Have you ever seen images of rainbow-colored mountains and thought they must be from Mars or another planet?
Believe it or not, these surreal landscapes actually exist right here on Earth! If you ever have the chance to see one of these natural wonders, you might wonder if they were created by a wizard. It’s hard to believe that such amazing places can be found in nature.
The rainbow mountains of the world are the result of sandstone mixing with various minerals and being compressed together throughout millions of years. One of the most famous examples of these rainbow mountains can be found in Zhangye, China. The dramatic scene represented by this series of rainbow mountains is a geological uniqueness whose formation takes millions of years.
Each layer of the mountains is formed by minerals and rocks that are dramatically separated, resulting in a breathtaking display of magenta, maroon, and greenish-yellow colours. The Danxia Geological Park in Zhangye has some of the most stunning examples of these rainbow mountains, including the giant arc rock formation.
While it may be hard to believe that such otherworldly landscapes can exist on our planet, the rainbow mountains are a testament to the incredible power and beauty of nature. So if you ever have the chance to see one of these natural wonders in person, be sure to take a moment to appreciate the magic and majesty of the world around us.
Zhangye Danxis Geological Park In Gansu, China
by Wanderlust
Since becoming a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2009, Danxia has become much more famous than it was a few decades ago. The landscape is formed by red terrestrial sand rocks and conglomerate rocks and is characterized by red rock walls and cliffs.
The Danxia Mountains are in an interstellar valley in southern Nanling. The entire mountain has a reddish peak consisting of 380 peaks of rocks, rock fortifications, stone walls, and stone piles.
The main peak has a height of 618 meters. While the main destination is the rainbow mountains at Danxia Landform Geological Park, travellers can also visit other “must visit” locations such as: the Wooden Tower of the Sui Dynasty, Shandan Buddhist Temple, Buddhist Temple, and Shandan horse ranch, as well as the gigantic Buddhist temple. The best season to visit Danxia is from June to September.
Read More: A Journey Through Lassen Volcanic’s Geological Wonders
Live with no excuses and travel with no regrets.
Another stunning natural wonder that rivals the world’s rainbow mountains can be found in southern Iceland. The Landmannalaugar region, located at the foot of the Hekla volcano, boasts a mesmerizing landscape with a colourful pattern created by chilled lava. Iceland, Landmannalaugar region, climb on volcanic rock and the rare view will open before you.
Landmannalaugar Park In Iceland
by Wanderlust
Located in the Highlands this gorgeous mountain range was created by a volcanic eruption back in the 1400s. It is so beautiful, has plenty of wonderful hikes, a campsite, and is totally worth a visit. It is recommended to join a guided tour to experience the views, lakes and ponds scattered intermittently, which are not easy to quickly discover on your own.
The Landmannalaugar Park is known for its vibrant hues, including pink, brown, green, yellow, blue, purple, black, and white. The volcanic rocks provide a unique backdrop for hiking and climbing, offering rare views that are truly unforgettable.
The mountains are unique and colourful. Landmannalaugar is a gorgeous place and incredibly unique.
If you’re looking for a place to immerse yourself in nature’s brightest colours, Landmannalaugar should definitely be on your list. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to experience this incredible natural wonder for yourself.
The best time to witness this hypnotic display is from July to September. The time required is at least 4-5 hours. There are thermal springs and free parking available.
Colorful Mountains Of Tabriz, Iran
by Wanderlust
Breath-taking colourful mountains and hills are one of the magnificent, natural wonders of Iran. The colourful mountains and hills of Tabriz in Iran are breathtaking natural wonders that should not be missed by nature photography enthusiasts and adventurous travellers. These trippy mountains are a true work of art by Mother Nature. To start your journey, head to the Dome of Soltaniyeh, a UNESCO-listed site with a glowing turquoise dome, before continuing to the many attractions of Zanjan.
As you move northwest towards the village of Bostanabad, about 60 km outside of Tabriz, the scenery begins to transform into picturesque landscapes painted with hues of copper, red, green, orange, and yellow.
The Aladaglar Mountains in Tabriz offer visitors a unique opportunity to experience the wonders of nature up close. One of the intrinsic wonders of Sinai, the Coloured Canyon in Nuweiba, can be reached from Taba.
Life is either a daring adventure or nothing at all.
The lively canyon is a maze of sandstone rocks in shades of yellow, purple, red, magenta, and gold, reaching up to 40 meters in some places. Although there are one or two obstacles, exploring the almost 800-meter-long canyon is a fairly easy hike, but be prepared to climb uphill and get sand on your hands.
If you’re looking for an adventure off the beaten track, the Colorful Mountains of Tabriz are a must-see destination. Don’t miss the chance to experience the beauty of this natural wonder for yourself.
Coloured Canyon In Nuweiba, Sinai, Egypt
by Wanderlust
Located in the Sinai Peninsula of Egypt, the Coloured Canyon in Nuweibais one of the intrinsic wonders of Sinai, attracting nature lovers and adventure seekers from around the world.
This natural wonder should be on every World Rainbow Mountains traveller’s bucket list. The vivid colours of the sandstone rocks are a testament to the geological history of the region, and the natural beauty of the canyon is truly awe-inspiring.
The uneven forms and height of the rocks sometimes make climbing necessary, so be prepared and try to get there as early as possible, not only because of the weather but also to avoid the crowds.
Although you might agree that the magic of the place is best enjoyed when you are on your own, you will have to take a guided tour of the Canyon. Many hotels and tour operators in Taba organize day tours to this amazing destination.
The best time to visit the Coloured Canyon is in the morning or late afternoon when the sunlight illuminates the canyon walls, bringing out the vibrant colours of the rocks. The experience is truly unforgettable and should not be missed. If you’re planning a trip to Egypt and want to explore the natural beauty of the Sinai Peninsula, the Coloured Canyon in Nuweiba is a destination that should not be overlooked.
Vinicunca, Ausangate Mountains In Peru.
by Wanderlust
The Rainbow Mountain of Peru, also known as Vinicunca, is a mesmerizing natural wonder located in the central Andes. While Machu Picchu may be the most popular attraction in the region, Rainbow Mountain has been gaining attention as an alternative must-see destination.
However, it’s important to note that reaching the Rainbow Mountain is no easy feat. Travellers should be physically prepared to climb up to 17,000 feet above sea level, which can be a difficult task for inexperienced hikers who want to see it all in a day.
To get the most out of the trip, it’s recommended that travellers take longer tours to acclimatize to the altitude and also visit other destinations such as Ausangate mountain, local communities, and appreciate the wildlife.
One option is to take a day trip on the mountain trek from Cusco, which will allow you to experience the beauty of the Ausangate Mountain and the Rainbow Mountain in a single excursion.
Read More: A Journey Through Lassen Volcanic’s Geological Wonders
Great things never come from comfort zones.
As can be seen, next from the world’s rainbow mountains is Serranía de Hornocal. This is another impressive limestone formation called Yacoraite and is located nearby in Salta, Argentina. This formation extends through the Argentine Quebrada de Humahuaca and then through the Bolivian Altiplano to Peru.
Reaching the summit of Rainbow Mountain and taking in the breathtaking views of the colourful stripes that were formed over millions of years is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that demands all of your strength, with an altitude excess of 4,300 meters. It’s a true test of endurance, but the reward is undoubtedly worth the effort.
Hornocal Mountain Range In Argentina.
by Wanderlust
The Hornocal Mountain Range in Argentina is a spectacular natural wonder. The geometrically patterned mountain range features a zigzagging, inverted V shape that creates a mesmerizing skyline. The best way to reach the Hornocal Mountain Range is by car from the City of Humahuaca, and it’s highly recommended to hire a local guide for the trip.
The road to Hornocal has numerous twists and turns, but the limestone formation is not far away. As you drive, you’ll pass through pristine fields where guanacos roam free.
While visiting the Hornocal Mountain Range, make sure to also explore the Quebrada de Humahuaca. This vast canyon offers breathtaking views of the famous world rainbow mountains and also features the historic Inca caravan road that runs through the region.
For an unforgettable experience, follow the Rio Grande along the ancient Inca Road until you reach the incredible fold in the Humahuaca Gorge. With their stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage, the Hornocal Mountain Range and Quebrada de Humahuaca are must-see destinations for any traveller.
Antelope Canyon, Arizona, USA
by Wanderlust
Antelope Canyon, located in Arizona, USA, is a geological wonder formed by the natural erosion of Navajo Sandstone caused by flash flooding and other processes. It’s a must-see destination that we have chosen to feature in our article on world rainbow mountains.
The reason behind our choice is the extraordinary photo taken by Sky Matthews, the last image in our article, and the story behind this shot:
“In honour of Earth Day 2017, this is the classic “Monument Valley” view inside Antelope Canyon AZ, so-called because the silhouetted peak shape resembles the buttes in Monument Valley. I have been holding off on posting this one for a while. The colours, textures and shapes in Antelope are extraordinary.
I can think of no more fitting tribute to our beautiful planet, even if it is a picture so frequently captured. It is a tricky shot to capture because Antelope is so crowded, that you have only a minute or so to get the shot.
When you first look at it, it’s not so obvious what you are looking at, you are shooting upwards at an awkward angle, and finally, you are shooting into a combination of deep shadow and hard direct light.”
Visiting Antelope Canyon requires going through one of several licensed tour operators. It is impossible to visit the Canyon independently.
Despite the challenges, the beauty of Antelope Canyon is worth the effort. The unique and stunning geological formations inside the canyon will take your breath away. Matthews’ shot is a fitting tribute to our beautiful planet and an inspiration for a must-visit destination for nature lovers and photographers alike.
Read More: A Journey Through Lassen Volcanic’s Geological Wonders
Think your friends will be interested? Like, share and subscribe!
