Why Some of the World’s Most Beautiful Places May Soon Be Gone
Planet Earth is hurting due to many global issues such as climate change, overpopulation, air pollution, and sea level rises. Unfortunately, because of this, many popular tourist spots may not be accessible in the future. If we do not do anything, these dream destinations could vanish or seriously alter in the upcoming decades!
Great Barrier Reef, Australia

The Great Barrier Reef is one of the most diverse places on the planet. Unfortunately, this incredible destination has already lost around 50% of its coral reefs due to coral bleaching, ocean acidification, and tropical storms. It’s thought that damage to the Great Barrier Reef could become irreversible by 2030.
Taj Mahal, India

The air quality in Agra is deteriorating, sometimes leaving the Taj Mahal shrouded in smog. This air pollution has a negative impact on the landmark, as it corrodes the marble. This causes it to change color, giving it a yellowish tinge. If this continues, who knows how long the Taj Mahal will keep its iconic white facade!
Venice, Italy
Dubbed the ‘floating city’, Venice has been ironically sinking for decades. Rising sea levels are also having a major impact on this Italian city, with experts believing Venice could be underwater by 2100. Measures are currently being put into place to prevent this as the city has already experienced heavy flooding in the past few years.
The Dead Sea, Asia
The Dead Sea is famous for its floating properties, making it a dream destination for many! Unfortunately, geological and human factors are causing this iconic lake to disappear. Water levels fall every year (sometimes up to 3-4 feet), which will have a huge impact on this incredible natural phenomenon.
The Maldives
Boasting crystal-clear waters, an array of marine life, and overwater bungalows, the Maldives is a must for any bucket list. Unfortunately, it’s the world’s lowest-lying country and is threatened by rising sea levels. Some scientists believe that up to 80% of this island nation could be uninhabitable by 2050.
Glacier National Park, the United States
Although the national park itself will still be around, Glacier National Park could lose its namesake. 150 huge glaciers were found here just 100 years ago, but only 25 remain today. Unfortunately, the remaining glaciers have been given a lifespan of only 15 years if the Earth continues to warm at its current rate.
Great Wall of China, China
As one of the world’s wonders, the Great Wall of China is a must-visit. However, you may want to visit sooner rather than later. Although this heritage site has been well-preserved over the years, air pollution, disorderly tourism, illegal industrial projects, and weather are all having a massive impact on the wall.
Amazon Rainforest, South America
The Amazon Rainforest is one of the most biodiverse places on Earth, home to around 10% of Earth’s known species. Unfortunately, this rainforest is under massive threat from deforestation, due to illegal logging, mining, and farming. It’s believed that an area of five football pitches is cut down every minute!
Olympia, Greece
The ancient city of Olympia has so much history. It’s been around since prehistoric times and was the site of the first-ever Olympic games (back in 776 BC). Rising temperatures, dry summers, and less rainfall have led to rampant wildfires in the area, so there’s a worry that this archaeological site won’t be around for long.
Galápagos Islands, Ecuador
The Galápagos Islands were a source of inspiration for Darwin’s ‘theory of evolution’. They are home to a wide variety of wildlife including the Galapagos giant tortoise, but these islands are under threat. Illegal fishing and climate change are all having a massive effect on the Galápagos Islands.
Congo Basin, Africa
The Congo Basin spans six countries and is one of the world’s most important wilderness areas. Environmentalists are worried that a significant area of the rainforest (including its wildlife) could be gone by 2050, due to deforestation, mining, and the illegal wildlife trade. Worse still, some believe the Congo Basin rainforest could disappear completely by 2100.
Komodo Islands, Indonesia
Komodo National Park was established in 1980 to protect the Komodo Dragon. These huge lizards and the area’s fantastic diving conditions attract tourists from all over, which is having an impact on the islands. That, along with ocean acidification and coral reef bleaching are causing uncertainty when it comes to the park’s future. What will happen to its pink sand beaches?
Alaska Tundra, the United States
The Alaskan tundra is home to a variety of flora and fauna, including bears and caribou. Unfortunately, rising temperatures due to climate change has led to the region’s permafrost melting. Increased coastal erosion is also taking place along the coast, affecting the area’s polar bear population.
White Cliffs of Dover, England
The White Cliffs of Dover were formed millions of years ago so have stood the test of time. However, these cliffs are now in peril with erosion rates being higher than ever before. As the Cliffs of Dover are made of chalk, they are especially susceptible to erosion and sections are collapsing all the time.
Areas of North Africa
Many areas of North Africa are under threat, due to the expansion of the Sahara desert. In this area, desertification is a huge issue and it’s affecting both humans and wildlife. To help combat this degradation, the “Great Green Wall” initiative is currently underway, where a vast belt of trees is being grown.
Emese Maczko is a travel blogger behind Eco Lodges Anywhere. Having explored several destinations around Europe, the US, Indonesia, and Australia, and resided in Germany, the United Kingdom, and Luxembourg, Emese possesses a keen understanding of diverse cultures and an appreciation for the beauty of each destination she visits. She advocates for sustainable travel and ecotourism.