What are the 7 Natural Wonders of the World?
Do you know what the 7 natural wonders of the world are? We all know about the 7 wonders of the world but nature has its own incredible selection of wonders! Dotted across the globe, these natural attractions are awe-inspiring displays of the power and beauty of nature. If you’re planning a trip, why not put one of these 7 natural wonders on your list of places to visit!
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The Northern Lights, Norway
Although you can view this famous natural phenomenon in many places across the Arctic Circle, Norway is thought of as the best place to see the Northern Lights. Also known as the Aurora Borealis, the Northern Lights appear as a colourful light show in the night’s sky. These dancing lights are caused by electrically charged particles from the sun colliding with the earth’s atmosphere. Indeed, the further north you travel, the more likely you are to spot this magnificent natural wonder. Some of the best places to view the Northern Lights include Tromso in Norway and Finnish Lapland. As the only natural wonder found in the sky, the Northern Lights are a unique reminder of the mystery and majesty of nature!
Grand Canyon, USA
Situated in the US state of Arizona, the Grand Canyon is one of nature’s most striking spectacles. Formed by erosion over billions of years, the Grand Canyon measures an incredible 446-kilometres in length! Furthermore, at its widest point, this famous canyon measures up to 29-kilometres. The sheer magnitude, coupled with the deep red and orange hues of the canyon walls make it one of the most visited 7 natural wonders of the world. Viewing options include hikes along the canyon cliff, helicopter rides or simply viewing this astounding sight from the numerous viewing platforms.
Paricutin, Mexico
One of the lesser-known natural wonders of the world, Paricutin is a cone-shaped volcano located in Michoacán, Mexico. Although you may never have heard of Paricutin before, it’s considered one of the 7 wonders of the natural world due to its youth. In fact, Paricutin first emerged in 1943, during a volcanic eruption. Surging out of a local cornfield, humanity witnessed the birth of the youngest volcano in the Northern Hemisphere. Although the last eruption was in 1952, Paricutin continues to astound visitors with its perfectly symmetrical shape. Furthermore, if you travel to this part of Mexico you can enjoy hikes around the surrounding lava fields and even trek to the summit.
Victoria Falls, Zambia & Zimbabwe
Known locally as ‘the smoke that thunders’, the Victoria Falls is one of the most famous attractions in all of Africa. Situated on the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe, on the mighty Zambezi River, a trip to Victoria Falls has long been a bucket-list favourite. With a length of more than one kilometre, Victoria Falls is considered one of the largest waterfalls in the world. Although panoramic views can be enjoyed from both sides of the border, the Zimbabwean side is the most popular vantage point due to its excellent visitor facilities, accommodations and well-placed viewing platforms. One of the 7 natural wonders, the best time to visit Victoria Falls is in April. At the end of the rainy season, the high volume of water ensures the ‘smoke that thunders’ lives up to its name!
Mount Everest, Nepal, Tibet & China
Undoubtedly, Mount Everest is the most revered and legendary 7 natural wonders of the world. The tallest mountain on earth, Everest holds a mythical value. Many climbers have managed to summit the peak, but many more have been unsuccessful. Nestled in the heart of the Himalayas, Mount Everest measures 8,849 metres at its peak. The Nepali name for Everest is Sagarmatha, whilst in Tibet, it is known as Chomolungma, which roughly translates to ‘Mother Goddess of the World’. Of course, you don’t have to be a professional climber to experience the beauty of this natural wonder. Whilst base camp tours are popular, other options include flight tours or simply viewing its majestic silhouette from the comfort of one of the nearby viewpoints.
Great Barrier Reef, Australia
The largest coral reef system, the Great Barrier Reef is the only natural wonder of the world located underwater. It is composed of around 2,300 kilometres of coral reef in the aptly named Coral Sea. Sustaining a diverse array of marine life, the Great Barrier Reef is a top attraction for scuba divers and snorkelers. Situated off the coast of Queensland, visitors can also explore this unique ecosystem by taking a glass-bottomed boat trip. In recent years, there has been growing concern for the reef system due to the damaging effects of climate change. Despite this, conservation efforts hope to protect this delicate wonder of the natural world for future generations.
Guanabara Bay, Brazil
The world’s largest natural bay, Guanabara is an iconic part of the landscape of Rio de Janeiro. Surrounded by granite peaks, Guanabara has striking visual appeal. Created by the natural erosion of the Atlantic Ocean, this unique phenomenon is best enjoyed from the top of Corcovado Mountain. From here you can see both Guanabara Bay and Christ the Redeemer; one natural wonder and one new wonder of the world! Also known as Rio Harbor, Guanabara is a sight to behold, even during the busy summer season.
So, now you know the 7 wonders of the natural world, which is your favourite? Visit these incredible natural sights and much more with Exoticca. Discover our latest trips on our official website:
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