The world is full of hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Among these are UNESCO World Heritage Sites that, despite their significant cultural and natural values, remain relatively unknown. Here are six lesser-known UNESCO Heritage Sites you must visit:

1. Valongo Wharf, Brazil

Located in Rio de Janeiro, the Valongo Wharf was once the largest port for slave entry in the Americas. Today, it stands as a symbol of acknowledgment and memory of the African diaspora. Learn more about Valongo Wharf.

2. Choirokoitia, Cyprus

This well-preserved Neolithic settlement provides an important insight into human life dating back nearly 10,000 years. It's one of the most important prehistoric sites in the eastern Mediterranean. Learn more about Choirokoitia.

3. Historic Centre of Bukhara, Uzbekistan

Bukhara, once a bustling stop on the Silk Road, is home to hundreds of preserved monuments reflecting various architectural styles from the 9th to the 17th centuries. Learn more about Bukhara.

4. Kluane / Wrangell-St. Elias / Glacier Bay / Tatshenshini-Alsek, Canada / USA

This cross-border site offers dramatic glacial and mountain landscapes, high-quality wilderness habitat for grizzly bears, caribou, and Dall's sheep, and is a site of continuing geological and glaciological processes. Learn more about this park system.

5. Sangay National Park, Ecuador

This park, located in the Central Andes of Ecuador, hosts a wide range of ecosystems and is a refuge for several endangered species. It's a haven for nature enthusiasts and biodiversity. Learn more about Sangay National Park.

6. Great Mosque of Djenné, Mali

Built in the distinctive Sudano-Sahelian architectural style, the Great Mosque of Djenné is considered to be one of the greatest achievements of the Sudano-Sahelian architectural style and is a stunning example of earthen architecture. Learn more about the Great Mosque of Djenné.

While these UNESCO World Heritage Sites may be lesser-known, they each hold a unique allure and historical significance that make them worthwhile additions to your travel bucket list.