Stunning photos capture some of nature's most incredible sights around the world

They have been entered into the 2015 National Geographic Traveler Photo Contest

This picture of a lion cub jumping on its mother's head in Kenya was one of the entrants in the National Geographic Traveler Photo Contest

A volcanic eruption, a powerful tornado and a traditional camel race through the desert are some of the incredible images caught on camera by travellers.

The pictures have been entered into the 2015 National Geographic Traveler Photo Contest from around the world.

They provide a snapshot of human life and nature in countries spreading from the US to Pacific Islands, South America, the Middle East and Africa.

Photographers captured sights including the icy "Halle der Circe" cave in Austria, Yellowstone's huge Grand Prismatic Spring and the night sky from the Namibian desert.

A spokesperson for National Geographic said the top prize is an eight-day expedition to Costa Rica and the Panama Canal, and entries will be judged on "creativity and photographic quality".

The competition is open for entries until 30 June and the winner will be announced in August.