Best National Parks in the World, 25-27

And here we go! After one big step, you can count on these blogs to happen until we have covered 218 of the Best National Parks in the World! It might be the biggest list of its kind, ever, online… Just sayin’

25. Etosha, Namibia

Etosha National Park, a jewel in Namibia’s natural heritage, unveils a mesmerizing tapestry of salt pans, grasslands, and abundant wildlife. Established in 1907, Etosha has evolved into one of Africa’s premier wildlife destinations, drawing visitors with its unique landscapes and diverse ecosystems.

Photo Credit to Taylor Wright

Central to the park is the vast Etosha Pan, a salt flat so immense it is visible from space. During the dry season, the pan shimmers with ethereal beauty, while the wet season transforms it into a temporary lake, attracting an array of birdlife.

The park’s waterholes, strategically positioned throughout the savannah, offer a front-row seat to the captivating spectacle of wildlife. Elephants, lions, giraffes, and numerous other species gather at these water sources, creating a photographer’s dream and providing an unparalleled safari experience.

Photo Credit to Eelco Bohtlingk

Etosha’s characteristic Mopane woodlands and grassy plains provide a habitat for a rich variety of wildlife, including endemic species such as the black-faced impala and Hartmann’s mountain zebra.

Halali and Okaukuejo rest camps within the park offer accommodations, making it possible for visitors to immerse themselves in the sounds of the African night and experience the unique thrill of wildlife encounters. And as well, a stay in Swakopmund is well worth it.

Photo Credit to Dariusz Labuda

Etosha National Park, with its stark beauty, flourishing ecosystems, and abundant wildlife, invites travelers to witness the raw essence of Namibia’s natural wonders and partake in the timeless cycle of life on the African savannah.

26. Tongariro, New Zealand

Tongariro National Park, New Zealand’s oldest national park and a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1990, unfolds as a dynamic canvas of volcanic landscapes, alpine terrains, and sacred Maori sites. Established in 1887, the park embraces the North Island’s Central Plateau, inviting visitors to explore its geothermal wonders and cultural heritage.

Photo Credit to Laura Smetsers

Central to the park’s allure are the three towering volcanoes – Tongariro, Ngauruhoe, and Ruapehu – each with its distinct character. The Tongariro Alpine Crossing, one of the world’s most renowned day hikes, meanders through lunar-like landscapes, revealing emerald lakes, steam vents, and vibrant craters.

Tongariro Alpine Crossing, Manawatu-Wanganui, New Zealand, Photo Credit to Katie McBroom

Tongariro’s significance extends beyond geological marvels; it holds deep cultural importance for the local Maori people. The park encompasses sacred sites and traditional Maori trails, reflecting the spiritual connection between the landscape and the indigenous communities.

The Tama Lakes Track and Whakapapa Village offer additional opportunities for exploration, showcasing diverse ecosystems and panoramic vistas. The Chateau Tongariro, an elegant hotel within the park, adds a touch of luxury while preserving the area’s historical charm.

Photo Credit to Ian Patel

Tongariro National Park, with its juxtaposition of fiery volcanic landscapes and serene alpine beauty, beckons adventurers to experience the intersection of nature, culture, and history. It stands as a testament to the intrinsic connections between New Zealand’s natural wonders and the rich narratives of its indigenous peoples.

Photo Credit to Adrien Aletti

27. Wadi Rum, Jordan

Wadi Rum, a timeless desert wilderness in southern Jordan, is a symphony of towering sandstone mountains, vast sand dunes, and ancient petroglyphs. Known as the Valley of the Moon, Wadi Rum’s dramatic landscapes and cultural significance have earned it a UNESCO World Heritage Site designation.

Photo Credit to Rita

The unique rock formations, sculpted by wind and weather over millennia, create a surreal playground for adventurers. The sandstone mountains, some of which reach over 1,700 meters, are interspersed with narrow canyons and wide valleys, providing a mesmerizing backdrop for exploration.

Photo Credit to Juli Kosolapova

Wadi Rum is deeply embedded in the history and culture of the Bedouin people who have called this desert home for centuries. Bedouin camps within the desert offer visitors a chance to experience traditional hospitality, savor Bedouin cuisine, and partake in stargazing sessions under the remarkably clear desert sky.

Photo Credit to lior dahan

Lawrence’s Spring, named after T.E. Lawrence of Arabia, adds a historical touch to the landscape, connecting Wadi Rum to the exploits of this famous British officer during the Arab Revolt.

Jeep and camel tours offer diverse perspectives of Wadi Rum’s beauty, unveiling hidden treasures like ancient petroglyphs and inscriptions that showcase the area’s rich human history.