People are traveling like never before, and for good reason. The world is full of beautiful and unique places to visit. We’ve got you covered if you want terrific places to visit worldwide. Sit back, relax, and enjoy as we share some of our planet’s most stunning landscapes.
The Grand Canyon, Arizona, USA
With around 5 million visitors per year, Grand Canyon National Park is one of the busiest parks in the United States, and for good reason. You don’t get much more iconic than the Grand Canyon. The views are amazing, and it’s hard to understand how big this massive canyon is. So do yourself a favor and visit the Grand Canyon. Mid-late October is a fantastic time to visit the Grand Canyon, with cooler temps and fewer people (especially mid week).
The Great Barrier Reef, Australia
The Great Barrier Reef is a true marvel of nature and a treasure of Australia. The reef stretches over 2,300 kilometers along the Queensland coast. It is Earth’s largest coral reef system. This natural wonder is home to a mind-boggling array of marine life. Visitors will be captivated by its beauty and biodiversity.
The Northern Lights, Iceland
The Northern Lights, also known as the Aurora Borealis, grace the Icelandic night sky. Iceland’s pristine landscapes and remote locations make it the perfect stage for this stellar performance. Swirling green, purple, and blue ribbons will leave a lasting impression.
Amazon Rainforest, South America
Welcome to the wild and vibrant Amazon Rainforest. Prepare to be immersed in a world of lush greenery and exotic wildlife. This expansive jungle offers an unforgettable adventure from towering trees to winding rivers. Although you won’t get to swing through the treetops, plenty of secrets are hidden in the jungle.
The Cliffs of Moher, Ireland
The Cliffs of Moher are a sight unlike any other. Standing tall on Ireland’s rugged west coast, these majestic cliffs offer incredible views of the Atlantic Ocean. Feel the wind in your hair as you gaze at the crashing waves and marvel at the sheer beauty of this scenic natural wonder. For the best experience, visit between April and September.
Victoria Falls, Zambia, and Zimbabwe
Get your raincoat ready and prepare to be drenched in the majestic Victoria Falls. With its thundering waters and misty atmosphere, this natural spectacle is an absolute showstopper. Feel the power of the Zambezi (“Great”) River that will sweep you off your feet. The best time to experience the falls is from February to May.
The Sahara Desert, North Africa
Welcome to the world’s largest sandbox, the Sahara Desert. Brace yourself for an impressive journey through endless dunes and incredible landscapes. Experience the silence and solitude of this vast desert, where camels roam. Let the shifting sands paint a picture of adventure and exploration. The best time to visit the Sahara Desert is spring or fall to avoid the searing summer heat.
The Fairy Pools, Isle of Skye, Scotland
A visit here is like stepping into a fairytale. Nestled on the beautiful Isle of Skye, these crystal-clear, turquoise waters offer a serious escape from reality. Feel free to take a dip in the ahem…refreshing pools. A wetsuit is advised since the water is oh-so chilly. Goggles are a must, so you can see all there is to see.
Plitvice Lakes National Park, Croatia
Plitvice Lakes National Park is not only the largest national park in Croatia but also the oldest. Visitors will admire the kaleidoscope of vibrant blue and green lakes connected by cascading waterfalls and lush forests. Take a leisurely stroll along wooden walkways, breathe in the fresh air, and let the tranquility of this place wash over you.
Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, China
Not only is Zhangjiajie National Forest Park China’s first national park, but it’s also home to the world’s longest glass bridge. Now that’s a lot of swag. The park allows visitors to explore a landscape straight out of a fantasy movie, with towering sandstone pillars reaching for the sky. It’s like something from Avatar, where you can let your imagination run wild. This Zhangjiajie National Forest Park feels otherworldly and will leave you in awe.
Torres del Paine National Park, Chile
This place is arguably the most stunning landscape of all the stunning landscapes. It’s incredible. Like it almost doesn’t feel real, right? This wilderness is a hiker’s paradise, with towering granite peaks to shimmering turquoise lakes. You can feel the crisp Patagonian air as you go through rugged landscapes and experience the beauty that makes this park a one-of-a-kind gem of South America.
Bora Bora, French Polynesia
Calling all honeymooners and luxury vacationers, welcome to paradise on Earth. Immerse yourself in the ultimate tropical getaway with crystal-clear waters and powdery white sand beaches. There is no place like Bora Bora to kick back, relax and let your imagination do whatever it wants.
Fiordland National Park, New Zealand
This lesser-known park 100% belongs on our list of the world’s most stunning landscapes. But, honestly, prepare to be enchanted by the dramatic topography of Fiordland National Park. If you enjoy skiing, visit in the winter, and if hiking is your jam, spring and summer are excellent with the post-winter blooms.
Mount Everest, Nepal and Tibet
No list of stunning landscapes is complete without the iconic of all, Mount Everest. Unfortunately, climbing this beast is not for the faint of heart, with only about 800 souls attempting each year. But that doesn’t mean you can’t admire the beauty from afar.
Pamukkale, Turkey
The pools have been here for thousands of years, and the travertine terraces are made of calcium carbonate. The beauty is undeniable, and this natural wonder is a feast for the eyes with its terraces of sparkling white pools. From Istanbul, the fastest way to get here is by flying.
Salar de Uyuni, Bolivia
The world’s largest salt flat stretches as far as the eye can see. This stunning landscape is highly unique. It’s best to visit during the dry season. The landscape is truly unlike anything you have ever seen. Pictures don’t do it justice. Gotta see this one in person.
Bagan, Myanmar (Burma)
The ancient temples are a sight to behold. There is nothing quite like them. Not only is this area a UNESCO World Heritage Site, but it’s also a prominent archaeological site in South East Asia. Travel restrictions are in play, so keep that in mind if you are headed to this region.
Serengeti National Park, Tanzania
When you think of the Serengeti, one of the first things that comes to mind is a safari, and you’re not wrong. Visitors worldwide visit for the Great Migration, where millions of wildebeests head to greener pastures. Serengeti National Park is full of unique vegetation and wildlife. Definitely a bucket list location.
Yosemite National Park, California, USA
Finally, Yosemite National Park is home to Halfdome, the iconic rock formation for which the park is well-known. Yosemite has incredible landscapes and covers various terrain, from steep cliffs to beautiful meadows. Hikers, campers, and nature lovers must add Yosemite to their itinerary.
Conclusion
The world is full of amazing, yes, stunning landscapes just waiting for you to explore. That was a whirlwind tour of our world’s most incredible landscapes. So grab your backpack, put on your explorer hat, and hit the road.
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Steve Morrow owns Paddle About, an outdoor recreation and travel blog. Steve loves to travel, kayak, paddle board, camp, hike, and spend time outdoors with his wife and two kids. When he's not exploring the great outdoors, Steve enjoys writing about his adventures and sharing tips for getting the most out of your outdoor experiences. He has a lot of interesting stories to share, and he's always happy to help others get more out of life.
