Even in antiquity, the allure of extraordinary destinations captivated travelers. The ancient Greeks, much like modern globetrotters, curated lists of must-see marvels, giving rise to what we now recognize as the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. This fascination with global wonders has persisted through time, leading to the creation of the New Seven Wonders of the World and the Seven Natural Wonders of the World in more recent years.
But What Is The 7 Wonders Of World exactly? These lists represent a collection of the most spectacular and awe-inspiring destinations across the globe, showcasing human ingenuity and the breathtaking power of nature. The question isn’t just what they are, but why they continue to enthrall us and whether experiencing them firsthand is truly worth the journey. Let’s embark on an exploration of these incredible sites, delving into their history, significance, and enduring appeal.
The Seven Wonders of the Ancient World: Echoes of Antiquity
The original Seven Wonders of the World serve as a testament to the remarkable engineering and cultural achievements of ancient civilizations. This curated list offers a glimpse into the marvels that captivated the imaginations of people millennia ago. Of these original wonders, only one still stands in its full glory, while others are remembered through evocative ruins, and one remains shrouded in mystery, its very existence debated by historians.
1. The Colossus of Rhodes: The Sun God’s Fallen Guardian
A monumental achievement of Greek engineering, the Colossus of Rhodes was a towering statue of the sun god Helios, standing approximately 108 feet tall. This bronze giant once proudly guarded the Mandraki Harbor on the island of Rhodes, Greece. A powerful earthquake in 226 B.C. brought this magnificent statue crashing down, ending its short reign as a wonder of the world.
While nothing tangible remains of the Colossus itself, visitors to the island of Rhodes can still experience the historic Mandraki Harbor. Today, instead of Helios, two bronze deer statues, Elefos and Elafina, symbols of Rhodes, grace the harbor entrance. The marina is a vibrant hub, popular with yachts and cruise ships, offering a taste of modern maritime activity against the backdrop of ancient history.
Beyond the harbor, Rhodes boasts a rich tapestry of historical sites. The Castle of Saint Nicholaos and the iconic medieval windmills are must-sees, contributing to Rhodes’ designation as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Exploring the island provides a tangible connection to the era of the Colossus and the enduring legacy of ancient Greece.
2. The Great Pyramid of Giza: An Enduring Egyptian Legacy
Located on the Giza plateau in Egypt, the Great Pyramid of Giza is the oldest and the sole surviving wonder of the original Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Its imposing structure and historical significance continue to draw visitors from across the globe.
As the largest of the three pyramids at Giza, the Great Pyramid held the remarkable distinction of being the tallest man-made structure for nearly 4,000 years. Although erosion has slightly diminished its original height, its grandeur remains undiminished. Visiting the Great Pyramid is an essential experience for any traveler seeking to connect with ancient history and architectural prowess.
Tourists can venture inside the Great Pyramid to explore its internal chambers and passageways, although climbing the exterior is now prohibited to protect this precious monument. Adjacent to the pyramids stands the enigmatic Sphinx, a colossal limestone statue with the body of a lion and the head of a human. While not officially listed among the ancient wonders, the Sphinx is an iconic symbol of ancient Egypt and a must-see complement to the pyramids of Giza.
3. The Hanging Gardens of Babylon: A Verdant Oasis of Legend
The Hanging Gardens of Babylon, believed to have been located in present-day Iraq, are shrouded in both wonder and historical debate. Legend attributes their construction around 600 B.C. to King Nebuchadnezzar II as a gift for his wife, Queen Amytis of Media. Accounts describe a breathtaking spectacle: a tiered complex of lush gardens, teeming with trees, flowers, and vibrant vegetation, rising like an artificial mountain in the arid Mesopotamian landscape.
Beyond their sheer beauty, the Hanging Gardens would have represented an extraordinary feat of engineering. In a desert environment, sustaining such elaborate gardens would have necessitated sophisticated irrigation systems, far exceeding the typical technologies of the time. Imagine a complex network of pumps, cisterns, and channels, delivering water to the elevated terraces, a testament to ancient ingenuity.
However, the very existence of the Hanging Gardens remains a subject of scholarly contention. Some historians argue that they are purely mythical, a romantic invention of ancient Greek and Roman writers. Others suggest that while the gardens were real, their location might have been misattributed, possibly situated in Nineveh, an Assyrian city, and constructed around the same period. Despite the uncertainty, the legend of the Hanging Gardens of Babylon continues to inspire awe and fascination, representing the pinnacle of ancient garden design and engineering ambition.
4. The Lighthouse of Alexandria: Guiding Light of the Ancient World
Serving as the archetype for modern lighthouses, the Lighthouse of Alexandria was erected in Egypt around 280 B.C. At the time, it stood as the second tallest man-made structure, surpassed only by the Great Pyramid of Giza. Its function was multifaceted, acting as a vital beacon for ships navigating the treacherous waters of the harbor and a strategic military observation post.
The Lighthouse of Alexandria stood for centuries, guiding mariners and symbolizing the maritime power of Alexandria. However, it succumbed to a series of earthquakes during the Middle Ages, eventually collapsing and being replaced by a mosque. Centuries later, a fort, the Citadel of Qaitbay, was constructed using some of the lighthouse’s remaining stones, standing as a testament to the cyclical nature of history and construction.
While the lighthouse itself is lost to time, fragments of its ruins have been recovered from the seabed. For decades, there have been proposals to establish an underwater museum in Alexandria to showcase these submerged relics, allowing visitors to glimpse the remnants of this ancient wonder. While the underwater museum remains a project in development, Alexandria offers numerous snorkeling and scuba diving tours, providing opportunities to explore the waters where the Lighthouse once stood and perhaps catch a glimpse of its submerged past.
5. Mausoleum at Halicarnassus: A Tomb Fit for a King
Located in present-day Bodrum, Turkey, the Mausoleum at Halicarnassus was an elaborate tomb constructed for Mausolus, a satrap in the Persian Empire, around 350 B.C. This monumental structure was not merely a burial place but a lavish display of wealth and power, designed to immortalize Mausolus and his reign.
The Mausoleum was renowned for its opulent decorations, including intricate sculptures and friezes created by some of the most celebrated Greek artists of the time. It featured a towering structure adorned with columns and topped by a stepped pyramid, culminating in a colossal statue of Mausolus and his queen Artemisia II riding in a chariot. The sheer scale and artistic detail of the Mausoleum became so famous that it gave us the word “mausoleum” to describe grand tombs.
Sadly, the Mausoleum was gradually destroyed over centuries by earthquakes and natural decay. The final blow came in 1522 A.D. when Crusaders dismantled much of the remaining structure to fortify their castle in Bodrum. Today, a museum in Bodrum dedicated to the Mausoleum displays plaster casts of some of the marble reliefs that survived destruction. To view the original reliefs and other surviving sculptures, one must visit the British Museum in London, which houses a significant collection of artifacts from Halicarnassus, offering a tangible link to this lost wonder.
6. Statue of Zeus at Olympia: The King of Gods Enthroned
The Statue of Zeus at Olympia was a colossal seated sculpture of the king of the gods in Greek mythology, housed within the Temple of Zeus in Olympia, Greece. Created by the renowned sculptor Phidias around 435 B.C., this masterpiece stood approximately 41 feet tall, dominating the temple interior and inspiring awe in all who beheld it.
The statue was constructed using a technique known as chryselephantine, employing ivory plates for the flesh parts and gold panels for the robes and ornaments, all over a wooden framework. Zeus was depicted enthroned, holding a scepter in his left hand and a statue of Nike, the goddess of victory, in his right. The materials and artistry combined to create a breathtaking representation of divine power and majesty.
The Statue of Zeus stood for over 800 years, surviving fires and political upheavals. However, it was eventually lost to history, likely destroyed by fire, although accounts vary. The Sanctuary of Olympia, which housed the statue and was the site of the ancient Olympic Games, also fell into ruin. Despite the absence of the statue and the temple, visitors can explore the Archaeological Museum of Olympia today. This museum houses one of the world’s most significant collections of Greek art, including exhibits dedicated to the Sanctuary of Olympia and the history of the Olympic Games, offering a valuable context for understanding the lost wonder of the Statue of Zeus.
7. Temple of Artemis at Ephesus: A Goddess’s Grand Abode
Originally dedicated to the Greek goddess Artemis, the Temple of Artemis at Ephesus was located near the ancient city of Ephesus, close to present-day Selçuk, Turkey. The temple was not a singular structure but rather a series of temples built and rebuilt on the same site over centuries, each iteration striving for greater grandeur and magnificence.
The most famous version, often included in lists of the Seven Wonders, was constructed around 550 B.C. It was a colossal marble structure, adorned with elaborate sculptures and towering columns. The temple served as a major center of worship for Artemis, the Greek goddess of the hunt, wilderness, wild animals, the Moon, and archery. It was also a thriving commercial hub, attracting merchants and pilgrims from across the ancient world.
The Temple of Artemis endured numerous destructions and rebuildings throughout its history. It was famously burned down by Herostratus in 356 B.C., who sought to achieve fame by destroying something so magnificent. It was rebuilt again, only to be ultimately destroyed during the incursions of the Goths in 268 A.D., coinciding with the rise of Christianity and the decline of pagan worship.
In 1869, John Turtle Wood, sponsored by the British Museum, finally located the long-lost site of the temple after years of searching. Excavations unearthed remnants of the temple, which were subsequently transported to the British Museum, where they remain on display today. Visitors to Ephesus can also explore the archaeological site, where the foundations of the temple and a single reconstructed column offer a glimpse into the scale and former glory of this ancient wonder.
The New Seven Wonders of the World: Modern Marvels of Human Creation
While the original Seven Wonders largely belong to the distant past, the New Seven Wonders of the World represent a selection of extant, awe-inspiring landmarks chosen through a global poll in 2007. These modern wonders are not just historical relics but vibrant, living monuments, attracting millions of visitors annually and showcasing the enduring creativity and ambition of humankind.
1. The Great Wall of China: A Dragon Across the Land
Bearing the title of “longest human-made structure in the world,” the Great Wall of China is not a single continuous wall but a series of fortifications constructed over centuries, stretching across northern China and southern Mongolia. This colossal defensive system is a testament to Chinese imperial power and strategic ingenuity.
The most renowned and best-preserved section of the Great Wall, often visited by tourists, extends from Mount Hu in Liaoning province to Jiayu Pass in Gansu province, spanning an impressive 5,500 miles. Sections of the wall reach up to 21 feet wide and nearly 33 feet tall at their highest points, a truly imposing sight.
The Great Wall’s history is as captivating as its engineering. It was conceived to consolidate and connect existing regional fortifications, creating a more formidable defense against nomadic invaders from the north. Construction methods varied across different sections and eras, utilizing stone, brick, rammed earth, and even natural barriers like mountain ridges and rivers. Some parts are not walls at all but strategically positioned watchtowers or trenches.
For a memorable experience, consider visiting the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall, located approximately 90 minutes by car from Beijing. While not the most heavily touristed section, Mutianyu offers stunning views, well-restored pathways, and a less crowded experience, allowing for a more immersive exploration of this incredible wonder.
2. Christ the Redeemer Statue: Rio’s Iconic Guardian
Dominating the skyline of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, the Christ the Redeemer statue stands atop Corcovado Mountain, 2,300 feet above the city. This colossal statue of Jesus Christ has become an instantly recognizable symbol of Rio and Brazil, welcoming visitors with open arms.
The sheer scale of the statue is breathtaking. It measures 98 feet tall from head to toe, with an additional 26 feet for its pedestal, and its outstretched arms span 92 feet from fingertip to fingertip. Constructed from reinforced concrete and soapstone, the statue’s design is Art Deco, reflecting the artistic trends of the early 20th century when it was built.
One of the most popular and scenic ways to reach Christ the Redeemer is by taking a cogwheel train. The short train journey winds through the Tijuca National Park, one of the world’s largest urban rainforests, offering stunning views before arriving at the statue’s base. Alternatively, for the more adventurous, hiking trails lead to the summit of Corcovado.
To avoid the largest crowds, visiting early in the morning is recommended. However, an evening visit offers a different kind of magic, with the opportunity to witness a spectacular sunset over Rio de Janeiro, casting a warm glow on the city and the iconic statue.
3. Machu Picchu: The Lost City of the Incas
Often referred to as the “Lost City of the Incas,” Machu Picchu is an ancient Inca citadel perched high in the Andes Mountains of Peru. Thought to have been built in the 15th century, it is believed to have served as a royal estate or sacred religious site for the Inca rulers. Mysteriously abandoned centuries ago, Machu Picchu remained largely unknown to the outside world until its rediscovery in the early 20th century.
Nestled between two mountain peaks and hidden by cloud forests, Machu Picchu’s remote location contributed to its preservation and its “lost city” mystique. For centuries, it remained untouched by Spanish conquistadors and largely unnoticed by European and American explorers.
Since its rediscovery, Machu Picchu has become a major tourist destination, drawing visitors to Peru from across the globe. Sites like the Intihuatana stone, the Temple of the Sun, and the Room of the Three Windows showcase the sophisticated stonework and astronomical knowledge of the Inca civilization.
Visitors can reach Machu Picchu by hiking the Inca Trail, a multi-day trek offering breathtaking mountain scenery and a sense of pilgrimage, or by taking a train to Aguas Calientes, the town at the base of Machu Picchu, followed by a bus ride up to the site. The journey itself, regardless of the mode of transport, builds anticipation for the awe-inspiring experience of exploring this remarkable ancient city.
4. Chichén Itzá: Echoes of the Mayan Civilization
Located in the Yucatan Peninsula of Mexico, amidst the lush jungles, lies the ancient Mayan city of Chichén Itzá. This pre-Columbian city was a significant center of Mayan civilization from around 600 A.D. to 1200 A.D., showcasing their advanced knowledge of astronomy, mathematics, and art.
Over two million people visit the archaeological site annually, eager to explore the remnants of this fascinating culture. The most iconic structure at Chichén Itzá is El Castillo, also known as the Pyramid of Kukulcan, a stepped pyramid that served as a temple to the Mayan deity Kukulcan, the feathered serpent god. During the spring and autumn equinoxes, the setting sun casts a shadow on the pyramid that resembles a serpent slithering down the steps, a testament to Mayan astronomical precision.
Beyond El Castillo, Chichén Itzá encompasses numerous other remarkable structures, including the Temple of Warriors, the Great Ball Court, the Observatory (El Caracol), and various smaller temples and platforms. Exploring these ruins provides a comprehensive glimpse into the social, religious, and scientific aspects of Mayan life.
Another significant feature of Chichén Itzá is the Sacred Cenote, a large sinkhole considered sacred by the Mayans. Cenotes, natural sinkholes filled with freshwater, were vital water sources for the Maya and held religious significance. Chichén Itzá, meaning “At the mouth of the well of the Itza people,” derives its name from these cenotes, highlighting their importance to the city and the region.
5. Roman Colosseum: Arena of Gladiators and Spectacle
The Roman Colosseum, situated in the heart of Rome, Italy, is an enduring symbol of ancient Roman engineering and entertainment. Originally known as the Flavian Amphitheatre, it was completed in 80 A.D. and served as a venue for gladiatorial contests, public spectacles, animal hunts, and even mock sea battles.
The Colosseum’s scale and architectural innovation are truly remarkable. It could accommodate an estimated 50,000 to 80,000 spectators, making it the largest amphitheater ever built in the Roman Empire. Its freestanding structure, unlike many earlier amphitheaters built into hillsides, was a significant engineering achievement, featuring a complex system of vaults, arches, and stairways to manage the flow of vast crowds.
Visiting the Colosseum offers a powerful connection to Roman history and culture. Visitors can explore the arena floor, imagine the roar of the crowds and the clash of gladiators, and descend into the underground levels (hypogeum), where animals and gladiators were held before entering the arena. The Colosseum also houses a museum on its second level, Museo del Colosseo, displaying artifacts related to its history and use.
To fully appreciate the Colosseum, planning your visit in advance is advisable. Guided tours are available, offering deeper insights into its history and architecture, and reservations are often recommended, particularly for accessing the underground levels and the upper levels (Attic).
6. Taj Mahal: An Ode to Eternal Love
Built in Agra, India, approximately 400 years ago, the Taj Mahal is a breathtaking white marble mausoleum commissioned by Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife, Mumtaz Mahal. Widely considered the epitome of Mughal architecture, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a globally recognized symbol of love and architectural perfection.
The Taj Mahal complex encompasses not only the iconic mausoleum but also surrounding gardens, a mosque, and a guest house, all meticulously designed and symmetrically arranged. The mausoleum itself is constructed primarily of white marble inlaid with semi-precious stones like jade, crystal, and amethyst in intricate pietra dura designs. Arabic calligraphy adorns the gateways and the mausoleum, adding to its artistic and spiritual richness.
While the mausoleum is the centerpiece, exploring the entire Taj Mahal complex is highly rewarding. The gardens, reflecting pools, and surrounding structures offer different perspectives and less crowded spaces. Visiting early in the morning is recommended to avoid the largest crowds and to witness the Taj Mahal bathed in the soft light of sunrise, enhancing its ethereal beauty.
To ensure a respectful and informative visit, hiring a reputable tour guide is advisable. While there is no strict dress code, dressing modestly, covering shoulders and knees, is a sign of respect for the Taj Mahal as a working mosque and a site of deep cultural significance. Ongoing efforts are underway to mitigate the effects of environmental pollution on the Taj Mahal’s pristine white marble, highlighting the importance of preserving this precious wonder for future generations.
7. Petra: The Rose City Carved in Stone
Known as the “Rose City” for the pinkish-red sandstone from which it is carved, Petra is an ancient city located in present-day Jordan. Inhabited since prehistoric times, Petra flourished as the capital of the Nabataean Kingdom from the 4th century BC to the 2nd century AD, becoming a vital center for trade routes connecting Arabia, Egypt, and the Mediterranean.
The name Petra, derived from the Greek word for “rock,” aptly describes the city’s unique architecture. Its buildings, including tombs, temples, and dwellings, are directly carved into sandstone cliffs, creating a breathtaking and seamlessly integrated urban landscape. Petra is also mentioned in the Bible under the name Sela.
Over centuries, Petra was inhabited, conquered, and eventually abandoned, fading into obscurity. It wasn’t until the early 19th century that European explorers rediscovered Petra, bringing its existence back to the world’s attention. Excavations in the 20th century revealed a wealth of archaeological treasures, including elaborate tombs, temples, monuments, and the High Place of Sacrifice, a mountaintop altar dating back to biblical times.
The most iconic and instantly recognizable structure in Petra is Al Khazneh, “The Treasury,” featured in numerous films and photographs. Its elaborate facade, adorned with Greek-style pillars and carvings, is carved directly into a towering rock face, creating a truly unforgettable sight.
Visiting Petra requires time and exploration. A multi-day ticket is highly recommended to fully appreciate the vastness and intricate details of the site. Exploring beyond the Treasury reveals numerous hidden pathways, tombs, temples, and viewpoints, each offering a new perspective on this remarkable ancient city carved into the Jordanian desert. On certain nights, the Treasury’s exterior is illuminated by candlelight, offering a magical and unforgettable experience, albeit requiring a separate ticket.
The Seven Natural Wonders of the World: Nature’s Grand Masterpieces
Beyond the wonders created by human hands, our planet is adorned with natural phenomena of unparalleled beauty and scale. The Seven Natural Wonders of the World represent a selection of these extraordinary natural sites, showcasing the power, diversity, and breathtaking artistry of Mother Nature. These wonders remind us of the Earth’s incredible geological history and the delicate ecosystems it sustains.
1. Grand Canyon: A Mile-Deep Geological Tapestry
Carved by the Colorado River over millions of years in the U.S. state of Arizona, the Grand Canyon is a geological marvel and a designated natural wonder of the world. Its immense size, dramatic landscapes, and rich cultural history contribute to its global significance.
The Grand Canyon stretches nearly 300 miles in length, reaches up to 18 miles in width, and plunges over a mile deep in places. This colossal canyon encapsulates a vast expanse of geological history, revealing layers of rock strata spanning billions of years. Its diverse ecosystems range from desert scrub at the bottom to coniferous forests at the rim, supporting a rich variety of plant and animal life.
Humans have inhabited the Grand Canyon region for millennia. Ancient cave dwellings provide evidence of prehistoric inhabitants, followed by various Native American tribes, including the Navajo, Havasupai, and Hualapai, who have a deep cultural connection to the canyon. European explorers arrived in later centuries, and eventually, the U.S. government established Grand Canyon National Park to protect this natural treasure.
The South Rim of Grand Canyon National Park is the most accessible and popular area for visitors, offering iconic viewpoints, visitor centers, and lodging. For a different perspective and fewer crowds, the North Rim provides stunning views but is typically open seasonally due to snowfall. Exploring the Grand Canyon, whether from the rim or by descending into its depths, is an unforgettable experience, offering a profound appreciation for the scale and power of nature.
2. Great Barrier Reef: A Living Coral Kingdom
Located off the northeast coast of Australia, the Great Barrier Reef is the world’s largest coral reef system, renowned for its extraordinary biodiversity and vibrant underwater landscapes. This natural wonder is not a single reef but a complex network of over 2,900 individual reefs and 900 islands, stretching for over 1,400 miles along the Queensland coast.
The Great Barrier Reef is formed from billions of tiny coral polyps, marine organisms that secrete calcium carbonate skeletons, gradually building up the reef structure over millions of years. This living reef is a kaleidoscope of colors, teeming with an astonishing array of marine life, including thousands of species of fish, corals, mollusks, sea turtles, whales, and dolphins.
The Great Barrier Reef is often compared to a rainforest in terms of biodiversity, supporting a complex and interconnected ecosystem. It is home to the “Great Eight” marine animals: clownfish, giant clams, manta rays, Maori wrasse, potato cod, sharks, turtles, and whales, each playing a vital role in the reef’s delicate balance.
Snorkeling and scuba diving are the most immersive ways to experience the Great Barrier Reef, allowing visitors to witness its underwater beauty firsthand. Choosing registered and responsible tour operators is crucial to minimize human impact on this fragile environment. For those who prefer to stay dry, helicopter tours and glass-bottom boat trips offer alternative perspectives, while numerous islands within the reef provide land-based exploration and relaxation.
3. Harbor of Rio de Janeiro: Where City Meets Natural Splendor
Also known as Guanabara Bay, the Harbor of Rio de Janeiro in Brazil makes the list of natural wonders primarily due to its sheer size and stunning natural setting. It is the largest deep-water harbor in the world by volume, encompassing over 80 miles in circumference.
The harbor is framed by iconic granite peaks, including Sugarloaf Mountain and Corcovado Mountain, the latter crowned by the Christ the Redeemer statue. These mountains offer panoramic viewpoints, providing breathtaking perspectives of the harbor’s vastness and the city of Rio de Janeiro nestled along its shores. An aerial view is truly the best way to appreciate the scale and beauty of this natural wonder.
Rio de Janeiro’s famous beaches stretch for over 50 miles along the harbor coastline, including Copacabana Beach and Ipanema Beach. While Copacabana is world-renowned, Praia Vermelha (“Red Beach”) and Grumari Beach offer quieter and more local experiences. The harbor is not just a scenic marvel but also a vital economic and social hub for Rio de Janeiro, bustling with maritime activity and offering a vibrant blend of natural beauty and urban life.
4. Mount Everest: The Roof of the World
Mount Everest, the highest peak on Earth, towering at 29,032 feet above sea level, is situated in the Himalaya Mountain Range on the border between Nepal and China (Tibet Autonomous Region). Its extreme altitude, challenging terrain, and profound cultural significance make it a natural wonder of the world.
Mount Everest has been revered by local populations for centuries. In Tibetan, it is known as Chomolungma, meaning “Goddess Mother of the World,” and in Sanskrit, it is Sagarmatha, translating to “Peak of Heaven.” These names reflect the mountain’s sacred status and its awe-inspiring presence in the Himalayan landscape.
The mountain itself is an inhospitable environment, but the surrounding valleys are home to small communities, including the Sherpa people. Sherpas, traditionally inhabitants of the high valleys of Nepal, have a deep cultural connection to Mount Everest and have become renowned for their mountaineering skills and their essential role in assisting expeditions to climb Everest.
Climbing Mount Everest is an extreme undertaking, requiring significant technical expertise, physical endurance, and substantial financial resources. Even reaching Everest Base Camp, located at a lower altitude, is a challenging trek. For those seeking a less strenuous experience, Sagarmatha National Park in Nepal offers opportunities to trek in the Everest region, experiencing the stunning mountain scenery and Sherpa culture without attempting to summit the peak. While summiting Everest is beyond the reach of most, simply witnessing its majestic presence is an unforgettable experience.
5. Aurora Borealis: Nature’s Celestial Light Show
Scientifically known as Aurora Borealis, the Northern Lights are a spectacular natural light display that illuminates the night sky in the polar regions. This mesmerizing phenomenon is caused by collisions between charged particles from the sun and atoms in Earth’s atmosphere, creating vibrant curtains of light that dance and shimmer across the sky.
The colors of the aurora vary depending on the type of atmospheric gas and the altitude of the collision, ranging from greens and yellows to reds, blues, and violets. Predicting the aurora’s intensity and location is challenging, as it depends on solar activity and weather conditions.
To increase your chances of witnessing the Northern Lights, travel to high-latitude regions during the winter months, when nights are long and dark. Popular destinations include Canada, Alaska, Norway, Iceland, and Greenland. Escaping light pollution is essential for optimal viewing, so venturing away from cities and towns is recommended. Be prepared for cold temperatures and long nights spent outdoors, but the reward of witnessing this celestial spectacle is well worth the effort. Iceland, with its dark winter nights and frequent aurora displays, is often cited as one of the best places to experience the Northern Lights.
6. Parícutin Volcano: Born from the Earth’s Fury
Located in Michoacán, Mexico, Parícutin Volcano is a cinder cone volcano that holds the distinction of being one of the youngest volcanoes on Earth. Its dramatic birth, growth, and relatively recent activity make it a compelling natural wonder.
Parícutin emerged from a cornfield in 1943, erupting for nine years until 1952, when it became dormant. In just under a decade, it grew to a height of 1,391 feet, dramatically reshaping the landscape and burying two villages, Parícutin and San Juan Parangaricutiro.
Visiting Parícutin offers a unique opportunity to witness the raw power of volcanic forces and the Earth’s capacity for rapid change. Hiking or horseback riding tours are available to reach the volcano’s summit. The ascent takes several hours, traversing black lava fields and volcanic ash, while the descent is a quicker, slide-like journey down the loose volcanic slopes.
Near the base of Parícutin stand the ruins of the Templo de San Juan Parangaricutiro, a church that was partially buried by lava flows. Only the church’s facade and bell tower remain visible, rising starkly from the black lava rock, serving as a poignant reminder of the volcano’s destructive power and the resilience of nature and human spirit.
7. Victoria Falls: The Smoke that Thunders
Victoria Falls, situated on the Zambezi River at the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe in Africa, is one of the world’s largest and most spectacular waterfalls. Known locally as Mosi-oa-Tunya, “The Smoke that Thunders,” for the mist and roar created by its immense volume of water, Victoria Falls is a truly awe-inspiring natural wonder.
Victoria Falls is approximately 5,604 feet wide, more than twice the width of Niagara Falls, and plunges to a depth of up to 354 feet, making it one of the largest sheet of falling water in the world. The Zambezi River’s entire volume cascades into a narrow gorge, creating a thunderous roar and sending plumes of mist high into the air, visible from miles away.
The area surrounding Victoria Falls is rich in biodiversity, encompassing lush rainforests, grasslands, and riverine ecosystems. Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park on the Zambian side and Victoria Falls National Park on the Zimbabwean side protect this natural heritage, home to diverse plant species, including acacia, teak, and ebony trees, and wildlife such as hippos, crocodiles, lions, zebras, and elephants.
Visiting Victoria Falls offers different experiences depending on which side you choose. Zimbabwe provides iconic views of the falls and historic hotels, while Zambia offers access to Livingstone Island and Devil’s Pool, a natural rock pool at the edge of the falls, for adrenaline seekers. Crossing the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe is relatively easy, allowing visitors to experience both perspectives of this magnificent natural wonder.
Embark on Your Wonderful Adventures with Confidence
The Seven Wonders of the World, whether ancient, new, or natural, represent the pinnacle of human achievement and natural beauty. Exploring these destinations is a journey of discovery, offering profound experiences and lasting memories. However, venturing to these global wonders often involves international travel, sometimes to remote and unfamiliar locations.
To ensure peace of mind and protection during your adventures, travel insurance is essential. Unforeseen events, such as trip cancellations, medical emergencies, or lost belongings, can occur during travel. Travel insurance provides a safety net, covering unexpected expenses and offering assistance when you need it most.
Before embarking on your journey to discover the wonders of the world, consider securing travel insurance to safeguard your trip and your well-being. Explore the options available at reputable providers like SevenCorners.com to find a plan that suits your specific travel needs and provides the coverage you require for a worry-free and truly wonderful adventure. For personalized advice and guidance, licensed travel insurance agents are readily available to assist you in choosing the right plan and answering any questions you may have.
