20 Stunning Natural Marvels You Must Experience Before You Die
Get ready to be entranced by our planet’s incredible magnificence! Natural marvels are found deep in its vast landscapes and hidden corners, and they will make you awe. These are not your typical destinations; they are experiences that will set your imagination in motion and imprint on the soul.
Fasten your seatbelt; we’re about to set you off to explore some of the most striking natural creations Mother Nature has to offer.
Grand Canyon, USA
The Grand Canyon is the cutting feature of a geological masterpiece carved over millions of years by the Colorado River. This UNESCO World Heritage Site stretches over 277 miles, drops over 1 mile deep in some areas, and welcomes almost 6 million visitors annually.
The South Rim offers the most awe-inspiring views, especially at sunrise or sunset. Adventure enthusiasts can also venture into the canyon’s depths on a multi-day rafting trip. The Grand Canyon National Park app has maps, tours, and insider tips.
Aurora Borealis, Norway
There is no comparison to the Northern Lights. Tromsø or the Lofoten Islands are best visited for the best vantage point between September and March. Greens should be vibrant; purples should be vibrant; and pinks should be vibrant—as they dance across the Arctic sky, leaving spectators breathless.
NASA says solar activity—which drives the Northern Lights—will rise and peak in 2025, making the next couple of years prime viewing time.
Great Barrier Reef, Australia
At 1,400 miles, the Great Barrier Reef is the world’s most extensive coral reef system and home to 1,500 fish and 400 species of coral. Snorkeling, scuba diving, or a glass-bottom boat will surround you with a rainbow of marine biodiversity.
Unfortunately, climate change has put this wonder at risk, so please control your footprint when you visit so that local conservation efforts can continue their work.
Mount Everest, Nepal
Mount Everest is the world’s highest peak, at 29,032 feet (almost 6 miles), and attracts trekkers, climbers, and dreamers.
For most, summiting Everest might not be in the cards, but trekking to summit Everest Base Camp offers a similar jaw-dropping experience that combines Himalayan panoramic views with insight into Sherpa villages. Almost 800 climbers attempt the summit of Everest every year.
Victoria Falls, Zambia/Zimbabwe
Known locally as “Mosi-oa-Tunya” (The Smoke That Thunders), Victoria Falls is one of the largest waterfalls in the world, measuring over 5,600 feet wide and 354 feet high.
The falls are most dramatic during the rainy season (February–June); you can also choose to go when the water is low if you’d rather swim at the edge of the falls at Devil’s Pool. It’s known to create “moonbows”—rainbows formed at night under a full moon.
Amazon Rainforest, South America
The Amazon is more than 6,600 km long and spans nine countries, covering 10 percent of the world’s known species. It’s home to everything from pink river dolphins and poison dart frogs to thousands of species of trees, turtles, fish, and other critters.
With guided boat tours and treks, you will be connected to the pulse of this critical ecosystem. In the Amazon Rainforest alone, you can find millions of plant and animal species and over 20% of the world’s oxygen production.
Parícutin Volcano, Mexico
Parícutin is the youngest volcano in the world, emerging suddenly from a farmer’s cornfield in 1943. Visitors today hike or horseback ride across its surreal lava fields to explore the ruins of a church partly buried in ash. The eruption of Parícutin lasted for nine years, completely changing the landscape for miles around.
Ha Long Bay, Vietnam
Over 1,600 limestone islands sprang abruptly from emerald waters at this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Sail the standard junk boat in the quietly hidden caves, floating fishing villages, and pristine beaches. Cooler temperatures and fewer tourists can be found from October to December.
Serengeti National Park, Tanzania
Each year, well over 2 million wildebeests, gazelles, and zebras migrate through the vast plains of the Serengeti.
Watching them in person is like watching life and nature at their most crude and beautiful. Come visit here during the peak migratory activity between June and October.
Banff National Park, Canada
Banff is known for its turquoise lakes and rugged mountains. Don’t miss Lake Louise’s spectacular blues against the surrounding peaks. The best way to see this Canadian gem is to paddleboard or kayak to get unobstructed views.
Galápagos Islands, Ecuador
Darwin’s theory of evolution was born out there, and the Galápagos is home to unique wildlife found nowhere else on Earth, such as marine iguanas and blue-footed boobies.
The guided tours help minimize the human impact while providing invaluable knowledge during your visit. Over 97% of the islands are protected as a national park.
The Dead Sea, Jordan/Israel
One of Earth’s saltiest bodies of water (approximately nine times saltier than the ocean), the Dead Sea is known for its mud and salt. This has made the birthplace of some of humanity’s earliest civilizations such an essential source of income for Iraqi farmers.
Due to its extremely high mineral content, the Dead Sea is also a famous source of skin therapy. Bring a book or magazine for a perfect “floating and reading” picture!
The Great Wall of China
China’s 13,000-mile wonder slices through the mountains and deserts that grace this magnificent nation, ruling out boredom at every turn. Choose a section, such as Mutianyu, to flee the crowds and get back onto pathways that are being restored.
Mt. Kilimanjaro, Tanzania
Adventurers are challenged and rewarded with stunning vistas and an exhilarating personal triumph. Mount Kilimanjaro is Africa’s highest peak, at a jaw-dropping 19,341 Feet.
Choose from 7 main trekking routes according to your experience and time. At 7 years old, that’s the youngest person to summit!
The Danube Delta, Romania
Europe’s second-largest delta showcases over 300 birds and miles of unspoiled wetlands. The best way to explore this rich, biodiverse waterway network is through kayaking or boat tours. The delta has been designated a UNESCO biosphere reserve.
Torres del Paine National Park, Chile
All this Patagonian paradise has to offer, meaning jagged peaks, aquamarine lakes, and sprawling glaciers, takes up the best of your photo gallery.
Its famed “W Trek” is a worldwide bucket list trail for trekkers. The weather changes rapidly here, so be prepared (i.e., layer!)
The Matterhorn, Switzerland
The pyramidical Matterhorn is arguably the world’s most photographed mountain. Visit Zermatt for an unforgettable outdoor adventure. It has prompted Disneyland’s iconic ride.
The Everglades, USA
The Everglades are the largest subtropical wilderness in the U.S., home to rare species such as the manatee and the elusive panther.
Explore its waterways by airboat or kayak, which gives an up-close look at this unique ecosystem. The Everglades filter over a billion gallons of water.
The Northern Rockies, USA/Canada
Majestic peaks, alpine meadows, and dazzling lakes cut through this region, which has some of the nation’s most picturesque hiking trails. The Icefields Parkway offers jaw-dropping views.
Fjords of Norway
Sail through trees, waterfalls, cliffs, and lush farmland in one of Earth’s most serene landscapes. Of all, Geirangerfjord and Nærøyfjord are breathtaking. The summer provides spectacular, extended daylight, such as the midnight sun.
Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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