6 Unforgettable Wildlife Experiences
There are different types of travelers, each with a purpose of their own, yet one thing in common… to see the unseen and experience the unknown. Taking a trip to the wild can transport you to a whole new world. Here is a curated list of experiences that will be etched in your memory forever. Some of these also let you take a step towards wildlife conservation.
Watch the turtles’ eggs hatch in Oman
Oman is home to five different species of turtles and five nesting sites. One of the sites happens to be the private beach around Shangri La Muscat. Over 100 turtles return to the resort’s beach to lay eggs every year. The Turtle Care Project run by Shangri-La Muscat aims to protect the endangered species native to these beaches. A turtle ranger is appointed to look after the nests and protect them from potential threats. During turtle season (March to August), guests are invited to witness egg hatchings. It’s a great way to make the younger generation learn and contribute towards wildlife preservation. You can also take a trip to the Jabal Samhan Reserve, which is home to Arabian leopards. The thrill of spotting this reclusive animal is unmatched.
Spot rhinos and lions in Mauritius
Known for its beautiful beaches, Mauritius also has stunning wildest landscape. You can check into The Residence Mauritius and stay close to natural wonders without compromising on luxury. To experience the wildlife, you can spend your afternoon at La Vanille Nature Park, which is a home to Nile crocodiles, tortoises, and lemurs, iguanas, and turtles. One of the oldest and biggest tortoises lives here within the biggest colony of tortoises in the world. You can also take a ride to the Casela Nature Park to spot rhinos and lions.
Feed the giant tortoise in Seychelles
Located in the Indian Ocean, Seychelles is an archipelago of 115 islands and a rich marine life. One of the many things to do in Seychelles is to interact with the native Aldabra giant tortoises, one of the largest tortoise species on planet Earth. You can spot these giant creatures roaming freely on the beaches of Curieuse Island. You can also go on Curieuse’s nesting sea turtle trail to Grand Anse beach. The coastal trail with a view of the beautiful seascape is lined with the famous Coco de Mer, thief palm and wild coffee plants.
Witness free ranging African elephants in Kenya
Located on the borders of Kenya and Tanzania, Amboseli National Park is known for its large population of elephants. In the heart of the Amboseli is Ol Tukai Lodge that promises uninterrupted views of the Mt. Kilimanjaro and offers guided safari trips to explore the wildlife, especially the big five of Kenya. You can witness free-ranging African elephants in their natural habitat right from the comfort of your luxury camp. The lodge offers plenty of activities including game drives and guided nature walks.
Pose with the majestic falcon in Qatar
Falconry is a traditional sport in Qatar, and you can watch these majestic birds up close. On your visit to Souq Waqif, you can pose with a falcon perched on your arm under the shopkeeper’s supervision.
Qatar is a vibrant desert peninsula that is not only home to a diverse community but also to many rare wild animals. You can spot turtles, flamingos, dugongs, and Arabian oryx at the Inland Sea. The northeast coast at Al Shaheen witnesses the largest gathering of whales from April to September. Hundreds of whales gather every year in the Qatari waters to dine on tuna eggs. As they are harmless, watching whales is quite an experience.
Get up and close with butterflies in Zanzibar
The secluded island off the coast of Tanzania, is an archipelago of luminous seas, powdery sands, Persian palaces, and spice gardens. Along with that, it is home to Africa’s rarest primates, the red colobus monkeys. They are found only on Zanzibar’s main island in the Jozani forest. You can take a trip to the forest and explore the wildlife on a guided tour offered by The Residence Zanzibar, the only resort on this beautiful island. You can also visit the butterfly center and wander around the endangered butterfly species. You can learn about their life cycle and how butterfly farming is helping Africans to save their forests. Back at the Residence Zanzibar, you have ample activities to enjoy your stay.
