10 Unusual Natural Wonders Around The World That You Should See
There’s no denying it—our planet is a beautiful phenomenon, full of surprises.
Some of the world’s natural wonders are almost beyond comprehension. From colourful lakes to glowing caves, the Earth has a way of showing off its beauty in the most unexpected places.
Here are 10 unusual, breathtaking natural wonders that you need to see!
1. Spotted Lake, Canada
Tucked away in British Columbia, Canada’s Spotted Lake (or Kliluk to the First Nations) looks like something from a sci-fi movie.
It’s a small lake which is packed full of minerals, like calcium and sodium sulphates, plus tiny traces of silver and titanium.
When summer arrives and the water evaporates, the minerals leave behind strange spots, giving the lake its unusual look, and its fitting name!
If you’re planning on going to see it for yourself, it’s best to go from May to August, when the water has evaporated and the spots are most visible.
2. Jervis Bay, Australia
Jervis Bay in Australia is famous for having the whitest sandy beach in the world, but that’s not the only reason to visit.
Sure, some people go for the pristine sands, but most head there for the magical show that happens after sunset. This spot is one of the few places where you can witness bioluminescence—a natural glow caused by tiny plankton lighting up the water at night. It looks awesome!
The glow, which locals call ‘sea sparkle’, is a result of a chemical reaction. Though it’s more common in the warmer months, if you’re lucky, you can catch the glowing waters any time of the year.
3. Danakil Depression, Ethiopia
If ever there was a place on Earth that looked like another planet, the Danakil Depression in Ethiopia is right up there.
This bizarre landscape is where three tectonic plates are pulling apart, creating lava lakes and bright acidic hot springs, which gives it the unusual look!
It’s apparently one of the hottest places on Earth, if not the hottest! The area feels otherworldly, and it’s one of my favourite natural wonders.
4. Rainbow River, Colombia
The name kind of gives it away, right? Officially called Caño Cristales, Colombia’s Rainbow River is a kaleidoscope of colours that’s almost too stunning to be true.
With vibrant shades of red, yellow, purple, and green flowing through the Serranía de la Macarena National Park, it’s a natural spectacle.
The colours shift depending on the light, with red being the standout thanks to the unique Macarenia clavigera plants covering the riverbed. Add in the waterfalls, and you’ve got one unforgettable sight!
5. Zhangye Danxia, China
It’s hard to believe that China’s Zhangye Danxia mountains are real—they look like an oil painting come to life!
These stunning formations were created by mineral deposits layering over millions of years, and their vibrant colours swirl across the landscape.
There are plenty of observation platforms to take it all in without disturbing the natural beauty, making it easy to admire this magical place.
June to September is generally the best time to visit here-you’ll get comfortable weather, with moderate rainfall that’ll enhance the colours you see on the mountains.
6. Lake Hillier, Australia
Imagine a lake so vibrantly pink it looks like it’s been plucked straight out of a fairytale. That’s Lake Hillier, tucked away on Middle Island in Western Australia.
Apparently a mix of algae and salt-loving bacteria creates its signature hue, and the pink colour stays consistent year-round.
It’s not easy to get to, and you won’t be able to swim in the lake, but scenic flights are a cool way to admire it.
It’s the kind of place that makes you do a double-take—Mother Nature showing off her colourful side!
7. Pamukkale, Turkey
The Pamukkale pools in Turkey are out of this world-what a stunning landscape!
It’s an incredible series of natural hot springs that cascade down bright white terraces, looking like fluffy cotton clouds.
It’s now a UNESCO World Heritage site, which is being carefully protected for future visitors.
It’s best to visit in the sunshine of the Summer months, when it’s as therapeutic as it is stunning—a perfect blend of relaxation and awe-inspiring scenery.
8. Tianzi Mountains, China
These are no ordinary mountains! The Tianzi Mountains in China’s Hunan Province look like something from a post-apocalyptic novel, or the Avatar movies.
The towering peaks seem almost too dramatic to be real, like nature itself is showing off.
They’re easily accessible from Zhangjiajie, and they’re best appreciated from above, so I’d recommend one of the cable car rides for the epic views.
9. Vinicunca, Peru
Peru’s Vinicunca (aka Rainbow Mountain) is a hiker’s dream, and another one of nature’s spectacular sights.
The multicoloured mountain, located in the Andes Mountains, looks like something straight out of a psychedelic painting, thanks to sedimentary deposits layering the surface.
It’s a bit of a trek to reach the top—about four hours—but the view is well worth it. It’s best to visit in the warmer months (November to March) for ideal conditions.
10. Waitomo Caves, New Zealand
When you think of caves, you probably picture dark, hidden spaces with little to no light—but Waitomo Caves in New Zealand are something special!
These underground wonders are illuminated by thousands of glowworms, casting an enchanting, soft glow that feels almost magical.
The twinkling lights create a surreal, romantic atmosphere, making it one of the most unique cave experiences you can have. Unless you’re not a fan of glowworms, in which case, maybe skip the stargazing underground!
