From California’s redwoods to Japan’s bamboo groves, discover 12 of the most beautiful forests in the world.
Research suggests that even a brief 20-minute walk in nature can significantly enhance mental health. However, these stunning forests are so captivating that staying longer is inevitable.
The planet boasts many breathtaking forests worthy of inclusion on your travel bucket list. Spending time surrounded by nature rejuvenates the spirit, providing a much-needed escape from the busy urban grind. The experience of visiting a natural green space is undeniably special and can serve as the highlight of any vacation.
Luckily, stunning forests exist across the globe, meaning no matter where your next journey takes you, you can immerse yourself in nature.
While the world is rich with gorgeous natural spaces, we’ve curated a selection of beautiful forests that should not be missed.
Redwood National and State Parks, United States
There are numerous national parks throughout the United States, making it challenging to choose just one. However, Redwood National and State Parks stand out due to their towering residents located across four parks in Humboldt and Del Norte counties. The magnificent redwood trees, some soaring close to 350 feet, are part of the world’s largest contiguous old-growth coastal redwood forest. Notably, the tallest tree, nicknamed Hyperion, reaches an impressive height of nearly 380 feet.
Amazon Rainforest, South America
The Amazon Rainforest sprawls across Brazil, Colombia, and Peru, making it a crucial ecosystem that spans almost half a continent. As the largest rainforest globally, it houses over 60,000 plant species and more than 2,500 animal species, including an astonishing 1,300 bird species. Unfortunately, deforestation, industrialization, and climate change pose significant threats to this vital habitat, raising urgent concerns regarding its survival.
Monteverde Cloud Forest, Costa Rica
The Monteverde Cloud Forest derives its name from the beautiful low-hanging fog that envelops its upper canopy, providing much-needed moisture to its diverse plants. Known for its impressive biodiversity, this forest is home to over 3,000 plant species, 100 mammal species, 400 bird types, and countless insects.
Hallerbos Forest, Belgium
While visiting a forest, sometimes it’s not just about the trees. Hallerbos Forest is celebrated for its stunning carpet of bluebell flowers that bloom each spring, creating an enchanting atmosphere akin to a fairy tale setting. If you’re in Brussels during springtime, a visit to this forest offers a magical experience, though it’s worth noting that it attracts many visitors, so crowds are common.
Black Forest, Germany
The Black Forest, despite its name, is mainly verdant and filled with thousands of beautiful pine trees. The name derives from the dense canopy which shadows the forest floor, creating an aura that can seem quite dark even on sunny days. Visitors can explore quaint villages and natural thermal springs nestled within this beautiful landscape.
Wistman’s Wood, England
If you’ve ever fantasized about stepping into a Lord of the Rings or Game of Thrones setting, Wistman’s Wood embodies that dream. Located in Dartmoor National Park, its landscape features gnarled, moss-covered trees that look like they’re straight out of a storybook. This ancient woodland has roots dating back as far as 7,000 B.C., with some mighty oaks estimated to be around 500 years old.
Dancing Forest, Russia
The Dancing Forest, located in Kaliningrad, Russia, derives its nickname from its trees, whose twisting, curving trunks appear as if they’re dancing. These unique shapes have led to the forest also being referred to as the Drunken Forest. According to local lore, these trees are said to provide good luck, and their unique forms give rise to tales of climbing them for wishes or longevity.
Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, China
This stunning forest is particularly famous as a major inspiration behind the visuals of the 2009 film Avatar, with its striking pillar-like rock formations resembling the fictional Hallelujah Mountains. Visitors to Zhangjiajie National Forest Park can marvel at its unique geological beauty, making it a memorable destination.
Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, Japan
Located just outside Kyoto, the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove offers a magical walking experience, particularly after exploring the renowned temples and gardens of this historic city. Though frequented by tourists, visitors are encouraged to maintain a peaceful atmosphere to fully appreciate the beauty of this natural sanctuary.
Dragon’s Blood Forest, Yemen
This distinctive forest, located over 200 miles off mainland Yemen, is renowned for its striking dragon’s blood trees. Depending on the tree’s production, their sap can be seen spilling out in brilliant red hues. Believed to have medicinal properties, these incredible trees can live up to 650 years and grow to impressive heights, offering a unique ecological experience.
Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, Uganda
This UNESCO World Heritage site encompasses approximately 32,000 hectares (over 79,000 acres) of dense vegetation, earning its title of “impenetrable” due to thick groves of bamboo, trees, and vines. Bwindi is home to over 160 tree species, 100 fern species, and an array of bird and insect life. Notably, it is most recognized for housing the endangered mountain gorilla.
Waipoua Forest, New Zealand
Located near Dargaville on New Zealand’s North Island, Waipoua Forest hosts the majestic Tāne Mahuta, one of the largest kauri trees on Earth. Standing at an impressive height of 51.5 meters (about 170 feet) with a girth of approximately 18.8 meters (about 62 feet), visitors often find a deep emotional connection to this ancient natural wonder, also known as the “Lord of the Forest.”
