5 most underrated national parks in the world to bookmark for 2025 travel

National parks are go-to places for all those who love to see wildlife up-close and in their natural habitat. Well, and whenever places are considered for travel, often the iconic names steal the limelight. As in this context, the focus primarily goes to Kruger, Yellowstone, or the Serengeti. However, there are other undiscovered treasures all over the world that merit equal praise for their breathtaking scenery, distinctive biodiversity, and attraction of being off the beaten road. These five of the world's most underappreciated national parks should be on your vacation radar if you enjoy taking detours.

Nestled along Colombia’s Caribbean coast, Tayrona National Natural Park is a haven for beach lovers and nature enthusiasts. The park is famed for its lush rainforest, dramatic coastal cliffs, and pristine beaches with crystal-clear waters. Visitors can explore ancient ruins of the Tayrona people while hiking through dense jungles teeming with howler monkeys, colorful toucans, and rare butterflies. The combination of cultural history and biodiversity makes this park a hidden treasure.

While New Zealand is celebrated for its natural beauty, Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park often gets overshadowed by nearby Fiordland. This park is home to New Zealand’s tallest mountain, Mount Cook, and a spectacular array of glaciers, alpine meadows, and starlit skies. Whether you’re an avid mountaineer or prefer leisurely hikes with jaw-dropping views, this UNESCO World Heritage site offers experiences for every traveler. The park is also a designated Dark Sky Reserve, making it a dream for stargazers.

Bako National Park, a small, but a sanctuary that will surprise you for sure. From mangrove swamps to rocky cliffs, it lies tucked away on the island of Borneo, and should feature in your must-visit list. The park is packed with wildlife despite its tiny size, including flying lemurs, several bird species, and the endangered proboscis monkey. It is the perfect place for travellers looking for solitude and stunning scenery because of its distant location and difficult terrain.

Known as the "Mountains of the Moon," this park features glacial lakes, enormous lobelias, and snow-capped peaks that create an unearthly scene. Rwenzori Mountains National Park is frequently disregarded in favour of Uganda's gorilla trekking locations, even though it is a UNESCO World Heritage site. The park offers strenuous paths and the opportunity to discover one of Africa's most distinctive ecosystems, making it a haven for hikers and climbers.

Tiveden National Park, located in southern Sweden, is an enchanting escape into Scandinavian wilderness. Known for its deep forests, mysterious caves, and tranquil lakes, it offers a sense of serenity and untouched beauty. Popular activities include kayaking, hiking, and wildlife spotting, with a chance to see moose and rare birds. Despite its natural allure, Tiveden remains a quiet retreat, far from the tourist crowds.