When we are tired of the bright lights of the big city, taking time in nature can regenerate the body and mind and illuminate the overall picture of who we are and our place in the grand scheme of things.
Whether it’s magnificent displays of atmospheric power or monumental peaks and summits, a journey to the world’s greatest iconic natural sites can help ignite the senses, awaken new passions, and create lasting memories.
The Northern Lights
From northern regions of Canada and Alaska to the breathtaking landscapes of Norway, Sweden, Finland and Iceland, the Northern Lights occur between 60 and 75 degrees latitude throughout the year.
This impressive atmospheric phenomenon creates undulating waves of vibrant green, purple, and red light that dance across the sky and captivate those who witness it. Don’t be fooled by summer nights; these atmospheric forces are always at work.
For the ultimate sky-gazing experience, venture out between November and February, when the darkness lasts longer, giving you ample time to witness the magic of the Northern Lights. Keep an eye out between 9 p.m. and 2 a.m. for the most spectacular displays.
One of the best places to see the Northern Lights is the Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort in Finland. This remote resort offers a unique and unforgettable viewing experience with its dome-shaped igloos. The igloos are made of glass, allowing you to lie back in your bed and watch the Northern Lights dance overhead.
It’s an experience you’ll never forget!
If you’re travelling to Finland, here are a few more ideas to make your trip even more memorable:
- Go on a snowmobile safari in the Arctic wilderness.
- Ice fishing on a frozen lake
- Visit a reindeer farm and meet the locals.
- Enjoy a traditional Finnish sauna
The Grand Canyon
Prepare to experience the adventure of a lifetime in the majestic Grand Canyon. With a stunning length of 445 km and a width of 28 km at its widest point, the Grand Canyon offers breathtaking views that are unparalleled in the world.
Located in northwestern Arizona, the Grand Canyon is an easy day trip from the bustling city of Las Vegas. You can also extend your stay and explore the many hiking trails available to immerse yourself in the canyon’s beauty.
With its numerous viewpoints, visitor services, and hotels, the South Rim is a popular choice for visitors. The West Rim offers a unique experience with its elevated walkway that allows you to literally float above the canyon on a glass walkway, providing an adrenaline rush.
If hiking isn’t your thing, why not admire the scenery from an aerial perspective with a helicopter tour departing from Las Vegas?
While you’re there, don’t miss the breathtaking Hoover Dam, a true marvel of engineering that will leave you speechless.
This is the ideal trip for those seeking nature, wonder, and the thrills of Las Vegas and the Nevada desert.
The Great Barrier Reef
Dive into a world of wonders at Australia’s Great Barrier Reef. Home to over 900 islands, 3,000 distinct reefs and a diverse ecosystem, this underwater wonder is the world’s largest coral reef system and the only natural wonder hidden beneath the waves.
Stretching over 2896 km along Queensland’s east coast (longer than the Great Wall of China), the Great Barrier Reef is a major attraction for divers and snorkelers eager to explore its vibrant underwater world.
If you prefer to stay dry, you can still admire the beauty of this magnificent ecosystem by taking a glass-bottom boat trip.
If you are visiting the area for the first time, why not stay on one of the many luxurious islands that dot the reef?
Here are some of the best islands to stay on while exploring the Great Barrier Reef:
- Hamilton Island: This popular resort island offers a wide range of activities and amenities, from sailing and world-class diving to luxurious spas and golf courses.
- Lizard Island: This exclusive resort island is perfect for those seeking a truly luxurious experience. With only 40 villas on the island, you’ll feel like you have the entire place to yourself.
- Bedarra Island: This family-friendly resort island is perfect for those seeking a relaxing and enjoyable holiday. With plenty of activities, you’re sure to have a great time.
- Fitzroy Island: This eco-friendly resort island is perfect for those seeking to reconnect with nature. With its stunning beaches and lush rainforests, you’ll feel like you’re in a world apart.
Mount Everest
Embark on a legendary adventure on the breathtaking Mount Everest, an almost mythical natural wonder that has attracted adventurers throughout the ages.
Dominating the borders of Nepal and Tibet, Mount Everest is the world’s highest mountain, rising 29,032 feet into the sky. It’s no wonder, then, that this gigantic Himalayan peak attracts thrill-seekers from all corners of the globe.
For those bold enough to take on the challenge, trekkers can walk to base camp, fully immersing themselves in the incredible mountain scenery, while feeling the thrill of adventure coursing through their veins.
If you’re not ready for the climb, don’t worry! You can schedule a flight around the mountain for a 360-degree aerial view, which will give you an unforgettable perspective of Everest’s magnificence.
Activities to do
Here are some of the experiences you can have when visiting Mount Everest:
- The trek to base camp: The trek to Everest Base Camp is a challenging but rewarding experience. You will see some of the most breathtaking scenery in the world and feel a sense of accomplishment when you reach the base of the mountain.
- Flight around the mountain: If you’re not ready for the hike, you can always take a flight around Mount Everest. It’s a great way to see the mountain from all angles, and you’ll get amazing photos to remember your trip.
- Go mountaineering: If you are an experienced mountaineer, you can attempt to climb Mount Everest. It is a dangerous and difficult undertaking, but also incredibly rewarding. If you succeed, you will be one of the few people in the world who can say they have stood on the roof of the world.
- Discover the local culture: Mount Everest is located in Nepal, and the local culture is fascinating. Take the time to learn about the people and their way of life.
- Enjoy the food: the food in Nepal is delicious. Be sure to try local dishes, such as momos (dumplings) and thukpa (soups).
The Parícutin
Paricutín is one of the 7 lesser-known natural wonders of the world, but it is no less impressive than its more famous counterparts.
This stunning and impressive cone-shaped volcano is located in Michoacán, Mexico. It first appeared during a volcanic eruption in 1943.
The eruption was so explosive that it buried two local villages under ash, and it continued for nine years before it died out.
Today, Parícutin remains one of the youngest volcanoes in the world, rising to an incredible height of 1,475 feet from Earth in its first year and reaching its peak at 7,480 feet in 1952. With its perfectly symmetrical shape and stunning surroundings, a hike around the lava fields is an unforgettable experience that will leave you feeling energized and alive.
Or, for those who feel even more adventurous, trekking to the summit of Paricutin is an unparalleled experience!
During your ascent of the volcano, you will be able to see the vast landscape of Mexico stretching out before you.
You will also be able to see the volcano’s crater, which is now filled with a magnificent blue lake.
The hike to the summit of Paricutin is difficult, but it is worth it for the breathtaking views it offers.
Once you reach the summit of the volcano, you will be able to admire the full majesty of Paricutin.
You will be able to see the perfectly symmetrical cone of the volcano, as well as the surrounding lava fields.
The views from the summit of Paricutin are simply breathtaking and will undoubtedly leave you with a feeling of admiration and wonder.
This amazing volcano is a true natural wonder, and it’s waiting for you to discover its secrets.
The port of Rio de Janeiro
The port of Rio de Janeiro is the largest natural bay in the world.
Nestled amidst stunning granite mountains and pinnacles formed by the natural erosion of the Atlantic Ocean, it is a true wonder of nature that must be seen to be believed.
For an unforgettable experience, take the train to Tijuca National Park and head to the highest region.
From there, you can admire the panoramic views from the numerous observation platforms.
From this vantage point, you can also see the famous Christ the Redeemer statue (a new modern wonder of the world), which stands proudly on the horizon.
But why stop there? Take the adventure further and explore the port by helicopter, where you can admire the immensity of this natural wonder from a completely different perspective.
As you fly over the bay, you’ll see the many islands dotting the landscape. You’ll also see the city of Rio de Janeiro sprawling below you. It’s a breathtaking sight.
Victoria Falls
The majestic Victoria Falls, straddling Zambia and Zimbabwe in Africa, await your arrival. Known locally as “the smoke that thunders,” these breathtaking waterfalls are over a kilometer long and put all other waterfalls to shame.
The falls are so large that they can be seen from space, and the water jet can reach up to 400 meters into the air. The falls are also home to diverse wildlife, including elephants, lions, and leopards.
The best time to visit Victoria Falls is at the end of the rainy season, in April. At this time, the falls are at their most spectacular and the mist from the water creates a magical atmosphere.
If you have to choose which side of the falls to visit, we advise you to go to the Zimbabwean side.
This side of the falls offers unbeatable viewing platforms, first-rate hospitality infrastructure, and excellent hotel choices.
It is also the ideal starting or ending point for a safari!
Things to do in Victoria Falls:
- Take a helicopter tour over the falls for a bird’s-eye view.
- Go whitewater rafting on the Zambezi River.
- Go on a safari to see elephants, lions and other wild animals.
- Visit the Victoria Falls rainforest, home to a wide variety of plants and animals.
- Attend a traditional African dinner and dance performance.
With so much to see and do, Victoria Falls is the perfect destination for an unforgettable holiday.
Conclusion
From the world’s highest mountain to the largest living ecosystem, from the intrigue of the Northern Lights to the volcano that rose before humanity’s eyes, it’s not hard to see why these specific places or natural phenomena are considered the 7 natural wonders of the world.
With international travel once again a reality, it may be easier than you think to discover the beauty and majesty of these natural wonders.
Whether you dream of a trip through the Grand Canyon National Park or a trek in the Himalayas, seeing a natural wonder in real life will certainly be an experience you won’t soon forget.
