Tasmanian Wilderness

　　The Tasmanian Wilderness has Australia’s largest river system, deepest lakes, and most spectacular mountains, which are over a billion years old. The caves in the mountains were once shelters for hunters during the Ice Age, with stone walls bearing some of the world’s oldest rock art.

　　Formed during the last Ice Age, the rocks, unique wildlife, and over 400 plant species here are closely linked to Antarctica and South America, serving as living evidence of the ancient supercontinent Gondwana. The wilderness is home to many of the world’s oldest living creatures — the Huon pine, known as a living fossil 2,000 years ago; the world’s only remaining freshwater shrimp living in alpine streams; and 22 species of Tasmanian mammals, including the world’s only remaining carnivorous marsupial.

　　Tasmanian Wilderness Reason to visit: Oldest rock art sanctuary Continent: Oceania Country/Region: Australia State/Province: Tasmania