Escape Edition 79

WILDLY WONDERFUL

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Wildly Wonderful

Epic wildlife encounters are the perfect reason to get out and explore more of the world. In this week’s Escape Edition, we’ll remind you of some of the classics, like gorilla trekking in Rwanda, and introduce new options, like the Elephant Hills Bush Camp in Northern Thailand. Whatever animal adventure you are looking for next, we’ve got you covered!

WILDLIFE IN PARADISE

JOIN THE HERD

A WHALE OF A TIME

WILDLIFE IN PARADISE

The Seychelles is one of the most conservation-conscious archipelagos on Earth, with only 16 of its 115 islands inhabited. The isles are home to rare and remarkable species, ranging from the enormous Aldabra tortoise to the world’s tiniest frog.

On Praslin, if you manage to tear yourself away from the sand, Anse Lazio offers fantastic snorkelling. The underwater visibility is excellent, so you can expect to see a fine array of colourful sea life, from damselfish to checkerboard wrasse. Anse Intendance, meanwhile, is a famous turtle-nesting area with a rehabilitation centre that carries out daily monitoring of these gentle creatures.

Show Less

The main island of Mahé is home to Sainte-Anne Marine National Park. Comprising six islands, this national park provides one of the best spots for dolphin watching in the Seychelles, and it’s not uncommon to see turtles feeding in the abundant seagrass meadows.

La Digue boasts 18 spectacular beaches, including one of the most photographed in the world, Anse Source d’Argent. Snorkelling from the shore is another reason to love the island’s beaches, and there are dive sites by the dozen just a short sail from the coast. Spend time trekking around wild Veuve Reserve, where it’s possible to spot anything from turtles to rare paradise flycatchers, particularly if you’re in the company of friendly local guides.

Show Less

Make sure you explore the Seychelles’ lesser-known isles. Untamed Aride is known as the ‘Seabird Citadel’ of the Indian Ocean and has the largest lizard population on Earth. In Ile Cocos, meanwhile, you can dive and snorkel in one of the Seychelles’ protected marine parks. Or to see giant Aldabra tortoises, speedy geckoes and flocks of unusual birds, don’t miss a day out on conservation-rich Cousin.

Take me there

Show Less

JOIN THE HERD

The new Bush Camp in Chaing Mai is a short flight from Bangkok and about two hours from the airport on the Ping River, with stunning views out over the lush vegetation and misty mountains in Northern Thailand.

During your incredible stay, you’ll experience Thailand’s majestic giants in their natural home. Join in with sustainable activities, including popular free-roaming, hands-off elephant experiences at the Elephant Park. Enjoy a cuppa in the Elephant Café as elephants roam peacefully in front of you. Learn about the life of the mahouts and see how they live together with nature and their elephants.

Show Less

Bush Camp has 10 luxury tents, all built by Thai artisans supporting the local communities and keeping sustainability at the heart of the camp. Tucked away from the centre of Chiang Mai, you’ll enjoy the peace of camp life without missing out on any of the luxuries from home. After your day with the elephants, dive into the infinity pool to cool off and enjoy the incredible views over the Ping River and of the chedis nestled in the mountains.

Show Less

You’ll enjoy full board here, including barbequed delicacies with a drink or two while watching the sunset behind the mountains. At dinner, tuck into a buffet of Thai and Western dishes before returning to your luxury tent for the night.

Take me there

Show Less

A WHALE OF A TIME

On New Zealand's South Island, this jaw-dropping town of Kaikōura is where the snow-capped mountains meet the sea – and it’s renowned for its incredible marine life. Stroll along the rocky shore, and you’ll see dozens of seals lounging on the rocks. And whale watching in Kaikōura is an absolute must-do. You’re almost guaranteed to see sperm whales, humpbacks or orcas, and dolphins.

You know you’re somewhere special from the moment you arrive in Kaikōura. It’s fair to say that Mother Nature pulled out all the stops here – so it’s hardly surprising that this dramatic place has an abundance of wildlife.

Show Less

If you stroll along the Kaikōura Peninsula Walkway, you’ll see dozens of fur seals relaxing on the rocks. You can go on a dolphin-watching trip or search for the majestic albatross – there are 12 species living in Kaikōura. Or, if you’re a keen diver, why not spend a day exploring the nearby limestone reefs and kelp forests? You’ll be able to see crayfish, wrasse, starfish, octopi, and a variety of colourful anemones.

But whale watching in Kaikōura is the major attraction. You’ll be able to see enormous sperm whales, orcas and humpback whales – and a pod of curious dolphins will probably swim over to say hello, too. To enjoy an exciting up-close encounter with the Giant Sperm Whale, head out on a boat trip. Around 80% of the world’s whale and dolphin species migrate along this coastline. For a unique view of these gentle giants, take to the air and view them from above.

Show Less

If you want to see penguins, make tracks for the Otago Peninsula. This rugged headland is home to yellow-eyed and little blue penguins – and there’s a nesting albatross colony, too. Or you could journey even further south and travel to Stewart Island. This remote isle is a haven for native birds like kaka and weka, and kiwi birds outnumber humans by 50 to one.

Take me there

Show Less

WILDLIFE IN PARADISE

The Seychelles is one of the most conservation-conscious archipelagos on Earth, with only 16 of its 115 islands inhabited. The isles are home to rare and remarkable species, ranging from the enormous Aldabra tortoise to the world’s tiniest frog.

On Praslin, if you manage to tear yourself away from the sand, Anse Lazio offers fantastic snorkelling. The underwater visibility is excellent, so you can expect to see a fine array of colourful sea life, from damselfish to checkerboard wrasse. Anse Intendance, meanwhile, is a famous turtle-nesting area with a rehabilitation centre that carries out daily monitoring of these gentle creatures.

Show Less

The main island of Mahé is home to Sainte-Anne Marine National Park. Comprising six islands, this national park provides one of the best spots for dolphin watching in the Seychelles, and it’s not uncommon to see turtles feeding in the abundant seagrass meadows.

La Digue boasts 18 spectacular beaches, including one of the most photographed in the world, Anse Source d’Argent. Snorkelling from the shore is another reason to love the island’s beaches, and there are dive sites by the dozen just a short sail from the coast. Spend time trekking around wild Veuve Reserve, where it’s possible to spot anything from turtles to rare paradise flycatchers, particularly if you’re in the company of friendly local guides.

Show Less

Make sure you explore the Seychelles’ lesser-known isles. Untamed Aride is known as the ‘Seabird Citadel’ of the Indian Ocean and has the largest lizard population on Earth. In Ile Cocos, meanwhile, you can dive and snorkel in one of the Seychelles’ protected marine parks. Or to see giant Aldabra tortoises, speedy geckoes and flocks of unusual birds, don’t miss a day out on conservation-rich Cousin.

Take me there

Show Less

JOIN THE HERD

The new Bush Camp in Chaing Mai is a short flight from Bangkok and about two hours from the airport on the Ping River, with stunning views out over the lush vegetation and misty mountains in Northern Thailand.

During your incredible stay, you’ll experience Thailand’s majestic giants in their natural home. Join in with sustainable activities, including popular free-roaming, hands-off elephant experiences at the Elephant Park. Enjoy a cuppa in the Elephant Café as elephants roam peacefully in front of you. Learn about the life of the mahouts and see how they live together with nature and their elephants.

Show Less

Bush Camp has 10 luxury tents, all built by Thai artisans supporting the local communities and keeping sustainability at the heart of the camp. Tucked away from the centre of Chiang Mai, you’ll enjoy the peace of camp life without missing out on any of the luxuries from home. After your day with the elephants, dive into the infinity pool to cool off and enjoy the incredible views over the Ping River and of the chedis nestled in the mountains.

Show Less

You’ll enjoy full board here, including barbequed delicacies with a drink or two while watching the sunset behind the mountains. At dinner, tuck into a buffet of Thai and Western dishes before returning to your luxury tent for the night.

Take me there

Show Less

A WHALE OF A TIME

On New Zealand's South Island, this jaw-dropping town of Kaikōura is where the snow-capped mountains meet the sea – and it’s renowned for its incredible marine life. Stroll along the rocky shore, and you’ll see dozens of seals lounging on the rocks. And whale watching in Kaikōura is an absolute must-do. You’re almost guaranteed to see sperm whales, humpbacks or orcas, and dolphins.

You know you’re somewhere special from the moment you arrive in Kaikōura. It’s fair to say that Mother Nature pulled out all the stops here – so it’s hardly surprising that this dramatic place has an abundance of wildlife.

Show Less

If you stroll along the Kaikōura Peninsula Walkway, you’ll see dozens of fur seals relaxing on the rocks. You can go on a dolphin-watching trip or search for the majestic albatross – there are 12 species living in Kaikōura. Or, if you’re a keen diver, why not spend a day exploring the nearby limestone reefs and kelp forests? You’ll be able to see crayfish, wrasse, starfish, octopi, and a variety of colourful anemones.

But whale watching in Kaikōura is the major attraction. You’ll be able to see enormous sperm whales, orcas and humpback whales – and a pod of curious dolphins will probably swim over to say hello, too. To enjoy an exciting up-close encounter with the Giant Sperm Whale, head out on a boat trip. Around 80% of the world’s whale and dolphin species migrate along this coastline. For a unique view of these gentle giants, take to the air and view them from above.

Show Less

If you want to see penguins, make tracks for the Otago Peninsula. This rugged headland is home to yellow-eyed and little blue penguins – and there’s a nesting albatross colony, too. Or you could journey even further south and travel to Stewart Island. This remote isle is a haven for native birds like kaka and weka, and kiwi birds outnumber humans by 50 to one.

Take me there

Show Less

GET INSPIRED BY OUR TOP TIPS

Polar Bears in Churchill

Churchill is a hotspot for animal enthusiasts, located on the edge of Hudson Bay and on the migration path of polar bears and beluga whales. Autumn is prime time for seeing polar bears while they wait for the big freeze, which allows them to travel onto the ice of Hudson Bay and hunt for seals.

GET INSPIRED BY OUR TOP TIPS

The Catskills in New York State

The Catskills, located in upstate New York, is a picturesque region known for its stunning natural beauty and charming small towns. This mountainous area is the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, with its lush forests, cascading waterfalls, and breathtaking hiking trails. Explore the Catskill Park, enjoy outdoor activities like fishing and skiing, or simply unwind in the peaceful surroundings.

GET INSPIRED BY OUR TOP TIPS

Gorillas in Rwanda

Rwanda’s most famous attraction is, without doubt, the opportunity to see mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. Trek through Volcanoes National Park on an intimate tour to meet one of only a handful of gorilla families habituated to humans over the last four decades. Immerse yourself in a magical landscape of bamboo forests, swampland, and wild meadows as an expert guides you to these incredible creatures.

FIND THESE UNIQUE EXPERIENCES ON OUR TRIPS

Walking safari trails and hidden beaches

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13 Day Deserts & Wildflowers Self Drive

11 Day Kuala Lumpur and Borneo

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Escape Edition 79

WILDLY WONDERFUL

WILDLIFE IN PARADISE

JOIN THE HERD

A WHALE OF A TIME

WILDLIFE IN PARADISE

JOIN THE HERD

A WHALE OF A TIME

WILDLIFE IN PARADISE

WILDLIFE IN PARADISE

JOIN THE HERD

JOIN THE HERD

A WHALE OF A TIME

A WHALE OF A TIME

GET INSPIRED BY OUR TOP TIPS

Polar Bears in Churchill

GET INSPIRED BY OUR TOP TIPS

The Catskills in New York State

GET INSPIRED BY OUR TOP TIPS

Gorillas in Rwanda

FIND THESE UNIQUE EXPERIENCES ON OUR TRIPS

Walking safari trails and hidden beaches

12 Day Australia Glamping and Wildlife Safari

16 day Costa Rica Adventure

12 Day Wyomings Wind River Country Self Drive

13 Day Deserts & Wildflowers Self Drive

11 Day Kuala Lumpur and Borneo

LOOKING FOR MORE INSPIRATION?

SPEAK TO A SPECIALIST

Out There Made Easy

Knowledge

Ease

Value

Trust

Knowledge

Ease

Value

Trust

Part of the Dnata family

Good Housekeeping

ATOL Protected

Rated Excellent