Decoding the Gen Z traveller: The next generations bucket list

The desire to travel is rife among the global Gen Z population. Kiwis are no different, with Booking.com discovering that 59% of Gen Zs already have a travel bucket list outlining their wanderlust desires. From exploring the natural wonders of the world to seeking out the thrilling experience of a big city, Gen Zs are ready to take on what the world has to offer. Here are five more one-in-a-lifetime experiences to add to your own bucket list. 

River of Five Colors, Colombia

Located in the Sierra de La Macarena National Park is the river of five colours, known locally as Caño Cristales. This beauty of biodiversity is 100km of waterfalls, streams and rivers that burst with colour from June to November. The rare and endemic plant, the Macarenia Clavigera lines the river-bed and causes the colourful biological phenomenon that tourists and locals flock to. For the majority of the year, the river is a hue of deep green but come the rainy season, the river transforms into a kaleidoscope of multi-colour.

Where to stay: Nestled deep in the jungle is La Manigua Lodge, a tranquil stay providing an authentic wilderness experience surrounded by natural beauty. Relax in your stilted treehouse or observe the tropical flora and fauna above and below while relaxing on the suspended nets in your private treehouse. Located a short boat ride from the river of five colours, La Manigua Lodge is the perfect stay for travellers.

A thrilling southern adventure, New Zealand

Placed 400 metres above Queenstown is the AJ Hackett Ledge Bungy. A thrilling activity designed to provide a maximum rush of adrenaline, the bungy has a special harness that allows you to twist, flip, spin, run or jump off the purpose-built launch pod. World renowned for adventure sports, Queenstown is the perfect picturesque destination for the active Gen Z traveller. 

Where to stay: 

Mi-Pad Smart Hotel provides guests with stunning mountain views. Located in the hub of activity, the AJ Hackett Ledge Bungy is a 5-minute drive away, with the Skyline Gondola and Luge only 400m down the road. Offering private balconies and en-suites, Mi-Pad is an affordable stay that allows you to view and experience the best of Queenstown.

Volunteer your time in Jatiluwih, Indonesia

Almost half (47%) of Kiwi Gen Z travellers value giving back to the local community when they travel by volunteering their time. A way to achieve this is through getting involved with the sustainable tourism startup, I Like Local. This company aims to connect travellers with locals to discover the real world and to help make a positive impact on the community through hand-picked and off-the-beaten track travel experiences. 

Where to stay: A short drive from the scenic rice terraces of Jatiluwih is the peaceful retreat of Sang Giri - Mountain Glamping Camp. Sang Giri provides guests with luxury tent accommodation, a restaurant, outdoor hot tub, yoga platform and panoramic views of the mountain and jungle. Guests looking to explore the area can take advantage of the complementary map of the surrounding area, pocket binoculars, an umbrella and torch light.

Choquequirao Archaeological Park, Peru

Gen Z travellers are increasingly aware of the damaging effects of over-tourism, with many people opting to visit lesser known destinations if it means having less of an environmental impact. With this in mind, The Choquequirao Archaeological Park is a great alternative to world-famous Machu Picchu. Gen Z will also be pleased to know that Choquequirao only draws about 20 visitors per day, ensuring the ruins are undamaged and remain quiet.

Where to stay: CasaNostra Choquequirao is a cozy guest house located in Cachora, which is the nearest town to the Choquequirao Archaeological Park. Breathe in the crisp mountain air from your balcony and after a strenuous trek, savour tasty national and international dishes served at the on-site restaurant.

Events at your fingertips, New York City

Many people travel in search of once-in-a-lifetime events. New York City, the city that never sleeps, is home to world-class theatre productions, iconic sports teams, comedy clubs that will have you laughing yourself silly and live music performances from intimate jazz clubs to sold-out pop concerts.  

Where to stay: Located in a recently-renovated historic building and a short walk from Central Park, HI NYC Hostel is a social stay in Manhattan’s Upper West Side. Full of numerous common areas, such as a large outdoor patio and private green space, the hostel also hosts many activities including pub crawls, night club events and in-house variety shows, which are the perfect opportunity to meet like-minded travellers from around the world.