From coastal rock formations and monumental caves to iconic mountain peaks, our planet is full of awe-inspiring natural wonders. In this post, we’re going to outline 13 of the most impressive natural landmarks in the world.
1. The Arch of Cabo San Lucas (The Arch), Mexico
This iconic granitic rock archway stands at the southern tip of the Baja California Peninsula, near the town of Cabo San Lucas. Carved by the forces of wind and water, the arch offers outstanding views of the Pacific Ocean and the Sea of Cortez. Boat tours are popular for experiencing this natural wonder up close.
2. Durdle Door, England
Situated along the Jurassic Coast of Dorset, England, Durdle Door is a natural limestone arch that has been formed over millennia by the erosive forces of the sea. Its distinctive shape and picturesque surroundings make it a popular spot for photographers, hikers, and beachgoers.
3. Torghatten, Norway
Torghatten is a mountain located on the island of Torget in Norway, notable for its distinctive hole or tunnel that passes right through the middle. According to legend, the hole was formed by an arrow shot by an angry troll. Visitors can hike to both to and through the hole, enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding coastline and mountains as they go.
4. Shiprock, USA
Rising dramatically from the high-desert plains of New Mexico, Shiprock is a towering rock formation considered sacred by the Navajo Nation (the Navajo call it “winged rock”). Formed by volcanic activity millions of years ago, Shiprock offers visitors breathtaking views of the rugged landscape of the American Southwest.
5. Santorini Caldera, Greece
Most people who visit the idyllic island of Santorini in Greece don’t know they’re standing on the rim of a dormant ancient volcano. The Santorini Caldera is the submerged crater of an ancient volcanic eruption, surrounded by steep cliffs and picturesque villages on the island of Santorini. Visitors can enjoy stunning views of the Aegean Sea and neighboring islands from the caldera’s edge or explore the charming villages perched on its rim.
6. Arches National Park, USA
Located in Utah, Arches National Park is home to 2,000+ natural sandstone arches, including the iconic, and aptly named, Delicate Arch. The park’s surreal landscapes, sculpted over millions of years of erosion, offer visitors inimitable opportunities for hiking, photography, and general outdoor exploration.
7. The Twelve Apostles, Australia
Not far from Melbourne, Australia, along the Great Ocean Road, the Twelve Apostles are a collection of limestone rock stacks rising from the Southern Ocean. While only eight apostles remain standing, the site remains one of Australia’s most iconic natural landmarks and tourist attractions.
8. Zhangye National Geological Park, China
Located in Gansu, China, the Zhangye National Geological Park is renowned for its colourful rock formations and striking rainbow striped cliffs. Formed over millions of years by deposits of sandstone and minerals, the park’s vibrant landscapes resemble a painter’s palette come to life.
9. Trolltunga (Troll’s Tongue), Norway
Welcome to another impressive Norwegian natural landmark. Trolltunga is a scenic cliff ledge jutting out horizontally above Lake Ringedalsvatnet in Norway. Popular among hikers and adventurers, and Instagrammers, the dramatic views from Trolltunga offer a glimpse of the stunning fjord landscape that Norway is famous for.
10. Cave of the Crystals, Mexico
Located in the Naica Mine complex in Chihuahua, Mexico, the Cave of the Crystals is home to some of the largest gypsum crystals in the world. These colossal formations, some reaching lengths of up to 12 meters, create a surreal underground landscape that’s made it famous since being discovered in 2000.
11. Cave of Swallows (Sótano de las Golondrinas), Mexico
This massive open-air pit cave in San Luis Potosí, Mexico, plunges over 370 meters deep into the earth. A narrow pit at the bottom, called “The Crevice” drops another 140 meters. The cave is home to countless swifts and green parakeets (despite its name, swallows aren’t often seen here), making this a perfect destination if you love both extreme sports and birdlife.
12. Giant’s Causeway, Northern Ireland
Situated on the northern coast of Northern Ireland, the Giant’s Causeway is a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its thousands of basalt columns. Formed by volcanic activity millions of years ago, this unique geological formation is steeped in myth and legend.
13. Tianmen Cave, Tianmen Mountain, Zhangjiajie, China
Tianmen Cave is a natural rock arch located on Tianmen Mountain in the Zhangjiajie National Forest Park. One of China’s most iconic natural landmarks, this is the highest naturally formed archway in the world. It’s a striking sight – a tunnel through the mountain that’s 50 meters wide and over 130 meters high. A staircase, known as the Stairway to Heaven (Tianmen Mountain means “Heaven’s Gate Mountain” in Chinese), leads visitors up to it via 999 steps (nine being an important number in Chinese numerology).