8 Most Unusual Natural UNESCO World Heritage Sites Around The World

The UNESCO World Heritage list includes some of the most remarkable natural wonders on Earth, but a few stand out for their sheer uniqueness, mystery, and surreal beauty. These are not your typical scenic mountains or vast rainforests—instead, they’re extraordinary landscapes shaped by time, nature, and geological magic. Here are 8 of the most unusual natural UNESCO World Heritage Sites you must see to believe.

UNESCO Status: Inscribed in 2010

Why it’s unusual: Often called the “Rainbow Mountains,” the Danxia Landform in China features vividly colored sandstone cliffs, peaks, and natural bridges. The striking red, yellow, and orange hues are created by millions of years of erosion and mineral deposits.

Fun Fact: The area looks like a painted landscape—no filters needed!

UNESCO Status: Inscribed in 2008

Why it’s unusual: Often described as the “most alien place on Earth,” Socotra is home to bizarre-looking plants like the Dragon’s Blood Tree and Bottle Tree, which exist nowhere else on the planet.

Fun Fact: About one-third of Socotra’s plant life is endemic—found only here!

UNESCO Status: Inscribed in 1985

Why it’s unusual: Famous for its "fairy chimneys," these strange rock formations were shaped by volcanic eruptions and erosion. Early Christians carved homes, churches, and entire underground cities into the soft rock.

Fun Fact: You can stay in a cave hotel and watch hot air balloons rise over the landscape at sunrise.

UNESCO Status: Inscribed in 1992

Why it’s unusual: With over 3,000 vertical sandstone pillars, Wulingyuan looks like a scene from a fantasy movie. In fact, it inspired the floating mountains in James Cameron’s Avatar.

Fun Fact: These massive pillars often rise through clouds, creating an otherworldly view.

UNESCO Status: Inscribed in 1979

Why it’s unusual: This park features a chain of 16 crystal-clear lakes connected by cascading waterfalls, all surrounded by lush forest. The lakes constantly change color due to mineral content and sunlight.

Fun Fact: Wooden walkways let you walk directly over the turquoise waters.

UNESCO Status: Inscribed in 2003

Why it’s unusual: The Bungle Bungles are giant, beehive-shaped rock formations with orange and black stripes. They were virtually unknown to the outside world until the 1980s.

Fun Fact: The rock domes are made of sandstone and conglomerates, shaped by wind and water erosion.

UNESCO Status: Inscribed in 2007

Why it’s unusual: Jeju Island is a volcanic wonderland with stunning lava tubes, craters, and the tallest mountain in South Korea. The lava tubes are some of the largest and best-preserved in the world.

Fun Fact: Manjanggul Lava Tube extends over 13 kilometers but only 1 km is open to the public.

UNESCO Status: Inscribed in 1996

Why it’s unusual: The world’s oldest and deepest freshwater lake, Lake Baikal holds about 20% of the planet’s unfrozen fresh water. It’s also home to unique species like the freshwater Baikal seal.

Fun Fact: In winter, its crystal-clear ice forms incredible patterns and bubbles you can walk across.

From rainbow-coloured mountains to alien-like islands and ancient volcanic landscapes, these unusual natural UNESCO sites remind us just how wild and diverse our planet can be. Whether you’re a nature lover, photographer, or adventurer, these places are truly bucket-list worthy.