Recently updated on April 21st, 2023 at 07:22 pm
Amazing water experiences don’t always need to involve the ocean. If you’re more of an on-land person than an out-on-the-beach person, then Trafalgar has you covered. From stunning waterfalls to tranquil lakes, these are the most exciting on-land water experiences you can enjoy on a Trafalgar tour.
Horsetail Falls, California, USA
Located in Yosemite National Park, California, Horsetail Fall is a spectacular waterfall with a magical twist. For the last two weeks in February, as winter melts away, the setting sun reaches a perfect angle that lights up the waterfall with a bright red and orange glow earning it the nickname, “firefall”. Really, the water looks like lava splitting the earth, creating an epic natural phenomenon that feels like something out of Lord of the Rings – it’s what makes it one of the USA’s most memorable on-land water experiences.
Experience this on: California’s Great National Parks
Also read: 8 of the best wineries to visit in California
Pamukkale, Turkey
“Cotton castle”. That’s what Pamukkale means in Turkish, and after a visit to the magical cascading hot springs, the name makes sense. This treasure of a UNESCO World Heritage site is both beautiful and therapeutic, and one of Europe’s most loved water experiences. Its travertine terraced pools are filled with mineral-rich waters known for their brilliant white color and believed to have healing properties. You can dip your toes or take a swim in the warm waters while admiring the stunning views of the surrounding mountains. It is also right next to ruins of the ancient Roman city of Hierapolis, so your visit to the cotton castle can also include an exploration of the ruined city’s well-preserved amphitheater, necropolis and thermal baths.
Experience this on: Highlights of Turkey
Also read: Travel Director, Barcin, on why so many travellers are visiting Turkey in 2022
Plitvice Lakes National Park, Croatia
Another UNESCO World Heritage Site, Plitvice Lakes National Park is home to a series of cascading lakes and waterfalls that make you feel like you’ve stepped into the Garden of Eden. With sixteen interconnected lakes boasting waters of all hues from turquoise, azure, emerald and everything inbetween, as well as lush forests and huge valley landscapes, the experience really is simply breathtaking. You’ll navigate the heavenly landscape through its many trails and boardwalks, getting up close and personal with the flora and fauna that call this paradise a home.
Experience this on: Best of Croatia and Slovenia
Also read: Unexpected delights to find in Croatia and Slovenia
Fiordland National Park, New Zealand
If New Zealand is known for its natural beauty, then the largest of its 14 National Parks is the pick of the bunch. Fiordland National Park is a whole world of its own, filled with towering fjords, powerful mountains, and pristine wilderness. Here, you can find New Zealand’s most unique species, like the iconic kiwi, or the kakapo, one of the rarest birds in the world.
Here, you’ll find Milford Sound, a breathtaking fjord surrounded by cascading waterfalls, monumental cliffs, and home to fur seal colonies, penguins, dolphins, and more. On-land water experiences don’t get more epic. You’ll also find Milford Track, New Zealand’s most famous hike, and an ancient trade route used by the Maori.
Experience this on: New Zealand Uncovered
Also read: Trafalgar’s authentic Australia and New Zealand experiences
Lake Garda and Lake Como, Italy
If you’re wondering where’s the best place to swim in Europe, the class and elegance of Lake Garda and Lake Como may tip the scales. Both regions ooze sophistication, while still maintaining the typical Italian authenticity that makes the country adored around the world. The mouth-watering local cuisine, with wines and produce aged by the lake, and charming villages, opulent villas, picturesque towns and scenic boat rides make these lakes one of the best on-land water experiences you can enjoy.
Experience this on: Best of the Italian Lakes
Also read: A guide to the Italian Lake District
Iguazu Falls, Argentina and Brazil
Located on the border of Brazil and Argentina, Iguazu Falls is one of the largest and most impressive waterfalls in the world – and undoubtedly South America’s best on-land water experience. On the Brazilian side, you’ll enjoy the best panoramic views of the powerful falls, and on the Argentinian side you’ll have a better opportunity to hike and explore. Try go wildlife spotting here as you look for toucans or monkeys in the UNESCO-listed lush rainforests surrounding the waterfall.
Experience this on: Impressions of South America
Also read: A food tour of South America
From stunning waterfalls to tranquil lakes, Trafalgar unlocks the best by giving you the authentic side of where you’re going. Whether it’s the class of the Italian lakes, the power of New Zealand’s fjords or the magic of Turkey’s hot springs, you’ll find there’s an incredible world of water experiences (that don’t include the beach) waiting to be explored.
Which of these on-land water experiences do you want to visit first? Let us know in the comments