6 of Our Favorite National Parks Around the World

Most countries have national parks where the most beautiful monuments are preserved in nature. If you are an outdoor enthusiast and love to travel, then national parks definitely make your bucket list. With so many to choose from it can be difficult to decide which national parks will give you that awe factor the most. Luckily, Travelrest has had some experience with national parks and we can offer you some insight into which were our favorites. Let us break it down by area.

UNITED STATES

The US has hundreds of parks you can visit, and each one is filled with different wonders. If you haven't been to a ton of national parks in the US we highly recommend exploring here before moving on to other countries. 

1. Yosemite National Park: Yosemite is one of the most pristine, and heavily visited national parks. The famous John Muir Trail begins in Yosemite, along with a variety of other spectacular hikes. Yosemite has enormous waterfalls, lookout points, advanced hiking and beginner hiking, and easy access to many of the park's best features. If you dare, try making the hike to the top of half dome. This will certainly give you perspective on the enormity of this national park. Everyone can enjoy some natural beauty at Yosemite.

2. Zion National Park: Zion has a lot to offer in terms of hiking. If you are an advanced hiker and a bit of a daredevil, then Angel's Landing is an incredible journey. Many people attempt this hike, but few finish as they realize the difficulty and dangers of it. If you make it to the end, the reward is like being on top of the world! Zion also offers easier hikes that take you along winding rivers through the multi colored sandstone canyons. The colors in the rock are incredibly beautiful, and you'll find awe around every corner. 

EUROPE

3. Plitvice Lakes National Park: Plitvice Lakes is a series of lakes all in a single area in Croatia. Each lake cascades into the next with breathtaking waterfalls, and clear emerald water. The national park has set up boardwalks that allow you to walk right across the lakes for the best views of the waterfalls. This national park is so remarkable that it still made this list even though we visited on a cold, overcast, rainy day. 

SOUTH AMERICA

4. Patagonia National Park: Recognize that name? Probably because you've seen the clothing brand named after the national park being sported by other outdoor obsessed people. Patagonia covers a huge area of about half of Argentina and Chile. Patagonia has penguins, glaciers, pumas, the Torres del Paine and so much more! You could spend a lifetime exploring Patagonia alone. When visiting Patagonia expect to experience all four seasons in a single day. It's common to begin a hike wearing shorts in the sun, and end the hike bundling up because of snowfall. 

ASIA

5. Fuji Hakone Izu National Park: This national park in Japan is famous for its seemingly perfect, cone shaped, snow capped Mount Fuji. Take a hike on Mt. Fuji or go for a relaxing dip in a natural hot spring. The landscape ranges from coastal, islands, to mountains and lakes. You can find plenty to see and do at this national park in Japan. Make sure you take a delicious traditional Japanese bento box for lunch on your excursions!

6. Komodo National Park: Komodo national park is located in Indonesia and is perfect for someone looking to have a bit of a tropical vacation. Go looking for Komodo Dragons in this park, or visit one of the flourishing reefs for a dive. This place is perfect for people interested in seeing abundant wildlife, and taking lots of mini excursions and adventures.

There, you have it! Although it's difficult to choose favorites when it comes to natural wonders, these 6 stood out to us. Let us know which national parks are your favorite! And don't forget to take a Travelrest pillow, blanket, or mask when making the trip to these amazing places. Good times require good rest, and there's no better way to rest on the go than with Travelrest.