National parks and protected areas are treasures of the natural world, offering sanctuary to a diverse array of landscapes, ecosystems, and wildlife. Found across continents, from the vast savannas of Africa to the dense rainforests of South America and the rugged mountains of North America, these regions play a crucial role in preserving biodiversity and providing havens for countless plant and animal species.
Beyond their environmental importance, national parks are places of profound cultural and recreational significance, inviting people to explore, learn, and connect with nature. As global awareness grows around conservation, these protected areas stand as vital guardians of the planet’s natural beauty and ecological health, drawing visitors, scientists, and conservationists alike to celebrate and protect their irreplaceable value.
THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN NATIONAL PARKS AND PROTECTED AREAS PRIMARILY LIES IN THEIR DESIGNATION, MANAGEMENT, AND OBJECTIVES, ALTHOUGH BOTH TYPES SERVE TO PRESERVE NATURE AND BIODIVERSITY.
National Parks: These are often specifically designated by national governments and are usually meant for both conservation and public enjoyment. National parks typically allow for controlled tourism and recreation, such as hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing.
The emphasis is on protecting large areas of natural beauty and ecological significance, while allowing people to experience and connect with these natural spaces. Different countries may have slightly varying criteria for what qualifies as a national park, but overall, these areas are highly regulated to prevent overuse and degradation.
Protected Areas: This is a broader term encompassing various types of conserved lands, including nature reserves, wildlife sanctuaries, marine protected areas, and wilderness areas. Protected areas are often designated for specific conservation purposes, such as protecting endangered species, preserving delicate ecosystems, or conserving cultural or historical sites.
Some protected areas allow limited human activity, while others might be off-limits entirely to protect sensitive habitats or species. Management of these areas can be at the national, regional, or international level, with various levels of access and usage restrictions depending on the area’s goals and ecological needs.
While all national parks are protected areas, not all protected areas are national parks. National parks tend to have a dual focus on conservation and public recreation, while protected areas can encompass a wider range of conservation purposes, often with stricter or more variable access policies.
HERE ARE TEN OF THE WORLD’S MOST POPULAR NATIONAL PARKS AND PROTECTED AREAS, CELEBRATED FOR THEIR UNIQUE LANDSCAPES, BIODIVERSITY, AND CULTURAL SIGNIFICANCE:
Yellowstone National Park (USA) – As the world’s first national park, Yellowstone is famous for its geothermal features, including the Old Faithful geyser, and its diverse wildlife, such as grizzly bears, wolves, and bison. Its natural wonders attract millions of visitors each year.
Serengeti National Park (Tanzania) – Known for the Great Migration, where millions of wildebeests and zebras move across the plains in search of water and grazing, Serengeti offers unparalleled wildlife viewing and is a symbol of African biodiversity.
Galápagos National Park (Ecuador) – This UNESCO World Heritage Site is celebrated for its unique species, such as giant tortoises and marine iguanas, which inspired Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution. Its isolation has led to extraordinary levels of endemism, making it a magnet for nature enthusiasts and scientists alike.
Banff National Park (Canada) – Nestled in the Canadian Rockies, Banff is known for its turquoise lakes, such as Lake Louise, towering mountains, and abundant wildlife. Its breathtaking alpine scenery makes it one of Canada’s most iconic destinations.
Kruger National Park (South Africa) – One of Africa’s largest game reserves, Kruger is famous for its “Big Five” animals (lions, leopards, rhinos, elephants, and buffalo). It draws wildlife enthusiasts who seek an authentic safari experience.
Great Barrier Reef Marine Park (Australia) – The largest coral reef system in the world, this marine protected area offers vibrant underwater ecosystems teeming with marine life, from colorful coral species to manta rays and turtles. It’s a top destination for scuba diving and snorkeling.
Torres del Paine National Park (Chile) – Located in Patagonia, this park is known for its dramatic landscapes of mountains, glaciers, and turquoise lakes. Its challenging trekking routes, like the “W” circuit, make it a popular spot for adventure-seekers and nature lovers.
Fiordland National Park (New Zealand) – Known for its stunning fjords, waterfalls, and rainforests, especially in places like Milford Sound, Fiordland is a paradise for hikers, boaters, and those seeking the scenic beauty of New Zealand’s untouched wilderness.
Sagarmatha National Park (Nepal) – Home to Mount Everest, this UNESCO World Heritage Site attracts climbers and trekkers from around the globe. Besides its mountain views, the park is rich in Sherpa culture and hosts unique Himalayan wildlife like the snow leopard.
Cinque Terre National Park (Italy) – This coastal area in Italy is known for its colorful, cliffside villages and terraced vineyards overlooking the Ligurian Sea. Its cultural landscapes and Mediterranean beauty make it popular with hikers and tourists.
These parks and protected areas are not only celebrated for their natural beauty but also for their role in preserving unique ecosystems and cultural heritage. They attract millions of visitors annually, offering awe-inspiring experiences and promoting global conservation awareness.
THE LARGEST NATIONAL PARKS AND PROTECTED AREAS IN THE WORLD ARE ESSENTIAL FOR PRESERVING EXTENSIVE ECOSYSTEMS, SUPPORTING BIODIVERSITY, AND MITIGATING THE IMPACTS OF CLIMATE CHANGE. THEIR VAST, RELATIVELY UNTOUCHED LANDSCAPES HELP PROTECT SPECIES, PROMOTE ECOLOGICAL RESILIENCE, AND OFFER SPACE FOR SCIENTIFIC RESEARCH AND SUSTAINABLE TOURISM. HERE ARE SOME OF THE LARGEST:
Northeast Greenland National Park (Greenland) – At 972,000 square kilometers, it’s the largest national park on Earth, covering nearly half of Greenland. This Arctic expanse is home to unique wildlife like polar bears, Arctic foxes, and musk oxen, and it plays a critical role in global climate regulation and Arctic research.
Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument (USA) – This protected area in the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands spans about 1.5 million square kilometers. It preserves coral reefs, endangered species, and is culturally significant to Native Hawaiians. Its pristine marine habitats are essential for studying ocean health and resilience.
Phoenix Islands Protected Area (Kiribati) – One of the world’s largest marine protected areas, covering 408,000 square kilometers in the Pacific Ocean, this area is a biodiversity hotspot. It helps protect marine species from overfishing and provides a refuge for seabirds, coral reefs, and large fish populations.
Great Barrier Reef Marine Park (Australia) – Encompassing about 344,400 square kilometers, this iconic reef system supports thousands of marine species and is vital for research on coral bleaching, climate change, and ocean conservation.
Qiangtang Nature Reserve (China) – This massive Tibetan Plateau reserve, covering about 298,000 square kilometers, is home to endangered species such as the Tibetan antelope and snow leopard. Its high-altitude grasslands provide critical habitats in a region impacted by climate change.
Namib-Naukluft National Park (Namibia) – One of Africa’s largest parks, at around 49,800 square kilometers, Namib-Naukluft is famous for its desert landscapes and towering red sand dunes. It protects unique flora and fauna adapted to extreme desert conditions and conserves one of the world’s oldest deserts.
Wrangell–St. Elias National Park and Preserve (USA) – The largest national park in the United States, covering 53,320 square kilometers in Alaska, Wrangell-St. Elias protects glaciers, mountains, and a range of wildlife, including grizzly bears and caribou. Its vast wilderness is important for biodiversity and natural beauty.
Kavango-Zambezi Transfrontier Conservation Area (Africa) – Although not a national park but a transboundary conservation area, it spans about 520,000 square kilometers across Angola, Botswana, Namibia, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. This vast area supports large wildlife populations, including elephants, and is essential for cross-border conservation efforts.
Chiribiquete National Park (Colombia) – Covering 43,000 square kilometers, this Amazonian park is home to ancient rock art and high biodiversity. It’s critical for protecting the Amazon rainforest, reducing deforestation, and preserving Indigenous cultures.
Manú National Park (Peru) – Covering 17,163 square kilometers, this UNESCO World Heritage Site hosts a rich array of species, including many endemic plants and animals. Its diverse habitats, from lowland rainforest to Andean highlands, make it one of the most biodiverse parks in the world.
These vast protected areas are crucial for preserving the Earth’s ecological integrity. They serve as refuges for biodiversity, protect ecosystems that play a role in regulating climate, and support scientific research. By maintaining these large-scale ecosystems, we are better able to withstand environmental changes and ensure that future generations can enjoy the natural beauty and resources they provide.
THE WORLD IS HOME TO COUNTLESS BREATHTAKING NATIONAL PARKS AND PROTECTED AREAS, CELEBRATED FOR THEIR STUNNING NATURAL BEAUTY, UNIQUE LANDSCAPES, AND CULTURAL SIGNIFICANCE. HERE ARE SOME OF THE MOST BEAUTIFUL:
Banff National Park (Canada) – Located in the Canadian Rockies, Banff is renowned for its turquoise lakes like Lake Louise, soaring mountain peaks, and lush alpine forests. The stark contrast between blue waters, green forests, and rugged mountains makes it visually striking, especially during sunrise and sunset.
Fiordland National Park (New Zealand) – Known for its dramatic fjords, especially Milford and Doubtful Sounds, Fiordland boasts towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and lush rainforests. Often shrouded in mist, its remote beauty and unique geography create a mystical, almost otherworldly atmosphere.
Torres del Paine National Park (Chile) – This Patagonian gem features jagged mountains, sprawling glaciers, and shimmering lakes. The iconic granite towers, vibrant blue icebergs on Grey Lake, and windswept plains make it one of South America’s most scenic parks, drawing adventurers and photographers alike.
Yosemite National Park (USA) – Famous for its massive granite cliffs, like El Capitan and Half Dome, and the plunging Yosemite Falls, this park offers dramatic landscapes shaped by glacial activity. Yosemite’s valley, forests of giant sequoias, and varied flora and fauna add to its beauty and appeal.
Jasper National Park (Canada) – Located in Alberta, Jasper’s remote beauty includes vast wilderness, glacial lakes, and rivers. Athabasca Glacier, Sunwapta Falls, and the picturesque Maligne Lake make it a stunning retreat into untouched nature.
Plitvice Lakes National Park (Croatia) – Known for its 16 interconnected terraced lakes with vivid blue and green waters, Plitvice’s cascading waterfalls and crystal-clear pools make it one of Europe’s most enchanting parks. The lush greenery surrounding the lakes adds to its serene beauty.
Sagarmatha National Park (Nepal) – Home to Mount Everest, the world’s tallest peak, Sagarmatha combines soaring Himalayan peaks, alpine meadows, and deep valleys. Its rugged beauty and cultural richness, including Sherpa villages and monasteries, attract climbers and trekkers seeking awe-inspiring mountain scenery.
Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park (New Zealand) – Known for the towering Aoraki/Mount Cook and other snow-capped peaks, this park offers dramatic alpine scenery. It’s a top spot for stargazing, with dark, clear skies and breathtaking mountain vistas, making it a photographer’s paradise.
Krka National Park (Croatia) – Famous for its stunning waterfalls, especially Skradinski Buk, Krka offers a magical landscape of lush greenery, rivers, and cascades. The rich blue and green colors of the water against verdant vegetation create a serene and picturesque setting.
Zhangjiajie National Forest Park (China) – Known for its unique sandstone pillars, Zhangjiajie inspired the floating mountains in the movie Avatar. Its striking, mist-shrouded peaks, deep ravines, and dense forests make it one of Asia’s most visually distinctive parks.
These parks are celebrated as some of the world’s most beautiful due to their unique and dramatic landscapes, biodiversity, and the sense of awe they inspire. Their exceptional natural features — from towering mountains to crystal-clear lakes and mist-laden forests — create scenes that are visually captivating and often culturally significant, leaving lasting impressions on all who visit.
VISITING NATIONAL PARKS AND PROTECTED AREAS CAN BE INCREDIBLY REWARDING, BUT IT DOES COME WITH CERTAIN RISKS, ESPECIALLY IN REMOTE OR WILDERNESS SETTINGS. MANY OF THESE RISKS CAN BE MANAGED WITH PROPER PREPARATION, AWARENESS, AND RESPECT FOR THE ENVIRONMENT. HERE ARE SOME POTENTIAL DANGERS AND WAYS TO MITIGATE THEM:
Wildlife Encounters: Parks often protect habitats for wild animals, including large mammals like bears, wolves, bison, and big cats, as well as venomous snakes and insects. Approaching or feeding animals can provoke aggression. Keeping a safe distance, using bear-proof containers, and following park guidelines help reduce risks.
Weather Conditions: Weather in remote or mountainous areas can be unpredictable and extreme, with sudden storms, high winds, or temperature drops. Proper gear, checking weather forecasts, and knowing emergency procedures are essential for safety.
Accidents on Trails or Roads: Hiking, climbing, and driving through rugged terrain can lead to falls, vehicle accidents, or getting lost. Staying on marked trails, using maps or GPS, and traveling in groups can reduce the likelihood of accidents.
Exposure and Dehydration: Many parks are located in environments with limited shelter or water sources, like deserts or high altitudes. Bringing enough water, wearing protective clothing, and pacing activities to avoid overexertion can prevent dehydration and heatstroke.
Altitude Sickness: In high-altitude parks, like those in the Himalayas or the Rockies, visitors can experience altitude sickness, which may cause dizziness, nausea, and fatigue. Gradual acclimatization and staying hydrated can help mitigate symptoms.
Natural Disasters: Earthquakes, floods, avalanches, and landslides can occur in some protected areas. Checking local advisories and knowing the best response in case of natural hazards is important.
Infections or Parasites: Certain parks may have risks related to tick-borne diseases, insect bites, or contaminated water sources. Using insect repellent, avoiding untreated water, and wearing appropriate clothing are effective precautions.
Getting Lost: Parks can be vast and sometimes poorly marked, making it easy to lose the trail. Carrying maps, GPS devices, and letting someone know your planned route can be crucial.
Lack of Immediate Medical Help: Many parks are in remote locations with limited access to medical facilities. Carrying a first aid kit, knowing basic first aid, and having emergency communication devices can be life-saving.
While visiting a national park or protected area involves risks, most dangers can be minimized with adequate preparation, caution, and respect for park regulations and guidelines. It’s essential to do research, follow park rules, and stay aware of surroundings to enjoy a safe and memorable experience in nature.
National parks and protected areas offer more than just natural beauty and wildlife; they are also cultural and historical treasures, preserving sites of significant archaeological, indigenous, and historical value. Many parks, like Mesa Verde National Park in the U.S., protect ancient ruins, rock art, and artifacts, providing a window into the lives of ancient civilizations.
Some parks in Africa and Asia preserve sacred sites, ancient temples, and burial grounds that are spiritually important to local communities. These parks are not only conservation spaces but also serve as guardians of human heritage, allowing visitors to experience and appreciate the cultures, history, and traditions that have shaped humanity.
Beyond their beauty and biodiversity, national parks play a vital role in scientific research and environmental monitoring. Parks are often home to ongoing scientific studies, which allow researchers to monitor ecosystems, study endangered species, and better understand how climate change is affecting different environments.
For instance, in Yellowstone National Park, researchers study everything from wolf population dynamics to geothermal activity. The data gathered from these studies is often used globally to help guide conservation efforts, enhance environmental policies, and address ecological challenges.
For scientists and conservationists, national parks serve as living laboratories where they can observe natural processes and inform strategies for sustainable environmental management.
An intriguing aspect of national parks is how they influence the communities around them. These protected areas often attract tourists, which can lead to an economic boost for surrounding towns and villages through hospitality, food services, and guided tours.
Additionally, many national parks employ locals and encourage sustainable practices, from eco-tourism to conservation-focused jobs. In many cases, national parks support educational programs that teach visitors, particularly young people, about nature, conservation, and sustainable practices.
Some parks have visitor centers and educational tours that offer in-depth insights into ecology and environmental stewardship, fostering a greater understanding of and respect for the natural world.
Another lesser-known but important aspect of national parks is the mental and physical health benefits they provide to visitors. Spending time in nature has been shown to reduce stress, boost mental clarity, and improve physical well-being.
National parks offer opportunities for outdoor recreation, such as hiking, bird-watching, canoeing, and stargazing, which encourage people to stay active and find peaceful moments away from urban environments. Programs like “park prescriptions” have emerged, where healthcare providers recommend spending time in nature as a therapeutic approach to improving mental health and wellness.
Lastly, the creation and expansion of national parks are not without challenges. Many parks face issues like overcrowding, which can lead to environmental degradation and strain on facilities. Popular parks, such as Yosemite and Yellowstone, experience significant foot traffic, sometimes causing damage to trails and natural habitats. Many parks are working to implement sustainable tourism practices, such as visitor quotas, off-season promotions, and increased park funding to address these issues.
Additionally, balancing conservation efforts with the needs of indigenous and local communities can be complex, as some people rely on these lands for traditional practices or livelihoods. This balancing act underscores the complexity of managing national parks and protected areas and highlights the need for policies that protect both the environment and the communities that depend on it.
National parks and protected areas are far more than just vacation destinations; they are dynamic spaces that protect biodiversity, preserve cultural heritage, advance scientific research, stimulate local economies, and promote health and well-being. Their multifaceted roles make them invaluable assets that benefit society in ways that go far beyond their scenic landscapes.
There is not just one national park or protected area in the ocean; in fact, there are many marine national parks and protected areas worldwide. These marine protected areas (MPAs) encompass diverse ecosystems, including coral reefs, kelp forests, seagrass meadows, and deep-sea environments, and they are established to conserve marine biodiversity, protect endangered species, and support sustainable use of ocean resources.
They vary widely in size, protection level, and management goals, reflecting the diverse needs of marine conservation across different regions.
SOME OF THE LARGEST AND MOST FAMOUS MARINE PROTECTED AREAS INCLUDE:
Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument (USA) – Located in the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the world’s largest protected areas, covering about 582,578 square miles. It protects diverse marine life, including endangered species like Hawaiian monk seals and green sea turtles, as well as culturally significant sites for Native Hawaiian communities.
Great Barrier Reef Marine Park (Australia) – Spanning over 133,000 square miles, this marine park protects the world’s largest coral reef system. It is home to thousands of species of fish, corals, mollusks, and marine mammals, and is vital for scientific research, tourism, and local livelihoods.
Phoenix Islands Protected Area (Kiribati) – Covering approximately 157,626 square miles, this MPA is one of the largest in the Pacific Ocean and helps conserve coral reefs, deep-sea habitats, and pelagic (open ocean) environments, making it essential for species like sharks, tuna, and seabirds.
Galápagos Marine Reserve (Ecuador) – Surrounding the Galápagos Islands, this protected area covers about 51,000 square miles and includes unique species found nowhere else on Earth, such as marine iguanas, hammerhead sharks, and endemic penguins. Its protection is crucial for maintaining the delicate ecosystems and biodiversity of the Galápagos.
Chagos Marine Protected Area (British Indian Ocean Territory) – Covering over 247,000 square miles, this MPA in the Indian Ocean is one of the largest fully protected no-take zones, where fishing and extractive activities are prohibited. It preserves coral reefs and deep-sea habitats that support rich marine biodiversity.
These MPAs play an essential role in conserving the oceans, which face threats from overfishing, climate change, and pollution. Marine protected areas aim to restore damaged ecosystems, enhance biodiversity, and even provide benefits for surrounding fisheries by serving as replenishment zones. While MPAs cover only a fraction of the global ocean, their significance is immense, with conservation goals that contribute to broader global efforts to protect 30% of oceans by 2030 under the “30×30” conservation initiative.
VISITING ONE OF THE WORLD’S NATIONAL PARKS OR MARINE PROTECTED AREAS OFFERS AN INCREDIBLE EXPERIENCE, ALLOWING YOU TO WITNESS SOME OF THE MOST STUNNING AND BIODIVERSE ECOSYSTEMS ON THE PLANET. HERE’S WHY THESE DESTINATIONS ARE WORTH EXPLORING:
Unmatched Natural Beauty: Each protected area is home to unique landscapes or seascapes that can be awe-inspiring, from the vivid coral reefs of the Great Barrier Reef to the towering peaks in Torres del Paine or the dramatic fjords of Norway’s Nærøyfjord. These areas often preserve the absolute best of natural beauty and provide unforgettable photo opportunities and memories.
Rare Wildlife Encounters: Many national parks and protected areas are among the last refuges for endangered or rare species. Seeing a Galápagos tortoise in the wild, snorkeling alongside whale sharks, or observing a lion hunt in Kenya’s Maasai Mara is a special, often life-changing experience. These encounters also foster greater awareness of the importance of conservation and wildlife protection.
Adventure and Outdoor Activities: Many parks are also adventure hubs, offering hiking, camping, diving, kayaking, and more. Whether it’s trekking through the ancient ruins of Mesa Verde, exploring ice caves in Alaska’s Wrangell-St. Elias, or diving into the depths of the Phoenix Islands Protected Area, these parks provide thrilling opportunities for adventure enthusiasts.
Peace and Solitude: Being immersed in a pristine natural environment can provide a sense of peace and tranquility, making it a perfect escape from busy modern life. The quiet and remoteness of places like Fiordland National Park or the vast, protected waters of Papahānaumokuākea offer a chance to reconnect with nature, reflect, and recharge.
Cultural and Historical Significance: Many national parks also protect sites of cultural or historical importance, such as ancient rock art, indigenous sacred sites, or historic landmarks. For instance, the rock formations in Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park hold deep cultural meaning for the Aboriginal Anangu people, while Machu Picchu in Peru offers a glimpse into the rich history of the Inca civilization.
Learning and Education: These destinations are incredible places to learn about ecology, geology, marine biology, and local cultures. Many parks and marine reserves have visitor centers, guided tours, or interpretive programs that provide deep insights into the environment, scientific research, and conservation efforts in the area.
Supporting Conservation Efforts: When you visit national parks and protected areas, your entry fees often go directly toward funding conservation projects, research, and maintaining facilities for future visitors. By choosing to visit protected areas, you contribute to the ongoing preservation of these special places and help support local economies through responsible tourism.
Personal Growth and Mindfulness: Spending time in a place as vast as the Grand Canyon or as isolated as the Arctic wilderness can shift perspectives, inspire mindfulness, and promote mental well-being. These natural environments encourage you to slow down, be present, and appreciate the majesty and resilience of nature.
From adventure and discovery to relaxation and cultural enrichment, visiting these parks and protected areas offers a variety of experiences that go beyond the ordinary. They are perfect destinations for those looking to explore, connect with nature, and leave with memories and insights that last a lifetime.
YOU CAN FIND INFORMATION ABOUT NATIONAL PARKS, MARINE PROTECTED AREAS, AND EVERYTHING WE DISCUSSED FROM A VARIETY OF RELIABLE SOURCES, BOTH ONLINE AND IN PRINTED GUIDES. HERE ARE SOME GREAT RESOURCES TO EXPLORE:
- National Park Service (NPS) – nps.gov: For U.S. national parks, the National Park Service’s website has detailed information on individual parks, history, conservation efforts, and visitor resources.
- UNESCO World Heritage Centre – whc.unesco.org: UNESCO’s site provides information on World Heritage Sites, including both cultural and natural parks worldwide, detailing their significance and conservation status.
- World Database on Protected Areas (WDPA) – protectedplanet.net: This is a comprehensive global database of protected areas managed by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). It’s a great resource for researching protected areas worldwide.
- International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) – iucn.org: The IUCN provides in-depth reports and resources on conservation and the biodiversity of protected areas, along with global initiatives to protect endangered habitats and species.
- National Geographic – nationalgeographic.com: National Geographic offers articles, documentaries, and interactive features on global parks, wildlife, and marine protected areas, giving insight into conservation and eco-tourism.
- Marine Protected Areas Atlas – mpatlas.org: This site provides information on marine protected areas around the world, including maps, visitor information, and details about the level of protection each marine reserve receives.
- Guidebooks and Travel Books: Books from publishers like Lonely Planet, Fodor’s, and Rough Guides often include dedicated sections on national parks and natural sites around the world, providing in-depth travel tips and historical context.
- Park-Specific Websites and Local Tourism Boards: Many parks, such as Yellowstone or the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park, have dedicated websites with up-to-date visitor information, safety guidelines, and conservation projects. Local tourism boards or government sites can also provide excellent resources.
- Documentaries and Streaming Platforms: Platforms like Netflix, Disney+, and BBC Earth offer documentaries such as Our Planet, Planet Earth, and National Parks Adventure, which showcase these areas visually and provide context on their ecological importance.
These resources provide reliable, detailed, and inspiring information that can help you explore, plan trips, and learn about the diverse ecosystems and cultural heritage preserved within national parks and protected areas around the world.
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