It’s fair to say that many travelers often find themselves dreaming of visiting the most iconic destinations and landmarks across the globe. While these well-known spots are undoubtedly popular for good reason, some of the world’s most incredible natural wonders remain largely hidden under the radar. From lesser-known national parks home to acres of wilderness to remote caves that are vastly unexplored, there are a handful of underrated spots that offer unique experiences for adventurous travelers. (Plus, they typically lack crowds and high entry prices.) Ahead, discover the most discrete natural wonders that deserve a spot on your bucket list.
Lençois Maranhenses National Park, Brazil
Imagine a sea of white sand dunes that’s scattered with crystal-clear lagoons. That’s what defines Lençóis Maranhenses National Park in Brazil. Spanning more than 1,550 square kilometers, this park is known for its seasonal lagoons that form between the dunes. The best months to experience the park at its most vibrant are from May to September when the lagoons are full and visitors can swim in them.
Valley of Flowers National Park, India
Aptly named, the Valley of Flowers National Park is home to meadows upon meadows of beautiful alpine flowers. Located in the Himalayan mountains, this park is filled with rare plants, cascading waterfalls, and glacial rivers. The best time to visit is during the summer months (particularly from late June to early September) when the flowers are in full bloom and the weather is nice. Just be sure to plan ahead and check for monsoon rains, which can occur in July and August.
Marble Caves, Chile
Over more than 6,200 years, huge marble deposits on the edge of the General Carrera Lake have been eroded by the water, creating caves, tunnels, and massive columns of pure marble. Known as the Marble Caves, or Cuevas de Mármol, this stunning natural wonder has marble formations with swirling patterns in hues of blue, green, and white. The water beneath the caves is an exquisite shade of turquoise, which makes everything that much more beautiful. Visitors can explore the caves by kayak or boat, allowing for up-close views of the mesmerizing marble.
Gunung Mulu National Park, Malaysia
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Gunung Mulu National Park in Malaysia has magnificent limestone karst formations, extensive cave systems, and very unique biodiversity. This park is home to some of the largest caves in the world, including the famous Sarawak Chamber, which is known for its huge size and (extremely) dramatic formations. What’s more, the park features a network of trails that lead through rainforests, meaning visiting can witness wildlife including diverse bird species, rare orchids, and the beloved Bornean orangutan.
Panjin Red Beach, China
Famous for its red-hued coastline (created by a type of seagrass called Sueda), Panjin Red Beach in China stretches along the banks of the Liao River. Visitors can explore the beach on wooden walkways that meander through the landscape, making it a beautiful place to enjoy a stroll. This beach–which is not only completely astonishing–also serves as a crucial habitat for migratory birds during the fall months when thousands of red-crowned cranes and other bird species flock to the area.
Tsingy de Bemaraha National Park, Madagascar
With landscapes that look like they got plucked out of sci-fi movies, Tsingy de Bemaraha National Park in Madagascar is a place unlike any other. Often referred to as “Tsingy” (which means “where one cannot walk barefoot” in Malagasy), this park features sharp, needle-like limestone formations that reach towards the sky. With a network of trails and suspension bridges, this destination was made for those who enjoy both the outdoors and a thrill.
Waitomo Glowworm Caves, New Zealand
The Waitomo Glowworm Caves in New Zealand are the place to go to enjoy the magical glow of thousands of tiny bioluminescent creatures. Located on the North Island, these caves are part of a larger limestone cave system and are famous for their stalactites, stalagmites, and intricate formations created by millions of years of erosion. Visitors can go on guided tours through the caves, which include peaceful boat rides along the river, where the ceiling is lit up by glowworms. The sight is so surreal it almost feels like stepping into a fairy tale.
Trolltunga, Norway
Trolltunga, also known as “Troll’s Tongue,” is a rock formation in Norway that juts out over 2,296 feet above Lake Ringedalsvatnet. This landmark has become a beloved hiking destination, attracting adventurers and nature lovers from around the world. The hike to Trolltunga is challenging, covering about 17 miles round trip, with a vertical ascent of almost 3,000 feet. However tough it might be, it’s sure to be an unforgettable experience for those seeking an adventure in Norway.
