The world is an incredible place. It’s filled with creatures of all sizes and offers some of the most picturesque moments. It turns out Mother Nature is even more incredible than many of us ever realized thanks to these natural phenomena that only happen during the first half of the year.
Migration of the monarch butterflies, Mexico
Millions of monarch butterflies fly thousands of miles each year as they wait out the winter. It is a true sight to see and is best seen in January of February when the population of butterflies is at its highest.
Horsetail Falls’ Firefall, The US
Although this looks like lava, it’s actually Horsetail Falls in the Yosemite National Park. It happens when the sun sets just right onto the water and is usually best seen for ten minutes at a time in mid to late February. However, it only lasts a few days, so be quick!
The midnight sun, Norway
Northern Norway is one of the only places to experience the midnight sun. The natural tilt of the Earth means that the sun never sets in a handful of places for a few months. This amazing natural phenomenon can be seen from the end of April all the way to August.
The Great Wildebeest Migration, Tanzania
Around 2 million wildebeest migrate from the Serengeti in Tanzania to the Masai Mara in Kenya every year. It is the largest mammal migration anywhere in the world and typically takes place every rainy season – usually May or June.
Synchronous firefly mating ritual, The US
For two weeks somewhere in May and June, thousands of synchronous fireflies create one of the most incredible natural phenomena. They light up the night sky in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park as they gather for the annual mating season.
Aurora australis, Australia
Who knew the southern hemisphere comes with its own aurora australis? They come to life all year but look their best from March to September. Just like the lights’ northern cousin, the aurora australis comes in plenty of colors, including green, red, orange, and shades of pink.
Wisteria blooms of Kawachi Fuji Gardens, Japan
Japan is filled with plenty of beautiful plants, including wisteria blooms. Traveling to Kawachi Fuji Gardens from the end of April to mid-May gives the best views of these incredible flowers as they are in full bloom. You can even catch the Wisteria Festival – Fuji Matsuri – too.
Manhattanhenge, The US
You might have heard of Stonehenge, but what about Manhattanhenge? It is a rare event that only takes place a few times a year as the sun lines up perfectly with the buildings. It usually takes place four times a year, with the sunset taking place on May 28 and the sunrise taking place on January 8.
The natural phenomena that only happen during the first half of the year are all the inspiration some of us need to book another vacation. The best bit? All these wonders mean we get to explore the world, too.
