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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.
It is an uninhabited valley 216 miles southeast of Salt Lake City, Utah, United States. Soft sandstone, over the years, eroding by wind and water has created peculiar cliffs or hoodoos that some think resemble goblins. The scenic landscape covers about a mile and is two miles long, and it’s best to explore the marked trails to get close to the bizarre formation.
Also a relatively unknown fact is that you can go on a spectacular canyoning adventure in the Goblins Valley. In recent years, the park has gained popularity due to social media, so visitors are encouraged to plan their trips during off-peak hours to avoid crowds.
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.