Canyons are some of the most interesting geological formations on Earth. Besides being interesting natural attractions to visit and enjoy some adventures, these formations play a huge role in science as they hold lots of information about the earth’s distant past. Many of these formations take millions of years to form, which makes them even more interesting to study. With many rivers flowing in different parts of the earth, there are so many canyons that have formed throughout the earth’s existence, and for those who wish to explore these natural formations, here are some epic canyons to visit around the world.
10 Verdon Gorge, France
When it comes to scenery, Verdon Gorge is probably the most scenic canyon in the world. The gorge is located in Southeastern France, and its most striking feature is the charming turquoise river flowing through the massive walls of tree-covered rocks. This river flows up to 15 miles through the canyon, and engaging in a scenic float through the water is a bucket list adventure to experience while in France.
9 Gandikota Canyon, India
Gandikota is also known as the Grand Canyon of India, and for starters, it is the deepest canyon in India and also one of the deepest in the world. This canyon is the product of the river Pennar, which continues to flow through the Erramala hills revealing new rocks. Besides the impressive sight of this canyon, this area also has an interesting ancient history which makes it even more worthy of a visit.
8 Antelope Canyon, United States
Even though Antelope Canyon does not compare to the sheer size of the Grand Canyon, it makes up for size with unique beauty, which has made it the most photographed canyon in the world. The colorful and flowing shape that characterizes this slot canyon is the result of erosion, and this process still takes place as the canyon still experiences flash floods. Sometimes these glass floods can be very dangerous, and it has been known to trap hikers away on some occasions; hence one might have to be on alert at all times when exploring the geological formation. Oftentimes, it doesn’t have to rain in the canyon for it to be dangerous. Rain from 15 miles away or more can make it dangerous. The light beams that radiate into the canyon during periods of high sunlight also make the canyon more beautiful, and many people wait for the summer months to witness this unique phenomenon.
7 Colca Canyon, Peru
Colca Canyon is one of the deepest canyons in the world, with a depth of 3270 m. That impressive feature, along with the colorful vegetation in the valley, is perhaps part of the reasons this canyon in Southern Peru remains one of the most visited attractions in Peru. Colca Canyon features a length of approximately 70 kilometers, and despite being known for its geological magnificence and exciting hiking trails, this canyon has a lot more that will interest history-loving travelers. It is said to be inhabited by pre-Inca inhabitants, and one can visit to explore these people and their traditions.
6 Todra Gorge, Morocco
Morocco is not just about dunes and vast deserts. The country also hosts some impressive canyons, and one of them worth checking out is the Todra Gorge, located in the eastern Atlas Mountains. The Canyon was formed by the river Oued and the dramatic scenery, as well as the towering size, which is particularly seen in the last part, makes it worth a visit. Perhaps the best way to see this canyon is by hiking, but the scenic drive through the geological formation is also a great way to see the beauty.
5 King’s Canyon, Australia
Australia has long been a place to see stunning natural wonders and otherworldly landscapes. While in this country, one can check out the picturesque Uluru after exploring the spectacular King’s Canyon. The canyon is located in Watarrka National Park, and there are lots of hikes across the desert region that offers opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts to witness the unique red rock landscape of the canyon. Helicopter rides, camel tours, and 4WD Vehicle rides are great ways to explore this canyon.
4 Fjadrargljufur Canyon, Iceland
Iceland is not new to rock formations, when it comes to canyons are abundant in the country. The Fjadrargljufur Canyon, however, is one of the most impressive. Located in South Iceland, this canyon is characterized by a picturesque carpet of green grasses and views of a scenic river flowing through the rock formation. The canyon is just 2 km long and 100 m deep, although it makes up for its size with the scenery. When in Iceland, also check out some of the country’s scenic waterfalls and its impressive volcanoes, and snorkel between two continents at the Siffra Fissure to witness more interesting natural attractions in the country.
Since it was featured in Justin Bieber’s video, this canyon has seen an overflow of visitors, which has caused a lot of damage to the fauna and flora of the area. For this reason, the canyon is now closed at certain times of the year to allow it to heal. Check here to know if the Canyon is open.
3 Waimea Canyon, United States
With a distance of 14 miles and a depth of approximately 3,600 feet, Waimea Canyon is one of the most impressive canyons in the United States. Located on the island of Kauai in Hawaii, this canyon is also known as the Grand Canyon of the Pacific, and it is characterized by waterfalls, streams, and lots of greenery. Waimea Canyon is best seen from the road, and some trails lead to some impressive lookouts.
2 Grand Canyon, United States
The Grand Canyon is, without a doubt, the earth’s most impressive canyon. Due to its immense size and popularity, it is now almost synonymous with the word “Canyon” and is the first destination that comes to mind when that is mentioned. With a length of 277 miles, a width of 18 miles, and a depth of approximately one mile, it is perhaps the best place on earth to witness the earth’s geological history.
1 The Copper Canyon, Mexico
The copper canyon perhaps got its name from the unique copper/green color of the walls or the copper mines in the region. Located in the Mexican state of Chihuahua, the canyon is a combination of six different canyons, which combine to make it one of the biggest in the world, even more than the Grand Canyon. The abundance of adventures at this canyon also makes it worth a visit. At Copper Canyon, one can experience hiking, train rides, and ziplining. The canyon also features waterfalls and some interesting archaeological sites.