If you’re a lover of the great outdoors and fancy yourself as a bit of a discoverer, then you’ll want to know about the best national parks in the world, from habitats with lush green valleys to volcanic rocks and icy glaciers.
National parks are full of wonders, from sweeping scenery to majestic animals. Exploring one is your chance to get back to nature while making unforgettable memories in natural habitats.
Read on, and discover 100 of the world’s best national parks. We’ve covered everywhere, from the United States to India and everything in between.
1 – Etosha National Park, Namibia
Etosha means “great white area”, which refers to the park’s huge salt span. When it rains, the water pools in the pan attract hundreds of thousands of pretty flamingos to the park.
And yet there is more to Etosha National Park park than flamingos. Expect to see lions, elephants, leopards, giraffes, cheetahs, and two kinds of zebra as you venture around a park that’s known for its spectacular wildlife. Etosha is one of the best national parks in Africa.
2 – Grand Canyon National Park, United States of America
The Grand Canyon National Park is one of the most famous national parks in the world and offers a magical escape from the hectic city life.
Red rocks reveal millions of years of geological history, and there are plenty of things to do in the Grand Canyon with many viewpoints such as Mather Point, Yavapai Observation Station, and architect Mary Colter’s Lookout Studio and her Desert View Watchtower.
3 – Göreme National Park, Turkey
Prepare to lay your eyes on volcanic landscapes situated in a UNESCO World Heritage Site at Göreme National Park in Turkey.
Hike the high hills, explore nearby villages and witness stunning multi-colored cliffs formed from basalt and thick beds of tuff.
Göreme National Park is one of the best national parks in the world for hot air ballooning.
4 – Jim Corbett National Park, India
India is where you will find Jim Corbett National Park, a forested wildlife sanctuary in the Uttarakhand State.
First opened in 1936, it’s India’s oldest and most prestigious national park and covers 520km2 of green space.
Jim Corbett National Park is part of the larger Corbett Tiger Reserve and is one of the best national parks in the world to see tigers that roam the park.
5 – Arcipelago di La Maddalena National Park, Italy
In northern Sardinia, you will find Arcipelago di La Maddalena National Park, which takes its name from the clear blue waters in the area.
The park covers 180km2 of coast and has more than 60 islands, among the best islands in Europe. There are plenty of boat tours that let you discover these scenic islands during your visit.
6 – Yellowstone National Park, United States of America
You will find Yellowstone National Park atop a volcano hot spot in Wyoming, but the thing that will explode will be your mind as you soak in the dramatic canyons, lush forests, and alpine rivers.
Make the most of your trip by visiting one of the hot springs and witnessing gushing geysers that include the famous Old Faithful. Yellowstone is one of the best national parks in the world to study the geological activity of the Earth.
Hot tip: Yellowstone National Park is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful places in the US.
7 – Kruger National Park, South Africa
One of South Africa’s most exciting safari destinations, Kruger National Park offers vast landscapes and impressive African wildlife.
There are lots of tours to experience, including the Classic Safari Tour. This adventure sees you hopping in a 4×4 and going on a wildlife sighting tour.
Luxury lodges await you at the safari, too, so you can relax in sensual settings with local wildlife after a long day of exploring.
8 – Dolomiti Bellunesi National Park, Italy
Dolomiti Bellunesi National Park is located in the southeastern Alps and is home to stunning natural landscapes.
Chamois is the most important mammal in the park, and there are around 2,000 different types of them. Visitors will also see plenty of deer roaming the park.
Hiking lovers will enjoy the uphill trail of Col dei Mich, which lets you admire the area’s many terraces and diverse vegetation. Dolomiti is one of the best national parks in the world for alpine hiking, both in summer and winter.
9 – Serengeti National Park, Tanzania
Serengeti National Park is located in Tanzania and is one of the most famous national parks in the world for its amazing wildlife.
It’s well known for its year-long migration of over 1.5 million white-bearded wildebeest and the 250k-plus zebra that call the park “home”.
The park is situated in the Serengeti ecosystem and attracts more than 350k visitors per year from tourists.
10 – Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, China
The Zhangjiajie National Park is located in China and is the setting for the Avatar Mountains.
These giant sandstone pinnacles, named after the movie of the same name, rise dramatically to the sky and reach up to 200m tall.
As China’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site, the park holds plenty of prestige. Millions flock there every year to see its natural beauty, which includes the Avatar Mountains.
It’s a must-visit if you’re after out-of-this-world scenery.
11 – Cat Ba National Park, Vietnam
Situated near the famous Halong Bay, Cat Ba National Park is an important biosphere reserve in Vietnam.
Hike a deep jungle and see monkeys, deers, civets, and several species of squirrel, including the giant black squirrel.
12 – Mount Kilimanjaro National Park, Tanzania
A UNESCO World Heritage Centre, Kilimanjaro National Park protects the largest free-standing volcanic mass in the world, with Kilimanjaro registering as the highest mountain in Africa.
Hikers will rejoice at the climbing routes to Mount Kilimanjaro, which compliment both beginners and pros. Other benefits of the park include wildlife such as elephants, leopards, buffalos, and bushbucks.
Kilimanjaro National Park covers 1,688km2 and is the second most visited park in Tanzania.
13 – Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Uganda
Located in south-western Uganda, Bwindi National Park is known for its biodiversity and it is one of the best forest national parks in the world.
There are more than 160 species of trees and over 100 varieties of fern. Visitors can expect to find different types of birds and endangered species, such as the incredible mountain gorilla.
The park spreads up to 321km2 and has an elevation of between 1,160 and 2,607 meters above sea level. It’s Uganda’s most ancient and most biologically rich tropical rainforest.
14 – Victoria Falls National Park, Zimbabwe
Victoria Falls National Park is home to Victoria Falls waterfall and is one a natural wonder of the world.
Situated on the western tip of Zimbabwe, the falls are 1.7km wide and nearly 550 million liters of water cascade 70 to 108 meters every minute.
As well as stunning waterfalls, the park features a variety of animals like elephant, lion, buffalo, leopard and white rhinoceros.
15 – Zhangye National Park, China
The rainbow mountains of China can be found in Zhangye National Park and provide jaw-dropping sights to marvel at.
Expect a pallet of tones that light up the sky as you take in the incredible views with colors that mimic a rainbow.
The park covers 322km2 and has been voted as one of the most beautiful Danxia landform areas in China.
16 – Ao Phang Nga National Park, Thailand
Situated in the Phang Nga Province in southern Thailand, Ao Phang Nga National Park is popular for its numerous limestone tower karst islands.
Fans of the James Bond movie, The Man With the Golden Gun might recognize the park. It was the location for parts of the 1974 film.
Ao Phang Nga National Park is mostly explored by kayak. Other highlights include pristine beaches, luminous caves and reptiles.
17 – Réunion National Park, France
Reunion National Park is located on the French island of Reunion and offers fantastic vistas and a protected natural environment.
The park is made up of volcanic plugs and glacial valleys, as well as diverse fauna and flora. So there’s plenty to explore for visitors.
18 – Pribaikalsky National Park, Russia
Located in southeastern Siberia, Pribaikalsky National Park features scenic water and mountainous settings.
There are pine forests and deep green valleys to discover, not to mention 220 different types of species. Caspian deer, Siberian toe deer and moose are among some of the animals living in the park.
19 – Ranthambore National Park, India
You will find the 1,334 km2 Ranthambore National Park in Rajasthan, northern India. Ranthambore is one of the best national parks in India to see wild tigers.
It’s a former royal hunting ground and is the home to impressive sites like the 10th-century Ranthambore Fort, which is located on a hilltop.
There’s also the Ganesh Mandir temple, the oldest and most famous temple of Lord Ganesha.
20 – Fuji Hakone Izu National Park, Japan
Home to Mt Fuji, the symbol of Japan, the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is one of Japan’s most famous landmarks.
The park is also where you will find the Izu Peninsula and Izu Islands, which extend into the Pacific Ocean.
While Mt Fuji is the primary attraction, the mountain is surrounded by hot springs, and there are many discoverable locations within the park.
21 – Lençóis Maranhenses National Park, Brazil
If you’re searching for real beauty, then look no further than Lençois Maranhenses National Park in Brazil.
White sand dunes reflect off sparkling blue lakes to create scenery that is simply out of this world. Lençois Maranhenses is among the best national parks in the world to take impressive Instagram pictures that will surprise your friends.
22 – Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park, Indonesia
Known as the “land of sand and fire”, Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park covers 800km2 and is the largest volcanic region in its province.
If you’re into volcanic activities, the park will seem extra appealing. A visit provides the chance to see ashes coming from Mount Semeru, which is an active volcano that rises 3,676 meters above sea level.
23 – Altyn-Emel National Park, Kazakhstan
Established in 1996, Altyn Emel is a national park in Kazakhstan that covers around 4,600km: around four times the size of Hong Kong.
It’s home to several unique landscapes that include relic forests and majestic dunes.
On your journey, you might even spot one of the many hoofed mammals that roam Altyn Emel National Park throughout the year.
24 – Taman Negara National Park, Malaysia
The majority of national parks have a long, storied history. But Taman Negara National Park can lay claim to millions of years’ worth of history.
Its primary feature is a tropical rainforest that is said to be an impressive 130 million years old.
As well as the rainforest, many visit the park to admire the canopy walkway, river trips, and treks through the jungle that reach the top of Mt. Tahan.
25 – Gobi Gurvansaikhan National Park, Mongolia
Gobi Gurvansaikhan National Park offers sand dunes, ice canyons and mountain peaks all in the same setting. What more could you ask for?
It’s located in Mongolia and also happens to be one of the country’s most visited national parks.
If you have time to explore it thoroughly, head to the remote western area. The landscapes are so quiet and still [that] you’ll think you’ve arrived on another planet.
26 – Chitwan National Park, Nepal
Located in Nepal, Chitwan National Park is a preserved area with dense forests and grassy plains.
It’s home to mammals like one-horned rhinos and Bengal tigers, as well as bird species.
There’s also a Hindu pilgrimage inside the park, which is known as Balmiki Ashram. The park spans 932km2.
27 – Atlantic Islands of Galicia National Park, Spain
The only national park in Galicia, Spain, the Atlantic Islands of Galicia National Park is made up of archipelagos Cies, Ons, Salvora, and Cortegada.
Explorers at the park will enjoy strolling the sandy beaches, wandering the dunes and cliffs, and discovering the marine caves.
Atlantic Islands of Galicia National Park also has many aquatic birds and a unique representation of species.
28 – Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, United States of America
Situated on the island of Hawaii, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park has two active volcanoes, Kīlauea and Mauna Loa.
Mauna Loa is the world’s largest volcano and is bigger than Mount Everest.
It has been active for more than 700,000 years, with the most recent eruption taking place in 1984.
29 – Yala National Park, Sri Lanka
Yala National Park, which is located in Sri Lanka, features forest, grassland, and lagoons to unearth. Yala is one of the best national parks in the world to go on a safari and admire the local wildlife, such as leopards and elephants.
The park is divided into five blocks and is a protected area covered by 500km2 of land. It’s home to 44 varieties of mammals and 215 bird species.
30 – Denali National Park and Preserve, United States of America
Denali is Alaska’s most well known national park and revolves around the snow-capped mountain of Denali, which is the highest northern peak in North America.
Visitors flock to the boreal forest and tundra, the wild rivers and glaciers to see sweeping scenery and the odd-brown bear that roams the park.
31 – Calanques National Park, France
Set in the heart of the Provence-Alpes-Cote d’Azur region, Calanques National Park is known for its beautiful landscapes and biodiversity.
There are crystal clear waters, picturesque forests, and limestone cliffs to enjoy at Calanques National Park.
It’s popular with those who enjoy scuba diving and other activities such as kayaking and climbing.
32 – Los Glaciares National Park, Argentina
Situated in the region known as Austral Andes in Argentina, Los Glaciares National Park is one of the best national parks in the world to study glaciers.
Hikers from all over the world flock there to admire this stunning glacial landscape.
33 – Plitvice Lakes National Park, Croatia
Croatia’s most popular tourist attraction, Plitvice Lakes National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most famous national parks in the world.
It’s located halfway between Zagreb and Zadar and features must-see lakes and waterfalls, of which there are 16 to admire.
You won’t be disappointed if you’re hoping to spot a few animals: deer, bears, wolves, boars and rare bird species populate the woodland.
34 – Bryce Canyon National Park, United States of America
The spire-shaped rock-shaped formations, otherwise known as crimson-colored hoodoos, are the primary draw at Utah’s Bryce Canyon National Park.
Many people head to the park for the splendid views, which they can see at Sunrise Point, Sunset Point, Inspiration Point and Bryce Point.
35 – Bohemian Switzerland National Park, Czech Republic
Bohemian Switzerland National Park is a well-known hiking spot that is actually located in the Czech Republic.
There’s no trace of city life at the park, even though it’s only a 90-minute drive from Prague. Visitors can expect to see gulches, sandstone cliffs, swaths of farmland, and even quaint little villages during their excursions.
The rock formations are the main attraction, however. There are also several hiking routes that provide scenic views of the park.
36 – Oulanka National Park, Finland
Rugged landscapes are on offer at Oulanka National Park in Finland, where hiking trails take you to impressive waterfalls worthy of an Instagram snap.
A trip to the park will include the opportunity to photograph wild brown trout, European dippers, and the immense beauty of the Aapa mires.
37 – Great Smoky Mountains National Park, United States of America
Located between North Carolina and Tennessee, Great Smoky Mountains National Park is filled with lush forests and wildflowers that bloom all year round.
Hiking routes are particularly scenic, with streams, rivers, and waterfalls all frequent occurrences. Catch the sun rising behind one of the mountains for a truly memorable experience.
38 – Hemis National Park, India
Tucked away in the Indian valleys of Ladakh is where you will find Hemis National Park, one of Asia’s most well-known natural habitats for Snow Leopards.
The park was named after a 400-year old monastery and has an altitude that ranges between 3,000-6,000 meters: the highest in the country.
Bask in the rich landscape and soak up the atmosphere in places like the Hemis Monastery, Shang Gompa, and Gotsang Gompa.
39 – Gran Paradiso National Park, Italy
Gran Paradiso National Park is located in Italy and was initially a game reserve until 1922 when the owner made it a national park.
The park is popular for wildlife watching: keep an eye out for Ibex that weigh up to 100kg.
There are also plenty of old villages to explore at the park, including Above Noasca with its picturesque houses.
40 – Addo Elephant National Park, South Africa
Located near Port Elizabeth, Addo Elephant National Park is the third-largest national park in South Africa.
It’s home to a wide range of biodiversity, landscapes and flora and fauna.
But it’s the elephants that are the main draw. You can find them roaming the park at the Happor dam.
Visitors can also enjoy horseback rides around the park while soaking up the natural beauty on offer.
41 – Salonga National Park, The Democratic Republic of the Congo
Located in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Salonga National Park is Africa’s largest tropical rainforest reserve.
A visit to Salonga National Park provides the chance to see a mosaic of rivers, streams, marshlands, and grassy glades known as bays and marshes.
Be prepared to get lost in a sea of green: 95% of the park’s landscape is covered by forest, and it spans 36,000 km2. That’s larger than Belgium!
42 – Sequoia National Park, United States of America
Giant trees and vast canyons are on the list of things to see at Sequoia National Park, where foothills and alpine peaks take you on a winding journey.
Make sure you visit the General Sherman Tree and gaze at its sheer height. The tree is the largest known living single-stem tree on Earth.
43 – Vanoise National Park, France
Nature lovers and sporty types adore Vanoise National Park, thanks to its hiking and skiing trails. It’s split into two sections, one with skiing resorts and another central area in the heart of the massif.
There are many small villages located in the area with skiing resorts, while the rest of the park features unspoiled landscapes and around 100 peaks.
44 – Jostedalsbreen National Park, Norway
Jostedalsbreen National Park is located in Norway and is neatly nestled between two of the world’s largest fjords and has the largest glacier on the European mainland.
A trip here offers museums to discover, as well as sweeping mountainous scenery and lush green hills.
The park is one of the largest remaining wilderness areas in Southern Norway, so you can really get back to nature.
45 – Peneda-Geres National Park, Portugal
Established in 1971, Peneda-Geres National Park is located in Northern Portugal and is only 100km2 from the city of Porto.
It’s dotted with quaint villages that were first created in the 12th century, as well as plenty of fauna to find.
There are wolves, wild boars, otters, deers and horses all roaming the park.
46 – Triglav National Park, Slovenia
Explore unspoiled nature at Triglav National Park, which is located in Slovenia and is the country’s largest protected area.
The park takes its name from Slovenia’s highest mountain and is a top tourist attraction in the country.
Start by hiking to the top of tall peaks and take in the surrounding views of crystal clear lakes, lush forests, and mountain peaks.
47 – Timanfaya National Park, Spain
Most tourists in Lanzarote think about a typical Spanish beach holiday. But Parque Nacional de Timanfaya allows visitors to bask in the glory of stunning landscapes.
It’s the only geological national park in Spain and features rugged terrain, silhouettes of volcanoes, and coastline to admire. It’s definitely one of the best things to do in Lanzarote.
48 – Everglades National Park, United States of America
Make a splash in 1.5 million acres of wetland at the Everglades National Park in Florida.
See local wildlife on the Anhinga Trail, ascend Shark Valley’s 65-foot observation tower for a bird’s eye view of the glades, and go kayaking with dolphins, crocodiles, and manatees.
49 – Berchtesgaden National Park, Germany
As the only national park in the German Alps, Berchtesgaden has become a frequented spot for those who want to bask in the local scenery of this section of the Alps.
It was founded in 1978, and today it features many well-marked hiking trails and untouched plants and wildlife to discover on your journey through the park.
50 – Sierra Nevada National Park, Spain
The Sierra Nevada National Park is located in the provinces of Granada and Almería and provides dramatic mountain ranges, which are the highest in Europe after the Alps.
The protected area features rivers, gorges, slopes, glacial lakes between snowy summits and almond trees and vegetables. Many visitors take advantage of the skiing, hiking and biking trails in the park.
51 – Abisko National Park, Sweden
Flowing meadows, scenic rapids, and Scandinavia’s largest alpine Lake can be found at Abisko National Park.
Head there during the summer and experience the midnight sun, as well as rich, colorful local nature that includes domineering mountains.
Abisko is also one of the best national parks in the world to see the northern lights.
52 – Masada National Park, Israel
Located in southern Israel’s Judean Desert, Masada National Park is an ancient stone fortress perched on a rocky plateau.
Board the cable car and enjoy a hike while overlooking the Dead Sea.
53 – Lake District National Park, United Kingdom
One of the UK’s most scenic areas, the Lake District National park is located in the northwest and features lush green hills and picturesque lakes.
Lake District is England’s largest national park and one of the few places in the country where you can see rugged mountain tops blended in with sprawling hills and traditional English countryside.
54 – Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, Australia
The iconic rock formations at Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park offer up plenty of chances for a photo opportunity.
The bright-red rocks dominate the landscape at this Australian national park, which was first opened in 1958 and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
55 – Jasper National Park, Canada
Jasper National Park is set in the Canadian Rockies and features glaciers, lakes and peaks.
The park protects what’s left of the wildlife in the area, with the elevation range, geology and climate serving as a safe habitat for the variety of species.
Jasper is competing among the best national parks in the world that feature alpine and mountain landscapes. Take a look at the most exciting things to do in Jasper!
56 – Manuel Antonio National Park, Costa Rica
Take a trip to Costa Rica’s central Pacific coast, and you will find Parque Nacional Manuel Antonio — a national park renowned for its diverse tropical plants and wildlife.
Explorers can look on in awe as they witness white-sand beaches, coral reefs and rainforest all in one majestic national park.
57 – Tikal National Park, Guatemala
Take a trek into the heart of the Mexican jungle and visit Tikal National Park, which provides an insight into ancient Mayan civilization.
The park is protected from hunters, which means there is plenty of wildlife roaming the forests — including 333 bird species and 54 mammals.
58 – Tulum National Park, Mexico
Tulum National Park is an eco-archaeological site situated on Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula.
The former city was one of the last Mayan places of civilization to fall. Today it’s filled with an impressive landscape that includes cenotes and sweeping coastlines.
59 – Maasai Mara National Park, Kenya
In Kenya, along the Tanzanian border, is where you will find Maasai Mara National Park. The vast park offers visitors everything from the chance to see lions and zebras to playing a spot of golf.
Maasai Mara is one of the best national parks in the world for its plenty of fauna: see how many of the 95 species of mammals and 570 species of birds you can spot.
60 – Grand Teton National Park, United States of America
If you like your national parks full of diverse wildlife, unspoiled lakes, and alpine terrain, get yourself down to the Grand Teton National Park in Wyoming.
There are more than 250km of trails, domineering mountains, and the Snake River, which you can float along while taking in the peaceful surroundings.
Discover the best Grand Teton tours or other incredible things to do in Jackson.
61 – Namib-Naukluft National Park, Namibia
A Namibia marvel, the Namib-Naukluft National Park spans an impressive 49,768km2 and was established in 1907.
Visitors can see the best of the desert at Namib, where sand dunes tower more than 300m above the underlying strata.
If the vast space of sand isn’t enough to get you to whip your camera and take a few snaps, head high into the Naukluft Mountains and tower above the grand desert below.
62 – Teide National Park, Spain
The largest park on the Canary islands, Teide National Park offers a landscape filled with craters, volcanoes, and rivers of lava.
A road network has been constructed across the park so that visitors can see the best it has to offer, such as vantage points that allow sweeping panoramas of the entire park. An excursion to the Teide is an unmissable things to do in Tenerife.
63 – Yosemite National Park, United States of America
Set in the California Sierra Nevada mountains, Yosemite National Park is famous for its eye-catching sequoia trees, which can rise to 380 feet.
Visitors can also see the granite cliffs of El Capitan and Half Dome, wander the valleys, and admire the pleasant lakes.
64 – Fiordland National Park, New Zealand
Located on New Zealand’s South Island, Fiordland National Park is known for its glacier-carved fiords.
If you’re looking for stunning views, go on a beech forest trail on the sandy Milford shore and bask in the sights on offer as mountains reflect off the clear lakes. Fiordland is the most famous national park in New Zealand.
65 – Krka National Park, Croatia
Situated along the Krka River in Croatia, Krka National Park is known for its series of seven waterfalls.
It’s a relatively small park, covering just 142km2. But it features big attractions, such as the waterfalls that include the famous Skradinski Buk falls.
Visitors can also tour small islands found in and around the park. The park can be reached on a day trip from Split.
66 – Pyrénées National Park, France
Considered as one of France’ most iconic sights, the Pyrénées National Park features a vast network of hiking trails and all mountain related activities.
Located along the border of France and Spain, this is a fun place to explore for nature lovers.
67 – Whitsunday Islands National Park, Australia
Whitsunday Islands National Park is located in Queensland and contains 31 islands, including the famous Whitsunday Island.
Visit the park from Airlie Beach and see if you can spot the humpback whales who migrate to the waters around the islands. Or you can just laze on one of the white beaches.
68 – Olympic National Park, United States of America
Olympic National Park is located in Washington’s Olympic Peninsula and spans across several different ecosystems.
It’s popular with climbers, hikers, and backpackers, who explore the park’s rainforest and Pacific coastline.
69 – Killarney National Park, Ireland
Ireland is known for its beautiful scenery, and Killarney National Park only adds to the amazing views on offer.
Rugged mountains and sprawling countryside are waiting to be discovered, including McGillycuddy’s Reeks, which is the highest mountain range in Ireland.
Muckross House and Gardens is another highlight of the park. This is where visitors can visit a 19th-century mansion with historical artifacts.
70 – Thingvellir National Park, Iceland
Just east of Reykjavik is where you will find Thingvellir National Park, Iceland’s only UNESCO World Heritage site.
The park is probably the best national park in Iceland, thanks to volcanoes yet to erupt and quaint lakes where you can snorkel.
It’s also one of the locations where the TV show Game of Thrones was filmed.
71 – Tongariro National Park, New Zealand
Tongariro National Park is on New Zealand’s North Island and was the country’s first national park.
It has three active volcanoes, with the last eruption taking place in 2012. There are also five peaks, eight glaciers, and many hiking trails throughout the park.
72 – Zion National Park, United States of America
In the southwest of Utah is where you will find Zion National Park, a nature preserve with its famous Zion Canyon’s steep red cliffs.
Tourists have been visiting the park since 1917, though evidence of its earliest inhabitants dates back more than 8,000 years.
73 – Tierra del Fuego National Park, Argentina
At Tierra del Fuego National Park, you will find forests and lakes that seem to go on forever.
The park is located on the Argentine part of the island of Tierra del Fuego and features beech forest, mountains and glaciers, lakes, sub-Antarctic tundra, local flora and fauna, and sweeping coastlines.
74 – Écrins National Park, France
One of the 10 French national parks, Écrin National Park was established in 1973 and is located in the Southeastern part of France.
The unspoiled territory is a favorite with nature lovers, who flock to the park for its rich flora and fauna.
Animals in the park include chamois, ibex, golden eagles, foxes, squirrels and marmots.
75 – Nahuel Huapi National Park, Argentina
The oldest national park in Argentina, Nahuel has been going strong since 1934. The park has two zones: the park itself and the natural reserve.
Nahuel has geological formations, lush green scenery and peaceful streams that allow visitors to bask in the beauty of the park’s natural surroundings.
76 – Amboró National Park, Bolivia
Located in Bolivar, Amboró National Park is a nature reserve with over 912 species of birds and 177 mammals.
Many people flock to the park to see the pumas, enjoy a spot of birdwatching, or simply admire the local scenery of untouched forests and lakes with sprawling waterfalls.
77 – Iguazú Falls National Park, Brazil
Iguazu Falls National Park is located on the border between Argentina and Brazil. It is one of the best national parks in the world for its giant waterfalls, which is the largest waterfall in the world.
The subtropical climate sees Iguazu Falls flow through the park with its many separate cascades that include Garganta del Diablo, otherwise known as The Devil’s Throat.
Furthermore, Iguazu Falls National Park comprises a large area of subtropical rainforest.
78 – Joshua Tree National Park, United States of America
Joshua Tree National Park is a protected area in Southern California and is well known for its rugged rock formations and powerful landscapes.
The park is named after the region’s Josua trees and looks over Coachella Valley. It’s a popular park for hiking trails, which weave through boulder valleys and offer views of the desert.
79 – Torres del Paine National Park, Chile
Turquoise waters, glaciers, and towering granite horns engulf Chile’s Torres del Paine National Park, the most famous national park in South America.
Strap on your backpack and get a comfortable pair of shoes as you explore Torres del Paine National Park’s stunning landscapes while spotting local wildlife.
80 – Tayrona National Park, Colombia
You will find Tayrona National Park along Colombia’s stunning Caribbean coast, a setting that allows you to soak up long stretches of golden sandy beaches.
It’s not all about relaxation at Tayrona National Park, though. Get your hike on at the hillsides of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, the world’s highest coastal mountain range.
81 – Galapagos National Park, Ecuador
The Galapagos Islands is Ecuador’s oldest park and was established in 1959. Today, it’s one of the main tourist spots in the country and serves to protect a range of species.
As you can imagine, there’ plenty of plants and wildlife on offer at Galapagos National Park, including the giant tortoise and marine iguana, the world’s only ocean-swimming lizard. Galapagos is the best national park in the world for its kind of unique marine wildlife.
82 – Huascarán National Park, Peru
Located nearby the small Peruvian city of Huaraz, Huascarán National Park features the highest tropical mountain range in the world.
At 22,000 feet, it’s Peru’s highest peak and an ideal place for hikers. This UNESCO World Heritage Site also has tropical glaciers, turquoise lakes, and hundreds of species of wildlife and plants.
83 – Canaima National Park, Venezuela
Canaima National Park spans 30,000km2 and is located in Venezuela. The park is known for its waterfalls, including the 979m-tall Angel Falls.
It flows from Auyantepui mountain into the Canon del Diablo, which is a steep canyon surrounded by tropical forest.
Canaima National Park also encompasses huge flat-topped mountains that rise from grassy savanna and are often covered in mist, making them ideal for a snap or two.
84 – Acadia National Park, United States of America
Along the Atlantic coastline, you will find Acadia National Park, which protects the natural beauty of the highest rocky headlands.
More than 3.5-million people visit the park each year to explore 158 miles of hiking trails, soak up the scenic water views and feel at one with nature.
85 – Kakadu National Park, Australia
Kakadu National Park is a biodiverse nature reserve in Australia’s Northern Territory.
Visitors can expect to see terrain filled with wetlands, rivers, sandstone cliffs and steep slopes. The park is also home to 2,000 plant and wildlife species, including saltwater crocodiles.
86 – Banff National Park, Canada
Canada’s oldest national park, Banff covers a total area of 6,641km2 and is filled with mountainous terrain, glaciers, ice fields, dense forest, and alpine landscape.
It’s an ideal place for hikers with its 1,500km worth of hiking tracks. The impressive mountains at the park are between 45 and 120 million years old.
87 – Death Valley National Park, United States of America
North America’s driest and hottest spot, Death Valley National Park is home to more than 1,000 species of plants, 300 types of birds, and 51 different mammals.
The deep narrow gorge of Titus Canyon and the endorheic basin known as Badwater are two of the most famous landmarks at Death Valley National Park.
88 – Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, New Zealand
At Aoraki Mount Cook National Park you will find the tallest mountain in New Zealand, which was previously used to help people prepare for climbing Mount Everest.
The park features 23 peaks over 3,000 meters high, scenic lakes and one of the best mountain regions for climbers in Australasia.
89 – Blue Mountains National Park, Australia
Get ready to view towering sandstone formations at Blue Mountains National Park, which is located in New South Wales, Australia.
The park spans 2,690km2 and offers panoramic views of a sacred Aboriginal site and Jamison Valley and the Three Sisters, two prominent sandstone formations.
90 – Arenal Volcano National Park, Costa Rica
Costa Rica is the home to Arenal Volcano National Park, which is located in the Arenal Conservation Area.
There are 16 reserves between the Tilaran and Guanacaste mountain ranges, and the area features geologic and biological delights, such as the active Arenal Volcano.
The park is filled with short trails, lava fields, and forests.
91 – Muir Woods National Park, United States of America
Part of California’s Golden Gate National Recreation Area, people visit Muir Woods National Park for its spectacular redwood trees, which can reach heights of 258 feet.
Other features of the park include hiking trails and hillside views of the treetops and nearby mountains.
92 – Cinque Terre National Park, Italy
Cinque Terre National Park enjoys the status of Italy’s first-ever national park after it was introduced in 1999.
There are swimming paths in the park, so you can make a splash in crystal clear waters.
Other water-related activities include boat trips, snorkeling and kayaking — with the latter providing plenty of chances to explore waterside caves.
Hot tip: Don’t miss our selection of fun things to do in Cinque Terre.
93 – Rocky Mountain National Park, United States of America
You will find protected forests, mountains, and alpine tundra at Rocky Mountain National Park, which is located in Colorado.
Highlights include Trail Ridge Road with its scenic views of the mountains and Old Fall River, which was the first road to enter into the park.
94 – Andasibe-Mantadia National Park, Madagascar
Andasibe-Mantadia National Park is located in Madagascar and is a protected rainforest area.
The park features the Analamazaotra Reserve, which is where you will find indri lemur — the largest-living lemurs in the world.
There’s plenty of biodiversity in the park too, such as big Parson’s chameleons, rare orchids, and ferns.
95 – Tanjung Puting National Park, Indonesia
Located in the West Kotawaringin Regency area of Indonesia, Tanjung Puting National Park is famous for its orangutan conservation.
It has the largest wild orangutan population in Southeast Asia, and you can see them first-hand in their natural habitat.
96 – Vatnajökull National Park, Iceland
Vatnajokull National Park is a protected wilderness area in south Iceland. It features majestic glaciers, ice caves, snowy mountain peaks, and rivers.
One of the key attractions is Jokulsarlon, which is a glacial lagoon with icebergs, and the Svartifoss and Dettifoss waterfalls.
97 – Tatra National Park, Poland
According to CNN, Tatra is one of the top 30 national parks in the world to visit.
It covers one of two Alpine mountain ranges in Poland and features a variety of caves and streams to explore.
There’s plenty of flora and fauna too, such as brown bears, grey wolf, European otter and eagles and falcons.
98 – Durmitor National Park, Montenegro
Northern Montenegro is the home of Durmitor National Park, a natural masterpiece of dramatic glaciers and underground streams.
Visitors can expect to come across canyons, glacial lakes, and 50 limestone peaks — all of which will leave you breathless as you admire their beauty.
99 – Arches National Park, United States of America
Referred to as a red-rock wonderland, Arches National Park provides a landscape of contrasting colors and 2,000-plus natural stone arches.
Get lost in the red rock formations and discover a world of natural beauty in the heart of Utah.
Visited by millions of trekkers, Arches National Park is one of the most popular national parks in the world. Hiking in the Arches National Park is among the best things to do in Moab.
100 – Komodo National Park, Indonesia
The Indonesian national park of Komodo incorporates three large islands, Komodo, Padar, and Rinca, plus 26 smaller ones.
The main attraction here is the Komodo dragon. In fact, the park was founded in 1980 to protect the dragons.
Other than the chance to see Komodo dragons, there are popular scuba diving opportunities.
We hope you enjoyed our selection of the best national parks in the world. Tell us in the comments section below which one you have already visited and which one you recommend to us.
Have fun & travel safe!