Once considered too damaging to the land, exploitation of Alberta's oil sands is now a gamble worth billions.

High in the mountains of Sichuan Province, millions of visitors have discovered cool, clear waters.

Amid a sea of conflict, the Sinai offers pleasure, spiritual refuge, and—potentially—harmony.

Some say the New World's biggest cat won't survive in isolated, protected habitats.

Off the shores of Costa Rica, scientists study a stronghold of whales that once hovered near extinction.

Editor Chris Johns writes about oil sands and balancing the needs of today and tomorrow.

From 1911: A finback whale is hunted and then delivered to a Japanese whaling station.

Decorate your desktop with beautiful images from this month's issue of the magazine.

Each month, National Geographic features breathtaking photographs in Visions of Earth.

Submit your photo, check out Your Shot jigsaw puzzles, and see reader photos published in National Geographic.