What is the point of traveling the world if we are not getting swept out of our feet? Of course, Mother Earth keeps thousands of breathtaking places, exquisite yet unexplainable phenomena, and spectacular landscapes. Not to mention, outstanding manmade wonders are scattered around the globe, captivating everyone who sees. So, where should you go to see the scenic places? Hear from our travel-loving TripLeaders (travel experts) and local guides! They have traveled around the world and tell us about the most beautiful places on earth – their versions.
1. Atacama Desert, Chile
Stepping into this desert makes you feel like you are on the moon. The Atacama Desert is the world’s driest place, as well as one of the most magical. A series of jagged mountains, extensive area of scarlet sand, and dramatic rock formations wove the Atacama Desert’s surreal landscape. You might want to expect an alien peeking from the crimson mountains, as the Atacama Desert makes a perfect filming location of a sci-fi movie. It even has an area called Valle de La Luna or Moon Valley, which looks like the crater of the moon where Neil Armstrong once landed. Besides that, a sinkhole filled with saltwater – Salar de Atacama – splashes the desert’s earthy tones with refreshing blue.
2. Travertines of Pamukkale, Turkey
“The travertines of Pamukkale has a stunning palette that look like a cloudy yet brilliant blue sky. No other places on earth look like that,” says TripLeader Luna, a ship captain from Turkey who has traveled around Europe.
These pool-like formations bring thermal spas to another level. Tucked in Turkey’s historical treasure trove of Pamukkale, the travertines deserve the title ‘most beautiful place on earth’. The glimmery white limestones have formed holes, shaping natural pools, for thousands of years. Calcium-rich waters fill them, showing off their brilliant turquoise color.
Travel Tip: Arrive to the travertines early in the morning for a crowd-free, Instagram-perfect landscape. You can also pack a swimsuit to dip into Cleopatra’s Pool, a geothermal natural pool.
3. Lofoten Islands, Norway
Jutting pinnacles, the turbulent yet beautiful Norwegian water, and the Northern Lights dancing above your head during autumn to winter months. The Lofoten Islands’ dramatic beauty deserves more popularity,” TripLeader Vasyl noted. Among all the Nordic destinations he often travels to, the Lofoten Islands is his favorite.
Raw and serene are the two words describing this Scandinavian archipelago. With the Svolværgeita pinnacle in its heart, the Lofoten Islands bring the best out of Mother Nature. The islands are dominated by lush tundra meadows during summer while turning into a winter wonderland in the coldest months. Located a few miles from the Arctic Circle, the Lofoten Islands feature incredible Northern Lights shows starting from mid-August and ending around mid-April.
Travel Tip: Fly directly from from Oslo or Tromsø for a time-saving option. However, if you are down for a challenge, you can go on a road trip and cross by a ferry from from Bodø port.
4. Antarctica
“Imagine stepping on the edge of the earth. The icy landscape and the wildlife are otherworldly. Antarctica is undoubtedly one of the most scenic places in the world – total bucketlist!” says TripLeader Katharina, a world traveler who has hosted trips to both the North and South Pole.
Nothing is less than spectacular in the Earth’s southernmost continent. Antarctica keeps peculiar wonders that you can find nowhere else. Even though it is made out of 99% ice, Antarctica has become home to distinctive wildlife. Emperor penguins, humpback whales, and elephant seals roam around the icy grounds. Besides that, a landscape comprising glaciers, volcanoes, and jutting ice structures will leave you breathless.
Travel Tip: Bring high-quality waterproof gear, as most excursions involve wet landings from small boats.
5. Antelope Canyon, USA
Mother Nature takes her time in carving Antelope Canyon’s wave-like patterns and tinting them with surreal reddish colors. Visiting Antelope Canyon makes you feel like you are landing on another planet. Thanks to its unique facade, the Antelope Canyon has been framed into award-winning photographs and postcards. It turns twice as beautiful when sunlight beams into the canyon, blazing the crimson hues of the already-red walls. We have spent the last five years traveling around the world’s stunning places, but nothing shares similarities to Antelope Canyon’s charms. With that being said, the Antelope Canyon is one of the most beautiful places on Earth you should put into your bucket list.
Travel Tip: Book a guided tour well in advance, since entry is only possible with Navajo guides and spots sell out quickly.
6. Zhangjiajie Forest Park, China
Rising like stone pillars from a sea of mist, Zhangjiajie feels otherworldly—a surreal landscape of towering sandstone spires that inspired the floating mountains of Avatar. Lush forests drape the cliffs, glass walkways hover above dizzying drops, and drifting clouds create a dreamlike spectacle that shifts with every glance. It is nature at its most mystical, where the line between earth and fantasy blurs.
Travel Tip: Take the world’s longest cable car up Tianmen Mountain for jaw-dropping panoramic views.
7. Amalfi Coast, Italy
Amalfi Coast has cute and picturesque towns that you see often on wallpapers and postcards. Its charms absolutely lie on the gaudy-colored towns, like Positano, Ravello, and Amalfi. Combined with the turquoise-colored waters, you will understand why it is in people’s bucket list,” said TripLeader Joshua, a trip host with three years of experience, especially for European trips.
One word for the Amalfi Coast: Iconic. Pink and orange-tinted houses sit on gray sea cliffs, creating an adorable color pop that will spoil your sights. Thanks to its seaside location, the towns of the Amalfi Coast sit on the list of the most beautiful places on earth. Imagine yourself strolling through the narrow streets – classic colorful buildings on your left and the sparkling Tyrrhenian Sea on your right. Sounds like a social media-perfect European summer?
Travel Tip: Take a road trip to enjoy multiple cities, like Amalfi and Positano, in one trip. Car rentals are widely available starting from the Salerno Airport
8. Salar de Uyuni, Bolivia
Have you got any idea where to find the world’s largest mirror? The answer is – Bolivia! Find it in Salar de Uyuni, a 3,900 square miles salt flats. The grounds are made out of sparkling white salt, which looks like an eternal field of snow. JoinMyTrip’s team went there during the dry season in 2019. Wrapped in coats and jackets, we had a blast and took photos like it was snowing!
However, the most popular time to visit Salar de Uyuni is during the rainy season. Water fills the craters of salt flat, turning it to a gigantic mirror that reflect the colors of the sky. It is exceptional to visit during sunset.
Travel Tip: Visit during the rainy season (January–March) for the famous mirror effect, but pack warm clothing for cold nights.
9. Banff National Park, Canada
Banff is a symphony of wilderness beauty, where turquoise lakes reflect snow-capped peaks and evergreen forests stretch endlessly across the Canadian Rockies. In summer, wildflowers paint alpine meadows, while in winter, the landscape transforms into a frosted wonderland. Its sheer scale and serenity stir something deeply human—a reminder of how small we are in nature’s grand design.
Travel Tip: Visit Lake Louise early in the morning to see its waters at their calmest and most reflective.
10. Milford Sound, New Zealand
Tucked in the southwest part of New Zealand, Milford Sound presents the best out of Mother Nature. It features an exquisite system of majestic jungle-clad mountains, gorgeous waterfalls, and idyllic cliffs. Moreover, Milford Sound is home to abundant wildlife, from the rare Fiordland penguin to adorable bottlenose dolphins. Whether you are a nature lover or a casual traveler, visiting Milford Sound will be unforgettable.
Travel Tip: Stay overnight nearby to catch an early cruise, when the fjord is quieter and wildlife is most active.
11. Victoria Falls, Zambia and Zimbabwe
Called “The Smoke that Thunders,” Victoria Falls is a roaring masterpiece of nature, where millions of gallons of water cascade into a gorge, sending mist soaring high into the sky. Rainbows dance in the spray, and the sound is so powerful it reverberates in your chest. It is both fierce and awe-inspiring, a raw spectacle that humbles every traveler who witnesses it.
Travel Tip: Cross to both the Zimbabwean and Zambian sides for completely different but equally breathtaking perspectives.
12. Bora-Bora, French Polynesia
Bora-Bora is the epitome of paradise—a jewel of the Pacific with crystal lagoons glowing in every shade of blue and overwater bungalows floating above coral gardens. The dramatic silhouette of Mount Otemanu rises in the distance, a backdrop to sunsets that bathe the sky in gold and crimson. It is a place where time slows, and beauty feels infinite.
Travel Tip: Pack reef shoes for snorkeling, as the lagoons are filled with vibrant corals and marine life.
13. Lake Bled, Slovenia
If you have ever wondered what a real-life fairytale looks like, Lake Bled is the perfect answer. This 145-hectare lake comprises emerald waters, vegetation-covered islets, and winding mountains. Moreover, at the center of the lake, you can see the elegant Bled Castle. Displaying a breathtaking scene, Lake Bled is one of the most beautiful places on earth.
14. Hallstatt, Austria
Europe never runs out of fairytale-esque spots. Well, Hallstatt sits at the top of the list. The town sits on the banks of a lake with the same name. Towering mountains, cloaked with meadows in summer and snow in winter, become the backdrop of the 16th-century town. A fun fact – Hallstatt inspired the setting of Disney’s Frozen!
15. Serengeti National Park, Tanzania
An extensive golden savannah where a pack of lions, herds of elephants, and other magnificent animals live peacefully. For that reason, Serengeti National Park is considered one of the most beautiful places on earth. The sanctuary keeps some of the world’s most fascinating species, ranging from birds to mammals. Serengeti National Park should be in your bucket list, especially if you love wildlife.
16. Machu Picchu, Peru
Tucked in the misty valleys of Peru, Machu Picchu is simply magical. It has secured a position in the Seven Wonders of the World for years. Machu Picchu belonged to the Inca Empire, dating back to the 15th century. The ancient city is shrouded in uncracked mysteries awaiting to be discovered. However, an astonishing backdrop featuring the Andean Peak makes Machu Picchu stun everyone who visits. It is one of the most beautiful places on earth to visit.
17. Palawan, the Philippines
Limestone islands cloaked with lush vegetation, flawless beaches with powdery sand, and sparkling sea paint Palawan’s landscape. It is an archipelagic province in the Philippines consisting of 1,780 islands. Moreover, Palawan is home to a UNESCO Heritage Site, Puerto Princesa Subterranean River. Travelers flock to Palawan to witness the breathtaking view, discover its underwater beauty, and explore the island’s jungles.
18. Cappadocia, Turkey
Looking like it was straight out of a painting, Cappadocia is one of the most beautiful places on earth. Sitting in Central Turkey, the region attracts travelers from all over the world with its hot air balloon air. The gaudy-colored balloons fly above Cappadocia’s ‘fairy chimneys’, a cluster of cone-shaped rocks. Then, the sandy colors of fairy chimneys create a contrast to the multi-colored balloons. Simply put, Cappadocia is a photographer’s dream destination.
19. Sequoia National Park, California
Home to the world’s largest trees, Sequoia National Park offers a majestic landscape filled with giant sequoias, lush valleys, and rugged mountains. Hike through the Giant Forest and stand in awe of the General Sherman Tree, a living natural wonder.
20. Svalbard, Norway
A remote Arctic archipelago, Svalbard is a land of dramatic glaciers, polar bears, and the Northern Lights. This untouched wilderness is a dream for adventurers and nature lovers seeking an unforgettable Arctic experience. Moreover, it is only one-hour-flight away from the capital of Norway, Oslo.
21. La Digue, Seychelles
Seychelles has gained worldwide recognition as a stunning tropical paradise. However, La Digue Island makes it on the list of most beautiful places on earth. La Digue’s white sandy beaches, turquoise waters, and iconic granite boulders make it one of the most picturesque islands in the Seychelles. Anse Source d’Argent, in particular, is a must-visit for its postcard-perfect beauty.
22. Raja Ampat, Indonesia
Dubbed the “Crown Jewel of Indonesia,” Raja Ampat boasts an unparalleled marine biodiversity. Its vibrant coral reefs, crystal-clear lagoons, and secluded islands create a paradise for divers and snorkelers.
23. Vadhoo Island, the Maldives
Vadhoo Island is famous for its “Sea of Stars,” a natural phenomenon where bioluminescent plankton lights up the shoreline at night. This magical display transforms the beach into a glowing masterpiece.
24. Petra, Jordan
The ancient city of Petra, carved into rose-red rock, is one of the world’s most incredible archaeological sites. Discover its Treasury, Monastery, and winding Siq, showcasing the engineering marvels of the Nabateans.
25. Angkor Wat, Cambodia
As the world’s largest religious monument, Angkor Wat is a symbol of Cambodia’s rich history. Its intricate carvings and sprawling complex are a testament to the ingenuity of ancient Khmer civilization.
26. Comino Island, Malta
Comino Island, with its sparkling Blue Lagoon, is a Mediterranean gem. The island’s translucent waters, hidden caves, and tranquil surroundings make it a favorite for swimming, diving, and relaxation.
27. Namib Desert, Namibia
The Namib Desert is one of the oldest deserts on Earth, characterized by its towering orange dunes and surreal landscapes. Don’t miss Deadvlei, a hauntingly beautiful clay pan dotted with skeletal trees.
28. Vorarlberg, Austria
Nestled in the Austrian Alps, Vorarlberg enchants visitors with its pristine lakes, green meadows, and traditional wooden chalets. It’s a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering skiing, hiking, and cycling.
29. Great Blue Hole, Belize
This underwater sinkhole, located off the coast of Belize, is a diver’s paradise. The Great Blue Hole’s striking circular shape and rich marine life make it one of the world’s most extraordinary natural wonders.
30. Bazaruto Archipelago, Mozambique
This tiny archipelago in Mozambique boasts the best out of the Indian Ocean. The glimmering azure sea, flawless pearly beaches, and swaying palm trees create a picture-perfect paradise. Although the Bazaruto Archipelago is breathtaking, it stays under the tourists’ radar. Travelers can make their dream vacation come true and stay in one of Bazaruto Archipelago’s islands. Moreover, you can uncover the breathtaking beauty of its underwater landscape, where manta rays, dolphins, and dugongs roam around.
31. Zermatt, Switzerland
Zermatt is the gateway to the iconic Matterhorn mountain. This picturesque Swiss town offers a mix of luxury, outdoor adventure, and breathtaking alpine views, making it a favorite for winter sports enthusiasts.
32. Rainbow Mountain, Peru
Known locally as Vinicunca, Rainbow Mountain is a marvel of natural colors. Its vibrant hues, created by mineral deposits, make it a must-visit destination for hikers exploring the Peruvian Andes.
33. Copenhagen, Denmark
Copenhagen blends historic charm with modern innovation. From colorful Nyhavn harbor to the Tivoli Gardens, this vibrant city is a cultural and architectural treasure.
34. Prague, Czech Republic
Prague is a fairytale brought to life, with Gothic spires, cobblestone streets, and a castle that watches over the city like a timeless guardian. The Charles Bridge glows at dawn, lanterns reflecting on the Vltava River, while red rooftops spread beneath the sky like a painted tapestry. Every corner whispers of history, yet the city thrums with youthful energy and charm.
Travel Tip: Stroll across Charles Bridge at sunrise to enjoy its magic before the crowds arrive.
35. Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Rio de Janeiro is a city where mountains kiss the sea, where golden beaches stretch beneath the watchful gaze of Christ the Redeemer. The rhythm of samba pulses through its streets, and the colors of Carnival echo its vibrant soul. Sugarloaf Mountain glows at sunset, and the view captures the very essence of life—joyful, bold, and impossibly beautiful.
Travel Tip: Take the cable car up Sugarloaf Mountain in the late afternoon to catch both daylight and sunset views.
The Earth is full of breathtaking places that captivate the heart and soul. Whether you’re chasing natural wonders, historic landmarks, or cultural hotspots, these destinations promise unforgettable experiences. Which one will you explore first?
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