity awaits this winter as experts predict a dazzling Aurora Borealis display, thanks to a peak in the solar cycle. From Finnish Lapland to the Canadian Arctic, we can curate a magical experience to witness this once-in-a-decade phenomenon. Complement your Northern Lights adventure in the Arctic with unforgettable activities like dog-sledding, snowshoeing, or tracking wildlife such as arctic foxes and reindeer.

Summer in South Africa

December through February is the perfect time to experience South Africa’s summer, with warm, sun-filled days and cool nights in Cape Town and along the scenic Garden Route. It’s also the safari ‘green season,’ where fewer crowds, vibrant green landscapes, and the thrill of spotting newborn wildlife create an ideal setting for photography enthusiasts. This is also the time when many of Africa’s most iconic and colourful bird species, including migrating bee-eaters, kingfishers, and majestic raptors can be found taking refuge in South Africa from the soaring temperatures further north.

Penguin colonies in the South Atlantic

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From ancient icebergs to hands-on climate education, a voyage to the frozen continent is not just an adventure; it’s a transformative experience. Go beyond the typical Antarctica route with a visit to the Falkland Islands and South Georgia. The sub-Antarctic climate draws an extraordinary variety of wildlife, while their peculiar history and tales of explorers are best appreciated in person.

Living history in Ethiopia

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Ethiopia enjoys a dry, mild climate toward the end of the year, which is ideal for outdoor pursuits. Marvel at the the rock-hewn churches of Lalibela, the castles of Gondar, the cave churches of Gheralta or the ancient kingdom of Axum where many believe the Ark of the Covenant sits. Go trekking through the Simien Mountains in search of bleeding-heart monkeys and gelada baboons. Or, plan for January to witness Ethiopia’s age-old religious festivals Timkat and Genna, commemorating the birth of Jesus and the Epiphany.