Life is too short for regrets. Imagine looking back years from now, smiling at the incredible memories you’ve created, the boundaries you’ve pushed, and the wonders you’ve witnessed. That’s the power of a bucket list – it transforms dreams into plans and plans into unforgettable experiences.
We’ve created a list of 100 things to do before you die — from heart-pounding adventures to soul-stirring cultural journeys and breathtaking natural wonders. Whether you’re seeking things to do in your lifetime that challenge you physically, spiritually, or emotionally, these experiences will expand your horizons and create stories you’ll tell for decades.
This list of things to do before you die isn’t just for your own journey—it’s also inspiration for gifting unforgettable experience gifts to loved ones. Think about it: would you rather give another gadget that’ll be forgotten in months, or help someone experience their dream adventure? Nothing beats seeing their face light up when you’ve given them a story they’ll tell forever.
Let’s dive into what to do before you die.
Visit the World’s Most Iconic Wonders Before You Die
These architectural and historical marvels have captivated human imagination for centuries. Standing before these things you need to see before you die, you’ll connect with our collective heritage and feel the weight of history. These aren’t just destinations, these are once-in-a-lifetime experiences that change how you see the world.
1. Marvel at the Pyramids of Giza in Egypt
Imagine standing in the shadow of structures that have witnessed 4,500 years of human history. Feel the desert heat on your skin as you gaze upward at these massive monuments, wondering how ancient civilizations created such perfect geometric forms without modern technology.
2. Walk Along the Great Wall of China
Picture yourself tracing the footsteps of ancient soldiers along this serpentine wonder. With each step on these ancient stones, you’ll feel the weight of dynasties past while gazing across breathtaking mountain landscapes. The Mutianyu section offers spectacular views with fewer crowds.
3. Witness the Majesty of Machu Picchu, Peru
Imagine emerging through mountain mist to discover this ancient Incan citadel perched impossibly between peaks. The spiritual energy here is palpable as dawn light illuminates stone structures perfectly aligned with celestial events. Your first glimpse will literally take your breath away.
4. Explore the Ruins of Petra, Jordan
Feel the anticipation build as you walk through the narrow Siq canyon, then gasp as the Treasury’s rose-colored facade suddenly appears through the gap. This ancient city carved directly into sandstone cliffs glows with an otherworldly pink hue at sunset that photographs simply cannot capture.
5. Take in the Splendor of the Colosseum, Italy
Close your eyes and hear the echoes of 50,000 spectators roaring as gladiators once battled within these walls. The engineering brilliance of this massive structure becomes even more impressive when you learn it was completed in just 8-10 years—a testament to Roman ingenuity.
6. See the Taj Mahal at Sunrise, India
Imagine watching first light transform this white marble masterpiece from cool blue to warm gold, creating an almost supernatural glow. Built as the ultimate expression of love, the perfect symmetry and intricate details will move you to tears. Arrive before dawn for magical moments without crowds.
7. Experience the Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi
Picture yourself walking barefoot across the world’s largest handwoven carpet beneath 24-karat gold chandeliers. The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque’s 82 domes and reflective pools create an atmosphere of breathtaking serenity where you’ll find yourself speaking in whispers even before being asked.
8. Climb to the Top of Christ the Redeemer, Brazil
Feel the spiritual significance as you gaze upward at this powerful symbol of Brazilian identity and faith. Just imagine it, standing at the feet of this iconic 98-foot statue as the sprawling city of Rio, lush mountains, and azure ocean spread out below you. The bird’s-eye perspective reveals how perfectly nature and urban development intertwine in one of the world’s most beautifully situated cities.
Witness Nature’s Greatest Wonders Before You Die
Mother Nature has created spectacles so magnificent they defy imagination. These things to see before you die will reconnect you with the raw power and sublime beauty of our planet. From geological marvels to celestial displays, these bucket-list experiences remind us how small we are in the grand scheme — yet how fortunate to witness such wonders.
9. Stand at the Edge of the Grand Canyon, USA
Feel your perspective shift as you peer into this massive chasm, with layer upon layer of red and orange rock telling Earth’s two-billion-year story. The sheer scale overwhelms your senses—nearly 300 miles long and up to 18 miles wide. The changing shadows transform the canyon throughout the day.
10. Chase the Northern Lights in Iceland
Picture yourself standing in pristine snow as ribbons of green, purple, and blue light dance across the night sky. This magical natural phenomenon feels like witnessing the universe’s most beautiful light show. September through March offers the best chances in Iceland’s clear, dark skies.
11. Walk on the Salar de Uyuni, Bolivia (Salt Flats)
Imagine stepping onto what feels like another planet—a boundless, perfectly flat white expanse that transforms into the world’s largest mirror after rain. The surreal landscape creates mind-bending perspective photos where tiny objects appear gigantic, and the horizon between sky and earth disappears completely.
12. Swim in the Great Barrier Reef, Australia
Dive into a kaleidoscope of color where thousands of reef systems create an underwater metropolis teeming with marine life. Come face-to-face with graceful sea turtles, curious clownfish, and rainbow-hued coral formations. This living masterpiece spans over 1,400 miles of ocean—visible even from space.
13. Explore the Amazon Rainforest
Feel the embrace of nature’s most biodiverse ecosystem, where the air thrums with life and every direction reveals new wonders. Glide along waterways beneath towering canopies as howler monkeys provide the soundtrack. Here, you’ll discover species science hasn’t even named yet—true modern exploration.
14. Hike Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania
Picture yourself conquering Africa’s highest peak, moving through five distinct climate zones on your journey to the summit. The sense of achievement as you stand above the clouds at Uhuru Point is indescribable—a perfect metaphor for overcoming life’s greatest challenges. Among things to do before i die, this offers unparalleled triumph.
15. See the Victoria Falls, Zambia & Zimbabwe
Imagine feeling the thunderous vibration through your entire body as the Zambezi River crashes over a mile-wide cliff. The resulting mist rises hundreds of feet and can be seen from miles away, creating permanent rainbows.
16. Stand on a Glacier in Antarctica
Picture yourself on Earth’s most pristine continent, where ancient ice stretches endlessly and profound silence surrounds you. Antarctica represents our planet’s final frontier—a place where penguins roam freely and icebergs glow blue. This remote wilderness offers an adventure so extraordinary that few humans will ever experience it.
Quirky Bucket List Experiences
The greatest memories often come from its most unusual experiences. These fun things to do before you die will give you stories that start with “You won’t believe what I once did…” From bizarre competitions to otherworldly accommodations, these quirky adventures prove that sometimes the weirdest experiences create the most lasting impressions.
17. Participate in the World Toe Wrestling Championship
Imagine locking toes with an opponent while a crowd cheers wildly as you attempt to pin their foot down. This bizarre British sport has attracted participants worldwide since 1974. Feel equal parts ridiculous and determined as you compete for the title of “Big Toe.”
18. Sleep in a Real-Life Igloo in the Arctic
Picture yourself snuggled in thermal sleeping bags inside a dome made entirely of snow and ice. The peaceful silence of the Arctic night surrounds you while aurora lights potentially dance above. Despite outside temperatures of -30°F, you’ll stay surprisingly cozy in your frozen accommodation.
19. Have a Food Fight at La Tomatina Festival in Spain
Feel the exhilarating chaos as you join thousands in the world’s largest tomato fight. For one hour, the streets of Buñol become a sea of red as over 150,000 tomatoes fly through the air. The childlike joy of throwing food without consequences creates an atmosphere of pure, uninhibited fun.
20. Train as an Astronaut for a Day
Experience the challenges faced by real space travelers as you test your mettle in anti-gravity simulators and spacecraft mockups. Among simple things to do before you die, this delivers extraordinary perspective. Feel your stomach drop during zero-G parabolic flights or underwater spacewalk training.
21. Become a Samurai for a Day in Japan
Transform into a warrior of ancient Japan as you don authentic armor and master the katana blade under the guidance of trained masters. The disciplined movements and meditation practices connect you to centuries of tradition, offering profound insights into Japanese culture beyond typical tourist experiences.
22. Go Ice Swimming in Antarctica
Feel the exhilarating shock as you plunge into sub-zero Antarctic waters for the world’s most exclusive polar dip. The contrast between the freezing water and your body’s reaction creates an intense natural high.
23. Ride a Camel Across the Sahara Desert
Experience the timeless rhythm of desert travel as your camel carries you over endless golden dunes. The profound silence of the Sahara at sunset, followed by night skies exploding with stars, creates moments of unexpected spiritual connection. Berber guides share ancient navigation techniques dating back millennia.
24. Try Cheese Rolling in England
Feel your heart race as you chase an 8-pound wheel of Double Gloucester cheese down Cooper’s Hill’s nearly vertical slope. This centuries-old tradition attracts thrill-seekers worldwide who risk tumbles and injuries for cheese-chasing glory. The combination of absurdity, adrenaline, and inevitable spectacular falls creates unforgettable hilarity.
Ultimate Thrills to Try Before You Die
Life’s best moments often come when your heart is pounding, and your comfort zone is a distant memory. These crazy things to do before you die will push your limits while delivering incomparable rushes of adrenaline. For those pursuing things to do before death, these adventure experience gifts promise moments of absolute thrill.
25. Skydive Over the Palm in Dubai
Imagine freefalling at 120mph with Dubai’s iconic Palm Jumeirah unfurling beneath you like a living map. The contrast between heart-stopping descent and breathtaking artificial island creates an experience that feels simultaneously terrifying and transcendent. The photos alone will make your friends jealous for years.
26. Go Bungee Jumping Over Victoria Falls
Feel the mist on your face moments before launching yourself from the Victoria Falls Bridge with nothing but a bungee cord between you and the churning Zambezi River. This 364-foot drop combines Africa’s natural wonder with pure adrenaline—creating what many call the world’s most scenic free-fall.
27. Swim with Great White Sharks in South Africa
Experience primal fear and fascination as these perfect predators glide inches from your cage in Gansbaai’s shark-filled waters. Their prehistoric power and surprising grace change everything you thought you knew about these misunderstood creatures. Your racing heartbeat will remind you that you’ve never felt more alive.
28. Drive a Supercar on a Formula 1 Track
Grip the wheel of a Ferrari, Lamborghini, or Aston Martin as you push it to breathtaking speeds on a professional race circuit. The g-forces pin you to your seat while the engine’s roar becomes your personal soundtrack. For petrolheads, this is automotive nirvana among crazy things to do once in your life.
29. Take a Hot Air Balloon Ride Over Cappadocia
Float silently above Cappadocia’s fairy-tale landscape as dozens of colorful balloons rise around you in the golden morning light. The unique cone-shaped rock formations below, with their ancient cave dwellings, create a surreal backdrop. The absolute tranquility contrasts perfectly with the visual spectacle.
30. Try Ice Climbing in the Swiss Alps
Feel the satisfying crunch as your ice axes and crampons bite into frozen waterfalls cascading down Alpine slopes. The physical challenge combined with breathtaking mountain scenery creates an adventure that tests both body and spirit. Each hard-earned foot of elevation brings immense satisfaction.
31. Go Whitewater Rafting in the Colorado River
Experience the primal rush of battling Class IV rapids through the Grand Canyon’s towering walls, sometimes peacefully floating, other times furiously paddling through nature’s aquatic roller coaster. The Colorado River’s legendary white water has been sculpting this canyon for millions of years.
32. Ride the World’s Fastest Roller Coaster in Abu Dhabi
Feel your face distort as Formula Rossa launches you from 0 to 149mph in just 4.9 seconds at Ferrari World. The g-forces are so intense that goggles are mandatory. This engineering marvel replicates the acceleration of an F1 car, creating a full-body thrill unlike any other ride on Earth.
Cultural Travel Experiences to Have Before You Die
True cultural immersion isn’t just about where you’ve been, but who you become. These things to do in your life connect you with humanity’s greatest celebrations, most sacred sites, and richest traditions. From ancient rituals to modern festivals, these tours & sightseeing experiences will expand your worldview and create memories infused with the authentic spirit of extraordinary places.
33. Celebrate Carnival in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Immerse yourself in the world’s biggest party, where pulsating samba rhythms, elaborate costumes, and contagious energy transform Rio into a technicolor wonderland. Feel your inhibitions melt away as you join thousands dancing through streets and beaches in this spectacular pre-Lenten celebration of life.
34. Witness the Cherry Blossoms in Japan
Experience “hanami” as delicate pink blossoms transform Japan’s landscapes into living paintings each spring. The fleeting beauty of sakura—lasting just a week or two—embodies the Japanese concept of mono no aware, the wistful recognition of impermanence. Kyoto’s historic temples provide particularly magical backdrops.
35. Explore the Temples of Angkor Wat, Cambodia
Wander through the world’s largest religious monument as dawn light illuminates intricate carvings and towers rising from the jungle. Built as a Hindu temple, later converted to Buddhism, Angkor Wat’s spiritual energy transcends specific faiths. Witness tree roots and ancient stones intertwined in perfect harmony.
36. Experience the Holi Festival in India
Feel the joy of complete abandonment as vibrant colored powders fill the air and cover every inch of your body. This ancient Hindu celebration marks winter’s end with uninhibited revelry where social barriers temporarily disappear—strangers embrace, dance together, and share in universal human connection.
37. Take a Traditional Italian Cooking Class in Tuscany
Transform simple ingredients into culinary magic under the guidance of an Italian nonna in a centuries-old farmhouse kitchen. The secrets of perfect pasta, the importance of regional olive oils, and the joy of unhurried meals become life lessons extending far beyond recipes.
38. Walk Through the Ancient Streets of Rome, Italy
Feel history alive beneath your feet on streets where Julius Caesar once walked. Around every corner, another marvel appears—the Pantheon’s perfect dome, Trevi Fountain’s Baroque splendor, or the Forum’s weathered columns. Rome isn’t just a city; it’s a time machine spanning over millennia.
39. Explore the Markets of Marrakech, Morocco
Lose yourself in labyrinthine souks where sensory overload becomes a form of enchantment—vibrant textiles, mountains of colorful spices, the calls of merchants, and scents of exotic foods create intoxicating chaos. Haggling becomes a cultural exchange rather than mere transaction in this ancient trading city.
40. Visit the Louvre Museum in Paris, France
Stand before da Vinci’s famous Mona Lisa and feel the weight of artistic genius spanning centuries. The former royal palace houses 35,000 masterpieces from every era of human creativity. Moving chronologically through art history’s evolution in a single day creates an intellectual and emotional journey unmatched by any other museum.
Tough Ideas for The Strongest
Some bucket list experiences aren’t just about enjoyment—they’re about proving something to yourself. These challenges will push your physical and mental limits to extremes few ever experience. When you conquer these things to do before dying, you’ll gain more than bragging rights; you’ll discover reserves of courage and determination you never knew you possessed.
41. Climb a Frozen Waterfall
Feel the strange contradiction of elegant beauty and raw danger as you scale vertical ice formations with specialized axes and crampons. Each placement must be perfect, each movement deliberate. The combination of required focus, physical exertion, and breathtaking winter scenery creates an almost meditative state of flow.
42. Swim with Crocodiles in Australia (Cage of Death)
Experience primal fear as a 16-foot saltwater crocodile circles your transparent acrylic cage at Darwin’s Crocosaurus Cove. The reptilian prehistoric eyes studying you from inches away create an electric connection to our evolutionary past. These ancient predators have remained virtually unchanged for 200 million years.
43. Free-Dive with Sharks (No Cage!)
Summon extraordinary courage as you glide alongside oceanic apex predators with nothing between you and their legendary teeth. This intimate encounter with tiger, hammerhead, or reef sharks requires perfect body control and calm energy. The profound respect these misunderstood creatures inspire will forever change you.
44. Bungee Jump from the World’s Tallest Bridge (Bloukrans, South Africa)
Feel your survival instincts screaming as you willingly step off the 709-foot Bloukrans Bridge into South Africa’s spectacular river gorge. The 7-second freefall creates a psychological experience as intense as the physical sensation. Facing this fear becomes a metaphor for overcoming all life’s obstacles.
45. BASE Jump Off a Cliff
Experience the ultimate adrenaline rush as you leap from a fixed object with seconds to deploy your parachute. The hyper-focused mental state required—where a single mistake has dire consequences—creates a controversial but undeniably intense form of moving meditation. Only for those with extensive skydiving experience.
Water Adventures to Take Before You Die
Water covers 71% of our planet, creating endless opportunities for extraordinary experiences. From luxury cruise experience gifts to wild swimming adventures, these things you should do before you die will connect you with the magic of Earth’s aquatic environments.
46. Sail the Greek Islands on a Private Yacht
Imagine crystal-clear Aegean waters lapping against your private vessel as you island-hop through the Cyclades. Drop anchor in secluded coves for swims, explore whitewashed villages, and watch sunset paint islands like Santorini in gold. The freedom to chart your own course creates the ultimate Mediterranean fantasy.
47. Cruise Through Norway’s Breathtaking Fjords
Feel dwarfed by nature’s grandeur as your ship glides between towering cliffs rising thousands of feet from deep-blue waters. Waterfalls cascade directly into the fjords while snow-capped peaks pierce the sky. These ancient glacial valleys create one of Earth’s most dramatically beautiful seascapes.
48. Go on an Alaskan Glacier Cruise
Witness the thunderous spectacle of massive ice chunks calving from glaciers into pristine waters. Spot whales breaching, eagles soaring, and bears fishing along shorelines. Alaska’s untamed wilderness viewed from comfortable ship accommodations offers perfect balance between adventure and luxury.
49. Experience a Luxury River Cruise in Europe
Glide effortlessly through the heart of historic European cities as centuries of civilization unfold along riverbanks. Wake in new destinations without repacking, enjoying intimate access to cultural treasures beyond reach of larger vessels. The Danube, Rhine, and Seine offer particularly enchanting journeys.
50. Take a Sunset Sailing Tour in the Caribbean
Feel tropical breezes caress your skin as your sailboat cuts through turquoise waters bathed in golden light. The combination of gentle rocking, panoramic ocean views, and sky aflame with color creates perfect moments of presence—especially with rum cocktail in hand.
51. Island Hop Around the Maldives
Immerse yourself in the definition of paradise as you explore pristine islands ringed by talcum-powder beaches and vibrant coral reefs. The Maldives’ overwater bungalows and unbelievably blue lagoons create a setting so perfect it feels almost unreal. Each island offers a slightly different version of heaven.
52. Ride a Traditional Felucca on the Nile River
Connect with five thousand years of history aboard a traditional wooden sailing vessel with distinctive triangular sails. The timeless rhythm of life along Egypt’s legendary river—ancient temples, farming methods, and daily rituals—remains remarkably unchanged since pharaonic times. Time truly slows down here.
53. Explore Antarctica on an Expedition Cruise
Venture to Earth’s final frontier, where tabular icebergs tower like floating skyscrapers and wildlife exists without fear of humans. These expeditions bring you face-to-face with curious penguins and massive whale pods in pristine wilderness few humans will ever witness. The absolute silence of this untouched continent is profoundly moving.
Sports & Endurance Challenges to Complete Before You Die
Pushing physical limits creates a special kind of achievement that stays with you forever. These endurance challenges and sports milestones will test your resolve, discipline, and determination. While the training may be grueling, the moment you cross that finish line or reach that summit counts among life’s most satisfying experiences—proof of what you’re truly capable of achieving.
54. Run a Marathon in a Dream Destination
Experience the unique magic of covering 26.2 miles through iconic landscapes on pure willpower. Whether it’s New York’s five boroughs, the Great Wall of China, or Antarctica’s ice, each step becomes a personal victory. The finish line brings indescribable emotion—equal parts exhaustion and elation.
55. Take on an Ultra-Marathon Challenge
Push beyond conventional limits in races exceeding standard marathon distance—often in extreme environments. The Marathon des Sables crosses 150 miles of Sahara Desert with self-supported runners carrying all supplies. These epic challenges reveal inner strength you never knew existed.
56. Survive Hell Week (Navy SEAL-Inspired Training)
Test your absolute limits in civilian programs modeled after military special forces selection. Sleep deprivation, continuous physical challenges, and psychological stress create transformative experiences where you discover your breaking point—and then push beyond it. The camaraderie forged through shared suffering becomes uniquely powerful.
57. Set a Guinness World Record
Become part of history by achieving something nobody has done before—or doing it better. Whether it’s the most push-ups in an hour, fastest mile run backward, or something uniquely yours, the official certification of extraordinary achievement creates lasting pride and global recognition.
58. Compete in an Ironman Triathlon
Challenge yourself to complete the ultimate endurance test: 2.4-mile swim, 112-mile bike ride, and full marathon—all in under 17 hours. The months of dedicated training transform your lifestyle while race day tests every physical and mental resource. Hearing “You are an Ironman!” at the finish proves life-changing.
59. Climb the World’s Most Iconic Peaks
Feel the elemental satisfaction of conquering mountains through sheer determination. Whether it’s Kilimanjaro’s relatively accessible summit or Everest Base Camp’s challenging trek, standing atop these giants provides perspective impossible to gain elsewhere. The journey upward becomes a metaphor for overcoming all obstacles.
60. Complete a Multi-Day Cycling Tour
Experience a region’s true character by traversing it on two wheels, moving at the perfect pace to absorb landscapes and local culture. Classic routes like France’s Mont Ventoux, Italy’s Stelvio Pass, or Vietnam’s coastal roads combine physical challenge with immersive travel unlike any other mode of transportation.
61. Swim Across an Open-Water Channel
Experience a primal challenge as you navigate miles of open water using nothing but your own strength and determination. The English Channel’s 21 miles of cold, choppy water represents swimming’s ultimate test. Feel tides, currents, and changing conditions as you push physical and mental limits in this extraordinary feat of human endurance.
Don’t Forget these Otherworldly Experiences
Some destinations don’t just feel different—they feel like different planets entirely. These surreal, dreamlike environments create experiences so distinct from everyday life that they expand your conception of what’s possible on Earth. These must see before you die phenomena will leave you wondering if you’ve somehow stepped into another dimension.
62. Witness the Northern Lights from a Glass Igloo
Imagine lying in bed watching emerald and violet ribbons dance across the Arctic sky without facing the cold. Finland’s glass-domed igloos create the perfect aurora viewing cocoon, combining luxury with wilderness. The silent, colorful light show feels like a personal message from the cosmos.
63. Float in the Bioluminescent Waters of Puerto Rico
Experience the magical sensation of swimming through liquid stars as millions of microorganisms illuminate with your every movement. Puerto Rico’s bioluminescent bays create ethereal blue glowing trails behind your fingertips, transforming ordinary swimming into an encounter with living light. Moonless nights provide the most vivid displays.
64. Walk Through a Glowing Ice Cave in Iceland
Step into a surreal blue world as sunlight filters through ancient glacial ice, creating otherworldly azure chambers that seem designed by nature’s most imaginative artist. Vatnajökull’s crystal caves form new shapes each winter. The unearthly beauty and knowledge that these formations are temporary makes them even more precious.
65. Step into a Fairytale Village in Switzerland
Find yourself wandering through what feels like a storybook illustration in villages like Lauterbrunnen. Seventy-two cascading waterfalls, flower-adorned chalets, and emerald meadows ringed by snowcapped Alps create settings so idyllic they seem impossible. The melodic sound of distant cowbells completes the enchantment.
66. Swim in the World’s Largest Cave (Hang Son Doong, Vietnam)
Enter a subterranean universe where massive chambers could fit entire city blocks, complete with jungle, river, and unique ecosystems. Discovered only in 1991, Son Doong features 400-foot stalagmites and a collapsed ceiling creating its own rainforest. Camping inside this alien world becomes an unforgettable adventure.
67. Experience Zero Gravity on a Space Flight
Feel the extraordinary sensation of complete weightlessness as your body floats effortlessly during parabolic flight maneuvers. Objects hover before you while you perform Superman-style flying moves impossible under normal conditions. This taste of astronaut life fundamentally changes your relationship with gravity forever.
68. Cross the Salar de Uyuni (World’s Largest Mirror)
Walk across what feels like the sky itself when rain transforms Bolivia’s salt flats into a perfect reflecting surface, erasing the horizon completely. This surreal landscape creates mind-bending perspective photos and moments of disorientation so complete you’ll question which way is up.
69. Hike to the “Gates of Hell” (Darvaza Gas Crater, Turkmenistan)
Stand at the edge of a massive burning crater that’s been continuously aflame since 1971 when Soviet engineers accidentally collapsed a natural gas field. The 230-foot diameter pit of fire in Turkmenistan’s desert creates an apocalyptic spectacle particularly mesmerizing after sunset. The intense heat is felt dozens of yards away.
Wellness & Relaxation Experiences for Your Bucket List
It’s not all about adrenaline—sometimes bucket list activities are all about profound relaxation and self-care in extraordinary settings. These things to try before you die focus on rejuvenation, mindfulness, and connecting with ancient wellness traditions around the world. From thermal waters to meditative practices, these wellness experience gifts will restore your body while nourishing your soul.
70. Soak in the Blue Lagoon, Iceland
Immerse yourself in milky-blue geothermal waters rich in silica, algae, and minerals while steam rises around you into the crisp Arctic air. The surreal contrast between the warm 100°F water and Iceland’s volcanic landscape creates a sensory experience that’s both visually stunning and physically therapeutic.
71. Stay in an Overwater Bungalow in Bora Bora
Wake to gentle waves directly beneath your private villa, where glass floor panels reveal tropical fish swimming below your bed. Step from your deck directly into crystal-clear turquoise lagoons. French Polynesia’s iconic accommodations create perfect harmony between luxury comfort and oceanic immersion.
72. Experience a Traditional Japanese Onsen
Embrace the ancient ritual of communal bathing in volcanic hot springs surrounded by meticulously designed gardens or mountain scenery. The combination of mineral-rich waters, aesthetic perfection, and cultural tradition creates moments of profound tranquility impossible to find elsewhere. Leave self-consciousness at the door.
73. Try a Thai Massage in Bangkok
Surrender to this unique bodywork that’s often described as “having yoga done to you.” Traditional Thai practitioners use stretching, pulling, and deep compression to create sensations alternating between pleasure and therapeutic pain. The resulting physical release and energy flow leave you both invigorated and deeply relaxed.
74. Meditate at a Zen Monastery in Japan
Experience the profound stillness of traditional Zen practice in an authentic Japanese monastery. The discipline of silent meditation, mindful eating, and simple living creates a reset for overstimulated modern minds. Kyoto’s temples offer retreats where visitors can experience monks’ daily routines in serene forest settings.
75. Detox at a Luxury Spa Retreat in Bali
Transform body and spirit in Bali’s spiritual heart of Ubud, where luxury wellness centers blend ancient Balinese healing with modern treatments. Surrounded by terraced rice fields and jungle, these sanctuaries offer personalized detox programs combining yoga, organic cuisine, massage, and energy work.
76. Float in the Dead Sea, Jordan
Experience the surreal sensation of effortless floating in water so mineral-dense you simply cannot sink. The therapeutic mud and unique composition of salts create natural healing properties for skin conditions. Reading a newspaper while floating has become the iconic photo opportunity in this unusual body of water.
77. Experience a Turkish Hammam Bath
Surrender to the centuries-old ritual of purification in marble steam rooms where attendants scrub, massage, and cleanse your body on heated stone slabs. The progression from hot steam to vigorous exfoliation to foam massage creates a state of profound relaxation and skin so soft it feels newborn.
Learning Something Fun Before You Die
Some of life’s most rewarding experiences come from mastering new skills in beautiful settings. These things you need to do before you die combine education with immersion in different cultures and traditions. From culinary arts to creative crafts, these hands-on workshop experience gifts create practical skills you’ll use for years while making memories in extraordinary places.
78. Take a Pasta-Making Class in Italy
Roll up your sleeves alongside an Italian nonna who’ll share family secrets passed through generations. The simple magic of transforming flour and eggs into silky pasta by hand connects you to centuries of Italian tradition. The reward? Enjoying your creation with local wine and newfound friends.
79. Join a Wine-Blending Workshop in France
Channel your inner vintner as you create a custom wine blend guided by expert French winemakers in historic cellars. Learning to distinguish subtle flavor notes while experimenting with different grape varieties becomes an exercise in sensory awareness. Your personalized bottle becomes a unique souvenir of the experience.
80. Learn to Surf in Hawaii
Feel the exhilaration of catching your first wave where surfing began, guided by instructors descended from the sport’s originators. The combination of tropical setting, physical challenge, and cultural significance creates a profound connection to Hawaiian traditions centered around respect for the ocean’s power.
81. Take a Perfume-Making Class in Paris
Discover your “olfactory fingerprint” as Parisian perfumers guide you through creating a signature scent that captures your essence. Learning about top notes, heart notes, and base notes transforms how you experience fragrance forever. Your custom perfume becomes a sensory souvenir triggering memories with each wear.
82. Try a Pottery Class in Japan
Center yourself—literally and figuratively—as you learn to transform spinning clay under the guidance of Japanese masters practicing techniques refined over centuries. The meditative quality of working with natural materials connects you to ancient traditions while producing beautiful functional art to bring home.
83. Learn to Tango in Argentina
Embrace the passionate dance born in Buenos Aires’ working-class neighborhoods, where precise technique meets emotional expression. The intimate connection required with your partner creates a unique form of nonverbal communication. Evening milongas (tango gatherings) allow you to practice with locals in authentic settings.
84. Take a Photography Masterclass in Iceland
Develop your visual storytelling skills while capturing some of Earth’s most dramatic landscapes. Professional guidance on composition, lighting, and technical settings elevates your photography beyond snapshots to art. Iceland’s waterfalls, black beaches, and glacier lagoons provide perfect subjects for unforgettable images.
85. Craft Your Own Chocolate in Switzerland
Transform cacao beans into delectable chocolate under the guidance of Swiss chocolatiers whose families have perfected the craft for generations. Learning tempering techniques and flavor infusions gives you new appreciation for chocolate’s complexity.
Unusual Adventures to Partake Before You Die
These unusual things to do before you die go beyond mainstream tourism to create truly unique adventures. From extreme environments to exclusive opportunities, these unexpected experiences will become the stories you tell most often—the ones that begin with “You won’t believe what I once did…”
86. Pilot a Fighter Jet for a Day
Experience the raw power of pulling multiple G’s as you take control of a real military jet with an expert pilot instructor. The combination of speed, maneuverability, and aerobatic capability creates an experience that makes commercial flight feel like standing still. Barrel rolls and loops are just the beginning!
87. Camp on an Active Volcano
Feel the primal energy of Earth’s internal fire as you set up camp near glowing lava flows on volcanoes like Yasur in Vanuatu or Pacaya in Guatemala. The otherworldly orange glow, occasional rumbling explosions, and heat emanating from the ground create a visceral connection to our planet’s dynamic geology.
88. Stay in an Underwater Hotel
Fall asleep surrounded by marine life in a submerged suite with panoramic underwater views. Luxury underwater accommodations in the Maldives and Dubai create the surreal experience of watching colorful fish and reef creatures instead of television. Waking to sea turtles gliding past your window redefines “room with a view.”
89. Train with Real Samurai in Japan
Embody the way of the warrior under the guidance of martial arts masters descended from authentic samurai lineages. Learning proper sword technique, meditation practices, and philosophical principles creates deeper understanding of Japanese culture beyond tourist experiences. The discipline and focus required become life lessons.
90. Dive to a Shipwreck
Explore underwater time capsules where marine life has reclaimed human creations. Whether diving historic wrecks like WWII vessels or ancient galleons, these submerged worlds tell silent stories. Feel the eerie thrill of swimming through corridors once walked by sailors, now home to colorful fish and coral gardens.
91. Take Part in a Traditional Viking Battle
Channel your inner warrior during immersive Viking combat experiences in Scandinavia. Feel the weight of authentic weapons, learn battle formations used over 1,000 years ago, and participate in choreographed conflicts. The primal satisfaction of shield walls and battle cries connects you to your ancestral past.
92. Drive an Icebreaker Ship in Antarctica
Experience the visceral power of commanding a vessel designed to crush through polar ice sheets. The thunderous crack as massive ice plates shatter beneath the reinforced hull creates a sensation of raw mechanical might meeting nature’s frozen resistance. Few sounds on Earth compare to this extraordinary phenomenon.
93. Hunt for Meteorites in the Desert
Join scientific expeditions searching for actual pieces of other worlds in Earth’s most barren landscapes. The otherworldly thrill of holding a rock that traveled billions of miles through space creates profound perspective shifts. These ancient cosmic visitors, sometimes billions of years old, connect you directly to our solar system’s origins.
Extra Ordinary Activities to Add to Your Bucket List
Some experiences are so rare they redefine what’s possible in a human lifetime. These things to do before u die represent the absolute frontier of what’s possible, limited by technology, access, or extreme environments. Though challenging to achieve, these once-impossible adventures have become accessible for those with sufficient resources, determination, and courage.
94. Experience True Weightlessness in Space
Imagine gazing at our blue planet from above—no longer an earthbound observer but a cosmic traveler. With companies like SpaceX and Blue Origin now offering civilian space flights, you can experience what was once reserved for astronauts. The overview effect often triggers profound philosophical shifts in those who see Earth from orbit.
95. Dive Into the Deepest Point of the Ocean (Mariana Trench)
Descend nearly seven miles to the ocean floor in a specialized submersible where pressure exceeds 16,000 pounds per square inch. In this alien realm deeper than Mount Everest is tall, bioluminescent creatures create their own light in perpetual darkness. Fewer humans have visited than have stood on the moon.
96. Join a Scientific Expedition to Antarctica’s Ice Caves
Accompany glaciologists exploring crystalline blue labyrinths hidden beneath Antarctica’s surface. These ephemeral ice formations—sculpted by air flow, meltwater, and time—create otherworldly chambers that shimmer with surreal azure light. The knowledge that these caves constantly change shape adds urgency to witnessing their fleeting beauty.
97. Explore an Iceberg from the Inside
Dive inside the hollowed chambers of massive icebergs with specialized polar guides. The ethereal blue light filtering through ice walls creates an almost spiritual atmosphere within these temporary sculptures. Each formation is unique and fleeting—transforming and eventually disappearing completely as the iceberg melts.
98. Visit an Underwater City (Atlantis-Like Submerged Ruins)
Explore ancient civilizations reclaimed by the sea, where streets and buildings now host marine life instead of people. Sites like Egypt’s Heracleion or Greece’s Pavlopetri preserve snapshots of daily life from thousands of years ago. Swimming through these submerged time capsules creates an almost mystical connection to vanished worlds.
Make Your Bucket List Dreams a Reality with Tinggly
Life moves quickly. The experiences that transform us—that make us feel truly alive—don’t happen by accident. They require intention, planning, and sometimes a little help to make them reality.
Don’t let another year pass with your bucket list remaining just a list. Among the many funny things to do before you die, profound cultural experiences, and adrenaline-pumping adventures, there’s something perfect for every personality. Whether you’re methodically working through 5 things to do before you die or ambitiously tackling the top 20 things to do before you die, the key is to start today.
Tinggly’s experience gifts make turning bucket list dreams into reality simpler than ever. These things to do once in a lifetime become accessible with experience gifts designed for adventurers, culture lovers, and relaxation seekers alike.
Which of the top 10 things to do before you die will you tackle first? Or will you aim to complete all 100 things to do before you die on this comprehensive list? Start your journey toward living your most extraordinary life today!