Seven Wonders of the Modern World

1.Chichén Itzá, Mexico

The ruins of Chichén Itzá on Mexico’s Caribbean coast are Mexico’s most famous archaeological site, dating back to 550 AD. Once the centre of Mayan civilisation, many of the original structures are still intact, including the Kukulkan Pyramid, the Temple of the Warriors and the Temple of the Jaguars. Snaps of the pyramid, made up of 365 steps to represent the solar year, are most often used to show off the site. But there’s plenty more to see in the ancient city, including cenotes and the Great Ballcourt, where Mayan men used to compete in games. Stay in Cancun and you’ll be just a few hours away from the UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Find out about our excursion to Chichén Itzá.

2. Taj Mahal, India

The towering Taj Mahal is one of the world’s most impressive monuments. Built between 1632 AD and1648 AD, the palace was created in memory of Emperor Shah Jahan’s wife Mumtaz Mahal. It’s considered by many as a symbol of love as well an impressive architectural feat. Made from pure marble, the inside of the Taj Mahal is decorated with carvings and calligraphy, and is home to the tombs of the Emperor and his wife. Just under four hours from Delhi by car, the Taj Mahal is definitely worth the journey.

Find out what’s included in our Golden Triangle Tour around India.

3. The Great Wall of China

China’s most famous landmark has existed for more than 2,300 years. Stretching for thousands of miles, it was originally constructed by the Qi State to stop invaders, and later extended to protect trade routes. Due to erosion, around 30% of the wall has disappeared, resulting in the Chinese Government creating laws to conserve the remaining structure. It receives thousands of visitors every day – with tourists able to hike sections of this UNESCO World Heritage Site at both day and night. Fancy making your visit unique? Try camping in the Jiankou region, or zip down the wall on a rollercoaster cart in the Mutianyu section.

Find out about our tours to China.

4. Machu Picchu, Peru

Buried within the Andes Mountains in Peru are the Inca ruins of Machu Picchu. Discovered in 1911 by a Yale University professor, the site can be reached by following the same path it was originally discovered on, which takes about 90-minutes to climb. Near the base of the mountain you’ll find a hidden museum with information in Spanish and English. And, tourists can also hike across to the Temple of the Moon, which historians believe was once where the Incas kept mummies.

Find out more about our tours to Peru.

What are the other Seven Wonders of the Modern World?

Head to Jordan to see the city of Petra, which was once home to a now-lost civilisation called the Nabateans. Meanwhile in Brazil’s Rio de Janeiro, the famous Christ the Redeemer statue has made the list, offering up one of the best sunsets in the world. Finally, don’t forget to journey to Europe for the Colosseum, where the ancient world rubs shoulders with modern Italy.

Want to see the Seven Wonders for yourself?

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Lizzie Butler