Into the Wild: See wildlife up close
There are moments that are unique; they feel so good they give you goosebumps, and touch you so deeply you remember them for the rest of your life – the kind of magical moments that come from once-in-a-lifetime experiences. These destinations offer such moments by giving you the keys to the animal kingdom.
August 25, 2023
Breakfast with giraffes
© provided
Giraffe Manor in Nairobi, Kenya, can accomodate a maximum of 24 guests in 12 rooms and suites. But the historic estate is also home to a herd of Rothschild giraffes: They often stop by at breakfast or dinner time, stretch their elegant necks through the windows and interact with guests – be sure to have your camera ready! The once endangered giraffe species is now recovering again, thanks to the efforts of The Safari Collection. The Giraffe Manor boutique hotel is surrounded by five hectares of private land and can be booked as part of a safari or as a separate destination.
Gorilla Trekking
© Dana Allen
These great apes live in family groups in the mountain forests of Rwanda. Guided gorilla trekking excursions takes you as close as possible without disturbing them – a wonderful opportunity to experience the complex social behavior of these intelligent and gentle animals in their natural habitat. The proceeds from the required permits contribute to the protection of the environment – and therefore also of the gorilla families. The animals can only be visited on guided tours; the eco-friendly and sustainable "Bisate Lodge" is an ideal starting point for this unforgettable encounter.
Web: wildernessdestinations.com
Safari on Galapagos
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As one of the most sensitive ecosystems on the planet, the Galápagos Islands have imposed strict regulations on tourist activities. As a result, 99% of the surrounding waters and 97% of the land of the remote 130-island archipelago are under conservation; that’s the only way to preserve the unique flora and fauna. Forty percent of the animal species are endemic, the most famous of them being the Galapagos giant tortoise. This region of Ecuador, which Charles Darwin visited 200 years ago, is even named after the Spanish word for their shell. Great personalized safaris are available from Galapagos Safari Camp.
Polar bear watching
© Mauritius Images
The little town of Churchill in the Canadian province of Manitoba is actually a major hub in one respect: It’s known as the capital of polar bear sightings. Here on the southwest coast of Hudson Bay, visitors get the opportunity to observe the animals in the wild; the period between July and November is considered the high season. You might have to travel a little further in the summer months, but the weather is a lot more pleasant. In winter, when Hudson Bay freezes over, you can watch the polar bears hunting seals on the shore. Encounters are possible on foot or by tundra vehicle. Besides prioritizing safety, the experienced providers also supply a wealth of information about how the animals live.
Web: travelmanitoba.com
Sleeping among the elephants
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Hotel guests at the Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort in Thailand become proper elephant experts during their stay: They learn all about how to care for and interact with them from their mahouts, can help make healthy food for the old and rescued animals, observe them bathing in the river and stroll side by side with the gentle gray giants. The highlight of the experience is a night in the bubble tent, right in the animals’ midst. Those who want to further support protection efforts can join an elephant adoption program.
Web: anantara.com
Birdwatching in Costa Rica
© Ezequiel Becerra / picturedesk.com
Costa Rica is one of the most extraordinary countries on earth – dotted with rainforests, it stands out for the incredible diversity of its flora and fauna, a very high proportion of which is endemic. Birdwatchers delight in the more than 900 different species that live in the country’s volcanic landscapes, beaches, coastal areas and jungle regions. In order to protect this priceless treasure, a quarter of the country is under conservation. Guests at the Four Seasons Resort Costa Rica can set out with binoculars and experienced ornithologists to discover the richly colored avian world of the Papagayo peninsula.
Web: fourseasons.com
Snorkeling with whale sharks
© GettyImages
Swimming, diving or snorkeling alongside one of the animal kingdom’s record holders is right at the top of many travelers’ bucket list. The whale shark isn’t just the world’s biggest shark, it’s also the biggest fish on the planet: When fully grown, it measures about 12 meters long, has more than 3,600 teeth, weighs up to 12 metric tons and has a lifespan of about 100 years. Encounters with it are possible off the Maldives – and one of the places where the rare animals are sighted frequently and all year round is the southern tip of the Ari Atoll. Nova Maldives offers a luxurious and practical base from which to set out on this unforgettable adventure.
Web: nova-maldives.com
Swimming with horses
© Adobe Stock
Nihi Sumba is one of the most beautiful resorts in Indonesia. Comprising just 27 luxurious villas with private pools, it takes a strongly philanthropic approach based on slow travel – and is equally renowned for experiences that bring guests closer to nature. One such thrilling opportunity involves the local herd of horses: Guests can ride along the beach into the sunset or go swimming with them – a uniquely Indonesian type of “seahorse.” The portfolio of activities and experiences also includes riding lessons, hiking excursions, wellness, water sports and cultural encounters.
Web: nihi.com
This article appeared in the Falstaff TRAVEL issue Summer 2023.
