Despite the numerous achievements of the human race, there’s nothing that can rival the magnificent beauty of the natural world. Nature can amaze us with its endless beauty and humble us with its power.
The spectacular wonders of the world like the Grand Canyon and Mount Everest are well known; however, the worldwide public in recent years has voted on a few lesser-known natural wonders as part of the New7Wonders project.
Here are a few which have been confirmed winners by the voters:
Halong Bay, Vietnam
With 1553 square kilometers, Halong Bay is a picturesque and popular travel destination and includes 1,960 to 2000 islets of soaring limestone formations. According to a legend, the formations were formed when a dragon was sent by the god’s crash-landed on earth.
Visiting the bay at any time is a delight, during the day when the shimmering waters create glorious reflections among the vast network of islets or at twilight when the fading sun covers the karst formations with its rich colors. A boat cruise through the bay reveals the numerous caves, especially illuminated to reveal their spectacular beauty.
Jeju Island, South Korea
South Korea’s southern province holds the country’s valuable treasures and Jeju Island is paradise on earth. Located in the southwest, the oval-shaped island measures 73 km from west to east and is volcanic. The weather is warm even in winter, and in distinctive volcanic locations, you will find numerous craters and black lava cliffs.
Korea’s tallest peak Hallasan is located here, while east of the island lies the cavern of Manjanggul, the world’s longest lava tube cave, and to the south lies the sacred mountain of Sanbangsan and its grotto temple.
Iguazu Falls, Argentina
A geological fault on the Paraná River turned the outlet of the Iguassu River into a cascade 80 meters high, the result of which is the monstrous Iguazu falls. The river’s waters tumble endlessly over 23 km of cliffs into a gigantic gorge leaving a thick mist.
Nothing can prepare you for the spectacular view which reveals the force of nature. The falls, which are 275 in number, was once a burial site for indigenous tribes. Both Argentina and Mexico claim a share of the falls and the surrounding area. You can also visit the devil’s throat, an impressive cascade via a 2080 meter catwalk that showcases the landscape.
Puerto Princesa – Underground River, Philippines
A trip to the Underground River of Puerto Princesa in the Philippines is a surreal and otherworldly experience. A series of limestone caves twist and turn for five miles of darkness before entering the vast sea. Boating through the caverns is an amazing experience you cannot miss as you can have an up-close look at the stunning color and rock formations along the walls.
Have you visited any of these places? If so, why not share your experience?
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