<p>A pair of Japanese macaques escapes the cold winter weather in a hot spring.</p>

A pair of Japanese macaques escapes the cold winter weather in a hot spring.

Photograph By kousuke kitajima, National Geographic Travel Photographer of the Year Contest

Our Favorite Wildlife Pictures From the Travel Contest

Here are 28 amazing wildlife shots from the 2018 National Geographic Travel Photographer of the Year contest.

Every year, National Geographic Travel invites photographers to submit their most captivating and telling images to the 2018 Travel Photographer of the Year contest.

This year, photographers from around the world submitted thousands of photos, many featuring rare and exotic animals.

Check back on June 28, when all the contest winners will be announced. In the meantime, enjoy this collection of animal images taken by this year’s contestants.

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