The 10 Most Beautiful Forests Around the World to Add to Your Travel List
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There are so many picturesque places to visit. With limited vacation days, how do you choose where to allocate that precious time? A growing number of travelers are seeking out more nature-steeped vacations to unplug. Some opt for water-centric holidays to the Maldives and St. Barths. Others feel the pull of the mountains, whether jetting off to a ski resort village in the French Alps (Megève? Oui!) or decamping to the rugged Western states of Montana and Wyoming. The arid expanses of the Atacama and Sahara Deserts have an almost otherworldly aura. A safari is an incredible way to witness the wonder of Mother Nature up close. And, of course, it’s hard to deny the unique appeal of leafy landscapes, from tropical rainforests to dense woods. There’s something so peaceful and picturesque about escaping to tree-shrouded environments.
With the help of Gabriella Westcott, a global travel advisor at Black Tomato, we’ve rounded up the most beautiful forests to visit around the world. Read on to transport yourself to these verdant destinations.
Amazon Rainforest, South America
The largest tropical rainforest, the Amazon Rainforest covers much of northwestern Brazil and stretches into other South American countries. The 2,300,000-square-mile wonderland of biodiversity is home to millions of unique species of flora and fauna, nearly a quarter of the world's freshwater, and hundreds of indigenous communities.
Westcott suggests visiting during the dry season (June to October) for river cruises, serene canopy walks, and thrilling encounters with exotic wildlife ranging from jaguars to pink dolphins.
Black Forest, Germany
With deep woods, quaint villages, and a hazy, mystical wonder, the Black Forest looks like a fairy tale come to life and inspired some of most beloved stories from the Brothers Grimm—including Hansel and Gretel, Rapunzel, and Sleeping Beauty.
Situated in the state of Baden-Württemberg in southwest Germany, the enchanting mountain region has scenic trails, placid lakes, and dense conifer forests that make it a fantasy-turned-reality for hikers and nature lovers. “It’s especially lovely from April to October to capture excellent weather,” adds Westcott.
Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve, Costa Rica
In an almost cinematic act of nature, low-hanging clouds float just above the lush canopy in Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve, an unique ecosystem known for its extraordinary biodiversity. Strangler figs, oaks, bromeliads, orchids, big cats, and rare bird species—including the resplendent quetzal all call this majestic pocket of northern Costa Rica home. It’s also a hub of eco-tourism.
“I recommend going during the dry season, which runs from December to April, and doing a guided night hike to discover the nocturnal wonders.”
Daintree Rainforest, Australia
Australia calls to mind the Great Barrier Reef with its turquoise water and colorful marine life and the dusty red landscape of the outback. Located on the northeastern coast of Queensland, the Daintree, the largest rainforest in the country/continent, is a leafy oasis where rare animals roam and plant species not found anywhere else on Earth take root.
Since it's located in the Southern Hemisphere, any time between May and September is the prime time to make the pilgrimage for wildlife viewing, cooler temperatures, and fewer showers.
Yakushima Forest, Japan
Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Yakushima Forest on Yakushima Island shows off moss-covered rocks, rain-loving rheophytes, and ancient Japanese cedar trees. From hiking its legendary trails to soaking in the therapeutic waterfalls that inspired Ghibli film Princess Mononoke, visitors will find a string of deeply spiritual pursuits to connect with nature.
For travelers looking to soak in the peaceful atmosphere, Westcott recommends making the journey between March and May or September and November for mild weather and fewer tourists.
Redwood National and State Parks, California, United States
To see some the tallest trees on Earth, head to Redwood National and State Parks. Perched along the Northern California’s coast, the cluster of protected wilderness areas makes for awe-inspiring hiking adventures beneath these towering giants as well as sweeping views and an utterly peaceful atmosphere. Highlights include Lady Bird Johnson Grove and Fern Canyon. For pleasant weather and clear skies, Westcott advises exploring between June and September.
Great Bear Rainforest, Canada
One of the largest temperate rainforests in the world, Great Bear Rainforest covers a vast area the size of Ireland that’s rife with rugged beauty along its stunning fjords, coastline, and lush old-growth forests. Tucked away in a far-flung corner British Columbia and accessibly predominantly by boat and floatplane, it makes a compelling case for venturing off the beaten path.
Plan a trip between May and October for spectacular sightings of local wildlife, from the elusive white Kermode bears to eagles and whales.
Hoh Rain Forest, Washington, United States
Nestled in Olympic National Park in western Washington state, Hoh Rain Forest is like stepping into a green fantasy world with its moss-covered maples, vibrant ferns, and coniferous trees such as the towering Sitka spruce.
A yearly average of 140 inches of rain contributes to all the lushness. Because much of the precipitation happens in the winter, spring and summer are particularly picturesque for verdant hiking along the iconic Hall of Mosses and Spruce Nature Trail.
Valdivian Temperate Rainforest, Chile and Argentina
The second largest temperate rainforest in the world and the only one in South America, the Valdivian Temperate Rainforest (often referred to as Selva Valdiviana) sits between the Andes and the Pacific Ocean and stretches between Chile and Argentina. Striking in its beauty and biodiversity, it’s a remarkable place to admire dramatic surroundings and peep a wide range of flora and fauna—from ancient monkey puzzle trees to rare animal species like pudú, the smallest deer.
Jiuzhaigou Valley, China
Renowned for its clear turquoise lakes, snow-capped mountains, limestone terraces, and cascading waterfalls, China’s Jiuzhaigou Valley offers a breathtaking blend of natural beauty that captivates travelers from around the world.
While it’s an extraordinary escape any time of year, Westcott is partial to the gorgeous autumnal colors at this UNESCO World Heritage Site that erupt between September and November.
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