What Are the Best Holidays for Nature Lovers? Destinations You’ll Love

Whether you're yearning for icy landscapes or tropical excursions, nature-focused destinations will leave you spellbound. You'll uncover pristine wilderness and extraordinary wildlife in Antarctica's dramatic seascapes, or witness the raw power of fire and ice in Iceland's otherworldly terrain. Tanzania offers unforgettable safari experiences with the Big Five, while Uganda lets you trek alongside mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. In Guatemala's Petén region, you can investigate ancient Maya ruins surrounded by lush jungles teeming with exotic wildlife. These magnificent destinations are just the beginning of your expedition into Earth's most spectacular natural wonders.

Icy Wonders of Antarctica

Exploring the pristine wilderness of Antarctica offers nature enthusiasts an unparalleled excursion into Earth's most untamed continent. You'll encounter a remarkable display of Antarctic wildlife, including eight distinct penguin species, with the majestic emperor penguins stealing the spotlight. The dramatic seascapes reveal a thriving ecosystem where whales breach the icy waters and seals bask on floating ice sheets.

You can immerse yourself in this polar paradise through exhilarating activities like sea kayaking alongside towering icebergs or participating in an invigorating polar plunging venture. The stunning landscape features brilliant blue glaciers that create an otherworldly atmosphere, making every moment feel magical and surreal.

For an extraordinary wildlife experience, don't miss South Georgia Island, nicknamed the "Galapagos of the South." Here, you'll witness an incredible concentration of marine life and diverse Antarctic species in their natural habitat. The island's rich biodiversity offers unmatched opportunities to observe thousands of creatures thriving in this harsh yet beautiful environment. Whether you're photographing breaching whales or watching penguin colonies waddle across the ice, Antarctica delivers unforgettable encounters with nature at its most pristine.

Iceland's Dramatic Landscapes

Iceland bursts forth with raw natural power, where fire and ice collide to create some of Earth's most striking vistas. As one of the world's premier nature holidays destinations, you'll find yourself surrounded by an otherworldly landscape where steaming hot springs neighbor towering glaciers, and active volcanoes shape the national terrain.

The Ring Road serves as your gateway to Iceland's natural wonders, leading you through dramatic coastlines and sweeping fjords. You'll investigate places that seem pulled from fantasy, from the therapeutic waters of the Blue Lagoon to the iconic Golden Circle route, where geothermal activity creates spectacular displays. During winter months, you can witness the ethereal Northern Lights dancing across the arctic sky, adding another layer of magic to your visit.

For nature enthusiasts, Iceland's network of hiking trails offers endless explorations. You'll trek through vast lava fields, stand in awe before thundering waterfalls, and traverse pristine glacial landscapes. Every turn reveals new natural phenomena, from steaming geothermal vents to crystal-clear ice caves, making Iceland an unparalleled destination for those seeking immersion in Earth's raw beauty.

Tanzania's Wild Safari Paradise

From the Arctic domain of Iceland, we travel to Africa's crown jewel of wildlife viewing: Tanzania. In this remarkable destination, you'll explore some of the planet's most extraordinary natural wonders and wildlife encounters. At the heart of Tanzania's allure lies the legendary Serengeti National Park, where you'll witness one of Earth's greatest concentrations of wildlife, including the prestigious Big Five - lions, leopards, elephants, rhinos, and buffalo.

For an unforgettable wildlife safari experience, you can't miss the Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that serves as a natural amphitheater for countless African animals. Here, you'll find yourself surrounded by an impressive density of wildlife in their natural habitat. When you're ready to challenge yourself, Mount Kilimanjaro beckons with its towering presence, offering you the chance to hike Africa's highest peak.

Nature lovers will also be enthralled by Tanzania's more unusual attractions, such as the active volcano Ol Doinyo Lengai and the surreal Lake Natron, where pink flamingos create a mesmerizing spectacle. With its diverse national parks and reserves, Tanzania provides you with unparalleled opportunities to experience nature at its most magnificent.

Uganda's Mountain Gorilla Territory

While Tanzania showcases the Big Five, Uganda enthralls nature lovers with its most precious inhabitants - the mountain gorillas. In this enchanting corner of the natural world, you'll find over half of the planet's remaining mountain gorillas, with Bwindi Impenetrable National Park serving as their primary sanctuary.

Your wildlife fix in Uganda centers around an unforgettable gorilla trekking experience. You'll spend between two to seven hours hiking through lush jungle terrain with expert guides, following specific protocols designed to protect these magnificent creatures. It's a testament to the conservation achievements that the gorilla population has grown from 600 in the 1980s to over 1,000 today.

Beyond the mountain gorillas, Uganda's national parks offer an incredible array of wildlife encounters. You'll have the chance to witness unique phenomena like tree-climbing lions, observe our closest relatives - the chimpanzees - in their natural habitat, and spot some of the country's 1,000-plus bird species. For the ultimate nature immersion, you can combine your gorilla trek with traditional safari experiences, making Uganda a must-visit destination for wildlife enthusiasts seeking extraordinary encounters.

Guatemala's Ancient Jungle Temples

Venturing into Guatemala's Petén region reveals a mesmerizing blend of ancient Maya civilization and untamed wilderness. As you journey into this tropical jungle, you'll uncover magnificent temples like Tikal, where stone structures pierce through the forest canopy, creating an unforgettable fusion of natural beauty and archaeological treasures.

The region's hiking trails lead you through dense vegetation to hidden Maya sites like Yaxha and El Mirador, where each step brings you closer to understanding the area's rich cultural heritage. While trekking through the jungle, you'll encounter diverse wildlife that calls this ecosystem home. Keep your eyes peeled for playful troops of monkeys swinging through the canopy, curious coatis foraging in the underbrush, and colorful toucans perched in the treetops. If you're lucky, you might even spot Guatemala's national bird, the resplendent quetzal, adding a splash of vibrant color to your expedition.

Unlike destinations known for pristine beaches, Guatemala's Petén offers a different kind of natural paradise where ancient ruins and wildlife create an explorer's haven that combines history, culture, and untamed wilderness in one extraordinary experience.

Costa Rica's Tropical Wildlife Haven

Deep in the heart of Central America, Costa Rica stands as nature's ultimate playground, where an astounding 6% of the world's biodiversity thrives within its compact borders. As one of the World's Best Nature destinations, this tropical paradise protects over 11% of its territory through national parks and reserves, making it the perfect spot for wildlife enthusiasts.

You'll find yourself immersed in a bucket list plunge as you explore Costa Rica's diverse ecosystems. From pristine beaches to misty cloud forests, you can spot fascinating creatures like lazy sloths, howler monkeys, and colorful toucans in their natural habitat. The country's commitment to sustainable tourism means you'll have plenty of eco-friendly accommodation options, with ecolodges nestled throughout the wilderness.

For the best nature experience, you can combine wildlife watching with thrilling activities like ziplining through rainforest canopies, hiking active volcanoes, or joining local chocolate tours. Costa Rica's dedication to conservation and accessibility has made it one of the world's most appealing destinations for responsible tourism, allowing you to enjoy nature's wonders while supporting environmental preservation.

New Zealand's Natural Playground

Across the pristine scenery of New Zealand, you'll uncover a natural playground that rivals any destination on Earth. With over 10,000 protected areas and 13 national parks, this stunning natural wonderland has earned its reputation as one of the world's premier nature destinations. You'll find yourself surrounded by incredible natural vistas that National Geographic photographers dream of capturing.

As a leader in sustainable tourism, New Zealand offers you countless ways to immerse yourself in nature while supporting conservation efforts. You can spend your time in nature spotting unique wildlife, hiking through World Heritage Sites, or investigating active volcanoes. The country's booming ecotourism sector provides rewarding experiences, from educational farm visits to cultural encounters with Maori communities.

Whether you're ziplining through ancient forests, joining chocolate tours, or discovering remote wilderness areas, you'll appreciate how New Zealand protects 11% of its land through national parks and reserves. The country's commitment to accessibility means you can easily explore these conservation areas, making it perfect for nature enthusiasts seeking authentic outdoor adventures while supporting responsible travel practices.

Namibia's Desert Wilderness

The stark beauty of Namibia's desert wilderness beckons inquisitive travelers with its otherworldly terrain and untamed spirit. The ancient Namib Desert, with its towering sand dunes and dramatic landscapes, offers you a nature vacation unlike any other. You'll find yourself mesmerized by the endless horizons and the interplay of light and shadow across the desert's vast expanse.

At Etosha National Park, you can embark on self-drive safaris to witness nature and wildlife in their element. You'll encounter desert-adapted elephants, lions, and rhinos against the backdrop of shimmering salt pans. The mysterious Skeleton Coast adds another dimension to your journey, where you can investigate haunting shipwrecks and observe thriving seal colonies along the windswept shoreline.

For those seeking an adrenaline rush, you can sandboard down massive dunes, soar above the desert in a hot air balloon, or traverse the terrain on a quad bike. The country's rich heritage is evident in its ancient rock art sites and abandoned diamond mining towns, offering you glimpses into both prehistoric times and colonial history.

Canadian Rocky Mountain Adventures

From desert sands to soaring peaks, adventurous spirits will find their next calling in the Canadian Rockies. You'll investigate pristine alpine landscapes where snow-capped mountains pierce the sky and turquoise glacial lakes mirror the surrounding wilderness. In Banff National Park, Canada's oldest natural preserve, you can traverse the iconic Lake Louise and drive the spectacular Icefields Parkway, with the historic Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel offering a luxurious base for your exploits.

Venture into Jasper National Park's extensive trail network, where you'll have the chance to spot caribou, mountain goats, and even grizzly bears in their natural habitat. The park's dramatic glaciers and cascading waterfalls create perfect photo opportunities at every turn. In Yoho National Park, you won't want to miss Takakkaw Falls, one of Canada's highest waterfalls, or the fascinating Burgess Shale fossil beds.

For winter enthusiasts, the Kootenay Rockies region delivers world-class escapades. You can try heli-skiing near Mount Robson, the region's highest peak, or roam the snowy wilderness by snowshoe or dogsled, immersing yourself in the raw beauty of these majestic mountains.

Ireland's Wild Green Coasts

Nature enthusiasts seeking raw coastal beauty will find their paradise along Ireland's dramatic 3,000-mile shoreline. You'll uncover countless opportunities for coastal hikes, wild camping, and secluded wild swimming spots that'll take your breath away. The rugged coastline seamlessly blends with the verdant interior, where the Wicklow Mountains and Mountains of Kerry offer spectacular hiking trails through Ireland's lush landscapes.

For an extraordinary geological experience, head to the Burren in County Clare, where rare wildflowers bloom among the distinctive karst topography. This UNESCO Global Geopark showcases Ireland's unique natural heritage, while the nearby Cliffs of Moher rise majestically above the Atlantic, providing a sanctuary for diverse seabird species.

Key attractions for nature lovers include:

• The towering Cliffs of Moher, rising over 700 feet, offering prime spots for watching puffins and gannets
• The wild Wicklow Mountains' network of hiking trails through untamed wilderness
• The Burren's otherworldly limestone terrain dotted with rare flora
• Remote offshore havens like the Aran Islands and Skellig Islands, where traditional Gaelic culture meets pristine natural habitats

Isles of Scilly Wildlife

While Ireland's wild coasts enchant with their dramatic cliffs, Britain's own natural paradise awaits just off the Cornish coast. The Isles of Scilly stand as the country's most idyllic wildlife-rich archipelago, where you'll uncover an extraordinary blend of natural wonders and botanical treasures.

You'll find yourself wandering along powder-soft beaches, where the crystal-clear waters reveal an abundance of marine life. Keep your eyes peeled for Atlantic grey seals lounging on rocky outcrops, while porpoises and dolphins regularly break the surface of the surrounding waters. For plant enthusiasts, Tresco Abbey Garden offers an unmissable experience with its collection of over 20,000 rare and exotic plants thriving in this unique microclimate.

To truly understand the islands' rich biodiversity, you can join a nature-focused tour led by the Chief Executive of the Isles of Scilly Wildlife Trust. This expert-guided experience will help you explore hidden gems and provide perspectives into the delicate ecosystems that make these islands so special. Whether you're a seasoned naturalist or simply seeking to connect with nature, the Isles of Scilly offer an unparalleled wildlife experience in British waters.

Slovenia's Natural Parks

Hidden between the Alps and the Adriatic Sea, Slovenia's protected wilderness areas showcase some of Europe's most pristine natural wonders. You'll uncover three stunning national parks among over 50 protected areas that cover 14% of this compact country. At Triglav National Park in the Julian Alps, you can investigate dramatic limestone peaks and pristine glacial lakes while keeping an eye out for Eurasian lynx and brown bears.

The country's commitment to sustainable tourism is evident through its Green Scheme certification program and eco-friendly accommodations. You'll find exceptional natural diversity across Slovenia's parks, including:

• The UNESCO World Heritage Škocjan Caves, featuring a remarkable underground karst river canyon
• Pristine old-growth forests in Snežnik Nature Park, home to the endangered Dinaric brown bear
• Dramatic Alpine landscapes with crystal-clear mountain lakes and waterfalls
• Rich biodiversity zones protecting numerous endangered species and their habitats

Whether you're trekking through ancient forests, exploring underground cave systems, or capturing Alpine vistas, Slovenia's protected areas offer you an authentic connection with nature while maintaining high environmental standards through their sustainable tourism practices.

Norway's Northern Lights

Deep within the Arctic Circle, Norway's Northern Lights alter winter nights into a celestial spectacle of dancing colors. If you're planning Nature Vacations that combine breathtaking landscapes with extraordinary phenomena, Norway offers you an unmatched opportunity between September and March.

You'll find some of the best places to observe the Northern Lights dancing across the sky in Tromsø and the Lofoten Islands. These regions not only showcase dramatic rock formations and blue glaciers but also provide the perfect backdrop for this ethereal light show. In February 2025, you can venture on a cruise above the Arctic Circle, where a "Chief Aurora Chaser" will guide you to maximize your chance to spot these mesmerizing displays.

For an equally fascinating experience, consider joining a 12-day cruise in March 2025, accompanied by an adventure photographer who'll help you capture the perfect shots. During these cruises, you'll investigate Norway's stunning fjords while waiting for nightfall, when the sky transforms into a canvas of swirling colors. The longer, darker winter nights significantly increase your chances of witnessing this extraordinary natural phenomenon.

Scotland's Untamed Highlands

Scotland's untamed Highlands rise majestically from ancient bedrock, creating a wild sanctuary where nature still reigns supreme. You'll uncover sweeping glens carpeted with heather and ancient Caledonian pine forests that offer exceptional wildlife-viewing opportunities. From observing majestic red deer to spotting golden eagles soaring overhead, the Highlands deliver unforgettable encounters with Scotland's most iconic creatures.

The region's untamed natural beauty reaches its pinnacle on the Isle of Skye, where you'll find yourself enthralled by the dramatic Talisker Bay cliffs and the ethereal Fairy Pools. Along the North Atlantic coastline, you can watch colonies of puffins nesting on rocky outcrops while seals and dolphins play in the churning waters below.

• Trek through mystical environments dotted with ancient stone circles
• Photograph red deer against the backdrop of crumbling castles
• Search for the legendary monster at mysterious Loch Ness
• Spot wildcats in secluded glens and remote valleys

Whether you're hiking remote trails or exploring historic ruins, the Highlands offer a perfect blend of natural wonders and cultural heritage that will fascinate your adventurous spirit.

Galapagos Natural Wonders

The Galapagos Islands burst with evolutionary marvels, creating a living museum where you'll encounter some of Earth's most extraordinary creatures. As a UNESCO World Heritage site, these islands harbor an incredible array of endemic species, with 97% of land animals and 25% of marine life found nowhere else on Earth.

You'll explore diverse wildlife at every turn, from the famous Darwin's finches to the iconic giant tortoises that roam freely across the volcanic terrain. The islands' natural panoramas offer a dramatic backdrop for wildlife viewing, featuring striking black sand beaches, mysterious lava tunnels, and towering volcanic craters.