5. Huanglong National Park, China
Located in northwest Sichuan in a 5-mile-long valley part of the Minahan mountains, you find another colorful wonder of nature: the Huanglong National Park. It’s a vast area, stretched out along the valley of calcified ponds, streams, waterfalls, and caves, bordered by mysterious woods. It’s also known as Calcification Museum or Heaven Lake. You can only explore by foot; no vehicles of any kind are allowed.
The waterfalls all have romantic names, like Lotus Waterfall or Flying Waterfall, and the ponds’ water comes in all colors of the rainbow. Bear in mind that the park sits at an altitude of over 9,800 feet, so be prepared for altitude sickness. Take your walking tour very slowly, but if you have breathing problems, there are visitor centers throughout which provide oxygen if needed.
The nearest airport is Jiuzhaigou Huanglon, and from there, tours are available, which might be the best option. The best time to visit is summer and fall.
6. Uunartoq Island, Greenland
How would you like the unique experience of sitting in a hot pool whilst icebergs are floating past? That’s exactly what you can do on Uunartoq Island, located in the southernmost tip of Greenland.
Contrary to Iceland, the hot springs are not caused by volcanic activity but by deep crusts of the earth rubbing together. You best go on a guided tour because you can’t reach the island any other way. Your captain will greet you in Quaqortaq harbor and steer you safely across the sea and through the icebergs to the uninhabited island where you still have to walk through rich vegetation until you can jump into the natural pools. The island is supposedly haunted, but never fear you will be in safe hands.
