Top 7 Countries in the World for Safari Holidays in 2023

Travel Blog, Word Travel - Ross French - January 30, 2023

When it comes to spending holidays with your loved ones different people have different preferences. Some prefer to spend holidays lazily unwinding at a beach, while some prefer to go on an adventure expedition. If you are a nature person, a wildlife safari seems like a great way to make the most of your vacation time. Wildlife safari trips are more than just watching animals and birds in their natural habitat. These trips offer you an exhilarating and educational experience to understand nature around you and how everything on this planet is connected.

While you can plan these safari trips yourself it can take a lot of time to get the paperwork done and find the right accommodation and travel options. When you are running short of time, you can look for Naturetrek wildlife holidays that provide you with the convenience to enjoy the best time you can have with your family and loved ones.

If you have plans to go on a wildlife safari in 2023, these are the top 7 countries that you should choose.

Botswana

Everybody thinks of Kenya when they think of African safari, but times have changed. Today, Botswana is among the leading African countries that attract the most visitors for wildlife safari experiences. This country with open grasslands and desert landscapes has a lot more to offer than just wildlife experiences. Botswana’s Okavango Delta is the world’s largest inland delta that allows you to experience the magical sights and sounds of African wildlife.

In Botswana, apart from the Okavango Delta, you can enjoy wildlife experiences at the Chobe National Park, Moremi Game Reserve, and many private reserves like Linyanti, Selinda, Khwai and Kwando that are second to none. Botswana allows you to track and view Africa’s Big 5 (elephant, buffalo, rhino, lion and leopard) along with hyena, wild dog, lechwe, and sitatunga sightings. You can go on mokoro excursions and boat cruises to explore Africa’s aquatic life. When you are visiting Botswana you can quad bike on Makgadikgadi Pans. Botswana also offers a wide range of the finest safari camps and lodges based on different budgets.

Kenya

It would be hard to keep aside Kenya when talking about the best countries for wildlife safari. Over the years, Kenya has remained one of the top destinations for nature lovers and for those who want to view some breathtaking game-viewing encounters. However, Kenya’s biggest attraction is the natural migration cycle of the wildebeests known as – The Great Migration in the legendary Masai Mara region. This area is one of the finest wildlife destinations to experience some stunning wildlife landscapes and action. You can also get some great experiences at the Amboseli National Park. Apart from this, you can enjoy some encounters at Lake Nakuru in the Great Rift Valley, Mount Kenya National Park, Aberdares National Park and Laikipia Plateau. You can also go scuba diving and snorkeling and enjoy some luxury holiday experiences on Lamu Island and Manda Island.

South Africa

When it comes to wildlife experiences, South Africa is right on top among the best countries that offer so much more than just game-viewing experiences. South Africa offers a great combination to witness Africa’s Big 5 to whales and enjoy some wine valleys and beyond. With outstanding national parks and conservation areas like the Kruger National Park, Pilanesberg National Park, Addo National Park and Madikwe Game Reserve and Phinda Game Reserve, South Africa can help you tick all the boxes in just a couple of days. You can also explore the Whale Coast and get some whale-watching experience that not many African countries can offer. The infrastructure and road network and commercial flight link are robust making it a perfect safari destination.

India

Outside Africa, India is one of the top countries that offer you some breathtaking landscapes and wildlife adventures that you shouldn’t miss. Apart from exploring India’s rich cultural heritage, you can head into some of the picturesque jungles and national parks where you can witness tigers, Asiatic lions, elephants, one-horned rhinos, deers, crocodiles, gaurs and many other animals and birds. India has the largest population of tigers in the world making it a perfect destination for those who want to go tiger spotting. For this, you can explore Bandhavgarh National Park, Ranthambore National Park, Jim Corbett National Park, Kanha National Park, Pench National Park, Andhari Tadoba National Park, Kaziranga National Park, Nagarhole National Park and Periyar National Park. You can always read some useful tips for first time travel to India to help you manage your safari holidays.

Tanzania

Tanzania’s diversity of wildlife and stunning landscapes offer a deadly combination that is hard to overlook. If you are looking for safari destinations that can get you some insanely beautiful pictures you can pack your camera gear and head here. There is no shortage of national parks in Tanzania and therefore you can enjoy excellent safari experiences at the Serengeti National Park which is home to The Great Migration. Apart from Serengeti, you can also have some excellent safari tours at Ngorongoro Conservation Crater, Lake Manyara, Tarangire National Park, Selous Game Reserve, Ruaha National Park, Katavi National Park, Gombe Stream and Mahale Mountains National Parks.

Zambia

If you prefer to head to places where you can stay away from the crowds then you need to head to Zambia for some quality safari experiences. This country has quickly become one of the top destinations for safari holidays where you can get excellent big game viewing experiences, luxurious lodges and accommodations and the best guides to help you know more about the landscape around you. Zambia is home to the spectacular Victoria Falls which attracts a large chunk of visitors globally. However, if you are interested in wildlife experiences you can head to South Luangwa National Park and Kafue National Park where you can head for some game drives and even do walking safaris. When you are heading for Zambia make sure you pack the right clothing for your safari trip. You can also go canoe safari in the Lower Zambezi river where you can find large herds of antelope and top predators lurking in the shadows to hunt.

Romania

While the safari experience in Romania is poles apart from that of African safaris but you can still explore Romania’s Danube Delta and the Carpathian Mountains which allow you to explore the virgin wildlife of the country. It is one of the few countries in the world where you can see the almost extinct European bison, wild horses, Dalmatian pelicans and the notoriously shy Eurasian lynx. Romania is also home to many birds that live and migrate in this part of the region. Here you can go on safari in Retezat National Park, Buila Vanturarita National Park, Calimani National Park, Muntii Rodnei National Park, Cheile Nerei – Beusnita National Park and Danube Delta.

0 0

Six Tips to Prepare Your Dog for a Road Trip

Travel Tips - Ross French - August 16, 2022

Whether you are a world traveler or prefer local trips, there’s nothing better than going out on a venture with your best friend. We’re talking about dogs. From Virginia Woolf and her dog Pinka or Robert DeNiro, who flies on a private jet with his dog Yeti – there’s something about dogs that makes travel more enriching and engaging. But how do you prepare a dog for a road trip? That’s why we’re here to offer these simple tips to help you gear up and get rolling down the highway to your next adventure with your best furry friend by your side Continue Reading

0 0

Traveling To Hawaii For Your Next Vacation

Travel Tips - Ross French - May 13, 2021

Hawaii is a popular travel destination for couples and families all across the world. No matter where you go in Hawaii, you will be met with beautiful beaches, amazing hikes, and stunning scenery. Whatever the reason may be that you are traveling to this beautiful island, it can be a challenge to decide what you’d like to make a priority on your trip. Maybe, you’re not one for hikes and would rather hang out by the beach with a drink in hand. Or, you’re the type who loves hikes, waterfalls, and all things adventure. Look no further, because we’re here to help you prioritize and plan your trip to Hawaii this year.

Destination Wedding Or Honeymoon

If you are planning a destination wedding in Hawaii or you are planning your honeymoon– you may want to consider a different type of itinerary than other travelers!

Finally, the wedding invites are all sent out, and the wedding date is approaching quickly. With so much to think about, you haven’t had much time to plan your trip in Hawaii. Many couples create a combination wedding/ honeymoon trip in Hawaii. Because let’s face it, you’re already in paradise. Why leave early?

If this is your primary purpose of travel, we suggest a sailing excursion. This is a great pre wedding activity but is also spectacular for a honeymoon or post wedding. The best part about sailing is you get to relax and unwind. You won’t have to worry about getting dirty before your wedding and you can relieve some of that added stress. You can plan a sunset sail, perhaps whale watch, and explore the colorful reefs. You and your fiance can bump your favorite music and enjoy the ride! No matter what island of Hawaii you decide on, there are always boating offers.

The Adventurer

Are you someone who has always identified as being adventurous? Well, Hawaii could be the perfect vacation for you too! Kauai is said to be the “garden island” because of its waterfalls, cliffs, and tropical rainforests. The island also has a variety of outdoor activities you can be a part of. Some adventurous activities include kayaking, hiking, snorkeling, and ziplining. Although, you don’t have to pick Kaui to adventure, because of its landscape, it hosts a lot of outdoor activity.

In fact, ziplines are something that Hawaii is known for, because it has some of the longest ziplines in the US. If you are a thrill seeker, you can zipline to get the perfect view of the lush canopies while you get your adrenaline rush. Otherwise, you can find plenty of gorgeous hikes throughout the landscape that feature ocean views or waterfall access.

Family Fun

Family vacations are magical in Hawaii! The warm ocean water and sandy beaches are enough on their own to capture the wonder of your children. Hawaii’s big island has so much to offer. There is so much culture and fascinating attractions to see here. You can hike mountains, surf, or wander in the towns. Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is a great place to take your family for an experience they’ve never had before. At night, you can attend a Luau where your kids can dance and enjoy the scene along with some Hawaiian food. Overall, there are also great family-friendly resorts that offer fun pools and waterslides for the kids! They’ll return wishing they never left!

The Surfer

It’s not a surprise that Hawaiit is well known for its epic surf. If you are a surfer searching for the next big wave, Hawaii is definitely a good move. Oahu is the proverbial heartbeat of surfing in Hawaii. The island’s north Shore is the perfect place to catch your dream wave. If you are an advanced surfer, the winter waves can actually get massive so you’ll want to be prepared. Otherwise, in the summer the waves are manageable for an intermediate or even beginner level surfer.

Some of the biggest surfing competitions in the world are held on Ohaui’s North Shore from the months of November to December. If you are more of a surf follower and watcher this is the place to be! Otherwise try to decipher your skill level and pick the right season to go out and surf yourself! You can spend all day on the sandy beaches of Oahu while also squeezing in some hiking, dining, and relaxation time.

0 0

Awesome Things to Do in Bryce Canyon National Park

Travel Tips - Ross French - October 6, 2016

Situated South East in the Beehive state (that’s Utah for the uninitiated) lies the majestic Bryce Canyon National Park. Famed for its towering spires of red rock and a natural amphitheater. The amphitheater offers truly unique panoramic views with shuttle stops to some of the best viewpoints in the canyon including:

Inspiration Point
Sunrise Point
Bryce Point
Sunset Point

Each viewpoint offers breathtaking views, so if you can only visit one on your stay, don’t feel like you’ve missed out, and be sure to come back.

It’s More Than Just a Canyon

Naturally, the canyon is the first (and often only) thing people think of when considering a trip to the park. But there is so much more that you can do and with a little forward planning you can be sure to be doing something different every single day.

Looking for Adventure?

For those of you seeking a little excitement in your vacation, there are a whole host of possibilities at your feet. Ruby’s Inn is the park’s oldest hotel (celebrating its centenary this year) and it comes highly recommended by previous guests. Ruby’s Inn has a wide range of activities that they arrange every single day. You no longer have to risk planning your own itinerary, let Ruby’s Inn do it for you – their activities include:

Horseback Riding
ATV Trails
Mountain biking Bryce Canyon
Scenic Flights

With professional guides leading you every step of the way, you can get your adrenaline fix and still be home in time for dinner!

Enjoy a Slower Pace?

If you prefer your feet firmly on the ground and prefer activities at your own pace then why not plan a hiking expedition? The National Park Ranger Service have prepared numerous day long hikes allowing you to see the very best that the canyon and the park have to offer. Hikes are graded ‘Easy’, ‘ Moderate’ and ‘Strenuous’, that allow you to pick the type of experience that you want.

Seasonal Events and Festivals

Maybe you enjoy the colder climates, in which case, why not visit during the winter months and experience Bryce Canyon National Park in a crisp blanket of snow. There is a plethora of winter themed activities that take place during the cold weather months including:

Snowshoe Hiking
Cross-country Skiing
Winter back country camping – for the brave and experienced, permits are required
Winter Astronomy Programs

As with any snowy landscape, the park can be very dangerous in winter, so be sure to wrap up warm and know which trails are open and closed during these months.

There are also a number of themed festivals for those of you with particular passions. The annual Prairie Dog Day is a popular event where rangers and local enthusiasts offer their expertise to help you find the best locations to observe the prairie dog.

If rocks are more your thing, then be sure to book your vacation during Bryce Canyon’s Geology Festival held in the summer months. There are opportunities to meet professional geologists who will take you out on hikes to discover how some of the canyon’s most famous features were formed.

So next time you’re planning a vacation away, be sure to seriously consider Bryce Canyon National Park. Sure, the views are outstanding, and worth the trip alone; but there is much, much more for you to experience and do. You’re guaranteed an awesome time.

0 0

7 Must-See Places to Put on Your Bucket List

Australia, Destinations, Travel Blog - Ross French - November 4, 2015

Whether you love adventure or just traveling, there’s always something new and exciting to see around the world. Each year, people all over the world visit some of the top tourists spots. When you’re building your travel bucket list, make sure to add in some of these places. From the wide Grand Canyon to the sights and lights of Rome, put a different location on your travel to-do list every year. Make it a point to see each of these places. Take a look at the top seven places to put on your travel bucket list.

1. Grand Canyon

With people coming from all over the world, this natural wonder is truly a sight to see. Not only does the Grand Canyon span miles and miles of the western United States, but it is also known worldwide as one of the most beautiful places in the world. From gazing out at the deep canyon to taking a ride or hiking to the bottom, you’ll be amazed at the view and the activities to do. For the more adventurous travelers, raft down the Colorado River deep inside the canyon. Take a donkey ride down a winding gorge trail, or take a hike down near the Havasu Falls. You’ll love how many sights and activities there are to do!

2. New York City

The city that never sleeps is the perfect tourist destination for those looking for a bucket list trip. Not only is Times Square a beautiful place to enjoy the lights and sounds of the city, but Central Park is a little piece of paradise right in the middle of the skyscrapers. With museums, restaurants, Broadway shows, and shopping perfect for every age, there are hundreds of things to see and do in the city. Catch the subway to the different burbs or head into New Jersey from the city for more sights to see. Make sure to take a boat to the Statue of Liberty or take a river cruise down the Hudson.

3. Great Barrier Reef, Australia

More of an adventure than a place, the Great Barrier Reef is one of the most beautiful places in the world. Off the coast of Australia, it is the largest coral reef in the entire world. With reefs in the Caribbean coming in a close second, nothing compares to seeing the reef up close and personal. For the more adventurous traveler, grab a boat and head to the center of the reef for some of the best snorkeling and scuba diving in the world. You’ll take in some of the most amazing colors, fish, and marine life under the sea. There are thousands of different marine life species to see throughout the miles and miles of reef.

4. Niagara Falls

The perfect location for a trip the United States or Canada, Niagara Falls is right between the two. Nothing is more spectacular then getting up close and personal with a chartered boat, or take in the full picture at one of the many observation decks. After time viewing the Falls, there are museums, zoos, aquariums, and other sights to see in your spare time. Bring the entire family or go alone for rafting or rapids navigating. You’ll love how many beautiful and exciting things there are to do and see!

5. Machu Picchu, Peru

Located high in the Andes Mountains of South America, Machu Picchu is an Inca city and worship center unlike any others. With terraces, ancient monuments, and pyramids to visit, it’s a history buffs dream. As an astrological center, the Inca peoples use the area for predicting future events, worshipping gods, and growing crops. The terraces are unlike any other in the world, and the views from atop the mountain are not to be missed. Explore the temples or climb high up on the mountain for even more spectacular views and photo-ops.

6. Great Wall of China

Built as early as the 7th century BC, the Great Wall of China was originally built for protection from enemy armies. However, now it has become one of the biggest tourist destinations in the world. Taking up over 5,500 miles long, there are things to see all along the way. Focus on one area or make a week-long trip of seeing as many different parts as you can. Walk along the top of the wall or take a mountain slide back down to the bottom. Hike some of the most notorious sections of the wall with a guide or take a historical tour for more information about the marvel.

7. Rome, Italy

As the capitol of Italy, Rome is the perfect mixture of the modern and the ancient world. With cobblestone streets, some of the most beautiful architecture in the world, and ancient locations perfect for history lovers, Rome has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for world-renowned shopping or the sights of years past, there are tours available for whatever interests you. Take a stroll through the Colosseum or head to the Vatican City for a glimpse at the Pope. Rome is truly a traveler’s dream!

Image by Bruce Tuten Under Creative Common License.

0 0

Newer Posts

Posts for Adventure