Earth's Mars-Like Landscapes: Kazakhstan, Peru, Indonesia

Travel Nature Science

Oct 4, 2026 · 4 min read

Earth's Mars-Like Landscapes: Kazakhstan, Peru, Indonesia

**Traveler Layla's video highlights five of Earth’s landscapes that bear a startling resemblance to the surface of Mars.** **Viewers can explore these red, dusty destinations from Kazakhstan, Peru, and Indonesia without leaving the planet.**

Of all Earth's landscapes, some truly resemble the surface of Mars, A video from travel planner Layla showcases five locations that blur the line between our planet and the red dust of Mars.

Mirrors of Mars on Earth

There is no need for a rocket when you can find Mars on Earth. The planet is mostly desert, but not all deserts are as similar to Mars as these five locations, Viewers are taken on a visual tour of Earth's most Martian landscapes. Viewers see a person and surrounding scenery that make each location easily recognizable. The locations are filmed in a straightforward style. Each place is presented with a short clip and text overlay. The clips move at a quick pace, but the landscape is easily appreciated.

Earthbound exploration

This Martian tour is a reminder of the diversity of Earth’s landscapes. The five locations are found in Kazakhstan, Peru, and Indonesia. While the total number of Martian landscapes is unknown, these places are visually representative of much of Mars' surface. We have mapped Mars, but there is still much we don’t know about it. These locations on Earth are unmistakably similar to the dry, dusty red planet. The organic feel of this Mars replica tour hints at a broader trend of accessible exploration. More people are now open to travel experiences that are just as impactful as Mars exploration. Some may wonder what makes Mars landscapes different from Martian landscapes. Mars dust and red areas can be caused by iron oxide mineral dust. Earth's Mars-like landscapes are found in deserts and naturally lack vegetation. Many of these locations are well known to travelers, but they are rarely shown in conjunction.

The whole experience

If Mars was a planet like Mars, it wouldn't be fun. Travelers can explore Mars' unique features in Kazakhstan, Peru, and Indonesia. These locations replicate the experience of Mars without the logistics and expense of Mars tourism.

The Rally Sombrero at Globe Life Field

Peru has Martian terrain that will make you imagine driving a rover. Cusco offers a glimpse of how it would be to drive on Mars. When traveling, you can explore the Montana crater and mountain. The unique terrain is filled with volcanic hills and lava fields.

The Martian Myself

As Layla says in the clip, "It’s like being on Mars." You can also explore the Martian terrain in Kazakhastan. The Mangystau region features volcanic hills and mountains. The Mangystau region is often compared to Mars. It is dry and rocky, and the megafauna there will make you feel like you are in a movie. The region is also home to a massive amount of mammoths.

The Red Planet on Earth

Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park in Indonesia is a must-visit for Martian travelers. With its volcanic peaks and Martian soil, it offers a striking similarity to Mars. The park is also home to Tengger crater volcano. It's hard to imagine Mars' surface, but this landscape is an excellent depiction of it.

Travel guides

Travel guides are meant to be inspiring and practical. If you want to explore Mars without leaving Earth, there are several options. Travel guides provide practical information, recommendations, and tips. There are over half a million travel guides on Layla TripPlanner’s page. Travelers can pick and choose between an array of options. Travel guides are useful for planning a trip. Layla TripPlanner offers a selection of guides that cover everything from budget to luxury travel. Travelers can choose from a selection of guides. Travelers can start planning a trip to earth's version of Mars. Living in a region that has the best landscapes is a dream come true for many. But some locations are so remote that they are nearly impossible to visit. These tours offer travelers the chance to see landscapes that are hard to find.

Questions readers ask

What makes these landscapes in Kazakhstan, Peru, and Indonesia look so much like Mars?

The landscapes in these regions resemble Mars due to their dry, dusty, and rocky terrain, which is similar to the Martian surface. The lack of vegetation and the presence of iron oxide mineral dust contribute to the red, desert-like appearance, making them visually comparable to Mars.

How do these locations compare to the actual surface of Mars?

While these locations on Earth share visual similarities with Mars, such as red, dusty, and rocky terrain, they do not have the same atmospheric conditions or unique geological features found on Mars, like its thin atmosphere and larger volcanoes. However, they offer a strikingly similar visual experience, with the added benefit of being much more accessible.

Can I actually visit these places, and if so, how can I get there?

Yes, these locations are accessible for travelers, but planning a trip to Kazakhstan, Peru, and Indonesia will require logistical preparations. These include obtaining necessary visas, arranging transportation, and planning accommodations. Each of these countries offers unique travel experiences, so be sure to research each destination thoroughly before planning your trip.

What makes the Mangystau region in Kazakhstan particularly Martian?

The Mangystau region in Kazakhstan is often compared to Mars due to its dry, rocky terrain and volcanic hills. The area is also home to a variety of megafauna, which adds to the otherworldly feel, making it a unique destination for those seeking a Martian-like experience.

How does the Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park in Indonesia resemble Mars?

The Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park in Indonesia offers a striking similarity to Mars with its volcanic peaks and Martian-like soil. The Tengger crater volcano and the surrounding landscape provide a visual depiction of the Martian surface, making it a must-visit for those interested in experiencing a Martian-like environment on Earth.

What kind of activities can I do at these Mars-like locations?

At these Mars-like locations, you can enjoy a variety of activities such as hiking, exploring volcanic hills, and taking in the unique landscapes. Some areas, like the Mangystau region in Kazakhstan, offer opportunities to see unique megafauna, while others, like the Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park in Indonesia, provide stunning views of crater volcanoes and Martian-like terrain.

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