UNESCO evaluates Viñales Valley bid for Global Geoparks Network

Two UNESCO specialists arrived Tuesday in Viñales Valley, Pinar del Río, to examine whether it meets the requirements for admission to the Global Geoparks Network. The evaluation runs through October 10.

The review covers conservation of geological heritage, education and research programs, participation by local communities and sustainable-tourism initiatives. Enrique Castellanos, director general of Geology at the Energy and Mines Ministry, is accompanying the process.

The Council of Ministers approved the bid in May 2025, and it was formally submitted to UNESCO in November of that year. If successful, Viñales would become the Caribbean's first UNESCO Global Geopark. A final decision is not expected before spring 2028.

The valley was declared a World Heritage Site in 1999, designated a national park in 2001 and recognized as Cuba's first national geopark in 2021.