Washington, D.C., United States — National Geographic has released its Best of the World Destinations 2026, a curated list of 25 global locations designed to inspire travelers with stories of resilience, culture, and sustainability. Among them, five destinations stand out as symbols of renewal and human connection with nature.
Akagera National Park, Rwanda rises as a beacon of conservation success. Once scarred by civil conflict, the park now thrives with lions, elephants, rhinos, and over 500 bird species. The relocation of 70 white rhinos in 2025 marked a milestone, turning Akagera into a sanctuary where wildlife and humanity coexist in harmony.
Maui, Hawaii, United States embodies recovery and community spirit. After devastating wildfires in 2023, the island has rebuilt its tourism with a focus on responsible travel. Local businesses are reopening, and voluntourism programs invite visitors to contribute to ecological restoration, making Maui not just a destination, but a shared journey of healing.
Beijing, China bridges ancient heritage with modern accessibility. The newly recognized UNESCO World Heritage Central Axis connects landmarks like the Forbidden City and Temple of Heaven. Night tours of the Great Wall now illuminate history in spectacular fashion, while visa-free entry for 47 countries opens the city to a wider global audience.
Route 66, Oklahoma, United States celebrates nostalgia and reinvention. Once the lifeline of American road culture, the highway is being revitalized with creative attractions, museums, and cultural hubs. It stands as a living tribute to the spirit of exploration and the enduring romance of the open road.
Black Sea Coast, Turkey offers a rare blend of adventure and tradition. From surfing and skiing in the same day to exploring Byzantine monasteries and Greko-Turkish heritage, the region invites travelers to embrace diversity. Local cuisine, mountain valleys, and tea plantations enrich the experience, making the coast a symbol of cultural fusion.
Together, these destinations reflect the evolving values of global travel—where sustainability, heritage, and human resilience take center stage. National Geographic’s recognition honors not just places, but the stories they tell about our shared world.
