UNESCO added 18 new Global Geoparks; know what they are

UNESCO's recent announcement of 18 new Global Geoparks expands the list to 213 sites across 48 countries, offering a plethora of destinations for travellers with a penchant for delving into geology, culture, and sustainability. These geoparks are not merely geological wonders but also serve as showcases for the natural, cultural, and intangible heritage of their respective regions.


UNESCO Global Geoparks are more than just scenic attractions. They represent landscapes where geological heritage intertwines with human history and supports rich biodiversity. Through their diverse offerings, from interactive exhibits to guided tours, these geoparks educate visitors about the interconnectedness of geology, culture, and environmental sustainability.


Geoparks are advocates for sustainable tourism and education, seamlessly integrating the unique geological heritage with the diverse array of natural and cultural marvels within the region. Through this holistic approach, Geoparks strive to empower local communities, foster environmental awareness, and evoke a deep sense of pride in the region's extraordinary story, etched into the very foundation of its landscapes.


Out of the 18 new Global Geoparks, six are from China – Enshi Grand Canyon - Tenglongdong Cave, Linxia, Longyan, Mount Changbaishan, Wogongshan, and Xingyi. The others are – Uberaba in Brazil, Schelde Delta in Belgium and Kingdom of the Netherlands, Biokovo - Imotski Lakes in Croatia, The South Fyn Archipelago in Denmark, Impact Crater Lake - Lappajarvi in Finland, Armorique in France, Normandie - Maine in France, Meteora Pyli in Greece, Bukk Region in Hungary, Land of extinct volcanoes in Poland, Oeste in Portugal, and Calatrava Volcanoes, Ciudad Real in Spain.

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Enshi Grand Canyon, located in China, is renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty and geological marvels. The canyon stretches approximately 108 kilometres along the Qing River and boasts steep cliffs, lush vegetation, and cascading waterfalls. One of its notable attractions is the Tenglongdong Cave, a spectacular limestone cave system within the canyon. Tenglongdong Cave is famed for its intricate stalactites, stalagmites, and underground rivers, forming a mesmerising subterranean landscape. Visitors to Enshi Grand Canyon have the opportunity to explore this fascinating cave system, immersing themselves in its otherworldly beauty and gaining insights into the region's geological history.

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Interestingly, the Uberaba Global Geopark in Brazil is one of the most fascinating ones. Covering 4,523.957 square kilometres, the Uberaba Geopark extends throughout the Minas Gerais municipality. This vast area has revealed a treasure trove of fossils, including teeth, eggs, and dinosaur clutches, dating back to the Upper Cretaceous period, estimated at 80 to 66 million years old!