7 World Heritage Sites You Must Visit Before They Disappear

7 World Heritage Sites You Must Visit Before They Disappear

Galápagos photo by Pedro Szekely

Rainforests of the Atsinanana photo by Frank Vassen

Machu Picchu (Peru)
Machu Picchu photo by Pedro Szekely

Are you worried that some of the world’s most treasured sites might disappear forever? With environmental changes and human activity threatening these irreplaceable landmarks, many are at risk of being lost. But you don’t have to feel powerless.

As a traveler, you can help preserve these wonders for future generations. In this article, we’ll highlight seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites that need your attention and support, including:

  • Great Barrier Reef, Australia
  • Venice, Italy
  • Galápagos Islands, Ecuador

By visiting these sites, you’ll not only enrich your travel experience but also contribute to their protection. Let’s explore how you can make a difference!

1. Great Barrier Reef, Australia

Barrier Reef photo by Sarah_Ackerman

The Great Barrier Reef is the world’s largest coral reef, home to many marine species. It faces threats from climate change, pollution, and overfishing. Efforts are underway to protect it, but it’s important to visit soon before it changes or disappears.

This video is made by BBC Select

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2. Venice and Its Lagoon, Italy

Venice and Its Lagoon photo by Peter K Burian

Venice is a UNESCO site known for its canals, unique buildings, and art. It has 118 islands and is famous for its history and glass-making. As an ancient city, rising sea levels and flooding threaten the city. Visitors should help preserve it through responsible tourism.

This video is made by Rick Steves’ Europe

3. Galápagos Islands, Ecuador

Galápagos Islands photo by Diego Delso  

The Galápagos Islands are known for their unique wildlife and landscapes. Located off Ecuador, many species are found only here. They became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1978 and are protected through conservation efforts. The islands remain an important place for nature and research, particularly for threatened species.

This video is made by Exotic Vacation

4. Palmyra, Syria

Palmyra photo by Bernard Gagnon

Palmyra is an ancient site in Syria, known for its ruins and history. It was a major trading city from the 1st to the 3rd century AD. The site has key attractions like the Temple of Bel and Roman Theatre. Despite damage from war, efforts to restore it continue. Palmyra is important for understanding ancient trade and culture.

This video is made by BBC News

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5. Rainforests of the Atsinanana, Madagascar

Masoala National Park photo by Frank Vassen

The Rainforests of the Atsinanana in Madagascar is a UNESCO site with rare wildlife, including over 100 lemur species. It faces threats from deforestation and global warming. Visitors can explore national parks like Marojejy and Masoala while supporting conservation efforts, all within an area of exceptional natural beauty and home to many endemic species.

This video is made by World Wonders

6. Angkor Wat, Cambodia

Angkor Wat photo by Jakub Hałun

Angkor Wat in Cambodia is a UNESCO site with grand temples and rich history. Built in the 12th century, it was first Hindu, then Buddhist. Its five towers symbolize Mount Meru. Threatened by tourism and global warming, it remains a proud symbol of Cambodia.

This video is made by World Wild Hearts

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7. Machu Picchu, Peru

6 Ancient Ruins Hiding in Plain Sight
Machu Picchu photo by
Christian Morales Callo

Machu Picchu in Peru is a UNESCO site high in the Andes. Built by the Incas, it was hidden until 1911. Its stonework and terraces show great skill. Temples reveal its spiritual importance. Tourism and climate change threaten it, but protection efforts continue.

This video is made by Backpack Gringo

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7 World Heritage Sites You Must Visit Before They Disappear: A Recap

Angkor Wat photo by Charles J Sharp

Many UNESCO sites are in danger from from global warming, war, and tourism. Visiting them helps raise awareness and supports conservation. These places hold history, culture, and nature that must be protected.

Traveling responsibly can help keep them for future generations.

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