8. ETHIOPIA

Another African destination making travellers’ wish-lists is Ethiopia. Consider the route from Addis Abba to Axum and back, exploring the Simien Mountains National Park, a UN Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation World Heritage site, and guided hiking excursions around Lake Tana to witness the Blue Nile Falls.

9. ITALY

Italy will celebrate the 500th anniversary of artist Leonardo da Vinci’s death on May 2 and there will be a host of celebrations. A popular destination among South Africans, there are still plenty of places to explore outside the major cities, from Tuscany to Capalbio.

10. PATAGONIA (ARGENTINA)

Demand for G Adventures’ trips to Argentina has been steadily rising over the past five years. Trekksoft reports one in five people plans to take health and well-being trips, so this is just the place to try one. Argentina on July 2 will be treated to a solar eclipse.