At its best, photography transports us to another place, telling a story about its people, nature, or landscapes. With a new year ahead of us, we pause to reflect on some of the best travel and nature photography from 2021, as selected by various publications and photo competitions. Enjoy!

National Geographic
"Best Travel Photos of 2021"
These 18 images by National Geographic contributors represent a time of "renewed exploration," according to the magazine. Some of our favorites include an aerial shot of a lava flow in Iceland, a portrait of a gaucho in Patagonia, and an Oaxacan woman molding clay. 

Nature Photographer of the Year
"Nature Photographer of the Year 2021 - The Winners"
There are lots of great captures in this gallery, presented by the Dutch organization Nature Talks. The Andes’ otherworldly Puna Desert, a pair of polar bears in a whiteout in Svalbard, and a young lion feeding are some of the standouts.

Audubon Society
"The 2021 Audubon Photography Awards: Top 100"
From more than 9,000 entries, Audubon's Top 100 list of amazing bird photos includes a Giant Hummingbird in Peru, Adélie Penguins in Antarctica, and a Kori Bustard in Kenya.

Capture the Atlas
"2021 Northern Lights Photographer of the Year"
The aurora phenomenon is on full, colorful display in these 25 images that come — despite the contest's name — from both the Northern and Southern Hemispheres.

Wildlife Photographer of the Year
"Winners of Wildlife Photographer of the Year 2021"
Developed and produced by the Natural History Museum, London, this annual contest has been going since 1965. Featured among this year's winners are a marine ranger on an Australian reef and two rescued chimpanzees with their caretaker.