Some places look so extraordinary, it’s hard to believe they exist outside of a dream. From rainbow-colored mountains to glowing caves, these landscapes are the kind that make you stop and wonder how nature could possibly create them. Here are 13 jaw-dropping destinations you’ll have to see to believe.
Salar de Uyuni, Bolivia
The world’s largest salt flat transforms into a giant mirror after rain. Standing here feels like floating between earth and sky. It’s one of the most photographed and dreamlike places in South America.
Antelope Canyon, Arizona
This slot canyon is famous for its wave-like walls carved smooth by water over time. Light beams stream through the narrow openings, creating magical patterns on the sandstone. It’s a natural cathedral of color and shape.
Pamukkale, Turkey
Terraced pools of bright white mineral deposits make this spot look like a frozen waterfall. Filled with turquoise thermal waters, the pools are both striking and soothing. It’s been a natural spa for thousands of years.
Mount Roraima, Venezuela/Brazil/Guyana
This massive tabletop mountain rises dramatically from the surrounding rainforest. Clouds often cling to its edges, making it look like a floating island. It inspired the landscape in “The Lost World” and even “Up.”
Lake Hillier, Australia
This bubblegum-pink lake is so vividly colored it looks Photoshopped. Scientists think its hue comes from algae and high salt content. Surrounded by green forest and blue ocean, the contrast is striking from above.
Giant’s Causeway, Northern Ireland
This rugged coast is made up of thousands of interlocking basalt columns shaped like hexagons. Legends say giants built it, but in reality, it was formed by volcanic activity. Walking across it feels like stepping into a myth.
Cappadocia, Turkey
Strange rock spires called “fairy chimneys” rise from the earth here, creating a whimsical landscape. Add in the sight of dozens of colorful hot air balloons floating overhead, and it’s pure magic. It’s one of the most photographed regions in the world.
Socotra Island, Yemen
Socotra is often called the most alien-looking place on Earth, and once you see it, you’ll understand why. Its most famous residents are the dragon blood trees, with umbrella-shaped canopies and crimson sap that have been used for medicine and dye for centuries. The island is also home to white sand beaches, limestone caves, and plant species found nowhere else in the world, making it feel like a living natural museum.
White Sands National Park, New Mexico
This desert of pure white gypsum dunes stretches as far as the eye can see. The sand is cool to the touch even on the hottest days, making it unlike any other desert. It’s a dreamlike landscape that glows under the moonlight.
Plitvice Lakes, Croatia
This national park is filled with cascading waterfalls and crystal-clear turquoise lakes. Wooden pathways wind through the lush scenery, making it feel like stepping into a fairytale. Each season transforms the park into something completely new.
Laura Lynch, creator and writer of Savored Journeys, is an avid world traveler, certified wine expert, and international food specialist. She has written about travel and food for over 20 years and has visited over 75 countries. Her work has been published in numerous guidebooks, websites, and magazines.