LAST UPDATED: 4/18/26 – Best National Parks in the World to Visit

The world is full of breathtaking landscapes, spectacular wildlife, and incredible wonders that will blow your mind. Thankfully, many of these amazing places have been protected for current and future generations to enjoy by being designated as National Parks.

Each year, new parklands are protected for travelers to enjoy, so the list of wonderful places to visit is only growing. If you are anything like me, then you probably want to visit as many of these beautiful parklands as you can. Well, you are in luck because I have put together a list of the 100 best national parks in the world for travelers to visit.

In this installment of the 100 Best National Parks in the World for Travelers to Visit, I am going to cover the first group of parks that I think travelers should have on their radar. Even though these are the 81-100 ranked parks on my list, it doesn’t mean these parks are any less spectacular than the parks that I have ranked higher. In fact, there are several parks in this group that I have enjoyed visiting multiple times because I love them so much. Without further ado, let’s get into the beautiful parks that I think travelers should add to their bucket lists.

100. Ojców National Park, Poland

Ojcow National Park is Poland’s smallest national park, but its limestone cliffs, castle ruins, and lush valleys make it feel surprisingly grand. Travelers come for peaceful forest trails, dramatic rock formations, and the historic Ojców Castle, which overlooks the Prądnik River. Its blend of nature and heritage helps explain why it’s often mentioned alongside some of the most intriguing parks in the world.

Caves like Łokietek’s Cave add a sense of mystery, while wooden architecture and riverside paths create a calm, atmospheric setting. Wildlife watchers appreciate the bats, owls, and rare plants that thrive in this sheltered landscape. It’s a compact but rewarding stop for travelers seeking quieter corners of Europe.

99. Bohemian Switzerland National Park, Czech Republic

Bohemian Switzerland National Park is famous for its sandstone towers, deep gorges, and the iconic Pravčická Gate, one of Europe’s largest natural stone arches. Its cinematic scenery has earned it a reputation as one of the most photogenic parks in the world, drawing hikers, photographers, and nature lovers year‑round.

The Kamenice Gorge offers peaceful boat rides between towering cliffs, while forest trails lead to panoramic viewpoints above the Elbe River. The park’s mix of rugged rock formations and serene woodland makes it a standout destination for travelers seeking dramatic landscapes without overwhelming crowds.

98. Cape Breton Highlands National Park, Canada

Cape Breton Highlands National Park blends ocean cliffs, boreal forest, and sweeping highland plateaus along Nova Scotia’s famous Cabot Trail. The coastal viewpoints are among the most striking in North America, offering dramatic drops into the Atlantic and unforgettable sunset vistas.

Moose, bald eagles, and whales are common sightings, and the Skyline Trail remains one of Canada’s most beloved hikes. With its rugged coastline and peaceful forests, the park delivers a perfect mix of adventure and tranquility.

97. Sierra Nevada National Park, Spain

Sierra Nevada National Park in Spain is home to the highest peaks on the Iberian Peninsula, offering alpine lakes, rocky summits, and sweeping Mediterranean views. Its high‑altitude trails attract hikers seeking challenging routes and crisp mountain air.

In winter, the region transforms into one of Europe’s southernmost ski destinations. Villages around the park provide charming cultural stops, blending Andalusian heritage with mountain landscapes.

96. Koli National Park, Finland

Koli National Park is one of Finland’s most iconic natural areas, known for its rolling hills, quiet forests, and panoramic views over Lake Pielinen. The summit of Ukko‑Koli is especially famous, inspiring artists and writers for generations.

Visitors enjoy peaceful hiking, traditional Finnish saunas, and winter activities like snowshoeing. The park’s calm, meditative atmosphere makes it a favorite for travelers seeking nature‑focused retreats.

95. Blue Mountains National Park, Australia

The Blue Mountains of Australia are defined by eucalyptus forests, sandstone cliffs, and the iconic Three Sisters rock formation. The region’s blue haze—created by eucalyptus oil droplets—gives the landscape a dreamy, atmospheric quality.

Hiking trails, waterfalls, and scenic lookouts make it a top escape from Sydney. Travelers also enjoy Aboriginal cultural sites and charming mountain towns filled with cafés and galleries.

94. Tayrona National Park, Colombia

Tayrona National Park on Colombia’s Caribbean coast blends jungle‑covered mountains with white‑sand beaches and turquoise water. Its coastal trails lead through thick rainforest to secluded coves framed by massive granite boulders.

Wildlife is abundant, from monkeys to tropical birds, and the park’s cultural history is tied to the Indigenous Kogi people. It’s a rare place where mountains, jungle, and sea meet in one compact, breathtaking setting.

93. Gros Morne National Park, Canada

Gros Morne National Park in Newfoundland is a geological wonder, showcasing fjords, cliffs, and exposed mantle rock that helped scientists understand plate tectonics. Its dramatic landscapes make it one of the most scientifically significant parks in the world.

Boat tours through Western Brook Pond reveal towering cliffs and pristine water, while coastal villages offer cultural charm. The mix of rugged wilderness and friendly communities creates a memorable travel experience.

92. Kakadu National Park, Australia

Kakadu National Park is Australia’s largest national park, known for wetlands, escarpments, and ancient Aboriginal rock art. Its biodiversity and cultural significance place it among the most important parks in the world.

Saltwater crocodiles, birdlife, and seasonal waterfalls draw nature lovers, while sites like Ubirr and Nourlangie showcase thousands of years of human history. The shifting landscapes between wet and dry seasons make every visit unique.

91. Killarney National Park, Ireland

Killarney National Park in Ireland features lakes, mountains, and oak woodlands surrounding the scenic town of Killarney. The park’s landscapes are dotted with historic sites like Muckross House and Ross Castle.

Visitors enjoy boat rides, cycling routes, and wildlife such as red deer. The combination of natural beauty and cultural heritage makes it one of Ireland’s most beloved destinations.

90. Acadia National Park, United States

Acadia National Park on Maine’s coast blends rocky shorelines, granite peaks, and dense forest. Cadillac Mountain offers sunrise views that attract travelers from around the world.

Carriage roads, coastal trails, and wildlife like peregrine falcons make the park a favorite for outdoor enthusiasts. Its mix of ocean and mountain scenery is uniquely New England.

89. Tassili n’Ajjer National Park, Algeria

Tassili N’Ajjer National Park in Algeria is a vast desert plateau filled with sandstone formations and prehistoric rock art. Its remote landscapes feel otherworldly, earning it recognition as one of the most extraordinary parks in the world.

Travelers explore labyrinthine canyons and ancient paintings that reveal thousands of years of human history. The combination of geology and archaeology makes it a destination unlike any other.

88. Rocky Mountain National Park, United States

Rocky Mountain National Park in Colorado showcases towering peaks, alpine lakes, and abundant wildlife. Trail Ridge Road offers sweeping views above the treeline, making it one of the most scenic drives in North America.

Elk, bighorn sheep, and over 280 bird species thrive here, and the park’s varied elevations create diverse ecosystems. It’s a classic American mountain destination with year‑round appeal.

87. Ordesa National Park, Spain

Ordesa y Monte Perdido National Park in Spain features deep glacial valleys, towering cliffs, and high‑altitude meadows. The Ordesa Valley is especially famous for its dramatic walls and cascading waterfalls.

Hikers enjoy routes that lead to panoramic viewpoints and quiet alpine plateaus. The park’s rugged beauty makes it a standout in the Pyrenees.

86. Sundarban National Park, India

Sundarbans National Park in India is the world’s largest mangrove forest and home to the elusive Bengal tiger. Its tidal waterways and dense mangroves create a mysterious, ever‑shifting landscape.

Boat safaris reveal crocodiles, birds, and unique plant life. The park’s ecological importance places it among the most vital parks in the world.

85. Olympic National Park, United States

Olympic National Park in Washington State contains rainforest, rugged coastline, and glacier‑capped mountains all within one protected area. Its diversity makes it one of the most versatile parks in the world.

Visitors can explore tide pools, moss‑covered forests, and alpine ridges in a single day. The park’s dramatic contrasts make it a favorite for photographers and hikers.

84. Tongariro National Park, New Zealand

Tongariro National Park in New Zealand is known for volcanic peaks, emerald lakes, and dramatic alpine terrain. The Tongariro Alpine Crossing is often considered one of the best day hikes on the planet.

The park’s cultural significance to the Māori people adds depth to its natural beauty. Its volcanic landscapes feel both ancient and alive.

83. Triglav National Park, Slovenia

Triglav National Park in Slovenia centers around Mount Triglav, the country’s highest peak. Its turquoise rivers, alpine meadows, and limestone cliffs create postcard‑worthy scenery.

Visitors enjoy hiking, rafting, and exploring charming mountain villages. The park’s pristine landscapes make it a highlight of the Julian Alps.

82. Arenal Volcano National Park, Costa Rica

Arenal Volcano National Park in Costa Rica features rainforest trails, lava fields, and views of the perfectly conical Arenal Volcano. Hot springs and wildlife sightings add to its appeal.

The park’s mix of volcanic terrain and lush jungle makes it a favorite for adventure travelers. It’s an ideal destination for those seeking both relaxation and exploration.

81. Bryce Canyon National Park, United States

Bryce Canyon National Park in Utah is famous for its hoodoos—tall, thin rock spires carved by erosion. Sunrise and sunset illuminate the amphitheaters in vivid shades of red and orange.

Hiking trails wind through surreal formations, offering views found nowhere else in the American Southwest. Its unique geology makes it one of the most visually striking parks in the world.

Don’t Forget to Subscribe to My Adventures!

Let Me Help You Save On Your Next Adventure!

‘Start Exploring Today’ Merchandise Available Now!