Here are the real-life locations used in 'The Lord of the Rings'

J.R.R. Tolkien's "The Lord of the Rings" series takes place in an expansive and storied land called Middle Earth.

However, in Peter Jackson's films, Middle Earth is actually composed of dozens of incredible locations around New Zealand.

While they might not be full of elves and hobbits, the natural beauty of New Zealand's lush countryside and icy blue rivers is almost as magical as Tolkien's fictional world.

Tourists regularly flock to these sites, but if a trip to New Zealand isn't in the cards, you're in luck. Thanks to Instagram's location filter, it's easy to see photos from other LOTR fans. 

Check out some of the real-life places from "The Lord of the Rings" series.