If there is a tourism sector that has always been successful and even more so in recent times, it is that of nature. Outdoor experiences are among travelers' favorites. And if there is a main object of desire, it takes the form of a national park. Their imposing waterfalls, lush forests, and volcanic landscapes make them stand out above other destinations.
In this sense, there is a Spanish park that ranks in the top ten of the world's best-rated, and that is Teide, in Tenerife. According to Google reviews of natural spaces analyzed by Tui Musement, a leading tours and activities portal, the Spanish park would rank tenth among those designated as UNESCO World Heritage sites. The first place, however, goes to Plitvice Lakes in Croatia, which scores 4.8 out of 5 from over 124,000 reviews. This natural gem is famous for its 16 interconnected lakes connected by waterfalls, which can be explored through an extensive network of trails and wooden walkways.
Iguazú National Park, in the province of Misiones (Argentina), ranks second in the ranking, followed by the neighboring Iguaçu in Brazil. They are a unique case on the list, as both are part of the same large natural enclave and share one of the greatest spectacles on the planet. Both were declared UNESCO World Heritage sites in 1984 and 1986, respectively. Their main attraction is the iconic Iguazú Falls, formed by 275 waterfalls that cascade from different heights amidst the subtropical jungle.
In fourth place is the Grand Canyon National Park, with over 63,000 reviews. From its viewpoints, you can admire the cliffs and rock formations sculpted by the Colorado River over millions of years. Among the most popular experiences are helicopter rides, which allow you to observe the canyon from the air.
Also in the United States, Yosemite Park stands out in fifth position. Declared a World Heritage Site in 1984, it is famous for its waterfalls, forests of giant sequoias, and granite cliffs. Among the most iconic rock formations are Half Dome, El Capitan, Cathedral Rocks, and Three Brothers.
THE 'TOP TEN' OF NATIONAL PARKS
Plitvice Lakes (Croatia): 124,455 reviews (4.8/5).
Iguazú (Argentina): 106,934 reviews (4.9/5).
Iguaçu (Brazil): 69,843 reviews (4.8/5).
Grand Canyon (USA): 63,042 reviews (4.8/5).
Yosemite (USA): 54,771 reviews (4.8/5).
Great Smoky Mountains (USA): 50,036 reviews (4.9/5).
Cinque Terre (Italy): 46,691 reviews (4.7/5).
Yellowstone (USA): 44,651 reviews (4.8/5).
Lake District (UK): 42,825 reviews (4.8/5).
Teide (Spain): 39,319 reviews (4.8/5).
Without leaving Spain, the Great Smoky Mountains Park ranks sixth in the list. In addition to hosting numerous endangered animal species, it boasts a tree diversity comparable to that of the entire Europe. Hiking enthusiasts have over 1,300 kilometers of trails to explore the beauty of its mountains.
Next is the Italian Cinque Terre National Park, which is part of the UNESCO World Heritage list along with Portovenere and the islands of Palmaria, Tino, and Tinetto. A network of scenic trails connects the five colorful towns of Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Riomaggiore, and Manarola, offering spectacular views of the Mediterranean.
With more than half of the planet's active geysers, Yellowstone (USA) ranks eighth thanks to its impressive geothermal phenomena. Among them, Old Faithful, which erupts regularly and attracts thousands of visitors each year.
The Lake District Park in the UK is ninth on the list due to its rolling hills, lakes, and picturesque valleys, which form a bucolic landscape that has inspired poets and intellectuals for centuries. From towns like Windermere and Ambleside, numerous routes depart to explore the area, while Scafell Pike, England's highest mountain, is one of the most popular destinations for hiking enthusiasts.
Closing the top ten is the only Spanish representative: Teide National Park, whose volcano is also the country's highest peak. Its lava flows, craters, and rock formations create a unique environment that can be explored through numerous trails or admired from the cable car that ascends to the vicinity of the summit.