Geoparks hold a special place in travel destinations, offering a unique blend of geological significance and cultural heritage. Unesco, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, has recently added 18 new sites to its list of Global Geoparks, bringing the total to 213 across 48 countries. These geologically diverse areas are protected and sustainably managed by local communities, ensuring the preservation of their natural beauty for future generations.
The initiative, founded by Unesco, aims to safeguard the planet’s geological heritage while promoting responsible and sustainable tourism practices in these exceptional locations. To qualify as a Global Geopark, an area must demonstrate international geological and cultural significance, encompassing a unified landscape of outstanding value.
Among the latest additions are Meteora in Greece, renowned for its towering sandstone cliffs adorned with Byzantine-era monasteries, and Uberaba in Brazil, known as the ‘Land of the Giants’ due to its rich palaeontological history housing over 10,000 fossils and ancient life forms. These sites join a diverse array of Geoparks spanning the globe, each offering a truly unique travel experience.
Designated Geoparks hold their title for four years before undergoing reevaluation by Unesco. Currently, Africa boasts only two Global Geoparks, including the Ngorongoro Lengai Unesco Global Geopark in Tanzania and the M’Goun Unesco Global Geopark in Morocco. The latest additions to the prestigious list represent a global tapestry of geological wonders, ranging from the Schelde Delta in Belgium and the Netherlands to the Armorique region in France, showcasing the Earth’s diverse landscapes and histories.
Travel enthusiasts looking to explore the world’s hidden gems can now commence on journeys to these newly recognized Geoparks, immersing themselves in the geological marvels and cultural narratives that define each location. From the lush forests of the Bükk Region in Hungary to the volcanic landscapes of the Calatrava Volcanoes in Spain, there is no shortage of awe-inspiring destinations awaiting discovery.
Unesco’s latest Geoparks initiative underscores the importance of preserving our planet’s natural heritage while promoting sustainable tourism practices that benefit local communities. As these incredible sites continue to capture the imagination of travelers worldwide, they serve as reminders of the Earth’s captivating beauty and the need to protect it for generations to come.
