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Lake Gatun is not only the key to the water system of the Panama Canal, but also one of the most accessible places to watch wildlife near Panama City. Formed by the embankment of the Chagres River, this huge man-made lake is surrounded by rainforests and scattered over islands where wildlife thrives. The most popular of these is Monkey Island, where you can see white-faced capuchins, howler monkeys, and Geoffrey’s tents.
Boat tours depart from Gamboa or a nearby marina, and usually include a stop at the locks or a short jungle walk. The lake is home to crocodiles, iguanas, and a variety of birds. While it’s not a primitive environment, the sheer amount of animal activity and ease of access make it a powerful option if you have little time. Going early helps avoid both heat and boat traffic. Bring binoculars and expect close-up encounters.
Located in the northwest of China’s Hunan Province, these amazing limestone peaks are covered in green and often shrouded in fog. A cable car takes visitors to Huangxi Village, where there are many trails to enjoy the stunning views of Tianzi (‘Son of Heaven’).
These mountains inspired the floating mountains in the movie ‘Avatar’. In 2022, a new visitor center was opened, which provides interactive exhibitions about the geology and cultural importance of the region.
This glossy sea-glass beach in California is the result of littering there over the years. It didn’t stop until the 1960s, but by then the sea was full of everything from old equipment to bottles and cans.
Over time, the waves break everything into colored pebbles, turning the beach into a major tourist attraction. Now, it’s ironically at stake as visitors continue to take the glass home.