
Dreaming of finally ticking off those once-in-a-lifetime destinations from your bucket list? Mature adventurers are discovering that the world’s greatest wonders are now more accessible than ever. Senior-friendly tours, improved on-site facilities, and thoughtful pacing options mean that travel dreams can become reality - with a little smart preparation.
Before you set out, remember that good travel planning includes great travel insurance. From altitude sickness to missed connections, our cover offers the financial protection to fully enjoy each breathtaking moment.
Below, we explore the world’s most awe-inspiring wonders, complete with practical advice, accessibility notes, and travel insurance tips designed for mature travellers.
Northern China
The Great Wall of China ¶
Best times to visit for comfort¶
- Ideal months: April–June and September–October
- Weather: Mild and clear, perfect for walking sections of the Wall
- Avoid: July–August (heat and crowds) and winter months (icy steps)
Physical demands & what to expect¶
- Expect long walks, steep staircases, and uneven stone pathways.
- Popular restored sections like Mutianyu are moderate, while Jiankou is rugged.
- Plan 2–3 hours of walking; rest areas are available at intervals.
Accessibility & senior-friendly options¶
- Cable cars and chairlifts at Mutianyu and Badaling ease access.
- Paved paths and handrails assist stability.
- Not all sections are wheelchair accessible, but Mutianyu is the most accommodating.
Travel insurance considerations ¶
- Risks: slips, heat exhaustion, theft, or minor injuries.
- Coverage to include: trip cancellation, medical expenses, and personal belongings.
- Get a quote
Insider tips for mature travellers¶
- Hire a local guide for historical insights and pacing advice.
- Wear sturdy walking shoes and bring trekking poles.
- Consider a panoramic cable car ride for a less strenuous yet scenic experience.
- Carry snacks and hydration packs for comfort.

Mexico
Chichén Itzá ¶
Best times to visit for comfort
- Ideal months: November–March
- Weather: Dry and cooler (25–30°C)
- Avoid: April–August due to heat and humidity.
Physical demands & what to expect¶
- Mostly flat terrain with short walking distances.
- Expect moderate walking between structures; climbing pyramids is no longer allowed.
Accessibility & senior-friendly options¶
- Wheelchair-friendly paths are available near the main areas.
- Golf cart transport is offered from entrances on request.
- Audio guides and guided tours enhance understanding without rushing.
Travel insurance considerations¶
- Risks: dehydration, sun exposure, and pickpocketing.
- Ensure coverage for heat-related illness and trip interruptions.
- Get a quote
Insider tips for mature travellers¶
- Visit early morning to avoid crowds.
- Bring a sun hat, light clothing, and plenty of water.

Jordan
Petra ¶
Best times to visit for comfort¶
- Ideal months: March–May and September–November.
- Weather: Pleasant for walking; avoid mid-summer heat.
Physical demands & what to expect¶
- Expect 4–5 km of walking on sandy and rocky paths.
- The Siq (narrow gorge) leads to the Treasury - mostly downhill on entry, uphill on return.
Accessibility & senior-friendly options¶
- Horse-drawn carriages and electric buggies are available through parts of the site.
- Some steep or uneven areas remain challenging for wheelchairs.
Travel insurance considerations¶
- Risks: dehydration, uneven terrain, limited medical access.
- Include coverage for medical evacuation and trip cancellation.
- Get a quote
Insider tips for mature travellers¶
- Start early, carry water, and rest often.
- Book a Petra by Night experience for a magical, low-effort visit.
- Use walking sticks for stability.

Peru
Machu Picchu ¶
Best times to visit for comfort¶
- Ideal months: April–October (dry season).
- Avoid heavy rain months (November–March).
Physical demands & what to expect¶
- Altitude of 2,430m; expect steps and uneven paths.
- Moderate walking, but can feel strenuous due to altitude.
Accessibility & senior-friendly options¶
- Shuttle buses from Aguas Calientes reduce walking distances.
- No wheelchair access within the ruins, but panoramic train tours offer alternatives.
Travel insurance considerations¶
- Risks: altitude sickness, slips, and medical evacuation delays.
- Coverage should include medical cover and emergency transport.
- Get a quote
Insider tips for mature travellers¶
- Acclimatise in Cusco for 2–3 days before visiting.
- Consider the Vistadome Train for comfort and views.
- Take breaks frequently and carry altitude medication.

Brazil
Christ the Redeemer ¶
Best times to visit for comfort¶
- Ideal months: May–October (dry and cooler).
- Avoid the Carnival period if you prefer smaller crowds.
Physical demands & what to expect¶
- Short climbs and steps from the tram drop-off.
- Some uneven surfaces, but manageable.
Accessibility & senior-friendly options¶
- Corcovado train or van transport to the summit.
- Elevators and escalators are available near the statue.
Travel insurance considerations¶
- Risks: heat, theft, or minor falls.
- Ensure medical and personal belongings coverage.
- Get a quote
Insider tips for mature travellers¶
- Visit early morning for clear views.
- Carry light layers - temperatures vary with altitude.
- Combine with a scenic Rio city tour for a relaxed day.

Egypt
The Pyramids of Giza ¶
Best times to visit for comfort¶
- Ideal months: October–April.
- Weather: Warm days, cool evenings.
- Avoid extreme summer heat.
Physical demands & what to expect¶
- Walking on sand and gravel; limited shade.
- Climbing inside pyramids involves steep, narrow passages.
Accessibility & senior-friendly options¶
- Wheelchair access around the plateau is limited but possible with assistance.
- Camel rides and private vehicle tours offer alternatives.
Travel insurance considerations¶
- Risks: heat exhaustion, dehydration, theft.
- Coverage should include sports and hazardous activities, medical, cancellation, and belongings protection.
- Get a quote
Insider tips for mature travellers¶
- Hire an Egyptologist guide for in-depth insight.
- Bring sun protection, water, and a scarf for sand.
- Visit early morning or sunset for cooler temperatures.

Italy
The Colosseum ¶
Best times to visit for comfort¶
- Ideal months: April–June or September–October.
- Avoid peak summer crowds and heat.
Physical demands & what to expect¶
- Moderate walking and stair climbing; uneven cobblestones.
Accessibility & senior-friendly options¶
- Lifts are available for upper levels.
- Guided small-group or private tours are ideal for pacing.
Travel insurance considerations¶
- Risks: slips, theft, or missed connections.
- Coverage: medical care, trip delays, lost luggage.
- Get a quote
Insider tips for mature travellers¶
- Pre-book skip-the-line tickets.
- Pair with a relaxed café visit in the nearby Monti district.
- Visit early morning or evening for fewer crowds.

India
The Taj Mahal ¶
Best times to visit for comfort¶
- Ideal months: November–February (cooler season).
- Avoid the monsoon (June–September).
Physical demands & what to expect¶
- Short walks and light stair climbing.
- Flat, paved surfaces make it easy to navigate.
Accessibility & senior-friendly options¶
- Battery-operated shuttles from gate entrances.
- Wheelchairs and priority entry for seniors.
Travel insurance considerations¶
- Risks: heat, dehydration, and minor illness.
- Include medical coverage and trip cancellation protection.
- Get a quote
Insider tips for mature travellers¶
- Visit at sunrise for cooler air and fewer crowds.
- Bring shoe covers or socks for marble floors.
- Enjoy the nearby Mehtab Bagh gardens for relaxing Taj views.

Pre-travel peace of mind checklist ¶
Medical preparedness¶
- Consult your doctor 4–6 weeks before travel, especially for high-altitude or health-risk regions.
- Ensure vaccinations are current.
- Pack extra prescription meds in your carry-on.
- Carry a medical information card (conditions, meds, emergency contacts).
Travel insurance essentials¶
- Confirm your policy covers each destination.
- Ensure you declare all pre-existing conditions.
- Ensure trip cancellation includes weather-related issues (Machu Picchu, Petra).
- Add a gadget cover for valuable electronics like cameras.
- Add sports and hazardous activity cover if needed.
Destination-specific preparations ¶
For high-altitude wonders (Machu Picchu)¶
- Arrive 2–3 days early to acclimatise.
- Pack altitude medication.
For remote wonders (Petra, Great Wall)¶
- Download offline maps and translation apps.
- Identify the nearest embassy/consulate.
- Arrange reliable transport ahead of time.
During your visit checklist¶
- Keep emergency contacts handy.
- Stay hydrated and take regular breaks.
- Monitor weather conditions and have backup plans.
- Keep insurance cards/policy numbers on your phone.
- Check in with loved ones regularly.
Need travel insurance cover for your next adventure? Explore our travel insurance cover options for senior travellers.
