A new report reveals that Antarctica and several African nations are at the top of the list for most expensive trips, with average costs soaring well over $12,000 per person.
Budgeting for your next getaway? Which destination is the most expensive for American travelers in 2025?
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As Americans meticulously plan their travel budgets for the remainder of 2025, one destination has been identified as the most expensive for travelers seeking a unique and unforgettable experience.
According to a new report by Faye Travel Insurance, the African nation of Rwanda has emerged as the priciest destination for American travelers this year. The study found that those who journey to this East African country are spending an average of an astounding $18,417 per trip, making it a truly high-end travel experience.
While Rwanda is most famous for its incredible gorilla trekking adventures, the country offers a wealth of other wildlife-spotting opportunities. Travelers can seek out wild chimpanzees in Nyungwe National Park or go on a safari to find the "Big Five" (lion, leopard, rhinoceros, elephant, and buffalo) in Akagera National Park. Beyond its natural wonders, Rwanda's vibrant capital city, Kigali, welcomes visitors with a thriving arts scene, a wide array of locally made crafts and gifts, and powerful opportunities to learn about the nation's history. This combination of nature, culture, and history contributes to the high cost of a comprehensive trip to Rwanda.
African countries dominated the list of expensive destinations. The Seychelles secured the second spot with an average trip cost of $15,775, followed closely by Botswana at number 3 with an average cost of $15,619. Kenya came in at number 4 ($15,251), while Namibia was 6th ($14,147). Zimbabwe ranked 8th ($13,925), Tanzania was 9th ($13,092), and South Africa rounded out the top 10 with an average cost of $12,725. The high prices for these destinations are often due to the cost of luxury safari lodges, specialized guides, internal flights, and the exclusivity of the experiences offered.
Beyond the African continent, journeys to Antarctica were also noted as being particularly costly. With an average trip price of $14,491, the 7th continent firmly secured its place as the 5th most expensive destination. Travelers have a variety of ways to visit the icy landscape, including specialized cruises and flights. The high cost is attributed to the specialized nature of the travel, including the need for reinforced ships, expert guides, and the logistical challenges of operating in such a remote and extreme environment.
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While many of these top-tier trips are considered once-in-a-lifetime experiences, the report also highlighted that Europe remains the most popular choice for American travelers in 2025. A remarkable 75% of the insurance company's customers planned trips to Europe, with Italy, France, and the United Kingdom drawing the largest crowds. On average, Americans traveling to Europe spend a much more manageable $5,832 per person, demonstrating that a grand international trip can still be done at a more accessible price point.
Other popular international destinations for American travelers included Mexico, Germany, and Spain. In addition, many people are opting for trips closer to home, with the United States taking the 7th spot on the list of most popular destinations in the world. With its incredible variety of national parks, diverse cities, stunning beaches, and more, it's easy to see why so many Americans are choosing to explore their own country. The domestic options provide a wide range of experiences, from city breaks to outdoor adventures, often at a lower cost and with less travel time.
To determine its rankings and findings, Faye Travel Insurance analyzed data from thousands of travelers who booked and insured their trips through the company for the year 2025. This large dataset provided a comprehensive look at both the financial commitments and the popularity of various travel destinations among American consumers.
One often-overlooked cost in any travel budget is airport parking. Even on the most expensive trips, savvy travelers know that every dollar counts. Researching airport parking services is a critical step in trip planning. The most expensive trips can often be a complex financial puzzle, and finding ways to save on initial travel costs is a smart strategy. For example, while on-site parking at major international airports can have high airport parking charges per day, using a third-party service can significantly reduce this expense.
This is where services like ParkingNearAirports.io become invaluable! They offer competitive rates and often provide parking discounts or special deals that can lower the overall cost of a trip. For instance, a traveler going to Rwanda might be paying over $18,000 for their trip, but they can still save hundreds of dollars by choosing an affordable off-site parking option. These services often include a free shuttle to the terminal, providing both convenience and savings. By meticulously planning every aspect of a trip, from the main destination to smaller costs like parking, travelers can ensure their budget is well-managed, allowing them to fully enjoy their once-in-a-lifetime experience.
