© Canghia76 | Dreamstime.com
While the well-known Seven Natural Wonders of the world are absolutely worth seeing, there are many others that travelers often overlook. We compiled a list of some of the world’s more obscure but nonetheless awe-inspiring marvels, from underground rivers and lakes to sandstone waves.

Australia's Ancient Gondwana Rainforests © Stephenallen | Dreamstime.com
Go back in time in the Ancient Gondwana Rainforests of Australia, the most expansive area of subtropical rain forests in the world. The forests feature unparalleled numbers of plants and animal species relatively unchanged from their ancestral fossil records from more than 100 million years ago.

China’s Sacred Mount Hua © Florian Blümm | Dreamstime.com
Towering 7,217 feet, China’s Sacred Mount Hua dominates its surrounding landscape. People have been climbing the mountain for hundreds of years despite its treacherous slopes and narrow pathways. For those not afraid of heights, the 7.5-mile walk is well worth it for the stunning views of the surrounding mountains, old Taoist temples and former palaces from historical Chinese dynasties.

The Valley of Flowers in India © Yakthai | Dreamstime.com
The Valley of Flowers is often overlooked as it resides in the smallest national park in India, but the phenomenon is not one to miss. The valley, an alpine gorge, is surrounded by snowy mountain peaks but enjoys a microclimate that allows it to transform into an expansive carpet of flowers and herbs in the summer months. The valley boasts rhododendrons, birch trees, Brahma Kamal and other vibrantly colored flowers stretching out in every direction as far as the eye can see.

Underground Rivers and Lakes of the Yucatan Peninsula © Albuqm | Dreamstime.com
Home to ancient Mayan civilizations, the Yucatan Peninsula boasts a rich history and beautiful natural wonders, such as its vast network of underground rivers and lakes. Sinkholes cover the island as a result of limestone erosion, providing mazes of caves and tunnels with underground bodies of fresh water. While some are inaccessible, many are open to the public for swimming where travelers can listen to the music of the stalactites while they float.

Lake Baikal in Russia © Amadeustx | Dreamstime.com
Located deep in the Siberian wilderness is the ancient Lake Baikai, the oldest and deepest lake in the world, formed more than 25 million years ago. The massive lake holds one-fifth of the world’s fresh water supply and reaches a startling depth of one mile. Crystal-clear waters offer 130 feet of visibility. The lake is situated in a deep hollow surrounded by towering mountains and offers rich and varied plant and animal life along its 1,300 miles of shoreline.

Marble Caves in Chile © Albertoloyo | Dreamstime.com
Thousands of years of wave erosion created a unique marble effect in a network of caves in Chile. The walls of the caves are naturally enhanced by the reflection of the blue and green water of Carrera Lake, located near the border of Chile and Argentina. The colorful cave walls can be seen by boat or kayak when the lake waters are calm.

The Wave, Coyote Butts, Ariz. and Utah © Oksanaphoto | Dreamstime.com
Years of wind and rain created this eroded natural wonder, featuring lines that swoop and swirl along the vibrant yellow and orange sandstone, creating a cresting wave-like pattern. The destination is difficult to reach, as only 20 permits are given out daily to take the unmarked hike.