"We arrived mid-afternoon at Meru National Park during the September dry season. We wandered the tracks and late in the day noticed a large group of African elephants with babies on the move; presumably in search of new foraging areas. The hot and dusty conditions at sunset simply added to an unimaginable and unforgettable mood and atmosphere!"

Meru National Park, Kenya

"We arrived mid-afternoon at Meru National Park during the September dry season. We wandered the tracks and late in the day noticed a large group of African elephants with babies on the move; presumably in search of new foraging areas. The hot and dusty conditions at sunset simply added to an unimaginable and unforgettable mood and atmosphere!"
Photograph and caption by Charles Walker, 2019 National Geographic Travel Photo Contest

30 stunning wildlife pictures from across the globe

From battling bears to dancing flamingos, see travelers' forays into the wild through their pictures.

Captions were written and submitted by the photographers to the 2019 National Geographic Travel Photo Contest.

Every year travelers span the world for the opportunity to observe wildlife in natural habitats. From seals swimming through the icy-cold depths of Antarctic waters to orangutans found deep in Borneo's jungles, awe-inspiring moments reveal themselves to those seeking to connect with the nature and all its inhabitants.

Immerse yourself in this gallery of entries to the 2019 National Geographic Travel Photo Contest and experience the magic captured by photographers—encapsulating their unique and moving wildlife travel experiences.

Think you have the winning photo? Be sure to enter before May 3 at 12 p.m. EST, for a chance to win up to $10,000.

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