10 Natural Tourist Destinations That Are Going Extinct

Climate change, human activity, and environmental degradation are threatening some of the world’s most breathtaking natural tourist destinations. These are not just beautiful places—they are ecosystems, often home to unique forms of life found nowhere else on the planet. As sea levels rise, temperatures soar, and pollution spreads, the time left to witness these wonders may be shorter than we think.

Here are 10 natural tourist destinations that are in danger of disappearing, and why urgent conservation efforts—and mindful travel—are more important than ever.

1. The Great Barrier Reef, Australia

Threats: Climate change, coral bleaching, pollution

The Great Barrier Reef is the world’s largest coral reef system, spanning over 2,300 kilometers and visible from space. It’s a magnet for divers, marine biologists, and nature lovers alike. Yet, rising ocean temperatures have led to frequent coral bleaching events—where corals expel the algae that give them color and life—leaving large swaths of the reef dead or dying.

Additionally, pollution from agricultural runoff and overfishing continues to stress the reef’s fragile ecosystem. If global temperatures rise more than 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels, scientists warn that up to 90% of coral reefs globally could vanish.

2. Glacier National Park, USA

Threats: Global warming, glacial retreat

Located in Montana, Glacier National Park once had over 100 active glaciers. Today, fewer than 25 remain, and scientists estimate that the park’s glaciers could be gone by 2030 if warming trends continue.

This change not only impacts the park’s stunning views and tourism industry but also endangers the freshwater ecosystems and species that depend on glacier-fed streams.

3. The Maldives

Threats: Rising sea levels, coral bleaching

The Maldives is a tropical paradise of 1,200 small islands scattered across the Indian Ocean. Known for its turquoise waters and luxurious resorts, it’s also the lowest-lying country in the world, with an average elevation of just 1.5 meters above sea level.

As sea levels rise due to melting polar ice and thermal expansion, many of the Maldives’ islands face permanent submersion. The nation is already investing in floating architecture and even considering relocation plans for its population.

4. Venice, Italy

Threats: Sea level rise, frequent flooding

Venice might be known for its romantic canals, but it’s also notorious for “acqua alta”—seasonal high tides that flood parts of the city. In recent years, these floods have become more frequent and intense, driven by climate change and a sinking foundation.

While Venice is not a natural destination in the traditional sense, its lagoon ecosystem is, and it’s critically threatened. Without significant intervention, large portions of the city could become uninhabitable within the century.

5. Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania

Threats: Global warming, ice cap melting

Africa’s highest peak is famous not only for its majestic summit but also for its iconic snow-capped top—made all the more striking as it’s located near the equator. Unfortunately, Kilimanjaro’s glaciers are receding rapidly.

Over 80% of its ice cover has disappeared since 1912, and researchers predict the remaining glaciers could vanish entirely within a few decades. The loss would affect local water sources, tourism, and the region’s overall climate.

6. The Dead Sea, Israel/Jordan/Palestine

Threats: Water diversion, mineral extraction

The Dead Sea is the lowest point on Earth and is known for its hypersaline waters that allow swimmers to float effortlessly. However, it’s shrinking at a shocking rate—about 1 meter per year.

Why? Primarily due to the diversion of water from the Jordan River (its main source) for agriculture and domestic use, as well as unsustainable mineral extraction. Sinkholes have also started appearing around the shoreline, making the area more dangerous for tourists and locals alike.

7. The Amazon Rainforest, South America

Threats: Deforestation, climate change, wildfires

Often referred to as the “lungs of the Earth,” the Amazon Rainforest plays a critical role in regulating the global climate. But rampant deforestation, largely for agriculture and cattle ranching, is stripping the region at an alarming rate.

In 2019 and 2020, massive wildfires—many human-induced—burned millions of hectares. The Amazon is approaching a tipping point where large portions could transform into savannah, leading to massive biodiversity loss and an acceleration of global warming.

8. The Sundarbans, India/Bangladesh

Threats: Sea level rise, salinity, deforestation

The Sundarbans is the largest mangrove forest in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage site. It’s also home to the elusive Bengal tiger and supports millions of people who depend on its natural resources.

But rising sea levels and increased salinity, coupled with human encroachment and deforestation, are rapidly altering this ecosystem. Entire islands have already vanished, and more are at risk. It’s a poignant example of how climate change threatens both biodiversity and human lives.

9. The Alps, Europe

Threats: Global warming, glacier retreat

Spanning eight countries, the Alps are a playground for skiers, hikers, and climbers. But like other mountain ranges, they are experiencing rapid glacier melt. Some glaciers have lost more than half their mass in the last century.

Warmer winters are reducing snow cover, shortening ski seasons, and impacting local economies. By 2100, scientists estimate that up to 90% of Alpine glaciers could disappear completely, transforming both the landscape and the livelihoods that depend on it.

10. Madagascar’s Forests

Threats: Deforestation, habitat loss, climate change

Madagascar is one of the most biodiverse places on Earth, with over 90% of its wildlife found nowhere else. Its forests host unique species like lemurs, chameleons, and baobabs. Yet, slash-and-burn agriculture, illegal logging, and charcoal production have led to the destruction of up to 90% of the island’s original forest cover.

As the forests vanish, so do the animals that depend on them—and opportunities for eco-tourism that could fund conservation efforts.