The 6 Most Beautiful National Parks in the World

National parks were created to protect some of the most diverse ecosystems, amazing landscapes and incredible wildlife on Earth. There are so many ways to explore these fascinating nature reserves, from the deepest valleys to the highest peaks and everything in between. Whether it's hiking, mountain biking, rock climbing, or even kayaking, you have options.

6. Plitvice Lakes, Croatia

This national park is more of a fairy tale setting than a real place on Earth, but the 16 crystal-clear lakes, breathtaking waterfalls and vaulted caves aren't just real—they formed naturally. Mineral-rich water meanders down waterfalls and rocks, constantly changing the landscape as a wide variety of wildlife (bears, wolves, rare birds and butterflies) live in the vast forest surrounding the lake.

5. Torres del Paine, Chile

It is popular among backpackers and adventure lovers. Admire picturesque lakes, ancient forests, rivers, mountains and glaciers. Breathtaking scenery has created some of the most scenic hiking trails in the world. This beautiful national park offers some of the most spectacular panoramas in the world. Capture incredible waterfall views and go hiking and relaxing at Lago Pehoe. The park attracts approximately 150,000 visitors to its remote wilderness each year.

4. Los Glaciares, Argentina

The park is known for its unique natural beauty, rugged towering mountains and glacial lakes. The main attraction is Uppsala. It is surrounded by forests and the spectacular Argentine Lake. Blame global warming for melting glaciers; it has been receding since around 1999. Icebergs continue to fall and fill up with water. Make sure to visit this glacier shortly before the ice recedes and continues to thin.

3. Galapagos, Ecuador

The Galapagos Islands are home to some of the most unique wildlife in the world. It consists of 13 main islands, 5 of which are inhabited. The park offers incredible tropical and polar species as well as volcanic rock landscapes. The Galapagos Islands are made up of 13 main islands, 5 of which are inhabited. Each of them has its own unique atmosphere and wildlife viewing opportunities. The islands are greatly threatened by tourism, pollution and rising sea temperatures.

2. Guilin and Lijiang River, China

This national park is known for its scenic spots. It covers a 50-mile-long river between Guilin and Yangshuo, bounded by typical steep karst mountains, according to China Highlights. The main features of the park include Jiuma Mural Mountain, Huangbu Shoal, Twenty Yuan Bill Mountain and Xingping Ancient Town. The most popular activities are cruising, hiking and mountain climbing.

1. Uluru-Kata Tjuta, Australia

The park has spectacular geological formations that dominate the vast red sand beaches of central Australia. Uluru is a huge boulder, while Kata Tjuta is a dome of rock west of Uluru, according to UNESCO, and they form part of the traditional belief system of one of the oldest human societies in the world . The spectacular red rocks and domes are millions of years old.