"A powerful eruption illuminates the slopes of Mexico’s Colima Volcano on December 13, 2015. I was in the town of Comala when I suddenly saw incandescence above the volcano's crater and started shooting. Seconds later, a powerful volcanic explosion expelled a cloud of ash particles and a massive lightning bolt illuminated most of the dark scene. It was one of the most exciting moments of my life."

Grand Prize Winner: The Power of Nature

"A powerful eruption illuminates the slopes of Mexico’s Colima Volcano on December 13, 2015. I was in the town of Comala when I suddenly saw incandescence above the volcano's crater and started shooting. Seconds later, a powerful volcanic explosion expelled a cloud of ash particles and a massive lightning bolt illuminated most of the dark scene. It was one of the most exciting moments of my life."
Photograph and caption by Sergio Tapiro Velasco, 2017 National Geographic Travel Photographer of the Year Contest

2017 National Geographic Travel Photographer of the Year Contest Winners

Find out who won grand prize in the photo contest.

Photographer Sergio Tapiro Velasco captured the grand prize of the 2017 National Geographic Travel Photographer of the Year Contest with his image of Mexico's Colima Volcano erupting. The contest received entries from around the globe, sharing scenes of nature, people, and places. Browse this gallery of winners to experience unique moments captured by photographers and visit our contest homepage to explore even more photography.

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