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The most mindblowing landscapes on earth

By Sharon Forrester

Lagoons in Lençóis Maranhenses National Park, Brazil from Condé Nast Traveller , October 2015

Aerial view over the São Sebastião peninsula, Mozambique from Condé Nast Traveller , January 2016

The Cono de Arita in Argentina from Condé Nast Traveller , October 2014

The outer islands of the Svalbard archipelago in Norway from Condé Nast Traveller , January 2016

The barren, russet-coloured mountains outside Tolar Grande, an area known as the Desierto del Laberinto (the Labyrinth Desert) in Argentina from Condé Nast Traveller , October 2014

Aerial view of sand banks in the Bazaruto Archipelago, Mozambique from Condé Nast Traveller , January 2016

Ojos del Mar salt flat in Salta, Argentina from Condé Nast Traveller , October 2014

On the dramatic ridge of Waun Rydd in the Brecon Beacons, Wales from Condé Nast Traveller , March 2016

Shannon McMahon

CNT Editors

Sarah James

Alex Postman

Rock formations near Norheimsund in Norway from Condé Nast Traveller , March 2016

Hillside contours in the sprawling Flinders Ranges, Australia from Condé Nast Traveller , December 2015

The biodiverse Kakadu National Park east of Darwin from Condé Nast Traveller , December 2015

A panoramic view from the mountain road to Nebaj in Guatemala from Condé Nast Traveller , April 2015

An epic sky over the mountains between Tolar Grande and the Labyrinth Desert in Argentina from Condé Nast Traveller , October 2014

Terraced paddy fields on the Naranag trail in Kashmir from Condé Nast Traveller , March 2014

Afternoon light settles on Svalbard's mountain peaks in Norway from Condé Nast Traveller , January 2016

Outback eucalyptus near Uluru in Australia, which according to the Anangu people was created during The Dreamtime by spirit beings from Condé Nast Traveller , December 2015

Hairpin bends on the mountain road between Sucre and Chataquila in Bolivia from Condé Nast Traveller , August 2013

Tombs in Old Dongola in the Bayuda Desert, Sudan from Condé Nast Traveller , July 2013

The shimmering silhouette of Uluru, Australia from Condé Nast Traveller , December 2015

Near Lake Brienz in Switzerland's Bernese Alps from Condé Nast Traveller , March 2016

An aerial view of the Selous Game Reserve, Tanzania from Condé Nast Traveller , March 2013

The Gheralta Escarpment in Ethiopia from Condé Nast Traveller , June 2013

On top of Lysefjord, in south-west Norway from Condé Nast Traveller , March 2016

The Simien Mountains, Ethiopia from Condé Nast Traveller , June 2013

Aerial view of The Flinders Ranges, mountains in south Australia from Condé Nast Traveller , December 2015

The Quebrado del Toro landscape in Argentina from Condé Nast Traveller , October 2014

View over Bundi town with its blue Brahmin houses in the Aravalli Hills, India from Condé Nast Traveller , March 2015

The banks of the Nile just below the third cataract in northern Sudan from Condé Nast Traveller , July 2013

The Kaokoveld Desert in northern Namibia from Condé Nast Traveller , November 2014

Conical thatched houses between the Simien Mountains and Lalibela, Ethiopia from Condé Nast Traveller , June 2013

The dramatic, winding roads climbing the Swartberg Pass on the way into the Groot Karoo, South Africa from Condé Nast Traveller , September 2015

Red-hot lava oozes through the earth's crust at Erta Ale volcano in Danakil, Ethiopia from Condé Nast Traveller , November 2015

A mountain road in the Altiplano, Bolivia from Condé Nast Traveller , August 2013

Tea plantations around Castlereagh reservoir, at the edge of Sri Lanka's Central Highlands from Condé Nast Traveller , August 2015

A hillside on Alladale Wilderness Reserve, Ardgay, Scotland from Condé Nast Traveller , January 2013

A view from Norwood Bungalow on the Tea Trails estate, Sri Lanka from Condé Nast Traveller , August 2015

Mountain peaks in Svalbard, Norway from Condé Nast Traveller , January 2016

The desertscape around Lake Eyre after a rare deluge from Condé Nast Traveller , December 2015

Pumice stone fields outside of El Peñon, Argentina from Condé Nast Traveller , October 2014

Mist rising from Castlereagh reservoir at the Tea Trails hotel in Sri Lanka from Condé Nast Traveller , August 2015

A vista from River View Cottages, in Little Karoo, South Africa from Condé Nast Traveller , September 2015

Mountains along the road between the Cono de Arita and Salar de Antofalla, Argentina from Condé Nast Traveller , October 2014

The salty shoreline of Kati Thanda, or Lake Eyre, Australia from Condé Nast Traveller , December 2015

Sand dunes in the Skeleton Coast National Park, Namibia from Condé Nast Traveller , November 2014

The rocky knuckles of Uluru's near neighbour Kata Tjuta, also known as The Olgas from Condé Nast Traveller , December 2015

Dramatic rock formations in the Ethiopian desert, in the Danakil Depression from Condé Nast Traveller , November 2014

Frozen waves and cabins in the morning light over Svalbard from Condé Nast Traveller , January 2016

View of frozen the Barentsburg settlement on Svalbard from Condé Nast Traveller , January 2016

An epic sky over the mountains between Tolar Grande and the Labyrinth Desert from Condé Nast Traveller , October 2014

Erta Ale volcano at night from Condé Nast Traveller , November 2015

The eerie landscape of Dallol in Ethiopia, which holds the record as the hottest inhabited place on earth from Condé Nast Traveller , November 2015

Sunrise over the desert at Hoanib Skeleton Coast Camp in Namibia from Condé Nast Traveller , November 2014

View over Mozambique's São Sebastião peninsula from Condé Nast Traveller , January 2016

Fishing dhows waiting for the tide to turn in Mozambique's Bazaruto archipelago from Condé Nast Traveller , January 2016

Migrating seabirds at sunset in Svalbard, Norway from Condé Nast Traveller , January 2016

Red-hot lava oozes through the earth's crust at Erta Ale volcano from Condé Nast Traveller , November 2015

Protect Your Trip »

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

You Might Also Like

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• 30 World's Best Places to Visit

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75 Most Beautiful Landscapes In The Entire World

In a world of Instagram filters, Ultra 4K TVs, and virtual reality, it can be easy to become numb to scenic landscapes. But screens, no matter how crisp, can never truly be awe-inducing. Fortunately, we live in a world where jaw-dropping splendor is available in just about every corner of the planet (lucky us!). 

The following list is a mixture of the rarely seen, easily accessible, and even a few remote dreamscapes. There's more here than most will see in a lifetime. But that doesn't mean you can't try. Whether you're curating a bucket list or simply looking for a little escape, these landscapes are good for what ails you. 

1. Yuanyang Rice Terraces in China

China's Yuanyang rice terraces are built on a cascading terrace spilling over gorgeous hillsides — each with a slope varying from 15 degrees to 75 degrees. Some rise by more 3,000 steps, creating a landscape that is a rare example of beauty meeting practicality. These terraces have been worked for more than 1,300 years, says China Discovery , and have been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2013.

2. Mount Roraima, Venezuela

Mount Roraima is one of the oldest mountain formations on the planet. Surrounded by Venezuela, Brazil, and Guyana, all four sides feature 1,300-foot high cliffs. While its cliff walls are only scalable by the most experienced of climbers, there is a path up the mountain's natural ramp-like path.

If you're ready to tackle this rarely seen marvel, Hike Venezuela recommends ascending on the Venezuelan side and perhaps employing the services of an Indigenous guide.

3. Antelope Canyon, Arizona

Arizona's Antelope Canyon is sheltered on Navajo land, not far from Utah's southern border. Classified as a slot canyon, its upper reaches are approximately 4,000 feet in elevation. When the sunlight shines on the colors of the canyon, they appear to vibrate off of the walls. The canyon looks red, gold and orange.

Antelope Lower Canyon recommends visiting between 11 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. to maximize the prismatic effects of the gorgeous beams of light dancing across the rock face.

4. Spotted Lake, Canada

Also known as a Sacred Medicine Lake, Canada's Spotted Lake may fool travelers to British Columbia who see it in the winter or spring. According to Tree Hugger , summer causes what appears to be a normal lake to evaporate, uncovering mysterious-looking pools of shallow water long thought to have healing properties. Its "spots" on the surface are caused by high salt levels.

5. Hornocal Mountains, Argentina

In the era of Photoshop, it's become a bit of a cliche to say that a landscape looks like a screensaver. And is that even a good thing? We say fewer screens and more up-close encounters with nature this stunning.

The absolutely fascinating geology of Argentina's Hornocal Mountains shocks those lucky enough to see it in person.The incredible colors and the inverted-V shaped formation is part of the limestone formation called yacoraite. From a distance, the Earth looks like a beautiful chevron blanket thrown across the landscape.

6. Bromo Volcano, East Java, Indonesia

Indonesia's Mount Bromo has become a popular tourist attraction because of the close proximity you can get to the active craters in the massif area. The active volcano stands at 7,641 feet. The volcano is noted for its spectacular sunrises and its name is derived from the name for Brahma, the Hindu god of creation, says Authentic Indonesia . It's easy to see why.

7. Skyline Drive, Virginia

Looking for a road trip a bit closer to home? It doesn't mean you'll need to skimp on beauty. Virginia's Skyline Drive is one of the best places to see stunning fall foliage outside New England. This is also one of the best road trips you can go on in the U.S. There are many picnic areas along the route. Many prefer the Elkwallow and South River because of the opportunities to "meet" raptors and many animals.The route winds through Shenandoah National Park and is a part of the gorgeous Blue Ridge Mountain chain.

8. Ashikaga Fuji Gardens, Japan

People from all over the world travel to the Ashikaga Fuji Gardens to witness the spectacular display of fuji flowers. The white, blue, and pink fuji are absolutely out-of-this-world gorgeous. Visit the gardens in the winter season to see the place's incredible water illumination display.

9. Victoria Falls, Zambia and Zimbabwe

Victoria Falls is one of the greatest attractions in all of Africa. It is classified as the world's largest sheet of falling water and boasts a width of 5,604 feet and height of 354 feet. Spray from the falling water can be seen miles away during the wet season.

10. Valley of the Moon, Brazil

Visit Valley of the Moon in Brazil and take a walk on one of Earth's oldest rock formations. The landscape was created by ancient lava flows that carved the rocks into moon-like shapes. Get a glimpse of what the Moon's landscape may actually look like in person.

11. Zhangye Danxia, China

The Danxia landforms, located in the Zhangye Danxia National Geological Park, are also known as the eye candy of Zhangye. The rocks and cliffs come in a variety of formations — smooth, sharp, vibrant, and extremely tall. The colorful rocks and rainbow ridges are absolutely awe-inspiring.

12. Kuril Islands, Russia and Japan

Kuril Islands are the focus of a long-standing territorial dispute between Russia and Japan. The volcanic archipelago island chain stretches north across the Pacific Ocean from the Japanese island of Hokkaido to the southern tip of Russia's Kamchatka Peninsula. It's easy to see why they're fought over; each island looks like its own peaceful paradise.

13. Valle de Cocora, Quindío, Colombia

Colombia's Valle de Cocora is known for being one of the only places in the world to see wax palms in their natural habitat. These slender poles shoot up about 200 feet into the sky and are topped with a few palm leaves. The wax palm is the country's national symbol and the world's tallest palm tree.

14. Nāpali Coast, Kauai, Hawaii

Kauaʻi's North Shore, also known as the Nāpali Coast is a place you should see by kayak. The 17 miles of ocean shores are one of the most popular attractions on Kauai. The 4,000-foot tall cliffs along the coastline are some of the most dramatic in the world. You'll see dolphins, seals, sea turtles, sea caves, waterfalls, and many stunning and secluded beaches.

15. Seven Rila Lakes, Bulgaria

The Seven Rila Lakes are some of the most popular summer attractions for Bulgarians (and others lucky enough to make a trip). The glacial lakes, situated between 2,100 and 2,500 feet above sea level, are located on the northwestern Rila Mountain, itself a stunning highland region on the Balkan Peninsula.|

16. Isle of Skye, Scotland

Scotland's Isle of Skye is every bit as stunning as it is remote. This rugged landscape is tethered to the mainland by bridge but once across, it feels as if you're in another world. This is a world-class destination for walkers and climbers. The Cuillin Range, for example, offers 12 "munros" – or peaks above 3,000 feet.

17. Cliffs of Étretat, France

Once you see the shapes out of the white cliffs at Etretat you're not like to forget the sight anytime soon. Located on France's Alabaster Coast, this 80-mile expanse faces the English Channel northeast of Le Havre.

Whether you're in the mood for a sleepy retreat in the surrounding scenic countryside or live for the drama of these stark cliff faces, you'll find what you're looking for here.

18. Cliffs of Moher, Ireland

The Cliffs of Moher, estimated to be 319 million years old, are the second most-popular tourist attraction in Ireland, after Trinity College in Dublin. The cliffs, which are about 5 miles long, rise sharply — up to 702 feet above sea level. Increased levels of carbonic acid in the water, along with flooding, will accelerate erosion of the limestone formations, so see them while you still can.

19. Douro Valley, Portugal

The Douro Valley region, located in northern Portugal, extends from the city of Porto to the country's eastern border. The Port wine production and the unique scenery sculpted by the Douro River and its streams are high points visitors should not miss. The valley is also home to three UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

20. Valley of Flowers, India

The Valley of Flowers is a must-see if you're visiting India. The surge of aromas from more than 300 alpine flowers will take your breath away. It's open from June until October. As you look at the horizon, you will see bright colorful carpet with refreshing mountainous snowflakes in the background.

21. Denali, Alaska

With an approximate elevation of 20,310 feet above sea level, Denali is the highest mountain peak in all of North America and is the largest of any mountain above sea level. Five huge glaciers flow off of the slopes of Denali.

22. Socotra, Yemen

Yemen's Socotra, is a remote island on the Arabian Sea, brimming with plants that are up to 20 million years old. The island, often called "the most alien-looking place on Earth," is so isolated that more than a third of its plant life does not exist anywhere else.

23. Reynisfjara Beach, Iceland

Iceland has several black sand beaches but Reynisfjara is one of the most impressive. Its iconic cliff of regular basalt columns resembling a rocky step pyramid, called Hálsanef, is stunning. Gaze out to sea and you'll see the spectacularly shaped basalt sea stacks called Reynisdrangar.

24. The Namib Desert, Namibia

This coastal desert, filled with stunning red sand dunes, is located in southern Africa. It covers an area of approximately 31,274 square miles, extends along the coast of Namibia, and merges along with the Kaokoveld Desert. It may be the oldest desert in the world but its arid conditions mean that it is only sparsely populated. Here's your chance to see a corner of the world few get to experience.

25. Tulip Fields, Netherlands

The Netherlands' Tulip Fields are like a museum of the most beautiful sights in the entire country. The striking colors of the bulbs are a common spectacle in Holland during the spring. You'll see seemingly neverending rows of bright red, pink, and yellow flowers.

26. Namaqualand, South Africa

This is South Africa's "outback" with dramatic mountains in the background. The stunning flower displays can be seen along several drives that center on the towns of Garies, Springbok, Kamieskroon, and Port Nolloth. The best time to visit for the widest variety of colors is in August, when the landscape looks like an artist's palette.

27. Moraine Lake in Banff National Park, Canada

A popular sight-seeing destination for many hikers in Banff National Park. Nestled amid sprawling mountains, this glacially fed lake can be found in the park's "Valley of Ten Peaks." Its most notable draw is the stunningly bright, turquoise-blue color of the water.

28. Bryce Canyon, Utah

This is where hoodoos and the forest meet! Bryce Canyon is actually not a canyon. It is a spectacular series of more than a dozen amphitheaters, each of which is carved at least 1,000 feet into the chromatic limestone of the Paunsaugunt Plateau.

29. Five Flower Lake, China

The Five-Flower Lake, or Wuhua Lake, is certainly among the most beautiful places in China. This pristine oasis in the Sichuan province is far from big cities. It lies at the end of the upper reach of Peacock River, about 8,110 feet above sea level.

30. Mù Cang Chải, Vietnam

The eye-catching rice terraces in Vietnam's Yen Bai province are one of most attractive sights in an already stunningly beautiful country. The best time to visit in order to see the most colorful and lively displays is in September and October. The golden-green and toast-brown colors of the ripe rice are glowing because of the sun shining on them.

31. The Great Blue Hole, Belize

This is one of the most dangerous places for scuba diving. Near the center of Lighthouse Reef, an eerily large submarine sinkhole takes up over 300 meters of the ocean. Over time the ocean rose, and a cave was flooded, creating this World Heritage Site.

32. Salar de Uyuni, Bolivia

Formed as a result of transformations between many prehistoric lakes, Salar de Uyuni is the world's largest salt flat. Because of the large, flat area and clear skies, it is often used for calibrating altimeters of Earth observation satellites. It also creates a dream-like reflection off of the crust.

33. Twelve Apostles, Australia

The iconic rock stacks along the Great Ocean Road in Victoria have separated from nearby limestone cliffs. They began eroding away from the caves approximately 10 to 20 million years ago. The wind and water continue to corrode them at an average of 0.75 inches a year.

34. Plitvice Falls, Croatia

Plitvice Lakes National Park, a dangerous place to take selfies, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is famous for its 16 terraced lakes that are joined by waterfalls. The waters have flown over the limestone and chalk for thousands of years, creating natural dams, caves and waterfalls.

35. White Desert, Egypt

This natural wonder is best-known for its spectacular scenery. The gorgeous white landscape and chalk-colored rock formations will leave you in awe. Tourists enjoy camping overnight under the stars, especially on full moon nights.

36. The Wave, Arizona

The Wave in the Coyote Buttes North area of the Arizona Strip is best photographed midday if you want to minimize the extensive shadows. Other areas are best photographed in mid-late afternoon. You must get a permit to see The Wave.

37. Red Seabeach, China

Red Seabeach is one of China's most impressive landscapes. It is the biggest wetland in the world featuring the red plant, Suaeda salsa. There are specific bridges where tourists are allowed to visit and look out over this incredible view.

38. Lavender Fields in Provence, France

From June to August the lavender fields come to life. The colorful purple bloom around Mont Ventoux makes for a regal scenery and atmosphere. Go on a relaxing walk along the lavender roads from the field to the distillery and embrace the intense colors surrounding you.

39. Cinque Terre, Italy

Cinque Terre is a UNESCO World Heritage Site deemed as having noteworthy cultural value for signifying a "harmonious interaction between man and nature to produce a landscape of exceptional scenic quality." The colorful village provides a vibrant backdrop for travelers who are after truly stunning snapshots.

40. Okavango Delta, Botswana

Explore 450,000 acres of pristine wilderness of the Okavango Delta on horses and riding alongside zebras, giraffes and elephants.

41. Pamukkale, Turkey

Pamukkale is Turkey's leading mineral-bath spa because of its natural splendor. Hot calcium-laden water flows over a cliff. As it cools down it forms vivid travertines of hard, white calcium that form pools. Named the Cotton Fortress in Turkish, it has been a spa since the Romans built the spa city of Hierapolis around a sacred warm-water spring.

42. The Fjords, Norway

Norway is easily among the most beautiful countries in the world and the fjords are its trademark. The rugged scenery and massive inlets are magnificent. The fjords region ranges from the coast from Stavanger to the Russian border. The rustic village resorts look like they are from a fairytale.

43. Lake Lucerne, Switzerland

Lake Lucerne is surrounded by mountains, which contribute to the amazing scenic variety around it. The lake reminds of a fjord landscape. A feature that makes Lake Lucerne stand out is the fact that the water flowing into the lake passes beneath the 13th-century Chapel Bridge.

44. Paro Taktsang, Bhutan

Buddhist monasteries are nestled into cliff sides. Colorful prayer flags are flapping in the wind. Rugged peaks are towering over valleys. There are views that are common in Bhutan, one of the most secluded adventure destinations in the world.

45. Moravia, Czech Republic

This is a UNESCO treasury. Go to see a combination of beautiful architectural gems. Its stunning gardens and postcard scenery also make this beautiful town in Czech one to remember. Moravia is predominantly formed of hilly country, highlands and low mountain ranges.

46. Torngat Mountains National Park, Canada

The park, whose name means "place of spirits," is a remote and wild area, but indigenous peoples have lived there for thousands of years, according to Parks Canada. Today's visitors come for wilderness-oriented experiences – camping, backpacking, climbing, and sailing. The park is accessible only by boat and charter plane during the summer.

47. Table Mountain, South Africa

This is a unique mountain with a flat top that overlooks the city of Cape Town in South Africa. It reaches approximately 3,558 feet in elevation. Visitors enjoy hiking or using the cableway to reach the top.

48. Oia, Greece

You've likely seen pictures of the striking white buildings overlooking the sea—Santorini is no travel secret, but it's still well worth the trip. Check out the black sand beaches of Perissa, the historic hilltop village of Oia and the incredible wineries in the area.

49. The Maroon Bells, Colorado

The setting sun transforms the aspen trees and Maroon Bells into an absolutely magical place. All that's missing is you, pitching a tent to spend the night in the gorgeous wilderness.

50. Zhangjiajie National Forest, China

Zhangjiajie, China's first national forest park, became famous worldwide from the movie Avatar in which the Hallelujah Mountains were inspired by Heavenly Pillar in Zhangjiajie. The most popular and iconic feature of the park are the dangerous sandstone peaks.

51. Hoh Rain Forest

Did you know that America boasts its own rain forest? That's right, you won't even need a passport to see this almost alien-like splendor. Located on Washington's rugged coast, you'll get the full Pacific Northwest experience here, but the result is far from gloomy. Sumptuous greens surround you here and, despite the fact that the area is popular among experienced and novice hikers, it's still one of the quietest places in the entire world.

52. Salton Sea, California

Despite the fact that California's Salton Sea ranks on our list of most chilling abandoned places, many residents still make their homes in this former resort area. Because of the area's high salt content (which increased over time), what was once a manmade Palm-Springs-like escape became an almost Martian desolate landscape. If you don't mind a little ruin among your beauty, the Salton Sea is still ready to welcome you.

53. Turks and Caicos sunsets

If your escape needs to be postcard-worthy, it's hard to top the sunsets of Turks and Caicos. Pastel skies meet gentle turquoise waters and while we know you're not there to make your friends jealous exactly , it's hard not to imagine a person with a front-row seat to this show hasn't been especially blessed (not to mention blissed out). Sign us up.

54. Sicily, Italy

Hilly, majestic, and a bit mysterious, it's no wonder Sicily was the perfect romantic (and dramatic) setting for Season 2 of "White Lotus." If you're the kind of person who likes to indulge in sumptuous food while azure water tickles your toes and a friendly Mediterranean sun shines down on your shoulders (and who isn't?), put this Italian isle on your list.

55. Cannon Beach, Oregon

Never heard of Cannon Beach? Don't worry; we suspect you've seen it. Once you've seen Haystack Rock rising dramatically from the Pacific off Oregon's coast, it's hard to forget. Sure, you may remember it from the pivotal scene in "The Goonies," you won't need to see a pirate ship to be awed by the sight. And while the rocky beaches of the Pacific Northwest aren't as sanguine as their cousins down in California, you'll still find yourself transported by the expansive views.

56. Chocolate Hills, The Philippines

Though these geologic formations may look like the sky spilled a bag of Hershey's Kisses across the landscape, we doubt that's how these hills got their name. More likely, it's the deep brown color they turn during the dry season that gave them their unique moniker. And there are more than 1,000 of them spread across the Bohol province in southern Philippines. Sure you could explore them all, but why not climb to the nearest vista and enjoy the delicious views? 

57. Blood Falls, Antarctica

While the name is foreboding and the location isolated, there's really nothing to fear from Antactica's Blood Falls. Though the blood-red colors stand out among the vast expanse of white and deep blue of the ocean, the hue is all natural, thanks to a steady flow of oxide-rich glacial water streaming toward the sea.

58. Yosemite National Park, United States

The quality of light just seems different in Yosemite National Park. The waterfalls, sequoias, and stark granite cliffs are rendered even more beautiful by the playful light dancing across the landscape in this Californian treasure nestled in the Sierra Nevada Mountains. Whether you're tackling El Capitan (good luck!) or simply trying out one of its many beginner-friendly hikes , the sights of Yosemite won't soon be forgotten. 

59. Rio Tinto, Spain

If there's anything Spain loves, it's a dramatic painter. Just ask Picasso, Dali, or Goya. But Mother Nature didn't do such a bad job herself when it came to capturing the unique and awe-inspiring beauty of the country's Rio Tinto (Red River). Much like that glacier in Antarctica, iron is responsible for some of the river's deep-red color, but a high level of acidity and various heavy metals add depth to the rich hue. While iron extraction likely played as big a role as Mother Nature in creating the striking visuals, the river isn't barren. It teems with life that can thrive in its harsh conditions. And we think that's pretty beautiful in its own right. 

60. Mono Lake, California

Want to post a California location tag on social media unlike any other? Head to Mono Lake, due east of San Francisco and almost to the border of Nevada. Here you'll find not only a recreational paradise (think boating, birding, and hiking), but a landscape unlike any other. According to Mono County, the lake can be classified as a large inland sea, as it spans nearly 600 square miles. But it's the mineral towers that are the real draw here. Branching up out of the water as far as the eye can see, you can gaze at them as you enjoy a leisurely float. Thanks to the water's unique alkalinity, you'll be floating with ease. 

61. The Tsingy de Bemaraha Strict Nature Reserve, Madagascar

This one is for the googology lovers. Madagascar's Tsingy de Bemaraha Strict Nature Reserve is a geomorphological wonderland. And while a bunch of limestone popping up out of the ground may not sound all that exciting, when you see the reserve in all its glory, the result is a landscape as otherworldly as it is spiritual. And the view is one that will make you grateful to live on a planet packed with so much unique beauty — even if the view is unlike any you've seen before.

62. Door to Hell, Turkmenistan

Truly the most metal name of all the selections on this list, you might be forgiven for thinking the attraction sounds a little dramatic. After all, could a natural phenomenon really look like a portal to another dimension? Well, turns out, yes. But that doesn't mean you should shy away from visiting. Maybe it would help to know that its other name is simply the Darvaza gas crater. Not as evocative, true, but every bit as impressive in person. And while a recent visitor to this continually burning crater described the sensation of seeing it to National Geographic as feeling "a bit like a baked potato," it's still an awe-inspiring site to stand (safely) along the rim of this extreme phenomenon.

63. Moeraki Boulders, New Zealand

Boulders. Seen one, seen 'em all, right? Not necessarily. Consider the Moeraki Boulders of New Zealand. According to New Zealand's tourism site , these massive and numerous calcite formations have been around for more than 65 million years — so it's only natural New Zealand's Indigenous people, the Maori, have legends that depict these structures as washed-ashore gourds from a great canoe. And they do truly look like they've been idly dropped across the landscape by a giant's hand. Mystical meets geological intrigue in this sight not to be missed when visiting Aotearoa.

64. The Grand Prismatic Spring, Yellowstone National Park

Yes, it's true. We kind of have a thing for national parks. But can you blame us when they preserve some of the most remarkable scenery in the entire world? Deep inside Yellowstone National Park sits the Grand Prismatic Spring, a stunning marvel that may sit in the shadow of Old Faithful but deserves plenty of spotlight on its own. Larger than a football field, per Yellowstone National Park , the concentric circles extending from the center are a colorful bullseye of bacteria growth. Sounds gross, maybe, but nevertheless looks extremely cool. These microbes love the thermal heat — and we love the colors they show us. Win-win.

65. Lake Hillier, Australia

Australia's Lake Hillier likely looks like a dream you once had. Pastel pinks and saturated blues meet at the horizon. One of the smallest sites on this list (and partially overshadowed in photos by the very nearby Pacific Ocean), the lake nevertheless makes for a striking scene. Unlike many of the other uniquely colored landscapes on this list, there's currently no pat scientific explanation for the lake's vibrant though, according to the lake's official website , most pin the explanation on carotenoids, the very pigment that gives carrots their vibrant hue. 

66. Faroe Islands

These 18 craggy islands are nominally part of Denmark but are situated between Iceland and Norway and offer some of the most distinctive landscapes a traveler can come across. Sleepy villages huddle beneath towering hills and a big sky, creating the impression of children tucked in under the covers and content in their cozy slumber. This is a hiker's and birder's paradise, as you might expect, so if you enjoy a brisk hike on a heath, this far-north sojourn might be for you.

67. Monument Valley, Arizona, USA

Monument Valley is one of the defining landscapes of the American Southwest. It's landscape as cultural canon — and for good reason. These evocative sandstone buttes rising up out of the red desert near the border of Arizona and Utah have been featured in countless films and TV shows over the years. Want to conjure the magic and mystery of the Southwest? You're talking Monument Valley. It's hard to believe the familiar site is only about 5 square miles, but that doesn't detract from the grandeur. 

68. Wadi Rum, Jordan

Jordan's Wadi Run is a UNESCO -protected area — and not just because of its abundant natural beauty. The site actually tells a unique story about the history of mankind, thanks to its thousands of inscriptions and carvings. People have lived in the area for more than 12,000 years, meaning its history is so much more than surface-deep. That said, that surface is also pretty remarkable, as it stretches out over tens of thousands of hectares, not far from the Rift Valley.  

69. Lake District, England

Every Jane Austen fan will recall that the Lake District was where Elizabeth Bennet set out to explore in order to conquer her feelings for Mr. Darcy, but you hardly need a dramatic life crossroads to happen to have an excuse to explore this history-rich and scenic countryside. This is, after all, the quintessential rural England, beloved as a holiday escape for locals and a sojourn for pilgrims alike. While you may see more striking landscapes, you likely won't see many more serene.

70. Cappadocia, Turkey

Arguably, this central Turkey region is as known for its interesting (and beautiful geology) as it is for its hot air balloons — launched each morning at sunrise, per Journey Era . Obviously, one of the best ways to see this stunning landscape is from above, as in your own sunrise flight. And plenty of companies offer this service. If you prefer to stay closer to the ground, just know that this is one of the best areas in the world to hike. 

71. Skaftafell Ice Cave, Iceland

Appropriately, you'll find this stunning ice cave in, well, Iceland. Visitors to these glassy wonders (this isn't the only one of its kind) have described the experience as like stepping into a cathedral, and it's easy to see why this would evoke spiritual feelings in visitors. But if you visit, beware. Trips To Discover notes that it's only possible (and safe) to visit in the winter and that, despite the yawning opening, the cave eventually narrows to only a few feet high.

72. Hitachi Seaside Park, Japan

Imagine lying down in a sea of blue flowers. That's what visitors to Japan's Hitachi Seaside Park could experience. While the whole park (which sits in view of the Pacific Ocean) is a wonderland in its own right, with all the expected scenery and hiking opportunities, it's the seasonal flowers that explode like tiny firecrackers across the fields. Poppies, roses, zinnias, sunflowers, and cosmos can be found at various points throughout the year, so there's rarely a bad time to experience such fleeting beauty.   

73. Marble Caves, Chile

Imagine the beauty of a pearl. Or perhaps a found shell on the beach. Now imagine a while wall of that gorgeous shimmer . That's what visitors to Chile's Marble Caves can expect. According to Ecophiles , it was thousands of years of waves lapping at the mineral-rich walls of these caves that created their iridescent glow. Fortunately, there are plenty of options to see this natural wonder, including organized tours and kayaks for rent!

74. Great Barrier Reef, Australia

It's no surprise that as the largest coral reef in the world, Australia's Great Barrier Reef, makes the list. More than 3,000 reef systems here meet caves and stunning islands, according to GreatBarrierReef.org . And, as one of the planet's true marvels, it's no wonder there are so many ways to experience the reef — whether above the water (on a helicopter tour), on it (kayaking, glass-bottom boat tours), or beneath it (diving here can't be beat) — you can meet this pristine wilderness on its own terms. 

75. Iguazu Falls, Argentina and Brazil

Yet another UNESCO site is added to our list because who doesn't love a waterfall? And who wouldn't love to be surrounded by a semi-circle of cascading water? And the falls, despite being some of the most beautiful in the world, aren't the only nearby attraction. UNESCO also mentions the surrounding rainforest, rich in biodiversity and teeming with life. Any visit that can include seeing a waterfall — and potentially seeing a howler monkey, jaguar, tapir, or anteater — sounds like an exciting afternoon to us. 

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• Nature Travel

10 Incredible Natural Wonders to See in Your Lifetime, According to 'T+L' 's A-List Advisors

These are the most awe-inspiring natural wonders around the globe, from the mountains of Montenegro to the sand dunes of the Sahara.

In 2020, many of us found comfort in the outdoors, from visits to faraway national parks to exploring leafy neighborhoods in our own cities. Now that international travel is starting to pick up once more, we asked our trusted A-List travel advisors about the world's most impressive natural wonders, so you can start planning your bucket-list trip today.

Namibia's Deserts and Coasts

" Namibia is other worldly. The northerly Kunene region is one of the most remote areas on the planet, vistas are never ending and the landscape is lunar-esque. The Skeleton Coast is raw, desolate and eerily beautiful. A raging sea meets an angry coastline, plus there are myriad species of desert adapted wildlife. The Namib desert is the oldest in the world and home to the highest sand dunes— this majestic region is a photographer's dream." Darren Humphreys, Travel Sommelier

China's Huangshan Mountains

"People often think of China as an urban setting and rarely consider that it's the fourth largest country in the world with many natural wonders , from the southwest jungles to the Gobi desert in the northwest. People visiting China will often include outdoor travel within the context of a larger, heritage-based trip. In the Huangshan area, you can walk along the ridges of the stunning Yellow Mountains one day and then on the next day they can bike or trek past bamboo forests through verdant rice valleys to an assortment of picturesque villages. — Guy Rubin, Imperial Tours

Croatia's Lakes and Islands

"I have to start with Plitvice Lakes in Croatia , along with sleeping in the plush new treehouses near the National Park. I would also suggest a five-to-seven day cruise around Kornati islands with a visit to Telašćica Nature Park and, of course, island Mljet —which is often overlooked and provides one of the most pristine settings in the Mediterranean. Mljet is considered the mythical island of Ogygia where, according to Homer, Caliope held Odyseuss prisoner." — Mina Agnos, Travelive

The Grand Canyon (With A Side of Vegas)

Book a 6-day rafting trip through the heart of the Grand Canyon via the Colorado River . These outfitters have been running the trips for 20 or more years, and the guides really know the history of the canyon. The food is great, and you'll marvel at being a mile down in a canyon, camping on the banks at night, and roaring through the rapids from Crystal to Lava Falls. At the end, escape nature by helicoptering out to Las Vegas for a show. Kids love it (but it's best if they are 10 and above.) — Betsy Donley, Camelback Travel

Tanzania's Ngorongoro Crater

The Ngorongoro Crater is the world's largest inactive volcanic caldera, formed when a volcano erupted and then collapsed inward almost three million years ago. Now it's a 12 mile wide hole in the earth's crust with mesmerizing 2,000 foot vertical walls. The cinematic light with the vertical backdrops are the things a photographer's dreams are made of. The crater boasts the densest concentration of iconic wildlife in Africa: seven prides of lion, tons of endangered black rhino, huge herds of zebra and wildebeest, and leopards, giraffes, ostrich, warthogs, and jackals roam the open grasslands, dense forests, and lakes full of pink flamingos. Tanzania's Ngorongoro Crater Lodge is dramatically perched on the edge of the crater rim with perhaps the most breathtaking view in all of Africa. Proximate to the crater is Africa's other greatest natural wonder, the Great Migration , and a great combination trip. Mark Lakin—The Legacy Untold

Antarctica's Frozen Wonderland

"What better place to get away from the crowds than on a polar adventure? Antarctica offers stunning vistas, plentiful penguins, playful whales and a variety of adventures including zodiac cruises, kayaking, camping, and even paddle boarding. There are few things more peaceful than floating amongst icebergs on your kayak as you take in the grandeur of the Antarctic continent. The Arctic , similarly, offers breathtaking ice in the form of glaciers, ice bergs and fjords. Polar bears lumber along the ice floes looking for seals and dive gracefully through the crystalline blue waters.— Mary Curry, Adventure-Life

Italy's Adriatic Coast

"The Italian regions of Marche and Abruzzo on the east coast of Italy, facing former Yugoslavia, are little-known gems which offers amazing outdoor activities in breathtaking natural landscapes. Explore one of the biggest underground caves in the world, Grotte Di Frasassi, hike through the mountains of Abruzzo National Park where you will meet bears and wolves, and dine in a traditional fishing hut hanging over the Adriatic sea." — Matteo Della Grazia & Daniela Mencarelli, Discover Your Italy

Morocco's Sand Dunes

"I recommend clients take the time to travel to the dunes of the Sahara . Spending a night on the dunes in a tented encampment is a memorable way to enjoy nature in Morocco . On a clear night, the African sky will present an endless field of starts. There is nothing better than sitting around a campfire in the evening in this distant corner of southern Morocco." — Michael Diamond, Cobblestone Private Travel

Norway's Wolves

"Combine natural wonders with a chance to see special animals at the Wolf Lodge in Norway . You will stay in a luxurious chalet surrounded by wolves in a large polar park and interact with the wolves with trainers. You can see the Northern lights , with snow up to your waist, as you listen to the wolves howl. They even come up to sniff you and, at times, will gently touch you with their mouths. You must be very still and kneeling—it is an incredible encounter." — Ellison Poe, Poe Travel

Montenegro's National Parks

"Though undeniably beautiful, Croatia's lakes and parks are more well known, so consider an off-beat option in neighboring Montenegro . Visit the glacier-formed Durmitor National Park (a UNESCO World Heritage Site ) and the Tara River Canyon, which has the deepest gorges in Europe." — Jay Ternavan, JayWay Travel

Related Articles

Top 20 of the most amazing natural landscapes in the world

Top 20 of the most amazing natural landscapes in the World

• Where2travel

20 STUNNING NATURAL LANDSCAPES TO SEE IN THE WORLD

If you are a nature lover, this page will surely interest you because you will find my top 20 of the most beautiful natural landscapes in the world. In this list, you will discover different types of natural sites such as canyons, mountains, deserts, forests, waterfalls, parks… with in addition a map to locate them, including information on each of these places, with my own photos and some tips.

Through this page, you will travel through exceptional natural landscapes from all continents except Europe for which I have made a dedicated page . Here, you will cross among others, a majestic bamboo forest in Kyoto, imposing American canyons, the steep cliffs of Chinese mountains, the mighty waterfalls of Iguazu, superb national parks like those of Kruger in South Africa and of Arches in the United States, or a desert and a jungle in Africa.

The beaches are also superb natural landscapes, but I preferred to gather them in a dedicated section: Top 25 of the most beautiful beaches in the world . Finally, do not take too much into account the order of this list, all the natural sites presented on this page are magnificent, and it would be I think very subjective to make a final ranking. Only one thing is certain, you will spend unforgettable moments in each of these most beautiful natural landscapes in the world.

MAP OF THE MOST AMAZING NATURAL LANDSCAPES IN THE WORLD

Top 20 of the natural sites to visit in the world,    arches national park in the united states.

Arches National Park is a park in the western United States, in the state of Utah. This superb place has the particularity of concentrating many natural rock arches, but also cliffs and mounds formed over time by erosion. Its most famous arch is “Delicate arch”. This sublime wonder of nature, 20 meters high and almost 15 meters wide, with its “natural amphitheater” around and the mountains in the background, offers a breathtaking spectacle at sunset in particular.

   The Iguazú Falls between Brazil and Argentina

The fabulous Iguazú Falls are located on the border between southern Brazil, Argentina and Paraguay. To enjoy the most beautiful natural landscapes and viewpoints, you can simply walk along the different paths and stop at the many observation platforms and lookouts. I strongly recommend that you visit the falls from both sides: Argentinian and Brazilian.

On the Argentinian side, where you can see the most falls, I advise you to take the two circuits. The bottom one with its 1,700 meters course that runs along the falls to water level, and the top one, 650 meters long with suspension bridges that allow you to admire the waterfalls up close. Both routes end a few meters from the Devil’s Throat (Garganta do Diabo), which is the deepest and highest waterfall.

On the Brazilian side, the main advantage is the configuration of the place, you can indeed admire a grand panoramic view of the falls. Finally, in addition to the natural beauty of its 275 waterfalls listed as UNESCO heritage, you will also discover exceptional flora and fauna along the trails.

   Arashiyama bamboo forest in Japan

Arashiyama’s bamboo grove is located in northwest Kyoto in Japan. Although quite short (around 500 meters), this walk through the giant bamboos is truly magical and very pleasant. This dense bamboo forest, several tens of meters high and intense green, is a natural landscape not to be missed if you are traveling to Japan. FYI, bamboo represents strength, prosperity, and is reputed to repel the forces of evil, which is why this bamboo plantation is particularly appreciated by the locals. Finally, don’t miss the nearby Tenryu-ji temple and the Iwatayama monkey park.

   Kruger Park in South Africa

Kruger National Park is undoubtedly one of the most famous nature reserves in Africa. In this zone, which covers approximately 20,000 km2 in the north of South Africa, on the border with Mozambique, live some of the largest mammals on the planet, like those belonging to the famous “Big 5” which designates the most large mammals on the planet: elephants, rhinos, buffaloes, lions and leopards.

If you want to go on a safari in South Africa, this park is a safe bet. Whether you decide to take a guided tour or visit the park on your own, there are many opportunities for close encounters with animals at Kruger Park! To give you an idea, the park is inhabited by around 147 species of mammals, 114 of reptiles, 33 of amphibians, 55 of fish and 517 species of birds. If you are looking for more information about the park, check out the website South African National Park .

   The Chocolate Hills in the Philippines

You can contemplate the Chocolate Hills on Bohol Island in the Philippines. These are cone-shaped hills, 30 to 50 meters high, which owe their name to their vegetation which takes a brown tint during the dry season. The chocolate hills form a splendid natural landscape, one of a kind. On Bohol Island, you will also discover superb beaches and an extraordinary endemic animal: the Tarsier of the Philippines.

   The Viana Desert in Cape Verde

The Viana Desert is located in the northwestern part of the island of Boa Vista. Measuring only 1 km wide and 5 km long, it made of grains of black earth and clear sand, transported from the African continent by ocean winds. This desert with long sand dunes, volcanic rocks and date palms, create a very beautiful natural landscape by day, as by night in the light of the moon.

   Cappadocia in Turkey

Cappadocia is a semi-arid region located in central Turkey. This natural area, inscribed on the UNESCO protected list of world heritage sites, is very well known in particular for its many fairy chimneys (these large rock columns in the shape of asparagus 😅). Cappadocia is a paradise for hiking lovers, you will discover amazing natural landscapes in its different valleys. The area can also be visited on horseback or from above in a hot air balloon. It has become a huge attraction there, you have certainly already seen these photos of hundreds of hot air balloons that fly in the sky of Cappadocia.

In addition to these beautiful natural landscapes, the region offers excellent gastronomy, a warm welcome and an interesting history to discover. For your information, as you can see in the photos, I went there at the end of winter via a bus trip through Turkey (very inexpensive due to the period 🥶 and the many tourist shops we had to stop…)

   Mount Song in China

Mount Song is located in central China, in Henan province. It is one of the five sacred mountains in China, also known as the Central Mountain. Overlooking the Yellow River, Mount Song has three main peaks, the highest of which rises to 1,512 m. If you are not too dizzy, you can take great walks along its steep rocky cliffs.

Finally, Mount Song is also a sacred place in the three Chinese doctrines of Buddhism, Taoism and Confucianism. In its surroundings, you can therefore discover many Taoist and Buddhist temples and monasteries, such as the famous Shaolin monastery, cradle of kung fu.

   The Grand Canyon in the United States

The Grand Canyon is located in northern Arizona in the United States and is a must-see for a trip in the American West. It would be indeed a shame to miss this immense canyon of red rock which extends over almost 29 km in width and 446 km in length, with an average depth of 1,600 m. This superb national park, registered in the World heritage of the Humanity, is moreover crossed by the white waters of the Colorado river rapids, in which it is possible to make rafting. Particularly at sunrise and sunset, you will discover breathtaking panoramic views and landscapes in this gigantic open-air geological museum.

   Halong Bay in Vietnam

Hạlong Bay is located in the northeast of Vietnam, around 170 km from Hanoi. It is known for its thousands of islands of different shapes and sizes, made of limestone and covered with tropical forests, which emerge from the sea and stretch for hundreds of kilometers. This place is listed as a World Heritage Site by Unesco for its “natural beauty”. Many activities are possible in this area, cruises in a junk or kayak excursions that allow you to navigate between the islands, scuba diving, climbing or hiking in the mountainous national park of Cát Bà in particular. Note that this site has become very touristy, which unfortunately greatly degraded the environment of this superb original natural landscape.

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The 27 Most Beautiful Places in Europe

By Caitlin Morton

It may be one of the smaller continents, but what Europe lacks in size, it makes up for in variety: The most beautiful places in Europe range from luxurious beaches, fields of bluebells, and limestone cliffs, to some of the best mountain views on the planet.

The options are seemingly endless—which is what makes planning a trip a challenge. We know it isn't easy to choose between chasing waterfalls in Bosnia and Herzegovina, staying awake for the midnight sun in Finland , and hiking your way through the dramatic Dolomites. So, to help you start narrowing things down, we've rounded up just 27 of the most beautiful places in Europe. We know that an international jaunt might be off the table at the moment, but hey—that'll just give you more time to plot out your next trip.

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

The Azores, Portugal

Roughly 900 miles off the coast of Lisbon , this Portuguese archipelago can inspire wanderlust with a single photo. The verdant valleys, steep ocean-side cliffs, rows of blue hydrangeas, and scattering of waterfalls make the Azores a paradise worth exploring —just make sure you visit before everyone you know beats you to it.

Caucasus Mountains, Georgia

After decades spent out of sight and out of mind for many travelers, due in part to limited infrastructure and intermittent conflict with neighboring Russia, this former Soviet republic is attracting travelers tired of crowded mountain trails in the Alps or reservation-only vineyards in France. The best way to witness the diversity of Georgia’s terrain is on its hiking trails , which wind through the Greater Caucasus mountain range dividing Europe from Asia.

Biarritz, France

Swimming in turquoise waters, sipping rosé at sunset, breathing in scents of lavender: The South of France is the embodiment of French glamour and sophistication. The area includes idyllic locations such as Biarritz, a resort town whose wild beaches are hugely popular with surfers, royals, and celebrities (you might also recognize it from Hemingway's The Sun Also Rises ).

Kravica Waterfalls, Bosnia and Herzegovina

You've undoubtedly heard of Croatia's Krka National Park, whose waterfalls are so popular that the country is limiting how many people can visit . Thankfully, neighboring Bosnia and Herzegovina has plenty of gorgeous waterfalls, too: The wide expanse of falls and emerald pools of the Kravica waterfalls, surrounded by green forests, are a pilgrimage-worthy sight. And, unlike in Croatia, you’ll often have them all to yourself. 

Hannah Towey

CNT Editors

Jessica Puckett

Steph Koyfman

Las Salinas de Torrevieja, Spain

Pink sand beaches are reason enough to hop on a plane to the Caribbean—but in Spain, you can swim in pink water. This rose-tinted lake located in Valencia is part of the gorgeous Las Salinas de Torrevieja National Park. It's home to thousands of flamingos during breeding season, but most locals prefer to think of it as their natural spa—thanks to its high salt content, a quick float is both detoxing and exfoliating. Plan to visit on a bright, sunny day when the water is at its pinkest, making it hands down one of the most beautiful places in Europe. 

Cliffs of Moher, Ireland

Few places exemplify the raw, untamed beauty of Ireland ’s west coast like the Cliffs of Moher, a natural wonder that reaches 702 feet at the highest point. And while you might recognize them as the Cliffs of Insanity from The Princess Bride , this wonder is hardly fiction—the cliffs are located just a 90-minute drive south of Galway. To get there you can rent a car or catch a shuttle bus from Doolin that will take you directly to the cliffs. 

The Dolomites, Italy

A less glamorous (but no less gorgeous) relative of the Alps , the Dolomites stretch across the northeastern part of Italy . Aside from its pristine trails for local skiers come wintertime, the mountain range makes for one of the world's most breathtaking alpine drives. For some of the best views, head to the stylish but sleepy resort town of Bolzano, where rolling green hills juxtapose beautifully against the sawtoothed peaks behind them.

Eastern Carpathians, Romania

Romania may be best known for its medieval castles and Gothic churches, but the country also has some of the most enigmatic landscapes of southeastern Europe—particularly in and around the Carpathian Mountains. The range's dense forests are beautiful no matter where you are, but they somehow feel even lovelier when you come across sites like the Lacul Roșu (Red Lake), pictured here.

Capri, Italy

By reputation, Capri is by far Italy's most glamorous island—and most dramatic. From the the iconic Faraglioni rocks settled in the azure Mediterranean to the scent of the island's many flowers, it's almost sensory overload. Start your journey in the colorful Piazza Umberto, the perfect kickoff point for your day of exploration. Sites like Blue Grotto may be crowded with fellow travelers, but locales like the Punta Carena Lighthouse and the Certosa di San Giacomo offer a bit of respite from crowds. At the latter, you’ll find well-preserved cloisters, frescos, and gardens even as exhibition spaces and a library modernize the former monastery.

Giant's Causeway, Northern Ireland

Legend has it the Giant's Causeway, with its thousands of hexagonal basalt columns rising from the sea, was the remains of an actual causeway built by giants. Science says it was formed by a volcanic eruption some 50 to 60 million years ago—but whether you choose to believe the fable or the facts, there's no doubt that this otherworldly site showcases nature at her most incredible.

Kirkjufell, Iceland

This dazzling "Church Mountain" near the town of Grundarfjörður is one of Iceland's most photographed sites, and for good reason—it's among the best places to see the Northern Lights in the country. It also offers an added bonus for Game of Thrones fans: The landmark served as a very important filming location in Season 7.

Lapland, Finland

With its stark white landscapes, frequent Northern Lights displays, and a reindeer population that outnumbers its human residents, Finnish Lapland feels like something out of a fairytale. We suggest cozying up at the Arctic TreeHouse Hotel , where you'll be welcomed with a hot mug of glogg (mulled wine) and can spend hours gazing through the northern facing, floor-to-ceiling windows. Visit in the summer to catch a glimpse of the midnight sun as well.

Las Médulas, Spain

You can attribute the unusual landscape of Las Médulas—which is about a four-hour ride from Madrid in northwest Spain—to the ancient Romans, who essentially devastated the mountains here while extracting gold during the 1st century A.D. The miners built a complicated system of aqueducts and channels to force running water through the area, leaving the scattered, reddish peaks you see today.

Lofoten Islands, Norway

Just off of Norway's northwestern coast, you'll find the Lofoten Islands , a majestical untamed area well known for its surfing beaches and viewing of the Northern Lights. The archipelago is made up of many islands, but no matter which you head to, you'll find clear blue waters that rival the Mediterranean and craggy mountains that are reminiscent of Iceland—right beside unparalleled fjords and beaches.

Micheldever Wood, England

Located about five miles from Winchester in Hampshire, Micheldever Wood is a lovely forest with beech trees, woodland birds, and wandering deer. Come springtime, the place becomes even more sensational, thanks to bluebells that blanket the forest floor.

Vatnajökull, Iceland

Home to one of the largest glaciers in the world, Vatnajökull National Park is one of our favorite places to explore ice caves . But there's more than just frozen ice rivers to see at Vatnajökull, which covers much of Iceland's eastern half. It holds two of the island's most active volcanoes, herds of reindeer around Mt. Snæfell, and a number of breathtaking waterfalls, including Svartifoss, Dettifoss, and Selfoss.

Moravian Fields, Czech Republic

The Moravian Fields look like an oil painting, but these pastel-colored hills are as real as it gets. The Czech Republic's easternmost region is often referred to as Moravian Tuscany, due to its uncanny resemblance to the eponymous rolling hills in Italy. Even better? The area is an easy day trip from Prague . 

Meteora, Greece

As if still-standing monasteries from the 15th century weren't impressive enough, the buildings of Meteora are famously situated on almost inaccessible sandstone peaks in central Greece. Brave travelers can pay a visit to the Monastery of the Holy Trinity—one of six monasteries that are still standing—via a 140-step staircase cut into the side of the cliff.

Swiss Alps, Switzerland

Switzerland is easily one of the most beautiful countries in the world—particularly if you visit during the winter, when the Swiss Alps become a luxury skiing playground and thick snow turns the mountain range into a true wonderland . There's also something about spotting the iconic Matterhorn peak that stops us dead in our ski tracks every time.

Hillegom, Netherlands

Google “spring flower pictures” and your screen will be flooded with photos of tulips— tulips in Holland , to be precise. The flowers bloom throughout the region, although some destinations are definitely more tourist-packed than others. We suggest heading to Hillegom in the western countryside, which is a quieter alternative to the very popular Keukenhof gardens.

Zlatni Rat, Croatia

Of all the beaches in Croatia , Zlatni Rat on Brač Island stands out for its unusual shape, which changes depending on the current. The so-called "Golden Cape" gets its name from its shape and color, but it's also a popular spot for windsurfing, jet-skiing, and stand-up paddleboarding. If you want to simply sit back and marvel at the Adriatic Sea's impossibly turquoise waters, though, we won't judge.

Faroe Islands, Denmark

Located in the North Atlantic Ocean near Scotland are the Faroe Islands. Literally translating to “sheep's island," the mountainous region is made up of 18 islands in total and is home to 70,000 sheep, outweighing the number of locals. But the island is strikingly beautiful, too, with picturesque mountains, jagged coastlines, and green forests. Don't miss the Mulafossur Waterfall, which looks straight out of a fairytale, with water falling over rocky cliffs and a tiny village in the background.

Hallstatt, Austria

Majestic glaciers, lush meadows, and glassy waters are just part of this ancient village's appeal. Hallstatt, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is also known for its ancient salt mine with the oldest wooden staircase in Europe (three thousand years old, to be exact). It's also a popular skiing and snowboarding destination during winter months, thanks to heavy snowfalls and small crowds—the local population is just 800 people.

Champagne-Ardenne, France

As its name suggests, Champagne-Ardenne is the birthplace of bubbly and one of the most beautiful regions in France. The area is covered with idyllic valleys and vineyards, of course, but also ancient castles, chateaus, and abbeys. Make sure to visit the capital city of Troyes for splendid churches from the Middle Ages, and Reims for underground wine cellars and the masterpiece Cathédrale Notre-Dame .

Isle of Skye, Scotland

With fairy pools and endless undulations of hills, the magical Isle of Skye is the stuff dreams are made of (regardless of whether you've binge-watched Outlander yet). While the nature here is timeless, the island also has a food scene that's totally modern—we can't think of a more beautiful place to sample Michelin-starred cuisine.

Lake Bled, Slovenia

There's a reason Lake Bled is one of Slovenia 's most popular sites. With its emerald waters, church-dotted islet, views of the Julien Alps, and Disney-like castle on a hill, you won't be short of picture-perfect views. Pro tip: Take your sweetheart on a boat ride in a pletna , a traditional wooden rowboat, to the lush island in the middle of the lake. (Legend has it, visiting the island’s church and ringing its bell will make all your dreams come true.)

Rakotzbrücke (Rakotz Bridge), Germany

Hidden in Kromlau's Rhododendron Park, Rakotzbrücke is a 19th-century bridge that creates a perfect stone circle when reflected in the waters below it. Rakotzbrücke is often referred to as "Devil's Bridge," since the structure seems so impossible that it must have been built by, well, the devil.

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The 50 Most Beautiful Places in the World

Time to dust off your passport.

There are so many amazing places around the globe to see, we couldn't possibly include them all in just one list. But, these breathtaking destinations are definitely worth bumping to the top of your travel bucket list–whether you're looking to relax on a beach, get off the grid or explore a new international city—these are the most breathtaking locations to consider.

Zhangye Danxia Geopark, China

Geology lovers and avid Instagrammers alike will be drawn to the otherworldly hues of the "Rainbow Mountains." The colors were formed by the layering of sedimentary mineral deposits over millions of years, but it's hard to look at the flowing reds, yellows, and oranges and not feel like you're witnessing magic.

Venice, Italy

If traversing the canals with a be-striped gondolier sounds unbearably touristy, stick to the sidewalks and spectacular arched bridges to get your fill of this truly unique, wildly romantic floating city.

Banff National Park, Canada

Great Ocean Road, Australia

Head west from Melbourne on this coastal drive to see everything from the famous 12 Apostle rock formations, to koalas in Great Otway National Park as well as the charming seaside town of Lorne.

Machu Picchu

This World Heritage site is easily the most famous spot in Peru, and for good reason. The ancient terraced city’s astounding architecture and sweeping views of the surrounding mountains will leave you breathless (as might the nearly 8,000 foot elevation.)

Pamukkale, Turkey

Put every infinity pool you’ve ever seen to shame with these natural, snow-white hot springs overlooking the nearby city of Denizli. On top of the picturesque soak, Pamukkale is also home to the impressively preserved ruins of the ancient Roman spa-city Hierapolis where you can bathe like an emperor among the submerged centuries-old columns.

Japan in Cherry Blossom Season

While Japan is beautiful year-round, the few weeks each spring when cherry trees across the country explode with blossoms is a particularly pretty time to visit.

Pitons, St Lucia

These two volcanic mountains are one of the most recognizable—not to mention beautiful—features on this Caribbean island. Enjoy the Pitons from the pristine white sand beach at Sugar Beach, A Viceroy Resort .

Marrakesh, Morocco

Located at the foot of the Atlas Mountains, Marrakesh has changed little since the Middle Ages. You could spend days here wandering around maze-like alleyways discovering the city's colorful souks, palaces and gardens.

Bora Bora, French Polynesia

With turquoise lagoons, coral reefs and overwater bungalows, this small island in the South Pacific is basically heaven on Earth.

Oia, Santorini, Greece

All of the Greek islands are undeniably beautiful, but head to the hillside town of Oia for some of the best views of the bright blue Aegean Sea.

Mù Cang Chải, Vietnam

Get off the beaten path in this rural district where the rice paddy-terraced mountains and twisting streams will make you feel like you’re living in a fairy tale.

Tamil Nadu, India

Most travelers head to North India for its Mughal palaces and forts, but the Southern state of Tamil Nadu is where most of the country's major Hindu temples are found, including the brightly-colored Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple seen here and the Meenakshi Temple Complex, which is so large it's considered a mini-city.

Torres del Paine National Park, Chile

If you're looking to get off the grid, head to Chile's Patagonia region for some of the most beautiful mountain views you'll ever see.

Forbidden City, Beijing, China

Located in the center of Beijing, the Forbidden City was the imperial palace of China's emperors for five centuries and is one of the most beautifully preserved examples of ancient Chinese architecture.

Amalfi Coast, Italy

There are so many beautiful places in Italy it's hard to pick just one—but the Amalfi Coast's idyllic hillside towns, like Positano, bump it to the top of our must-see list.

Krabi, Thailand

Located on southern Thailand's west coast, this province's coastline is dotted with limestone cliffs and hundreds of islands just offshore in the Andaman Sea, making it one of the world's most popular beach vacation destinations.

Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

Each year starting in the end of November and peaking in early December, fields of bright purple Russell Lupins bloom across New Zealand's South Island. One of the most beautiful spots to go Lupin-spotting is in Fiordland National Park, home to the equally gorgeous Milford Sound.

Bagan, Myanmar

This ancient city in central Myanmar is made up of thousands (yes, thousands) of Buddhist temples and pagodas. One of the prettiest views is from above—we recommend going for a hot air balloon ride at sunrise.

Havasu Falls, Arizona

Before you can swim in these beautiful blue-green waters located near Grand Canyon National Park, you have to hike ten miles to get there. Trust us, it's totally worth the trek.

Lyndsey Matthews is the Destination News Editor for AFAR; previously she was a Lifestyle Editor across all of Hearst Digital Media's brands, and a digital editor at Martha Stewart Weddings and Travel + Leisure .

Lauren Hubbard is a freelance writer and Town & Country contributor who covers beauty, shopping, entertainment, travel, home decor, wine, and cocktails.

Todd Plummer is a Boston based journalist covering culture and lifestyle. He is a seasoned entertainment reporter, travel writer, and is an alumnus of McGill University and St. John’s University School of Law. 

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Nature Vacations: 25 Amazing Places For An Outdoors Adventure

Nature vacations are becoming more and more popular – especially since the pandemic, when social distancing and long walks in the countryside became a thing. And with the world’s population now topping a massive EIGHT BILLION people, it’s not surprising more and more of us are looking for a way to get away from the crowds!

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Fortunately, the planet is a big place, and there are still plenty of places to go on vacation where you can avoid other people and get back in touch with the natural world. In fact, there are so many opportunities for nature holidays, that choosing where to go can be a bit overwhelming.

Discovering the World’s Best Nature Vacations

To help narrow it down, I asked some top travel experts and travel bloggers to give me their best nature destinations. Then I added some of my own, and ended up with this list of 25 amazing places to take a nature vacation.

And in no particular order, here they are! Hopefully they’ll help inspire your next hiking, swimming, diving, or wildlife-spotting adventure!

If they do, I’ve helpfully popped a link in to take you to TourRadar , which is a great platform that collates some of the best small-group adventure and nature tours in the world, all in one place. TourRadar only works with reputable tour companies and has a 4.5-star rating on TrustPilot, so you know you’re in safe hands when searching for the best trips for outdoor lovers.

1/ Antarctica and South Georgia

There’s a reason why the fabled seventh continent is right at the top of most people’s nature holiday bucket lists. With magical icy landscapes, brilliant blue glaciers the size of cathedrals, snowy hillsides teeming with thousands of Antarctic animals including 8 different species of penguins , dramatic seascapes full of whales and seals, endless wildlife photography opportunities , and the chance to try out adventure activities like sea kayaking or the legendary polar plunge , Antarctica is a nature-lover’s dream destination.

Yes it may be expensive to get there, but it’s worth every penny. You’ll need to book an expedition cruise and cross the dramatic Drake Passage, fabled to be the roughest stretch of sea in the world. But once you’re there, you’ll be able to set foot on the seventh continent – an opportunity few people get.

But if you’re going all that way, don’t stop at just Antarctica. Some expeditions take the long way round and go via the magical island of South Georgia . Lost in the vast Antarctic Ocean, 1000 miles from the nearest land, this incredible island is uninhabited by humans, allowing wildlife to flourish . There’s so much overwhelming biodiversity here that’s it’s known as the Galapagos of the south, and it will absolutely blow you away.

Explore holidays to Antarctica and South Georgia here

Whether summer or winter, Iceland will have you hooked. With towering glaciers , erupting volcanos, majestic waterfalls , steaming hot springs, black sand beaches , and miles upon miles of dramatic coastline, Iceland truly is the place for the nature holiday of a lifetime.

Rent a car and drive the circumference of the ring road, stopping every 5 minutes to marvel at yet another jawdropping vista. Stop to say hello to the Icelandic horses or to photograph yet another sweeping vista, and if you visit in winter there’s a good chance you’ll get to see the Northern Lights too. Meanwhile in summer there are almost endless hours of daylight and dramatic hiking trails to enjoy.

If you’re a nature lover and you haven’t been to Iceland yet, what are you waiting for?!

Start planning your Iceland adventure here

Read more: 25 Spectacular Places To Visit For Travel Photography

3/ Tanzania

No list of nature destinations would be complete without at least one African safari (and actually there are three in here). If you love animals, conservation, and wildlife watching, then a visit to one of Africa’s many safari destinations is a must. After all, what better experience can there be than the chance to witness nature, red in tooth and claw: lions stalking impala across the savanna, hippos wallowing in watering holes, or elephants and giraffes grazing among the trees?

One of the best places to go on safari is Tanzania . It’s home to the world-famous Serengeti national park, where you’ll find lions, leopards, cheetahs, zebras, giraffes, antelopes and more, as well as the famous Ngorongoro crater, home to one of the greatest concentrations of African animals anywhere on the continent. But on top of that, Tanzania is also home to world-class hiking opportunities, with the legendary Mount Kilimanjaro , highest peak in Africa, at the top of that list.

Read more: Climbing The 8 Days Lemosho Route On Kilimanjaro

But if that’s not enough, there’s also the volcano Ol Doinyo Lengai , and the flamingo-packed Lake Natron to tempt you. That’s why, when people ask if they should go to Tanzania or Kenya , for many people, Tanzania is the clear winner.

Check out a range of Tanzania adventure packages here

Less celebrated than Tanzania, but no less great for a wildlife vacation, is Uganda. With lush rolling green landscapes and ten national parks, you won’t be short of options for hiking or wildlife-spotting in Uganda . Most famous of all is Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, where you can go trekking to see critically-endangered mountain gorillas . But no less exciting is the chance to visit habituated chimpanzee families in Kibale National Park.

Read more: 28 Brilliant Things To Do In Uganda

Other opportunities to spend time in nature include walking with rhinos at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary , feeding the animals behind the scenes at Uganda Wildlife Education Centre , spotting tree-climbing lions in Queen Elizabeth National Park, or visiting the dramatic Murchison Falls .

For those who prefer adventure, Uganda also offers an excellent choice of outdoor activities, from white-water rafting or kayaking at Jinja , the source of the River Nile, to hiking or rock climbing in the Sipi Falls region.

With so much to see and do, and at prices that are much more affordable than other parts of East Africa, I think Uganda really does offer the best nature getaways for safari or wildlife lovers .

Fancy Uganda? Search for trips and tours here

5/ Guatemala

Guatemala is most well-known for its vibrant and photogenic culture , with pretty colonial architecture, buzzing markets , and kind and friendly people – but alongside all of that, this Central American country also offers plenty of opportunities for an off-the-beaten-track nature vacation.  

The Petén region, in the north of the country, is a vast expanse of tropical jungle, where ancient Maya temples emerge from the dense rainforest, and you’re almost guaranteed to spot wildlife including toucans, monkeys, coatis, and, if you’re lucky, the resplendent quetzal, national bird of Guatemala . There are jaguars here too, but they’re much harder to spot.

Read more: A Perfect Guatemala Itinerary In 10 Days, 2 Weeks Or 3 Weeks

Head west, and you’ll come to Lake Atitlan , famed for its dramatic landscape of vivid blue waters surrounded by three volcanos. There are almost endless outdoors adventures to be found around the lake, and even more around the nearby cities of Antigua Guatemala and Xela , both of which offer easy access to a huge range of hiking trails including the chance to climb an erupting volcano .

Check out some amazing Guatemala packages here

6/ Costa Rica

Costa Rica is probably the most celebrated place to experience nature and wildlife in the whole of Central and South America – and for good reason. Wildlife tourism is a hugely important part of the economy here, and they take conservation extremely seriously. The Costa Rican people really understand the value of protecting their natural resources, not just for financial reasons but also for the good of the planet.

With two coastlines and endless swathes of cloud forest and tropical jungle, Costa Rica is a wildlife lover’s dream. Take a hike in one of the many national parks and you’ll have no trouble spotting spider and howler monkeys, macaws, toucans, parrots, hummingbirds and of course the loveable and iconic sloth. At the right time of year, you may also get the chance to see endangered turtles nesting and breeding.

Read more: A Review of G Adventures’ Costa Rica 16-Day Tour

But animals aren’t the only reason why Costa Rica is brilliant for a nature holiday. The country has miles and miles of beautiful, palm fringed sandy beaches, perfect for strolling, swimming, or just relaxing with a book. They’ve also invested millions in turning the country into a mecca for adrenaline and outdoors adventure lovers, with ziplines, jungle canopy bridges, whitewater rafting, volcano hiking and more.

So whether you’re after wildlife, landscapes, or outdoors thrills, Costa Rica has you covered.

Find your dream Costa Rica trip here

7/ New Zealand

There’s a reason why the country of New Zealand has served as a backdrop for many fantasy films in the last few decades: the country’s breathtaking landscapes all look like they belong in a fairytale.

From golden beaches to glaciers that snake down through rainforests, New Zealand is truly an outdoor-lover’s dream. Hiking, camping, and simply being out in nature is a way of life for many New Zealanders, so it’s no surprise that it’s also a popular spot for tourists who enjoy the same.

While you can’t see everything with  2 weeks in New Zealand , you certainly can tick off some major highlights. 

Starting on the North Island, you can go dolphin-spotting in the Bay of Islands, dig your own hot tub at Hot Water Beach on the Coromandel Peninsula, hike between volcanoes in Tongariro National Park, walk in a forest of redwood trees in Rotorua, and visit bird sanctuaries to see rare flightless birds like kiwis.

On the even more dramatic South Island, you can go kayaking in Abel Tasman National Park, try heli-hiking on a glacier on the West Coast, spot whales in Kaikoura, brave tandem skydiving or bungee jumping into stunning canyons in Queenstown, and go on a cruise through Milford Sound. There’s no shortage of active vacation ideas in New Zealand!

By Amanda Williams from A Dangerous Business Travel Blog

Search for your bucket list New Zealand holiday here

Namibia is one of the best nature travel destinations for two main reasons.

Firstly, it has a stunning natural landscape, formed by the elements over billions of years. In  two weeks in Namibia , you could explore the graceful dunes of the Namib Desert, thought to be the oldest desert in the world. Here you can climb giant sand dunes, wander the eerie white clay pans of Sossusvlei and drive along the legendary Skeleton Coast. You can also see dramatic canyons, including Fish River Canyon, the largest in Africa, craters, stunning mountains and plains. In the east of Namibia, there are lush wetlands where you might spot hippos and water buffalo.

Which leads on to the second reason Namibia is great for a nature holiday: the wildlife. Namibia is home to all of the ‘Big Five’ animals: elephants, rhinos, lions, leopards and buffalo. The best place to do a wildlife safari is Etosha National Park, which is a huge reserve in the north of the country that allows self-drive safaris. However, you will see wild animals and African birds all over Namibia in your two weeks, even along the roads: it is quite common to see Gemsbok and other antelopes, zebras, wildebeest and baboons inland; and seals along the coast.

By Martha from May Cause Wanderlust

Ready to head to Namibia? Start your journey here!

As such a vast country,  Canada  is easily one of the best places in the world to enjoy a nature-filled holiday. From the powder-capped wilds of the north where polar bears leave footprints in the snow, to the lush green forests and glossy lakes of the south, there’s enough to keep your memories (and your memory cards!) full for two weeks or more.

One of the best ways to spend your time in Canada as a nature lover is by road-tripping the Canadian Rockies . Start in the cosmopolitan city of Calgary before winding your way through the peaks, lakes and national parks towards Vancouver. Stop off at Jasper to enjoy spectacular hikes and trails, taste delicious Canadian wines at Kelowna and marvel at the waterfalls around Golden.

As you drive, keep your eyes peeled for moose, bears and birds of prey who frequent the camps in search of berries and other food. Once you reach Vancouver, join a whale-watching safari to be in with a chance to spot humpback and grey whales, orcas, sea otters and seals. If you’re yet to see bears, head to Vancouver Island to join a bear tour, where you’re almost guaranteed sightings of black bears searching for crabs on the shore. 

Too much of a wildlife fix for you? Head to Canada’a Atlantic coast – where the picturesque provinces of Nova Scotia , New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, and Prince Edward Island will tempt you with glorious landscapes and incredible food. You really can’t beat it.

By Anna from Really Wildlife

Start planning your Canada adventure here

10/ Ireland

If you love unapologetic wildness and lush green landscapes, Ireland would be a wonderful place for a nature vacation. Ireland is an island, so there is coastline in every direction, complete with sandy beaches, dramatic cliffs, and incredible bird life, including the adorable puffin ! Most of the country is very rural, so the best way to explore is to rent a car and drive, first along Ireland’s Ancient East from Dublin to Cork, then along the Wild Atlantic Way from Cork to Donegal. 

You can wild camp throughout Ireland: just ask a local farmer if they know of any spots and they’re usually happy to give advice. Wild swimming is very popular in Ireland, and there are plenty of places that are perfect for a secluded dip in the sea or an alpine lake – just beware of riptides and strong currents. 

There are two main mountain ranges in Ireland, the Wicklow Mountains and the Mountains of Kerry, both of which have hiking trails (the Wicklow Way and the Kerry Way, respectively). Over the course of two weeks, you could complete sections of both hikes, or simply explore the trails and serene wildness of the national parks. Even if you decide to skip the Wicklow Way, dedicate a day of your trip to hiking the Spinc Trail around Glendalough, a stunning glacial lake near a set of monastic ruins.

By Amber from Amber Everywhere

Start exploring Ireland here!

The most popular destination for a holiday in Alaska is Denali National Park. Denali is the largest mountain in North America at 20,310 ft. Explore the park by hiking countless trails among the tundra, animal viewing for bears and caribou, whitewater river rafting down the Nenana River, taking a scenic flight over the mountain with a glacier landing, or even mountaineering up Denali itself.

There are a plethora of mountains at every turn throughout Alaska and a lot of them will have some sort of trail for hiking, whether short day hikes or long multi-day hikes. Hatcher Pass in the Talkeetna Mountains, Crow Pass in the Chugach Mountains, and Harding Icefield (the only land access to Kenai Fjords National Park) are just a fraction of the hiking options.

In Kenai Fjords National Park, nature-watching cruises take off out of Seward to view enchanting blue glaciers calving into the ocean and to watch wildlife like puffins, otters, seals, and whales frolicking in the cold waters.

During the winter, keep your eyes to the skies to spot the Northern Lights dancing amongst the stars. 

By Tabitha from Travel Compositions

Feeling inspired? Search for your dream Alaska trip here!

12/ Australia’s Great Barrier Reef

The Great Barrier Reef is often a bucket list item and perfect for a nature holiday. Located off of the east coast of Queensland, Australia, the Great Barrier Reef can be visited from as far south as Bundaberg and as far north as Cape York.

With two weeks to explore the Great Barrier Reef, don’t stay in one spot! Spend some time in the Whitsunday Islands enjoying the sugar sand white beaches and crystal clear water. Airlie Beach is the most popular place to stay by the Whitsunday Islands and there are plenty of hikes, waterfalls, and watersports available to add excitement to your nature vacation.

While Cairns or Port Douglas are the closest entrances to The Great Barrier Reef, don’t just stop there!  While there are plenty of  day trips from Cairns , also head north to Daintree and Cape Tribulation to explore the only location on earth where two World Heritage sites (The Great Barrier Reef and Daintree Rainforest) meet.

If diving isn’t for you, there are endless nature trips to be had in other parts of Australia.Why not try finding your fortune in the opal fields of Coober Pedy , or visit a pearl farm in the stunning Dampier Peninsula?

By Lanie van der Horst from Make More Adventures

Check out some of the best Australia trips and tours here

13/ Cappadocia, Türkiye

Cappadocia is a region in beautiful Türkiye (formerly known as Turkey). It’s famous for its vast, desert landscape with expansive valleys and impressive rock formations known as fairy chimneys, which were used as homes in the 7th century. 

Because of its arid climate, the people here live in cave dwellings. These are not dark, damp caves with stalagmites and stalactites, but warm, cosy homes made from carving out the porous rocky landscape. This means much of the landscape has been free of construction and development. Outside of the towns, you’ll find endless deserts filled with rocky canyons with unique rock formations and glistening white sand.  Cappadocia is famous for  hot air balloon rides, which take off at sunset and offer incredible views of the valleys below (and hundreds of hot air balloons above). It’s is the perfect nature vacation spot for hikers since there are so many valleys and hiking trails to explore. Some popular valleys to explore are Red and Rose Valley, Love Valley, Pigeon Valley, White Valley, Devrent Valley, and Monks Valley. Each valley has something special and unique to explore, from ancient churches to sunset viewpoints. Perhaps the most fascinating valley of all is Ihlara Valley. Ihlara is a green anomaly to the rest of Cappadocia and is the only place where you’ll find lush green trees, a glistening river, and craggy limestone cliffs. Once you’re there, you won’t believe you’re in a desert.  While you’re in Turkey, don’t miss some of its incredible ancient ruins , like the legendary city of Troy or the UNESCO site of Gordion, the city of King Midas .

By Louisa Smith from The Turkey Traveler

Click here to start your Türkiye nature vacation!

14/ Galapagos Islands, Ecuador

The Galapagos Islands are unmissable for any wildlife photographer or lover. This unique destination, situated in the Pacific Ocean, is one of the most amazing places to go on vacation, home to some of the most diverse and incredible wildlife on Earth.

The islands were famously a source of inspiration for Darwin’s theory of evolution, and visitors can see this for themselves with the plethora of different species of animals found here. From giant tortoises to playful sea lions, there is an abundance of wildlife to be spotted on any tour of the Galapagos Islands .

One of the best ways to experience the natural underwater world of the Galapagos is by diving or snorkeling. The clear waters offer fantastic visibility, meaning you can get up close and personal with the sharks, turtles, sea lions, fishes, and marine iguanas.

For those who prefer to stay on dry land, there are still plenty of opportunities to see the amazing wildlife. A hike to the top of one of the volcanoes will provide stunning views, as well as the chance to spot some of the rarer birds such as the blue-footed booby.

By Giorgy from the G-Extreme Travel Blog

Click here to start planning your dream Galapagos nature vacation!

15/ Torres del Paine National Park, Chile

Torres del Paine national park at the southern tip of Chile is one of the most beautiful natural places in the world. A land of epic mountains, sparkling glaciers, and turquoise lakes, it’s the highlight of any trip to Patagonia. With two weeks to work with, start your adventure out in the small town of Puntas Arenas, the gateway to Torres del Paine. From here you’ll take a bus to the park where you’ll be dropped off in a stunning natural landscape.

The “O” Circuit hike takes about 7-10 days and takes you all around the park over the course of 130+ km. It’s much less popular than the 3-day “W” hike, so when you’re beyond the extent of the W hike, the trails will be quiet, and you’ll have the beauty of the Patagonian Andes almost all to yourself.

During the trek, you are required to reserve the campsites ahead of time. There are limited spaces available and they book up about 6 months in advance. So advanced planning is required! If you’re planning the shorter W hike, campsites still need to be booked ahead.

If hiking through the mountains isn’t your thing, there are still plenty of things to do in the park and in Patagonia. Rent a room at Hotel Las Torres Patagonia and just relax while taking in the stunning scenery. Then cross the border into Argentina to check out Fitz Roy and Perito Moreno glacier, with a night or two in El Chalten or El Calafate on the way.

You’re spoiled for choice when it comes to adventure vacation ideas amidst the fabulous natural beauty of Torres del Paine and Patagonia! 

By Chris Heckmann from Around The World With Me

Why wait? Click here to find your perfect Chile trip!

It’s easy to see why Japan is known as a land of contrasts. Visitors don’t need to venture too far from the hustle and bustle of major cities such as Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka to be immersed in the diverse landscapes and nature experiences the country has to offer. Exploring  off the beaten path in Japan  will reward visitors with nature experiences like no other!

Enjoy snorkelling? Head to the pristine waters of tropical Okinawa for sun, sand and sea life. Want to discover ancient temples and shrines nestled deep within forests? Spend a few days in Nikko, Koyasan or the outskirts of Kyoto. Prefer hiking along flowing rivers against a jagged mountain backdrop? Look no further than Kamikochi. Interested in seeing snow monkeys bathing in hot springs? The forests of Nagano have you covered. 

Speaking of hot springs, one of the most popular cultural experiences in Japan is bathing in  onsen . As a landmass formed by volcanic activity, in Japan there is no shortage of natural springs to soak in and relax, making it one of the most beautiful places to go on vacation.

Spending a few days in the Mt Fuji area allows for more chances to see the sacred mountain (and even climb its summit during summer!), see gorgeous UNESCO World Heritage sites such as Shiraito Falls, a cave where locals believe is the residence of Fuji’s goddess, and many lake hikes to catch Mt Fuji’s reflection.

By Alyse from The Invisible Tourist

Life is short. Find your bucket list Japan tour today!

17/ South Africa

South Africa is an incredible country with vast natural beauty, wildlife, and safari opportunities. So if you’re an animal lover looking for a nature vacation, then it’s time to pack your bag for South Africa !

Kruger National Park and Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park are both national parks you will see an amazing variety of wildlife. Both parks are home to many African animals including the Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino), cheetah, wild dogs, and a variety of antelope.

You can also stay in a private game reserve, such as Zulu Nyala, Bayete Zulu, and Colin’s Horseback Africa. Activities you will enjoy include game drives, bush walks, camping, and more. Food is provided with accommodation.

Cape Town is one of the best nature places to visit. Take a cable car to the top of Table Mountain to see stunning views of the city and the surrounding coastline. The Boulder Penguin Colony is an excellent place for you to see these adorable birds up close, and you can also go shark diving or visit Cape Good Hope, the southernmost point of Africa.

You will have plenty to do around Johannesburg too. Go hiking or mountain biking in the Magaliesberg, or enjoy a picnic in one of the city’s parks.

By Melodie Rush from Travel Must Do’s

Search for South Africa adventures here!

Norway is a stunning place full of natural wonders that you can visit in any season. Above the Arctic Circle, bask in the midnight sun during the summer months when the sun never sets.

Alternatively, experience the polar night in the winter, when the sun never rises. This is the best time to chase the magical Aurora Borealis. Take a tour with an expert guide who will show you the best spots and give tips on how to photograph the Northern Lights for amazing memories to look back on. Or visit Bergsjøstølen for the spine-tingling Ice Music Festival .

There are plenty of places you can check out the northern lights in Norway – including  the Lofoten Islands , Tromso, and the North Cape.

Norway is also full of majestic fjords, where you can take cruises any time of the year. The breathtaking Geirangerfjord is one of the most famous fjords in the world and has been deemed a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

There are also amazing parks that are the best vacation spots for outdoor activities, such as Jotunheimen or Folgefonna National Parks. Breathe in the fresh air as you traverse the mountains and through the meadows, full of rugged scenery from wildflowers to waterfalls to glaciers.

Some of Norway’s tallest waterfalls to check out include Vettisfossen, Vinnufallet, and the Seven Sisters. The hike to Trolltunga outlook gives you fantastic views of the Ringedalsvatnet lake and Folgefonna glacier.

By Megan Starr

Click here to start planning your perfect Norway vacation

19/ The Philippines

With over 7,600 islands, the Philippines are home to countless idyllic seascapes and landscapes, tropical beaches and amazing wildlife, making these islands one of the most beautiful nature places in the world.

Among the country’s most captivating destinations are Bohol and Cebu. These two island provinces are packed with natural wonders and activities perfect for a two-week vacation.

Be amazed by Bohol’s world-renowned Chocolate Hills and visit the adorable Philippine tarsiers, a tree-dwelling animal and the world’s smallest primate. After that you can have your lunch while cruising the Loboc River one of the cleanest in the country.

Be mesmerised by dolphins not in a dolphin show but in the middle of the ocean, wild and free! To complete your  Bohol itinerary , try snorkelling with sea turtles and a visit to Virgin Island sandbar before getting the ferry to Cebu.

Once in Cebu you can do waterfall chasing and even canyoneering to Kawasan Falls if you’re feeling adventurous. Swimming or snorkelling with millions of sardines during the famous Sardines Run at Panagsama Beach is the experience of a lifetime. Or if you prefer hiking, head to Osmena Peak which is Cebu’s highest.

These are not all, but among the top experiences for anyone looking for great nature places to visit.

By Dea Mariano from Jea Wanders

Search for small-group nature adventures in the Philippines here.

20/ Scottish Highlands & Islands

Scotland is inarguably the wildest place in the British Isles and perfect for a journey to connect with nature. With a low population density and most people living around the large cities in Central Scotland, the northern and western parts of the Highlands and Islands are an adventurer’s playground.

Scotland is home to the UK’s largest national park (the  Cairngorms National Park ) and its highest peaks, and many animals that have long disappeared from the forests and fields of England and Wales can still be found in the remote glens up north.

You can cover a lot of ground on a two-week nature holiday in Scotland. Out west, explore the rugged coastline with its sea lochs, beaches and islands either by boat or kayak, or head east to join a wildlife cruise to see puffins or the world’s largest colony of northern gannets .

For a fully immersive experience, put on a snorkel and discover the underwater world of Argyll, the UK’s first mainland Hop Spot. Don’t leave without hiking among the dramatic mountains of Glencoe, trying to spot the Big 5 of Scottish wildlife, forest bathing in a native Caledonian pine forest and walking up to the sub-Arctic plateau of the Cairngorms mountain range.

By Kathi from Watch Me See

Love Scotland? Find the best Scotland trips and tours for you right here!

21/ New England, USA

New England  in the Northeastern part of the US is such an underrated region for nature lovers, but it has everything, including dramatic coastline cliffs, some of the best beaches in the USA, world-class fall foliage and incredible mountain ranges for hiking. 

One of the top places to visit in New England for nature lovers is Acadia National Park in Maine. With over 60 miles of some of the most jaw-dropping coastline views in the country, it’s home to amazing hiking trails, scenic drives and an iconic lighthouse. 

For those looking to tackle the most thrilling hike in Acadia, add the Beehive Trail to your itinerary. For one of the most stunning sunrises you’ve ever seen, be sure to wake up early and drive the auto road to the Cadillac Mountain summit. 

If it’s gorgeous beaches you’re after, head to Cape Cod in Massachusetts. Home to the Cape Cod National Seashore, it’s here you’ll find impressive sand dunes (some reaching 100 feet tall), as well as Coast Guard Beach, regarded as one of the most beautiful in the U.S. 

A great time to visit New England is the fall season to see the famous fall foliage throughout the region. One of the best places to experience this is in the White Mountains of New Hampshire, which is also an amazing area for hiking.

By Sam of New England Wanderlust

Start planning your New England nature vacation today!

22/ Tasmania, Australia

The island state of Tasmania is a remote destination full of natural beauty and diverse landscapes. A trip to Tasmania is the ultimate escape for those seeking an adventurous getaway surrounded by untouched wilderness. Home to pristine forests, epic mountain ranges, beautiful beaches and unique wildlife, taking a 2 week road trip is the ideal way to see the best of the island.

If hiking is your thing, be sure to spend a few days exploring Cradle Mountain National Park. There are a huge variety of scenic hikes and nature walks offering some of the best views in the state. Binalong Bay, also known as The Bay of Fires is a must-see for beach lovers. Vibrant orange rocks with a backdrop of turquoise water is an incredible sight that can’t be missed on your  Tasmania itinerary . 

A visit to Maria Island off of Tasmania’s east coast will provide the perfect opportunity to meet some of the island’s cutest residents, wombats. Rent a bike and spend a day cycling around this small island to see some of the most beautiful natural scenery and free roaming wombats. 

The long stretch of white sand in Wineglass Bay is like a scene from a postcard and one of the most iconic views in Tasmania. The best way to see this stunning scenery is by hiking to the Mount Amos summit which is located in Freycinet National Park.  

By Ann Kelly from The Road Is Life

Find your dream Tasmania trip by clicking here!

The Hawaiian Islands offer some of the world’s most diverse nature, from active volcanoes to humpback whales and dramatic mountainscapes. While you could spend years exploring Hawaii, two weeks is a good amount of time to dive in and experience two of the islands. For example, consider spending a week in both Maui and the Big Island, respectively. 

If you time your visit in the winter, Maui is one of the best places on the planet to see humpback whales, given that they migrate to the island’s shallow lagoons from their arctic waters to breed and raise their young. Make sure to also carve out some time to drive along the dramatic Road to Hana, a 65-mile road that winds through incredibly lush rainforests, past rushing waterfalls, and along jaw-dropping black sand beaches. 

Your Big Island itinerary can be stuffed with a variety of dynamic outdoor adventures- for example, you can climb the world’s tallest mountain (as measured from the seafloor to its summit) at Mauna Kea, snorkel with manta rays in the town of Kona along its western coastline, and see some of the world’s most active erupting volcanoes spew lava at Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park. 

By Jessica Schmit of Uprooted Traveler

Click here to start researching your Hawaii vacation today!

24/ Slovenia

For another idyllic and less obvious nature vacations destination, try out the scenic country of Slovenia. Outdoor lovers will find picturesque mountains, crystal clear lakes and rivers, stunning caves, and bucolic valleys.

Start in Ljubljana, the capital city, and make an easy drive to Lake Bohinj. While slightly less known than Lake Bled, Bohinj has fabulous hiking and boating on the lake. Hikes to Savica waterfall or Mostnica gorge are recommended. Or take a cable car up Mount Vogel for outstanding views of Lake Bohinj from the top. 

Triglav National Park in the Julian Alps has the highest peak in Slovenia. The trails here range from nature walks to hut-to-hut routes. The Juliana Trail, a 270 km-long circular long-distance trail with 16 stages, wanders through this spectacular area.

Nearby Bovec has paddling outdoor adventures in the Soca River Valley. Try  whitewater kayaking on the Soca River , regarded as the most beautiful river in Europe. There is also ziplining, canyoneering, and cycling trips in this epicenter of outdoor adventure.

For ocean lovers, Slovenia has a 47 km of coastline on the Adriatic Sea. You will find natural beaches to explore and take a dip. Don’t miss the sunsets.

By Karen Warren from Outdoor Adventure Sampler

Fancy an outdoors adventure in Slovenia? Click here to find out more!

25/ The USA’s Grand Circle

The southwest United States is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful places on earth, making it unmissable for nature lovers! The perfect way to explore this region is through a two-week road trip around the ‘grand circle,’ aka the route between Las Vegas, Utah’s five national parks, and the Grand Canyon. That’s a lot of nature packed into one epic trip!

Start driving clockwise from Las Vegas and stop at Zion National Park. Zion has some of the most famous hikes in the world! Don’t miss Angel’s Landing or the Narrows. 

Next, visit Bryce Canyon National Park. The red hoodoos in this park are unlike anywhere else in the world! Watching sunrise over the canyon is an experience to remember.

Capitol Reef National Park is perhaps Utah’s most underrated national park. Spend time off-roading through the Mars-like landscape of the Bentonite Hills.

Canyonlands and Arches National Parks are neighbors, and both are filled with beautiful red rock formations and archways.

On the way to the Grand Canyon, don’t miss Dead Horse Point State Park for a double horseshoe bend-style canyon, or the famous rock formations of Monument Valley!

End your trip at the Grand Canyon. Walking along the southern rim will give you almost painting-like views of this sprawling natural wonder. By the end of your two weeks, you’ll have seen some of the best and most diverse landscapes that the southwest has to offer.

By Jen from Glasses and Boarding Passes

Start planning your epic USA nature vacation here!

Where to next?

If you enjoyed this best nature vacations post, you might like some of these other outdoors articles:

• South Bohemia: The Gorgeous Czech Republic Region You Need To Visit
• Four Days in Valli Giudicarie in Trentino Italy
• Glamping And Hiking In The Beautiful Knuckles Mountain Range, Sri Lanka

The Thrilling Volcan De Acatenango Hike In Antigua Guatemala

• A Kenya Safari Holiday: How To Plan The Perfect Trip For You

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Bella is a multi-award-winning travel writer, wildlife photographer and science and history documentary director from London. Among many awards and nominations she won Blogger of the Year at the British Guild of Travel Writers’ Awards 2023 and Best Photography at the Travel Media Awards 2020. Her work has been published by National Geographic, Wanderlust, and BBC Travel among others. Her films have been shown around the world including on the BBC, Discovery and PBS.

Further Reading...

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A Weekend In Tunisia – The Perfect Itinerary

30 Beautiful Pictures Of Guatemala And The Stories Behind Them

Crater azul: is guatemala's gorgeous blue crater overhyped.

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• BEST OF THE WORLD

25 amazing journeys for 2022

We’re ready to explore again. Here are the best adventures for the year ahead.

Ready to travel again? Our global editors picked the planet’s 25 most exciting destinations for 2022. Five categories—Nature, Adventure, Sustainability, Culture and History, and Family—frame unforgettable journeys of discovery. This year’s list celebrates a number of World Heritage sites in honor of UNESCO’s 50 years of helping to safeguard cultural and natural treasures. Although the pandemic changed when, where, and how we travel, we are eager to unleash our wanderlust—and see what wonders we’ll uncover.      

BEST PLACES TO ENJOY NATURE

Lake Baikal, Russia

Help save a natural wonder. Baikal is so vast and deep, many locals call it a sea. Covering some 12,200 square miles and with an average depth of 2,442 feet, the massive lake is a natural wonder. It’s also in serious trouble. Despite being named a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1996, Lake Baikal has experienced ongoing pollution, the recent weakening of government protections, and new threats, such as large-scale tourism development. As a result, the International Union for Conservation of Nature deemed the lake’s environmental World Heritage Outlook of “significant concern” in 2020.

Visitors can help safeguard the lake and its varied landscapes—including tundra, steppe, boreal forest, and virgin beaches—by volunteering with Great Baikal Trail Association , the nonprofit environmental group creating a hiking route around the lake. “Volunteering helps protect Lake Baikal nature by developing ecotourism infrastructure,” says association president Elena Chubakova.

Hiking the trail is a planet-friendly way to spot some of the 1,200 Lake Baikal plant and animal species found nowhere else on Earth, such as the nerpa, the world’s only exclusively freshwater seal.   — Victoria Meleshko, National Geographic Traveler Russia

Discover the next great safari. Namibia evokes images of deserts, immense dunes, and parched mountains. But the Caprivi Strip, a narrow finger of land that juts out toward the east in the extreme north of the country, is a green, wildlife-rich territory. The presence of the Okavango, Kwando, Chobe, and Zambezi Rivers creates an ideal habitat for numerous animal species.

During the second half of the 20th century, the area was the scene of intense military activity. Remote and difficult to access, it was a prime corridor for various armed groups. After Namibia gained independence in 1990, peace—and wildlife—gradually returned.

In the eastern section of the region, Nkasa Rupara National Park is a secret jewel. A ranger station and tented lodge that opened in recent years have made it more accessible to tourism, but it’s still seldom visited. Encompassed by the Kwando-Linyanti River system to the south and by swamps and lagoons to the north, Nkasa Rupara is Namibia’s largest protected wetland. It’s described as a “mini Okavango,” as its floodwaters mirror Botswana ’s more famous Okavango Delta . The park is home to the largest population of buffalo in Namibia. Predators include lions, leopards, and hyenas, while crocodiles and hippos abound in the river.  

Mahango Game Park , in the west, includes wetlands and mopane forests. Here roam large herds of elephants, hippos, crocodiles, and nearly all the antelope species of Namibia, including the elusive semiaquatic sitatunga. Go with Nat Geo: See otherworldly landscapes and seek out endangered black rhinos in Namibia. —Marco Cattaneo, National Geographic Traveler Italy

Victoria, Australia

Drive the Great Ocean Road.   Green shoots of regeneration are popping up across Australia , where the 2019-2020 bushfires burned some 72,000 square miles of land. The disasters led to the deaths of nearly three dozen people and more than a billion animals.

Playing its own role in these rejuvenation efforts, Wildlife Wonders , in Victoria’s Otways region, is a new wildlife sanctuary tucked away off the Great Ocean Road amid lush ancient forest and waterfalls. It’s the brainchild of Brian Massey, the landscape designer of New Zealand ’s Hobbiton movie set tours. Massey, along with botanists, scientists, zoologists, and environmental specialists, has crafted a sinuous wooden path that winds through the refuge and blends seamlessly into the landscape.

Visitors can set off on 75-minute guided tours of the sylvan site, wandering through thickets of eucalyptus trees and admiring the koalas, wallabies, and bandicoots that now call the sanctuary home. During a stop at the Research Base, guests can learn more about how the site provides a safe space for native species like the long-nosed potoroo, a marsupial that often falls prey to invasive predators such as foxes and cats.

All profits from Wildlife Wonders go toward the Conservation Ecology Centre , which helps to fund several vital conservation projects in the Otways, including one that studies the movement of potoroos before, during, and after planned forest fires. — Connor McGovern, National Geographic Traveller UK

Peek at tropical wildlife. The race to preserve one of the largest remaining tropical rainforests in the Americas got a big boost recently. In April 2021, a coalition of conservation partners, led by the Nature Conservancy , purchased 236,000 acres of tropical forest in northwestern Belize to create the Belize Maya Forest Reserve . Along with saving some of the most biodiverse forests in the world from denuding and development, the new protected area—which is contiguous with the neighboring Rio Bravo Conservation Management Area (RBCMA)—closes a huge gap in a vital wildlife corridor that runs from southeast Mexico through Guatemala and into Belize.

The combined reserve, which protects nearly a tenth of Belize’s land area, safeguards and connects essential habitats for an amazing variety of endemic and endangered wild things. These include the tapir, Belize’s national animal; black howler monkeys; more than 400 species of birds; and some of Central America’s largest surviving populations of jaguar. For now, ecotourism activities are based in the more established RBCMA, which has two rustic lodges and offers guided expeditions. Go with Nat Geo:   Take a private tour of the Maya ruins of Tikal, Guatemala, and the cays of Belize.  

Northern Minnesota  

Turn off the lights.   Thousands upon thousands of stars dazzle above northern Minnesota . This remote region bordering the Canadian province of Ontario has little to no light pollution, and residents are determined to keep it that way.

The Heart of the Continent Dark Sky Initiative is a cross-border effort underway to create one of the largest dark-sky destinations on the planet. Two of its biggest pieces are in Minnesota: Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness , the world’s largest International Dark Sky Sanctuary at more than a million acres, and neighboring Voyageurs National Park , the state’s first International Dark Sky Park. Both wild places received dark-sky certification in 2020, and Ontario’s Quetico Provincial Park , which adjoins the wilderness area, earned International Dark Sky Park status in early 2021.

( Here’s how to see auroras—from the Great Lakes .)

“The preservation of darkness at places like Voyageurs National Park not only provides wondrous views and ecological benefits to wildlife,” says Christina Hausman Rhode, executive director of the nonprofit Voyageurs Conservancy . “It also allows us a window to the past; to see the skies as they were hundreds of years ago, used for navigation and storytelling by peoples like the voyageurs of the fur trade and the Indigenous Ojibwe.”

BEST PLACES FOR ADVENTURE

Arapahoe Basin, Colorado

Climb the Rockies. For unparalleled views of the Continental Divide, one must climb hand over foot up North America’s highest via ferrata. Arapahoe Basin ’s “iron way”—a climbing route comprising metal rungs and cables—begins at the base of granite Rocky Mountain cliffs and ascends nearly 1,200 feet to a 13,000-foot summit.

A glance below reveals a weathered Colorado landscape dotted with green moss and pink and purple flora, and rock gardens created by the cliffs themselves, the fallen chunks varying in size from pebbles to Volkswagens. The thin air is occasionally punctuated by the shrill peep of a marmot or pika.

Even those without prior rock-climbing experience can scale the cliffs with a guide, using the metal rungs while also gripping the rock or wedging a foot into a crack for leverage. To avoid what could be a thousand-foot plunge to certain death, climbers must clip their harnesses from one cable to the next as they go. The route is entirely exposed and thunderstorms can roll in suddenly.

From the cliffs above, high-alpine mountain goats are often stoic observers, but typically disappear as travelers reach the summit. This marks the halfway point. From here, climbers must also descend, which, for via ferrata first-timers like Michael Lytle, can be the most harrowing part of the journey.

“You try not to look all the way down. The highway looks like a piece of thread from up there,” Lytle says. “The fear factor is real.”  

Swim with sharks. When you arrive here, the stamp in your passport will include the Palau Pledge , which all visitors must sign, promising that “the only footprints I shall leave are those that will wash away.” The 59-word eco-pledge was drafted by and for the children of this remote western Pacific archipelago to help protect Palau’s culture and environment from the negative impacts of tourism.

Eighty percent of the nation’s waters—recognized by National Geographic’s Pristine Seas project as one of the richest marine ecosystems on the planet—is preserved as the Palau National Marine Sanctuary . At 183,000 square miles, the no-take sanctuary is one of the world’s largest protected marine areas, safeguarding some 700 species of coral and more than 1,300 species of fish, including a dazzling variety of sharks.

“From the air, Palau looks like paradise on earth,” says Pristine Seas founder and National Geographic Explorer in Residence Enric Sala . “When you get underwater, you’re transported to a different world.”

During the 20th annual Shark Week Palau, from February 27 to March 6, 2022, divers can observe and participate in citizen science–assisted counts of numerous shark species, such as grey reef, blacktip, blue, tiger, and hammerhead. Daily dive sites are chosen for their abundant sharks and other marine life, including large aggregations of manta rays and thousands of spawning fish.  

Snorkelers can join a February or November Oceanic Society tour of the UNESCO World Heritage–listed Rock Islands Southern Lagoon , home to reef sharks, dugongs, giant clams, and marine lakes teeming with millions of golden jellyfish. Go with Nat Geo:   Discover the undersea wonders of Palau on this snorkel and kayak tour . — National Geographic Traveller India

Seine River, France

Cycle a new bike trail. La Seine à Vélo is a new cycling trail worthy of painter Claude Monet, whose house and famous water lilies in Giverny are on the route. But the 270-mile Paris-to-the-sea path, opened in October 2020, offers lesser known masterpieces too, such as the colorful street art that brightens the Canal Saint-Denis in Paris .

On the trail’s 15 stages, bikers pass through protected natural areas, including Normandy’s Grande Noé Bird Reserve , located along a major migratory flyway. While rolling across Normandy , they can visit the ruins of Jumièges Abbey , founded in 654, and take a Benedictine monk–led tour of Abbaye Saint-Wandrille , a centuries-old working abbey. The tearoom and gardens of Château de Bizy , a royal residence built in 1740 and inspired by Versailles , offer a respite off two wheels.

While Monet isn’t the only reason to ride the trail, pedal-pushers who love paintings should allow extra time for the Giverny Museum of Impressionism , which explores the revolutionary 19th-century art movement. — Gabriel Joseph-Dezaize, National Geographic Traveler France

New Brunswick, Canada

Tackle a backcountry trail. A turtle-shaped rock near Nepisiguit Falls, in the Canadian province of New Brunswick , carries with it a legend told by the Mi’gmaq people (also spelled Mi’kmaq). When water levels drop, the “turtle,” named Egomoqaseg, or “rock like a moving ship,” appears to be climbing up out of the river, says trail master Jason Grant, whose father-in-law, Mi’gmaq elder Gilbert Sewell, was a keeper of the story.

“Legend goes, once the turtle is completely out of the water, it will be the end of the world for the Mi’gmaq people,” says Grant. Based on his annual visits to the rock, Grant adds, Egomoqaseg has a long way to go before reaching dry ground.

The falls are a stop along a millennia-old First Nations migration route that has been developed into the longest backcountry hiking trail in the Canadian Maritimes. Running 93 miles along the Nepisiguit River, the rugged Sentier Nepisiguit Mi’gmaq Trail follows ancient portage pathways used by the nomadic Mi’gmaq.  

The route begins at sea level at Daly Point Nature Reserve in Bathurst and ends at Bathurst Lake in Mount Carleton Provincial Park , home to 2,690-foot-tall Mount Carleton, the highest peak in the Maritimes. To promote respect for the relevance of the trail to the Mi’gmaq people, the route’s restoration, completed in 2018, included incorporating Mi’gmaq language and culture, such as teepee campsites and a turtle logo inspired by Egomoqaseg.  

Trek from sea to sea. Stretching across Costa Rica from the Caribbean to the Pacific, El Camino de Costa Rica is a 174-mile-long window into life far off the well-trod tourist path. The 16-stage hiking route primarily follows public roads as it passes through remote villages and towns, Indigenous Cabecar lands, and protected natural areas.  

It’s designed to spark economic activity in rural districts. Local families, nonprofits, and a network of micro-entrepreneurs, such as Ecomiel honey producers, the woman-owned Finca El Casquillo organic farm, and La Cabaña sustainable coffee micro-mill, provide most of the trail’s lodging, food, tours, and other hiker amenities.

Due to the trail’s remoteness and its patchwork of tourism services, Mar a Mar (Sea to Sea)—the nonprofit partnership formed in 2016 to develop, promote, and help sustain El Camino—strongly recommends hiking with a guide. Ticos a Pata , UrriTrek Costa Rica , and ViaLig Journeys are among the tour operators offering guided experiences—from single-day hikes to coast-to-coast treks with multiple river crossings and rambles through ranch lands, rainforests, cloud forests, and sugarcane plantations. Multiday itineraries typically feature optional adventures, such as a white-water rafting trip on the world-class Pacuare River rapids. — National Geographic Traveler Korea

BEST PLACES CHAMPIONING SUSTAINABILITY

Yasuní National Park, Ecuador

Fight for the forest. In recognition of the global importance of the Amazon, France is leading the fight against deforestation in eastern Ecuador ’s Yasuní National Park , designated a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 1989. The almost 4,000-square-mile park—home to mahogany trees, sweet guabas , anthuriums, palms, and hypnotizingly green ferns—is the first of five pilot sites in the French-funded TerrAmaz program . This four-year initiative, launched in late 2020, supports sustainable development and safeguards biodiversity in the Amazon rainforest of Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru.

Yasuní—considered one of the most biodiverse places on Earth—shelters an astonishing assortment of creatures, such as anteaters, capybaras, sloths, spider monkeys, and about 600 species of colorful birds. In the Napo and Curaray rivers flanking the park, visitors can watch for the Amazon river dolphin, an endangered and enigmatic species.

Yasuní also provides refuge for the Tagaeri and Taromenane people, Waorani Indigenous groups who live in voluntary isolation and use handcrafted canoes to travel between waterways. Tour operators such as Napo Wildlife Center offer excursions and lodging based on a sustainable ecotourism model that benefits the resident tribes. — Karen Alfaro, National Geographic Traveler Latin America

Chimanimani, Mozambique

Witness a conservation success. “Chimanimani is a timeless place, where local rainmakers still climb peaks to summon rain,” says National Geographic Explorer and photojournalist Jen Guyton , of one of Mozambique ’s newest national parks. Located on the country’s mountainous border with Zimbabwe, Chimanimani National Park , established in October 2020, is home to Mozambique’s highest peak, Mount Binga (elevation: 7,992 feet). It was once flush with elephants, lions, and other large animals whose images appear in ancient rock art created by the ancestral San people.

Poaching during decades of civil unrest decimated wildlife populations, but small numbers of elephants remain, as do at least 42 other species of mammals and a dazzling variety of plant and avian life. In the two recent biodiversity surveys alone that Guyton photographed, 475 plant species and 260 bird species were identified, along with 67 amphibian and reptile species—including one frog and one lizard thought to be new to science.

( How one of Africa’s great parks is rebounding from war .)

Sustainable tourism activities—such as birdwatching, hiking to forest waterfalls, and overnighting at the Ndzou Camp , a small community ecolodge—provide up-close views of a captivating wild place, which Guyton particularly enjoys experiencing at sunset. “With no roads for miles around, there’s total silence except for the birds, and you get a few moments of almost transcendental peace in that warm glow.”

Ruhr Valley, Germany

Get creative. Mining and steel production once dominated the densely populated Ruhr Valley , located in Germany ’s western state of North Rhine–Westphalia. Today, the region is repurposing former slag heaps (mounds of mining waste) and postapocalyptic-looking industrial sites as parks and open-air cultural spaces.  

The most famous is the World Heritage site of   Zeche Zollverein (Zollverein Coal Mine Industrial Complex), home to an outdoor swimming pool, ice rink, and walking trails. “People visiting the Ruhr area are usually impressed by the abundance of green,” says Karola Geiss-Netthöfel, director of the Ruhr Regional Association .

Zollverein is part of the wider Emscher Landscape Park , an east-west system of green spaces and corridors covering nearly 175 square miles. Rent a bike in Essen for a car-free Ruhr Valley trip along cycling routes, many of which follow former railway tracks. Or explore on foot via the 96-mile-long Hohe Mark Steig , a trekking trail opened in 2021.  

“The trail combines nature and industrial culture in a unique way, as you pass by several industrial buildings,” says Geiss-Netthöfel. A top spot nearby: Halde Hoheward, elevation 495 feet, a mountainous slag heap made from 180 million tons of mine waste and topped with a giant sundial. — Franziska Haack, National Geographic Traveler Germany

Columbia River Gorge, Oregon/Washington

Wine and dine mindfully. The nation’s largest National Scenic Area is probably not where you think it is. It straddles the Oregon - Washington border and comprises 293,000 acres of public and private lands along the Columbia River Gorge.

With Mount Hood nearby, the area attracts more than two million visitors annually. A nonprofit alliance is helping to reduce tourist impact on local nature and culture. This collaboration has become a model for other regions building a sustainable tourism economy.

Columbia Gorge Tourism Alliance initiatives include the visitor education program Ready, Set, Gorge, and the East Gorge Food Trail , a network of farms, historic hotels, wineries, and other homegrown experiences. Partnering with other local organizations and educating visitors benefits everyone, says Ali McLaughlin, owner of MountNbarreL , which offers wine-tasting bike tours and other car-free experiences.

“Having tourists who understand the importance of respecting the area they are traveling through has gone a long way toward mitigating concerns from local residents,” says McLaughlin. Go with Nat Geo: Retrace the path of Lewis and Clark’s trailblazing expedition through the Pacific Northwest.

Łódź, Poland

Spotlight a green city. Named a UNESCO City of Film in 2017 for its rich cinematic culture, Łódź , a city of nearly 700,000 in central Poland , was a major textile manufacturing center in the 19th and 20th centuries. Now Poland’s Hollywood is flipping the script on its industrial past to create a greener future.

In recent years Łódź   (pronounced woodge) has embraced new ecological technologies, such as using pre-RDF (refuse-derived fuel) and biomass energy to heat homes. In 2021, the city partnered with the European e-commerce delivery platform InPost to significantly reduce CO₂ emissions and traffic in the town’s center by installing 70 parcel locker locations and electric car charging stations.

Nearly a third of Łódź is green space, ranging from new pocket parks to the 2,977-acre Łagiewnicki Forest . In the city’s old industrial areas, factories are being reborn as parks, cultural centers, residences, and retail spaces. The trendiest spot on the cultural map is OFF Piotrkowska , a buzzing art, design, dining, and club district housed in a former cotton mill.  

Another massive factory, built by the I.K. Poznański Cotton Products Company—which employed as many as 7,000 people in 1913—was reimagined as Manufaktura , an arts center and shopping mall spread across 13 historic brick buildings. Manufaktura’s Muzeum Fabryki explores the   Poznański family’s “cotton empire” and the lives of the factory workers. — Martyna Szczepanik, National Geographic Traveler Poland

BEST PLACES FOR CULTURE AND HISTORY

Jingmai Mountain, China

Taste tea. One of the oldest cultural landscapes in China is slated to become one of the country’s newest UNESCO World Heritage sites in 2022. The Ancient Tea Plantations of Jingmai Mountain in Pu’er , which collectively form the world’s largest ancient artificially cultivated tea plantation, features about 1.13 million tea trees, the oldest of which is 1,400 years old.

Located in the remote southwestern corner of China’s Yunnan Province, the region was a starting point of the legendary Ancient Tea Horse Road . This 11th-century network of routes was named for its primary purpose: trading Chinese tea for Tibetan horses (130 pounds of tea equaled the value of one horse).

( In search of the perfect cup of tea in China’s Yunnan Province .)

Today, new highways have replaced the route, but the region’s tea plantations remain, as do the four local ethnic minority groups—the Blang, Dai, Hani, and Wa people—who retain their own languages, customs, and festivals. The remote location and limited tea-tourism offerings make a guided trip the best way to experience this enduring cultural landscape. — Yi Lu, National Geographic Traveler China

Hokkaido, Japan  

Learn about an island’s roots. Most visitors to Hokkaido , Japan’s wildly scenic and northernmost main island, don’t have many opportunities to learn about the Ainu, Indigenous people from the northern region of the archipelago. But the new National Ainu Museum and Park at Upopoy, which opened in 2020, hopes to change that. It joins the Kayano Shigeru Nibutani Ainu Museum , which opened in 1992, in teaching Japanese and international visitors about Ainu culture.

Marginalized since the late 1800s, the Ainu were granted legal protections in Japan in 2019; the country’s new Ainu Promotion Act recognizes and bans discrimination against the Ainu.  

Upopoy has a pressing three-pronged mission: promote, revitalize, and expand Ainu culture before it becomes extinct. Particularly at risk is the Ainu language, which is unrelated to Japanese or any other language, and is considered critically endangered by UNESCO. Listening to conversational Ainu and playing games to learn pronunciation are part of the new museum’s permanent exhibition.  

Visitors can also discover the timely sustainable-living lessons of the Ainu, whose spiritual beliefs are rooted in respect and gratitude for nature. After visiting Upopoy, drive 30 minutes southwest and soak in nature at Noboribetsu Onsen , Hokkaido’s premier hot springs resort which is located in Shikotsu-Toya National Park . Go with Nat Geo:   Take a voyage in the Ring of Fire aboard the National Geographic Resolution.

Procida Island, Italy

Connect with culture.   Chosen pre-pandemic, the theme of Procida’s reign as the Italian Capital of Culture 2022 — La cultura non isola (Culture does not isolate)—now seems particularly on point. The island city, located 40 minutes southwest of Naples via high-speed ferry, plans to use its year in the spotlight to illustrate the importance of culture, particularly in times of uncertainty.

“Today, ‘Culture does not isolate’ is an even stronger call to action because, for us, the island is a metaphor for modern people,” says Procida 2022 director Agostino Riitano. “We are all like islands, creating our own archipelagos where culture has to be the mortar that holds them together; this is even more true following the effects of the pandemic.”

( The pandemic couldn’t silence this Italian city of music .)

Procida 2022 plans to spread cultural programming, such as contemporary art exhibitions, festivals, and performances, over 300 days to encourage responsible travel throughout the year, and to avoid a mass influx of visitors during the summer. In the spotlight as a symbol of the inclusive theme is the island’s Palazzo d’Avalos , a Renaissance palace-turned-prison, built in 1500 and closed in 1988. Most recently associated with isolation, the former prison and its green space (where inmates raised crops, cows, and pigs) will be reborn as a cultural venue and urban park.

Atlanta, Georgia  

Meet the moment. At a time when voting rights are in contention in the United States, Atlanta is flexing its cultural and political muscle through two formidable voter empowerment organizations: The New Georgia Project and Fair Fight Action , both founded by Atlanta-based political leader and activist Stacey Abrams.

Being at the forefront of social change isn’t new, says city native Bem Joiner, cofounder of the creative agency Atlanta Influences Everything . “Atlanta’s ‘special sauce’ is its three C’s: civic, corporate, and cultural. We’re the cradle of the civil rights movement, the home of Coca-Cola, and our hip-hop culture shapes global culture. There’s no place else quite like Atlanta.”

Georgia’s largest city is also an epicenter of Black entrepreneurship, incubating businesses such as plant-based burger chain Slutty Vegan and eco-conscious Sustainable Home Goods .  

Easily accessible on foot or by bike via the BeltLine’s Eastside Trail , the Old Fourth Ward neighborhood blends nightlife and dining venues, such as Biggerstaff Brewing Company and Ponce City Market , with historic highlights like the Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historical Park and the Jimmy Carter Presidential Library and Museum .

Tin Pan Alley, London

Sing along. Despite pushback from punk and rock purists, the remix of Denmark Street , former hub of the British music industry, promises to hit all the right notes. Once lined with music publishers, recording studios, rehearsal rooms, and dimly lit clubs, the tiny street, nicknamed London ’s Tin Pan Alley, helped launch the British punk rock movement and legends including David Bowie, Elton John, and the Rolling Stones.  

In recent years, the music had all but died, save for Denmark Street’s surviving guitar shops. Now this iconic slice of history is being revived as part of Outernet London, the West End’s new $1.2 billion entertainment district.

The retooled street retains pieces of its storied past: restored 17th-century building facades; the heritage-protected graffiti art of Johnny Rotten, lead singer of the Sex Pistols (who lived here); the old-school music shops (thanks to affordable, long-term leases).  

( Learn more about the unlikely rebirth of a London legend .)

It also welcomes new spaces for infusing with music. There are busker spots where street musicians can make their case for being the next Adele (who debuted at Denmark Street’s original 12 Bar Club ); a free-to-use professional-quality recording studio for up-and-coming artists; and the new Chateau Denmark hotel, spread across 16 buildings steeped in music history.

BEST PLACES FOR FAMILIES

Lycia, Turkey

Learn about nomadic life. The nomadic Yörüks,   originally from different Turkic groups that ranged from the Balkans to Iran , once roamed the plateaus of the Turkish riviera. Most of the Yörüks (literally “walkers”) have now settled down—but many of their thousand-year-old customs are alive and well.  

Located in the historical Lycia region in southwestern Anatolia , Teke Peninsula is one of the spots where Yörük culture remains strong. Teke Yörüks live a semi-nomadic life with their tents, kilim rugs, herds, shepherd dogs, and transhumant traditions, set against a mountainous, Mediterranean backdrop full of olive trees.

In recent years, tour companies have started to merge the marvels of Lycia with Yörük life. Families can trek parts of the famous Lycian Way ; visit ancient sites like Patara, Xanthos, or Letoon; and swim in crystal clear waters while spending nights in hotels, guesthouses, tents, or villagers’ own homes. But it’s the children who have the most fun, as they can experience Yörük culture by making syrup with pomegranates, cooking local pastries, milking goats, or taking part in the olive harvest.

“History, nature, and culture, they’re all here. We wanted to turn this beautiful landscape into a learning platform, but also into a playground,” says Kerem Karaerkek, the chief guide of Middle Earth Travel . “I love how the kids get excited when they step into a Yörük kitchen or when they go on a treasure hunt in ancient Lycian ruins. You can see the sense of wonder in their eyes.” — Onur Uygun, National Geographic Traveler Turkey

Granada, Spain

Marvel at geometric beauty. Built as a palace-city by 13th-century Nasrid sultans—rulers of the longest-lasting and final Muslim dynasty on the Iberian Peninsula—the Alhambra (“red fort”) is considered the Moorish architectural jewel of Europe. The almond-shaped profile of this UNESCO World Heritage site rests on a hill above Granada, one of the most picturesque cities in Spain .

But it’s the mathematical wizardry on display here that is particularly fascinating for families. Intricate mosaics, arabesques (a repetitive, stylized pattern based on a floral or vegetal design), and muqarnas   (ornamental vaulting) make the Alhambra a masterpiece of geometric beauty—and a colorful classroom for age-appropriate exploration of math concepts, such as shapes, symmetry, proportion, and measurement.

Math flows through the Alhambra’s other main design feature, water, which gives life and meaning to the whole. Water provides the refreshing spirit of the gardens and the murmur of its fountains, but is also an element of the architecture itself.

At the Palace of the Lions , one of the Alhambra’s three original royal palaces, families will marvel at the central fountain. Its elaborate design features 12 stone lions supporting a large marble basin on their backs and—thanks to the technical wonder of complex hydraulics—spitting water from their mouths. Go with Nat Geo: Discover Moorish Spain from Córdoba’s cultures to Granada’s Alhambra to Seville’s wonders. —Manuel Mateo Pérez, NG Viajes Spain

Eastern Shore, Maryland

Be transported by history. The history of the Underground Railroad flows through the waterways, wetlands, swamps, and tidal marshes of Dorchester County on Maryland ’s Eastern Shore. This is where the secret network’s most famous “conductor,” Harriet Tubman , was born enslaved, grew up, and honed the skills—such as trapping, hunting, and using stars to navigate—she used to escape to freedom in Pennsylvania . She then returned 13 times to rescue more than 70 enslaved friends and family. Her heroic story is told at the Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad Visitor Center , one of the more than 30 stops along the 125-mile Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad Byway .

To bring Tubman’s story to life for kids, Alex Green, co-owner of Harriet Tubman Tours , suggests a kayaking adventure in the byway’s Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge . As a child, Tubman trapped muskrats here and worked alongside her father, a timber inspector who taught her how to move around the marshlands.

“We talk to kids about how the confidence and lessons Harriet learned inside the terrible institution of slavery drove her to accomplish incredible things,” Green says. “Harriet never gave up and she never stopped learning. That’s a lesson they can take home.” Go with Nat Geo:   Embark on a wild Chesapeake Bay escape to see waterways, watermen, and wildlife.

Danube River  

Cruise storybook lands. Boating the Danube can seem like traveling through a realm of fairy tales, with its scrolling views of castles, medieval towns, and stately palaces that help to bring European history to life. The river twists through 10 European countries (Germany, Austria, Slovakia, Hungary, Croatia, Serbia, Romania, Bulgaria, Moldova, and Ukraine), and most Danube cruise itineraries include stops in at least four of those, with special family sailings featuring kid-friendly onshore activities.

School lessons focusing on Middle Ages feudalism take on vivid dimensions when exploring Veste Oberhaus in Passau, Germany, one of the largest surviving castle complexes in Europe. Ages-old Hungarian equestrian traditions come alive on a southern Hungarian ranch, where fearless csikós , or mounted herdsmen, ride standing upright and balancing on the backs of two galloping horses.

When off the water, look to wheels. Board Vienna ’s iconic Giant Ferris Wheel, the Riesenrad , or take a bike ride among terraced vineyards in Lower Austria’s World Heritage-listed Wachau Cultural Landscape .   Go with Nat Geo:   Savor Christmas markets from Budapest to Nuremberg on this Danube cruise . — National Geographic Traveler Romania

Dive a longtime marine reserve. Dazzling sunlight, a turquoise sea, palm trees, white beaches, and a laid-back atmosphere: Bonaire checks all the boxes for an idyllic tropical destination. But compared to many other Caribbean islands, Bonaire (pop. 21,000) is quiet and still relatively wild and unspoiled. Off its coast lies one of the oldest marine reserves in the world.

The Bonaire National Marine Park was established in 1979 and has been on the provisional UNESCO World Heritage List since 2011. The reserve encompasses 6,672 acres of coral reef, seagrass, and mangrove vegetation. Bonaire’s healthy reefs are a magnet for divers and snorkelers who can spot up to 57 species of coral and more than 350 different fish species.

Several dive schools on Bonaire participate in the Reef Renewal program , in which volunteers can grow and maintain corals in underwater nurseries, then plant them into the reef. Anyone who can dive can come and help after completing the PADI Reef Renewal Diver course.

( Read more about new efforts to save dying coral reefs . )

Accessibility is another bonus: You don’t need a liveaboard or other boat transport to start exploring. At 54 of Bonaire’s nearly 90 public dive sites, you walk from the beach or a pier straight into the water. —Barbera Bosma, National Geographic Traveler Netherlands

Written by the global editors of National Geographic Travel, with additional reporting and writing by Maryellen Kennedy Duckett, Karen Carmichael, and Shauna Farnell.

The coronavirus pandemic has disrupted travel. When planning a trip, be sure to research your destination and take safety precautions before, during, and after your journey. Click here for National Geographic reporting on the pandemic.

Related Topics

• ENVIRONMENT AND CONSERVATION
• NATURE PHOTOGRAPHY
• CULTURAL CONSERVATION
• PEOPLE AND CULTURE
• CULTURAL TOURISM

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