Visit the 7 (or 8) Wonders of the World: A Comprehensive Guide – Travels With The Crew (2024)

Embarking on a journey to visit the wonders of the world is often a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. It allows travelers to witness the history of the past and marvel at the stunning creations left by past civilizations. These awe-inspiring sites, scattered across the globe, represent human ingenuity, artistic vision, and engineering prowess.

Each wonder tells a unique story and offers a glimpse into the rich story of human history.

From the breathtaking heights of Machu Picchu in Peru to the majesty of the Great Wall of China, the vast expanse of the Roman Colosseum, and the architectural splendor of the Taj Mahal in India, each site offers an unforgettable experience.

Defining the Wonders of the World

TheWonders of the World represent some of human history’s most awe-inspiring and culturally significant structures. To explore these architectural marvels, we will examine each wonder, its origins, and its continued legacy.

First, it is essential to clarify that the following list builds upon and adds to the traditional Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.

Here is a table of the 7 Wonders of the Ancient World:

Each wonder has been selected for its unique architectural achievement and enduring cultural significance.

For instance, the Great Pyramid of Giza embodies ancient Egyptian society and innovation, while the Hanging Gardens of Babylon symbolize artistic expression in Mesopotamia.

7 Wonders of the Ancient World

Most of the 7 Wonders of the Ancient world no longer exist, but that doesn’t mean you can’t learn about their enduring stories. Here are each of them in no particular order.

1. Great Pyramid of Giza

The Great Pyramid of Giza is the ancient world’s oldest and most intact wonder. Built around 2560 BCE, it served as the tomb of the Pharaoh Khufu.

Sitting on 13 acres, the pyramid was initially 146 meters tall before erosion reduced it to its current 138 meters. Primarily constructed from limestone, this historical wonder displays remarkable engineering and craftsmanship. This is the only wonder still standing to date.

2. Hanging Gardens of Babylon

The Hanging Gardens of Babylon have long been regarded as one of the most beautiful creations of ancient garden craftsmanship. Thought to have been built in the 6th century BCE, they were a gift from King Nebuchadnezzar II to his wife, Queen Amytis.

The gardens, comprising layers of flora, fountains, and terraces, showcased advanced irrigation techniques, making them truly unmatched.

3. Statue of Zeus at Olympia

The Statue of Zeus at Olympia was a massive sculpture created by the ancient Greek sculptor Phidias around 435 BCE.

This 12-meter-tall statue, made of ivory and gold plates attached to a wooden framework, was housed in the Temple of Zeus. It depicted Zeus sitting on his throne with a scepter in one hand and a statue of Nike, the goddess of victory, in the other.

4. Temple of Artemis at Ephesus

The Temple of Artemis in Ephesus, modern-day Turkey, was a marvelous structure dedicated to the Greek goddess of hunting, nature, and childbirth.

The architect Chersiphron built it around 550 BCE. The temple featured 127 marble columns, each 18 meters tall and beautifully adorned with detailed carvings.

5. Mausoleum at Halicarnassus

This elaborate structure was built as a tomb for Mausolus, a ruler in the 4th century BCE, by his wife and sister Artemisia II.

The Mausoleum at Halicarnassus stood at a height of approximately 45 meters and was adorned with intricate sculptures. The architects Satyros and Pythius designed this grand mausoleum as a masterpiece of ancient architecture.

6. Colossus of Rhodes

The Colossus of Rhodes was a monumental bronze statue from the 3rd century BCE on the Greek island of Rhodes.

Standing over 30 meters tall, this statue of the sun god, Helios, was built as a symbol of gratitude after the people of Rhodes successfully repelled a military invasion. Sadly, it was short-lived due to an earthquake in 226 BCE, which caused its collapse.

7. Lighthouse of Alexandria

Constructed between 280 and 247 BCE, the Lighthouse of Alexandria was a remarkable technological accomplishment of the ancient world.

Located on the island of Pharos, it stood tall at 120 meters. Designed by the architect Sostratus, it featured a tiered structure with a mirror on top, reflecting sunlight to guide sailors. This wonder of engineering illuminated the ancient coastline and demonstrated the prowess of the Ptolemaic Kingdom.

Modern Wonders of the World

The modern wonders showcase humanity’s incredible achievements in engineering, architecture, and technology. While the original Seven Wonders highlighted structures built in ancient times, the modern wonders reflect our advances in the modern era.

1. Great Wall of China

The Great Wall of China is a magnificent architectural wonder, stretching over 13,000 miles across northern China.

Constructed mostly during the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644), it served as a line of defense against invaders. Today, it symbolizes China’s rich history and a must-visit destination for any world explorer.

When visiting, tourists often opt for the Mutianyu and Badaling sections, which are more easily accessible and well-preserved.

2. Petra

Nestled in the southern region of Jordan, Petra is an ancient city known for its striking rock-cut architecture.

The most iconic structure, Al-Khazneh or “The Treasury”, boasts a magnificent facade sculpted from red sandstone. Many people know it as the entrance to the grail in “Indiana Jones and the Holy Grail.”

To experience Petra at its most magical, consider visiting during the Petra by Night event, when thousands of candles illuminate the entire site.

3. Christ the Redeemer

The Christ the Redeemer statue is one of Brazil’s most notable landmarks, overlooking the city of Rio de Janeiro.

Standing approximately 125 feet tall, this Art Deco masterpiece is perched atop Mount Corcovado and offers sweeping views of the surrounding landscape.

Don’t miss the Trem do Corcovado, a quaint train that transports visitors from the city center to the statue.

4. Machu Picchu

Tucked away in the Andean Mountains of Peru, Machu Picchu is a remarkable Incan citadel dating back to the 15th century.

The site boasts impressive stone structures, terraced fields, and captivating views. Accessing Machu Picchu is an adventure unto itself — visitors must either hike the arduous Inca Trail or take a scenic train to Aguas Calientes.

5. Chichen Itza

Located on the Yucatán Peninsula in Mexico, Chichen Itza is a well-preserved Mayan city once a thriving cultural and economic center.

The iconic El Castillo or “Temple of Kukulcan” pyramid takes center stage, while other structures, such as the Great Ball Court and the Temple of the Warriors, offerinsight into the ancient Mayan civilization.

6. Roman Colosseum

As the largest amphitheater ever built, the Roman Colosseum is a testament to the ancient Roman Empire’s architectural domination.

In its prime, the Colosseum could hold up to 70,000 spectators and hosted gladiatorial contests, mock sea battles, and other public spectacles. Today, this iconic ruin offers guided tours, allowing visitors to delve into the history of ancient Rome.

7. Taj Mahal

The Taj Mahal in Agra, India, was built by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife.

Completed in 1653, this ivory-white marble mausoleum showcases intricate details, such as floral patterns and geometric shapes, that blend Persian, Islamic, and Indian architectural styles.

The Taj Mahal is best visited at sunrise or sunset, when the soft, golden light enhances its mesmerizing beauty.

The 7 Natural Wonders of the World

The world is full of awe-inspiring natural wonders that attract millions of visitors annually. Here are some of the most breathtaking natural sights you should consider adding to your travel bucket list.

1. Grand Canyon, USA: This magnificent gorge, carved by the Colorado River, stretches over 277 miles and reaches depths of over a mile. Its unique rock formations and panoramic vistas draw visitors from around the globe.
2. Great Barrier Reef, Australia: The world’s largest coral reef system, spanning over 1,400 miles, is home to diverse marine life. Visitors can snorkel, dive, or take a glass-bottom boat tour to experience the vibrant underwater world.
3. The Paricutin Volcano, a cinder cone volcano in Michoacán, Mexico, has captured global attention since its emergence in 1943. Remarkably, this geological feature surfaced in the cornfield of a local farmer named Dionisio Pulido, and it is the youngest volcano on the planet.
4. Aurora Borealis, The Arctic Circle: Also known as the Northern Lights, this celestial display of colorful, shimmering lights is caused by the interaction between solar particles and the Earth’s magnetic field. The best time to catch this phenomenon is during winter in high-latitude regions.
5. Mount Everest, Nepal: Standing at 29,032 feet, Mount Everest is Earth’s highest peak above sea level. While mountaineering enthusiasts dream of reaching the summit, trekkers can enjoy shorter hikes to Everest Base Camp to admire the mountain’s rugged beauty.
6. Victoria Falls, Zambia/Zimbabwe: One of the world’s largest and most famous waterfalls, Victoria Falls is over a mile wide and 354 feet high. Its powerful flow creates a dramatic mist, earning it the name “The Smoke That Thunders.”
7. Harbor of Rio de Janeiro: The world’s largest bay and most beautiful harbor is surrounded by spectacular rock formations, mountains, and the city of Rio.

What is the 8th Wonder of the World?

The Pyramid of Giza is often included in an expanded “New 7 Wonders of the World” and named the 8th Wonder. However, there is an ongoing conversation about which site truly deserves the title.

Other landmarks, such as Angor Wat in Cambodia and the Panama Canal, have been proposed as candidates in addition to Giza.

Ultimately, lists categorizing the natural and human-made wonders of the ancient and modern world are voted on by experts and the public rather than an objective set of requirements.

You can create your own list of wonders based on personal experiences and interests.

The debate around an official “8th wonder” continues to spark discussion about what sites deserve global for their achievements.

Planning Your Visit to the Wonder of the World

Travel Documents and Visas

Preparing all necessary travel documents before embarking on your journey to the seven or eight wonders of the world is crucial.

First and foremost, ensure that your passport is valid and up to date. Some countries require at least six months of validity.

Aside from your passport, you may also need visas for certain countries. Here’s a quick breakdown of visa requirements for the wonders:

Remember to check the specific visa requirements for your nationality before traveling.

Budgeting and Costs

When planning your trip to visit the seven or eight wonders of the world, remember to consider the costs involved. These may include:

• Flights or other transportation
• Accommodation
• Sightseeing and activity fees
• Food and drinks
• Souvenirs and shopping
• Travel Insurance

To save money, research the average costs for each destination and try booking flights and accommodations well in advance.

Also, consider traveling during off-peak seasons when prices tend to be lower.

Best Times to Visit

While each wonder can be visited throughout the year, certain seasons offer more favorable conditions. Here are the best times to visit each wonder:

1. Great Wall of China: Spring (April-May) or Autumn (September-October)
2. Petra, Jordan: Spring (March-May) or Autumn (September-November)
3. Colosseum, Italy: Spring (April-June) or Autumn (September-October)
4. Chichen Itza, Mexico: November to April (dry season)
5. Machu Picchu, Peru: April to October (dry season)
6. Taj Mahal, India: October to March (cooler, drier months)
7. Christ the Redeemer, Brazil: May to October (less rainfall)
8. Great Pyramid of Giza, Egypt: November to February (cooler temperatures)

Responsible Tourism

Responsible tourism is a crucial aspect of visiting the world’s wonders! As a traveler, it is your duty to protect and preserve these destinations for future generations. This section provides practical advice and guidelines to promote ethical and sustainable tourism.

The Importance of Environmental Conservation

The environment around these wonders is delicate. Each little act counts in preserving them. While visiting, consider adopting some eco-friendly measures:

• Reduce waste: Minimize the use of plastic and carry a reusable water bottle.
• Stay on trails: Deviating from designated paths causes soil erosion and disturbs wildlife.
• Respect wildlife: Avoid feeding or disturbing animals—observe safely.

Support Local Communities

Involving and supporting the local communities can enhance the travel experience:

1. Buy local: To support their economy, buy souvenirs and goods from local artisans.
2. Interact with locals: Engage in cultural experiences, learn the basics of the local language, and respect local customs.
3. Choose local accommodations: Stay at locally owned and operated lodging—the income directly benefits the community.

Make Sustainable Choices

When visiting these wonders, opt for options that contribute to sustainable travel:

• Transportation: Choose eco-friendly transportation options, such as walking, biking, or using public transport when possible.
• Accommodations: Look for hotels with environmentally friendly certifications or sustainable practices.
• Tours: Select tour operators that prioritize the safety, well-being, and preservation of the destination.

The 7 or 8 Wonders of the World are out there!

You can choose which wonders you want to see, or you can make it a goal to visit all that are still in existence. Enjoy your journey!

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