In Photos: The World’s Most Unspoiled Places

Ethiopia

Dallol’s sulphur springs take the eerie lunar landscape a step further. Here, steam spits out from openings in the Earth’s crust and chemicals released by the hot springs color the rocky mineral deposits yellow, orange and green. Be prepared to swelter as this is one of the hottest places on Earth. Without a well-trodden tourist route, traveling here can be a challenge.

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The Ifugao rice terraces, the Philippines

The hotspot is Banaue, but for a more off-the-beaten-track experience take the newly paved road to Mayoyao, some 24 miles away. Here, the giant steps are scattered with pyramid-shaped native houses and domed burial tombs. There’s no wi-fi and only a couple of small guesthouses.

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Kyrgyzstan

Those up for a challenge should hike to Ala Kul lake, 11,482 feet above sea level in the Tian Shan Mountains. Your muscles might well ache after the hard climb, but the views of the turquoise glacier-fed waters, set against the snowy mountains, pays dividends.

Pettitts