When you travel as much as I have, picking the most beautiful places you’ve seen feels almost impossible. Every destination has its own unique charm, and there’s so much joy in discovering the unexpected. But if I really had to choose, these are the places that left me utterly speechless with their natural beauty. They’re places so extraordinary that they defy comparison.
1. Machu Picchu, Peru
Machu Picchu was the first thing I ever put on my bucket list, and it was the first place I visited in South America. The experience was nothing short of magical. Perched high in the Andes, this ancient city feels like it’s on top of the world. Centuries ago, the Incas designed it to be hidden from view from below, but from its heights, you get a stunning 360-degree perspective of the surrounding valleys. The air is crisp, the sun shines differently up there, and the atmosphere feels almost otherworldly. I’ve never seen anything like it, and I doubt I ever will.
2. Iguazu Falls, Brazil/Argentina/Paraguay
Iguazu Falls is massive. Its sheer size and power are beyond words or pictures. Standing there, you feel tiny in comparison to its immensity. The waterfalls stretch across three countries and roar with such intensity that it’s hard to believe they’re real. After seeing Iguazu, no other waterfall has ever come close for me. Once you’ve experienced something this breathtaking, it’s hard to be impressed by anything smaller. 😂
3. Atacama Desert, Chile
The Atacama Desert was my introduction to sandboarding, and it was so much fun! The landscape here is like another planet. The dry, otherworldly terrain feels like Mars, with its surreal colors and vast, open spaces. Whether it was the thrill of sandboarding or the quiet beauty of the desert’s vastness, the Atacama left a lasting impression.
4. Salar de Uyuni, Bolivia
Imagine walking on an endless salt flat, where the horizon stretches infinitely in every direction. That’s Salar de Uyuni. During the day, it feels like you’re walking on another world, and at night, under the Milky Way, it becomes magical. The stillness, the reflection of the stars, and the sheer uniqueness of the landscape make it a one-of-a-kind experience.
5. Perito Moreno Glacier, Argentina
I didn’t know what to expect from the Perito Moreno Glacier, but it completely blew me away. The glacier is massive, with shades of blue I’ve never seen before. The weather changed constantly while I was there — from storms to sunshine — and with it, the colors of the glacier shifted. Watching huge chunks of ice break off and crash into the water was a humbling reminder of nature’s power. It was a moment that made me realize how happy I am in nature.
6. Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
In Rio, I met a guide on top of Pedra da Gávea who summed it up perfectly: “Rio has everything.” Jungle trails for hiking, gorgeous sandy beaches, vibrant music, and amazing people — Rio de Janeiro truly has it all. The views, the energy, and the diversity of experiences make it one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever visited.
7. Tayrona National Park, Colombia
Tayrona was my first real jungle experience, and it felt like stepping into a National Geographic documentary. The hike to the park’s heart was tough: mud, rivers, giant rocks, and even sandy beaches. Along the way, we encountered everything from biting red ants to a crocodile only a couple of meters away! Sleeping in a hammock in the middle of the jungle and exploring the untouched beaches was exhilarating and unforgettable.
8. Cuba
Cuba is my favorite country in the world, and Havana feels like my second home after Istanbul. What makes it so special is its vibrant culture, the warmth of its people, the lively music, and its stunning natural beauty. Every person in Cuba seems to be an artist, a dancer, or a singer, and it’s impossible not to get caught up in the rhythm of life there. Cuba felt like a musical come to life; I danced on every corner and had the time of my life.
9. Cape Town, South Africa
Cape Town is another city that stands out for its breathtaking beauty. Its nature, people, food, and beaches are simply incredible. Hiking Table Mountain and enjoying the gorgeous Camps Bay Beach were unforgettable experiences. The city has a unique vibe where you don’t need much to have fun — its beauty does all the work.
10. Rome, Italy
As an art lover, Rome was a dream come true. I’ve always adored art, but Roman art holds a special place in my heart. The sculptures, paintings, and Renaissance masterpieces are unparalleled. Walking through the streets of Rome feels like stepping into a historical movie, with every corner offering something to marvel at. The Vatican Museum is my favorite museum in the world (sorry, Louvre!). It’s filled with Roman pieces that give you a deep understanding of the past and its artistic trends. The progression through the museum’s rooms feels like reading a captivating book, and it all culminates in the Sistine Chapel, where everything you’ve seen clicks into place. It’s a journey through history and art that’s utterly unique.
11. Istanbul, Turkey
Istanbul is my home, but that’s not why it’s on this list. I’ve traveled to many places around the world, and nowhere compares to the culture, history, art, nature, and beauty of Istanbul. The Bosphorus is the best place in the world to spend time. Its unique blend of stunning nature and Turkish architecture creates an atmosphere that’s impossible to tire of. Istanbul is a city where every moment feels special, and I feel endlessly inspired by its charm and the rich Turkish culture.
These incredible destinations have not only shaped my perspective on beauty and culture but also taught me the joys of solo travel. Exploring the world alone has been one of the most transformative experiences of my life, and I believe it’s something everyone should try at least once. If you’ve ever thought about traveling solo but don’t know where to start, my book is here to help. Fun Maestro : A solo Travel Revolution
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