To explore and marvel at nature has a positive impact on the soul, but while parts of the earth catch a bit of a break from our globetrotting ways, don’t forget about these awesome natural wonders, incredible views and gorgeous drives.
Here’s footage of virtual tours and walk-throughs from webcams and drones offering 360-degree views and panoramas of some gorgeous sights around the world:
1. Sahara Desert
The world’s largest hot desert spans a host of North African countries, including Libya, Mauritania, Egypt, Mali, Sudan, Niger and Chad. In this video, you can see panoramic views of the Sahara, which comprises most of Algeria.
2. The Southern Lights
We all know of the Northern Lights, but not as much fuss is made about the Southern Lights, or the Aurora australis. Perhaps it’s because it’s pretty difficult for most humans to catch a glimpse if they’re not as far south in Australasia or the icy, Antarctic desert.
3. Zhangjiajie Glass Bridge
Take a virtual walk across the Zhangjiajie Glass Bridge which towers above the beautifully forested and mountainous Wulingyuan area in Hunan, China. The glass-bottomed bridge is one of the longest glass bridges in the world (430m), allowing pedestrians to take in incredible views of rivers and across valleys of forested, sandstone cliffs.
4. Victoria Falls
One of the world’s top natural wonders, you may have heard that Africa’s iconic natural landmark is currently experiencing its strongest flow in decades, making for incredible views while we aren’t around to see it. You can still marvel at its incredible force in this 360-degree aerial video.
5. The Panorama Route
Mpumalanga’s scenic route has no shortage of natural wonders to marvel at from some of SA’s favourite waterfalls to God’s Window and the Blyde River Canyon.
Also read: Panorama Route named one of world’s most scenic drives
6. Faroe Islands
This otherworldly Danish archipelago destination features picturesque and unspoilt wild views of sky, sea and steep grassy slopes.Oh, and some 80,000 very happy sheep. A new travel concept, ‘remote-controlled tourism’ allows you to explore this gorgeous landscape in a virtual tour.
Also read: Explore the Faroe Islands with a remote controlled guide
7. The Grand Canyon
In line with lockdown safety protocols, the Grand Canyon National Park is also closed, but you can still experience its wonder that attracts millions of visitors from around the world.
The Phantom Ranch and Colorado river raft virtual tours allow you to experience and understand the park’s unique geological and ecological value, each boasting incredible views.
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8. The Alps
The Alps, Europe’s most extensive mountain range, spans eight countries. Go on a journey through these alpine towns, across rivers, mountain bike along trails and take in those marvellous craggy ascents.
9. Table Mountain and Lion’s Head
Sometimes, you just can’t beat the view of the gorgeous Mother City from the site of another beautiful wonder, and Table Mountain is no exception. While a bit dated, this awesome 360-degree, aerial virtual tour allows you to catch a glimpse of the Mother City from the perspective of Table Mountain and even in and around the city. Spot its table top as captured on a gorgeous sunny day, as well as Lion’s Head as if you were right above it. Check it out here.
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10. Patagonia
Experience the Patagonian wilderness on this informative and immersive journey to discover its stark and wild beauty.
For some virtual adventures among nature’s wonders, check out:
11. Yosemite National Park
Do a virtual climb and learn how the pros scaled El Capitan in Yosemite National Park with climbing pioneers, Lynn Hill and Alex Honnold.
12. Mount Everest
Whether we’re in lockdown or back out exploring the world’s natural wonders, conquering Mount Everest is an arduous trial not many of us will have the privilege of tackling. But technology has intervened to help you share in the experience in this new virtual reality game.
Image: Teagan Cunniffe
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