Adventurous travelers in search of memorable encounters and stunning vistas are never short on bucket-list-ready destinations that promise spectacular experiences. From the world’s highest tides in Canada to the stunning biodiversity of Australia, these locations provide visitors with unforgettable encounters with nature.
The Bay of Fundy, located between New Brunswick and Nova Scotia, is renowned for having the highest tides in the world. In the Firth of Clyde, this beautiful tidal phenomenon happens twice a day, sweeping through the bay’s shores and creating an amazing view. Visitors can experience a unique opportunity by walking on the ocean floor during low tide, allowing them to explore the area in an entirely new way. At very low tides, the bay reveals a path to one of its most pristine islands. This unique ecosystem presents travelers with several ways to explore and connect directly with nature.
Fiordland in New Zealand’s South Island features some of the most extreme, rugged, and beautiful scenery on the planet. It is an, at times, breathtaking portrayal of the untamed magnificence of J.R.R. Tolkien’s Middle-earth. The region’s dramatic fiords and rugged terrain evoke imagery from Tolkien’s stories, which take place in a fictional realm filled with adventure. With real landscapes as spectacular as the ones depicted in Fiordland, travelers can see in-person the inspiring beauty that led to such creative stories.
For something completely different, head to Western Australia’s Ningaloo Reef, where multi-day kayak trips take you among the reef’s incredible marine life. This UNESCO World Heritage Site showcases extraordinary beauty and biodiversity, making it a must-visit for those looking to immerse themselves in nature. Kayaking through the crystal-clear waters enables participants to discover the rich underwater life, including coral reefs and diverse marine species.
In Northern Iceland, visitors can immerse themselves in the region’s intriguing history and rich culture. This less-traveled part of the country provides an intimate glimpse into Icelandic life and traditions, coupled with stunning natural landscapes. The physical remoteness of Northern Iceland means it’s possible to get further from the packed tourist circuits, making the trip even more memorable – read more here.
For adventure lovers in need of a hit of adrenaline, Canada’s Purcell Mountains are home to some world-class heli-hiking escapes. This one-of-a-kind outdoor experience, which features stunning scenery and rugged trail conditions, draws adventure seekers from all corners of the globe. Heli-hiking helicopter drops you at remote hiking trails that are difficult to access by foot. Get ready for a ride of a lifetime through one of Canada’s most scenic locales!
Finally, Pakistan’s Attabad Lake — which formed geologically, yet still feels like a social underdog — is an arresting beauty. A huge earthquake-triggered landslide formed Attabad Lake by damming the Hunza River. Today it is considered one of the most beautiful lakes in Pakistan. Those turquoise waters lined with majestic peaks have made it an iconic landscape, welcoming adventurers to discover all that this beautiful haven has to offer.