You know that feeling when you’re standing at the top of a mountain or on the edge of a canyon, just taking in a view that makes your heart skip a beat? There are places in this world with views so breathtaking you’ll find yourself reaching for your camera to try and capture some small piece of the beauty. Well, get ready to be amazed and start making your travel plans, because we’ve rounded up the best nature views across the globe that you simply must see in your lifetime. From lush rainforests to deserts that seem to go on forever, you won’t believe your eyes at some of the incredible places on this list. Don’t worry about breaking the bank either – we’ve included options for every budget. So start packing your bags and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime to see the most stunning nature views you never even imagined existed. The world is calling and you won’t want to miss these sights!
The Best Nature Views in the World You Need to See
The Grand Canyon, USA
No list of breathtaking natural wonders is complete without the Grand Canyon. This immense canyon carved by the Colorado River is one of the greatest natural wonders of the world. The sheer scale and beauty of the orange and red rock formations is jaw-dropping. For the best views, head to the South Rim where you can gaze out from the many lookout points along the rim trail. At sunset, the rocks glow with a fiery light as the sun dips below the horizon.
The Great Barrier Reef, Australia
The Great Barrier Reef off the coast of Queensland in Australia is the only living structure visible from space. This massive reef system composed of over 2,900 individual reefs is home to thousands of species of marine life. To experience the reef, you can snorkel or scuba dive and swim with tropical fish, sharks, dolphins, turtles, and even whales. For an aerial view, take a scenic flight over the reef to see the full scale of this natural wonder.
Victoria Falls, Zambia/Zimbabwe
On the border of Zambia and Zimbabwe, the thunderous Victoria Falls are considered the greatest curtain of water in the world. Spanning 5,604 feet across and 354 feet high, millions of gallons of water from the Zambezi River plunge into the Batoka Gorge below. The falls are particularly impressive during the wet season between February and May when the volume of water flowing over the falls is the highest. Experience the falls from multiple viewpoints, including the Knife Edge Bridge and the Victoria Falls Bridge. The forceful spray from the falls results in a rainforest-like microclimate surrounding the falls.
From the depths of the Grand Canyon to the heights of Victoria Falls, our world is filled with breathtaking natural wonders. Make seeing some of these amazing sights a priority on your bucket list. Once you witness their beauty in person, you’ll be in awe of the diversity and grandeur of nature.
The Most Beautiful Natural Scenery Around the World
The Grand Canyon, Arizona
No list of natural wonders is complete without the Grand Canyon. This massive gorge was carved over millions of years by the Colorado River and is up to 18 miles wide and a mile deep. The vibrant colors of the rock formations are stunning, especially at sunrise and sunset. The best way to experience the grandeur of the canyon is to hike along the rim trail or descend to the canyon floor.
The Great Barrier Reef, Australia
The Great Barrier Reef is the only living thing on Earth visible from space. This massive reef system off the coast of Queensland, Australia is home to an amazing array of marine life. You can snorkel or scuba dive to get up close with tropical fish, sea turtles, dolphins, and even reef sharks.The kaleidoscope of hard and soft corals, sea sponges, and anemones clinging to the reef are dazzling. Sadly, the reef is under threat from climate change, so now is the time to visit this natural wonder.
Iguazu Falls, South America
The Iguazu Falls that straddle Argentina and Brazil are simply breathtaking. The falls consist of 275 separate waterfalls along a 1.7 mile stretch of the Iguazu River. The most dramatic section is the Devil’s Throat, where 14 falls drop over 300 feet into a misty chasm. Walkways and viewing platforms put you right in the center of the thundering falls, where you’ll get soaked by the spray and surrounded by rainbows. It’s one of the most powerful and beautiful waterfalls in the world.
The Northern Lights
The Northern Lights, or Aurora Borealis, are nature’s most dazzling light show. These colorful lights dance across the night sky, shimmering and shifting into curtains of vibrant green, red, and blue. The lights are caused by solar particles entering the earth’s magnetic field. The best places to see the Northern Lights are in northern parts of Norway,Sweden, Finland, Iceland, Canada, and Alaska. There’s nothing quite like bundling up in the cold and gazing up at the hypnotic lights swaying and flickering across the Arctic sky.
Which Countries Have the Best Nature Views?
Certain countries are blessed with an abundance of natural beauty. From lush rainforests to snow-capped mountains, here are some of the top places where you can witness breathtaking vistas.
New Zealand
New Zealand’s dramatic landscapes are the stuff of legend. Majestic fjords, volcanic peaks, and pristine beaches provide a scenic backdrop for outdoor adventures. Some of the must-see spots include Milford Sound, a stunning fjord; Tongariro National Park, with active volcanoes and the popular Tongariro Alpine Crossing hike; and Abel Tasman National Park, offering gorgeous beaches and coastal trails.
Iceland
Iceland’s rugged terrain feels like an alien world. Massive ice fields, steaming hot springs, towering waterfalls, and volcanic landscapes offer a glimpse into the power of nature. Head to Vatnajökull National Park to see Europe’s largest glacier and witness the thunderous Dettifoss, one of the world’s most powerful waterfalls. The Blue Lagoon geothermal spa lets you soak in bright blue waters amid a lava field.
The Canadian Rockies
The Canadian Rockies showcase some of the most breathtaking mountain scenery on the planet. Rugged snow-capped peaks, turquoise lakes, and lush forests are home to wildlife like bears, mountain goats, and eagles. Must-see spots include Banff and Jasper National Parks, with stunning vistas along the Icefields Parkway; Moraine Lake, a gorgeous glacial lake; and Yoho National Park, home to thundering waterfalls like Takakkaw Falls.
Patagonia
Straddling Chile and Argentina, Patagonia offers a glimpse of wilderness on a grand scale. Glacier-carved fjords, jagged mountains and massive ice fields dominate the landscape. Torres del Paine National Park in Chile is home to the spectacular Torres del Paine massif and stunning turquoise lakes. Nearby, Perito Moreno Glacier calves off massive icebergs into a lake. On the Argentinian side, spot wildlife in Peninsula Valdés and gaze at Mount Fitz Roy’s granite spires.
With dramatic scenery around every corner, these countries showcase nature at its finest. If getting off the beaten path and witnessing epic wilderness is your idea of the perfect escape, you can’t go wrong visiting any of these natural paradises. The views will leave you in awe.
Must-See Nature Destinations
The Great Barrier Reef, Australia
No list of natural wonders is complete without the Great Barrier Reef. This massive coral reef system off the coast of Queensland, Australia, is made up of over 2,900 individual reefs and 900 islands. It’s the only living structure visible from space! You can see the reef up close by snorkeling or scuba diving in the crystal-clear water. The rainbow of colors from the coral and fish will take your breath away.
The Aurora Borealis
The spectacular Northern Lights, also known as the Aurora Borealis, are one of the greatest natural light shows on Earth. They appear as colorful, shimmering lights in the sky, usually near the Arctic and Antarctic regions. The best places to view the Northern Lights are in Norway, Sweden, Finland, Iceland, northern Canada, and Alaska. For the Southern Lights, head to New Zealand, Tasmania, and Antarctica. The lights are often most vivid around midnight. Seeing the Aurora Borealis in person is a truly magical experience you’ll never forget.
The Grand Canyon, USA
No picture can do justice to the grandeur of the Grand Canyon. This immense gorge carved by the Colorado River in northern Arizona is one of the greatest natural wonders of the world. The canyon is 277 miles long, up to 18 miles wide, and over a mile deep. The layers of colorful rock showcase millions of years of geological history. The best way to experience its vast scale and beauty is by hiking along its rim or within the canyon, rafting the Colorado River, or taking a scenic flight.
Victoria Falls, Zambia/Zimbabwe
On the border of Zambia and Zimbabwe in southern Africa lies the largest waterfall in the world based on its combined width and height. Victoria Falls, also known as Mosi-oa-Tunya or ‘The Smoke that Thunders’, plunges over 300 feet into the Zambezi Gorge. The enormous curtain of water kicks up a massive cloud of spray that can be seen from miles away. Victoria Falls is especially powerful during the rainy season from February to May. The thunderous roar and gorgeous rainbows in the mist make it a spectacular sight.
Planning Your Trip to See the Best Nature Views
Once you’ve decided on some of the amazing natural wonders you want to feast your eyes on, it’s time to plan your trip. A lot goes into organizing a trip around the world to see the best nature has to offer. Here are some tips to help you prepare for this adventure of a lifetime.
Choose your destinations
With so many stunning natural landscapes across the globe, narrowing down where you want to visit may be tough. Focus on what types of views you’re most interested in, like massive mountain ranges, thundering waterfalls, or colorful coral reefs. Then determine how much time you have for your trip and how many stops you can make. Don’t forget to factor in travel time between destinations.
Book accommodations in advance
Many of the world’s most scenic natural areas are located in remote regions. Lodging options are often limited, so booking 6-12 months ahead is recommended, especially if you’re traveling in peak season. Do research on the towns or parks closest to where you want to view the landscapes and reserve rooms at highly-rated hotels, motels, or campgrounds.
Prepare for different climates
The weather can vary dramatically between destinations, so pack appropriate clothing and gear. For example, if you’re seeing the Northern Lights in Iceland one day and trekking through a jungle to view Iguazu Falls the next, you’ll need to be ready for both freezing and sweltering temperatures. Check forecasts for your target viewing dates and pack layers, rain jackets, hiking boots, bug spray, sunscreen, and whatever else you might require.
Allow extra time
When nature is involved, schedules often don’t go as planned. Build in some buffer days in case of travel delays, road closures, or poor visibility. Many natural wonders are at their best at sunrise or sunset, so you’ll want wiggle room in your itinerary to be there during optimal viewing times. Extra days will also give you opportunities to revisit your favorite spots. Enjoy this once-in-a-lifetime chance to witness the planet’s beauty!
More Beautiful Nature Spots Worth Visiting
If those stunning views weren’t enough, here are a few more natural wonders of the world you need to add to your bucket list.
The majestic Northern Lights, also known as the Aurora Borealis, are one of the most spectacular natural phenomena on Earth. The colorful, dancing lights appear when charged particles from the sun collide with gases in our atmosphere. The best places to view this celestial show are in northern countries like Iceland, Canada, Alaska, and Norway. Bundle up, find a dark secluded spot away from city lights, and be prepared to be dazzled.
The scenic cliffs of Moher on the west coast of Ireland feature some of the most striking sea cliffs in Europe. The cliffs rise 702 feet above the Atlantic ocean, with paths allowing you to walk right up to the edge. You may spot dolphins or whales in the sea below, and it’s also a popular spot for bird watching, with many seabirds nesting along the cliffs. The stunning views, especially at sunset, will leave a lasting impression.
The ancient redwood forests along the northern California coast contain some of the tallest and oldest trees on Earth. Redwood National Park is home to massive coast redwood trees, some over 2,000 years old and reaching up to 379 feet high. Walking amongst these giants, with sunlight filtering through the massive trunks, is a humbling experience that fills you with a sense of wonder and peace. The scenic park also features scenic beaches, rivers, and hiking trails through lush Fern Canyon.
From the heights of Victoria Falls to the depths of the Grand Canyon, our planet overflows with natural beauty. Make the time to get out and experience it – your soul will thank you.
Best Nature Views FAQ
Everyone has questions about the awe-inspiring natural wonders of the world. Here are some of the frequently asked questions to help you plan your bucket list adventure.
Where is the best spot to see the northern lights? Head north to places like Iceland, Norway, Canada or Alaska. Find a secluded location away from city lights for the best aurora borealis viewing. The lights are often most active around midnight, so bundle up for a late night show.
When is the best time to visit the Great Barrier Reef?
The dry season from June to October is the ideal time to explore the Great Barrier Reef off the coast of Australia. The weather is pleasant, the water is calm and clear, and you have the best chance of spotting whales and dolphins. You’ll want to book tours in advance, especially if traveling in the busy summer months.
Do I need permits to hike the Inca Trail? Yes, permits are required to trek the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. Only 500 people per day are allowed on the trail. Permits often sell out months in advance, especially during the dry season from May to October. Be sure to book with a reputable tour company that can secure your permits and guide you through this strenuous high-altitude hike.
Where can I see stunning fall foliage? Some of the world’s most spectacular autumn scenery can be found in the Northeastern United States, South Korea, China and Japan. Head to destinations like the White Mountains of New England, South Korea’s Seoraksan National Park, China’s Huanglong Scenic Area or Japan’s Nikko National Park. Late September through October is the prime time to witness the vibrant red and gold hues of fall.
Whether you want to chase the northern lights, explore ancient ruins or simply enjoy nature’s beauty, the best views in the world await you. Start planning your adventure today!
