Unique Safaris in Africa: The Trip of a Lifetime

With its enormous landscapes and highly diversified ecosystems, Africa offers some of the most inspiring safari experiences in the world. Each of its destinations offers individual ways to pursue contact with the wild, be it from the ardent thrill of spotting the great Big 5 or from the serene beauty of marine life. Here is a compilation of some of the most distinctive safari journeys across the continent.

Kenya—Adventurous Safari Country

  • Destinations: Masai Mara, Kenya
  • What to See: Arguably, the best spot to witness an abundance of wildlife is where one can experience the Big 5—lions, leopards, rhinoceros, elephants, and buffalo. Of course, the Great Migration, consisting of millions of wildebeest and zebras journeying across Serengeti and Masai Mara in search of green leaves, is a show to watch.
  • How to Get There: Flights from Nairobi to the Masai Mara are scheduled daily from various cities, or you can drive from Nairobi through other major cities in a beautiful route.
  • Best Time to Go: The best time to view games is during the dry season experienced during the Great Migration from July to October.
  • Unique Selling Point: The Masai Mara offers a quintessential safari experience, brimming with wildlife, breathtaking landscapes, and rich Maasai culture.
  • Where to Stay: Options range from luxurious lodges to charming tented camps. Click here to learn more.

Uganda: A Walk on the Wild Side

  • Destinations: Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
  • What to See: It is well known for gorilla trekking. This is an activity that offers the opportunity to walk with some of the rarest mountain gorillas in the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest—a humbling yet thrilling experience at the same time.
  • How to Go: The most convenient way is to land at Entebbe International Airport and proceed to the Bwindi region by taking a connecting flight or a long drive.
  • Best Time to Go: The best time to go is during the dry periods of June to September and December to February.
  • Unique Selling Point: The experience is up close and personal with the gorillas; to literally spend an hour or so with these great primates provides one of the most unique and rare wildlife sightings to be experienced anywhere in the world.
  • Where to Stay: There are a number of eco-lodges and comfortable campsites located around the park that offer everything from camping to self-contained accommodations.

Single-Area Packages

  • Destinations: Ngorongoro Snake Park and Lake Manyara
  • What to See: Combine the thrill of Serengeti National Park, with its famed migration and the Big 5, with the idyllic marine life of Zanzibar. Witness the Great Migration from the Serengeti and laze around on Zanzibar’s untouched beaches, taking in the populous marine wildlife. How to Get There: You may fly in either through Kilimanjaro International Airport, into the Serengeti, or by making a connection at Zanzibar through a short flight.
  • When to go: With proper planning, the Great Migration can be viewed in impressive numbers from the months of June to October, year in and year out. There is always a great beach available in Zanzibar, irrespective of the month.
  • Selling Points: This combination affords a contrast in the diversity of the safari experience, from the savanna of the Serengeti to the richness of marine life and the peaceful beaches of Zanzibar.
  • Accommodation: comfortable lodges in Serengeti and beachfront resorts in Zanzibar catering to a variety of tastes and budgets

South Africa: the epitome of classic safari

  • Places: Kruger National Park
  • To see: Kruger National Park is without a doubt one of the best places for Big 5 viewing. With wide and diverse landscapes, it really turns out to be one of the best places to search for wildlife and have a real safari experience.
  • How to Get There: Fly into Johannesburg or Nelspruit and either transfer or self-drive into Kruger.
  • Best Time of the Year to Go: May to September, dry season—the best time due to less foliage, which makes it easier to spot the wild.
  • What’s Special: Kruger gives one a classic safari feel; the infrastructure is quite good with self-drives, a lot of rest houses, and camping facilities.
  • Where to Stay: Kruger offers various accommodations, from luxury lodges to budget-friendly camps, to enhance your safari adventure.

Botswana and Namibia: Remote Wilderness and Stunning Landscapes

  • Highlight: Okavango Delta (Botswana) and Namib Desert (Namibia)
  • What to See: SEE: In Botswana, this is the Okavango Delta, with its unique wetland ecosystem offering a home to a great variety of wildlife, including elephants and hippos. Namibia provides the dramatic dunes of the Namib Desert and plenty of game viewing in Etosha National Park.
  • How to go: Maun for the Okavango Delta, Windhoek for Namibia. Transfers to safari camps and lodges are usually part of the package.
  • Best Time to Go: The best time to watch wildlife in both Botswana and Namibia is the dry season, from May to October.
  • Experiences: Botswana promises water-based safaris in the Okavango Delta, whereas a Namibia safari is perfect for a journey into dramatic contrasts and loneliness.
  • Where to Stay: Sample stays in both countries with extravagant lodges and tented camps.

Conclusion

Whether it’s the thrill of the Great Migration, the close and personal experience of trekking with gorillas, or even the wildlife and varied landscapes of Southern Africa, each African destination offers something far beyond the ordinary. Allow us to plan your journey through the breathtaking beauty and abundance of wildlife on this majestic continent.

For detailed information on accommodation details and how to book a safari, click here to explore more and begin your adventure.

See the World by Sea: Exploring Unique Destinations Through Cruises

The magic of cruising extends beyond on-board luxury and panoramic vistas of the sea to include some of the most remote and breathtaking corners of the world, from icy polar regions to sun-kissed Greek isles. Cruising brings to your fingertips places that are often inaccessible by any other way—indeed, a very exciting way. Here’s a take on a few extraordinary itineraries and journeys that illustrate all that’s best about our world from the sea.

  1. Antarctica Expeditions

The ultimate last pristine wilderness on our planet—Antarctica is the place for discovery that provides travellers with the privilege of enjoying the raw power and beauty of nature.

Unique Highlights:
  • Penguin Colonies: This frozen continent is home to several classes of penguins, including Emperors and Adelies. You positively may not ever forget the chance to view their social activities and pranks.
  • Glacial Landscapes: Enormous snow and ice shelves and giant glaciers like the Ross Ice Shelf and the Antarctic Peninsula mould a dramatic, adrenaline-filled landscape.
  • Scientific Stations: Stations like McMurdo Station provide an understanding of scientific studies on climate change and glaciology.
  • Historic Exploration Huts: Historic huts from early 20th-century expeditions allow a look into the lives of these pioneers, like Shackleton and Scott.

At last, there is the southernmost continent, Antarctica. It’s a land of extreme superlatives—a massive ice field of silence and stark beauty. It also sends chills that can bring visitors into contact with another world. The least studied and most remote place on Earth today provides that undisputed and unique experience for those truly in search of adventure, solitude, and survival in a genuine environment of nature.

  1. Northern Lights Polar Expeditions

Chasing the Northern Lights is an exceptional, charming adventure in some of the remotest reaches of the polar world.

Unique Highlights:
  • Aurora Borealis: The best places to see the Northern Lights are in high-latitude areas, where the Earth’s magnetic field meets the solar wind. Observe this ghostly show of green, pink, and violet lights that giggle across the Arctic sky.
  • Ice Fjords: Sail by magnificent ice fjords, such as Norway’s Geirangerfjord or Svalbard’s icy waters, whereby imposing ice formations and a frozen landscape set a great scene for the auroras.
  • Arctic Wildlife: Keep your eyes out for Arctic wildlife, including polar bears, reindeer, and Arctic foxes, typically set against the white background of the snowy landscape.
  • Polar Nights: Experience polar nights themselves when the sun has not risen above the horizon. This phenomenon creates a type of twilight sky that, by far, provides the most optimal conditions for watching the aurora.

The Arctic regions represent both harsh environments and very dark, long winters. Under these conditions, it provides the perfect canvas for the Northern Lights, a type of celestial display that paints the sky with its colourful patterns. Besides that, the Arctic is home to a wide variety of wildlife adapted to the harsh conditions of the region, which has turned it into a destination of natural wonder and scientific interest.

  1. Alaska: Cruises from Vancouver

The scenic landforms and wildlife of Alaska are just stunning when viewed from a sea-based perspective. 

Unique Highlights: 
  • Glacier Bay National Park: Standing amidst silence, feel the roar of Glacier Bay as vast sheets of ice calve from great glaciers such as the Margerie Glacier, creating thunderous splashes and icebergs.
  • Denali National Park—or, more exactly, by boat. The sight of the soaring Denali in the water is really something to behold. On side trips’ ranges, closer glances at that graceful peak are obtained.
  • Wildlife Viewing: Here you can witness humpback whales breaching from the water, sea lions sunbathing on ice floes, and bald eagles above.
  • Historic Gold Rush Towns: Visit the charming historic towns that seem to retain in the present time the spirit of the Klondike Gold Rush of yesteryear, like Skagway.

Alaska is a land of contrasts defined by its rugged coastlines, towering mountains, and vast wilderness areas that are pockmarked with quaint villages. Known for dramatic scenery, here it is possible to see a wild and unspoiled part of the world. Interesting cultural heritage, including the Gold Rush past, adds a layer to the state’s incredible natural wonders.

  1. Greenland and Iceland: Unique Land Masses Best Explored by Water

Greenland and Iceland are endowed with tremendous natural beauty, all best viewed from the sea.

Unique highlights:
  • Greenland Icefjord: Ilulissat Icefjord, a UNESCO World Heritage Site,  is famous for its dramatic icebergs and calving activity. The gigantic ice formations here are a thrilling visual sight.
  • Iceland—Volcanic Landscapes: The coastline of Iceland is adorned with such volcanic features as geysers, the points of volcanic craters, and lava fields. The landscapes around Reykjavik and the Golden Circle are most dramatically seen from the water. 
  • Hot Springs: A very Icelandic activity is bathing in the geothermal hot springs, like the Blue Lagoon, amid a snowy landscape, warmed by the mineral waters.
  • Coastal Villages: Visit small coastal villages such as Sisimiut in Greenland, with its colourful houses and Inuit heritage, or Vik in Iceland, famous for the black sand beaches and dramatic sea stacks.

In contrast to landscapes, the icy expanses of Greenland present a complete antithesis to the geothermal activity of Iceland, which has a very varied range of natural wonders. Both destinations exhibit rugged beauty and geological creations that are unique in many ways, with exploration from the sea being very interesting.

  1. Greek Isles: Exploring Greece Through Sea Cruises

The Greek Isles are a treasure trove of history, culture, and splendid landscapes, best explored over their surrounding sea.

Unique Highlights:

  • Santorini’s Caldera: The presence of the ancient volcanic crater creates a dramatic backdrop to the island’s whitewashed buildings and blue waters, spectacularly visible from cliff top villages on this island.
  • Mykonos’ Lifelong Culture: Literally, one can say that when it comes to Mykonos, it has a vivid nightlife and beautiful beaches. Walk through the small streets of the old city, with its small stores all around; you can breathe in a cosmopolitan feel.
  • Ancient Ruins of Crete: Crete harbours the ruins of the ancient Minoan palace of Knossos, which is one of the greatest archaeological sites in Greece. It forms the material related to the early Aegean civilization.
  • Medieval Old Town of Rhodes: Rhodes has a mediaeval old town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, hosting well-preserved mediaeval walls, streets with cobbling, and landmarks of great historical importance.

The Greek Islands, with their great history, vibrant cultures, and great coastal vistas, bejewel the land. All three of the islands have their own unique charm; from the romantic sunsets of Santorini and the lively atmosphere of Mykonos to the historic resonance of Crete, maybe this is why it captures me. These days, tasting the bygone era feels so real on these islands in the middle of the Mediterranean.

Final Thoughts

You will experience one-of-a-kind cruises that can be experienced at some of the most remarkable destinations on earth. From frozen Antarctica to the sun-kissed shores of the Greek Isles, your experience will be a new one every time, full of unbelievable moments. Experience the beauty and adventure of these extraordinary places by the sea like never before.

For more details on these incredible cruise destinations and to start planning your next adventure, click here.

Bhutan’s Enchantment

Nestled in the Himalayas, Bhutan harmoniously blends urban life with nature. Thimphu, the capital, showcases vibrant markets and lively cafes, reflecting a mix of modernity and tradition. The tranquil town of Paro features serene landscapes and a strong sense of community, emphasizing agriculture and craftsmanship. Punakha offers picturesque views where daily life and local culture thrive amid natural beauty. Together, these cities embody Bhutan’s commitment to preserving identity while embracing change.

Magical Train Journeys

There is something essentially magical about train travel. From the rhythmic chug of the train engine to the ever-changing views framed at your window, this combination of adventure and comfort in a seamless blend stays unparalleled. With Anecdotes, we bring together the most opulent and most exclusive rail journeys across the globe to present you with an escape in which the experience is as much about the journey as the destination itself. 

Let’s look at some of the most unique rail journeys our world has to offer!

The Venice Simplon-Orient Express: Europe’s Timeless Elegance

The Venice Simplon-Orient Express is often regarded as the epitome of luxury rail travel. This legendary train is an inspiration for numerous novels and cinematic works, and onboard, one will take a sentimental journey through some of the most breathtaking landscapes in Europe. From London to Venice and Paris to Istanbul, this Orient Express journey—already steeped in history, elegance, and romance—awaits.

Each of the well-restored carriages speak for themselves, in providing elements from the 1920s: Art Deco interiors, refined furnishings, and exclusive service. Gourmet meals concocted by top chefs offer the best dining experience on board. Every moment inside this train feels like being whisked through time, enveloped in rich luxury.

Anecdotes Suggested Itineraries: 

Paris to Budapest (Round-trip) 

Paris to Vienna (Round-trip)

Paris to Venice (Overnight Journey)

Best Time to Travel– April – October 

The Rocky Mountaineer: Canada’s Spectacular Scenery

Imagine yourself winding through the Canadian Rockies, surrounded by towering peaks, cascading waterfalls, and lush forests. The Rocky Mountaineer will get you all this and much more. This world-renowned train journey offers unparalleled views of Canada’s most wonderful landscapes from the comfort of a luxurious seat.

The Rocky Mountaineer routes include Vancouver to Banff or Jasper and pass through regions inaccessible by road, offering a front-row viewpoint of the grandeur of nature. Glass-domed coaches provide expansive vistas, while gourmet cuisine, exceptional service, and fascinating storytelling complement your journey. This is an adventure that promises both relaxation and astounding beauty.

Anecdotes Recommended Itineraries:

Essential Rockies by Train

Vancouver to Banff – 6 Days

Best Time to Travel– April to October 

As an addition, Anecdotes also recommends combining the Rocky Mountaineer trains with a splendid Cruise through the Alaska landscape. Anecdotes cruise tour, offering a bucket list combination of cruise & rail experience, would include a one-week roundtrip cruise from Vancouver, covering glacial highlights of Alaska, followed by a train journey through the Rockies.

The Eastern & Oriental Express, A Belmond Train: Asia’s Exotic Elegance

For those in search of a journey that delivers an essential insight into the mystique and allure of Southeast Asia, the Eastern and Oriental Express has no bounds. This luxurious train meanders across Thailand, Malaysia, and Singapore, effortlessly blending cultures, landscapes, and experiences.

The interior of the train echoes the exotic charm of the region, sporting rich panelling, silk-upholstered furnishings, and intricate decoration. Each cabin is an oasis of comfort, featuring en-suite facilities and panoramic windows. Dining celebrates Asian and international cuisine, skillfully prepared using the freshest ingredients. The journey gives a subliminal view, from pulsating and vibrant cityscapes to rural tranquillity, into the heart of Southeastern Asia.

Anecdotes Recommended Itineraries: 

Three Nights Essence of Malaysia

Best time to travel– November-February

The Belmond Andean Explorer: Peru’s Breathtaking Highlands

The Belmond Andean Explorer is amongst South America’s finest luxury sleeper trains and will take you on an extraordinary journey through the Andean highlands of Peru. From the old Inca city of Cusco via breathtaking Lake Titicaca to the elegant, colonial town of Arequipa, the train journey gives a unique perspective to the rich cultural and natural heritage.

Inherent in the coach design, the rich colours and traditional patterns of Peru, evoke warm elegance. There is also an observation car with superb panoramic views of dramatic landscapes. Onboard, you will enjoy gourmet dining crafted from locally sourced ingredients, paired with the highest level of service. This is the journey that combines adventure and luxury and gets you up close and personal with breathtaking scenery.

Anecdotes Recommended Itineraries: 

Andean Plains and Islands of Discovery

2 nights: Arequipa – Puno – Cusco

Best time to travel-August- December

The Maharajas’ Express: India’s Royal Splendor

Experience the Royal lifestyle, onboard India’s famous Maharajas’ Express. This award-winning journey takes you on the gilded lives of India’s maharajas, with routes covering some of the iconic destinations across the country, from the hustle of Delhi and Mumbai to the serene landscapes across Rajasthan.

The Maharajas’ Express interiors pay homage to royal India: luxurious cabins, exquisite dining cars, and lavish lounges. Every journey is a cultural odyssey, with excursions off the train to some of India’s most famous landmarks, including the Taj Mahal and Jaipur’s Amber Fort. This onboard culinary experience is a feast for the senses, with a menu that showcases the best of Indian and international cuisine. This isn’t a train journey, but a royal adventure.

Anecdotes Recommended Itineraries:

The Indian Splendour (6 Nights/ 7 Days)

Delhi – Agra – Ranthambore – Jaipur – Jodhpur – Udaipur – Mumbau

Best time to travel- October- April

Anecdotes recommends combining the rail journey with a classical tour of North India including Delhi, Varanasi and Rishikesh, or a south India experience, including Kerala and Goa.

The Ghan: Australia’s Epic Expedition

The Ghan stretches right across the Australian continent, from Adelaide to Darwin. On board this iconic train voyage, you’ll travel across some of the contrasting landscapes of Australia—from South Australia’s rolling hills to the red deserts of the Outback and finally, the tropical north.

The Ghan offers luxurious cabins, gourmet dining, and immersive off-train experiences—a fully inclusive package. It is designed to encompass the grandeur of the natural and cultural wonders of Australia, including the breaking journeys in Alice Springs and Katherine Gorge. Its interior comfort is well balanced, with a different outside view running from the window to evoke both relaxation and excitement.

Anecdotes Recommended Itineraries: 

The Ghan Expedition between Darwin and Adelaide.

3 nights/ 4 days

Best Time to travel– April – November

In Essence…

At Anecdotes, we believe that journey’s have the potential to create tales of a lifetime! Our selection of rail journeys are crafted to allow one to experience the world in a unique and classical form. From the elegance of Europe to the wild beauty in Africa, mysteriousness in Asia, and majestic landscapes in Australia and South America – these are journey‘s designed to capture your heart and soul.

Join us on one of these unforgettable rail adventures, and let us help you create your Anecdotes through these journeys! Connect with us, to plan your next travel experience!

Captivating Croatia

Discover Croatia and Slovenia’s rich heritage: Dubrovnik’s medieval fortifications from the 16th century, Split’s UNESCO-listed Diocletian’s Palace, and Plitvice Lakes National Park’s turquoise lakes. In Slovenia, experience Lake Bled’s charm, Ljubljana’s urban planning, and Škocjan Caves’ underground marvels, alongside Lipica Stud Farm and Predjama Castle’s historical wonders.

Exploring Europe by Cruise

Embark on a captivating journey through Europe, where contrasting landscapes and rich cultural tapestries await. From the somber shores of the Baltic to the radiant blues of the Aegean, and from the ancient fortresses to the towering skylines, immerse yourself in the allure of Europe aboard a cruise.

Cruising Through Alaska’s Untamed Beauty

Embark on an extraordinary journey through Alaska’s pristine wilderness and rugged coastline on an Alaska cruise adventure. Discover the awe-inspiring beauty of towering glaciers, majestic fjords, and abundant wildlife as you navigate some of the most scenic waterways on Earth.

From the comfort of your cruise ship, you’ll witness the dramatic calving of glaciers in Glacier Bay National Park, marvel at the towering peaks of the Inside Passage, and cruise through icy waters surrounded by snow-capped mountains and pristine forests. Along the way, keep an eye out for whales breaching, eagles soaring overhead, and bears foraging along the shoreline.

Tosamaidan

Tosamaidan – the king of meadows in Kashmir lies towards the west of Srinagar. It is the base to explore many amazing lakes, meadow upon meadows, mountain passes and peaks, gushing rivers and landscapes which are full of flora and fauna. The lush green pastures covered by pine and cedar forests added with varieties of wildflowers make this entire area a trekkers’ Mecca.

Wildlife Sanctuaries in India

If you are looking to trail a tiger or track an elephant, India has the most exciting wildlife parks where you can do so. Its diverse landscape invites you to take a look into its rich wildlife that varies in every region, ensuring a different experience each time. So, put on your ranger’s hat and board this thrilling safari that will bring you a step closer to the country’s exotic wild.

Ranthambore National Park, Rajasthan
The Ranthambore National Park is one of the last sanctuaries where the Royal Bengal Tiger roams free. Spread over 392 sq kms and located just 130 kms away from Jaipur, the deciduous forests of Ranthambore make for great wildlife viewing and though besides the tiger, one can spot other game like sambar, chital and panthers, it is primarily the tiger that one comes here for. Early morning and late afternoon safaris will take you to possible spots where a tiger and some of its cubs may cross your path.

So come to Ranthambore and nine times out of ten you are bound to catch sight of the majestic tiger in all its natural glory. It’s a sight like no other – unique and exciting!

Bandhavgarh National Park, Madhya Pradesh
Sheltered in the Vindhyas of Madhya Pradesh, the Bandhavgarh National Park was the original home of the precious white tigers where they were first sighted in Rewa. The lush greens of this wild paradise are spread across 437 sq. Kms of land. So there’s a lot the wildlife enthusiasts can look forward to. Nilgai, Chinkara and Wild boars are amongst those easily sighted. Spotting a fox could be tricky. The park boasts of a healthy population of tigers which translates into extremely favourable chances of a sighting. Meet all of them and the others at the woods of Bandhavgarh, where pristine nature embraces the wild.

Kaziranga National Park, Assam
Spot the rhino’s head on the map of India and you’ll know where Kaziranga is. Habitat of the one horned rhinoceros, paradise for wild elephants and water buffalos, a prominent tiger reserve and a world heritage site in the state of Assam, the Kaziranga National Park is a haven for the wild. Ride through its meadows and marshes for a tete-a-tete with the Hog deer, sloth bears, capped langoors and some of the largest pythons in the world. Or stick close to its rivers and you’ll probably see the Gangetic Dolphins in full swing. For more, come to Kaziranga and discover some exotic surprises on its wild vistas.

Sunderbans, West Bengal
Enshrined in the swamped mangroves at the tip of Bengal is the kingdom of Royal Bengal tigers known as Sunderbans National Park. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Sunderbans are spread over a massive land mass of 4264 sq Kms, disappearing towards the south into the sea. The swamps help you locate the striped beasts seen resting in the estuarine mangroves, escaping the scorching heat. And since you’re there, you may also get to see snakes, crocodiles and fishing cats, all looking forward to preying on tiny marine species. Sunderbans treasure numerous rarities of flora and fauna making it the finest destination for an unmatched wild adventure. So get here and be a part of this unique experience.

Gir Wildlife Sanctuary, Gujarat
The last preserve of the Asiatic Lion, Gir Wildlife Sanctuary sits at the brink of peninsular Gujarat in the southwestern belt of dry deciduous forests. One of India’s prime wildlife attractions, Gir is a flourishing hub for the big cats, which includes lions as well as leopards. In fact, Gir has the largest number of leopards in the country. The sanctuary’s waters are known to be infested with numerous muggers or marsh crocodiles catering to the reptilian interests of spectators. However, it’s the majestic prides scattered sparsely throughout the sanctuary’s territory that leave visitors awe struck upon an encounter and place Gir in a special category of wildlife conservation centers.

Cultural Bhutan

JourneyMart presents a series of exclusive experiences in Bhutan!

Join us to explore the soaring peak of the Himalayas “A travel experience like no other”.

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