Countries with Spectacular National Parks

Did you know that New Zealand has more than 30,000 square kilometers of national parks? They cover stunning landscapes, coasts, mountains, volcanoes, forests, and waterways. That’s just the start of incredible national park systems found around the world.

The U.S. gets credit for starting the national parks idea. But many countries have embraced it since Yellowstone became the first in 1872. Now, there are protections over vast natural areas. You can see electric-blue glacialv, wildebeest, colorful badlands, and snow-capped peaks worldwide. These parks cover six continents and offer great destinations for those who love nature and adventure. From Costa Rica to Croatia, we’ve found the best places for water sports, beaches, adventure, and more.

Key Takeaways

• New Zealand’s national parks cover stunning landscapes, coasts, mountains, volcanoes, forests, and waterways.
• Nine of New Zealand’s 10 Great Walks are located within national parks¹.
• National parks around the world offer a wide range of outdoor recreation activities, from traditional pursuits like hiking and camping to emerging activities like stand-up paddleboarding and e-biking².
• Many national parks feature unique geological formations, diverse wildlife, and UNESCO World Heritage status³.
• Exploring national parks is an excellent way to immerse yourself in nature and plan your next adventure, whether it’s in the U.S. or abroad.

Africa’s Iconic Safari Destinations

Africa is famous for its stunning safari spots. Here, you can see a wide range of wildlife up close. Kruger National Park in South Africa is a top choice. It covers almost 2 million hectares and is perfect for seeing the “Big Five”, which are lions, leopards, rhinoceros, elephants, and buffaloes. There are also many other animals to enjoy⁴.

At Kruger, visitors can go on night safaris or take thrilling game drives. There are also walking tours. You can stay in amazing places like Ngala Tented Camp by the Timbavati River. It lets you experience the true heart of Africa⁵.

Kruger National Park, South Africa

Kruger National Park is a favorite for safaris in Africa. It has over 140 kinds of large animals and 500 bird types⁵. The park is huge and has many different landscapes. This makes it perfect for those wanting to see Africa’s nature up close⁴. You can choose from guided tours or drive yourself to spot the amazing wildlife in their natural homes.

Besides Kruger, Africa has many other great safari spots. The Maasai Mara National Reserve in Kenya is over 580 square miles⁴. Chobe National Park in Botswana is known for its elephants. It has around 120,000 of them⁴. South Luangwa National Park in Zambia is a bird lover’s paradise, with over 400 types. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park in Uganda is where you can see almost half of the world’s mountain gorillas. There are just over 1,000 left in the wild⁴.

Are you looking for a Big Five adventure or to see the Great Migration? Maybe something more unique? Africa’s many parks have something for everyone⁵.

“Africa is a continent of wonders and Africa’s wildlife is the world’s wonder.”

Mana Pools, Zimbabwe

Mana Pools is set along the Zambezi River and offers an amazing safari experience. It covers 850 square miles and became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1984⁶. The park is famous for its wide range of animal species, with over 450 types of birds. It was also named an important Ramsar wetland in 2013⁶.

One special thing about the park is the lakes that come and go with the rainy season. From December to March, these lakes are great for seeing wildlife. You might see lions, leopards, elephants, Cape buffalo, rhinoceros, zebras, and cheetahs.

Visiting Mana Pools is an adventure you won’t forget. International visitors pay a $20 conservation fee⁶. Zimbabweans get more than 50% off. The park is 240 miles away from Harare, the nearest international airport⁶. Just remember, the campsites have no fences so they’re not safe for kids under 12⁶.

If you want a real African safari, try a 6-night adventure at Mana Pools⁷. The park is known for its wild dogs, African elephants, and 350 bird types⁷. You can walk, canoe, go on game drives, and watch birds to enjoy the park’s beauty⁷.

A 10-day tour in Zimbabwe is also a great idea. It includes game viewing in Hwange and Mana Pools parks⁸. This tour lets you see elephant herds up close and enjoy canoeing with hippos and buffaloes⁸.

“Mana Pools is a place of rare beauty, where time seems to stand still and the natural world takes center stage. From the majestic elephants to the elusive wild dogs, every moment spent here is a true privilege.”

If you love wildlife or just want an amazing trip, Mana Pools is perfect. It has beautiful scenery, diverse animals, and offers unique safari experiences. This park is a treasure among Zimbabwe’s natural wonders.

Serengeti National Park, Tanzania

The Ultimate Safari Experience

Set off on an amazing safari in Africa at the Serengeti National Park in Tanzania. This huge park spans over 5,700 square miles of wild land. It is one of the largest and most varied parks in Africa. The park is famous for the “big five”: elephants, lions, leopards, buffalos, and rhinos⁹. It’s a top spot for anyone who loves seeing animals up close.

The Serengeti is best known for the yearly wildebeest migration. More than 1.5 million wildebeest and 250,000 zebras move across the savanna in search of food. This impressive sight happens each year from May to June at the Grumeti River¹⁰. It’s a thrilling moment as they cross the river, facing dangers like Nile crocodiles.

But the Serengeti is not just about the migration. It’s full of wildlife all year round. If you go on a morning game drive, you’ll have a high chance of seeing big cats in action. The area around the Seronera River is called the “Big Cat Capital of Africa.”¹¹ There, you can see lions, leopards, and cheetahs whenever you visit because of the water supply¹¹.

There are over 500 bird types⁹ and lots of other animals here. Visit during April to June or October to December for the best chances to see the Great Migration and lots of animals¹¹. Whether you travel by land or air, the Serengeti’s natural beauty will amaze you¹¹.

“The Serengeti is the most impressive natural wonder I’ve ever seen. It’s like stepping into another world, a place where time stands still and the rhythm of life is dictated by the constant ebb and flow of the great migration.” – Jane Doe, avid safari enthusiast

Asia’s Natural Wonders

Fuji-Hakone-Izu, Japan

In the heart of Japan lies the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. It became a protected area in 1936. This place is known for its many volcanic landscapes, hot springs, and Mount Fuji, Japan’s highest peak¹².

At this park, you can climb Mount Fuji’s snowy peak. As you look over the landscapes below, you’ll feel all your worries fade. Visit Owakudani to see the earth’s volcanic power with its sulfur vents¹².

But there’s more to this park than amazing views. It’s a place of many different things. You could surf in the Izu Islands one day and then visit peaceful ancient shrines the next. It’s a great destination for anyone who loves nature¹².

Whether you seek thrill or peace, the Fuji-Hakone-Izu is perfect for everyone. Enjoy Japan’s beautiful natural spots. Make memories that will stay with you forever¹².

“The mountain is perfect, as if cast in a single mold.”

– Matsuo Bashō, renowned Japanese poet

Göreme National Park, Turkey

In central Turkey’s heart lies Göreme National Park, an awe-inspiring blend of nature and history. This UNESCO World Heritage Site¹³¹⁴ charms visitors with its stunning landscapes and deep cultural roots since the 4th century.

The park features unique “fairy chimneys,” tall rocks shaped like cones over time¹⁵. It includes plateaus, plains, and river valleys, creating a surreal atmosphere. This phenomenon attracts tourists worldwide¹⁵.

But the park isn’t just beautiful; it’s a place where Turkey’s past comes alive. You’ll find stunning Byzantine-era art¹⁵ and underground cities that date back to 3000 B.C¹³. Early Christians built these hidden cities to escape persecution, giving us a peek into the area’s history¹⁵.

At Göreme, adventure awaits with a maze of hiking paths¹³ through diverse scenery. From tranquil Pigeon Valley to lively Rose Valley and bold Red Valley, each trail brings a special experience¹³.

To see the full majesty, a hot air balloon trip¹³¹⁵ is a must. It offers an unmatched view of the park and Cappadocia’s region¹³¹⁵.

Looking for natural beauty, historical wonders, or an unforgettable setting? Göreme National Park is the place to be in Turkey¹³¹⁵¹⁴.

Göreme National Park and Cappadocia truly offer a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. With its stunning nature, deep history, and fun activities, it’s no surprise this spot is loved by people from all over¹³¹⁵¹⁴.

Water Sports Destinations

Khao Sok National Park, Thailand

In southern Thailand, you’ll find Khao Sok National Park, a hidden paradise for water lovers. It’s filled with rich greenery and boasts the oldest evergreen forest worldwide. The scenery is dominated by awe-inspiring limestone peaks that seem to touch the sky¹⁶.

The centerpiece here is Khao Sok Lake, a calm waterbody with floating homes that redefine staycations. Imagine yourself cruising on the lake, spotting monkeys and more, under the park’s tranquil vibe¹⁶.

For a unique experience, spend a night at the Floating Bungalows on Khao Sok Lake. You’ll sleep with jungle sounds and wake up to the sight of majestic cliffs. It’s an ideal spot to start your water adventure at the park, with prices from $198 a night¹⁶.

Khao Sok National Park’s water activities range from calm kayaking to adrenaline-pumping sports. It’s the ideal place for everyone, from nature enthusiasts to thrill-seekers. Start planning your exploration to unveil the beauty of this stunning spot¹⁶.

“Khao Sok is a lush jungle where towering mountains of limestone rise from the earth like rocky fingers.”

Explore the diverse water sports offerings in Khao Sok National Park and plan your unforgettable adventure today. With its stunning natural beauty and abundant wildlife, this destination is a true haven for outdoor enthusiasts¹⁶.

To learn more about water sports destinations and plan your next getaway, visit Responsible Travel, Holiday Water Sports, or Get Wet Water Sports¹⁷¹⁸¹⁶.

Komodo National Park, Indonesia

In a place with rust-red mountains and the sea, you might feel like dinosaurs are still here. This island park is known for the rare Komodo dragon. It’s the only place in the world you can find them. The park sits between the Indian and South Pacific Oceans, attracting lovers of both reptiles and diving¹⁹.

Known for its rich underwater life, the park is in the Coral Triangle¹⁹. Divers can explore many sites. For instance, Batu Balong has a 30-meter depth and 25 degrees Celsius. The famous Manta Point, however, is 15 meters deep with 27 degrees Celsius. Here, you can watch manta rays¹⁹. Crystal Rock and Castle Rock are also great with their own marine life wonders. Tatawa Besar, another site, is famous for its currents and home to soft corals and turtles¹⁹.

The park is in the heart of the Coral Triangle, which has many turtle species²⁰. It’s a major location for reefs and fish. For water sports, the Komodo Swim Trek is a good choice. It involves guided swimming holidays. You swim about 2.5km each day. It’s good for swimmers who like open water²⁰.

There’s also the Komodo Kayaking Adventure, an 8-day trip. You’ll spend nights in tents, on a boat, and in a hotel. The adventure includes visiting Mirror Stone Cave and Cunca Walung waterfall. The cost includes the Komodo National Park fee, which is about £75²¹.

The Komodo Park is great for seeing dragons, exploring colorful reefs, or trying water sports. It’s an unforgettable place for everyone¹⁹²⁰²¹.

“Komodo National Park is a true natural wonder, where the land and sea collide in a breathtaking display of biodiversity and adventure.” – Jane Doe, Eco-Tourism Enthusiast

Guilin Lijiang National Park, China

Limestone Wonders on the Li River

In central China, the Guilin Lijiang National Park is truly stunning. It has drawn in people like artists and poets for years. This park covers 102 miles along the Li River, from Yangshuo to Guilin City²². Known for its amazing limestone cliffs, it’s a sight you won’t forget.

The area is famous for its Fengcong karst hills. These hills have deep hollows and can be almost 984 feet tall²². Inside these hills, the Guanyin Cave System is the longest cave network around and offers amazing explorations²².

To really see this place, go on a Li River cruise or take a hike. The Reed Flute Caves Trail is a simple walk to famous caves²². There’s also the Ping’An Rice Terrace Trail which is harder but worth it for the incredible views²². Or, for a moderate hike with wildlife sightings, try the Yangdi Xingping Trail²².

A must-see is the Thousand Layer Trail, a beautiful 3.5-mile walk. It takes you up 1,040 feet through lovely scenery²². This park protects the special karsts, limestone landscapes, and the Lijiang River. It’s here for us to enjoy and for nature to flourish²².

“Guilin’s landscape is so beautiful it’s almost indecent.” – Chinese Saying

This park combines rough rocks with calm streams. That’s why it’s a top attraction in China²³. No matter what you like, this park has something for you²³.

For a special visit, come between June 21st and June 30th. You’ll get a great deal on your stay²⁴. At Club Med Guilin, enjoy over 100 modern sculptures and fun activities like a climbing wall and a Circus School²⁴.

Make memories at the stunning Guilin Lijiang National Park that you’ll always cherish²²²³²⁴.

Europe’s Natural Treasures

Calanques National Park, France

Calanques National Park is set in southern France along the beautiful Mediterranean shore. It’s known for its high limestone cliffs that drop into the turquoise waters below²⁵. Hiking here gets you up close to the craggy coves and biodiverse marine life²⁵.

Want a more laid-back time? Try a sailing tour. You can see interesting sea creatures like starfish and sea slugs²⁵.

No matter what you like, Calanques has something for you. This natural treasure is a highlight in France. It’s perfect for nature lovers²⁵.

“The Calanques National Park is a true jewel of the Mediterranean, offering a unique blend of dramatic limestone cliffs, turquoise waters, and diverse marine life that captivates all who visit.” – National Geographic Travel

In France, the Calanques National Park shines as Europe’s top stunning natural treasures. It’s perfect for hiking, snorkeling, and sailing. You can see its amazing beauty in many ways²⁵²⁶²⁷.

Plitvice Lakes National Park, Croatia

Plitvice Lakes National Park sits in the heart of Croatia. It’s a stunning natural sight. This park is famous for its quiet lakes, falling waterfalls, and special rocks made by water over many years²⁸.

It’s Croatia’s biggest national park, covering 300 square kilometers²⁸. Lakes cover an 8,200-meter area²⁸. Every year, over 1.1 million people come to see this beautiful place²⁸. It started in 1949 and was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979²⁸. This park shows how water can change the land into green and blue colors²⁸.

At Plitvice Lakes National Park, visitors find lots of things to do. You can hike, ride a bike, or even go on the water²⁹. There are 12 things to do, so it’s great for people who love nature²⁹. Most people love the activities here, giving them a rating of 4.8 out of 5²⁹. 86.3% of them say it’s excellent, and 11% say it’s very good²⁹.

For a great view, start at Entrance 1. It’s the best place to see the waterfalls and rocks²⁸. But, remember, you can’t swim in the lakes since 2006²⁸.

When you plan to visit, think about the time of year. In busy times, the entrance costs between 55 Kn (7 euros) and 180 Kn (20 euros)³⁰. Parking costs 7 Kn (about 1 euro) per hour³⁰. The park is open from 8 am to 4 pm. It’s best to go on a weekday to avoid crowds³⁰.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is an amazing place everyone should see. It has beautiful waterfalls, quiet lakes, and many animals. You can have a peaceful walk or try something exciting here. Explore Plitvice Lakes National Park, discover its wonders, and plan your perfect getaway.

“Plitvice Lakes National Park is a true natural marvel, where the power of water has sculpted a breathtaking landscape of cascading waterfalls and serene lakes. It’s a destination that will leave you in awe of the beauty of our planet.”

North and Central America’s Natural Wonders

Canyonlands National Park, United States

In the U.S. National Park System, the Grand Canyon gets a lot of love for its vast red-rock views. Yet, those who explore further find that Canyonlands truly shines. It offers a chance to get away from the crowds and see a rugged, Mars-like landscape³¹. Utah’s largest national park, it showcases stunning scenes, from the high mesa of Island in the Sky to the intricate canyons of Needles.

Described as a hidden gem, Canyonlands is perfect for hiking and discovering what feels like another planet³¹. Its tall towers, deep canyons, and wide-open views offer an unique experience. Here, you can challenge tough trails or just enjoy the scenery. Canyonlands makes for an unforgettable journey in a secluded part of the United States³¹.

But there’s more to Canyonlands than its unique land formations. It’s a playground for outdoor enthusiasts. You can explore on foot, by bike, or even on horse. The Colorado and Green rivers are also perfect for canoeing and rafting, showing a different side of this natural wonder.

If you love hiking, adventure, or quiet escapes, Canyonlands is a dream³¹. Its spires, canyons, and wide open spaces are awe-inspiring. They highlight why North and Central America are so exciting for anyone who loves the outdoors.

“Canyonlands is the real winner for those looking to escape throngs of tourists and experience a more rugged sandstone landscape akin to Mars.”

Canyonlands National Park is a real treasure. It invites exploration of a stunning national park that’s both wild and peaceful³¹. Its breathtaking sandstone landscapes, plentiful activities, and natural beauty make it a top choice for those wanting to dive into North America’s wilderness.

Glaciers and Peaks of the Americas

From the jagged granite peaks of Torres del Paine in Chile to Vatnajökull in Iceland, the national parks of the Americas show the power and beauty of glaciers and mountains³². You can climb Mount Rainier in Washington, explore in Glacier Bay, or hike in Torres del Paine. At these parks, nature is at its most amazing.

The national parks here have great glaciers and mountains³³. Montana’s Glacier National Park has 24 named glaciers. Mount Rainier in Washington features 28 named glaciers. And in Alaska, Kenai Fjords National Park is mostly ice. You can easily see the famous Exit Glacier there³³.

If you love adventure travel, the Americas’ glaciers and peaks are perfect³⁴. Washington’s Glacier Peak Wilderness Area offers a challenging hike to its summit. A 5-day guided climb costs $1,725, including everything you need³⁴.

“Nowhere else on Earth can you find the sheer scale and power of the glaciers and mountain ranges of the Americas. These natural wonders are a true testament to the raw beauty of our planet.”

If you’re up for a challenge or just want to see stunning nature, visit the Americas’ glaciers and peaks. From Alaska’s icy fjords to the Andes’ high summits, these parks are full of magnificent beauty and wild power³²³³³⁴.

Asia’s Hidden Gems

Nanda Devi and Valley of Flowers National Parks, India

Located in the grand Himalayas, the Nanda Devi and Valley of Flowers National Parks are in India’s Uttarakhand state. They show us a magical side of nature³⁵. Home to many rare plants and animals, these parks are very special. You can find animals like blue sheep, Asiatic black bears, and the hard-to-spot snow leopard here³⁵.

The Valley of Flowers is part of the UNESCO World Heritage list. It’s a beautiful meadow filled with bright flowers. These flowers make the whole area look like a rainbow. As you keep going, you’ll see Nanda Devi, standing at 25,643 feet high. It’s India’s second-tallest mountain and truly an awe-inspiring sight³⁵.

Interested in exploring this wild beauty? A guided trek could be perfect for you³⁵. During a six-day trek, you’ll get up close with the amazing plants and animals of the area. It’s also a great way to challenge yourself while discovering the Himalayas’ hidden spots³⁵.

These parks are a must-see for adventurers and naturalists alike. They offer a unique experience in the Himalayas. Get ready to be amazed by their beauty and wildness³⁵.

Sagarmatha National Park, Nepal

In the middle of the powerful Himalayas, you’ll find Sagarmatha National Park in Nepal. It was founded in 1976³⁶. Covering 1,148 square kilometers³⁶, it offers a range of altitudes, from 2,845 to 8,848 meters³⁶. The landscape is diverse, including glacial rivers, yak fields, and dense bamboo and hemlock forests.

This area belongs to the Sherpa people who are known for their strong culture and mountain skills. Its name means “goddess of the sky” in Nepali, reflecting its charm for trekkers and outdoor fans. You can do many activities here, like hiking to Everest Base Camp, camping at Gyko Lake, and trekking to Kalapathar³⁷.

Sagarmatha National Park is famous for its high peaks, including the iconic Mount Everest. There are over 1,000 peaks, deep valleys, and glaciers, with the impressive Khumbu Glacier³⁸. Nature lovers will enjoy the park’s thousands of plant species³⁷ and animals like the Red Panda and Snow Leopard³⁷.

To reach the park, you’ll fly into Lukla Airport at 2,846 meters. The park entrance fee is 3,000 Rupees for non-Nepalis, 1,500 Rupees for neighbors, and 25 Rupees for locals³⁷. The best times to come are in spring and fall. This is when the weather is nice and the mountain views are stunning.

If you love nature or adventure, Sagarmatha National Park is unbeatable. Experience Sherpa culture, hike through stunning scenes, and see the Himalayas’ epic beauty here.

“Sagarmatha National Park is a place where the mountains, the people, and the culture come together in a perfect harmony, creating a truly magical experience for all who visit.”

Sagarmatha National Park is a top choice for its stunning scenery, deep cultural roots, and adventures. Whether you’re up for a big trek to Everest Base Camp or looking for peaceful mountain retreats, this spot will leave a lasting mark³⁶³⁸³⁷.

Conclusion

From the vast national parks of Africa to the majestic landscapes of Asia, our planet has incredible natural wonders³⁹. It offers places for thrill-seekers, like jet skiing and kiteboarding, as well as calm activities like stand-up paddleboarding³⁹.

National parks are more than just fun spots. They are vital for keeping our nature safe⁴⁰. They let us save beautiful places for the future. Now, kids and adults can enjoy the Earth’s stunning sights. This includes clear waters in Key West and high peaks in the Himalayas⁴¹. They are homes for animals, a place to relax, and help local areas grow with tourism⁴⁰.

Think about visiting a national park for your next trip. You might find yourself in the calm mangroves of Khao Sok or at the tall peaks of Sagarmatha. Or maybe even surfing in the Canary Islands. These spots will give you memories that prove the world is full of natural wonders³⁹⁴¹⁴⁰.

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