Australia: Kakadu National Park
Score: 78

Half the size of Switzerland, this diverse land of rocky hills and river valleys in Australia's Northern Territory is jointly managed by government officials and Aboriginal people. "Wonderful wildlife, unspoiled beauty," and Aboriginal rock art are major draws. Darwin, the main gateway, is "an undistinguished frontier town."

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

"Cleverly managed, unspoiled, beautiful. Cultural values are visible through local rock art and the Aboriginal presence."

"A wealth of information is available at visitor centers around the area, and park personnel promote the environmental message at every opportunity. Seasonal floods do a good job of renewing the area each year."

"For some years this park had a progressive infestation of invasive species, but a small group of Aboriginal people were employed and eliminated the problem in little more than two years of planned fires. It is an outstanding example of the fundamental importance of long-standing traditional learning in parks management."

"Wonderful, if a little difficult in the rainy season. I didn't realize how spread out everything was and how difficult the access to some sites would be, but they were magical when one could get to them with an Aboriginal guide. In general the sites were well-labeled and explained, with an appropriate emphasis on their importance to local communities."

Australia: Uluru (Ayers Rock)
Score: 71

A "dramatic"sandstone formation rising from the desert, Uluru holds a "mystical" quality for local Aborigines and many tourists. The sacred site enjoys "excellent care and sustainability programs," but keeping visitors from climbing the rock itself—an offense to Aborigines—is challenging. The hike around the base is the way to go.

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

"Visitors are provided with a rewarding experience at Uluru, but maintaining respect for traditional customs is a major challenge. The location of the resort at a suitable distance from the rock ensures that the impact of the buildings on the desert landscape is minimal."

"On a global scale it's a good model for arid-zone and indigenous-tourism development. I was a tour guide at 'the Rock' 30 years ago and have seen it develop over three decades. The current product and service delivery is excellent compared to what existed 20 to 30 years ago. Very positive progress."

"This monolith is isolated and dramatic. Although it has been given back to the Aboriginal people, more cultural education is needed for tourists to understand the sacred aspect of this land."

"The tribal people of the region have now developed excellent care and sustainability programs. Moving camping and other major tourism impacts away from the rock itself (some years ago) was the key strategy in developing an excellent level of management."

Australia: Great Barrier Reef
Score: 62

Has "one of the best management regimes of any protected marine zone in the world"—a model for other countries, though the fleets of tour boats cause problems. Tragically, the reef may be among the first of Earth's natural treasures to be lost to global warming, warn some panelists.

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

"Tourism is well managed—not only enjoyable for the scenic beauty of the place but also as a learning opportunity. In spite of the best efforts by the Australian people, climate change continues to affect the reef to a degree that might compromise its long-term survival."

"Environmental and ecological quality is suffering due to coral bleaching which stems from a variety of causes, including agricultural runoff and increasing ocean temperatures. Social and cultural integrity is compromised by the impact of European settlements on the indigenous lifestyle."

"Aesthetic appeal is naturally magnificent. Little is human made. Tourism development is significant but generally well managed. The benefits to local people are more about employment and economic benefit, which generate interest in preservation and protection."

Australia: Byron Bay, New South Wales
Score: 53

It's "a tourist town" in ways both good and bad. Pluses: great beaches, "superb art/music events," and the easygoing ethos of a former hippie haven. Drawbacks: "congestion/noise" and a sense the place is "phony" and "overhyped."

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

"Despite Byron Bay's superb beaches and hinterland, the town itself appears to be the result of limited strategic planning or awareness of the need for a parallel urban strategy."

"Overdeveloped and undervalued for environmental qualities. Pushes the limit of commercialization."

"Surrounding natural beauty is good, and there has been some control of development, such as avoiding high-rises (good). However, the town is overcrowded at peak tourist season and too touristy. Its original character as a hippie, alternative-lifestyle town has been undermined by tourist kitsch."