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National Geographic Unveils 25 ‘Best of the World’ Destinations for 2026 With First-Ever Planning Guide

The curation spotlights regenerative travel, lesser-known alternatives, plus imminent access changes and conservation milestones.

Beijing, China: The Mutianyu section of the Great Wall of China is northeast of Beijing, one of the 25 destinations named by National Geographic in its 2026 "Best of the World" list.
The Air Guitar World Championship is one of Oulu's cultural innovations.
The Zao “ snow monsters ” of Japan are a phenomenon created at the top of Mount Zao, where Maries’ fir trees get pelted with so much moisture from icy winds that they begin to lean over, giving them the appearance of storybook monsters at the Zao Onsen Ski Resort.
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Overview

  • The annual list is an editorial selection drawn from nominations by National Geographic’s global network of writers, photographers, editors and videographers.
  • A new companion guide debuts with this edition to help readers turn inspiration into concrete trip plans.
  • Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park in Australia is slated to permit overnight stays starting April 2026, opening new stargazing and cultural experiences.
  • Dominica is described as moving toward establishing what would be the world’s first sperm whale reserve, a developing conservation effort highlighted for 2026.
  • Coverage notes reported travel facilitators and event-linked draws, including a planned expansion of visa-free stays in Beijing for 47 countries in 2026 and Oklahoma’s more than $82 million investment ahead of Route 66’s centennial.