Largest National Parks in the World 2023 – Top 10 Grandest Wonders

Largest National Parks in the World 2023

National parks are some of the most extraordinary and awe-inspiring natural spaces on our planet. These protected areas offer visitors the chance to experience the beauty and diversity of nature, while also providing a sanctuary for a wide variety of plants and animals. While there are national parks all around the world, some of the most impressive and vast areas are found in the largest national parks in the world.

These parks can cover hundreds of thousands or even millions of hectares and are home to a remarkable array of ecosystems, from dense rainforests and soaring mountain ranges to arid deserts and icy tundra. Many of these parks are UNESCO World Heritage sites, recognized for their exceptional natural and cultural value.

These large national parks often offer visitors a chance to explore a vast range of outdoor activities, from hiking and camping to wildlife viewing and scenic drives. They also provide important habitats for a wide range of animal species, including endangered or threatened species, which makes them essential for the conservation of biodiversity.

In this era of increasing urbanization and climate change, the largest national parks in the world offer a much-needed opportunity to connect with nature and experience its power and beauty. In this article, we will explore some of the largest national parks in the world and what makes them so remarkable.

Top 10 Largest National Parks in the World

Embarking on a journey through the largest national parks in the world unveils a breathtaking tapestry of natural wonders and conservation marvels. These expansive protected areas are home to some of the most diverse and captivating landscapes on Earth. From the rugged peaks of towering mountains to the untouched expanses of dense forests and untamed wilderness, these parks offer an unparalleled opportunity to immerse oneself in the beauty and grandeur of nature. In this article, we will delve into the top 10 largest national parks in the world, each one a testament to the importance of preserving our planet’s precious ecosystems

S. No	Largest National Parks	Size in Km sq
1	Northeast Greenland National Park	972,000
2	Tassili n’Ajjer National Park	72,000
3	Wrangell-St Elias National Park and Preserve	53,320.57
4	Namib Naukluft National Park	49,768
5	Wood Buffalo National Park	44,807
6	Gates of the Arctic National Park Preserve	34,287.02
7	Denali National Park and Preserve	24,463.87
8	Kafue National Park	22,400
9	Kruger National Park	19,633
10	Manú National Park	17,162.95

TRENDING

1. Northeast Greenland National Park (972,000)

With a staggering area of 972,000 square kilometers (375,000 square miles), Northeast Greenland National Park is the largest national park in the world. Established in 1974, the park occupies the remote northeastern region of Greenland, encompassing a vast and virtually uninhabited wilderness. Its expansive size is comparable to the combined area of several European countries.

Northeast Greenland National Park showcases the raw and untouched beauty of the Arctic landscape. The park is dominated by dramatic glaciers, towering ice caps, jagged mountains, and deep fjords, creating a breathtaking panorama of icy grandeur. It is home to numerous Arctic wildlife species, including polar bears, musk oxen, Arctic foxes, reindeer, and various bird species. Marine life, such as seals, whales, and walruses, can also be spotted in the park’s coastal waters.

Due to its remote location and extreme climate, access to Northeast Greenland National Park is challenging and limited primarily to scientific expeditions and specialized tour operators. Visitors can experience the awe-inspiring wilderness through guided tours, which often involve hiking, wildlife observation, and boat trips along the pristine fjords.

2. Tassili n’Ajjer National Park  (72,000)

Located in southeastern Algeria, Tassili n’Ajjer National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its remarkable rock art, stunning geological formations, and cultural significance. Covering an area of approximately 72,000 square kilometers (27,800 square miles), the park is characterized by its vast plateau, sandstone cliffs, deep canyons, and rocky outcrops.

The park’s most iconic feature is its extensive collection of prehistoric rock art, which depicts scenes of ancient human activities and showcases the region’s rich cultural heritage. These ancient artworks provide invaluable insights into the history, lifestyle, and beliefs of early civilizations that inhabited the area thousands of years ago.

In addition to its cultural significance, Tassili n’Ajjer National Park boasts a diverse desert ecosystem. Despite its arid environment, the park supports a surprising variety of plant and animal life, including desert-adapted wildlife such as gazelles, Barbary sheep, fennec foxes, and numerous bird species.

Visitors to Tassili n’Ajjer National Park can explore its striking landscapes, hike through its canyons, and witness the mesmerizing sunrise and sunset over the sandstone formations. Local guides provide insights into the park’s cultural heritage and help visitors appreciate the unique beauty of this desert wilderness.

3. Wrangell-St Elias National Park and Preserve (53,320.57)

Encompassing a vast area of 53,320.57 square kilometers (20,587.18 square miles), Wrangell-St Elias National Park and Preserve is located in the U.S. state of Alaska. It is the largest national park in the United States and part of a larger UNESCO World Heritage site known as the Kluane/Wrangell-St Elias/Glacier Bay/Tatshenshini-Alsek.

The park showcases a stunning array of natural features, including towering mountain ranges, massive glaciers, pristine rivers, and expansive tundra. It is home to several prominent peaks, including Mount Wrangell and Mount St. Elias, which is the second-highest peak in the United States. The park’s glaciers, such as the Malaspina Glacier, are among the largest non-polar ice masses in the world.

Wrangell-St Elias National Park and Preserve offer a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, mountaineering, camping, fishing, and wildlife viewing. The park is teeming with diverse wildlife, including grizzly bears, black bears, wolves, moose, Dall sheep, and a variety of bird species.

4. Namib Naukluft National Park (49,768)

Spanning an impressive 49,768 square kilometers (19,216 square miles) along the Atlantic coast of Namibia, the Namib Naukluft National Park is a captivating desert wilderness. Established in 1979, it is the largest game park in Africa and one of the largest national parks in the world. The park’s name combines “Namib,” meaning “vast place,” and “Naukluft,” meaning “narrow pass,” reflecting its diverse landscapes.

Namib Naukluft National Park showcases the stunning contrasts of the Namib Desert, where towering sand dunes meet rugged mountain ranges and vast gravel plains. The park is best known for its iconic Sossusvlei, a clay pan surrounded by towering red sand dunes, creating a surreal and picturesque landscape. The highest dune in the area, aptly named “Big Daddy,” offers a challenging yet rewarding climb for visitors seeking panoramic views of the desert.

The park’s desert environment supports a surprising array of flora and fauna, specially adapted to survive in harsh conditions. Rare and endemic species such as the Welwitschia plant, desert-adapted elephants, oryx, and Hartmann’s mountain zebra can be spotted within the park’s boundaries.

Nature enthusiasts can explore the park through various activities, including guided hikes, scenic drives, and nature walks. Exploring the vastness of Namib Naukluft National Park provides a unique opportunity to witness the raw beauty of one of the world’s oldest and most captivating deserts.

5. Wood Buffalo National Park (44,807)

Encompassing an expansive 44,807 square kilometers (17,300 square miles) in northeastern Alberta and southern Northwest Territories, Wood Buffalo National Park stands as a testament to the diverse and fragile ecosystems of northern Canada. Established in 1922, it is not only one of the largest national parks globally but also a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Wood Buffalo National Park is renowned for its role in protecting the largest free-roaming herd of wood bison in the world. These magnificent creatures, which can weigh up to 900 kilograms (2,000 pounds), roam freely within the park’s vast wilderness. The park also provides a habitat for numerous other wildlife species, including black bears, gray wolves, and a rich bird population.

One of the park’s notable features is the Peace-Athabasca Delta, an expansive wetland that serves as a critical nesting and staging area for migratory birds. This delta, along with the park’s diverse landscapes of boreal forest, salt plains, and meandering rivers, offers exceptional opportunities for birdwatching, canoeing, and fishing.

Visitors to Wood Buffalo National Park can explore the park’s natural wonders through guided tours, hiking trails, and backcountry camping. The park’s remote location and pristine wilderness provide a sense of isolation and tranquility, allowing visitors to connect with nature on a profound level.

6. Gates of the Arctic National Park Preserve (34,287.02)

Nestled within the Arctic Circle in northern Alaska, Gates of the Arctic National Park Preserve sprawls across 34,287.02 square kilometers (13,238.6 square miles) of untouched wilderness. Established in 1980, it is the northernmost national park in the United States and one of the most remote and inaccessible.

Gates of the Arctic National Park Preserve is a rugged and untamed landscape, characterized by expansive tundra, snow-capped peaks, winding rivers, and deep valleys. It encompasses parts of the Brooks Range, a majestic mountain range that stretches across northern Alaska. The park’s name is derived from the two towering peaks, known as the “Gates of the Arctic,” which symbolize the entrance to this vast and wild expanse.

The rugged and remote nature of the Gates of the Arctic National Park Preserve requires careful planning and preparation. Visitors must be self-reliant and equipped with proper wilderness skills and supplies to ensure a safe and responsible exploration of this remarkable landscape.

The park’s isolation and untouched beauty provide a unique opportunity for solitude and a deep connection with the natural world. It serves as a reminder of the vastness and resilience of the Arctic wilderness and the importance of preserving such pristine environments for future generations.

7. Denali National Park and Preserve (24,463.87)

Denali National Park and Preserve, located in the interior of Alaska, is a sprawling wilderness encompassing an area of 24,463.87 square kilometers (9,492 square miles). Established in 1917 as Mount McKinley National Park, it was later renamed Denali National Park and Preserve to honor the native Athabascan name for North America’s highest peak, Denali (formerly known as Mount McKinley).

The park is renowned for its rugged beauty, breathtaking landscapes, and diverse wildlife. At its centerpiece stands Denali, a majestic mountain that towers 6,190 meters (20,310 feet) above sea level, making it the highest peak in North America. Visitors to the park can partake in a variety of activities, including hiking, mountaineering, wildlife viewing, and camping. The park is home to an array of wildlife, such as grizzly bears, wolves, moose, caribou, and Dall sheep.

Denali National Park and Preserve’s pristine wilderness offers an opportunity to immerse oneself in the raw beauty of Alaska’s untamed landscapes. The park’s vast expanses of tundra, glaciers, and alpine forests provide a habitat for a wide range of flora and fauna, making it a paradise for nature enthusiasts and photographers.

8. Kafue National Park (22,400)

Located in the heart of Zambia, Kafue National Park is one of the largest national parks in Africa, covering an area of approximately 22,400 square kilometers (8,650 square miles). Established in 1924, the park is characterized by its diverse ecosystems, ranging from savannah grasslands to miombo woodlands, riverine forests, and wetlands.

Kafue National Park is renowned for its remarkable biodiversity, offering visitors a chance to encounter a vast array of wildlife. The park is home to over 150 mammal species, including elephants, lions, leopards, zebras, and giraffes. It is also a haven for birdwatchers, with more than 500 bird species recorded within its boundaries.

Exploring Kafue National Park presents a sense of untouched wilderness and solitude. Visitors can enjoy game drives, walking safaris, and boating excursions along the Kafue River, providing opportunities to observe wildlife up close and appreciate the park’s stunning landscapes. The park’s remote and less-visited areas offer a unique chance to experience the untamed beauty of Africa without the crowds.

9. Kruger National Park (19,633)

Stretching across northeastern South Africa, Kruger National Park is one of the continent’s most iconic and celebrated wildlife reserves. Spanning an expansive area of 19,633 square kilometers (7,580 square miles), the park is recognized as one of the largest and oldest national parks in Africa. Established in 1898, it is a haven for diverse wildlife and a stronghold for conservation efforts.

Kruger National Park is renowned for its impressive array of wildlife, including the famed “Big Five” – lions, elephants, rhinoceros, leopards, and buffalos. In addition to these iconic species, the park is home to a vast number of other mammals, reptiles, and bird species. The park’s diverse ecosystems encompass savannah plains, woodlands, and riverine forests, providing varied habitats for thriving wildlife.

Visitors to Kruger National Park can embark on exhilarating game drives, guided walking safaris, and even immersive multi-day wilderness trails. The park’s well-developed infrastructure, including rest camps, lodges, and picnic areas, ensures a comfortable and memorable experience for visitors of all ages and interests.

10. Manú National Park (17,162.95)

Located in the southwestern region of Peru, Manú National Park is a biodiverse paradise that spans an impressive area of 17,162.95 square kilometers (6,625.92 square miles). Established in 1973, it is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site and is considered one of the most pristine and untouched rainforest ecosystems in the Amazon basin.

Manú National Park boasts an astounding level of biodiversity, housing an estimated 15,000 plant species, 1,000 bird species, and 200 mammal species, including elusive creatures like the jaguar, giant otter, and giant anteater. The park’s diverse habitats, which include lowland rainforests, cloud forests, and high-altitude grasslands, provide a home to an incredible array of wildlife.

Exploring Manú National Park is a truly immersive experience, allowing visitors to witness the wonders of the Amazon rainforest up close. Guided tours and expeditions offer opportunities for wildlife spotting, birdwatching, and even encountering indigenous communities that call the park home. The park’s rich cultural heritage is also evident in the presence of indigenous tribes, such as the Machiguenga and Yine people, who have inhabited the region for centuries and maintain their traditional way of life.

One of the highlights of visiting Manú National Park is the chance to navigate the Manú River, which flows through the heart of the park. Boat trips along the river offer stunning vistas of the surrounding rainforest and provide access to remote areas teeming with wildlife.

Which is the Biggest National Park in the World?

Northeast Greenland National Park, with its vast expanse of 972,000 square kilometers (375,000 square miles), holds the prestigious title of being the largest national park in the world. Located in the remote northeastern part of Greenland, it stretches across an area larger than many countries. Established in 1974, the park was created to protect the pristine Arctic wilderness and its unique ecosystems.

The park’s immense size encompasses a diverse range of landscapes, including glaciers, ice sheets, fjords, mountains, and tundra. It is a region of awe-inspiring beauty, characterized by towering icebergs, dramatic cliffs, and vast open spaces. The park’s remote and untouched nature creates a sense of true wilderness, offering a rare opportunity to experience nature in its purest form.

Northeast Greenland National Park is home to a remarkable array of Arctic wildlife. It serves as an important habitat for polar bears, musk oxen, Arctic foxes, reindeer, seals, and numerous bird species, including the iconic Arctic tern. The park’s marine waters are inhabited by whales, seals, and walruses.

Due to its extreme climate and challenging accessibility, the park remains largely uninhabited by humans, allowing the wildlife and natural ecosystems to thrive undisturbed. It offers a glimpse into the Arctic’s fragile and pristine environment, making it an invaluable site for scientific research and monitoring the effects of climate change.

Exploring Northeast Greenland National Park is an adventure of a lifetime, though it requires careful planning and logistical support. Specialized guided expeditions and cruises are available for those seeking to immerse themselves in the park’s grandeur and witness its unique flora, fauna, and geological features.

Preserving the integrity of Northeast Greenland National Park is of utmost importance. Its protected status ensures the conservation of fragile Arctic ecosystems, the safeguarding of vulnerable wildlife, and the preservation of the park’s cultural and historical heritage.

Northeast Greenland National Park stands as a remarkable testament to the Earth’s natural wonders. Its immense size, breathtaking landscapes, and rich biodiversity make it an exceptional destination for adventurers, nature enthusiasts, and those seeking to connect with the raw beauty of the Arctic.

What are the Criteria for Determining the Largest National Parks in the World?

Determining the largest national parks in the world involves considering various criteria to measure their size and extent. Here are the key factors commonly used to assess and determine the size of national parks:

1. Land Area: The primary criterion for determining the size of a national park is its land area. This refers to the total geographical expanse of the park, typically measured in square kilometers or square miles. It includes all the terrestrial ecosystems and habitats within the park’s boundaries.

2. Water Bodies: National parks may also include significant water bodies such as lakes, rivers, and coastal areas. In such cases, the water area is often included in the total size calculation. This accounts for the park’s overall extent and ecological diversity, considering both land and water ecosystems.

3. Boundaries and Contiguity: The extent of a national park is determined by its designated boundaries, which mark the area of land and water under protection. To be considered a single park, there is usually a requirement for contiguous or adjoining land. Non-contiguous park areas may be treated as separate entities.

4. Protected Status: National parks must have a formal legal designation as protected areas. They are typically established by governments or recognized authorities for the purpose of conserving natural and cultural resources. The park’s size is directly tied to its official protected status and the level of legal protection it receives.

5. Exclusions and Buffer Zones: Sometimes, national parks have exclusion zones or buffer areas around their core region. These zones provide additional protection and management around the main park area. When determining the size, these buffer zones may or may not be included, depending on how they are defined and managed.

It’s important to note that different countries may have their own specific criteria or definitions for measuring and determining the size of national parks. Therefore, the specific criteria used to determine the largest national parks may vary slightly across different regions and jurisdictions. However, the factors mentioned above generally provide a foundation for assessing the size and extent of these protected areas.

Disclaimer: The above information is for general informational purposes only. All information on the Site is provided in good faith, however we make no representation or warranty of any kind, express or implied, regarding the accuracy, adequacy, validity, reliability, availability or completeness of any information on the Site.

Categories: Top 10 News
Source: Hello Kitty Kindergarten