Our planet is home to some truly surreal landscapes that seem to belong to another world. From glowing deserts to rainbow-colored mountains, these extraordinary places offer a glimpse into nature’s most bizarre and beautiful creations. Here are eight otherworldly landscapes that should be on every traveler’s bucket list.
These eight landscapes showcase the incredible diversity and beauty of our planet, with each one offering a unique glimpse into nature’s artistry. Whether you’re an adventure seeker or a photography enthusiast, these otherworldly destinations are sure to leave you in awe. Start planning your visit to witness these natural wonders firsthand!
Nallıhan, Ankara, Turkey
Turkey’s Hidden Gem of Colorful Landscapes
Nallıhan Hills, located in the Ankara province of Turkey, is a stunning and unique natural wonder that captivates visitors with its vibrant, multicolored terrain. The hills, often referred to as Turkey’s “rainbow hills,” are composed of layers of red, orange, green, and white sediments that have been shaped by millions of years of geological activity.
Namib Desert, Namibia
The Oldest Desert on Earth
The Namib Desert, believed to be the oldest in the world, is known for its vast, rippling sand dunes and dramatic, dry landscapes. The Sossusvlei area, with its iconic red dunes and the eerie Deadvlei—where ancient, desiccated trees stand against the white clay pan—looks like a scene from another planet. The stark contrast of colors and the otherworldly silence make it an unforgettable destination.
Jiuzhaigou Valley, China
A Fairy-Tale Land of Lakes and Waterfalls
Jiuzhaigou Valley, located in Sichuan Province, is a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its stunning natural beauty. The valley is home to multicolored lakes, cascading waterfalls, and snow-capped peaks, all set within a lush forest. The surreal colors of the lakes, which range from turquoise to emerald green, are due to the high mineral content in the water, creating a landscape that feels like it belongs in a fantasy world.
Pamukkale, Turkey
The Cotton Castle
Pamukkale, meaning “cotton castle” in Turkish, is a natural wonder in southwestern Turkey. The site is famous for its white terraces formed by mineral-rich thermal waters that flow down the mountainside. The terraces, filled with warm, turquoise water, resemble frozen waterfalls, creating a surreal, dream-like landscape that’s truly unique.
Mount Bromo, Indonesia
A Volcanic Wonder
Mount Bromo, part of the Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park in East Java, is one of the most iconic and otherworldly landscapes in Asia. The active volcano is surrounded by a vast plain of ash and sand, known as the “Sea of Sand,” creating a stark and surreal environment. The sight of Mount Bromo’s smoking crater against the backdrop of the rising sun is a scene that feels like it belongs on another planet.
Landmannalaugar, Iceland
A Rainbow of Mountains
Landmannalaugar, located in Iceland’s Highlands, is famous for its multicolored rhyolite mountains. The vibrant hues of the mountains, ranging from red and orange to blue and green, create a surreal and breathtaking landscape. The area is also known for its geothermal activity, with hot springs and steaming vents adding to the otherworldly atmosphere.
Zhangye Danxia, China
The Rainbow Mountains
The Zhangye Danxia Landform in China is often referred to as the “Rainbow Mountains” due to its stunningly colorful rock formations. The mountains’ vibrant stripes of red, orange, yellow, and green are the result of millions of years of sedimentary rock being eroded and uplifted. The surreal, painterly landscape is a testament to the incredible power of natural forces.
Lençóis Maranhenses, Brazil
Sand Dunes and Lagoons
Though technically located in South America, this landscape is worth mentioning due to its surreal beauty. Lençóis Maranhenses is a national park in northeastern Brazil known for its vast, white sand dunes interspersed with turquoise lagoons that form during the rainy season. The contrasting colors and shapes of the dunes and lagoons create an otherworldly landscape that is truly unique.
