The 7 Best Vacation Destinations For Nature Lovers

Nature has a way of filling us with wonder, peace, and adventure. For those who find tranquility in the rustle of leaves, awe in the sprawl of landscapes, wonder in nature’s creativity and beauty in the natural world around us, this post is for you.

If you’re drawn to the call of the wild, like we are, certain travel destinations offer experiences that are both profound and unforgettable.

We’ve had the amazing fortune of visiting six of these natural wonderlands for ourselves and the seventh has sat atop our mile long dream destination bucket list for almost two decades. We WILL eventually get there!

7 Best Vacation Spots for Nature Lovers

We hope you can visit all of these places. Here are our top seven travel destinations for nature lovers.

Serengeti National Park, Tanzania

Serengeti National Park, in Tanzania, is a must for an unforgettable safari. The Serengeti is known for its annual migrations of more than two million wildebeests.

You can experience the drama between predator and prey at its most authentic. Accommodations range from mobile camps to luxury lodges, allowing guests to stay in the wilderness.

This is the only travel destination for nature lovers on our bucket list that we haven’t marked off yet though we’re hoping it happens sooner than later. It would be even more exciting to wake up in a tent and hear the sounds of the Serengeti if we could see giraffes or elephants. This is something that I’ve heard happens quite often. Are you planning to go yourself? You’ll likely need a Tanzania visaA reputable guide is a must.

Banff National Park in Canada

Banff National Park, nestled in the Canadian Rockies is a haven for nature lovers. Banff is a mountain paradise with its turquoise lakes like the world-famous Lake Louise, towering mountains and diverse wildlife. Hikers can explore trails such as the Plain of Six Glaciers, or take a scenic drive along the Icefields Parkway.

In summer, you can take a canoe on Lake Louise’s turquoise waters or, if you prefer more solitude, hike up to Consolation Lakes for unforgettable scenery. There are plenty of trails and hikes in the park that offer backcountry opportunities. There are also hot springs for soaking in after a hard day on the trail.

In winter, the entire park transforms into a snowy wonderland with some of the best skiing, snowboarding, cross country skiing and snowshoeing you’ll find anywhere in the world. The extra bonus for us is that it’s only a few hours from our house and was only an hour from Calgary when we lived there.

Amazon Rainforest, South America

The Amazon Rainforest spans over nine countries of South America and is the largest tract of tropical forest in the entire world. It’s a living, breathing heart of the planet, home to millions of species of flora and fauna.

Adventurers will be able to explore the jungle on guided tours, see exotic animals, and learn more about the unique cultures of the native tribes. The Amazon is not just a destination; it’s an experience that resonates with the primal essence of nature.

Our time in the Amazon was filled with hiking and exploration. We saw all five types of monkeys. our La Selva eco lodgeThousands of macaws as well as sloths, snakes and other animals. We went piranha-fishing one morning, and went swimming with them in the afternoon. We learned about the way of life of the indigenous and were able canoe across some breathtaking landscapes. It was a memorable experience, to say the least.

Great Barrier Reef, Australia

You can also find out more about the following: Great Barrier Reef, the world’s largest coral reef system, is a kaleidoscope of marine life and vibrant corals. Located off the coast of Queensland, Australia, it’s a dream destination for divers and snorkelers. The reef is a haven for a variety of sea creatures, including turtles, corals, sharks and countless other species. The Whitsunday Islands, as well as the small coastal towns that line the reef, are also worth exploring.

We spent months traveling Australia’s west coast and there truly are some hidden natural gems scattered in the land down under. We dived the Great Barrier twice but still regret not taking the multi-day diving trip to explore the more untouched areas.

If you’re craving an underwater adventure, not much can beat this corner of Australia and I still consider the Whitsunday Islands some of the most beautiful islands I’ve ever sailed around.

Fiordland National Park is located in New Zealand.

New Zealand’s Fiordland National Park is a spectacle of fjords, rugged mountains, and lush rainforests. It’s a part of the larger UNESCO World Heritage site, Te Wahipounamu.

Nature lovers can explore Milford Sound or take a boat tour to see the majestic waterfalls. They can also hike the Routeburn or Kepler Tracks. Fiordland is an example of the unspoiled beauty and ruggedness of nature, even in places close to civilization.

We enjoyed our time spent in this area on New Zealand’s South Island and have to say that it is a beautiful stretch of land. We went kayaking, hiking and took a cruise to the Milford Sound falls. It was an amazing adventure and we’re happy we had the opportunity to check this corner of New Zealand out for ourselves.

Galápagos Islands, Ecuador

The Galápagos Islands, situated about 1,000 kilometers off the coast of Ecuador, are a cluster of volcanic islands famed for their vast number of endemic species. These islands played a significant role in Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution and their isolation has led to the development of unique wildlife not found anywhere else in the world.

Some of the local fauna includes the giant Galápagos tortoise, marine iguanas, and the flightless cormorant plus tons of sea lions, seat turtles, blue footed boobies and even their own penguin species.

The 18 main islands have diverse ecosystems, ranging from barren volcanic formations to lush highlands. This variety allows for a range of activities, such as hiking to the summit of Sierra Negra Volcano, snorkeling in the clear waters of Devil’s Crown, or exploring the mangroves by kayak.

We spent three days in the Galapagos including Isabela Island Day Trips and don’t regret one minute we spent there. There was something to see everywhere you looked, from gorgeous beaches to lava-tubed water inlets teeming with sea turtles. We enjoyed snorkeling, relaxing on the beach, and looking for giant tortoises on each of the major islands.

Sumatra, Indonesia

SumatraThe sixth largest island in the world is known for its rugged terrain, biodiversity, and vibrant cultures. Considered by many as Indonesia’s last wild frontier, it’s a place where adventure blends nicely with the untamed beauty of nature.

Sumatra’s tropical rainforests are among the most biologically diverse habitats on Earth. The Kerinci Seblat National Park, the Leuser Ecosystem, and the Sumatran Tigers, Elephants, and Rhinoceroses are all critically endangered.

The Sumatran orangutan is the most famous resident. It is found in the northern part, and is the only place in the world other than Borneo that these soulful creatures can still be found.

Mount Kerinci is the highest volcano in Indonesia and offers panoramic views, challenging treks, and breathtaking views. You also have Lake Toba, a massive volcanic lake, the largest in Southeast Asia that’s a great area to visit and swim in it’s deep, clear waters. In southern Sumatra, centered around the town of Krui, is a long stretch of winding coastline with world class surfing and an awesome collection of surf breaks that rival anything you’ll find anywhere in the world.

Five Danes who we met on our travels through Southern Asia convinced me to take the ferry and visit Sumatra myself. From the ferry ride itself to hiking around Bukittinggi to seeing wild orangutans to chilling by Lake Toba with the locals, those 3 weeks were some of the most memorable travels we have ever encountered and we’re glad that we had the chance to see Sumatra for ourselves.

What makes these destinations so special?

Each of these destinations offers a unique experience for nature lovers. The variety is amazing, from the tranquil lakes and mountains of Banff all the way to the vibrant underwater worlds of the Great Barrier Reef.

The Amazon and Serengeti allow intimate encounters with wildlife in their natural habitats, while Fiordland showcases the serene beauty of New Zealand’s landscapes. The Galapagos is unique just for it’s uniqueness and Sumatra gives you a glimpse of the past and how we can never underestimate the natural wonder of the world or the animals that call it home.

Tips for Responsible Travel

When visiting these natural wonders, it’s crucial to travel responsibly. Respect wildlife, their habitats and the principles of Leave No Trace. Choose eco-friendly tour operators and accommodations that contribute to conservation of these areas. Remember that our actions can have a significant impact on the preservation of these natural marvels for future generations.

These seven destinations are ideal for those who want to experience more than just sightseeing. These destinations allow you to connect with Earth in its purest form, to witness nature’s wonders, and to be reminded about the incredible beauty of our planet.

Pack your bags and lace up your hiking shoes to embark on an adventure that will leave a permanent mark on your soul.