Many wonderful destinations are threatened by human destruction and climate change, in danger of disappearing forever.
Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania (East Africa) : The snow-capped peak that stands out amid the dramatic desert landscape of Mount Kilimanjaro may not be around for long. Between 1912 and 2007, the amount of ice on the summit decreased by 85%. (Photo: Daily Mail).
Mirador Basin and Tikal National Park, Guatemala (Central America): The Mirador Basin and Tikal National Park are home to mysterious relics of the ancient Maya civilization. However, illegal excavations for treasure and burning of forests threaten the very existence of this historic destination. (Photo: National Geographic).
Glaciers of Patagonia, Argentina : The majestic glaciers of Patagonia are among the most beautiful sights in the world. Reduced rainfall and rising temperatures make this natural wonder shrinking. (Photo: BookMundi).
Madagascar Forest (East Africa) : The fertile forests of Madagascar are famous for their biodiversity and rare setting. They are predicted to last only the next 35 years due to wildfires and widespread human devastation. (Photo: Carbon Brief).
Venice, Italy : If you want to enjoy a romantic ride on the gondolas, you should plan early. Venice is sinking and it shows no signs of stopping. The city is increasingly subject to intense floods. (Photo: TripSavvy).
Galapagos Islands, Ecuador : This remote archipelago has a unique flora and fauna. However, the arrival of too many tourists bringing exotic species is threatening the ecosystem and native species. (Photo: Silversea).
Congo Basin, Africa : The Congo Basin is the world’s second largest rainforest, with an impressive biodiversity. This place has up to 10,000 species of trees, 1,000 species of birds and 400 species of mammals. The United Nations predicts that two-thirds of the forest will be completely destroyed by 2040. (Photo: Ensia).
Dead Sea : The Dead Sea is actually a huge saltwater lake. The area of the lake has shrunk by a third in the past 40 years. If the countries along the Dead Sea continue to use water from Jordan, the only river that supplies the lake, the area will completely disappear in 50 years. (Photo: Insider).
Joshua Tree National Park, USA : Endemic to the Mojave Desert, California, the Joshua tree has an impressive appearance. However, due to a severe drought last year, they are seriously lacking in water. If the condition does not progress, the Joshua tree will not be able to produce the next generation. (Photo: Los Angeles Times).
Great Barrier Reef, Australia : The world’s largest coral reef in Australia has shrunk by more than half its area due to rising temperatures over the past 30 years. Coral discolouration due to acid pollution is another concern. Scientists predict this place will disappear before 2030. (Photo: Barrierreef).