The best travel books of all time for literature lovers

Whether you are just back from your latest adventure, planning your next, or simply dreaming of distant shores, travel books are a brilliant escape and inspiration. Travel writers have never been so prolific or popular, and whatever your interests may be, chances are there is a book to fit the bill. From searching for traces of lost civilizations in the Amazon to vivid descriptions of the Middle East, travel writing has stood the test of time, but narrowing down the best travel books of all time is no easy feat.

Looking for a story of a love affair across Italy to inspire your next romantic getaway? Perhaps you just want a good, old-fashioned travel memoir with all the difficult truths about going abroad? Whatever you’re searching for, these 21 books are sure to pique your interest.

7 best travel literature books to inspire your own journey

To inspire future travels, these seven books focus on unique locations that everyone should add to their bucket list.

1. ‘Shantaram’ by Gregory David Roberts

This epic tale follows the life of Lin Ford, an escaped Australian convict trying to blend into the background of a new city. Partly based on a true story, Shantaram is set in the vibrant streets of Bombay, India, in the 1980s, showing the city in a completely different light.

It’s an engaging and thought-provoking look into India’s complexities with no holds barred. Although it showcases the underbelly of Bombay, it offers a look into the vibrant and beautiful experiences you can have during your travels to India.

2. ‘My 1001 Nights: Tales and Adventures from Morocco’ by Alice Morrison

Alice Morrison, a TV travel guru, invites readers to explore Morocco like never before in this evocative travelogue. Traveling solo, she has many adventures and encounters that spring from her heartfelt enthusiasm for her adopted country and her willingness to plunge into unusual or intriguing situations.

Through her personal accounts, this travel novel uncovers the mystique of bustling markets, traditional folklore, ancient cities, and secret desert landscapes. Her story illuminates the nation’s enduring spirit and offers an inside look into a solo traveler’s journey through the beating heart of Morocco.

3. ‘The Waiting Land’ by Dervla Murphy

A keen observer of her surroundings, Dervla Murphy recounts her stint in 1960s Nepal, where she was volunteering and working with Tibetan refugees. She warm-heartedly comments on her experiences with the local people and their customs and cultures. Murphy also recalls tales of her own adventures — from wandering off on mountain trails to bedding down in cowsheds, she was a true trailblazer of the 1960s.

This memoir offers a meditative exploration of the beauty of Nepal and the timeless wisdom earned when you immerse yourself in local life.

4. ‘The Cloud Garden: A True Story of Adventure, Survival, and Extreme Horticulture’ by Tom Hart Dyke

In search of rare orchids in Colombia, the author ventures into the Darién Gap, an inhospitable and sometimes impenetrable region fraught with danger. Challenged by nature and human dangers, this tale mixes nail-biting adventures with botany.

Tom Hart Dyke relays poignant moments of beauty, risk, and determination, revealing the transformative nature of his incredible trip to Colombia.

5. ‘Stranger in the Forest: On Foot Across Borneo’ by Eric Hansen

After spending seven months walking over 1,240 miles (2,000km) through Borneo, Eric Hansen developed a deep understanding and connection with the island. During his time in the rainforests, he encountered many tribes who taught him the secret of their harmonious existence in nature.

This travelogue offers a gripping tale of exploration, learning from local knowledge, and just how unique Borneo is. If you’re looking to inspire your next trip to Indonesia, this epic story is a great place to start.

6. ‘Bread And Ashes: A Walk Through the Mountains of Georgia’ by Tony Anderson

With the intention of gaining a deeper understanding of the mountain communities of Georgia, Tony Anderson journeyed through the country’s high passes in the late 1990s. During his travels he found that the traditional ways of some of Europe’s highest inhabited settlements are thriving.

Delving into the history and politics of Georgia, this book paints an intriguing and informative picture of a nation that has maintained its strong identity through thick and thin. It offers a wonderful deep dive into what you can expect when traveling through Georgia and the Caucasus Mountains.

7. ‘An African Love Story’ by Daphne Sheldrick

Daphne Sheldrick’s autobiographical account provides a stunning look at life in Kenya, where she lived close to the wildlife of Tsavo East National Park. The primary focus is on elephants, as she and her husband, David, raised many orphaned elephants during her lifetime.

A personal memoir of Kenya that shines a light on the challenges facing African wildlife today. This travel novel offers an honest look into exploring Kenya, as well as the raw beauty that this extreme landscape has to offer.

6 best travelogue books that will leave a lasting impression

For an essential read on the unique lives of some of the best explorers, grab yourself a copy of one of these fantastic books.

1. ‘Words of Mercury’ by Patrick Leigh Fermor

Probably best known for his 1930s trek from the Hook of Holland to Constantinople, the author has penned many captivating travel books in his lifetime, and this compilation features extracts from his finest works, taking you on a grand tour of his wanderings and worldview.

The compilation focuses on his ventures throughout Europe, touching on the landscapes, cities, and lifestyles of each destination.

2. ‘Following the Equator’ by Mark Twain

Although Mark Twain is most famous for his fictional book Adventures of Huckleberry Finn (1885), he also produced a travelogue about his own experiences. This epic novel offers first-hand accounts of his global journey across the United Kingdom’s various colonies.

With his sharp humor and insightful wit, Twain unfurls the different cultures of each location he visits in vivid detail. From the shores of New Zealand to the complexity of South Africa, this is a grand look into world travel by one of the best travel writers of all time.

3. ‘Wild Women and Their Amazing Adventures Over Land, Sea & Air’ edited by Mariella Frostrup

Crossing continents and centuries, this is one of the best travelogues showcasing adventurous women and their journeys across the globe. Some are well known, some unsung, some contemporary, some long gone, but all possess an adventurous spirit, and all are inspirational.

From the first 16th-century botanist to circumnavigate the globe to modern tales of heroes responding to bear attacks in Yellowstone, this book showcases the ability of women across the world.

4. ‘Mad, Bad and Dangerous to Know’ by Sir Ranulph Fiennes

An updated and revised edition of Sir Ranulph Twisleton-Wykeham-Fiennes, 3rd Baronet OBE’s autobiography is an incredible read about an extraordinary man. From his early army days to his mountaineering and polar expeditions and his charitable work, he has led a truly exceptional life in pursuit of adventure.

The book is a great example of the drive and determination that any keen traveler can cultivate to inspire their future journeys.

5. ‘The Motorcycle Diaries’ by Ernesto Che Guevara

Eight years prior to the Cuban revolution, Ernesto “Che” Guevara penned The Motorcycle Diaries as a 23-year-old medical student traveling throughout South America.

Seeking political and personal enlightenment, Guevara departed Buenos Aires with a friend on a journey of self-discovery. Nine months later, having traveled by horse, car, ship, bus, raft, and motorcycle, they had journeyed more than 5,000 miles (over 8,000km) and gained a deeper understanding of their world. If you plan on exploring Cuba and Latin America, this is a great read to understand the cultural and political dynamics of this unique land.

6. ‘Chasing the Sea: Lost Among the Ghosts of Empire in Central Asia’ by Tom Bissell

Chasing the Sea follows Tom Bissell as he travels through the formerly USSR-occupied regions of Central Asia. His vivid storytelling offers a unique look into the cultural, political, and historical landscape of Central Asia while witnessing the devastating impact of ecological destruction.

By tracking the sad realities of the shrinking Aral Sea due to Soviet irrigation policies, this book touches on personal experiences while focusing on a larger global issue. Much of his novel focuses on his time in the otherworldly landscapes of Uzbekistan.

5 famous travel books that everyone should read

Our comprehensive list continues with some of the most iconic travel novels that every avid explorer should read.

1. ‘A Short Walk in the Hindu Kush’ by Eric Newby

Eric Newby’s travel memoir focuses on his epic trek through Afghanistan’s Hindu Kush mountain range — where you’ll find the highest peak, Mount Noshaq. The book humorously recounts memorable interactions with locals, deadly situations during a treacherous hike, and moments of self-discovery.

This is a must-read for mountaineers looking for an honest account of the beauty and challenges of exploring uncharted territories.

2. ‘Dark Star Safari: Overland From Cairo to Cape Town’ by Paul Theroux

For an epic tale of one man’s journey across Africa, from Egypt to South Africa, we highly recommend you grab a copy of Dark Star Safari. Through a reflective narrative, Theroux weaves together personal observations with historical and social commentary to create a detailed portrait of Africa.

His memoir illuminates the unique traditions and challenges that the different communities of this vast continent endure. It is a great starting point for gaining a deeper understanding of the continent before your African adventure.

3. ‘Four Seasons in Rome’ by Anthony Doerr

After earning a prestigious writing fellowship, Anthony Doerr spent a year in the iconic city of Rome. This heartwarming travel book uncovers Doerr’s personal experience of the Eternal City.

Through his vivid, lyrical descriptions, you can gain a genuine appreciation of Rome, including its vibrant culture, rich history, and scenic beauty. If you are planning on visiting Italy and the famous city of Rome, this lighthearted book is a fantastic way to inspire your trip.

4. ‘In a Sunburned Country’ by Bill Bryson

It may not be among his most popular books, but In a Sunburned Country is Bill Bryson’s encapsulating record of his time in Australia. With plenty of humor and expert observations, Bryson unpacks the uniqueness of Australia’s cities, its distinct wildlife, and its fascinating culture.

If you’re looking for the best travel booking to inspire your own adventure to Australia, then this masterful piece is worth a read.

4 fiction travel narratives that are worth a read

For the best travel writing books that escape reality with some fictional flavor, these options are sure to captivate your mind.

1. ‘The Alchemist’ by Paulo Coelho

Paulo Coelho’s philosophical novel The Alchemist is a beautiful story of Santiago, a young shepherd, on his journey to finding self-worth and the meaning of life. Starting his adventure in Andalusia, Spain, Santiago embarks on a quest to find hidden treasure near the Pyramids of Giza.

This touching story shows the challenges Santiago faces and the mentors he learns from along the way. It’s the perfect anecdote for what you can expect during your own travels across the globe, with self-discovery often being the allure of travel.

2. ‘The Bucket List: 1000 Adventures Big & Small’ by Kath Stathers

If you’re looking for general inspiration that is slightly more relatable than the extensive journeys of travelogues, The Bucket List: 1000 Adventures Big & Small is a great read. In this guide, Kath Stathers provides an extensive range of activities and adventures you can look to embark on to create new memories.

Whether you want to get out of your comfort zone or simply enjoy the luxuries of a particular destination, Stathers encourages you to get out there. It’s also a powerful reminder that an adventure can be big or small, and it truly depends on what you want to do.

3. ‘Around the World in Eighty Days’ by Jules Verne

Around the World in Eighty Days is a classic tale that earned Jules Verne the title of one of the most famous travel writers ever known. Set in the late 19th century, the story follows Phileas Fogg and his loyal servant Passepartout as they aim to circumnavigate the globe in 80 days.

The story explores themes of perseverance, cultural diversity, and the unpredictable nature of fate. These themes are tied together by unforeseen delays and natural obstacles that the pair have to overcome in their race against time.

4. ‘In Patagonia’ by Bruce Chatwin

Rounding off this list, we have the enchanting travel of Bruce Chatwin in Patagonia. Chatwin pairs history, mythology, and personal narrative to form a unique and colorful interpretation of this South American wilderness.

This unique account of one of Earth’s last frontiers paints a vivid picture of what you can expect during your visit to Argentina and Chile.

Make it happen

Ready to write your own travel stories? Swap your reading nook for the real thing and start writing about your own adventures while you’re out on the road. Take your pick from our destinations, get in touch with our local experts, and step out for an unforgettable journey.