Countless motives propel people to embark on journeys, yet many are driven by a quest for those mesmerizing instants that halt them in their tracks, in pursuit of scenes that etch themselves into memory indefinitely. Each day, wanderers unearth these remarkable encounters amidst the remnants of Machu Picchu’s history or atop the towering pinnacle of Mount Kilimanjaro.
From the cerulean lakes of Canada to the sandstone shores of Seychelles, beauty flourishes in every crevice of the globe. With a predominant focus on national parks, mountain ranges, coastlines, desolate terrains, and other natural marvels, we have curated a compilation of the planet’s most exquisite locations to fuel your aspirations for the next ideal getaway.
Accompany us on a voyage to some of Earth’s most captivating destinations, such as the crimson cliffs of the Grand Canyon and the kaleidoscopically vibrant Great Barrier Reef.
Torres del Paine National Park, Chile
To truly immerse oneself in the rugged splendour of Patagonia, there exists no superior method than traversing the terrain of Torres del Paine National Park. This UNESCO Biosphere Reserve houses its namesake granite spires (the moniker a fusion of the Spanish word for “towers” and the Tehuelche term for “blue”), along with glistening lagoons and ethereal glaciers.
Bagan, Myanmar
tourist hot air balloon over Ancient Pagoda at Bagan in Myanmar, tourists watching sunrise over ancient city
Comprehending the vastness of the Bagan Archaeological Zone, adorned by innumerable temples, pagodas, and stupas, is a formidable task. Roam the precincts of this UNESCO World Heritage Site on a bicycle (or an electric bike for expanded coverage). For an aerial perspective akin to an eagle’s, embark on a hot-air balloon voyage at daybreak, revealing the temples strewn across the luxuriant landscape.
Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Reserve, Costa Rica
Monteverde Cloud Forest, Costa Rica – May 17, 2022: The Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve is a Costa Rican reserve located along the Cordillera de Tilarán within the Puntarenas and Alajuela provinces. Named after the nearby town of Monteverde and founded in 1972. The Reserve consists of over 10,500 hectares (26,000 acres) of cloud forest. It draws roughly 70,000 visitors a year.
The Reserve consists of 6 ecological zones, 90% of which are virgin forest. A high biodiversity, consisting of over 2,500 plant species (including the most orchid species in a single place), 100 species of mammals, 400 bird species, 120 reptilian and amphibian species, and thousands of insects, has drawn both scientists and tourists alike.
Nestled in the misty embrace of northwestern Costa Rica, the Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Reserve presents an enchanting template for sustainable ecotourism. Alongside its sibling, the Santa Elena Reserve, Monteverde stands as an untouched haven teeming with myriads of plant, animal, and avian species (including the resplendent quetzal). These can be observed from jungle trails and adrenaline-inducing suspended steel bridges above the canopy.
Anse Source d’Argent, Seychelles
Picture of one of the most famous beach in the world, Anse Source d’Argent in Seychelles. It was taken at sunset , from a drone, with warm tones and gorgeous colors. Luxurious vegetation is seen all around, as well as the variations in sea’s colors. Wonderful clouds seen.
Beach is known for its famous granite rock formations, white sand beach and turquoise waters.
Determining the most exquisite beach in Seychelles is akin to splitting hairs, but Anse Source d’Argent garners resounding acclaim for its powdery white sands framed by dramatic granite monoliths and shimmering aquamarine waters. This tranquil shoreline remains relatively secluded from the throngs of resorts on La Digue Island.
Antelope Canyon, Arizona
Glowing walls of the Antelope Slot Canyon, Page, Arizona
One would find it arduous to resist capturing myriad photographs of the breathtaking sandstone labyrinth known as Antelope Canyon in Arizona. This distinct geological marvel comprises two segments—the Upper and Lower canyons—and is celebrated for its kaleidoscopic, fractured walls. With patience and a swift trigger finger, one might even capture ephemeral “God beams” or sunbeams piercing through the crevices above.
The Alps, Switzerland
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Whether ascending beyond 13,000 feet to traverse the peaks or capturing the panorama from a grassy knoll a few miles distant, Europe’s iconic Alps consistently yield priceless photographic treasures. Many photographers opt for the vantage point atop Breithorn mountain to capture the superlative views of the Swiss Alps alongside their French and Italian counterparts. For optimal impact, consider capturing both day and night scenes in a single frame.
Atnajökull Ice Cave, Iceland
Man inside an ice cave near Jokulsarlon, Vatnajokull National Park, in Iceland.
Annually, throngs of intrepid travellers and photographers make their way to Iceland to bear witness to the mesmerizing interior of the Vatnajökull glacier within Skaftafell National Park. This remarkable spectacle ranks among the world’s most unique wonders, a site impossible to depart from without amassing a multitude of photographs from within. While creative freedom in framing abounds, endeavour to maintain an accurate white balance to encapsulate the raw allure of this unparalleled icy cavern.
Avenue of the Baobabs, Madagascar
Aerial view of a misty golden sunrise at the famous Avenue de Baobabs in western Madagascar
Situated along a dirt path near Madagascar’s western shoreline stands a stretch of colossal baobab trees, the sole remnants of a once-dense forest. These age-old giants attain unparalleled magnificence when bathed in the ethereal hues of sunrise and sunset.
Maasai Mara, Kenya
Masai Mara National Park.
Situated as the neighbouring sanctuary to the Serengeti, the Maasai Mara boasts a renowned wildlife haven that ranks among the planet’s most captivating ecosystems. Expansive golden grasslands extend toward the horizon, periodically punctuated by the graceful presence of acacia trees and the stirring spectacle of migrating wildebeest and zebras, closely shadowed by their stealthy predators.
Okavango Delta, Botswana
Aerial view of elephant, Okavango Delta, Botswana, Africa.
Witness the awe-inspiring grandeur of the world’s largest inland delta, the formidable Okavango, an expansive network of meandering waterways and alluring lagoons that beckon to a diverse array of wildlife. Embark on a journey through reed-adorned channels aboard a traditional mokoro canoe, an experience that offers intrepid nature enthusiasts the chance to spot magnificent hippos, elusive leopards, and majestic elephants, crafting an unparalleled odyssey of discovery.
Pictures: Getty Images
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