Nature has a way of providing the perfect backdrop for social media posts, especially Instagram. There are so many beautiful pools around the world that are worth checking out, and we’re featuring just a fraction of them here.
For clarity, “pools” doesn’t refer to chlorinated water in this case. We’re focusing on waterfalls, boiling lakes, lagoons and the like. Most are great for a dip, others are safe for observation only. They’re spread across the Americas, Europe, Africa and elsewhere.
Add life to your Instagram by taking pictures of these beautiful bodies of water.
Devil’s Pool – Zambia
On the list of “must see” attractions in Zambia, Victoria Falls is probably number one. At the top of the mighty falls is Devil’s Pool, which is adjacent to Livingstone Island.
A rock lip works as a natural barrier that keeps you from being swept over the edge. Yep, that’s it.
According to Safari Booking, the pool “stands almost midway across the mile-wide waterfall. It is accessible only on guided boat tours.”
It isn’t required, but it’s helpful to know how to swim. If you can’t, you’ll need to at least be comfortable standing in water that reaches your waist.
The best, and only time to get into Devil’s Pool safely, is from June to March. Outside of this period, the Zambezi water levels are dangerously high, and therefore, there are no tours.
Blue Grotto – Italy
The Blue Grotto on the Italian island of Capri is a sight to behold. Called “Grotta Azzurra” in Italian, this natural wonder can only be accessed via a tiny rowboat.
Each rowboat can fit about four people, and you’ll have to lay flat on your back or stomach as the skipper slowly guides the boat into the narrow cavern.
The grotto has legendary for years. Sightseeing Tours Italy explains, “some locals believe it used to be the personal pool of Emperor Tiberius. Others believe it was a Roman marine temple adorned with statues of deities.”
Whatever story you believe, one thing is for certain–the grotto is spectacular. The photos you’ll find online look liked they’ve been doctored, but they haven’t. The water really is that electric.
You’ll only spend a few minutes in the grotto. But apparently, if you tip your skipper a little extra, he might stretch that a bit.
When the sea and winds are rough, the grotto is closed to visitors. Some people try to swim there after hours, but this is dangerous. It’s not worth the risk of getting slammed against the rocks.
Pamukkale Hot Springs – Turkey
In southwest Turkey are the Pamukkale hot springs. Locals and visitors alike have been drawn to the springs for ages, because the waters are believed to have healing properties. To beat the crowds, try to arrive early.
Nomad Flag explains, “the water contains high levels of minerals such as calcium, and was used as a place of rest and recovery in ancient times.”
Do you wonder what causes those cotton-like formations? These are called travertines. They come from the calcite-rich waters of the hot springs, which spill over the landscape.
Turkey Travel Planner explains, “cooling in the open air, the calcium precipitates from the water, adheres to the soil, and forms white calcium cascades.”
Blue Lagoon – Iceland
The waters of this geothermal spa have a frosted, milky look. The Blue Lagoon is about an hour from the city of Reykjavík, and you’ll want to make reservations in advance.
Is this lagoon an absolute must for your Iceland visit? That depends. For some, no trip to Iceland is complete without visiting at least once. For others, it’s an overpriced tourist trap.
Take these items with you: a waterproof cover for your camera, hair tie or bonnet, swimwear, water shoes and a dry change of clothes.
Entrance fees vary depending on time of day. If you have a child that’s 13 and younger, entry is free.
Boiling Lake – Dominica
The “Nature Island” of Dominica is home to the world’s second-largest boiling lake. It’s part of the Valley of Desolation, which looks like something straight out of Jurassic Park.
To get there, be sure to have a guide, and bring sunblock, water and snacks. The hike to get to the lake is demanding, and depending on your fitness, it can take hours.
Discover Dominica says: “[the lake] is enveloped by swirling clouds of vapor, and resembles a cauldron of furiously bubbling greyish-blue water. [It’s] super heated from the molten magma below the surface of the surrounding rock.”
Las Estacas – Mexico
This natural water park is in the heart of Morelos, Mexico. From Mexico City, it’s about a 3 hour drive, and from Cuernavaca, it’s 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic.
Las Estacas is wonderful place to take the family. Some of the activities on site include yoga, kayaking and snorkeling, which you can do at an extra cost. For a little thrill, you can jump from heights, or from swings, where the water is deeper.
While it’s nice to do these, relaxing in the crystal-clear water is perfect on its own. That’s what most people go to do. Whether you choose to swim laps, or just let the gentle current carry you where it wants, you’ll feel totally at peace.
