When we talk about the wonders of the world, it's easy to focus only on the architectural and historical marvels created by humans. However, the natural world is also home to many awe-inspiring sights that are completely natural. From the jagged peaks of the Himalayas to the lush rainforests of the Amazon, nature has crafted a vast tapestry of wonders that showcase the power and beauty of the planet. Here are some Natural wonders of the world you would want to visit before you die.
1. Cano Cristales, Columbia
Caño Cristales is a Colombian river in Meta province, known as the “River of Five Colors” or “Liquid Rainbow” for its vibrant hues during the rainy season. The river flows 100 km through the Serrania de la Macarena mountain range, offering stunning waterfalls and crystal-clear pools. Its remote location requires a combination of air and ground transportation. Still, the journey is worth it for a one-of-a-kind experience in a beautiful and unique natural wonder.
2. Trango Towers, Pakistan
The Trango Towers in Pakistan's Gilgit-Baltistan region are a group of granite spires rising over 6,000 meters and offering challenging routes for experienced climbers. The tallest tower is Nameless Tower, standing at 6,251 meters, followed by Great Trango Tower at 6,286 meters. Despite their remote location and tough terrain, the Trango Towers attract climbers of all skill levels and are also popular with hikers and nature enthusiasts. The towers offer spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, making them one of the world's great natural wonders.
3. Paricutin Volcano, Mexido
Paricutin is a volcano in Michoacan, Mexico, that emerged suddenly in 1943 from a cornfield, making it one of the few volcanoes to have been witnessed throughout its entire life cycle. The eruption lasted over nine years, destroyed two villages, and covered over 25 square kilometers of farmland. Paricutin has been closely studied by scientists, making it a landmark in volcanology. Today, it is a popular destination for tourists and hikers interested in natural history and geology.
4. Victoria Falls
Victoria Falls, located along the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe, is considered the largest waterfall in the world due to its combined height and width. While it is not the tallest nor the widest fall on the earth, its sheet of falling water (1,708 meters wide by 108 meters in height) during the wet season makes it the largest set of falls. It is recognized as one of the seven natural wonders of the world and attracts tourists worldwide who come to witness the spectacular 500 million liters of water that cascade over the cliff edge every minute. Tourists can view the falls from different vantage points or participate in more adventurous activities such as swimming in the river (in low season) or bungee jumping from the Victoria Falls Bridge.
5. Lake Hiller, Australia
Lake Hillier is a saltwater lake located on Middle Island, the largest of the islands and islets that make up the Recherche Archipelago in Western Australia. What makes Lake Hillier unique and famous is its striking pink color that is visible year-round. The lake's pink hue is due to the presence of a particular species of algae that produces carotenoids, a natural pigment that gives the water its distinctive color. The lake is approximately 600 meters long and is surrounded by a rim of sand and dense woodland of paperbark and eucalyptus trees. Despite its unusual color, Lake Hillier is safe to swim in, and tourists can visit the lake via helicopter or boat from Esperance, a nearby town on the mainland.
6. Angels Falls, Venezuela
Angel Falls is located in the Canaima National Park in Venezuela and is the tallest waterfall in the world with a height of 979 meters and a plunge of 807 meters. It is a popular tourist destination where visitors can take boat rides up the Carrao River or hike through the jungle to reach a viewing platform at the top of the falls. The falls are also significant to the local Pemon people who consider them to be a sacred site.
7. Pulpit Rock, Norway
Pulpit Rock or Preikestolen is a popular hiking trail and tourist destination located in Norway, rising 604 meters above the Lysefjord. The steep cliff was formed over 10,000 years ago and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. The hike to the top of Pulpit Rock takes about 4 hours to complete and is a challenging but rewarding experience for hikers. It is one of the most photographed natural attractions in Norway, attracting over 300,000 visitors annually.
8. The Grand Canyon, America
The Grand Canyon in Arizona is a massive geological formation that spans 277 miles long, up to 18 miles wide, and over a mile deep. Formed by the Colorado River over millions of years, it has become a popular tourist destination in the United States, known for its stunning beauty and outdoor activities like hiking, camping, and river rafting. Visitors can also explore the park's rich cultural history and the traditional lands of several indigenous tribes. The Grand Canyon is a natural wonder that continues to inspire and captivate visitors from all over the world.
9. Aurora Borealis, Iceland
The Aurora Borealis, or the Northern Lights, is a natural light display caused by charged particles colliding with the Earth's magnetic field. Iceland is a popular destination for tourists hoping to see the lights, which appear in shades of green and pink, among other colors. The best time to see the Aurora Borealis in Iceland is from September to April, and visitors can take guided tours or venture out on their own to remote locations with clear skies and minimal light pollution.
10. The Great Barrier Reef, AustraliaÂ
The Great Barrier Reef is the world's largest coral reef system, located off the coast of Queensland, Australia. It stretches over 2,300 kilometers and is home to over 1,500 species of fish, 600 species of coral, and many other marine creatures. Tourists can enjoy activities such as snorkeling, scuba diving, and boat tours to explore the reef. However, the reef is facing significant threats from climate change and human activities, and efforts are underway to protect and conserve it.
These natural wonders of the world are just a small sample of the incredible beauty and diversity that nature has to offer. Whether you're an experienced climber, a nature enthusiast, or simply someone who loves to explore new places, these natural wonders are sure to leave you with memories that will last a lifetime.
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