The 27 best national parks in the world

National parks are created to protect the Earth’s most diverse ecosystems, magical landscapes and incredible wildlife.

Whether you want to hike in Los Glaciares National Park in Patagonia, scout for three-toed sloths in Costa Rica, get right up close to the wildlife in Tanzania or explore Indonesia in search of the rare Komodo dragon, adventure awaits you.

Read about 27 of the best national parks in the world – all of which you can experience at our destinations.

1) Serengeti National Park, Tanzania

Serengeti National Park in Tanzania is a must-see destination!

The park offers breathtaking scenery, diverse wildlife and an extraordinary migration that takes place every year. Imagine witnessing millions of wildebeest, zebras and gazelles galloping across the endless plains as lions and other predators hunt their prey.

Serengeti National Park is also home to some of the world’s most endangered species, including the black rhino and the cheetah. Whether you’re a safari enthusiast or visiting the park for the first time, Serengeti National Park provides an unforgettable experience that promises memories to last a lifetime.

Check out our tours offering a safari in the Serengeti.

2) Galápagos National Park, Ecuador

The Galápagos Islands are known for their unique wildlife and are home to many species not found elsewhere in the world. Rare animals such as giant tortoises, marine iguanas, blue-footed boobies, sea lions and many more are to be found there. This is a unique opportunity to get right up close to wild animals and observe their behaviour in their natural habitat.

In addition to wildlife, the Galápagos Islands offer scenic landscapes with volcanoes, crater-like lakes, white sandy beaches and rock formations. The islands are a treasure trove of natural beauty and an excellent destination for nature photography.

You can also learn about the local people living in the Galápagos Islands and how they have adapted to the unique environment. You have the opportunity to visit villages and learn about the culture and history of the islands.

Galápagos is one of the most iconic and protected natural areas in the world and attracts visitors from all over the globe, wishing to explore and admire its incredible beauty and biodiversity.

​​​​​​​All our tours to Ecuador offer the option to visit the Galapagos Islands.

3) Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, Australia

Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, formerly known as Ayers Rock-Mount Olga National Park, is one of Australia’s most iconic national parks and a cultural heritage site of great importance. Located in central Australia in Northern Territory, it is famous for its impressive red rock formation known as Uluru (formerly Ayers Rock), and nearby Kata Tjuta (formerly The Olgas).

Uluru is a massive sandstone rock that towers above the surrounding desert landscape. It is known for its deep red colour, which changes in the different light during the day and at sunset. Uluru holds great cultural significance for the indigenous Anangu people and is an important part of their Dreamtime Story and spirituality.

The national park offers a number of hiking trails that allow visitors to explore both Uluru and Kata Tjuta. There are also guided tours, which provide an insight into the area’s culture and geology.

Due to its remote location and low light pollution, the national park is an excellent place for stargazing, which is also one of the park’s scenic experiences.

You can, for example, visit Uluru on this tour.

4) Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, Japan

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is a spectacular national park located in the south of Honshu, Japan’s largest island. This national park is known for its outstanding natural beauty, ranging from majestic mountains and volcanoes to beautiful lakes, hot springs and coastal areas.

The most iconic symbol of the national park is, of course, Mount Fuji, Japan’s highest mountain. Its symmetrical cone shape is a symbol of the country and a popular motif in Japanese art and culture.

The national park has deep cultural significance in Japan and has inspired artists, poets and writers for centuries. The scenic nature and awe-inspiring landscapes have formed the backdrop for countless works of art and literary works.

Choose Fuji Hakone Izu National Park as an optional extra on several of our tours to Japan.

5) Manuel Antonio National Park, Costa Rica.

Manuel Antonio National Park is a Costa Rican gem and one of the most popular destinations for nature lovers and ecotourists. Located on the central Pacific coast of Costa Rica, the park offers an incredible mix of tropical rainforest, lush flora and fauna, beautiful beaches and abundant wildlife.

Manuel Antonio is known for its incredible biodiversity. Although it is one of Costa Rica’s smaller national parks, it houses an abundance of animal and plant species, including a number of rare and endangered species, such as sloths, capuchin monkeys, howler monkeys, possums, parrots and iguanas.

Manuel Antonio National Park offers a network of hiking trails that lead you through the lush rainforest and allow you to experience the wildlife and natural beauty right up close. The park’s trails are easy to follow, and you’ll often see monkeys and other animals while exploring the area.

You can, for example, visit Manuel Antonio on this tour.

6) The Okavango Delta, Botswana

The Okavango Delta in Botswana is one of the world’s most unique and fascinating natural wonders. It’s not a national park, but with the title of the world’s largest inland delta, it still deserves to be included here. The Okavango Delta is known for its exceptional biodiversity, amazing wildlife, lush landscapes and unique ecosystem.

The Okavango Delta is located in the otherwise arid Kalahari Desert, but every year, it is flooded by water flowing from the mountains of Angola all the way to the Okavango River, then about 6 months later, the water spreads to create the Okavango Delta. The river flows into the delta creating a complex network of canals, rivers, lakes and islands. This unique waterscape attracts an abundance of wildlife and is a spectacular natural attraction.

The Okavango Delta is a paradise for bird watchers. The area is home to more than 500 species of birds, including ospreys, African ospreys, cormorants, pelicans, hornbills and many more besides.

Visit the Okavango Delta on this tour.

7) Torres del Paine National Park, Chile

Torres del Paine National Park, located in Chilean Patagonia, is one of the most impressive natural areas in the world. The park is known for its spectacular granite mountains, azure lakes, massive glaciers, beautiful waterfalls and abundant wildlife. A paradise for hikers and nature lovers,

the park is home to the iconic “Torres del Paine” or “Towers of Paine” – three massive granite peaks that rise dramatically from the area’s lush valleys. They are some of the most photographed natural beauties in the world and an iconic symbol of the park.

Visit Torres del Paine on this tour.

8) Khao Sok National Park, Thailand

Khao Sok National Park is a wonderful natural paradise located in Surat Thani province in southern Thailand. The park is known for its incredible biodiversity, spectacular limestone mountains, lush rainforests and beautiful lakes. It is one of Thailand’s oldest and most remarkable areas of natural beauty.

The park is surrounded by impressive limestone mountains, which create a magnificent backdrop. These rock formations, some of which are covered in dense vegetation, provide a stunningly beautiful and scenic backdrop for excursions in the area.

In the middle of the park is Cheow Lan Lake, also known as Ratchaprapha Lake. Surrounded by towering limestone rocks, this beautiful lake is a popular destination for sailing, kayaking and swimming. Visitors can also go on scenic boat trips to explore the lake and its hidden coves.

Visit Khao Sok National Park on this tour.

9) Kakadu National Park, Australia

Kakadu National Park is an incredibly scenic and culturally rich destination located in northern Australia, in the area known as the Top End in Northern Territory. The park is not just Australia’s largest national park, but it is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, celebrating both its natural beauty and the cultural heritage associated with the indigenous people of the area.

Kakadu National Park is home to an impressive diversity of flora and fauna, with than 280 species of birds, a wide variety of reptiles, including saltwater crocodiles, and a variety of mammals, from kangaroos and wallabies to the rare and endangered Gouldian finch.

The park is characterised by its beautiful streams, rivers and wetlands, including Yellow Water Billabong. These areas are home to incredible wildlife and also offer boat trips taking visitors to see crocodiles, birds and other animals in their natural habitats.

You can extend your tour to include Kakadu National Park, among other places, on this tour.

10) Iguazu National Park, Argentina & Brazil

Iguazu National Park is one of the most breathtaking natural wonders of the world, not to mention a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The park is shared between Argentina and Brazil and includes the magnificent Iguazu Falls, one of the world’s largest and most impressive waterfalls.

The falls consist of some 275 separate waterfalls along the Iguazu River, forming a spectacular natural spectacle. Some of them are more than 80 metres high, and they extend over an area of almost 2 kilometres. The most impressive section of the falls is the “Devil’s Throat” (Garganta del Diablo), where the volumes of water plunge into a deep gorge with thunderous force, creating a cloud of mist.

Iguazu is not just a tourist attraction; it’s a tribute to the breathtaking nature and an opportunity to experience one of the Earth’s most enchanting natural wonders. It is an attraction that leaves visitors speechless and enthralled by the beauty and power of Mother Nature.

You can, for example, visit Iguazú National Park on this tour.

11) Cotopaxi National Park, Ecuador

Cotopaxi National Park, located in the Ecuadorian Andes, is a breathtaking destination offering a combination of natural beauty, culture and adventure. Centred around the majestic Cotopaxi Volcano, the park is known for its outstanding natural beauty and is a popular destination for nature lovers and mountain climbers.

Cotopaxi is one of the world’s tallest active volcanoes and the park’s most iconic symbol. Rising majestically to a height of 5,897 metres, the volcano is a popular destination for mountaineers and adventurous travellers. The summit of Cotopaxi offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape and is a challenging yet rewarding experience.

Besides its natural beauty, Cotopaxi National Park also has a rich cultural heritage. The park is home to local communities who maintain their traditional way of life, and visitors have the opportunity to learn about indigenous cultures and traditions.

You can, for example, experience Cotopaxi National Park on this tour.

12) Kep National Park, Cambodia

Located in the charming coastal town of Kep in Cambodia, Kep National Park, is a true gem for nature lovers and adventurous travellers.

The national park is famous for its tropical forests and fascinating animal species. Trails criss-cross the park, taking you through shady areas and sun-drenched rocky areas, making for a varied and exciting hike.

One of the highlights that makes Kep National Park so unique is “Sunset Rock”, where visitors can enjoy a beautiful sunset over the bay. Kep National Park is also home to a host of birds and butterflies. The park is a paradise for nature lovers, offering a unique opportunity to observe rare bird species and study the rich flora and fauna.

Whether you’re into hiking, bird watching or just want to immerse yourself in the tranquillity of nature, Kep National Park in Cambodia is a must-visit destination. Kep National Park is undoubtedly one of the hidden treasures of Cambodia’s nature just waiting to be explored.

You can extend your tour to include a beach holiday in Kep on this tour.

13) Arenal Volcano National Park, Costa Rica

Arenal Volcano National Park is one of Costa Rica’s most iconic destinations and a paradise for nature lovers and adventurous travellers. Located in northern Costa Rica, the park is home to Arenal Volcano, one of the country’s most active volcanoes and one of the most impressive natural landmarks in Central America.

The majestic Arenal Volcano is the main attraction of the park. Although the volcano is no longer constantly active, its symmetrical cone and periodic eruptions are an impressive sight, especially at night when glowing lava flows can be seen from the foot of the volcano.

The park has a network of hiking trails that lead visitors through rainforest, lava fields and volcanic terrain. The hiking trails offer visitors the opportunity to experience the area’s unique flora and fauna as well as fantastic views of the volcano and Lake Arenal.

You can, for example, visit Arenal volcano on this tour.

14) Kruger National Park, South Africa

One of the most exciting safari destinations is Kruger National Park. In addition to being the oldest and largest national park in South Africa, it also guarantees you a world-class safari. Spot Africa’s Big Five, not to mention warthogs, hippos, hyenas, water bucks, zebras, buffalo and many more besides.

The Kruger nature is breathtaking, and the landscape is very varied, which means that many different species of animals thrive here.

Experience palm trees, cacti, umbrella trees as well as the whimsical and fairy-tale-like baobab trees, which can live up to 1,000 years old. In addition to beautiful flora, there are also many rivers and waterholes that attract countless animals every day to drink water.

Check out all our tours offering safari in Kruger.

15) Monteverde Cloud Forest, Costa Rica

The park is located in Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve, one of the most biodiverse places on earth. The park is home to a large number of animals, including sloths, anteaters and monkeys, as well as hundreds of bird and insect species. The park might not be a national park but it is a must-see for all nature lovers.

The cloud forest is a unique ecosystem, found only in a few places in the world. The forest is a misty, verdant wonderland with towering trees, hanging vines and exotic plants. It’s easy to lose yourself in the beauty of this magical forest, which feels like something out of a fairy tale.

One of the best ways to experience Monteverde Cloud Forest is to go on a guided hike. Your guide will point out all the amazing creatures that live in the forest and share fascinating facts about the flora and fauna you encounter. If it’s an adrenaline rush you’re after, this is also guaranteed in Monteverde Cloud Forest. The park is home to a number of exciting zipline rides that transport you through the forest canopy. The view from the top is simply breathtaking, and you’ll feel as if you’re flying through the trees.

You can, for example, visit Monteverde Cloud Forest on this tour.

16) Masai Mara National Reserve, Kenya

Located in south-western Kenya, Masai Mara National Reserve, is not a national park, but it is one of Africa’s most iconic and animal-friendly areas of natural beauty. The park is known for its incredible biodiversity, especially its rich wildlife, including “The Big Five” (elephant, lion, buffalo, leopard and rhinoceros) as well as annual migrations of millions of wildebeest, zebra and other animals.

The Masai Mara is home to a wide variety of animal species and one of the best places in Africa for animal watching. In addition to the Big Five, visitors can see cheetahs, hyenas, giraffes, hippos, crocodiles and many bird species. The park has a particularly large population of lions, and it is not uncommon to see them hunting or relaxing under the trees.

A popular way to experience the Masai Mara is on a hot air balloon safari. Floating over the savannah at dawn and watching the animals wake up below is an unforgettable experience.

You can, for example, visit Masai Mara National Reserve on this tour.

17) Komodo National Park, Indonesia

Komodo National Park is one of Indonesia’s most fascinating and unique area of natural beauty. It is located in the eastern part of Indonesia and is composed of the small islands of Komodo, Rinca and Padar. The park is best known for its unique wildlife, including the Komodo dragon, which is endemic to these islands.

The Komodo dragon is a species of reptile known for its impressive size and for being the world’s largest living lizard species. These lizards can reach lengths of up to three metres and are impressive hunters.

Komodo National Park is also known for its spectacular coral reefs and the abundant underwater wildlife. Divers and snorkellers from all over the world visit the park to explore the colourful coral gardens, which are home to a variety of fish species, sea turtles and other marine life.

You can extend your tour to include the Komodo Islands, among other places, on this tour.

18) Tulum National Park, Mexico

Located on the Yucatán Peninsula in Mexico, Tulum National Park is an archaeological and natural treasure that attracts visitors from all over the world. The park is known, among other things, for its impressive Mayan ruins.

In addition to its historical treasures, Tulum is also known for its amazing beaches. The white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters form a picturesque backdrop and offer visitors the opportunity to relax and enjoy the sun and sea.

Visit Tulum on this tour.

19) Yala National Park, Sri Lanka

Yala National Park is located in south-eastern Sri Lanka and is the oldest and most famous of the country’s national parks. Known for its incredible biodiversity, lush landscapes and impressive wildlife. The park is home to leopards, elephants, Asian buffalo, wild boar, sambar deer, crocodiles and a host of bird species. Safaris are popular in Yala, and the park has one of the highest concentrations of leopards in the world.

The best time to visit Yala National Park is usually from November to April when it’s dry and easier to spot wildlife due to less vegetation. The park is usually closed in September and October due to the monsoon rains.

You can, for example, experience Yala National Park on this tour.

20) Victoria Falls, Zambia

Victoria Falls is one of the world’s most impressive waterfalls and is known as “the largest curtain of falling water in the world”. The waterfall is about 1.7 kilometres wide and drops more than 100 metres into the gorge, creating an astonishing and mighty natural beauty.

In addition to the waterfall itself, the park offers areas of natural beauty along the Zambezi River with lush forests, wildlife and picturesque views. The area around the waterfall is a paradise for nature photographers and nature enthusiasts.

Victoria Falls is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, underscoring its importance as an area of great natural heritage. A visit to the park gives you the opportunity to experience a place of significant historical and natural value.

The national park is a remarkable destination offerin a wide range of experiences, from the stunning natural beauty of the waterfalls to exciting adventures and unique encounters with wildlife.

You can, for example, experience Victoria Falls on this tour.

21) Bwindi Impenetrable Nationalpark, Uganda

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is famous for being home to a significant population of mountain gorillas. This is one of the only places in the world where you can see the critically endangered mountain gorilla, and gorilla trekking is one of the most unique and unforgettable experiences the park has to offer. Getting right up close to these majestic creatures in their natural habitat is a rare and life-changing experience.

In addition to the gorillas, Bwindi is also home to abundant and varied wildlife, including other primates such as colobus monkeys and blue monkeys, as well as a host of bird and butterfly species.

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is characterised by its dense rainforest, which forms a beautiful, natural backdrop. The landscape is characterised by steep hills, deep valleys and lush flora, making it a beautiful place to explore and photograph.

Visit Bwindi Impenetrable National Park on this tour.

22) Los Glaciares National Park, Argentina

Los Glaciares National Park (Parque Nacional Los Glaciares in Spanish) is a breathtaking national park located in southern Argentina, in the south-western section of Santa Cruz Province. Founded in 1937, the park is named after the array of impressive glaciers that cover the area and contribute to its breathtaking natural beauty.

The national park is best known for its impressive collection of glaciers, including the famous Perito Moreno Glacier. The Perito Moreno Glacier is one of the few glaciers in the world that is still actively growing and it attracts visitors from all over the world eager to see its spectacular ice formations and ice falls.

Los Glaciares is part of the vast Patagonian ice cap, which is one of the world’s largest freshwater reservoirs. This area also contains other notable glaciers such as the Upsala Glacier and the Spegazzini Glacier.

Los Glaciares National Park was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1981 for its outstanding natural beauty and ecological importance.

You can, for example, experience Los Glaciares National Park on this tour.

23) Kilimanjaro National Park, Tanzania

Kilimanjaro is Africa’s highest mountain and an iconic natural wonder. The park offers incredible landscapes with snow-capped peaks, forested areas and alpine meadows.

The park is home to a variety of animal species including elephants, buffaloes, leopards, monkeys and many species of birds. You can also experience rare and unique plants that thrive in Kilimanjaro’s different climate zones.

Climbing Kilimanjaro is a challenging but doable hike for adventurous travellers. There are several routes to choose from, of varying degrees of difficulty, and as climbing Kilimanjaro is a trek, you don’t need any technical climbing skills. It’s a unique opportunity to challenge yourself and experience a beautiful mountain landscape unlike any other in the whole world.

​​​​​​​You can experience Kilimanjaro National Park on all our tours to Kilimanjaro.

24) Tikal National Park, Guatemala

Tikal National Park is an impressive archaeological treasure and one of Guatemala’s most significant cultural treasures. Located in the northern Guatemala, in the middle of the lush Petén forest, Tikal is one of the largest and best-preserved cities of the ancient Mayan civilisation and one of the most visited archaeological sites in Mesoamerica.

Tikal was a powerful city in the Classic Maya period and has a large number of impressive ruins, including temples, pyramids, palaces, residential areas and ball courts. The most iconic building structure is Temple I (Templo del Gran Jaguar), an imposing pyramid that towers into the sky.

Besides its archaeological treasures, Tikal is also an important nature reserve. The park is home to a wide variety of wildlife including jaguars, sloths, howler monkeys, parrots and countless other bird species. Observing wildlife in its natural habitat is an added bonus of the visit.

​​​​​​​You can experience Tikal National Park on our tours to Guatemala.

25) Nam Cat Tien National Park, Vietnam

Dive into the heart of Vietnam and discover a world of unforgettable natural beauty in Nam Cat Tien National Park. Located in the southern part of the country, this park is living proof of Vietnam’s remarkable, lush nature.

Nam Cat Tien National Park which is part of UNESCO’s Biosphere Reserve Programme, welcomes visitors with its dense rainforest, lush grasslands and an abundance of wild waterways. This biological treasure is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, much of which is endangered and rare. It is a paradise for animal lovers who, among other things, can experience gaur, wild boar and a multitude of bird species.

One of the notable features of Nam Cat Tien is Crocodile Lake, a natural lake surrounded by dense forest. This is an ideal place for visitors to observe crocodiles, birds and other wildlife in their natural habitat. In addition, the park offers an extensive network of paths and hiking trails that allow you to explore the forest.

Experience Nam Cat Tien National Park on this tour.

26) Corcovado National Park, Costa Rica

Located on the Osa Peninsula of Costa Rica, Corcovado National Park, is one of the most biodiverse places on earth and a treasure trove for nature lovers and adventurers. The 42,570-hectare park is home to incredible wildlife, lush rainforest and secluded beaches.

It is covered in lush, tropical, flora-rich rainforest, with trees, orchids and bromeliads. The magnificent flora creates a fantastic natural environment for animals and visitors alike.

The park is known for its challenging terrain, including steep trails and rivers. This adds an exciting element to the adventure and makes the journey exciting for experienced hikers and nature lovers.

Experience Corcovado National Park on this tour.

27) Bromo Tengger Semura National Park, Indonesia

Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park is one of the most iconic areas of natural beauty in Indonesia and is located on the island of Java. The national park is known for its dramatic landscapes, active volcanoes, lush forests and unique culture.

It is also home to several impressive volcanoes, the most famous of which is Mount Bromo (Gunung Bromo). Bromo is an active volcano, known for its regular eruptions of steam and ash, creating a dramatic atmosphere. Visitors can head up to the Bromo Crater and enjoy the magnificent view of the surrounding landscape.

Visit Bromo Tengger Semuru National Park on this tour.