South America. Objects of the World natural heritage. unesco sites in south america

SOUTH AMERICA. UNESCO World Heritage

UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE SITES

Natural heritage sites

Objects of natural and cultural heritage

Cultural heritage sites

ARGENTINA

1 The ancient path of Quebrada de Humahuaca.

"Road of the Inca".

2 Buildings and farms of the Jesuits in Cordoba and the surrounding area. Buildings typical of the Jesuits: university, church, residence of the "Society of Jesus", college.

3 Cueva de las Manos cave. Ancient rock paintings found over

10 thousand years.

4 Los Glaciares National Park. The largest glaciers in the Southern Hemisphere (except Antarctica) with many glacial lakes.

5 Spiritual and political center Indian culture Tiwanaku is the capital of the ancient pre-Hispanic empire, which reached its peak in the period from 500 to 900 BC.

6 Archaeological site of Fuerte de Samay Pata. Religious buildings of the Incas with rock carvings. A reminder of pre-Hispanic traditions and beliefs unparalleled

in America.

7 The historic city of Sucre. The first capital of Bolivia with a characteristic mixture local traditions and European styles in architecture.

8 The mining town of Potosi. The world's largest industrial complex of the XVI century.

BRAZIL

9 Fernando de Noronha Island and Rocas Atoll.

Habitat and breeding grounds for tuna, sharks, sea ​​turtles And marine mammals. The largest concentration of seabirds in the Western Atlantic.

10 Historic center of Olinda. Urban development of the 18th century: buildings, gardens, 20 churches, monasteries, many chapels.

11 Historic center of Salvador. ancient capital Brazil with a mixture of European, African and American cultures. The first slave market in the New World.

12 Pantanal Protected Area. One of the largest wetlands in the world

with an abundance of plants and animals.

13 The historic center of Goiás. An example of the organic development of a mining settlement

using local materials and traditional building techniques.

14 City of Brasilia layout resembles a flying bird. During construction, every element of the city was in harmony with the overall design intent.

15 "Coast of discovery". Forest reserves of the eastern Atlantic coast, one of the richest areas on the planet in terms of biodiversity. It is the habitat of a number of endemic species.

16 Historic center of Diamantina. The capital of the "diamond rush" in South America (XVIII century). A symbol of the triumph of human cultural and artistic activity in adverse natural conditions.

17 The historic city of Ouro Preto. In the XVIII century. Brazil's gold mining center. Many churches, bridges and fountains are evidence of past prosperity.

18 church complex Bon Jesus do Congonhas.

18th century complex consists of a church and seven chapels.

19 Forest reserves of the southeast Atlantic coast. The 25 forest reserves illustrate the evolution of the surviving virgin forests.

VENEZUELA

20 The city of Coro and its port is one of the first colonial cities and the only surviving example of the fusion of local traditions with Spanish and Dutch architectural techniques.

21 Canaima National Park. 65% of the park's territory is occupied by table-shaped mountains, which are interesting both from a geological and biological point of view. Here is the highest waterfall in the world - Angel.

COLOMBIA

22 Port, fortifications and monuments of Cartagena, the ancient capital of the Spanish colonizers.

23 Los Katios National Park. Untouched swampy equatorial forests are home to many rare animals.

24 Tierradentro National Archaeological Park. Ancient burial structures (Vl-Xvv.).

PARAGUAY

25 Jesuit Missions of La Santisima.

26 Rio Abiseo National Park. Many endemic flora and fauna rainforest. 36 archaeological sites - evidence of pre-Inca civilization.

27 Chan Chan Archaeological Zone. The capital of the ancient state of Chimu is the largest city in pre-Columbian America.

28 Huascaran National Park. One of the highest peaks in the tropical zone. deep gorges with mountain rivers, glacial lakes and varied vegetation.

29 Lima Historic Center (founded in 1535).

"City of Kings" until the middle of the XVIII century. was the capital and the most important city Spanish possessions in South America.

30 Manu National Park. Altitudinal zonality of subequatorial forests with record-breaking species diversity of plants and animals.

31 Machu Picchu Historical Zone. Machu Picchu is located at an altitude of 2430m above sea level,

surrounded by tropical vegetation. Built during the heyday of the Inca state.

32 City of Cusco. The ancient capital of the Incas, plundered by the Spaniards.

33 Historic quarter of the city of Colonia del Sacramento. Mixing Portuguese, Spanish

and post-colonial styles.

34 City of Quito. Monasteries, church and Jesuit college, combining Spanish, Italian, Moorish, Flemish and local art.

35 Sangay National Park. Includes a whole range of natural systems: from foothill rainforests to snow-capped peaks

and glaciers.

36 Historic center of Cuenca. The city of Cuenca was built in 1557. The architecture of the city is mainly from the 18th century, but was updated during the economic prosperity of the 19th century.

37 Galapagos Archipelago National Park. Living Museum of Evolution.

The UNESCO list in the United States includes the main natural and cultural attractions of the country. Of course, the Statue of Liberty is known all over the world. It stands on an island in Manhattan Bay and has long become a symbol of the country. The monument was donated to the United States by France in the 19th century. It was created by sculptors Bartholdi and Eiffel. The latter was responsible for the frame of the statue. At the same time, it is alleged that the copper from which it was made was purchased in Russian Empire. She was taken out of the territory of modern Bashkortostan. Overall Height the monument together with the pedestal is ninety-three meters. In addition to its aesthetic value, the statue bears practical benefit and serves as a beacon for ships sailing to the port.

UNESCO natural sites in the United States are represented primarily by the Grand Canyon. This is a unique place on earth. The canyon is located in Arizona and is an integral symbol of North America. For geologists, it is of great scientific value, since the geological layers here allow us to understand how our planet was formed in the last two billion years. On the territory of the canyon, traces of the habitation of ancient people were also found. Another important aspect is the incredible beauty of the local scenery. Together, all these factors give a unique wonder of the world, which is included in the World Heritage.

Another natural attraction of the country, protected by UNESCO in the United States, is the Yellowstone National Park. On its territory there are amazing lakes, rivers and waterfalls. And Yellowstone Lake is recognized as one of the largest alpine reservoirs in the world. The famous Yellowstone geysers are also located here. The largest of them Excelsior splashes hot water to a height of over 100 meters. The park has unique forests that have been preserved in their original form. They are inhabited by bison and grizzly bears.

The natural attractions of the United States include such national parks as Olympic and Mesa Verde.

Introduction

Criteria and conditions for the inclusion of natural sites in the World Heritage List

1 Conditions

2 Natural criteria

South America. World natural heritage sites

1 Argentina

2 Los Glaciares National Park

3 Iguazu National Park

4 Valdes Peninsula

5 Ischigualasto and Talampaya Natural Parks

Bolivia

1 Noel-Kempff-Mercado National Park

Brazil

1 Iguazu National Park

2 Serra da Capivara National Park

3 Eastern Atlantic Forest Reserves

4 Southeast Atlantic Forest Reserves

5 The complex of reserves of the Central Amazon

6 Pantanal Protected Area

7 Brazilian Islands in the Atlantic: Fernando de Noronha and Rocas Atoll

8 Campos Cerrado National Parks: Chapada dos Veadeiros and Emas

Venezuela

1 Canaima National Park

Colombia

1 Los Katios National Park

2 Malpelo Island

1 historical reserve Machu Picchu

2 Huascaran National Park

3 Manu National Park

4 Rio Abiseo National Park

Suriname

1 Central Suriname Conservation Area

Ecuador

1 Galapagos Islands

2 Sangay National Park

Conclusion

References and Internet resources

Introduction

UNESCO World Heritage - natural or man-made objects, the priority tasks in relation to which, according to UNESCO, are their preservation and promotion due to their special cultural, historical or environmental significance.

In 1972, UNESCO adopted the Convention Concerning the Protection of the World Cultural and Natural Heritage (entered into force in 1975). By September 2012, the convention had been ratified by 190 participating countries.

Each year, the World Heritage Committee holds sessions at which "World Heritage site status" is awarded.

As of 2013, there are 981 properties on the World Heritage List, of which 759 are cultural, 193 are natural and 29 are mixed.

There are 67 UNESCO World Heritage Sites in South America.

1. Criteria and conditions for the inclusion of natural objects in the World Heritage List

.1 Conditions

As defined in Article 2 of the World Heritage Convention, natural heritage includes the following properties:

) natural monuments created by physical and biological formations or groups of such formations, which are of outstanding universal value in terms of aesthetics or science;

) geological and physiographic formations and severely restricted areas representing the range of endangered animal and plant species of outstanding universal scientific or conservation value;

) natural places of interest or severely restricted natural areas of outstanding universal value for scientific, conservation or natural beauty.

Outstanding World Value means cultural and/or natural significance that is so exceptional as to be beyond national boundaries and is of universal value for present and future generations of all mankind. Therefore, the continued protection of this heritage is of paramount importance to the international community as a whole. A natural heritage property that meets one of the above definitions and is nominated for inscription on the World Heritage List is considered to be an Outstanding World Heritage Site for the purposes of the Convention if the Committee is able to verify that the property satisfies one or more of the criteria as well as integrity conditions.

1.2 Natural criteria

The main purpose of the World Heritage List is to make known and protect properties that are unique in their own way. For this, and because of the desire for objectivity, evaluation criteria were drawn up. Initially (since 1978) there were only criteria for cultural heritage objects - this list consisted of six items. Then, to restore some kind of balance between the various continents, natural objects appeared and for them a list of four points. And finally, in 2005, all these criteria were brought together, and now every World Heritage site has at least one of them in its description. - include the greatest natural phenomena or places of exceptional natural beauty and aesthetic value; - present an outstanding example , reflecting the main stages of the history of the Earth, including traces of ancient life, ongoing geological processes of the development of the forms of the earth's surface, which have importance, or significant geomorphological and physiographic phenomena; - present an outstanding example of important and ongoing ecological and biological processes of evolution and development of terrestrial, river and lake, coastal and marine ecosystems and communities of plants and animals; - include natural areas, the most important and significant in terms of conservation of biological diversity, including the habitats of endangered species of outstanding global value in terms of science and nature conservation.

2. South America. World natural heritage sites

South America is the southern continent in America, located mainly in the Western and Southern hemispheres of planet Earth, however, part of the continent is also located in the Northern Hemisphere. It is washed in the west by the Pacific Ocean, in the east by the Atlantic, from the north it is limited by North America, the border between the Americas runs along the Isthmus of Panama and the Caribbean Sea.

.1 Argentina

unesco monument landmark area

The list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Argentina includes 8 items (for 2011), 4 sites are included according to natural criteria. Los Glaciares and Iguazu recognized natural phenomena or spaces of exceptional natural beauty and aesthetic importance. Among them:

· Los Glaciares National Park (1981)

· Iguazu National Park (1984)

· Peninsula Valdes (1999)

· Ischigualasto and Talampaya Natural Parks (2000)

In addition, as of 2010, 8 objects on the territory of the state are among the candidates for inclusion in the World Heritage List, including 5 - cultural, 1 - natural and 2 - mixed criteria.

Argentina ratified the Convention for the Protection of the World Cultural and Natural Heritage on August 23, 1978. The first site in Argentina was listed in 1981 at the 5th session of the UNESCO World Heritage Committee.

2.2 Los Glaciares National Park

Los Glaciares National Park (Spanish: Parque Nacional Los Glaciares, glaciers) is a national park located in Patagonia (South America), in the Argentine province of Santa Cruz. The area of ​​the park is 4459 km ². In 1981 it was included in the World Heritage List.

Founded in 1937, Los Glaciares is the second largest national park in Argentina. The park owes its name to the huge ice cap in the Andes, which feeds 47 large glaciers, of which only 13 flow to the side. Atlantic Ocean. This ice mass is the largest after the ice of Antarctica and Greenland. In other parts of the world, glaciation begins at least 2,500 m above sea level, but in Los Glaciares Park, due to the size of the ice cap, glaciers begin at 1,500 m and slide down to 200 m, eroding the slopes of the underlying mountains.

The territory of Los Glaciares, which is 30% covered with ice, can be divided into two parts, each of which belongs to its own lake. Argentino Lake, the largest in Argentina (area 1466 km ²) located in the southern part of the park, and Lake Viedma (area 1100 km ²) - in the north. Both lakes feed the Santa Cruz River, which flows to the shores of the Atlantic Ocean. Between these two parts is the Central Zone (Zona Centro), closed to tourists, in which there are no lakes.

The northern half of the park includes part of Lake Viedma, the Viedma Glacier, small glaciers and several mountain peaks popular with climbers and mountain hikers such as Fitzroy and Cerro Torre.

Southern half The park, along with small glaciers, includes the main glaciers flowing into Lake Argentino: Perito Moreno, Uppsala and Spegazzini. A typical boat trip includes a tour of the otherwise inaccessible Uppsala and Spegazzini glaciers. The Perito Moreno Glacier can be reached by land.

Los Glaciares Park is a popular international tourism destination. Tours start in the village of El Calafate, located on Lake Argentino, and in the village of El Chalten, located in the northern part of the park at the foot of Mount Fitz Roy.

Climate . The whole natural appearance of the park and its originality are associated primarily with climatic features region. Nowhere on the globe are there such favorable conditions for the development of modern glaciation in such low sprats, the "Roaring forties" winds of the western direction meet on their way over the oceanic expanses of the World Ocean of the Southern Hemisphere only the only obstacle in the form of the Patagonian Andes. On their western (Chilean) slopes, the winds fall with terrible force and give away almost all the moisture accumulated from the ocean.

Completely different climatic conditions are characteristic of the eastern (Argentinean) slopes and foothills of the Patagonian Andes, where the national park is located. Having lost strength and moisture on western slopes, the air masses of the "roaring forties" on the eastern slopes come "weakened" and almost dried up. Being in the "rain shadow" of the Andes, the territory of the park receives much less precipitation - up to 900 mm on the slopes of the mountains and 500 mm in the east of the park. The average annual precipitation for the entire park is 809 mm, and the average annual temperatures are within +7.5 °С, minimum +3.3 °С, maximum + 12 °С. Here, unlike the eastern slopes of the Patagonian Andes, the sun shines most of the year. Only from April to May the sky is covered with clouds, it rains in the foothills, and snow falls in the mountains. In winter, and this is June-August in the Southern Hemisphere, snowfalls are common. In early spring and in summer, strong hurricane-force winds from the west and south - from Antarctica rush over the territory of the park.

Flora. In addition to snow-capped peaks (which are of undoubted interest to climbers), huge glacial fields and amazingly beautiful lake surfaces in the Los Glaciares National Park, you can also get acquainted with the peculiar flora of Patagonia.

Two types of plant communities are represented in the park - subantarctic Patagonian forests (in the west) and Patagonian steppes, characteristic of the flat-flat part (in the east).

Fauna. The vertebrate fauna of the national park, with the exception of the avifauna, has not yet been studied enough. About 100 species of birds have been recorded here, of which the Andean condor and the long-billed (Darwinian) rhea are the most notable.

Among the birds, the Andean spur (brook) duck, chaffinch are very numerous.

There is a small population of Andean deer. The Andean deer is listed in the International Red Book.

In the park, there are individual individuals of the mountain veskashi from the order of rodents. More often you can meet llamas, guanacos.

Very rich ichthyofauna glacial lakes and small streams. Many tourists come to Los Glaciares National Park specifically for sport fishing. In lakes Viedma and Lago Argentino, two species of salmon fish have been introduced specifically for sport fishing.

.3 Iguazu National Park

Iguazu National Park (Spanish: Parque Nacional Iguaz) ú) - a national park in Argentina, located in the department of Iguazu, in the northern part of the province of Misiones, in the Argentine Mesopotamia.

The park was created in 1934 and partially contains one of the natural monuments of South America - Iguazu Falls, surrounded by subtropical jungle. On the other side of the Iguazu River lies the Brazilian park of the same name (Iguazu National Park). Both parks were declared UNESCO World Heritage Sites (in 1984 and 1986, respectively).

Flora. The flora includes 2 thousand species of plants, in particular: one of the endangered species of aspidosperm trees - Aspidosperma polyneuron (Eng.), rarely found outside the park due to cutting down for edible fruits, one of the species of cabbage palm - Euterpe edulis (Eng. ), phebe, holly, foot-bearing plant, recently the less common zedrel, araucaria, palo-rose. There are trees of the burser family, a lot of vascular plants. Among the flowers there are bromeliads, various types of orchids.

Fauna. The fauna of the park includes 70 species of mammals, 400 species of birds, 40 species of reptiles, several hundred species of butterflies, including endangered species. The most common representatives of the fauna are the following: jaguar, jaguarundi, mazama deer, plains tapir, capybara, water opossum, ocelot, giant anteater, brazilian otter, bush dog, cougar, monkeys (capuchins and howler monkeys), nosoha, Paraguayan caiman, broad-faced caiman, coral asp. Birds such as swifts and large toucans can also be found there. Common for these places, the vine-breasted Amazon, the American swift, the tirika, the Brazilian merganser, the bronze penelope (English) Russian, the South American harpy, the hummingbird. Among the known representatives of bats, the most common type of vampire is the common vampire.

The geography of the falls. The complex is 2.7 km wide and includes approximately 270 individual waterfalls. The height of the water fall reaches 82 meters, but on most waterfalls a little more than 60 meters. The largest waterfall is the "Devil's Throat" - a U-shaped cliff 150 meters wide and 700 meters long. This waterfall marks the border between Brazil and Argentina.

There are three cities in the vicinity of the falls - Foz do Iguacu on the Brazilian side, Puerto Iguacu on the Argentine side, and Ciudad del Este on the Paraguay side.

Most famous titles waterfalls: "Adam and Eve", "Three Musketeers", "Two Sisters", "Salto Escondido" ("hidden jump"), "Salto Floriano" ("flower jump"), "San Martin", "Ramirez" "and a number of others.

Tourism. The Iguazu Falls are one of the most visited tourist destinations in South America. Every year there are 1.5-2 million visitors here. Viewing platforms are specially equipped for tourists. Hiking and car routes are laid in the vicinity of the waterfall. Also, tourists are offered waterproof clothing, as the routes go to the very foot of the waterfalls. In the vicinity of the Iguazu Falls, there is an international airport, dozens of hotels, campsites, access roads, and walking trails have been built. The local population is also employed in this industry, specially equipped areas for them, where they show local dances and songs, while dressing in local costumes.

.4 Valdes Peninsula

Valdes is a peninsula on the Atlantic coast of Argentina. Area - 3625 km ². It is connected to the mainland by the isthmus of Carlos Ameghino. The Bay of San José juts out from the north, and Golfo Nuevo juts out from the south. Most of the peninsula is uninhabited territory. There are several salt lakes, the largest of which lies 40 meters below sea level. This is the lowest point on land for South America.

In 1999, the Valdes Peninsula was included in the UNESCO World Heritage List - primarily for its unique and rich fauna.

Physical and geographical features. The peninsula is located in the northeast of the province of Chubut, and is washed by the waters of the Atlantic Ocean. From the north and south, its coasts are washed by the bays of San José and Nuevo.

The relief of the territory is a typical Patagonian plateau, which breaks off into the sea with sheer shores. The coast is composed of marine sediments, which are subject to constant erosion. Part of the coastline is represented by beaches, among which rocky ones stand out - a favorite place for elephant seals.

The climate on the territory of the peninsula is transitional between the temperate climate of the central part of the country, with a maximum of precipitation in the hot months and a cold climate with winter rains, which is more characteristic of Patagonia. Summers on the peninsula are hot but short, and winters are cold.

Diversity of flora and fauna. The main vegetation of the seashores is algae. They cover the rocky shores with colorful blankets: blue-green, green, brown, red or yellow-green, depending on the pigment in the plant cells.

The Valdes Peninsula in Patagonia is of great importance for the conservation of marine mammals. A population of the endangered Australian right whale subspecies breeds here. The peninsula is known all over the world precisely because of the excellent opportunities for observing these giants. They come ashore in June and stay until December to breed. The southern whale reaches a length of about 14 meters and weighs up to 50 tons. Females bear cubs for a whole year, and at a time give birth to only one offspring.

Southern elephant seals and southern sea lions also breed here, and the killer whales living here use a unique hunting strategy adapted to the conditions of the local coastline.

The peninsula is also home to many species of birds and land animals such as guanaco, fox, American rhea, American (pampas) partridge, and Patagonian hare.

2.5 Ischigualasto and Talampaya Natural Parks

Ischigualasto and Talampaya Natural Parks - Two contiguous parks spread over 275,300 hectares in a desert region on the western border of the Sierra Pampeanas in Central Argentina. Here you can see the most complete paleontological record, starting from the Triassic period (245-208 million years ago). The six geological formations in the parks contain the fossilized remains of numerous mammalian, dinosaurian and plant precursors, showing the evolution of vertebrates and the nature of the paleographic setting during the Triassic period. Included in the UNESCO List in 2000

Flora and fauna of Ischigualasto. The flora and fauna of Ischigualasto is unique. All inhabitants demonstrate amazing adaptability to the desert arid climate. Some of the most common types of animals that travelers can not only see but also feed are Argentine gray foxes, viscachas and rabbits. While traveling through the park, guests also come across peculiar animals - maras, which are also called Patagonian hares, although they have nothing to do with hares.

Of the predators that live in Ischigualasto, one of the most common are the "damage" skunks, since these animals, which defend themselves with the fetid secretions of the anal glands, have a particular preference for open areas.

From the canine family, the gray Argentine fox, or "sorro de la pampa", is widespread here.

In the protected area there are condors, two species of South American vultures - turkey and urubu, many songbirds. And even representatives of the parrot family, which, in our view, are characteristic only of tropical forests.

Surprisingly, even several species of frogs and toads live in these waterless lands.

Vegetation is represented mainly by cacti, rare thorny shrubs and trees, such as "retama", "chanyar", "algorobo" and others. Many of the plants found here are used in medicine.

Attractions of the Talampaya Park

· The dry bed of the Talampaya River, where dinosaurs lived several million years ago - as in Ischigualasto, fossils of that era can be found here.

· Talampaya Canyon - the height of the walls reaches 143 m, the minimum width is 80 m.

· Remains of settlements of local peoples, such as petroglyphs in Puerta del Canyon.

· botanical garden with local flora in the narrow part of the canyon.

· Fauna of the region: guanacos, hares, maras, foxes and condors.

3. Bolivia

Bolivia has only 1 natural world heritage site, the Noel Kempff Mercado National Park. In addition, as of 2010, 7 objects on the territory of the state are among the candidates for inclusion in the World Heritage List, including 4 - cultural, 1 - natural and 2 - mixed criteria.

.1 Noel-Kempff-Mercado National Park

The Noel Kempff Mercado National Park is located in the José Miguel de Velasco province of the Santa Cruz department in eastern Bolivia on the border with Brazil. The territory of the park is 15,838 km ² , making it one of the largest parks in the entire Amazon. In 2000, the park was included in the UNESCO World Heritage List.

Climate. The climate is distinctly seasonal with approximately 1400-1500mm of average annual precipitation. There is a dry season of about 4-6 months (May to September) when there is a decrease in rainfall. Average annual temperature 25-26°C, but during the dry season temperatures can drop to 10 degrees for several days when the cold dry air masses of Patagonia (surazos) reach the park.

Flora and fauna. The inaccessibility of these places serves as a good natural protection of the virginity of the park, which includes five ecosystems located at altitudes from 200 to 1000m above sea level: mountain evergreen forests, deciduous forests, dry savannah, wet savannah and tropical rainforests. The diverse flora includes 4,000 plant species, of which 2,700 species have been identified. Among them are several types of palms, cedar, oak, creepers and bromeliads, many types of orchids. Breathtaking colors and scents, exotic passion fruit and mangaba fill these places.

More than 630 species of birds live in the park, 139 species of mammals are more than in all of North America, including: jaguar, puma, river dolphin, giant anteater, maned wolf, tapirs, capybaras, marsh deer. Many species of butterflies and other insects, 62 species of amphibians, including the South American side turtle and black caiman, 127 species of reptiles. Two types of anacondas are found here at the same time - green ordinary and yellow Paraguayan. About 254 species of fish are found in the rivers.

Some of these fauna are endangered elsewhere in Bolivia.

4. Brazil

There are 8 natural sites on the list of UNESCO World Natural Heritage Sites in Brazil. Among them, 4 objects are recognized as "natural phenomena of exceptional beauty and aesthetic importance" (criterion vii).

· Iguazu National Park (1986)

· Serra da Capivara National Park (1991)

· East Atlantic Forest Reserves (1999)

· Southeast Atlantic Forest Reserves (1999)

· Complex of reserves of the Central Amazon (2000)

· Pantanal Protected Area (2000)

· Brazilian Islands in the Atlantic: Fernando de Noronha and Rocas Atoll (2001)

· Campos Cerrado National Parks: Chapada dos Veadeiros and Emas (2001)

.1 Iguazu National Park

Iguazu is a national park of Brazil and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, located in the state of Parana. He gained fame in connection with the waterfall (part of which is located in Argentina in the province of Misiones) and the picturesque wildlife(especially a large variety of birds), which includes rare and endangered species. This is the most unique place in the world, as 5 forest species are concentrated on one piece of land.

4.2 Serra da Capivara National Park

The Serra da Capivara National Park is a national park in the state of Piauí in northeastern Brazil. The park contains many monuments of prehistoric rock art discovered by archaeologist Nyede Gidon. On her own initiative, a park was created to preserve the images. In 1991 it was listed as a World Heritage Site. The area of ​​the park is 1291.4 km².

Archaeological studies show that in ancient times the Serra da Capivara was very densely populated, there was the largest concentration of prehistoric peasant farms in ancient America.

Climate, flora and fauna. The climate in these places is very hot and arid, and therefore the vegetation of the park is represented by thorny trees and shrubs, as well as cacti, of various bizarre forms, more reminiscent of a chandelier. Despite the dryness of the climate, which, I must say, is not at all typical for Brazil, in these places it is not difficult to meet anteaters, armadillos, snakes, jaguars, cougars, and various parrots. Also in these places lives an interesting animal - a false vampire. This is a bat with a meter wingspan.

Attractions of the park. In Brazil's Serra da Capivara National Park, there are caves where distant human ancestors lived 50,000 years ago. Most likely this is the oldest community of people in South America. The national park is located near the city of San Raimondo Nonato ( central part the state of Piaui).

Scientists have counted more than three hundred archaeological sites in this place. The main images are well preserved and have an age of 22-25 thousand years before the birth of Christ. Extinct animals are painted on the rocks, which will never be on planet Earth.

4.3 East Atlantic Forest Reserves

Eight protected natural areas (including three national parks) with a total area of ​​112,000 hectares are located in the states of Bahia and Espirito Santo and include Atlantic wet forests and bushes ("restinga"). In terms of biodiversity, this area is one of the richest on the planet. A number of endemic species live in the reserves, which makes it possible to trace the evolutionary path of living organisms, and this, in turn, is of great importance both from a scientific and environmental point of view.

Biodiversity. Despite the fact that the ecoregion has suffered greatly from deforestation for agricultural purposes and urbanization (out of a million square kilometers of virgin forests, about 7% remain), the flora and fauna are very rich here, 450 species of trees can grow on one hectare. Many endemics, for example, 92% of local amphibians are found nowhere else. An example of primates is the genus lion marmosets (Leontopithecus). The collared sloth (Bradypus torquatus) is only found in the Brazilian Atlantic forest. Birds include the blue-capped tanager (Tangara cyanocephala), the red-billed crax (Crax blumenbachii), the blue-bellied parrot (Triclaria malachitacea), the three-toed jacamar (Jacamaralcyon tridactyla) and others.

.4 Southeast Atlantic Forest Reserves

The forest reserves of the southeast Atlantic coast contain the finest and most extensive examples of the Atlantic forests in Brazil. The 25 protected areas that make up this monument, with a total area of ​​about 470,000 hectares, demonstrate the biological richness and evolutionary history of the last remnants of the Atlantic forests. This area is distinguished by its diversity and beauty and has a huge scientific significance.

Biodiversity. Partially isolated since the Ice Age, the Atlantic forests have developed into a complex ecosystem with exceptionally high levels of endemism (70% tree species, 85% primates, and 39% mammals).

The designated World Heritage Site contains a well-preserved patch of very diverse Atlantic rainforest. More than 450 species of trees per hectare can be found in some areas. The forest canopy along the river valleys is higher with isolated trees reaching up to 30 m in height.

There is a very diverse fauna. Mammals include 120 species, probably the largest number in Brazil. Some notable species are the jaguar, ocelot, bush dog, La Plata otter, 20 species of bats and various endangered primate species, especially the muriqui and brown howler monkey. The avifauna is very diverse with 350 species recorded.

.5 Central Amazonian Reserve Complex

A huge area (more than 6 million hectares) of the world's unique treasures of nature is a delightful complex of reserves of the Central Amazon. This region is distinguished by a great variety of biological objects. For example, reserves include such valuable protected protected areas like: Jau National Park, Anavillanas archipelago and Amazon forest cover. The diverse ecological systems "varzeya" and "igapo" make the reserves an invaluable world landmark. The peculiar ecology of these places is great place for the habitat of the world's largest electric snakes, Amazonian manatees, black caiman, as well as giant fish - arapaima. In the rivers and lakes that form a bizarre aqua system, you can meet 2 species of dolphins here.

Flora. The flora of the igapo is comparatively poor, being most characteristic of the imbauba-cecropia, which grows rapidly but not high (usually about 10 m), with broad palmate, almost white leaves and aerial roots supporting it underwater. At the surface of the water, in the pools covered with huge leaves of victoria reggae, bushes of nondescript Ivoreans stretch. During the retreat of the floods thickets of tall hard grasses develop. These gloomy forests are decorated with climbing vines and epiphytes, among which there are many orchids. The Amazon forests are the realm of vines. They spread like garlands along the ground, climbing out onto trunks, thrown from branch to branch, from one tree to another, hanging from the trees.

Fauna. Numerous lakes and streams form a mosaic aquatic system within the site, which is in a state of constant development and serves as a habitat for the world's largest population of electric eels.

Rare and endangered species include the Amazonian manatee, black caiman (the largest South American alligator, whose length is 5 m), two species of river dolphins, and also a fish - a giant arapaima.

There are many herbivores on the territory of the object, forest deer and antelope are especially common; there are anteaters, sloth, tapir, peccary, armadillo, many rodents. Monkeys can be seen everywhere, they are very numerous and diverse: capuchins, durukuly, uakari, howler monkeys. There are a lot of bats in the forests.

.6 Pantanal Protected Area

Pantanal - vast swampy tectonic depression in Brazil, small parts of it are also located in Bolivia and Paraguay, in the Paraguay River basin. It is located in the west of the state of Mato Grosso do Sul and in the south of the state of Mato Grosso. The total area is approximately between 150-195 thousand km ², it is one of the largest wetlands on the planet.

Geography and geology. The prevailing heights are 50–70 m above sea level. From the north, east and southeast, the territory is sharply limited by the cliffs of the Brazilian Plateau. The natural conditions of this region are very contrasting. Floods during the wet summer season turn the Pantanal into a huge swamp lake and alternate with winter droughts that form a patchy landscape of perennial semi-grown swamps, lakes, subtle meandering riverbeds, salt marshes, sandbars and grassy areas.

Biodiversity. There is a huge variety of flora and fauna. Over 3,500 plant species grow throughout the Pantanal. There are 650 species of birds, 230 species of fish and 50 species of reptiles, more than 80 species of mammals. There are about 20 million crocodiles alone. On the territory of the Pantanal there is a specially protected natural reserve - "Pantanal", which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Reserve "Pantanal" is a unique and at the same time a wonderful attraction in Brazil. Its borders are in contact with Paraguay and Bolivia. The prevailing heights are within 50-70 meters. This amazing savannah is separated from the north by the Amazon jungle, and to the south by dense coastal Atlantic forests. The Paraguay River flows through the Pantanal, which creates numerous swamps, lakes and water meadows.

Among this richest fauna on the planet are such well-known species as the hyacinth macaw, toucans, capybara, guar wolf, many species of monkeys, deer, coatis, armadillos, anteater, sloth, more than 1000 species of butterflies, etc. Many of the animals that are threatened extinction in other parts of South America, they live in the Pantanal. Not far from the reserve is the small and wonderful town of Bonito, which is surrounded by greenery. The Brazilians dubbed it - the gate to the Pantanal. Thousands of tourists from all over the world visit this protected natural Park amazing beauty and diversity.

.7 Brazilian Islands in the Atlantic: Fernando de Noronha and Rocas Atoll

The Fernando de Noronha archipelago and the Rocas Atoll, which are the peaks of the underwater South Atlantic Ridge that come to the surface of the ocean, lie off the eastern coast of Brazil. These islands are among the largest in this region of the Atlantic, and their coastal waters are highly bio-productive and play an exceptional role as habitats and breeding grounds for tuna, sharks, sea turtles and marine mammals. The largest concentrations of marine tropical birds in the Western Atlantic have been noted on the islands; there is also a large local population of dolphins. During low tides on Rocas Atoll, you can observe an impressive picture: shallow lagoons teeming with fish.

Flora and fauna of Fernando de Noronha. The island was covered with forest until the nineteenth century, after the prison was opened on the island, the forest began to be cut down from the construction of escape rafts. Currently, the islands are predominantly covered with shrubs, and in some areas new forest has recently been planted.

The islands are inhabited by 2 species of endemic birds - Noronha Elaenia (Elaenia ridleyana) and Noronha Vireo (Vireo gracilirostris). Both are on the main island; Noronha Vireo is also present on Ilha Rata. In addition, there are the Eared Dove Noronha auriculata Zinaida, the rodents, Noronhomys vespuccii, mentioned by Amerigo Vespucci, have now disappeared.

Geography of Rocas Atoll . It is of volcanic origin, formed by corals. The only atoll in the South Atlantic, one of the smallest atolls in the world.

The atoll is oval in shape, about 3.7 km long and 2.5 km wide. The depth of the lagoon is 6 m, the area is 7.1 km ². The area of ​​the two islets of the atoll (Cemit ério in the southwest, Farol Cay in the northwest) is 0.36 km ², of these, Farol Cay accounts for approximately two-thirds of the area. The most high point- a sand dune in the south of Farol Cay, its height is 6 m. The atoll consists mainly of corals and red algae. The coral ring is practically closed, with the exception of a 200-meter wide channel on the north side and a much narrower channel on the western side.

Both islets are overgrown with grass, shrubs, and several palm trees also grow on them. The islets are inhabited by crabs, spiders, scorpions, sand fleas, beetles, and many bird species. Turtles, sharks, dolphins live near the atoll.

.8 Campos Cerrado National Parks: Chapada dos Veadeiros and Emas

"Campos Serrado" is one of the ecoregions of the tropical Brazilian savannah, which occupies about 20% of the country's territory. In this zone there are two Brazilian national parks (Emas and Chapada dos Veadeiros), which are not just protected areas, but also UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Their flora and fauna is distinguished by its biodiversity and at the same time is one of the oldest ecosystems in the tropical zone, which impresses with its amazing contrasts. These places have been pleasing to the eye for thousands of years, and also serve as a safe haven for a variety of animals and plants.

Emas. Emas National Park is located in the central part of the Brazilian Highland savannah. The authorities of the country, or rather President Juscelino, made this territory a reserve back in 1961, but Emas was included in the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in 2001. The park is rich in forested savanna flora. It is here that you can find amazing palm trees typical of the wooded savannahs. In the park, tourists can see the round crowns of huge babasu palms, reaching 75 meters in height.

The Emasa savanna has helped to preserve many species of living organisms during climate change. Among the most interesting representatives fauna can be noted large anteater, armadillo and maned wolf. As for the climate, winters are cold here, and summers are hot. Inquisitive tourists are offered such types of entertainment as fishing, horseback riding or boat trips.

Chapada dos Veadeiros. An equally interesting object is the Chapada dos Veadeiros park. Which also became a protected area in 1961. The park is located in the state of Goiás on an ancient plateau. If Emas is very rich in fauna, then nature has endowed Chapada dos Veadeiros with a wide variety of flora. There are more than 25 species of trees on the territory of the reserve. Animal world The region is also quite bright and colorful (marsh deer, armadillos, tapirs). In hot summer days temperatures up to 40 degrees can be observed here, but in winter there is sometimes a slight frost.

5. Venezuela

The list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Venezuela includes 3 items (for 2010), this is 0.3% of total number(981 for 2013). 2 objects are included in the list according to cultural criteria, 1 object - according to natural criteria (Canaima National Park).

In addition, as of 2010, 3 objects on the territory of the state are among the candidates for inclusion in the World Heritage List. The first site in Venezuela was listed in 1993 at the 17th session of the UNESCO World Heritage Committee.

.1 Canaima National Park

Canaima National Park is a park in the southeast of Venezuela, on the border with Brazil and Guyana. The area of ​​the park is about 30,000 km ². It is located in the state of Bolivar and occupies approximately the same territory as the Gran Sabana Natural Park.

The park was opened on June 12, 1962 and is the second largest in the country, second only to Parima-Tapirapeco. In 1994, Canaima was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List. The main attraction and value of the park are the tepui (flat-topped mountains) located there.

Flora and fauna. On the territory of Canaima, such representatives of the animal world live as: tapir - a large herbivorous mammal (somewhat reminiscent of a pig in shape, but has a short trunk adapted for grasping), peccaries - a large artiodactyl, similar to a pig, agouti - rodents, relatives of guinea pigs, moving on long limbs, anteater, puma, jaguar, as well as broad-faced caiman, etc. In the village Pemon Indians live a lot of rabbits, which are chased by children. The local jungle is famous for the special abundance of various types of orchids, of which there are about 500 species.

Attractions. Like fragments of another world, the Table Mountains stand here - the unique plateau of the Gran Sabana, part of the Guiana Plateau, two-kilometer steep walls of which, absolutely flat at the top, rest against the clouds. These mountains, called tepui, are some of the oldest formations on Earth, dating back countless years when Africa and South America were one continent. Arthur Conan Doyle, inspired by the surreal landscape, settled tyrannosvars and pterodactyls on the tops of the plateau. Of course, there are no ancient lizards on Gran Saban, but the microcosm that lives at an altitude of two thousand meters above the rest of the surrounding world is truly unique.

Another attraction of Canaim is the waterfalls, the highest on the planet. Falling from the sheer ledges of the mesas, these waterfalls make for an impressive sight. The most famous of them - Angel Falls, overthrown from the top of one of the highest tepui - Auyantepui, which deservedly means "mountain of the devil".

6. Colombia

There are 2 sites on the list of UNESCO World Natural Heritage Sites in Colombia:

· Los Katios National Park (1994)

· Malpelo Island (2006)

.1 Los Katios National Park

It was created in the north of Colombia, in the border zone with the state of Panama. On the other side of the border, another protected area has been created - the Darien National Park. On the territory of Colombia, Los Katios National Park appeared in 1976, today its area has grown to 72 thousand hectares. The nature of the park is represented by the following natural areas: tropical forests and floodplain swamps. The territory of Los Katios Park lies around the Atrato River. On its banks and among the nearby complexes of wet forest areas found a total of about 600 plant species. A rather remarkable local species is the cotton tree. This is a typical tropical species that belongs to the mallow family. Mexico is considered the homeland of this species, some countries Central America, Caribbean, tropical area West Africa.

.2 Malpelo Island

Malpelo is an island in the eastern Pacific Ocean, 500 km off the coast of Buenaventura Bay in South America. Belongs to Colombia, is part of the department of Valle del Cauca. Area 0.35 km².

On July 12, 2006, Malpelo, together with the adjacent water area of ​​​​857,150 hectares, was included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. It is the largest no-fishing zone in the Eastern Tropical Pacific.

Geography. The island is a rock without abundant vegetation, maximum height- 376 m (Mount Mona, Spanish Cerro de la Mona). The length is about 1850 m, the width is up to 600 m. It is surrounded by small rocks. The Malpelo Natural Protected Area occupies a circle with a radius of 9.656 km around the point with coordinates 3°58?30? With. sh. 81°34?48? h. d. (G) (O).

Malpelo is home to populations of silky sharks, frilled sharks, whale sharks and hammerhead sharks, as well as sand sharks, making the island a popular destination for divers.

The island is composed of effusive rocks, volcanogenic breccias, and tertiary basalt dikes. Vegetation - algae, lichens, mosses, some types of shrubs, ferns.

Biodiversity. Malpelo Island is home to a range of rare marine life. A lot of sharks, giant groupers, marlins gather here. This is one of the few places on Earth where reliable encounters with deep-sea sand sharks have been recorded. In these depths, stable populations of large marine predators and pelagic species are maintained, in particular, these are accumulations of more than 200 hammerheads, over 1,000 frilled sharks, as well as whale sharks and tuna. 17 species of marine mammals, including humpback and blue whales, 5 terrestrial and 7 marine reptile species, 61 bird species, 394 fish species and 340 shellfish species have been recorded on Malpelo .

7. Peru

For 2012, the list includes 11 objects, 2 of which are natural and 2 are mixed:

Machu Picchu (1983)

· Huascaran National Park (1985)

Manu (1987)

· Rio Abiseo National Park (1992)

.1 Machu Picchu Historical Reserve

The city of ancient America, located on the territory of modern Peru, on the top of a mountain range at an altitude of 2450 meters above sea level, dominating the valley of the Urubamba River. In 2007 he was awarded the title of the New Wonder of the World.

In 2011, it was decided to limit the number of visitors. According to the new rules, only 2,500 tourists per day can visit Machu Picchu, of which no more than 400 people can climb Mount Wayna Picchu, which is part of the archaeological complex. In order to preserve the monument, UNESCO demands to reduce the number of tourists per day to 800.

Flora and fauna. On the territory of Machu Picchu you are constantly surrounded by landscapes of dazzling beauty. The splendor of the archaeological ruins is harmoniously combined with a huge variety of flora and fauna. On the entire area of ​​the lost city, which is approximately 32,520 hectares, you will see exotic pisonai and kunyual trees, shield palms, alders - they amaze with their grandeur. About 400 species of begonias and orchids grow here, of which only 260 species are classified.

Animals living in Machu Picchu are also striking in their diversity. Approximately 375 species of birds live in the city, of which 200 species can always be seen during the tour. One of the brightest representatives of birds is the Rock Cockerel, it is he who is the symbol of Peru. The bird is easily recognizable by its colorful plumage, it is easy to meet on the banks of rivers.

In terms of animals, the endangered Andean bear is of particular interest. In these parts, he is known as "Spectacled Bear". The animal is absolutely safe, eats only plant foods. Due to his shy disposition, he is rarely photographed. In Machu Picchu you can also see vicuñas, white-tailed deer, wild llamas and other representatives of exotic fauna.

Current state. Machu Picchu, especially after receiving the UNESCO World Heritage status, has become a center of mass tourism. In 2011, it was decided to limit the number of visitors. According to the new rules, only 2,500 tourists per day can visit Machu Picchu, of which no more than 400 people can climb Mount Wayna Picchu, which is part of the archaeological complex. In order to preserve the monument, UNESCO demands to reduce the number of tourists per day to 800. Machu Picchu is located in a remote region. To support tourism, a railway was built to the neighboring city of Aguas Calientes from Cusco via Ollantaytambo, more than ten trains a day run from Ollantaytambo. From railway station Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu runs a bus that overcomes eight kilometers of a steep serpentine climb. UNESCO opposed the construction cable car to limit the flow of tourists. As a result of the 2004 earthquake, the site railway badly damaged, but was restored.

At the 35th session of the UNESCO World Heritage Committee, it was decided that ancient city from February 1, 2012 will be removed from the list of World Heritage in Danger.

7.2 Huascaran National Park

A national park located in the Ancash region of Peru, on the territory of the Cordillera Blanca.

The area of ​​the park is 3400 km ². Declared a nature reserve on July 1, 1975. UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1985. The name of the park comes from the name of the highest peak in Peru - Huascaran, 6768 m high. Many rare and endemic plants and animals live in the park. For example, Puya raimondi is a plant of the bromeliad family up to 10 meters high, whose age can reach up to 100 years.

Climate. The climate in the national park, in addition to being characterized by altitudinal zonation typical of mountains, is divided into two seasons a year. One of them is humid, caused by strong warm winds blowing from the Amazonian jungle, and lasts from December to March. The other, which lasts from May to October, is dry, characterized by a large number of sunny days. The temperature at this time can rise to 25 degrees Celsius, but the nights are very cold, and often the thermometer drops below 0 degrees.

Flora and fauna. The fauna of the White and Black Cordillera is represented mainly by birds and mammals. Some species have not yet been described or our knowledge of them is extremely scarce. According to scientists, there are 112 species of birds in the Huascaran National Park, representing 33 different families. Among them are the Andean Condor, the Andean Spur Duck and the Andean Tinamou. Mammals are represented in the park by only ten species. However, among them are such amazing, rare and beautiful animals as the pampas cat, Andean cat, spectacled bear, vicuña and Peruvian deer.

The flora of the Huascaran National Park is more diverse in terms of species growing here. There are seven climatic zones and a huge number of microclimates in the park. All this contributes to the development unique plants, capturing literally every part of the mountain surface suitable for life and growth. In total, in Huascaran, scientists have described 779 plant species belonging to 340 genera and 104 families.

.3 Manu National Park

The park was organized in 1977 in the regions of Madre de Dios and Cusco, and in 1987 was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Manu Square - 19,098 km ², of which the national park occupies 15,328 km ², the rest is a reserve zone. The main part of the territory amazonian forests, but some part is in the Andes at an altitude of up to 4200 m. Manu lives a large number of species of flora and fauna. More than 15 thousand species of plants and about a thousand species of birds have been found on its territory (more than a tenth of all bird species and about 1.5 times more than in Russia). On the territory of the park, the population of the Inca toad, endemic to Peru, is protected.

.4 Rio Abiseo National Park

Rio Abiseo National Park is a national park located in the San Martin region of Peru. Since 1990 it has been included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. The park is home to many species of flora and fauna, and there are more than 30 archaeological sites from the pre-Columbian period. Since 1986, certain parts of the park have been closed to tourists due to the fragility of both the natural and archaeological environments. The largest and most famous archaeological site in the park is the Gran Pajaten, located on a hilltop near the border of the region. Nearby are the ruins of Los Pinchudos (discovered in 1965), which are a series of stone graves. Most archeology research in the park is conducted by staff at the University of Colorado.

Geography and climate. The Rio Abiseo National Park is located on the eastern slope of the Peruvian Andes between the Marañón and Huallaga rivers, covering an area of ​​2,745.2 km ². In particular, the park covers about 70% of the Abiseo river basin. Altitudes in the park are from 350 m to 4200 m above sea level.

The park has seven climatic zones, ranging from alpine meadows and mountain forests to dry forests and tropical rainforests. Precipitation varies from 500 to 2000 mm per year. The humid mountain forest, which occupies most of the park, consists of low trees, mosses and lichens. This ecosystem exists at altitudes of about 2300 m. The humidity is constant here, and rains fall throughout the year, especially on high altitudes. Soils are acidic.

8. Suriname

The list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Suriname includes 2 items (for 2010), which is 0.2% of the total (981 for 2013). 1 object is included in the list according to cultural criteria, 1 object - according to natural criteria (Central Suriname Conservation Area).

.1 Central Suriname Conservation Area

The Central Suriname Conservation Area is a conservation area in Suriname. The territory of the reserve occupies 16 thousand km ², consists mainly of tropical forests of the Guiana highlands. The reserve is home to many species of animals, which are also under state protection.

On the territory of the reserve there is a unique granite monolith - Voltzberg, whose age is 1.8 - 2 billion years. It has two peaks separated by a crack: one of them has a height of 245 meters above sea level, the other 209 meters. The monolith itself is located at an altitude of 150 meters above the surroundings. This monolith is 1.1 km long in the north-south direction and up to 700 meters wide in the east-west direction. Only at the top of the monolith there is sparse vegetation.

9. Ecuador

The list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Ecuador includes 4 items (for 2010), which is 0.4% of the total (981 for 2013). 2 objects are included in the list according to cultural criteria, 2 objects - according to natural criteria:

· Galapagos Islands (1978)

· Sangai National Park (1983)

In addition, as of 2010, 7 objects on the territory of the state are among the candidates for inclusion in the World Heritage List. The first site in Ecuador was listed in 1978 at the 2nd session of the UNESCO World Heritage Committee.

.1 Galapagos Islands

The Galapagos Islands are an archipelago in the Pacific Ocean, 972 km west of Ecuador, consisting of 13 main volcanic islands, 6 small islands and 107 rocks and alluvial areas.

Climate . Despite the latitude, due to the cold current, the climate in the Galapagos is much cooler than other areas at the equator. The water temperature sometimes drops to 20 ° C, and the average annual is 23- 24°C.

Flora and fauna. The inability of large predators to develop on the islands has allowed many animal species to thrive on these islands. Therefore, the Galapagos are home to a large number of endemic and unique animals such as sea lions, native penguins, Galapagos tortoises, dolphins, vampire finch, marine iguanas, lava lizards, whales, sharks, etc. There is also a large variety of seabirds such as frigatebirds, flamingos and albatrosses. Plants of the Galápagos also surprises with its diversity; a wide variety of endemic trees, tree ferns, other types of shrubs and flowers grow on the islands. The archipelago has some rare species of cotton, tomatoes, peppers, guava and orchids. The underwater life in the Galapagos Islands is also very beautiful. The surrounding waters are home to many species of fish, animals and aquatic plants, which is why the Galapagos Islands are considered one of the wonders of the underwater world.

Fortunately, due to the remoteness of the islands from the continent and active sea communications, the wildlife here is practically not affected and remains the same as Charles Darwin once found it. Tourists arrive in the Galapagos Islands mainly by plane. The Galapagos is probably the only place on earth where you can dive with a penguin or swim among the sea lions. The Galapagos Islands are one of the planet's most precious treasures and one of the world's last wildlife sanctuaries.

.2 Sangai National Park

The Sangay National Park is located in the highlands of Ecuador. The territory of the Andes, included in the national park, is full of volcanoes. Most main volcano The park is named Sangay. The approaches to it in Ecuador have been protected since 1975, it was then that the Sangay National Park was formed. Until today, the territory of the park has grown to 500 thousand hectares. Mostly in the open spaces of the park there are areas of tropical rainforest, as well as foggy mountain forests.

Flora and fauna. As for the arrays of tropical rainforest, the following types of vegetation dominate among them: mulberry trees, palm trees, laurel trees, lianas. And in the alpine zone of foggy forests, the following species prevail: various orchids and ferns, thickets of bamboo and shrubs. The diversity of plant species in the park is quite a natural phenomenon, because there is a very wide range of altitudes, which ranges from 1000 to 5230 m above sea level. In total, in the Sangai Park you can observe as many as 8 altitudinal belts vegetation, in general, about 1,000 species have been recorded in the region's fauna.

The fauna of the Sangai volcano is represented by the following species: mountain tapir, vicuña, pygmy deer, the avifauna is dominated by the red bird, condor and other birds. As for the mountain inhabitants, such as the mountain tapir, we have enough information about them.

The red bird is one of the most amazing birds in Sangai park. The red bird is also often called the bird of paradise, it belongs to the order of passerines. The bird is medium in size, about 30 cm long, while the wing length is about 16 cm, and the tail is 12 cm long. It has a golden-green plumage, a small crest on the back of the head. The bird has a bright red chest and wings, as well as legs. The back has a gray-yellowish tint, the throat is dark green.

In rather limited areas of the park, animals such as puma, Andean fox, spectacled bear, pudu deer, ocelots and jaguars, guinea pigs live. Of the birds, such unique species as cubillin and quilimas, vultures, giant hummingbirds, and so on, were ignored.

Conclusion

Thus, using the example of the region of South America, one could get acquainted with the UNESCO World Heritage program, which began its existence in 1975. Since 1977, the World Heritage Committee has held annual sessions at which the objects of the program are identified - natural or man-made objects, the priority tasks in relation to which are conservation and promotion due to their special cultural, historical or environmental significance.

The main purpose of the World Heritage List is to make known and protect properties that are unique in their own way. For this, and because of the desire for objectivity, evaluation criteria were drawn up. The first six criteria have been in force since 1978 and define cultural objects, natural objects have been included in the list since 2002, when four additional natural inclusion criteria appeared.

Also, in the course of the work done, it was possible to make sure that the "World Heritage Site Status" provides the following benefits (for natural heritage sites): it is an additional guarantee of the safety and integrity of unique natural complexes; enhances the prestige of territories and their governing institutions; contributes to the popularization of the objects included in the List and the development of alternative types of nature management (primarily, ecological tourism); ensures priority in attracting financial resources to support world cultural and natural heritage sites, primarily from the World Heritage Fund; contributes to the organization of monitoring and control over the state of conservation of natural objects.

The states on whose territory the World Heritage sites are located undertake obligations to preserve them.

References and Internet resources

Drobot V.I. The concept of the World natural heritage: a textbook / Mar. state un-t; IN AND. Drobot. - Yoshkar-Ola, 2008. - 122 p.

2. Gebel P. Natural heritage of mankind: landscapes and treasures of nature under the protection of UNESCO. M.: Publishing house BMN AO. 1999. - 256 p.

Maksakovskiy N.V. World Natural Heritage. - M.: Education, 2005. - 396 p.

Cattaneo M. Treasures of mankind. UNESCO World Heritage. - AST; Astrel, 2005. - S. 512.

Official information site "UNESCO: World Heritage Sites" http://unesco.heritage.ru

Http://world heritage.rf

http://ru.wikipedia.org/

http://umeda.ru

http://7-chudes-sveta.ru

http://whc.unesco.org/

http://www.vokrugsveta.ru/encyclopedia/

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• Introduction
• 1. Criteria and conditions for the inclusion of natural objects in the World Heritage List
• 1.1 Terms
• 1.2 Natural criteria
• 2. South America. World natural heritage sites
• 2.1 Argentina
• 2.2 Los Glaciares National Park
• 2.3 Iguazu National Park
• 2.4 Valdes Peninsula
• 2.5 Ischigualasto and Talampaya Natural Parks
• 3. Bolivia
• 3.1 Noel-Kempff-Mercado National Park
• 4. Brazil
• 4.1 Iguazu National Park
• 4.2 Serra da Capivara National Park
• 4.3 East Atlantic Forest Reserves
• 4.4 Southeast Atlantic Forest Reserves
• 4.5 Central Amazonian Reserve Complex
• 4.6 Pantanal Protected Area
• 4.7 Brazilian Islands in the Atlantic: Fernando de Noronha and Rocas Atoll
• 4.8 Campos Cerrado National Parks: Chapada dos Veadeiros and Emas
• 5. Venezuela
• 5.1 Canaima National Park
• 6. Colombia
• 6.1 Los Katios National Park
• 6.2 Malpelo Island
• 7. Peru
• 7.1 Machu Picchu Historical Reserve
• 7.2 Huascaran National Park
• 7.3 Manu National Park
• 7.4 Rio Abiseo National Park
• 8. Suriname
• 8.1 Central Suriname Conservation Area
• 9. Ecuador
• 9.1 Galapagos Islands
• 9.2 Sangai National Park
• Conclusion
• References and Internet resources
• Introduction
• UNESCO World Heritage - natural or man-made objects, the priority tasks in relation to which, according to UNESCO, are their preservation and promotion due to their special cultural, historical or environmental significance.
• In 1972, UNESCO adopted the Convention Concerning the Protection of the World Cultural and Natural Heritage (entered into force in 1975). By September 2012, the convention had been ratified by 190 participating countries.
• Each year, the World Heritage Committee holds sessions at which "World Heritage site status" is awarded.
• The states on whose territory the World Heritage sites are located undertake obligations to preserve them.
• As of 2013, there are 981 properties on the World Heritage List, of which 759 are cultural, 193 are natural and 29 are mixed.
• There are 67 UNESCO World Heritage Sites in South America.

1. Criteria and conditions for the inclusion of natural objects in the World Heritage List

1.1 Terms

As defined in Article 2 of the World Heritage Convention, natural heritage includes the following properties:

1) natural monuments created by physical and biological formations or groups of such formations, having an outstanding universal value in terms of aesthetics or science;

2) geological and physiographic formations and strictly limited areas representing the range of endangered species of animals and plants of outstanding universal value from the point of view of science or conservation;

3) natural places of interest or strictly limited natural areas of outstanding universal value in terms of science, conservation or natural beauty.

Outstanding global value means cultural and/or natural significance that is so exceptional that it transcends national boundaries and is of universal value to present and future generations of all mankind. Therefore, the continued protection of this heritage is of paramount importance to the international community as a whole. A natural heritage property that meets one of the above definitions and is nominated for inscription on the World Heritage List is considered to be an Outstanding World Heritage Site for the purposes of the Convention if the Committee is able to verify that the property satisfies one or more of the criteria as well as integrity conditions.

1.2 Natural criteria

The main purpose of the World Heritage List is to make known and protect properties that are unique in their own way. For this, and because of the desire for objectivity, evaluation criteria were drawn up. Initially (since 1978) there were only criteria for cultural heritage objects - this list consisted of six items. Then, to restore some kind of balance between the various continents, natural objects appeared and for them a list of four points. And finally, in 2005, all these criteria were brought together, and now every World Heritage site has at least one of them in its description.

VII - include the greatest phenomena of nature or places of exceptional natural beauty and aesthetic value;

VIII - present an outstanding specimen reflecting the main stages of the history of the Earth, including traces of ancient life, ongoing geological processes of development of the forms of the earth's surface of importance, or significant geomorphological and physiographic phenomena;

IX - present an outstanding example of the important and ongoing ecological and biological processes of evolution and development of terrestrial, river and lake, coastal and marine ecosystems and communities of plants and animals;

X - include natural areas that are most important and significant in terms of the conservation of biological diversity, including habitats of endangered species of outstanding world value in terms of science and nature conservation.

2. South America. World natural heritage sites

South America is the southern continent in America, located mainly in the Western and Southern hemispheres of planet Earth, however, part of the continent is also located in the Northern Hemisphere. It is washed in the west by the Pacific Ocean, in the east by the Atlantic, from the north it is limited by North America, the border between the Americas runs along the Isthmus of Panama and the Caribbean Sea.

2.1 Argentina

unesco monument landmark area

The list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Argentina includes 8 items (for 2011), 4 sites are included according to natural criteria. Los Glaciares and Iguazu are recognized as natural phenomena or spaces of exceptional natural beauty and aesthetic importance. Among them:

Los Glaciares National Park (1981)

Iguazu National Park (1984)

Peninsula Valdes (1999)

Ischigualasto and Talampaya Natural Parks (2000)

In addition, as of 2010, 8 objects on the territory of the state are among the candidates for inclusion in the World Heritage List, including 5 - cultural, 1 - natural and 2 - mixed criteria.

Argentina ratified the Convention for the Protection of the World Cultural and Natural Heritage on August 23, 1978. The first site in Argentina was listed in 1981 at the 5th session of the UNESCO World Heritage Committee.

2.2 Los Glaciares National Park

Los Glaciares National Park (Spanish: Parque Nacional Los Glaciares, glaciers) is a national park located in Patagonia (South America), in the Argentine province of Santa Cruz. The area of ​​the park is 4459 km². In 1981 it was included in the World Heritage List.

Founded in 1937, Los Glaciares is the second largest national park in Argentina. The park owes its name to the huge ice cap in the Andes, which feeds 47 large glaciers, of which only 13 flow towards the Atlantic Ocean. This ice mass is the largest after the ice of Antarctica and Greenland. In other parts of the world, glaciation begins at least 2,500 m above sea level, but in Los Glaciares Park, due to the size of the ice cap, glaciers begin at 1,500 m and slide down to 200 m, eroding the slopes of the underlying mountains.

The territory of Los Glaciares, which is 30% covered with ice, can be divided into two parts, each of which belongs to its own lake. The largest in Argentina, Lake Argentino (area 1466 km²) is located in the southern part of the park, and Lake Viedma (area 1100 km²) is located in the north. Both lakes feed the Santa Cruz River, which flows to the shores of the Atlantic Ocean. Between these two parts is the Central Zone (Zona Centro), closed to tourists, in which there are no lakes.

The northern half of the park includes part of Lake Viedma, the Viedma Glacier, small glaciers and several mountain peaks popular with climbers and mountain hikers such as Fitzroy and Cerro Torre.

The southern half of the park, along with small glaciers, includes the main glaciers flowing into Lake Argentino: Perito Moreno, Uppsala and Spegazzini. A typical boat trip includes a tour of the otherwise inaccessible Uppsala and Spegazzini glaciers. The Perito Moreno Glacier can be reached by land.

Los Glaciares Park is a popular international tourism destination. Tours start in the village of El Calafate, located on Lake Argentino, and in the village of El Chalten, located in the northern part of the park at the foot of Mount Fitz Roy.

Climate . The entire natural appearance of the park and its originality are associated primarily with the climatic features of the region. Nowhere on the globe are there such favorable conditions for the development of modern glaciation in such low sprats, the "Roaring forties" winds of the western direction meet on their way over the oceanic expanses of the World Ocean of the Southern Hemisphere only the only obstacle in the form of the Patagonian Andes. On their western (Chilean) slopes, the winds fall with terrible force and give away almost all the moisture accumulated from the ocean.

Completely different climatic conditions are characteristic of the eastern (Argentinean) slopes and foothills of the Patagonian Andes, where the national park is located. Having lost strength and moisture on the western slopes, the air masses of the "roaring forties" arrive on the eastern slopes "weakened" and almost dried up. Being in the "rain shadow" of the Andes, the territory of the park receives much less precipitation - up to 900 mm on the slopes of the mountains and 500 mm in the east of the park. The average annual precipitation for the entire park is 809 mm, and the average annual temperatures are within +7.5 °С, minimum +3.3 °С, maximum + 12 °С. Here, unlike the eastern slopes of the Patagonian Andes, the sun shines most of the year. Only from April to May the sky is covered with clouds, it rains in the foothills, and snow falls in the mountains. In winter, and this is June-August in the Southern Hemisphere, snowfalls are common. In early spring and summer, strong hurricane-force winds sweep over the park from the west and south - from Antarctica.

Flora. In addition to snow-capped peaks (which are of undoubted interest to climbers), huge glacial fields and amazingly beautiful lake surfaces in the Los Glaciares National Park, you can also get acquainted with the peculiar flora of Patagonia.

Two types of plant communities are represented in the park - subantarctic Patagonian forests (in the west) and Patagonian steppes, characteristic of the flat-flat part (in the east).

Fauna. The vertebrate fauna of the national park, with the exception of the avifauna, has not yet been studied enough. About 100 species of birds have been recorded here, of which the Andean condor and the long-billed (Darwinian) rhea are the most notable.

Among the birds, the Andean spur (brook) duck, chaffinch are very numerous.

There is a small population of Andean deer. The Andean deer is listed in the International Red Book.

In the park, there are individual individuals of the mountain veskashi from the order of rodents. More often you can meet llamas, guanacos.

The ichthyofauna of glacial lakes and small streams is very rich. Many tourists come to Los Glaciares National Park specifically for sport fishing. In lakes Viedma and Lago Argentino, two species of salmon fish have been introduced specifically for sport fishing.

2.3 Iguazu National Park

Iguazu National Park (Spanish: Parque Nacional Iguazъ) is a national park in Argentina, located in the department of Iguazu, in the northern part of the province of Misiones, in the Argentine Mesopotamia.

The park was created in 1934 and partially contains one of the natural monuments of South America - Iguazu Falls, surrounded by subtropical jungle. On the other side of the Iguazu River lies the Brazilian park of the same name (Iguazu National Park). Both parks were declared UNESCO World Heritage Sites (in 1984 and 1986, respectively).

Flora. The flora includes 2 thousand species of plants, in particular: one of the endangered species of aspidosperm trees - Aspidosperma polyneuron (Eng.), rarely found outside the park due to cutting down for edible fruits, one of the species of cabbage palm - Euterpe edulis (Eng. ), phebe, holly, foot-bearing plant, recently the less common zedrel, araucaria, palo-rose. There are trees of the burser family, a lot of vascular plants. Among the flowers there are bromeliads, various types of orchids.

Fauna. The fauna of the park includes 70 species of mammals, 400 species of birds, 40 species of reptiles, several hundred species of butterflies, including endangered species. The most common representatives of the fauna are the following: jaguar, jaguarundi, mazama deer, plains tapir, capybara, water opossum, ocelot, giant anteater, brazilian otter, bush dog, cougar, monkeys (capuchins and howler monkeys), nosoha, Paraguayan caiman, broad-faced caiman, coral asp. Birds such as swifts and large toucans can also be found there. Common for these places, the vine-breasted Amazon, the American swift, the tirika, the Brazilian merganser, the bronze penelope (English) Russian, the South American harpy, the hummingbird. Among the known representatives of bats, the most common type of vampire is the common vampire.

Geography of waterfalls. The complex is 2.7 km wide and includes approximately 270 individual waterfalls. The height of the water fall reaches 82 meters, but on most waterfalls a little more than 60 meters. The largest waterfall is the "Devil's Throat" - a U-shaped cliff 150 meters wide and 700 meters long. This waterfall marks the border between Brazil and Argentina.

There are three cities in the vicinity of the falls.- Foz do Iguacu on the Brazilian side, Puerto Iguacu on the Argentine side and Ciudad del Este on the Paraguay side.

The most famous names of the waterfalls: "Adam and Eve", "Three Musketeers", "Two Sisters", "Salto Escondido" ("hidden jump"), "Salto Floriano" ("flower jump"), "San Martin" , "Ramirez" and a number of others.

Tourism. The Iguazu Falls are one of the most visited tourist destinations in South America. Every year there are 1.5-2 million visitors here. Viewing platforms are specially equipped for tourists. Hiking and car routes are laid in the vicinity of the waterfall. Also, tourists are offered waterproof clothing, as the routes go to the very foot of the waterfalls. In the vicinity of the Iguazu Falls, there is an international airport, dozens of hotels, campsites, access roads, and walking trails have been built. The local population is also employed in this industry, specially equipped areas for them, where they show local dances and songs, while dressing in local costumes.

2.4 Valdes Peninsula

Valdes is a peninsula on the Atlantic coast of Argentina. Area - 3625 km². It is connected to the mainland by the isthmus of Carlos Ameghino. The Bay of San José juts out from the north, and Golfo Nuevo juts out from the south. Most of the peninsula is uninhabited territory. There are several salt lakes, the largest of which lies 40 meters below sea level. This is the lowest point on land for South America.

In 1999, the Valdes Peninsula was included in the UNESCO World Heritage List - primarily for its unique and rich fauna.

Physical and geographical features. The peninsula is located in the northeast of the province of Chubut, and is washed by the waters of the Atlantic Ocean. From the north and south, its coasts are washed by the bays of San José and Nuevo.

The relief of the territory is a typical Patagonian plateau, which breaks off into the sea with sheer shores. The coast is composed of marine sediments, which are subject to constant erosion. Part of the coastline is represented by beaches, among which rocky beaches stand out - a favorite place for elephant seals.

The climate on the territory of the peninsula is transitional between the temperate climate of the central part of the country, with a maximum of precipitation in the hot months and a cold climate with winter rains, which is more characteristic of Patagonia. Summers on the peninsula are hot but short, and winters are cold.

Diversity of flora and fauna. The main vegetation of the seashores is algae. They cover the rocky shores with colorful blankets: blue-green, green, brown, red or yellow-green, depending on the pigment in the plant cells.

The Valdes Peninsula in Patagonia is of great importance for the conservation of marine mammals. A population of the endangered Australian right whale subspecies breeds here. The peninsula is known all over the world precisely because of the excellent opportunities for observing these giants. They come ashore in June and stay until December to breed. The southern whale reaches a length of about 14 meters and weighs up to 50 tons. Females bear cubs for a whole year, and at a time give birth to only one offspring.

Southern elephant seals and southern sea lions also breed here, and the killer whales living here use a unique hunting strategy adapted to the conditions of the local coastline.

The peninsula is also home to many species of birds and land animals such as guanaco, fox, American rhea, American (pampas) partridge, and Patagonian hare.

2.5 Ischigualasto and Talampaya Natural Parks

Ischigualasto and Talampaya Natural Parks - Two contiguous parks spread over 275,300 hectares in a desert region on the western border of the Sierra Pampeanas in Central Argentina. Here you can see the most complete paleontological record, starting from the Triassic period (245-208 million years ago). The six geological formations in the parks contain the fossilized remains of numerous mammalian, dinosaurian and plant precursors, showing the evolution of vertebrates and the nature of the paleographic setting during the Triassic period. Included in the UNESCO List in 2000

Flora and fauna of Ischigualasto. The flora and fauna of Ischigualasto is unique. All inhabitants demonstrate amazing adaptability to the desert arid climate. Some of the most common types of animals that travelers can not only see but also feed are Argentine gray foxes, viscachas and rabbits. While traveling through the park, guests also come across peculiar animals - maras, which are also called Patagonian hares, although they have nothing to do with hares.

Of the predators that live in Ischigualasto, one of the most common are the "damage" skunks, since these animals, which defend themselves with the fetid secretions of the anal glands, have a particular preference for open areas.

From the canine family, the gray Argentine fox, or "sorro de la pampa", is widespread here.

In the protected area there are condors, two species of South American vultures - turkey and urubu, many songbirds. And even representatives of the parrot family, which, in our view, are characteristic only of tropical forests.

Surprisingly, even several species of frogs and toads live in these waterless lands.

Vegetation is represented mainly by cacti, rare thorny shrubs and trees, such as "retama", "chanyar", "algorobo" and others. Many of the plants found here are used in medicine.

Attractions of the Talampaya Park

· The dry bed of the Talampaya River, where dinosaurs lived several million years ago - as in Ischigualasto, fossils of that era can be found here.

Talampaya Canyon - the height of the walls reaches 143 m, the minimum width is 80 m.

· Remains of settlements of local peoples, such as petroglyphs in Puerta del Canyon.

· A botanical garden with local flora at the narrow point of the canyon.

· Fauna of the region: guanacos, hares, maras, foxes and condors.

3. Bolivia

Bolivia has only 1 natural world heritage site, the Noel Kempff Mercado National Park. In addition, as of 2010, 7 objects on the territory of the state are among the candidates for inclusion in the World Heritage List, including 4 - cultural, 1 - natural and 2 - mixed criteria.

3.1 Noel-Kempff-Mercado National Park

The Noel Kempff Mercado National Park is located in the José Miguel de Velasco province of the Santa Cruz department in eastern Bolivia on the border with Brazil. The territory of the park is 15,838 km², which makes it one of the largest parks in the entire Amazon basin. In 2000, the park was included in the UNESCO World Heritage List.

Climate. The climate is distinctly seasonal with approximately 1400-1500mm of average annual precipitation. There is a dry season of about 4-6 months (May to September) when there is a decrease in rainfall. The average annual temperature is 25-26°C, but during the dry season the temperature can drop to 10 degrees for several days when the cold dry air masses of Patagonia (surazos) reach the park.

Flora and fauna. The inaccessibility of these places serves as a good natural protection of the virginity of the park, which includes five ecosystems located at altitudes from 200 to 1000m above sea level: mountain evergreen forests, deciduous forests, dry savannah, wet savannah and tropical rainforests. The diverse flora includes 4,000 plant species, of which 2,700 species have been identified. Among them are several types of palms, cedar, oak, creepers and bromeliads, many types of orchids. Breathtaking colors and scents, exotic passion fruit and mangaba fill these places.

More than 630 species of birds, 139 species of mammals live in the park- this is more than in all of North America, including: jaguar, puma, river dolphin, giant anteater, maned wolf, tapirs, capybaras, marsh deer. Many species of butterflies and other insects, 62 species of amphibians, including the South American side turtle and black caiman, 127 species of reptiles. Two types of anacondas are found here at the same time - green ordinary and yellow Paraguayan. About 254 species of fish are found in the rivers.

Some of these fauna are endangered elsewhere in Bolivia.

4. Brazil

There are 8 natural sites on the list of UNESCO World Natural Heritage Sites in Brazil. Among them, 4 objects are recognized as "natural phenomena of exceptional beauty and aesthetic importance" (criterion vii).

Iguazu National Park (1986)

Serra da Capivara National Park (1991)

East Atlantic Forest Reserves (1999)

Forest reserves of the southeast Atlantic coast (1999)

Complex of reserves of the Central Amazon (2000)

Pantanal Protected Area (2000)

Brazilian Islands in the Atlantic: Fernando de Noronha and Rocas Atoll (2001)

· Campos Cerrado National Parks: Chapada dos Veadeiros and Emas (2001)

4.1 Iguazu National Park

Iguazu is a national park of Brazil and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, located in the state of Parana. It is famous for its waterfall (part of which is located in the Argentinean province of Misiones) and its scenic wildlife (especially a wide variety of birds) that includes rare and endangered species. This is the most unique place in the world, as 5 forest species are concentrated on one piece of land.

4.2 Serra da Capivara National Park

The Serra da Capivara National Park is a national park in the state of Piauí in northeastern Brazil. The park contains many monuments of prehistoric rock art, which were discovered by the archaeologist Nyede Gidon. On her own initiative, a park was created to preserve the images. In 1991 it was listed as a World Heritage Site. The area of ​​the park is 1291.4 km².

Archaeological studies show that in ancient times the Serra da Capivara was very densely populated, there was the largest concentration of prehistoric peasant farms in ancient America.

Climate, flora and fauna. The climate in these places is very hot and arid, and therefore the vegetation of the park is represented by thorny trees and shrubs, as well as cacti, of various bizarre forms, more reminiscent of a chandelier. Despite the dryness of the climate, which, I must say, is not at all typical for Brazil, in these places it is not difficult to meet anteaters, armadillos, snakes, jaguars, cougars, and various parrots. Also in these places lives an interesting animal - a false vampire. This is a bat with a meter wingspan.

Attractions of the park. In Brazil's Serra da Capivara National Park, there are caves where distant human ancestors lived 50,000 years ago. Most likely this is the oldest community of people in South America. The national park is located near the town of San Raimondo Nonato (central part of the state of Piauí).

Scientists have counted more than three hundred archaeological sites in this place. The main images are well preserved and have an age of 22-25 thousand years before the birth of Christ. Extinct animals are painted on the rocks, which will never be on planet Earth.

4.3 East Atlantic Forest Reserves

Eight protected natural areas (including three national parks) with a total area of ​​112,000 hectares are located in the states of Bahia and Espirito Santo and include Atlantic wet forests and bushes ("restinga"). In terms of biodiversity, this area is one of the richest on the planet. A number of endemic species live in the reserves, which makes it possible to trace the evolutionary path of living organisms, and this, in turn, is of great importance both from a scientific and environmental point of view.

biodiversity. Despite the fact that the ecoregion has suffered greatly from deforestation for agricultural purposes and urbanization (out of a million square kilometers of virgin forests, about 7% remain), the flora and fauna are very rich here, 450 species of trees can grow on one hectare. Many endemics, for example, 92% of local amphibians are found nowhere else. An example of primates is the genus lion marmosets (Leontopithecus). The collared sloth (Bradypus torquatus) is only found in the Brazilian Atlantic forest. Birds include the blue-capped tanager (Tangara cyanocephala), the red-billed crax (Crax blumenbachii), the blue-bellied parrot (Triclaria malachitacea), the three-toed jacamar (Jacamaralcyon tridactyla) and others.

4.4 Southeast Atlantic Forest Reserves

The forest reserves of the southeast Atlantic coast contain the finest and most extensive examples of the Atlantic forests in Brazil. The 25 protected areas that make up this monument, with a total area of ​​about 470,000 hectares, demonstrate the biological richness and evolutionary history of the last remnants of the Atlantic forests. This area is distinguished by its diversity and beauty and is of great scientific importance.

biodiversity. Partially isolated since the Ice Age, the Atlantic forests have developed into a complex ecosystem with exceptionally high levels of endemism (70% tree species, 85% primates, and 39% mammals).

The designated World Heritage Site contains well-preserved sites of very diverse Atlantic rainforests. More than 450 species of trees per hectare can be found in some areas. The forest canopy along the river valleys is higher with isolated trees reaching up to 30 m in height.

There is a very diverse fauna. Mammals include 120 species, probably the largest number in Brazil. Some notable species are the jaguar, ocelot, bush dog, La Plata otter, 20 species of bats and various endangered primate species, especially the muriqui and brown howler monkey. The avifauna is very diverse with 350 species recorded.

4.5 Central Amazonian Reserve Complex

A huge area (more than 6 million hectares) of the world's unique treasures of nature is a delightful complex of reserves of the Central Amazon. This region is distinguished by a great variety of biological objects. For example, the reserves include such valuable protected areas as Jau National Park, the Anavillanas Archipelago and the Amazon Forest Cover. The diverse ecological systems "varzeya" and "igapo" make the reserves an invaluable world landmark. The peculiar ecology of these places is an excellent habitat for the world's largest electric snakes, Amazonian manatees, black caiman, as well as giant fish - arapaima. In the rivers and lakes that form a bizarre aqua system, you can meet 2 species of dolphins here.

Flora. The flora of the igapo is comparatively poor, being most characteristic of the imbauba-cecropia, which grows rapidly but not high (usually about 10 m), with broad palmate, almost white leaves and aerial roots supporting it underwater. At the surface of the water, in the pools covered with huge leaves of victoria reggae, bushes of nondescript Ivoreans stretch. During the retreat of the floods thickets of tall hard grasses develop. These gloomy forests are decorated with climbing vines and epiphytes, among which there are many orchids. The Amazon forests are the realm of vines. They spread like garlands along the ground, climbing out onto trunks, thrown from branch to branch, from one tree to another, hanging from the trees.

Fauna. Numerous lakes and streams form a mosaic aquatic system within the site, which is in a state of constant development and serves as a habitat for the world's largest population of electric eels.

Rare and endangered species include the Amazonian manatee, black caiman (the largest South American alligator, whose length is 5 m), two species of river dolphins, and also a fish - a giant arapaima.

There are many herbivores on the territory of the object, forest deer and antelope are especially common; there are anteaters, sloth, tapir, peccary, armadillo, many rodents. Monkeys can be seen everywhere, they are very numerous and diverse: capuchins, durukuly, uakari, howler monkeys. There are a lot of bats in the forests.

4.6 Pantanal Protected Area

Pantanal is a vast swampy tectonic basin in Brazil, small parts of it are also located in Bolivia and Paraguay, in the Paraguay River basin. It is located in the west of the state of Mato Grosso do Sul and in the south of the state of Mato Grosso. The total area is approximately between 150-195 thousand km², it is one of the largest wetlands on the planet.

Geography and geology. The prevailing heights are 50–70 m above sea level. From the north, east and southeast, the territory is sharply limited by the cliffs of the Brazilian Plateau. The natural conditions of this region are very contrasting. Floods during the wet summer season turn the Pantanal into a huge swamp lake and alternate with winter droughts that form a patchy landscape of perennial semi-grown swamps, lakes, subtle meandering riverbeds, salt marshes, sandbars and grassy areas.

biodiversity. There is a huge variety of flora and fauna. Over 3,500 plant species grow throughout the Pantanal. There are 650 species of birds, 230 species of fish and 50 species of reptiles, more than 80 species of mammals. There are about 20 million crocodiles alone. On the territory of the Pantanal there is a specially protected natural reserve - "Pantanal", which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Reserve"Pantanal" is a unique and at the same time a wonderful attraction in Brazil. Its borders are in contact with Paraguay and Bolivia. The prevailing heights are within 50-70 meters. This amazing savannah is separated from the north by the Amazon jungle, and to the south by dense coastal Atlantic forests. The Paraguay River flows through the Pantanal, which creates numerous swamps, lakes and water meadows.

Among this richest fauna on the planet are such well-known species as the hyacinth macaw, toucans, capybara, guar wolf, many species of monkeys, deer, coatis, armadillos, anteater, sloth, more than 1000 species of butterflies, etc. Many of the animals that are threatened extinction in other parts of South America, they live in the Pantanal. Not far from the reserve is the small and wonderful town of Bonito, which is surrounded by greenery. The Brazilians dubbed it - the gate to the Pantanal. Thousands of tourists from all over the world visit this protected natural park of amazing beauty and diversity all year round.

4.7 Brazilian Islands in the Atlantic: Fernando de Noronha and Rocas Atoll

The Fernando de Noronha archipelago and the Rocas Atoll, which are the peaks of the underwater South Atlantic Ridge that come to the surface of the ocean, lie off the eastern coast of Brazil. These islands are among the largest in this region of the Atlantic, and their coastal waters are highly bio-productive and play an exceptional role as habitats and breeding grounds for tuna, sharks, sea turtles and marine mammals. The largest concentrations of marine tropical birds in the Western Atlantic have been noted on the islands; there is also a large local population of dolphins. During low tides on Rocas Atoll, you can observe an impressive picture: shallow lagoons teeming with fish.

Flora and fauna of Fernando de Noronha. The island was covered with forest until the nineteenth century, after the prison was opened on the island, the forest began to be cut down from the construction of escape rafts. Currently, the islands are predominantly covered with shrubs, and in some areas new forest has recently been planted.

The islands are inhabited by 2 species of endemic birds - Noronha Elaenia (Elaenia ridleyana) and Noronha Vireo (Vireo gracilirostris). Both are on the main island; Noronha Vireo is also present on Ilha Rata. In addition, there are the Eared Dove Noronha auriculata Zinaida, the rodents, Noronhomys vespuccii, mentioned by Amerigo Vespucci, have now disappeared.

Geography of Rocas Atoll . It is of volcanic origin, formed by corals. The only atoll in the South Atlantic, one of the smallest atolls in the world.

The atoll has an oval shape, its length is approximately 3.7 km, width- 2.5 km. The depth of the lagoon is 6 m, the area is 7.1 km². The area of ​​the two islets of the atoll (Cemitério in the southwest, Farol Cay in the northwest) is 0.36 km², of which Farol Cay accounts for about two-thirds of the territory. The highest point is a sand dune in the south of Farol Cay, its height is 6 m. The atoll consists mainly of corals and red algae. The coral ring is practically closed, with the exception of a 200-meter wide channel on the north side and a much narrower channel on the western side.

Both islets are overgrown with grass, shrubs, and several palm trees also grow on them. The islets are inhabited by crabs, spiders, scorpions, sand fleas, beetles, and many bird species. Turtles, sharks, dolphins live near the atoll.

4.8 Campos Cerrado National Parks: Chapada dos Veadeiros and Emas

"Campos Serrado" is one of the ecoregions of the tropical Brazilian savannah, which occupies about 20% of the country's territory. In this zone there are two Brazilian national parks (Emas and Chapada dos Veadeiros), which are not just protected areas, but also UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Their flora and fauna is distinguished by its biodiversity and at the same time is one of the oldest ecosystems in the tropical zone, which impresses with its amazing contrasts. These places have been pleasing to the eye for thousands of years, and also serve as a safe haven for a variety of animals and plants.

Emas. Emas National Park is located in the central part of the Brazilian Highland savannah. The authorities of the country, or rather President Juscelino, made this territory a reserve back in 1961, but Emas was included in the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in 2001. The park is rich in forested savanna flora. It is here that you can find amazing palm trees typical of the wooded savannahs. In the park, tourists can see the round crowns of huge babasu palms, reaching 75 meters in height.

The Emasa savanna has helped to preserve many species of living organisms during climate change. Among the most interesting representatives of the fauna, one can note a large anteater, an armadillo and a maned wolf. As for the climate, winters are cold here, and summers are hot. Inquisitive tourists are offered such types of entertainment as fishing, horseback riding or boat trips.

Chapada dos Veadeiros. An equally interesting object is the Chapada dos Veadeiros park. Which also became a protected area in 1961. The park is located in the state of Goiás on an ancient plateau. If Emas is very rich in fauna, then nature has endowed Chapada dos Veadeiros with a wide variety of flora. There are more than 25 species of trees on the territory of the reserve. The fauna of the region is also quite bright and colorful (marsh deer, armadillos, tapirs). On hot summer days, temperatures up to 40 degrees can be observed here, but in winter there is sometimes a slight frost.

5. Venezuela

The list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Venezuela includes 3 items (for 2010), which is 0.3% of the total (981 for 2013). 2 objects are included in the list according to cultural criteria, 1 object - according to natural criteria (Canaima National Park).

In addition, as of 2010, 3 objects on the territory of the state are among the candidates for inclusion in the World Heritage List. The first site in Venezuela was listed in 1993 at the 17th session of the UNESCO World Heritage Committee.

5.1 Canaima National Park

Canaima National Park is a park in the southeast of Venezuela, on the border with Brazil and Guyana. The area of ​​the park is about 30,000 km². It is located in the state of Bolivar and occupies approximately the same territory as the Gran Sabana Natural Park.

The park was opened on June 12, 1962 and is the second largest in the country, second only to Parima-Tapirapeco. In 1994, Canaima was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List. The main attraction and value of the park are the tepui (flat-topped mountains) located there.

Flora and fauna. On the territory of Canaima, such representatives of the animal world live as: tapir - a large herbivorous mammal (somewhat reminiscent of a pig in shape, but has a short trunk adapted for grasping), peccaries - a large artiodactyl, similar to a pig, agouti - rodents, relatives of guinea pigs, moving on long limbs, anteater, puma, jaguar, as well as broad-faced caiman, etc. In the village of the Pemon Indians, there are many rabbits that are chased by children. The local jungle is famous for the special abundance of various types of orchids, of which there are about 500 species.

Attractions. Like fragments of another world, the Table Mountains stand here - the unique plateau of the Gran Sabana, part of the Guiana Plateau, two-kilometer steep walls of which, absolutely flat at the top, rest against the clouds. These mountains, called tepui, are some of the oldest formations on Earth, dating back countless years when Africa and South America were one continent. Arthur Conan Doyle, inspired by the surreal landscape, settled tyrannosvars and pterodactyls on the tops of the plateau. Of course, there are no ancient lizards on Gran Saban, but the microcosm that lives at an altitude of two thousand meters above the rest of the surrounding world is truly unique.

Another attraction of Canaim is the waterfalls, the highest on the planet. Falling from the sheer ledges of the mesas, these waterfalls make for an impressive sight. The most famous of them - Angel Falls, overthrown from the top of one of the highest tepui - Auyantepui, which deservedly means "mountain of the devil".

6. Colombia

There are 2 sites on the list of UNESCO World Natural Heritage Sites in Colombia:

Los Katios National Park (1994)

Malpelo Island (2006)

6.1 Los Katios National Park

It was created in the north of Colombia, in the border zone with the state of Panama. On the other side of the border, another protected area has been created - the Darien National Park. On the territory of Colombia, Los Katios National Park appeared in 1976, today its area has grown to 72 thousand hectares. The nature of the park is represented by the following natural areas: tropical forests and floodplain swamps. The territory of Los Katios Park lies around the Atrato River. On its banks and among the nearby complexes of wet forests, a total of about 600 plant varieties were found. A rather remarkable local species is the cotton tree. This is a typical tropical species that belongs to the mallow family. The homeland of this species is considered to be Mexico, some countries of Central America, the Caribbean Islands, and the tropical region of West Africa.

6.2 Malpelo Island

Malpelo is an island in the eastern Pacific Ocean, 500 km off the coast of Buenaventura Bay in South America. Belongs to Colombia, is part of the department of Valle del Cauca. The area is 0.35 km².

On July 12, 2006, Malpelo, together with the adjacent water area of ​​​​857,150 hectares, was included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. It is the largest no-fishing zone in the Eastern Tropical Pacific.

Geography. The island is a rock without abundant vegetation, the maximum height is 376 m (Mount Mona, Spanish Cerro de la Mona). The length is about 1850 m, the width is up to 600 m. It is surrounded by small rocks. The Malpelo Natural Protected Area occupies a circle with a radius of 9.656 km around the point with coordinates 3°58?30? With. sh. 81°34?48? h. d. (G) (O).

Malpelo is home to populations of silky sharks, frilled sharks, whale sharks and hammerhead sharks, as well as sand sharks, making the island a popular destination for divers.

The island is composed of effusive rocks, volcanogenic breccias, and Tertiary basalt dikes. Vegetation - algae, lichens, mosses, some types of shrubs, ferns.

biodiversity. Malpelo Island is home to a range of rare marine life. A lot of sharks, giant groupers, marlins gather here. This is one of the few places on Earth where reliable encounters with deep-sea sand sharks have been recorded. In these depths, stable populations of large marine predators and pelagic species are maintained, in particular, these are accumulations of more than 200 hammerheads, over 1,000 frilled sharks, as well as whale sharks and tuna. 17 species of marine mammals, including humpback and blue whales, 5 terrestrial and 7 marine reptile species, 61 bird species, 394 fish species and 340 shellfish species have been recorded on Malpelo .

7. Peru

For 2012, the list includes 11 objects, 2 of which are natural and 2 are mixed:

Machu Picchu (1983)

Huascaran National Park (1985)

Manu (1987)

Rio Abiseo National Park (1992)

7.1 Machu Picchu Historical Reserve

The city of ancient America, located on the territory of modern Peru, on the top of a mountain range at an altitude of 2450 meters above sea level, dominating the valley of the Urubamba River. In 2007 he was awarded the title of the New Wonder of the World.

In 2011, it was decided to limit the number of visitors. According to the new rules, only 2,500 tourists per day can visit Machu Picchu, of which no more than 400 people can climb Mount Wayna Picchu, which is part of the archaeological complex. In order to preserve the monument, UNESCO demands to reduce the number of tourists per day to 800.

Flora and fauna. On the territory of Machu Picchu you are constantly surrounded by landscapes of dazzling beauty. The splendor of the archaeological ruins is harmoniously combined with a huge variety of flora and fauna. On the entire area of ​​the lost city, which is approximately 32,520 hectares, you will see exotic pisonai and kunyual trees, shield palms, alders - they amaze with their grandeur. About 400 species of begonias and orchids grow here, of which only 260 species are classified.

Animals living in Machu Picchu are also striking in their diversity. Approximately 375 species of birds live in the city, of which 200 species can always be seen during the tour. One of the brightest representatives of birds is the Rock Cockerel, it is he who is the symbol of Peru. The bird is easily recognizable by its colorful plumage, it is easy to meet on the banks of rivers.

In terms of animals, the endangered Andean bear is of particular interest. In these parts, he is known as "Spectacled Bear". The animal is absolutely safe, eats only plant foods. Due to his shy disposition, he is rarely photographed. In Machu Picchu you can also see vicuñas, white-tailed deer, wild llamas and other representatives of exotic fauna.

Current state. Machu Picchu, especially after receiving the UNESCO World Heritage status, has become a center of mass tourism. In 2011, it was decided to limit the number of visitors. According to the new rules, only 2,500 tourists per day can visit Machu Picchu, of which no more than 400 people can climb Mount Wayna Picchu, which is part of the archaeological complex. In order to preserve the monument, UNESCO demands to reduce the number of tourists per day to 800. Machu Picchu is located in a remote region. To support tourism, a railway was built to the neighboring city of Aguas Calientes from Cusco via Ollantaytambo, more than ten trains a day run from Ollantaytambo. From the Aguas Calientes railway station to Machu Picchu, there is a bus that overcomes eight kilometers of a steep serpentine climb. UNESCO opposed the construction of the cable car to limit the flow of tourists. As a result of the earthquake in 2004, the section of the railway was badly damaged, but was restored.

At the 35th session of the UNESCO World Heritage Committee, it was decided that the ancient city from February 1, 2012 will be excluded from the list of World Heritage Sites in Danger.

7.2 Huascaran National Park

A national park located in the Ancash region of Peru, on the territory of the Cordillera Blanca.

The area of ​​the park is 3400 km². Declared a nature reserve on July 1, 1975. UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1985. The name of the park comes from the name of the highest peak in Peru - Huascaran, 6768 m high. Many rare and endemic plants and animals live in the park. For example, Puya raimondi is a plant of the bromeliad family up to 10 meters high, whose age can reach up to 100 years.

Climate. The climate in the national park, in addition to being characterized by altitudinal zonation typical of mountains, is divided into two seasons a year. One of them is humid, caused by strong warm winds blowing from the Amazonian jungle, and lasts from December to March. The other, which lasts from May to October, is dry, characterized by a large number of sunny days. The temperature at this time can rise to 25 degrees Celsius, but the nights are very cold, and often the thermometer drops below 0 degrees.

Flora and fauna. The fauna of the White and Black Cordillera is represented mainly by birds and mammals. Some species have not yet been described or our knowledge of them is extremely scarce. According to scientists, there are 112 species of birds in the Huascaran National Park, representing 33 different families. Among them are the Andean Condor, the Andean Spur Duck and the Andean Tinamou. Mammals are represented in the park by only ten species. However, among them are such amazing, rare and beautiful animals as the pampas cat, Andean cat, spectacled bear, vicuña and Peruvian deer.

The flora of the Huascaran National Park is more diverse in terms of species growing here. There are seven climatic zones and a huge number of microclimates in the park. All this contributes to the development of unique plants, capturing literally every part of the mountain surface suitable for life and growth. In total, scientists have described 779 plant species in Huascaran, belonging to 340 genera and 104 families.

7.3 Manu National Park

The park was organized in 1977 in the regions of Madre de Dios and Cusco, and in 1987 was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Manu area is 19,098 km², of which the national park occupies 15,328 km², the rest is a reserve zone. The main part of the territory is the Amazonian forests, but some part is located in the Andes at an altitude of up to 4200 m. A large number of species of flora and fauna live in Manu. More than 15 thousand species of plants and about a thousand species of birds have been found on its territory (more than a tenth of all bird species and about 1.5 times more than in Russia). On the territory of the park, the population of the Inca toad, endemic to Peru, is protected.

7.4 Rio Abiseo National Park

Rio Abiseo National Park is a national park located in the San Martin region of Peru. Since 1990 it has been included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. The park is home to many species of flora and fauna, and there are more than 30 archaeological sites from the pre-Columbian period. Since 1986, certain parts of the park have been closed to tourists due to the fragility of both the natural and archaeological environments. The largest and most famous archaeological site in the park is the Gran Pajaten, located on a hilltop near the border of the region. Nearby are the ruins of Los Pinchudos (discovered in 1965), which are a series of stone graves. Most archeology research in the park is conducted by staff at the University of Colorado.

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