"A panoramic view of the ancient Incan city of Machu Picchu with mist-covered mountains in the background."

Add these incredible natural wonders to your bucket list

The world is simply stunning, and most of us have barely scratched the surface of its beauty. While human-made marvels like skyscrapers and resorts often grab the spotlight, nature itself is the most skilled architect. 

These awe-inspiring creations have been sculpted over millennia, reminding us of the Earth’s natural beauty and perseverance.

If you’re looking for travel experiences that showcase nature at its finest, here’s your ultimate bucket list of natural wonders to witness around the globe.

Africa

Victoria Falls, Zambia/Zimbabwe

This is one of the largest waterfalls in the world. The best time to visit is during the rainy season from February to May, when the falls are at their fullest.

Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania

Africa’s highest peak and a dormant volcano. The best time to hike is from June to October during the dry season.

Skeleton Coast, Namibia

The Namib desert meets the Atlantic ocean in Skeleton Coast. It’s a sight to behold. Best visited between May and September when the weather is cooler.

Table Mountain, South Africa

A flat-topped mountain with breathtaking views of Cape Town. Visit between November and February for the clearest skies.

Siwa Oasis, Egypt

From the salt lake, to sand dunes, and hot spring, Siwa Oasis is lined with marvel after marvel.  Best visited between October and April when temperatures are milder.

Tsingy de Bemaraha, Madagascar

A unique stone forest of high-reaching limestone formations. Visit from May to November.

Danakil Depression, Ethiopia

One of the hottest places on Earth with salt lakes, volcanoes, and vibrant acidic springs. The best time to visit is from November to March.

Lake Nakuru, Kenya

A pink dream of vast flocks of flamingos and other birdlife, along with rhinos and leopards. The best time to visit is from June to September during the dry season.

Baobab Avenue, Madagascar

A road lined with sky-high ancient baobab trees that look otherworldly. Visit during the dry season from April to October.

Lac Rose (Lake Retba), Senegal

A pink-coloured lake caused by high salt content, most vibrant from November to June.

Ngorongoro Crater, Tanzania

It’s the biggest unbroken volcanic caldera. The best time for safaris is June to October.

Underwater Waterfall, Mauritius
An optical illusion near the coast of Mauritius that looks like a cascading underwater waterfall. Best viewed from the air, with clear weather from May to December.

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Asia

Halong Bay, Vietnam

A mystical and serene seascape of limestone islands and emerald waters. Best visited in October or April for pleasant weather and fewer crowds.

Mount Fuji, Japan

Japan’s iconic, snow-capped volcano. The climbing season is July to September, but for clear views, visit from October to February.

Mud Volcanoes, Azerbaijan

These bubbling mud pools are a must-see in Azerbaijan. Best seen between May and September.

Jeju Island, South Korea 

A volcanic island with waterfalls, beaches, and hiking trails. Visit in spring April to June or fall September to November for mild weather.

Pamukkale, Turkey

A stunning formation of white travertine terraces filled with mineral-rich waters. Visit from April to June or September to November for the best temperatures.

Sundarbans, India/Bangladesh

The largest mangrove forest in the world, home to the Bengal tigers. The best time to visit is from November to February.

Danxia Landform, China

A stunning area with cliffs, valleys, and gorges of multicolored sandstone formations. It’s best viewed from May to October.

Bioluminescent Beaches, Maldives

Witness glowing plankton lighting up the ocean’s edge at night. The phenomenon is most visible between June and October.

Australia/Oceania

Great Barrier Reef

This is the world’s largest coral reef system. It’s home to an incredible variety of marine life. Visit from June to October for the best diving conditions.

Twelve Apostles, Australia: Dramatic limestone stacks off the coast of Victoria, best seen during sunrise or sunset for the most stunning views.

Lake Hillier, Australia: A striking pink-colored lake that remains vibrantly pink year-round. It’s best viewed from the air.

Milford Sound, New Zealand

A stunning fjord surrounded by cliffs and waterfalls. Visit from November to March for kayaking and scenic cruises.

Europe

Aurora Borealis, Norway, Sweden, Finland, Iceland

The Northern Lights are a spectacular natural light show. The best time to see them is from September to March, when the nights are long.

Cliffs of Moher, Ireland

Towering cliffs that drop off into the Atlantic Ocean. Visit between April and September for the best weather.

Geirangerfjord, Norway

A UNESCO World Heritage fjord, famous for its stunning views. It’s got an impressive waterfall, clear blue waters, and a hike trail. Visit from May to September for hiking and boat tours.

Blue Grotto, Italy

A sea cave on the coast of Capri that glows a magical blue. Visit from April to October for calm seas and access to the cave.

North America

Niagara Falls, USA/Canada

One of the most powerful waterfalls in the world. Best viewed from June to August when boat tours are available.

Grand Canyon, USA

A breathtaking natural wonder carved by the Colorado River. Visit from March to May or September to November for fewer crowds and cooler weather.

Eternal Flame Falls, USA

A small waterfall with a natural gas leak that keeps a flame burning behind it. Visit between April and October.

Ik Kil Cenote, Mexico
A stunning natural sinkhole with crystal-clear blue waters, perfect for swimming. Best visited during the dry season from November to April.

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South America

Amazon Rainforest and river

The world’s largest tropical rainforest and the second longest river in the world. The best time to visit is from June to October, during the dry season.

Iguazu Falls, Argentina/Brazil

A stunning series of massive waterfalls, best seen from November to March when water levels are highest.

Salar de Uyuni, Bolivia

The world’s largest salt flat. It transforms into a giant mirror during the rainy season from December to April.

Rainbow Mountains, Peru

These colorful striped mountains are best viewed from May to September during Peru’s dry season.

Galapagos Islands, Ecuador

A haven for unique wildlife, including giant tortoises. The best time to visit is from June to December for cooler, dry weather, though wildlife can be seen year-round.

Antarctica

Antarctica Icebergs

The frozen continent has towering icebergs, penguins and seals. The best time to visit is during the Antarctic summer from November to March.

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