LAST UPDATED: 4/18/26 – Must‑see World National Parks

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.

We are getting close to the top of my list of the 100 Best National Parks in the World for Travelers to Visit, and in this installment, I am going to cover the parks that I rank between 21-40 on my list. There are some absolutely iconic park names on this segment of my list, with everything from the world’s 6th largest desert to one of the world’s most recognizable landmarks making an appearance.

In addition to these incredible landscapes, there are also more than a few renowned wildlife parks listed in this edition of my top national parks list that will get the wildlife enthusiasts among you excited. So, strap on your seatbelt, because the parks from here on out are legendary!

40. Jasper National Park, Canada

Nestled in Alberta’s Canadian Rockies, Jasper National Park is a breathtaking expanse of rugged peaks, turquoise lakes, and dense forests that captivate every traveler. As one of the must‑see world national parks, Jasper offers a serene escape into nature’s grandeur, where elk roam freely and glaciers shimmer under the sun. The park’s vastness ensures solitude even on popular trails like Maligne Canyon and the Valley of the Five Lakes, making it a haven for hikers and photographers alike.

Beyond its scenic beauty, Jasper is a UNESCO World Heritage Site celebrated for its pristine wilderness and dark‑sky preserve status. Visitors can marvel at the Milky Way from Pyramid Lake or take in panoramic views from the Jasper SkyTram. Among must‑see world national parks, Jasper stands out for its balance of accessibility and untouched splendor, offering adventures from kayaking to ice climbing in a landscape that feels timeless.

39. Gunung Leuser National Park, Indonesia

Deep in northern Sumatra, Gunung Leuser National Park is one of the last refuges for critically endangered orangutans. As one of the must‑see world national parks, it’s a living laboratory of biodiversity, where dense tropical rainforests shelter elephants, tigers, and rhinos. Trekking through its humid trails immerses visitors in a symphony of jungle sounds and the thrill of spotting wildlife in its natural habitat.

Gunung Leuser’s conservation importance cannot be overstated—it’s part of the UNESCO-listed Tropical Rainforest Heritage of Sumatra. Among must‑see world national parks, it offers a rare glimpse into ecosystems untouched by modern development. Adventurers can explore the Bohorok River or camp beneath towering fig trees, experiencing firsthand the raw vitality of one of Earth’s most vital green lungs.

38. Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, Australia

In Australia’s Northern Territory, Uluru–Kata Tjuta National Park is a sacred landscape of immense cultural and geological significance. As one of the must‑see world national parks, it’s home to the iconic sandstone monolith Uluru, glowing red at sunrise and sunset. The park’s vast desert plains and domed rock formations of Kata Tjuta create a surreal panorama that feels both ancient and spiritual.

Visitors learn about Anangu traditions, connecting deeply with the land’s stories and heritage. Among must‑see world national parks, Uluru–Kata Tjuta stands apart for its fusion of natural wonder and Indigenous culture. Walking the base trail or viewing the stars above the desert reveals a timeless beauty that transcends geography—a reminder of humanity’s bond with nature.

37. Gobi Gurvansaikhan National Park, Mongolia

Stretching across southern Mongolia, Gobi Gurvansaikhan National Park showcases the stark beauty of the Gobi Desert. As one of the must‑see world national parks, it’s a realm of towering sand dunes, icy canyons, and fossil-rich valleys. The park’s name means “Three Beauties of the Gobi,” referring to its mountain ranges that frame a landscape of extremes—where snow leopards and Bactrian camels coexist.

Visitors can explore the Flaming Cliffs, where dinosaur fossils were first discovered, or witness the shifting sands of Khongoryn Els. Among must‑see world national parks, Gobi Gurvansaikhan offers a rare blend of adventure and solitude, inviting travelers to experience the silence and vastness of one of Earth’s most remote ecosystems.

36. Pyrénées National Park, France

Straddling the border between France and Spain, Parc national des Pyrénées is a mosaic of alpine meadows, glacial lakes, and rugged peaks. As one of the must‑see world national parks, it enchants visitors with its dramatic scenery and rich biodiversity, including marmots, ibex, and golden eagles soaring overhead. The Cirque de Gavarnie, a UNESCO site, is a natural amphitheater of cliffs and waterfalls that epitomizes the park’s grandeur.

Hikers can traverse ancient trails connecting quaint mountain villages, discovering a blend of culture and wilderness. Among must‑see world national parks, Parc national des Pyrénées stands out for its harmony between human heritage and natural splendor—a place where pastoral life and pristine landscapes coexist beautifully.

35. Krka National Park, Croatia

Located in Croatia’s Dalmatia region, Krka National Park is famed for its cascading waterfalls and emerald pools. As one of the must‑see world national parks, it offers visitors a chance to wander through lush forests and swim beneath the stunning Skradinski Buk falls. The park’s network of wooden walkways and bridges makes exploration effortless while preserving its delicate ecosystem.

Krka’s charm lies in its blend of natural and historical wonders, including ancient monasteries perched on river islands. Among must‑see world national parks, Krka captivates with its tranquil beauty and accessibility, providing a refreshing retreat where water and stone create a symphony of serenity.

34. Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe

Zimbabwe’s largest reserve, Hwange National Park, is a wildlife paradise teeming with elephants, lions, and giraffes. As one of the must‑see world national parks, it offers an authentic African safari experience across vast savannas and woodlands. The park’s waterholes attract herds during dry seasons, creating spectacular viewing opportunities for visitors.

Hwange’s conservation efforts have made it a cornerstone of southern Africa’s ecological heritage. Among must‑see world national parks, it stands out for its diversity and scale, offering encounters with over 100 mammal species. Sunset game drives reveal golden horizons and the rhythmic pulse of life in the wild—a timeless spectacle of nature’s resilience.

33. Jim Corbett National Park, India

India’s oldest national park, Jim Corbett National Park, is a sanctuary for Bengal tigers and rich Himalayan foothill ecosystems. As one of the must‑see world national parks, it’s a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers seeking glimpses of elephants, leopards, and exotic birds. The Ramganga River winds through dense sal forests, adding to the park’s scenic allure.

Named after the legendary hunter-turned-conservationist, Jim Corbett embodies India’s commitment to preserving its natural heritage. Among must‑see world national parks, it offers thrilling jeep safaris and tranquil forest lodges, blending adventure with conservation in a landscape alive with sound and color.

32. Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, New Zealand

In New Zealand’s South Island, Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park is a realm of glaciers, alpine lakes, and towering peaks. As one of the must‑see world national parks, it’s home to Aoraki, the country’s highest mountain, rising majestically above the Southern Alps. The park’s trails, like the Hooker Valley Track, provide breathtaking views of ice fields and turquoise waters.

Aoraki’s pristine environment attracts climbers and stargazers alike, thanks to its International Dark Sky Reserve status. Among must‑see world national parks, it epitomizes the raw beauty of the Southern Hemisphere, offering a sublime mix of challenge and tranquility under crystal-clear skies.

31. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Uganda

Hidden in southwestern Uganda, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is a dense rainforest sanctuary for endangered mountain gorillas. As one of the must‑see world national parks, it offers life-changing encounters with these gentle giants in their natural habitat. The misty forest, alive with birds and butterflies, feels like stepping into a primeval world.

Bwindi’s conservation success has made it a model for eco-tourism and community engagement. Among must‑see world national parks, it stands out for its intimacy and biodiversity, where every trek through tangled vines and moss-covered trees reveals the delicate balance between humans and nature.

30. Royal Chitwan National Park, Nepal

In Nepal’s subtropical lowlands, Chitwan National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its rhinos, tigers, and crocodiles. As one of the must‑see world national parks, it offers thrilling jungle safaris by jeep, canoe, or elephant-back. The Rapti River winds through grasslands and forests, creating a vibrant ecosystem teeming with life.

Chitwan’s conservation programs have revived species once on the brink of extinction. Among must‑see world national parks, it’s a triumph of coexistence, where local communities and wildlife thrive together. Visitors leave with unforgettable memories of dawn mist rising over the jungle and the call of exotic birds echoing through the trees.

29. Corcovado National Park, Costa Rica

Costa Rica’s Corcovado National Park is often called the most biologically intense place on Earth. As one of the must‑see world national parks, it shelters jaguars, scarlet macaws, and tapirs within its lush rainforest. The park’s remote trails lead to pristine beaches and waterfalls, offering adventurers a glimpse of untouched wilderness.

Corcovado’s ecological richness makes it a cornerstone of global conservation. Among must‑see world national parks, it’s a paradise for scientists and explorers alike, where every step reveals new species and ecosystems. Its isolation ensures that nature reigns supreme, undisturbed by modern life.

28. Zhangye National Park, China

In China’s Gansu Province, Zhangye Danxia Geopark dazzles with rainbow-colored mountains sculpted by time. As one of the must‑see world national parks, its surreal landscape of red, orange, and gold layers looks like a painting come to life. The park’s viewing platforms offer panoramic vistas of geological artistry unmatched anywhere on Earth.

Zhangye’s unique formations are a testament to millions of years of sedimentation and erosion. Among must‑see world national parks, it’s a photographer’s dream and a geologist’s wonder, blending science and beauty in a spectacle

27. Chobe National Park, Botswana

In northern Botswana, Chobe National Park is renowned for its immense elephant herds and dramatic riverfront scenery. The Chobe River forms the park’s lifeblood, drawing buffalo, hippos, and countless antelope to its banks, especially during the dry season. Sunset boat cruises offer close-up views of wildlife drinking and bathing, with golden light reflecting off the water and silhouettes of acacia trees framing the horizon.

Beyond the river, Chobe’s diverse habitats range from floodplains to teak forests, each supporting different species and experiences. Game drives reveal lions lounging in the shade, sable antelope grazing, and vibrant birdlife overhead. The park’s accessibility from Kasane and its proximity to Victoria Falls make it an ideal addition to a southern Africa itinerary, combining classic safari drama with unforgettable river vistas.

26. Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, United States

On Hawaii’s Big Island, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park showcases the raw power of Earth’s geology in real time. Home to Kīlauea and Mauna Loa, two of the world’s most active volcanoes, the park offers a landscape of lava fields, steaming vents, and craters that seem almost otherworldly. Visitors can walk through lush rainforest to reach the Thurston Lava Tube, then emerge onto hardened lava plains that tell stories of past eruptions.

The park’s Chain of Craters Road descends from forested highlands to a rugged coastline where waves crash against black lava cliffs. Nighttime visits, when conditions allow, can reveal glowing lava or an eerie red sky, creating a dramatic contrast with the stars above. This fusion of volcanic activity, cultural significance, and ecological diversity makes the park a compelling destination for travelers fascinated by the planet’s inner forces.

25. Ao Phang Nga National Park, Thailand

In southern Thailand, Ao Phang Nga National Park is a marine wonderland of limestone karsts rising dramatically from emerald-green waters. Longtail boats weave between towering cliffs, hidden lagoons, and sea caves, revealing a seascape that feels like a natural cathedral. Mangrove forests fringe the coastline, providing habitat for birds, fish, and other wildlife that thrive in this brackish world.

Kayaking through narrow channels allows visitors to slip beneath overhanging rock formations and into secluded hongs—collapsed cave systems open to the sky. The park’s famous islets, including the one popularly known as “James Bond Island,” add cinematic flair, but quieter corners still offer tranquility. With its blend of striking geology and calm, sheltered waters, Ao Phang Nga is ideal for slow exploration and immersive coastal scenery.

24. Plitvice Lakes National Park, Croatia

Croatia’s Plitvice Lakes National Park is a fairytale landscape of cascading lakes connected by waterfalls and wooden boardwalks. Sixteen terraced lakes, each a different shade of turquoise or emerald, spill into one another through travertine barriers formed over millennia. Visitors wander along paths that hover just above the water, surrounded by lush forests and the constant sound of rushing falls.

Seasonal changes transform the park’s character: spring brings roaring waterfalls, summer highlights vivid greens, autumn paints the trees in fiery hues, and winter cloaks everything in snow and ice. Wildlife, including deer, bears, and numerous bird species, finds refuge in the surrounding woodlands. The park’s careful management of visitor flow helps preserve its fragile beauty, ensuring that its crystalline waters and moss-covered rocks remain enchanting for generations.

23. Yosemite National Park, United States

In California’s Sierra Nevada, Yosemite National Park is a granite masterpiece carved by glaciers and celebrated by generations of artists and adventurers. Iconic landmarks like El Capitan, Half Dome, and Yosemite Falls dominate the valley, rising above meadows and the meandering Merced River. Visitors can stroll easy trails to viewpoints or tackle strenuous hikes that reward with sweeping vistas of cliffs and waterfalls.

Beyond the famous valley, Yosemite’s high country offers alpine lakes, wildflower meadows, and quieter trails. Tioga Road and Glacier Point provide access to panoramic overlooks where the scale of the landscape truly sinks in. Whether you’re camping under star-filled skies or simply picnicking beneath towering pines, the park’s blend of grandeur and accessibility makes it a cornerstone of any global nature-focused travel list.

22. Los Glaciares National Park, Argentina

In Argentine Patagonia, Los Glaciares National Park is a realm of jagged peaks, vast ice fields, and turquoise lakes. The Perito Moreno Glacier, one of the park’s most famous attractions, advances steadily into Lago Argentino, periodically calving massive ice chunks that crash into the water with thunderous roars. Boardwalks and boat tours bring visitors close to the glacier’s towering blue walls, offering a front-row seat to this dynamic spectacle.

Further north, the Fitz Roy massif rises sharply above the town of El Chaltén, drawing hikers and climbers from around the world. Trails wind through lenga forests and along glacial rivers to viewpoints like Laguna de los Tres, where the spires of Mount Fitz Roy reflect in still waters. The combination of accessible glacier viewing and world-class trekking makes Los Glaciares a highlight of any Patagonian adventure.

21. Göreme National Park, Turkey

In central Turkey’s Cappadocia region, Göreme National Park is a surreal landscape of “fairy chimneys,” rock-cut churches, and ancient cave dwellings. Soft volcanic tuff has been sculpted by wind and water into whimsical spires and valleys, while centuries of human habitation have carved homes, monasteries, and frescoed chapels into the rock. Walking through the park feels like stepping into a storybook world where geology and history intertwine.

At sunrise, hot air balloons drift silently above the valleys, offering a bird’s-eye view of rippled ridges and honeycombed cliffs. On the ground, trails lead through Rose Valley, Love Valley, and Pigeon Valley, each with its own distinctive formations and viewpoints. The park’s blend of cultural heritage and otherworldly scenery creates a travel experience that lingers long after the dust of Cappadocia’s paths has settled from your shoes.

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