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Transcript of Go&See - Wildlife Travel Special
the Digital travel magazine
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WilDlife travel Special
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Including: • Tasmania• Rwanda • Uganda• India• Botswana
• MadagascarPlus more...
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the Digital travel magazine
DISCOVER OUR
hiDDen planet
A Q U A L I T Y O P T I C A L E X P E R I E N C E
Kowa Optimed Europe Ltd, Sandhurst House, 297 Yorktown Road, Sandhurst, Berkshire, GU47 0QA | Tel: +44(0)1276 937 021 | www.kowaproducts.com
Don’t just see the Purple Sandpiper
Achieve extreme, super-telephoto photography of the highest quality when you digiscope with Kowa spotting scopes. Combine your DSLR, compact camera or even iPhone with our easy to use digiscoping adapters and our pure fluorite crystal TSN-880 series scopes to produce simply exceptional images.
The telephoto power of Kowa .
Capture the moment in breathtaking detail.
A Q U A L I T Y O P T I C A L E X P E R I E N C E
Kowa Optimed Europe Ltd, Sandhurst House, 297 Yorktown Road, Sandhurst, Berkshire, GU47 0QA | Tel: +44(0)1276 937 021 | www.kowaproducts.com
Don’t just see the Purple Sandpiper
Achieve extreme, super-telephoto photography of the highest quality when you digiscope with Kowa spotting scopes. Combine your DSLR, compact camera or even iPhone with our easy to use digiscoping adapters and our pure fluorite crystal TSN-880 series scopes to produce simply exceptional images.
The telephoto power of Kowa .
Capture the moment in breathtaking detail.
Welcomei n our experience, ‘bucket lists’ can evoke
feelings of discontent – move aside cliché! In publishing a roundup of our favourite wildlife travel available this year, we are
aiming to inspire you to take the next step – the BIG plan! From epic nine day odyssey adventures in Tasmania through land inhabited only by wildlife, found nowhere else on Earth (page 8), to unique wildlife conservation safari encounters with the Ethiopian Wolf (page 24). Wildlife holidays are normally reserved for the men in safari hats and predominantly wearing beige with far too many shirt pockets, but there are so many thrilling opportunities out there – we kind of set ourselves a missions
statement to dispel those myths – forget the beige – in our experience your days are packed with adventure, discovery and awesomeness, and by night you are surrounded by isolate luxury in amazing luxurious camps. Unlike hotels (nothing wrong with them) but the camps all add to the experience, helping create a real sense of rapport and community with like minded travellers – maybe it’s the British in us, but on these kind of trips you’re all in it together. So, let us know your travel plans, you can get in touch via the website goandseemagazine.com and twitter @goandseemag. In the meantime let us show you some of our picks for 2014/15...
Send us your pictures and travelling tales
@GoandSeeMag
goandseemagazine.com
abrandnewyou.co.uk
MAGAZINE
Produced by Immediate Media Co
Immediate Media Co also produces a range of other titles including:
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THE DIGITAL TRAVEL MAGAZINE
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WILDLIFE TRAVEL SPECIAL
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Including: • Tasmania• Rwanda • Uganda• India• Botswana
• MadagascarPlus more...
FocalPoint
In no other part of australia, and in fact few places on earth, will you find such
a conspicuous and intact array of native animals as is found in tasmania. the island has escaped the threats posed by introduced species and the widespread loss or degradation of habitats, as has been the case on mainland australia. With almost half of tasmania now protected by national parks, reserves and World heritage Wilderness, australia’s beautiful and only island state provides secure habitats for many unique species
and with a little local knowledge, almost all, including the 12 endemic species of bird, can be seen in the wild with relative ease. it goes without saying that walking is by far the best way to maximise the chances of seeing as many as possible at remarkably close range, and with the added bonus of knowledgeable, eagle-eyed guides, the time and money invested in one of the excellent multi-day walks, or even a few hours’ leisurely guided stroll around the mount field national Park, will reveal an extraordinary wealth of wildlife.
taSmania
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the arresting, wild beauty of tasmania’s Bay of fires first attracted attention in the late 1990s when the brilliant sydney architect ken Latona who, more than a decade earlier had created the cradle huts walk along tasmania’s wild glacial overland track through the cradle mountain-Lake st clair national Park, built the Bay of fires Lodge. Perched high above the pounding surf and looking across mile upon mile of empty white sand beaches and the bird and wildlife filled mount William national Park, the minimalist eco-lodge was designed to be at one with the elements while providing walkers with the highest level of comfort. it was to be a full decade before Lonely Planet finally declared the Bay of fires to be ‘the hottest place on the planet’ – largely because with precious little accommodation in the region, the loveliness of the Bay of fires would only be evident to intrepid campers and a couple of hundred lucky travellers a year who found themselves on the four day, three night Bay of fires Walk. this was not the first multi-day trek to marry the concepts of sustainable tourism with
luxury and fairly serious bushwalking, but it did so with such a stroke of genius and in such a uniquely tasmanian way that it would finally put tasmania’s outstanding walking on the world map. in fact, Latona and his former business partner Joan masterman had already established the freycinet experience, which is probably the only real way to explore the iconic national park on tasmania’s east coast. over 21 years on, Joan’s walk through otherwise inaccessible parts of the Peninsula and the art and antique filled ‘invisible Lodge’ tucked into bush of friendly Beaches remains neck and neck with the Bay of fires Lodge Walk and relative newcomer, the maria island Walk, which together can justly claim to be three of tasmania’s most spiritual of experiences. standing on the sand dunes that line the Bay of fires, one cannot help but draw breath in awe at what appears to be snowfields, blindingly white in the sunlight, stretching down to the crashing waves, marked only by tracks of abundant mammals and birds, and lined by orange granite rocks.
Bay Of fIRES
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the echidna or ‘spiny anteater’ and the platypus are the only two monotremes on earth, both found commonly in tasmania where both are larger than their australian mainland relatives. the echidna’s cream spines are modified hairs and the fur, ranging from rare white to black, is also thicker than the mainlanders’. Being active during the day, the echidna can often be seen slowly wandering along roadsides in its characteristic rolling gait. it is shy, moving slowly and carefully, but can be approached with care. the tasmanian platypus is relatively huge, weighing up to 3 kg. it is widely spread across tassie, common in the lakes of the central highlands at up to 1000 m above sea level, and rivers and streams throughout the island. With a good wildlife guide visitors can be almost sure of a sighting. Despite this many tasmanians have never seen a platypus, and a sighting will make a lasting impression.
echiDna anD PlaTyPUS
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the Wombat is widespread in tasmania. two species are found – Vombatus ursinus tasmaniensis, and Vombatus ursinus ursinus, the latter now only on flinders island. Wombats often show no fear in tassie, making them easy to study at close range – sometimes almost touching distance. habitat ranges from sea level to alpine. During cool weather and in certain places wombats can be easily seen grazing and basking in the sun in the day. in the narawntapu national Park, Dave Watts,
author of ‘mammals of tasmania’ once famously counted 93 from standing! Walkers should look out for their distinctive cube-shaped, ‘non-roll’ dung. Perched on fallen trees, rocks and other elevated surfaces to mark its territory, it is an immediate giveaway. the female bears only one baby which remains in the pouch for 6 months, after which it stays with mum until 18 months old. the front feet of wombats are surprisingly dextrous – they can pick up vegetation with one foot and ‘hand’ it to the mouth!
WOMBaTS
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Tasm
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the tasmanian Devil cannot be mistaken for any other marsupial, or for that matter any other mammal on earth. it was so-named by the early settlers on account of its spine-chilling screeches and black colour with red-hued ears although the size of a small dog, it can sound and look incredibly fierce but is actually one of the world’s most misrepresented creatures. Devils were made extinct from mainland australia 400 years ago largely as a result of the dingo, which like the fox has never entered tasmania. after a dark period of persecution, the devil was protected in 1941, and its population
gradually increased. today the Devil is a tasmanian icon. tragically since the 1996 identification of the fatal Devil facial tumour Disease numbers have dropped by up to 90% and it was declared endangered in 2008. the Devil is famed for its powerful jaws and teeth, which enable it to completely devour its prey -- bones, fur and all, and for their r rowdy communal feeding at carcasses. there is only one place in tasmania where devils are now likely to be seen in the wild, although there are many sanctuaries, and a wild population is now breeding on maria island giving renewed hope for the survival of this remarkable species.
taSmanian Devil
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the forester (or eastern Grey) kangaroo is the largest marsupial in tasmania and the second largest in the world, weighing in at up to 60kg and standing 2m tall when on tip toe. they differ from other species by having hair between their nostrils and upper lip. they are wholly protected in australia’s island state where they are restricted to the north east, particularly the mt William national Park, and small areas in northern tasmania. Walkers on the multi-day guided treks through the Bay of fires, and around maria island and the freycinet Peninsula where they were introduced, should enjoy many sightings, as will those who venture independently or with a wildlife guide to the ‘serengeti of tasmania’, the narawntapau national Park. they can also be found living a happy, care-free and indulgent life at good wildlife sanctuaries such as Bonorong Wildlife sanctuary near hobart.
the foreSter Kangaroo
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Strange things are afoot in Tasmania. Boots
on the Maria Island Walk, placed outside
tents for some nocturnal airing, are
vanishing in the night. How so, on an uninhabited
national park island?
The guilt, of course, lies squarely with the
island’s new population of wild Tasmanian devils,
released in November 2012 (as seen in the recent
six part TV series Aussie Animal Island) in a bid
to save the critically endangered carnivorous
marsupial from a contagious cancer that has
decimated the mainland species. And so successful
has it been that all the females have successfully
bred and this island ark, which for a century has
been a haven for creatures such as the Cape Barren
Goose, the Forester Kangaroo and the Forty-spotted
Pardalote, is now home to not only all Tasmania’s 12
endemic birds but most of its marsupial species too.
And by Jove, they’re getting cheeky, to the point that
guides have to add spare boots to their list of camp
provisions.
WilDlife iSlanDFortunately, boot-pinching devils and Forester
Kangaroos that consider they have right of way
over walkers are the only hazards you will face on
one of Tasmania’s guided walks, despite traversing
through one of the world’s last great frontiers.
Australia’s only island state (in fact an
archipelago of 334 islands) is the size of Ireland
with less than a tenth of the population and some of
the most abundant wildlife on earth. When this last
major landmass before Antarctica broke away from
the mainland some 10,000 years ago it became an
instant life-raft for all its flora and fauna. Not only
do marsupials and both species of monotreme (egg
laying mammals) the echidna and the platypus
co-exist in abundance but for the most part they are
completely habituated, utterly unafraid of man. This
is a wildlife spotters’ Nirvana.
Tassie, as it is better known, is an ancient land,
an extraordinarily diverse melting pot, existing
largely as the world did millions of years ago. The
world’s tallest flowering trees tower at over 100
metres over millennia-old precious wildlife-filled
alpine plateaux and button grass plains whose
tannins stain the pure water streams the colour of
tea. Some 2,800 miles of coastline and the highest
cliffs in the Southern Hemisphere, hug a landscape
of such ravishing natural beauty that one gasps in
astonishment at every step.
While most visitors opt to self-drive, four wheels
achieve little more than to cover the ground (of
which there is vastly more than you may imagine) at
the fastest possible speed, which varies considerably
from one photo-stop-inducing mile to the next.
Travelling by car leaves the island’s greatest
treasures – secret lakes, waterfalls tumbling from
jagged peaks, perfectly formed coves and fish-filled
streams and of course its extraordinary wildlife
behind, apart from at night when the roads are
liberally carpeted with marsupials. Driving from
dusk to dawn is an absolute no-no.
TaSManIan ODySSEytaSmania – WalKing With WilDlife
“Tassie is an ancient land, an extraordinarily diverse melting pot, existing largely as the world did millions of years ago...”
StepS to heaven
7 Tasmania’s walks range from a 10 minute stroll to an epic nine day odyssey through land inhabited by wildlife found nowhere else on Earth. Here are the very best of Tassie’s walking trails...
For more information about Tasmania and its wildlife visit: www.tasmanianodyssey.com
ThE fREyCInET experience The best way to explore the Freycinet Peninsula is a four day walk covering the length of the peninsula. Wedge-tailed eagles, parrots and pied oyster catchers join wombats, wallabies, echidnas and pademelons. Walk out each day from your base, and return to a sumptuous dinner by a log fire.
the maria iSlanD WalKThis four-day walk explores the breath taking landscape of the east coast island National Park. Walk among the wildlife with light packs on gentle tracks, staying at two forest camps then a night in a restored homestead.
Bay Of fIRES lODGE WalKExplore the breathtaking coastline known as the Bay of Fires, named by early sea-farers who saw the first settlers’ fires burning on the shore. The Mt William National Park teems with marsupials including the forester kangaroo, and the echidna is common. It is a haven for sea birds.
craDle MOUnTaIn hUTSThis six-day, 40-mile guided walk follows the iconic Overland Track through Tasmania’s glacial and
mountainous World Heritage area from Cradle Mountain to Lake St Clair. The Cradle Huts guided walk enables those with moderate to good fitness to walk through land only usually accessible to the hardiest thanks to excellent accommodation.
ThE BRUny ISlanD long WeeKenDThe world’s only white wallabies show total disregard for humans and all 12 endemic birds can be spotted. Camps are of the highest standard. Travel there via catamaran and return by seaplane. Ideal for those seeking wildlife, wilderness and wine and a yen to dust off the walking boots.
the tarKine rainforeSt tracKAustralia’s only rainforest walk runs through a remote part of the North West that has only been recognised in recent years. This is the only haven for healthy Tasmanian devils, and habitat for the giant burrowing crayfish. Step out of your comfort zone, and into the largest
tract of pristine temperate rainforest in the Southern Hemisphere. Small groups travel through remote ancient forests, for an amazing experience.
ThE SOUTh coaSt tracKArguably the most challenging walk of all – at seven to ten days. The South West National Park is nature at its most raw; a place of wild mountain and coastal landscapes. Expect wombats and quolls, seals on the beaches and the greatest prize of them all – the critically endangered Orange-bellied Parrot which chooses Melaleuca as its only breeding place.
WalKer’S paraDiSeWalking in Tasmania is a joy. Award-winning eco
lodges are cantilevered from vivid orange lichen-
stained granite cliffs. Luxury tents are secreted in
the sun-dappled bush tucked behind endless wild
beaches pounded by turquoise seas, the playground
for mega pods of dolphin, the migratory passage for
humpback and southern right whales. You wake to
the call of the black currawong and the kookaburra.
You dine by candle light in decadent camps grazed
by wombats and wallabies, and breakfast in the
morning sun, protected by parrot-filled forest
canopies. A warm shower or bath is your reward
for a day’s hike followed by a dinner of Tasmania’s
acclaimed natural produce, no matter how remote,
washed down with some of the crispest, smoothest
wines in the New World, made from grapes that
have ripened leisurely in the long, balmy Tasmanian
autumn. Sleep comes easily under huge starry
skies, in your cosy tent or in a historic homestead.
A popular misconception is that walking in
Tassie is only for the young and super-fit. It can dish
up some of the most challenging treks in the world
– but in recent years the appeal of walking has also
borne a new style of holiday that embraces all ages
and generations, and allows for almost every level of
fitness. With so many rare animals and birds to spot
at close range, this is one walker’s paradise where
speed achieves nothing.
There are a huge range of short walks for those
who are less keen or are unable to embark on a
longer journey by foot. Guides who have spent their
lives exploring Tasmania’s tracks and national parks
will take visitors walking for a few hours up to a
few days. Or you can join a small group walking
tour with comfortable transport, and enjoy all the
highlights by day and a charming B&B by night.
a UnIqUE VIEWFor those who want to see the world from a
different perspective, Tasmania has some of the
finest multi-day walks in the southern hemisphere,
from two to 10 nights in length. Each has its own
roll call of birds and animals to spot and identify
– although invariably it seems that they are more
interested in a close up view of you.
Walking in groups of just eight to ten, and with
always a minimum of two guides, the slowest
walker has no pressure to keep up with the fittest,
and there is plenty of opportunity for the faster
paced walkers to stretch themselves. When not
engaging with an inquisitive wallaby or wombat,
you can climb a small mountain, catch a wave or
find an inviting river or lake for a cooling-off dip.
Walking in Tasmania often feels less taxing than
choosing which wine to have with your sautéed
scallops. The process of putting one foot in front of
the other will lead you through magnificent scenery
to extraordinary natural highs.
Follow in the footsteps of the dinosaurs, delve
deep into 60 million-year-old rainforests, ramble
along stunning sea cliffs and down to snow white
deserted beaches, inaccessible other than by foot or
boat. You won’t regret a single step of the journey.
Walk with wildlife once in Tassie and you will
almost certainly return to walk again.
Tasmania’s walks can bring with them life
changing experiences. (Follow the rainforest walk,
Tarkine Trails, and you can help monitor the only
healthy devils on Tasmania’s mainland.) What is
guaranteed is that you will see and learn things that
will change your view of the world forever, and it
is highly likely that you will leave Tasmania having
made friends for life.
Walking is perhaps the world’s first social
network. Best of all, in Tasmania, you are far more
likely to come face to face with Tasmania’s weird
and wonderful wildlife than another human being,
apart from your fellow walkers.
“...with so many rare animals and birds to spot at close range, this is a walker’s paradise where speed achieves nothing...”
great Short WalKS7 Short on time or don’t fancy a strenuous route? Then here are the best routes on the island for a quick walking hit.
RUSSEll fallS anD the tall treeS Walk, MOUnT fIElD national parK Just an hour from Hobart, Mount Field gives a glimpse into Tasmania’s stunning rainforest wilderness. The 30 minute Tall Trees circuit meanders through a spectacular forest of the giant swamp gums, the highest flowering trees on earth, the largest of which were growing when Abel Tasman first sighted Tasmania in 1642. Towards the falls, the track is framed by impossibly picturesque tall tree ferns. Platypuses and echidnas are common by day, and by night time glow worms can be seen among the vegetation.
WInEGlaSS Bay lOOkOUTAn easy if steep 40 minute puff brings you to the Wineglass Bay Lookout on the Freycinet Peninsula. Descend to the talcum powder white sand of this stunning bay. Return by the same route or, if energetic, continue your hike around the Hazards Mountains for a three and a half hour highly rewarding circular walk. Expect to meet wallabies, echidna, pademelon or even the occasional forester kangaroo on the way.
CRaTER lakE, CRaDlE MOUnTaIn A 2 hour circuit that takes you away from the more
popular Dove Lake circuit and up towards the summit of the iconic mountain via the picture-perfect Crater Lake. At dusk, remain on the boardwalk at Ronnie Creek (which is in fact the start of the Overland Track) and watch the button grass hummocks turn into countless wombats in the gloaming.
the taSman PEnInSUlaWalk from one hour return at Waterfall Bay to five hours around the Capes and experience 300m cliffs plummeting into the sea and the swirling ocean. Cape Raoul and Cape Hauy are two of the Three Capes that one day will make up another great overland walks – get a taster just 90 minutes from Hobart.
lEVEn CanyOn, north WeStLeven Canyon is one of the most powerful and yet accessible wilderness walking spots in Tasmania, with brightly coloured fungi and abudant native wildlife. Walks range from a 45 minute circuit. Stay at Mountain Valley Retreats and you will probably see devils on your porch and platypus in the stream.
naRaWnTaPU national parKTake the Springlawn Walk from the visitor centre in this national park dubbed ‘The Serengeti of Tasmania’ through a paper bark swamp forest. The bird hide doubles up as a rest stop and a look out over a lagoon that teems with native wildlife, water birds and birds of prey.
flinDerS iSlanDTake a weekend or better still a week to enjoy the 800 beaches, endless walks and wildlife of Flinders Island, easily accessible from Launceston. The Trousers Point Walk, 1.5 hours, has amazing views to the other Furneaux Islands and two absolutely perfect, empty beaches. The island’s granite Strzelecki Peaks give staggering views.
A 7 night self-drive holiday through Tassie’s top wildlife and walking spots costs from £695 per person, excluding flights. The Great Walks of Tasmania start from approximately £600. www.tasmanianodyssey.com
For more information about Tasmania and its wildlife visit: www.tasmanianodyssey.com
XD017_BBC_Wildlife_Ad_216x286_V1_AW.indd 1 22/01/2014 10:00
www.spencerscotttravel.comEmail: [email protected] Tel: +44 (0)1825 714310
With Stephen Mills, professional naturalist and wildlife film-maker
Dates: 27 September–5 October 2014 Safari guests: 6–8 guests
Staring in to the eyes of a silverback and to sit less than 8m from a family of
mountain gorillas is a life-changing experience and a close encounter that will
have a lasting impact on you. On this special Mountain gorilla behavioural
safari, professional naturalist Stephen Mills returns to Rwanda and Uganda, to
track, observe and explain the group dynamics of 3 or 4 different family groups.
Then a safari hosted by a professional naturalist is just for you. Let nature’s experts open ‘pandora’s box’ on animal behaviour for you:
• Getthebiggerpictureandthewholepictureonwhyanimalsbehave
as they do
• Learnwhatmakesananimaltick
• Discoverwhatit’sliketothinklikeananimal,ratherthanassumeit
thinks like us
• Betterunderstandhowananimal’sphysiologyeffectsitsbehaviour
• Exploredifferenttheoriesontheevolutionofindividualspecies
• Considerspecifichumanconflictissuesandconservationinitiatives
With Stephen Mills, tiger naturalist
Dates: 12–24 November 2014 Safari guests: 6–8 guests
Encountering a tiger in the wild and close up will change your life forever. Join
tiger naturalist Stephen Mills in Bandhavgarh, Kanha and Pench National Parks,
where he has filmed and recorded tiger data since the 1970s. Everyone who has
travelled with Stephen Mills has seen a tiger and in Pench he hopes to find you
packs of Indian wild dog (dhole) and a last-chance tiger sighting.
tracKing MOUnTaIn GORIllaS tiger & WilD Dog Safari
intereSteD in animal BEhaVIOUR In ThE WIlD?
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Then the unique wildlife encounters you get on a dedicated wildlife
conservation safari is just for you:
• Hostedbyconservationbiologistswhoplayakeyrolein
sustainable conservation
• Seeresearchprogrammesinactioninthebush
• Engagewithlocalfieldstaff
• Learnaboutthephysiologyofspecies
• Observeandanalyseanimalbehaviourintheirecosystems
• Betterunderstandspecifichumanconflictandenvironmentalissues
• YourparticipationwillhelpthesurvivalprospectsofWilddogs
and Ethiopian wolves
Wolf Watching In association with Ethiopian Wolf Conservation Programme
Host: Prof Claudio Sillero, Director EWCP, Head of Conservation Born Free
Dates: 5–15 November 2014 Safari guests: 4–7 guests
A truly unique experience in to the world of the Ethiopian wolf and a rare
opportunity to traverse the spectacular Bale Mountains with Director Claudio
Sillero and his team of wolf monitors. Help collate vital data on individual
wolves, pups and packs. Observe wolves foraging and den activity on foot,
horseback and in 4x4 vehicles. Learn about EWCP’s education programme.
african WilD Dog Safari In association with Painted Dog Conservation
Hosts: Dr Greg Rasmussen, canid specialist and Steve Leonard, wildlife vet
Dates: 7–18 June 2014 Safari guests: 5–10 guests
A rare chance to spend time with wild dogs and observe hands-on research in
Mana Pools with Dr Greg Rasmussen, and to watch Steve Leonard (wildlife and
TV vet) start a crucial vaccination programme in Hwange National Park. Visit
PDC’s rehabilitation centre with director Peter Blinston and enjoy Zimbabwe’s
wildlife and the Victoria Falls.
www.spencerscotttravel.comEmail: [email protected] Tel: +44 (0)1825 714310
PaSSIOnaTE aBOUT hElPInG ThE SURVIVal Of EnDanGERED SPECIES?
, India
KamchatkaExpedition - August 2014
Bear Feast in the Far EastLog on to www.toehold.in/kamchatka for the detailed itinerary.
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MadagascarThe Red Island is a world apart, blessed with amazing animals and dreamlike landscapes. Explore its forests and mountains for encounters with lemurs, chameleons and more
t he world’s largest chameleon. 300 species of butterfly. Weevils with giraffe necks and spiders that look like bird droppings. Lemurs
mighty and minuscule, lemurs that dance and lemurs that sing, lemurs with bat ears and lemurs with ringed tails. Madagascar’s unique wildlife – more than 90 per cent of it endemic – is its big attraction, and also the focus of biggest concern. Mining and logging threatens fragile ecosystems, and nature-based tourism is one of the key defences against the loss of these marvelous creatures. Now’s the time to visit – to see amazing animals in the wild, and to contribute to their conservation.
anDaSIBE national parK The largest of the lemurs, the indri is also probably the loudest – and certainly has the most haunting song, a whale-like call that echoes through the forest. Andasibe is one of the few places where you’re likely to spot (and hear) the teddy-bear-like indri,
as well as 10 other lemur species, beautiful boas and diverse birdlife. Two other nearby rainforest reserves also harbour incredible biodiversity. To get the most out of a visit, lace up your hiking boots and delve into the moist forest with an expert guide – you might see huge Parson’s chameleons and golden-hued diademed sifakas (another species of lemur) and leaf-tailed geckos.
ifotaKaMix culture with wildlife at this community ecotourism reserve where you can explore ‘spiny bush’ and dry gallery woodland. The iconic ring-tailed lemur is a common sight, and you might also see the amazing ‘dancing’ lemur, Verreaux’s sifaka, perform its sprightly, two-legged foxtrot across open ground. There’s more than just mammals, though: birding is rewarding year round, and in spring and summer interesting reptile life abounds – watch for the critically endangered Madagascar radiated tortoise. A visit to a local village reveals insights into traditional lifestyles, too.
Left: The ring-tailed lemur is Madagascar’s most iconic species – and one of the easiest to spot. Above: Traverse the Avenue of the Baobabs near Morondava in the west of the island.
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Madagascar is home to about half of the world’s 150 or so species of
chameleon. This Parson’s chameleon is munching on an insect in Ranomafana.
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“The sounds created by a nocturnal orchestra of wildlife including geckos, frogs and birds sets the atmosphere for spotting the red eyes of a lemur.
Derek Schuurman, wildlife expert
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Rainbow Tours Pioneering madagascar specialist, rainbow tours, has the most comprehensive programme of wildlife tours and tailor-made holidays to all areas of the country, led by outstanding local wildlife guides.
fInd ouT MoRE: 020 7666 1252, rainbowtours.co.uk
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1 Rhinoceros chameleon
Grows up to 27cm long; spot one in ankarafantsika.
2Indri the largest lemur has
almost no tail but strong hind limbs and a haunting song.
3 fosa it looks like a doggish
cat, but madagascar’s largest carnivore is related to mongooses.
4 leaf-tailed gecko With flattened tail and
excellent camouflage, these disappear on tree trunks.
5 Verreaux’s sifaka this pale, gangly lemur
is known for its ‘dancing’ – it hops across open ground in a sprightly maneouvre.
2
kIRInDy SPECIal reServeAnother little and large show, this reserve is the place to see Madame Berthe’s mouse lemur – tiny enough to fit into an eggcup – and wander among hundreds of thousands of statuesque baobab trees. It’s also home to some of the island’s most sought-after animals: the bizarre fosa – Madagascar’s biggest carnivore, a cat-like relative of mongooses – the enormous Oustalet’s chameleon and the giant jumping rat.
anKarana Special reServeAnkarana is an otherworldly landscape dominated by fields of razor-sharp limestone pinnacles or ‘tsingy’, as well as impressive caves and sunken moist deciduous forests. The reserve is the place to spot several rare species regionally endemic to northern Madagascar – birds such as Coquerel’s coua and various vangas – as well as fosas, tenrecs (like spiky hedgehogs), big crocodiles, striped mongooses, bats and 10 species of lemur.
anKarafantSiKa national parKThis western seasonally dry forest protects a host of lemurs such as the acrobatic Coquerel’s sifaka, mongoose lemur and fat-tailed dwarf lemur – and it’s the only place to see the endangered (but very cute) golden-brown mouse lemur. Birders are in their element here: among the 129 avian species, highlights include the Madagascar fish eagle and Van Dam’s vanga. In the spring and summer months, reptiles are abundant and easily observed – a night walk might reward with sightings of rhinoceros chameleons.
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5”“The indri’s whale-like calls ringing through the trees is Malagasy magic at its best.
Rachel Dobb, wildlife expert
BOTSWana fOR WIlDlIfE lOVERSBotswana remains Africa’s most exclusive safari destination. With Gane and
Marshall Botswana is, nevertheless, affordable. Thanks to its emphasis on low-
volume, low-impact tourism, its vast wilderness areas have been maintained in
a near pristine state. Here you truly can experience nature as the early explorers
did – wild, remote, and unspoiled.
a RICh VaRIETy Of flORa anD faUnaBotswana’s varied terrain encompasses several ecosystems, ranging from the dry
and arid Kalahari Desert to the lush, waterlogged Okavango Delta, the largest
of its kind in the world. Equally varied are the options for exploring Botswana’s
diverse wilderness reserves, with boating, walking, and traditional 4x4 safaris all
well-catered for. Canoe safaris, Botswana’s speciality, are a particular highlight.
The tranquillity of the Okavango Delta is absolutely entrancing, and exploring
its channels, lagoons, floodplains and islands in a dugout canoe ensures an
unforgettable safari!
Botswana’s most famous wilderness areas – Chobe, Moremi, and the Okavango
– are conveniently located in the north of the country and can be combined
with little stress; a Botswana safari needn’t be broken up by lengthy car rides or
flights. Those wishing to travel further afield can venture to the immense central
Kalahari or the spectacular salt pans at Makgadikgadi, another of those unique
and unusual habitats that makes Botswana such a stunning destination.
the green SeaSon – Botswana’s best-kept secret
Africa’s peak safari season occurs in the dry months between June and August,
when the temperatures are hot, the grass is low, and the game most readily
visible. Travel during the quieter green season months of December to April,
however, also has its own unique rewards, particularly in Botswana, which does
not see the dramatic rains typical of much of East Africa during this period.
Between December and April you can usually expect late afternoon showers,
sunny mornings and warm day-time temperatures. The wildlife sightings are
fantastic at this time of year, as the majority of plains game give birth once the
rains arrive, bringing together large herds of adult with their young, and with
them their attendant predators. And, as keen birders will know, this is also the
best season to experience Botswana’s stunning birdlife.
The green season is also the most affordable time to visit Botswana. Gane
and Marshall, African safari specialists, can offer a nine-day Botswana safari
including top-range accommodation and full game-viewing activities from as
little as £1995 per person, before international flights. They are also offering
BBC Wildlife readers an additional £50 off any tailor-made Botswana itinerary
booked during 2014 for travel 2014 or 2015.
Ph
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www.ganeandmarshall.com Tel: +44 (0)1822-600-600 Email: [email protected]
gane & marShall
BOTSWana
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AntarcticaThe Ross Sea
Our website features 18 expedition voyages that visit the Arctic and Antarctic
WILDLIFE WORLDWIDE: EXPERTS IN TAILOR-MADEADVERTISEMENT FEATURE
www.discoverwildlife.com/wildlifeworldwide
Mon to Fri 9am – 6pm (all year) and Sat 9am – 1pm (Jan, Feb, Mar) 0845 130 6982 www.discoverwildlife.com/wildlifeworldwidewww.discoverwildlife.com/wildlifeworldwide 0845 130 6982 You can also visit our Winchester office to plan your trip in person
Talk to our specialist consultants:
0845 130 6982facebook.com/wildlifeworldwide
twitter.com/wildlifeww
Vessel Departures (voyage only) Duration Price From
mv Ortelius (capacity 116 passengers in 53 cabins)
9 Jan – 10 Feb 2015 From Ushuia (Argentina) to Bluff for Invercargill (New Zealand)
32 days£16,535 (voyage only)11 Feb – 13 Mar 2015
From Bluff for Invercargill (New Zealand) to Ushuaia (Argentina)
Despite the appearance given by the dates, due to the effect of crossing the International Dateline while sailing, the itineraries above are of identical duration.
Expedition Voyages
An epic Antarctic voyage
The approach to the Antarctic from the New Zealand side involves crossing the Ross Sea – the planet’s most pristine marine ecosystem. Unlike the rest of the world’s oceans, it has remained remarkably free from pollution, invasive species, mining and overfishing.
This productive stretch of water is home to an extraordinary array of marine life, much of which is found nowhere else. Teeming with fish, whales, seals, penguins and other animals, it is effectively a living laboratory that offers a final opportunity to understand the functioning of a healthy marine ecosystem.
This new trip offers the ultimate chance to explore the southern parts of the Antarctic Peninsula, Peter I Island, the Bellingshausen and Amundsen Seas leading into the Ross Sea, visiting the huts of Ernest Shackleton and Robert Scott, McMurdo Station, the Dry Valleys and Campbell Island. For these two voyages the strongest ice-class vessel, mv Ortelius will be equipped with two helicopters to use for ship to shore transfers.
Prepare yourself for high emotion and an unforgettable experience!
Expedition cruise vessels are offering increasing variety as their operators devise new routes and destinations to tempt us back to the achingly beautiful polar regions. In the southern hemisphere the classic itinerary takes you to the Antarctic Peninsula, while a slightly longer trip down the peninsula will cross the Polar Circle at 66° 35’ South; you can enter the icy Weddell Sea with its tabular icebergs on the far side of the peninsula, or do a longer trip that includes the Falkland Islands and South Georgia.
Some trips focus on activities that are available – whether photography, ice camping, kayaking, snowshoeing, ski trekking, mountaineering or ice diving – all accompanied by fully qualified guides. A few trips offer the possibility of skipping the Drake Passage, by flying from Punta Arenas in southern Chile directly to and from King George V Island in the South Shetlands to join your vessel.
All voyages benefit from an experienced expedition crew and expert lecturers who will keep you safe and entertained, and organise shore excursions. But with a wide variety of vessels and itineraries from which to choose, and a sometimes bewildering choice of cabins, it can all get a bit confusing. So call one of our knowledgeable consultants to talk it through and get the best advice.
Classic Antarctica
An incredible voyage visiting prime wildlife sites along the Antarctic Peninsula and in the nearby South Shetland islands. The perfect introduction to Antarctica!
Group departures, Jan - Mar, Nov - Dec ‘14 9 days, from £3,391 (voyage only)
Great Antarctic Voyage
The ultimate Antarctic experience marries the phenomenal wildlife of the sub-Antarctic islands of the Falklands and South Georgia to the pristine beauty of the Antarctic Peninsula.
Group departures, Nov - Dec ‘14, Jan - Feb ‘15 19 days, from £7,640 (voyage only)
ad_ww_bbcw_2014_mar_dpsv3.indd All Pages 28/01/2014 10:03
AntarcticaThe Ross Sea
Our website features 18 expedition voyages that visit the Arctic and Antarctic
WILDLIFE WORLDWIDE: EXPERTS IN TAILOR-MADEADVERTISEMENT FEATURE
www.discoverwildlife.com/wildlifeworldwide
Mon to Fri 9am – 6pm (all year) and Sat 9am – 1pm (Jan, Feb, Mar) 0845 130 6982 www.discoverwildlife.com/wildlifeworldwidewww.discoverwildlife.com/wildlifeworldwide 0845 130 6982 You can also visit our Winchester office to plan your trip in person
Talk to our specialist consultants:
0845 130 6982facebook.com/wildlifeworldwide
twitter.com/wildlifeww
Vessel Departures (voyage only) Duration Price From
mv Ortelius (capacity 116 passengers in 53 cabins)
9 Jan – 10 Feb 2015 From Ushuia (Argentina) to Bluff for Invercargill (New Zealand)
32 days£16,535 (voyage only)11 Feb – 13 Mar 2015
From Bluff for Invercargill (New Zealand) to Ushuaia (Argentina)
Despite the appearance given by the dates, due to the effect of crossing the International Dateline while sailing, the itineraries above are of identical duration.
Expedition Voyages
An epic Antarctic voyage
The approach to the Antarctic from the New Zealand side involves crossing the Ross Sea – the planet’s most pristine marine ecosystem. Unlike the rest of the world’s oceans, it has remained remarkably free from pollution, invasive species, mining and overfishing.
This productive stretch of water is home to an extraordinary array of marine life, much of which is found nowhere else. Teeming with fish, whales, seals, penguins and other animals, it is effectively a living laboratory that offers a final opportunity to understand the functioning of a healthy marine ecosystem.
This new trip offers the ultimate chance to explore the southern parts of the Antarctic Peninsula, Peter I Island, the Bellingshausen and Amundsen Seas leading into the Ross Sea, visiting the huts of Ernest Shackleton and Robert Scott, McMurdo Station, the Dry Valleys and Campbell Island. For these two voyages the strongest ice-class vessel, mv Ortelius will be equipped with two helicopters to use for ship to shore transfers.
Prepare yourself for high emotion and an unforgettable experience!
Expedition cruise vessels are offering increasing variety as their operators devise new routes and destinations to tempt us back to the achingly beautiful polar regions. In the southern hemisphere the classic itinerary takes you to the Antarctic Peninsula, while a slightly longer trip down the peninsula will cross the Polar Circle at 66° 35’ South; you can enter the icy Weddell Sea with its tabular icebergs on the far side of the peninsula, or do a longer trip that includes the Falkland Islands and South Georgia.
Some trips focus on activities that are available – whether photography, ice camping, kayaking, snowshoeing, ski trekking, mountaineering or ice diving – all accompanied by fully qualified guides. A few trips offer the possibility of skipping the Drake Passage, by flying from Punta Arenas in southern Chile directly to and from King George V Island in the South Shetlands to join your vessel.
All voyages benefit from an experienced expedition crew and expert lecturers who will keep you safe and entertained, and organise shore excursions. But with a wide variety of vessels and itineraries from which to choose, and a sometimes bewildering choice of cabins, it can all get a bit confusing. So call one of our knowledgeable consultants to talk it through and get the best advice.
Classic Antarctica
An incredible voyage visiting prime wildlife sites along the Antarctic Peninsula and in the nearby South Shetland islands. The perfect introduction to Antarctica!
Group departures, Jan - Mar, Nov - Dec ‘14 9 days, from £3,391 (voyage only)
Great Antarctic Voyage
The ultimate Antarctic experience marries the phenomenal wildlife of the sub-Antarctic islands of the Falklands and South Georgia to the pristine beauty of the Antarctic Peninsula.
Group departures, Nov - Dec ‘14, Jan - Feb ‘15 19 days, from £7,640 (voyage only)
ad_ww_bbcw_2014_mar_dpsv3.indd All Pages 28/01/2014 10:03
Welcome to Safari Drive
Specialist self-drive safari operator since
1993, we have been organising and
operating private, self drive safaris
throughout Africa for the last 21 years. We run our
own fleet of the latest Land Rover 110 Defenders
that we have equipped to the highest of standards.
We also have a back up and support network
throughout Africa to give you peace of mind 24
hours a day whilst you are on your holiday.
However more than our vehicles and
equipment is our knowledge and expertise
of what makes an excellent self drive holiday,
whether it’s for the wildlife enthusiast, family tour,
or specialist photographer.
Over the years we have created many thousands
of unique journeys that have enabled our clients
to discover Africa for themselves. Every journey
is special and our aim is for you to have a safe,
rewarding and satisfying self drive holiday.
This unique style of safari allows our customers a
level of independence that is simply not catered for
by traditional safari companies.
www.safaridrive.com Tel: 0044 (1) 488 711 40 Email: [email protected]
Safari Driveafrica from top: explore
TanzanIa’S WORlD faMOUS PaRkS aT yOUR OWn PaCE; DRIVE ThE BaCk ROaDS Of
BOTSWana’S OkaVanGO DElTa; CaMPInG OUT UnDER ThE VaST
afRICan SkIES, naMIBIa
Shenton Safaris operates two
camps located in the northern
part of Zambia’s South
Luangwa National Park, in the prime
game viewing area, far from other
camps. Kaingo Camp is positioned
right on the bank of the Luangwa
River, with chalets overlooking the
river while Mwamba Bush Camp is
set on the meandering curve of the
Mwamba
River bed.
Kaingo Camp and Mwamba Bush
Camp are owner-run and are well
known for their team of expert safari
guides, recognized by guests and
peers as some of the best’s guides in
Southern Africa. They are situated in
one of the most prolific areas of the
park in terms of wildlife, with three
large lion prides and a dozen leopards
around both camps. A popular and
unique feature of Shenton Safaris is
the network of photographic hides
which allow for close up observation
of wildlife. With these hides and the
expert knowledge of their guides,
Shenton Safaris has become the
destination of choice for professional
and amateur wildlife photographers.
When not out and about on game
viewing activities guests can enjoy
the stunning view of the Luangwa
River from their individual decks
overhanging the river, and see the
game come down to the river to drink.
Kaingo has only six chalets all facing
the river. More rustic and bushy,
Mwamba is also more exclusive
with only four chalets made of reed
and thatch with open air bathroom.
Wildlife there roams free among the
camp and a great variety of mammals
and birds can be observed from the
photographic hide set within camp.
Sleep out options such as spending
the night on a platform near the river
or in the plains, or going for a more
adventurous fly camping overnight
are also offered.
www.kaingo.com Email: [email protected] Facebook: Shentonsafaris
Shenton SafariS
zaMBIa
frontier was set up in 1989 when, in
association with the WWF, we helped set up
a protected marine reserve in Tanzania. Now
with more than 300 projects in 50 countries, we
can offer a huge range of conservation volunteering
placements around the world. A few of our
placements include:
•CostaRicaBigCats,PrimatesandTurtle
Conservation – Based in a remote rainforest camp,
you will take part in vital wildlife surveys in the most
biodiverse area in the world.
•MadagascarWildlifeConservationAdventure–Live
in a picturesque beach camp among lemurs and
chameleons and survey Madagascar’s unique wildlife.
•FijiMarineConservation&Diving–Diveinpristine
reefs and help create baseline conservation data in
exotic Fiji.
You can also earn a diploma in Tropical Habitat
Conservation while on many of our placements,
or complete practical field work for your degree or
post graduate qualification. See all of our wildlife
projects here.
www.frontier.ac.uk Tel: 020 7613 2422 Email: [email protected]
from top: maDagaScar WilDlife conServation aDVEnTURE; fIjI MaRInE
COnSERVaTIOn anD DIVInG; COSTa RICa BIG CaTS, PRIMaTES
anD TURTlE COnSERVaTIOnfrontierWorlDWiDe COnSERVaTIOn VOlUnTEERInG
Go ExploreScotland’s islands ... Packed with history, culture,
outdoor adventure, wildlife and stunning scenery, Scotland’s west coast islands are just waiting to be discovered and ‘award-winning’ Caledonian MacBrayne will take you there.
We offer a fantastic range of ticket options including Island Hopping packages, which allow you to visit more than one island in one trip.
For bookings, informationand inspirationvisit www.calmac.co.uk call 0800 066 5000email [email protected]
Follow us on Facebook and TwitterFor updates on our network, offers and
inspiration to help plan your next journey.
www.calmac.co.ukCaledonian MacBrayne and CalMac are trading names of CalMac Ferries Limited
transporttimes
winner 2013
Wildlife focused holidays from the American Experts
www.grandamericanadventures.com/wildlife Call 0333 003 8235
USA Canada & Alaska Central & South America
Real Americas Real AdventureOur wildlife tours have been developed to maximise the
chances of seeing as much wildlife as possible within
the vast continent of North America. Whether it’s a wolf
tracking excursion in Yellowstone with an expert guide, a
fl oat plane trip into the Alaskan wilderness to spot bears
or a cruise around Vancouver Island to look for whales and
porpoises, we’ll get your further off the tourist track and
up-close to some of the planet’s most intriguing species.
Capture the perfect shot every time with Joby’s range of camera gear.
Is your camera ready for every occasion?
Camera StrapsGorillaPods
GripTight Mobile Phone
Visit www.joby.com or call 0845 250 0792 for more details.
You can also follow us on @jobyinc and @jobyinc
Action Camera Mounts and Tripods