Four places in Asia have just been named new UNESCO Biosphere Reserves

UNESCO has added 14 new biosphere reserves to its World Network of Biosphere Reserves for 2026 – and four of them are in Asia.

Announced to mark World Environment Day on June 5, the new additions bring the global network to 797 sites across 145 countries. Unlike UNESCO Global Geoparks, which focus heavily on geological heritage, biosphere reserves are recognised for their ecological value and the way people and nature coexist within them.

For travellers, these are not always straightforward sightseeing spots. Some are remote, fragile landscapes; others are working communities, national parks or entire municipalities. But they are places where conservation, biodiversity and sustainable travel come together. And that's what makes Asia’s new entries especially worth knowing.

Tost Toson Bumbiin Nuruu, Mongolia

Set in Mongolia’s South Gobi, Tost Toson Bumbiin Nuruu is a rugged mountain-desert landscape of ranges, dry riverbeds and oases, and an important habitat for snow leopards, ibex and gazelles. It’s best suited to serious nature travellers, with extreme temperatures ranging from scorching summers to freezing winters.

Matibay na Bayan ng Sablayan, Philippines

In the Philippines, Matibay na Bayan ng Sablayan spans mountain forests to marine ecosystems in Occidental Mindoro, including Apo Reef Natural Park and habitats for the endangered tamaraw. It positions Sablayan as a key nature destination beyond its beaches.

Nino Konis Santana, Timor-Leste

Nino Konis Santana, Timor-Leste’s first biosphere reserve, covers forests, Lake Ira Lalaro, Jaco Island and marine areas within the Coral Triangle. Rich in wildlife and cultural heritage, it offers remote but rewarding eco-travel experiences.

Phong Nha-Ke Bang, Vietnam

Phong Nha-Ke Bang is famed for its limestone karsts, vast caves and underground rivers, including Son Doong. Beyond caving, it’s a biodiversity hotspot with forests and activities like trekking, kayaking and cycling. The area is also home to rich wildlife such as tigers, black bears and elephants. 

The 14 new UNESCO Biosphere Reserves for 2026:

1. Shkodër Lake, Albania
2. Theniet El Had, Algeria
3. Aruba Island, Aruba
4. Great Caucasus, Azerbaijan
5. Takamanda, Cameroon
6. Québec City, Canada
7. Dalankuh-Qamishlou, Iran
8. Tost Toson Bumbiin Nuruu, Mongolia
9. Skadar Lake Watershed, Montenegro
10. Sur del Alto Paraná, Paraguay
11. Matibay na Bayan ng Sablayan, Philippines
12. Serra da Estrela, Portugal
13. Nino Konis Santana, Timor-Leste
14. Phong Nha-Ke Bang, Vietnam

Read the full list here. 

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