Thanks to developments in technology, the ends of the Earth are more connected than ever. People can now enter virtual spaces, experiencing places they’ve never been to before. Even better, these experiences are not just for the adult population. Children, too, can travel the world online.
Because of this, we have plenty of experiences to choose from, from VR to online virtual tours around the world. We present to you our top ten choices for the best virtual travel experiences you can enjoy from home.
Top 10 Virtual Travel Experiences
1. National Geographic Explore VR
If you own an Oculus VR headset, you may find that National Geographic’s VR excursions are just the kind of travel you’re looking for. The exploration experience brings you to otherwise inaccessible areas, like Antarctica, and legendary world locations, like Machu Picchu. The VR experience is gratifying because you aren’t a passive player or limited to a 360-degree still view. Between the two locations, you’ll be kayaking, hiking, and interacting with the landscape.
2. The Republic of the Maldives
Tour the world’s largest coral country above and below the sea with this 10-minute narrated tour. And yes, the 360-degree video feature even works during your “deep-sea dive.” With soothing music and incredible aerial and underwater views, you get to experience the Maldives without paying for a thing! The video tour is entirely free.
3. BRINK Traveler
The BRINK Traveler app is designed to be a breathtaking VR travel experience. The 3D real-time footage provides an immersive experience as you trek throughout some of the world’s most well-known locations: Death Valley National Park, Crystal Crag, Antelope Canyon, and much more! You can use a compass to find trails, pick up objects, and collect information for a more educational experience.
4. Grand Tour: Switzerland
Switzerland has organized an immersive virtual tour of its top destinations. It doesn’t require a VR headset, nor do you need to point and move your phone around the room for a 3D experience–all you need is a computer, phone, or tablet and an internet connection. The virtual travel experience lets you visit 12 UNESCO sites, 22 lakes, and five alpine passes (long-distance hiking trails through the Alps).
5. San Diego Zoo
The San Diego Zoo has much more than a panda cam. You can peek in on the tigers, baboons, penguins, and giraffes, too! This is an opportunity for children to learn more about different species and for you to catch up on some you-time.
6. The Great Wall of China
Discover the Great Wall of China through Discover China’s virtual tour. The free version online consists of a limited view of the Mutiayanu section of the wall, but for $8, you can unlock the full tour. You can also view the Great Wall through VR.
7. Nile Cruise Series
This six-episode virtual tour takes you down the Nile river, guided by a local licensed tour guide. Important stops include the Aswan High Dam, the Temple of Edfu, the Temple of Queen Nefertiti, and the Temple of Dendera. All six tours are free and suitable for children (you just have to make sure you’re awake to match the time zone!) and conducted over Zoom.
8. Historical Enchantment in Tokyo: Asakusa
Through the Heygo platform, you can tour several popular tourist destinations through the eyes of a live tour guide. One of the more popular Heygo sites is the historical section of Tokyo, where you’ll see the main hall of Sensoji Temple, streets lined with paper lanterns, and beautiful Japanese gardens. Signing up for the tour is free, but the website recommends leaving a tip that goes mostly to the guide.
9. North Pole
No, you can’t visit St. Nick (mostly because he’s not alive), but you can still travel to the North Pole! As another AirPano production, the video tour of the North Pole gives you 360-degree views, gentle narration, and stunning views. The water and ice flows glisten in the sun, but boy, does it look cold!
10. Google National Parks
Thanks to Google, we now have the opportunity to explore several of the USA’s national parks virtually. Enjoy the Kenai Fjords, Hawai’i Volcanos, Bryce Canyon, and more from the comfort of your computer, smartphone, or tablet screen.
Travel the World Online!
Virtual travel experiences are redefining what it means to travel. It is no longer just physical transportation; it is an emotional experience. Take advantage of what virtual travel can offer: an affordable way to see the world from the comfort of your own home.
