Introduction
Earth’s depressions are not only geographic points lying below sea level but entire worlds with their own climate, history, and mysteries. Many hold records — in depth, temperature, life conditions, and even mysterious natural processes.

Mariana Trench — the deepest point on the planet
The Mariana Trench, located in the western Pacific Ocean, is considered the deepest place on Earth. Its maximum depth reaches about 10984 meters at Challenger Deep. The first confirmed descent occurred in 1960 when Jacques Piccard and Don Walsh, aboard the bathyscaphe “Trieste,” reached the bottom. In 2012, director James Cameron made a solo descent in the special submersible Deepsea Challenger. Due to the immense pressure at the bottom (over 1000 atmospheres), the area is nearly inaccessible for life, yet scientists find unique organisms here.

Death Valley and Badwater Basin
In California, USA, lies Death Valley — the hottest place in North America. Here, a record air temperature of +56.7°C was recorded in 1913. Within this valley is the salt flat of Badwater Basin, lying 86 meters below sea level. The bright white salt crystals and desert landscapes make it a popular destination for tourists and photographers.

Turpan Depression
Located in China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, the Turpan Depression is one of the deepest continental depressions, reaching 154 meters below sea level. In summer, temperatures can rise above +47°C. The region is famous for its vineyards and the ancient city of Gaochang, which existed as early as the first millennium.

Qattara Depression
The lesser-known but remarkable Qattara Depression in Egypt is part of the Western Desert, descending about 133 meters below sea level. It attracts safari enthusiasts, archaeologists, and those seeking unusual natural landscapes. Fossilized remains of ancient marine creatures can be found here — a reminder that millions of years ago, these lands were under the ocean.

Why you should see them
Each of these depressions is unique: from the icy abyss of the ocean to the scorching heat of the desert. They tell Earth’s story, showcase nature’s extremes, and inspire travelers to explore the planet’s most unusual corners.