FIORDLAND NATIONAL PARK, NEW ZEALAND

Fiordland National Park on New Zealand’s Southern Island was established in 1952 and has international World Heritage status as part of Te Wāhipounamu, South West New Zealand World Heritage Area. This is the kind of landscape that gives hobbits wet dreams, with lush rainforests, pristine rivers, crystal clear lakes, mighty cliffs, snow-capped summits, and majestic ice-carved fiords. Even on the frequent rainy days, the scenery is spectacular, with entire valley walls turning into thundering waterfalls. Highlight is the stunning Milford Sound with Mitre Peak, rising 1692 m (5551 ft) above sea level and one of the most photographed peaks in the country.