With over 1,000 UNESCO World Heritage Sites designated for their cultural, natural and historical significance to humanity, it can be difficult to decide which sites are must-see. From amazing natural wonders to famed archeological sites to awe-inspiring architecture, here are the top 10 UNESCO World Heritage Sites that should be on everyone’s bucket list.
#1 Machu Picchu
Perched high atop the Peruvian Andes Mountains, Machu Picchu is undeniably one of the best UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The well-preserved archeological site was once a citadel of the Inca Empire, occupied in the 15th and 16th centuries. What makes Machu Picchu so remarkable is, well everything: at 8,000 feet above sea level amidst lush tropical mountain forest, stone buildings constructed without mortar overlook the Andes, while terraced steps descend from the cliffs into the lush valley below.
#2 The Great Pyramid of Giza
The Great Pyramid of Giza is an absolute must when listing the top 10 UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The entire Giza complex consists of several ancient temples and pyramids, the most significant being the Great Pyramid of Giza. The oldest and only surviving structure of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, the Great Pyramid of Giza is still the largest pyramid in the world and one of the most spectacular monuments in the history of humankind.
#3 The Galapagos Islands
The first designated UNESCO World Heritage Site was the Galapagos Islands, and for good reason. Located over 600 miles off the coast of Ecuador, the remote islands feature some of the most outstanding and diverse wildlife anywhere in the world. The unspoiled natural beauty of the Galapagos Islands make this destination one of the top 10 UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
#4 Angkor Wat
Deep in the jungles of Cambodia lies one of the best UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Angkor Wat was built in the 12th century as a dedication to the Hindu god Vishnu. The world’s largest religious monument, Angkor Wat covers almost 100,000 acres of land, with intricate architecture intertwined with the trees of the Cambodian jungle.
#5 Mesa Verde
Located in Colorado, Mesa Verde was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its outstanding cultural significance to humanity. Mesa Verde consists of 5,000 ancient Pueblo archeological sites built from AD 600 to 1300, including farming terraces, rock art, and shrines. The highlight is the impressive cliff dwellings in the canyon walls, which are accessible by guided tour.
#6 Chichen Itza
Tucked in the jungle of Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula, the ancient Mayan city of Chichen Itza is one of the top 10 UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Occupied between the 7th-13th centuries, Chichen Itza represents the height of Mayan architecture in tune with science and astronomy. The massive pyramid El Castillo, also known as the Temple of Kukulkán, was built with 365 steps, one for each day in the Mayan calendar.
#7 Budapest
Divided by the Danube River, the city of Budapest, Hungary is one of the top 10 UNESCO World Heritage Sites due to its stunning architecture found along the famous Banks of the Danube. Highlights include the Gothic-style Buda Castle and Andrássy Avenue.
#8 Giant’s Causeway
Located off Northern Ireland’s Antrim Coast, the Giant’s Causeway is a massive formation of over 40,000 interlocking basalt columns, with rugged cliffs overlooking the sea. The result of ancient volcanic activity, the Giant’s Causeway is one of the top 10 UNESCO Heritage Sites.
#9 Thingvellir National Park
Located in Iceland, Thingvellir National Park is one of the best UNESCO World Heritage Sites for its unique geology and striking natural beauty. Situated in a rift valley between the North American and Eurasion tectonic plates, Thingvellir National Park is the only place in the world where can you see the edges of both tectonic plates and walk or scuba dive between two continents.
#10 Glacier Bay
Consisting of over 3 million acres of glaciers, deep fjords, and mountainous rain forests, Alaska’s Glacier Bay is a national park and one of the most treasured UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Glacier Bay offers some of the most amazing sightseeing and an abundance of wildlife viewing, including humpback whales, sea lions, and puffins.
