Journeying across the world, the pursuit of indelible memories leads us to the pinnacle of human exploration. Amongst the astonishing remnants of Machu Picchu and the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro, adventurers seek out the best places to visit in the world, in pursuit of experiences that leave an enduring mark on their hearts and minds.
Nature’s allure spans the planet, from Canada’s serene sky-blue lakes to Seychelles’ captivating sandstone beaches. Our exploration concentrates on nature’s bounty—national parks, mountains, beaches, deserts—and assembles a compendium of the planet’s most breathtaking locales, offering inspiration for your next dream expedition.
Let’s Embark on a voyage to unearth some of the world’s marvels, such as the awe-inspiring red rocks of the Grand Canyon and the vibrant Great Barrier Reef.
Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Reserve, Costa Rica
In the misty landscapes of northwestern Costa Rica lies the enchanting Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Reserve—a haven for sustainable ecotourism. Teaming with diverse plant and animal species, including the resplendent quetzal, this preserved paradise offers an enthralling experience through jungle trails and thrilling steel bridges suspended above the canopy.
Torres del Paine National Park, Chile
To embrace the untamed beauty of Patagonia, Torres del Paine National Park stands unparalleled. This UNESCO Biosphere Reserve hosts the iconic granite towers (after which it is named) along with crystalline lagoons and surreal glaciers, showcasing nature’s unadulterated grandeur.
Bagan, Myanmar
The sheer expanse of Bagan Archaeological Zone, adorned with thousands of temples and stupas, defies comprehension. Traverse this UNESCO World Heritage Site on a bicycle or e-bike for a comprehensive exploration. For an aerial vista, soar on a sunrise hot-air balloon ride, revealing the temples strewn across the verdant landscape.
Anse Source d’Argent, Seychelles
Tucked away on La Digue Island, Anse Source d’Argent stands out among Seychelles’ stunning beaches. Its powdery white sands, framed by striking granite boulders and crystal-clear azure waters, offer a serene escape from bustling resort areas.
Grand Canyon, Arizona
A natural wonder deserving every ounce of its acclaim, the Grand Canyon captivates with its awe-inspiring vistas. Spanning one mile deep and up to 18 miles wide, its kaleidoscopic layers of rock create an almost hypnotic panorama.
Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe and Zambia
Named “the smoke that thunders,” Victoria Falls spans two countries and is a magnet for adventure seekers. Besides its breathtaking cascades, it serves as a gateway to thrilling activities like white-water rafting, safaris, and awe-inspiring helicopter rides.
Whitehaven Beach, Australia
Nestled in the Whitsunday Coast, Whitehaven Beach mesmerizes with its pristine beauty. Its allure lies in the juxtaposition of pure silica sands against the vibrant blue-green waters, making it a sight to behold.
Avenue of the Baobabs, Madagascar
A stretch of colossal baobab trees near Madagascar’s coast tells tales of an ancient forest. These majestic giants, illuminated by the golden hues of sunrise and sunset, stand as a testament to time.
Uyuni Salt Flat, Bolivia
Covering 4,000 square miles, the world’s largest salt flat boasts unparalleled beauty. In the dry season, it’s a gleaming white expanse, while the rainy months transform it into a breathtaking mirror merging sky and land.
Read on How to get there here.
Hạ Long Bay, Vietnam
A photographer’s paradise, Hạ Long Bay boasts jungle-covered karsts rising from emerald waters. Explore its stunning islands and intricate cave systems via boat or kayak in this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Lake Atitlán, Guatemala
Set amid the Sierra Madres, Lake Atitlán offers a blend of Indigenous culture and tranquil beauty. Discover its charm by boating across the volcanic crater lake, visiting local markets, and experiencing yoga retreats.
Le Morne Brabant, Mauritius
The silhouette of Le Morne Brabant against the Indian Ocean forms an otherworldly scene. This basaltic mountain harbors historical significance as a refuge for those escaping slavery, showcasing both natural wonder and cultural heritage.
Acadia National Park, Maine
Acadia, a captivating blend of ocean, cliffs, and forests, offers visitors an enchanting New England wilderness. Its misty rocky shorelines and conifer-laden mountains attract outdoor enthusiasts for hiking, fishing, climbing, camping, and a unique end-of-the-world ambiance.
Okavango Delta, Botswana
The Okavango Delta, the world’s largest inland delta, presents a sprawling maze of waterways and lagoons that draw wildlife enthusiasts. Navigating in a traditional mokoro canoe through reed-studded channels is an exceptional experience, allowing sightings of hippos, leopards, elephants, and a diverse array of fauna.
Railay West Beach, Thailand
Nestled in Krabi’s Railay peninsula, this beach boasts stunning karst formations meeting a mesmerizing jade-green lagoon. Accessible only by boat due to towering cliffs, Railay offers an exclusive and captivating tropical escape.
Maasai Mara, Kenya
Adjacent to the Serengeti, the Maasai Mara unfurls as a picturesque wildlife sanctuary. Its golden savannahs, dotted with acacia trees, serve as a backdrop for the dramatic annual migration of wildebeests and zebras, attracting an array of predators.
Cat Island, The Bahamas
Cat Island, a hidden gem in the Bahamas, offers untouched beauty with vast nature trails and mesmerizing pink-sand beaches, providing a serene retreat away from typical tourist spots.
Zhangye National Geopark, China
This geologic wonder in Gansu, China, showcases surreal bands of vibrant colors against rugged mountain backdrops, resembling an otherworldly landscape akin to Mars’ psychedelic terrain.
Glencoe, Scotland
Famed for its scenic grandeur and historical significance, Glencoe in the Scottish Highlands is a paradise for hikers, mountaineers, and whiskey enthusiasts, rich in natural beauty and cultural heritage.
Mount Kōya, Japan
Founded by Buddhist monk Kobo Daishi, Mount Kōya is a UNESCO World Heritage Site housing over 100 temples, including the illustrious Kongobuji. Its serene atmosphere and sacred sites, amidst a centuries-old cedar forest, create a spiritually captivating experience.
Dead Sea, Jordan, Palestine, and Israel
The Dead Sea, despite its name, teems with life, renowned for its extreme salinity that effortlessly keeps bathers afloat. Situated at Earth’s lowest point, this salt lake spanning Jordan, Palestine, and Israel offers stunning clear waters, mineral formations, sandy beaches, and unique nature preserves.
Zion National Park, Utah
Zion’s Navajo Sandstone cliffs and vibrant canyons make it a beloved and visually stunning national park, drawing visitors for its natural beauty and diverse ecosystems.
Vatnajökull National Park, Iceland
Home to the vast Vatnajökull ice cap, this Icelandic wonderland comprises caves, craters, and glacier-filled calderas. Notable features include the Svartifoss waterfall cascading over hexagonal lava-rock columns, adding to its allure.