We’ve all heard of the Seven Wonders of the World, but let’s not forget the seven natural wonders of the world. All boasting astonishing natural beauty in their own right, there’s something spectacular about each and every one of these attractions. Whether you’re thinking about planning your next getaway or just want to brush up on your geographical knowledge, here are the seven natural wonders of the world and where to find them.
- What is it? The Grand Canyon
Where is it? Arizona, USA
The sheer size and vastness of the Grand Canyon is enough to see why it makes the list of the world’s most impressive natural wonders. At 277 miles long, you can only see a snippet of it by foot – and no one wants to get too close to the edge. Instead, take a helicopter ride and be wowed at the sights from above.
- What is it? Aurora Borealis (The Northern Lights)
Where is it? Alaska, Northern Canada, Sweden, Finland, Norway
A magical display of colours that light up the dark, Arctic night sky; the Aurora Borealis is a magnificent spectacle that anyone feels honoured to catch a glimpse of. More prominent during the winter months, their appearance is never guaranteed, making them even more special when they do.
- What is it? Parícutin
Where is it? Mexico
You may not be as familiar with this one, but it’s still worthy of its place on the list. Parícutin is a near-perfect volcano in Mexico, but there’s more to it than that. What’s different about this one is that scientists have been able to witness every stage of its lifespan; from it appearing in a cornfield in the 1940s, growing to 1,391ft and erupting for 19 years until 1952.
- What is it? Victoria Falls
Where is it? Zimbabwe
It might not necessarily be the highest or widest waterfall in the world, but when you take both measurements into consideration, it qualifies as the largest in the world. Where the Zambezi River crosses the border of Zambia and Zimbabwe, Victoria Falls – or The Smoke that Thunders – is formed when the water drops down an incredible 355 feet.
- What is it? The Great Barrier Reef
Where is it? Queensland, Australia
It’s hard to get your head around just how big the Great Barrier Reef is. It’s all well and good saying that it’s made up of almost 3,000 individual reefs and 1,000 islands spread over 1,400 miles… But maybe it’d be more useful knowing that this fragile living reef is visible from space. That said, a lot of conservation work is needing to be carried out in order to preserve this delicate wonder.
- What is it? Harbor of Rio de Janeiro
Where is it? Brazil
The iconic image when you think of Brazil is the Harbor of Rio de Janeiro, located just to the east of the city and stretches for 19 miles. Overlooked by the imposing statue of Christ the Redeemer, the bay otherwise known as Guanabara Bay is home to no fewer than 100 tiny islands dotted along the shore.
- What is it? Mount Everest
Where is it? Nepal
It would be impossible to have a list of the world’s best natural wonders without acknowledging Mount Everest, the highest point on this planet. Standing at a staggering 8,848 metres, it’s both beautiful and intimidating all in one. Sir Edmund Hilary was the first man to reach the summit back in 1953 and, even today, reaching the top is one of the greatest achievements known to man.
Have you already been to any of these incredible natural wonders? Maybe it’s time that you tick another one off your bucket list and start planning your next big adventure.
