An optical illusion is the most well-known and understood phenomenon created by our minds. However, did you know there are actually three types of illusion? These being literal illusions, physiological illusions and cognitive illusions. We emphasize on visual illusions because vision often dominates our other senses. A visual illusion is characterised by visually perceptible images that are misleading. This is because the brain processes the information collected by the eye to give us a perception that doesn’t correspond to the actual stimulus.
An optical illusion is defined as the sensory ability of the human brain to perceive an object. which, depending on how it is organized, interpreted and perceived by it, does not seem to be real. That is why we seem to be so attracted to visual illusions, and when these illusions can be combined with an exciting trip to a foreign country, then everyone’s interest reaches new heights. What are some of those travel destinations that offer their visitors the experience and enthusiasm of a visual illusion you might ask? Let’s find out.
Rakotzbrücke, Devil’s Bridge, Germany
Our first stop in Kromlau, Germany, and specifically in Kromlauer Park, is an arched stone bridge called the Rakotzbrücke, or the Devil’s Bridge. The construction of the bridge was not commissioned by the devil himself (strangely) but by a local knight. He ordered the bridge to be built from local construction materials. There are various myths about the miraculous or non-miraculous properties of the bridge, just because of its high aesthetics, which are definitely impressive.
Booking.comTravelling to Kromlau, you will encounter a bridge consisting of two thin rocks. One that looks like natural basalt columns and the stone bridge itself being designed in such a way that it always forms a half of a perfect circle. In the appropriate weather conditions and with proper lighting, you’ll be able to see an illusion of a “portal” to the other world. Pretty spooky, don’t you think?
Amanohashidate, Kyoto, Japan
And from the Devil’s Bridge, we go to the “bridge to heaven” and the Amanohashidate Sandbar; a small beautiful isthmus in northern Kyoto. It was called this due to the face of the isthmus resembling a path that connects the sky and the earth. When you get to observe it from the two peaks of the hills at both ends, you’ll get to see with your own eyes this magical and mystical beauty of the place.
This view is admired by thousands of visitors each year. It is also considered one of the three most picturesque areas in all of Japan. As I mentioned the best way to observe this “bridge” is through the two hills that exist in the isthmus. The south side of the dune is apparently the best place to observe this bridge. This is because, from side-on, the beach looks like a dragon that spreads its wings and flies towards the sky. It is truly a spectacle for the eye.
Pedra do Telégrafo, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
The Pedra do Telegrafo is quite a touristy place, and this is due to the visual illusion in its top. Due to this, you can expect to wait in quite a queue to see this. The name of this site comes from the Portuguese word “telegrafo” which means telegram. It took this name because, during World War II, a military communications station was housed there due to its altitude. To get there, you need to cross on foot, a one-kilometre trail, which is marked with numerous signs.
Arriving at the famous hill, you will be able to immortalize your moment on the rock. It is not actually a cliff! This is portrayed in all the photos of travellers, but in fact, is a visual illusion. With the right photo angle, you too can capture your own moment of inspiration on the rock. The bonus is being able to do so without really endangering your safety.
Uyuni, Bolivian Salt Flats
The salt flats in Bolivia give a number of optical illusions depending on their state. Not only does it appear that the slats continue forever… they also reflect images when the surface holds water. This uninhabitable landscape attracts tourists from all over the world to see. You may have seen photographs from travellers where it seems their vehicle or even themselves are reflected on any surface water there may be.
They also make for some great funny and creative photography ideas like the ones below. Why not create your own optical illusions?
Yosamite Horsestail Fall, California
The Yosamite ‘Firefall’, as it is known, has become one of the most popular spectacles in the entire national park. Around the time of St Valentines Day, the setting sun hits the Horsetail Fall just at the right angle. This creates the optical illusion of the waterfall actually being a river of fire.
Situated in Yosamite National Park, California USA, there are very certain alignments that must happen for this phonomena to occur. Firstly, there must be enough snow in February to feed the waterfall, which falls 1,570ft (480 metres) down the east face of El Capitan.
Temperatures must also be warm enough to melt the snow for this to occur. Should everything go to plan, all you need to hope for is a clear and sunny day where sunset is visible. Not asking too much, is it?
The Wonders Of An Optical Illusion
Our sophisticated and efficient visual system has been tested for many years, following the footsteps of our evolution. But there are many cases, such as those mentioned above, that create a different visual reality; construction of the way that our brain works. In other words, many times, what seems “real” to us is simply an illustration of our brain. But certainly, this does not mean that something is wrong with our vision. However, if you are worried always get a routine check-up of your eyes at a specialist.
As with everything when you intend to travel, if you ever have health worries or issues, please don’t hesitate to see a specialist prior to travel. The last thing anyone wants is something to develop later in your travels that could be problematic. Especially if something as routine as an eye check could catch an issue early. What’s more, if it is found that you had a preexisting medical condition, even one you’re unaware of, this may cause complications with your travel insurance later down the line. Never put your health second to anything. The chances are there is nothing at all wrong. The last thing in the world you would want is for a trip of a lifetime to be cut short. Especially for something that was avoidable in the first places.
My name is Ryan Cook and I am the founder of Travel With Cooky. I am a travel enthusiast sharing my top travel tips and destination reviews helping you to travel more for less.