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Many would agree that one of the trickiest things about booking a holiday is choosing where to go – especially when our vast world is teeming with so much beauty and wonder.
Would you prefer to visit lush rainforests, deep valleys, white sand beaches, sweeping desert plains, or fascinating historical sites? Or perhaps it’s eerie, snow-capped mountains, incredible wildlife, and dazzling lakes that appeal most to you.
If you’re struggling to decide, the good news is that certain destinations offer wonderfully diverse landscapes and experiences, giving you more for your money.
From Turkey’s fairy chimneys and dreamy coastal plains to India’s silky dunes and iconic temples, here are 10 of the most diverse and beautiful countries in the world.
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1. South Africa
Often described as ‘the giant of Africa’, moving from one part of South Africa to another can feel like arriving in a new country. In Cape Town, the iconic Table Mountain looms over the city, which boasts an eclectic mix of stunning beaches, rugged coastlines, vibrant townships, and modern shopping complexes.
Head north, and you’ll find Johannesburg, the commercial and financial heart of South Africa, laid out in an intriguing grid formation. High-rise concrete buildings cast shadows across narrow streets, giving them an eerie tunnel-like feel. Even further north, you’ll encounter the unforgettable Kruger National Park, where mountains, bush plains, and tropical forests house tens of thousands of animals – including zebras, cheetahs, giraffes, and the iconic Big Five.
2. Portugal
Portugal’s position on the western edge of Europe, bordering the Atlantic Ocean, adds to its fantastically varied terrain and climates. It’s a nation bursting with inspiring landscapes, from the fairy tale castles and palaces of the town of Sintra to the dramatic coastline and pretty pastel-coloured buildings of Lisbon.
Lisbon – Portugal’s capital – is spread across a series of seven hills offering scenic views from every angle and is arguably one of the best places in Europe for a city break. Known for its rattling trams, pasteis de nata, and inviting old neighbourhoods, Lisbon is home to the Tagus River, which flows gracefully at the city’s side, as well as more than two dozen blue flag beaches and amazing botanical gardens.
The romantic, sun-soaked seaside city of Porto, known for its stately bridges and port wine production, is also a delight. Here, you can relax in lovely green spaces, unwind on golden sands, soak in views of the twinkling river Douro, and wander through narrow cobbled streets and around magnificent ancient churches.
3. India
With bustling cities, hot deserts, stunning palaces, ethereal lakes and rivers, and plenty more, India offers a treasure trove of experiences. In the golden city of Jaisalmer, for example, you can picnic alongside the magical Gadisar Lake and explore the majestic 870-year-old Golden Fort, which housed 5,000 people. Just 42km from the city, you can also take in the view of the Thar Desert’s silky dunes, which are captivatingly beautiful at sunset.
For yet another different scene, India’s capital, Delhi, is a frenetic cultural hub; home to roaming cows, iconic temples, hoards of beeping tuk-tuks, and the largest wholesale spice market in Asia. But the country has plenty of rural areas too, with authentic villages, well-tended farmland, rugged jungle, and desert countryside dotted throughout.
4. Greece
Greece offers diversity in spades; so it can be difficult to choose an island to visit, let alone decide what to do when you arrive. For example, in Athens, you can dive into historic scenes leftover from one of the greatest civilisations of all time; while in Thessaly, you’ll find Meteora, a mysterious and spectacular series of monasteries built atop large rocks in a feat of human creativity.
A visit to the island of Santorini is a bit like falling into a dream. Picture dramatic cliffs, white-washed buildings with brilliant blue domes, fiery sunsets, volcanic sands, and lush vineyards. The waters are also incredibly warm and clear, and in Palea Kameni, you can dive into green sulfur thermal waters.
5. Kenya
From Mount Kenya’s towering peaks and Tsavo West National Park’s rugged, arid beauty to palm-fringed beaches with powder-soft sand and twinkling azure waters, this East African country is one of contrasts.
The largest and capital city – nicknamed ‘Green City in the Sun’ – is built on an interesting mix of rich rainforest and golden savannah grasslands, with three rivers running through it: Ngong, Mathare, and Nairobi. It’s also home to buzzing nightlife and tantalising cuisine – be sure to try mandazi (deep fried dough) – as well as lively markets and plenty of artistic spirit in the form of street art and murals.
Away from the city, you’ll also be spoilt for choice when it comes to safaris. Amboseli National Park is famed for its incredible elephant herds and captivating Mount Kilimanjaro backdrop, while Taita Hills Wildlife Sanctuary offers heart-racing glimpses of the famous Big Five.
6. Peru
Peru has three distinct geographical regions – the coast, the Andes Mountains, and the Amazon rainforest – which have each developed a unique culture, tradition, and way of life. The Andes region boasts Machu Picchu, the iconic ancient Inca citadel, and charming Cusco, the former Inca capital. Meanwhile, the Peruvian jungle and Amazon River are home to native communities, gorgeous butterflies, pink dolphins, a huge range of birds, and much more.
Lima, Peru’s coastal capital, has impressive sea views and will be any foodie’s dream. Markets sell beautiful, colourful fruit, huge fish, and 3,000 types of potatoes. Dishes include everything from ceviche (fresh raw fish marinated in citrus juices, chilli, and onions) and hearty soups to causa (potato layered with chicken, seafood, avocado, and mayo). For dessert, street churros and picarones (doughnut-like pastries) are a must-try.
7. Turkey
Turkey’s landscapes are fascinatingly diverse, largely because the country is located where four of the Earth’s tectonic plates meet. The movement of these plates can create various geological features, including hulking volcanoes, stunning coastal plains, majestic mountains, and deep valleys.
In Pamukkale, for example, you can explore the Cotton Castle, a natural wonder of white waterfalls, stalactites, and natural pools. Then, in Cappadocia, a landscape of mesmerising natural rock formations known as ‘fairy chimneys’ paints a picture straight out of a fantasy novel. And Bursa – the first capital of the Ottoman Empire – is a city of vibrant houses and winding streets dotted with fountains, surrounded by lush forests and mountains.
8. Norway
From charming urban areas to jaw-dropping natural landscapes, Norway offers a beautiful balance between cityscapes and otherworldly fjords. In Oslo, Norway’s capital and largest city, you can sip coffee in stylish cafes, wander various museums, and enjoy dramatic opera shows. Meanwhile, Bergen, the country’s second-largest city, offers the best of both worlds and is perfect for city walks, mountain hikes, culture, and water activities.
But the country also offers more remote natural gems, including the outstanding Fjord Sognefjord – the longest and deepest fjord in Norway, stretching 205km inland. Here, steep, dramatic cliffs rise from crystal-clear cerulean waters, lush green vegetation clings to rocky slopes, picturesque villages dot the shoreline, and snow-capped mountains loom in the distance.
9. Costa Rica
If you’re looking for both relaxation and adventure, Costa Rica is one for your travel list. Here, you can enjoy tranquil boat rides along the leafy canals of Tortuguero National Park, where nesting leatherback turtles visit between February and April. Plus, in Monteverde, one of the richest and most diverse rainforests in the world, you can spot several monkey species, lazy sloths, armadillos, jaguars, quetzals, and plenty more.
When you want to stretch your legs, a guided hike up the majestic Arenal Volcano, with its nearly perfect cone shape and a height of 1,633 metres, will introduce an abundance of fascinating and beautiful flora and fauna. History and culture enthusiasts can also peruse museums, markets, and galleries in San Jose. And, when you want to kick back and relax, the sun-soaked beaches of Tamarindo, with golden sands and easy waves, offer the perfect paradise.
10. Vietnam
From misty mountain villages to sun-soaked beaches and bustling markets to tranquil pagodas, Vietnam has an unforgettable adventure for every traveller. For example, it’s easy to lose yourself in Hanoi’s chaotic charm where ancient traditions blend with modern life – you can attend a cooking class, marvel at a water puppet theatre show, wander the Old Quarter, and admire the Long Bien Bridge.
And, in vibrant Ho Chi Minh City, known as the ‘Pearl of the Far East’, sleek skyscrapers stand alongside colonial architecture. From the restored Opera House to the famous Thien Hau Temple, there’s an eclectic mix of things to explore.
Then, for a complete contrast – and dreamlike experience – you can sail through the mystical limestone karsts of Ha Long Bay, a natural wonder that’ll likely take your breath away. Just don’t forget your camera.
Final thoughts…
The world’s most diverse destinations offer a tapestry of experiences that cater to every traveller. Whether you’re drawn to the mystical landscapes of Turkey, the vibrant contrasts of India, or the wonders of other remarkable countries, these destinations promise unforgettable journeys.
If you’re looking for more holiday inspiration, check out our travel section, where you can find everything from unforgettable cruise destinations to the best destinations for solo travel.
Have any of these destinations caught your eye? Or have you been to any of them already? We’d love to hear from you in the comments below.
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