27 Beautiful Surreal Places To Visit Before You Die

 / 

,
Beautiful Surreal Places To Visit Before You Die

We travel to seek beauty around us to escape the mundane and to understand the culture, to replenish our souls with the richness of scenic beauty. Every travel destination in the world is unique and takes us on a journey that gives our lives true meaning.

The world’s beauty has yet to be fully explored and a single person will never be able to do it alone because there are so many fascinating places to visit, some popular and others underrated.

Have you ever visited a place that reminded you of a dream? It felt unreal because you’ve never seen something so exciting, something you’d imagine that was in books or movies. These less known places are known to be the best destinations in the world for you to explore your wanderlust vibe.

So, seek out the traveller in you and give it wings to land in some of the most exquisite and surreal places to visit that are a visual treat.

Here are 27 beautiful surreal places to visit before you die. Add these to your travel bucket list now!

1. Zhangye Danxia landform in Gansu, China

You can’t afford to miss this one if you want to see the universe at its best. The spectacular Danxia Landforms, which are located in the eastern hillocks of the majestic Qilian Mountains, are not just gorgeous, as that would be too short an adjective, but you will hardly believe this astonishing mountain formation even after a magnificent view.

Nature works its magic here, making you forget about the monotony of everyday life. Can you believe there is a ‘real mountain’, that is delineated in rainbow colors? Visit this place if you want to see something out of your ordinary life. It will undoubtedly increase your desire to travel in more ways than one.


2. The swing at the “End of the World” in Baรฑos, Ecuador

La Casa del Arbol, also known as “The Swing At The End Of The World“, is one of the most famous tourist attractions in Baos, Ecuador. This beautiful swing, located on a mountain cliff next to an active volcano, is something you shouldnโ€™t miss while visiting Baos.

These swings are fun, but let’s be honest, they’re also terrifying. This unique location (2600 metres above sea level) draws visitors from all across the globe just to swing over a cliff. Itโ€™s a perfect place for nomadic souls and those who dare to swing from this height. In addition, you could even view the mesmerising yet terrifying Tungurahua Volcano.

Related: 9 Reasons Why You Should Travel At Least Once In Your Life


3. The Great Blue Hole in Belize

A terrifying treat for your eyes, which lies amidst the Lighthouse Reef, a small atoll 70 km from Belize City. The hole is circular in shape, 318 metres in diameter, and 124 metres deep.

It is situated in the midst of a magnificent and tranquil ocean view. Researchers believe that this massive sinkhole formed thousands of years ago during the glacial period. The Great Blue Hole is also one of UNESCO’s World Heritage Sites.


4. Tulip fields in the Netherlands

When you see vast green patches full of magnificent colours, words of praise will naturally come out of your mouth. The Flower Stripe lined in the Dutch countryside which connects Haarlem and Leiden, is also a great place to frolic among the flowers.

It’s a photographer’s paradise, and who can resist taking a selfie amidst the enticing Tulip Fields? However, tulips bloom between late March and early May, but the best time to see them is in mid-April making it a must-visit for travellers to see the tulips at their most colourful patchwork quilt. 


5. The Hang Son Doong cave in Quang Binh Province, Vietnam

Hang Son Doong Cave has been referred to as the world’s largest natural cave since its discovery and continues to be so today. It has added attractions in the form of the tallest known stalagmites (80 metres) and precious cave pearls to its magnificence and enormous size. The cave has always been a dream of many travellers around the world.

If you are an adventurous soul, this cave is one of the surreal places you should visit before you die, with the exploration of an underwater tunnel.

6. Hitachi Seaside Park in Hitachinaka, Ibaraki, Japan

Located on the coast of Japanโ€™s largest island, Honshu, the Hitachinaka Park with beautiful flowers, will take your breath away and add to one of the many surreal places to visit. It has tulips, nemophilas, and narcissus bloom in the spring, and poppies, roses, sunflowers, and zinnias bloom in the early summer. And when it’s set against the backdrop of the Pacific Ocean, it’s even better.

 This park also has a Ferris wheel, which provides excellent views of the park, as well as a roller-coaster, golf area, a labyrinth, a water playground, and other attractions.


7. Mendenhall Ice Caves of Juneau in Alaska, United States

The Mendenhall Glacier in blue and white is a picturesque place in which water flows over rocks below the blue walls within a partly hollow glacier.

This is created when the ice absorbs all of the colors except blue, which reflects back, and it appears incredibly beautiful.

The enchanting ice caves mesmerize any person because they are formed within an ice chunk, with water constantly flowing through the glacier and forming a passageway. When the beauty of the caves meets the dancing blue waters, something heavenly is created. For those who enjoy trekking, this is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure.

Related: Travel More, Stress Less: 5 Key Tips for a Stress-Free Solo Vacation


8. Mount Roraima in Venezuela, Brazil, and Guyana

Mount Roraima is the place to visit if you’re looking for an enticing view that makes it seem like a fantasy movie. It has remarkable slopes that add a new dimension to this location. Those who are fortunate enough to reach the summit of Mount Roraima will experience seeing black rocks, wildflower gardens and numerous pools.

Aside from that, Mount Roraima is home to the Canaima National Park (30,000 square kilometres), which is home to the world’s rarest flora and fauna. Such as pitcher plants, heathers, and even a diurnal toad.


9. Ancient Region of Anatolia in Cappadocia, Turkey

Cappadocia’s ethereal landscapes are one of Turkey’s most popular natural wonders. The extraordinary permeable cliffs rise from the Central Anatolian plateau and have served as the landscape for an equally fascinating history over the centuries.

It is also known as Asia Minor by the Romans, the area has become a popular tourist destination and a favorite hot air ballooning location. If you want to experience something surreal and feel the essence of the universe, Ancient Region is the place to be.


10. Sea of Stars on Vaadhoo Island in the Maldives

If you want to swim among the stars, you’ll love the concept called the “Sea of Stars” on one of the Indian Ocean’s islands in the Maldives.

Vaadhoo Island is where you’ll most likely find the magical ‘Sea Of Stars’ thanks to its glowing blue waves. Many tourists visit Vaadhoo Island to witness this spectacular phenomenon, which occurs in late summer in the Maldives’ coral reefs. 

The bioluminescence in the water, which makes it appear to be a reflection of the stars above, is caused by phytoplankton, which are marine microorganisms. The effect on the shore is breathtaking, and it is one of the most surreal places to visit before you die.

11. Victoria Falls bordering Zimbabwe and Zambia in Africa

The Victoria Falls, also known as “Mosi oa-Tunya” (“the smoke that thunders”), is located midway along the 2700 km journey of the Zambezi River from its source to the sea.

Don’t worry it’s not an average waterfall, during the rainy season, you can get glimpses of the vast basalt cliff and water sprays which add to the wild beauty of the Zambezi. It’s no surprise that it’s known as the world’s largest curtain of falling water.


12. Trolltunga in Hordaland, Norway

Trolltunga (Troll’s Tongue in English) is one of Norway’s most spectacular scenic cliffs. It’s a rock that juts out of the mountain about 2,000 feet above the ground.

The Hardanger valleys can be seen from the cliff. It is formed of Precambrian rocks and was formed roughly 10,000 years ago during the Ice Age when the edges of the glacier reached the cliff.  It is also the most beautiful hike one can take in Norway. Hikers can access it from mid-June to mid-September.


13. Whitehaven Beach at Whitsunday Island in Australia

One of the surreal places to visit is Whitehaven Beach on Whitsunday Island, it will surely make your trip to Australia unforgettable. This beach is well-known for its beautiful white sands and turquoise and blue water. The sand is very fine, and walks along the beach are so fantastical that they appear magical.

 It is Queensland’s cleanest beach, as well as the world’s top eco-friendly beach. Activities such as sea kayaking or rafting can be included if you enjoy an adventure. 


14. The Grand Canyon in Arizona, United States

Regarded as one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, the Grand Canyon is a magnificent beauty that stretches for 277 miles and is 18 miles wide.

The formation of this started 70 million years ago as a series of smaller canyons, but most of the canyon did not form until much later. Isnโ€™t that fascinating? There is also a Grand Canyon Park in Arizona vividly depicting geologic history in the form of layered colourful rock bands.


15. Marble Caves at General Carrera Lake in Patagonia, Argentina and Chile

There canโ€™t be anything more beautiful than nature. One such fine example is the Marble Caves (also known as the Capillas de Mรกrmol) is one of Patagonia’s hidden-gems to visit. The caves are synchronized and sculpted into marble, which is something to be admired and treasured.

The Marble Caves are the result of over 6000 years of aquamarine seawater washing up against calcium carbonate. It is in the center of General Carrera Lake and people can visit this place with the help of a kayak or boat.

16. The Railway Engulfed in a Tunnel

Ukrainians refer to it as the “Tunnel of Love.” This tunnel is one of the most photographed locations and visitors from all over the world come to see the famous tree tunnel that runs through the small town of Klevan. 

It is undoubtedly a romantic spot for lovers to take photos or visit on a date, but one can reportedly trace its origins all the way back to the tensions and secrecy of the Cold War. 


17. Salar De Uyuni in the Potosรญ and Oruro departments of southwest Bolivia

There are many places on Earth that are considered fabulous in a unique and mystical way. One of them is the Salar de Uyuni. In Spanish, it is known as Salar de Tunupa, which translates as “salt flat enclosure.”

This is also the largest salt flat on the earth. During the rainy season, it also transforms into a massive mirror of the sky. The Salar was formed as a result of several changes in prehistoric lakes.


18. Enchanted Well at Chapada Diamantina in Bahia, Brazil

The Enchanted Well, also known as “Poco Encantado,” is situated in Bahia, Brazil’s Chapada Diamantina National Park. 

The majestic features of this well are that it is located in a limestone cave and are famous because the crystal clear water along with pebbles and tree stumps are clearly visible. The best time to visit this is between April and September when the deep blue waters are illuminated by the sun’s light.


19. Antelope Canyon in Arizona, United States

As surreal as it sounds, the stunning Antelope Canyon, located near Page, Arizona, is divided into two sections known as Upper Antelope Canyon, and Lower Antelope Canyon. They’re also referred to as “The Crack” and “The Corkscrew”.

This designation is definitely a photographer’s paradise as you will get mesmerising photographs in this with its sublimity and grandeur. 


20. Fingal’s Cave on the island of Staffa in Scotland

Fingal’s Cave is the most well-known cave on the Scottish island of the Inner Hebrides. Although this block structure appears to be man-made, it was actually formed by lava flow.

The cave has the feel of a fantasy movie set. It is, without a doubt, one of the most surreal places to go for anyone who is fascinated by mysterious locations.


21. To Sua Ocean Trench in the Lotofaga village on the south coast of Upolu, Samoa

The To Sua situated in Upolu is a beautiful garden park overlooking the southeast coast of the island.

Many consider To Sua to be the worldโ€™s most exciting swimming pool. It consists of animated-like vegetation, explosive blowholes and a few hidden coastal tunnels that adds to its beauty. The swimming poolโ€™s water flows into the deep hole through a lava tube tunnel.

22. Bamboo groves of Arashiyama in Kyoto, Japan

This forest’s magnificence and greenery casts a unique spell on all nature lovers, making it one of the most underrated places to visit in Japan.

It is also known as the “Bamboo Forest,” and is popular for long walks or bicycle rides. The giant bamboo groves are quite common in Japan, but there is something about this place that is so unique and fulfiling. 


23. Glowworm Caves in Waitomo, New Zealand

The Glowworm Grotto in the Waitomo Caves is a place where glowworms create a starry effect on the ceiling of the cave, making it magical for anyone who visits. The species of this glowworm can only be found in New Zealand.

Most people are only familiar with the three main caves in Waitomo, but did you know that there are hundreds of caves there? Isn’t that amazing?


24. Haiku Stairs of Oahu in Hawaii, United States

The Haiku Stairs, also known as the Stairway to Heaven, is designed to be a steep ladder staircase that was earlier supplied as pedestrian access to former US military bases for Navy communication on the Hawaiian island of Oahu.

While it might be one of the surreal places to visit, climbing those stairs is not a piece of cake. It has a total of 3,922 steps spanning Oahu’s Ko’olau mountain range.


25. Volcanoes of Kamchatka in Russia

Being one of the highest volcanoes with a height of nearly 16,000 feet, the Klyuchevskaya Sopka is definitely one of the most mysterious yet surreal places to visit. 

This magnificent chain of volcanoes is located on the Kamchatka Peninsula, and hereโ€™s a fun fact, did you know 19 of them are still active?


26. Cenotes of Yucatรกn Peninsula in Mexico

The mysterious  Cenotes of Yucatรกn are natural sinkholes on Mexico’s Yucatรกn Peninsula. These sinkholes have been formed as a result of collapsing bedrock and exposing hidden pools of groundwater beneath the soil.

The unique appeal and magical atmosphere of the Cenotes make it a well-known destination among travellers. 


27. Kelimutu crater lakes in Flores Island, Indonesia

The Kelimutu crater lakes are a mystery in themselves. Each of the three water bodies at the top of Indonesia’s Kelimutu volcano is a different colour from red to blue.

The two lakes are the Lake of Old People, also known as Tiwi Ata Mbupu, and the Lake of Young Men and Maidens, also known as Tiwu Nua Muri Kooh Tai. The colours change on a regular basis and have become popular among travellers who want a surreal experience.

The takeaway

From volcanoes to caves and mysterious forests, these surreal places to visit aren’t just magical, but a discovery to the depths of your soul.

We hope you enjoyed finding the perfect place to add to your bucket list.


27 Beautifully Surreal Places To Visit Before You Die
27 Beautiful Surreal Places To Visit
Beautiful Surreal Places Visit Before You Die Pin
Beautiful Surreal Places To Visit Before You Die pin

— Share —

— About the Author —

Response

  1. Michael A Moccio Avatar
    Michael A Moccio

    Very beautiful pictures! Unfortunately, other than The Grand Canyon, it it very unlikely that I will ever be able to visit any of the other destinations here at all!

Leave a Reply



Up Next

Snow Much Fun: 12 Best Winter Destinations For Your Zodiac Sign

Best Winter Destinations For Your Zodiac Sign

A season we all enjoy is coming to an end, but before things come to a close, take a look at some of the best winter destinations for your zodiac sign! Thereโ€™s something special in the air about this time of year. So, we’ve added some magical places to enjoy a cold winter break!

With heavy sweaters, snow days, and hot cocoa in front of the fireplace, winter is loved by all โ€“ and how can it not be? But have you decided where to travel in winter yet?

Donโ€™t worry about that right now though. Because if youโ€™re stumped on where to go, weโ€™ve got you covered! We have the perfect winter travel for zodiac signs!



Up Next

Anxiety From Traveling? 10 Hacks for Fearless Adventures

Anxiety From Traveling? Hacks for Stress-Free Travel

Do you want to explore new places and have exciting adventures but you are afraid of traveling? You are not alone. Many people have anxiety from traveling that can damper the excitement of an otherwise happy event. 

Let us explore travel anxiety meaning, how it feels like, and travel anxiety causes. By understanding these aspects, one can learn ways to overcome travel anxiety and enjoy the trip better.

Understanding Travel Anxiety Meaning

Travel anxiety meaning: Travel anxie



Up Next

Are Your Holidays Lacking Sparkle? Try These 12 Amazing Holiday Tips!

Amazing Holiday Tips To Add Sparkle To Your Celebration

After clearing the Thanksgiving dishes and checking our money situation after Black Friday, we realize the holiday season is just getting started! And you have so much left to do!

Getting through the holidays without stress can be hard. But even with all the holiday tasks, we can try to remember to take a deep breath.

To make things less stressful, here are some really good holiday tips. They’re like a guide to help you smoothly go through the Christmas season without too much trouble.

Holiday Tips To Reduce Stress

Take a look at the below holiday tips to have a stress free experience this season:



Up Next

10 Best Places To Travel In 2024: Your Ultimate Wanderlust Guide

Best Places To Travel In 2024: Your Ultimate Travel Guide

Planning to travel the world in 2024? If you want to explore the most beautiful places and create lasting memories in the new year, then it’s time to unveil the best places to travel in 2024.

Top 5 Tourist Places in The World

There is no doubt that traveling is one of the greatest experiences of life as it offers a break from routine, introduces new cultures, creates lasting memories, and fosters personal growth. The sense of adventure and exploration associated with traveling ignites a positive impact on our



Up Next

40+ Quotes About Adventure And Life To Awaken Your Wanderlust

Best Quotes About Adventure And Life To Inspire You

Someone once said, ‘Adventure is worthwhile in itself.’ And indeed, it is! Today, we’ll embark on a journey through the wisdom of some remarkable quotes about adventure and life.

Are you ready to embark on a journey through the enchanting world of quotes about adventure and travel to ignite your wanderlust? Well, adventure is like a siren’s call, beckoning us to explore the unknown, to seek out new horizons, and to embrace the thrill of the unexpected.

Inspirational Quotes About Adventure And Life

Whether you’re a seasoned



Up Next

Why Traveling Alone Is Good For Your Soul: 7 Solo Travel Benefits You Must Experience

Seven Solo Travel Benefits: Why Travel Alone And How To Start

Are you feeling stuck in a rut and in need of an adventure? Have you ever considered traveling alone? Solo travel is a great way to see the world, meet new people, and learn more about yourself. Letโ€™s explore some solo travel benefits, tips and tricks that can transform your life.

What is solo traveling? 

Solo traveling is when a person travels alone without any companions, such as friends or family. It is a form of travel where the individual takes a trip alone, and is responsible for planning, organizing and navigating the trip on their own. 

So what is solo traveling? Itโ€™s just traveling alone. Solo



Up Next

Top 14 Most Visited Religious Places In The World

Most Visited Religious Places In The World: Sacred Sites

Are you curious about the most visited religious places in the world and the spiritual significance they hold?

Throughout history, humans have been drawn to places that are considered sacred because of their spiritual significance. These places often have a deep-rooted connection to our beliefs, values, and traditions. 

They are considered holy, and people visit them to connect with the divine, their faith, seek enlightenment, or simply to find peace and solace. Journey with us as we explore the transformative power of sacred places in the world and pilgrimage destinations.

What are sacred places and pilgrimage sites?