4. Lost city of Heracleion, Egypt
Not to be confused with the city in Crete, Thonis-Heracleion is an ancient Egyptian city that disappeared beneath the waves 1,200 years ago. Thought to be nothing more than a legend for centuries, now marine archaeologists have begun to explore these expansive undersea ruins. This real Atlantis-like city was only rediscovered in 2000, and since then, numerous statues and artifacts have been recovered from it. Nobody knows how or why it submerged, which adds to its mystique. It’s not quite ready for commercial dive operations, but this will be a stunning site to see when it is.
5. Lake Baikal, Russia
Lake Baikal is the largest freshwater lake in the world. Located in Siberia, most visitors see the region in the summer rather than face the bitingly cold Siberian winter. However, any serious diver would be far better off coming during the winter months when much of the lake is completely frozen solid and the water beneath the surface is at its clearest. Various local companies now offer ice diving tours for certified divers who like the extreme. Even if you’re not a diver, this lake is a stunning sight for landlubbers to see, too.
6. Cancun Underwater Museum, Mexico
Located in the popular touristic city of Cancun, the MUSA underwater museum features one of the most unique collections of exhibits anywhere in the world. It is home to more than 470 statues and sculptures, all of which are located beneath the surface of the waves in an artificial coral reef. Visitors can take snorkeling and diving tours of the undersea conservation-themed sculpture garden, and if you don’t want to get wet, you can also glimpse it from a glass-bottom boat.
