Sep

With about one fourth of the land covered by national parks and reserves and approximately 20% of Africa’s wildlife in attendance here, Tanzania is undoubtedly one of the most sought after wildlife destinations in the world. You'll witness thousands of wildebeests, zebras, gazelles, elands and impalas as they follow their migration route across the vast plains of the Serengeti, on a Tanzania safari. If you’re looking for a physical challenge, brave the terrain to trek up Mount Kilimanjaro - the tallest freestanding mountain in the world. Walk along the white sandy beaches of “Spice Island” Zanzibar or roam through the historic city of Dar es Salaam -Tanzania has all this and more on offer.

Popular Things To Do in Tanzania include:

• Trip to a Masai Village
• Explore Ngorongoro – the largest unbroken and unflooded volcanic caldera in the world
• Visit Olduvai Gorge
• See the Great Rift ValleyHome to about 364 species of mammals and 1108 birds species

Best time to travel

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Wildlife Highlights

  • Home to about 364 species of mammals and 1108 birds species
  • Serengeti – the best place to spot lions, cheetahs and leopards
  • Herds of large herbivores like zebras, elephants, wildebeests, buffaloes, hippos, giraffes, antelopes
  • Spot the endangered black rhino, best sighted at Ngorongoro Crater area
  • Critically endangered Uluguru Bushshrik only found in Uluguru Mountains of eastern Tanzania
  • Hawksbill, green, olive, Ridley and leatherback turtles
  • Red colobus monkeys in Jozani Forest of Zanzibar

Geographically situated at the heart of Africa, Uganda is where the East African savannah meets the West African Jungle. It is where 30 different indigenous languages are spoken by ancient tribes in perfect harmony, and English is the common language among modern urbanites. It is where rock paintings dating back several centurys in history, exist with a rich mosaic of music, art and handicrafts.

Uganda has a varied landscape ranging from plains and savannahs to the high mountains. The diversity in Uganda's geography is reflected in its wildlife. It harbours the African Big Five as well as its most recognisable and endangered mammal, the Mountain Gorilla. It is home to more than half the world’s population of mountain gorillas along with a sizeable population of chimpanzees.

It ranks high as a bird watching destination playing host to over 1,000 species of birds. Lake Victoria, the second largest lake in the world and the origin of River Nile is situated in Uganda.

Best time to travel

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Wildlife Highlights

  • More than 350 Mountain Gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga National Park
  • Over 4500 chimpanzees in Ugandan forests
  • Ultimate birding destination – over 1,000 bird species
  • Tree climbing lions in Ishasha
  • 330 species of mammals, 140 butterfly species

The Republic of Zambia is a land-locked country in Southern Africa. The terrain here mostly comprises high plateaus, gushing rivers and beautiful hills and mountains. It is also graced by the presence of Victoria Falls, the largest waterfall in the world!

Travel to Zambia is not easy but the destination is more than worth its reward. It is Africa, uncut. Most of the country is still not majorly affected by tourism, so if you want to get away from the crowds on an offbeat holiday, this is the place to go. Victoria Falls, Zambia’s most popular attraction is not only famous for its breath-taking beauty but also for the nearby forests where you can find diverse flora and fauna. South Luangwa National Park is the most famous Park of the country, known for its diverse fauna and wide lodging options. See elephants, leopards, impalas and pukus make their way nonchalantly across the marshes, woodlands and plains of the Park. Lower Zambezi National Park is also a popular place of interest dotted with camps and lodges. Exploration here is mainly done by boats and large elephant herds can be seen near the river. If you’re in the mood for some fishing or relaxation on a boat, head to Lake Kariba.

The capital city of Lusaka is a contrast of traditional and modern architecture. It’s not much of a tourist hub, more like a convenient transit spot. There are some lively markets to be explored and nightlife can be enjoyed over the weekends. 

Safety Note: Refrain from travelling to the border areas with the Democratic Republic of Congo, Angola and Mozambique as there is a high risk of encountering live landmines here. Crime is a concern in Lusaka. Tourists are advised to exercise necessary caution, consult a travel expert, and check safety warnings issued by their respective countries before planning their trip.

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Wildlife Highlights

  • Elephants at Lower Zambezi National Park
  • Leopards, impalas, pukus and elephants at South Luangwa National Park
  • Unique flora and fauna around Victoria Falls
  • Migratory birds like European storks and kestrals across Zambezi River

Madagascar is an island off the coast of Africa famed as the land of Lemurs. Madagascar's geography features rainforests, lakes, thermal springs, tea plantations, canyons and spectacular desert landscapes marked by mammoth baobab trees.

Home to endangered lemurs, vibrant frogs and reptiles, massive whales and beautiful birds, Madagascar is at times called the ‘Eighth Continent’ owing to its rich biodiversity.

The island’s history dates back to two thousand years ago when Indonesian/African people settled in from the mainland and created a unique Malagasy culture over the years. A visit to the historic cities of Antananarivo, Antsirabe and Ambalavao will give visitors an opportunity to indulge in this unique culture. Other popular things to do on a Madagascar tour include trekking through forests and indulging in some rest & relaxation at the beach resort of Toliara.

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Wildlife Highlights

  • 200,000 known wildlife species of which about 150,000 are endemic
  • Madagascar is home to the unique and endemic Lemurs
  • It is home to the highest bio-diversity on earth. More than 99 species of Lemurs, 280 species of birds, 260 species of birds and over a 100 species of insects survive in this unique landscape
  • Interesting flora includes the huge Baobab tree and over 10,000 plant species of which 90% are endemic

Brazil is the largest country in South America; it borders all the other South American countries except for Ecuador and Chile. Brazil boasts of the greatest wilderness patch on earth - the Amazon rainforest. Wading through the water of the Amazon, discovering mysterious wildlife and spotting wilderness that is not seen anywhere are just some of the top things to do in Brazil.

Playing host to howler monkeys, caimans, pink and grey river dolphins and three toed sloths, among other exotic wildlife, Brazil is certainly a nature lover’s paradise. Birding enthusiasts will be delighted with the chance of spotting exotic birds such as toucans, hyacinth macaws, jabiru storks and great black hawks in the Pantanal region. Besides sporting spectacular wildlife, Brazil delightfully pleases visitors with lavish beaches of Bahia, the majestic Iguassu Falls, and the boisterous Rio Carnival, leaving them eager to return!

Best time to travel

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Wildlife Highlights

  • More than 55,000 known species of plants, over 3000 freshwater fish species, over 520 mammal species, 1622 avian species and about 468 reptile species
  • Three ecosystems- Amazon rainforest, Cerrado and Atlantic Forest
  • Pantanal, Amazon, Atlantic, Cerrado and Caatinga eco-region
  • Black caiman, jaguar, cougar, pink dolphins and anaconda in Amazon rainforest
  • World Biosphere Reserve, Atlantic Forest, hosts critically endangered species of marmosets, lion tamarins and woolly spider monkeys
  • Cerrado, the richest savannah on earth with the giant armadillo, nine-banded armadillo, giant anteater, pampas deer, Brazillian tapir and amazing avian species like toco toucan and hyacinth macaw
  • Gold tegu, green iguana and yacara caiman reside in the Pantanal

Chile is a country of extraordinary contrasts and extreme beauty, with attractions ranging from the ancient forests of the Lake District to the volcanic peaks of the Andes. There are number of good parks here, and plenty of opportunities for travellers with a streak of adventure for a great holiday experience. Chile's travel highlight is Torres del Paine National Park, which is considered as the finest nature travel destination in all of South America.

The north of Chile has a desert like landscape, which attracts visitors for its natural beauty and wildlife, protected by a series of national parks. Lauca National Park is famous for its vicuñas, condors, vizcachas, guanacos, flamingos and herds of llamas and alpacas, which are kept by the Aymara shepherds. Southern Chile is one of the most attractive destinations for tourists because of its numerous lakes and lagoons, white-water rivers, fertile valleys and a chain of national parks crowned by the peaks of active volcanoes. Puerto Montt is the starting point for the Southern Road, which leads to Patagonia and the island of Chiloé. Patagonia, land of legends, ideal place for tourists who wish to have an unforgettable experience in an untouched environment. Tourists are rewarded with splendid views of pristine valleys, huge lakes, towering mountains, silent glaciers, evergreen forests and treeless plains under the clear sky of the southernmost tip of the world. Torres del Paine National Park is an absolute must and should top your list of things to do in Chile. Three islands in the Pacific Ocean are world renowned for their special features: Easter Island, for its gigantic moai sculptures, Robinson Crusoe Island, named after the protagonist of the popular novel about the man who was shipwrecked there, and Chiloé Island, a charming enclave in the South Pacific, known for its fascinating myths and wild nature.

Santiago, Chile's capital city, is the centre of the political, economic and cultural life. It is situated in the country's central valley region. Unique characteristics are the breathtaking valleys, where the famous Chilean wines originate, and the Mediterranean climate. Santiago is situated between the high peaks with winter sports centres and a coastline.

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Wildlife Highlights

  • Torres del Paine National Park features mountains, a glacier, a lake, and river-rich areas. Guanacos, foxes, and pumas are found in the Park. It is also home to the endangered Chilean huemul. Birding enthusiasts can spot the Andean condor, black-chested buzzard-eagle, Rufous-tailed hawk, chimango caracara, Magellanic horned owl, and Austral pygmy-owl.
  • Tierra del Fuego National Park, which is the southernmost protected area in Argentina, and is the only National Park in the country with a maritime coast. The forest provides beautiful views over the Beagle Cannel and has a great variety of flora and fauna. The Park’s dramatic scenery comprises waterfalls, forests, mountains, and glaciers. Spot guanacos, Andean foxes, North American beavers, and muskrats. Almost 90 species of birds can be seen here including Kelp geese, Torrent ducks, Austral parakeets, Andean condors, blackish oystercatchers, and Magellanic oystercatchers.
  • Visit Cape Horn National Park and walk through a Magellanic forest of lengas, coihues, canelos, ferns, and other native vegetation.
  • Visit Los Flamencos National Reserve and Chaxa Lagoon and see flocks of flamingos.
  • Visit altiplanic lagoons of Miscanti and Miñique (4,000m). The blue waters in these lagoons flow from the top of volcanoes of the same names. The altiplanic plant ‘coirón’ that surrounds Miñique, is used for handicrafts and roofs, while Miscanti is a nesting place for ‘taguas,’ a small bird which is in brownish black color.
  • Travel to Cejar Lagoon. The Lagoon is filled with serene turquoise waters and surrounded by white shores of crystallized salt. Look out for flamingos and Andean coots that frequent this area.

The Arctic region comprises a massive, ice-covered ocean, surrounded by treeless permafrost. The Arctic Ocean and parts of Canada, Russia, Greenland, the United States, Norway, Sweden, Finland, and Iceland make up the entire Arctic region. It can be identified as the region north of the Arctic circle.

The winters in this region are long and cold whereas the summers are short and cool. Some parts of the Arctic are permanently covered in ice all read round while there are few regions where the ice melts during the summer and then re-forms as winter approaches. The stunning Aurora Borealis i.e. the northern lights can be seen here. The Arctic region is currently considered to be significantly affected by global warming.

There are many indigenous communities that live on the fringe of the Arctic circle. They have been estimated to inhabit this land since circa 2500 BC. It is important to remember that each indigenous community is known by a distinct name and it might be offensive to refer to them as ‘eskimos’.

 

Dwarf shrubs, graminoids, herbs, lichens and mosses, are the only forms of vegetation seen in this region. The famed polar bear can be spotted in the Arctic region along with the Arctic fox and wolf. Many seabirds find themselves at home here and many others migrate to here as well. Albatrosses, bald eagles, Pregrine falcons and snowy owls are just some of the many birds visible here. Sea mammals such as orcas, belugas, sea otters, seals and walruses can also be spotted on an Arctic voyage.

There is spectacular geography, culture and wildlife to be explored across the Arctic region but it is important to do so carefully without disturbing this delicate, unique ecosystem.

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Wildlife Highlights

  • Polar bears at Bellsund
  • Atlantic puffins, geese, skuas, Svalbard reindeers, Arctic foxes and Belugas in Isfjord, Longyearbyen and Barentsburg
  • Kittiwakes,Brünnich’s guillemots, Arctic foxes and bearded seals around 14 of July Glacier
  • Bearded seals, Polar bears, minke whales and belugas at Liefdefjord
  • Reindeer, pink-footed geese, breeding ivory gulls, walruses, bowhead whales, minke whales, bearded seals and ringed seals around Hinlopen Strait
  • Polar bears, ivory gulls and Ross gulls around Nordaustlandet

South Africa, the southern tip of Africa, is steeped in natural beauty, and home to some of the most awe inspiring African wildlife. From the Big Cats to the Big Five animals and the birding Big Six, South Africa has them all. On a South Africa holiday, you can explore the picturesque Garden Route, the Cango Caves and mountains of the Drakensberg range where the world's second-highest waterfall resides - the Tugela Falls. South Africa's geography has lush greenery, miles of white beaches along the Indian Ocean on the east and the Atlantic on the west and even spans of semi-desert areas. Visit South Africa at any time of the year and you will find it inviting and beautiful. A confluence of many cultures, the country is rightfully called the “rainbow nation”.

Apart from wildlife safaris, South Africa offers excellent adventure sports throughout the year. Indulge in a whole gamut of activities like hiking, bungee jumping, skiing and snowboarding. Besides this, there are several choices in water sports like ocean safaris and surfing or canoeing and rafting trips on a South Africa tour.

Other popular Things To Do in South Africa include:

• Seeing the largest estuary systems in Africa at Greater St Lucia Wetland Park
• Watching wild flowers bloom in Namaqualand
• Touring vineyards in Stellenbosch

Best time to travel

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Wildlife Highlights

  • 299 species of mammals
  • The Big Five: elephant, lion, rhino, leopard and buffalo
  • Big Cats ranging from lion to the smaller leopard
  • White rhinos in Kruger National Park and Hluhluwe Umfolozi Park
  • Large populations of blue wildebeest, kudus and impalas
  • Around 858 bird species of which 50 are endemic or near endemic to the country
  • Endangered marine animals like Sei whale, blue whale and fin whale

The Co-operative Republic of Guyana lies in northern South America between Suriname, Venezuela and the North Atlantic Ocean. The third-smallest nation in South America, Guyana has a history of Dutch and British invasion that has influenced its unique culture. The county’s terrain mostly comprises Savannah, highlands and plains, punctuated by flowing rivers.

Guyana is a wildlife enthusiast’s paradise as it has one of the highest levels of biodiversity in the world! Most of the country is still covered in wilderness with high levels of endemism. You can head to the southern savannah to look for giant river otters, giant anteaters and black caiman. The mighty Kaieteur Falls makes for a stunning sight and also provides opportunities to spot the Guyanian cock-of-the-rock bird and the tiny golden frog that reside in the area nearby. Orinduik Falls is similarly beautiful, located near the Pakaraima Mountains that host a variety of bird species. Iwokrama forest has a sizeable population of jaguars that can be easily spotted when accompanied by an expert. There are also many trekking opportunities in Guyana including the popular Turtle Mountain trail.

The capital city of Georgetown seems hauntingly beautiful with reminiscent architecture of a bygone era. The locals are cheerful, friendly and most are well versed with English.

Safety Note: Crime is a major problem in certain parts of Guyana. Tourists are advised to exercise necessary caution and consult a travel expert while planning their trip.

Best time to travel

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Wildlife Highlights

  • Giant river otters, tapir, tayra and spider monkeys near the Burro Burro River
  • Guyanian cock-of-the-rock bird and golden frog near Kaieteur Falls
  • High potential of jaguar spotting at Iwokrama forest
  • Over 1600 species of birds including nectar feeders, frugivores, ant birds, sungrebe, sunbittern, green ibis, trogons, macaws, crimson topaz and variety of hummingbirds

Call it ‘Shangri La’ or the ‘Land of the Dragon,’ Bhutan is one of the most well preserved parts of the Himalayas. The only Hindu Kingdom in the world, Bhutan retains all the charm of yesteryear and has a remarkable cultural heritage.

The country is a true paradise for birdwatchers with around 770 species seen here along with several endangered animals. Adventure seekers can enjoy nature walks, treks, hikes, river rafting and cycling in Bhutan. The country has vowed to maintain nearly sixty percent of its land under forest cover at all times and has received international acclaim for its conservation works and its efforts towards controlled tourism.

Bhutan is worth a visit not just for its spiritual legacy, rich traditions, spectacular Himalayas, lush forests, or beautiful floral blooms but also for its warm and generous people whose hospitality is bound to win your hearts.

Some places of interest around the country include:

• Tang Mebar Tsho
• Dochula pass
• Punakha Dzong
• Alpine forests of Barshong

Best time to travel

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Wildlife Highlights

  • 770 species of birds and 5,400 species of plants
  • Takin – the national animal of Bhutan
  • Bengal tiger, greater one-horned rhinoceros, golden langur, clouded leopard, hispid hare and the sloth bear in Southern Bhutan
  • Musk deer of Soe Thangthangkha
  • Himalayan Marmots of Jangothang

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