The Taiga and The 29%

Last update: March 3, 2024 in Wild Numbers
The Taiga and The 29%

Taiga may sound like a place, but it actually refers to the coniferous forest located between 60° latitude north and the Arctic Circle. Making up around 29% of the world’s existing forest cover, it is the world's largest terrestrial biome, and covers large tracts of Russia, Mongolia, Norway, Sweden, Iceland, Finland, the US and Canada.

Extremely cold in winter and with very short summers, the taiga biome is a hostile environment for man and beast, and trips to the taiga can be physically and mentally challenging. However, for those up to the challenge, the remote Tsaatan community in Mongolia welcomes visitors who wish to experience their customs and way of life herding reindeer. Book your trip with a TCVC (Tsaatan Community & Visitor Center) officially endorsed tour operator to help preserve their way of life.