The Darvaza Gas Crater, famously nicknamed the “Door to Hell,” is one of Turkmenistan’s most extraordinary landmarks. Located deep in the Karakum Desert, this fiery pit has been burning continuously since the early 1970s, when Soviet engineers reportedly set fire to a collapsed natural gas field to prevent the spread of methane.

Dramatic and otherworldly, Deadvlei in Namibia is one of the most surreal landscapes on the planet. Located within the Namib-Naukluft National Park, Deadvlei is a white clay pan that was once an oasis filled with acacia trees. Over 900 years ago, a shift in climate and the encroachment of the towering red sand dunes cut off the river that fed the pan, leaving behind a hauntingly beautiful scene of dead trees that have been perfectly preserved in the arid environment.

Originally known as Albatross Island, West Point Island boats some of the most spectacular coastal scenery in the Falklands as well as numerous species of plants, birds and marine mammals.

Stellenbosch, a charming town in South Africa’s Western Cape, is a haven for wine lovers and history enthusiasts alike. Established in 1679, Stellenbosch boasts well-preserved Cape Dutch architecture and a vibrant cultural scene. Its tree-lined streets are dotted with historical buildings, boutique shops, and artisanal cafes. A visit to the Stellenbosch Village Museum offers a glimpse into the town’s rich heritage, showcasing restored buildings from the 18th and 19th centuries.

Arikok National Park, covering nearly 20% of Aruba, is a striking showcase of the island’s rugged landscapes, cultural history, and biodiversity. Unlike the postcard image of Aruba’s white-sand beaches, Arikok reveals a wilder side, with windswept hills, desert-like terrain, and dramatic limestone cliffs meeting the sea.