Imagine your standing in front of a rainforest wall of ancient trees and other greenery. As you inhale a breath of fresh air, you can hear exotic birds chirping, native frogs croaking, and the scurrying of humble marsupials on the rainforest floor. It’s this kind of wilderness and wildlife experience that travellers who are looking for a more ‘down-to-earth’ holiday drool over - and who can blame them?! We share our favourite holidays that explore landscapes and habitats untouched by civilization, and are sure to breathe new life into your soul.
Huka Lodge, New Zealand
New Zealand
Offering complex and magical landscapes, New Zealand’s nature scene is one that has become known internationally. Imagine vibrant green mountains and rolling rolls, rich thermal regions and sweeping coastline views. Those looking to embrace wilderness experiences can be seen kayaking through Milford Sound, taking a soak in thermal hot springs in Rotorua or navigating through luminous caves home to glowworm colonies. Explore New Zealand’s admired remoteness with a stay at Huka Lodge in Taupo surrounded by lush wilderness, a clear blue creek and views of snow-capped mountain peaks. View more New Zealand Lodges »
Sonora Resort, Canada
Canada
Wilderness experiences, although more common in warmer climates, are just as magical in cooler climates...sometimes even more so. Enter Canada, which is notoriously known for their cool weather - and with that cool weather, some wilderness experiences that are unique to this area. Brown bears frolicking in dewy grass and moose grazing on nature's surroundings are just some of the amazing wildlife in this area. Experience Canada’s complete wilderness with a range of wildlife experience with a stay at Sonora Resort on Sonora Island. This luxurious resort is the perfect place to experience Canada wilderness with B.C themed lodges, breathtaking landscape views and exquisite dining. There’s also ample opportunity for experiences like salmon fishing, grizzly bear tours, ocean kayaking, whale watching and so much more. Take a peek at the divine Sonora Resort »
Chena Huts, Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka may not be a region you think of when choosing a wilderness and wildlife escape. But there’s some pretty impressive experiences worth mentioning. Sinharaja Forest Reserve is an extraordinary biodiverse reserve supporting over 80% of the islands’ bird species as well as butterflies, insects and amphibians. Or visit Udawalawe National Park, home to over 400 Asian elephants. It can be hard to encapsulate all wildlife experiences in one place - that's why Chena Huts in Yala National Park is so highly desired. Relax in the exclusive, luxuriously appointed and private-plunge-pool laden Chena Huts after your personalised safari in the tropical jungles and lakes surrounding Yala.
Explore more remarkable wildlife experiences »
One&Only Gorilla’s Nest Lodge, Rwanda
Rwanda
A list of wildlife and wilderness experiences wouldn’t be complete without a nod to the remarkable animals that can be found in Africa. With wide open spaces and mass conservation protecting many species, travellers have the chance to see animals in their natural habitat, that may not be possible in any other part of the world. Of course, travellers head to this holiday destination with the goal of seeing the Big 5: a Lion, leopard, rhinoceros, elephant and Cape Buffalo. But there is one more important animal not on the Big 5 list that deserves some recognition. We recommend travelling to Rwanda for a memorable Gorilla experience at the iconic One&Only Gorilla’s Nest Lodge. The resort is described as a chic sanctuary framed by Eucalyptus trees and atmospheric volcanic vistas - the perfect place to retire after Gorilla trekking through the National Park nearby, home to over 340 mountain gorillas.
Read about Rawana’s Kwita Izina - Naming of a baby gorilla ceremony »
