Everyone’s favorite season is coming and it’s time to make the most-awaited summer bucket list 2025. Sunny days and tan lines, what could go wrong, right? Except that everyone is traveling during this time. High demand means inflated hotel prices, long restaurant queues, and packed tourist areas.
So let’s make this year a little different. Everyone will fight for their small spot on the beaches of Capri or Amalfi. But you? You’ll be exploring out-of-the-ordinary destinations that are affordable, adventurous, and stunning!
A five-day adventure in the Gobi Desert in Mongolia or horseback riding in Kyrgyzstan. This will be a summer you’ll remember.
- Adventures to Add to Your Summer Bucket List 2025
- Gobi Desert Adventure in Mongolia
- Volunteer in a Ski Resort in Almaty Kazakhstan
- Horseback Riding in Karakol Valley, Kyrgyzstan
- Go on a Slow Train Journey Across Uzbekistan
- Explore the Wadis of Oman
- Surf in a Secret Paradise in Catanduanes Philippines
- Scuba Diving in Siquijor Philippines
- Solo Retreat in Ryokan in Saitama, Japan
- Explore a Romantic Sunset District in North Taiwan
- Day Trip to Hong Kong’s Secret Gem Stanley Market
- Tips for Making Your Summer Bucket List Happen
- Start Planning For Summer 2025
Adventures to Add to Your Summer Bucket List 2025
Summer is my favorite time to go on an adventure. In 2022, I spent my days learning how to surf in a little surf town in Catanduanes, Philippines. Then, the following year, I found myself sweltering in the humidity of Hong Kong and Taiwan’s secret spots.
In 2024, I kicked off my biggest journey yet and went to a solo retreat in a mountain town in Japan. Population? 300 people. I then brought the journey all the way to the Central Asia region, a one-of-a-kind experience in my life.
I created this Summer Bucket List 2025 based on these unforgettable adventures.
Gobi Desert Adventure in Mongolia
Everyone seems to be talking about Mongolia this year and I can’t blame them. This country is vast, peaceful, and breathtakingly beautiful.
Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia’s capital, is known as the coldest capital city in the world, with winter temperatures dropping below -30°C. But in summer, the weather becomes pleasant and perfect for exploring. This is an epic start to your summer bucket list 2025.
One of the best ways to experience Mongolia in summer is by exploring the Gobi Desert. This season draws travelers and it’s to join group tours and share expenses for the desert trip.
In 2024, a typical 5-day Gobi Desert tour costs around $600. The more people on the tour, the lower your costs will be. You’ll journey in a caravan, stopping at iconic landmarks, unique rock formations, and national parks. At night, you’ll sleep in a Ger, a traditional tent used by Mongolian nomadic families, for an authentic Mongolian wilderness adventure.
It’s common advice not to book your tours before arriving prices are higher for online booking. Yet, if you want to ask around in advance, join the Travel to Mongolia Facebook group. Many local agents post their group tours here and you can pick which one gives the best price.
Summer is also the season of the Naadam Festival, Mongolia’s biggest festival celebrated in July. During Naadam, locals honor their heritage through traditional sports like wrestling, archery, and horse racing. Attending this festival makes the trip even more authentic.
Volunteer in a Ski Resort in Almaty Kazakhstan
A summer bucket list feels a little boring without a touch of meaning, right? If you’re wondering — of all places to volunteer, why Kazakhstan? Let me tell you: this country is a hidden gem in Asia, with breathtaking canyons, turquoise lakes, and snow-capped mountains. That Borat film did this country dirty.
Kazakhstan is already an affordable destination. But if you want to stay longer and get to know the local culture, volunteering is one of the best ways to do it.
Unlike my home country, the Philippines, where people will often rush to chat with you the moment they realize you’re a foreigner, Kazakhs are more reserved and careful with strangers. That’s why volunteering can become a great way to build real connections with locals beyond small talk.
@mirjhipolito One thing I noticed is that not many Filipinos know about travel volunteering! 🥹 It’s a great opportunity we’re missing out on, as volunteering is an amazing way to meet people and immerse in the local culture. I will be creating more video guides in this field. I contacted @worldpackers to make travel volunteering more accessible to the Filipino crowd. 🇵🇭 📌You can use my code “MIRJ” or click on the link in my bio when you sign up. I’ll give you a free template to kickstart your Worldpackers profile🩵 Hoping to see more Filipino volunteers! . . . . . . . #traveltips #budgettravel #volunteering #worldpackers ♬ Guitar Fresh and Relaxing Bells Harmonic – Hertz Box Music
You can easily find volunteering opportunities through platforms like Worldpackers, Workaway, or WWOOF. When I traveled in Kazakhstan, I found a great opportunity to volunteer at a ski resort near the mountains through Worldpackers. Here’s what the experience looked like:
- Help with housekeeping for just three hours a day
- Free accommodation near the beautiful Medeu mountains
- Free cable car rides on weekends, giving you access to hiking trails without spending extra
And because the volunteer coordinator was friends with Atlas Tours Almaty (a local hiking group), I joined a hike to Kolsay Lakes for 15,000 KZT (around ₱1,600 or $30). This is the cheapest you’ll ever find for that tour.
Volunteering in Kazakhstan isn’t just about saving money. For me, it’s also about immersing yourself deeper into a very unique culture. You’ll find yourself getting offered a special local goat dish in no time.
Horseback Riding in Karakol Valley, Kyrgyzstan
Doesn’t a multi-day horse tour through the valleys of Kyrgyzstan sound like a Pinterest summer bucket list goal? Trust me, it is even better.
Kyrgyzstan’s Karakol Valley is one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever been to. Imagine real-life Lord of the Rings scenery: untouched meadows with little wild flowers, crystal-clear alpine lakes, and horses roaming freely. Kyrgyzstan feels like you’re stepping into another world.
Yurt camps start opening up every April, the start of the hike season, and will close by the end of October. If you’re wondering, yurts are nomadic, tent-like houses similar to Mongolian gers. This is where hikers and riders stay overnight.
Many local organizers offer multi-day horseback tours for as low as $150. This gives you a full adventure without breaking your wallet. Fair warning though: riding a horse for eight hours a day can be tough (your legs and butt will feel it!). But the views? The fresh mountain air? Your eyes, heart, and lungs will thank you for taking them on this adventure.
If you’re feeling even more adventurous, I recommend doing a DIY hike at Ala Kul Pass. The trail starts from Karakol Valley, climbs up 3,900 MASL elevation at Ala Kul Pass, and descends into the hot spring town of Altyn-Arashan. This three-day hike includes an overnight stay in a yurt camp, where you’ll sleep under a sky full of stars. (cue for Coldplay, uh-huh)
If you’re unsure about doing it alone, you can easily find companions in hostels or guesthouse. Ala Kul is a rite of passage in Kyrgyzstan and everyone wants to do it.
For those needing an electronic visa to enter, read my Kyrgyzstan e-visa guide for a smoother application process.
Go on a Slow Train Journey Across Uzbekistan
Next on your summer bucket list ideas: taking a slow train journey across Uzbekistan. Train travel is the most popular transportation around the country, especially when visiting the iconic towns of Samarkand, Bukhara, and Khiva.
Today, travelers have the option to ride the modern Afrosiyob train which is a high-speed, comfortable way to move between cities. But if you ask me? Nothing beats the experience of the slow Uzbekistan Railways trains.
You’ll get a tiny bunk bed, sometimes hanging by a thread, with little to no ventilation. This might feel inconvenient at first, especially in the heat of summer. But once the train starts moving, you’ll start to enjoy the ride. Especially if you’re on a window seat where the sunrise view is spectacular.
You’ll share spaces with locals of all ages, watching vendors hop on at stops to sell local candies, drinks, and homemade snacks. It’s raw, unfiltered, and will feel like stepping into a cinematic movie scene.
Of course, Uzbekistan is famous for stunning architecture, and you’ll find these almost everywhere:
- Madrassas (ancient Islamic schools)
- Minarets (tall prayer towers)
- Mosques (beautiful places of worship)
Apart from landmarks, food is a huge part of the adventure. While in Uzbekistan, make sure to try classic dishes like plov (pilaf rice), manti (dumplings), and cheburek (fried meat pies). When in Khiva, do not miss Khiva-exclusive delicacies like Shivit Oshi (bright green dill noodles) and Tukhum Barak (egg dumplings served with yogurt).
If you need an e-visa to enter Uzbekistan, apply in advance because border control is quite strict in checking this document.
Explore the Wadis of Oman
Many travel guides will discourage you from visiting Oman in the summer (June to September) because of the extreme heat. But here’s a secret: summer is actually a great time to explore Omani Wadis.
A Wadi is a natural valley or riverbed with clear turquoise water, surrounded by rocky cliffs and palm trees. Seeing a Wadi for the first time left me wondering, how many more of these kinds of beauties have I not seen? I never see wadis getadvertised as beautiful destinations much like Lake Como or Santorini.
Popular spots like Wadi Shab, Wadi Bani Khalid, and Wadi Tiwi have water year-round. You can swim inside caves, float in turquoise pools, and enjoy beautiful landscapes with no crowds during off-season.
After the little exploration and you’re up for more adventure, rent a 4×4 and drive up to Jebel Shams. Here, you can hike the famous Balcony Walk, a cliff-side trail, and camp under the stars in the cool mountain air.
For diving enthusiasts, you’ll be surprised to know that Oman is home to rich marine life. The Daymaniyat Islands have crystal-clear visibility during summer and you can spot green and hawksbill turtles. August to October is also whale shark season, making it an even more exciting time to visit.
October to March is often considered the best time to visit Oman due to the cooler weather. However, summer is shoulder season and you’ll enjoy fewer tourists and better deals.
If you’re planning a bigger trip, Oman also makes a perfect in-between stop. Their flag carrier, Oman Air, flies to many global destinations, and you can score affordable flights to many destinations.
Surf in a Secret Paradise in Catanduanes Philippines
When people talk about surfing in Asia, places like Bali and Siargao instantly come to mind — and for good reason. These islands have a magnetic charm that makes people stay.
But if you’re after a real, raw surf vibe like nipa houses, laid-back days, and no-frills island living, then Puraran, Catanduanes is the ultimate hidden gem.
Swell season starts as early as April, the perfect time for beginners to learn how to ride without getting tossed around by huge waves. By July, the swells grow bigger and stronger, attracting experienced surfers that regularly visit the island. Come August to October, Puraran transforms into a barrel playground, with huge, powerful waves for expert riders.
Another great thing? You don’t have to pay crazy rates for surf camps. Instead, you can hire a local surf instructor and commission them for the duration of your stay. You can also ask to create a personal program to help you improve day by day.
Above all of these, Puraran is all about community. Everyone who’s been here says the same thing: you’ll be treated like family. I’m grateful I found Titaay’s Surfers Inn, a simple, affordable guesthouse that feels exactly like staying with a Filipino family: warm, welcoming, and real.
At night, expect to sit around bonfires, sip local beers, play cards, and swap stories with locals and fellow travelers. It’s island life in the most authentic form.
Scuba Diving in Siquijor Philippines
Siquijor is gaining international attention due to stunning waterfalls and cliff diving. Aside from land adventures, the island is also home to rich marine life, with frequent sightings of sea turtles and, occasionally, small reef sharks and stingrays.
It’s one of the cheapest places to try scuba diving in Southeast Asia. I paid only ₱2,500 for a Discover Scuba Diving course, a half-day lesson that included two dives. For what you get, it’s an great deal and worth it for anyone who wants to get a start at diving.
The island is also known for having a mystical side. Legend has it that Siquijor is home to witchcraft (yes, real “witchcraft,” not wizardry, Potter!). A unique experience you can try is visiting a local faith healer. You can get a traditional “bolo-bolo” healing and buy love potions (locally called gayuma) and various herbal remedies passed down through generations.
Solo Retreat in Ryokan in Saitama, Japan
Japan is never a bad idea. And that’s true because this country is beautiful in every corner. But Tokyo in summer? It’s hot, humid, and packed with tourists. That’s why, for this Summer Bucket List 2025, we are skipping the usual Tokyo crowds and recommending something different: a solo retreat in the fresh, cool mountains of Chichibu Tama Kai National Park.
Just 77 minutes away from Ikebukuro Station via the Laview train on the Seibu-Chichibu Line, you’ll reach Seibu-Chichibu Station in Saitama. You’d never think something like this existed just an hour away from the city because everything’s just peaceful. Their little train station is deserted and departures are more spaced out, unlike Tokyo’s fast rhythm.
From Seibu-Chichibu Station, take another short train ride to Mitsumineguchi Station, where a peaceful mountain town — and Guesthouse Nishiki — awaits. This tiny town is home surrounded by lush forests and sacred Shinto pilgrimage sites, and is home to only 300+ residents.
At Guesthouse Nishiki, you’ll sleep on traditional tatami floors with futon bedding, offering a true Japanese countryside experience. It feels like a solo retreat: quiet, fresh mountain air, and nothing but the sounds of nature around you. The owner’s wife also makes the healthiest and most delicious meals!
While much of Japan struggles with the intense humidity, the mountains of Chichibu stay refreshingly cool, making it perfect for:
- Hiking in Chichibu Tama Kai National Park
- Visiting Mitsumine Shrine
- Or simply taking peaceful walks around the neighborhood
Now for a little story:
While waiting for the local bathhouse to open next door, I decided to take a walk around the area — carrying my fresh change of clothes, including a clean pair of knickers. Somehow, I dropped them along the way without noticing. Not long after, the local rangers found them and reported the “mystery item” to the guesthouse owner.
In a small town where nothing goes unnoticed, it quickly became the neighborhood news. As embarrassed as I was, I’m glad I provided a bit of entertainment to the town.
Believe me, you’ll leave Saitama more refreshed and revitalized than when you first came.
Explore a Romantic Sunset District in North Taiwan
If you’ve never included Taiwan in your summer bucket list, you’re missing out because this tiny country is packed with beauty in every corner. From dive spots in the south (Kenting) to a gorgeous gorge in the east (Hualien), incredible food in the west (Tainan), and a romantic coastal town in the north (Tamsui), Taiwan will be one big adventure.
Located just 40 minutes by MRT from Taipei, Tamsui is a little district in the north known as one of Taiwan’s most romantic districts. It’s quite underrated among tourists who prefer Jiufen or Yehliu Geopark for day trips. All because they had never heard of Tamsui before.
In the morning, you can explore historical forts either on foot or by bike, made even more enjoyable by the cool breeze coming from the coast — a great escape from Taiwan’s summer heat.
After a day of exploring, most people head to Tamsui Fisherman’s Wharf to watch the sunset. The sky turns pink and orange behind the iconic Lover’s Bridge, creating one of the most beautiful sunset view in Taiwan. At night, Tamsui transforms from a laid-back seaside town to a vibrant street food paradise.
Make sure to try the local specialty, Tamsui ah-gei, glass noodles stuffed inside tofu skin, which the town is known known for. You’ll also find endless stalls selling milk tea, mochi, giant fried squid, and other interesting local food.
If you’re looking for a summer destination that’s convenient to go around, affordable, and full of character, Tamsui and Taiwan in general absolutely deserve a spot on your list.
Day Trip to Hong Kong’s Secret Gem Stanley Market
Many people think Hong Kong is just skyscrapers and designer boutiques. After spending two weeks exploring, I can tell you: this city is so much more than that.
In the summer, Hong Kong feels like a real-life Pinterest summer bucket list, with secret beaches, beginner-friendly hikes, and an atmosphere that’s just immaculate. There’s something about the city’s light, energy, and vibe during the season that feels it’s been cut straight out of Jackie Chan’s Rush Hour 2 movie.
One secret spot where locals escape the city is Stanley Market, located at the southern coast of Hong Kong island. This place has the calm, slow vibe of a quiet Sunday morning, different from the fast-paced energy of downtown Hong Kong.
Visiting Stanley Market is a reminder that Hong Kong’s soul isn’t found only in the skyline but also in the slow, sun-drenched corners of the city’s secret nooks.
How to Get to Stanley Market?
- Head to the Central (Exchange Square) Bus Terminus, located under the Exchange Square complex near Hong Kong Station.
- Buses 6, 6A, 6X, 260, or 66 all head towards Stanley Market.
- For the most scenic route, hop on Bus 6, a double-decker that winds through Wong Nai Chung Gap Road and Repulse Bay. This will reveal Hong Kong’s seaside beauty beyond skyscraper lights.
Tips for Making Your Summer Bucket List Happen
Summer is just around the corner. If you want to turn your Summer Bucket List 2025 into reality, now’s the time to start planning seriously. Here are a few tips to help you stay on track:
Save Money Early
I always follow a simple rule: start saving three months before any trip. During this period, it’s important to be intentional with your money. Take on side gigs, small jobs, or freelance work to help you hit your target budget faster.
It’s also the perfect time to cut back on unnecessary or impulsive spending and redirect that money straight into your travel fund.
If you can, create a separate account labeled “Travel Fund” and commit to depositing a set amount regularly. This makesit easier to track your savings and prevents you from accidentally spending your travel money on everyday expenses.
Organize Your Things
The key to making a trip happen? Actually preparing for it. Create a travel checklist of all the things and documents you’ll need. Complete the list little by little from booking flight tickets, securing travel insurance, to sorting out your packing essentials.
This helps break down the preparation process which could be overwhelming if you do everything all at once and last minute.
Check Visa Requirements for Destinations
If any of the destinations on your Summer Bucket List 2025 require a visa, handle it early to avoid last-minute stress. Just remember: visas have a validity period, and if they expire before your trip, they’re no longer valid for entry.
In my experience, the best time to apply for both physical and electronic visas is around three months before your departure date. This gives you enough time to handle any unexpected delays while making sure your visa remains valid by the time you travel.
Start Planning For Summer 2025
Summer is coming, and we’re all excited for it. But this Summer Bucket List 2025 isn’t just another list. It’s adventurous, meaningful, and designed to leave you with unique stories to tell.
Days before your trip, you might get cold feet. You’ll start questioning whether it’s worth the risk, the money, or the effort. I’m here to tell you, as someone who once felt exactly the same before taking the leap: It’s worth it. Every single moment. So fill those bags, trust the process, and get ready to go.
Are you excited for a summer to remember? Because this is where the real adventure begins.
