Where to Travel This Summer: Top Picks for 2025
- Wilfred Valenzuela
- Bolivia Brazil Ecuador Estonia Greece Indonesia Latvia Lithuania Montenegro Peru Slovenia South Africa Tips for Travel Turkey Uganda Zambia Zimbabwe
- 40 Comments

Looking for a warm-weather escape or a culturally rich adventure this summer? Whether you’re dreaming of turquoise waters, ancient ruins, or wildlife safaris, these destinations offer something unforgettable for every kind of traveler. From Europe’s hidden gems to the heart of South America and the untamed beauty of Africa, explore Yampu’s top picks for your next summer getaway.
EUROPE
Greek Islands
Whitewashed villages, sun-drenched beaches, and mouthwatering Mediterranean cuisine make the Greek Islands an iconic summer choice. Whether you’re wandering through the cobbled alleys of Mykonos or watching the sun dip below Santorini’s caldera, the islands offer the perfect balance of relaxation and culture. Charter a boat or island-hop your way through the Aegean for a truly immersive experience.
Montenegro
This Balkan beauty combines medieval towns, dramatic mountains, and Adriatic beaches. Wander the walled city of Kotor, take a boat trip on the Bay of Kotor, or lounge on the Budva Riviera. Montenegro is a compact yet diverse destination that’s quickly becoming a favorite for European summer escapes without the crowds of its neighbors.
Estonia, Latvia & Lithuania
The Baltic States shine in summer with long daylight hours and festivals in full swing. Explore Estonia’s fairy-tale capital, Tallinn, discover Art Nouveau treasures in Riga, and soak up the seaside charm of Lithuania’s Curonian Spit. These compact countries offer a rich mix of history, culture, and nature.
Slovenia
From the emerald waters of Lake Bled to the underground marvels of Postojna Cave and the Mediterranean flair of Piran, Slovenia packs a punch. The Julian Alps offer hiking and adventure, while Ljubljana charms with its laid-back vibe and café-lined riverbanks. It’s a refreshing and eco-conscious European escape.
SOUTH AMERICA
Peru
From Machu Picchu to the Amazon rainforest, Peru offers a mix of history, adventure, and natural beauty. Visit Cusco and the Sacred Valley for Incan wonders, then explore vibrant markets and Peruvian cuisine in Lima. For the adventurous, hike the Inca Trail or cruise the wildlife-rich Amazon River during its drier, more accessible season.
Ecuador
Small but incredibly diverse, Ecuador offers Andean cities, Amazonian jungles, Pacific beaches, and of course, the legendary Galápagos Islands. The drier summer months are perfect for snorkeling, island-hopping, or birdwatching in the cloud forests. It’s an ideal choice for nature-focused travelers.
We also have some specials available for Galápagos cruises—consult with your travel consultant for details.
Important Entry Requirements for Ecuador
Effective Monday, May 12, 2025, travelers entering Ecuador from Colombia, Peru, Bolivia, or Brazil—whether by air, land, or sea—must present an International Certificate of Yellow Fever Vaccination. The vaccine must be administered at least 10 days prior to arrival.
Exemptions to this requirement include:
a) Travelers aged 60 years or older, when entering with a valid passport.
b) Individuals with medical conditions preventing vaccination. A signed medical certificate from a licensed physician stating the reason for exemption is required.
We strongly recommend that all travelers consult their local health authorities and ensure full compliance with entry requirements well in advance of travel.
Bolivia
One of South America’s most underrated gems, Bolivia offers surreal landscapes and rich cultural traditions. Explore the endless white expanse of Salar de Uyuni, the world’s largest salt flat, and visit the high-altitude city of La Paz for unique Andean experiences. Summer is the dry season, making it an ideal time to explore this rugged, photogenic land.
Brazil
While it’s winter in the Southern Hemisphere, Brazil’s tropical north and Amazon region stay warm and inviting. Visit the iconic Christ the Redeemer in Rio, relax on the beaches of Bahia, or take an Amazon River cruise from Manaus. It’s also a great time to explore the Pantanal for wildlife viewing during its dry season.
AFRICA
Zambia
Zambia offers a raw and authentic safari experience with fewer tourists. Summer is ideal for game drives in South Luangwa National Park, where sightings of leopards, elephants, and lions are common. Don’t miss the thundering Victoria Falls, one of the world’s natural wonders, best viewed from Livingstone.
Zimbabwe
Home to Victoria Falls and diverse national parks like Hwange and Mana Pools, Zimbabwe is an adventurer’s dream. Its dry season offers prime wildlife viewing and excellent walking safaris. Rich culture and friendly locals add depth to every journey through this southern African gem.
Uganda
Known as the “Pearl of Africa,” Uganda is a haven for nature lovers. Trek into the misty Bwindi Impenetrable Forest to come face-to-face with mountain gorillas, or take a boat safari along the Nile in Murchison Falls. The dry months of summer offer the best conditions for these unforgettable wildlife experiences.
South Africa
Summer in the U.S. means winter in South Africa, but it’s still a great time to go. The cooler, dry season is perfect for safaris in Kruger National Park, spotting the Big Five without the summer crowds. Cap off your trip with a visit to Cape Town, known for its stunning coastlines, vineyards, and Table Mountain views.
SOUTHEAST ASIA
Indonesia
With thousands of islands to explore, Indonesia promises variety and wonder. Summer is ideal for Bali’s beaches, Java’s temples, and the rich marine life of Komodo and Raja Ampat. Whether you’re diving with manta rays or meditating in Ubud, the archipelago is a dream come true for tropical adventurers.
MIDDLE EAST
Turkey
Bridging Europe and Asia, Turkey offers a captivating mix of ancient ruins, vibrant bazaars, and breathtaking coastlines. Cruise the Turquoise Coast, explore the cave dwellings of Cappadocia, or get lost in the vibrant streets of Istanbul. Summer is perfect for soaking up its rich history and sunshine.
Ready for Your Summer Escape?
From the wild savannas of Africa to the sunlit islands of Europe and the mysteries of South America, your next unforgettable journey awaits. Let’s Start Planning. Whether you want beaches, culture, wildlife, or a bit of everything, Yampu Tours can craft a custom itinerary just for you. Contact our Yampu Travel Experts today to plan your personalized summer adventure.
Private, Personal, Sophisticated.
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Tags: Bolivia , Brazil , ecuador , Estonia , Greek Islands , Indonesia , Latvia , Lithuania , Montenegro , Peru , Slovenia , South Africa , Turkey , uganda , Zambia , Zimbabwe