The world is full of wonders, as often witnessed by superyacht captain and worldwide traveler Jako Hall. More often than not, it is well worth the time and effort to venture off the beaten track and find some of the most bizarrely interesting places this planet has to offer.
This article will detail just a few of the natural wonders that can be found around the globe.
Mountainous Wonders
The Tianzi Mountains in Hunan Province, China, are truly wonderous to see. These unique rock formations, created by millions of years of sedimentary rock erosion, were the sole inspiration for the animated world seen in the film Avatar. Equally as unique are the Chocolate Hills of Bohol Island in the Philippines. These conical hills are so regular in shape that they look man-made. However, their peculiar shape is created by the uplift of coral deposits and rainwater erosion.
Aquatic Amazement
The World Heritage-listed Travertines of Pamukkale in Turkey may have become a tourist hotspot, but they remain one of the most unique places on earth. These steppingstone-like pools are fed by natural springs, and the underground volcanic activity makes them thermal – perfect for a leisurely dip. From the coast of Belize, divers can take in the incredible views of the Great Blue Hole: a gigantic natural sinkhole. However, diving into the depths of this hole comes with risks, and many divers have lost their lives while exploring this site.
Fascinating Forests
Near the town of Gryfino in West Pomerania, Poland, stands one of the weirdest forests in the world: Crooked Forest, where a collection of pine trees all grow with a peculiar bend in them. The reason for this is unknown, but human intervention is suspected. Aokigahara Forest on the foothills of Mount Fuji, Japan, is a place of significant natural beauty but comes with a dark history. The vast, lush forest is often cited as one of the most haunted places in the world.
Incredible Rock Formations
The Giant Causeway in Northern Ireland was formed sixty million years ago by a gigantic volcanic eruption, creating around 37,000 polygon columns. These columns are so geometrically perfect that they were said to be created by giants. Similarly odd rock formation can be found in Saudi Arabia. A uniform slit between two standing stones know as Al Naslaa Rock Formation has bewildered travelers for centuries, and the reason for the perfect cut between the stones it is yet to be found.