National Geographic has announced its ‘Best of the World 2026’ list, revealing 25 must-visit destinations

MUMBAI: Searching for your next great escape or inspiration for an upcoming adventure? National Geographic has revealed its top picks for BEST OF THE WORLD, the brand’s annual list of the most awe-inspiring, meaningful and immersive travel experiences for the upcoming year.

Drawing on the expertise of its editors, travel contributors and international partners, National Geographic’s BEST OF THE WORLD 2026 is the definitive guide to the top destinations to visit in 2026. From Rwandan safaris to Pittsburgh museums, this year’s edition encourages readers to rethink how they travel, embracing deeper connections with nature, culture and communities. The selections span the globe - from the Philippines to Finland and includes four U.S. locations.

Designed as a curated selection of options to inspire travelers, BEST OF THE WORLD 2026 includes something for everyone: families, foodies, animal lovers, adventurers and more. This year’s list stands apart by featuring destinations that celebrate distinctive cultural moments, one-of-a-kind events and experiences, awe-inspiring natural wonders and sustainable travel. Whether exploring the Badlands or touring the “snow monsters” of the Zao mountains in Japan, this year’s selections offer a diverse range of options that cater to both seasoned explorers and first-time adventurers.

“At Nat Geo, we know that travel has the power to inspire and transform us,” said Nathan Lump, editor-in-chief of National Geographic. “In this year’s BEST OF THE WORLD, we especially wanted to highlight unexpected destinations that the algorithms are probably not serving you - for instance, Uzbekistan’s Khiva or Rwanda’s Akagera National Park. Of course, we know that not every trip can be an off-the-beaten-path adventure, so we were mindful to include some surprisingly compelling places that are also more easily accessible. Whatever kind of traveler you are, our goal is to ensure we’re sharing fresh ideas that help you connect with that feeling of discovery and joy that comes from a great travel experience.”

BEST OF THE WORLD 2026 can be found online now at NatGeo.com/BestOfTheWorld, where readers can be transported to each destination through striking photography and immersive reporting.

Visuals are available here. To follow the conversation on social, use #BestoftheWorld.