Top 10 Wild Nature Gems to Explore in 2017

25 Apr 2017 by Olga Brighton

Travel Information

Nature lovers and travel adventurers love to discover new things and immerse themselves in the experience. There are still many places around the world that are not crowded by tourists and still remain unspoilt.

Although it’s critical that you always check the travel risk wherever you plan to visit in advance (see travelaware.campaign.gov.uk), these locations are a must, at least once in your life. Just as long as you check the FCO travel advice ahead of booking and travel and get travel insurance.

Explore these stunning places to your heart’s content. Here are 10 top wild nature gems to explore in 2017.

1. The Fjords of Norway

Norway fjords travel

Western Norway is an area that consists of narrow fjords cutting into jagged mountains, with breathtaking views of waterfalls and glaciers. This stunning natural landscape is dotted with seals, eagles, and whales. Go hiking in any of Western Norway’s popular destinations such as Pulpit Rock or Preikestolen, Folgefonna National Park, and Trolltunga.

2. Iguazú National Park in Argentina and Brazil

The centerpiece of this site is the semi-circle shaped waterfall that lies between the borders of Argentina and Brazil. The cascading waterfalls produce spectacular views. This subtropical rainforest is home to South American wildlife such as anteaters, jaguars, howler monkeys, and many others.

Read also: 6 Best Traditional Foods to Try in Iceland

3. Kirkjufell in Iceland

There are only a few places on earth that can leave you speechless because of its profound beauty. One of them is Kirkjufell in Iceland. Visit the stunning beauty of Mount Kirkjufell, set amidst its own little peninsula and a backdrop of stary skies. If you are lucky, you will be treated to the uniquely breath taking display of the Northern lights, and be left wondering if you’re still on earth or you just landed in another universe.

While you’re there, enjoy these 6 best traditional foods to try in Iceland.

4. Kenai Fjords, Alaska

Kenai fjords

The marvelously spectacular edge of the Kennai Peninsula has ice, ocean, and mountains all meeting in one spot. The lush forests and icy waters are home to unique wildlife. Be prepared to encounter bears or avalanches in this remote and rugged landscape so be travel savvy and travel with the correct equipment and at the right time with experienced guides that know the area.

5. Göreme National Park, Turkey

These stunning rock formations house 10th and 11th century churches located within the caves. These spectacular landscapes are formed by years of erosions, which exposed underground towns dating back to ancient times. The fairy chimneys or “hoodoos” form unique rock-hewn architecture.

Here are some less-known facts about the country, or what no one tells you about travelling to Turkey.

6. Plitvice Lakes National Park in Croatia

This jaw-dropping attraction has a total of 16 lakes that you can explore. You can visit the Upper Lakes, the Lower Lakes, the Korana River, or the Plitvica Stream. It has wooden walkways where visitors can walk in awe of cascading waterfalls and brilliantly turquoise waters. Read these 5 things to know before going to Croatia.

7. Chobe National Park, Botswana

Home to the Chobe River, one of Africa’s most beautiful rivers, the concentration of wildlife in this area is unequaled. The river attracts big game such as elephants and buffaloes. Right by the edge of the river, you will encounter giraffes, impala, warthogs, lions, leopards, baboons, and hyena. When you take a river cruise you will encounter hippos, water birds, and crocodiles so it’s a great way to experience African wildlife here.

8. Masada, Israel

Masada travel

Home to many ancient battles, this rugged natural fortress is a symbol of the natural beauty of the harsh dry climate of the Middle East. This UNESCO heritage site is equally important for students of archaeology, for it houses the mostly intact remains of the palace of King Herod, the great king of Judaea.

9. Galapagos Islands, Ecuador

Just like Charles Darwin of old, the mystique and wonder of Galapagos Islands never ceases to amaze its visitors today. Wildlife lovers should not miss seeing all the rare species that call this island home. Giant tortoises, sea iguanas, fur seals – you can have an extremely close encounter with these amazing creatures!

10. Fox and Franz Josef Glacier, South Island, New Zealand

When you are in the South Island of New Zealand, you really shouldn’t miss seeing both the Fox Glacier and the Franz Josef Glacier, twin rivers of ice that are slowly receding over time. The best view of these stunning glaciers is via a helicopter ride. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is also a sobering reminder of the effects of climate change which has impacted the size of the glaciers. Here’s an amazing 6 day itinerary to New Zealand.

Choose travel insurance that has good medical cover and coverage for adventure activities that you might participate in while you are visiting, such as skiing, hiking, bungee jumping, diving, and others.

Read also: Stunning USA National Parks to Visit in Spring

We accept