Alaska’s wild landscapes provide a stunning backdrop for capturing unforgettable bear encounters, especially in Lake Clark National Park. Whether you’re chasing the golden-hour light or waiting for that perfect bear profile, these moments are the essence of wildlife photography.

Guided by experts like Nat Hab Expedition Leader and Photo Expedition Director Mike Hillman, photographers of every level—and with any kind of gear—have the opportunity to frame extraordinary images that showcase the beauty and power of these inspiring animals.

In the video below, Mike reminds us, “Whatever you happen to have with you is going to be the best camera… it’s all about your eye as an artist.” Explore these essential photo tips, capture the bears in their natural habitat, and return home with a collection of breathtaking memories.

Read on for 11 spectacular bear photos you won’t want to miss on your next Alaskan adventure: From close-up details of a bear’s fur and claws to dynamic action shots of bears wrestling, each image tells a story of the bears in their natural habitat and come complete with How To Tips from Mike.

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Bear Silhouettes in Golden Hour Light

Alaska’s extended summer golden hour provides photographers with unique opportunities to capture stunning bear silhouettes against soft, angled light. The long, gradual sunset offers plenty of time to experiment with effects and perfect your shots.

Even cloud cover can add interesting layers to the image. Mike explains, “Sun coming out through one of the holes in the clouds… is… great. That’ll give us some beautiful kind-of silhouette light for our bears.”  This provides a unique opportunity for silhouette photography, where the bears stand out dramatically against the glowing horizon.

• Look for cloudy breaks: When the sun peeks through the clouds, it creates dramatic lighting.
• Position your camera low: Shooting from a lower angle highlights the bear against the sky.
• Capture multiple shots: Use burst mode to take a series of images as the bear moves.

Tip: Pay close attention to how clouds interact with the light—this can create dynamic shifts in tone and mood for your Alaskan bear silhouette.

Bears in the Landscape: Tell a Broader Story

Incorporating Alaska’s dramatic mountain ranges into your bear photography adds context and grandeur to your images.

Capturing the interaction between the wildlife and the surrounding environment creates a more compelling visual narrative. You can tell a more complex story of the bears in their environment by including Alaska’s stunning mountain ranges, for example, in the shot.

Mike emphasizes the importance of setting: “It’s important here in Lake Clark National Park to not only tell the story of up-close bears but also to tell the story of bears in the landscape. We have the beautiful mountain ranges here in the Aleutian Range as well as the Alaska Range.”

• Frame with the landscape in mind: Position the mountains or other natural elements as a background to your bear subject.
• Use a wide-angle lens: Capture more of the environment to give a sense of scale.
• Look for reflective surfaces: Water bodies and fields can add a layer of depth to your images.

Tip: Use the rule of thirds to balance the bear and the landscape, but don’t hesitate to break the rule when the scene calls for more emphasis on the mountains. If the mountains dominate the scene, focus more on setting up a balanced landscape composition.

Patience for Bear Profiles

For bear silhouettes, patience is key. Waiting for the perfect moment to capture a clean profile can make all the difference. “You may have to wait for those bears to move into just the right position so they’re silhouetted,” Hillman advises, “so you get that beautiful bear profile.”

A clear silhouette can ensure the bear is instantly recognizable and also highlight its powerful presence in the scene.

• Set your camera in advance: Prepare your settings based on the available light and expected bear movement.
• Wait for the right pose: A clear, recognizable bear profile can elevate your image.
• Shoot in burst mode: This ensures you capture multiple poses during movement.

 Tip: Focus on the angle of the light, and look for moments when the bear’s profile stands out against a softly lit background.

Action Shots: Bears Wrestling

Bears wrestling or play-fighting provides fantastic action shot opportunities. To capture these dynamic moments, Mike recommends starting with “shutter speeds much higher. 1/1000, 1/2000 is oftentimes where you want to start.”

• Increase shutter speed: Start at 1/1000 or 1/2000 to freeze fast movements.
• Use continuous autofocus: This helps keep the wrestling bears in focus as they move.
• Look for playful behavior: Anticipate interactions like play-fighting or sparring.

Tip: Be ready to adjust your aperture and ISO settings as needed to maintain the right exposure in changing light conditions. Quick reflexes and high shutter speeds are key to freezing the action in sharp detail.

Close-Up Shots of Bears’ Faces and Details

Zooming in on the intricate details—like fur, claws, or even the bears’ eyes—brings an intimate perspective to your wildlife shots. This is where precision matters.

“Try close-ups of the fur or some details that make bears, bears… their claws, their ears, their teeth, even their nose,” Mike suggests.

• Use a telephoto lens: Zoom in without disturbing the bear’s natural behavior.
• Focus on texture: Capture the texture of fur or the sharpness of claws.
• Use a mid-range f-stop: Shoot around f/6.3 to f/7.1 for detailed, sharp close-ups.

Tip: Keep your subject sharp by using manual focus if needed, especially for close-ups that highlight small features like the bear’s nose or eyes. Balancing depth of field and sharpness to bring out small features.

Bears in Tall Grass

Photographing bears in tall grass can be challenging, but by adjusting your position and focus, you can create captivating shots.

Mike explains: “The grass is quite tall, and if we’re too low, we’re going to just be mired in the grass. So we’re getting a little bit higher up.”

• Elevate your camera position: Shooting from a higher angle helps keep the bear in focus above the grass.
• Use autofocus tracking: Follow the bear’s movements to maintain clarity in tall grass.
• Manually refocus if needed: Reset focus if the grass obscures the bear or catches the focus.

Tip: If your camera doesn’t have tracking, you can reset focus manually or use back-button focus to ensure clarity in your shot. Try shooting above the bear’s eye level to frame it properly against the grass.

Super Telephoto Shots of Bears

Using a super-telephoto lens allows you to capture close, detailed shots while maintaining a safe distance. These images can offer a unique perspective on the bear’s behavior.

“I’m looking for these bears as they lift their head up from grazing, either looking towards me or looking towards the open side of the frame,” Mike shares about his technique.

• Adjust shutter speed: Use a speed around 1/400 to 1/600, depending on lighting conditions.
• Create bokeh: Lower the f-stop to blur the background to create a beautiful bokeh effect around the subject and make the bear stand out.

Tip: Look for moments when the bear lifts its head or interacts with the environment to create a more dynamic shot.

Vertical Bear Portrait Shots

Switching to portrait mode is an excellent way to emphasize the height and presence of a bear, especially when they are standing or walking toward you.

“It can be very powerful to flip your camera from shooting a typical horizontal or landscape orientation and flipping it to vertical or portrait,” Mike advises.

• Flip your camera vertically: Portrait orientation highlights the bear’s height and stature.
• Focus on the face and eyes: Eye contact with the subject creates a strong visual impact.
• Use shallow depth of field: Isolate the bear from the background for a more dramatic effect. 

Tip: Portrait shots work especially well when the bear is standing or moving toward you, as it fills the frame vertically.

Close-Up Shots of Bears Grazing

Alaska’s wild brown bears‚and the salmon they feed upon—face many threats, but bears grazing offers the chance for more serene close-up shots. Patience is key here, as you wait for the perfect head-lift or interaction with the environment. The trick is “just patiently waiting as they’re grazing, waiting for that head to pick up in just the right moment, and getting that shot,” Mike explains.

• Use continuous shooting mode: Capture a series of images as the bear grazes.
• Watch for head movement: Anticipate when the bear will lift its head for a clean shot.
• Keep your focus on the bear’s face: A slightly blurred background adds to the effect.

Tip: A moderate f-stop will keep the bear in sharp focus while softly blurring the surroundings for a clearer composition.

Bears Against the Landscape

Bears in proximity to the camera provide the perfect opportunity to highlight both the subject and its surroundings.

“Do not only think about those close-ups…now you have an opportunity with a very close bear to really show off the landscape and the background,” Mike suggests.

• Balance bear and landscape: Frame the shot to show the beauty of Alaska’s natural features along with the bear.
• Use a wide-angle lens: Capture more of the environment without losing focus on the bear.
• Include water or mountains: These elements add depth and scale to your composition.

Tip: Keep the bear as the focal point, but use natural elements like mountains and rivers to create a balanced image that tells the full story. Include just enough of the environment to give context without overwhelming the bear in the frame.

Bear Bums for Katmai National Park’s #FatBearWeek

As the temperature drops in September, it’s time to capture a different angle—bear bums! In early October, Katmai National Park’s Fat Bear Week celebrates the impressive seasonal preparations made by brown bears as they prepare for winter hibernation.

The #FatBearWeek competition, jointly organized by the National Park Service and Explore.org, draws spectators from around the world to participate by casting online votes for the best bear bum—or the bear that has most effectively accumulated fat reserves. In 2023, AP News called the competition “Alaska’s most-watched popularity contest.”

Tip: Keep an eye on the large, well-fed bears, and don’t be afraid to capture a few humorous shots of their sizable backsides!

Bear Witness to Alaska’s Wild Beauty with Your Iconic Shots

Whether you’re a seasoned photographer or just starting out, there’s nothing quite like capturing incredible bear photos in Alaska. From the serene moments of bears grazing in tall grass to the powerful energy of wrestling siblings, each image tells a unique story of these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.

The beauty of photographing in places like Lake Clark National Park lies in the variety of opportunities—from wide landscape shots framed by towering mountain ranges to intimate close-ups of bear fur or claws. Mike emphasizes that it’s not about the equipment, but developing your eye and being patient for that perfect moment.

Whether you’re zooming in for a detailed shot or capturing an action-packed wrestling match, bear photography challenges you to be creative and flexible. Every moment spent waiting for the right light, the right angle, or the right bear movement can result in a spectacular bear photography image.

For more on Bear Photography in Alaska

• Check out shots of bear mothers and cubs in photos and video If you’re lucky, this will add a 12th shot to your Alaska brown bar photo shot list.

• Learn more about mastering bear photography from Nat Hab Photo Expedition Director Mike Hillman in a more recent Nat Hab Daily Dose of Nature Webinar: Power & Grace: Mastering Bear Photography in the Wild

The post Bear Photography: A Photo Shot List for Your Alaskan Adventure first appeared on Good Nature Travel Blog.

By Nat Hab Expedition Leader Eddy Savage 

The broad public perception of brown bears (Ursus arctos) is that they possess furry brown coats—hence the name—and that all brown bears generally resemble one another. After all, how often do you have the opportunity to compare the coats and features of multiple brown bears side by side?

But bear with me here: Brown bears rarely ever look identical. In fact, the only common features they share are 1) they’re furry, 2) they have a large muscular hump on their front shoulders, 3) their claws are long and scoop-shaped, and 4) they have rounded ears and a dish-shaped face, resembling a teddy bear.

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Brown Bear Differences

Brown bears can vary dramatically in body size, coloration, facial features, claw colors and scarring. A bear that appears one color with its spring/summer coat may showcase a remarkably different coat come autumn. Some bears have ears set further apart, some have eyes closer together, some boast a longer nose and a taller forehead, others display a mismatch of patchy coloration all over their body, and some bear distinct scars.

Having worked as a bear-viewing guide for the past decade, I’ve come to recognize individual brown bears from a distance based on the aforementioned characteristics. I easily identify bears that I’ve seen year after year by their body proportions, facial features, scarring, fur colorations, and body movements. In fact, there are a few bears I can identify from half a mile away quite easily.

I hope you’ll enjoy this collection of brown bear photos from our Alaska adventures and appreciate each bear in all its individuality!

Meet Some of Alaska’s Brown Bears

This adult female is more than 20 years old. One of her most distinct features is her very blonde face.

This young adult male, with ears set quite far apart, exemplifies the brown bear’s dish-shaped forehead. Male bears reach their peak size around 12 to 17 years old. Judging by the size of this bear’s snout, he’ll likely grow quite a bit larger!


This adult female in her 20s undergoes immense fur color pattern changes from year to year. Her body shape and a tiny scar above her right nostril help us ID her each season.


This adult male, in his late teens or possibly early 20s, bears extensive scarring across his body and is missing an ear, the result of scuffles with other males during the breeding season while competing for or defending mating opportunities.


This image shows a relatively uniform brown bear. Note the thinner fur on the bear’s forehead. This is typical during springtime among most male bears, as they rub intensely on scent-marking trees in the area.


This young male brown bear’s fur takes on an almost golden hue in the sunlight. Again, observe the length of the snout—this bear still has some growing to do!


This young female brown bear was around 7 or 8 in this picture. I’ve watched her each year since she was a yearling cub. One of her distinct features is her eyes; she has much darker fur around the eyes, with very blonde hair on the rest of her face, making her easily recognizable.


This young bear is munching on Lyngby’s sedge—an important springtime food. It displays a uniform brown color, but the ears are slightly pointy and asymmetrical.


The dark “socks” on this bear will aid in identifying it in the future. This bear is roughly 3.5 years old. You can discern its youth, as the face still retains some cub-like proportions.


Lastly, we have some very young cubs of the year. These two were likely 3–4 months old and weighed around 20 lbs each. Their mother is the bear in image No. 1, and it’s already evident that she’s passed on her blonde facial fur to her cubs. Adorable!

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Want to see brown bears in the wild? Explore our Alaska adventures!

The post Why Brown Bears Look Different: A Guide’s Photo Diary first appeared on Good Nature Travel Blog.

Few things are more powerful than witnessing the bond between mother and child—or in this case, cub! In the wilds of Alaska, Nat Hab travelers photograph fascinating bear behavior and are treated to affectionate displays between protective mothers and playful cubs. This rarest of encounters can be had on our Grizzly Ship Photo Expedition: Kodiak to Katmai—the ultimate bear photography safari! While you dream of adventure, enjoy this roundup of some of our favorite photographs of brown bear mother and cubs, taken by Nat Hab travelers and guides along the remote coast of Katmai National Park. Also featured are some stellar submissions from our Wildlife Photo Contests of years past.

But first, watch our Daily Dose of Nature on how to photograph mothers and cubs, and start planning your photo adventure!

The post Mothers & Cubs: Spectacular Grizzly Photos from Alaska Adventures first appeared on Good Nature Travel Blog.

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The Serengeti and Maasai Mara are the stage for the largest animal migration on Earth, and for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers, Natural Habitat Adventures offers an unparalleled front-row seat to capture this thrilling event.

East Africa’s Great Migration: An Epic Wildlife Odyssey

East Africa’s Great Migration is one of the oldest and most spectacular wildlife migrations on Earth. Every year, nearly 2 million wildebeest, zebra and gazelle journey approximately 1,800 miles across Tanzania’s Serengeti Plains into Kenya’s Maasai Mara and back again. Guided by ancestral instincts, these herds follow a circular, seasonal path driven by rains and fresh grazing grounds.

If you dream of witnessing nature’s most awe-inspiring sights, this African expedition is your ultimate adventure. Luxury accommodations, unparalleled wildlife encounters and thrilling moments await at Nat Hab’s Private Migration Base Camps in Kenya’s Maasai Mara National Reserve and in Tanzania’s iconic Serengeti National Park.

Unique Wildlife Shots to Last a Lifetime

Your journey begins in Nairobi, Kenya, where you’ll set off toward the renowned Maasai Mara National Reserve. This protected wilderness spans southwestern Kenya and borders Tanzania. Its iconic landscape unfolds in sweeping grassy plains, gently rolling hills and the dramatic Mara River, which becomes the epicenter of wildlife activity between mid-June and late November. During this time, hundreds of thousands of wildebeest and zebras arrive from Tanzania’s Serengeti Plains, making it the setting for one of the most spectacular wildlife migrations on Earth.

The Maasai Mara takes its name from the Mara River, which winds through its grasslands, and the Maasai people who have inhabited these lands for centuries, living in harmony with nature.

As your expedition begins, private camps strategically placed along migratory routes offer exclusive views of the immense herds gathering to cross the Mara River. The sound of thousands of thundering hooves fills the air, and the landscape pulses with activity as wildebeest and zebras courageously navigate the treacherous river, attempting to evade stealthy crocodiles lurking below. Our private campsite, ideally situated near the Mara River, ensures you have ample time and unparalleled access to witness and photograph these dramatic, once-in-a-lifetime scenes.

Beyond the famous river crossings, the lush Maasai Mara landscape hosts an incredible diversity of wildlife, including gazelle, impala, hartebeest, topi and other antelope species. The region’s fertile grasslands thrive on nutrient-rich soils, enriched by volcanic ash deposited millions of years ago, sustaining an abundance of plant life that attracts elephants, giraffes, hyenas and the densest lion populations in Kenya. Your expedition provides extraordinary opportunities to observe and capture breathtaking images of all these remarkable animals in their natural habitat.

After capturing soul-stirring images of wildebeest and zebras battling strong currents as they cross the Mara River, we continue across the border into Tanzania, heading toward Serengeti National Park. We’ll spend the next week in one of Serengeti’s premier migration corridors, where you’ll witness plains alive with the movement of immense herds striving to evade lions and hyenas that prey on the weak and young.

Predator-prey interactions are common throughout the region, as migration patterns lead wildebeest, zebra, and gazelle across the vast grasslands of the African savannah, interacting constantly with elephants, lions and other big game. Each year is unique, and the exact timing and movements of the herds vary annually.

The annual migration of wildebeest and zebras is largely driven by seasonal environmental changes. In January and February, the golden grasslands of the Serengeti in northern Tanzania come alive as hundreds of thousands of wildebeest calves are born within a three-week span. In April, the herds begin their northward journey with their newborn calves. By June, Tanzania’s dry season pushes herds further north in search of more fertile grazing.

In June, migrating herds gather along the southern banks of the Grumeti River in the western Serengeti. Herds may congregate here for up to two weeks, cautiously avoiding the crocodile-filled shallow waters. During this time, the savannah buzzes with activity as the wildebeest enter their mating season, known as the rut. More than 500,000 wildebeest mate within a four-week period.

The migration continues northward as grazing lands become depleted, driving herds toward the greener plains near the Mara River and Lamai Triangle in the northern Serengeti, typically by mid- to late July. With the arrival of short rains in November, the now heavily pregnant wildebeest return south toward the rejuvenated Serengeti plains, continuing the timeless cycle of life.

Throughout your journey, you’ll be guided by Nat Hab’s Expedition Leaders, receiving continuous insights and tips from some of the world’s most accomplished professional nature photographers and wildlife guides.

Nat Hab’s Kenya Migration Photo Expedition offers a once-in-a-lifetime chance to witness Africa’s Great Migration, one of nature’s most breathtaking spectacles. With expert guidance and professional-level photography support, you’ll create lifelong memories—and equally unforgettable images.

 

The post How to Get Wall-Worthy Pictures of Africa’s Great Migration first appeared on Good Nature Travel Blog.

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Imagine capturing the brilliant red-and-orange-colored Sally Lightfoot crab against a backdrop of lava rocks along the water’s edge. The enormous wingspan of a Galapagos albatross as it soars above the Pacific Ocean. The bright blue feet of blue-footed booby birds during their courtship dance. A century-old giant tortoise gingerly munching on prickly pear cactus, practically oblivious to your presence.

Underwater, curious sea lions swirl like ballerinas, Galapagos penguins dive down, hunting prey, and reef sharks silently glide near the floor of coral reefs.

These are just some incredible photography opportunities that await travelers on our Galapagos Wildlife Photo Expedition.

A Photo Adventure in the Enchanted Isles

Despite exposure to tourists for nearly a century, the wildlife in the Enchanted Isles remains unbothered by human presence, allowing photographers to get close enough for the best shots. On our Galapagos adventure, visitors will have a full day in Quito and then set out on a private chartered yacht, the Petrel, to visit 15 diverse islands in the archipelago.

Some of the main stops include San Cristobal, Santa Cruz, Española, Isabela and Floreana, all offering various species and natural wonders to admire and photograph. A whopping 97% of the islands’ land area makes up Galapagos National Park, with endemic species like marine iguanas, flightless cormorants, frigatebirds, Darwin’s finches and Galapagos tortoises, penguins, hawks, fur seals and more found nowhere else in the world.

During daily excursions, our small group of no more than 15 travelers is divided into even smaller groups, ensuring that guests have an intimate and low-impact experience and allowing for close but safe encounters with wildlife.

Each small group is helmed by one of our naturalist Expedition Leaders (three total on each trip!) who not only offer information and interpretation about the wildlife and landscapes, but who also provide guidance on photography best practices, ethics of wildlife photography, underwater photography advice and post-production techniques that can augment and improve images.

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Keep reading to learn about the amazingly diverse wildlife and natural and historic wonders that make for incredible photography subjects on this unforgettable trip.

Land Animals

Giant Tortoises

When Spanish explorers landed on the islands, they saw so many giant tortoises that they named the islands after them. The Spanish word, galápago, means tortoise. These slow-moving ancient reptilian herbivores are the largest tortoises in the world and can weigh up to 500 pounds, grow up to five feet in length, and live more than 100 years. Out of the 14 types of tortoises roaming the islands, some with domed and others with saddle-backed shells, only 10 subspecies and 15,000 individuals live today, a sharp decline from 250,000 that once roamed the pristine islands.

Visitors on our photography expedition will visit the world-famous tortoise center, Fausto Llerena Breeding Center, in Puerto Ayora to see and learn about these endangered reptiles and the conservation efforts to protect them and their unique habitats.

Managed in partnership with the Charles Darwin Research Station and the Galapagos National Park, the center has bred and released more than 5,000 tortoises into the wild. Visitors to the center even get to see and photograph tiny hatchlings.

> Learn More: Conservation in the Galapagos Islands

In the misty highlands of Santa Cruz, Nat Hab’s Tortoise Camp offers a rare and exclusive opportunity to spend the night in the habitat of wild tortoises. The camp provides plenty of chances to photograph free-roaming tortoises up close or from raised safari-style canvas tents and elevated treehouses.

Land Iguanas

The Galapagos land iguana is a large and bulky lizard endemic to the islands. Visitors can see them sunbathing alongside the footpaths and on rocky shores, munching on vegetation, or resting under massive cactus plants. These 3-foot-long lizards are plant-eaters and come in shades of yellow with blotches of black and brown. Galapagos land iguanas are among three species of land iguanas in the region; the other two are the Santa Fe land iguana and the critically endangered Galapagos pink land iguana.

Visitors to the South Plaza islet can occasionally spot the elusive hybrid iguana, a result of breeding between marine and land iguanas. Their large stature and brilliant yellowish-orange hues—set against the technicolor backdrop of sprawling Galapagos carpetweed and prickly pear cactus trees that adorn the landscape—make them ideal subjects for the camera.

In addition to land iguanas, keep an eye out for lava lizards—the most abundant reptile on the islands.

Marine Life

Sea Lions

Any trip to the Galapagos should provide numerous sightings of Galapagos sea lions (a subspecies of the Californian sea lion), both on land and underwater. Sea lions are pinnipeds with external ears (unlike seals, which have tiny holes for ears). Their range includes the entire archipelago, and you’ll often spot them sleeping on boats, docks, beautiful beaches and shore rocks. Underwater, their strong foreflippers propel them as they do flips and hunt for food.

One of the best spots to find sea lions in the Galapagos is at Gardner Bay on Española, where a large colony of sea lions with their juveniles can be seen on the long stretch of the white sand beach; the outing also offers a unique chance to swim with them right from the beach.

While there will be myriad opportunities to photograph sunbathing sea lions, nothing beats a perfectly timed portrait shot of a curious sea lion with its bulging eyes and whiskers twirling in front of you underwater. Grab your snorkeling gear and water-proof camera (or a GoPro) to capture these playful animals where they typically hang out—right under the surface. Don’t forget to spin when they swim; sea lions are nicknamed “puppy dogs of the sea” as they are curious and playful and love to interact with each other and with people.

The region is also home to the endangered Galapagos fur seal, which can be spotted in the lava grottos at James Bay in Santiago, one of the few places in the entire archipelago where you can witness and photograph these shy, endemic animals from the land. Although they’re called fur seals, they’re actually another type of sea lion!

Snorkeling in the Galapagos also affords abundant chances to photograph other captivating subjects, such as Pacific green sea turtles as they effortlessly glide underwater, graceful eagle rays and schools of colorful tropical fish whizzing by above vibrant coral reefs. Lucky travelers may even spot harmless reef-tip sharks moving silently among schools of fish.

Marine Iguanas

When underwater volcanic eruptions formed the Galapagos islands, the environment was initially too harsh to sustain life. It was cold-blooded reptiles that first made the journey from the mainland on vegetation rafts and populated the newly formed islands. Among these reptiles are the salt- and extreme weather-tolerant marine iguanas.

The Galapagos marine iguana is the only ocean-going lizard species in the world. Although they aren’t very social, they often lay on top of one another or in clusters on coastal or lava rocks, mangrove swamps, and beaches to conserve heat when not swimming in search of food. You may even see them spitting out salt!

These fascinating creatures are black during the non-mating season, but the backs of the males turn red or dull green (depending on their location) to attract females during the mating season. The marine iguanas of Española Island—the most sought-after iguanas for photos—are aptly named “Christmas iguanas” for their gorgeous green and red skin colors.

Birds

Blue-Footed Boobies

Blue-footed boobies are some of the most entertaining seabirds you will encounter during your expedition. You’ll find them along hiking paths and on rocks, as well as plunge-diving into the water from rocky cliffs. Their most distinctive feature is their bright blue-colored webbed feet, which get their hue from the fresh fish they consume.

These birds are typically seen in pairs, engaging in a comical courtship dance that involves strutting and flashing their webbed feet, pointing their beaks skyward and raising their wings. Their name comes from the Spanish word bobo, which means silly.

Blue-footed boobies are the most common among the booby birds that live on the islands; the other two subspecies are red-footed (for their pale red feet) and Nazca boobies (white with black feathers). The best place to photograph these adorable seabirds and their nesting grounds is North Seymour Island.

Galapagos Penguins

The Galapagos penguin is one of the most sought-after birds for those on a cruise to the Enchanted Isles. Smaller than your average duck (weighing just under six pounds) and sporting milky white bellies and black and brown feathers on their backs, they resemble a tuxedo. These flightless birds are the only species of penguin living north of the equator. Visitors will likely hear their braying before spotting them.

Sadly, Galapagos penguins are endangered, and their populations have dwindled due to climate change, pollution and bycatch. Their population currently stands at approximately 1,800 individuals.

Waved Albatrosses

The title of the largest bird in the Galapagos goes to the waved albatross. With a whopping 7 to 8-foot wingspan and weighing up to 11 pounds, these majestic birds get their name from the wavy lines on their white undercarriage. The entire population of this subspecies lives on the island of Española near Punta Suarez, where visitors can witness them engaging in a raucous mating ritual of tapping their yellow hook-tipped bills enthusiastically and making honking and whistling sounds.

In the winter, between January and March, adult waved albatrosses use the island’s rocky cliffs as a springboard to begin their journey across the Pacific to the coasts of Peru and Ecuador in search of food. Waved albatrosses mate for life, splitting up during the winter when they go hunting and returning to the same breeding grounds year after year. Like the Galapagos penguin, the waved albatross is threatened by climate change, overfishing and pollution.

Frigatebirds & Other Native Birds

Frigatebirds, with their enormous red-colored throat pouches, are some of the most commonly spotted birds on a Galapagos cruise. They have earned the nickname of “pirate birds” for their tendency to hover above blue-footed booby fishing grounds, waiting to steal their catches. They’ve also been known to catch free rides in the wake of ships. The largest colonies of frigatebirds are in North Seymour and San Cristobal.

Birders can grab their telephoto lens to shoot images of other birds native to the islands, including flightless cormorants, Galapagos hawks, Galapagos petrels and several types of finches (including Darwin’s finches, which played an important role in inspiring the famed scientist’s theory of evolution!) during hikes or panga boat outings.

Natural and Historic Wonders

Kicker Rock

The most recognizable natural wonder in the Galapagos is Kicker Rock, also known as León Dormido, a monolithic rock formation towering 500 feet above the water’s surface in the middle of the Pacific Ocean. The natural feature consists of two large, eroded volcanic rocks separated by a channel. The channel provides habitat for white-tipped reef sharks, rays, reef and pelagic fish, sea turtles and sea lions, making Kicker Rock a popular snorkeling destination.

Kicker Rock is a two-hour boat ride from San Cristobal island. It can be seen from various smaller islands such as Isla Lobos, which boasts a resident sea lion colony and blue-footed boobies.

Frame the perfect shot of sea lions in the foreground and the iconic Kicker Rock in the distance from Isla Lobos, or wait for the sun to set to catch the golden light reflected on the monolith. Get up close on a panga ride to get snaps of birds like Nazca boobies, frigatebirds and other native birds.

Pinnacle Rock

Stepping onto the tiny uninhabited Bartolome island, an ancient submerged volcano, feels like you are on another planet. Ancient lava rocks and darkened soil merge with rust-colored sand, and fascinating geological formations dot the landscape. A pristine crescent-shaped beach makes for the perfect stop for a swim in the turquoise-colored waters teeming with marine life like sea turtles, stingrays, reef sharks and schools of fish.

Climbing to the island’s highest point offers a 360-degree view of this otherworldly landscape, including Pinnacle Rock, a pointed formation just off the shore that is undoubtedly one of the most photographed and treasured sights in the Galapagos.

Quito’s Historic Old Town

The day before setting out on the cruise, Nat Hab travelers get an entire day to admire the sights and photograph Quito’s 16th-century Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site. On a guided photography tour, you can wander the cobblestone lanes and photograph the grand plazas, Morrish and Indigenous-influenced buildings, Spanish architecture and ornate churches.

Must-see attractions include the Government Palace, La Compañia Church, Metropolitan Cathedral of Quito, Basilica of the National Vow and Independence Plaza, from which you can see the Archbishop’s Palace Cathedral and the Presidential Palace.

Local markets offer a peek into the lives of the residents and a chance to meet them and snap a collage of subjects from herbs and flowers to fruit and vegetables, along with Andean arts, crafts and textiles. The top of Panecillo Hill provides a panoramic view of the city and the surrounding volcanic peaks.

Ready to photograph the wonders of the Enchanted Isles? Grab your camera and embark on our Galapagos Wildlife Photo Expedition!

The post Capturing the Enchanted Isles: 11 Must-Take Galapagos Photos first appeared on Good Nature Travel Blog.

According to the latest World Tourism Barometer from the United Nations, international travel is moving toward more intentional and immersive experiences. As travelers become ever more conscious of overtourism and climate change, they’re increasingly motivated to see the world in an ethical way. A study by The World Travel & Tourism Council finds that 75% of global travelers hope to travel more sustainably in 2025, spurring the travel industry to rise to the occasion.

At Natural Habitat Adventures, our core focus—conservation travel—brings tangible benefits to local communities and inspires them to safeguard wild places and the wildlife that thrives there. By immersing our guests in nature’s most spectacular settings, we invite them to experience awe, wonder and joy. Ultimately, we hope they return home as conservation ambassadors, actively seeking solutions to address the climate crisis.

Ready to be inspired? Below are 25 Nat Hab nature destinations that notable travel outlets such as Lonely Planet and Travel + Leisure have spotlighted for 2025. But first, take our quiz to see where you should travel in 2025! 

1. Greenland

Travel + Leisure’s 50 Best Places to Travel in 2025, National Geographic’s Best of the World 2025, NYT’s 52 Places to Go in 2025, BBC’s 25 Best Places to Travel in 2025, Forbes’ 25 Transformative Travel Experiences in 2025, Frommer’s Best Places to Go in 2025, Condé Nast Traveler’s 25 Best Places to Go in 2025

Travel + Leisure featured our new Greenland & Iceland adventure:

“Outfitters are adding new tours that go beyond the southwest coast, offering wildlife watching, trips to the interior, and the opportunity to learn more about the island’s Indigenous culture…Natural Habitat Adventures…will offer for the first time a two-week journey that combines Greenland and Iceland.”

Frommer’s also highlights Nat Hab’s Base Camp Greenland: “Outfitters such as Natural Habitat Adventures lead groups to especially rugged spots you can only reach by helicopter and chartered private boat.”

The world’s largest island is “covered by a vast ice cap and spectacular mountains, its unspoiled wilderness and majestic fjords…offer adventures of a lifetime,” writes BBC’s Adrienne Murray Nielsen, adding that “the country is welcoming mindful adventure travelers who love exploring while also respecting its incredible nature and unique Inuit culture. Greenland has adopted a pledge “towards better tourism” and a new law aims to steer funds from tourism towards benefitting local communities.”

2. Alaska

Forbes’ 25 Transformative Travel Experiences in 2025, Travel + Leisure’s 50 Best Places to Travel in 2025, Condé Nast Traveler’s 25 Best Places to Go in 2025

Forbes featured our expedition to Alaska’s Lake Clark National Park and Preserve:

“If you’re looking for the ultimate adrenaline rush in 2025, Nat Hab’s Alaska Bear Camp is a remote, off-grid sustainable base camp in one of the wildest places on earth, according to the company’s Chief Sustainability Officer Court Whelan. ‘This intimate, awe-inspiring experience has tremendous positive benefits, adding tourism value to brown bears—currently under threat via Alaska’s Prop 75—and inspiring people to become advocates, storytellers, and defenders of these often-feared animals.’”

Condé Nast notes that in 2025, Alaska celebrates not just one but two centennials. The annual Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race will mark 100 years since the historic Serum Run of 1925, when lifesaving diphtheria antitoxins were rushed from Nenana to Nome by dog sled teams. At the same time, Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve is turning a century old. This awe-inspiring realm of dramatic mountains, rugged coastlines and thriving wildlife is the ancestral homeland of the Huna Tlingit, who have spent the past few years reviving oral histories and cultural traditions that had been suppressed. One example of this revitalization is the Xúnaa Shuká Hít tribal house—the first permanent clan house erected on these shores since a glacier destroyed Tlingit villages more than 250 years ago.

3. The English Countryside

NYT’s 52 Places to Go in 2025, Frommer’s Best Places to Go in 2025, AFAR’s Where to Go in 2025

“Janeites—that’s the longstanding nickname for fans of the queen of English literature, Jane Austen—will flock to western England throughout 2025 to mark the 250th birthday of the celebrated scribe. There will also be commemorative walking tours, theater, afternoon teas, and special events throughout both Bath and Hampshire. That’s plenty of Persuasion to party with the Janeites in 2025,” emphasizes Frommer’s.

Aside from festive balls and Regency promenades, this part of England promises scenic walks across wildflower meadows, rolling hills and charming villages with rose-clad cottages. On Nat Hab’s Cotswolds adventure, guests stroll along a stretch of the Cotswold Way, a 102-mile national trail linking Chipping Campden to Bath—one of the UK’s 16 National Trails, highlighted in CNN’s Where to Go in 2025.

4. Western Australia

NYT’s 52 Places to Go in 2025, AFAR’s Where to Go in 2025, Condé Nast Traveler’s 25 Best Places to Go in 2025, BBC’s 25 Best Places to Travel in 2025

“From subtropical wetlands to vast red-rock desert, the northernmost region of the Northern Territory—or as Aussies call it, the Top End—is a wonder to witness. Unspooling across Darwin, UNESCO World Heritage Site Kakadu National Park (one of Australia’s largest national parks), remote Arnhem Land (northeast), and Katherine, it’s a place to understand the First Nations culture that has been etched into this vast region,” says Condé Nast. You’ll visit all these sites on a 14-day journey with Nat Hab Expedition Leaders and Aboriginal guides, exploring ancient sites such as Uluru and crossing the Red Desert on the luxury train, The Ghan.

Towering karri forests, sprawling deserts and vivid, rust-toned rock formations captivate the eye. For more than 65,000 years, Aboriginal communities have maintained an unbreakable bond with this land, passing down Dreamtime stories that encapsulate creation myths and preserving songlines—oral “maps” that chart sacred routes and landmarks. Today, these traditions remain as vital as ever, offering travelers a window into one of the world’s oldest living cultures. From guided botanical walks to interpretive experiences at rock art sites, with Nat Hab, you’ll witness how local people are bringing the wisdom of traditional sustainable living and land management to Australia’s national parks today.

According to AFAR, “A four-year, $20-million government initiative to create and expand Aboriginal-led experiences across Western Australia wraps up in 2025 and has already resulted in numerous ways for travelers to gain insight into one of the world’s oldest living cultures. In the southwest, visitors can taste traditional Indigenous foods (such as wattle seeds and quandong, a kind of wild peach) that have been harvested according to the six seasons of the Noongar calendar…or they can head to Purnululu in the northern Kimberley region to learn about the stories of the stars with a Gija Custodian (a traditional owner and caretaker of the land).”

Additionally, a major conservation initiative is underway: the New York Times reports that “when completed this year, Australia’s longest E.V. highway will knit together 110 fast-charging electric vehicle stations along 4,350 miles of some of Western Australia’s most scenic roads.”

5. Slovenia

Forbes’ 25 Transformative Travel Experiences in 2025, Travel + Leisure’s 50 Best Places to Travel in 2025, Frommer’s Best Places to Go in 2025

Beyond its striking scenery, Slovenia boasts a vibrant food and wine scene. With Nat Hab, you’ll savor local delicacies and meet local residents who grow grapes, raise bees, make cheese and press olive oil, learning about ancient traditions and enduring rural lifestyles. “On the restaurant front, Slovenia has impressed the Michelin inspectors, with 63 restaurants earning recognition in 2024,” notes T+L.

Traveling across Slovenia, “you’ll see Alpine towns and mountain passes, ancient grape-growing regions that are today at the forefront of biodynamic winemaking, half a dozen majestic castles…mural-adorned churches, and coastal resorts still bearing the architectural stamp of the once-mighty Republic of Venice. You’ll get the sights and tastes that are the hallmarks of the countries that border Slovenia—Italy, Austria, Croatia, and Hungary—only with fewer crowds,” writes Frommer’s. For an additional cultural highlight, Nova Gorica in Slovenia and Gorizia in Italy have been chosen as twin European Capitals of Culture for 2025, in a celebration of cross-border friendship and unity.

6. Madagascar

Travel + Leisure’s 50 Best Places to Travel in 2025, Frommer’s Best Places to Go in 2025

From endangered lemurs to jeweled chameleons, “Madagascar is really having a moment,” says T+L’s Samantha Gordon. “Travelers want to…feel they are on a true adventure.” A new Nat Hab itinerary for 2025 showcases Madagascar’s lush rainforests, dramatic canyons and endemic wildlife. Formerly tough to reach, the island is now more accessible thanks to four weekly flights between Dubai and Antananarivo. Factor in pristine beaches, over 40 national parks and a vibrant blend of cultures, and you’ll see why this remarkable country belongs on any traveler’s list.

“Fully 90% of the plants and animals found in Madagascar are found nowhere else. That includes certain baobab tree species, all of the world’s 100-plus species of lemur and more than half the world’s chameleons. That natural abundance has long made this island nation off the southeastern coast of Africa a bucket-list mainstay for wildlife enthusiasts,” declares Frommer’s.

7. A Women-Only Monarch Adventure in Mexico

Forbes’ 25 Transformative Travel Experiences in 2025

“Whether you’re traveling solo or are interested in joining a small nature-centric, women-only group, Natural Habitat Adventures offers some incredible Women’s Journeys in destinations around the world. This year, in partnership with World Wildlife Fund (WWF), Nat Hab’s Kingdom of The Monarch’s tour will take travelers on foot and horseback to witness the magic of Central Mexico’s great butterfly migration,” highlights Forbes. Browse through more of our Nature Adventures Exclusively for Women.

8. Nepal

NYT’s 52 Places to Go in 2025, Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel 2025

“Nepal’s Terai region may not be as well-known as the Himalayas or Kathmandu, but these southern lowlands offer as many extraordinary experiences…On a boat safari along Chitwan’s Rapti River, keep your eyes peeled for rhinos and huge gharial crocodiles,” advises Lonely Planet. Nat Hab travelers stay at a luxury ecolodge near the Rapti River, ideally positioned on the edge of Chitwan National Park. Established in 1973 and named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1984, Chitwan covers 360 square miles of subtropical lowlands that shelter around 50 mammal species and more than 500 bird species. We explore the park on 4×4 safari drives in hopes of spotting its celebrated wildlife—rhinoceros, Asian elephants, crocodiles, leopards and sloth bears. River safaris are also an option, and with favorable conditions, we may even track elusive tigers by following footprints and pugmarks alongside our Expedition Leader and a local guide.

9. Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda & Uganda

CNN’s Where to Go in 2025, Forbes’ 25 Transformative Travel Experiences in 2025, Condé Nast Traveler’s 25 Best Places to Go in 2025, Fodor’s Go List 2025

“Put a stick in the ground and it will grow,” they say of the heart of Africa. From papyrus wetlands and semi-arid savannas to gorilla trekking in mist-shrouded forests—and even alpine flora atop the snowcapped “Mountains of the Moon,” or Rwenzori Mountains—Uganda offers wilderness in its rawest form,” writes Condé Nast’s Pippa de Bruyn of the “Pearl of Africa.” Neighboring Rwanda, the “Land of a Thousand Hills,” is another must-see wildlife destination—trek for gorillas and golden monkeys in Volcanoes National Park, where primatologist Dian Fossey conducted her research.

10. The Hebrides & Highlands, Scotland

National Geographic’s Best of the World 2025, Vogue’s 10 Best Places to Travel in 2025, NYT’s 52 Places to Go in 2025, Travel + Leisure’s 50 Best Places to Travel in 2025

You’ll begin your journey with Nat Hab in Inverness, “the perfect base from which to explore the stunning Highland scenery, iconic castles, majestic mountains, and unique wildlife,” says VisitScotland’s Chris Taylor in T+L. On hikes through the Highlands with your local Expedition Leader, you’ll learn about the importance of peatlands while pausing to admire bell heather, round-leaved sundew and delicate orchids. The Flow Country, a vast peatland in northern Scotland, was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in July—as one of the world’s largest carbon stores, it plays a vital role in combating climate change.

Departing the Highlands, the Hebrides await, a distinctly different but equally captivating Scottish landscape. From the Isle of Skye to the Isle of Lewis, you’ll discover what National Geographic describes as “silvery beaches, whisky distilleries, wildflower-bedecked machair grasslands, and neolithic monuments like the 5,000-year-old Calanais Standing Stones.” Standing in front of these ancient stones on the Summer Solstice, you’ll feel whisked away to another time.

11. Machu Picchu & the Peruvian Amazon

Virtuoso’s 12 Best Places to Travel in 2025, Forbes Travel Guide’s Top 12 Destinations for 2025, Condé Nast Traveler’s 25 Best Places to Go in 2025, U.S. News Travel’s World’s Best Places to Visit for 2025

“Pink river dolphins. Scarlet macaws. Villages built on stilts. There’s little to rival the vivid biodiversity and cultural distinction of a trip down the Amazon River, in the world’s largest tropical rainforest,” praises Virtuoso. On a Nat Hab trip, you’ll explore the Amazon Rainforest—the lungs of our planet—along with Machu Picchu, which “is often described as a life-changing adventure,” adds U.S. News. Access to the Peruvian Amazon becomes easier in 2025, when a new terminal at Lima’s International Airport will triple the airport’s capacity.

12. Tanzania

Condé Nast Traveler’s 25 Best Places to Go in 2025, U.S. News Travel’s World’s Best Places to Visit for 2025

“A top-tier safari destination, this East African country draws wildlife enthusiasts hoping to catch a glimpse of Serengeti National Park’s big five: the lion, the rhino, the leopard, the elephant and the buffalo. If you can foot the bill, stay in one of Tanzania’s swoon-worthy tented camps that take glamping to another level,” reports U.S. News. On a Tanzania safari with Nat Hab, you’ll stay at private mobile camps set amid the roaming herds of wildebeest and zebra during the Great Migration, then venture to the Ngorongoro Crater, which supports Africa’s densest concentration of wildlife.

13. Great Barrier Reef, Australia

Condé Nast Traveler’s 25 Best Places to Go in 2025, U.S. News Travel’s World’s Best Places to Visit for 2025

“It’s no secret that Australia’s Great Barrier Reef faces unprecedented challenges as a result of climate change and severe weather events. But experiencing this World Heritage Center–listed wonder is just one reason—and a very good one—to visit the balmy northern coast of Queensland, where ancient rainforests fringe aquamarine seas,” remarks Condé Nast. Snorkel the reef on Nat Hab’s 21-day Ultimate Australia Safari, an all-encompassing nature adventure. You’ll spend several days exploring the Great Barrier Reef’s marine marvels from our isolated outpost on Lady Elliot Island, where graceful manta rays, sea turtles and shimmering schools of fish abound.

14. Glacier National Park

U.S. News Travel’s World’s Best Places to Visit for 2025

“Snow-capped peaks, alpine meadows and azure lakes are just a few reasons why Glacier National Park is one of America’s most striking parks. There are more than 700 miles of hiking trails in this Montana crown jewel,” applauds U.S. News. On Nat Hab’s Glacier & Waterton Photo Expedition, you’ll join expert guides to explore two of North America’s most breathtaking national parks. Their local knowledge reveals hidden corners and prime wildlife habitats, ensuring a memorable photography adventure in this stunning region.

15. Haida Gwaii, British Columbia

National Geographic’s Best of the World 2025, BBC’s 25 Best Places to Travel in 2025

Wild and windswept, this archipelago of more than 200 islands is one of the richest biological and cultural sites in North America. Its isolation allowed unique species to evolve, earning Haida Gwaii the nickname “Canada’s Galapagos.” On Nat Hab’s Haida Gwaii journey, experience the islands from a deluxe sailboat as we navigate ancient temperate rainforests, explore vibrant intertidal zones brimming with sea life, and encounter a cultural heritage that stretches back 13,000 years. In Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve and Haida Heritage Site—a UNESCO World Heritage area—keep an eye out for humpback whales, orcas, Steller sea lions, black bears and bald eagles. The wonder of these islands, shaped by nature and centuries of Haida tradition, makes for an unforgettable journey.

Says BBC’s Diane Selkirk, “What makes Haida Gwaii a standout destination in 2025 is the groundbreaking Gaayhllxid/Gíihlagalgang “Rising Tide” Haida Title Lands Agreement. This legislation marks a transformative moment in Indigenous rights in Canada, officially recognizing the Council of the Haida Nation as the territory’s governing body under federal law. This shift is working to revitalize Haida culture and strengthen their environmental stewardship…Upon arrival, guests are introduced to Haida Laws, including the concept of Gina ‘waadluxan gud ad kwaagid (“everything depends on everything else”), a teaching that underscores our shared responsibility to care for the Earth.

16. New Zealand

Fodor’s Go List 2025, AFAR’s Where to Go in 2025, National Geographic’s Best of the World 2025, U.S. News Travel’s World’s Best Places to Visit for 2025

“New Zealand’s South Island brims with majestic landscapes at every turn, from dramatic mountains to spectacular fjords. Here, you can hike through the mountains of Fiordland National Park or admire them from a boat on Milford Sound/Piopiotahi. At night, journey to the University of Canterbury’s Mount John Observatory to gaze at the starry skies,” writes U.S. News. Join Nat Hab’s small-group immersion across the South Island, where the surreal beauty of Aotearoa promises a legendary adventure.

17. Yellowstone National Park

U.S. News Travel’s World’s Best Places to Visit for 2025, Vogue’s 10 Best Places to Travel in 2025, Virtuoso’s 12 Best Places to Travel in 2025

“A visit to this national park in Idaho, Montana and Wyoming is considered by many to be a rite of passage for Americans, and it’s sure to leave you in awe of nature’s power. Marvel at the kaleidoscopic waters of the Grand Prismatic Spring, catch the Old Faithful geyser’s nearly hourly show, admire (from a safe distance) the roaming bison in the Lamar and Hayden valleys or simply relax with a picnic at Yellowstone Lake,” recommends U.S. News. You’ll experience all this and more on Nat Hab’s Yellowstone & Grand Teton Photo Expedition. You’ll begin in Jackson—one of Virtuoso’s 12 best places to travel in 2025—then wrap up in Bozeman, where Vogue says interest is at a fever pitch thanks to the Montana-set Yellowstone television series. It’s a can’t-miss safari for photographers and nature lovers alike.

18. Banff

Condé Nast Travelers’ Best Places to Go in North America in 2025, U.S. News Travel’s World’s Best Places to Visit for 2025

Banff is “marked by towering mountains, spectacular valleys, and glacial blue lakes in every direction,” celebrates Condé Nast. Embark on Nat Hab’s new Rainforest to Rockies: Vancouver to Banff journey, traveling by private luxury train from the Pacific Ocean to the Continental Divide. Along the way, you’ll pass ancient forests, rugged canyons and four national parks, culminating in Banff—Canada’s first national park. Another new Canadian adventure on offer is our Newfoundland & Labrador trip, one of BBC’s 25 Best Places to Travel in 2025.

19. The Grand Canyon

CNN’s Where to Go in 2025, Forbes Travel Guide’s Top 12 Destinations for 2025, U.S. News Travel’s World’s Best Places to Visit for 2025

“Measuring roughly 277 miles long, 18 miles wide and about a mile deep, the Grand Canyon is brimming with outdoor activities for everyone from day-trippers to adventure junkies. Hike along the national park’s popular Rim and Bright Angel trails for unparalleled vistas, cool off with a whitewater rafting excursion down the Colorado River or view the dramatic Arizona landscape from above during a helicopter,” advises U.S. News. Nat Hab’s new Grand Canyon & Sedona Escape is a colorful foray into the Arizona High Desert. You’ll discover red rock wonderlands, the Petrified Forest, and of course, the mighty canyon itself—all on a compact trip that still delivers big adventure.

20. Patagonia

AFAR’s Where to Go in 2025, Forbes’ 25 Transformative Travel Experiences in 2025, U.S. News Travel’s World’s Best Places to Visit for 2025

“Attention explorers: The granite peaks, glacier fields, fjords and rainforests of Patagonia are calling. Chile’s long sliver of this rugged region stretches 1,000 miles from north to south, encompassing some of the best that Patagonia has to offer,” writes U.S. News. On Nat Hab’s Wild Patagonia Photo Expedition, capture the iconic Torres del Paine at dawn as rose-gold hues color the sky, photograph turquoise lakes dotted with icebergs, and watch for guanacos and soaring condors in this dramatic wilderness at the continent’s southern tip.

21. Galapagos Islands

NYT’s 52 Places to Go in 2025, U.S. News Travel’s World’s Best Places to Visit for 2025

“For aspiring naturalists, the journey is well worth it for the opportunity to see wildlife that can’t be found anywhere else on Earth. Living proof of Charles Darwin’s natural selection theory, species like the blue-footed booby, the giant tortoise and the pink land iguana are uniquely adapted to the islands’ harsh conditions. Don’t forget to take a peek under the water—snorkeling is a must,” advises U.S. News. Experience these remarkable creatures on Galapagos Discovery: The Nat Hab Experience—a private voyage aboard a premier small ship that also includes a stay at Nat Hab’s Tortoise Camp.

22. Zambia

Frommer’s Best Places to Go in 2025, Condé Nast Traveler’s Best Places to Go in Africa in 2025

Having celebrated 60 years of independence at the end of 2024, Zambia continues to honor this milestone in 2025. The country is best known for Victoria Falls, which locals call the “Smoke That Thunders”—travelers on Nat Hab’s Botswana and custom Southern Africa safaris venture here.

“Culturally, Zambia, one of Africa’s safest countries, stands at the forefront of female-led initiatives on the continent, giving opportunities for women working as safari guides, members of anti-poaching units, and artisans,” writes Frommer’s. Conservation initiatives are ever-growing: “A lion reintroduction project in Nsumbu National Park in late 2024 is bringing balance back to the landscape’s ecosystem,” notes Condé Nast. And don’t miss a taste of the national dish, nshima, a hearty maize porridge served with tomato-onion sauce. Neighboring Botswana, our flagship safari destination and “Africa’s leader in green safari tourism,” is one of BBC’s 25 Best Places to Travel in 2025.

23. Bhutan

Travel + Leisure’s 50 Best Places to Travel in 2025, Forbes Travel Guide’s Top 12 Destinations for 2025, BBC’s 25 Best Places to Travel in 2025

“Bhutan is just the place for eco-conscious travelers who want to explore natural mountainous wonders and a vibrant culture,” says Forbes, highlighting the kingdom’s decision to prioritize gross national happiness over gross domestic product. It’s also the world’s first carbon-negative country, with a constitutional mandate to maintain at least 60% forest cover. On Nat Hab’s Nepal & Bhutan Photo Expedition, you’ll capture alpine vistas, rushing rivers and ancient monasteries in the tranquil “Land of the Thunder Dragon.” Bhutan’s prime minister, Tshering Tobgay, told T+L that tourism is now a top priority, positioning the country as “a crowd-free alternative to just about anywhere else in the world.”

24. Borneo

Forbes’ 25 Transformative Travel Experiences in 2025

Borneo, Earth’s third-largest island, is home to rainforests that tower higher and date back farther than any others on the planet. On Nat Hab’s Borneo adventure, you’ll encounter wild orangutans in their natural habitat and delve into ongoing conservation efforts at two separate rehabilitation centers. In the wildlife-rich Danum Valley, you’ll seek out proboscis monkeys, gibbons and the elusive slow loris, while a trip along the Kinabatangan River offers a chance to spot pygmy elephants roaming the dense jungle.

25. Tasmania

Travel + Leisure’s 50 Best Places to Travel in 2025, Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel 2025, Forbes’ 25 Transformative Travel Experiences in 2025, Vogue’s 10 Best Places to Travel in 2025, Frommer’s Best Places to Go in 2025

“This island state has long been considered one of Australia’s most rugged, thanks to its jaw-dropping landscapes filled with glacial lakes, lush rain forests, and vertical sea cliffs,” observes T+L, adding that Tasmania also boasts a rich Aboriginal heritage, a flourishing art scene and notable wineries. On Nat Hab’s in-depth exploration of the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area, you’ll visit Cradle Mountain and Mount Field national parks and look for glowworms in Marakoopa Cave. Frommer’s notes that a stop at Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary—one of Nat Hab’s excursions—is essential for viewing quolls, bettongs, wombats, kangaroos and Tasmanian devils.

The post Where to Travel in 2025 Quiz: 25 Nat Hab Nature Destinations Named Top Trips first appeared on Good Nature Travel Blog.