The World is a book and those who do not travel read only one page (St. Augustine). This quote inspires a lot of people to travel around the world. For us, travel addicts, the only question we have is: how many pages will our book have?
I want my book to be filled with breathtaking vistas, fascinating experiences, dazzling encounters and life-changing adventures. Each country and each region can reward us with lots of unique and jaw-dropping wisdom and knowledge.
The world is a very big place, and there are more possible around the world itineraries as there are different countries. Nothing is more inspiring than a map drawn with lines and possibilities. So this is my goal here: to inspire your next journey.
I usually get into the planning details, the costs and the transport, but this time I won’t. Let’s just dream together we embark on a long and absolutely feasible journey to visit the Wonders of the World.
This epic around the world itinerary is the first of a series covering the World’s Wonders.
Natural Wonders of the World
The earth has so many surprises for us, and in my opinion, the World’s most stunning wonders are natural ones.
There is no consensus on a definitive list of seven natural wonders of the world, and there has been debate over how large the list should be. However, most people agree that these 7 natural wonders are by far the most fascinating places to visit.
The Grand Canyon, United States
The Grand Canyon, United States of America
The Grand Canyon endless vistas of gorges and ravines are a precious showcase of the delicate history of the earth that is locked in a myriad of shelves of colourful rocks. Carved by the Colorado River for millions of years, the Canyon is the perfect place to go hiking among humbling red-rock spires for the endangered California condor, or thunder down the impressive rapids.
The Great Barrier Reef, Australia
The Great Barrier Reef, Australia
Composed entirely of living organisms, the most extensive reef system on earth sustains a staggering array of marine species, like turtles, sharks, fishes and corals. Divers and snorkellers are still admiring God’s marvel, even if global warming has bleached up to 90% of the reef.
Harbor of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Harbor of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Also known as Guanabara Bay, Rio de Janeiro’s harbor is the largest bay in the world based on the volume of water, and it is surrounded by gorgeous granite monolith mountains that include the famous Sugar Loaf Mountain at 1,296ft, Corcovado Peak at 2,310ft, and the hills of Tijuca at 3,350ft. The best view is from above: from a helicopter or why not a hang glider?
Mount Everest, Nepal/China
Mount Everest, Nepal/China
Located in the Himalaya mountains, on the border between Nepal and Tibet, Mount Everest represents the highest spot on earth: its summit reaches a peak of 29,029ft. However, it is not the tallest mountain in the world. A 3-week spectacular trek to the Everest Base Camp is an extremely popular activity, even though it is difficult and dizzying.
Aurora Borealis, Norway
Aurora Borealis, Norway
Also known as polar auroras or northern lights, auroras are naturally occurring lights that create spectacular and captivating diffused glow lighting up in the sky. The most amazing sight is when the aurora appears as waves across the sky, as if the lights are dancing. The northern lights are the most notable, but a southern aurora does occur in the southern hemisphere.
Parícutin Volcano, Mexico
Parícutin Volcano, Mexico Photo credit: breathforlifetoday.com
An active volcano, Parícutin has been proclaimed one of the 7 Natural Wonders because its birth was witnessed by a human. Dormant since its last eruption in 1952, Parícutin reached a three-fourths of its size within the first year. It is the youngest volcano in America.
Victoria Falls, Zambia/Zimbabwe
Victoria Falls, Zambia/Zimbabwe
Victoria Falls is the largest waterfall based on width and height: it is 1 mile wide and 360ft high. Protected by 2 national parks, it is located on the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe. The best view is from a helicopter or a microlite, since you also have a fair chance of seeing elephants or other wildlife while taking in the awe inspiring view of the falls. You can also trek some trails alongside the falls. The greatest view is from the Zimbabwean side of the falls.
Around the World Itinerary
Going on an around the world trip to visit the most impressive natural wonders of the world, you obviously want to be there when it’s the best time to wander around and take the most dazzling pictures! So here’s an itinerary suggestion to make the most out of your RTW trip.
To maximise each Natural Wonder’s best time to visit, you would travel from August to November, and you would travel the sights in this order: Zimbabwe, Brazil, Mexico, USA, Norway, Nepal and Australia. This itinerary doesn’t respect the rules of RTW tickets, since we wouldn’t travel in only one direction (from East to West or West to East). But it is the best itinerary to witness nature’s most exquisite wonders at their peak!
Best time to visit
Here is the best time to visit each Natural Wonders of the World.
The Grand Canyon, USA : February, March, April, October and November
The Great Barrier Reef, Australia: Year-round
Harbor of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil: September and October
Mount Everest, Nepal/China: October, November, and from February to April
Aurora Borealis, Norway: From March through April and September through October
Parícutin Volcano, Mexico: Year-round
Victoria Falls, Zambia/Zimbabwe: June and July
How many Natural Wonders have you already visited? Which ones are on your bucket list?
