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Wander-Lush

35 Unusual Holiday Destinations for Alternative Travellers

The very best quirky, unconventional and unusual holiday destinations for travellers who love to go their own way.

Do you consider yourself an unconventional tourist, or are you happy enough to stick to the path well travelled?

‘Off the beaten track’ is one of the most overused phrases in travel writing. In this day and age, there are few destinations truly worthy of such a title. But it’s also true that there’s never been a better time to break from the crowd and travel off the radar.

Also read: 25 best alternative city breaks in Europe .

Some of these holiday destinations are considered unusual because they’re remote and difficult to reach. Others have a harsh climate or are misunderstood, while some are simply overlooked for more touristy alternatives.

Whether it’s pristine nature, complete solitude or authentic cultural encounters you seek, this list has something for you. Compiled by a list of expert travellers, each of these places is utterly underrated and more than worthy of your consideration as an alternative holiday destination.

Browse the full list or use the links below to find a favourite.

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35 unusual holiday destinations that should be on your radar

With the help of my favourite travel bloggers, I scoured every continent to find the best unusual travel destinations worthy of a mention. Here’s what we came up with!

If you have anything more to add, please leave your suggestions in the comments section at the end!

1. Azerbaijan, the land of fire

Editor’s choice

Azerbaijan is a strong contender for the world’s most underrated holiday destination.

Compared to its more-popular neighbours, Georgia and Armenia , Azerbaijan’s relatively strict visa policy has been a deterrent for many travellers. But an e-visa introduced in 2017 now makes it easier than ever to travel to Azerbaijan .

Baku, the biggest city, is one of the most curious capitals in the world . Enriched by decades of oil wealth, it boasts ambitious architecture and large-scale civic projects including the Bulvar, a massive seaside boulevard along the Caspian, and the world’s largest flag pole. Icherisheher , Old Baku’s historic core, is a complete contrast, with its Zoroastrian tower and stone caravanserais.

Beyond the city, the otherworldly landscape of the Absheron Peninsula includes mud volcanoes and flaming hillsides (a result of all that subterranean oil). Go mountain hiking, visit the small towns of Guba and Lahic where artisans ply their traditional trades, and visit Sheki , home of the legendary UNESCO Site , the Palace of the Sheki Khans.

2. Oman, for a Middle Eastern road trip

The Middle East is the last place most people think of when planning a road trip. But Oman is the perfect place for self-driving.

New highways, cheap fuel and a surplus of things to see make this the perfect spot for an adventurous holiday. If you’re on a budget , you’ll be pleased to know that it’s perfectly legal to pitch a tent almost anywhere you fancy in Oman. A night of glamping in one of the country’s desert camps is also a must.

Start your road trip in Muscat, where you’ll find Oman’s premier cultural institutions and the lively Muttrah Souq, before making your way down the coast. At Ras Al Jinz, the easternmost tip of the Arabian Peninsula, you can visit one of the world’s most active turtle nesting sights.

Inland, Oman offers sweeping deserts, dramatic mountains and valleys for hiking, and a variety of historic fortresses. Drop into some of the many wadis and sinkholes as you go to cool off from the desert heat.

Don’t judge Oman by it’s location on the map – this is an overwhelmingly safe, relatively budget-friendly and abundantly beautiful country with a strong tradition of hospitality and a vibrant, well-preserved cultural heritage.

3. The far north of Vietnam

Aside from super-popular Sapa and Bac Ha , far Northern-Vietnam is home to a number of lesser-visited national parks and alternative trekking spots. Second or third-time visitors to Vietnam should prioritise spending time in the north.

Ha Giang and Pu Luong both offer underrated landscapes largely free of crowds, while the charming colonial port city of Hai Phong has a similar vibe to Hanoi but with a much slower pace of life. Picking tea in Thai Nguyen, trekking in Moc Chau during spring bloom or tea-picking season , taking a boat out on Ba Be Lake and gazing up at the vertiginous rice terraces around Son La are just a few of the totally unique experiences you can have in Northern Vietnam.

Treat yourself to a local homestay while you’re there – this is far and away the best strategy to get an inside look at some of Vietnam’s many ethnic minority cultures. In Da Bac , yet another hidden gem in the far-north, you can stay with the community in traditional wooden houses while using the small villages as a base for trekking.

4. Transnistria, a breakaway state in Eastern Europe

By Luda from Adventures with Luda

Transnistria is an unconventional travel destination for two reasons. First, it’s referred to as ‘a country that doesn’t exist’. Even though it has its own constitution, army, currency, and citizenship, no other sovereign nation actually recognises it as such.

Secondly, Transnistria feels as though it’s stuck in time thanks to the Soviet posters, Lenin statues and 60s-style Khrushchyovka buildings sprinkled around town. Many travellers have called it a ‘Communist theme park’ because of how well-preserved everything is.

Transnistria is the perfect place for travellers who are interested in Soviet history and off-the-beaten-path experiences. It’s easy to reach from Chisinau, Moldova or Odessa, Ukraine and can be part of a day trip or a longer journey.

The majority of things to do in Transnistria are in Tiraspol, the capital. Start off with a walk along October 25th Street, the main road that runs through the city, before stopping at the colourful House of Soviets. See the historical moments on Suvorov Square and take a peek inside the City Library, which still has its Soviet-era murals.

5. Nicosia, the world’s last divided capital

By Helen from Helen on her Holidays

Nicosia, the capital of Cyprus, is the world’s last divided capital city.

Since 1983, the city has been split by the ‘Green Line’, a border between the Republic of Cyprus and Turkish-controlled Northern Cyprus.

The border was completely sealed and crossed only by UN peacekeeping forces for decades, but in 2008 the restrictions were relaxed. Today it’s possible to visit both parts of Nicosia . The border crossing and distinct character of the two sides of Nicosia make it one of the world’s most unusual city breaks.

The Greek-speaking Republic side of the border is much like other European capitals, with Starbucks, McDonalds and H&M all present. But at the end of the main shopping street there’s a border crossing, and if you cross into North Nicosia it’s immediately clear that you’ve stepped into a completely different culture.

Both sides of Nicosia have interesting sights, but North Nicosia has the edge in atmosphere and attractions. Don’t miss the stunning mosque set in a former cathedral and the medieval caravanserai.

6. Nova Scotia’s Annapolis Valley, a hidden gem in Canada

By Lee & Stacey from One Trip at a Time

Most visitors to Nova Scotia will likely visit Halifax, the South Shore, or drive the Cabot Trail. Those who are a little more adventurous might hike the Skyline Trail in Cape Breton , part of the coastal road that encircles the island.

If you’re looking for somewhere less travelled, check out the Annapolis Valley , which may be more than you expect!

History buffs will find places to learn about this part of Canada including the Grand-Pré, a UNESCO World Heritage site that tells the tragic story of Acadian expulsion, and Port-Royal, the first European settlement in Canada founded in 1605.

Food and wine lovers can savour the flavours of the region: Taste hand-picked berries, take a wine tour and tasting at one of the many vineyards, and try the apples the Valley is known for. Locals have been celebrating the annual Apple Blossom Festival here since 1933.

Outdoor enthusiasts will also find plenty to love. You can go whale watching in the Bay of Fundy, hike along coastal cliffs or forest trails leading to waterfalls, or canoe and back-country camp in one of the province’s parks or wilderness areas.

All of this is just a taste of what this vibrant region of Nova Scotia has to offer.

7. Mississippi Gulf Coast, the ‘secret coast’

By Charles from McCool Travel

The Mississippi Gulf Coast is one of America’s most underrated destinations and should top every intrepid traveller’s wish list.

This relatively undiscovered area – also called Coastal Mississippi (or The Secret Coast) – is located between New Orleans and Mobile Alabama, and highlighted by gorgeous beaches (with magnificent sunrises and sunsets), abundant waterways, fresh seafood, and a quirky culture.

Popular Coastal Mississippi outdoor activities centre around the USA’s largest man-made beach and largest free-flowing river. At 26 miles wide and 200 feet deep, the continuous beach from Pass Christian to Biloxi is a constant enticement for travellers on the Gulf Coast Scenic Byway. Explore the Pascagoula River on a guided McCoy’s Swamp Tour or rented kayak from Pascagoula River Audubon Center.

Mississippi Gulf Coast is a wonderfully unique and rare coastal ecosystem because of its magnificent live oak trees which magically enhance its two phenomenal small beach towns, Ocean Springs and Bay St Louis.

During your Coastal Mississippi visit, try every version of shrimp and grits and savour as many sunsets as you can.

8. Mongolia’s Gobi Desert, the ‘singing sands’

By Dean and Laynni from Routinely Nomadic

Despite being the most popular destination in Mongolia (which really isn’t saying much considering how few tourists make it there), most travellers still know very little about the sprawling natural beauty of the Gobi Desert .

Fascinating and diverse, it features an impressively desolate and atmospheric desert, along with the 300-metre high ‘singing sands’ of Khongoryn Els, the tallest and most picturesque of the country’s extensive series of wild sand dunes. But there is far more to the Gobi than just desert.

The most efficient way to visit is by rustic-but-adventurous jeep tour. On a typical 7-day, 6-night excursion, you can try horseback riding through the steppes and camel riding through the dunes, enjoy cosy nights and typical Mongolian BBQ in traditional gers , and explore the Flaming Cliffs, the Olgiid Khiid monastery, Yolyn Am gorge, and the deceptively named White Stupa (which is actually a set of stupa-like rocks).

Needless to say, the Gobi Desert has a little something for everyone, except maybe those looking for a decent toilet.

9. Lithuania, a history buff’s dream

By Monica from This Rare Earth

Lithuania is a little-known country in Eastern Europe filled with castles and forests, shore line and old-town charm.

The capital city of Vilnius was the first of four places in Lithuania to be named a UNESCO World Heritage Sight. A charming blend of old and new, Vilnius is a city of contradictions that any traveller can fall in love with.

Many of the notable sights in Vilnius, Lithuania are completely free to visit. St. Anne’s Church offers an amazing example of architecture, with its stunning gothic-style facade, and the Cathedral Square with its tall white bell tower is stunning. So much of the city’s history can be discovered on a walk around Old Town Vilnius .

An extensive bus system covers the country and can take you to locations such as Trakai Castle, the port town of Klaipeda, and – reachable by ferry – the unbelievable Curonian Spit.

Thirty percent of the country is covered with forest and nature. Between the unspoiled wilderness and the charm of the historical cities, there is truly something for everyone in unexpected Lithuania!

10. The Bahamas Out Islands, an unconventional island paradise

By Jackie from Enjoy Travel Life

If you’re thinking of a tropical getaway to the Caribbean but feel discouraged by overcrowded beaches and towering resort chains, look to The Bahamas Out Islands. This collection of small islands south of the popular Grand Bahamas offers deserted beaches, unspoiled nature and secluded bungalows.

Here you’ll find an exclusive, unconventional island paradise.

Perhaps you’ve heard about The Abacos or Eleuthera, but as you travel further south along the archipelago, the islands become almost unknown: Cat Island , Crooked Island and Ackins each offer unique island beauty. 

You’ll enjoy the laid-back beach vibe, fruity rum drinks and delicious Bahamian seafood dishes – try Conch and Grouper! If you’re seeking more adventure, you can scuba dive along the islands’ rich coral reef or kayak through the mangroves. You might even try bonefishing or wind-sailing.

Be sure to pack several bathing suits and leave your laptop behind. While some resorts may have Wi-Fi in the common areas, it’s spotty at best. Rest assured, there’s no better place for a digital detox.

11. The High Canadian Arctic

By Mikaela from Voyageur Tripper

Nunavut is a seldom traveled destination, but one that deserves a place on any traveller’s bucket list. The largest territory in Canada, Nunavut covers one fifth of the country and extends into the High Arctic, nearly reaching the North Pole.

This land is vast, characterised by rolling tundra and meandering icebergs, ragged cliffs and frozen sea ice. As one of the most remote regions on the globe, activities out on the land are varied and plentiful, including snowmobiling, dog sledding, hiking and kayaking.

Travellers on a budget can explore the capital city of Iqaluit and experience a taste of life north of the 60th parallel. Those with larger budgets can join wildlife safaris and witness wild animals including polar bears, narwhals, beluga, walrus and caribou.

Regardless of the type of trip, any time in Nunavut will leave you craving more. Its magical environment is one that lingers long after the flight home has landed.

12. Lichtenstein, a tiny country with big heart

By Derek & Mike from Robe Trotting

An amazing destination in Europe that doesn’t attract a lot of tourism is the micro-state of Liechtenstein. One reason this tiny country is so unconventional is the fact that it’s doubly land-locked by Austria and Switzerland. It’s also a mere 25 kilometres long. 

While it may lack territory, there are surprisingly a lot of things to do in Liechtenstein . There are five castles to visit, two of which have been fully restored and three more that are ruins. The royal family also maintains a vineyard and wine cellar in Vaduz, the largest city and capital. Visitors can enjoy a walk-in tasting and wine dinners can be arranged for larger groups. 

In Liechtenstein you’ll also discover beautiful natural wonders. Hiking is one of the most popular activities and Eschnerberg Trail is one of the most-hiked trails in the entire region. The views of the Alpine Rhine and mountains are reason enough to visit Liechtenstein.

13. Iran, the home of hospitality

By Coni from Experiencing the Globe

Iran is often portrayed in the media as a dangerous destination, but that couldn’t be further from the truth. It’s one of the most diverse countries in the world, which makes it a great destination for any kind of traveller.

In Iran, you’ll find rich history, nature, architecture, culture and adventure. But what defines this country is its people. The hospitality you experience has no comparison; it’s simply reason enough to book a ticket.

The country is big, so dedicate as much time as possible to explore it. In a couple of weeks, you can fit in the main sights: Tehran, Isfahan, Yazd, the Silk Road city of Shiraz and Persepolis. If you have more time, add Kerman and the Lut desert to the list, the ancient citadels of Rayen and Bam, and Qeshm and Hormuz islands for stunning nature.

If you want to go absolutely off the beaten path and experience the nation’s hospitality at its very best, also include Iranian Kurdistan in your itinerary.

14. Iraqi Kurdistan, a diverse corner of the Middle East

By Diana from The Globetrotting Detective

Iraqi Kurdistan  is not a well-known travel destination due to the negative portrayal and misconceptions fuelled by the media. First of all, it’s crucial that we understand that Iraqi Kurdistan is an autonomous region recognised by the Republic of Iraq.

It means that Iraqi Kurdistan has its own borders and their own government and military. Therefore, when you hear something about Iraq in the news, that’s most probably not valid for Iraqi Kurdistan.

To see the reality, we have to travel to Iraqi Kurdistan. Iraqi Kurdistan, similarly to Iran, is an extremely safe travel destination.

The first thing that you will learn about in Iraqi Kurdistan is Kurdish hospitality. Hospitality is definitely running in the veins of Kurdish people. They cherish their visitors like a precious jewel and treat them with utmost respect and care. People are so friendly and deeply kind that Iraqi Kurdistan will just get under your skin and you will not want to leave. One feeling that this place can give visitors is that the world would be a much better place just by simply being kind to each other.

In Iraqi Kurdistan, there are tons of mind-blowing places to visit.

Kurdistan offers a plethora of natural beauties such as the Rawanduz Canyon, Halgurd Mountain and Dukan Lake which are perfect hiking destinations as well. You can also witness a lot of cultural diversity in Iraqi Kurdistan. You can learn about Muslim, Christian and Yazidi cultures.

The capital, Erbil, is one of the oldest cities in the world where you can find historical sites, old bazaars, cosy cafés where you can get to know friendly locals.

Some of the oldest Christian monasteries of the world, namely Mar Mattai Monastery and the Rabban Hormizd Monastery are to be found in Iraqi Kurdistan. Another iconic and very important cultural site is Lalish, the most sacred place of the followers of Yazidi faith, where you can only enter barefoot.

15. Pakistan, mother nature at her finest

By Samantha from Intentional Detours

Pakistan might just be the most underrated holiday destination in the world. Dozens of record-breaking mountain peaks, lush green valleys, hundreds of kilometres of coastline, a rich cuisine that constantly awes the tastebuds – plus some of the friendliest people in the world – all make this South Asian destination a traveller’s dream.

Perhaps the best thing about Pakistan is that it yet remains mostly undiscovered by foreign tourists. Though numbers are steadily increasing, it’s not uncommon to go weeks without meeting a fellow foreigner when you’re on the road.

Pakistan’s mountains are its crown jewel, and no trip to the country would be complete with a visit to Gilgit Baltistan. Though the Hunza district gets all the glory, don’t be afraid to get a bit off the beaten path and explore places like Ghizer Valley, a beautiful hamlet filled with the bluest lakes and rivers you could ever dream of.

It’s easy to get lost in the mountains, but skipping out on Pakistan’s historical places would be akin to a crime. The country boasts thousands of years of human history, and cities such as Lahore reveal pieces of the Mughal Era everywhere, from the 300-year-old mosques to summer pavilions, tombs, and vast gardens.

The southern province of Sindh is also teeming with historically and culturally important sites and should not be missed, especially when it cools down come October.

16. Sumba, a Bali alternative

By Sarah from Hotels & Hand Luggage

Sumba is a relatively unknown Indonesian island that’s just an hour and a half flight from Bali.

The landscape is teeming with beautiful photo spots including deserted beaches, dancing trees, rolling hills, traditional villages and hidden lagoons. Unlike Bali however, it’s likely you’ll arrive at these enchanting places without any other tourists around.

Sumba is larger than Bali so hiring a driver is a must if you want to make the most of your time here. The island is divided into east and west, with the locals on each side holding different ancient traditions.

There aren’t many hotel options on the island and most offerings are still very basic, but the lack of comfort is worth it to experience a place still steeped in tradition. One accommodation option well worth a visit is Maringi Eco Resort by Sumba Hospitality Foundation, a small, eco-friendly hotel and restaurant that trains young Sumbanese students in hospitality.

17. Small-town Slovakia, one of the most unusual holiday destinations in Central Europe

By Kami from Kami & the Rest of the World

Slovakia isn’t exactly the most popular country in Europe Even if tourists decide to visit, they usually only go to the capital city, Bratislava. But Slovakia has so much more to offer. There are so many amazing yet lesser-known places to visit in Slovakia that you should visit before everyone else does.

While Bratislava is a nice place to see, the second-largest city, Kosice offers even more attractions – from historical monuments to amazing cultural spaces and a wonderful food scene.

In Slovakia, you can find one of the most beautiful and impressive mountain ranges in Europe, the High Tatras, with its highest peak Gerlachovský štít at 2,655 metres AMSL. The nearby Spiš Castle is one of the largest castles in Central Europe and a truly remarkable site.

If you like to visit charming Central European towns, you’ll find plenty of them in Slovakia. Bardejov, Banska Stiavnica and Levoca are inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List.

18. Grenada beyond the beach, for a unique holiday in the Caribbean

By Michele from A Taste for Travel

Although famous for its white-sand beaches, this fertile mountainous island might be one of the most overlooked destinations in the Caribbean when it comes to outdoor adventure and cuisine. And while beautiful Grand Anse beach does deserve its many accolades, unconventional travellers will discover it’s well worth exploring beyond Grenada’s beaches.

Top things to do include trekking to sky-high crater lakes, jumping into Concord Waterfall or snorkelling among coral-draped statues within the Underwater Sculpture Museum. After a full day of outdoor adventure, it’s possible to relax in comfort at one of the luxury hotels in Grenada where accommodation options include beach bungalows with plunge pools, hilltop suites and contemporary villas overlooking the sea.

Unlike other destinations in the Caribbean where all-inclusive resorts promote mass tourism, many of Grenada’s hotels are independently owned and operated. They offer travellers a way to experience the island’s unique rhythm, character and local cuisine.

Must-try dishes and drinks to try when visiting the ‘Spice of the Caribbean’ include rum punch topped with freshly-grated island nutmeg, oil down (a hearty stew featuring callaloo, root vegetables, coconut milk and chicken), bean-to-bar chocolate and doubles, a savoury spiced snack.

19. Chile’s Atacama Desert, the driest place on Earth

By Dalya from Sweet Little Journey

If you love extreme, unique and completely remote holiday destinations, the Atacama Desert should definitely be on your list.

Located on the northern tip of Chile and spanning over 40,000 square-miles, this is the driest place on Earth. Walking through the landscape will make you feel like you’re treading on a completely different planet. In fact, given its uncanny similarity to the surface of Mars, NASA uses this terrain to simulate conditions when testing their rovers!

Aside from the extraterrestrial landscapes, you’ll find various volcanoes, red and pink lagoons , salt lagoons, alpine lakes, and an abundance of wildlife. There’s only one small town in this whole desert, San Pedro de Atacama , which serves as the perfect home base for exploring all the different attractions here.

Given that there are no other settlements for many miles aside from San Pedro, the Atacama Desert has the clearest night skies on Earth.

20. Tajikistan’s Kulikalon Valley, prime hiking country

By Stephen from MonkBoughtLunch

Tajikistan’s Kulikalon Valley is off the beaten track even for a relatively un-touristed country. While most international travellers head primarily to the Pamir Mountains in the east of the country, the Fann Mountains in the northwest offer just as much in terms of scenery – and are arguably even better for trekking.

Of all the treks in the region, camping in Kulilkalon is one of the most popular – and for good reason. A string of sparkling mountain lakes that stretch across Kulikalon are fed by glacial streams that run down the valley, and on every side towering snow-capped peaks and a handful of beautiful glaciers dominate the view.

Though transport options are limited and expensive in rural Tajikistan, Kulikalon is made even more attractive by proximity to a rough road. It’s possible to hike up and back as a day trip from the nearby Artuch camp or to make a multi-day trek over the Alaudin Pass and down to the eponymous lake below, returning to a different trailhead in the Alaudin Valley or pushing on deeper into the heart of the Fann Mountains.

21. Asturias, Spain’s cheese capital

By Dagney from Cultura Obscura

The Asturias region of Northern Spain is definitely one of the most underrated parts of this otherwise highly touristed country.

For visitors from outside of Spain, the most likely reason for visiting is the Camino, which passes through the Asturian countryside. In general, it’s a nature lover’s paradise. The countryside is full of picturesque towns and beautiful lakes.

However, there is so much more to see and do here. Foodies in particular will love Asturias. The region produces over 50 different cheeses, while nearly every town and city has at least one local cider.

Oviedo, the capital of the region, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Just outside the city, you’ll find La Iglesia Skate, a church that’s been converted into a skate park and is full of beautiful, vibrant paintings.

In Gijón , another major Asturian city in Spain , you can visit the Universidad Laboral, the biggest building in Spain, or head to the International Bagpipe Museum.

22. Palestine, the heart of the Middle East

By Claudia from My Adventures Across The World

Palestine is a terribly underrated destination, and many who travel to the Middle East decide not to visit for fear that it may be dangerous or unwelcoming. It’s actually quite the other way around.

People in Palestine are the epitome of friendly, and they go above and beyond to make visitors feel like guests of honour. Add to that the rich, intricate history, the archeological sites, the natural wonders and the delicious food (and even wine and beer!), and it’s easy to see why this is a place you should not skip when you’re in the region.

Among the highlights of visiting Palestine there’s exploring the city of Bethlehem, where you will find the Church of the Holy Nativity, the Chapel of the Milk Grotto and the West Bank Separation Wall that has been adorned with many murals. There also are also a few Banksy pieces scattered around. Not far from Bethlehem, the Israeli-controlled Palace of Herodion is another very interesting site.

Hebron, a city terribly fought over by Jews and Muslims, should also be visited. Similarly, Ramallah – the current administrative centre – is a city thriving with life. Finally, make sure to go to the Baptismal Source at the River Jordan for a truly mystical experience.

The easiest way to get into Palestine is from Jerusalem. Take bus 231 from the bus station near Damascus gate. Be sure to bring your passport with you and the Israeli custom slip you get at the airport, as you’ll need it to get back into Israel to continue your journey.

23. Gopeng, Malaysia’s little-known heritage town

By Marco from Penang Insider

Gopeng is only 20 km south of Ipoh , but it’s shamefully overlooked, notwithstanding being one of West Malaysia’s top adventure eco-tourism destinations.

Set on a bend of the Kampar river, Gopeng is tiny but boasts natural wonders including Gua Tempurung and Gua Kandu, two of the country’s biggest caves, and tall waterfalls such as Ulu Geruntum, a popular abseiling spot. There are plenty of eco-friendly activities around, including stand up paddle boarding and a tree-top obstacle courses offered by Nomad Adventure.

Further inland is Ulu geroh, an orang asli (Malaysian aboriginal) village from where you can strike out on a short trek to see the Rafflesia in bloom. The world’s biggest flower can be a bit smelly, but the packs of rare rajah Brooke butterflies you’ll spot along the way make up for the stink big time.

Back in town, don’t forget to visit the Heritage House for a dive into the area’s colonial history, and the Gopeng Museum for a simple yet informative look at the town’s tin mining past.

24. Bhutan, for time-honoured traditions and unspoiled landscapes

By Sonakshi & Mainak from Places In Pixel

Bhutan is a tiny landlocked country perched in the Himalayas. Due to its location and restrictions around tourism, Bhutan remains an under-explored destination even today. But it’s exactly this reality that makes Bhutan scenically spectacular and a must-visit unconventional destination.

Apart from the usual things to do and places to visit in the major cities of Thimphu, Paro and Punakha, Bhutan has a lot to offer travellers who are willing to try something different. The most unique things to do in Bhutan include:

• Hiking up to the Tiger’s Nest Monastery – nestled high on a precarious cliff, it’s said that a Buddhist Master (Guru Rinpoche) flew on a ‘flying tigress’ and meditated here for months.
• Trying Ema Datchi (Chilli Cheese) – the national dish of Bhutan is a deliciously spicy stew made of chilli peppers, onions and locally produced yak cheese.
• Watching the ‘flag down’ ceremony in Thimphu – this takes place every evening at 5pm with great honour and traditional flair.

25. Benin, the birthplace of Voodoo

By Helen from Helen in Wonderlust

Benin is a magical place full of mystery and superstition. Whilst West Africa is a notoriously difficult area to travel to due to the heat, visa restrictions and lack of tourist infrastructure, Benin is an incredibly rewarding destination for the intrepid traveller.

It is also the birthplace of the Voodoo religion.

Voodoo is one of the oldest and most complex religions in the world. It’s often demonised in popular culture, and yet there’s a lot more to this ancient way of life than meets the eye. The word Voodoo itself means ‘spirit’; practitioners believe that everything is alive and connected spiritually.

As well as discovering the ‘secrets’ of Voodoo , there are plenty of other things to do in Benin. You can gain an insight into the trans-Atlantic slave trade on the Route des Enclaves, relax on the beaches of the south coast, see a very different way of life at the Ganvie Stilt Village, and learn about the history of the powerful Dahomey Empire in Abomey. 

Benin is a French-speaking country, therefore having a good understanding of the French language or having a guide that can translate for you is essential.

Go with an open mind and prepare to be blown away.

26. Northern Tunisia, for unusual beach holidays

By Stephanie from The Africa Cookbook

While most travellers think of Sousse and other popular beaches in Tunisia when they start planning a vacation, anyone who heads to the north instead of the south will find a wealth of hidden gems to discover.

The white-washed town of Sidi Bou Said on the water has a Greek-island feel, while Lake Ichkeul is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can also head to Cap Angela, the northernmost point in the country, where you’ll find a beautiful lighthouse and a statue of the African continent as well as some gorgeous seascapes.

If you’re interested in Carthaginian and Roman history, you can visit the ancient city of Utica, which you’ll find practically empty for much of the year. Yes, you can walk around a millennia-old city and imagine what it would have been like in its heyday without competing with noisy, modern crowds.

Be sure to enjoy the local Tunisian cuisine, which is both tasty and economical.

27. Greenland, for remote adventures

By Kay from The Awkward Traveller

There are many myths and stereotypes about Greenland , simply because it’s not the first country most people think of for a holiday.

Technically a territory of Denmark, it’s a challenging destination to visit due to expensive flights and limited availability. There are so few visitors that some airports don’t even have a baggage carousel.

However, if you can manage to get there, you’ll find this is a country full of colourful buildings, dramatic landscapes, and unique culture.

Although it’s one of the least populated capitals in the world with only 16,000 residents, Nuuk is the busiest and most active of all Greenlandic cities. Somewhat surprisingly, it’s filled with art and museums as well as nods to Greenlandic history and mythology in its various statues and memorials.

In Greenland, the availability of activities varies entirely based on the seasons. Summer offers hiking and festivals , while winter brings snowmobiling, sledding, and amazing displays of the Northern Lights.

28. The Falkland Islands, for extreme wildlife encounters

By Nadine from Le Long Weekend

The Falklands Islands, or Islas Malvinas as they’re also known, are a destination like no other. They’re a place where you can truly get away from daily life and enter a world that seems unencumbered by modern distractions.

Here, the wildlife rules, and you’ll get well-acquainted with many species as you tour some of the islands that make up this Southern Archipelago off the coast of Argentina. The penguins of the Falkland Islands are the main drawcard, and there are five different species to discover – from the regal King Penguins to the curious little red-eyed Rockhoppers.

Then there are the formidable elephant seals, the talkative sea lions, the hundreds of different birds, and a few unlikely additions too. Both reindeer and foxes roam on two of the islands.

Wildlife aside, the islands are an amazing place to go trekking, explore untouched beaches and enjoy old-school hospitality. Get around by using the Falklands’ dedicated air service, FIGAS, to island-hop.

29. Montenegro’s national parks, beyond the bay

By Dhara from It’s Not About the Miles

Most visitors to Montenegro spend their time in the Bay of Kotor. While undeniably beautiful, there is so much more to discover beyond the coastline.

Take the scenic and winding Kotor Serpentine to the village of Njegusi to visit the humble home where Njegoš, Montenegro’s most influential poet-philosopher, was born. Head further up to Lovcen National Park where you can hike and visit the mausoleum of Njegoš. Stop by the old Montenegrin capital of Cetinje to visit the iconic monastery and admire the architecture.

Lake Skadar National Park is another must-visit in Montenegro . Boat tours are available from Virpazar or the sleepy village of Rijeka Crnojevica. The surface of the lake is covered with lily pads, and you can see any number of birds here.

Up north, Durmitor National Park , the only UNESCO-designated park in Montenegro, offers stunning vistas and the chance to do some epic hikes. Go river rafting on the Tara River and visit the Tara Canyon Bridge, which spans one of the deepest canyons in the world.

30. The Faroe Islands, A self-governed archipelago in Europe

By Supriya from Fun Travelog

Europe has thousands of island destinations to choose from, but the Faroes still remain relatively unspoiled thanks to their location.

The Faroe Islands is an independent nation comprised of 18 small islands located between Iceland and Norway. Governed by Denmark, it’s a paradise for hikers and birdwatchers particularly.

Begin your journey by flying into the small and vibrant city of Torshavn, the country’s capital, which is connected by short flight from Copenhagen , Paris, Reykjavik, Bergen or Edinburgh . Make your first stop at the Gásadalur to see the famed waterfall from a marked trail.

From there, every moment of your journey in this small country will be replete with awe-inspiring sights. There are lots of hikes in Faroe Islands , but the most beautiful ones are definitely on the coast of Vagar Island and in Gjógv.

For a completely unique experience, take a 30-minute boat ride to the island of Mykines, which is home to thousands of puffins. They aren’t at all perturbed by human presence and watching them in their natural habitat is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

31. Ukraine, for budget-savvy travellers

By Inessa & Natalie from Through a Travel Lens

There are only a few destinations left in Europe that still remain under the radar. Ukraine is definitely one of them. 

Geographically one of the biggest countries on the continent, Ukraine offers something for every travel taste, from sunbathing by the Black Sea in Odessa to hiking in the Carpathians, wandering the magical streets of old Lviv, and exploring the caves of the UNESCO World Heritage Listed Pechersk Lavra in Kiev.

It’s best to save at least two weeks to explore Ukraine’s most popular locations. Kiev alone deserves at least four days, let alone the numerous great weekend breaks and trips you can take from the capital. In addition to the aforementioned Odessa, Lviv, and Kiev, smaller towns such as Uzhgorod, Chernihiv, Kamyanets-Podilsky, and Chernivtsi are also highly recommended.

Besides being an underestimated and unconventional destination, Ukraine also remains one of Europe’s most budget-friendly travel adventures, with the daily budget for food, accommodations, transportation, and activities remaining under 30 USD.

32. Latvia, the lesser-visited capital of Art Nouveau

By Eden from Rock a Little Travel

Home to a historic city centre, a thriving arts scene and vast countryside dotted with castles, Latvia is one of the world’s most underrated travel destinations.

Visitors to Latvia should experience Riga , the lively capital city best known for its beautiful Art Nouveau architecture. In fact, Riga has the world’s highest concentration of Art Nouveau buildings, examples of which are on display across the city.

Riga’s walkable centre also features local boutiques, cafes , restaurants, bars, and even a few city parks. Riga Beer District is home to several local breweries that serve a variety of craft beers. This is the perfect destination for a night out and a great opportunity to mingle with the locals.

Outside the capital, visitors to Latvia can tour the country’s many medieval castles and fortifications. Those looking to spend some time outdoors can head to Latvia’s beaches along the Baltic coast, or to one of the country’s many national parks.

33. North Macedonia, home of Europe’s Quirkiest capital city

The tiny nation of North Macedonia is quirky even by Balkan standards. Formerly known as the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, it may have undergone several name changes in its recent history, but it’s status as a unique destination in Eastern Europe has endured.

North Macedonia’s capital, Skopje, is a mix of archaic Ottoman architecture (the Old Bazaar is one of the largest in Europe) and brand new, shiny sculptures and facades installed as part of Skopje 2014, a huge project to give the city a facelift. The result is a Disneylandesque mix of styles that pushes the ambit of imagination.

Skopje makes for a wonderfully offbeat city break, but when visiting North Macedonia , you should also explore beyond the capital. Lake Ohrid is the biggest tourist draw, while the second-largest city, Bitola , and the alpine town of Krusevo – with its wonderful spomenik – both promise off-the-beaten-path, history steeped travel experiences.

34. Piacenza, a hidden gem in Northern Italy

By Helga from ShegoWandering

Piacenza is a small Italian city located near the Po river in Emilia Romagna. While still easily accessible by train from Milan or Bologna, it remains a hidden gem.

This town boasts over 1,000 years of local history. Discover the beautiful historic centre of Piacenza with its colourful houses and beautiful passages. Make sure the Piazza Cavalli, home to the town’s most famous landmark, the Palazzo Gotico, is also on your list.

Piacenza has some of the oldest, most important Romanesque churches in the region, including the Duomo di Piacenza, the St. Antoninus Basilica, and the Church of San Francesco. Another important landmark is the Palazzo Farnese, an immense palace now houses a collection of museums.

The region of Emilia-Romagna is famous for its food products. Be sure to sample Salame Piacentini , Coppa Piacentina and Pancetta Piacentina .

35. Brasov, the gateway to Transylvania

By Nicola Rae of See Nic Wander

The Transylvanian town of Brasov, Romania is tucked away in the Carpathian mountains just 2.5 hours from the capital on the way to Transylvania .

Since many people travel to Romania to explore Bucharest or relax on the Black Sea coast, the smaller Romanian city of Brasov often gets overlooked. But for travellers interested in great hiking, quirky historical sites and a bit of Dracula folklore, Brasov can’t be missed. 

Explore the 14th century Black Church, which got its name after being scorched in a fire, a 15th-century citadel that also served as a prison, and Rope Street, one of the narrowest streets in the world.

Brasov is just a short drive from Bran Castle, a fortress that dates back to the 1200s and is famously also known as ‘Dracula’s Castle’.

When in Brasov, make sure to take the Tampa Mountain Cable Car up to the prominent Hollywood-style ‘Brasov’ sign for the best views of the city and surrounding mountains.

Unusual holiday destinations: Share it on Pinterest

Wow, that’s a great guide.

That was an amazing article. Good work Keep it up!

Lichtenstein castle (named after the family) pictured above is in Germany and not in The Principality of Lichtenstein and hence that part of the article is misleading. One visiting Lichtenstein (the country) will not find this castle how hard one looks.

Good pick up, PK! That is my fault – I will update it immediately. Thanks for letting me know!

This was so helpful, I’m doing a school project and I have to find a unique travel destination. Got lots of ideas

Awesome Tshia, glad I could help!

Fantastic list! Considering many of your picks are also on my own list, I have a feeling we are of the same mindset. As I sit at home travel planning for a post-Covid-vaccine world, you have helped to add more places I hadn’t thought of but was searching for in concept.

Thank you and stay healthy!

So glad to hear you found this post inspiring, Nancy! Thanks a lot for the feedback. Happy future travel planning 🙂

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The 10 most incredible travel experiences in the world, according to Lonely Planet

Oct 7, 2020 • 7 min read

The Monastery of Petra by candlelight © K. Chae / 500px

There’s no two ways about it; 2020 has dealt an unexpected blow to the travel industry. And while our dreams of jetting off for adventure or reconnecting with loved ones in another country may have been dashed, we have to remember that things won’t always be like this – there’s still an array of unique and compelling places around the world waiting to be experienced and appreciated.

Now is the perfect time to start planning for when it's safe to travel again, and to inspire those once-in-a-lifetime adventures, Lonely Planet is proud to present Ultimate Travel List , the second edition of our bestseller that offers a brand new ranking of the greatest places on Earth.

Travel can be a force for good, allowing us to connect with other cultures and communities, educate ourselves and experience how others live. For this edition, extra marks have been awarded to destinations that manage tourism sustainably. From the marvels of human invention to the raw beauty of nature, this inspiring list of 500 places has been put together by our most knowledgeable experts. Here’s the top 10 from the new book.

1. Explore the ancient 'lost city' of Petra  

This Unesco World Heritage Site has long mystified travellers with its stunning sandstone construction and history. Over 3000 years old, it was originally capital of the Nabataeans, a nomadic people from Arabia who were merchants and craftspeople. The city was eventually abandoned, only to be embraced by the Bedouin who began living in the caves up until the 1980s. In 2007 the enigmatic city was voted in as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, and any visitor who ventures there can see why. From the Siq, the winding narrow canyon that was once a trade route and a focal point for religious processions, to the iconic 128-ft-high Treasury building, visitors to the sprawling 102-sq mile site are overtaken by the wonder of it. Historic and intriguing, Jordan enjoys a reputation as one of the safest and most welcoming countries in the Middle East.

2. Visit the Galápagos – the islands that have astounded scientists

A literal wonderland of science, the Galápagos hold secrets of nature not seen anywhere else in the world. Famed as the place where Charles Darwin’s ideas on evolution by natural selection were shaped, the islands inspire thought and wonderment. Many of the native creatures are unique to the stretch of islands off the coast of Ecuador , with 200-hundred-year-old tortoises, large land iguanas of pink and yellow, and flightless cormorants. Located at the meeting of three separate ocean currents, the Galápagos also hold a bounty of marine species. Ecotourism has become a booming industry in the last few years, with the airport being built from mostly sustainable and recycled materials, and running on solar and wind power.

3. Learn from the Aṉangu at Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park 

Blushing like an epiphanic, sun-baked chunk of coal on the shimmering horizon, there’s something haunting about witnessing the golden and umber hues of Uluru at sunset. Standing proud at 348m tall and stretching nearly 4km wide, the sandstone leviathan is not only an impressive spectacle and popular tourism spot, it’s a sacred site. The area’s native inhabitants, the Aṉangu people, hold the belief that spiritual ancestors reside here. An icon to Australia , the site has long been a draw. Up until 2017 it was possible (against the wishes of the Aṉangu) to ascend the summit, but there are still rich and rewarding experiences open to travelers. The Aṉangu cultural center is a highlight where there is a display on tjukurpa, the creation period.

4. Embrace a slower pace of life on the Okavango Delta

A marshland that is home to some of the world’s most endangered animals, this beautiful wilderness is a compelling destination for an African safari. Expanding up to 7722 sq miles (20,000 sq km), this is one of the world’s largest inland deltas and an important lifeforce for huge numbers of wildlife. The area can be appreciated in a number of different ways, including by powerboat, mokoro (a traditional canoe), and via 4WD safaris. You'll spot wildlife big and small – the most thrilling sight is no doubt the proud African elephants that can be spotted bathing and drinking. In order to protect the environment, visitor numbers are regulated, making it an exclusive but truly rewarding experience. 

5. Gaze upon geysers and grizzlies at Yellowstone National Park  

Home to 60% of the world’s geysers, (including Old Faithful – the park’s most famous one) Yellowstone offers a full an assault of the senses. From eggy whiffs of roaring, hot springs that explode over a searing landscape to the exciting sight of bison, elk, bears and wolves running past, there is always something to thrill. On March 1, 1872, Yellowstone became the first national park in the US, and today welcomes an impressive 4 million people every year. It also boasts rugged canyons, mountains and forests perfect for hiking, walking, climbing, trail running, and other outdoor activities.

6. Emulate a pilgrim's journey to the astounding Lake Bled

With its white bell-towered church atop an island on a glassy lake, and a medieval castle that clings to the side of a green precipice, Lake Bled is picture-perfect. The eye-catching beauty of the Slovenian retreat has always made it a draw, from early pilgrims to 19th-century royalty. Backed by the Julian Alps and the Karavanke, the route around the lake makes for an easy and enjoyable walk or cycle, while swimming in or diving beneath the stunning waters is also popular with the throngs of visitors who venture here. A jewel of the Alps and a symbol of the country’s beauty, Lake Bled continues to be a popular choice for those who enjoy inspiring surroundings.

7. Marvel at the overwhelming power of Iguazú Falls 

Easily reached from both Brazil and Argentina , the furious Iguazú Falls are an awe-inspiring demonstration of the power of nature. The cascades are formed by a chain of hundreds of waterfalls nearly 2 miles (3km) in extension that join forces to create something magnificent. The expanse of the surrounding national park, a protected area over 67,720 hectares (the majority of which is a rainforest with unique plant and animal life) adds extra value to a visit. Multiple rainbows can be spotted when the spray and falling water is backlit against the sun as Garganta del Diablo (Devil’s Throat) thunders over the rocks.

8. Find heaven on earth at the temples of Angkor 

A symbol of ingenious resourcefulness and religious dedication, Angkor’s temples encourage admiration in anyone who sees them. The most famous of the sites – Angkor Wat – represents Mt Meru, the home of the Hindu gods and the center of the universe. It is a place of pilgrimage for all Cambodians , and the largest religious building in the world. Angkor includes over 1000 shrines and temples, including Ta Prohm, with its large, jungle-engrossed towers. The sunrises here are unmissable. Avoid busier crowds by visiting in the wet season.

9. Float on a mirror surface at Salar de Uyuni

After rainfall, Salar de Uyuni, the biggest salt lake in the world, is transformed into an enormous mirror where the boundaries between sky and earth disappear. The flat salt surface reflects the clouds, and the horizon disappears. Measuring 4085 sq miles (10,582 sq km) and sitting at an altitude of 3653m (11,984 ft) in the Bolivian altiplano, the lake is just as compelling when dry, with the white cracked surface having the appearance of another planet. There’s even geyser fields to visit, while high-altitude lakes of aquamarine attract flocks of flamingos.

10. Take a classic teahouse trek around Nepal’s Annapurna Circuit

A dream destination for hikers, serious walkers and trekkers, the Annapurna region has stunning mountains and hidden hilltop villages. There are also charming lodges serving food and pots of delicious tea. Hikes here offer everything, from farmland and rice paddies, through pastures and fields to craggy summits and snowy embankments. Tilicho Lake and the village of Ngawal are highlights, with the latter offering beautiful views across the valley of snowy summits. There are experiences to suit everyone, from short treks to month-long journeys of the Annapurna Circuit and Sanctuary trails.

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Team Wanderlust | 16 October 2019

27 of the world's secret destinations, as chosen by 27 experts.

In search of hidden gems? Discover lesser-visited destinations in Europe, Latin America, Africa, Asia and beyond with these recommendations from team Wanderlust and our favourite travel experts...

1. Admire the Neoclassical in Symi, Greece

Symi, Greece (Shutterstock)

Simon Reeve, author and TV presenter  

My travel secret is  the little Greek island of Symi , off Rhodes, which has arguably the most spectacular harbour in the country, entirely surrounded by Neoclassical houses.

Think Greece is all package holidays? Greece has the tenth longest coastline of any country on the planet and there are still plenty of areas (and beaches) free of other travellers.

Some of the best events in Greece happen before and after summer. And areas of Greece that you might think you know already during summer are  a completely different experience at other times of year. During spring, flowers and greenery are abundant and parts of Greece are as lush as the Tropics, while Greek Easter can be an amazing spectacle.

2. Go wild in Maya Nord in the Republic of Congo

A western lowland gorilla (Shutterstock)

Gavin Thurston, Planet Earth II  cameraman

Maya Nord is not a travel destination for the faint-hearted,  more for the adventurous and intrepid with a hint of the hidden explorer in them. It is a bai or  open clearing in the forests of Odzala- Kokoua National Park, in the Republic of Congo.

With clever planning, you can get from the  UK, via Paris and Brazzaville, to deepest Africa within a day or so. The journey itself is an adventure  – planes, cars, dug out canoes and some jungle hiking.

The reward is a truly wild paradise inhabited by  a host of charismatic mammals, including elephant, western lowland gorilla, chimpanzee, leopard, and forest buffalo, not  to mention the bird life. It’s a naturalist’s heaven and one of the truly wild places left on earth.

Journeys in the Wild: The Secret Life of a Cameraman   (Seven Dials, 2019) is out now

3. Explore colonial architecture in overlooked Córdoba

Catedral y Cabildo de Córdoba, Argentina (Shutterstock)

Shafik Meghji, writer and co-author of The Rough Guide to Argentina

Popular with Argentines,  but often overlooked by foreign travellers, Córdoba province i s a n incredibly rewarding place to explore.

Its eponymous capital  i s a youthful, forward-looking c ity, packed with colonial-era architecture, art and cultural spaces, and a dynamic restaurant scene centred on the hip Güemes neighbourhood.

The dramatic Sierras de Córdoba mountain range is wonderful for h orseriding, while Mar Chiquita, one of South America’s biggest lakes, is a haven for birdwatchers.

P lu s th ere’s the kitsch Germanic town of Villa General Belgrano, remarkable pre-Columbian petroglyphs , excellent hang-gliding and paragliding, Che Guevara’s childhood home, and a s eries of Jesuit estancias that date back 400 years.  

4. Explore hidden niches at the Hsinbyume Pagoda, Burma

Hsinbyume Pagoda, Myanmar (Shutterstock)

Lyn Hughes, editor-in-chief, Wanderlust

A lot of visitors to Mandalay in Myanmar  (Burma) visit the well-known temples.

But the Hsinbyume Pagoda on the western back of the Irrawaddy is a real hidden gem (it’s also called Mya Thein Tan, which translates as 100,000 emeralds). 

To get there, either take the daily morning ferry from Mandalay to Mingun jetty, or join a sightseeing river cruise.

The beautiful all-white temple has seven terraces to explore, which represent the mountains that rise up to mythical Mount Meru.

There are even secret statues to spot  in hidden niches decorating the waves of the temple.  

5. Shop for traditional crafts in Morocco

Selection of spices on a traditional Moroccan market (souk) in Marrakech, Morocco (Shutterstock)

Helen Fanthorpe, senior editor, Rough Guides

Shop with a conscience in Morocco. There are numerous Fairtrade cooperatives and associations in Morocco, which are worth seeking out. Visiting them often means meeting locals, as well  as buying beautiful crafts or delicious   food to benefit the community.

A few projects to look out f or include the 40  plus cooperatives in  the Aït Bouguemez , which produce traditional crafts; Al Nour in Marrakesh, a professional training centre for women with disabilities, who create hand-embroidered bed and bath  linens; and the Amal Women’s Training Centre, also in Marrakesh, where disadvantaged women gain financial and social security through cooking.  

The updated Rough Guide to Morocco is out now.  

6. Step back in time at the Kings Weston estate in Bristol

Kings Weston Estate, Bristol (Shutterstock)

Dan Linstead, former editor, Wanderlust 

My backyard overlooks the sprawling Blaise and Kings Weston estates in north Bristol.  In the 18th century, their woodlands, river-carved gorges and views over the Severn Estuary were internationally famous, visited by European nobility and admired by Jane Austen.

Today, Kings Weston is a true locals’ haunt, a place for ramblers and dog-walkers to step into the dusky woods and back in time. Stand  in the Echo, a tumbledown stone folly sprouting vegetation from every nook, and you could almost be in Angkor Wat, Cambodia.  

7. Recharge at the Towpath Café in east London

Regents Canal, London (Shutterstock)

Sophie Darlington, wildlife filmmaker  

Every spring the Towpath Cafe on  Regent’s Canal near Haggerston quietly opens its shutters and you can find the most delicious seasonal food served there until late autumn.

After a shoot it’s where I head to recharge and watch the wildlife and the light refracting on the water.  

8. See the flower with the largest bloom in the world in the Cameron Highlands, Malaysia

Rafflesia, Sarawak, Borneo, Malaysia (Shutterstock)

Anthony Bennett, former media specialist, Wanderlust

A trek through the Cameron Highlands  can bring many highlights, one of which is finding the rare Rafflesia , a parasitic plant that has the largest bloom in the world. 

The current record is 107cm in diameter and they can weigh up to 10kg. It is rare due to the fact they are collected illegally for use in traditional medicines to treat injuries and infertility.

They also only flower for three to five days, so you have to be in the right place at the right time to catch them in all their glory. As well as the Rafflesia , there are incredible animals in the Highlands; tigers and clouded leopards have even been seen.  

9. Go horseback riding in the Paricutín’s lava fields, Mexico

Paricutin, Mexico (Shutterstock)

Dan Stables, author, Rough Guide to Mexico

The hamlet of San Juan  Parangaricutiro in Michoacán was almost entirely engulfed by a cataclysmic volcanic eruption in 1943.

Today, all that survives of the original village is the top half of the old church, its tower rising dramatically from the black, cracked lava fields that form the slopes of the young volcano of Paricutín.

Riding to the spectral church on horseback from the nearby village of Angahuan is an unforgettable experience.  

The updated Rough Guide to Mexico is out now. ​

10. Get lost in the secret gardens in Horta, Barcelona

The Maze in Horta Gardens, Barcelona (Shutterstock)

Kirtey Verma, editorial assistant, Wanderlust

Spend a day with the Greek gods at the  Labyrinth Park of Horta and you’ll find a place where time stands still. Located on the outskirts of the city, the park doesn’t attract the same amount of attention  or crowds as Parc Güell, but it doesn’t seek it – only 750 people are allowed in the park at any given time to preserve its character.  

Make your way through the twists and turns of the park’s eponymous maze, where you’ll find a sculpture of love god Eros at the centre. If you can find your way out, climb to the upper terraces – a few people will be taking pictures of the pavilions filled with busts and statues of more Greek gods, but if you continue upwards into the hills, you’ll find fewer people and panoramic views over the city.

Winding pathways lead you past shaded flower gardens, small waterfalls and ponds buzzing with the sound of bright dragonflies into secluded alcoves. Here, you can escape the crowds of Las Ramblas and while away the day in peace. Plus, it’s free on a Sund ay.  

11. Enter another realm at the Lençóis Maranhenses National Park in Brazil

The lagoons at Lencois Maranhenses, Maranhão, Brazil (Shutterstock)

Rachel Lawrence, managing editor, Insight Guide: Brazil 

Visitors who make it to this remote corner of north-eastern Brazil are rewarded by an otherworldly environment of rolling sand dunes and crystalline lakes.

The journey from São Luís to Barreirinhas takes about three hours. From here, tours into the park by boat and 4x4 can be arranged. The lagoons are best visited while at their fullest, between July and September.

The updated Insight Guide: Brazil is out now. 

12. Dive the Amazon

Pygocentrus nattereri. Flock of ferocious Amazonian piranhas (Shutterstock)

Jeremy Wade, TV presenter

There’s a place on one of the Amazon’s southern sub-tributaries where you can push through the vegetation into a tiny channel, which leads to a pool of the clearest water, and a truly surreal underwater landscape.

Dive down; every boulder-pile holds an electric eel, but in the clear water visitors can avoid the consequences of blundering into one of these guardians.

13. Unravel secrets at the My Son temples in Vietnam

My Son, Vietnam (Shutterstock)

Nora Wallaya, digital executive, Wanderlust

My Son sanctuary is a collection of temples dating from the 4th to the 13th century in Vietnam.

This impressive site was left behind  by the mysterious Champa civilisation, whose secrets have still not all been unravelled.

Situated around an hour’s drive west of Hoi An, its rural location means it gets fewer visitors.

When you’re there, check out the local graveyard on  a steep hill nearby – where hundreds of brightly-coloured headstones resemble an assortment of little dolls’ houses. 

14. See hidden falls in Switzerland

Trummelbach waterfall, Switzerland, the biggest waterfall in Europe (Shutterstock)

Mike Wright, art editor, Wanderlust

There are a total of  72 waterfalls to see in the Lauterbrunnen Valley in Switzerland but don’t miss those not on view: the hidden Trummelbach Falls.

Accessed via an ancient tunnel funicular and  lift, ten glacial waterfalls thunder down inside the mountain spraying you with a fine soaking mist. The roaring force of the water plunges down multiple tiers all easily seen from small viewing platforms.

15. Get in pole position in Poznan, Poland

Poznan, Poland (Shutterstock)

Ben Aitken, travel writer

I moved to Poland to  find out why the Poles were leaving. The answer was money. I could have Googled it. But a Google search wouldn’t have taught me that Poland is beautiful, complicated and utterly memorable, and that working in a fish and chip shop on minimum wage is only fun up to a point.

I lived in Poznan. Its secret? I’d say its corners, its outskirts. I spent days riding the trams, acquiring  a bigger picture. Centres are fine, but edges are rich. Sometimes it’s good to look the wrong way. 

Ben’s A Chip Shop in Poznan: My Unlikely Year in Poland (Icon Books, 2019) is out now. 

16. Lose the crowds at Holkham Beach in North Norfolk

Tidal salt marsh creek on the North Norfolk coast at Holkham (Shutterstock)

Catriona Bolger, former publishing director, Wanderlust

Yes, Holkham Beach is award-winning, yes the estate owned parking can be limited, but it’s so easy to lose any crowds  by taking a walk through the  pine forest or along the amazing wide open beach.

Even in peak, school holiday, summer you can easily find yourselves alone where the sand meets the sky. Go bird watching, spot a seal or two if you are lucky and then enjoy a pint in The Victoria at the end of the day. 

17. Uncover the Hôtel-Dieu, France

Main Courtyard of the Hotel Dieu (Shutterstock)

Just seconds away from Notre-Dame Cathedral is a blue door. You could easily miss it, but what lies beyond is one  of Paris’s best-kept secrets: the Hôtel-Dieu complex, the city’s oldest working hospital.

Slip through the sliding doors, ask for directions to the courtyard, and you’ll find a piano and Hausmanian architecture – the ideal cure to the city’s crowds. But remember to be quiet – the patients don’t want the word getting out.

18. Avoid long queues in Rome

The Roman Forum (Shutterstock)

Nick Boulos, founder of MakeMyDay

Avoid the long queues that snake around the  Colosseum and instead go across the road to buy your entrance tickets at the fascinating Roman Forum. It’s usually more quiet and your ticket also includes fast track admission to the Colosseum. Result!

19. Ignore stereotypes and visit Essex

Epping Forest (Shutterstock)

Tom Hawker, managing editor, Wanderlust

Ignored by guidebooks but adored by the likes of Robert Macfarlane, Essex is England’s most under-appreciated travel spot.

Whether for the ancient woodlands of Epping and Hainault or the bird-heavy coastlines and marshy wildernesses – like Rainham Marches and Two Tree Island – that stretch up the Thames. Time to chuck those stereotypes into the Estuary. 

20. Kayak in uncharted rivers, Suriname

Suriname River, Upper Suriname (Shutterstock)

Aldo Kane, world record-setting adventurer

My recent trip to Suriname left me  speechless. It’s one of the last bastions of true adventure and exploration on the planet with well over 94% of its surface area still covered in primary forest. It’s relatively easy to get to and is a shining example of how to manage resources and the environment properly.

Taking an internal flight out to Kabalebo Nature Resort can have you kayaking in uncharted rivers, wildlife spotting and going on guided ranger trips into the country’s interior. Once you’ve had your fix of adventure you can head back to the capital, Paramaribo and relax in one of the many excellent hotels. 

21. Find adventure in one of Morocco’s ancient sites

Lixus, Morocco (Dreamstime)

Aimee White, editor, Make The Most of Your Time on Earth 

’Travel far enough and you’ll meet yourself’ – or so the saying goes. But travel far enough and you’ll also bump into the Romans, who at the height of their Empire touched Lixus in Morocco. Off the beaten track and with few modern-day markings, Lixus is one of the oldest inhabited sites in Morocco.

In the city where Hercules completed one of his 12 labours, catch a glimpse of Roman  life with its deserted temple sanctuaries, intricate mosaics and the Upper Town’s crumbling amphitheatre, away from the souks and unforgiving deserts.

Make the Most of Your Time on Earth (Rough Guides) is out now 

22. Dive unexplored sunken caves in the Yucatan, Mexico

Cave Cenote, Yucatan, Mexico (Shutterstock)

Steve Backshall , BAFTA-winning wildlife presenter and adventurer

My secret location is the Cenotes, the sunken caves of Yucatan, Mexico. I guess the exciting thing for me about the Yucatan is it’s somewhere where there are millions of tourists. It’s a very well-known area.

You have beaches that are thronged with people and you can go a mile away from those crowds and  be underground, underwater in a place that no other human being has ever been before. That as an idea it blows my mind. And I think it’s one  of the most exciting things that I’ve seen and learnt this year.

23. Go cycling in Tupiza, Bolivia

Duende Canyon, Bolivia (Shutterstock)

Tupiza in Bolivia is surrounded  by fabulous rock formations and dry river beds . It's a great place  for trekking, cycling and riding.

The route north to the Salar de Uyuni salt flat takes in old mining towns (with Butch and Sundance connections) and miles of roads above 4,000m past lakes of blue, black, green and red waters, lonely volcanoes, surreal rocks and hot springs that you daren’t come out of because the cold air outside.

24. Stop off for a pick-me-up at Cape Wrath, Scotland

The Cape Wrath Trail, Scotland (Shutterstock)

Sean Conway , endurance adventurer, author and motivational speaker

Have you ever been on a long walk and arrive at the café 10 minutes after it closes? It’s heart-breaking when that piece of cake and cup of soup you’ve been dreaming of for hours is locked behind a glass door.

Well, if you happen to be walking toward Cape Wrath lighthouse on Scotland’s northern- most reaches then you will never have this problem. There is a café in the lighthouse that will open for you whatever time of day or night. I know this because I have tested it when I arrived at 10:30pm to a warm bowl of soup.

25. Go skiing in Tehran, Iran

Alborz Mountains, Dizin, Tehran, Iran (Shutterstock)

Andy Smart, comedian and travel writer

If you have some time off in Tehran why not  go skiing for the day. The city is surrounded by the desert to the south and a crescent of mountains to the north.

There is a ski resort at Tochal, on the highest peak of these mountains. It takes about an hour from the city centre to the bottom of the lifts. The runs are basic but not busy. Just two hours north is the bigger resort of Dizin, with chalets and ski hire shops.

Andy's book A Hitch in Time (AA Publishing, 2019) is out now. 

26. Adventure down the Amazon on a public riverboat

The riverboat to Manaus (Shutterstock)

Mark Stratton , travel writer and radio broadcaster

Adventure cruises by boat are an exciting way to explore the world’s great rivers. Yet such expeditions can be prohibitively expensive. So consider using  long distance public ferries for  a fraction of the cost. I recently made a legendary trip down the Amazon from its mouth at Belem to Manaus on a public riverboat.

The 6-day journey cost just R$200 (£40) for a cabin. Besides soaking in the Amazonian scenery I wiled the days away getting to know the mostly Brazilian passengers.

27. Take a tour of Rurrenabaque Pampas, Bolivia

Rurrenabaque, Bolivia (Shutterstock)

100km north-east of Rurrenabaque, in the Bolivian lowlands, is Santa Rosa, the remote jumping off  point for boat tours on the slow-moving Río Yacuma, where wildlife is bountiful. Families of capybara, hundreds of caiman, pink river dolphin, raucous hoatzin, herons and innumerable other birds can be seen at boat level.

Look up into the gallery forest  for howler, squirrel and capuchin monkeys. On a walk through the marshes, wading in parts, you’ll see spoonbills and maybe even an anaconda if you’re lucky.    

Find out more of the world's secrets:

19 secret beaches in asia, 5 lesser known uk national parks that deserve your attention, 2019's best trips to explore new frontiers, related articles, looking for inspiration.

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The Most Untapped Destinations in the World—and How to Travel Them in Style

From remote islands to unexplored deserts and jungles teeming with wildlife...

The true wonder of travel inherently lies in coming face to face with the unknown and getting lost in the beauty of a place on the very brink of discovery. There is no more rewarding feeling than being among the first few to reach and explore a destination that others haven’t yet had the pleasure of witnessing. From remote islands to unexplored deserts and jungles teeming with wildlife, this glorious planet is constantly at the ready with new untapped destinations to make even the most intrepid traveler swoon in awe-struck delight. For the true adventurers out there, get out and discover this latest trove of unspoiled global treasures and find an inspiration all your own.

Puglia, Italy

Puglia, the heel of Italy’s stylish boot, has a wonderfully distinct allure stemming from its rural landscape and patchwork past of Norman, Spanish, Greek, and Byzantine influences. The region is quickly rivaling Tuscany’s gourmet title, offering a glimpse into true Italian traditions and values.

With miles of bountiful coastline, replete with verdant landscapes of olive groves and vineyards, this pristine region produces some of the country’s best, oft undiscovered wines and olive oils. Treat yourself to sensory overload and savor Puglia’s famed cucina povera, a stripped-back, authentic style of Italian cooking focusing on simple, fresh ingredients and traditional cooking methods–it's the slow-food movement at its best.

The region is also home to distinctly luxurious lodgings like the fabulous hideaway, Borgo Egnazia , a stone-carved haven set amongst Puglia’s shady olive groves. The creation of one of the most inspired hoteliers, Aldo Melpignano, and his family, Borgo Egnazia is modeled on a traditional local Apulian borgo (village). Here, the cream-hued estate features romantic suites and villas that are decked out in calming tones and elegantly equipped to meet every creature comfort. While in town, check out their gorgeous sister boutique property, Masseria Torre Maizza , which reopened May 2019 under the estimable Rocco Forte banner and is setting the stage to be a very chic oasis, indeed.

For those seeking a “still relatively off the radar” escape, look no further than wild and virtually unexplored Madagascar. This thriving hotspot of biodiversity is a dream for naturalists and adventurers alike; the island is teeming with endemic wildlife, 80% of which can be found nowhere else on Earth.

Unknown to most, Madagascar has some of the best beaches in the Indian Ocean. Check out Nosy Be, Madagascar’s most scenic coastal spot, where guests can spot humpback whales and lemurs on the shoreline.Located on the north-eastern coast of the island, Miavana is the perfect private escape. With only 14 private villas, staying at this luxurious eco-lodge will feel as though you’ve stumbled upon your own Robinson Crusoe haven. Think days exploring lush tropical rainforests and watching turtles nest on the deserted white sand beaches.

The Himalayan Kingdom of Ladakh is one of the few places on Earth that remains virtually untouched and unexplored. Situated at an average altitude of 11,500 feet, Ladakh is crisscrossed by four mountain ranges, The Great Himalaya, The Ladakh, The Zanskar and The Karakoram. Boasting mesmerizing views at every turn, it’s one of India’s best kept secrets. Enjoy the calm serenity of the fresh mountain air, incredible views, and rich Buddhist heritage throughout the region. Guests in Ladakh can opt to stay in beautiful homestays like the Shakti Village Houses in unknown villages of the Indus Valley and remote luxury tented camps. Tour the city of Leh with local royalty, meet local monks, stargaze to your heart’s content and even catch a game of Ladakhi Polo, all while enjoying the ultimate escapist’s dream.

Salta, Argentina

In contrast to the Italo-Spanish metropolis of Buenos Aires and the surrounding grassy Pampas, Argentina’s north-west boasts a strong Andean and spiritual heritage as a meeting point for South America’s indigenous communities. The region is famed for its spectacular scenery and richly colored landscapes–think red rock valleys, multi-colored and monochromatic hills and terra-cotta peaks magically set against stark blue skies. The diversity of this area makes it a haven for trekking, horseback riding, rafting, driving 4x4s and a plethora of other adventure activities.

The city of Salta boasts some of the best preserved colonial architecture, attractive plazas and regional cuisine in all of Argentina, making it an off-the-beaten-track cultural gem. Feel like you’re being let in on a local secret as you step inside La Merced del Alto, in the heart of the Calchaquí Valley. Built as a traditional manor house with wide interior patios and tall galleries, La Merced del Alto is a beautiful reflection of its rustic surroundings in the heart of the Argentinian countryside.

Faroe Islands, Denmark

Located in the chilly waters between Scotland and Iceland, the Faroe Islands are a real retreat. The dramatic landscapes completely redefine the notion of an ‘untouched archipelago,’ giving travelers access to a wilder side of the Danish Kingdom.

Rugged coastlines once considered Viking territory are home to natural wonders best explored via old fishing boats for a mystical effect. But the Faroes are also beginning to take their first steps towards modernization, with chic shops and the island’s 2 Michelin-star restaurant, KOKS , serving up inspired Faroese delicacies.

Stay at the new boutique Hotel Havgrim Seaside Hotel , a beautifully restored historic home right on the water, full of Nordic charm. Design here is inspired by the calming seas, featuring large glass windows and private balconies with mesmerizing views. The property possesses a palpable sense of peace to remind you this is exactly where you should be. With good reason, the Faroe Islands are limiting tourism to preserve the ecosystem and authentic culture, so plan ahead (far in advance) if this adventure piques your interest.

With the renewed fervor surrounding this country and its importance in the history of the Silk Road, now is the time to head to Georgia while it’s still very ‘in the know.’ Underneath the surface of this mostly rural country lies a unique European culture most travelers have little knowledge of, where hospitality and warmth shine as travelers and guests are considered ‘gifts from God’.

Rich in history, unique culinary traditions, green hilltops, snow-capped mountains, and spring waters, Georgia will easily capture your attention. The birthplace of wine, Georgia’s Signagi, has a history of producing wine as far back as the fifth millennium BC and many vintners still employ the traditional methods of their ancestors. Oenophiles will be enchanted with the rare opportunity to stay at Chateau Svanidze , owned by its namesake family of winemakers, a truly captivating way to discover the importance of wine (and even bring back a bespoke bottle yourself).

Georgia’s indulgent culinary specialties, which include cheese filled khachapuri and mtsvadi skewers cooked on aged grapevine, only leave room after for a glass of chacha, a local whiskey regularly on the menu for Georgians, so hit up the local watering holes.

The art-deco Stamba Hotel in Tbilisi, a converted Soviet printing house headquarters, now serves as a testament to the growing art and design interests of modern Georgia and is an inspiring backdrop to the historic churches, iconic statues, and 11th century castles scattered throughout the city.

Stockholm Archipelago

Located east of Stockholm, the Stockholm Archipelago is the discreet spot where Sweden’s well-heeled flock for the summer. Known by locals as skärgården, setting sail is the best way to see all of the skerries and rocks in this Swedish gem.

Untapped by tourists and preserved by locals, the Stockholm Archipelago is a cluster of 3,000 islands that offer incredible views and access to Stockholm’s scenic soft sand beaches, historic castles, lush forests, and stunning coastlines. Locals and visitors alike can cruise like royalty as you split your time between land and sea, with mornings sailing through the untouched, scenic waters and afternoons exploring storybook villages and Stockholm’s Old Town.

From the calm waters of Grinda to the charm of Wardhaus, the Stockholm Archipelago’s magnificent views from the seas, and cobblestoned streets from the land, are simply enchanting. Post up in the stylish and charming Rival Hotel , perfect for Swedish culture lovers as this property is owned by ABBA’s own Benny Andersson.

Guacalito De La Isla, Nicaragua

Perched on the Emerald Coast of Nicaragua, home to 30 miles of untouched beaches, Guacalito De La Isla is an under the radar Central American haven. Be sure to stay at the Mukul Resort , the brainchild of local entrepreneur Don Carlos Pellas, whose family poured their heart and soul into the region in an effort to preserve its beauty and share it with like-minded travelers. The property's name translates from the Mayan word for ‘secret,’ and it lives up to its status as a hidden gem, comprised of fairy-tale beach villas and ‘bohios’ nestled on the stunning, mile-long Manzanillo beach awash with light powdery sand and glorious Pacific sunsets.

From surfing and ash boarding down volcanos, to nature and bike paths through pristine jungles where monkeys, iguanas, and tropical birds abound, the chances for adventure here are endless. Here, the infinite pleasures of doing nothing are also not be underestimated; simply lie back, relax, and take in those panoramic views of the Pacific.

Sao Tome and Principe

In the Gulf of Guinea off the coast of West Africa, the nation of Principe is an intimate, discreet island oasis enveloped by enchanting flora and fauna, ocean breezes, and lush tropical forests.

Ecologically-savvy travelers will relish the pristine, well-protected environment as a remarkable base to explore this lost world of beaches, bays, and jungles. Sundy Praia’s luxe tented accommodations at the wild northwest tip of the island of Principe will help in losing all sense of time and place while searching for turtles, whales, birds, and dolphins. True explorers will enjoy discovering historical churches on biosphere trails hidden throughout the island.

Between September and April, you can check out the incredible hatching of the sea turtles, while year-round you can spot any of the 29 endemic species of birds on the island. When you’re not lounging in a private tented villa or on a four-wheel drive through the local plantations, dine at Sundy Praia’s terrific restaurant that has adapted local traditions and flavors including tuna, wahoo, passion fruit, and pineapple. A dinner (or two) here is a must.

For travelers looking to get off the beaten track and go where few tourists have been before, there are few destinations that rival the Congo. A whole new kind of safari destination, the Congo offers luscious forests, rare and exotic wildlife, and safe cities in between.

The Congolese capital, Brazzaville, is known as ‘The Paris of Africa’; it's a must-see, boasting some of the safest and cleanest streets in Africa. Trek, kayak, and cruise through the heart of the Odzala-Kokua National Park and track endangered Western Lowland Gorillas before you wade through the Lango bais in search of Forest Elephants and Buffalo.

Stay at Odzala Discovery Camps and unearth a leafy green paradise where you can get closer to nature than ever before. These three gorgeous camps in North-West Congo are all about stripped back luxury, and unleashing your inner explorer. For the true globetrotter, this is really adventure at its purest.

Mancora, Peru

Often overlooked, Mancora, Peru is home to the tranquil Mancora Beach and the beautiful stone, wood, and mud boutique hotel, KiChic . Once the personal home of the owner, Kichic is now a destination in and of itself for visitors to retreat and unwind with yoga, fish for the daily catch, and dining on nutritious, pescatarian and vegetarian soul food. Naturally, all the dishes here feature locally produced ingredients and flavors such as coconut and gomasio.

Rooted in its love for the sun, fresh fish, and surfing, Mancora’s barefoot bohemian vibes make it a must-visit destination for those with an uninhibited affinity for the natural world. Seemingly in a constant summer, Mancora is a year-round haven for kitesurfing, plunge pools, and fresh dining options year-round. Humpback whale spotting season is a prime time to visit, and runs from June to October.

Wadi Rum, Jordan

The dramatic and desolate desert landscapes of Jordan have enticed explorers to trek through its unforgiving landscapes for millennia. But what most travelers don’t know is that it’s more accessible than you might think; unlock the area’s hidden gems and Bedouin culture via Wadi Rum, a must on every intrepid traveler’s bucket list.

Planning a comprehensive trekking tour through this historic, otherworldly landscape is highly advised and the best way to explore the very setting that scenes from the film Lawrence of Arabia were staged. For a cultural must, travelers can explore the seven jagged rock columns natural landmark from which T.E. Lawrence’s famed novel, “The Seven Pillars of Wisdom,” takes its names. Thrill-seekers can tour via camel or Jeep, stopping off at Bedouin communities along the way and overnighting in luxury desert camps where traditional meals are served around a fire under the stars.

Andaman Islands

A hidden jewel off the coast of West India, the Andaman Islands are a secluded hideaway known for pristine shores and impressive aquatic life. The tropical jungles and secluded islands are a tranquil (and quite perfect) way to round out a trip after spending time in the mainlands of India.

The newly opened Taj Exotica Resort & Spa in Havelock gives travelers more reason to visit than ever before. Touting its white sand beaches and crystal clear waters, the Taj Exotica Resort and its surrounding scenery set the scene for your days quietly exploring the archipelago, and indulging at the hotel’s sun-drenched pool and spa. A few days on the Andamans will help you reset and restore after being immersed in the vibrant colors, bustling crowds, and sensory overload from exploring buzzy Mumbai or romantic Udaipur.

Lofoten Archipelago, Norway

This unrivaled wilderness offers the perfect base for sailing, kayaking, and hiking in the remote Fjords of Norway for intrepid travelers. Spend a few nights at Manshausen , a remote island enclave featuring glass cabins perched above the Lofoten waters, to hike mountain ranges over the islands of Maløya and Grøtøya, rock-climb the red-hued cliffs of nearby Nordskot, or fully unwind with a fresh water soak in your room.

Explore the impressive mountains that dominate the landscape by foot, and take in incredible views of the frozen wilderness’ steep jagged peaks and ocean. For a show-stopping experience, ski down slopes of virgin powder right to the water’s edge, where an antique sailing schooner awaits. While you're out on the arctic waters, be sure to look up–the beauty of the Northern Lights is amplified from the water. There are also some wildlife sightings not to be missed; the Lofoten islands often see white-tailed eagles only visible during the summer, when there is access to steep-sided fjords such as Trollfjorden.

One of Africa’s most fascinating and culturally captivating countries has only recently become more accessible to intrepid travelers. The area has seen a wave of new experiential lodges in (now more easily accessed) remote parts of the country, offering travelers a chance to discover the cultural and natural wonders of Ethiopia (which is home to the most UNESCO world heritage sites of any country in Africa).

Within this stunning backdrop, head on safari in search of the elusive Ethiopian wolf and fully immerse yourself in the local culture, savoring coffee and wild honey at local markets. For the adventurous, sojourn through the Denakil Depression, where guests can trek via camels across lakes of salt, view volcanoes that light up the night sky, and climb the summit of Erta Ale for the ultimate sunrise vista.

For accommodations, check out the unforgettable, rustic Bale Mountain Lodge and the breathtaking Simien Lodge , the highest hotel in Africa, perched above a UNESCO world heritage site.

Southern Namib Desert, Namibia

This remote destination in Namibia is known for its mesmerizing dark skies, making it a tranquil and inspiring backdrop for nightly stargazing (and one of the best spots in the world to do so).

The sophisticated, luxurious, and newly-opened Sonop Lodge tented camp is nestled in the Karis region perched above boulders with sweeping desert views—it is truly the best place to experience this destination. Spend your time here walking, biking, horseback riding, and hot air ballooning, taking in the fragrant scents wafting from the opulent cigar lounge. Aromas and tastes also abound at the lodge's white glove, five-course, gala-style dinner.

Easily hop between other Namibian destinations from this region, like Sossuvlei, Windhock and Omaanda camp, or stay put at the lodge and soak in the majestic surroundings and wildlife. If you're after the ultimate in serene experiences, take a soak in the infinity pool overlooking the enchanting desert of Namibia.

Tom Marchant is the co-founder of luxury travel company and trip planner, Black Tomato , which delivers high-touch experiences around the world via inspiring itineraries and access to the globe's up-and-coming, exclusive, and remote destinations. Marchant's finger on the pulse of travel trends and the world's best in hotels, restaurants, destinations, and honeymoons is unique and incomparable–and he's sharing his expertise and curated lists of where to visit, stay, eat and more in his travel column on BAZAAR.com .  

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The 60 most beautiful places in the world

By Katharine Sohn

Where are the most beautiful places in the world? On a planet home to flamingo-pink lakes in Mexico, plus vast, multi-coloured hills in the USA, green ripples of rice paddies in Indonesia and epic icescapes in Antarctica, it's hard to choose a favourite – but why pick one? From countries all around the world, these are our top 60 most beautiful places to visit.

Outer Hebrides, Scotland

Scattered along Scotland 's west coast, this chain of isles is one of the country's most beautiful places to visit. Think shimmering white-sand beaches , sparkling seas and crowd-free hinterlands – it's one of the UK's last remaining secrets, and for good reason.

Douro Valley, Portugal

With endless rows of vines tumbling down hillsides and birds of prey swooping along the riverside, at first glance you'd think this place was anywhere but Europe. Right in the depths of Portugal , this valley is as romantic as it comes – hike along ridges, taste-test your way through the region's wine and cosy up in some of the country's very best hotels, before waking up and doing it all again.

Shark Bay, Australia

The most westerly point on mainland Australia is this UNESCO World Heritage Site. It was founded before Captain Cook discovered land at Botany Bay, with Dutch explorers touching down here in the 17th century. The area is diverse – there’s a beach made up entirely of tiny white shells, stromatolites on the shore of Hamelin Pool and the salt mine at Useless Loop, which produces the purest grade of salt in the world and is only accessible via four-by-four – or visible from the sky.

Paracas, Peru

A small seaside town in the Ica region of Peru , Paracas is where the desert meets the sea. A trip to the area isn’t complete without a boat ride to Islas Ballestas, the rocky islands off the Pacific coast known for their diverse wildlife including flocks of sea lions and crowds of baby penguins.

Algarve, Portugal

The red-cliff coastline and pristine whitewashed Moorish villages that dot the south-western region of Portugal have started shifting crowds away from the region’s busier hotspots. It has its own sunny microclimate and affordable places to stay such as Casa Mãe in Lagos make it a great winter-sun option too.

Paris, France

With its striking architecture, grand boulevards, world-class art, jewel-box patisseries and classic places to stay , this is a city that never sleeps. Its unrivalled food scene is best experienced by stumbling upon corner bistros down cobbled streets.

Hòa Bình, Vietnam

Vietnamese for peace, Hòa Bình province is located in the north of the country and is home to hill tribes including the Hmong, Muong and Dzao, plus endless rice fields.

Sarakiniko Beach, Milos, Greece

Off-radar Milos has some of the best beaches in the Aegean without the buzz of Mykonos or Santorini . Moon-like Sarakiniko is made up of mounds of undulating bone-white, wave-like volcanic rock and forms one of the island’s most mesmerising bays.

Olivia Morelli

Lauren Burvill

CNT Editors

Connor Sturges

The most extreme continent on earth is also the coldest, windiest, driest and most inhospitable to forms of life. Pristine and practically untouched, no one lives in Antarctica full time, apart from seals, penguins and marine life. It’s as remote as one can get.

Death Valley, California

Known as the hottest place on earth, Death Valley reached a record temperature of 53°C in 2019. It’s a vast area of extremes: with snowy peaks, scorching sands and wildflower meadows, the National Park encompasses a wide range of different landscapes. One of the most popular locations is the multi-hued Artists Palette, a series of eroded hills whose colouring is due to the oxidation of natural metal deposits in the mountains. ‘ Star Wars ’ fans will be keen to see the site that inspired the planet Tatooine.

Provence, France

In summer, endless fields of lavender in bloom turn the Provençal landscape purple. At the end of the season, when the crop is harvested, honey, soaps and pastries are made with a fragrant dose of the plant.

Bayon, Cambodia

Built in honour of one of Cambodia’s most famous kings, Jayavarman VII, Bayon is a 12th-century state temple that’s a unique architectural feat in the heart of Angkor Thom. Fifty-four gothic towers carved with 216 gargantuan smiling faces of Avalokiteshvara – the bodhisattva of compassion – fill the temple , and the design showcases the shift from Hinduism to Mahayana Buddhism. With Angkor Wat not far away, Bayon, its off-the-beaten track little sister, is a close second in popularity.

Grand Teton National Park, Jackson Hole, Wyoming

The famous three peaks of the National Park are among Wyoming’s most recognisable sights, the Grand forming the highest point of the range. It’s a hike on many pro adventurers' list, but for newbies looking for an outdoors excursion floating down the Snake River or mountain-biking through the 310,000-acre landscape are viable options, too. Top it off with supper at Snake River Grill in Jackson’s town centre and an overnight stay at the cliff-side Amangani .

Angel Falls, Venezuela

The world’s highest waterfall, with 3,212ft cascades, is located in the UNESCO-protected Canaima National Park and was the inspiration for the Disney film ‘Up’. The site is only accessible by boat or plane.

A gateway to the East, Kyrgyzstan has natural beauty. Unspoilt pine forests, rocky ridges and rolling jailoos (summer pastures) are typical of the country. In the warmer months visitors flock to glacial lakes, while in winter a stay with semi-nomadic shepherds is an experience unlike any other.

Grand Canal, Venice

The 12,500ft-long canal runs straight through the centre and has inspired numerous artists including Canaletto, Monet and JMW Turner. Flanked by buildings dating from the 12th to the 17th centuries, it’s the grandest waterway in the Floating City .

Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe

Hwange has a greater diversity of mammals than any national park in the world and is the largest natural reserve in Zimbabwe . The size of Belgium , it is home to more than 50,000 elephants and 500 species of bird. The wet-season winter months are the best time to see migratory birds or book an off-season safari when the park gets fewer visitors.

A third of Mongolia is covered in desert, and while it’s the 18th-largest country in the world, its three million inhabitants make it the most sparsely populated. Visitors can go local: riding horses, helping to look after livestock and sleeping in a herder's ger – a traditional felt yurt.

Lake Eyre, Australia

This salt lake constitutes the lowest point on the continent. Normally dry due to evaporated water, with its salt-deposit haze, the body only fills completely twice every 100 years on average.

Bali, Indonesia

Minutes from scooter-buzzing Ubud are artsy, low-key villages, vivid green rice paddies, lush forests and vast jungles. Bali is one of Indonesia’s 17,000 islands and sees an average temperature of about 30°C year round. Explore by bicycle and then head to one of its many cool beach clubs.

Seven Sisters Country Park, East Sussex, UK

Britain’s unspoilt south coast is home to one of the country's greatest walking trails and seaside parks, the Seven Sisters. Made up of 280 hectares of chalk cliffs, a winding river valley and flat top grasslands with views of the English Channel, the coastal path begins near Eastbourne, the start of the 100-mile South Downs Way.

Atacame Desert, South America

On a route made famous by revolutionary Che Guevara who kicked off his motorcycle journey in Buenos Aires , head down to Chile through the Atacama Desert into the Peruvian Amazon and up to Venezuela. Vast expanses of sandy flats quickly roll into high tops of dunes and gorges leading to plateaus of dusty grass. It’s a trip for explorers, with the Andes standing tall above the Argentine –Chile border, blurring one side into the other. NASA even uses the desert as a testing ground for future Mars missions.

Mount Fuji, Japan

Fuji-san, the tallest peak in Japan , is a sacred mountain and symbol. On a clear day, it can be seen from Tokyo , but one of the best ways to view the still-active volcano is by taking the shinkansen bullet train from the capital to Osaka (top tip: sit on the right-hand side for the best views). Surrounding areas Hakone (where there are natural hot springs) and Fujigoko are worth visiting during cherry-blossom season.

Jaipur and the Hawa Mahal Palace, Jaipur, Rajasthan

The largest city in Rajasthan is filled to the brim with buzzing bazaars, sacred lakes and gilded royal palaces – the decadent 18th-century royal-owned Rajmahal Palace is a smart hotel. Among the famously rosy-hued buildings of the Pink City, the honeycomb-like Hawa Mahal, or Palace of the Winds, is surely the most recognisable of all. The incredible sandstone structure has 953 small exterior windows (called jharokhas ) decorated with intricate lattice work.

Skeleton Coast, Namibia

The Namib Desert is the oldest in the world, and in the middle of its vast Skeleton Coast are endless miles of stone and sand, dry riverbeds and dunes. Desert-adapted animals here include elephant, giraffe, lion, brown hyaena and Cape fur seals that thrive in the area.

The Scottish Highlands

It’s a few hours from buzzing Edinburgh , not far from the Cairngorms, to the start of the eastern Highlands. Stretching around Skye, around the North Coast 500 route up to the village of John O' Groats, the region is also home to the tallest mountain in the British Isles, Ben Nevis. There’s natural beauty everywhere, from babbling Fairy Pools and big-horned cattle to clear coastal waters and snowy mountain caps.

Pamukkale, Turkey

Meaning cotton castle in Turkish , this natural wonder is made up of layers of white travertine terraces of ice-blue spa pools. It’s also next to the site of the well-preserved ruins of Hierapolis, the Greek-Roman city established in the 2nd century BC.

Stretching over eight countries – France , Switzerland , Monaco, Italy , Liechtenstein, Austria, Germany and Slovenia – the Alps are the most extensive mountain range in Europe . It has some of the greatest skiing in the world with popular towns including Chamonix -Mont-Blanc (the highest mountain), Lech , Gstaad and Courchevel .

Bazaruto Archipelago, Mozambique

This archipelago of five islands – Bazaruto, the largest, Benguerra, Magaruque, Santa Carolina and the smallest Bangue – was once part of a peninsula connected to the mainland but now, when the Indian Ocean retreats at low tide, swirls and ripples of white sand become visible. A protected marine park, its waters are rich in manta rays, schools of dolphins, hawksbill turtles and dugongs (cousins of equally curious manatees).

Ojos del Mar, Bolivia

Six turquoise waterholes lie within the salty plains of Ojos del Mar in the Tolar Grande region of Bolivia . Inhabited by stromatolites (deposits formed by algae) and microorganisms, the water can change slightly in colour, depending on the angle of the sun, from bright blue to seafoam green.

Mount Cook, New Zealand

Home to the tallest mountain in New Zealand , the Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, part of the Te Wāhipounamu World Heritage Site on the South Island, is a mountaineer’s dream. More than 40 per cent of the area is covered in glaciers, with the largest and longest named the Tasman Glacier. It was here that Sir Edmund Hillary trained for the first momentous ascent of Mount Everest.

Gordes, Provence

One of the Luberon's most striking hilltop hamlets, Gordes stands tall on the edge of the Vaucluse plateau. With views across the surrounding region of Provence , the quintessential medieval town is a must-visit. A stay at Bastide de Gordes , the village’s most glamorous hotel, will make the trip complete.

Emerald Lake, British Columbia, Canada

Easily one of the Canadian Rockies’ most recognisable landmarks, Emerald Lake is located within Yoho National Park in British Columbia. Backed by the towering mountain peaks of the President Range, in summer the clear glacial water is ideal for canoeing and attempting a quick swim.

The Faroe Islands

The self-governed group of 18 volcanic islands makes up this remote archipelago where sheep outnumber humans. Grass-lined houses, craggy coastlines and lush waterfalls are all part of the Nordic landscape but there’s a surprising food scene too.

Modern high-rise buildings meet period architecture in retro Hong Kong , one of the most densely populated cities in the world. It’s a street-food capital where eating dim sum like a local in an old teahouse is a mandatory experience. For the best views of the harbour, catch a Star Ferry or hike the hills of Ma On Shan, one of the summits that surround the city.

Jodhpur, India

The magical, walled Blue City is a tangle of winding medieval streets. The monumental 15th-century Mehrangarh Fort, which is still run by the royal family and now serves as a museum, looks out over the old city and its mesh of box-shaped buildings, shops and bazaars.

Antelope Canyon, Arizona

The Navajo name of this slot canyon translates to ‘the place where water runs through rocks’ and the narrow ravine is an American Southwest treasure, filled with ripples of eroded stone formations, and sunlight creating orange filters and bright patterns. The popularity of this spot among keen photographers speaks for itself – this is one of the most beautiful places in the world.

Svalbard, Norway

This Arctic archipelago , about a three-hour flight north of Oslo , has one of the harshest environments on the planet. Nearly two-thirds of it is protected and the islands are made up of bird sanctuaries, nature reserves and national parks where polar bears roam. The Northern Lights can be seen in the winter and in the summer, when the temperature tops out at 6°C, the sun doesn’t go below the horizon.

Copenhagen, Denmark

The forward-thinking capital of Scandi cool appeals to foodies, design junkies and a cool young crowd. With its ground-breaking food scene , including world-famous Noma (and Noma 2.0 ), it’s a city to be taken seriously. Colourful buildings dot the central Nyhavn port, but it’s worth exploring alternative community Christiania, quirky Vesterbro and hipster Nørrebro, too.

Lamu, Kenya

The old town of Lamu , on the Indian Ocean island of the same name, was established in the 14th century. Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the port city is a mish-mash of cultures – Swahili, Asian, Arabic, European – while along the laid-back coast majestic dhows sail by all day long.

Wulingyuan, China

More than 3,000 narrow, quartz-sandstone pillars make up Wulingyuan Scenic and Historic Interest Area in the Hunan Province. These natural wonders, many higher than 656ft, are broken up by ravines, gorges, caves and waterfalls. It’s easy to see why the UNESCO World Heritage Site was James Cameron’s inspiration for Avatar .

Redwood National Park, California

Home to the world’s tallest trees, Redwood National Park, north of San Francisco , is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and part of an International Biosphere Reserve that protects close to half of the planet’s old-growth redwoods – some of which are 370ft high. With more than 200 miles of trail routes, it’s ideal for camping, hiking and riding.

Havana, Cuba

The crumbling façades of this island nation's capital keep bringing in waves of travelling artists, rum fanatics and cigar smokers to the city. It’s where Hemingway wrote seven of his books and drank Mojitos at La Bodeguita del Medio. And with temperatures of 27°C in December, it’s an ideal winter-sun destination.

Kyoto, Japan

Considered to be the cultural centre of Japan, Kyoto is awash with ancient temples and shrines, serene teahouses and sublime gardens. The bright-orange Fushimi-inari, a shinto shrine in the hills, is a visual beauty. Grab an artisan coffee, taken very seriously in the traditional city, and make the two-hour pilgrimage through the shrine's thousands of torii (gates). Other spots worth visiting include Gion, the home of the geishas, the golden pavilion of Kinkaku-ji and Nishiki market for street food or a traditional kaiseki feast at one of the city's local restaurants.

Marrakech, Morocco

The kaleidoscopic city may best be known for its market life, spice sellers and ancient medinas, but its reimagined riads, cool independent shops and contemporary art scene are giving it a modern edge. There are lots of places to discover – from Yves Saint Laurent’s restoration of cobalt-blue Jardin Majorelle to the smoky street-food stalls in Jemaa el-Fna.

Ischia, Italy

A quick ferry ride from Naples , the island of Ischia – famed for its thermal spas and unshowy local life – is a tumble of fishing villages and beaches that match Amalfi but without the crowds.

Bondi Iceburgs, Australia

Bondi Icebergs might easily be the most famous pool in the world. The Olympic-size structure has been standing on the southern end of Bondi Beach for more than 100 years. It’s not heated or chlorinated, but filled with seawater, with the Tasman Sea crashing against its edge.

The Philippines

The Philippines has more than 7,000 islands – about 5,000 of which are uninhabited – where roughly 175 languages are spoken. For diving, El Nido is the ideal spot with crystal-clear water and vibrant marine life.

Arashiyama, Bamboo Forest, Japan

About 20 minutes outside Kyoto’s city centre is the atmospheric Arashiyama bamboo forest. Arrive at around 7am to avoid the crowds and get a chance to see and feel the wood, as well as hear it creaking in the wind. Morning light is just as ethereal, too. Arabica coffee shop is nearby, overlooking Hozugawa River.

Las Coloradas, Yucatan, Mexico

The incredible pink lakes here make up part of the protected nature reserve of Ría Lagartos Biosphere on Mexico’s Yucatán peninsula. Red-coloured algae, plankton and brine shrimp that thrive in the waters not only turn the native flamingos pink but help produce 500,000 tons of salt per year.

Avenue of the Baobabs, Madagascar

This is one of Madagascar's most visited natural sites – and for good reason. Aside from the spectacular photo opportunities on offer as the sun casts auburn shades on the trees, travellers come to support local conservation efforts, and spot the unique wildlife that frolics in the overgrowth nearby.

Blue lagoon, Iceland

One of  Iceland's  most spectacular sites is, surprisingly, man-made. The Blue Lagoon's waters are a byproduct of a nearby geothermal power plant, which passes through turbines and into the lagoon. Natural geological layers account for the water's rich mineral content, which travellers use to their benefit, bathing and smothering themselves in the rich clay.

Cape Town, South Africa

Eager to spot a waddle of penguins in the wild? There's no need to save up for the ultimate excursion to Antarctica – although that's just as high on many bucket lists. On the shores of some of  South Africa's  most picturesque beaches, the animals mingle in search of a mate – safe from the fearsome great white that circle beneath the waves just metres away.

The Grand Canyon, USA

The Grand Canyon is part of the Colorado River basin and, aside from its beauty, is geologically significant as the waters that pass through here have revealed billions of years worth of rock layers. While it's popular with travelling day-trippers, native Americans still call it home, having first settled in the caves thousands of years ago.

Cenotes, Mexico

Formed by the collapse of eroded limestone,  Mexico's  cenotes harbour secrets and beauty discovered by sunshine-chasers each year. The unique formations were celebrated by the ancient Maya people, and archaeological investigations over the years have found artefacts made from gold, jadeite, shell and more on the sandy depths.

Joshua Tree National Park, USA

Stone tools and spearheads discovered in Joshua Tree National Park suggest the region was inhabited as long as 8,000 years ago. Modern travellers experience this wilderness in a very different way, checking into luxurious micro-resorts and serviced holiday homes. Think the landscapes are otherworldly by day? Look to the skies at night for an altogether different, and unforgettable, sight.

The Maldives

Spoiling retreats of all shapes and sizes litter the sandy banks of the Maldives , an archipelagic state in the Indian Ocean. Between the indulgent wellness resorts and exotic restaurants, the crystal-clear waters offer ample opportunity for snorkelling and diving excursions. Dive into the blue and find yourself in a world of kaleidoscopic colour as fish fizzle in and out of focus.

Peyto Lake, Canada

One of Canada's most beautiful and most-photographed lakes is a pool of cerulean on darker days, while its glacier waters mirror the sky's dappled blue on brighter days. Keen amblers are well rewarded as they reach Bow Summit, the highest point on the Icefields Parkway.

La Digue, Seychelles

The third most populated island in  the Seychelles , La Digue takes its name from a ship in the fleet of French explorer Marc-Joseph Marion du Fresne, who visited the Seychelles in 1768. Thanks to its otherworldly granite formations, glassy waters and fine sand, Anse Source d'Argent is often regarded as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world – a spot travellers fawn over as they venture out from the island's uber-luxurious hotels and resorts.

Yellowstone National Park, USA

Bison, bears, geese, deer – these are just some of the animals that call the oldest national park in the world home. Each change of the seasons beckons new residents out of their homes, as many cosy up during the cold winters and await the first signs of spring. A highlight of the park is the Yellowstone Caldera, a gargantuan crater that was formed by a cataclysmic volcanic eruption some 640,000 years ago.

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The 55 Most Beautiful Places in the World

From cloud forests to glacial lakes, these destinations are the world's best sights to see.

Anne Olivia Bauso is a travel writer and hotel expert based in New York City. She has written hundreds of hotel reviews, from 5-star Ritz-Carlton properties to treehouse eco-resorts in the jungle.

There are never-ending reasons to travel, but many go to seek those awe-inspiring moments that stop them in their tracks, searching for the sights that will stay with them forever. Every day, travelers find those experiences among the ruins of Machu Picchu or at the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro.  

From sky-blue lakes in Canada to sandstone beaches in Seychelles, beauty abounds in every corner of the Earth. Focusing largely on national parks , mountains, beaches, deserts, and other natural wonders , we’ve compiled the world's most beautiful places to inspire your next dream destination. 

Join us for a journey to some of the most beautiful places in the world, like the red rocks of the Grand Canyon and the abundantly colorful Great Barrier Reef.

Torres del Paine National Park, Chile

There's no better way to experience Patagonia's rugged natural beauty than in Torres del Paine National Park . The UNESCO Biosphere Reserve is home to its namesake granite towers (the park's name is an amalgam of the Spanish word for “towers” and the Tehuelche word for “blue”), as well as sparkling lagoons and otherworldly glaciers.

Bagan, Myanmar

It's hard to truly grasp the magnitude of Bagan Archaeological Zone , dominated by thousands of temples, pagodas, and stupas. Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site on a bike (or e-bike to cover even more ground). For an eagle's-eye view, take a hot-air balloon ride at sunrise to see the temples scattered across the lush landscape.

Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Reserve, Costa Rica

This magical, misty, and well-preserved cloud forest in northwestern Costa Rica is the ultimate template for sustainable ecotourism. Along with its sister cloud forest, Santa Elena Reserve, Monteverde is a practically untouched paradise home to thousands of plant, animal, and bird species (including the radiant quetzal), visible from jungle paths and nail-biting steel bridges hanging over the canopy.

Anse Source d'Argent, Seychelles

Pinpointing the most beautiful Seychellois beach is like splitting hairs, but Anse Source d'Argent gets extremely high marks for its sugar-white sand framed by dramatic granite boulders and sparkling aquamarine water. The sweet shoreline is relatively secluded from the resort crowds on La Digue Island.

Grand Canyon, Arizona

Don Eim/Travel + Leisure

Offering some of the most spectacular scenery on the planet, the Grand Canyon truly merits the term "breathtaking." The vast geologic wonderland, one mile deep and up to 18 miles across, displays countless layers of colorful rock and practically hypnotic vistas.

Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe and Zambia

One of the seven natural wonders of the world, Victoria Falls spans the Zimbabwe and Zambia borders. "The smoke that thunders," as it is known to locals, and its surroundings, are hubs for white-water rafting, helicopter rides, big-game safaris , and other thrilling adventures.

Whitehaven Beach, Australia

Irjaliina Paavonpera/Travel + Leisure

Whitehaven Beach is arguably one of the loveliest shores in the world. Part of Australia's Whitsunday Coast, the star attraction is remarkable for its amazing combination of pure silica sands and vivid blue-green waters.

Avenue of the Baobabs, Madagascar

On a dirt road near Madagascar's west coast is a stretch of enormous baobab trees, all that remains of a once-dense forest. The centuries-old giants are especially magnificent cast in the light of a sunrise and sunset.

Uyuni Salt Flat, Bolivia

The world's largest salt flat covers 4,000 square miles of the Bolivian Altiplano. In the dry season, it's an endless white sheet of salt tiles made all the more dazzling by clear, sunny skies. From December to April, however, regular rains create a mirror effect that merges lake and sky. No matter when you see it, Salar de Uyuni is one of the most captivating sights on earth.

Hạ Long Bay, Vietnam

With hundreds of jungle-covered karsts springing out of emerald green waters, Hạ Long Bay is a photographer's dream. Hop on a boat or kayak to explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site 's beautiful islands and surreal cave systems.

Lake Atitlán, Guatemala

Nicholas Schmidt/Travel + Leisure

Lake Atitlán in the Sierra Madres offers a combination of Indigenous culture, waterside serenity, and yoga bliss. Cross the gorgeous crater lake by boat and explore various pueblos, shop local markets for Mayan crafts, and sleep in treehouse accommodations .

Le Morne Brabant, Mauritius

A freestanding basaltic mountain hulking over a bright blue-green Indian Ocean lagoon certainly makes spectacular scenery. When viewed from above, the surrounding sand and silt form an optical illusion that appears to be a massive underwater waterfall at this mythic place. Thanks to its isolation and near-inaccessibility, Le Morne sheltered people who escaped enslavement during the 18th and early 19th centuries.

Acadia National Park, Maine

From rocky shorelines shrouded in mist to conifer-cloaked mountainsides, Acadia is a wild place of sea, stone, and forest. Visitors flock here to hike, fish, climb, camp, and experience the end-of-the-world feel in New England's only national park.

Okavango Delta, Botswana

The mighty Okavango, the largest inland delta in the world, is a vast network of winding waterways and animal-attracting lagoons. Navigating through reed-studded channels in a mokoro (traditional canoe) and spotting hippos, leopards, and elephants is one of the world's great travel experiences for nature lovers.

Railay West Beach, Thailand

Dmitrii Guldin / Getty Images

On the Railay peninsula's west side, Krabi's famous karsts meet a simply stunning jade-green lagoon. The vertical cliffs block access from the Krabi mainland, making Railay reachable only by boat, adding to its incredible appeal.

Maasai Mara, Kenya

This famed wildlife preserve (next door neighbor to the Serengeti) is one of the world's most enchanting ecosystems . The Mara's golden grasslands stretch to the horizon, interrupted by graceful acacia trees and rumbling throngs of wildebeest and zebra — and their stalking predators.

Cat Island, The Bahamas

Cat Island is a secret nirvana hiding in plain sight in the Bahamas . Sparsely developed and off the main tourist track, Cat Island is resplendent in miles of nature trails and wondrous pink-sands sprawling under the Caribbean sun.

Zhangye National Geopark, China

Distinct rolling bands of orange, cream, yellow, brown, and russet against jagged mountain peaks make this geological anomaly in Gansu, China look like a psychedelic scene on Mars.

Glencoe, Scotland

The Scottish Highlands are filled with astonishingly scenic glens, but Glencoe is perhaps the most famous (and infamous, due to a brutal 17th-century massacre). Today the valley is a haven for hikers, mountaineers, and whiskey lovers — the 19th-century Ben Nevis Distillery is a short drive away.

Mount Kōya, Japan

The Buddhist monk Kobo Daishi founded this mountaintop temple town in 819. Today, the sacred and serene place is part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site , and contains more than 100 temples, including head temple Kongobuji, featuring gorgeous gilded sliding doors and ceilings carved with flowers. Within the ancient complex is a mausoleum and cemetery surrounded by a cedar forest with old growth trees up to 600 years old.

Dead Sea, Jordan, Palestine, and Israel

Name aside, the Dead Sea is a lake and one of the world's saltiest, at that (in fact, the saline water has such a high density that it keeps bathers afloat). Set between Jordan, Palestine, and Israel at the Earth's lowest elevation, it's known for its beautiful clear and tranquil waters (nearly 10 times more saline than the ocean) and surrounding mineral formations, sandy beaches, nature preserves, natural pools, and waterfalls.

Zion National Park, Utah

Lauren Breedlove/Travel + Leisure

Glorious Navajo Sandstone cliffs, rainbow-colored canyons, and incredible biodiversity make Zion one of the most popular (and most scenic) national parks in the U.S.

Vatnajökull National Park, Iceland

Dominated by a 3,000-square-mile ice cap of the same name, Vatnajökull is a chilly, Icelandic wonderland of caves, craters, glacier-filled calderas, and waterfalls. Perhaps the most famous falls is Svartifoss, surging over hexagonal lava-rock columns.

Pamukkale, Turkey

Pamukkale's electric-blue thermal pools and white travertine formations, naturally formed by slowly crystallizing calcium carbonate, make for gorgeous vacation photos.

Nā Pali Coast State Wilderness Park, Hawaii

Nā Pali translates to "the cliffs" in Hawaiian, a deceptively simple name that might not fully prepare travelers for the epic glory on view. The staggering coastline is too rugged and vertical for road access, so the only way to see it is by boat, air, or seriously intense hiking trails.

Table Mountain, Cape Town

Ascending iconic Table Mountain tops the list for most travelers in Cape Town. Adventurous hikers can go on foot, but there's also an aerial cableway that gently sweeps up to the 3,563-foot summit. Either way, the top offers insane panoramic views of the South African capital and the Atlantic.

Machu Picchu, Peru

Built nearly 8,000 feet above sea level, Machu Picchu is a 15th-century Incan citadel whose engineering ingenuity and head-spinning views rival the extraordinary beauty of its Sacred Valley setting.

Lucerne, Switzerland

Picture a serene alpine lake fringed with soaring Alps. Now add in a walkable medieval town and you've got the setting for this long-popular Swiss destination . Don't miss Mount Pilatus (via the world’s steepest cogwheel railway) and the Rigi for nature trails and a famous viewpoint overlooking three lakes.

Blue Ridge Parkway, North Carolina and Virginia

The Blue Ridge Parkway may lack Highway 101's ocean scenery, but it trades Pacific views for peaceful Appalachian beauty. Stretching 469 miles from Great Smoky Mountains National Park to Shenandoah National Park , the 45 MPH, no-trucks route winds past overlook after overlook, letting road-trippers marvel at the mountains' dreamy blue hue.

Pulau Tioman, Malaysia

This isn't a tropical island getaway with a wild party scene or string of upscale resorts. Pulau Tioman is more of a floating nature preserve, with local character and a strong sense of environmental conservation (coral rehab and sea turtle preservation are major focuses for the island's Juara Turtle Project ). The island, off the east coast of Peninsular Malaysia in the South China Sea, is popular for its dive sites, shipwrecks, and tropical rainforest.

Damaraland, Namibia

Damaraland region is an almost-mystical vision of red-earth desert plains, flat-topped mountains, petrified forest, and well-preserved ancient Bushmen rock paintings. Though it looks like a scene from Mars, Damaraland is rich in wildlife, home to lions, elephants, zebras, giraffes, and the critically-endangered black rhino.

Iguazu Falls, Argentina and Brazil

Altogether, the 275 cascades on the Argentina -Brazil border form a mind-blowing, panoramic waterfall. The overwhelming sight, combined with the sound and energy of water rushing at up to 450,000 cubic feet per second in the rainy season, is pure magnificence.

Matira Beach, French Polynesia

The South Pacific calls up many visions of spectacular beaches . Bora Bora 's Matira Beach gets singled out for its miles of pearly white, flour-fine sand and breathtaking bright turquoise lagoon.

Cirque de Gavarnie, France

Cirque de Gavarnie is a popular hiking destination in the Pyrenees, and one of its most beautiful. Called "the colosseum of nature" by Victor Hugo, the Cirque is a ring of sheer granite mountain walls enclosing a picture-perfect green valley. It's astounding even before you add in three-tier Gavarnie Falls pouring over a 922-foot drop.

Shark Bay, Australia

Shark Bay: where the red earth of Australia's westernmost point meets the teal waters of the Indian Ocean. The bay is home to one of the largest and richest beds of seagrass in the world, as well as stromatolites — rocky-looking, cauliflower-shaped microbial reefs and some of the oldest life forms on Earth.

Lofoten Islands, Norway

The Lofoten archipelago bursts dramatically out of the Norwegian Sea. Between the jagged peaks and steep slopes are quaint fishing villages, secluded coves, scenic backpacking and biking trails, and dreamy white-sand beaches.

Los Cabos, Mexico

Flanked by the Pacific Ocean and the Gulf of California, Los Cabos ' symphony of natural features — desert, mountains, sea, and plenty of sunshine — and yes, raucous party scene, have made it one of the most popular vacation destinations in North America. Its cobalt blue waters are a hub for diving, snorkeling, kayaking, fishing, and whale watching.

Taormina, Sicily

Laura La Monaca/Travel + Leisure

Taormina has all the elements for a gorgeous Mediterranean destination : ancient ruins, a charming old town, and a setting backed by Mount Etna, an active volcano you can summit by foot.

Dal Lake, India

The snow-capped Zabarwan Range rise above Kashmir's romantic Dal Lake, a long-time Himalayan escape for Indians fleeing the south's heat. During the summer, veranda-clad cedar houseboats bob along the lake's western edge while floating markets and brightly-painted taxi boats drift by.

Great Barrier Reef, Australia

The world's largest barrier reef is an unrivaled experience for snorkelers and divers. The sensational underwater world is made up of 2,900 individual reefs, 900 islands, and a mind-boggling diversity of marine life.

Fairy Meadows National Park, Pakistan

Near the foot of the world's ninth-highest mountain (Nanga Parbat), Fairy Meadows offers sublime mountain scenery and wildlife, including brown bears, markhor, and Himalayan ibex. Be forewarned: The road to get there has been dubbed the second deadliest road on the planet by the World Health Organization. To get to Fairy Meadows, you’ll have to be escorted by locals, in groups of six people at a time. 

Wulingyuan Scenic Area, China

Thousands of tapering quartz sandstone formations spiral skyward in this 100-square-mile stretch of karst terrain. Beneath the towers lie valleys, streams, waterfalls, caves, natural bridges, and dense green forest.

Banff National Park, Canada

Canada's oldest national park showcases the majesty of the Canadian Rockies in Alberta. Banff is known for its staggering peaks, dense pine forests, hot springs, animals (grizzlies, bighorn sheep, and moose all call the park home), and almost eerily azure glacier-fed lakes, such as the postcard-perfect Peyto Lake.

Wadi Rum Reserve, Jordan

Wadi Rum is a stunning red-desert landscape filled with canyons, dunes, mountains, springs, archeological sites, and stone archways (brave hikers can cross the largest, Burdah Rock Bridge, which is more than 200 feet above the ground).

Milford Sound/Piopiotahi, New Zealand

Glaciers carved this awe-inspiring valley , leaving behind craggy peaks with sheer drops into glistening waters. Part of UNESCO World Heritage Site Te Wahipounamu , Milford Sound is blessed with waterfalls, rainbows, rainforest, and a diversity of wildlife — everything from black coral to bottlenose dolphins, with seals and even penguins in between.

Fernando de Noronha, Brazil

Blissfully isolated 217 miles off the Brazilian mainland, this lovingly-preserved archipelago offers pristine beaches and clear waters abundant in marine life perfect for world-class snorkeling.

The Algarve, Portugal

Surrounded by the Atlantic to the south and west, Portugal's Algarve region looks and feels like a wild respite. Wind-sculpted cliffs and headlands frame big, sandy beaches popular with surfers and dotted with secret coves and grottoes.

Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania

Solitary Mount Kilimanjaro is one of Africa's most stunning icons, rising more than 19,000 feet from coffee and banana farms up to snowy volcanic peaks. Along the way, hikers trek through distinct climate zones, from rainforest to high-altitude desert to the arctic-like summit (aka "the roof of Africa").

Mount Fuji, Japan

Both an active volcano and an icon of serenity, Mount Fuji is one of the world's most magnificent sights. You can hike to the sacred landmark's summit for sweeping views or simply gape at it from Lake Kawaguchi and elsewhere in the beautiful Five Lakes region . Head to the spa town of Hakone in winter to pair crisp Fuji views with steaming hot springs.

Li River, China

The Li River carves through the lowland farms and jagged karst terrain of northwestern Guangxi, creating some of China's most picturesque scenery (the area is so pretty, it appears on the 20 yuan banknote). A four- to five-hour river cruise from Guilin to Yangshuo is the most popular way to experience Li River, though travelers wanting more autonomy can rent bamboo rafts or hike — the natural moon-shaped arch of Moon Hill makes a glorious lookout.

Lake Como, Italy

Lake Como has been one of Italy's most popular vacation spots since the time of the Roman emperors. This unabashedly high-rolling resort area still attracts a posh crowd with its lush gardens, cinematic palaces and villas, and sun-soaked alpine shores. Take the funicular to the tiny village of Brunate for an amazing panorama.

Crater Lake National Park, Oregon

Like so many of Earth's most stunning sights, Crater Lake is the result of earth-altering, volcanic forces. Its 1,943-foot depth makes it the deepest lake in the U.S. , filled with mesmerizingly deep blue waters fed by rain and snow. View its perfection from hiking trails, boat tours, and the 33-mile Rim Drive around the caldera. (Keep in mind, some attractions like boat tours and the scenic Rim Drive close for the winter season.)

Big Sur, California

Makito Umekita/Travel + Leisure

Even considering California's 840 miles of monumental coastline, it's hard to rival the beauty of Big Sur . Thick redwood forest, foggy canyons, and rocky cliffs tumbling into the Pacific define this area (the name refers to both the town and the coastal region), made all the more famous for its freewheeling NorCal vibes and Old Hollywood history.

Great Smoky Mountains, North Carolina and Tennessee

With half a million acres split by Tennessee and North Carolina, this famous park 's wondrous mountain scenery encompasses hardwood forests, steep-sided ravines cut through by rivers and streams, and brilliant wildflowers in bloom from spring to fall. Hikers have 150 trails available to them, from the Appalachian Trail’s Charlies Bunion hike to the more challenging Rainbow Falls route.

Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda

The scenery alone — waterfalls, calderas, misty bamboo forests — makes Volcanoes National Park a worthy contender of any travel list. The mystical setting is all the more special for hosting buffaloes, birds, golden monkeys, and the elusive mountain gorilla.

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The 30 most beautiful places in the world, according to travellers who’ve seen them all

From rainbow-coloured hills to thundering waterfalls and pretty cities, these destinations are some of the most beautiful you’ll find on earth

Choosing the world’s most beautiful places is no easy task. After all, how can you compare a thundering waterfall to a lantern-lit city? Or a rainbow-coloured hill to a gleaming white mosque? The good news is that the planet isn’t held to the same rigid beauty standards as humans are. Whether it’s a tiny island, an entire country or a Buddhist temple, anything goes on our list of the most beautiful places on earth. Spanning every continent, you’ll find some of the usual suspects (what’s a list of beautiful places without Bolivia’s salt flats, after all?) alongside some of the world’s lesser-known beauty spots – all chosen by our network of globetrotting travel writers, who've personally experienced the beauty of every place on this list IRL. 

Grace Beard   is Time Out’s deputy travel editor, based in London. At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our   editorial guidelines   and check out our latest   travel guides   written by local experts. RECOMMENDED: 🗺 The world's most underrated travel destinations 🧭 The best places to travel solo 🏝 The best beaches in the world

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The world’s most beautiful places

1.  Kotor Bay, Montenegro

In Montenegro, the Adriatic Sea slaloms through narrow passages in the steep Dinaric Alps to form the Bay of Kotor. Here, squeezed between water and rock is the triangular, medieval Old Town of Kotor, with its gravity-defying fortress zigzagging up the steep cliffs above. Although it’s possible to climb the fortress steps from town, I prefer to wander the winding shepherd’s trail on the fortress’ northern flank. It’s here, amid the ruins of a deserted, roadless village, that you can munch on homemade sheep’s cheese and rye bread at the last inhabited farmhouse, overlooking the bay’s glassy, obsidian water.

2.  Iceland

You’ll be hard-pushed to find a place with more spectacular natural beauty than Iceland . Its volcanoes, hot springs, lava fields and glaciers have earned it the moniker ‘the land of fire and ice’ – and while the island country’s natural attractions are certainly a sight to behold, Iceland’s towns and cities offer a unique beauty of their own. The capital city of Reykjavik is culturally modern and historically important, with architectural highlights including the nature-inspired Hallgrimskirkja church and Harpa Concert Hall with stunning portside views of Mount Esja. The Westfjords and Austurland regions are dotted with picturesque villages like  Ísafjörður , a fishing town surrounded by dramatic mountains, and the artistic Seydisfjordur with its public art and welcoming community.

3.  Erg Chebbi, Morocco

Morocco is home to some of the world’s most beautiful deserts, and Erg Chebbi is the most evocative stretch of Sahara sand imaginable. Beyond the town of Merzouga, the Erg Chebbi dunes are a spectacular vision of shape-shifting golden sands that rise up to 300 metres tall and span over 28km in the heart of the Sahara. In the fading light, I trekked out across the desert by camel and spent a night under the stars here in the company of the Berber people. The next morning, I woke early to climb the nearest dune and witnessed a sunrise that will stay with me forever. Seeing the day break over the sloping sands of the Erg Chebbi is as extraordinarily scenic as it gets.

4.  Mont-Saint-Michel, France

My first ever trip abroad was a school trip to Brittany, and the first stop on the ferry remains one of the most beautiful sights I’ve ever seen: Normandy’s fairytale island of Mont-Saint-Michel. I’ve been back many times since. I’ve climbed precipitously to the needlepoint of that medieval abbey spire, been guided through the surrounding bay’s miles of quicksand, and slept under ancient beams in a rampart room to watch tides race in at sunrise. What I’ve learned is that, unlike many landmarks, the reality of Le Mont’s fairytale pyramid trumps any photo. No Instagram shot can truly capture the vast misty mirror of sand with one lone fortified pilgrimage site at its heart. It’s like a giant frame for the world’s greatest architectural image.

5.  Sheik Zayed Grand Mosque, Abu Dhabi

On approach, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque looms like a white mirage, minarets gleaming, an otherworldly edifice of beauty that could easily pass for Jasmine’s Palace in Aladdin. Inside, the numbers are heady: the mosque boasts the world's single-largest carpet, the world’s third-largest chandelier and acres of pure white Carrara stone. It’s hard to describe the sense of serene peace within, calm and cool even in the melting midday heat. Arrive at opening or closing time to witness the sky’s violet hue reflecting off the marble at night – surely one of the world’s most extraordinary sights.

6.  Ella, Sri Lanka

Located in the stunning Hill Country of Sri Lanka , the town of Ella feels like it’s a world away from the surf beaches and bustling cities that have made this country such a popular tourist destination over the years. Ella is a relaxing outdoor-lover’s playground, surrounded by lush greenery, tea plantations and rolling hills. Dozens of hiking trails crisscross the region, including ones that traverse the iconic Nine Arches Bridge – a key sight that makes Sri Lanka’s Kandy–Ella train journey one of the most beautiful rail trips in the world . There is nothing better than returning from a hike and relaxing in one of the town’s many bohemian-style cafes with a cold drink and a delicious bowl of curry.

7.  Highlands, Scotland

The majestic mountains, verdant valleys, and lupine lochs of Scotland ’s Highlands are known worldwide for their magic, mystery, and beauty. Many of the most scenic parts of this wild region can only be reached by foot, so this summer, I set out on the country’s oldest and first official long-distance trail, the West Highland Way , with Wilderness Scotland. Over seven days, we hiked 96 miles through wildflower-studded fields and dense forests, stopping overnight in tiny towns, like the quaint lochside village of Kinlochleven. We walked along the banks of Loch Lomond, the largest expanse of fresh water in the UK, climbed the so-called ‘Devil’s Staircase’ trail, and took in views of the UK’s highest mountain, Ben Nevis. I learned that knowing the Highlands is knowing Scotland.

8.  Zhangye National Geopark, China

Stripes of crimson, gold, and mossy green paint the hillside. Passing clouds play with the hues, like an artist touching up a masterpiece. Can such vibrant colours be real? Standing on the viewing platform, I had to lift my sunglasses to make sure I wasn’t imagining things. Located in Zhangye National Geopark, the Rainbow Mountains are one of China ’s many beautiful surprises. This stunning technicolour landmass was formed over millions of years by shifting tectonic plates and weather, causing red sandstone and various minerals to mix together.

9.  Storms River, South Africa

Driving the forested Garden Route through Western Cape hints at the beauty to come at Storms River, a large river winding between mountains in South Africa ’s Tsitsikamma National Park. Arriving at the coast is absolutely breathtaking: enormous waves crash against the rocks, sending spray into the air, where the sun causes rainbow rays to reflect through the droplets. The long suspension bridge crossing the river is a highlight, with spectacular views up the river gorge or out to sea. Once you’ve taken in the sight of the river and the coastal forest, head out on the famous Otter Trail, which will lead you to the park’s magnificent waterfall.

10.  New Forest, England

There aren’t many places where you’ll be startled by a pony or donkey stepping into the road, but that’s the anachronistic beauty of the New Forest in the south of England. This ancient woodland was given its name by William the Conqueror more than 900 years ago. If you choose to visit in the autumn, when the heath is purple with heather, you may find pigs guzzling acorns on the forest floor (they’re sent to protect the delicate stomachs of the 5,000 free-roaming ponies). Perhaps that’s where the famous Pig restaurant and hotel got its name – do pop in for pork scratchings and a pint.

11.  Paradise Bay, Antarctica

Towards the Antarctic Peninsula’s tip is mountain-rimmed Paradise Bay, where I cruised past icebergs pristine white on top and electric blue beneath. Disembarking, I felt the solitude of being one of only a few thousand humans on the entire continent, outnumbered by many millions of penguins. The stark landscape is enlivened by these hopping-shuffling-diving birds and large lumps of loafing seals. Nearby, on one unforgettable evening, I watched a pod of orcas hunt their dinner, a wild moment in this dreamlike place at the end of the world.

12.  Altiplano, Bolivia

Bolivia is a place of technicolour lakes, seemingly endless jagged mountains and immense salt flats. Hauling into the back of a weatherworn 4x4, I spent four days careening over the Andean plateau and following flocks of low-flying flamingos to the Altiplano’s highlights. Laguna Verde, a perwinkle lagoon backed by a perfectly conical mountain peak. The pink waters of Laguna Colorada, fading purple in the shifting sun. And the Altiplano’s biggest draw: Salar de Uyuni. The cracked white salt flats are lightly flooded in the winter months, forming a perfect mirror of the sky.

13.  Hoi An, Vietnam

Silk lanterns sway outside rows of golden-hued shophouses in this ancient river town. Located on Vietnam ’s central coast, life in Hoi An moves like molasses – slow and sweet. When I lived in this dreamy little community, I spent mornings sipping coconut coffee in cafes and afternoons biking through swaying rice paddies past grazing buffalo. Now, I spend a few months a year here, watching lantern-lit boats glode along the Thu Bon river, cycling through Old Town before the evening crowds gather, and lounging on one of Vietnam’s most beautiful beaches.

14.  Milford Sound, New Zealand

The most famous of New Zealand ’s fiords, Milford Sound is a marvel of nature within the spectacular Fiordland National Park, on the west coast of the South Island. Enjoy the blissful sound of silence as you cruise the inky waters, where sights include the towering mist-draped mountains, frothing waterfalls tumbling into the cliff faces and fur seals soaking up the sun. The history of this famous site stretches back hundreds of millions of years, and many ice ages later, the beauty of Milford Sound remains as timeless as ever.

15.  Jaipur, India

Jaipur, otherwise known as the Pink City for its rosy-coloured buildings, is a creative hub at the heart of India ’s Rajasthan state. As well as being known for a rt forms such as block printing and blue pottery, the city is characterised by  its royal past – but the real beauty of Jaipur exists outside of the palaces. Walk through the terracotta pink gates of the Old City and you'll see colour everywhere, from spices and fruits to tiny stalls selling quilts and carpets. If you want to get the full experience of life in Jaipur, visit a bazaar for some street shopping. Walk through the stalls, stop for chai and enjoy the chaos.

16.  Hormuz Island, Iran

When I stepped onto this teardrop-shaped island off Iran’s coast, witnessing the sun descending on the horizon and the salt dome come alive in a breathtaking symphony of reds, yellows and oranges – courtesy of over 70 minerals found here – I felt I was witnessing the fullness of life and nature’s artistry. This little-known ‘rainbow island’ is a land of shimmering salt caves and crimson-hued beaches, where a ruby-red mountain casts an other-worldly crimson glow over the shoreline and waves. The red soil here, called gelack, is used in local cuisine as a spice in sauces and curries. Where else in the world can you find soil so beautiful it’s good enough to eat?

17.  Puglia, Italy

Facing the sparkling ocean on Italy 's wild Adriatic coast, Puglia is a masterpiece of scenery that's often overlooked in favour of Italy's more Instafamous destinations. Thanks to the region’s slow pace of life, it’s perfect for cycling. I’ve done so several times, crisscrossing streets that haven't changed in centuries, taking in landscapes carpeted with olive groves and admiring the unique beauty of Puglian architecture. The cone-roofed traditional Trulli houses of Alberobello – a Unesco World Heritage Site – are the most well-known of Puglia's sights, but don't miss Lecce's baroque churches, the clifftop town of Polignano a Mare or quaint, medieval Monopoli.

18.  Victoria Falls, Africa

Straddling the borders of Zambia and Zimbabwe, Victoria Falls is known to be the world’s largest waterfall. Immense curtains of water stretch along the edge of Victoria Falls National Park –home to giraffe, zebra, baboons, and other wildlife – and spill over cliff faces into the whirling pools of the Zambezi River. The first time I visited, standing at the edge of a dense jungle atop a flat rock table and gazing down into the abyss, I was swallowed by spirals of mist, rising from the bellowing falls and raining back down on me. It’s easy to see how Victoria Falls earned its name in the Kololo language: Mosi-oa-Tunya , meaning ‘The Smoke That Thunders’.

19.  Kinkaku-ji, Japan

Nestled in the green hills of northeast Kyoto , the Zen Buddhist temple of Kinkaku-ji glistens in gold leaf. Originally built in 1397, this gilded Buddhist shrine sits among bonsai-style pines, Japanese red maples, and mossy stones. Countless photos have been snapped of the Golden Pavilion and surrounding nature reflected on the mirrored pond, but be warned: it isn’t quite as tranquil as it looks, being one of the most popular sites in Kyoto. Step away from the money shot and explore the wider complex and garden to get away from the crowds. The gentle path beckons you through landscapes beautiful in every season, whether covered in cherry blossoms or thick snow, and is graced by incense, bell chimes, and enchanting temple vistas.

20.  South Water Caye, Belize

I’ve had my share of pinch-me travel moments, but South Water Caye is the only place I’ve looked out the window while brushing my teeth and watched an eagle ray glide through water the colour of a Bombay Sapphire bottle. This dreamy island, a short boat ride away from the coast of Belize , is full of screen-saver-worthy sights; the highlight being the untouched barrier reef full of vibrant corals. It’s a place where the only sounds are lapping waves melting into sugar-white shores and palm tree fronds softly clicking in the Caribbean breeze. In one word: paradise.

21.  Danakil Depression, Ethiopia

When I arrived at Danakil Depression, after two days of travel across sweeping swathes of sand and dry, cracked earth, I had to blink twice to make sure the landscape wasn’t a mirage. Geometric white salt flats glimmered beneath the afternoon sun and coral-like formations in rich shades of ochre and ruby rose among molten pools of bubbling green-yellow sulfur. Supposedly the hottest place on earth, the Danakil Depression in the remote Afar region of Ethiopia is formed by the slow ripping apart of tectonic plates, creating a surreal realm of lava lakes, colourful hot springs, and towering salt formations.

22.  Big Sur, USA

The majestic Santa Lucia mountains meet the Pacific Ocean along California ’s central coast to create the rugged and breathtaking natural beauty of Big Sur. Drive California’s winding Highway 1 along the coast and spend time in Big Sur, meandering through towering trees, along creeks, up mountain ridges, and onto windswept bluffs overlooking the ocean. The fresh air smells of salty ocean, earthy bay laurel and redwoods, and the sight of the waves and the sunlight dancing through the fog is mesmerizing. Keep an eye out for spouts from migrating gray whales and sea otters bobbing out on the water.

23.  Maria Island National Park, Tasmania

A small island off the coast of a big island (off the coast off an even bigger island) Tasmania ’s Maria Island National Park is a rare pocket of raw, unbridled beauty. The island known by Aboriginal people as wukaluwikiwayna was once a convict settlement, but today it’s the domain of Australian native wildlife. While hiking, I saw wombats, wallabies, kangaroos, Tasmanian devils and a massive tiger snake in just one hour. Then there’s the honeycomb-coloured cliffs and white-sand beaches with barely a soul in sight. Wondrous wildlife encounters by day, and superior stargazing after dark, Maria Island is the greatest show on earth, day and night.

24.  Registan Square, Uzbekistan

It was one of the most mesmerizing sights we’d laid our eyes on. A vast square flanked by three monumental structures that are as grand as they are intricate, as overwhelming as they are welcoming. We were at Registan Square, the ancient beating heart of Samarkand, the quintessential Silk Road city in present-day Uzbekistan. Registan’s three fifteenth- to seventeenth-century madrasahs are a spectacle of arched gateways, glimmering domes, and tall minarets, decorated with geometric patterns in bricks, tiles, and mosaics. And just when you think it couldn’t get more majestic, come dusk, the monuments are lit up in all their glory.

25.  Choquequirao, Peru

Arriving at Choquequirao, an ancient Inca city perched high above Peru ’s Apurímac River, is both visually and physically exhilarating. The Choquequirao Trail is challenging, but it made the moment I reached those sweeping canyon and mountain views more rewarding. Known as Machu Picchu’s sister site – but with markedly less visitors – Choquequirao is a sprawling archaeological site high on the canyon rim with about 80 percent still covered by dense cloud forest. The name means ‘ Cradle of Gold’ in Quechua, though the gold is long gone. Walking through the ruins, I was in awe of a civilisation that built with such intricate stonework and chose such a remote and spectacular location.

26.  Lord Howe Island, Australia

Northeast of Sydney , this World Heritage-listed speck in the Tasman Sea was described by Sir David Attenborough as ‘so extraordinary it is almost unbelievable’. Lord Howe Island is a croissant-shaped island that cradles a turquoise lagoon, framed by mountains, white sand beaches (I got married here on one!), and fringed by the world’s southernmost coral reef. Just 11km long by 2km wide, Lord Howe is recognised for its volcanic provenance, reef, and incredible biodiversity. Across this tiny stretch of land, you’ll find 241 plant species, 207 bird species and 90 types of coral. Visitor numbers are capped to protect this paradise, so nature reigns supreme here.

27.  Red Rocks Amphipheatre, USA

A 20-minute drive from downtown Denver you’ll find one of the most aesthetically (and acoustically) blessed outdoor concert venues on the planet. Joining 9000-or-so other concertgoers, I was utterly dumbstruck when I entered Red Rocks Amphitheatre for the first time. Flanked by rocks the colour of deep rust, this high-altitude venue’s beauty is matched by the all-round good vibes and fresh mountain air that this corner of Colorado is known for. Having hosted the likes of The Beatles, Jimi Hendrix and Louis Armstrong, Red Rocks Amphitheater is as spectacular as concert venues get.

28.  Perito Moreno Glacier, Argentina

At first sight of Perito Moreno Glacier, located in Los Glaciares National Park, Argentina , I was overwhelmed. From a boardwalk overlooking milky-green Lake Argentino, scattered with chunks of ice, I gazed at the immense stretch of whiteness disappearing into the horizon, hemmed by dark, foreboding mountain peaks. Jagged spires, split by ice fissures revealing a sudden pop of blue, top the glacier’s 70-metre-high vertical wall, while its base is layered with multiple hues, from a light powder blue to deep turquoise. It’s not just the sight of the glacier that’s astounding, but also the sound. Crackling and rumbling noises echoed in the valley, particularly intense when ice calved off, sending waves across the lake's surface. Just stunning!

29.  Savannah, USA

This elegant coastal city in Georgia , one of the oldest cities in the US , stole my heart the very first time I visited. It’s easy to lose yourself in the city’s history, natural splendour and famous southern charm as you wander along its cobbled streets and through its 22 squares. You’ll walk under the shade of live oak trees draped with Spanish moss and past grand, pastel-hued mansions. From Forsyth Park, with its Parisian-inspired fountain, to the lively Broughton Street, where you'll find an eclectic mix of shops and dining, Savannah is truly magnetic. 

30.  Lapland, Finland

Lying above the Arctic Circle is Lapland, Finland ’s northernmost region. I spent five days in Finnish Lapland during the winter season and was lucky enough to catch the enchanting dance of the Northern Lights in the night sky. The area is home to nature-loving people, such as at HaliPuu , who engage in unique pastimes like arctic cocooning and tree hugging competitions. In the summer, you can hike to your heart’s content in the Midnight Sun, but it’s in winter the region comes into its own. Immerse yourself in winter traditions such as ice water swimming, relaxing in a Finnish sauna and dog sledding through the snowy wilderness.

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• A 2024 Compilation Of 59 Weirdest Places Across the World You Should Stop By

23 Mar 2023

Where words fail, pictures do the trick. And in this blog, you require the pictures to understand the baffling beauty and sublime grace of some of the strangest places on earth. You will be shocked to read about some weird places in the world that are too shocking to believe. We have carefully shortlisted 59 weirdest places across the world based on human interactions with these destinations. We bet you will be rushing to change your bucket list just about now. Take a look at the most bizarre destinations in the history of the world. You will be taken in by shock, awe, surprise; in a nutshell, the entire spectrum of human emotions.

59 Weirdest Places Across The World

The world we live in is a very interesting place. Each place on this Earth has its own unique features. Some features are not just unique but can also seem weird to our human minds. Here are the 59 weirdest places across the world that are a must-visit:

• Salar De Uyuni – Explore The White Salt Bed
• Lake Natron – The Scariest Lake
• Die Rakotzbrück – The Nature’s Own Ring
• Spotted Lake Khiluk – Puddles Of Water
• Slope Point – Windy Spot
• Dead Vlei – The Beautiful Yet Dead Forest
• Underwater Park – Fun Below The Water
• Eternal Flame Falls – Nature’s Unique Phenomena
• Tunnel Of Love – Walk Amidst The Greenery
• Christ Of The Abyss – Explore Underwater
• The Silfra Rift – Experience The Two Continents Underwater
• Caño Cristales – The River Of 5 Colors
• Jellyfish Lake – See The Creatures
• Blood Falls – Witness The Red Water Flow
• Painted Hills – Witness The Nature’s Painting
• Confluence Of Rhone And Arve Rivers – See The Merge
• Sea Of Stars – Walk Down The Glowing Water
• Huashan Mountain – Road To Heaven
• Nelson Lakes National Park – Witness The Beauty
• Giant Crystal Cave – See The Unreal Beauty
• Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain – Painted Picture
• Yonaguni Monument – Dive And Explore
• Crooked Forest – Spooky Yet Beautiful
• Pink Sands Beach – See Something Different
• Richat Structure – See The Nature’s Unique View
• Great Blue Hole – Take A Dive At Sinkhole
• Dead Sea – Float Over The Water
• Lake Retba – Witness The Pink Waterbody
• The Wave – Just Out Of A Painting
• Mt. Kelimutu – Witness 3 Different Color Lakes
• Al Naslaa Rock Formation – Bewildering Natural Phenomena
• Mendenhall Ice Caves – Walk Amidst The Ice Crystals
• Fingal’s Cave – Symmeterical Natural Wonder
• Ruby Falls – Visit The Underground Waterfall
• Oneuli Beach – Black Beach Will Fascinate You
• Marble Caverns – Unusual Marble Creations
• Nyaung Ohak – Explore The Jungle Village
• Iguazu Falls- World’s Widest Waterfall
• The Doorway Railway – Get A City Tour
• Koekohe Beach – The Beach With Giant Boulders
• Monolith Of Uluru – The World’s Largest Rock
• Mount Roraima – Witness The Highest Mountain
• Danakil Depression – The Place With Acid Pools
•   Travertine Pools – Explore The Cotton Castle
• The Giant’s Causeway – Ancient Volcanic Eruption
• Pancake Rocks – Natural Staircases
• Lencois Maranhenses National Park – White Sand Dunes Structures
• Red Beach – Get A Break From White Beaches
• The Seven Giants – Incredible Rock Structures
• Cat Island – What Is Too Many Cats?
• Sailing Stones – See The Stones Moving
• Magnetic Hill – Get Ready For A Tough Ride
• Moeraki Boulders – Looks Like Giant Eggs
• Aokigahara Forest – The Suicide Forest
• The Stone Forest – Not Trees But Stones
• Nazca Lines – Find The Discovered City
• Easter Island Heads – An Unusual Site
• Island Of Dolls – Spooky Forest
• Tianzi Mountains – See The Tall Natural Structures

1. Salar De Uyuni – Explore The White Salt Bed

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One of the top weirdest places across the world is located in Potosí and Oruro departments, this is the world’s largest salt pan and one of the strange places in the world. And when a thin film of water gathers on the surface it is also the world’s largest natural mirror. The best sight of this space can be observed from the central Incahuasi Island. Salar De Uyuni is the remains of a prehistoric lake that dried off and left behind void space of bright-white salt, rock formations, and cacti-islands. This place harbors large flocks of beautiful pink flamingos that can be seen grazing in the water. The best time to visit this place is in the months of July and October. This is definitely one of the most strange places in the world .

Location: Bolivia Best time to visit: July to October How to reach: Fly or take a train/bus to Uyuni and then take a hired vehicle to the salt flats.

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2. Lake Natron – The Scariest Lake

Looking for some weird places in the world? How about this terrifying lake? Animals that die in this African lake are turned into statues, through calcification. The presence of huge volumes of sodium bicarbonate ensures they turn into mummies. And because of the high alkaline collection, the lake looks red in color, especially during summer in Tanzania . This is the reason why this lake is also known as the ‘Petrifying Lake’. In spite of all these conditions, it is grazing ground for the Lesser Flamingos. Fancy a dip? Don’t even think about it!

Location: Tanzania Best time to visit: June to August How to reach: Fly to Tanzania and book a guided tour of Rift Valley of which the lake is a part.

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3. Die Rakotzbrück – The Nature’s Own Ring

The Die Rakotzbrück bridge is another strange places and comes under the weird places in the world. Constructed in the 19th century is famed for its unique construction accuracy, with the bridge and its reflection merging into a complete and perfect stone circle, no matter where you see it from. Spooky! It is in fact one of the weirdest places across the world. This is probably why the bridge is also known as the ‘Devil’s Bridge’. It seems that the makers of the bridge emphasized more on its aesthetics than its utility. Both the ends of the Rakotzbrücke have thin rock spires installed, to make it look like natural basalt columns, which commonly occur in many parts of Germany.

Location: Altes Schloß 11, 02953 Gablenz, Germany Best time to visit: May to September How to reach: Fly to Dresden and take a train to Gablenz from Dresden Hauptbahnhof. From there you can take a taxi to the Devil’s Bridge.

Suggested Read: 10 Castles In Germany That Look Straight Out Of A Fairytale

4. Spotted Lake Khiluk – Puddles Of Water

Spotted Lake Khiluk is the most mineralized lake in the world. Another bizarre place that makes it to the weirdest places across the world. The lake is spotted with 365 separate pools arranged in a strange mosaic-like pattern. Each of these spots holds a unique and highly concentrated chemical content and is said to cure different diseases. Definitely one of the nicer strangest places in the world.

Location: Northwest of Osoyoos, British Columbia Best time to visit: April to October How to reach: Fly to British Columbia and take a bus or train to Osoyoos.

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5. Slope Point – Windy Spot

Slope Point is the South Island’s southernmost point is another of the strange places in the world . The forest here is home to trees that are permanently twisted and windblown thanks to the intense Antarctic gusts . Windy much? This is one of the windiest strangest places in the world. The sight is all the more intensified by the rugged cliffs, eroded by the strong winds and time. The place is used for sheep farming, though there are no houses around. Another highlight of this place is the AA signpost that is installed here showing the distance to the Equator (5,140 km) and the South Pole (4,803 km).

Location: New Zealand Best time to visit: December to February How to reach: Fly to Auckland and take a ferry to South Island.

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6. Dead Vlei – The Beautiful Yet Dead Forest

The name Deadvlei means ‘dead marsh’ and the place is also known as ‘Dooie Vlei’. It is a sun-blackened dead forest in a white clay pan which is basically a dried oasis. An amazing yet counted as one of the strange places in the world, the lack of water forces the roots of trees to come outside looking for moisture. The struggle is real! The place is surrounded by rust-orange giant sand dunes that form a contrasting backdrop. This place is also said to be surrounded by the highest sand dunes in the world.

Location: Namibia Best time to visit: March to May How to reach: Fly to Namibia and take a bus or taxi to Namib-Naukluft Park.

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7. Underwater Park – Fun Below The Water

This list won’t be complete without some underwater beauties. One of the most weird places in the world, located in the Green Lake in Tragoess, this is not just a gimmick, but a genuine park that goes underwater during spring. After all, the scuba divers do need to rest and relax. It is considered as one of the most fabulous waters to dive in around Europe due to the rarest natural phenomenon in one of the most beautiful lakes in Austria . Have you booked your tickets yet?

Location: Austria Best time to visit: April to May How to reach: Fly to Vienna and take the train to Bruck an der Mur using the OEBB. From there, you can take bus 175 that will get you to the lake in 35 minutes.

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8. Eternal Flame Falls – Nature’s Unique Phenomena

The Eternal Flame Falls is one of the most craziest places in the world. However, it is a quaint waterfall located in Shale Creek Preserve, which is a section of Chestnut Ridge Park in Western New York. A small item at the waterfall’s base emits natural gas. Interestingly, it can be lit to produce a flame. This flame is visible all year round. It can be extinguished and must occasionally be re-lit. The flame is fueled by natural gases and burns bright right under a waterfall.

Location: New York, the US Best time to visit: April to October How to reach: Fly to New York and take a train to Buffalo. From here, take a train or bus to Orchard Park where the falls are located.

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9. Tunnel Of Love – Walk Amidst The Greenery

A section of industrial railway in Ukraine, this green leafy tunnel seems like something out of a fairy tale. It is known for being a favorite place for couples to take morning or evening strolls. If you’re planning to surprise your significant other on Valentine’s day, ditch the usual trip to Disneyland and book your trip to Ukraine . You will not be disappointed by everything that Ukraine has to offer, especially if your reason to visit it is to see one of the weirdest places across the world. The beauty of the Tunnel Of Love will astound you.

Location: Ukraine Best time to visit: May How to reach: Fly to Ukraine and take a bus or train to Rivne. Get to Rivne train station where you’ll be able to see the tunnel.

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10. Christ Of The Abyss – Explore Underwater

This is 2.50 meters, you read that right, it is a 2.5 METRES TALL bronze statue of Jesus Christ, which is under water. A favorite place for deep sea divers, and definitely one of the strange places around the world situated underwater. It is a submerged bronze statue of Jesus Christ by Guido Galletti and is one of the best tourist spots in Italy for thrill seekers. The original copy of the same is located in the Mediterranean Sea, off San Fruttuoso, between Camogli and Portofino.

Location: Italy Best time to visit: May to June How to reach: Fly to Milan and take a train to Genoa city. From here, take a taxi, bus, or another train to either Portofino or Camogli. Book a diving tour here to swim down to see the Christ Of The Abyss.

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11. The Silfra Rift – Experience The Two Continents Underwater

The Silfra Rift, one of the most obscure places in the world separates two continents and two tectonic plates, namely the North American and Eurasian plates. It occupies an area of approximately 600 by 200 meters. It is touted to be one of the most unique phenomena on Earth. Snorkeling in Silfra Rift is one of Iceland’s awesomest experiences. Make sure to indulge in it on your trip to Iceland. You will be blown away by the beauty of this natural marvel. Prepare to be bedazzled by one of the weirdest places across the world.

Location: Iceland Best time to visit: June to August How to reach: Fly to Reykjavik and take a taxi or hired vehicle to drive to Silfra (one hour away).

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12. Caño Cristales – The River Of 5 Colors

In the summer months, this Colombian river turns red. Counted as the most weirdest places in the world, the river bed is covered by a unique species of plant, and that is what turns red. Another one of those mysterious places on earth underwater. The river is commonly called the “River of Five Colors” or the “Liquid Rainbow”. It has been called the most beautiful water body on Earth. You can make a time lapse here of the water cascading down the rocks.

Location: Colombia Best time to visit: How to reach: Fly to Bogotá or Villavicencio and take an internal flight to La Macarena. From here, book a local tour of the national park which will cover the land transfers to and fro.

Suggested Read: 10 Places To Visit in Colombia That Showcase A Never Seen Before Side Of The Country

13. Jellyfish Lake – See The Creatures

There are 70 marine lakes located in this region. What makes Jellyfish Lake stand apart from the rest is that it contains jellyfish. Too many of them! It was closed for public in 2012 owing to the diminishing population of jellyfish in this lake, one of the weirdest places across the world for sure! Scientists assumed that it was the end of this beautiful lake. But the population of jellyfish grew in recent years and it has once again been opened for the public. Cool, right?

Location: Palau Best time to visit: November to April How to reach: Take a speedboat from Palau mainland to Eil Malk Island and opt for a snorkeling tour in the Rock Islands to see the jellyfish.

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14. Blood Falls – Witness The Red Water Flow

Amidst the unending whiteness of the snow, Blood Falls provides a creepy relief. The water is red in color due to the presence of huge amounts of Iron. Definitely makes the list of the strangest places in the world. According to Forbes, the mystery surrounding Blood Falls has been solved. According to the researchers of the University of Alaska, the red coloring is due to “oxidized iron in brine saltwater, the same process that gives the iron a dark red color when it rusts.”

Location: Antarctica Best time to visit: November to March How to reach: Fly to Taylor Valley and hike to the waterfall with a guide.

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15. Painted Hills – Witness The Nature’s Painting

How often do you come across a place and are simply left awestruck by its beauty? Painted Hills is one of those weirdest places across the world. Don’t believe us? Book a trip to Oregon right away and see for yourself. We promise you will change your mind after you find it in every Oregon travel guide and when it you see it for yourself! At Painted Hills of John Day Fossil Beds, the presence of minerals stain the hills in myriad hues. The ever changing light and moisture levels affect the yellows, reds, golds, and blacks.

Location: Oregon, the US Best time to visit: June to August How to reach: Fly to Oregon and drive (or take a taxi) via the Journey Through Time Scenic Byway to get to the hills.

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16. Confluence Of Rhone And Arve Rivers – See The Merge

There is a defined contrast between these two rivers of Switzerland ; one is blue and the other brown. They never fully mix due to the difference in density. They mix in Geneva, which is situated in Switzerland. It is hard to walk by this beautiful marvel of nature and not feel overwhelmed by whatever nature has to offer us. Go ahead and Google search this place to check out beautiful photographs of this place. You will be blown away by the beauty of one of the most scenic places in Switzerland .

Location: Switzerland Best time to visit: March to June How to reach: Fly to Geneva and either take a taxi or walk to the confluence point.

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17. Sea Of Stars – Walk Down The Glowing Water

Bioluminescent sea plankton that shines bright blue during the night makes the sea area at Vaadhoo Island look like the Sea of Stars. The sea of stars of Vaadhoo Island Maldives attracts millions of tourists every year. The tourist footfall seems to be only increasing after the sea was featured in far and few Bollywood and Hollywood films. The Maldives is listed as one of the cheapest destinations in the world and this beach is one of the weirdest places across the world. So, what’s stopping you from seeing this sight?

Location: Maldives Best time to visit: May to November How to reach: From to Male and take a speedboat to Vaadhoo Island.

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18. Huashan Mountain – Road To Heaven

What’s weird about Huashan Mountain, you say? Well, look closely On the end of this treacherous death-defying trail in China is a mere tea house, but this Mount Huashan Plank Walk in the Sky is famed for its adrenaline raising effects. It is known as the Road to Heaven. Would you walk the plank here, at one of the strangest places on earth? Let us know in the comments section below. Tag your friends and get going.

Location: China Best time to visit: April to October How to reach: Take a train to either Xian Railway Station or Xian Cheng Dong Coach Station and take a bus to Huayin.

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19. Nelson Lakes National Park – Witness The Beauty

Do you get extremely excited about jungle safaris and walking tours of the national park in general? This one might just surprise you with its quirkiness. There is an interesting Blue Lake at the Nelson Lakes National Park, one of the weirdest places across the world. But what’s so weird about it? How about the fact that this is a lake so clear that you can see all the way to the bottom, and can’t even make out the depth. Go ahead, visit it. We dare you. Don’t blame us for your mind being blown to smithereens.

Location: New Zealand Best time to visit: December to February How to reach: Fly to Nelson or Blenheim and take a bus or taxi to Lake Rotoroa.

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20. Giant Crystal Cave – See The Unreal Beauty

Giant Crystal Cave at Naica Mine is also one of the weirdest places on the Earth. Deep down in the bowels of the Earth, these huge shiny mineral pillars are enough to make you feel claustrophobic. This mammoth structure has been growing underneath Mexico for more than 500,000 years. It makes for an exceptional case study on how organisms survive in extreme heat and humidity. All nature lovers must visit this place at least once.

Location: Mexico Best time to visit: December to April How to reach: Fly to Chihuahua and take a bus or train to Naica. From here you can get a taxi to the caves.

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21. Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain – Painted Picture

Covered in wide lines of pastel blue, intense red, green, pink and yellow. There are currently no scientific explanations for this phenomenon. Often referred to as Vinicunca or Montaña de Siete Colores, Rainbow Mountain is a colorful peak in Peru. It is extremely difficult to reach, we will not lie. But the strenuous effort is worth the trek. The sights that you will behold from the top of the mountain will dazzle you and tell you why it’s on every list of the weirdest places across the world. Are you ready to do this?

Location: Peru Best time to visit: June to August How to reach: Fly to Cusco and hike to Rainbow Mountain on the well-laid out trail for the same.

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22. Yonaguni Monument – Dive And Explore

Scientists have only been able to confirm that this monument underwater in Japan is five thousand years old. It is still not confirmed if it is natural or manmade. Theorists say that it could be alien-made. Which theory do you believe in? If you believe in the former, you probably are of the school of thought that renders the existence of unicorns impossible. Jokes apart, visit this region for a day full of mysterious adventures.

Location: Japan Best time to visit: November to May How to reach: Fly to Ishigaki and and then a ferry to Yonaguni Island from there.

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23. Crooked Forest – Spooky Yet Beautiful

Came across any oddly-shaped pine trees outside Nowe Czarnowo near the town of Gryfino, West Pomerania? Welcome to the most bizarre place on Earth. Very few people visit this region, so why you happened to be there is a mystery in itself. In an otherwise normal forest in Poland, full of straight trees, there is this collection of curved trees, for which there is no scientific explanation. One of the world’s weirdest places in Poland , indeed.

Location: Poland Best time to visit: March to June How to reach: Fly to Warsaw Chopin Airport and take a train or bus to Crooked Forest.

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24. Pink Sands Beach – See Something Different

The sand at this beach is pink in color due to the presence of certain minerals and plankton. According to recent scientific research, the pink hue comes from foraminifera, a microscopic organism that actually has a reddish-pink shell. The sand is a mix of coral, shells, and calcium carbonate. Only a few pink sand beaches exist in the world. The rarity of these beaches adds to the charm and mystery they hold among the human population.

Location: The Bahamas Best time to visit: December to May How to reach: Fly to the Bahamas and take a ferry or private boat to Harbour Island where the beach is located.

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25. Richat Structure – See The Nature’s Unique View

With a diameter of almost 30 miles, this is a structure in the deserts. One of the most unique places in the world, it looks like a massive fossil. Or maybe an alien spaceship landing strip? It is a prominent circle-shaped structure smack in the middle of Mauritania. You can get to the destination from the quaint desert town of Ouadane in the west-central part of Mauritania in western North Africa. Make sure to pack according to the weather of the region. Keep a lookout for the weather.

Location: Mauritania Best time to visit: December How to reach: Fly to Mauritania and take a bus or taxi to the destination.

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26. Great Blue Hole – Take A Dive At Sinkhole

A gigantic natural submarine sinkhole! No one knows the depth of the sinkhole. The Blue Hole is a popular spot for freediving. You will be amazed at the power this sinkhole exudes. It is also touted to be the most dangerous and deadliest spots in the world by experts. We suggest that you exercise caution in this area. It has claimed the lives of many divers in the past. Do not be reckless and take care of yourself and your fellow divers.

Location: Belize Best time to visit: January to May How to reach: Fly to Cancun and then take an internal flight to Belize City. Take a bus or taxi to Ambergris Caye from where you’ll need to snorkel or take a boat to the Great Blue Hole.

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27. Dead Sea – Float Over The Water

Can’t swim? No problem! The Dead Sea, a salt lake, will ensure you can float without any effort, due to the high volume of salt and other minerals in the water. The Dead Sea is 10 times as salty as the ocean, with a salinity of about 34%. Just a disclaimer, if you open your eyes while in its water, it will sting quite a bit. It is inhospitable. Interestingly, in the Greek Era, it was inhabited by savage tribes. Visit the site to know more awesome facts.

Location: Jordan Best time to visit: November or December How to reach: Take a train to Be’er Sheva and from there a bus to the Dead Sea.

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28. Lake Retba – Witness The Pink Waterbody

Ever seen a lake that’s pink in color? That’s what is weird here, thanks to the presence of certain plankton and minerals. It is located some 30 kilometers northeast of Dakar. The reason behind the water being pink is the huge presence of Dunaliella salina algae in the water body. It is known for its high salt content, up to 40% in some areas. It will surely catch your eye in Senegal. Swimming in this water is safe, so pack your swimsuit and head here.

Location: Senegal Best time to visit: November to June How to reach: Fly to Dakar and take a bus or taxi to Lake Retba.

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29. The Wave – Just Out Of A Painting

The Wave is a sandstone rock formation located near the northern border Arizona shares with Utah. It is a dreamlike world of swirling colors and psychedelic patterns. The rock formations are said to be from the Jurassic era. In an effort to preserve the natural beauty and integrity of this natural site, there are no signage for hikers. You have to find your way in and out of this site. Sounds like a challenge. Who is up for it?

Location: Arizona, the US Best time to visit: November to January How to reach: Fly to Arizona and get to North Coyote Buttes permit area by bus or taxi. Trek on the Wire Pass Trailhead of the Vermilion Cliffs National Monument to get to The Wave.

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30. Mt. Kelimutu – Witness 3 Different Color Lakes

The result of a volcanic eruption, this wonder is home to three separate lakes, all of the different colors – black, blue, and turquoise. Weirdly, at the summit of Mount Kelimutu summit, there are three crater lakes in three different colors, and those colors change all the time. If this isn’t the most bizarre thing that you have read this week, we don’t know what is. It is often times blue. Make sure to stop by this lake and tell us in the comments section below which color it was when you saw it.

Location: Indonesia Best time to visit: May to September How to reach: Fly to Ende and get a bus or taxi to the nearest village from where people usually trek (2.5 hours) to the lakes and mountains.

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31. Al Naslaa Rock Formation – Bewildering Natural Phenomena

There are many natural occurrences that can bewilder the traveler. This is one of them. This little slice of perfection. See the uniform slit between the flat faces of these two standing stones? Al Naslaa is one of the most photogenic petroglyphs in the area. Its natural shape is a big mystery that no one has been able to solve yet. Make sure you embark on a holiday to Saudi Arabia to catch a sight of this natural structure.

Location: Saudi Arabia Best time to visit: October and early March How to reach: Take a taxi or drive a hired vehicle to Tayma oasis from Tabouk.

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32. Mendenhall Ice Caves – Walk Amidst The Ice Crystals

The different shades of blue in the ice crystals inside these caves is a natural phenomenon that has left scientists baffled for years. As global warming is on the rise, there is a chance that these ice caves might be affected. Geologists are doing everything possible in their capacity to save these ice caves from becoming extinct. The glacier was named Auke (Auk) Glacier by naturalist John Muir for the Tlingit Auk Kwaan band.

Location: Alaska Best time to visit: mid May to mid September How to reach: Ride to Tongass National Forest in Juneau and then trek to the Mendenhall Glacier Ice Caves with a guide.

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33. Fingal’s Cave – Symmeterical Natural Wonder

As a rule, caves are round in shape with round rocks, right? Wrong! Take a look at these symmetrical square caves. These caves are situated on the uninhabited islands of Staffa in Scotland. Except for researchers and scientists, people don’t usually visit these caves. But you can still look at this photograph and admire the bounties of nature. Doesn’t this strike as beautiful to you? The cave has a large entrance and is filled by seawater.

Location: Scotland Best time to visit: April to October How to reach: Take a ferry from Fionnphort to the Isle of Staffna.

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34. Ruby Falls – Visit The Underground Waterfall

A 145-foot high underground waterfall that is illuminated to create this lovely purplish hue. It is located within Lookout Mountain near Tennessee. They have existed for millions of years. Ruby Falls Cave features prominent cave formations like stalactites and stalagmites, columns, drapery, and flow stone. The caves were opened to the public only recently, so make sure you don’t miss out on a trip to this destination.

Location: Tennessee, the USA Best time to visit: Year-round How to reach: Fly to Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport and take a bus or taxi to the Lookout Mountains.

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35. Oneuli Beach – Black Beach Will Fascinate You

A remarkable beach that boasts of pitch black sand due to volcanic activity in the past. If you know how to swim or snorkel, you will have the time of your life here. If you don’t, you can train with certified instructors first and then take a dive into this beautiful black sand beach. You will not regret a visit to this destination. We promise you will be blown away.

Location: Hawaii, the US Best time to visit: April to May How to reach: Drive from Wailea towards the Grand Wailea Resort in Makena. 4 miles south of the resort is a dirt path, taking which will lead you to the parking lot of this beach.

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36. Marble Caverns – Unusual Marble Creations

The Marble Caverns of Carrera Lake have amazingly smooth and cool caves of marble. The water is clear enough to see deep down to the bottom. The Marble Caves, Marble Chapel, and Marble Cathedral are an unusual geological formation in the General Carrera Lake or Lake Buenos Aires (as it is popularly called) located in Patagonia. Hop on a ferry and take a trip to these unusual marble formations. Don’t forget to get your camera with you.

Location: Chile Best time to visit: December to March How to reach: Fly to Santiago and then take an internal flight to Balmaceda. From there, you can take a taxi or hired vehicle to drive down the Carretera Austral road to Puerto Tranquilo, and from here you’ll get a motorboat or kayak to reach the Marble Caves.

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37. Nyaung Ohak – Explore The Jungle Village

Myanmar may not be the most popular destination, but it definitely features on the list of places you should visit once before you die. Here is why. Myanmar houses Nyaung Ohak, which is a beauty in its own right. A surreal jungle-village of over 1000 crumbling temples is hard to come by elsewhere. This destination is covered in greenery. It is a sight to behold. Getting to Nyaung Ohak involves an exciting boat ride.

Location: Myanmar Best time to visit: November to February How to reach: Take a train or bus from anywhere in Myanmar.

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38. Iguazu Falls- World’s Widest Waterfall

One of the widest waterfalls in the entire world . Iguazu Falls will give Niagara Falls a run for its money. The falls divide the river into the upper and lower Iguazu. The power of the falls was not utilized until the construction of Itaipu Dam. It is a dam built jointly by Paraguay and Brazil. It was completed in 1991. If cascading waterfalls mesmerize you, plan a visit to this beautiful destination and prepare to be blown away.

Location: Brazil Best time to visit: July to October and February to April How to reach: Fly to either Foz do Iguaçu Airport (IGU) in Brazil or Cataratas del Iguazú (IGR) in Argentina. The falls are a bus or taxi ride away from both Buenos Aires and Rio.

39. The Doorway Railway – Get A City Tour

The Doorway Railway of Hanoi is a railway line passes inches away from the doorsteps of shops, through the residential neighborhood and commercial area of Hanoi. There’s a street in Hanoi, Vietnam where a speeding train passes straight through twice a day. If you’re in the way of the train, you are supposed to press tight into the adjoining wall or duck into a nearby cafe to escape being killed. You can feel the iron resonate against your skin. Sounds terrifying, right?

Location: Vietnam Best time to visit: February to April and October-November How to reach: Take a taxi or shared cab from anywhere in Hanoi to get to Train Street.

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40. Koekohe Beach – The Beach With Giant Boulders

Unusually-giant boulders dot the eroded Otago coastline along a stretch of Koekohe Beach. Scientists are unable to explain what is expected to be a natural phenomenon. They are unusually large and either occur scattered in the region or in clusters. Though the beach faces erosion now and then, the rocks refuse to change their structure and remain firmly cemented in the ground. This is a must-visit site for nature lovers. It is also one of the top cool things to do in New Zealand .

Location: New Zealand Best time to visit: December to February (visit the site between low-tide and mid-tide at sunrise) How to reach: It’s a 30-minute drive on State Highway 1 from Moerkai or Hampden to Koekohe Beach.

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41. Monolith Of Uluru – The World’s Largest Rock

This is a single rock. One single, gigantic rock, which is a mountain in itself. With a height of 348 meters and a circumference of 5.8 miles, this is the world’s largest rock and one of the weirdest places on earth. While the rocks surrounding it eroded, it stood its ground to become the longest surviving Monolithic rock structure. If this rock doesn’t inspire you to keep hustling in life and staying true to all the promises you made to yourself, we don’t know what will.

Location: Australia Best time to visit: September to November How to reach: Fly to Yulara and take a taxi, hired vehicle, or bus to Uluru.

42. Mount Roraima – Witness The Highest Mountain

An enormous surreal flat top mountain said to be one of the most mysterious, with an abundance of unusual plants and animals. Welcome to one of the weirdest places on earth. This is the highest mountain in the Pakaraima chain. It is furthermore, the highest point in Venezuela. The mountain’s highest point is named as Laberintos del Norte. Hire a tour guide and trek these mountains to marvel at nature’s wonders. Don’t forget to take your friends along.

Location: Venezuela Best time to visit: December to April How to reach: Fly to Boa Vista and take a bus or taxi to Mount Roraima.

43. Danakil Depression – The Place With Acid Pools

These are not your average run-of-the-mill pools; these are actually acid pools. Even what looks like land are brittle crusts of salt and sulfur. Totally one of the strangest places on earth. The tectonic plates underneath the Danakil Depression continue to move, even after millions of years. Scientists believe that if the movement doesn’t cease, the land will drop further below sea level. Won’t that be a sight to behold?

Location: Ethiopia Best time to visit: November to early January How to reach: Take a bus or taxi from the nearest town of Berahile.

44. Travertine Pools – Explore The Cotton Castle

A group of small pools that result from calcium carbonate deposits. Looks cold, but these are actually pools of warm water, fed by an underground spring. The area is immensely famous among the locals and tourists alike for the carbonate mineral left by flowing water, which lends this natural site the name “cotton castle”. This place in Turkey is a sight to behold and we recommend you to stop by there on your trip to the region.

Location: Pamukkale, Turkey Best time to visit: April to mid-June How to reach: Fly to Denizli Airport from where you can get into any of the shuttles or mini buses to reach Pamukkale.

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45. The Giant’s Causeway – Ancient Volcanic Eruption

The result of an ancient volcanic eruption, these are perfectly straight rocks jutting out of the sea. Around 60 million years ago, this place was subjected to intense volcanic eruptions. As the lava cooled and the smoke enveloping the region disappeared, people found pillar like structures jutting out. They were amazed and began researching the origin of the Giant’s Causeway. To date, scientists are perplexed by the firmness of these rocks.

Location: Ireland Best time to visit: April to June How to reach: Take a bus from Dublin to Bushmills. From there, take another bus or taxi to Giant’s Causeway.

46. Pancake Rocks – Natural Staircases

The thousands of layers of sandstone and limestone accumulated on the ocean floor has given shape to these stacks of pancake-like rocks. The Pancake Rocks are reachable by a number of walkways winding through the rock formations, parts of these wheelchair-accessible and others carved into stairways up and down the rock faces. Make sure to visit this place on your trip to New Zealand. Prepare to be bedazzled by this natural wonder on Earth.

Location: New Zealand Best time to visit: January How to reach: Take a train or bus to Greymouth and then a taxi or hired vehicle to drive to Punakaiki where the rocks are located.

47. Lencois Maranhenses National Park – White Sand Dunes Structures

Lencois Maranhenses National Park is one of the mysterious places on Earth which is a protected area in Brazil. There is a reason why this place has a special status in the country. Although it deceptively looks like a desert, this national park of Brazil has many small pools bordered by the sandy dune-like structures. Have you ever come across white sand dunes on your desert trips? If your answer is no, pack your bags and head to Lencois Maranhenses National Park.

Location: Brazil Best time to visit: May to August How to reach: Fly to São Luís International Airport where you can get taxi or private van to get to the park.

48. Red Beach – Get A Break From White Beaches

Red beach is famed for its red-hued sand which is one of the unique places to visit . It is a renowned tourist attraction. The place receives a tourist footfall of tens of thousands of people each year. The tourists seem to be in love with this place. Every year in autumn, The Red Beach in Tianjin, China comes alive with Suaeda salsa, a red colored plant that thrives well in salt water. The entire beach blooms red, leaving only thin strips of sea visible. Make sure to come here with your friends and get a photograph for your Instagram.

Location: China Best time to visit: May to October How to reach: Get to Panjin City by bus or train from anywhere in China.

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49. The Seven Giants – Incredible Rock Structures

Locally known as the Seven Strong Men of Russia or The Little Mountain of the Gods, these behemoth stone pillars, created by frost and snow over many years, are a mystery as yet unsolved by science. You will find seven rock formations here. Their heights vary from 30 to 42 meters. Behold them and get lost in the divine wonders of nature. We dare you to book a ticket to this region, which is officially one of the most mysterious places in the world. You’ll be amazed at the sight of this unusual places to visit .

Location: Russia Best time to visit: March to August How to reach: Take a bus to the Ural mountains.

50. Cat Island – What Is Too Many Cats?

An island that is home to a mere 100 humans, and thousands of cats which makes it one of the strange places on Earth . The locals love the living situation though. For a dog-lover like me, this is one of the strangest places on earth. Cat Island is located in a remote region of Japan that goes by the name of Ehime Prefecture. Here, the cats outnumber human beings by a ratio of 10:1. People were introduced to combat rodents on fishing boats but remained on this island. They procreated and thus, the human settlement flourished.

Location: Japan Best time to visit: mid-December to mid-April How to reach: Take a train from Sendai to Ishinomaki Station and then a bus and ferry from the station to Tashirojima Island.

51. Sailing Stones – See The Stones Moving

Image Source The Death Valley in California is one of the weirdest places in the world owing to the phenomenon of the Sailing Stones that have bewildered people for generations. In 1915 people had discovered a track here which indicated that a particular stone had moved from its place in the dry land. This sailing stone had immediately been recorded and the locals began further study so that they could learn more about this mystery. A lot of rocks have moved on their own since then, and the natives believe it happens because of the formation of ice around the stones, though it’s not confirmed.

Location: Death Valley, California Best time to visit: mid-October to mid-May How to reach: The nearest airport is McCarran International Airport from where you can get a taxi or bus.

Suggested Read: 12 Things To Do In California: Indulge In Activities That Treasure Forever

52. Magnetic Hill – Get Ready For A Tough Ride

Magnetic Hill in Ladakh, India, is known to be one of the most unique places in the world where you can experience a truly unusual phenomenon. When you travel into the land of Ladakh, you will come across this place which tends to pull vehicles. This is essentially a tiny stretch of road on a hill that lies on the Srinagar-Leh highway. The mystery is that you can park your vehicle here and turn off the ignition of your car, your vehicle will slowly start moving on its own!

Location: Ladakh, India Best time to visit: July to September How to reach: Take a flight to Leh, or a road trip on the Delhi-Manali-Leh route.

Suggested Read: Magnetic Hill In Ladakh: A Handy Guide To Unravel This Mystery In 2023

53. Moeraki Boulders – Looks Like Giant Eggs

Image Source The first thing you’ll notice about these weird rocks is that they look like giant eggs! Moeraki boulders are said to be one of the most unique places in the world and are laid out on the Koekohe Beach in New Zealand while people come to see them from far and wide and end up being puzzled! It’s a rare sight to gaze at and the mammoth 12-feet high boulders are scattered around in the most peculiar formation, which makes them even more bizarre! The locals believe the rocks have been formed as a result of tremendous mineral and sediment accumulation around this area which eventually fossilized.

Location: New Zealand Best time to visit: December to February (visit the site between low-tide and mid-tide at sunrise) How to reach: It’s a 30-minute drive on State Highway 1 from Moeraki or Hampden to Koekohe Beach.

54. Aokigahara Forest – The Suicide Forest

Image Source The Aokigahara Forest is said to be one of the weirdest places in the world by locals and travelers alike, at least the ones who did not venture into it! In fact, the Hollywood flick The Forest is entirely based on this forest itself, the story in that movie explores the spooky nature of this very jungle which is said to have been haunting people for a very long time now. Also called the Suicide Forest, this place is situated at the foothills of the famed volcano Mount Fuji in Japan and is notorious for its endless cases of haunting and apparitions that have occurred here. The worst part is that more than 500 people are said to have committed suicide in this forest.

Location: Japan Best time to visit: mid-June to mid-September How to reach: You can take a taxi or bus from Tokyo to the entrance of the forest (don’t go inside!)

Suggested Read: 7 Best Gardens In Japan Which Will Take You Into A Utopian World!

55. The Stone Forest – Not Trees But Stones

Image Source Another one on our list of the most unusual places in the world is the Stone Forest in the world which draws most of its fame on the grounds of how strange it is! Unlike the green and wildlife nurturing forests in the world (that is what the word “forest” is usually associated with), this one is compiled mainly of strange rocks and stones. That’s right! Located in Yunnan Province of China, this Stone Forest is a one-of-its-kind Shilin Stone Forest where you will find towering limestone rock formations instead of the usual tall trees and shrubs. These tall limestone structures have cropped up over an area of around 100,000 acres and make the whole place look like a “forest”, thus the name!

Location: Yunnan Province, China Best time to visit: March to October How to reach: Take a train to Shilin from Kunming Train Station and then a bus to the forest area.

56. Nazca Lines – Find The Discovered City

Image Source You may remember the Nazca Lines reference from the movie Indian Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull where they played a huge role in enabling the explorer-cum-professor where the hidden city lied. Most people are not aware that this place is real and actually exists on the world map.

One of the most unusual places in the world, these are humongous lines scarred into the desert landscapes of southern Peru. As explained in the movie itself, these only make sense from the skies (a plane!) from where people can make out the strange shapes carved into the otherwise barren desert landscape. These prehistoric remains in South America are amongst the most awesome phenomenon and one of the most revered they UNESCO World Heritage Site, drawing thousands of tourists here every year.

Location: Peru Best time to visit: May to October How to reach: Fly over Nazca or get a bus ride to the mirador (viewpoint) in the middle of the desert for a restricted view.

Suggested Read: 9 Coolest Things To Do In Peru In 2023 For The Adventurous Souls

57. Easter Island Heads – An Unusual Site

Image Source Made by the Rapa Nui civilization back in the first millennium AD when this place wasn’t even called the Easter Island, there are countless carved effigies of gigantic heads spread across the beach. They have been made by the Para Nui people using the early tools and have been carved right out of the black rock boulders on the island, chiseled and chipped to perfection. Displaying a brilliant example of the masonry and creativity at that time, these Easter Island heads are some of the earliest examples of prehistoric art, many others being cave drawings and the like. They have surely made this island one of the most unique places to visit in the world for travelers who come here every year in huge numbers.

Location: Polynesia Best time to visit: April to June or October to December How to reach: Get a seat on the LATAM airline from Santiago which is the only airline that flies to this island.

58. Island Of Dolls – Spooky Forest

When it comes to exploring the weirdest places in the world, among all the list comes this crazy island in Mexico. The uninhabited Mexican island of Xochimilco has eerie and roughed-up dolls hanging up on the trees. The sight looks like just out of a horror movie where there are dolls hanging amidst the wilderness. According to the legends, these dolls started washing down the shore after a girl died in one of the canals in the vicinity. After this one of the single inhabitants hung them from the trees for some creepy reasons. Tourists often make a trip to this place during the Day of the Dead festival in Mexico .

Location: Xochimilco

59. Tianzi Mountains – See The Tall Natural Structures

The Tianzi Mountains are one of the unique places to visit in the world which was the sole inspiration for the sets of Avatar. These mountain peaks abruptly rose from the ground to create a beautiful landscape. Spread across an area of 21 square miles, these mountain landscapes are located inside the Wulingyuan Scenic Area. These mountains are a product of millions of years of sedimentary rock erosion.

Location: Hunan Province of China

Further Read: 20 Weird, Strange Islands Of The World You Should Visit In 2023

So, what do you think about this list of 59 weirdest places across the world? Do you think they are worth visiting? Did we miss out on any? What is your opinion on the aforementioned destinations? Any place that you think is not bizarre or quirky enough? Any place that you’d love to visit solo or with a group of friends? Don’t wait. Book your world trip with TravelTriangle now! You will not regret visiting any of these strange places on Earth, we assure you.

Disclaimer:  TravelTriangle claims no credit for images featured on our blog site unless otherwise noted. All visual content is copyrighted to its respectful owners. We try to link back to original sources whenever possible. If you own the rights to any of the images, and do not wish them to appear on TravelTriangle, please contact us and they will be promptly removed. We believe in providing proper attribution to the original author, artist or photographer.

Please Note:  Any information published by TravelTriangle in any form of content is not intended to be a substitute for any kind of medical advice, and one must not take any action before consulting a professional medical expert of their own choice.

Frequently Asked Questions About Weirdest Places Across The World

Is it safe to travel amidst the ongoing pandemic.

Yes, it is perfectly safe to visit these places as the place has a relatively low number of cases. But don’t take our word for it: check up on the latest travel advisory, Covid-19 measures, and the number of cases before your departure. It is safer to undertake solo travel or with a small group of people to somewhere that is not overly crowded at the moment.

Which are the weirdest places in the US?

You will find numerous weird places in the US in terms of their architecture, nature, spook level and quirk. Here are a few of the weirdest places in the US that are kind of a must-visit.The sandstone waves in Arizona colored in orange, purple, and red are as alluring as they are hypnotizing. It puts you in wonder how nature is so amazing. You may not believe but there is Thor’s well in reality in Yachats in Lincoln County, Oregon. There is a fountain of gurgling ocean tides by the sea but don’t plunge in because nobody knows how deep it is. You will also find a house in Rockport, Massachusetts made entirely out of newspaper. Everyone knows about Area 51, of course, bt o one knows what is inside it.

Which are the weirdest places in London?

For starters, there is A Clown Gallery and Museum where you will find clown dolls, clown portraits, and clown costumes on display. Creepy much? Then there is Dennis Severs House that will give you a glimpse of London that was hundreds of years ago. Check into the oldest prison in England, the Clink Prison Museum, and discover the historical graveyards – The magnificent Seven, where famous historical figures like Karl Marx are buried.

Which are the weirdest places on google maps?

The sprawling Swastika designs in Kazakhstan were spotted on Google Maps that date back to 2,000 years ago. There is an island-in-a-lake-on-an-island-in-a-lake-on-an-island in the Philippines where no man has ever stepped foot. A phantom island popped up on Google Maps in 2012 located northwest of New Caledonia.

Which are the most dangerous places in the world?

Here are some of the most dangerous places in the world: 1. Snake Island, Brazil 2. Danakil Desert, East Africa 3. Sahel, North Africa 4. Oymyakon, Russia 5. Mount Sinabung, Indonesia 6. Skeleton Coast, Namibia 7. Lake Nyos, Cameroon 8. Lake Natron, Tanzania 9. Bermuda Triangle, North Atlantic 10. Mailu Suu, Kyrgyzstan 11. Manaus, Brazil 12. Dallol, Ethiopia 13. North Sentinel Island, India

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The 40 Most Beautiful Countries in the World

By Caitlin Morton

Every country in the world has something to offer, from local cuisine to groundbreaking architecture . But actually ranking the most beautiful countries in the world? That's a bit trickier (eye of the beholder, and what not). That’s why we let the World Economic Forum do much of the work for us: Every year, the foundation releases their Travel & Tourism Competitiveness Report , a survey that ranks the world’s countries based on various factors, from safety to life expectancy—and yes, even natural resources. 

The latter takes into consideration details like total animal species, the number of UNESCO World Heritage sites , and the amount of protected ecosystems—and 2022’s results are as stunning as ever. We pulled the top 30 countries from the all-encompassing “natural resources” section of the WEF’s report , and then polled Traveler editors for their personal picks (consider them bonus entries, if you will) to put together this list of the world’s most beautiful countries. Get ready to swoon.

This article has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

Australia ’s natural beauty is unrivaled—from the Great Barrier Reef to the wild isolation of the Outback, to the winelands of Victoria. Witnessing the majesty of Uluru should be on every traveler’s bucket list, whether viewed from above by helicopter or from a distance at ground level during the technicolor sunset. Another must-see? Tasmania . The island state’s mountain wilderness and pristine coastline are remarkably beautiful.

Home to 67 national parks, more than 5,000 miles of coastline, and landscapes ranging from deserts to snow-capped volcanoes, Mexico ranks high on this list for a reason. The state of Oaxaca lays claim to wild, crowd-free beaches and Hierve el Agua, a set of natural rock formations and mineral springs. Down in the southern state of Chiapas, the Sumidero Canyon astounds with 3,000-foot cliff walls, caves, and waterfalls. Mexico also takes great lengths to protect its wildlife: the Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve northwest of Mexico City welcomes millions of butterflies every autumn, while the whale sanctuary in El Vizcaino is an important reproduction site for grey and blue whales .

There is no shortage of grandeur in Brazil , whether you’re standing below the horseshoe-shaped falls of Iguazu, kayaking through the incomparable Amazon, or looking out from the peak of Corcovado in Rio de Janeiro . Fernando de Noronha, an archipelago off the northeast coast, features some of the best beaches in the country . Lençóis Maranhenses National Park boasts blindingly white sand dunes juxtaposed against turquoise lagoons. Then there’s the biodiversity—the greatest on the planet, to be exact. It’s not uncommon to spot jaguars, spider monkeys, piranhas, giant water lilies, and mangroves (among several other million species).

The United States of America

You could spend a lifetime exploring the sites of America, all as beautiful as they are diverse. Hawaii’s vertical Na'Pali Coast is easily one of the most beautiful coastlines on the planet. Denali National Park in Alaska is worth braving the extreme low temperatures. And perhaps you’ve heard of a charming little tourist destination known as the Grand Canyon ?

Alex Erdekian

CNT Editors

Jesse Ashlock

Charlie Hobbs

China has 56 UNESCO World Heritage Sites within its borders—the second-most of any country in the world (after Italy, which has 58). Here you’ll find otherworldly landscapes like the Zhangye National Geopark, whose striped, technicolor mountains are basically Mother Nature’s answer to Photoshop. You can also see skyscraper-like sandstone pillars at Wulingyuan Scenic Area, endless fields of yellow rapeseed plants in Luoping County, and multicolored lakes in the Jiuzhaigou Valley—and that’s just for starters.

Home to Himalayan peaks and Indian Ocean beaches, India’s terrain can only be described as breathtaking. Kerala is easily one of the most country’s most beautiful states, with elephants and tigers, lush lagoon networks, and tea plantations. There are incredible stretches of sand even outside of Kerala, like Marina Beach in unsung Tamil Nadu, or Chandipur Beach in Orissa, where tides recede nearly three miles out to sea. The Valley of Flowers National Park is spectacular, as hundred of species of alpine flowers carpet the western Himalayas in chromatic glory.

Oh, Canada. The world’s second-biggest country has almost too much spectacular scenery to single out favorites. But if we had to pick, we’d start with the remote Torngat Mountains National Park, a land of polar bears and caribou, glaciers and fjords, and a stretch of mountains you’re not likely to ever forget. Truly all of the country’s 48 national parks are worth a visit, from Alberta’s serene Banff to Yukon’s extreme Kluane.

One of the crown jewels of Southeast Asia, Indonesia has some of the best islands in the world . First up is the spiritual, sun-kissed paradise that is Bali . It is crowded, yes; but you can still find enclaves of quiet in places like the central region of Tabanan, with its waterfalls, butterfly parks, and UNESCO-protected rice fields. Located off the coast of West Papua, the Raja Ampat Islands are a scuba diver’s dream with blue channels and biodiverse reefs. And don’t forget about the relatively crowd-free island of Flores , complete with white sand beaches and steep green hills.

France is the stuff fairytales are made of, with fields of lavender and castles at every turn. The country’s coastline beckons travelers from all over the world, whether it’s to the beaches of Biarritz, white cliffs of Normandy, or any one of the glitzy towns along the French Riviera . For some truly untouched nature, make a beeline for the island of Corsica; if it’s ski slopes you’re after, head west to Mont Blanc.

Colombia ’s incredible landscape deserves to be recognized, and not just because it contains parts of the Amazon rainforest and the Andes mountain range. Tayrona National Park is one of the most picturesque places in South America, with beaches dotted with coconut palms and rainforests sitting nearly 3,000 feet above sea level. The ochre desert meets the aquamarine sea at Cabo de la Vela, a unique cape surrounded by rocky cliffs—it’s hard to get to, sure, but absolutely worth it.

Aside from its world-class beaches (like Playa de Las Catedrales in Galicia, pictured), Spain is home to 16 national parks, including five in the Canary and Balearic Islands. Doñana National Park is home to five threatened bird species, plus scenic marshes and sand dunes. Teide National Park has the tallest mountain in the country (Mount Teide) and third tallest volcanic structure in the world (Pico Viejo).

Japan is at once serene and exhilarating, ancient and unexpected. The subtropical Ogasawara Islands offer pristine beaches, exceptional snorkeling and whale watching, and forests packed with 195 endangered bird species. Solitary Mount Fuji is the country's most iconic landmark, rising above villages and reflecting on lakes’ surfaces. Even the cities here are bursting with natural beauty: see Kyoto ’s scattering of cherry blossoms and Arashiyama bamboo forest, or the calm, grassy parks of Tokyo .

South Africa

South Africa is one of the best safari destinations in Africa, offering easy access to the “Big Five” (lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhinoceros) at places like Kruger National Park. Looking for penguins? Boulders Beach is just an hour’s drive south from Cape Town. If you can believe it, the landscapes here are even more diverse than the wildlife, from wildflower-filled Namaqualand to the soaring Drakensberg Mountains to the Blyde River Canyon. Even in urban Cape Town , you need only look up to see iconic Table Mountain and Lion’s Head .

The number of foreign visitors to Thailand has doubled in the past ten years, and it’s easy to understand why. There are literally hundreds of islands offering something for every type of traveler, whether it’s the lush jungles of Ko Kut or the crystal-clear diving waters of Ko Tao. To catch sight of wild elephants and tigers, dramatic waterfalls, and some of the world’s oldest rainforests, venture inland to the wondrous Khao Sok National Park.

Few parts of the world can claim so intense a range of natural beauty as Italy, from craggy peaks and verdant hills to coasts of jaw-dropping beauty. There’s nothing quite like driving through the winding, cyprus-lined roads of Tuscany , past rolling green hills and golden fields dotted with sunflowers. The Dolomites are some of the most beautiful mountains you’ll find anywhere, too; San Pellegrino Pass is one of its best spots for rock climbing, skiing, and, well, just being in awe.

Tanzania is a biodiverse wonderland, but its main draw is undoubtedly the Serengeti—especially if you can visit between January and March to witness the Great Migration . And don’t forget about Mount Kilimanjaro, rising like a magnificent mirage over the vast plains. Another deservedly popular spot is the Ngorongoro Crater, a vast and thriving volcanic caldera known as Africa’s Garden of Eden (assuming the garden had flamingos and zebras). Tanzania also has some 800 miles of Indian Ocean-facing coastline, with the white sand beaches and sapphire waters of Zanzibar generating the most tourism buzz.

Machu Picchu ’s panoramic views and mysterious stone walls are worth a plane ticket to Peru alone, but the country has more to offer than just Incan ruins. The Colca Canyon, one of the deepest canyons in the world, is known for its terraced agriculture and epic birdwatching (find everything from flamingos to giant hummingbirds here). The Paracas Natural Reserve (an easy day trip from Lima) is another ecologically rich area, where Humboldt penguins waddle freely on red sand beaches.

Argentina is one of the most awe-inspiring countries in the world, and not just because of its legendary tango performances. This nation is indeed a natural wonderland—just look at Los Glaciares National Park in Patagonia, comprised of jagged mountains, picturesque lakes, and massive glaciers . The northwestern part of the country contains some of the Andes and a lot of vicuñas (relatives of the llama). On the Argentina-Brazil border, Iguazú Falls—a collection of 200 falls reaching heights of 200 feet—is easily one of the most stunning sites in South America.

Venezuela is truly a land of superlatives. It has the world’s highest waterfall, for starters; and the 3,212-foot cascades of Angel Falls (that’s 19 times taller than Niagara ), located in the lush Canaima National Park, are by far the country’s most popular attraction. Mount Roraima also dazzles, with vertical cliffs stretching all the way through the clouds. The archipelago of Los Roques has white sand beaches, mangrove swamps, and spectacular reefs and underwater life.

It’s almost unbelievable how biodiverse Ecuador is. The country is a smidge smaller than Nevada, but encompasses pieces of the Amazon, Andes, and Pacific Coast, as well as the entire Galápagos archipelago. We’d argue that the Galápagos Islands are reason enough for Ecuador to land on this ranking, filled with volcanoes, lakes, beaches, and more animal species than we have room to cover here.

Split by the South China Sea, Malaysia is like two countries in one—Peninsular Malaysia and Malaysian Borneo—with islands thrown in as an added bonus. You’ll find a variety of diverse landscapes throughout this Southeast Asian nation. The Langkawi archipelago has pristine beaches, coral reefs, and lush mountains (plus that famous Sky Bridge you’ve definitely seen pictures of). The Cameron Highlands in Pahang are home to stunning tea plantations and butterfly farms. Hoping to spot some wildlife? The Kinabatangan River winds for 348 miles through the state of Sabah, providing habitats for saltwater crocodiles, Bornean orangutans, pygmy elephants, and more.

Philippines

There are more than 7,000 islands in the Philippines, and they easily number among the most beautiful in the world. The Puerto-Princesa Subterranean River National Park in Palawan encompasses mangrove forests, one of the world’s most impressive cave systems, and an underground river. The Chocolate Hills of Bohol Island consist of an estimated 1,776 grass-covered domes that are mysteriously uniform in shape. The rice terraces of both Banaue and the Philippine Cordilleras provide panoramic views of every shade of green imaginable.

It’s easy to sink into the pura vida (pure life) when you’re surrounded by misty waterfalls , deserted beaches, and protected jungles. In fact, more than a quarter of Costa Rica enjoys some form of environmental protection. Cocos Island National Park, the only island in the eastern Pacific with a rainforest, is a world-class diving destination replete with hammerhead sharks, giant manta rays, sea turtles, and dolphins. La Amistad National Park is another uniquely diverse site, with cloud forests, glacial valleys, and a rare tropical alpine grassland (say that five times fast). It’s also home to Cerro Chirripó, the highest mountain in Costa Rica.

Cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City draw tons of tourists every year, but Vietnam is also a haven for outdoor enthusiasts (or anyone who simply enjoys a pretty landscape). Ha Long Bay, located in northeast Vietnam , is beloved for its blue waters and spread of limestone islands—all occupied by tropical trees and wildlife. In the northeast, Hà Giang has breathtaking mountain scenery criss-crossed with steep rice terraces and hiking trails. On the southern coast, Ninh Van Bay has great snorkeling and diving . And you can always hop on a quick flight and spend a few days on Phú Quốc, a jungle-draped island off Vietnam’s southwestern coast.

We named Panama one of the best places to visit in 2022 , thanks to its biodiverse jungles, sprawling beaches, and relative lack of crowds compared to neighboring Costa Rica. The Caribbean-facing province of Bocas del Toro is a one-stop shop for both gorgeous beaches and active wildlife—for a truly memorable experience, take a nighttime snorkeling trip through bioluminescent waters right off the coast. A straight shot south from Bocas del Toro, the Pacific Ocean-facing province Chiriquí offers an equally beautiful, but wholly different slice of nature. Here you can hike through cloud forests, swim beneath roaring waterfalls, and witness the panoramic sunrise from the summit of Volcán Barú.

There are plenty of reasons to head to Kenya , and we’re not just talking about its bevy of resorts and safari camps . The Kenya Lake System in the Great Rift Valley is the ultimate place for wildlife spotting , with cheetahs, giraffes, black rhinos, and some of the highest bird diversities in the world. Mount Kenya is the second highest peak (after Kilimanjaro) and one of the most impressive landscapes in Africa, with glacial lakes and forested slopes.

New Zealand

New Zealand is no stranger to breathtaking landscapes, with towering mountains, turquoise lakes, and more than 9,000 miles of windswept shores . Just look towards the resplendent fields of pink and purple lupins at Lake Tekapo; or Milford Sound, a mountainous fjord where you can live out all of your Lord of the Rings fantasies. The splendor also extends below the surface to the Waitomo glowworm caves—leave it to New Zealand to make even worms look beautiful.

Landlocked Bolivia is often overshadowed by its neighboring countries, but this South American nation has a staggering amount of natural beauty. The country’s claim to fame is Salar de Uyuni, the world’s largest salt flat which becomes a giant sky-reflecting mirror during the wet season. Just north of the Chilean border in the shadow of the Andes, Laguna Colorada is a salt lake known for its blood-red waters. And while we’re on the subject of lakes, we’d be remiss not to mention Lake Titicaca—it’s the highest navigable lake in the world (12,500 feet above sea level) and features sparkling blue water, snow-capped mountains, and floating villages.

The United Kingdom

The United Kingdom comprises England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland, which explains why its natural sites are so beautifully diverse. In England, be sure to visit the rugged beaches of Cornwall and dazzling bodies of water in the Lake District. Wales is all about epic mountain ranges, namely Brecon Beacons and its surrounding hiking trails. Scotland’s lochs, highlands, and Isle of Skye number among the most beautiful places on the planet. And Northern Ireland has several unique sites to its name, including the Giant’s Causeway and Dark Hedges.

Poised between the Balkans and central Europe, Croatia is a land of limestone caves, undulating fields, and white pebble beaches. The country’s most famous waters are found inland at the Plitvice Lakes National Park, a system of waterfalls, caves, and 16 terraced lakes that cover the entire blue-green color spectrum. The Adriatic Sea coast is truly unrivaled, speckled with more than 1,000 islands surrounded by impossibly clear water. The Dinaric Alps provide even more sublime views and help contribute to Croatia’s overall landscape—the craggy peaks and caverns near the coast transition to rolling farmland in the northeast Hrvatsko Zagorje region.

Situated just outside the Arctic Circle, Iceland has emerged as one of the world’s most desirable tourist destinations. Travelers flock to the island nation by the millions to bear witness awe-inspiring vistas, from towering volcanoes to gushing waterfalls and expansive underground ice caves. Jökulsárlón, the deepest glacial lake in the country, is famous for its floating blue icebergs and gatherings of seals. Down in Vik, the black sands and basalt columns of Reynisfjara Beach are just begging to be photographed.

After soaking up all that Lisbon has to offer, venture outside of Portugal’s capital city to really experience how stunning the country is. The Algarve region is ideal for road trips , where you can pull over and appreciate some seriously gorgeous beaches lines with steep cliffs (we recommend Praia da Marinha ). The Douro River is another must-visit spot, thanks to spectacular views created by the steeply terraced vineyards at the river’s edge—similar to those found in the Moselle in Germany or the LaVaux vineyards in Switzerland. And don’t forget about the Azores , an Atlantic island chain of nine volcanic islands overflowing with hedges of blue hydrangeas .

Chile occupies some of the most pristine landscapes on our planet: the moonlike dunes of Valle de la Luna; the swirling, cerulean surfaces of the Marble Caves; the gurgling geysers of El Tatio. But when you think of Chile, you most likely think of Torres del Paine . The national park is like a microcosm of all the things that make Patagonia such a spectacular place: sky-high mountains, blue icebergs, and mythical lakes galore.

When it comes to sheer natural beauty, few countries in Africa come close to Namibia . The Namib Desert is the country’s shining star, from the otherworldly landscapes of the Skeleton Coast , to the shifting dunes of the Namib Sand Sea, to the eerie, sun-blackened trees of Deadvlei. The Brandberg, Namibia’s highest mountain, is a granite massif that glows when the sun sets (Brandberg means “Fire Mountain” in Afrikaans). And this is a coastal country, so you better believe there are beaches—namely the stunning Fish River Canyon (the largest canyon in Africa) or the rivers and wetlands in the Caprivi Strip.

Greece may be best known for the the architecture of Athens and coastal scenes of Santorini (if we had a dollar for every Oia snapshot on our Instagram feed…), but there’s a lot more to the country than its immediate associations. Each of the 6,000+ islands and islets offer swoon-worthy vistas, from the cliff-lined beaches of Zakynthos to the epic sunrises in Mykonos. Not a beach bum? Pay a visit to Epirus , the mountainous, forest-filled region in northwestern Greece.

Sri Lanka is one of our favorite travel destinations —a country complete with rambling temple ruins, leafy tea plantations, and wide, golden beaches. Animal lovers should take particular note, as the country has tons of options for wildlife viewing. Both Udawalawe National Park and Gal Oya National Park contain hundreds of elephants , while Yala National Park is home to the world’s highest concentration of leopards. And tea lovers, this advice is for you: Base yourself at Thota­lagala, a seven-suite hotel near Dambatenne, the world’s most famous tea estate, planted in 1890 by Sir Thomas Lipton (yes, that Lipton).

Norway is the land of glaciers, mountains, the Northern Lights, and fjords—so many fjords . The UNESCO-listed Geirangerfjord and Nærøyfjord in southwestern Norway are among the most scenic anywhere, with steep rock walls and dense forests. For something a little more unique (and daring), there’s Trolltunga at Hardangerfjord. This protruding rock sits about 2,300 feet above Lake Ringedalsvatnet and provides some of the most spectacular panoramic views in the country. And don’t forget about the Lofoten Islands , sitting pretty off the country’s northwestern coast.

Turkey’s landscapes are varied, breathtaking, and even a tad peculiar. Most of the best vistas are found in Asian Anatolia, like the fairy chimneys and rock pillars of Cappadocia , or the craggy peaks and alpine pastures of the Kaçkar Mountains. In the Aegean region, the frozen waterfalls and stacked pools of Pamukkale ensure you'll never be satisfied with your hotel’s infinity pool again. The Turquoise Coast (or Turkish Riviera) is another prime location, especially if perfect beaches, mountain views, and a Mediterranean climate are what you’re looking for.

In Nepal, once-in-a-lifetime experiences and breathtaking landscapes go hand in hand. Home to eight of the world’s 10 tallest mountains (including Mount Everest , the highest point on earth), the country is famous among hikers and adventure seekers. The Gokyo Lakes comprise the world’s highest freshwater lake system, where vibrant, glacier-fed waters are surrounded by snowy peaks. Chitwan National Park is home to rare populations of rhinoceros and Bengal tigers, while Sagarmatha National Park is the place to see snow leopards and red pandas.

Switzerland

Tucked away in the Alps, Switzerland is easily one of the most beautiful countries in the world, no matter when you’re visiting. Come wintertime though, it becomes a veritable wonderland , with powdery ski slopes and frozen lakes galore. For the best vantage point of the country’s natural beauty, stay in the village of Zermatt, a ski town so pristine that people actually buy bottles of air from the surrounding mountains (including Switzerland’s iconic Matterhorn mountain). Not a fan of skiing? A summer visit to Switzerland is always a good idea, where Lake Geneva’s picturesque banks and Zurich's badi (natural swimming pools along the lakes and rivers) are waiting to host your next family vacation .

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The 50 most beautiful places in the world.

Let these gorgeous destinations inspire you to travel more.

(Getty Images) |

From national parks to extraordinary beaches, these travel spots are sure to please.

Rendezvous Bay, Anguilla

Yellowstone National Park: Wyoming

Ksamil, Albania

Glacier National Park: Montana

(Courtesy of Visit Florida) |

Sanibel and Captiva Islands: Florida

Angel Falls: Canaima National Park, Venezuela

Machu Picchu: Machu Picchu Archaeological Park, Peru

Hever Castle: Kent, England

Budapest, Hungary

Cliffs of Moher: Lislorkan North, County Clare, Ireland

Kyoto, Japan

The Botanical Gardens of Nevis: Nevis

Hanalei Bay: Kauai, Hawaii

Bora Bora, French Polynesia

The Azores: Portugal

Flam, Norway

Al-Ula, Saudi Arabia

Banff National Park: Canada

Boulders Beach: Cape Town, South Africa

Canterbury, England

Grand Canyon National Park: Arizona

Venice, Italy

Pamukkale, Turkey

Krabi, Thailand

Glencoe, Scotland

Grindelwald, Switzerland

Fiordland National Park: New Zealand

Havasu Falls: Arizona

Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Blue Ridge Mountains: United States

Halong Bay: Vietnam

Dubrovnik, Croatia

Bergen, Norway

Seljalandsfoss: Iceland

Palm Beach: Noord, Aruba

Bagan, Myanmar

Plitvice Lakes National Park: Croatia

Raja Ampat Islands: Indonesia

Tel Aviv, Israel

Loire Valley: France

Jaipur, India

Meteora: Kalabaka, Greece

Petra, Jordan

Positano, Italy

Platinum Coast: Barbados

Guilin, China

Victoria Falls: Livingstone, Zambia, and Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe

Rothenburg, Germany

Lake Bled: Bled, Slovenia

Giza, Egypt

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Forever Traveling

12 Unique Places to Visit Around the World

If you truly love nature, you will find beauty everywhere. The world has many wonders to explore. Below I list 12 unique places to visit around the world and add to your bucket list.

#1- Diamond Beach, Iceland

Diamond Beach has giant chunks of ice that sparkle along the black sand. The black sand beach is a fascinating place to visit because it is so photogenic. Unfortunately, you cannot swim in this natural wonder because the tides and currents on the south coast can change quickly and are very strong.

#2- Salt Lakes, Egypt

Salt Lakes is a unique place where you can float perfectly because of the salt. The high percentage of salt and minerals creates mini lakes. The Salt Lakes is in Siwa Oasis , and everyone should visit from around the world because it is so relaxing and healing.

#3- Tracy Arm, Alaska

Tracy Arm is one of the most beautiful places in the world and is home to waterfalls, icebergs, mountains, and clear emerald water. The highlight is the Sawyer Glacier.

#4- Salzburg, Austria

Salzburg is a cultural, romantic city with plenty of attractions and things to do. The architecture in the historical streets is Baroque and medieval styles. It is a perfect destination for classical music lovers because you will find jazz clubs showcasing new talent.

#5- Barracuda Lake in Coron, Philippines

Barracuda Lake has everything from rock formations to crystal clear waters and marine life. It offers the best diving experience in the world. Don’t forget to bring your snorkel gear!

Similar Post: 8 Must-See Islands to Visit in the Philippines

Item We Recommend: Snorkeling Set

#6- Devil’s Den Spring in Florida

Devil’s Den is an underground spring with a large opening above. You can scuba dive or snorkel the 50-foot-deep sinkhole. It is a magical experience because you can also see ancient fossils and rock formations. 

Similar Post: 12 Best Things to Do in Florida

#7- Big Sur, California

Big Sur has a 90-mile-long stretch of coastline. The unique place has rugged natural beauty, cliffs, redwood forests, and coastal views. 

#8- White Sands National Park, New Mexico

There is quite nothing else like the White Sands National Park . The White Sands is a nature lover and photographer wonderland where you can go sledding, horseback riding, biking, driving, or hiking through it.

#9- Havasu Falls, Arizona

Havasu Falls , in the Grand Canyon, has turquoise-color natural pools and a gorgeous waterfall. It is a magical, beautiful oasis worth seeing. 

Similar Post: Top 10 Points at the Grand Canyon

#10- Interlaken, Switzerland

Interlaken is a beautiful town between the crystal-clear lakes of Thun and Brienz around the mountains. Interlaken has castles to explore and nostalgic trains to ride. There are a lot of outdoor adventures like tandem paragliding , rope park, helicopter skydiving, and canyoning. 

#11- Bruges, Belgium

Bruges has medieval charm, cobbled streets, cozy market squares, and photogenic canals. The best place for a panoramic view is at Belfry. If you love tasting local food and drinks, then you need to head to Brugs Beertje, which stocks over 300 Belgian Beers.

#12- Grindelwald, Switzerland

Grindelwald has incredible mountains with numerous lookout points. It is a great location to go during the winter because it is home to the largest ski resort in the Jungfrau region. 

Have you been to any of the 12 unique places that we listed? Please comment below about your experience!

Top of this post: 12 Unique Places to Visit Around the World

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The World's Most Unique Tourist Destinations

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Looking for a unique vacation destination? If the idea of going to see the Eiffel Tower or Big Ben does not appeal to you, then maybe a trip to one of the 10 most unique tourist destinations might. There are many places to visit that are off the beaten path and offer exciting and exotic experiences.

1. Sichuan, China

Located in Sichuan, China is the Leshan Giant Buddha. Carved in to the mountainside, this Buddha measures 233 feet tall. The Giant Buddha was carved in the 8th Century and is one of the largest known Buddha images in the world. While in Sichuan, be sure to stay at the Panda Inn featuring the panda image everywhere including on the walls and the furniture. For added fun, the staff dresses as pandas.

2. Las Pozas, Xilitla, Mexico

In Las Pozas, there is a surreal landscape of structures created by a wealthy English aristocrat. Edward James wanted to create a fantasyland and chose the jungles of Mexico for his masterpiece. On the 20 acres, he built buildings with names like “House With a Roof Like a Whale” and a staircase to nowhere. Las Pozas translates to the pools in English.

3. Pancake Rocks, New Zealand

Located on New Zealand’s South Island, Pancake Rocks sits on the western edge of Paparoa National Park. Layers of limestone and sandstone gathered on the ocean floor. The sandstone was softer than the limestone, and it began to erode. As this process occurred, rock outcroppings that resembled stacks of pancakes began to form. Of course, this did not happen overnight; the process began 30 million years ago.

4. Mont St. Michel, France

Mont St. Michel is a tidal island. When the tide comes in it is surrounded by water, when the tide recedes it is surrounded by land. The island is located off the coast of Normandy, France. On the island is a Gothic Abbey that housed prisoners during the French Revolution.

5. Icehotel, Jukkasjarvi, Sweden

Not afraid of a little cold weather? Located approximately 124 miles above the Arctic Circle, sits the Icehotel, but only in the winter months. The hotel is made almost entirely from ice. Here guests sleep on beds made from ice. There is a church, main hall, and bar made from ice. The glasses in the bar are also carved from ice.

6. Dean’s Blue Hole, Bahamas

Blue holes contain fresh water, seawater, or a mixture of both water types that extend below sea level. The name blue hole comes from bright blue color that can be seen from above the hole. Dean’s Blue Hole located on Bahamas’ Long Island is the deepest in the world. It has a depth of 600 feet.

7. Cancun Underwater Museum, Cancun

In the ocean, just off the coast of Cancun sits the Cancun Underwater Museum. The museum features more than 400 life size sculptures. The underwater sculptures were made from materials to promote the growth of coral. On the sea floor, the sculpture of a man sits on his couch watching television, while schools of fish swim by. This is truly a unique experience.

8. Alberobello, Italy

In 1996, the trulli of Alberobello became a UNESCO World Heritage site. This small town in Italy began in the 14th Century when the Count of Conversano colonized it. Here the homes are trulli. Trulli are dwellings made from limestone and appear cone shaped. When the homes were first built, they were made from interlocking rocks that lacked mortar. Since there was no mortar, they could be moved easily.

9. Ithaa Undersea Restaurant, Maldives

Ever wanted to dine with the fish? On the Conrad Maldives Rangali Island, there is a Hilton Resort that offers lunch and dinner at the Ithaa Undersea Restaurant. The restaurant is located 16 feet below sea level. The sides and roof are made of clear glass, allowing guests to be surrounded by sea life as they eat. Be sure to make reservation, because the restaurant only seats 12.

10. Pamukkale Thermal Pools, Turkey

In some places, the Pamukkale Thermal Pools look like fields of cotton balls. The name translates to cotton castle. The thermal pools are filled with natural hot spring waters and cascade down inclines to various tiers. The thermal pools are more than a great way to relax or spend the day swimming. They are breathtakingly beautiful. Do not forget the camera!

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World Wild Schooling

12 Unique Places in the World for Your Bucket List

Posted: April 24, 2024 | Last updated: April 24, 2024

There are some obvious contenders when compiling a list of places to visit before you die. Diving into the world’s most stunning places, we are hunting for an adventure that’s more than just a pretty picture.

Choosing the perfect spot can be tricky, as we all seek excitement and uniqueness. Each of these locations deserves a spot on your bucket list, promising to take you through their magical landscapes and ancient histories

Amalfi Coast, Italy

The Mediterranean’s coastal landscapes are world-famous. If you only visit one during your lifetime, make it Italy’s Amalfi Coast. This 30-mile stretch is a photographer’s dream called the Divine Coast. Expect fragrant citrus groves, stately villas, terraced vineyards, and coastal towns packed with charm in this UNESCO-listed area.

Read also: Most Beautiful Places Across the Globe

Aruba, Caribbean

The fact that Aruba is officially known as the Kingdom of the Netherlands reveals the island’s colonial heritage. Known as One Happy Island, Aruba offers more than white sands lapped by turquoise water. Although beautiful beaches are plentiful, visitors can enjoy hiking, diving, snorkeling, history, culture, and fabulous food. 

Read also: Best Exotic Beaches Across the Globe

Chichén Itzá, Mexico

Chichén Itzá is one of the planet’s best-preserved and biggest archaeological sites. It’s a key symbol of pre-Hispanic America, constructed by the Maya many centuries ago. The site occupies around four square miles and offers a rich cultural heritage for travelers to discover.

Read also: Best Historical Destinations Around the World

Santorini, Greece

Santorini is the gem of the Aegean Sea . The volcanic island is renowned for its stunning sunsets, whitewashed buildings, and blue-domed churches. Visitors can explore the archaeological ruins of Akrotiri, taste exquisite local wines at sun-drenched vineyards, and enjoy the dramatic views from Oia’s cliffside.

Read also: Most Beautiful Islands Across the World

Kyoto, Japan

Kyoto was formerly the Japanese capital and is a truly unique destination. The parks and architecture here create cityscapes unlike anything else you’ll find on Earth. Come here to experience multi-course kaiseki dining, meet Gion geishas, stroll through glorious gardens, and admire various Asian architectural styles.

Read also: Most Beautiful Cities in the World

Serengeti National Park, Tanzania

This UNESCO World Heritage Site is the ultimate African safari destination. Over 5,000 big cats, including cheetahs, lions, and leopards, call the Serengeti home. It’s one of the best places to spot the big five—buffalo, elephant, leopard, lion, and rhino. The Serengeti is also the site of the annual Great Migration, involving around two million antelopes, wildebeest, and zebras.

Read also: Best Adventure Destinations Around the World

The Seychelles, Indian Ocean

The Seychelles are so much more than a dreamy, idyllic island destination. This part of the planet is incredibly rich in wildlife, including huge Aldabra tortoises. In the 115 islands of the archipelago, you can also explore the rainforest of Morne Seychellois National Park, snorkel and dive at coral reefs, and, of course, enjoy breathtaking beaches.

Read also: Top Tropical Destinations

Petra, Jordan

Nestled within the desert canyons and rugged terrain of Jordan lies Petra, an ancient city carved into the rose-red stone. This UNESCO World Heritage site , often called the “Rose City,” is a testament to the ingenuity of the Nabateans, who established it as a major trading hub. Visitors can walk through the Siq to the majestic Treasury, explore royal tombs, and climb to the monastery for breathtaking views.

Read also: Best Cities to See Ancient Sites

Venice, Italy

Venice , the City of Canals, is a monument to the architectural and cultural achievements of the Renaissance. This floating city, built on a lagoon, enchants visitors with its intricate waterways, historic bridges, and ornate palaces. Take a gondola ride through its romantic canals, explore the grandeur of Saint Mark’s Basilica, and lose yourself in the charming alleyways and squares.

Read also: Top Iconic Places

Antelope Canyon, Arizona, USA

Located on Navajo land in Arizona, Antelope Canyon is a natural wonder shaped by the forces of water and wind over millions of years. This slot canyon is renowned for its wave-like structures and the ethereal light beams penetrating its narrow openings. Photographers and nature lovers flock here to capture its changing colors and graceful curves.

Read also: The Best Hiking Trails in the World

Salar de Uyuni, Bolivia

In the heart of the Andean plateau lies Salar de Uyuni, the largest salt flat in the world. This immense white expanse becomes a giant mirror after a rain, perfectly reflecting the sky above. Whether it’s witnessing the spellbinding mirror effect, stargazing under one of the clearest skies in the world, or simply standing in the middle of the salt desert feeling the vastness of the planet, Salar de Uyuni presents an otherworldly experience that resonates with the soul of every traveler.

Read also: Spectacular Desert Landscapes

Cappadocia, Turkey

Cappadocia, a region in central Turkey, is where nature and human history have conspired to create a landscape of ethereal beauty and fascinating cultural heritage. It is famous for its fairy-tale scenery with towering rock formations known as “fairy chimneys,” ancient cave dwellings, and underground cities that date back thousands of years. The highlight for many is a hot air balloon ride at dawn.

Read also: Surreal Landscapes Across the World

Must-Visit European Cities

Turn your wanderlust into reality with our list of  must-visit European cities .

• Read more:  Must-Visit Cities in Europe

Visa-Free Countries

Explore these  countries visa-free  with your American passport.

• Read more:  Visa-Free Countries

Stunning Small Towns in Europe to Visit in Your Lifetime

Add these  charming European small towns  to your bucket list.

• Read more:  Small Towns in Europe

Tropical Destinations To Add to Your Bucket List

Dreaming of paradise? Discover  tropical destinations  to add to your bucket list.

• Read more:  Tropical Destinations To Visit in Your Lifetime

Caribbean Destinations Where No Visa Is Needed for Americans

Discover passport-free paradise with our guide to  Caribbean destinations for US citizens .

• Read more:  Caribbean Destinations Without Visa

Read the original thread on  12 Unique Places in the World for Your Bucket List .

This article was produced and syndicated by  World Wild Schooling .

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• 7 Most Affordable Towns to Retire on the Pacific Coast

Finding a budget-friendly retirement spot along the Pacific Coast can be tricky.

The region is famous for its raw beauty, with crashing coastal scenes and ancient forests. But it can be a bit notorious for the high cost of living and expensive homes, depending on where you look.

Despite this, it also has places ideal for retirees who want to stretch their dollar in scenic settings.

The states that encompass the Pacific Coast have lots of unique attractions that draw people to live there, like stunning natural landscapes, rich culture, and vibrant communities.

Read on to learn about seven towns that are affordable options to settle down in after your retirement.

Crescent City, California

With the redwoods just around the corner, any retiree with a passion for nature will feel right at home here.

The town also has home prices and crime both lower than the national average, and offers a safe, affordable place to settle in.

A retiree who enjoys casting out a fishing rod will find the Smith River close by, offering some of the best salmon and steelhead fishing in the area.

Crescent City is surrounded by stunning nature, featuring wild shores and beautiful beaches like Pebble Beach, famous for its bright agate stones. This coastal spot has lots of chances for fun outdoor things to do like walking, watching birds, and spotting whales when they migrate.

The areas around Crescent City were home to many Native American tribes before settlers arrived, like the Tolowa Dee-ni’. Local events, museums, and classes keep their culture alive by highlighting their traditions and stories, and are an important part of the town's current history and legacy.

Westport, Washington

With an average house price of just over $280,000, this town is a good option for coastal living after retirement.

The town has a relaxed vibe, with pretty beaches and ocean views. It is an ideal spot for a calm, slow life after retirement.

This place has a rich history of sea travel and is famous for its large deep-sea fishing industry. In Westport, there are lots of boats available for hire that take folks out to sea to catch fish like salmon and tuna.

Westport Light State Park is a must-see stop. Inside the park, you can find Grays Harbor Lighthouse, the tallest lighthouse in Washington. Built in 1898, it is 107 feet high and lets you see amazing views of everything around it from the top.

The town is also lively with things to see and do. Some of the fun things to do include the Westport Art Festival, Crab Races and Crab Feed, and the big World Class Crab Derby.

Eureka, California

If retiring amongst beautifully preserved architecture sounds appealing, Eureka is a top-tier choice.

It has one of California's largest collections of Victorian houses, and among these, the Carson Mansion stands out as a stunning example of Victorian architecture, known as one of the finest in the whole of America.

The town is also the gateway to some of the tallest, most majestic trees on Earth.The nearby Redwood National and State Parks have ancient giant redwoods, hundreds of years old. These parks draw in people who love nature and hiking from all over the world.

The town is lively, with a community feel that is great for retirees who want to stay active and sociable. There is always something to partake in, like art walks and music festivals.

All year round, it hosts different cultural festivals, including the Redwood Coast Music Festival.

Ocean Shores, Washington

With low crime and an affordable cost of living, Ocean Shores is a fine option to retire in.

In fact, the rent in town is 40 percent lower than the national average.

If walking around and searching for gorgeous birds sounds like a great time to you, then you will love your time in Ocean Shores.

The place to check out is Damon Point. It is highly regarded for its beautiful views and calm beach walks. Plus, you can see birds and sometimes even spot grey whales depending on the time of year.

Every year the town holds the Razor Clam Festival & Seafood Extravaganza. Here people gather to search for clams, try to make the top clam chowder, and have fun listening to live music.

Close by, near Ocean Shores, visitors can explore the Quinault Rainforest in the Olympic National Park . This temperate rainforest provides a stark difference to the beach setting of Ocean Shores.

Port Angeles, Washington

With the Olympic National Park just next door, Port Angeles is a prime spot for retirement.

The park has everything from mountains with glaciers, ancient forests, and more than 70 miles of wild beaches. It is also great for hiking, watching animals, and just having fun outside.

Rent in town is 15.6% cheaper than the national average. Plus, there are lots of chances to enjoy the outdoors, making it a great spot if you enjoy nature and save some money.

Retirees who love the arts should check out the Port Angeles Fine Arts Center. It is located in a gorgeous forest park, and visitors can find art from local artists and a sculpture garden with walking trails, combining art with nature.

Traveling to other spots nearby is simple too. From Port Angeles, you can hop on a ferry to Victoria in British Columbia . There, you can visit places like the immersive Royal BC Museum and the world-class Butchart Gardens.

Oceano, California

Oceano, while its own unique area, can get lumped together with Pismo Beach. Even on its own, this town is the perfect example of an ideal beach spot.

It has a beautiful pier, sandy beaches, and an active boardwalk. This is where folks come to live the relaxed California lifestyle.

Who wouldn't want a little bit of that sweet Mediterranean-style weather all year? Here the climate is a big draw for folks ready to kick back and enjoy retirement without the chill of winter or the sizzle of summer beating down on them.

Pismo Beach is close to wine areas like Edna Valley, and it is only a quick trip to get there. This lets visitors easily try different wines and see the lovely vineyards along the Central Coast.

The city has great natural spots and facilities that help people stay active, which is important for staying healthy. Retirees can enjoy different activities like beach walks, hiking, playing golf, and doing yoga. A good example to do some of those things is at the Oceano Dunes State Vehicular Recreation Area.

Coos Bay, Oregon

This town is the biggest on the Oregon coast and plays a key role in the area's economy because of its deep-water port.

Living in Coos Bay costs less than the average for both the country and the state. It costs about 10.5% less than the average across the U.S. and 21.7% less than what you would typically pay in Oregon.

If you envision heading outdoors after you retire, just south of Coos Bay, visitors can find the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area, stretching out for 40 miles next to the ocean.

Here, there are huge areas of beach sand dunes, some of the largest expanses of temperate coastal sand dunes in the world.

Love seafood? The town and area is acclaimed for its seafood. The place has tons of food events every year, like the Charlestown Seafood Festival and other like-minded festivals.

In Conclusion

Retiring along the Pacific Coast can be a dream come true without stretching your finances.

These spots combine affordability with the stunning natural scope of the Pacific Coast.

They also offer lively cultural scenes, and inviting communities. Ideal for retirees, they can also have mild climates and diverse activities that enhance a relaxed yet active lifestyle.

So, if you want to embrace a coastal retirement where budget meets beauty and vitality, the sky is the limit in the Pacific Coast.

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7 Places In America In 2024 That Do Not Feel Real

From Fly Geyser to the Painted Hills, the US is home to some unique landscapes that truly look like they're from another world or a fantasy realm.

• US has unique and surreal places resembling alien planets and fantasy book settings, from Fly Geyser to Painted Hills, attracting nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers.
• Fly Geyser, Antelope Canyon, and White Sands NP offer breathtaking landscapes shaped by geological forces over centuries, inviting visitors year-round.
• The Hall of Mosses, Painted Hills, and Devils Tower showcase the beauty of nature and history, providing unforgettable experiences for all ages.

Some countries are particularly famous for their otherworldly landscapes (think Iceland's impressive natural wonders , incredible otherworldly hiking trails like Antelope Canyon in Arizona, and Socotra's unique trees and dunes ), but one doesn't have to travel overseas to find places that feel like scenery from a fantasy book.

Luckily, the US has many unique places, making it easy to plan a memorable escape akin to visiting an alien planet or a fantasy realm. Although there are some man-made wonders on this list, the majority are natural, with impressive geological formations carved by wind and water over the centuries.

These places are often a destination for nature enthusiasts, as they are home to wildlife and feature many hikes. From the Fly Geyser to the Painted Hills, here are a number of mind-blowing places in the US that don't look real at all, or at least not of this planet.

These Are The 10 Most Unique Places To Visit In The Adirondacks

7 fly geyser, nevada, an artificial geisel created accidentally in 1916.

The Fly Geyser , Nevada, emerged accidentally during a drilling project that reached a geothermal source in 1964. Its otherworldly appearance is owed to thermophilic algae thriving in mineral-rich waters, casting its terraced layers with red, orange, and green tones.

Over the years, the continuous buildup of calcium carbonate has shaped the Fly Geyser into three large mounds. This unique formation is located in the Fly Ranch , a 3,800-acre property that belongs to Burning Man. The palace is open to visitors, but former tourists recommend avoiding summer, as the days are too hot.

6 Antelope Canyon, Arizona

The famous slot canyon on navajo land near page.

Antelope Canyon is a slot canyon on Navajo land near Page, Arizona, in the southwestern United States. Carved over millions of years by the erosive forces of flash floods and wind, it consists of two main sections: Upper Antelope Canyon and Lower Antelope Canyon - both are popular among hikers . These narrow, winding passages feature towering sandstone walls that reach 120 feet, creating a dramatic landscape.

Upper Antelope Canyon is known for its smooth, curved walls and narrow openings that allow beams of sunlight, creating a phenomenon known as "shafts of light" or "light beams." These beams illuminate the canyon's colorful sandstone walls, highlighting their intricate patterns and textures.

Lower Antelope Canyon, on the other hand, is characterized by its more rugged terrain and steep staircases, offering a unique perspective on the canyon's geological formations. Visitors can explore narrow passageways, squeeze through tight spaces, and discover a variety of shapes and colors along the way.

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5 hall of mosses, olympic national park, washington, located in the hoh rain forest, this hiking trail is surrounded by old trees.

Olympic National Park is a bucket-list destination for those seeking memorable hikes. Located in the Hoh Rain Forest, the Hall of Mosses is arguably the most outstanding hike within the park thanks to its towering Sitka spruce and western hemlock trees, some of which are several hundred years old.

Walking through the Hall of Mosses feels like stepping into a fairy tale. The region is a haven for nature lovers and a habitat for various plant and animal species. Visitors to the Hall of Mosses can follow well-maintained trails that wind through the forest.

Fortunately, the trail is also one of the easy hikes in Olympic National Park , so people of all abilities and ages can enjoy this unreal place. Although, there are some steeper sections on the trail.

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4 white sands national park, new mexico, the park is home to the world's largest gypsum dune field.

White Sands National Park is often described as "like no place else on Earth." It is located in southern New Mexico and encompasses an area of approximately 275 square miles (710 square kilometers) within the Tularosa Basin. It is renowned for being home to the world's largest gypsum dune field.

The white sands of the park are composed of gypsum crystals, which give them their distinctive color and texture. Unlike typical quartz sand, gypsum sand remains cool to the touch even on hot days, making it a popular destination for visitors seeking relief from the desert heat.

The dunes of White Sands National Park constantly shift and change shape due to the wind, creating a dynamic and ever-evolving landscape. Guests can visit Alamogordo and explore White Sands National Park and its dunes on foot, bike, or car along the park's scenic loop road.

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3 devils tower, wyoming, this geological marvel was designated as america's first national monument.

Devils Tower is a geological marvel that rises abruptly from the surrounding plains in Wyoming. It's an imposing rock formation that was formed millions of years ago and stands 867 feet (264 meters) above its base.

Devils Tower was designated as America's first national monument in 1906. It also holds special significance for Native American tribes, who consider it a sacred site and refer to it by various names, including Bear Lodge and Grizzly Bear's Lodge.

According to traditional Lakota Sioux and other Native American oral histories, the tower is associated with cultural and spiritual significance and features prominently in their legends and ceremonies.

It's also possible to explore Devil Towers by visiting its hiking trails. Rock climbing is also a popular activity.

2 The Painted Hills, Oregon

One of the seven wonders of oregon, this palace reveals millions of years of geological history.

One doesn't have to fly to Peru to discover colorful mountains and hills. The Painted Hills, Oregon, is considered one of Oregon's Seven Wonders thanks to its vibrant, multi-colored hills adorned with red, gold, and black hues.

Formed over millions of years through the deposition of volcanic ash, clay, and mineral deposits, the Painted Hills offer a glimpse into the Earth's geological past.

The Painted Hills are a natural wonder and a cultural and recreational treasure. Designated as part of the John Day Fossil Beds National Monument , they allow visitors to immerse themselves in the beauty and wonder of one of Oregon's most iconic landscapes. The region also offers a network of trails and overlooks.

1 Cathedral Gorge State Park, Nevada

This park features labyrinthine slot canyons formed by volcanic activities and erosion.

Cathedral Gorge State Park is famous for its intricate maze of slot canyons, towering spires, and sculpted hoodoos, which have been carved over millions of years by the relentless forces of wind and water erosion.

Named for its cathedral-like chambers and arches, Cathedral Gorge offers visitors a journey through time and space. Exploring Cathedral Gorge is like stepping into another world, where every twist and turn reveals a new marvel.

Visitors can wander through narrow slot canyons, squeeze between towering rock formations, and marvel at the intricate patterns and textures in the landscape.