What’s better than Mother Nature’s architecture? Our planet is home to some extraordinary natural wonders and spectacular scenery. Although there may only be seven official natural wonders of the world, we think there are plenty more worth exploring. Whether it’s a massive waterfall, a unique rock formation, or a fascinating light show in the sky, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Here are ten natural wonders to add to your bucket list!
Grand Prismatic Spring at Yellowstone National Park, USA
The Grand Canyon overwhelms the senses with its massive size at 227 miles long, 18 miles wide, and with a depth of a mile. It’s not the biggest or highest canyon in the world but is perhaps one of the most famous and it’s recognized as one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. The beautifully carved rocks that began to take shape some 70 million years ago are older than the dinosaurs. Arizona’s legendary landmark is home to 70 different species of animals and it carries a great spiritual significance for the Hopi Native American Tribe who believe it’s a gateway to the afterlife.
The Dead Sea, Israel and Jordan
The Dead Sea, which is actually a lake, is situated between Israel and Jordan and it’s the lowest land point on Earth. The body of water was named the Dead Sea because it’s eight times saltier than the ocean, making it impossible for algae and fish to survive in its waters. You can also easily float in the salt-filled waters, and the mud in the area is said to have healing qualities. Unfortunately, the Dead Sea is drying up. It’s thought one third has vanished already and every year more than three feet of the sea evaporates.
Uluru/Ayers Rock, Australia
Uluru, also known as Ayer’s Rock, is located in Australia’s Northern Territory in Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park. It’s the country’s most iconic natural wonder and home to the Anangu Aboriginal people. The giant sandstone rock has a circumference of about 5.8 miles and is a popular attraction for tourists. Highlights of any visit include watching a sunrise or sunset over the rock, visiting the Cultural Center, and simply enjoying the beautiful location and spiritual atmosphere of Uluru.
Plitvice Lakes, Croatia
Croatia’s oldest and largest national park is a nature lover’s paradise. The falls are made up of 16 interconnected lakes that tumble into each other creating a series of stunning waterfalls. Picturesque wooden boardwalks criss-cross the lakes, creating a fairytale-worthy environment where you can get right up close to the fabulous natural beauty. Look out for freshwater fish and brown bears in the surrounding hills.
Victoria Falls, Zambia and Zimbabwe
Located on the Zambezi River, Victoria Falls is a famous curtain of water. Known by its local name as Mosi-oa-Tunya (smoke that thunders), it’s one of the biggest waterfalls on the planet and one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. The falling water causes a thunderous noise and a cloud of vapor which can be seen from several miles away. It’s not uncommon for the falls to create rainbows amid the mist and surrounding rainforest. If you dare, when water levels aren’t too high you can take a dip in Devil’s Pool right on the edge of the waterfall.
Ha Long Bay, Vietnam
Ha Long Bay, which means Bay of Descending Dragons, is located in northern Vietnam and is made up of 1,600 to 2,000 islands and islets, many of which are uninhabited. Nothing quite prepares you for the dramatic scenery encountered in this UNESCO World Heritage Site. The most popular way to explore is in a traditional Chinese trading ship called a “junk”. The brown-paneled sails of the junks have become as much a part of the landscape as the towering rocks.
Grand Canyon, USA
The Grand Canyon overwhelms the senses with its massive size at 227 miles long, 18 miles wide, and with a depth of a mile. It’s not the biggest or highest canyon in the world but is perhaps one of the most famous and it’s recognized as one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. The beautifully carved rocks that began to take shape some 70 million years ago are older than the dinosaurs. Arizona’s legendary landmark is home to 70 different species of animals and it carries a great spiritual significance for the Hopi Native American Tribe who believe it’s a gateway to the afterlife.
Cliffs of Moher, Ireland
Located on the west coast of Ireland, the Cliffs of Moher reach a whopping 702 feet at their highest point. They are one of Ireland’s biggest natural tourist attractions, but they also attract Atlantic puffins, razorbills, and other wild birds. Don’t miss the spectacular views of the Arran Islands, Galway Bay, and the Burren. If you want to see the raw beauty of the Atlantic Sea in all its glory then get to the Cliffs of Moher.
Pamukkale-Hierapolis, Türkiye (Turkey)
Türkiye’s amazing Pamukkale, or “cotton castle” in Turkish, is a truly unique natural wonder that was formed by calcite-laden waters from natural springs located on a cliff face more than 600 feet above the plains. As the waters made their way down the steep cliffs they left a series of white travertine terraces and basins filled with warm blue waters, petrified waterfalls, and unique mineral forests. Close to this amazing natural wonder you will find a well-preserved man-made wonder, the ruins of the ancient Greco-Roman spa-town of Hierapolis, which include bath-houses, temples, colonnaded streets, and much more.
Northern Lights, Iceland
The Northern Lights are formed by a collision between electrically charged particles from the sun sliding into the Earth’s atmosphere, forming the eerily gorgeous green lights known as the Aurora Borealis. These wondrous strokes of paint in the night sky are breathtaking. A great place to spot this phenomenon, and one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, is Iceland! Visit between mid-October and early April for your best chance at seeing this legendary light show.