Recognized for its geological significance, global UNESCO Geoparks preserves natural landscapes that tell the history of the planet.
They attract adventurers and environment enthusiasts to their geoparks, which are located in over 40 different countries.
For a easy trip, it is necessary to understand the destination’s visa requirements.
Visa Requirements for Traveling to UNESCO Geoparks
- Do You Need a Visa to Visit UNESCO Geoparks?
A visa may be required for entry into a UNESCO Geopark, depending on your nationality and the country in which the geopark is situated.
Since every country has different visa requirements, it is critical to research ahead of time.
For such case, visitors from neighboring European Union countries frequently have visa-free entry to geoparks throughout Europe. In the interim, non-EU nationals might require a Schengen visa.
Famous geoparks in Asia, including those in China and Vietnam, need visas for visitors from a wide range of countries.
On the other hand, several geoparks in countries like Brazil or Iceland allow entry without a visa for specific nationalities, which promotes travel.
Before making travel plans, it is important to confirm the exact visa requirements for the country hosting the geopark.
List of UNESCO Global Geoparks and Regional Networks – CLICK HERE
Types of Visas Required for UNESCO Geopark Visits
1. Tourist Visa
- The most popular visa for geopark visits is this one. Tourist visas are available for entry for 30 to 90 days in many countries.
- For example, a traditional tourist visa or, for those who qualify, an electronic travel authorization (eTA) is needed to enter a geopark in Canada.
2. E-Visa
- The use of electronic visas, which let you apply online and without going to an embassy, is growing in popularity.
- E-visas are available in nations like Turkey and India, which enables travel to their geoparks.
3. Visa on Arrival
- Visas for visitors from specific countries are available upon arrival in select geopark host nations, like Laos and Indonesia.
- When you arrive in the country, you can pick up this visa at the border crossing or airport.
4. Special Permits
- Some geoparks may need special permits in addition to a conventional visa, especially if they are located in remote or environmentally sensitive areas.
- These licenses could control the quantity of tourists or provide access to places that are protected, such glaciers or volcanoes.
Read: Which Countries Offer the Best Travel Visas for Adventurers?
How to Apply for a Visa to Visit a UNESCO Geopark?
Preparing the necessary paperwork is part of applying for a visa.
A valid passport, a visa application form, passport-sized pictures, and documentation of your trip (such as airline tickets) are usually required.
The precise documentation needed varies for each country, yet to minimize delays, applications must be submitted as soon as possible.
You can apply at the embassy or consulate for the majority of countries.
You can apply online through the official government website if the country grants e-visas.
The duration of processing varies according to the country and type of visa, ranging from a few days to several weeks.
Geoparks in Remote or Protected Areas
Some UNESCO Geoparks require specific permits in addition to a visa since they are situated in isolated or environmentally vulnerable areas.
In fact, Zhangjiajie, one of China’s geoparks, is situated in a protected region where permits are required for some activities like trekking and photography.
Similarly, permits may be required for tours of mountains or trips to volcanic areas if you are visiting Iceland’s Vatnajökull Geopark.
Check any additional access restrictions that could apply to the particular geopark before you go. These licenses are frequently available locally or through reputable tour operators.
Bottom Line
Visits to UNESCO Geoparks are great experiences, but in order to prevent delays in your travel plans, you must be aware of the visa requirements.
