Spotlight Hotel
Family-Friendly Travel by Age
Family Trips Teenagers Will Love
These adventures deliver awe-inspiring moments while striking a balance between independence and structure that may suit burgeoning teen travelers.
Micato Safaris
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August 06, 2025
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Teenagers are on the cusp of adulthood, notorious for wanting to test boundaries and spread their wings. If they’re dreaming big, you can rise to meet them with a dream trip that also appeals to grown-up travel companions, whether it’s hiking to Machu Picchu, spotting wildlife on safari, or diving into Tokyo’s pop scene.
Indeed, according to our 2025 Global Travel Trends Report, family travel is shifting toward shared, meaningful experiences, especially among parents and teens. More families are carving out time for big adventures that double as bonding moments.
From ancient ruins and remote landscapes to vibrant cities full of culture and energy, these destinations balance freedom and structure – perfect for teens craving adventure, and parents still along for the ride.
Explore our series of family travel recommendations by age:
Babies & Toddlers | Elementary-Aged Kids | Tweens | Young Adults
Peru
For teens into history, hiking, or epic stories come to life, Peru delivers. Cusco – gateway to Machu Picchu – is a standout for venturesome families, given the rich culture, ancient trails, Incan ruins, and serious wow factor.
Tambo del Inka, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa | Valle Sagrado
Tucked in Peru’s Sacred Valley, this resort offers direct access to private trains to Machu Picchu, making it a natural launchpad for exploring the majestic site. Guests can also try river rafting, paragliding, birdwatching, or just soak up the scenery between adventures.
Rio Sagrado, A Belmond Hotel, Sacred Valley
Designed to reflect a traditional Andean village, this serene retreat blends rustic charm with modern comfort. Families can go white-water rafting in Ollantaytambo, hike scenic trails, or feed the resident baby alpacas that roam the grounds.
Egypt
Ancient history is alive and well in Egypt, where teens can stand in the shadows of the Great Pyramids, cruise the Nile, and explore the Egyptian Museum’s collection of mummies and artifacts. It’s one of those trips that feels larger than life – and leaves a lasting impression.
The St. Regis Cairo
This luxury riverside high-rise offers sweeping Nile views, dedicated butler service throughout your stay, and easy access to top sights. Families can arrange curated experiences like guided Giza tours or private cruises. Guestrooms feature thoughtful local details, like papyrus flower wallpaper, and spacious bathrooms – perfect for messy teens and their toiletries.
Iceland
Otherworldly and adventure-packed, Iceland is a dream for teens who love the outdoors. Glaciers, geysers, geothermal spas, lava fields, you name it – and if you’re lucky, the Northern Lights will put on a show. Part epic road trip, part natural science lesson: all of it unforgettable.
The EDITION Reykjavik
Set against Reykjavik’s Old Harbor district, this chic and modern hotel offers glacier views and quick access to museums, shops, and galleries. Suites feature bespoke furnishings, curated local artwork, and sweeping glacial views.
Iceland Parliament Hotel, Curio Collection by Hilton
Just steps from the Reykjavik Art Museum and the famous Hallgrímskirkja cathedral, this sleek hotel blends boutique vibes with walkable access to the city’s biggest cultural hits – including Harpa Concert Hall and plenty of museums for curious teens.
Tanzania
For families dreaming of an epic safari, Tanzania offers front-row access to Africa’s Big Five – lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and Cape buffalo – roaming freely across the Serengeti. Safari experiences can be tailored to your family’s pace and interests, meaning each day is an electrifying combo of wildlife, wonder, and tales around the campfire.
Four Seasons Safari Lodge Serengeti
Deep in Serengeti National Park, the Four Seasons Safari Lodge Serengeti gives families a stunning vista of the African savannah. Elevated walkways and viewing platforms offer an incredible shot at spotting wildlife, and optional excursions like hot-air balloon rides over the plains take your visit to new heights.
*
12pm check-in, when available
Room upgrade upon arrival, when available1
Daily breakfast for two
$100 credit to use towards eligible charges2
Guaranteed 4pm check-out
1Certain room categories are not eligible for upgrade.
2Eligible charges vary by property.
*,3
12pm check-in, when available
Room upgrade upon arrival, when available1
$100 credit to use towards eligible charges2
Late check-out, when available
1Certain room categories are not eligible for upgrade.
2Eligible charges vary by property.
3The Hotel Collection requires a two-night minimum stay.
If you prefer to hand off the planning, these tour operators specialize in all-inclusive adventures and and can tailor the itinerary to your family's style. With Platinum Destinations® Vacations*, Platinum Card Members who book custom vacations through American Express Travel can get 2X Membership Rewards® points on eligible itineraries with participating providers.
Micato Safaris
Micato crafts luxury safari experiences across East and Southern Africa, all led by expert guides. Between animal sightings, families can relax in upscale camps with perks like en-suite plunge pools, private verandas, and personal butlers. Even better, for each safari booked, Micato funds a child’s education – making it a meaningful choice to celebrate milestones from graduations to multi-generational escapes.
Abercrombie & Kent
With more than six decades of experience, Abercrombie & Kent are renowned for custom luxury expeditions across all seven continents. In Africa, their safaris cover everything from the epic Great Migration (the world’s largest terrestrial mammal migration on Earth, comprising millions of wildebeest, zebras and gazelles) to gorilla tracking, all with bespoke service and deeply personalized itineraries.
Seabourn Cruises
Seabourn’s all-inclusive cruises deliver the feel of a private yacht, with small ships, luxury service, spas, and stops in 450 ports. Their itineraries typically cater to families with mature teens who will appreciate a more intimate, curated experience, with options ranging from outdoorsy exploration to cultural immersion. It’s a sophisticated approach to travel that is also a total thrill.
The Cruise Privileges Program* offers up to $300 in onboard credit per stateroom, plus earn 2X Membership Rewards® points, per eligible cruises of 5-nights or more bookings through American Express Travel on your Platinum Card.4
Learn more about how to find the cruise that suits your style.
4Ship and stateroom exclusions apply, please see full terms and conditions.
Emirates
Qatar Airways
Qatar’s Quad Qsuite offers forward- and rear-facing seats, so parents can stay connected with teens while still giving everyone some breathing room. For longer flights, the option to convert two adjacent Qsuites into a shared setup is a smart way to make the journey more comfortable.
Emirates
Families flying through Dubai International Airport (DXB) with kids of all ages can take advantage of an airport trampoline playground before boarding. Onboard, teens have access to more than 150 entertainment channels to help pass the time.
Alaska Airlines
Alaska Airlines keeps things family-friendly: no seat selection fees to sit together.
As a Platinum Card® Member, enjoy access to savings for up to 8 passengers per itinerary on select tickets in first class, business class, and premium economy with participating airlines on designated international flights booked through American Express Travel®. Eligible Card Member must be traveling on the itinerary. You may also find savings on select tickets with limited participating airlines on designated domestic flights. Platinum Card and Centurion Members receive reduced fares compared to fares available for other American Express® Card Members through Amex Travel™.
Get more out of your getaway with American Express
Enjoy savings on select premium tickets with Delta Air Lines on designated international flights with Platinum Member Airfares™*. Platinum Card and Centurion Members receive reduced fares compared to fares available for other American Express Card Members through Amex Travel™. As a Platinum Card Member, enjoy access to savings for up to 8 passengers per itinerary on select tickets in first class, business class, and premium economy with participating airlines on designated international flights. Eligible Card Member must be traveling on the itinerary.
Get more out of your getaway with American Express
Refuel in comfort thanks to the American Express Global Lounge Collection®. It enables Platinum Card Members to enjoy complimentary access to more than 1,400 airport lounges in over 500 airports around the world. Terms apply.
Get more out of your getaway with American Express
Global Dining Access by Resy* gives eligible Card Members special access to sought-after restaurants across the globe when you add your eligible Card to your Resy profile. Access to exclusive reservations, premium dining experiences, Priority Notify, and more, all from the Resy app.
Get more out of your getaway with American Express
Make your trip unforgettable through unique tours and activities booked at gyg.me/amex. Terms apply.
Get more out of your getaway with American Express
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