If you are anything like me, then you probably spend countless hours dreaming about what the world must have been like before people came along and inhabited it. Unfortunately, many of the world’s wildest places are becoming destroyed as you read this, however, luckily there are still a few places that have been left alone. Here is my list of the greatest wilderness areas on earth.
These regions boast remarkable vistas, uncommon species, indigenous people threatened with extinction from westernism, and incomparable ecosystems that form the basis of our world.
Wilderness areas are some of the most important places on Earth for conservation and environmental protection. The unique ecosystems and wildlife that inhabit these areas help maintain balance in our fragile natural world, providing resources for humans and other species alike.
Not only do wilderness areas help protect biodiversity, but they also act as “lungs” for the planet by providing oxygen, storing carbon dioxide, and helping to regulate the global climate.
Personally, my profession (this website) and my personal brand revolve around these 8 greatest wilderness areas on earth and protecting them from the modern world.
Without further ado, let’s dive into some of the most amazing wilderness areas in the world:
What Are The Last Greatest Wilderness Areas On Earth?
Here is a list of 8 of the “true” wilderness areas left on the planet – places that humans still haven’t taken over; and hopefully won’t anytime soon.
1: Canadian Boreal Forest
Let’s start with my favorite wilderness on earth, the boreal forest. The boreal forest is truly a sight to behold: the landscape is dominated by towering coniferous trees and a rich diversity of plant and animal species.
The boreal forest is an abode to some of Canada’s most iconic creatures, including moose, wolves, bears, lynx, wolverines, and caribou. Yet more than that it is one of the rare few areas on earth where nature maintains its untouched condition in a world increasingly occupied by humans.
Ever since I was a child, the boreal forest in its southern regions has been my favorite place to explore. It’s where I have found some of the most beautiful memories and moments that will stay with me forever.
One of the most spectacular sights I’ve ever seen was in Minnesota’s Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness – part of Canada’s Boreal Forest that extends south into northern Minnesota. It was here, surrounded by tall pine trees, and balasm fir smelling air, that I first experienced pristine forest wilderness with my own eyes.
So trust me on this. It is a magical place that is well worth protecting.
Did you know that an astounding 90% of Canadians live within 100 miles of the U.S.? That goes to show that Canada has an impressive amount of wild land left.
By comparison to the United States and many other civilized countries, the majority of Canada is left unpopulated and open to wildlife.
2: Alaskas Arctic Tundra
Spanning from Alaska’s northern coast to Canada’s northwest territories, the Alaskan Arctic tundra is a seemingly endless area of frozen wilderness. The tundra is an unforgiving habitat, with a landscape lacking in trees and soil permanently frozen.
During wintertime, the temperatures plunge to an average of -30°F while summer brings highs of only about 50°F, which provides a truly challenging environment for anything that lives there.
Despite the extreme weather conditions, the Arctic tundra has become a habitat for an astonishing variety of wildlife. From majestic polar bears and brown bears, caribou, foxes to whales – these creatures are truly remarkable and make this region one of nature’s greatest wonders.
Despite its hostile-looking environment, this region is home to many indigenous people who have been living here for thousands of years where their lives are woven within the land’s ecosystems.
The Alaskan Arctic tundra is a precious and vast wildland that should be cherished, as it not only serves as refuge to unique species but also safeguards the cultural heritage of its people. An area like this really deserves our preservation efforts; after all, how many wilderness areas remain in such pristine condition?
During the time I lived in Alaska in 2022, I was fortunate enough to witness a teeny glimpse of the ancestral ties that Indigenous people had with their land. Speaking with members of these communities left me with an indelible memory that will always remain close to my heart.
3: Amazon Rainforest
The Amazon rainforest is the most remarkable wilderness area on our planet, covering an astonishing 5.5 million square kilometers across nine countries and providing a home for millions of rare species of wildlife and plants.
This is one of the few remaining ecosystems that still holds a trove of undiscovered species, making it vitally significant to protect.
Unfortunately, human development and deforestation are taking their toll on the incredible Amazon rainforest – a home to over a million indigenous people who rely upon it for food, shelter and more. It is paramount that we protect this vital ecosystem before it is too late.
The destruction of the Amazon rainforest has caused biodiversity loss as well as climate change issues, which is why it’s so important to reduce deforestation and protect this area.
4: Australian Outback Desert
The Australian Outback Desert is an awe-inspiring, grandiose wilderness that demands respect and admiration. Spanning 1.8 million square kilometers of the continent’s interior terrain, it stands as one of the world’s largest deserts – but even in its desolate beauty, life continues to thrive there both on land and below sea level!
Its vistas are so captivating that people come from all over just for a glimpse at this majestic desert as it is truly one of the greatest wilderness areas on earth.
The Australian Outback is a unique and wondrous environment, boasting an amazing variety of creatures that have adapted to the unforgiving desert. Among them you’ll find camels, dingoes, red kangaroos – as well as birds like wedge-tailed eagles and reptiles such as carpet pythons. Explore this rugged yet beautiful landscape for yourself – it will be a wildlife experience unlike any other.
I have never made it to the Outback yet, but have been dying to take a survival course in that environment to learn indigenous techniques.
The Outback is an irreplaceable landscape that houses a plethora of species and people who have utilized its resources for millennia. It is our responsibility to safeguard this unique habitat to ensure it remains intact for generations beyond us. That way, all inhabitants may continue their cultural customs and spiritual practices, and be surrounded by the diverse wildlife housed within.
It starts with appreciating the area.
5: Russia’s Boreal Forest
The Russian Boreal Forest is an incredible, untouched wilderness that humbles and enchants with its majestic beauty. It stands as one of the last true natural wonders on earth and is extremely similar to the Canadian boreal forest. This vast, ancient forest spans over 3 million square kilometers, stretching from the Arctic Ocean to the Ural Mountains in Russia.
The Boreal is a unique ecosystem that is home to an incredible array of flora and fauna similar to the Canadian boreal forest. It is also home to many Indigenous people who have lived here for centuries and rely on the forest for subsistence.
The Boreal Forest is an incredibly important region that must be preserved in order to protect its vast biodiversity, carbon storage capacity, and cultural heritage. It is one of the last true wilderness areas, and it must be protected so that future generations can enjoy and appreciate its natural beauty.
6: Africa’s Sahara Desert
The Sahara Desert is the world’s largest hot desert and covers an area of most of North Africa, stretching from Mauritania to Sudan. It is home to a variety of unique plants and animals that have adapted to the harsh desert climate.
In the Sahara, you will find numerous species such as the cheetah, addax antelope, and oryx. There are also many reptiles such as the desert horned viper and several species of monitor lizards. The Sahara is also home to a wide variety of birds, such as the hooded vulture and the Egyptian vulture.
Despite its harsh environment, the Sahara Desert is a place of great beauty and home to many animals.
Unfortunately, the combination of desertification and human development is swiftly taking a toll on this remarkable wilderness area. We must join forces to fight against climate change and safeguard this unique environment for generations to come.
7: Antarcitca
Antarctica is the coldest, driest, and windiest of the seven continents on Earth.
It is an incredibly isolated wilderness area that is the permanent home to zero human beings. Despite its inhospitable environment, it remains a source of great natural beauty and one of the world’s last true wilderness areas.
Hence, why many modern-day explorers visit Antarctica to embark on expeditions.
Penguins are indisputably the most famous residents of Antarctica, but many other mesmerizing creatures also live on this continent. From seals to whales and albatrosses, their presence is unmistakable. Moreover, various fish species such as Antarctic Cod have evolved with the ability to survive in the frigid temperatures here.
Antarctica is not only paramount for scientific research but also home to some extraordinary species that are exclusive to this region. As a result, it is of the utmost importance that we take proactive measures in protecting the Antarctic’s natural beauty and safeguarding its resources for generations to come.
8: The Oceans
Although it isn’t necessarily the same as land wilderness, the oceans are one of the last great remaining wilderness areas of the planet due to their sheer size and remoteness. Despite the ubiquitous presence of humans, vast stretches of the ocean remain unexplored and undisturbed.
The depths in particular offer habitats for numerous species which have adapted to these conditions over millions of years, some still not discovered or understood by science. Even more shallow regions such as coral reefs provide essential nursery grounds for many species, playing a critical role in supporting biodiversity and providing food sources for marine life.
Oceans also play an important role in regulating our climate through countless biochemical processes that take place within them, making them vital to our survival on Earth. By protecting these precious wildernesses we can ensure that future generations will be able to benefit from their incredible ecological services!
How Can We Protect These Greatest Wilderness Areas On Earth?
There are many things that we can do to protect the world’s greatest remaining wilderness areas. Some of these include reducing our consumption of resources, supporting sustainable development projects, and advocating for stronger environmental laws.
Additionally, we must ensure that any measures taken to protect wildlife and nature do not negatively impact local communities or the people living in and around these areas. That means respecting their rights, traditions and culture.
Finally, it is also important to remember that we are not the only ones responsible for conserving these incredible wilderness areas – everyone must do their part by contributing whatever they can to ensure that future generations can enjoy them as well!
In my opinion, protecting these areas comes down to a couple of main things. First, we must all learn to respect animals and the natural environment the same way that indigenous people do. Because it IS what provides us with life.
Second, put your money towards what you believe in.
Thanks For Checking Out My Article!
Protecting the world’s greatest remaining wilderness areas is essential for us to enjoy their unique beauty and biodiversity. We must all do our part in respecting animals and nature, supporting sustainable development projects, advocating for stronger environmental laws, and contributing whatever we can to ensure that future generations can enjoy these incredible resources.
With a collective effort from everyone around the globe, we have an opportunity to safeguard this precious natural heritage for forever!
More Resources
Suggested Reading:
Out On The Land: Bushcraft Skills from the Northern Forest by Ray Mears and Lars Falt
This is a comprehensive guide to living in the Boreal forest wilderness of the North. It examines all aspects of living in the wilderness in both winter and summer, from clothing, kit and skills to cooking, survival techniques, and more.
It includes many beautiful photos that inspires me every time I get questioning if there is truly any wilderness left in the world.
If you’re looking to explore the grandeur of the worlds remaining wilderness, Out On The Land is an indispensable resource. Filled with vivid descriptions of the Northern beauty, along with practical tips on how best to take advantage of wilderness skills, this book will help you unlock the secrets and wonders that await outdoors.
With this book, you’ll be inspired to get your new hot tent out and bring it to the great Northern boreal forest.
Thanks for checking out my guide to the 8 greatest wilderness areas on earth!
Here are a few more related articles:
- 7 Best Hot Tents For Winter Camping (Ranked)
- The Best Bushcraft Books: Learn The Skills Of Our Ancestors
- What Is The Best Bushcraft Knife Of 2023?
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Hey there! My name is Tanner and I specialize in outdoor survival, bushcraft, expeditions and adventure travel.