The world is full of tremendous beauty, and we can find it all around us. No matter where you live, there is somewhere to go and explore. Below we’ve compiled a list of the best national parks around the world, but keep in mind that this is just the beginning. There are parks you can explore all around you—just get up and search for them!
North America
1. Manuel Antonio National Park, Costa Rica
The biodiversity of Costa Rica leaves a lot to be explored. In fact, about 25% of it is either a protected area or a national park. Although Manuel Antonio is one of the smallest, many consider it to be one of the most biodiverse parks in the world.
2. Yellowstone National Park, United States
We love Yellowstone for the entire 2 million acres it encapsulates. Spanning across Montana, Wyoming, and Idaho, it’s the first national park in the United States and is full of hundreds of glorious sights.
South America
3. Torres del Paine National Park, Chile
Travelers regard this park as one of the most beautiful places in the world, and for good reason. There are glaciers at the Southern Patagonia Ice Field, Cuernos del Paine peaks, plenty of incredible hikes, and a vast array of wildlife.
4. Pantanal Matogrossense, Brazil
One of the world’s largest tropical wetlands, Pantanal Matogrossense has one of the richest ecosystems found outside of the Amazon. There’s something for everyone to admire at this park—from gorgeous landscapes to various species.
Europe
5. Plitvice Lakes National Park, Croatia
Probably one of the most popular national parks in Europe, Plitvice has 16 multi-colored lakes connected by dozens upon dozens of waterfalls. The winding paths make for perfect hiking and sightseeing.
6. Belluno Dolomites National Park, Italy
This is another one of Europe’s most visited national parks. It is a great way for those visiting Italy to take a break from the city and get some fresh air. Belluno Dolomites National Park offers just the right amount of relaxing and adventuring.
Asia
7. Sagarmatha National Park, Nepal
This national park is where you’ll find Mt. Everest and plenty of other gorgeous mountains. The meaning of the name comes from the Nepali word sagar (sky) and māthā (head).
8. Bannerghatta National Park, India
There’s a lot you’ll find at this national park: an elephant sanctuary, a zoo, a snake house, and a safari park that includes a diverse range of animals. You won’t want to miss out on all that this beautiful park includes.
Africa
9. Kruger National Park, South Africa
Kruger is one of the largest game reserves in Africa and is a wonderful place to visit for those in South Africa. If you’ve ever wanted to go on a safari, this vast landscape is home to a wide range of species, making it a great place to explore.
10. Victoria Falls National Park, Zimbabwe
Victoria Falls is a continental must-see—it’s as simple as that. This national park boasts breathtaking views. Plus, visitors can bungee jump, white water raft, hike, and so much more.
Oceania
11. Fiordland National Park, New Zealand
One of the most rugged and epic places in the world, glacier-carved fiords and craggy mountains surround this national park. The network of hiking trails is the perfect way to take in the beauty of New Zealand.
12. Kakadu National Park, Australia
Visit this national park to see sights from the oldest living culture on Earth—the Aborigines. Travelers will come across basks of crocodiles, rock paintings that are over 20,000-years old, and other beautiful Aboriginal pieces.
