Our 5 Favourite National Parks Across the Globe
Exploring the world’s most stunning natural landscapes has never been easier, especially when you can use your British Airways Avios to make the journey more affordable. Here, we dive into five of our favourite national parks worldwide, highlighting why they’re worth visiting and how you can get there using your Avios points.
1. Torres del Paine National Park, Chile
Nestled in Southern Patagonia, Torres del Paine National Park is a haven for adventure enthusiasts. With majestic massifs, turquoise lakes, icebergs, rivers, lenga forests and extensive pampas visited by guanacos, ñandúes and pumas, this UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and eighth wonder of the world offers some of the most awe-inspiring vistas on the planet. Things to Do: ● Embark on the famous W Trek or the more challenging O Circuit to experience the park’s highlights, including the iconic granite towers. ● Take a boat tour to Grey Glacier and marvel at its towering ice walls. ● Explore the diverse fauna, from guanacos to Andean condors. How to Get There: Fly from London Heathrow to Santiago with BA reward flights, requiring 110,000 Avios plus £455 one-way in off-peak Business Class. From Santiago, catch a domestic flight to Punta Arenas, followed by a scenic road trip.
2. Plitvice Lakes National Park, Croatia
Renowned for its cascading waterfalls and turquoise lakes, Plitvice Lakes National Park is a dream destination for nature lovers and adventurers alike. Spread across 300 square
kilometers, this UNESCO World Heritage Site features 16 interconnected lakes, over 90 waterfalls, and lush, forested landscapes teeming with diverse wildlife, including deer, bears, and rare bird species. The park is divided into the Upper and Lower Lakes, each offering unique vistas and hiking opportunities. Its ever-changing colours, ranging from emerald green to crystal blue, make it a photographer’s paradise and an unforgettable escape into the beauty of unspoiled nature. Things to Do: ● Stroll along wooden walkways that wind through 16 interconnected lakes and waterfalls. ● Capture stunning photography of the park’s vivid blue-green waters. ● Enjoy a boat tour across Kozjak Lake for a unique perspective. How to Get There: Book a reward flight with Avios from London Heathrow to Zagreb, the closest airport, for 23,500 Avios plus £1 return in off-peak Economy. From Zagreb, it’s a two-hour drive to the park.
3. Vatnajökull National Park, Iceland
Vatnajökull National Park, home to Europe’s largest glacier, is a breathtaking expanse of natural wonders that seems straight out of a fantasy world. Covering 14% of Iceland, this vast park boasts an otherworldly landscape featuring mesmerizing ice caves, steaming volcanic craters, and serene glacial lagoons filled with floating icebergs.
The contrasts of fire and ice are striking, with snow-covered peaks rising above active geothermal areas. The park is also home to diverse wildlife, including reindeer and Arctic foxes, making it an unmissable destination for adventurous travelers and nature enthusiasts alike. Whether you’re exploring its icy depths or volcanic vistas, every corner offers unforgettable beauty. Things to Do: ● Take a guided tour through Vatnajökull’s mesmerizing ice caves. ● Visit the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, where icebergs float serenely in blue waters. ● Hike through volcanic landscapes and enjoy breathtaking views. How to Get There: Fly from London Heathrow to Reykjavik using 27,500 Avios plus £1 return in off-peak Economy. From Reykjavik, you can either catch a domestic flight to Akureyri or opt for a scenic road trip to the park, located 248 km away.
4. Calanques National Park, France
Calanques National Park, nestled near Marseille, is a Mediterranean paradise combining dramatic limestone cliffs, sparkling azure waters, and secluded coves. This unique natural
wonder stretches along the coastline, offering breathtaking vistas and an escape into serene beauty. The park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, with numerous hiking trails winding through rugged terrain, offering panoramic views of the coastline. Kayakers and boaters are drawn to its crystal-clear waters, which reveal hidden beaches and marine life. Whether you’re seeking adventure or a tranquil retreat, this stunning national park is a must-visit destination in the south of France. Things to Do: ● Hike along trails that offer panoramic views of the Calanques. ● Enjoy kayaking tours through the crystal-clear waters of the inlets. ● Relax on hidden beaches accessible only by boat or on foot. How to Get There: Book a BA reward flight to Marseille, the nearest airport, for 18,500 Avios plus £1 return in off-peak Economy. From Marseille, it’s just an hour’s drive to the park.
5. Yosemite National Park, USA
Yosemite National Park, one of the world’s most iconic natural treasures, is renowned for its towering granite cliffs, ancient sequoias, and breathtaking waterfalls. Spanning over 1,200 square miles, this UNESCO World Heritage Site offers a diverse landscape that includes lush meadows, pristine rivers, and dramatic peaks like El Capitan and Half Dome. With its abundant wildlife and ever-changing scenery, Yosemite captivates nature enthusiasts and photographers year-round. Whether you're hiking its legendary trails or simply taking in the majestic views, this park provides an unforgettable experience for all who visit. Things to Do: ● Explore Yosemite’s best hikes, including the Mist Trail to Vernal and Nevada Falls. ● Marvel at Yosemite Falls, one of the tallest waterfalls in the world. ● Discover iconic landmarks like El Capitan and Half Dome, perfect for climbing or photography. How to Get There: Fly from London Heathrow to San Francisco using 95,000 Avios plus £355 one-way in off-peak Business Class. Yosemite is approximately a three-hour drive from San Francisco.
Why Use Avios for Your National Park Adventures? Using Avios points to book flights makes these bucket-list destinations more accessible and affordable. With British Airways Avios, you can plan your trips efficiently and enjoy significant savings on airfare. Top Tips for Avios Flight Redemption: ● Book early to secure your preferred dates and routes. ● Combine Avios with cash to reduce out-of-pocket expenses. ● Check for off-peak reward flight availability for lower Avios requirements. From the dramatic peaks of Torres del Paine to the serene waters of Plitvice Lakes, these national parks showcase the diverse beauty of our planet. With Reward Flight Finder, you can turn your travel dreams into reality, making the most of your Avios points to explore these breathtaking destinations. So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your next adventure today! Original Source https://rewardflightfinder.com/news-and-advice/our-5-favourite-national-parks-across-the-g lobe?utm_source=Organic&utm_medium=blog&utm_campaign=RFF
