12 Otherworldly Adventures

Leave the landscape of everyday life behind with a visit to one of the world’s most otherworldly places – no Virgin Galactic ticket required. From the auburn slopes of the Wave rock formation in Arizona to the foggy waters of Iceland’s Blue Lagoon spa, these sites to behold will make guests feel a million miles away. Here are 12 awe-inspiring spots you don’t have to leave Earth for.

Iceland’s Blue Lagoon: This geothermal spa is a feast for the eyes that will leave bodies relaxed and camera memory cards full on a visit outside Reykjavik.

Vermilion Cliffs National Monument, Arizona: Just south of the Utah state line is a scene like any other in the United States, a popular stop on the way from the Grand Canyon to Zion National Park. Photo courtesy of Flickr: Bureau of Land Management

Huangshan, China: This UNESCO World Heritage site is commonly called the loveliest mountain of China. Today many poets, photographers and painters take pilgrimages here.

Cappadocia, Turkey: Volcanic eruptions covered this region with heavy ash, which transformed into a soft rock that’s now commonly seen by visitors from hot air balloons.

Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, Kyoto, Japan: Feel transported to another land during a walk through the densely packed grove, now the second most popular tourist spot in the country.

Salvation Mountain, Niland, Calif. Ninety minutes from Palm Springs is this powerful message writ large filling the landscape from artist Leonard Knight. Photo courtesy of Flickr: Brian

Machu Picchu, Peru: Comprised of ancient Incan temples, homes, palaces, and plazas, this stunning historical sanctuary gives a glimpse into the past. 

The Roman ruins in Caerleon, Wales: The remains of this fortress covers 50 acres of land: and the amphitheater that once held 6,000 spectators now is covered with the land itself. Photo courtesy of Flickr: Tyler Bell

MUSA Museo Subacuático, Mexico: Looking straight out of an old episode of “The X Files” this museum lets snorklers swim through the antiquities. Photo courtesy of Flickr: Andy Blackledge

Sossusvlei Dunes, Namibia: One of the largest country’s biggest tourist attractions, the landmark draws crowds for its red dunes and white salt pan. Photo courtesy of Flickr: Joachim Huber

Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, China: The country’s first national forest park is best viewed by cable car to fully take in its vast and varied landscape. Photo courtesy of Flickr: Viktor Lövgren

Fernandina Island, Ecuador: The youngest island of the Galapagos, Fernandina has an active volcano and sights and creatures you can’t see anywhere else on earth. Photo courtesy of Flickr: Aaron Logan