1. Cano Cristales River, Colombia
Also known as the “River of Five Colors” or “Rainbow River,” Cano Cristales in Colombia transforms from an ordinary river into a vibrant red spectacle from July to November. The aquatic plant Macarenia clavigera, living at the riverbed, turns a brilliant red, combining with crystal-clear water, green moss, and golden sand to create a mesmerizing, unique flow.
2. Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, China
The Zhangjiajie National Forest Park in China is renowned for its towering and surreal rock formations. Serving as inspiration for James Cameron’s film “Avatar,” some peaks reach up to 1,250 meters with ancient quartz-sandstone pillars dating back 300 million years.
3. Antelope Canyon, USA
Antelope Canyon in Arizona is famous for its wave-like shapes and stunning sandstone walls. Formed by water erosion over millions of years, the canyon showcases breathtaking natural beauty.
4. Giant’s Causeway, Northern Ireland
The unique rock formations in Northern Ireland’s Giant’s Causeway are a result of volcanic activity millions of years ago. The largest columns stand at an impressive 11 meters tall.
5. Socotra Island
Located in the Indian Ocean, Socotra Island hosts plant species not found anywhere else on the planet. One notable species is the Dragon’s Blood Tree, whose branches resemble extraterrestrial spacecraft.
6. Chocolate Hills, Philippines
The Chocolate Hills on Bohol Island, Philippines, are known for their peculiar cone-shaped structures. Ranging in height from 30 to 120 meters, the hills turn brown like chocolate during the dry season.
7. Fly Geyser, USA
Situated in the Black Rock Desert, Nevada, Fly Geyser is a result of geothermal activity and unintentional human intervention. Formed when a geothermal energy company drilled a test well, the geyser spouts mineral-rich water, creating a uniquely colorful and attractive landscape over 40 years.
8. Thor’s Well, USA
Thor’s Well in Oregon appears as a bottomless hole, named after the mythical god. It resembles the whirlpool Charybdis, known for drowning sailors in its massive vortex. Scientists believe Thor’s Well formed when the roof of an underwater cave collapsed, creating the illusion of a sea being sucked into a deep, captivating pit.
9. Waitomo Glowworm Caves, New Zealand
The Waitomo Glowworm Caves in New Zealand are home to thousands of luminescent glowworms. Open to the public since 1889, the caves take their name from the Maori words “wai” meaning water and “tomo” meaning entrance or hole.
10. Pamukkale Terraces, Turkey
In Pamukkale, Turkey, terraced fields contain warm water flowing from natural hot springs. The terraces are formed by mineral-rich limestone deposits in geothermal activity.
