This webpage serves as a gateway. Indeed, it does: Our yearly Best of the World showcase acts as an entry point to the bustling streets of Paris, the snow-covered peaks of Georgia’s Caucasus Mountains, and the ancient rock art of Algeria. To deepen our engagement with these destinations, we’ve enlisted the expertise of National Geographic’s worldwide community to compile the following list of 20 remarkable adventures for 2024. As you continue reading, you’ll realize that this page is not only a guide but also a tribute to the profound impact of travel in shaping us and strengthening our bonds with one another.
Embark on a horseback safari in Kenya.
When one envisions a safari in Africa, the typical image is that of mud-spattered 4×4 vehicles traversing through the bush. However, there exists another mode of travel: on horseback.
Although horse safaris have their roots in Kenya dating back to the 1970s, they now cater to the evolving preferences of contemporary travelers seeking more immersive and sustainable wildlife encounters. Within the expansive 32,000-acre Borana Conservancy, two stables offer a home to thoroughbreds and ex-polo ponies suitable for riders of all levels of expertise. Guests have the option to book half-day, full-day, or overnight rides, with the prime season being from July to September. Riding atop a horse provides a unique perspective as wildlife perceive equines as just another species, fostering an intimate connection with the surroundings. Nichole Sobecki, a photographer and equestrian with experience at Borana, reflects, “To journey on horseback is to break down the walls—meant to protect but also to separate—between oneself and the natural world. Your horse becomes a mediator, attuned to the low growl of the lion or the faint scent of a herd of elephants.” She emphasizes the significance of a horse’s ears as an advanced warning system, aiding knowledgeable guides in navigating routes effectively.
Participate in an Olympic marathon in Paris.
In a groundbreaking move towards inclusivity, the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris, France, will feature a marathon open to the public for the first time.
Scheduled for the evening of August 10, sandwiched between the official men’s and women’s races, the Marathon for All will welcome 20,024 lottery winners to embark on the 26.2-mile journey connecting Paris and Versailles. The route begins at the iconic Hôtel de Ville (City Hall) and winds through nine arrondissements before concluding at Les Invalides along the picturesque Seine river. Whether before or after the main event, participants can acquaint themselves with the course and follow in the footsteps of Olympic athletes.
Explore UNESCO sites in Georgia on a ski tour.
In the mountainous republic of Georgia, skiing has long served as a mode of transportation, exploration, and even hunting. Today, it remains deeply ingrained in the local way of life, offering visitors the opportunity to experience some of the nation’s finest backcountry skiing amidst the stunning Caucasus Mountains.
Outfitters like Svaneti Ski and Georgia Ski Touring facilitate these adventures, providing access to pristine slopes and unforgettable landscapes. In Svaneti, skiers can embark on excursions that traverse the breathtaking Gvibari Pass or visit the medieval Ushguli villages, which stand as some of the highest continuously inhabited settlements in Europe. The optimal period to partake in this experience is from December to April, ensuring ideal snow conditions and unforgettable memories.
Observe bears in Katmai National Park.
Katmai National Park in Alaska boasts one of the highest concentrations of brown bears globally. Far removed from the bustling viewing platforms of the Brooks Camp Visitor Center, embarking on a guided expedition along the Katmai coast with outfitters like AK Adventures offers a distinct perspective of the park.
Here, amidst the natural habitat, bears indulge in a diverse array of foods including sedges, grasses, razor clams, and salmon. Acacia Johnson, a renowned Alaska photographer and regular contributor to National Geographic, shares, “Encountering even a single brown bear in the wild holds profound significance, serving as an indicator of the landscape’s health and its ability to sustain wildlife.”
Experience iconic live music in Kyoto.
While guidebooks often portray Kyoto as a serene city frozen in time, with its tranquil temples and contemplative gardens, after nightfall, Japan’s former imperial capital unveils a vibrant live music scene that is anything but subdued. At venues like Jittoku and Field, the air pulsates with the sounds of rock, swing, and even Irish music, reverberating well into the night. Regardless of your musical preferences, whether it’s jazz or punk, you’ll find a welcoming community eager to share in your passion. «This is the real essence of Japan when the façade is stripped away,» remarks Kyoto guide Van Milton.
Embark on a remarkable river journey in Colombia.
The Magdalena River basin, home to approximately 80 percent of Colombia’s population, stretches nearly a thousand miles from the Andes Mountains to the Caribbean Sea. AmaWaterways, in a pioneering move, offers seven-night cruises along this iconic river—the first by a major cruise operator.
Departing from Cartagena and traveling via Mompós to Barranquilla, these cruises offer immersive experiences in Colombia’s cultural heartland. Stops at colonial towns, enchanting performances of vallenato and cumbia music, and visits to stilt-house villages showcase the rich heritage of the region along the majestic waterway.
Embark on a nostalgic road trip along Route 66 in New Mexico.
For close to a century, Route 66 has captivated travelers with its allure. A journey along the iconic Mother Road through New Mexico unveils timeless landmarks, from quirky motels to charming curio shops in and around Tucumcari, and symbolic rock etchings in Petroglyph National Monument.
In Gallup, immortalized in Nat King Cole’s 1946 hit song «Route 66» as one of the places to «get your kicks,» visitors can enjoy performances featuring Zuni, Lakota, and Diné (Navajo) dancers, adding a cultural dimension to the road trip experience.
Albuquerque boasts the longest urban stretch of Route 66 in the United States, spanning approximately 18 miles. The city is undergoing a revitalization project, with ongoing restoration efforts focusing on vintage neon signs along Central Avenue, infusing the route with a renewed vibrancy.
As you cruise down the illuminated strip, make a stop at the newly established West Central Route 66 Visitor Center, featuring a museum and outdoor amphitheater. The center promises to host a variety of events, including lowrider car shows, drive-in movies, and artisan markets, adding to the nostalgia and charm of the Route 66 journey.
Discover ancient art in Algeria.
Nestled within Algeria lies Africa’s largest national park, Tassili n’Ajjer, boasting one of the world’s most remarkable concentrations of ancient rock art. This park is a geological marvel, characterized by sandstone towers, natural arches, and intricately sculpted outcrops. However, beyond its stunning landscapes, Tassili n’Ajjer holds a rich cultural heritage.
Throughout this desert wilderness, Neolithic herders and hunter-gatherers left their mark in the form of 15,000 petroglyphs. Among these ancient artworks are depictions of elephants, giraffes, and rhinos, animals typically associated with sub-Saharan Africa. These images serve as poignant reminders of a time when this arid region flourished as a grassland traversed by waterways.
Embark on a five- to seven-day guided tour with Fancy Yellow to witness the most spectacular examples of Tassili’s art, including the renowned «Crying Cows» engraved at the base of a stone pinnacle over 7,000 years ago. For those with additional time to spare, consider combining a visit to Tassili with an exploration of another geological wonder: the extraordinary mountain range of Ahaggar National Park, located within the Algerian Sahara.
Dive into an adventure with sharks in Western Australia.
Stretching nearly 700 miles along the Indian Ocean north of Perth, Western Australia’s Coral Coast is adorned with natural marvels. Among them, Ningaloo Reef shines as a beacon of wonder. Here, you have the opportunity to encounter giants: between March and July each year, some 300 to 500 whale sharks, forming one of the largest congregations on Earth, gather along the reef.
Ethical outfitters ensure that divers maintain a respectful distance from these magnificent creatures, refraining from feeding them or using flash photography. From July to October, even more megafauna grace the waters, as approximately 40,000 humpback whales migrate along the Coral Coast. Additionally, you can connect with over 10,000 dugongs in Shark Bay or swim alongside manta rays at Coral Bay, enhancing the allure of this extraordinary marine ecosystem.
Trek up a volcano in Panama.
Positioned as a leader in sustainability, Panama has embarked on its ambitious «1,000 Kilometers of Trails» project, aimed at promoting outdoor recreation and ecotourism in rural communities and protected regions.
Leading the charge is the Ruta de la Caldera, a network of five trails encircling the extinct Valle de Antón volcano. These treks wind through landscapes adorned with picturesque waterfalls, as described by photographer Rose Marie Cromwell, who embarked on sections of the Ruta de la Caldera over a five-day period.
Witness the eclipse at Niagara Falls.
Positioned directly within the path of totality, Niagara Falls promises unparalleled views of a total solar eclipse—an event not to be witnessed again in the contiguous U.S. until 2044. For approximately three and a half minutes, starting around 3:18 p.m. on April 8, the sky will dim over the majestic cataract as the moon aligns perfectly between Earth and the sun.
Prime viewing locations on the U.S. side of the falls include Terrapin Point, Prospect Point, and the Observation Tower, provided the skies remain clear. On the Canadian side, Table Rock offers an exceptional vantage point. As a delightful bonus, the customary sunny-day rainbow hovering above the falls will take on a rosy hue during the eclipse.
Embark on a glacier trek in Chile.
Within the breathtaking landscapes of Chilean Patagonia’s Laguna San Rafael National Park, adventurers have the opportunity to trek amidst glaciers, beholding a mesmerizing panorama of pale blue ice formations and glacial waterways. Despite the grandeur of the scene, it’s sobering to note that Patagonia’s ice fields still harbor around 17,300 glaciers, yet the relentless march of rising temperatures is swiftly eroding their presence.
Climate scientists emphasize the importance of sustainable tourism initiatives, such as guided hikes offered by Chilean outfitters like Turismo Valle Leones. Not only do these excursions support local communities, but they also serve as a catalyst for travelers to deepen their understanding of the urgent need to protect glaciers and preserve these pristine environments for future generations.
Immerse yourself in history on Menorca.
While Spain’s Balearic Islands often evoke images of bustling beach destinations like Ibiza and Mallorca, the quieter and less developed island of Menorca boasts a distinctive treasure trove: the archipelago’s most extensive collection of ancient architecture.
Spread across a compact area of just 270 square miles, Menorca boasts a remarkable total of 1,574 documented archaeological sites. These sites range from the remnants of small dwellings’ foundation blocks to remarkably preserved village centers that predate the Roman Empire. Particularly noteworthy are the navetas—megalithic tombs dating back to 1600 B.C., talayots—watchtowers constructed from limestone blocks without mortar, and taulas—shrines unique to Menorca reminiscent of the pillars at Stonehenge. These remnants, remnants of the Talayotic Menorcan civilization, the island’s earliest inhabitants, have earned a coveted spot on UNESCO’s World Heritage List.
Exploring these open-air monuments is a straightforward endeavor; the island’s Me-1 road conveniently passes by some of the best-preserved sites, including the settlements of Talatí de Dalt, Naveta des Tudons, and Taula de Torretrencada.
Transitioning back to the present, visitors can experience the new Hauser & Wirth gallery in the charming town of Mahón. Housed within repurposed 18th-century hospital buildings, this cultural venue showcases contemporary art exhibitions and boasts an outdoor sculpture trail featuring works by renowned artists such as Louise Bourgeois and Joan Miró.
Experience timeless train travel in Scotland.
Delving into Scotland’s untamed and picturesque Highlands need not entail sacrificing comfort. The Royal Scotsman train gracefully traverses through the moody lochs and dramatic peaks in unparalleled style. With the introduction of new suites in May 2024, passengers can immerse themselves in interiors that artfully capture the essence of the captivating landscapes, featuring dark woods, wool tweeds, and intricately patterned bespoke tartans meticulously crafted by the renowned Scottish brand, Araminta Campbell. After days filled with activities such as hiking to waterfalls or indulging in rounds of golf—a sport intimately intertwined with the nation’s heritage—guests can unwind with a massage at the onboard spa.
Departing from Edinburgh’s Waverley Station, these two- to seven-night rail journeys traverse the heart of the Highlands, venturing from Perthshire to Inverness and onwards to the rugged west coast. During stops along the way, guests have the opportunity to explore castles, marvel at the night sky in Cairngorms National Park, savor whisky tastings at esteemed distilleries, and even partake in a refreshing dip in a tranquil loch.
Discover genuine flavors in Thailand.
The Isaan region in northeastern Thailand is celebrated for its unique cuisine, which embodies influences from neighboring Laos and Cambodia. «Isaan is a treasure trove of Thailand,» remarks Weerawat “Num” Triyasenawat, the chef at Samuay & Sons, a Michelin Guide-recommended restaurant nestled in the Isaan city of Udon Thani.
Central to the region’s delectable cuisine is pla ra, a fermented-fish seasoning that elevates the umami flavor profile. Local delicacies include laab, a minced meat salad traditionally served during festive occasions, offering a tantalizing taste of Isaan’s culinary heritage.
Embark on a journey along tea trails in Sri Lanka.
Renowned as one of the world’s premier producers of tea leaves, Sri Lanka has a longstanding association with this aromatic beverage. The island nation’s tea industry traces its roots back to British colonial rule, when the first tea bushes were introduced approximately 200 years ago. Today, visitors have the opportunity to retrace the footsteps of historic planters along the newly established Pekoe Trail—a nearly 200-mile-long walking route, representing the country’s inaugural long-distance hiking trail.
Commencing just outside the city of Kandy, the trail follows the paths laid down in the 19th century, which were once traversed by workers and horse-drawn carts transporting freshly plucked tea leaves. Along the journey, hikers traverse picturesque hill towns and verdant tea estates, where they can immerse themselves in local culture by participating in cooking classes or indulging in a cup of aromatic Ceylon tea, thus experiencing the essence of Sri Lanka’s rich tea heritage.
Explore São Paulo’s vibrant art scene.
São Paulo, Brazil’s bustling metropolis, stands as a haven for art enthusiasts, boasting a plethora of galleries, exhibitions, and captivating street murals. Among its myriad artistic offerings, the Museu de Arte de São Paulo (MASP) reigns supreme, home to an extensive collection of over 11,000 artworks spanning from pre-Renaissance paintings to contemporary sculptures.
In an innovative departure from traditional exhibition methods, MASP is undergoing expansion to showcase even more of its remarkable collection. Notably, the museum presents some pieces suspended against clear panels, offering visitors the unique opportunity to engage with the art from all perspectives, enriching the viewing experience and fostering a deeper connection with the artworks.
Navigate the exhilarating rapids of West Virginia.
Contrary to its name, the New River in West Virginia is one of the oldest rivers on Earth, dating back possibly as far as 360 million years. Carving through sandstone cliffs, the river descends an impressive 750 feet over a mere 50 miles before joining forces with the Gauley River.
For adventure seekers, outfitters like ACE Adventure Resort offer thrilling whitewater rafting excursions along this iconic river. Traverse Class III to V rapids as you journey through the longest and deepest river gorge in the Appalachians, experiencing the adrenaline rush of navigating the rugged terrain and churning waters.
Embark on an antiquing adventure in the Hudson Valley.
The picturesque Hudson Valley has experienced a surge in popularity, particularly with an influx of New York City residents seeking refuge during the pandemic. However, the region has long been revered by creatives, serving as the inspiration for America’s first artistic fraternity, the Hudson River School.
Antique enthusiasts will find themselves drawn to the plethora of stores, boutiques, craft shops, and flea markets scattered throughout the area. These treasure troves offer an eclectic array of items ranging from colonial furniture and rare books to mid-century modern decor. For those in search of vintage gems, notable destinations include the Antique Warehouse in Hudson, Sister Salvage in Catskill, and Opera House Co. in Athens.
According to Sarah Gray Miller, owner of Coxsackie’s antique store UnQuiet, the region’s charming historic villages serve as a common thread, each displaying a strong commitment to preservation. From Stuyvesant to Saugerties, these towns exude character and offer a delightful backdrop for a day of antiquing.
Experience waterfront accommodation in British Columbia.
The recently reopened Tofino Wilderness Resort, operated by the Ahousaht First Nation, offers an enchanting retreat to explore the western coast of Vancouver Island in British Columbia. Nestled within the heart of Clayoquot Sound, this luxurious floating lodge underwent renovations using timber sourced from trees on-site.
Guests can immerse themselves in the region’s natural beauty through guided whale-watching excursions or visits to the Freedom Cove artists’ sanctuary. Here, the Ahousaht people graciously share their cultural philosophy, known as hishuk ish tsawalk, which translates to «everything is one.» This ethos celebrates the intrinsic interconnectedness of humanity and nature in a landscape that the Ahousaht have called home for millennia.