Top 5: Countries for Exploring National Parks

Do you love national parks? Have you already seen the best of the best in the United States? Well, no worries. There are plenty of other national parks worth exploring around the world. Check out the national parks in these five countries.

Ireland

Ireland boasts an array of gorgeous national parks that not only offer nature, but history as well. Within their confines, you’re very likely to come across castles, cemeteries or other historic structures. Two favorited Irish national parks include Killarney National Park and Wicklow Mountains National Park.

Canada

Our neighbor to the north offers a wealth of dramatic landscapes. Jasper National Park in Alberta gives guests a range of glaciers, mountains and waterways. Banff National Park, possibly more popular, promises amazing wilderness and tons of easily accessible outdoor activities.

Australia

Australia’s national parks combine the continent and country’s fascinating history with its rough, rugged landscapes. There’s something magical about these vast expanses of wilderness. Make a point to visit Kakadu National Park to see the more than 2,000 species of plants and animals, as well as the aboriginal artwork. Of course, you can’t miss the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park, with its colorful sea life, or Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park with its famous rocks.

New Zealand

Nearby, New Zealand bursts with dramatic scenery as well. Fiordland National Park is the largest national park in the country, with gorgeous fjords unlike anything you’ve ever seen. On the flip side, Abel Tasman is the smallest national park in New Zealand, but it’s still worth a visit, with its vibrant water features and rugged mountains. Tongariro is the country’s oldest national park, with a mix of cultural and natural significance.

Switzerland

Tiny Switzerland serves up natural wonders in big helpings. The Swiss National Park in Zernez gives guests more than 40,000 acres of lovely trails, mountain scenery, big blue skies and more. While this is the only national park in Switzerland, technically, the country’s dedication to nature means there are plenty of other parks around the country that highlight its vast expanses of wilderness.