18 MUST-VISIT GEOLOGICAL WONDERS ADDED TO UNESCO’S GLOBAL GEOPARK NETWORK

UNESCO, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation, has expanded its UNESCO Global Geoparks network by adding new members in 13 countries. This brings the total to over 213 geoparks, preserving geological heritage across 48 countries.

What is a UNESCO Global Geopark?

For the uninitiated, geoparks are UNESCO-designated natural landscapes that hold geological significance. However, they are more than just stunning landscapes. Created in 2015, these designated areas recognise and preserve the geological heritage of international value, but their purpose goes beyond showcasing rocks.

Geoparks promote sustainable tourism and education, fostering a connection between humanity and the planet. They celebrate the unique geological heritage alongside the region’s natural and cultural treasures. This holistic approach aims to empower local communities, raise awareness of environmental issues, and spark a sense of pride in the region’s unique story written in stone.

The newest geoparks have been designated in popular tourist destinations like China, Greece, Spain, Portugal, and more, making them exciting additions to travel itineraries. Explore dinosaur fossils in Brazil, crystal-clear karst lakes in Croatia, Byzantine-era monasteries in Greece, and China’s Hakka culture in these designated areas.

The newest additions to the UNESCO Global Geoparks network to explore in 2024

UNESCO Global Geoparks in Asia

• Enshi Grand Canyon-Tenglongdong Cave – China
• Linxia – China
• Longyan – China
• Mount Changbaishan – China
• Wugongshan – China
• Xingyi – China

Geoparks in South America

• Uberaba – Brazil

Geoparks in Europe

• Schelde Delta – Belgium and Kingdom of the Netherlands
• Biokovo-Imotski Lakes – Croatia
• The South Fyn Archipelago – Denmark
• Impact Crater Lake – Lappajärvi – Finland
• Armorique – France
• Normandie-Maine – France
• Meteora Pyli – Greece
• Bükk Region – Hungary
• Land of Extinct Volcanoes – Poland
• Oeste – Portugal
• Calatrava Volcanoes, Ciudad Real – Spain

Learn more about the designated natural landmarks through the official website.

This article first appeared on Travel + Leisure Malaysia.

(Main and featured image: Uhryn Larysa/Shutterstock)

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