There are several new locations that adventurers who want to delve deeply into geology, culture, and sustainability could add to their bucket lists. 18 more Global Geoparks have been designated by UNESCO, bringing the total to 213 sites that span 48 countries worldwide.
New Geoparks Announced
Embark on a #Geopark getaway and discover the ancient basalt flows & vast freshwater reserves of the Uberaba UNESCO Global Geopark🇧🇷
Join us in exploring this trove of geological marvels, where history, #nature & innovation converge in perfect harmony: https://t.co/fAA6RMDJ8S pic.twitter.com/rlExZXrrXC
— UNESCO 🏛️ #Education #Sciences #Culture 🇺🇳 (@UNESCO) April 5, 2024
Geoparks are designated territories recognised for their geological significance, encompassing diverse landscapes, geological formations, and associated cultural heritage. Established in 2015, the aim of these designated places is not limited to exhibiting rocks. They also recognise and protect the geological legacy of global significance. The designation of new geoparks by UNESCO holds multifaceted significance.
Additionally, sustainability lies at the heart of UNESCO’s geopark initiative, emphasising the harmonious coexistence of conservation and development. They promote sustainable development models by integrating conservation measures with responsible tourism and community engagement. The newest parks are fascinating additions to travel plans because they have been declared in well-known tourist locations including China, Greece, Spain, Portugal, and more. Hence, visit these approved locations to learn about China’s Hakka culture, Byzantine-era monasteries in Greece, crystal-clear karst lakes in Croatia, and dinosaur fossils in Brazil.
Also Read: On Your Next Hampi Trip, Visit This Art Lab Located Right Next To The UNESCO World Heritage Site
Take A Look At The UNESCO Geoparks
UNESCO Global Geopark Biokovo-Imotski Lakes is an area of exceptional cultural, rich historical and natural heritage that includes a great diversity of habitats, species of plants and animals, but also geological diversity represented in numerous geological formations created in… pic.twitter.com/zw1XMlEwHG
— Croatia Full of life (@Croatia_hr) September 8, 2023
These parks, which range from pristine karst lakes to an island created during the last ice age, are more than just locations with distinctive geological features. They emphasise the natural, cultural, and intangible heritage of a certain area. From towering mountains and cascading waterfalls to ancient rock formations and fossilised remains, here are the new ones:
- Enshi Grand Canyon-Tenglongdong Cave – China
- Linxia – China
- Longyan – China
- Mount Changbaishan – China
- Wugongshan – China
- Xingyi – China
- Uberaba – Brazil
- 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
These geoparks beckon adventurers and enthusiasts alike to traverse landscapes shaped by millennia of natural forces. Whether exploring rugged coastlines, ancient rock formations, or hidden caves, travellers are invited to unravel the mysteries of our planet’s geological past. So, where are you heading first?
Cover image credits: UNESCO