Our planet has many amazing places. Some are surreal, like they're from another world. They offer a break from the usual, taking us on an adventure.
From Bolivia's Salar de Uyuni that looks like a mirror, to the fiery Door to Hell in Turkmenistan, these places spark a desire to explore. They show the cool wonders of our world, always ready to amaze us.
We'll explore the most unique places in the World that are out of the ordinary. Are you ready to discover the most surreal places in the world?
Salar de Uyuni, Bolivia
Nestled in the heart of Bolivia, Salar de Uyuni is the world's largest salt flat, stretching over a whopping 10,582 square kilometers. It's one of the most surreal places on Earth, especially during the rainy season when it transforms into a gigantic mirror, reflecting the sky so perfectly that the horizon seems to vanish.
Things to Do
Photography. The mirror effect provides a surreal backdrop for photography, making it a favorite among landscape photographers.
Tours. Venturing across the salt flat in a jeep of bicycle is an exhilarating way to explore the vast expanse and soak in the ethereal views.
Cactus Islands. Amidst the salt flat lie islands covered in cacti. Isla Incahuasi and Isla del Pescado are popular spots to witness ancient cacti and enjoy a panoramic view of the salt desert.
Travel Tips
The rainy season between December and April is ideal for witnessing the mirror effect. However, if you prefer a stark white salt flat, plan your visit between May and November.
The town of Uyuni serves as the gateway to the salt flat. You can reach Uyuni by flight from La Paz or by bus from various cities in Bolivia.
Photo by Ybrayym Esenov
The Door to Hell, Turkmenistan
In the heart of the Karakum desert in Turkmenistan lies a surreal spectacle - the Darvaza gas crater, also known as the Door to Hell or Gates of Hell. This fiery crater has been burning continuously since 1971, when Soviet geologists, looking for natural gas, accidentally created a sinkhole.
To prevent the spread of methane gas, they set it alight, not realizing it would burn for decades to come. The result is a mesmerizing fiery abyss that illuminates the desert night.
Things to Do
Night Viewing. The flames of the Door to Hell are especially captivating at night, dancing against the dark sky and creating a surreal, otherworldly scene.
Desert Exploration. The surrounding Karakum desert is a vast expanse of golden sand, offering opportunities for adventurous exploration.
Travel Tips
Given its remote location and the hazardous nature of the crater, joining a guided tour from the capital city of Ashgabat is advisable.
Keep a safe distance from the crater's edge and follow all safety guidelines provided by your tour guide.
Best time to go there are the cooler months of October to March are the best times to visit, as the desert temperatures are more bearable.
Photos by Andrew Svk
Socotra, Yemen
Nestled far from the mainland, Socotra in Yemen is often termed as Earth’s alien island due to its otherworldly landscapes and unique biodiversity. The island is home to several endemic species, meaning they are found nowhere else on Earth. Among the most notable are the Dragon's Blood Trees with their peculiar umbrella-shaped canopies.
Things to Do
Hiking. The diverse terrain of Socotra offers numerous hiking trails leading to panoramic views of the island’s unique flora and dramatic landscapes.
Bird-Watching. With its unique biodiversity, Socotra is a haven for birdwatchers. The island is home to several endemic bird species.
Beach Exploration. The untouched beaches of Socotra are a serene escape with crystal clear waters and white sandy shores.
Travel Tips
Due to Yemen's political situation, it's crucial to check travel advisories and ensure safety before planning a visit.
Obtaining the necessary permits and travel documentation is essential. It's advisable to consult with a travel agency familiar with the region.
The period from October to April is relatively cool and ideal for exploring the island.
Huacachina Oasis, Peru
Tucked away amidst the towering sand dunes of southwestern Peru, Huacachina is a tranquil oasis that exudes a surreal vibe. This tiny village, built around a small natural lake, seems to emerge from the sands like a mirage, offering a stark contrast to the surrounding desert.
Things to Do
Sandboarding. The vast sand dunes surrounding Huacachina provide a thrilling playground for sandboarding enthusiasts.
Dune Buggy Rides. Adventure seekers can explore the rolling dunes at high speed on a dune buggy, experiencing the exhilarating ups and downs of the desert terrain.
Boating. Enjoy a peaceful boat ride on the serene waters of the oasis, taking in the picturesque scenery.
Travel Tips
Huacachina is easily reachable from the city of Ica, which is about a 4-hour drive from Lima. Buses and taxis are available for this journey. From luxury resorts to budget hostels, Huacachina offers a range of accommodation options for travelers.
The oasis is beautiful year-round, but visiting between May and September offers pleasant weather.
Photos by James Lee & Denys Nevozhai
Grand Prismatic Spring, Wyoming, USA
Situated in the heart of Yellowstone National Park, the Grand Prismatic Spring is a spectacle of nature's vibrant color palette. It's the largest hot spring in the United States and the third largest in the world. The spring is renowned for its stunning rainbow-colored waters, which result from various types of bacteria living in the warmer parts of the water.
Things to Do
Boardwalk Exploration. Visitors can stroll along the boardwalks surrounding the spring, getting up close to the radiant colors and steamy mist that rises from the warm waters.
Photography. The vibrant colors of the spring make for an excellent photography opportunity, especially during the early morning or late afternoon when the light accentuates the hues.
Yellowstone Exploration. Being in Yellowstone National Park, there's an abundance of other geothermal features, wildlife, and stunning landscapes to explore.
Travel Tips
The nearest airport is Jackson Hole Airport. From there, it's a drive of about two hours to the park.
Adhere to all park regulations to ensure both your safety and the preservation of the delicate ecosystems within Yellowstone.
Summer and early fall are the best times to visit as the park's facilities are fully operational, and the weather is pleasant.
Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, Hunan Province, China
Nestled in Hunan Province, Zhangjiajie National Forest Park is often likened to a real-world Pandora from the movie Avatar. Its towering sandstone pillars, covered in lush greenery, pierce through the clouds creating a surreal, ethereal landscape that seems to belong to another world.
The most famous of these pillars, the Avatar Hallelujah Mountain, was indeed the inspiration for the floating mountains in the blockbuster film.
Things to Do
Hiking. Explore the park’s many trails that wind through the towering pillars, dense forests, and along the streams, offering breathtaking views at every turn.
Bailong Elevator. Take a ride on the world's tallest outdoor elevator, which offers a quick ascent along the side of a massive cliff, providing a unique perspective of the park's stunning terrain.
Tianmen Mountain Cable Car. Experience one of the longest cable car rides in the world to Tianmen Mountain, giving you a bird’s eye view of the surreal landscape below.
Travel Tips
The nearest airport is Zhangjiajie Hehua International Airport. From there, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to the park.
The park is beautiful year-round but visiting during the autumn months of September to November offers pleasant weather and vibrant fall colors.
Photo by Gert Boers
The Wave, Arizona, USA
Tucked away in the rugged landscapes of Arizona, The Wave is a geological marvel known for its undulating, wave-like formations. This surreal and delicate structure formed by centuries of wind and rain erosion, boasts a display of colorful sandstone set in a mesmerizing pattern of flowing crests and troughs.
Things to Do
Hiking. The hike to The Wave is a rewarding experience, albeit challenging, offering breathtaking views of the swirling formations and the surrounding rugged terrain.
Photography. The unique formations and the play of light and shadow, especially during golden hour, create an opportunity for stunning photography.
Exploration. Nearby, you can explore other intriguing geological formations such as the Second Wave and Melody Arch, each with its own unique charm.
Travel Tips
The trailhead starts from Wire Pass Trailhead, which is accessible by a dirt road. It's advisable to have a high-clearance vehicle.
Access to The Wave is limited to protect its fragile formations. Obtain a permit through the Bureau of Land Management's lottery system, either online or in-person.
Best Time to Visit is Spring (March to May) and Fall (September to November) when the temperature is milder, ideal for exploring.
Masterpieces of Mother Nature
Our planet is indeed a treasure trove of surreal landscapes, each corner holding secrets awaiting to be unraveled. As we step out of the familiar, these destinations offer a gateway to exploring the boundless creativity of nature, urging us to see the world through a lens of wonder and appreciation.
So, are you ready to step into the unknown and explore these surreal places that defy the ordinary and celebrate the bizarre?