The 7 Natural Wonders of the World: A Bucket List Guide for Nature Lovers

David Lash
May 8
4 min read

If you’ve ever dreamed of ticking off the world’s most awe-inspiring destinations, the 7 Natural Wonders of the World are a must for your travel bucket list.

These stunning landscapes and geological marvels span continents, climates, and ecosystems—each offering an unforgettable encounter with nature at its most powerful and poetic.

Whether you’re a seasoned explorer or simply craving inspiration for your next great adventure, here are the seven natural wonders that deserve a spot on your ultimate travel list.

These 7 Natural Wonders are more than just destinations—they’re experiences that will change how you see the world.

Whether you’re chasing the aurora or standing at the edge of a canyon, now is the time to turn those travel dreams into reality.

Add these to your bucket list, plan wisely, and get ready to be awed!

1. Grand Canyon, USA

Carved by the Colorado River over millions of years, the Grand Canyon is a breathtaking spectacle of layered red rock stretching over 270 miles.

Its sheer scale and dramatic vistas draw hikers, photographers, and nature lovers from around the globe.

Best Time to Visit: March–May and September–November (mild weather, fewer crowds)

How to Get There: Fly into Las Vega, Phoenix or Flagstaff, then drive or take a tour to the South Rim. Or ride the Grand Canyon Railway which has been taking guests to the canyon from Williams, AZ since 1901. You can get there by train from Chicago or major west coast cities and can combine other National Parks as well.

2. Great Barrier Reef, Australia

The world’s largest coral reef system, the Great Barrier Reef is a kaleidoscope of marine life spanning over 1,400 miles.

Snorkelers and divers are rewarded with colorful corals, tropical fish, and the chance to swim alongside sea turtles and reef sharks.

Best Time to Visit: June–October (dry season, best visibility for marine life)

How to Get There: Fly into Cairns or Airlie Beach, then join a reef cruise or diving expedition. Or take one of many cruises that visit the Great Barrier Reef.

3. Mount Everest, Nepal/Tibet

Standing at 29,032 feet, Mount Everest is Earth’s highest peak and a symbol of human endurance.

Whether you're trekking to base camp or admiring it from afar, Everest offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience among the majestic Himalayas.

Best Time to Visit: April–May and September–November (clear skies and moderate weather)
How to Get There: Adventure tour operators offer packages including a trek to Everest Base Camp. Many luxury tour operators include Mt. Everest in tours of India and Nepal.

4. Victoria Falls, Zambia/Zimbabwe

Known as “The Smoke That Thunders,” Victoria Falls is one of the largest and most dramatic waterfalls on the planet.

With its roaring cascades and misty rainbows, it offers thrilling activities like white-water rafting and scenic helicopter rides.

Best Time to Visit: May–October (dry season for best visibility; April for peak flow)

How to Get There: Fly into Victoria Falls Airport (Zimbabwe) or Livingstone Airport (Zambia).

The best way to see the Falls is with a luxury tour or safari operator who offers itineraries or extensions which take you to Victoria Falls. It’s easy to combine the Falls with the Great Migration or other exciting game viewing options.

5. Parícutin Volcano, Mexico

This unique volcano emerged suddenly from a cornfield in 1943 and is the youngest of its kind.

Today, you can hike across cooled lava fields and visit the partially buried church of San Juan Parangaricutiro, a haunting reminder of nature’s raw power.

Best Time to Visit: November–May (dry season for hiking)

How to Get There: Fly into Uruapan or Morelia, then drive or take tour to the base of the volcano.

This is not an accessible location and is rustic and remote. Not recommended for those with physical challenges.

6. Aurora Borealis (Northern Lights), Various Locations

The ethereal dance of green, purple, and pink lights across the night sky is best seen in Arctic regions like Norway, Iceland, and Canada.

The Northern Lights are a true celestial wonder that no photo can fully capture.

Best Time to Visit: September–March (long nights and increased auroral activity)

How to Get There: Fly into Tromsø (Norway), Reykjavik (Iceland), or Fairbanks (Alaska) for guided tours. Or take one of many cruises exploring northern waters during the fall or early spring.

7. Harbor of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Surrounded by towering mountains and dotted with iconic landmarks like Sugarloaf Mountain and Christ the Redeemer, Rio’s harbor is a natural wonder that blends stunning geography with vibrant city life.

Best Time to Visit: December–March (summer season, festivals like Carnival)

How to Get There: Fly into Rio de Janeiro–Galeão International Airport, then take a taxi or tour to the harbor. Or, take one of many cruises stopping in Rio to experience the harbor from the water.