23 Breathtaking Canyons Around the World to Explore

Canyons are among nature’s most awe-inspiring creations, offering dramatic landscapes and unforgettable views. From deep river gorges to rugged cliffs, these natural wonders captivate travelers from all corners of the globe. Each canyon tells a unique story of geological history and showcases the raw power of erosion. Whether you’re seeking adventure or serene beauty, these canyons offer something for every explorer. Get ready to discover 23 breathtaking canyons that will leave you in awe.

Grand Canyon, USA

Located in Arizona, the Grand Canyon is one of the most iconic natural landmarks in the world. Open year-round to the public, it stretches 277 miles and reaches depths of over a mile. The best time to visit is during the spring or fall when temperatures are moderate and the crowds are smaller. Its immense size and vibrant, layered rock formations offer endless opportunities for hiking, sightseeing, and photography. Whether viewing from the rim or hiking into the canyon, it’s a truly unforgettable experience.

Colca Canyon, Peru

Colca Canyon, located in southern Peru, is known for being twice as deep as the Grand Canyon, reaching depths of 10,730 feet. It’s open to visitors year-round, but the best time to visit is during the dry season, from May to September, for clearer skies and better trekking conditions. The canyon is famous for its terraced agriculture and the majestic Andean condors that soar above. Tourists can hike along its rugged paths or take in breathtaking views from various lookout points. This canyon is perfect for nature lovers and adventurers alike.

Fish River Canyon, Namibia

Situated in southern Namibia, Fish River Canyon is the largest canyon in Africa, spanning 100 miles in length and reaching depths of 1,800 feet. The canyon is open to visitors, but hiking is permitted from May to September due to extreme temperatures during other times of the year. The best time to visit is during these cooler months for trekking or enjoying scenic drives. With its desolate beauty, this canyon is a photographer’s paradise, offering stunning rock formations and expansive views. It’s also a popular spot for multi-day hiking trips.

Todra Gorge, Morocco

Todra Gorge, nestled in the High Atlas Mountains of Morocco, is a canyon with steep rock walls that soar up to 525 feet. It is open to the public and can be visited any time of the year, though spring and autumn are ideal for pleasant weather. The gorge is narrow, making it a hotspot for rock climbers and hikers alike. Visitors can wander along the river, explore local villages, or enjoy the towering cliffs. It’s a peaceful yet striking natural wonder that offers both adventure and tranquility.

Verdon Gorge, France

Located in southeastern France, Verdon Gorge is often called the “Grand Canyon of Europe.” It stretches for 15 miles and reaches depths of up to 2,300 feet, with the Verdon River flowing through it. It’s open year-round, but the best time to visit is from June to September when the weather is warm and water activities like kayaking and swimming are popular. Visitors can enjoy hiking trails, breathtaking viewpoints, or take a scenic drive along the rim. The turquoise waters and dramatic cliffs make it a must-see for nature enthusiasts.

Copper Canyon, Mexico

The Copper Canyon system in Mexico is actually a group of six canyons, larger and deeper than the Grand Canyon, located in the state of Chihuahua. It’s open to the public year-round, with October to March being the best time to visit due to cooler temperatures. The canyon offers hiking, scenic train rides, and opportunities to learn about the indigenous Rarámuri people. Its rugged beauty and massive scale make it a popular destination for adventure tourism. Visitors can also take the famous El Chepe train for breathtaking views.

Antelope Canyon, USA

Antelope Canyon, located in Arizona, is a slot canyon known for its narrow passageways and stunning light beams that shine through the rocks. It’s open year-round, but the best time to visit is between March and October, when the sunlight is optimal for photography. The canyon is relatively small compared to others, but its vibrant colors and unique rock formations make it a photographer’s dream. Visitors are required to join a guided tour to explore the canyon safely. It’s one of the most photographed canyons in the world.

Blyde River Canyon, South Africa

Blyde River Canyon, located in Mpumalanga, South Africa, is one of the largest green canyons in the world. The canyon stretches for 16 miles and offers lush vegetation and dramatic cliffs. It’s open to the public year-round, but the best time to visit is during the dry season from May to September, when the weather is cooler and clearer for hiking. Visitors can take in panoramic views, explore waterfalls, or hike the various trails along the canyon. The diverse plant life and natural beauty make it a favorite destination for eco-tourism.

Waimea Canyon, USA

Located on the island of Kauai, Hawaii, Waimea Canyon is often called the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific.” It stretches for 14 miles and is 3,600 feet deep, with vibrant red soil and lush greenery. The canyon is open year-round, with the best time to visit being during the dry season from May to October. Hiking, helicopter tours, and scenic drives are popular ways to explore its beauty. It offers stunning views of waterfalls and sweeping landscapes that are truly unforgettable.

Samaria Gorge, Greece

Samaria Gorge, located on the island of Crete, is Europe’s longest gorge, stretching for 10 miles through the White Mountains. The gorge is open to the public from May to October, and the best time to visit is in early summer or fall, avoiding the peak of the heat. Visitors can hike the full length of the gorge, which offers breathtaking views of steep cliffs and wild landscapes. It’s a challenging yet rewarding hike, ending at the beautiful Agia Roumeli beach. The gorge is also a protected national park.

Zion Canyon, USA

Zion Canyon is located in Utah’s Zion National Park and is known for its towering sandstone cliffs, which rise up to 2,000 feet. The canyon is open year-round, with spring and fall being the best times to visit for comfortable weather and fewer crowds. Hiking the popular trails, such as Angels Landing, offers incredible views of the canyon’s rugged terrain. Zion’s sheer size and beauty make it a must-see for adventurers and nature lovers. Visitors can also enjoy scenic drives, rock climbing, and wildlife viewing.

Kings Canyon, Australia

Located in Watarrka National Park in Australia’s Northern Territory, Kings Canyon features towering cliffs and ancient rock formations. The canyon is open year-round, but the best time to visit is between May and September when the weather is cooler for hiking. The canyon is known for its impressive 885-foot-high walls and breathtaking views of the surrounding desert. Visitors can take the Rim Walk, a popular hiking trail that offers panoramic vistas of the canyon and lush, hidden valleys below. The area is also rich in Aboriginal history, making it a culturally significant destination.

Bryce Canyon, USA

Bryce Canyon, located in Utah, is famous for its unique geological formations called hoodoos, which are tall, thin spires of rock that rise dramatically from the canyon floor. Open year-round, the best time to visit is from May to September, although winter offers stunning snow-covered views. The canyon is relatively small compared to others but offers some of the most striking scenery with its red, orange, and white rock layers. Visitors can enjoy hiking along various trails, including the popular Navajo Loop, or take in the views from several overlooks. Its surreal landscape feels like stepping into another world.

Sumidero Canyon, Mexico

Sumidero Canyon is located in Chiapas, Mexico, and is known for its steep vertical walls that rise up to 3,300 feet above the Grijalva River. The canyon is open to visitors year-round, with the dry season from November to April being the best time to explore. Visitors can take boat tours along the river to admire the sheer cliffs and the abundant wildlife, including crocodiles and monkeys. The canyon’s lush greenery and towering rock formations make it a popular destination for nature lovers. It also holds cultural significance, as it’s been a symbol of resistance for the indigenous people of the region.

Gorges du Tarn, France

Located in southern France, the Gorges du Tarn is a spectacular canyon formed by the Tarn River, with cliffs that rise up to 1,600 feet. Open year-round, the best time to visit is during the summer months when outdoor activities like kayaking, hiking, and swimming are at their peak. The canyon stretches for about 31 miles and offers breathtaking views of limestone cliffs and verdant forests. Visitors can explore charming medieval villages along the canyon or take scenic drives through the winding roads. It’s a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage.

Ihlara Valley, Turkey

Ihlara Valley, located in the Cappadocia region of Turkey, is a deep gorge that stretches for 10 miles, with cliffs rising up to 490 feet. The valley is open year-round, with spring and autumn offering the most comfortable weather for hiking. Visitors can walk along the Melendiz River, which runs through the canyon, and explore ancient cave churches carved into the cliffs. The canyon’s lush greenery contrasts with the surrounding arid landscape, creating a unique and peaceful atmosphere. It’s a hidden gem for those looking for history and nature combined.

Cheddar Gorge, England

Cheddar Gorge, located in Somerset, England, is the largest gorge in the UK, with cliffs rising up to 450 feet. It’s open to the public year-round, but the best time to visit is during the spring or summer when the weather is mild and the hiking conditions are ideal. The gorge offers several walking paths, including the popular cliff-top walk that provides stunning views of the surrounding countryside. It’s also home to ancient caves where prehistoric remains have been discovered, adding an element of history to the natural beauty. The combination of dramatic landscapes and rich history makes it a fascinating destination.

Capertee Valley, Australia

Capertee Valley, located in New South Wales, Australia, is the second-largest canyon in the world by width, even surpassing the Grand Canyon. It’s open to visitors year-round, with spring and autumn offering the best weather for outdoor activities. The valley’s wide, open spaces and towering sandstone cliffs create a stunning backdrop for hiking, birdwatching, and photography. It’s also a haven for wildlife, including rare bird species like the regent honeyeater. With its vast landscapes and peaceful surroundings, Capertee Valley is perfect for those seeking solitude and nature.

Tara River Canyon, Montenegro

The Tara River Canyon, located in Montenegro, is the deepest canyon in Europe, plunging to depths of 4,300 feet. The canyon is open year-round, but the best time to visit is from May to September when rafting and other water activities are in full swing. Visitors can take rafting trips down the Tara River, which is famous for its clear waters and thrilling rapids. The canyon is also part of the UNESCO-protected Durmitor National Park, offering hiking trails with stunning views. Its untouched natural beauty and adventurous activities make it a must-see for outdoor enthusiasts.

Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon, Iceland

Located in southern Iceland, Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon is a stunning natural wonder with steep cliffs and a winding river running through it. It’s open year-round, but the best time to visit is during the summer months when the landscape is lush and green. The canyon is about 1.2 miles long and 330 feet deep, making it a relatively short but breathtaking walk. Visitors can hike along the canyon’s edge to enjoy panoramic views of the cliffs and river below. Its surreal beauty and remote location have made it a popular spot for photographers and nature lovers alike.

Itaimbezinho Canyon, Brazil

Itaimbezinho Canyon is located in Aparados da Serra National Park in southern Brazil, with cliffs that rise up to 2,300 feet. It’s open to visitors year-round, but the best time to visit is from April to September, during the dry season. The canyon offers several hiking trails that provide stunning views of its steep walls and lush vegetation. Visitors can also explore nearby waterfalls and rivers that add to the natural beauty of the area. Its dramatic scenery and relatively low tourist traffic make it a hidden gem for adventurous travelers.

Vikos Gorge, Greece

Vikos Gorge, located in the Pindus Mountains of Greece, is one of the deepest canyons in the world, relative to its width. Open year-round, the best time to visit is in spring or fall, when the weather is mild and the trails are less crowded. Visitors can hike through the gorge along well-marked trails that offer breathtaking views of towering cliffs and dense forests. The gorge is part of the Vikos–Aoös National Park, known for its rich biodiversity. With its unspoiled natural beauty, it’s a must-visit for those seeking both adventure and tranquility.

Black Canyon of the Gunnison, USA

Located in Colorado, the Black Canyon of the Gunnison is famous for its steep, dark cliffs and narrow openings, with some walls rising over 2,700 feet. It’s open to the public year-round, but the best time to visit is in spring or fall when temperatures are mild. The canyon offers dramatic views from various lookout points, and visitors can hike, fish, or take scenic drives along the rim. Its deep, shadowy walls give it an eerie yet awe-inspiring atmosphere. This canyon is a paradise for rock climbers and geology enthusiasts alike.

This article originally appeared on UnifyCosmos.

More from UnifyCosmos

20 Forgotten Etiquette Rules You Rarely See Today

Etiquette has changed a lot over the years. Many traditional manners we once valued are now nearly forgotten. Read More

18 Versatile Wardrobe Staples for Effortless Travel Style

Traveling can be a challenge when it comes to packing, but with the right wardrobe staples, you can keep your style effortless and your luggage light. Versatility is key, and these items will help you create countless outfits without overpacking. Read More

15 Hidden Gem Towns with Great Job Opportunities

Are you looking for a place where you can advance your career without sacrificing quality of life? Hidden gem towns across the U.S. not only offer great job opportunities but also provide a more affordable and peaceful lifestyle compared to bigger cities. Read More