From crystal caves and shimmering sandstone mountains to mud volcanoes and rock formations akin to works of art, there are natural wonders in the world one cannot ever dream of! Water, ice, and sand have combined to make some of the most breathtaking scenery ever and it would be a shame if we didn’t see even a few of these in our lifetime. Here’s a list of some of the most awe-inspiring natural wonders of the world for you to take inspiration from for your next trip.
Ngorongoro Crater, Tanzania
Famed for being Africa’s Eden, Ngorongoro Crater was created when a gigantic volcano exploded millions of years ago. This incredible caldera about 300 square kilometers offers the best chance for you to see some of the best of Africa’s wildlife. Apart from the “big five” species of Lions, Elephants, Rhinos, Leopards, and Buffaloes being ever present, there are several other species present as well. Other than the animals, the crater itself offers stunning views from within and without, giving nature lovers the chance to enjoy raw natural beauty.
Mud Volcanoes, Azerbaijan
Placed about 65 km south of Baku, the capital of Azerbaijan, this strange landscape in Gobustan is among the most incredible must see natural wonders for your bucket list. This incredible area is where a stream of thick, grey mud flows consistently out of small volcanoes. It is popularly believed that the mud possesses healing qualities so don’t be surprised if you see other visitors lathering themselves in this mud. Among the things to watch out for here are Roman inscriptions and petroglyphic rock art.
Uluru/Ayers Rock, Australia
About an estimated 350 meters high and about 9 kilometers in circumference, Australia’s massive sandstone mass is a sacred site for the aboriginal Anangu, its custodians. They consider the rock holy and it is a grave disrespect to them if you climb it. Owing to its jagged albeit remarkable nature, trying to climb it can also prove to be dangerous. The Uluru Kata Tjuta National Park is among the most stunning natural wonders that should be on your bucket list.
Angel Falls, Venezuela
Famed for being the highest waterfall in the world, Angel Falls is an incredible sight to behold. The waters of the fall travel an estimated total distance of 979 meters including an awesome free fall drop of about 807 meters. Situated in a remote jungle near the Canaima airstrip, the falls cascade down one of the largest table-top mountains in the region known as the Devil’s Mountain by the local Pemon people. Most of the water evaporates as mist before it can hit the bottom. Many of the Pemon people work as guides and you can hire one of them as your tour guide.
Cliffs of Moher, Ireland
Rising an incredible 213 meters above the stunning Atlantic Ocean and stretching for about 8 kilometers, the Cliffs of Moher are among the top natural wonders of the world. One of the top attractions of Ireland, they attract exotic and beautiful species of birds such as Atlantic Puffins and Razorbills among others. They offer the most stunning views of the Galway Bay, Arran Islands, and the Burren among other things. If heights don’t bother you, then this is a must-visit place for sure.
Plitvice Lakes, Croatia
Placed right in the heart of Croatia, these series of small but scenic lakes are among the most awe-inspiring natural wonders of the world. Crystal clear waters pooled between dramatic waterfalls and magnificent rocky canyons, this is one of the most scenic locales you can visit in the world. There are wooden walkways that provide access to Plitvice Lakes however, swimming is forbidden inside the park. But there are certain points outside where you are permitted to take a dip such as Korana Village.
Great Barrier Reef, Australia
Extending for about 2,600 kilometers and made up of an estimated 3,000 individual reefs, the Great Barrier Reef is the world’s largest structure made up of living organisms. Located off the coast of Queensland, this incredible structure has been listed among the UNESCO World Heritage Sites. This delicate but stunning ecosystem is home to a variety of marine life which includes Sea Turtles, Tortoises, Whales, Dugongs, and various types of fishes. However, off late, the remarkable reef has been threatened by climate change as well as coral bleaching which is a process that occurs when temperatures soar uncontrollably.
PangongTso Lake, India-China
Situated at an altitude of about 4,350 meters astride a disputed border area between India and China-controlled Tibet is the picturesque PangongTso Lake. Deep in the Himalayas, this saltwater lake is among the most spectacular ones in the world as the rarefied air here makes the lake’s clarity incredibly intense. The next time you book cheap flights to India for a trip, make sure to include a visit to this crystal clear lake in your itinerary. You can reach this lake by a mountain pass via the Indian town of Leh.
Author Bio: Traveling became one of Rupali’s passions when she went on her first trip as a child with her family. She has not looked back since and has clubbed her love for traveling with her love for writing. She now works for Indian Eagle – one of the best travel agencies around. Go through her blogs to see the exciting world she lives in.
