Deciding on the world’s five best places to go skydiving isn’t easy.

After all, there’s no shortage of spectacular mountain ranges, sparkling lakes and endless stretches of coastline on this planet of ours. Having said that, here are five that skydiving aficionados definitely shouldn’t miss.

Lake Wanaka, South Island, New Zealand

You haven’t been skydiving if you haven’t skydived in New Zealand! Leaving the plane at 15,000 feet, you’ll open your eyes to magnificent views of the island that the Lord of the Rings film made famous. Mountain tops, alpine lakes and national parks can be seen for miles and miles and miles. Major landmarks include Mount Aspiring, Mount Cook and the UNESCO-listed Aspiring National Park Rainforest.

Mount Everest

This one’s pretty much impossible to beat, right? Falling from the air at 29,500 foot (note: oxygen shortage!), you’ll be heading for the world’s highest drop zone. Needless to say, the views are about as sublime as it gets.

Victoria Falls, Zambia

While we’re on the topic of superlatives, this dive will see you descending over the Earth’s highest waterfall. It’s also one of the Seven Wonders of the World. The wild Zambezi River makes for picture-postcard scenery.

Namibia

We’ve talked about lakes, mountains, forests and waterfalls, so what’s next? Deserts, of course. Jumping at 10,000 foot, you’ll be overwhelmed by the truly awe-inspiring expanse of endless sand, strikingly set off by vast blue skies. It’s like falling towards the most beautiful artwork you’ve ever seen in your life.

Hawaii

Finally, waves! Some of the most epic surf to be found anywhere forms the backdrop for this one. From the air, you can see the whole island, pretty much. You’ll be able to identify famous landmarks like Pearl Harbour and Diamond Head, as well as be mind-blown by the generally jaw-dropping beauty of the South Pacific. Hang around for a surf lesson afterwards.