10 Unusual Locations Around the World That Deserve a Visit
If you’re looking for unique travel experiences that go beyond the usual tourist spots, there are extraordinary places worldwide that defy expectations and captivate adventurous travelers. From massive rock formations to hidden landscapes with cultural mystique, these destinations will offer you unforgettable experiences. Here are 10 unusual, must-visit places across the globe.
1. The Black Crack – Canyonlands National Park, Utah, USA
At Canyonlands National Park in Utah, you’ll find the Black Crack, a deep, narrow fissure that reaches about 65 feet into the earth along a popular trail. This striking crack offers hikers a thrilling look into the earth’s raw terrain and makes for a great spot to photograph. Caution is advised as visitors peer into its depths, but this awe-inspiring geological feature is worth the journey for its sense of mystery and adventure.
2. Pimburattewa Tank – Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka
Nestled away in the historic region of Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka, lies Pimburattewa Tank, an ancient water reservoir surrounded by serene landscapes and lush greenery. This hidden gem is less frequented by tourists, making it a peaceful escape for those seeking solitude. The tank is a historical marvel of ancient irrigation systems, creating a tranquil atmosphere that perfectly blends nature and culture.
3. El Peñón de Guatapé (Giant Rock) – Antioquia, Colombia
Rising out of the flat landscape, El Peñón de Guatapé is a massive rock formation with a staircase carved directly into its side. Located in the Antioquia region of Colombia, visitors who climb the 700 steps to the top are rewarded with a panoramic view of the surrounding lakes and mountains. The sight is surreal and offers a truly unique perspective on the area’s rugged beauty.
4. Door to Hell – Derweze, Turkmenistan
The “Door to Hell” is a natural gas crater in the Karakum Desert that has been burning continuously for over 50 years. Measuring about 230 feet in diameter, the crater glows with an otherworldly light, especially at night. This eerie, fiery pit draws adventurers looking to witness one of Earth’s most unusual landscapes.
5. Spotted Lake – British Columbia, Canada
Spotted Lake is a saline endorheic lake in British Columbia known for its polka-dot-like appearance during the summer months. Minerals in the lake crystallize, forming distinct pools of different colors that vary based on mineral composition. Indigenous tribes consider the lake sacred, and its unusual appearance attracts photographers and nature enthusiasts alike.
6. Goblin Valley State Park – Utah, USA
Goblin Valley State Park is a bizarre desert landscape filled with thousands of mushroom-shaped rock formations known as “goblins.” These unique hoodoos, formed over millions of years, give the valley an almost alien feel. Visitors can hike among these strange formations and even camp nearby, surrounded by the valley’s otherworldly atmosphere.
7. Salar de Uyuni – Bolivia
Salar de Uyuni, the world’s largest salt flat, stretches across a vast 4,000 square miles of southwestern Bolivia. During the rainy season, a thin layer of water transforms the salt flats into an enormous mirror, creating breathtaking reflections of the sky. The area’s surreal landscape is a popular destination for photographers and travelers seeking an out-of-this-world experience.
8. Catacombs of Paris – Paris, France
Beneath the bustling streets of Paris lies an eerie labyrinth of tunnels filled with the bones of over six million people. The Paris Catacombs were originally quarries, but in the late 18th century, they became an underground ossuary. Visitors can take guided tours to explore this haunting historical site, where bones are arranged in intricate patterns, creating a somber yet fascinating atmosphere.
9. The Hand in the Desert – Atacama Desert, Chile
In the heart of the Atacama Desert, a giant stone hand rises from the ground, reaching toward the sky. Known as “La Mano del Desierto,” this massive sculpture by Chilean artist Mario Irarrázabal stands 36 feet tall and creates a surreal image against the arid landscape. The hand has become a symbol of humanity’s resilience and a popular photo spot for travelers.
10. The Rainbow Mountains – Zhangye Danxia National Park, China
The Rainbow Mountains in Zhangye Danxia National Park are known for their colorful, striped appearance, a result of sandstone and mineral deposits over millions of years. This natural wonder creates a mesmerizing landscape that seems like a painting come to life. Visitors can explore trails and viewing platforms to admire the vivid colors and unique formations of this geological masterpiece.
These unusual destinations around the world offer some of the most remarkable sights and experiences for travelers looking to explore beyond the beaten path. Whether it’s a journey to the Black Crack in Utah, climbing Colombia’s Giant Rock, or discovering the hidden tranquility of Pimburattewa Tank, each location provides a unique perspective on the world’s natural and cultural wonders. Plan your next adventure and uncover the beauty, mystery, and fascination of these unexpected destinations.