The world is a spectacular place, with every corner filled with hidden and open beauty. But beauty is also subjective. It's impossible to agree on a decision on the most beautiful places in the world, but we believe this list is a good start to your planned trip.
We collected the best. From lush African forests to vast Latin American deserts, from water havens in the Balkans to ancient Middle Eastern cities, here's our selection of the world's top breathtaking beauty destinations:
<h1 class="pgc-h-arrow-right" data-track="127" > difficult forests in Bwindi, Uganda</h1>
Lush, lush and otherworldly, Bwindi Impenetrable Forest is one of the last bastions of mountain gorillas. More than 400 people call this UNESCO-protected national park home, and visitors have the opportunity to hike and meet customary groups. However, its biodiversity extends far beyond its most famous inhabitants. 348 species of birds and 220 species of butterflies can be found on its vast expanse of 331 square kilometers.
<h1 class="pgc-h-arrow-right" data-track="11" > Samburu, Kenya</h1>
Due to its relative inaccessibility, Samburu, located in the heart of Kenya, is a haven for some of Africa's most fascinating wildlife. The national reserve's grasslands and acacia-dotted landscapes are home to endangered reticulated giraffes and fine-striped zebras, and are also a pioneering elephant observation camp run by environmentalist Saba Douglas-Hamilton.
<h1 class="pgc-h-arrow-right" data-track="15" > Mount Toubkal, Morocco</h1>
At 4,167 meters above sea level, Mount Tubukal enjoys the title of "Roof of North Africa". The road to the summit winds through empty valleys, past holy sites and steep snowfields, and then to a steep ridge that offers climbers unparalleled views of the Atlas Mountains. It's a peaceful world away from the hustle and bustle of Marrakech's neighborhood.
<h1 class="pgc-h-arrow-right" data-track="20" > Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, China</h1>
Tourists take the Panlong Cliff SkyWalk in Zhangjiajie National Forest Park.
VCG/Getty Pictures
China's first UNESCO World Heritage Site, Zhangjiajie National Forest Park in Hunan Province is famous for its towering sandstone columns. Best explored on foot, its back roads are an easy way to escape the crowds and find the best views. As the mist clears, it's easy to see why this area has long been a source of inspiration for traditional Chinese painting.
<h1 class="pgc-h-arrow-right" data-track="28" > Halong Bay, Vietnam</h1>
Its enduring popularity has made Halong Bay one of the most popular natural attractions in Southeast Asia. But that doesn't stop it from becoming the most beautiful place in Vietnam. With 1,969 small islands of huge limestone and the deep green waters of countless floating villages, it's a place where time slows to a standstill. Ride a garbage boat or canoe and get lost in the tranquil waters of this vast and enchanting corner of the South China Sea.
<h1 class="pgc-h-arrow-right" data-track="32" > El Nido, Philippines</h1>
Located at the northernmost tip of palawan in the Philippines, El Nido is an ideal base for diving expeditions. Bacuit Bay to the west is the best place to start, and the lagoons and shallow bays are home to a wide variety of marine life. Its beaches aren't too shabby either: Nacpan Beach is a true paradise; azure waters and pristine white sand beaches satisfy even the most discerning beach wanderer, while the tranquil town of Sibartan in the east offers tropical relaxation in incredible surroundings.
<h1 class="pgc-h-arrow-right" data-track="36" > Rotorua, New Zealand</h1>
With its otherworldly landscapes and close ties to indigenous Maori culture, Rotorua is New Zealand's supreme glory. Hot Water Beach on the shores of Lake Tarawara is the perfect place to take a dip in geothermal heated waters. Hike through the 60-meter-high California redwoods in the Whakarewarewa Forest and admire the area's lakes, a sight that can never be matched when you're engrossed.
<h1 class="pgc-h-arrow-right" data-track="41" > Kata Tjuta, Australia</h1>
Originally known as Olgas, Kata Tjuta is located in the heart of Australia's Red Heartland and is one of the holiest places in Aboriginal culture. The Anangus, who have lived here for more than 22,000 years, manage the land together with Australian park authorities. When the light changes at sunrise and sunset, it is best to explore the stone domes of the site - a special tour led by the Anangu explains the importance of the "bull" and its place in traditional mythology, known as the story of the Dream Age.
<h1 class="pgc-h-arrow-right" data-track="45" > Maldives</h1>
Its 1,200 islands are white in sand and the waters are deep blue, overshadowing all other oceans. For some reason, the Indian Ocean nation of the Maldives has developed into the world's premier tropical hotspot. Best of all, there are plenty of beaches to explore around Malé and Ali Atolls, with more than 100 private resorts and welcoming, affordable guesthouses. Sip on a cocktail, swim or dive to some of the best coral reefs on the planet, where schools of fish and sharks hide in the depths.
<h1 class="pgc-h-arrow-right" data-track="50" > Petra, Jordan</h1>
Although the ancient city of Petra is only a famous archaeological site for most of the world, for university professor Sami Alhasanat, it is the well-preserved nabatay ancient city of Petra known for its narrow passage to the famous Treasury or Siq in Al Khazna. Explore temples, mausoleums, and alleys on the back of a camel, or put on your walking boots and hike the sidewalks for a truly mesmerizing experience.
<h1 class="pgc-h-arrow-right" data-track="53" > Chile's Atacama Desert</h1>
Chile's Atacama Desert has the clearest sky on Earth and is the ultimate destination for stargazing. This is the driest desert on Earth, which means there is no cloud cover, so even without a telescope, you can see breathtaking views of the night sky. The scenery is also stunning, with deep craters and smoldering volcanoes visible on the horizon as the sun sets.
<h1 class="pgc-h-arrow-right" data-track="57" > Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve, Costa Rica</h1>
Costa Rica's Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve, shrouded in near-permanent clouds, is one of the most magical corners of this small biodiversity country. Its sweltering, humid environment is a haven for a wide variety of birds, big cats and insects. Keep an eye out for the splendid Quetzal, one of the most beautiful birds on earth. Winding trails through dense bushes are also easy to explore.
<h1 class="pgc-h-arrow-right" data-track="61" >Ciudad Perdida, Colombia</h1>
Columbia's Ciudad Perdida (The Lost City), which can only be reached on foot, is one of the most fascinating ancient sites on earth. Believed to be 650 years before Machu Picchu in Peru, the city's terraces and statues attract far fewer visitors, so the hectic pace of exploration is much lower. The walking tour to Ciudad Perdida itself is one of the world's greatest hikes, an epic multi-day adventure through the lush rainforest that is challenging and unforgettable.
<h1 class="pgc-h-arrow-right" data-track="66" > Dominica</h1>
Dominica is known as a "natural island" for a reason. This small Caribbean state focuses on hot springs and rainforest hiking, rather than hanging out on the beach, which is completely different from the neighboring islands. Located in Morne Trois Pitons National Park, Boiling Lake is accessed via steep mountain roads, an ethereal body of water that is well worth hiking. For divers, the Champagne Reef is a true paradise with its colorful flora and fish.
<h1 class="pgc-h-arrow-right" data-track="70" > Svalbard, Norway</h1>
The Kongsbrunn Glacier on the island of Spitsbergen in the Svalbard Islands.
Dominique Fajit/AFP/Getty Pictures
Located in the middle of the Arctic Ocean, between the Arctic And the Norwegian mainland, Svalbard is an ideal destination for polar expeditions. Thousands of polar bears make Svalbard one of the best places in the world to see these increasingly elusive creatures up close, and its dark, cold skies are often shrouded in northern lights. Ride a snowmobile or a husky sleigh through monochrome snowscapes.
<h1 class="pgc-h-arrow-right" data-track="78" > Lake Bled, Slovenia</h1>
Blue waters. The towering backdrop of the Julian Alps. The famous church is located on an island in its center. It's no surprise that Lake Bled has grown into one of europe's most popular destinations in recent years. That means there will be a lot of people in the summer, but don't be put off. Suitable for hiking and swimming adventures, this is a corner of Slovenia that needs to be explored.
<h1 class="pgc-h-arrow-right" data-track="82" > Cappadocia, Turkey</h1>
In terms of getting some much-needed rest, Turkey's Mediterranean coast has received everyone's attention. But Cappadocia, located deep in the Anatolian plains in the heart of the country, is the country's greatest gem. The fairy chimney near Gerome is the most enduring landscape in the region, with ancient churches and monasteries carved in bizarre geological formations. Its underground city is also an essential stop.
<h1 class="pgc-h-arrow-right" data-track="86" > Positano, Italy</h1>
Located on Italy's beautiful Amalfi Coast, Positano is one of the most beautiful villages in Europe. Known for its killer boutiques and waterside restaurants, not to mention the Byzantine Church of Maria Assunta, it's the perfect summer getaway. Be sure to take a boat ride from the pebbly beach to admire its full form and enjoy the excellent sunset views.
<h1 class="pgc-h-arrow-right" data-track="90" > the Lake District of the United Kingdom</h1>
Early morning in Buttermere, Lake District, England.
Dramatic mountains, moody weather and ancient lakes have made the UNESCO-protected Lake District a source of inspiration for artists, dreamers and wanderers. The poetry of Wordsworth and Colücke helped turn this stunning corner of England into a tourist hotspot, while the hand-painted guide and map of wanderer Alfred Winwright made it a mecca for walkers and those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.
<h1 class="pgc-h-arrow-right" data-track="98" > Plitvice Lakes National Park, Croatia</h1>
Croatia's status as the ultimate European outdoor resort has long been guaranteed. Plitvice Lakes National Park, which has enjoyed protected status since 1949, has one of the most striking attractions in the world: 16 lakes are connected by waterfalls that constantly alter the formation of the tuff they flow through. The lake is surrounded by an extensive network of trails and boardwalks that can be easily explored, full of lush woodland and fascinating wildlife.
<h1 class="pgc-h-arrow-right" data-track="102" > Vancouver Island, Canada</h1>
With over 2,000 miles of coastline, nearly 10,000 lakes and acres of high mountains, Vancouver Island is like a microcosm of Canada. Its surfing is one of the best in the world, but in the summer it is possible to take a boat out to sea in search of possible orcas. Land lovers have plenty of paths to admire crisscrossing the island, encouraging exploration by bike or on foot. Follow the trail of Roosevelt elk and grizzly bears to the forest for more excitement.
<h1 class="pgc-h-arrow-right" data-track="106" > Denali National Park, Alaska</h1>
Denali National Park is home to the highest peaks in North America and is one of the most tranquil places on earth. Its 6 million acres of wilderness space is the perfect escape, whether it's a mountaineering adventure or a bus ride along Denali Park Road. In September and October, watch out for the annual "ruts" – males fight for dominance, usually life and death. Grizzly bears can be seen all year round. Come here in winter for a chance to see the Northern Lights.
<h1 class="pgc-h-arrow-right" data-track="112" > Horseshoe Bay, Arizona</h1>
The Colorado River surrounds Horseshoe Bay.
Rhona Wise/AFP/Getty Pictures
No river bend is more imaginative than Horseshoe Bend. Here, the Colorado River has carved out a route through the desert for thousands of years. Close to the entrance to Grand Canyon National Park, it's just a short walk from the nearest road, so it's easy to snap a quick catch from the observation deck above the outer rim of the curve.
<h1 class="pgc-h-arrow-right" data-track="120" > South Dakota Wasteland</h1>
Known for its rich fossil beds, badlands, named for their arid and extreme terrain by the local Lakota tribe, are unlike anywhere else in the United States. The short Door Trail offers stunning views of the surreal rocky peaks that cover the landscape. You can camp here and watch the sun rise and dye the rocks in brilliant colors.
<h1 class="pgc-h-arrow-right" data-track="124" > Utah Monument Valley</h1>
Monument Valley is the Wild West imagined. Its bright red terraces and hills tower over the desert and are legendary. The iconic Route 163 is ideal for road trips, offering some of the best views of this protected land. Take part in an equestrian journey up close and realize the dreams of those Western movies.