Let Explore Show You Why These Sites Earned World Heritage Status in 2019

July 2019 saw 29 new inscriptions into the UNESCO World Heritage list which features over 1,000 sites around the globe. With new and existing World Heritage sites included on many of their itineraries, Explore invites guests to discover natural and cultural treasures on their worldwide small group tours. Here are just some of the newest additions to UNESCO’s collection which star on Explore journeys.

Vatnajökull National Park, Iceland

Covering almost 14% of Iceland’s territory, this National Park in the southeast typifies the Land of Fire and Ice. Eight of its ten central volcanoes are subglacial and it boasts two of the most active in all of Iceland. The interaction between the rifts underlying the Vatnajökull ice cap and the volcanoes are diverse and fascinating, and the landforms borne from the incredible natural makeup of this region are spectacular.

Visit on Explore’s Iceland Winter Adventure

Jaipur City, India

Although it has been on many people’s radar for years, Jaipur City has only just made its way onto the World Heritage list. Recognised in part for its urban planning which represents a blend of ancient Hindu, modern Mughal, and Western cultures, it boasts large public squares and uniform facades that frame the charming cacophony of the city. With its new title, Jaipur will continue to be a major drawcard of Rajasthan for travellers visiting India.

Visit on Explore’s Highlights of Northern India

Plain of Jars, Laos

Dating back to the Iron Age, this site is one for the history buffs. True to its name, it is the resting place of over 2,100 stone jars which were part of the funeral practices in 500 BCE to 500 CE. Travel back in time and delve into the history of a little known civilisation whose carved relics are a testament to their ancient social practices.

Visit on Explore’s Spirit of Laos

Bagan, Myanmar

Already a favourite in South East Asia, Bagan is a sacred landscape home to a spectacular collection of temples, stupas, monasteries and further treasures of Buddhist art and architecture. Its rich archaeological relics are a long-standing representation of the peak of Bagan civilisation and can be found side by side with modern communities and urban areas, making it a fascinating multi-faceted landscape.

Visit on Explore’s Burma Highlights

Prosecco Region, Italy

Officially Le Colline del Prosecco di Conegliano e Valdobbiadene, this landscape is home to part of the Prosecco wine production area. It is characterised by scenic views and a patchwork of vineyards, forests, small villages and agricultural land. The practices used by local farmers has contributed to the aesthetics of the countryside where vines and forested areas contrast and complement each other with delightful charm.

Visit on Explore’s Walking Lake Garda & the Prosecco Hills