See Earth’s most dramatic landscapes that sink below sea level and discover natural wonders beyond belief.
Ever wondered where Earth’s lowest points are hiding? From breathtaking salt flats to otherworldly deserts, these incredible locations drop below sea level, creating some of the planet’s most unique landscapes. Check out these 10 awe-inspiring destinations that will leave you amazed by nature’s extremes.
Each of these places has its own appeal, with dramatic scenery, unusual wildlife, and rich cultural history. Here’s where you can find them — and why you need to see them for yourself.
1. The Dead Sea, Israel
At 1,412 feet below sea level, the Dead Sea is the lowest exposed land on Earth. Its extreme salinity, about 10 times saltier than regular seawater, allows people to float effortlessly, creating a unique and relaxing experience. Surrounded by breathtaking desert landscapes, it has long attracted visitors seeking the health benefits of its mineral-rich mud, believed to improve skin and joint health. The Dead Sea’s waters and surrounding areas also offer stunning sunset views, making it a destination with both natural beauty and therapeutic appeal for travelers from all around the world.
2. Death Valley, California
Death Valley’s Badwater Basin, located 282 feet below sea level, holds the title as North America’s lowest point. Known for its intense heat, which can exceed 130°F, this rugged desert landscape is a wonder for adventurers and photographers alike. Its salt flats, canyons, and diverse geological features offer unique beauty and incredible photo opportunities. Surprisingly, Death Valley is also home to resilient plants and animals adapted to its harsh conditions. Its remote location and lack of light pollution make it one of the best places in the U.S. for stargazing, attracting night-sky enthusiasts from far and wide.
3. Turpan Depression, China
Located in Xinjiang, China, the Turpan Depression descends 505 feet below sea level, making it one of the hottest places in Asia. This arid region’s temperatures reach over 120°F, but the ancient Karez irrigation system keeps crops like grapes and melons thriving. The Flaming Mountains, with their red sandstone ridges, create a stark contrast against the barren landscape and offer a stunning view at sunrise and sunset. Rich in history, Turpan reveals the ingenuity of ancient Chinese engineering, providing an educational and awe-inspiring destination that immerses travelers in the region’s fascinating cultural heritage and agricultural resilience.
4. Lake Assal in Djibouti
At 509 feet below sea level, Lake Assal in Djibouti holds the title of the lowest point in Africa, nestled within the Great Rift Valley. This striking saltwater lake is surrounded by a surreal landscape of salt flats, volcanic rock, and rugged desert terrain, making it a unique and adventurous destination for travelers seeking dramatic, untouched beauty. Known for its intense saline levels—one of the highest in the world—Lake Assal is a mesmerizing sight, with shimmering salt crystals and vibrant colors. A visit to Lake Assal offers a blend of natural wonder, geological significance, and the quiet allure of Djibouti’s remote desert scenery.
5. Caspian Sea Shoreline
The Caspian Sea, at around 92 feet below sea level, is the world’s largest enclosed inland body of water, bordered by five countries with diverse cultural influences. Its shores offer a range of landscapes, from sandy beaches to rocky coastlines, and are rich in oil and gas resources. The Caspian is home to unique wildlife, like the endangered Caspian seal, which is only found here. For travelers, the region provides a rich mix of natural beauty and the chance to explore the traditions, cuisines, and landscapes of multiple cultures along this historic inland sea.
6. Danakil Depression, Ethiopia
Located in northern Ethiopia, the Danakil Depression lies 410 feet below sea level and is one of the hottest places on Earth, often exceeding 120°F. Known for its extreme landscape, this depression features colorful salt flats, sulfur springs, and even active volcanoes. The local Afar people have harvested salt here for centuries, adding a human element to the harsh environment. Visitors are drawn to its alien-like terrain and vibrant mineral deposits, but the Danakil Depression’s challenging conditions make it a destination best suited for those prepared for adventure and interested in Earth’s geological wonders.
7. Laguna del Carbón, Argentina
At 344 feet below sea level, Laguna del Carbón is the lowest point in Argentina and the Southern Hemisphere. Located in the Santa Cruz province, this area is part of the Patagonian desert, featuring salt flats and a stark, almost lunar landscape. It’s rich in paleontological sites, offering insight into ancient ecosystems. Adventurers and scientists alike are drawn here, and its isolated terrain provides a tranquil escape from bustling tourist sites. With its quiet expanse and unique desert beauty, Laguna del Carbón offers travelers a chance to explore one of Argentina’s most unusual and remote natural wonders.
8. Vpadina Akchanaya, Turkmenistan
Vpadina Akchanaya is a salt lake depression in Turkmenistan’s Karakum Desert, reaching approximately 266 feet below sea level. Its expansive salt flats create a surreal, mirror-like effect that reflects the sky, especially dramatic at sunrise and sunset. This isolated spot attracts travelers looking for untouched landscapes and offers some of the best photographic scenes in Central Asia. Vpadina Akchanaya’s remote beauty and the sense of tranquility it offers make it a perfect escape for those wanting a peaceful experience far from urban life, allowing visitors to connect with the vastness of nature.
9. Chott el Jerid, Tunisia
At about 16 feet below sea level, Tunisia’s Chott el Jerid is an expansive endorheic salt lake known for its surreal landscape and dramatic mirages. Depending on the season and mineral content, the lake’s surface shifts in color, appearing in shades of pink, green, and purple. Chott el Jerid’s otherworldly landscape has made it a popular filming location, adding to its allure for travelers. Visiting this vast salt pan provides a unique opportunity to witness one of North Africa’s most colorful and mysterious natural settings, surrounded by the vastness of the Tunisian Sahara.
10. Great Salt Lake, Utah, USA
While not below sea level, the Great Salt Lake sits at 4,200 feet above and is among the largest saltwater lakes in the Western Hemisphere. Its high salinity creates striking color patterns, and nearby mountains enhance its scenic beauty. The lake offers rich opportunities for bird-watching, as it supports large populations of migratory birds. Visitors can also enjoy boating, swimming, and photographing the vibrant landscapes. Its proximity to Salt Lake City makes it easily accessible, and the lake’s intriguing ecology and striking beauty make it a popular destination for nature lovers.