National parks are the quintessential destination for travellers who want to escape bustling city life and experience the best mother nature has to offer. Enjoy the stillness of nature or put on your hiking boots and explore mountains, rocky trails or pristine lakes and rivers.
No matter what part of the world you’re in, a national park offers the perfect setting for a breath of fresh air for any holiday. And they’re not just beautiful either. Strolling in nature is also good for your health.
From underground caves in Brazil to the Italian coast, discover piercing landscapes and undisturbed natural beauty in these seven stunning national parks.
Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, Australia
Rising 348 metres above the plain, Uluru is one of the most well recognised natural landmarks in Australia. The rock is situated in the Kata Tjuta National Park and is a living cultural landscape for the Anangu People, the traditional owners of the land.
The park is recognised by UNESCO as a World Heritage site for its incredibly rich spiritual history and cultural value. Explore this national park and choose from a selection of walking trails, including rocky tracks or paths framed by lush fauna and rare plants.
Lagunas de Montebello National Park, Chiapas, Mexico
Not only known for its sprawling cities and vibrant coastal nightlife, but Mexico also boasts incredible natural landscapes. Made up of almost 60 multicoloured lakes, the Montebello lakes are known for their spectacular beauty and lush surrounding forests. The lakes themselves are “uvulas”, meaning old sinkholes and are famous for their pristine blue water.
Montebello is positioned in the High Plain of Chiapas and is a designated Biosphere reserve by UNESCO.
Cinque Terre National Park, Italy
Seafood linguine, an Aperol Spritz and cobbled streets await you in idyllic Cinque Terre. The famous string of five seaside towns is located in Liguria and runs from the Monterosso al Mare village in the north to Riomaggiore in the south.
The walking trail was established as a national park on October 6, 1999, two years after it was recognised as a World Heritage Site. Enjoy panoramic coastal views as you walk between charming Italian towns and break up your walks with a dip in the Mediterranean sea.
Guilin and Lijian River National Park, China
Located in the north-eastern region of Guangxi Zhuang, the national park features piercing beauty and a river that flows 164km. The park’s remarkable beauty has inspired many artists including the Chinese poet Han Yu who wrote a poem dedicated to the area.
Framed by mountains, the national park offers cruises through the Lijiang and Guiling River. Alternatively, take a tour of the iconic Reed Flute Cave or simply choose from a number of walking trails through magnificent hills.
Yosemite National Park, California, USA
First coming under protection in 1864, Yosemite National Park is a United States landmark and welcomes millions of visitors each year. The park offers never-ending adventure including abundant wildlife, cascading waterfalls and hiking trails.
The best time of the year to visit Yosemite is between May and September when crowds are low and the park is still accessible, with roads not blocked by snow. If you want to make the most of your time in Yosemite, why not stay in premium National Park lodging at the Yosemite Valley Lodge or enjoy your privacy in one of the many bed and breakfasts.
Serengeti National Park, Tanzania
Teeming with wildlife, the Serengeti National Park is the oldest national park in Tanzania and covers a breathtaking 14,750 square kilometres. The “big five” can be seen on safari here, being elephants, lions, leopards, buffalos and rhinos. The park is also home to the highest ostrich population in Tanzania.
Take part in a Serengeti safari and wake up to the sounds of birds or the cry of a hyena. Guided safaris include an experienced and knowledgeable driver, four-course dinners and luxurious tented suites, set to the backdrop of the spanning African landscape.
Chapada Diamantina National Park, Brazil
Before becoming a national park, Chapada Diamantina was banned from visitation in an effort by the Brazilian government to prevent diamond smuggling. Today, the park is open for tourists to enjoy the dazzling scenery. The park is a haven for hikers, rock climbers and divers alike.
The park boasts pristine lakes and underground caves. The Gruta da Pratinha ranges from 1.4 to 2.3 metres deep and has a naturally formed staircase descending into its sparkling waters.
Lodging options are available for tourists nearby and offer inclusive luxury stays with guided experiences or a choose-your-own-adventure style trip in sumptuous chalets.
This article originally appeared on Fancy and do not necessarily represent the views of australiaexploring.com
