10 Best works of Nat Geo's 2016 Travel Photographer of the Year contest

National Geographic annually invites photographers from all over the world who cannot imagine their life and work without traveling. The most talented masters compete for the title of travel photographer of the Year according to National Geographic. The main prize is a seven—day polar bear photo hunt on the territory of the Churchill Wild–Seal River Heritage Reserve.

Photographers can apply for participation in any of three categories: "Nature", "People" or "Cities". The results will be announced on May 27, but in the meantime you have the opportunity to take a look at the brightest shots of the participants. Most likely, one of them will be lucky and will go to "catch" the harsh polar bears with his lens.

(10 photos in total)

Source: Twisted Sifter

Winding roads

"There are some truly breathtaking views hiding between the rocks in the Gorges du Jades." (Author: Angiolo Manetti)

Python de la Fournaise

"Eruption of the active volcano La Fournaise". (Author: Gaby Barathieu)

Wherever you go, I'll follow you!

"Love is in the air. It was that time of day when the sun had just sunk below the horizon." (Author: Hiroki Inoue)

Face to face

"Polar bear on the Wallenberg Fjord in Svalbard. We were on the very shore when he calmly went down to study the new smell. Having lost interest, the wild beast left, and we also left him alone." (Author: Ari Ross)

Peaks and penguins in the rising sun of Antarctica

"Spectacular mountain peaks and thousands of king penguins in the rays of the early dawn sun in South Georgia." (Author: Shivesh R.)

Digital panel of Hong Kong

"The amazing architecture of Hong Kong very accurately reflects the high population density. It catches your eye when you realize that the lights in the windows of other people's apartments are blocking your view to the horizon." (Author: Julia Wimmerlin)

At the top

"New York, Rio, Tokyo? We're actually at a rooftop bar in Vietnam. The day ends, the night comes. But this city never sleeps." (Author: Caroline Micaela Hauger)

Communication between friends

"The picture was taken on the territory of the Shimon Elephant Nursery in India. The nursery works with elephants that were previously mistreated — now they need rehabilitation and treatment. The elephants are looked after by experienced mahuts (elephant riders and shepherds). Over time, a strong bond develops between the mahut and the animal." (Author: Aditya D.)

Lioness at sunset

"Botswana, Africa". (Author: Marja Schwartz)

Early morning on Skye (Isle of Skye, Scotland)

"After a long walk on a frosty morning, this landscape opened up to us." (Author: Andy Dines)