10incredible landscapes that don't seem to come from our planet
The land offers landscapes of breathtaking beauty. And among them, some seem straight out of a science fiction movie. Soils, rocks, mountains, volcanoes, sometimes associated with the ocean, can form unexpected panoramas, and whose existence we do not suspect. These landscapes take place in the four corners of the globe, in Asia, Africa, Australia or even South America, and arouse the curiosity of many travellers. Le Petit Futé has selected 10 natural settings from another world, which you might want to visit one day, and photograph.
1-Sol de Mañana geysers, Bolivia
These incredible geysers are found at an altitude of over 4,850m. They are fed by significant volcanic activity, which is itself the result of friction between the American plate and the South Pacific plate. During a getaway to this field of geysers, one discovers bubbling mud craters and large fumaroles rising into the sky. Be careful, you have to be very careful because the water expelled can reach 200 degrees! The spectacle offered is magnificent, especially on days with clear blue skies, and it is also possible to come across wildlife that has acclimatized to the climatic conditions, including flamingos.
2-Death Valley, USA
You could almost say it's a classic, but Death Valley in the United States is a must for anyone who wants almost surreal panoramas. There are desert lands as far as the eye can see, lush forests and steep cliffs. The contrast is striking and if the sand dunes are frequent, one can also observe snow-capped peaks. In any case, whether you decide to explore it on foot, by bike or on horseback, Death Valley National Park never ceases to surprise, and seduces lovers of landscape photos from all over the world.
3-The rice terraces of Yuanyang, China
These rice fields in China are breathtakingly beautiful and have even been listed as UNESCO heritage since 2013. The most impressive thing is undoubtedly when you gain height by reaching a viewpoint . There are several that offer the possibility of contemplating the three zones: Bada, Duoyishu and Laohuzui. It is from there that we can best distinguish the shapes of the terraces and it is also the time to take superb shots. But for walkers, you should know that it is also possible to hike directly through the rice fields. The impression, for a moment, of being in another world.
4-A lava field in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
Direction the Hawaiian archipelago for a show of beauty. Volcanoes have the power to create landscapes that give the feeling of being far, far away. On the Big Island of Hawaii, Volcanoes National Park is home to two of the most active volcanoes in the world: Mauna Loa and Kilauea . The volcanic landscapes offered reveal surprising geological formations, and seeing the lava flows coming to pour into the Pacific Ocean really gives the impression of being on another planet. In this chaotic landscape, there are still some endemic species and rare birds.
5-Salar de Uyuni, Bolivia
In the far south of Bolivia, not far from the Chilean border is the province of Sud Lipez. And it is here that we find the unmissable Salar de Uyuni , one of the most fascinating landscapes in the world. Located at an altitude of 3,658 m, this salt desert, the largest in the world, extends over an area of more than 10,500 km². Between the white color of the desert and its cracked effect, and the blue of the sky, the atmosphere is spectacular and the color contrast striking. From the Salar, you can also see peaks in the distance and islets populated by cacti. Without forgetting the rainy days, when the Salar de Uyuni appears like a giant mirror when it is covered with water.
6-Cappadocia, Türkiye
In the heart of Turkey, Capadocce offers striking lunar landscapes. This is where you see holey cliffs, gorges, pillars, chimney-shaped columns and totally surreal rock formations, formed millions of years ago by erosion and volcanic eruptions. It is also there that real troglodyte villages have been dug by man in the white rock, with the presence of dwellings, monasteries and churches. To discover all its splendor, how not to mention Göreme, one of the emblematic sites of Cappadocia.
7-The Valley of Desolation, Dominica
During a stay in the West Indies, and more precisely here on the island of Dominica , you should not miss visiting this valley whose name, of course, could put some people off. It offers a striking contrast with the lush forest around. We see a steaming river, fumaroles, small geysers and hot springs of multiple colors. There is no doubt that volcanic activity is very real here! A trip to the Valley of Desolation must include a visit to another natural curiosity: Boiling Lake , the second largest boiling lake in the world.
8-Socotra Island, Yemen
Socotra Island lies about 350 km from Yemen in the Arabian Sea. If this island is surprising, it is largely due to the presence of its otherworldly trees. For what ? They are umbrella-shaped, with spiky green leaves. They also have a red colored sap. It's simple, it almost looks like they were left there to be able to sit in the shade on a garden furniture. Which will prove difficult since they are in the heart of a desert landscape. The whole forms a truly incredible panorama.
9-Legzira beach, Morocco
Between rock formation and sea, Legzira beach is well known in Morocco, but no one can doubt its surreal character. Indeed, the one located in the Souss region, near Sidi-Ifni, has superb cliffs with ocher-colored rock whose color contrasts with the blue of the Atlantic Ocean. During a walk on this beach which stretches as far as the eye can see, you even have the opportunity to pass under an impressive arch. The sea and its tumults, the cliffs, the place is splendid and popular in Morocco. Bathing is however not recommended.
10-The Pinnacles Desert, Australia
When you are looking for confusing landscapes in Australia, you usually have a choice. But it is necessary to stop on the particularities of the desert of the Pinnacles. Located in Western Australia, there is yellow sand as far as the eye can see and above all, a multitude of peaks and limestone rocks in various and varied shapes. For information, these rock formations are 30,000 years old! Some of them are also massive, with a height of up to 4 m. To access this lunar landscape, you must enter through Nambung National Park, located north of the city of Perth.
Source: websites