Washington, D.C. has been our home since 1888. It continues to be our Base Camp today.
Our global headquarters is located at 17th and M Streets, NW in Washington, D.C.
Our iconic eleven-story office building, designed by Modernist architect Edward Durell, is the center of operations for National Geographic Society staff.
Since 1888, our campus has played a critical role in our mission. When our earliest Explorers returned from their expeditions around the world, they brought back their findings to our National Geographic headquarters to share their experiences and stories with the public.
These on-campus convenings began just one month after our founding, establishing a long-standing tradition of hosting in-person events on our campus. Well over a century later, our National Geographic Base Camp remains a hub for engagement in the heart of Washington, D.C., bringing together our global community of Explorers, staff, and the public to share the magic of our mission and ignite the spirit of exploration.
Visiting Base Camp
While our historic headquarters is not open for public tours, we do encourage guests to visit the National Geographic Museum located on the first floor of our building at 1145 17th St. NW. Our permanent exhibition “Exploration Starts Here” is free to all visitors and uncovers the untold stories of our Explorers. See the world through the eyes of these explorers, learn about the cutting-edge technologies being used to protect and explore our planet, and take in exhibitions showcasing the work of award-winning and world-changing photographers and scientists – all in one place!
Regional Offices
To achieve our mission, we support, empower, and collaborate with team members all across the globe. In addition to our Base Camp in Washington, D.C., the National Geographic Society supports staff in regional offices located in Africa, the Asia-Pacific, Europe, and Latin America.
Sustainability Work
To fulfill our mission, we are dedicated to advancing and modeling innovative, cutting-edge sustainability practices throughout our mission-driven work and business operations. We have developed a number of green initiatives related to water, energy, recycling, and employee programs that are in line with our belief in the power of science, exploration, and storytelling to change the world. We ask that our employees, suppliers, licensees, affiliates, and partners live by our Corporate Responsibility and Sustainability Policy when producing and distributing any National Geographic-branded products or services. National Geographic activities and services are legally and ethically conducted by treating employees, environments, and cultures with respect.
In our continued commitment to environmental sustainability, we seek local, organic, and sustainably-sourced resources, using recycled and recyclable content when possible, and minimizing waste of energy, water, food, and other resources. All products used in National Geographic activities and services should follow the same high standards as National Geographic branded products.
Photo Credits from top of page: Mark Thiessen (2), Larry Levine (illustration), Christy Solberg. Below: Michael Nichols, Andy Mann, Paul Nicklen, Ami Vitale, Christian Tryon, Kenneth Garrett, Mark Thiessen.