The world is filled with breathtaking landscapes, mysterious formations, and awe-inspiring natural wonders that remind us of the sheer power and beauty of nature. In 2011, after a global poll conducted by the New7Wonders Foundation, the “New 7 Wonders of Nature” were officially announced. These wonders, spread across different continents, are not just tourist attractions but living treasures that connect us to Earth’s natural heritage.
In this article, we’ll explore each of these seven incredible natural wonders, their history, significance, and why they deserve a spot on every traveler’s bucket list.
1. Amazon Rainforest and River – South America’s Green Heart
The Amazon is often called the “lungs of the Earth.” Spanning nine countries (Brazil, Peru, Colombia, Venezuela, Ecuador, Bolivia, Guyana, Suriname, and French Guiana), it covers an area of over 5.5 million square kilometers.
- 🌿 Biodiversity: Home to around 390 billion trees and more than 16,000 species of animals and plants.
- 🌊 Amazon River: The second longest river in the world, carrying more water than the next seven rivers combined.
- 🌎 Global Role: Produces 20% of the world’s oxygen and regulates the planet’s climate.
With rising concerns about deforestation, the Amazon remains at the center of global environmental discussions. Visiting it feels like stepping into another world of untouched wilderness.
2. Halong Bay, Vietnam – The Emerald Paradise
Located in northern Vietnam, Halong Bay is famous for its 1,600 limestone islands and islets rising from emerald-green waters.
- 🏝️ Scenic Beauty: The bay looks like a mythical painting, especially during sunrise and sunset.
- 🐚 Biodiversity: Rich marine life, coral reefs, and unique caves.
- 🎥 Pop Culture: Featured in films like Kong: Skull Island.
Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Halong Bay attracts millions of tourists each year, offering cruises, kayaking, and cave explorations.
3. Iguazu Falls, Argentina & Brazil – Thundering Giants
Straddling the border of Argentina and Brazil, Iguazu Falls is one of the largest and most powerful waterfalls in the world.
- 💦 Scale: Made up of 275 waterfalls, stretching for almost 2.7 kilometers.
- 🔊 The Devil’s Throat: The most dramatic drop, creating a roaring sound that echoes miles away.
- 🌳 Surroundings: The falls are protected by Iguazú National Park (Argentina) and Iguaçu National Park (Brazil), both UNESCO sites.
Iguazu is more than just a waterfall—it’s a natural performance of water, mist, and rainbows.
4. Jeju Island, South Korea – The Volcanic Wonder
Jeju Island is South Korea’s largest island and a volcanic masterpiece formed millions of years ago.
- 🌋 Hallasan Mountain: A dormant volcano and the highest peak in South Korea.
- 🕳️ Lava Tubes: Manjanggul Lava Tube, one of the world’s longest.
- 🌸 Culture & Beauty: Jeju blends natural wonders with Korean traditions, making it a honeymoon hotspot.
Its volcanic landscapes, stunning beaches, and unique culture have made Jeju a global travel destination.
5. Komodo Island, Indonesia – Home of the Dragons
Komodo Island, part of Indonesia’s Lesser Sunda chain, is most famous for the Komodo dragon, the world’s largest living lizard.
- 🐉 Komodo Dragon: Can grow up to 3 meters long and weigh over 70 kg.
- 🏝️ Marine Beauty: Surrounded by rich coral reefs, manta rays, and exotic marine life.
- 🌅 Adventure Travel: Trekking, diving, and dragon-spotting make it an adrenaline-filled destination.
Protected under Komodo National Park, this wonder is both mysterious and thrilling.
6. Puerto Princesa Underground River, Philippines – Nature’s Hidden Gem
In Palawan, Philippines, lies one of the most unique wonders—an underground river that flows directly into the sea.
- 🕳️ Length: The river stretches for about 8.2 kilometers, making it one of the world’s longest navigable underground rivers.
- 🌊 Mystery: Features limestone karst landscapes, stunning stalactites, and stalagmites.
- 🦇 Wildlife: Home to bats, swallows, and other cave creatures.
Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the river is a mix of adventure and mystery, often explored by guided boat tours.
7. Table Mountain, South Africa – The Flat-Topped Icon
Overlooking Cape Town, Table Mountain is one of the most iconic landmarks in Africa.
- 🏔️ Unique Shape: A flat summit stretching 3 kilometers, with stunning cliffs on all sides.
- 🌿 Biodiversity: Over 1,500 plant species, many found nowhere else in the world.
- 🚡 Accessibility: Visitors can hike or take a cable car for panoramic views of the city and ocean.
Table Mountain is not just a natural wonder but a cultural and historical symbol of South Africa.
Why These Wonders Matter
The New 7 Wonders of Nature are more than tourist attractions—they are living ecosystems that need protection. They represent the diversity of Earth’s landscapes and remind us of the importance of conservation in the face of climate change and human activity.
Whether you dream of standing before the roaring Iguazu Falls, sailing in Halong Bay, or hiking up Table Mountain, these wonders offer experiences that stay with you forever.
Final Thoughts
The announcement of the New 7 Wonders of Nature in 2011 was a celebration of Earth’s beauty. A decade later, these sites remain symbols of wonder, adventure, and preservation.
If you’re planning your next big trip, why not start with one of these natural marvels? Not only will you witness unforgettable beauty, but you’ll also support efforts to protect our planet’s most precious treasures.
FAQ Section:
Q1: What are the New 7 Wonders of Nature?
A: The New 7 Wonders of Nature are Iguazu Falls, Hạ Long Bay, Table Mountain, Puerto Princesa Underground River, Jeju Island, Komodo Island, and Amazon Rainforest.
Q2: Who organized the New 7 Wonders of Nature campaign?
A: The campaign was organized by the New7Wonders Foundation, a Swiss-based organization.
Q3: When were the New 7 Wonders of Nature announced?
A: The final list was announced on November 11, 2011, after a global voting campaign.
