Kirsten Baesler, Superintendent | North Dakota State Board of Education
Kirsten Baesler, Superintendent | North Dakota State Board of Education
National Geographic has named North Dakota’s Badlands as one of its Best of the World destinations for 2026. The annual list, released on October 21, highlights 25 travel experiences around the globe that emphasize meaningful connections with nature, culture, and communities.
The selection process involved nominations, research, and reporting by National Geographic’s travel experts and international editorial teams. The list is designed to offer a variety of options for different types of travelers and features destinations that stand out for their cultural moments, events, natural wonders, and commitment to sustainable travel.
Nathan Lump, editor in chief of National Geographic, commented on the purpose behind this year’s selections: "At Nat Geo, we know that travel has the power to inspire and transform us. In this year's BEST OF THE WORLD, we especially wanted to highlight unexpected destinations that the algorithms are probably not serving you—for instance, Uzbekistan's Khivaor Rwanda's Akagera National Park. Of course, we know that not every trip can be an off-the-beaten-path adventure, so we were mindful to include some surprisingly compelling places that are also more easily accessible. Whatever kind of traveler you are, our goal is to ensure we're sharing fresh ideas that help you connect with that feeling of discovery and joy that comes from a great travel experience."
Sara Otte Coleman, Director of Tourism and Marketing for North Dakota, welcomed the recognition: “We’re thrilled to see our North Dakota Badlands recognized by National Geographic as one of the Best of the World destinations for 2026. This global spotlight affirms what we’ve always known—our North Dakota Badlands are bold, breathtaking, and unforgettable. With the upcoming Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library adding even more depth to the experience, there’s never been a better time to explore this iconic landscape.”
The full Best of the World 2026 list is available at NatGeo.com/BestOfTheWorld.
National Geographic Content reaches audiences worldwide through its digital platforms and social media presence. The organization produces content across various channels including print publications and streaming services such as Disney+ and Hulu.
North Dakota continues its efforts to promote tourism in order to raise awareness about the state and support economic development through attracting visitors and new residents.
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