Argentina: Patagonian Andes Region
Score: 66

"A great destination for adventure tourism, and now ecotourism" amid one of the world's most "gorgeous, pristine" landscapes. But panelists express concerns that an absence of environmental planning foretells problems yet to come.

Here is a representative sampling of additional anonymous comments from the panelists. They are not necessarily the views of the National Geographic Society:

"High ecological quality, extraordinary aesthetic appeal, wonderful hiking. There seemed less integration of culture into tourism to benefit local communities, although programs were starting."

"Isolated and therefore protected in the past from mass tourism, but slowly changing with added infrastructure."

"Wonderful natural areas and landscapes. Most visitors get little feeling for local cultural values, especially of indigenous peoples. Tourism appears sustainable. Effects of climate change notable."

"Fast tourism development in recent years in Ushuaia and immediate environs is worrying. The "slickness" of recent developments in entertainment and consumption detracts from the appeal of the more down-to-earth history and culture of the area."