7 natural wonders of the world: Lonely Planet readers’ picks

Nov 22, 2011 11:43:21 PM

Anita Isalska
Lonely Planet Author

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The New7Wonders Foundation caused no end of controversy and outrage with their shortlist of the world’s natural wonders, and it wasn’t long before alternative lists like the one from the G Adventures crew began to sprout up. At Lonely Planet, we wanted to know your opinion, and we certainly got it: from classic sights to unsung splendours, more than a hundred sights were put forward by intrepid readers (including a few we had to look up).

The final tally of votes is now in and while you backed some of New7Wonders’ choices, you also returned the crown to a few classic attractions missing from their list. Here’s Lonely Planet readers’ countdown of astonishing natural sights.

1. Iguazu Falls, Argentina/Brazil

Photograph: Judy Bellah

South America’s gushing spectacle washes away the competition as Lonely Planet readers’ top natural wonder. From the dizzying walkways to the spray from Devil’s Throat, the sight of this colossal waterfall is seared into traveller’s brains.

2. Grand Canyon, USA

Photograph: Mark Newman

The rocky wonder favoured by the New7Wonders list was Table Mountain, but the Grand Canyon, with its vermillion cliffs and river-carved rock faces, takes the number two spot among Lonely Planet readers.

3. Komodo, Indonesia

Photograph: Kraig Leeb

Teeming mangrove swamps and basking lizards hurtled Indonesia’s Komodo National Park into third place.

4. The Amazon

Photograph: John Borthwick

Finally, something we can all agree on. The rich jungles of the Amazon’s river basin are big hitters for Lonely Planet readers, as well as New7Wonders and the G Adventures bloggers. Check out our tips for Amazon riverboat trips.

5. The Great Barrier Reef, Australia

Photograph: Leonard Zell

Another firm favourite, this azure expanse of Queensland coastline is a magnet to snorkellers, scuba divers and beach hoppers.

6. Puerto Princesa Underground River, Philippines

Photograph: Tom Cockrem

This subterrannean river captured your imaginations, but it seems the whole country is dear to your hearts. Our survey showed an incredible 8 destinations from the Philippines were put forward, from the Banaue Rice Terraces to the Chocolate Hills of Bohol.