At its best, photography transports you to another place, telling a story about its people, nature, or landscapes. With the start of a new year just around the corner, we've compiled some of 2019's best travel and nature photography, featuring locations around the world and inspiration for the year ahead. Enjoy!

National Geographic
"Best Travel Photos of 2019"
In this curated collection of 35 images from National Geographic contributors, highlights include musicians in Cape Town, South Africa and a different view of the Taj Mahal in India. 

CNN International
"Our favorite travel photos of 2019 so far"
CNN International's roundup of favorite travel photos features stunning shots from locations both in the US and abroad. 

Nature Photographer of the Year
"Nature Photographer of the Year 2019 - in pictures"
Among the finalists of this worldwide competition, presented by the Dutch organization Nature Talks, an underwater shot of a tapir in Brazil is a standout.

The Nature Conservancy
"2019 Photo Contest Winners"
A zebra in Kenya, a looming storm Varadero, Cuba, and a sunset over Chile's Atacama Desert all received recognition in The Nature Conservancy's annual photo contest. 

AFAR Magazine
"2019 AFAR Photo Awards Winners"
In addition to the grand prize, winners were selected in five categories: food, cities, people, outdoors, and style & design.

Audubon
"The 2019 Audubon Photography Awards: Winners"
From more than 2,200 entries, Audubon's contest winners include a White-necked Jacobin in Costa Rica and a Horned Puffin in Alaska.