While the United States has an impressive array of national parks, the world beyond
offers equally stunning natural wonders.
From lush rainforests to icy tundras, these 20 international national parks showcase
the diverse beauty of our planet and offer unforgettable experiences for nature
enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.
Banff National Park, Canada
In the Canadian Rockies’ heart, Banff is a paradise of turquoise lakes, snow-capped
peaks, and abundant wildlife. Visitors can soak in hot springs, hike through alpine
meadows, or take a scenic drive along the Icefields Parkway.
Torres del Paine National Park, Chile
Known for its iconic granite towers and diverse ecosystems, Torres del Paine offers
trekking opportunities through Patagonian steppes and forests. The park’s glaciers,
lakes, and unique wildlife make it a photographer’s dream.
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Kruger National Park, South Africa
One of Africa’s largest game reserves, Kruger National Park is home to an impressive diversity of wildlife, including the ‘Big Five.’ Visitors can embark on self-drive safaris or guided bush walks to observe animals in their natural habitat.
Fiordland National Park, New Zealand
Famous for its dramatic fiords, including the stunning Milford Sound, Fiordland National Park is a wonderland of waterfalls, rainforests, and rugged mountains. The park offers opportunities for hiking, kayaking, and scenic flights.
Göreme National Park, Turkey
This UNESCO World Heritage site is known for its ‘fairy chimneys’ – unique rock formations created by volcanic eruptions. Visitors can explore ancient cave dwellings, underground cities, and take hot air balloon rides over the surreal landscape.
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Jasper National Park, Canada
The largest national park in the Canadian Rockies, Jasper offers pristine wilderness, wildlife viewing, and dark sky preserves for stargazing. The Jasper Skytram provides panoramic views of six mountain ranges.
Plitvice Lakes National Park, Croatia
A series of 16 interconnected lakes cascade through lush forest in this stunning park. Wooden walkways allow visitors to explore the crystal-clear waters and numerous waterfalls, creating a magical atmosphere in any season.
Serengeti National Park, Tanzania
Home to the Great Migration of wildebeest and zebras, the Serengeti offers unparalleled wildlife viewing opportunities. The vast savannah landscapes and diverse ecosystems support an incredible array of animals.
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Swiss National Park, Switzerland
The oldest national park in the Alps, Swiss National Park offers pristine alpine landscapes and opportunities to spot ibex, chamois, and golden eagles. Strict conservation measures ensure the park remains a wilderness sanctuary.
Doi Inthanon National Park, Thailand
Home to Thailand’s highest peak, Doi Inthanon features cloud forests, waterfalls, and vibrant hill tribe cultures. The park’s summit offers panoramic views and unique flora adapted to the cooler climate.
Canaima National Park, Venezuela
This vast park is home to Angel Falls, the world’s highest uninterrupted waterfall. Visitors can explore tabletop mountains, or tepuis, and experience the unique biodiversity of the Guiana Shield.
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Kakadu National Park, Australia
Australia’s largest terrestrial national park, Kakadu boasts diverse landscapes, aboriginal rock art, and rich biodiversity. Visitors can take guided tours to learn about the park’s cultural significance and spot saltwater crocodiles.
Galapagos National Park, Ecuador
This archipelago of volcanic islands is famous for its unique wildlife that inspired Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution. Visitors can observe giant tortoises, marine iguanas, and various endemic bird species.
Jiuzhaigou Valley National Park, China
Jiuzhaigou Valley is a picturesque wonderland known for its multi-level waterfalls, colorful lakes, and snow-capped mountains. The park’s Tibetan villages offer insights
nto local culture and traditions.
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Killarney National Park, Ireland
Ireland’s oldest national park features lakes, woodlands, and mountains, including the country’s highest peak outside County Kerry. Visitors can explore Muckross House and Gardens or take boat trips on the Lakes of Killarney.
Los Glaciares National Park, Argentina
Home to the Perito Moreno Glacier, one of the few advancing glaciers in the world, this park offers spectacular ice formations and Andean landscapes. Hiking trails provide views of the Southern Patagonian Ice Field.
Vatnajökull National Park, Iceland
Europe’s largest national park outside Russia, Vatnajökull features Europe’s largest
glacier, active volcanoes, and otherworldly landscapes. Visitors can explore ice caves, witness glacial lagoons, and hike through diverse terrains.
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Khao Yai National Park, Thailand
One of Asia’s largest monsoon forests, Khao Yai is home to diverse wildlife including elephants, gibbons, and hornbills. The park’s waterfalls, hiking trails, and night safaris offer varied experiences for nature lovers.
Tikal National Park, Guatemala
This park protects one of the largest and best-preserved sites of Mayan civilization. Visitors can explore ancient temples rising above the jungle canopy and spot howler monkeys and toucans.
Göreme National Park, Turkey
A UNESCO World Heritage site, Göreme is known for its ‘fairy chimneys’ – unique rock formations created by volcanic eruptions. The park offers opportunities to explore ancient cave dwellings, underground cities, and take hot air balloon rides over the surreal landscape.
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Peer into the Natural: Visit a National Park
These national parks represent some of the most stunning and diverse natural areas our planet has to offer. From the icy landscapes of Patagonia to the lush rainforests of Southeast Asia, each park provides a window into the beauty and complexity of the natural world.
As visitors explore these protected areas, they’re not just witnessing natural wonders, but also supporting global conservation efforts that help preserve these incredible places for future generations.
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