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Earth is full of wonders that can be hard to explain. From historical ruins to majestic animals and celestial phenomena, you will never run out of things to be amazed about.
In this article, we compiled a list of 5 of these astonishing marvels that you will stand in awe of if you see them in person. Let’s start with one of the most famous sights in our night sky, the northern lights.
1. Aurora Borealis (Northern Lights)
Just as its name suggests, the northern lights are only visible in the northern part of our planet. Maybe that’s actually why a lot of people still wonder about them and would like to see them at least once in their lifetime, as they should, as it is absolutely worth it.
However, trying to see the northern lights in person could be a little bit tricky as there is no guarantee that they would occur even if you go to the right place at the right time.
This is because even if you go to Alaska, Iceland, or Canada where the Aurora Borealis is frequently displayed, it is still a natural phenomenon that can’t be controlled, thus its appearance can’t be predicted with 100% certainty.
2. Glow Worm Caves, New Zealand
Yes, these are caves filled with worms that glow in the dark. Just like the bioluminescent bays where plankton light up during the night in the water, this time, it is worms that emit a blue-green light while sticking on the cave ceilings.
These species are native to New Zealand, and one of the main reasons they glow is to attract and catch small insects to eat. Because of this, they are an important part of the ecosystem maintaining the population of insects by feeding on them.
Aside from being beautiful to look at at night, they are also very helpful. So, go and see them while kayaking, hiking, or on a boating trip.
3. Komodo Dragons, Indonesia
The animal often compared to the famous movie star, Godzilla, the Komodo dragon lives up to its name. They were named after a mythical creature, a dragon, because of how intimidating they look and the fact that they are very large, especially compared to other lizards.
They can grow upwards of 10 feet and weigh up to about 150 or more pounds. They can easily swallow almost any prey of any size within seconds such as water buffalo, pigs, and deer, while looking majestic doing it, proving they deserve their name.
According to some sources, there might only be about 1,400 adult Komodo dragons and about 2,000 young ones.
4. Machu Picchu, Peru
The Machu Picchu is a historical citadel that existed in the 15th century as a holy site and a resting place for the deceased of the Inca civilization. It is located in a very high place, about 2,430 meters above sea level on a mountain ridge, giving it not only historical importance but a great view for tourists as well.
One of the reasons it is very famous up to this day is because it is one of the clearest signs of the existence of the Inca empire, and was later abandoned when the Spanish invasion came.
Right now, it is a UNESCO World Heritage property, as it should, and is being protected to be preserved for its cultural and historical value.
5. Great Barrier Reef, Australia
If you are thinking why the Great Barrier Reef of Australia is one of the most important places on Earth, it is mainly due to being one of the most diverse ecosystems on the planet.
With over 400 types of corals and about 1,600 species of fish, according to this source, it is home to 10% of the world’s fish species. In this reef, you will find organisms that have symbiotic relationships with each other.
Meaning, a close long-term relationship to ensure their survival such as the world-famous fish, clownfish, and anemones. You can also find other species in these reefs such as turtles, dolphins, whales, birds, and more.
It is one of those world wonders that makes you think just how beautiful and big our planet is, and that there are natural forces that keep everything balanced to maintain life.
Author's Final Thoughts
We hope you had fun reading through this collection of interesting facts, and if you did, you might enjoy reading some more in this section. Just like we said in the beginning, you will never run out of things and places to be in awe of in this seemingly wide beautiful world.
Related: 5 Random Facts That Reveal Nature’s Hidden Wonders
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