by Lacey Pfalz
Last updated: 1:25 PM ET, Mon April 20, 2026
National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions has released its 2025/2026 Traveler Impact Report, showcasing the power of responsible travel to help support conservation, education and science programs around the world.
The report, made possible by the Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic Fund, supported 36 projects worldwide with a total contribution of $3.03 million, making it the single-largest annual contribution to date.
Since its founding in 2008, the foundation has contributed over $26.4 million to worthy projects.
"This year's results show what can happen when travel is rooted in purpose," said Natalya Leahy, CEO of Lindblad Expeditions. "As the pioneer of modern expedition travel, our belief has been that exploration and stewardship go hand in hand. What makes this work so powerful is that it's driven by our guests — every journey helps support the science, conservation, and community initiatives that protect the places we explore. It's a reminder that travel can do more than broaden perspective — it can make a meaningful impact on the world we're so fortunate to experience."
One such project receiving funding last year is Fundación Scalesia, which helped train 450 teachers across the Galápagos to integrate environmental sustainability into daily lessons. It also provided 30 students with scholarships to attend a bilingual school.
Another worthy recipient of the funds this year is the Alaska Whale Foundation, led by National Geographic Explorer Andy Szabo. The program is nearing a decade of work researching long-term whale health.
Other programs include an ocean stewardship program led by the Polynesian Voyaging Society, a restoration project on Floreana Islands in the Galápagos, Indigenous-led kelp forest restoration in British Columbia, mangrove replanting in Baja California and more.
Additionally, National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions offered three National Geographic Photo Camps for 59 students and provided 35 educators with an expedition cruise through the line's Grosvenor Teacher Fellowship program.
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