I am calling 2026 my year of exploration because I want to get out more, reconnect with old friends, and travel to places I have long wanted to visit.

After making my list, I narrowed it down to these destinations:

Serengeti National Park, Tanzania

I want to visit the Serengeti to witness the raw drama of millions of animals crossing the plains — elephants, zebras, and more. There’s something reassuring about watching these beasts live their lives without a care in the world (or so I imagine).

Cape Town, South Africa

I want to visit Cape Town, not only because it’s often considered Africa’s most beautiful city, but also because it offers a fantastic blend of culture, fine dining, world-class beaches, and adventure. Some say it’s a highly accessible and diverse starting point for exploring Africa.

The Pyramids of Giza and Luxor, Egypt

I love history, and seeing the ancient Pyramids would allow me to travel back over 4,500 years to marvel at these timeless wonders. Egypt’s historical sites continue to draw visitors seeking deep cultural immersion and unforgettable experiences, and I would love to be one of them.

Marrakech, Morocco

After Egypt, I would like to travel to Morocco to immerse myself in the bustling Medina, get lost in the labyrinthine souks (markets), and enjoy the spectacle of Jemaa el-Fnaa square. The city is also a gateway to the Atlas Mountains and the Sahara Desert, which makes it even more enticing.

Sossusvlei, Namibia

I imagine I might feel a bit intimidated by Sossusvlei, a landscape unlike any other. Famous for its massive, towering red sand dunes in the Namib Desert, I hope to conquer my fear and climb Big Daddy dune for a breathtaking view or explore the white clay pan of Deadvlei, dotted with fossilized camelthorn trees.