The post Wildlife To Look Out For In Milford Sound appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>Keas
Keas are alpine parrots found in mountainous regions of the South Island of New Zealand. They are famous for their cheeky personalities, and they can be found interacting with tourists on the Milford Sound Highway which leads to the fiord. They are also known to attack the rubber on cars so bear this in mind if you stop to see one!
Fiordland Crested Penguins
Fiordland Crested Penguins are found only in Fiordland and as an endangered species, they are one of the rarest penguins in the world. Best seen from a Milford Sound cruise, they are identifiable through their orange beak and bright blonde feathers on the side of their head.
Fur Seals
Fur seals are a regular at Milford Sound as they reside there all year round. They are also best seen from a cruise, as the boat takes you past Seal Rock, where fur seals like to bask in the sun. Having been endangered in the 19th century, they are thankfully now making a recovery.
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]]>The post The Best Safari Destinations in Africa for Wildlife Spotting appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>Serengeti National Park, Tanzania
Serengeti is the ultimate destination for wildlife enthusiasts. It is home to the “Big Five” (lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhino), as well as a variety of other species like cheetahs, giraffes, zebras, and wildebeests.
Okavango Delta, Botswana
The Okavango Delta is a unique ecosystem that is home to a variety of wildlife such as lions, elephants, hippos, crocodiles, and antelopes. One of the best ways to explore the delta is by mokoro (traditional dugout canoe), which allows you to get up close and personal with the wildlife.
Maasai Mara National Reserve, Kenya
Maasai Mara is known for its stunning landscapes and abundant wildlife, including lions, elephants, buffalos, cheetahs, and wildebeests. It is also the site of the annual wildebeest migration, where millions of wildebeests and zebras cross over from the Serengeti in search of fresh grazing lands.
Kruger National Park, South Africa
Kruger is one of the oldest and largest game reserves in Africa, covering an area of about 19,500 square kilometers. It is home to the Big Five, as well as a variety of other species such as hippos, crocodiles, and antelopes.
Chobe National Park, Botswana
Chobe is known for its huge herds of elephants, which can often be seen bathing and playing in the Chobe River. It is also home to a variety of other species such as lions, leopards, hyenas, and buffalos.
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]]>The post Essential Tips to Stay Safe While Camping appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>Choosing Your Campsite
Before you even head outdoors, do some research on your potential campsites to check for any abnormal weather alerts or wildlife activity happening in the area. Read up on the terrain conditions, opting for established campsites with designated fire pits when possible. Within your chosen campsite, set up your things away from low-lying areas that may be prone to flash flooding, keeping safe distance from any cliffs or steep slopes.
(@mizunogorilla)Fire Safety
Campfires are a central part of camping, but they’re also the most dangerous if not managed properly. Research any regulations or restrictions at your campsite in advance, and once you’ve arrived, thoroughly clear the area around the fire pit of any flammable debris. Have a few gallons of water nearby just in case, and never leave a fire unattended. Make sure the fire and any embers are extinguished before you to go sleep or leave the campsite.
Wildlife Awareness
Encountering animals up close can be exciting, but it’s important to remember that even the cutest critters are still wild animals. To avoid attracting any unwanted visitors, keep food stored securely in bear-resistant containers or hung from a tree. Learn about the local wildlife and their habits, and resist the temptation to get too close if you come across them. For extra protection, consider carrying bear spray or a homemade vinegar-based repellent.
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]]>The post What to Pack for an Epic Jungle Adventure! appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>Lightweight and Breathable Clothing
When packing for a jungle trip, prioritize lightweight and breathable clothing that will keep you cool and protected from the elements. Opt for quick-drying fabrics that wick away moisture, such as moisture-wicking t-shirts, convertible pants, and long-sleeved shirts for sun and insect protection. Don’t forget to pack a wide-brimmed hat and a lightweight rain jacket for unpredictable weather.
Sturdy Footwear
Traversing the jungle requires reliable and supportive footwear. Pack a pair of sturdy hiking boots with good traction to navigate uneven terrain and protect your feet from insects and potential hazards. Additionally, bring along a pair of comfortable water shoes or sandals for river crossings or relaxing by the water.
Insect Repellent and Sunscreen
The jungle is a buzzing paradise for insects, so be sure to pack a high-quality insect repellent to keep those pesky critters at bay. Look for repellents that contain DEET or other recommended active ingredients. Don’t forget to pack a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a high SPF to shield your skin from the intense jungle sun.
(@jameegood)Essential Survival Gear
In the wild jungle, it’s essential to be prepared for unexpected situations. Pack a basic first aid kit with essentials like band-aids, antiseptic wipes, and any necessary prescription medications. Additionally, bring a reliable pocket knife, a waterproof map, a compass, a whistle, and a flashlight for navigation and emergencies. A compact waterproof bag or dry sack is also crucial for protecting your belongings from rain and humidity.
Water and Snacks
Staying hydrated and energized is essential in the jungle. Carry a sturdy water bottle or a hydration bladder to ensure a constant supply of water during your adventures. Pack high-energy snacks like trail mix, granola bars, and dried fruits to keep your energy levels up throughout the day.
Camera and Binoculars
Don’t forget to capture the awe-inspiring moments and incredible wildlife encounters in the jungle. Pack a reliable camera or a smartphone with a good camera feature to document your journey. Additionally, bring a pair of lightweight binoculars to spot wildlife from a distance and enhance your jungle experience.
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]]>The post Where to See Pandas While Visiting China appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>Dujiangyan Panda Base
Dujiangyan is a wildlife facility specializing in panda rescue and preservation, but they also have a viewing center where the public can come and enjoy watching pandas as they romp around the panda playground. They even have a program where you can assist keepers in caring for the pandas!
Wolong Panda Base
At Wolong, not only can you watch the pandas and assist the base keepers in taking care of them, you even have the option to go hiking in a wild panda habitat. Wolong Nature Reserve is considered the “hometown” of wild pandas, making it one of the best places for panda-viewing.
Guangzhou Chimelong Safari Park
Guangzhou is the perfect place to bring any panda-loving children—the park has a Little Panda Keeper program designed for children ages 5 and up to learn about pandas and visit the panda house. It also has a cafeteria that looks out into a space where pandas run around and play.
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]]>The post The Best Locations for Wildlife Spotting in Australia appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>The Great Barrier Reef
Visitors to the Great Barrier Reef off the coast of Queensland can expect to see an array of colorful fish, sea turtles, and even whales and dolphins. Entrance fees start at $115 for a One Day Tour and vary depending on which activities you choose to participate in.
(@greenislandcairns)Kakadu National Park
The Kakadu National Park in Australia’s Northern Territory is a great place to spot crocodiles in their natural habitat. Visitors can also see an abundance of birdlife, wallabies, and even wild horses. Entry for adults costs $40 per person during the dry season, and family passes are available at a discounted rate.
Phillip Island Nature Parks
While penguins may not be the first animal that comes to mind when considering Australian wildlife, the Phillip Island Nature Parks in Victoria is actually a great place to see penguins up close. Visitors can watch the famous “Penguin Parade” as hundreds of little penguins waddle up the beach to their burrows. We recommend purchasing the Four Parks Pass, which includes the best view of the Parade as well as opportunities to interact with koalas, birds, and more.
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]]>The post Discover the Wild Side of Rwanda Tracking Silverback Gorillas appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>Africa is home to about 1,000 mountain gorillas, about one-third of which are currently in Volcanoes National Park in northwest Rwanda. The gorillas live together in twelve groups known as families throughout the park and are monitored and protected by local rangers.
On the day of your track, you’ll embark on a hike through the rainforest alongside experienced trackers who will lead you to the gorillas’ location. Expect the hike to take 30 minutes to 4 hours depending on the location of the family your group will visit. Once you’ve arrived, you’ll have an hour to observe the gorillas in their natural habitat.
For an extra adorable experience, consider planning your trip during Kwita Izina, an annual naming ceremony to celebrate the birth of the country’s newborn baby gorillas. Visitors looking to plan a track can book a permit online or with a tour guide in advance.
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]]>The post A Cheetah Casually Roaming Around a South African Resort is Giving TikTok Users Heart Palpatations appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>That said, a video has made it to TikTok which is placing doubt on that misconception…
The clip, taken in the Limpopo province in South Africa, shows a cheetah casually strolling in a lounge and has the caption “King of Speed”. Four people are present at a dining table on the balcony, and not one seems to bat an eyelid!
In fact, if you look closely, you can spot another wild cat sitting calmly in the background.
@jacog9 African beauty #viral #nature #africa #cheetah #pet #fyp #southafrica #SAMA28 #southafricatiktok #explore #viralvideo #foryou #lifestyle #nofilter ♬ Asimbonanga – Johnny Clegg & Savuka
Being around predatory animals like these is definitely not common, as evidenced by the video’s amusing comments.
“Y’all are really making it hard for us to prove we don’t chill with wild animals, how can we defend ourselves after this now,” read on that included several laughing emojis. Another stated, “What’s the name of this place? So that I never go there!”
Many other TikTok users wondered how the people had remained calm, claiming they would have fainted or jumped on top of the table!
As they always say, Africa ain’t for sissies!
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]]>The post All About the Galapagos Islands appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>Kicker Rock a.k.a. Sleeping Lion
This rock is actually one of the many islands in the Galapagos and is named for the way it resembles a sleeping lion. It’s considered one of the best places to go diving and perfect for seeing wildlife.
Snorkeling
Grab your wetsuit and head out with any of the local snorkeling companies for a fun day of diving. The water is inhabited by turtles, dolphins, reef sharks, and more that you can see up close and personal.
Take a Boat Tour Around the Islands
For those who don’t love swimming but still want to see all there is to see in the Galapagos, boat tours are available. You can take day trips to single islands or stretch your trip out into a week-long cruise. If you’re lucky, you may even catch a glimpse of jumping dolphins from your boat.
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]]>The post The Best Zoos Around the World appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>Bronx Zoo, New York
The Bronx zoo is over a hundred years old and houses the very first animal hospital in the world. It’s one of the biggest zoos in the U.S., with the Bronx River flowing right down its middle and no less than 6,000 animals of over 700 species. It’s easily accessible from the city, so this is a great option if you need something to do on a day off in New York.
Singapore Zoo, Singapore
Out in the forests of Singapore, the well-known Singapore Zoo features 11 different “zones” with over 2,800 animals from all different climates and habitats. Spread across 69 acres, it is renowned for its perfectly curated atmosphere and learning experiences.
Taronga Zoo, Australia
Across the water from Sydney, the 69-acre, 105-year-old Taronga Zoo houses tons of species with a specialty in the abundant wildlife native to the Australian continent. In addition to the waterfront view of Sydney, it also houses several endangered species.
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