A New Wave of Tourism Focuses on Chasing Phenomena

The total solar eclipse of 2024 sent scores of people on the road, many of them spending a lot to be in the path of totality. The next opportunity to witness the moon completely block out the sun won’t come around for another two decades, but nature has much more in store. Here are five spectacular natural wonders to see in 2025 – or at least once in your lifetime. The good news? Most of them happen annually.

Northern Lights

The Northern Lights, or aurora borealis, typically occur between sixty and seventy-five degrees latitude, across northern Canada, Norway, Sweden, Finland, Alaska, Russia, and Iceland. The unusually high solar activity of 2024 made them visible—albeit in a much paler form—even in unexpected places like Spain, Florida, and Paris. If you missed out last year, 2025 is predicted to be another excellent year for aurora spotting. For prime seats at one of nature’s most spectacular shows, head to the Finnish Lapland between January and October. (Aurora forecasts are available on mobile apps.)

Bioluminescence in the Indian River Lagoon

Just an hour’s drive from Orlando, Florida, microscopic plankton called dinoflagellate paint the waters of the Indian River Lagoon in shades of sparkling neon blue. However, this breathtaking phenomenon has a dark side: environmental pressures from Florida’s growing population are leading to an over proliferation of dinoflagellates, which can harm the entire ecosystem. Choosing sustainable travel companies to arrange your visit is one of the best ways to support the local community. And perhaps the most immersive (pun intended) way to experience this aquatic light show is from a clear-bottom kayak.

The Dancing Cranes of Japan

At the Tsurui-Ito Tancho Sanctuary in Tsurui, eastern Hokkaido, thousands of magnificent cranes — the endangered Grus japonensis—gather to perform their elaborate courtship ballet. In Japanese folklore, the cranes are said to live for a thousand years, but unfortunately their numbers are rapidly decreasing, and their survival now depends on conservation efforts. While they can be seen in the Hokkaido sanctuary year-round, their renowned dance displays occur only in February and March.

Blood Moon

Once misunderstood and considered a bad omen, the so-called blood moon is now known to be a lunar eclipse. When our faithful satellite moves into Earth’s shadow, it does not become invisible but takes on an eerie red hue. This year, on the night of March 13–14 , the phenomenon will be visible all across South and North America, making it one of the most accessible natural wonders to witness in 2025—weather and light pollution permitting.

A Walk on the Ocean Floor

The Bay of Fundy in Nova Scotia is home to some of the world’s highest tides. When the sea recedes, dropping by an astonishing 16.3 meters (53.5 feet), it unveils an otherworldly landscape usually hidden beneath the waves. Checking the tide schedule before planning a trip is essential, but the six-hour window between low and high tide is easily spent marvelling at the exposed seabed complete with caves and “flowerpot” rocks, or engaging in more adventurous activities like tidal bore rafting or racing the returning waves.