We all have that lengthy bucket list of breathtaking and magnificent places around the world that we would cut off an arm and a leg to be able to see. No matter if you enjoy laying on the beach, or bungee jumping off the Mountains of Kilimanjaro, every travel enthusiast can agree that there's an abundance of stunning places around this globe that will simply take your breath away. Listed below are 10 locations that hold some of the most spectacular views and features that will make you rethink your next vacation spot. They hold some of the most impressive wonders of the world, and are a must-see for any jet setter.
1. Zakynthos Island, Greece
2. Lagoon in Lau Archipelago, Fiji
The Lau group of islands in Fiji offer a serene, untouched vista of exotic beaches and stunning views. This special lagoon is the rim of an extinct volcano, and its breached and flooded crater has formed a beautiful, landlocked oasis. Local villagers live on these islands as they did before Europeans discovered them, and offer a warm hospitality to any visitor of their humble abode. Aside from the beaches, these islands are filled with lush rain forests filled with bird life and beautiful mountain treks.
3. Krka, Croatia
Due to its close proximity to the coastline, Krka National Park is filled with lush greenery and mind-blowing waterfalls. Over 800 different species of plants and animals have been identified in this park, making it a desirable hot spot. The springs at the bottom of the waterfalls work as a relaxing lounge oasis and a magnificent backdrop to anyone’s iPhone wallpaper.
4. Lake Wakatipu, Queensland, New Zealand
Shaped like a lightning bolt, Lake Wakatipu is the third largest lake in New Zealand. This lake occupies a single, glacier-carved trench, bordered on all sides by extraordinary mountains. Experiencing first-hand from my boyfriend and his family, as they spent last Christmas staring at this mouth-dropping backdrop, the transparent glacier water is 99% pure, allowing them to simply scoop it up in a cup and drink it along their travels.
5. Cape Town, South Africa
Cradled between three distinctive mountainous peaks, Cape Town lies at the southern-most point of Africa. This lively city is home to tremendous natives, mouth-watering food, and festive activities. With its famous landmarks and natural coastline along the deep seaboard, the blend of urban culture and stunning nature makes this spot a must-see.
6. Seljalandsfoss Falls, Iceland
These picturesque falls reside over the former coastline on the green plains of South Iceland. These unique waterfalls stand 60 meters high with a footpath behind the bottom of the cliff, inhabiting a thin cascade, making it the only waterfall of its kind. The falls stand out among their rich, lush surroundings while the beautiful, majestic sky makes for an impressive backdrop.
7. Lotofaga, Samoa
The Sua Ocean Trench is located on the island of Upolu in Lotofago Samoa, a oceanic island positioned right in the middle of the Pacific Ocean, between New Zealand and the Galapagos. It's believed that lava blowholes formed these famous tide pools and walking paths along the ocean’s edge. They are 30 meters from ground level, and you must gravitate to your adventurous side in order to climb down a long ladder to the natural pool.
8. Galapogos Islands, Ecuador
The Galapagos Islands are an archipelago of volcanic islands distributed on either side of the equator in the Pacific Ocean, over 1000 miles west of Ecuador. These islands are the home to the most diverse and immense amount of living species. Frequently visited by Charles Darwin, these islands were home to his observations and discoveries that contributed to his theory of evolution and ideology of natural selection. Although these islands are kept preserved as a national park, they're one of the most desired locations to visit when traveling through the Southern hemisphere.
9. São Miguel Island, Portugal
Also known as “the Green Island,” Sao Miguel Island is located in the region of Azores, Portugal. It's bisected by many faults in the Terceira Rift, a triple junction of the Eurasian, African, and North American tectonic plates. It's known for its extensive geological formations, and the mountain peaks make for tremendous hiking and sight-seeing from the top of the cliffs, all the way to the crystal-clear lakes that lay at the base.
10. Karijini National Park, Australia
Karijini National Park is the second largest national park the northwestern region of Australia. Its tropical and semi-arid climate causes the greenery to be rich and the scenery to be remarkable. It's known for the prominent gorges marked by waterfalls and mountainous landscape. While the gorges are overwhelming, the circular and landlocked pools hold some of the most royal blue and illuminating water.
