Phê Vé
May 14, 2026 • 4 min read
UNESCO has recently recognized 12 new geoparks across 10 countries, expanding the Global Geoparks Network. Discover the fascinating features of these remarkable sites.
12 New UNESCO Geoparks
UNESCO has officially recognized 12 new geoparks spanning across 10 countries, further enriching the Global Geoparks Network. These parks offer us a deep insight into the rich geological heritage and the necessity to protect it. Currently, the network comprises a total of 241 sites across 51 countries, covering an area of over 882,000 km², which is roughly the size of Venezuela.
Tunisia has made its debut in this network with a park located in Dahar, a remote mountainous region featuring lunar-like landscapes and stunning valleys. Additionally, countries such as China, France, Greece, Ireland, Japan, Malaysia, Portugal, Russia, and Uruguay have also added new parks to this prestigious list.
Changshan Geopark, China
Just a two-hour drive from Jinhua in western China, Changshan Geopark, situated along the Changshan River, is renowned for its high biodiversity. It is home to many rare species, including the Asian toad, Chinese pond heron, and crested myna, among others. The area is famous for its changshan-hayou citrus fruit and camellia oil, a highly valued ingredient in skincare products.
This park boasts over one billion years of geological history, bridging the Yangtze and Cathaysia mountain ranges. It serves as both a natural museum and a geological laboratory for paleontological studies. The fossils found here provide crucial insights into the early evolution of life and Earth's tectonic processes.
Moreover, Changshan has a rich cultural history, with around 300,000 residents from nine different ethnic groups, creating a vibrant cultural tapestry. It was also an important stop on the maritime Silk Road and is highlighted by nearly 4,000 poems from the Song dynasty, reflecting the profound connection between its people and the land.
Mount Siguniang Geopark, China
Nestled among the valleys of Mount Siguniang, amidst summer wildflowers, lies Jiujia Lake. According to legend, these lakes transformed four sisters into towering peaks, giving rise to the name Mount Siguniang (Four Sisters). With elevations exceeding 5,000 meters and rivers like Fubian, Wori, and Xiaojinchuan flowing through, this area showcases complex geological structures and insights into continental collision.
✈️ Tìm chuyến bay giá tốt
Đặt vé ngay với giá ưu đãi từ các hãng hàng không
Mount Siguniang is not only a breathtaking destination with magnificent scenery but also a stronghold of the Jiarong Tibetan community's culture. The area's reputation is further expressed through the Mount Siguniang Respect Festival, where locals from surrounding villages gather to engage in rich cultural activities such as dancing, singing, and tug-of-war competitions.
Terres d’Hérault Geopark, France
Located in southeastern France, Terres d’Hérault Geopark offers visitors stunning rock formations and deep gorges, reflecting 540 million years of geological history. The park is named after the Hérault River that flows through the area, featuring significant geological sites like the Coumiac marble quarry and Salagou Lake, known for its striking red earth against the blue waters.
This region not only preserves its original Occitan heritage but also maintains unique cultural traditions, from language to dances and songs during the annual Félibrée festival. With a population of 100,000 across 112 municipalities, it is an ideal destination for culture enthusiasts.
Nisyros Geopark, Greece
Surrounded by the Dodecanese Islands, the Greek island of Nisyros is a geological treasure boasting majestic volcanoes and a rich ecosystem. It serves as an outdoor museum where visitors can explore hydrothermal craters and numerous endemic species such as Eleonora's falcon, the wren, and various reptiles.
Nisyros not only harbors a rich cultural heritage but also engages in significant conservation programs at schools and research facilities to preserve traditional festivals and unique local cuisines like pithia, boukounies, and kapama.
Useful Information for Vietnamese Travelers
Vietnam also boasts unique geological sites worth showcasing to both domestic and international travelers. If you love exploring natural beauty and culture, Vietnam's Global Geoparks, such as the Dong Van Karst Plateau Geopark (Ha Giang) or Dak Nong Global Geopark, are excellent choices. To reach these destinations, you can fly from either Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City, with domestic flight prices ranging from 1-2 million VND. Additionally, make sure to prepare your visa information if you plan to travel abroad to visit these geoparks.
Participating in geological tours at sites like the Dong Van Karst Plateau will help you avoid potential risks while gaining valuable knowledge about the ecosystems and cultures of the regions. Don’t forget to provide health and safety information when engaging in outdoor activities!
Article reference and edited from: Wanderlust Magazine
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