Cryptids Around the World By Country

Lobizón is a famous werewolf-like cryptid from Argentina and several other regions of South America, and it plays a major role in rural folklore. Witnesses describe it as a terrifying creature with glowing eyes, sharp teeth, and a body that resembles a large, feral wolf, though it is often said to stand upright like a man. The legend is strongly tied to Guaraní culture, where the Lobizón is believed to be the cursed seventh son in a family, destined to transform during full moons. In the early 1900s, the myth became so widespread that the Argentine government began officially sponsoring the seventh sons of families to prevent panic, turning a feared superstition into a unique national tradition.

Nahuelito is a legendary lake monster said to live in Argentina’s Lake Nahuel Huapi, and it is one of the most famous cryptids in Patagonian folklore. Eyewitnesses describe it as a long, serpentine creature with a humped back, and some reports claim it can reach more than 15 meters in length. It is deeply rooted in both Argentine and Mapuche culture, and has been part of local stories for more than a century, combining indigenous legends with modern sightings. In the 1920s, an Argentine newspaper once offered a cash reward for anyone who could capture Nahuelito alive, which kept the mystery thriving for decades.

Ucumar is a well-known cryptid from the mountainous regions of northern Argentina, and it is often described as a kind of South American “ape-man” rooted in Andean folklore. People who claim to have seen it say it looks like a short but powerfully built creature covered in thick black hair, with long arms, clawed hands, and a face that resembles both a bear and a human. The legend is especially strong in the Salta and Jujuy provinces, where Indigenous Quechua communities have passed down stories of the Ucumar for generations and often describe it as a guardian of the mountains. In the 1950s, reports became so frequent that local police allegedly organized nighttime searches for the creature, turning Ucumar into one of Argentina’s most talked-about cryptid mysteries.

The Drop Bear is a famous Australian cryptid often described in modern folklore as a larger, fiercer version of a koala that supposedly drops from trees onto unsuspecting travelers. Descriptions usually say it has sharp claws, a powerful jaw, and a stocky body covered in thick fur, giving it a surprisingly intimidating look for a creature that resembles a beloved native animal. Although the legend is not part of traditional Aboriginal culture, it has become a huge part of Australian humor and outdoor storytelling, especially as a way to spook tourists and inexperienced hikers. Even major institutions, including the Australian Museum, have published tongue-in-cheek “official” entries for the Drop Bear, helping cement its status as one of the world’s most successful pranks in all the cryptids around the world.

The Migoi is a well-known cryptid from Bhutanese folklore, and it is often described as a type of Yeti that lives high in the Himalayas. People who report seeing it describe a tall, broad-shouldered creature covered in thick reddish-brown hair, with large footprints and an ability to move quickly across steep, icy terrain. In Bhutanese culture, the Migoi is considered a powerful mountain spirit and is respected as a guardian of the wilderness, which is why many communities believe it should never be disturbed. Parts of Bhutan’s Sakteng Wildlife Sanctuary are officially designated as protected habitat specifically for the Migoi, making it one of the only cryptids in the world with its own conservation area.

Boitatá is a legendary creature from Brazilian folklore, and it is often described as a giant, fiery serpent that protects the forests from those who would cause harm. Witnesses say it appears as a glowing, snake-like being with blazing eyes and scales that shine like fire, able to move quickly through the jungle at night. The legend is deeply rooted in Indigenous Tupi-Guarani culture, where Boitatá is considered a guardian spirit of the land and a warning against carelessly destroying nature. Some stories suggest Boitatá may be linked to ancient volcanic or forest fires, blending natural phenomena with supernatural explanations in a way that has kept the legend alive for centuries.

Mapinguari is a legendary cryptid from the Amazon rainforest in Brazil, and it is often described as a massive, ape-like creature covered in long, shaggy hair with a foul smell and a single large eye or mouth in the center of its body. Witnesses claim it stands upright like a human, has long claws, and emits terrifying roars that echo through the jungle, making it one of the most feared creatures in Amazonian folklore. The legend comes from Indigenous peoples of the region, particularly the Tupi and Guarani, who viewed Mapinguari as both a guardian of the forest and a warning to protect the rainforest from harm. An especially intriguing fact is that some cryptozoologists believe Mapinguari stories may have been inspired by sightings of giant ground sloths that once roamed South America, connecting the legend to prehistoric creatures.

Cadborosaurus, often called “Caddy” by locals, is a mysterious sea serpent said to inhabit the coastal waters of British Columbia in Canada. Witnesses describe it as a long, snake-like creature with a horse-like head, humps along its back, and smooth, dark skin that glistens in the water, sometimes reaching impressive lengths. The cryptid has been part of Indigenous Coast Salish and Nuu-chah-nulth legends for generations, where it is considered a powerful water spirit and sometimes a harbinger of danger. Reported sightings of Cadborosaurus date back to the 18th century, and locals have even claimed to find shed skin and bones, adding to the enduring mystery of this elusive sea serpent.

Qalupalik is a fearsome cryptid from Inuit folklore in Canada, said to live beneath the icy waters of the Arctic and snatch children who stray too close to the shore. Witnesses describe it as a humanoid creature with greenish skin, long hair, sharp claws, and a terrifying gaze that can paralyze its victims. The legend is deeply rooted in Inuit culture, where Qalupalik serves as a cautionary figure to teach children the dangers of wandering near cold, treacherous waters. Inuit elders claim Qalupalik can even leave its watery home to stalk snowy landscapes, making it one of the few aquatic cryptids around the world said to be able to travel on land as well.

The Alicanto is a shimmering cryptid from Chilean folklore, especially tied to the desert regions of Atacama, where it is said to guide or mislead miners searching for precious metals. It is described as a bird-like creature with glowing feathers that shine in different colors depending on the minerals it has eaten, and witnesses say it moves silently through the night on powerful wings. In local culture, the Alicanto is both a symbol of fortune and danger, since following it can lead someone to hidden riches or into deadly terrain. According to legend, the bird is unable to fly if it overeats gold or silver, which has led some miners to believe that finding a grounded Alicanto means treasure is nearby.

The Chonchón is a chilling cryptid from Chilean and Mapuche folklore, described as a disembodied head that sprouts large wings from its ears and flies through the night. People who claim to have heard or seen it say it emits a haunting cry and moves quickly across the sky, often appearing as a dark shape with glowing eyes. In traditional Mapuche culture, the Chonchón is believed to be connected to powerful sorcerers, who are said to transform into the creature to travel secretly under the cover of darkness. Some stories even claim that the presence of a Chonchón is an omen of misfortune, making it one of the most feared figures in South American folklore.

El Cuero is a terrifying aquatic cryptid from Chilean and Mapuche folklore, often described as a flat, manta-like creature that lurks in lakes and rivers waiting for unsuspecting prey. Witnesses say it has a smooth, leathery back, a long tail, sharp hooked claws, and eyes positioned on the edges of its body, giving it an eerie, almost alien appearance. In Mapuche culture, El Cuero is known as a dangerous water spirit that drags animals or people beneath the surface, which is why many communities warn children to stay away from still or murky waters. The creature is said to blend into the water by lying motionless at the surface, making it difficult to distinguish from a harmless piece of drift or hide.

The Jiangshi is a famous cryptid from Chinese folklore, often described as a reanimated corpse that moves by hopping with its arms outstretched. People who claim to have seen or depicted it say it has pale or greenish skin, stiff limbs, long nails, and a paper talisman on its forehead that seals its spirit. In traditional Chinese culture, the Jiangshi represents the dangers of unrested spirits and improper burials, and it appears in countless stories meant to teach respect for ancestors and funeral rituals. It is also strongly associated with Qing-era clothing and customs, which is why depictions of Jiangshi often feature long robes and an appearance rooted in historical Chinese superstition.

The Nian is a legendary beast from Chinese folklore, often described as a large, lion-like creature with sharp horns, powerful jaws, and a fearsome roar that echoes through the mountains. Stories say it emerges once a year to hunt livestock and frighten villages, especially during the darkest days of winter. In traditional Chinese culture, the Nian is closely tied to the origins of Lunar New Year celebrations, since people used firecrackers, loud noises, and the color red to scare it away. Its story continues to influence modern festivities, with lion dances and bright decorations symbolizing the community’s victory over the creature.

The Mohan is a mysterious cryptid from Colombian folklore, often described as a wild, human-like figure with long tangled hair, glowing eyes, and a rugged, muscular body that roams rivers and dense forests. People who claim to encounter it say it lures travelers or fishermen with strange sounds, sometimes appearing at dusk near the water’s edge. In Indigenous and rural Colombian culture, the Mohan is seen as both a trickster and a protector of nature, warning people not to disrespect the river or exploit the land. Its legend is especially well known among communities along the Magdalena River, where stories of the creature have been passed down for generations.

The Madremonte is a powerful cryptid from Colombian folklore, often described as a towering, forest-dwelling woman covered in vines, leaves, and moss that blend her perfectly into the jungle. People say she has glowing eyes, wild hair made of branches, and a booming voice that echoes through the mountains during storms. In Colombian culture, the Madremonte is viewed as the fierce guardian of the wilderness, punishing those who destroy the land or wander too far into forbidden territory. Her legend is especially strong in rural areas, where farmers and travelers tell stories of getting lost after hearing her call, a reminder of the deep respect the forest demands.

Mokele-Mbembe is a famous cryptid from the Congo River Basin, often described as a large, dinosaur-like creature with a long neck, a thick tail, and a bulky body similar to a sauropod. People who claim to have seen it say it moves quietly through swamps and rivers, leaving behind huge tracks and ripples that vanish quickly in the dense, humid jungle. In Central African folklore, it is considered a powerful and mysterious animal that guards remote waterways and should be avoided out of respect. The cryptid has attracted explorers and researchers for more than a century, making it one of the most sought-after cryptids in African cryptozoology.

The Emela-Ntouka is a fearsome cryptid from the swamps and rainforests of the Congo, often described as a massive, rhinoceros-like creature with a single long horn and a powerful, muscular body built for charging through dense vegetation. People who report encounters say it has thick, grayish skin, a heavy tail, and an aggressive temperament capable of overturning boats or attacking elephants. In local folklore, the Emela-Ntouka is considered a dangerous and territorial animal, respected by many communities as a creature that rules the deepest parts of the swamp. Its reputation as a “killer of elephants” has made it one of the most legendary and mysterious creatures in Central African stories.

The Werehyena is a striking cryptid from East African folklore, especially in Ethiopia and surrounding regions, where it is said to be a person who transforms into a powerful hyena at night. Witnesses describe the creature as having glowing eyes, coarse fur, and an eerie, half-human gait that makes it stand out from ordinary hyenas. In local culture, the Werehyena is tied to stories of shape-shifting, magic, and punishment, often serving as a warning about wandering after dark or straying too far from the safety of the village. It’s deeply rooted in traditional beliefs, with many communities sharing tales of encounters that blur the line between human and beast.

The Beast of Gévaudan is a notorious cryptid from 18th-century France, often described as a massive wolf-like creature with reddish fur, an unusually broad chest, and terrifying jaws filled with sharp teeth. Eyewitnesses claimed it attacked livestock and travelers across the rural region of Gévaudan, leaving behind a trail of fear and confusion. In French folklore, it is connected to tales of supernatural wolves, mysterious hunters, and unexplained disappearances that gripped the countryside for years. The creature became so infamous that King Louis XV sent professional hunters to track it down, turning the Beast of Gévaudan into one of the most documented monster hunts in European history.

The Lou Carcolh is a bizarre and unsettling cryptid from French folklore, especially associated with the town of Hastingues in the southwest of France. It is described as a gigantic, snail-like creature with a massive shell, a long serpentine body, and slimy tentacles that can stretch far enough to capture unsuspecting travelers. In local culture, the Lou Carcolh is both a warning and a curiosity, told in stories meant to keep people away from dangerous caves and marshy areas. Its reputation grew over generations as residents shared tales of strange tracks and ooze found near old caverns, adding a sense of eerie authenticity to the creature’s story.

The Tarasque is a legendary cryptid from southern France, often described as a huge, dragon-like creature with a lion’s head, a turtle-like shell, six clawed legs, and a long, scaly tail. People said it could crush boats along the Rhône River and terrorize villages with its immense strength and fiery breath. In Provençal folklore, the Tarasque is deeply linked to medieval tales that blend local beliefs with early Christian storytelling, giving it an important place in regional tradition. The creature became so iconic that the town of Tarascon still celebrates it in annual festivals, complete with a large parade effigy that keeps the myth alive today.

The Kallikantzaroi are mischievous cryptids from Greek folklore, often described as small, goblin-like creatures with dark skin, glowing eyes, wiry limbs, and sharp claws that help them scramble through narrow spaces. Stories say they emerge only during the Twelve Days of Christmas, causing chaos in villages by stealing food, playing tricks, and frightening anyone who wanders out at night. In Greek culture, they are seen as troublemakers rather than truly dangerous beings, and many traditions developed to keep them away, including leaving out sweets or burning certain herbs. Their playful yet chaotic nature has made them popular figures in winter storytelling, especially in rural areas where old customs are still preserved.

The  Lamia is a haunting figure from Greek folklore, often described as a woman with striking beauty who can transform into a serpent-like creature with sharp fangs and piercing eyes. Stories say she preys on travelers or children, using her supernatural abilities and hypnotic charm to lure victims close before revealing her monstrous form. In Greek culture, the Lamia appears in cautionary tales about temptation, danger, and the consequences of crossing the boundaries between the human world and the supernatural. Her story became so well known that ancient writers used “Lamia” as a term for any night-dwelling creature, giving her a lasting place in the list of cryptids around the world.

The Huldufólk are mysterious hidden people from Icelandic folklore, often described as human-like beings who live inside rocks, hills, and remote natural landscapes. Stories say they appear as tall, elegant figures who dress in old-fashioned clothing and avoid human contact unless disturbed. In Icelandic culture, the Huldufólk are respected as guardians of nature, and many traditions encourage people to treat the land carefully to avoid upsetting them. Their presence is taken seriously enough that modern road projects in Iceland have occasionally been altered to avoid areas believed to be their homes.

The Yule Cat is a fearsome creature from Icelandic folklore, often described as an enormous black cat with glowing eyes, towering height, and fur that bristles like needles in the winter wind. Stories say it prowls the snowy countryside during Christmas time, searching for anyone who has not received new clothes for the holiday season. In Icelandic culture, the Yule Cat is connected to tradition and hard work, encouraging people to finish their chores, especially the wool processing that was essential for winter survival. It remains one of Iceland’s most memorable holiday figures, frequently appearing in songs, art, and winter tales that blend dark humor with seasonal folklore.

The Bhoot is a ghostly spirit from Indian folklore, often depicted as the lingering soul of someone who died with unfinished business or under tragic circumstances. Bhoots are usually described as pale, humanlike figures with backward facing feet and a subtle glow that sets them apart from the living. In many regions they are believed to haunt lonely roads, abandoned buildings, or places connected to their past lives, appearing suddenly and unsettling travelers with their eerie silence. Within local culture, the Bhoot serves as both a cautionary tale and a reminder of the importance of proper rituals, since traditional stories emphasize that respectful rites help guide spirits to peace. As a result, the Bhoot remains one of the most recognized supernatural figures across India and continues to appear in modern stories, media, and regional folklore.

The Monkey Man of New Delhi is a modern urban cryptid from India, often described as a short, muscular creature with dark fur, glowing eyes, and the ability to leap across rooftops at incredible speed. Witnesses during the early 2000s reported sightings of a figure that seemed part human and part primate, usually appearing at night and vanishing just as quickly. In local culture, the Monkey Man became a symbol of fear and curiosity during a time of widespread rumors, with stories spreading rapidly through crowded neighborhoods. The reports became so intense that police patrols were formed to investigate, turning the mystery into one of India’s most talked about cryptid events of the decade.

The Naga is a powerful serpent being found in South and Southeast Asian mythology, often portrayed as a massive snake with human features or an intelligent, supernatural guardian of water. Nagas are closely associated with rivers, lakes, rain, and the fertility of the land, and many traditions describe them as protectors who can bring prosperity when respected. In some stories they dwell in vast underground or underwater palaces, watching over treasures or sacred knowledge while maintaining a careful distance from the human world. Although they are capable of great wrath when angered, they are equally known for their wisdom, spiritual strength, and role as intermediaries between humans and the divine. Their enduring presence across Hindu, Buddhist, and regional folklore reflects how deeply intertwined the Naga is with cultural ideas of nature, power, and the unseen forces that shape the world.

The Genderuwo is a supernatural being from Javanese folklore, typically described as a large, hairy humanoid creature with glowing red eyes and a mischievous nature. It is said to inhabit dense forests, old trees, abandoned buildings, and secluded places where the boundary between the natural and spiritual worlds feels thin. While the Genderuwo can frighten people with its heavy footsteps, booming voice, or sudden appearances, it is also known for playful tricks that range from harmless mimicry to unsettling illusions. Some tales portray it as a spirit that can change its shape or voice to interact with humans, often choosing to reveal itself only when it wishes to be noticed. Its lasting presence in Javanese storytelling highlights how communities interpret the unseen forces tied to wilderness, mystery, and the behavior of spirits that linger close to human life.

The Wewe Gombel is a spirit from Indonesian folklore, often described as a tall, ghostly woman with long hair and an eerie, unsettling presence. According to tradition, she appears at night in quiet or deserted places, especially near forests or old houses where shadows seem to deepen unnaturally. The Wewe Gombel is said to lure or carry off children, not to harm them but to protect those who are neglected or mistreated, keeping them safe until their parents learn to change their behavior. Her appearance can be frightening, yet her motives are often portrayed as rooted in sorrow and a desire for justice. Stories about the Wewe Gombel continue to reflect cultural ideas about family responsibility, nighttime fears, and the spirits believed to watch over vulnerable individuals.

The Irish Banshee is a spectral figure from Celtic folklore, often described as a pale woman with long, flowing hair and haunting eyes who appears wrapped in a gray or white cloak. She is known for her chilling wail that foretells the death of a family member, a sound said to echo across hills and moors in the quiet of night. As a deeply rooted part of Irish cultural tradition, the Banshee is associated with old Gaelic families and the belief that certain lineages are watched over by ancestral spirits. Encounters with her are said to inspire equal parts dread and reverence. Her role as a supernatural messenger has made her one of Ireland’s most enduring and widely recognized folkloric figures.

The Basilisco, rooted in Italian folklore, is often described as a terrifying creature with the body of a serpent, the head of a rooster, and a crown-like crest that gives it a regal yet deadly appearance. It is known for its lethal gaze and toxic breath, which are said to wither plants, crack stones, and kill living beings instantly. As part of Italy’s medieval bestiary traditions, the Basilisco was believed to inhabit remote ruins and deep underground passages where its presence was feared by villagers and travelers alike. Stories sometimes claim it can be born from a rooster’s egg incubated by a snake, a strange origin that has captivated imaginations across centuries.

The Lariosauro is a lake monster from Italian folklore, said to inhabit Lake Como and described as a reptile-like creature with a long body, flippered limbs, and a head resembling that of an ancient marine reptile. It is known for brief but startling appearances, often reported by fishermen or boaters who claim to see it breaking the surface before disappearing into the deep. The creature is tied to local culture in northern Italy, with stories blending modern sightings and the region’s fascination with prehistoric fossils. Its name comes from Lariosaurus, a real extinct reptile once found near the lake, which adds an intriguing scientific twist to the legend.

The Kappa is a well-known water spirit from Japanese folklore, often described as a small, human-like creature with green scaly skin, webbed hands, and a turtle-like shell on its back. It is known for the dish-shaped indentation on its head that holds water, since losing this water is said to weaken or even immobilize it. Deeply rooted in Japanese cultural traditions, the Kappa appears in everything from rural legends to classical literature, where it is portrayed as both mischievous and potentially dangerous. Its reputation for playing pranks, challenging people to sumo wrestling matches, or lurking in rivers has kept it a memorable figure in Japanese mythology.

The Onryō is a vengeful spirit in Japanese folklore, typically described as a pale, ghostly figure with long black hair, white clothing, and an expression frozen by anger or sorrow. It is known for returning from the afterlife to seek revenge on those who wronged it in life, often bringing misfortune, illness, or unexplained disturbances wherever it appears. The Onryō is deeply rooted in Japanese cultural beliefs about restless spirits and unfinished business, and its stories often reflect themes of injustice and emotional suffering. Its influence can be seen throughout traditional theater and modern horror, which has helped make it one of the most famous supernatural figures in Japan.

The Tengu is a prominent supernatural being in Japanese folklore, often described as a humanoid figure with bright red skin, sharp eyes, and either a long nose or the beak of a bird. It is known for its exceptional martial skill, ability to fly, and talent for creating illusions that confuse or mislead travelers in the mountains. As an important part of Japanese cultural and religious tradition, the Tengu is closely tied to forested temples and remote mountain regions where monks, woodcutters, and wanderers once claimed to encounter it. Stories of Tengu teaching swordsmanship or testing the pride of humans have helped make it one of Japan’s most recognizable mythological creatures.

The Kerit or Nandi Bear is a mysterious creature from Kenya, often described as a large, hyena-like animal with a shaggy coat, powerful build, and frighteningly sharp claws. It is known for its aggressive behavior and is often blamed for livestock attacks and eerie nighttime screams across the region. The creature is part of East African folklore, especially among communities living near the Nandi Highlands, where stories of its strength and ferocity have been told for generations. Reports of the Nandi Bear became so widespread in the early 1900s that several European explorers mounted expeditions to find it, adding even more curiosity to its reputation.

The Moehau Man is a cryptid from New Zealand, described as a large, hairy, ape-like creature (similar to Bigfoot) that roams the forests and mountains of the Coromandel Range. Witnesses say these types of cryptids around the world walk upright, leave huge footprints, and are extremely elusive, often vanishing before anyone can get close. It is part of local folklore and is sometimes compared to the Yeti or Sasquatch, though it is unique to the region. Early twentieth century sightings by miners and settlers helped turn the Moehau Man into one of New Zealand’s most talked-about wildmen.

The Huldra is a forest spirit from Norwegian and Scandinavian folklore, usually described as a beautiful woman with long hair who hides a tail or hollow back that reveals her true nature. She is known for enchanting travelers, sometimes helping those who show respect and punishing those who act cruelly or arrogantly. The Huldra is deeply tied to the wilderness and reflects traditional beliefs about nature having its own guardians and rules. Encounters with her were once taken seriously in rural communities, and stories about her remain popular in Scandinavian storytelling.

The Nasnas is a strange and unsettling creature from Arabian folklore, typically described as a half-human being with only one arm, one leg, and half a face, giving it a haunting and unbalanced appearance. It is known for its surprising speed and agility, often appearing suddenly in deserted regions and frightening travelers. In traditional stories, the Nasnas is viewed as a dangerous creature that exists on the fringes of human society, symbolizing chaos and incompleteness. Tales of the Nasnas were often shared to warn people about wandering too far into lonely or unfamiliar lands.

The Bulgasari is a fearsome creature from Korean folklore, often described as a massive, bear-like beast covered in dark scales with tusks, sharp claws, and an insatiable hunger. It is known for devouring anything made of metal, including weapons, armor, and even household tools, which makes it both dangerous and strangely useful in old stories. In Korean culture, the Bulgasari is often associated with themes of protection and destruction, since it can either defend communities by consuming enemy weapons or become a threat if its appetite grows uncontrollable. Its striking appearance and unusual diet have kept it popular in Korean myths, plays, and modern adaptations.