A rich network of national parks across the globe offer direct access to the world’s most stunning landscapes. Here are the top 5 national parks outside the US.

Plitvice Lakes National Park, Croatia

Located two hours from Zagreb, this UNESCO-listed site is one of the most recognizable nature areas in all of Europe. Visitors can take a meandering, wooden footbridge over the emerald waterways without negatively impacting the unique, rocky karst landscape. There are slender waterfalls, intricate limestone cave systems, and untouched pine forests that keep this park a Croatian treasure. As you meander the park, you’ll stumble across other surprises, like flocks of butterflies, rare orchids in dozens of different shades, and even red deer!

Kluane National Park, Canada

Located in the southwestern Yukon near the Alaska boarder, this park is not for the faint of heart. In addition to boasting Canada’s tallest peak, Mount Logan, mountains and glaciers cover 80% of its surface area. Thick forest and tundra covers the other 20%. Here you’ll also find gushing creeks and frequent grizzly bear sightings. The sheer number and variety of trails make it perfect for adventurous beginners and master mountaineers alike.

Torres del Paine, Chile

Torres del Paine’s landscapes are richly colored, boundless and slightly prehistoric. Its beauty has a way of casting a spell over you, as it’s also one of the most unusual national parks. Here, you’ll find soaring granite towers, ice caves and crystal-clear lakes that dwarf you to the size of an ant. Sail along popular Lago Grey, with icebergs calving around you, and millennia-old boulders fading pink in the setting sun.

Tayrona National Park, Colombia

Tayrona National Park isn’t short on scenery, thanks to its mountains, mangrove swamps, pre-Columbian village ruins, and coral reefs. It’s also home to Colombia’s most exquisite beaches on the glittering Caribbean coastline, El Baco San Juan. This 37,000-acre park offers South American jungle authenticity and a low-key vibe. The three main activities consist of hammock lounges, snorkeling, and mingling at open-air bars.

Ordesa y Monte Perdido National Park, Spain

Located in the Pyrenees mountain range along the Spanish-French border, this epic national park contains snow-capped peaks, green gaping valleys and rushing rivers. It’s equally suitable for rock climbing or paragliding. If you prefer a slower pace, a leisurely forest hike or some fly-fishing work just fine too! Exploring this ancient, vast landscape is totally free, thanks to its national park status.