2025 is shaping up to be an incredible year for travel, with many unique events happening around the world.
To help you plan your next adventure, the OnTrailVisa editorial team has scoured the globe to bring you the ultimate list of unmissable events in 2025 – with a special focus on the exotic and extraordinary.
However, before you pack your bags, you’ll need to make sure you have the right visa or travel authorisation. So, to ensure your travel goes as smoothly as possible, we’ve also included which documents you’ll need as a UK passport holder to experience these once-in-a-lifetime events.
Get ready to mark your planner and let’s see what 2025 has in store!
Maha Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj, India (January 2025)
Why settle for the usual New Year plans when you could begin 2025 with an event so rare it happens once every 12 years? We’re talking about the Maha Kumbh Mela in India.
In January 2025, millions of pilgrims, saints, and curious travellers will meet in Prayagraj, where the sacred rivers Ganges, Yamuna, and the mythical Sarasvati meet.
The highlight of this grand event is the Shahi Snan (Royal Bath), where pilgrims take a dip in the holy waters to cleanse their wrongdoings and attain spiritual liberation. It also features vibrant processions of saffron-clad sadhus, spiritual discourses, and sunset boat rides.
Why should I go?
Whether you’re drawn by faith, an interest in the culture, or sheer curiosity, experiencing the Maha Kumbh Mela is a rare opportunity to immerse yourself in India’s spiritual and cultural heritage.
Do I need a visa to attend the Maha Kumbh Mela?
Yes, British citizens will need an eVisa to India. You can apply online in minutes, and most eVisa applications are processed and approved in 1 to 2 days.
OnTrailVisa successfully processed over 18,600 visa applications to India in 2024!
Barranquilla Carnival, Colombia (March 2025)
As you might expect from the birthplace of Colombian superstar Shakira, the Barranquilla Carnival is a four-day extravaganza of music, dancing, costumes and culture, all wrapped into one massive street party. In fact, the festival is so unique that UNESCO recognised it as an Intangible Heritage of Humanity in 2007.
Don’t let the carnival’s lively chaos fool you, however — it still has a clear-cut itinerary. The carnival officially kicks off on the Saturday before Ash Wednesday with its first event, the Battle of the Flowers. This is a procession of floats, colourful clothes, and performers dancing through the streets.
The end of the carnival, on Tuesday, is marked with the Burial of Joselito. Legend has it that ‘Joselito’, inspired by a man named José Pérez, partied so hard during the carnival that he was presumed dead by the final day. He was actually just recovering from his wild revelries. His mock funeral involves a lively procession led by the Carnival Queen and “crying widows,” as they ‘bury’ Joselito until next year’s carnival.
As one local noted on r/Colombia, “This parade is a mix of everything you can see on the carnival: the queen and king in cool costumes, a lot of beautiful carrozas [elaborate parade floats], traditional and fantasy dance groups, famous Colombian celebrities (tv host, actors, models, etc), and so on.”
Why should I go?
It’s February in the UK, which can only mean grey skies, chilly winds, and an urgent need for Vitamin D. While your mates are scraping frost off their windshields, you could be soaking up that legendary Caribbean sunshine.
Better yet, Barranquilla Carnival is a fantastic choice for travellers on a budget who still want to join the party. The carnival is free to attend, with tickets only required for special events like concerts.
Do I need a visa to attend the Barranquilla Carnival?
Good news for UK citizens: you can enter Colombia and stay for up to 90 days — just make sure to fill out the Check-Mig form before departing and you’re good to go.
OnTrailVisa successfully processed over 1,900 Check-Mig form applications in 2024!
Jerash Festival of Culture and Arts, Jordan (July 2025)
The Jerash Festival of Culture and Arts transforms the ancient ruins of Jerash into a lively hub of music, dance, and storytelling.
This annual event brings together Jordanian and Arab heritage through traditional folk dances, musical evenings, theatrical plays, and concerts – all against the backdrop of one of the world’s best-preserved Roman theatres.
You can also learn more about the local culture through workshops, including crafts, cooking, and calligraphy. From folkloric dances to poetry readings and art exhibitions, the festival offers something for everyone.
Why you should go
The Jerash Festival offers a rare chance to experience a fusion of history, culture, and art in one of the world’s most stunning archaeological sites. Imagine watching traditional folkloric dances, trying your hand at calligraphy, or watching theatrical plays in a Roman amphitheatre that’s stood for over 2,000 years!
Do I need a visa to attend the Jerash Festival?
Yes, UK citizens need a visa to enter Jordan. We recommend the Jordan Pass, which includes entry to over 40 attractions and waives the visa fee if you stay for at least 3 nights.
OnTrailVisa successfully processed over 7,150 Jordan Pass applications in 2024!
Wildebeest Migration in Maasai Mara, Kenya (July-October 2025)
Every year, over 1.5 million wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles make their way across the Serengeti into Kenya’s Maasai Mara, in what’s often called the Greatest Show on Earth.
This huge migration happens because the animals are in search of fresh grass and water, driven by the changing seasons and the rains, so they follow the rain from the Serengeti to the Maasai Mara and back.
This is nature at its most amazing — a chance to witness the drama of the animal kingdom — and you could be part of the action. Although David Attenborough may narrate it best, nothing beats seeing it with your own eyes.
As travel blogger Johnny Ward puts it: "How about you cross that off the bucket list and witness an incredible unique experience of the migration of over a million wildebeests? It’s a phenomenon you will never forget!"
Why you should go
There’s nothing quite like seeing millions of animals on the move, from dramatic river crossings to lions and cheetahs in action.
Whether you’re a photographer chasing the perfect wildlife shot, an adventurer, or just someone who wants to go on a safari, this is the trip for you.
Since the migration spans three months, you can easily choose a time that works for you. Go in July or August to see the dramatic Mara River crossings, or pick October for quieter drives. Be sure to book your safari well in advance, however — spots fill up fast for this bucket-list experience!
Do I need a visa to see the Wildebeest Migration?
The Kenya eTA (electronic travel authorisation) is mandatory for all passengers, including British citizens. It’s quick to fill out and takes less than 3 days to get approved.
OnTrailVisa successfully processed over 12,700 Kenya eTAs in 2024!
Kandy Esala Perahera, Sri Lanka (August 2025)
The Kandy Esala Perahera is one of Sri Lanka's oldest and most beautiful festivals, held every year in the city of Kandy. The festivities celebrate the Sacred Tooth Relic of Lord Buddha, one of the most important religious artefacts in Sri Lankan Buddhism.
The festival is a grand ten-day celebration, featuring magnificently adorned elephants, traditional dancers, energetic drummers, and torchbearers lighting up the streets of Kandy.
The event starts with the Kumbal Perahera, a series of simpler processions during the first five nights. As the festival progresses, the parades grow larger and more elaborate, culminating on the tenth, when the Sacred Tooth Relic is paraded through the streets atop an elephant.
Why should I go?
The music, the lights, the costumes, and the sheer buzz of the crowd create an atmosphere unlike any other. Whether you’re into history, culture, or simply keen to experience a local parade, this is one event you don’t want to miss.
Keep in mind, as one local noted, “the parade lasts 4 to 5 hours on the last day, so you have to be ready to stand/sit still from 17:00 to 23:00... If you are well prepared, this is an amazing moment and a once-in-a-lifetime experience!”
You can also combine the festival with a trip around Sri Lanka. August is the low season thanks to the rains, but don’t let that put you off. Showers are usually short and happen in the evenings, leaving your days free to explore.
Do I need a visa to attend the Kandy Esala Perahera
Yes you do, but good news for British citizens – you can easily apply for a Sri Lanka eVisa online.
OnTrailVisa successfully processed over 4,090 Sri Lanka eVisas in 2024!
Abu Simbel Sun Festival, Egypt (October 2025)
This twice-yearly phenomenon, held on October 22 and February 22, takes place at the grand Abu Simbel temples, built by Pharaoh Ramesses II over 3,000 years ago. Those two dates aren’t coincidences, either — they mark Ramesses II’s ascension to the throne and his birthday.
On these two special mornings, the rising sun aligns perfectly with the temple’s entrance, piercing through its innermost sanctum to illuminate the statues of Ramesses II, Amun, and Ra-Horakhty, all while leaving the statue of Ptah, a god connected with the realm of the dead, in the shadows. In fact, Ptah hasn’t seen sunlight in more than 3,000 years!
Although this phenomenon lasts only a few minutes, it manages to draw more than 6,000 visitors from around the globe to witness the awe-inspiring moment.
Why should I go?
This bucket-list-worthy experience gives you the chance to witness the brilliance of ancient Egyptian engineering and astronomy firsthand.
Since there are two dates to choose from, you can customise your visit according to your preferences. February is perfect if you prefer cooler temperatures, while October brings dry and sunny days ideal for sightseeing and desert trips.
Will I need a visa to attend the Abu Simbel Sun Festival?
UK citizens need an e-Visa to travel to Egypt. As a UK passport holder, you can choose from a single or multiple-entry electronic visa.
OnTrailVisa successfully processed over 14,900 Egypt e-Visas in 2024!
Start of Whale Shark Season, Tanzania (October 2025)
Why settle for a typical snorkelling adventure when you could swim alongside the largest fish in the sea? Starting October 2025, Tanzania's Whale Shark Season begins on Mafia Island, offering a unique and unforgettable marine experience.
Every year, these gentle giants gather in the plankton-rich waters surrounding Mafia Island. Guided snorkelling tours provide safe, up-close encounters with these magnificent creatures, which can grow up to 12 metres long. October through February is the best time to witness this natural phenomenon in the warm, clear waters of the Indian Ocean.
Why should I go?
Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, a diver, or simply curious, swimming with whale sharks is a rare chance to connect with one of the ocean’s most majestic inhabitants. The season also aligns with Mafia Island's tranquil vibe, perfect for a serene escape.
Do I need a visa to visit Tanzania?
Yes, British citizens will need a visa to enter Tanzania. You can apply for a Tanzania Visa online, which typically takes 2-7 days to process.
OnTrailVisa successfully processed over 1,600 Tanzania eVisas in 2024!
Get your visa for these destinations
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India eVisa
Apply for an India e-Visa and get ready for a trip of a lifetime!
Discover Delhi, Mumbai, Jaipur, and other top destinations.
Delivery: 1-2 days
From: £ 52
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Colombia Check-Mig
Get your Colombia Check-Mig and uncover the charm of Bogotá, Medellín, and the Caribbean coast.
Your dream trip begins now!
Delivery: 1 - 2 days
From £ 55
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Egypt eVisa
Visit the Pyramids of Giza, the Sphinx, and the Valley of the Kings with your Egypt e-Visa.
Adventure awaits!
Delivery: 1-3 days
From: £ 46
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Jordan Pass
Apply for your Jordan Pass and journey through the ancient wonders, desert landscapes, and vibrant cities.
Embark on your adventure now!
Delivery: 1h-2days
From £ 126
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Sri Lanka ETA
Get your Sri Lanka visa and explore the tropical paradise, historic temples, and stunning tea plantations.
Begin your trip of your dreams today!
Delivery: 1 - 2 days
From £ 47
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Tanzania eVisa
Apply for a Tanzania eVisa and get ready for the holiday of a lifetime! Explore the Serengeti, Mount Kilimanjaro National Park, and much more.
Delivery: 2-7 days
From £ 112
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