Sometimes, we just need to escape the monotony of our daily routines and head to new, exciting destinations. The world may seem to be shrinking thanks to social media, but there are still countless adventures to be had and breathtaking places to explore. From Iceland to Zion National Park in the USA, here are 12 places guaranteed to satisfy any traveler’s wanderlust.

1. Iceland

Iceland is a magical destination, characterized by its rich Viking history, countless waterfalls, and the coexistence of fire and ice. Numerous productions, including Interstellar and Game of Thrones, have been filmed here. Top attractions include the Northern Lights (best seen from September to March), Gullfoss waterfall, the Golden Circle, Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon, and Hveravellir Hot Springs.

2. Pamukkale, Turkey

Translated as “cotton castle” in Turkish, Pamukkale is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that was once the ancient Greco-Roman Byzantine city of Hierapolis. For thousands of years, people have visited Pamukkale for the therapeutic qualities of its thermal pools. Today, it is a perfect place to relax, unwind and soak in the charming Turkish countryside.

3. Serengeti National Park, Tanzania

For the Maasai people of Africa, Serengeti means “the place where the land runs on forever”. This oldest national park of Tanzania covers almost 6,000 square miles of grasslands and woodlands, where lions, cheetahs, rhinos, elephants, and giraffes roam. Serengeti National Park is a place where travelers can become one with nature and enjoy spectacular sunsets.

4. Maldives, India

The 1200 islands of the Maldives are an ocean lover’s paradise, featuring stunning white-sand beaches, serene cyan-blue waters, and an abundance of marine life. It’s no wonder that the Maldives is considered a prime diving and snorkeling destination, offering visitors the chance to explore one of the world’s most pristine and warmest oceans.

5. Angkor Wat, Cambodia

Built in the 12th century, Angkor Wat is the largest religious monument in the world. Originally a Hindu house of worship, it later became a Buddhist temple. Angkor Wat, a UNESCO World Heritage Site spanning over 200 acres, is home to some of the world’s most impressive architecture, sculptures, and art. Wildlife lovers can also look forward to making friends with temple monkeys while exploring this massive site.

6. Morocco

From sweeping deserts and high mountains to the narrow, windy alleyways of its ancient cities, Morocco is a destination with a unique charm all its own. Travelers can participate in activities such as camel treks, shopping in the souks, wandering the old cities’ narrow streets, and relaxing in Turkish baths. The sweet scents of spices such as saffron and orange flower will lead you to mosaic courtyards and fountains.

7. Inverness, Scotland

Inverness, often referred to as the “Gateway to the Scottish Highlands,” is steeped in fantastical lore. For those who indulge in enough Scotch, they just may see a glimpse of Nessie or a kelpie waterhorse on Loch Ness. Visitors can also enjoy traditional nightly entertainment by attending one the many pubs with live Celtic dance performances and bagpipers. Shop along River Ness for Scottish plaids, and stop by a restaurant to try out the local cuisine such as haggis.

8. Zermatt, Switzerland

The charm of the Swiss village of Zermatt lies in its unique character, which has been maintained despite thousands of tourists visiting annually. With over 400 km of hiking, biking, and climbing trails, Zermatt has become legendary among mountaineers. A visit to Mountaineers’ Cemetery is a must, in remembrance of the many adventurers who lost their lives scaling The Matterhorn. And don’t forget to sample some delicious Swiss chocolate or cheese fondue while there!

9. Santorini, Greece

The crescent-shaped Santorini is still an active volcano, yet it is considered the most romantic getaway in all of Greece. With picturesque white-washed clifftop towns and volcanic red and black sand beaches, Santorini is a destination that never fails to impress. It is an ideal spot to watch the sunset over the Aegean, accompanied by a glass of locally-produced wine.

10. Cappadocia, Turkey

Turkey, where history and culture converge between the continents of Asia and Europe, is a destination renowned for its vibrant past, ancient civilizations such as the Silk Road, as well as its traditional religions like Islam and Christianity. Cappadocia’s honeycombed rock cities, underground churches, and hot air balloon rides offer the perfect way to discover this remarkable region firsthand.

11. Patagonia, Argentina

Patagonia is a vast, barren and beautifully rugged land that traverses Chile and Argentina. From the Magellanic penguins to the gauchos, Patagonia has it all. A highlight is Bariloche, world-famous for its delicious handmade chocolates, along with the great horseback rides that lead through this breathtaking land.

12. Zion National Park, USA

Utah’s Zion National Park is where sandstone cliffs meet endless blue skies and the Virgin River runs. With miles upon miles of hiking, biking, and canyoneering trails, Zion is a place where Mother Nature meets the world. It’s a must-visit location for anyone looking for awe-inspiring natural wonders.

In conclusion, these 12 breathtaking destinations provide enough adventure and wonder to satisfy even the most insatiable wanderlust. Go pack your passport and jet off to one of these destinations to indulge yourself in exquisite natural beauty and unforgettable experiences.