The list of UNESCO World Heritage sites is growing every year which it should, as these precious areas around the world demand to be protected. But what exactly is a UNESCO World Heritage site and why do they matter? In this piece, we will discuss exactly that before jumping into some of our favorite natural UNESCO sites around the world, spanning all seven continents.
What is UNESCO and why is it important?
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UNESCO stands for the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization. It is a subset of the United Nations, a specialized agency with a profound mission—to build a world of peace through international cooperation in the realms of education, science, and culture.
What makes the World Heritage Trust so fundamental is its commitment to identifying, preserving, and promoting sites of outstanding cultural or natural importance around the globe, known as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
These sites are the crown jewels of our shared human legacy, representing the diversity and beauty of our planet. They can also safeguard critical and endangered species, such as the mountain gorilla in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest (pictured).
By recognizing and safeguarding these treasures, the UNESCO World Heritage Convention fosters a sense of global responsibility, reminding us that the cultural and natural heritage of all nations is intertwined.
However, once a site is granted UNESCO World Heritage list status by the world heritage committee, it doesn't mean it will last. One such recent example is the Arabian Oryx Sanctuary, which had its world heritage properties revoked after an international campaign because Oman reduced the protected area by 90%. Therefore, being designated UNESCO status means upholding its values.
Natural heritage sites
These are nature reserves, natural sites, or even entire islands that have been deemed protected areas of outstanding value under World Heritage conservation. These phenomenal natural heritage places are what we are focusing on.
Cultural sites (Man-made)
Also known as historic sites, these cultural sites could include ancient temples, ruins, or even the entire old town center of a historic city, often still with a local population. You can read all about them in our sister post, Top 20 Must-see UNESCO World Heritage sites.
10 outstanding examples of natural UNESCO World Heritage sites
1. Galapagos Islands - Ecuador
Made famous by Charles Darwin when the Galapagos Islands inspired his groundbreaking theory on evolution, the archipelago nestled in the Pacific Ocean is a sanctuary for unparalleled biodiversity, with species found nowhere else on Earth. The unique geological formations, from volcanic craters to pristine beaches and underwater wonderlands, along with an impressive array of wildlife (around 2,900 species of animals documented) earned the entire archipelago UNESCO World Heritage status in 1978.
One of several natural UNESCO sites in Latin America, the Galapagos Islands belong to Ecuador and was a popular request for our own ultimate world cruise itinerary.
How to get there: Direct flights from Quito (a UNESCO city), Ecuador
2. Victoria Falls National Park - Victoria Falls, Zambia and Zimbabwe
Victoria Falls National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1989, stands as a majestic testament to the raw power and beauty of nature. The park encompasses the awe-inspiring Victoria Falls, one of the most remarkable waterfalls on Earth, straddling the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe. The sheer scale and thunderous roar of the falls create an unforgettable spectacle.
The park's diverse ecosystem, coupled with its cultural heritage significance to the indigenous people, underscores the importance of responsible exploration. While there, you can also partake in a range of adrenalin-inducing activities including bungee jumping and watersports.
How to get there: Fly into Victoria Falls International Airport (VFA). Popular areas to stay are Victoria Falls on the Zimbabwe side, and Livingstone on the Zambia side.
3. Lord Howe Island - New South Wales, Australia
Lord Howe Island is perhaps a lesser-known world heritage site on this list. It is a relatively unknown gem of an island off the eastern coast of Australia. Lord Howe is an isolated oceanic island spawned from an ancient volcano 2,000 meters under the sea. Like the Galapagos, its isolation has enabled several endemic species of plants and animals to evolve, giving it outstanding universal value. It also lays claim to the world's southerly coral reef, further south than its other famous UNESCO Great Barrier Reef (which we excluded due to being at risk of losing its UNESCO status unless the Australian Government puts in place urgent safeguarding measures).
Conversely, Lord Howe Island's population and tourism numbers are strictly controlled. The island is capped to host around 400 tourists at any time. And as for moving there, even mainlanders can only gain residency through marriage. Moreover, there are no cars on the island with everyone getting around by bike or on foot, making it one of the best places to visit in Australia.
How to get there: Fly to either Sydney or Brisbane international airports. Direct flights to Lord Howe Island. Book well in advance as both flights and island accommodations are limited and extremely popular.
4. Sichuan Giant Panda Sanctuaries - Sichuan Province, China
Sichuan Giant Panda Sanctuaries, designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2006, reflects China's commitment to preserving its iconic and endangered giant panda population. Nestled in the lush mountains of Sichuan Province, this sanctuary provides a haven for these beloved creatures to thrive in their natural habitat. The diverse ecosystems within the sanctuary not only support pandas but also a rich tapestry of flora and fauna.
How to get there: Fly to Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport. From there, you can arrange tours to the giant panda sanctuaries.
5. Yellowstone National Park - Yellowstone, USA
Designated UNESCO status in 1978, Yellowstone also holds the distinction of being the first national park in the world, kickstarting nature reserves being protected around the world for future generations. The massive park, spanning across Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho, is renowned for its geothermal wonders, diverse wildlife, and stunning landscapes. Yellowstone's inclusion in the UNESCO list recognizes its exceptional natural features and the importance of preserving this unique ecosystem.
Famously, Yellowstone also hosts a sleeping giant beneath the reserve - one of roughly 20 of the world's supervolcanoes. It has not risen from slumber for around 70,000 years, but when it does... well, hopefully we won't be around for that!
How to get there: Fly into Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport. Rent a car from the airport or arrange tour in advance.
6. Komodo National Park - Lesser Sundra Islands, Indonesia
Recognized for its extraordinary biodiversity both above and below the water's surface, Komodo National Park, located in Indonesia, is home to the iconic Komodo dragon—the world's largest lizard. Designated in 1991, the park's inclusion in the UNESCO list underscores its significance for conservation and the protection of unique and endangered species. As a result, the Indonesian Government announced in 2023 strict entry rules and a steep increase in the fees to visit Komodo Island. But it would make for a pretty awesome bucket-list experience if you can get there.
How to get there: A bit more tricky - fly to Bali where you can either fly or ferry to Labuan Bajo and then a ferry to Komodo Island.
7. Plitvice Lakes National Park - Central Croatia
Designated in 1979, this stunning national park in Croatia is renowned for its cascading lakes, waterfalls, and lush greenery. The park's unique combination of natural features and diverse ecosystems make it a worthy addition to the UNESCO list. Admiringly, the Croatian Government has built raised boardwalks through the lakes allowing visitors to admire this heaven on earth without leaving a footprint (as seen in the photo above).
How to get there: Fly to Zagreb where you can either rent a car, private transfer or direct bus connection.
8. Le Morne Brabant Peninsula - Mount Le Morne, Mauritius
While the Le Morne Brabant Peninsula is an exquisite slice of nature in itself (shown clearly in the picture), it is its fascinating history, and cultural, and natural heritage that make it truly unique. Throughout the 18th and early 19th Centuries, La Morne Mountain became a safe haven for escaped slaves. Known as Maroons, the runaway slaves built tiny settlements within the mountain caves and on the summit, protected by the almost inaccessible cliffs. As a result, Le Morne Cultural Landscape became a symbol of slaves' fight for freedom and was thus granted outstanding universal value and UNESCO cultural heritage in 2008.
How to get there: Fly to Port Louis, Mauritius. From there take the light rail Quatre Bornes Central then rent a car or taxi to Le Morne.
9. Pantanal Conservation Area - Central Western Brazil
The Pantanal, recognized as the world's largest tropical wetland, earned its well-deserved UNESCO World Heritage status in 2000, marking it as a global treasure of unparalleled ecological significance. This sprawling expanse, nestled in the heart of Brazil, but also stretching as far as Bolivia and Paraguay, captivates with its rich biodiversity and unique ecosystems. The abundance of wildlife is spectacular, including rare and endangered species such as the Hyacinth Macaw, Jaguar, Capybara, Maned Wolf, and the Jabiru Stork.
How to get there: Fly to Cuiabá in Brazil. You should pre-book a tour operator or lodge who will pick you up from the airport.
10. Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve - Seychelles
The Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1983, is like a mythical paradise in the heart of the Seychelles. Nestled on Praslin Island, this primeval forest is a living testament to the unique and ancient ecosystems that once covered the continents, as it has remained unchanged since prehistoric times. Home to the iconic Coco de Mer palm, with its sensuous double coconut, and a myriad of other rare plant and animal species, the reserve is a sanctuary of biodiversity.
How to get there: Fly to Mahe. From there, you have only two options - Domestic flight to Praslin. Or speed ferry to Praslin.
There are your top ten of the world's superb natural heritage sites. Have we missed any you deemed worthy of making the list? Feel free to let us know in the comments below.
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