Explore the 7 Wonder of the World Name Lists: Ancient, New, Natural
Even the Ancient Greeks had travel bucket lists. Centuries ago, historians compiled what we now know as the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. More recently, we have the New Seven Wonders of the World and the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. Understanding the 7 Wonder Of The World Name from each of these significant lists provides a fascinating glimpse into history, culture, and the raw power of nature.
So what are these incredible destinations, and what makes them so special? Let’s delve into each list to uncover the names and stories behind the world’s most celebrated marvels.
The Seven Wonders of the Ancient World
The original list provides a snapshot of some of the most impressive engineering and cultural marvels of ancient times. Of the original 7 Wonder Of The World Name list from antiquity, only one still exists. Some are remembered only through ruins, and one might not have actually existed in real life, adding a layer of mystery to their legends.
Colossus of Rhodes
An incredible feat of Greek engineering, this estimated 100-foot-tall statue of the sun god Helios once guarded the Mandraki Harbor in Rhodes, Greece. An earthquake in 226 B.C. brought it crashing down, tragically ending its reign as one of the original 7 wonder of the world name landmarks.
Nothing remains of the Colossus itself today, but you can still visit the historic Mandraki Harbor on the island of Rhodes. Instead of the imposing figure of Helios, you’ll now find a pair of deer statues, Elefos and Elafina, standing at the harbor entrance. The marina remains a popular spot for yachts and cruises, bustling with modern activity against an ancient backdrop. Inland, consider exploring the Castle of Saint Nicholaos and the medieval windmills that contribute to Rhodes’ status as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Great Pyramid of Giza
The Great Pyramid of Giza and smaller pyramids under a clear sky in Egypt, the only remaining ancient wonder of the world
Located in Egypt, the Great Pyramid is the sole survivor among the original original 7 wonders of the world names. Standing proudly on the Giza Plateau, it is the largest of the three Pyramids of Giza and held the distinction of being one of the tallest man-made structures on Earth for nearly 4,000 years. While erosion has slightly diminished its original grandeur, it remains an awe-inspiring sight and a must-visit for any traveler’s bucket list.
Visitors have the opportunity to go inside the Great Pyramid as part of an organized tour, experiencing its ancient interior. However, climbing on the exterior is strictly prohibited. While exploring Giza, be sure to visit the Sphinx, an iconic half-man, half-lion sculpture located nearby. Although not officially one of the ancient wonders, it’s an integral part of the Giza complex and equally iconic.
Hanging Gardens of Babylon
Located (perhaps) in modern-day Iraq, the Hanging Gardens are said to have been constructed around 600 B.C. as a magnificent gift from King Nebuchadnezzar II to his wife. Legend describes them as an incredible collection of trees, flowers, and other vegetation, thriving in a series of elevated terraces.
Beyond their rumored beauty, the gardens would have represented an extraordinary engineering feat, particularly in a desert environment. Building complex irrigation systems to sustain such lush vegetation at that time would have been a monumental challenge. Whether the Hanging Gardens of Babylon truly existed remains a subject of considerable historical debate and controversy. Some historians and archaeologists argue they are merely a myth, a romantic creation of ancient Greek and Roman writers. Others suggest they were real but might have been located in Nineveh instead, built roughly at the same time, adding another layer of mystery to this fabled wonder.
The Lighthouse of Alexandria
Serving as the prototype for modern lighthouses, the Lighthouse of Alexandria was built in Egypt around 280 B.C. At its peak, it was second in height only to the Great Pyramid and served multiple vital functions, from guiding ships safely into harbor to acting as a military lookout point.
Sadly, the lighthouse was torn down in the Middle Ages after being damaged by earthquakes. Its ruins were later used in the construction of the Citadel of Qaitbay, a fort built on the same site about three centuries later. While the original structure is gone, some of its remains have been recovered from the seabed near Alexandria’s harbor. There have been proposals for an underwater museum to showcase this recovered history, though plans have been discussed for many years without full realization. While waiting, Alexandria offers numerous snorkeling and scuba diving opportunities, allowing history enthusiasts to explore the underwater world where parts of the lighthouse once stood.
Mausoleum at Halicarnassus
Located in modern-day Bodrum, Turkey, the Mausoleum was built as an elaborate tomb for King Mausolus around 350 B.C., giving us the modern word “mausoleum.” Among its many opulent decorations, the structure featured a magnificent statue of the king and queen riding in a chariot atop the tomb. This wonder stood for centuries but was ultimately destroyed in 1522 A.D. by Crusaders who used its stones for fortifications.
Today, a museum dedicated to the Mausoleum exists in Bodrum, featuring plaster copies of some of the marble reliefs that survived the destruction. To see the original surviving reliefs and other statues from the site, visitors must travel to the British Museum in London, where these artifacts are preserved and displayed, offering a tangible connection to this lost ancient wonder.
Statue of Zeus at Olympia
Artistic representation of the colossal Statue of Zeus at Olympia, a lost wonder of the ancient world
This approximately 40-foot-tall statue depicted the Greek god Zeus seated on a massive, ornate throne. It was meticulously crafted from materials including ivory, wood, bronze, and gold, radiating grandeur and power. The structure left its visitors in awe for over 800 years within the Temple of Zeus at Olympia before it was tragically lost to history, likely destroyed by fire in Constantinople.
Although the statue and the Sanctuary of Olympia that housed it no longer stand in their original form, you can visit the Archaeological Museum of Olympia today. It houses one of the world’s finest collections of ancient art, spanning thousands of years, including significant exhibits dedicated to the Sanctuary itself and the history of the ancient Olympic Games that took place there, providing context for the statue’s historical and cultural significance.
Temple of Artemis at Ephesus
Originally, the temple, dedicated to the Greek goddess Artemis, was built alongside the River Ephesus in Turkey around 800 B.C. It was renowned for its immense size and intricate decoration. The temple was rebuilt and relocated several times throughout antiquity following destruction, each version more magnificent than the last, before ultimately falling into ruin during the rise of Christianity around 268 A.D.
Archaeologist John Turtle Wood unearthed the remains of the final temple version in 1863. Many of the excavated artifacts were sent to the British Museum, where they can be seen today, offering a tangible link to this lost wonder. You can also visit the temple ruins at the archaeological site of Ephesus, near present-day Selcuk, Turkey. While only foundations and scattered fragments remain, the sheer scale of the site hints at the temple’s former glory and its importance in the ancient world.
The New Seven Wonders of the World
While the ancient wonders largely belong to the distant past, the New Seven Wonders of the World are modern-day marvels that are alive, accessible, and thriving. These sites were chosen in a global poll and represent some of their countries’ most visited tourist attractions, drawing millions annually to witness their magnificence. Let’s explore the 7 wonder of the world with name from this contemporary list.
Great Wall of China
A long section of the Great Wall of China winding through mountains under a blue sky
Holding the title of arguably the longest human-made structure in the world, the Great Wall is not a single continuous wall but a network of fortifications running through northern China and southern Mongolia, built over centuries by various dynasties. One significant stretch is particularly well-preserved and is the part most frequently visited by tourists today. The section running from Mount Hu in Liaoning province to Jiayu Pass in Gansu province is a staggering 5,500 miles long, up to 21 feet wide, and nearly 33 feet tall at its highest points.
The Great Wall is celebrated as much for its fascinating history as for its remarkable engineering. It strategically connected existing fortifications across vast regions to create a more impenetrable defense system against potential invaders. While some sections were built using stone and brick, others ingeniously incorporated existing natural barriers like mountain ridges, ditches, moats, and irrigation systems. One of the highly recommended sections to visit is in Mutianyu, located only about 90 minutes by car from Beijing. It’s known for being less crowded than other sections like Badaling, offering a more peaceful experience. The paths here are well-restored and relatively flat in many areas, making for a comfortable visit.
Christ the Redeemer Statue
When you find yourself in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, look up towards the peak of Mount Corcovado. Standing proudly at 2,300 feet above the city is the unmistakable figure of the Christ the Redeemer statue, one of the New 7 wonders of the world names and pictures. Its sheer size makes it incredibly eye-catching: the statue itself is 98 feet tall from head to toe (with an additional 26-foot pedestal) and spans 92 feet wide from fingertip to fingertip of its outstretched arms, symbolizing peace and acceptance.
One of the most popular and scenic ways to reach the Christ the Redeemer is by taking a train ride, which ascends through the Tijuca National Park, a lush urban rainforest, before arriving at the statue. Alternatively, for the adventurous, there’s a hiking trail leading to the summit, offering stunning views along the way. However, caution is advised for hikers due to reports of petty theft; traveling in groups and leaving valuables at your hotel are recommended precautions. Due to its status as a world wonder, crowds can be significant, especially during peak hours. Visiting early in the morning is the best way to avoid the largest crowds and enjoy a more serene experience. If you don’t mind the crowds, visiting in the early evening offers the bonus of catching an incredible sunset over the vibrant city of Rio.
Machu Picchu
An aerial view of the ancient Inca city of Machu Picchu nestled between mountain peaks in Peru
Sometimes referred to as the Lost City of the Incas, Machu Picchu is nestled high in the Andes Mountains of Peru between two prominent peaks. It is widely believed to have served as a royal retreat or sacred site for the Inca civilization in the 15th century before being mysteriously abandoned around the time of the Spanish conquest. Because of its remote and hidden location, Machu Picchu remained largely unnoticed by the outside world, including European and American explorers, for about 400 years until its “rediscovery” in 1911.
Since its rediscovery, Machu Picchu has become Peru’s most famous archaeological site and a major global tourist destination, drawing millions of visitors from around the world fascinated by the ingenuity of the Inca civilization. Key features like the Sun Gate (Inti Punku) and the Temple of the Sun serve as remarkable relics of this advanced ancient culture. Travelers can reach Machu Picchu in several ways: the traditional, adventurous route involves multi-day treks along portions of the Inca Trail, retracing the steps of its original inhabitants. A more leisurely and popular option is to take the scenic train journey from nearby towns, which offers stunning views of the changing landscape as you ascend towards the mountains. Explore the 7 wonder of the world name lists with images to see more of this incredible site. Much about the site’s exact purpose and abandonment is still unknown, which only adds to the allure and mystery of this incredible wonder, allowing visitors to explore the ruins and imagine the vibrant life that once thrived there.
Chichén Itzá
Located deep within the jungles of Mexico, towards the tip of the Yucatán Peninsula, lies the impressive archaeological site of Chichén Itzá, a major pre-Columbian city built by the Maya civilization. More than two million people visit this site annually to gain insight into the remarkable art, architecture, and advanced scientific knowledge, particularly astronomy, of the Mayan culture.
When most people think of Chichén Itzá, they immediately picture the site’s dominant structure: the tiered pyramid known as El Castillo (The Castle), or the Temple of Kukulcán, which served as a temple to the feathered serpent deity. However, the site encompasses many other fascinating ruins worth exploring, including the Temple of the Warriors, the Observatory (Caracol), and the Great Ball Court, among dozens of other structures revealing the complexity of Mayan society. Also on site is the Sacred Cenote, a large sinkhole that was used for Mayan rituals and sacrifices, and is one of the reasons Chichén Itzá got its name, meaning “At the mouth of the well of the Itza”. These natural freshwater cenotes remain a significant draw in the region today, popular with travelers seeking unique swimming and exploration experiences.
Roman Colosseum
One of Italy’s most universally recognized landmarks and a symbol of Imperial Rome, the Colosseum was once the center of entertainment for the Roman Empire, most famously hosting gladiatorial contests and public spectacles. Completed in 80 AD, it was an architectural marvel of its time, capable of seating an estimated 50,000 spectators, more than twice the capacity of modern large arenas like New York’s Madison Square Garden.
The Colosseum was one of the few freestanding amphitheaters of the 1st century. Most similar structures at the time were built into hillsides for structural support. The Romans’ innovative design choice resulted in the development of complex vaults and columns that give the Colosseum its iconic and enduring appearance. There are various ways to experience the Colosseum today, depending on your level of interest and time. You can explore independently with a standard ticket or book a guided tour for a more in-depth understanding of its history and architecture. Accessing the underground levels (hypogeum) where gladiators and animals were kept, or the upper levels (Attic), typically requires booking a specific tour or guided visit in advance. The site also includes The Museo del Colosseo on the second level, housing artifacts related to its history. Planning your visit beforehand and allowing ample time is essential to fully appreciate the scale and history of this incredible monument.
Taj Mahal
The white marble mausoleum of the Taj Mahal in Agra, India, reflected in a pool
Built nearly 400 years ago in Agra, India, by Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife, Mumtaz Mahal, the Taj Mahal is widely considered the pinnacle of Mughal architecture and a timeless symbol of love. It is easily India’s most recognizable building, renowned for its exquisite beauty and symmetry. The central structure features a stunning white marble exterior adorned with intricate carvings and delicate inlay work known as pietra dura, created with semiprecious gems like jade, crystal, amethyst, and lapis lazuli. The interior houses the mausoleum with the tombs of Shah Jahan and Mumtaz Mahal underneath. The detailed Arabic calligraphy integrated into the design adds another layer of artistic and spiritual depth.
The mausoleum is the most famous part of the complex, but the site also includes beautiful gardens, a mosque, a guest house, and a reflecting pool, all enclosed within a walled compound. Visiting these less crowded areas can offer a different perspective and a quieter experience. The Taj Mahal is an immensely popular tourist destination and can get exceptionally busy. Starting your tour early in the morning, just after sunrise, is the best way to avoid the largest crowds and capture photographs free of strangers. Other useful tips for visiting include hiring a legitimate, government-approved tour guide for accurate information and insights, rather than impromptu guides. Dressing modestly is also appreciated, as the complex includes a working mosque. While there is no strict dress code for the entire site, covering your shoulders and knees is a sign of respect, particularly when entering the mosque area. Sadly, despite its beauty, the Taj Mahal has suffered years of environmental decay, primarily due to air pollution, which causes the marble to yellow. While efforts are ongoing to mitigate this impact, progress is slow, highlighting the fragility of such historic treasures.
Petra
The iconic Treasury (Al-Khazneh) carved into the red sandstone cliff face at Petra, Jordan
Also famously known as the Rose City due to the distinctive color of the sandstone cliffs from which it is carved, Petra is an ancient Nabataean city located in modern-day Jordan. Its Greek name means “Rock,” fitting given its location. Petra was a vital center on major trade routes, flourishing as a wealthy city for centuries. Referenced in the Bible by the name Sela, it is considered one of the most beautiful and historically significant archaeological sites in the world. The city was inhabited, invaded, and eventually abandoned countless times over the centuries, its existence fading from Western memory until its rediscovery in the early 19th century. It wasn’t until the 1950s that it gained widespread international recognition.
Excavations since then have uncovered numerous tombs, temples, monuments, a theater, and the High Place of Sacrifice, an ancient altar. The most iconic and popular spot today is the Treasury, or Al-Khazneh, a magnificent facade carved directly into the red rock wall. You will likely recognize this stunning structure from countless pictures and movies, accessed through a narrow canyon called the Siq. On certain nights, the Treasury is illuminated by candlelight, offering a magical and unforgettable view, though this special experience typically requires purchasing an extra ticket. To get the most value and truly explore the vastness of Petra, which is much larger than just the Treasury, it makes sense to buy a multi-day ticket. Adding an extra day or two to your itinerary costs only a small amount more than a single-day entry and allows ample time to discover the many other incredible carved structures and hiking trails the site offers.
The Seven Natural Wonders of the World
So far, we’ve celebrated wonders primarily shaped by human hands. But Mother Nature has curated her own list of unparalleled phenomena. These one-of-a-kind destinations, known as the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, showcase the planet’s breathtaking beauty and raw power and should not be missed by any avid traveler. Let’s explore the 7 wonder of the world with name from this list.
Grand Canyon
A panoramic view of the Grand Canyon in Arizona, USA, showcasing vast rock layers and depth
Carved over millions of years by the mighty Colorado River in the U.S. state of Arizona, the Grand Canyon is named one of the seven natural wonders for its immense scale, geological significance, and breathtaking beauty. This colossal canyon stretches nearly 300 miles long, reaches a maximum width of 18 miles, and plunges over a mile deep at its lowest point. Its sheer size encompasses a vast range of geological history visible in its stratified rock layers, diverse ecosystems, mountains, gorges, and varied plant and wildlife. Due to its immense depth and varying elevations, ecosystems and weather conditions can differ dramatically from the rim down to the river and between the North and South Rims.
Parts of the canyon’s rugged environment aren’t easily habitable, making the extensive cultural history of the area even more remarkable. Evidence shows cave-dwellers made the Grand Canyon their home as early as prehistoric times, followed by numerous Native American tribes, including the Navajo, Havasupai, and Hualapai, who still have strong cultural ties to the land. European explorers later attempted to navigate and settle parts of the region before the American government eventually designated much of the canyon area a national park to preserve its natural and cultural heritage.
The most accessible and safest way to experience this natural wonder is by visiting Grand Canyon National Park. If it’s your first visit and you want to see the most iconic views, head to the South Rim. While more developed and touristy, it offers easily accessible viewpoints and facilities that provide an unforgettable experience of the canyon’s grandeur. For those seeking to escape the largest crowds and see the canyon from a different perspective, the North Rim offers a more secluded and rugged experience. Keep in mind that the North Rim is at a higher elevation and typically closes during the winter months due to snowfall.
Great Barrier Reef
Located off the northeast coast of Australia, the Great Barrier Reef is the world’s largest coral reef system and is renowned for its unparalleled natural beauty and vast diversity of marine life. It is not a single reef but a complex collection of over 2,900 individual reefs and 900 islands, all formed over millions of years from the skeletal remains of tiny marine organisms called coral polyps.
The vibrant coral, sea anemones, and sea sponges are undeniably beautiful and create stunning underwater landscapes. However, the reef ecosystem supports thousands of species of fish, mollusks, starfish, turtles, dolphins, sharks, birds, and other animals. Just as African safaris feature the famous Big Five, the Great Barrier Reef is home to the “Great Eight,” highly sought-after marine animals for divers and snorkelers: clownfish, giant clams, manta rays, Maori wrasse, potato cod, sharks, turtles, and whales.
Snorkeling or scuba diving offers perhaps the most immersive way to experience the incredible biodiversity of the reef. It is crucial to use only registered and responsible tour providers who adhere to sustainable practices to minimize human impact on this fragile environment. If staying dry is preferred, alternative options include taking a helicopter tour for a breathtaking aerial view or visiting one of the many islands within the reef system, which offer opportunities for swimming, relaxing, and exploring the terrestrial parts of this wonder.
Harbor at Rio de Janeiro (Guanabara Bay)
An aerial view of the expansive Guanabara Bay in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, surrounded by mountains and coastline
Also known as Guanabara Bay, the Harbor at Rio de Janeiro makes the list of natural wonders primarily due to its impressive size and dramatic geographical setting. It is recognized as the world’s largest deep-water natural harbor by volume, measuring over 80 miles in length and surrounded by unique geological formations. Overlooking the harbor are famous granite peaks, including the iconic Sugarloaf Mountain (Pão de Açúcar) and Corcovado Mountain, site of the Christ the Redeemer statue.
These surrounding peaks offer some of the best vantage points to appreciate the sheer scale of the harbor. An aerial view, perhaps from Sugarloaf Mountain or a helicopter tour, is truly the only way to fully grasp the immense size and dramatic beauty of this natural wonder where mountains meet the sea. Once you’ve admired the harbor from above, you can head down to the numerous beaches that line the coastline, stretching for miles. This includes the world-famous Copacabana Beach, although many locals and experienced travelers suggest it can be overrated. Its immense popularity often means it is overcrowded and not always the cleanest or safest beach option. Instead, consider visiting Praia Vermelha (“Red Beach”), a smaller, picturesque cove nestled near Sugarloaf Mountain, or Grumari Beach, a more secluded and less bustling option further along the coast, offering a more local and relaxed feel.
Mount Everest
The highest peak on Earth, towering at 29,029 feet (8,848.86 meters) above sea level, Mount Everest sits within the majestic Himalaya Mountain Range on the border between Nepal and China (Tibet). Everest has held a place of deep cultural and spiritual significance for local communities, particularly the Sherpa people of Nepal, long before it was recognized on lists of natural wonders. The mountain’s Tibetan name, Chomolungma, translates to “Goddess Mother of the World,” while its Sanskrit name, Sagarmatha, means “Peak of Heaven.”
The extreme altitude and severe conditions on the mountain itself are much too rugged to support permanent human life. However, the valleys surrounding Everest are home to small, hardy communities. Among these are the Sherpas, an ethnic group traditionally from the region, who historically viewed Mount Everest as sacred and not to be climbed. The influx of foreign climbers attempting to “conquer” the peak led to a complex relationship, as the significant economic benefit of aiding these expeditions became a vital source of income for many Sherpa families, despite the inherent risks and cultural considerations. (It’s important to note that “Sherpa” refers to an ethnic group, not just a job title for porters or guides, although many Sherpas work in the mountaineering industry).
Climbing Mount Everest to the summit requires exceptionally high levels of technical skill, physical endurance, significant financial investment, and nerves of steel, making it inaccessible for the vast majority of people. Even reaching Everest Base Camp (EBC) is a challenging trek at high altitude, requiring a considerable commitment of time and physical preparation that many travelers cannot undertake. Alternatively, a more accessible but still demanding option is to visit Sagarmatha National Park in Nepal, which encompasses part of the Everest region. While you will still need to be in excellent physical condition to handle the high altitude and some trekking is almost inevitable to explore the park, it offers incredible views of Everest and surrounding peaks without the commitment of reaching Base Camp or the summit. If you can manage the physical demands, visiting Sagarmatha National Park is guaranteed to be a once-in-a-lifetime experience, offering stunning landscapes and insights into the local culture.
Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis)
Vibrant green and purple Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis) illuminating a night sky over snowy mountains
Scientifically known as Aurora Borealis in the Northern Hemisphere (and Aurora Australis in the Southern Hemisphere), this naturally occurring colorful light show in the night sky is a mesmerizing phenomenon caused by charged particles from the sun interacting with the Earth’s atmosphere. Witnessing the Northern Lights is an unpredictable experience; how vivid and visible the lights are depends heavily on factors like weather conditions (clear skies are essential) and solar activity (the strength of solar flares and wind).
To maximize your chances of seeing this brilliant natural phenomenon, often described as dancing curtains of light, you should travel to high-latitude regions during the winter months when the nights are long and dark. Prime locations for viewing the Aurora Borealis include parts of Canada, Alaska (USA), Norway, Sweden, Finland, and Iceland. Be prepared to venture away from urban areas to minimize light pollution, as bright city lights can significantly diminish the visibility of the aurora. Dress very warmly, as these prime viewing locations are often in cold climates. Iceland, for example, is frequently named one of the 7 wonder of the world name lists for seeing the Northern Lights, but January offers only about five hours of daylight, and average temperatures are just below freezing. You may spend considerable time standing in the dark, cold outdoors waiting for the perfect viewing conditions, but the spectacle is undeniably worth the effort.
Paricutin Volcano
Located in the state of Michoacán, Mexico, Paricutin Volcano is notable as one of the youngest volcanoes in North America, having been born in a farmer’s cornfield in 1943. This cinder cone volcano grew rapidly after nine years of continuous eruptions, reaching its current height of approximately 1,390 feet (424 meters) before becoming dormant in 1952.
The primary appeal and awe of this natural wonder lie in its dramatic and recent birth, serving as a powerful illustration of the Earth’s dynamic ability to reshape its surface. Visitors can experience this geological history firsthand by trekking to the volcano’s summit on foot or via horseback rides organized by local guides. Regardless of the chosen route, the ascent typically takes several hours, involving navigating challenging terrain. The descent, however, is often much quicker, as you can slide down the loose black sand slopes in just minutes. On the edge of what was once the village of San Juan Parangaricutiro lies a poignant reminder of the volcano’s destructive power: the partially buried church spire and altar of the Templo de San Juan Parangaricutiro. When Paricutin erupted, it covered two nearby towns in lava and ash. All that remains visible of the original village is the top of the church tower and the altar inside, which miraculously survived the lava flow. Making your way across the rough lava rock terrain to explore these ruins offers a stark and compelling perspective on the volcano’s impact.
Victoria Falls
A wide view of the powerful Victoria Falls on the Zambezi River, with mist rising into the air
Victoria Falls is located on the Zambezi River, forming the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe in Southern Africa. It is renowned as the world’s largest waterfall based on its combined width of 5,604 feet (1,708 meters) and height of 354 feet (108 meters), creating the largest sheet of falling water anywhere. This makes it more than double the width and twice as deep as Niagara Falls. Although it was given its English name in honor of Queen Victoria by Scottish explorer David Livingstone in 1855, it is known locally as Mosi-oa-Tunya by the Kololo-Lozi people, meaning “the smoke that thunders,” a fitting description for the immense spray and roar of the falls. The area surrounding the falls is protected by national parks on both sides: Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park in Zambia and Victoria Falls National Park in Zimbabwe.
This lush and powerful natural area supports a wide variety of plant life, including acacia, teak, and ebony forests. The river above the falls is home to hippos and crocodiles, while the surrounding grasslands and parks are inhabited by numerous species of African wildlife, such as elephants, buffalo, giraffes, zebras, and antelopes, and predators like lions. Planning a trip to Victoria Falls offers somewhat different experiences depending on which side of the border you visit, though crossing between the two countries is relatively easy. The Zimbabwe side generally offers the most iconic panoramic viewpoints of the falls. The Zambia side provides access to unique experiences like the Livingstone Museum, dedicated to the explorer, and the famous Devil’s Pool (during certain times of the year), a natural rock pool right on the edge of the falls, considered a thrilling bucket list stop for adrenaline seekers. Old 7 wonders of the world names and pictures might be historical, but these natural wonders are very much alive and vibrant.
Protect Yourself on Your Wonderful Adventures
For most of us, these wonders of the world are not located in our immediate vicinity. To see them – and experience some of the most awe-inspiring sites Earth and humankind have to offer – travel, often international, is required. Your explorations might even take you far from well-trodden tourist paths into more remote areas.
Whenever you travel internationally, especially to less familiar destinations or for adventurous activities, making sure you have adequate travel insurance is crucial to protect your trip investment and your health. It’s impossible to predict every potential issue that might arise during your adventures. Your travel plans could change unexpectedly due to unforeseen circumstances, you might experience illness or injury requiring medical attention abroad, or an emergency at home could necessitate an unplanned early return. Travel insurance is designed to help cover the potentially high, unplanned expenses associated with these unexpected events, providing peace of mind as you explore the globe. You might be surprised how affordable comprehensive coverage can be when you get a commitment-free quote.
Find the right plan for your adventure by exploring options. Need some advice on choosing the best coverage for your specific trip to see a 7 wonder of the world name? Licensed travel insurance agents are available to help you understand your options and select a plan that meets your needs.
