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Planning a wildlife holiday and want to add a dash of cultural experience?
What time is best to go where…your questions now answered, give our wildlife calendar a look!
What time is best to go where…your questions now answered, give our wildlife calendar a look!
In the wild
January is good time for bird watching in Botswana’s Okawango Delta. The green season permits easy spotting of goliath herons, crested barbet chicks and African scops owls amongst other bird species present in this region. The weather in Malawi is warm, making it a good time for a dip in the lake.
It’s almost always a good time to visit the Galapagos islands and January marks breeding season for the green sea turtles. Further east, it’s an excellent time for tiger spotting in India where the winter season results in pleasant weather. Try Corbett, Kanha, Pench, Bandhavgarh or Ranthambore national parks to spot the elusive big cat.
On the other side of the world, blue whales start arriving at Baja, California.
Our suggestions
Generally speaking
After enjoying raving New Year’s celebrations across the globe, head to India to watch camel fairs, military parades and a South Indian thanksgiving ritual. Rajasthan’s Bikaner camel fair is a good alternative to the more popular Pushkar fair, witness the same fetes with fewer crowds. Head to New Delhi, India for an inspiring military parade on 26th January – the Indian Republic Day.
Also in January, experience elaborate Pongal celebrations in the southern state of Kerala, India. This harvest festival is a four-day celebration of giving thanks to Hindu gods. Fragrant flowers, banana leaves, beautifully dressed women and majestic elephants (of course), all come together to leave you mesmerised.
In the wild
February is an excellent time to go trekking in Nepal. The climate is as good as it’ll get when you’re up and about at such heights and as an added bonus, the wildlife at Chitwan National Park is awake and excited making it a great time for spotting the Bengal tiger. This is also an ideal month for snow leopard spotting in Ladakh.
If you are into mountaineering and have already trekked in Nepal, consider conquering Mt Kilimanjaro in Africa instead. The dry season in Africa makes it the best time to scale the summits of Mt Kili.
For an avian adventure, head to Kenya to see millions of flamingos gather at Lake Nakuru and give it a pleasantly pink appearance.
Our suggestions
Generally speaking
Living under that shadow of January can’t be easy, so, February does its best to over-deliver with its own New Years celebrations in the form of the Chinese New Year. Head to South East Asia to indulge in the all the festivities.
For an alternative celebration, there’s always the revelry of the Rio carnival that takes place at the end of January/ beginning of February every year. Dance, eat, sing and watch the parade in all its glory. The carnival spirit also spreads across Prague and Goa with each hosting their own celebration. Bohemians will enjoy the opportunity to indulge in Portugese culture at Goa and the abundant colour and music of Prague.
For some more sin, travel to New Orleans to experience Mardi Gras like nowhere else.
In the wild
In India, temperatures are just starting to rise during the month of March. The weather is hot enough to get the big cats out near the watering holes yet pleasant enough for us to venture out in search of them. It’s a promising month for tiger spotting in Ranthambore, Kanha, Pench, Corbett and Bandhavgarh National Parks in Central India.
Visit the coast of Payala Grande, Costa Rica to witness an endearing wildlife phenomenon as numerous leatherback turtles pop out of the water and on to the beach to lay eggs.
Our suggestions
Generally speaking
Like most months, this is a festive time to be in India. Catch the annual celebration of Holi, the festival of colours in all its glory in North India. Families and friends get together to spray each other with an array of colours and dance to foot thumping music. Those with skin allergies or of a delicate constitution are advised to be careful as certain colours can cause irritation. Also in India, the royal city of Jaipur hosts an enchanting Elephant Festival featuring only female elephants. These magnificent creatures are decorated with beautiful ornaments and cloth by their handlers and paraded in all their glory. There are also dance performances and musical recitals on offer.
In the lively country of Ireland, and all across the world, 17th March is celebrated as St Patrick’s Day! Show your respect by sampling (or indulging) in some Irish stout.
For cooler weather, March is a good time to go skiing in the Alps.
In the wild
For bird enthusiasts, Galapagos is the place to be in April. Its astounding and varied bird inhabitants include blue-footed boobies, swallow tailed gullies, frigate birds and red-billed tropic birds.
It’s a good time to see the largest living fish species, whale sharks, and manta rays in Ningaloo Reef, Australia. However, there is a conservation debate on, currently, regarding tourism at Ningaloo Reef so those planning their visit are requested to ensure they keep abreast with the latest developments.
In Africa, it’s a great time to see Victoria Falls in all its gushing glory while in India, even though the mercury is rising, it’s still tiger spotting season.
Our suggestions
Generally speaking
Similar to India’s Holi festival in March, Thailand celebrates Songkran in April, think of it as one giant water-gun fight! Revelers take to the streets of Thailand to douse each other with jets of water in order to celebrate this fun festival.
For music lovers, the last weekend of April and the first weekend of May bring with them the calling of the Jazz festival at its rightful birthplace, New Orleans. The New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival is a celebration of all things New Orleans, including every imaginable style of Jazz. Other than the music itself, there are several quirky food stalls and arts and crafts vendors, all vying for your attention.
In the wild
May is a good month for wildlife in Canada. You are most likely to spot gray whales off Vancouver Island’s west coast. These gigantic mammals, reaching a length of about 50 feet and weighing an average of 35 tonnes, are bound to make your journey worthwhile. But if you want more, head slightly north of Vancouver to watch brown bears (the famed bear species from ‘Goldilocks and the Three Bears’) fish for salmon.
Temperatures are high in most of India but the Himalayas are warm and pleasant, perfect for an extensive trek around Ladhak. Travellers should note that nights are still quite cold in this region and prepare adequately. The state of Karnataka is also quite pleasant at this time of the year. Bandipur National Park and Tiger Reserve in Karnataka, housing Bengal tigers, leopards, elephants, hyena and many other species of animals and birds, makes for a fascinating journey this month.
Our suggestions
Generally speaking
Music lovers are sure to be thrilled by the second half of the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival during the first weekend of May. The festival is a celebration of all things New Orleans, including every imaginable style of Jazz. Other than the music itself, there are several quirky food stalls and arts and crafts vendors, all vying for your attention.
Head to the home of golf, St Andrews, UK to watch thousands of university students perform a centuries old ritual as they jump into the freezing cold waters of the North Sea at the break of dawn. Legend has it that those unlucky students who have stepped on a particular stone that has the initials 'PH' on it and is located in front of the university library, are cursed to fail their final exams! The only way to lift the curse is to take a dip in the icy North Sea during the first rays of the sun on the morning of 1st May. The ritual takes place on the beautiful 'Castle Sands' beach, named after the picturesque castle ruins that look down upon it. Along with the brave students ready to take the plunge, there are fire-eaters, bonfires, news crews, and plenty of policemen to keep the revelry in check.
In the wild
Maybe till now, Rwanda has not figured at the top of your preferred travel destinations list, but it remains a Planetwildlife favourite. Head there in the month of June to witness a unique baby gorilla naming ceremony, “KwitaIzina”. The ceremony is attended by hoards of locals, and tourists are made to feel welcome as well.
If you are looking at offbeat Africa, a visit to Ruaha National Park and Selous Game Reserve fin Tanzania will provide some excellent game viewing opportunities this month.
In Ecuador, see the softer side of Galapagos as giant tortoises start nesting and sealions begin to breed. It is also an ideal time to see huge humpback whales off the coast of Puerto Lopez.
Our suggestionsClassic Rwanda: Kigali to Kampala
Generally speaking
21st June marks the longest day of the year beckoning the summer solstice. Head to the Stonehenge, UK to see thousands of people gather to watch the sunrise in hope of witnessing any sign of mystical phenomena. It is also the season of music festivals in the UK with Glastonbury, Isle of Wight Festival and Rockness being just a few of the many not to be missed.
A theatrical rendition of the Inca festival of ‘Inti Raymi’ (Festival of sun) is held on 24th June each year in Peru attracting a large crowd of locals and tourists. The dry weather also makes it a good time to follow the Inca trail this month.
In the wild
South America is where you ought to be this month. Endangered green and hawksbill turtles nest on the beautiful Caribbean beaches of Tortuguero National Park, Costa Rica starting this month. The park is also home to manatees, crocodiles, tropical gar, jaguars, sloths and basilisks (the lizards, not the snake from the Harry Potter series) amongst many other species of wildlife.
Brazil’s Pantanal, the world’s largest wetland, offers incredible jaguar sighting chances this season. The Pantanal is also home to many other endangered species including the hyacinth macaw and the manedwolf.
Our suggestions
Generally speaking
If you couldn’t get enough of your music festival fix in the UK in June, head to Malaysia this month for the increasingly popular three-day Rainforest World Music Festival. Other than the usual concerts and food stalls, the festival also features art displays and hosts music workshops.
A little further East, the Gion Festival (Gion Matsuri) is also held in July in Kyoto, Japan. During this month-long celebration, nights come alive with food stalls, many girls dress in traditional kimonos, certain Japanese family houses open to public and the crowning glory comes in the form of a spectacular parade.
In the wild
Head to Kenya to be amongst the first to witness nature’s greatest show – The Great Migration. August – September is a good period to visit to catch the spectacle at its peak as millions of wildebeest, hundreds of thousands of gazelles and zebras make their way across the treacherous Mara river, followed closely by ravenous predators.
Birding enthusiasts will enjoy the dry weather in Brazil at this time, offering excellent water bird watching opportunities across the Pantanal and the Amazon.
Not in the mood for dry weather? Escape to the cooler Westmann Islands in Iceland to see unbearably cute baby puffins learn to take flight for the first time.
Our suggestions
Generally speaking
Edinburgh, UK comes alive this month in complete colourful glory in the form of the Fringe festival, undeniably the world’s largest arts festival. When initially established in 1947, the Fringe was Edinburgh International Festival’s smaller, alternative counterpart. Over the years, it’s gained enough popularity to take top spot. Comprising free and paid events ranging from stand-up acts to plays, and dance to street displays, the Edinburgh Fringe is definitely a must-do.
Elsewhere in Europe, celebrate the Tomatino festival in Spain at the end of August. The streets of most cities come alive with revelers throwing mushy tomatoes at one another, dancing to loud music and brave men running away from raged bulls.
In the wild
Consider a trip to Botswana this month to explore the wilderness of Chobe National Park and the Okavango delta. Explore a crocodile farm, go for a game drive, be amazed by the high population of elephants and stunned by the grace of Victoria Falls.
On the other side of the world, it’s dry season at Kakadu National Park in Australia. Temperatures are relatively high (usually around 30degree Celsius) resulting in monster crocodile sightings. Two species of crocodiles are found in this park, estuary crocodiles (also known as fresh water crocodiles) and saltwater crocodiles. Estuary crocodiles can reach an impressive length of around 3.5mts whereas saltwater crocs can be even more impressive at a massive 6-7mt length. The park is also home to a variety of other reptiles (including the frill necked lizard), frogs, kangaroos and a staggering 250+ species of birds.
Our suggestions
Generally speaking
India celebrates Ganesh Chaturthi (festival of Lord Ganesha) during the first/second week of September with incredible gusto. Celebrations are particularly lively in the state of Maharashtra with dance, music, colour and flowers. Big/small stalls (called ‘pandals’) are set up at every corner with ornate idols of Lord Ganesh and speakers playing music every evening for a period of 10 days. Idols are also installed in many homes and worshipped for these 10 days. On the 11th day (or sometimes earlier), the idols are paraded across the city, with a lot of fanfare, and brought to river/sea banks and submerged into the water.
It’s cheers all around this month in Germany with the celebration of Oktoberfest. This annual beer drinking festival usually starts mid-end September and lasts for three entertaining weeks in Munich. The city acts as host to almost seven million visitors each year during this period with an explosion of beer drinking tents. Along with the indulgent beverage, massive Brezn (pretzels) and savoury Würstl (sausages) are fan favourites.
In the wild
October heat starts taking over India and driving the big cats to the watering holes. Most national parks re-open this month, marking the beginning of tiger-spotting season. Head to Kanha, Bandhavgarh, Ranthambore, Corbett or Pench to try your luck at catching a glimpse of this elusive creature.
In Africa, lemurs are active and playful on the island of Madagascar. The rains are usually nowhere to be seen, making the dry season a good time to visit. Also experience the relatively new Hermanus Whale Festival held in the first week of October in South Africa. Hermanus is an ideal spot for whale watching and the festival gives visitors great opportunities to see the magnificant Southern Right whales, join in on the 'Welcome Whale Wave' and indulge in cultural and arts activities each night.
The Galapagos Islands are teeming with activity as usual. Giving the fascinating Galapagos turtles a rest, this is a particularly apt time to watch penguins, sealions and fur seals off the islands’ coasts.
Our suggestions
Generally speaking
India celebrates Diwali, the festival of lights, between October and November each year. Homes across cities and towns are beautifully lit up for the occasion, everyone dresses their best and there is a spirit of generosity (similar to Christmas) all around. It is, in essence, a celebration of the triumph of good over evil as it commemorates Lord Rama's victory over Ravana and his return home to Ayodhya along with Sita and Lakshman. Diwali is one of the most important festivals for Hindus marked by religious rituals, family gatherings and plenty of fireworks. As more and more parts of India awake to environmental concerns, the use of eco-friendly and noiseless fireworks is on the rise. Along with all the merriment at home; shops, hotels and restaurants deck up for the occasion and offer festive sales and discounts.
The state of Gujarat in India celebrates Navratri this month. This nine day long festival is a celebration of the nine forms of goddess Shakti (strength). People ordain traditional clothes and gather every night in large numbers to perform a special form of communal dance known as the ‘Garbha’, a spectacle worth watching.
The state of Rajasthan also competes for attention, hosting the Rajasthan International Folk Festival in the majestic city of Jaipur. Based in and around Mehrangarh Fort, the festival brings together over 250 performing artists from across Rajasthan and the world, to indulge in world music and culture.
In the United States, follow the crowd and head to Vermont to see the beautiful fall colours.
In Europe, a chilly London delights patrons with the London Restaurant Festival. Take a ride aboard the 'Gourmet Odyssey' or catch the stimulating 'Big Debate'. The discerning foodie is bound to be satisfied at the Fortnum & Mason Carnival playing host to a multitude of Michelin-starred chefs!
In the wild
The flora in Zambia flourishes this season presenting opportunities to be mesmerised by the various trees and flowers present here. Victoria Falls, the largest falls in the world, is a breath-taking sight and particularly lively this time of the year. Most wildlife reserves are open and the wildebeest numbers peak due to migration.
If you haven’t done it yet, don’t miss out on the tiger-spotting opportunities Central India offers. The national parks are open and the weather is generally pleasant as November marks the onset of winter.
Head to the bottom of the world to the Falkland Islands (classified under the Antarctic zone) to watch penguins breed this season. There are five different species of penguins which breed here: King, Rockhopper, Gentoo, Magallanic and Macaroni penguins, and the islands offer a chance to spot black-browed albatross.
Our suggestions
Generally speaking
India’s largest camel fair, the Pushkar festival is held in Rajasthan in November/December each year. Hundreds of thousands of tourists and locals gather at Pushkar to watch eventful camel races and insightful camel trading take place. There are also huge bonfires, music and dance that bring the otherwise placid desert alive.
Celebrate St Andrews Day in St Andrews, Scotland on 30th November. Tourist attractions offer free entry, performance stages are set-up on streets and locals and tourists dance the ceilidh with celebratory spirit in this beautiful university town.
On Thanksgiving Day, head to New York to witness the glorious spectacle that is the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. Giant balloons, colourful floats, festive dancers and celebratory music, the three-hour event offers all this and much more.
Mexico celebrates the Day of the Dead on 1st and 2nd November each year. The festival revolves around families coming together to remember and pray for their deceased loved ones. They decorate graves with flowers and presents, and celebrate the lives of those who are no longer with us.
In the wild
Antarctica beckons this month as it comes alive with frenzied activity. It’s an exciting time to watch penguins laying eggs in huge numbers on the island coasts. Furs, seals and sealions are also awake and buzzing with activity, ready to make your visit worth the while.
Northern India is flocked by migratory birds wanting to enjoy the cool, yet pleasant December climates. Keoladeo National Park in Rajasthan is particularly lively playing host to over 250 species of birds including the endangered Siberian Crane. Tiger-spotting national parks are still open and the winter climate makes for an agreeable safari trip.
Nearby, in southern Sri Lanka, there are chances of spotting the unimaginably gigantic Blue Whale. Nowhere else do these whales come so close to the land as they do near the coast of Sri Lanka.
Our suggestions
Generally speaking
It’s celebration time as December marks Christmas joy. Explore the quaint and jubilant Christmas markets of Europe featuring quintessential food stalls, festive music and spirited dancing. The Christmas markets of Germany are particularly noteworthy featuring Christmas cookies, gingerbread, hot mulled wine, and indulgent candied fruit.
Experience a classic New Year celebration by making your way to New York to watch the ball drop at Time Square and usher in a new calendar of adventure and fun.
For a slightly different New Year celebration, travel to Edinburgh, Scotland to witness Hogmanay in the form of the biggest street party in the UK. The party goes on into the wee hours of the morning as DJs and bands from around the world entertain crowds across seven different stages setup in the heart of the city. The stroke of midnight is marked by an awe-inspiring fireworks display that illuminates the beautiful castle standing strong above the city.
Premier Tours
Our Premier Tours offer unsurpassed luxury, hospitality, accommodation and an unmatched wildlife holiday experience allowing you to see wildlife while staying in the best available accommodation. Each tour combines the best available luxury travel options with personal guides, your own driver (and sometimes your own light aircraft!), and exclusive activities, to create an indulgent experience that is truly unforgettable.
Family Tours
We know from our own young families that travelling with young children can be a lot of fun! For a family, there's no better type of holiday than one that gets you close to animals in the wild. From safaris to dense jungles, our Family Tours have been created to bring you the very best wildlife holidays. Each tour combines a range of activities, great accommodation (usually with swimming pools), and we have ensured that travel times are kept to an absolute minimum. Our experts work hard to ensure that these holidays are safe and child-friendly. Each Family Tour can be customised to suit your specific needs.
Signature Tours
If you have ever sat in awe while watching extraordinary wildlife events on TV and wanted to witness those sights first-hand, then a Signature Tour gives you that opportunity. Focusing on a unique natural phenomenon, wildlife event or intriguing animal species, each Signature Tour offers an extraordinary, once-in-a-lifetime experience. Choose to witness the mass migration of wildebeest across the Serengeti or perhaps travel to see millions of Monarch butterflies as they traverse Mexico or join us on one of our scientific expeditions. Each trip has been signed off by a respected naturalist who is an expert in that field.
Portfolio Tours
We currently offer over 300 (and counting) Portfolio Tours spread across more than 30 different countries. These tailor-made tours ensure quality holidays with comfortable accommodation, and thrilling wildlife experiences, ideal for the discerning traveller. As with all Planetwildlife tailor-made trips, your arrival and departure transfers are included and you will enjoy the services of trained wildlife guides and enjoy private transport throughout. Selected meals and game-drives are also included.
Group Tours
Travel with a group of like-minded wildlife enthusiasts on a Group Tour. These tours have various group sizes and offer quality and comfort. From travelling on overland trucks across Africa to sailing on a masted schooner in the Galapagos, these are great trips with lots of camaraderie thrown in! (Single travellers welcome!)
Educational Tours
If your vacations are about more than just visiting a place, if understanding regions and issues that need attention gets you excited, then our ' Educational Tours ' are a perfect fit. Each tour has a unique focus that educates you about the issue at hand, gets you involved, and leaves you with the knowledge that you can make a difference. From learning about snake venom to doing community service, working on an elephant collaring project to assisting at a research station, these tours involve you in engaging activities that create social awareness. Basic accommodation, local & well-cooked meals, and efficient transportation will be ensured throughout your journey, leaving you worry-free and completely engrossed in the task at hand.
