What sets Kaikōura apart are the extraordinary marine encounters that begin just off the shoreline. The Kaikōura Canyon, an underwater gorge that plunges to great depths close to land, creates currents rich with nutrients that attract a remarkable array of sea life year-round. Sperm whales are a common sight here and are frequently spotted on local boat tours. Dusky dolphins twist and leap in large pods, and colonies of New Zealand fur seals laze on rocky outcrops along the coast.
Mulanje is a town in southern Malawi at the foot of Mount Mulanje, a large isolated massif that rises sharply above the surrounding tea-growing plains. The mountain is known locally as Mulanje Mountain and includes a series of granite peaks, forested slopes, valleys, streams, and waterfalls. Sapitwa, the highest summit, reaches about 3,002 meters and is the highest point in Malawi.
Spectacularly picturesque, Montreux is situated on the shore of Lake Geneva and one of Switzerland's most popular resort destinations. Montreux is best known for stunning lakeside views, upscale hotels, an annual jazz festival, and the magnificent Château de Chillon, the medieval castle which inspired the writings of many Romantic era poets.
Machu Picchu is a story carved into stone, perched nearly 2,500 meters above sea level in the cloud forests of southern Peru. Built in the 15th century and later abandoned, this Inca citadel was unknown to the outside world until 1911, when explorer Hiram Bingham brought it to international attention. Today, it remains remarkably well-preserved, with more than 150 stone structures, terraced fields, ceremonial fountains, and temples aligned with astronomical events.
Photo Credit: Photo by Vladimir Haltakov on Unsplash
Photo Credit: Photo by Bob Brewer on Unsplash
Sulphur-crested cockatoo
Photo Credit: Photo by Hongbin on Unsplash
Rainbow bee-eater
Photo Credit: Photo by Hongbin on Unsplash
Photo Credit: Photo by Rod Long on Unsplash
Photo Credit: Photo by Rod Long on Unsplash
Dripstone Cliffs
Photo Credit: Photo by Kate McLean on Unsplash
Darwin, located on the Timor sea, was once an Australian frontier outpost, and is now the capital of the Northern Territory. This diverse destination, a truly distinct part of Australia, is the portal to the stunningly beautiful Kakadu National Park.
Tropical beaches, green space, wildlife, and dazzling sunsets all draw tourists to Darwin. Visitors should also discover the city's art museums, Mindil Beach's night markets and the local seafood. And did you know that this area of Australia has more crocodiles than anywhere on the planet? See saltwater crocs at Crocosaurus Cove, which boasts the world's largest display of these apex predators.
Other Popular Destinations in Australia
Sydney
Sydney, Australia, is a vibrant city where iconic landmarks, diverse neighborhoods, and natural beauty converge. The Sydney Opera House, with its striking sail-like design, and the Sydney Harbour Bridge are symbols recognized around the world, yet the city offers much more beyond its famous skyline.
Cairns
Cairns is the majestic entrance to Australia's Great Barrier Reef. This warm, tropical destination is located in Far North Queensland. Must-see attractions in Cairns include the Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park, which educates tourists about indigenous peoples, and restaurant and bar-dotted Cairns Esplanade, which has a lagoon for swimming.