african safaris - wilderness travel · 2016-01-25 · others do. responsible for establishing...

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W I T H W I L D E R N E S S T R AV E L

Special Offer on

Our Small Group Safaris

$500 discount per person for the first

six sign-ups on most 2016 group safaris. Call us! African Safaris

www.wildernesstravel.com2

Safari—the word means “journey” in

Swahili, and conjures up images of

endless savannas, incredible wildlife,

and once-in-a-lifetime experiences.

Wilderness Travel is committed to designing

the absolute best safaris in the world,

bringing you off the beaten path for the

thrilling gameviewing and beautiful camps

and lodges you’ve dreamed of. Our safari

program is as vast and varied as the

continent’s magnificent landscapes: active

adventures, special conservation safaris,

the best route up Kili, and cultural safaris

that witness ancient festivals. Each of

these journeys has been created with our

signature—and award-winning—attention

to detail. Explore our offerings in the

pages that follow, and contact our Africa

Specialists to find the perfect safari for you.

We welcome you to join us!

Bill Abbott, Founder and President

Be Our Guest

Table of ContentsWhy Wilderness Travel . . . . 5The Right Safari for You . . . 6Accommodations . . . . . . . . . 8Our Expert Guides . . . . . . . . 10A Day on Safari . . . . . . . . . . 12Group Departures . . . . . . . . 14Private Journeys . . . . . . . . 30Cultural Journeys. . . . . . . . 38Map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44Giving Back . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46Your Safari Experts& Trip Finder . . . . . . . . . . . . 47

DiscoverAfrica’s wonders

Questions? 1.800.368.2794 or email [email protected] 3

Discover

For a Detailed Itinerary: 1.800.368.2794 or email [email protected]

No elephant ever

complained about

the weight ofits trunk.

—African Proverb

Expertsthe true safari

contact us at 1.800.368.2794 and www.wildernesstravel.com 5

Dreaming of an authentic Hemingway-style mobile

safari in Botswana combined with exquisite lodges in

the Okavango? Or witnessing the astounding wildebeest

migration of the Serengeti from an exclusive private

camp, without another group in sight? How about

world-class hiking along South Africa’s Garden Route

combined with a fantastic safari? We’ve got these and

more. Our goal is for you to have the ultimate safari

experience, from amazing wildlife encounters (and

photos!), to enchanting camps and lodges. We take

care of all the details so that you can fully experience

the wonder and discovery of safari, the sense that, as

Isak Dinesen wrote, “Here I am, where I ought to be.”

Exciting, Romantic, Adventurous... All of the Above!

Let us share with you all that we know,

and love, about Africa. Our safari

program is unparalleled, offering you

the widest range of choices, yet always

with WT’s legendary excellence,

creativity, superb guides and phenomenal

service. We have been exploring the

continent for four decades, and have

the expertise to offer you safaris you’ll

find nowhere else.

Why Wilderness Travel?

I will long remember the amazing

wildlife we saw, our safari guides,

and the great group we traveled with. Mark F., Bowie MD

1.800.368.2794 or email [email protected]

Our Small Group departures feature just

8 to 15 guests, and our Private Journeys can

be completely customized. They are ideal for

couples, friends, and families celebrating an

anniversary, a graduation, or a very special

honeymoon. Our team of Africa experts can

help you decide which safari is the best fit—or

they’ll design one just for you.

Active walking safaris, delightful lodge-based

safaris, Hemingway-style mobile tented

safaris, fun family adventures—we’ve

created a safari to match your travel style.

All of our journeys feature exceptional safari

guides, hand-picked accommodations,

and our renowned trip design. Wonderfully

detailed itineraries for each of our journeys

are available on our web site, and we invite

you to get in touch—we’d be delighted to help

you find your perfect safari.

The Right Safari for You

The activities were so

varied and exciting we

could hardly wait to

get going each morning.

The attention to detail

made every aspect

special and the size of

the group was perfect. Ellen W., Oakland CA


Chooseyour safari style


Comfortableperfectly placed & wildly

Whether on one of our luxurious mobile safaris

or an enchanting lodge-based adventure,

we’ll have you in the prime location, close to

the wildlife and far from the crowds. Our

exclusive camps grant you unparalleled

proximity to phenomenal game viewing and

access to pristine sections of the parks. Our

lodges are renowned for their superb locations

and authentic style, wonderfully welcoming

and often a bit indulgent. We want you to

experience the serenity and sense of discovery—

the feeling of having all of Africa to yourself

that is such an important part of a great safari.

Our lodges are chosen for their idyllic settings—wonderfully

near the wildlife, and with enchanting comforts. You will

find delightful spaces for dining and relaxing, and lovely,

romantic bedrooms or villas to retreat to at day’s end. All

of the lodges we have chosen have a deep commitment to

the highest environmental standards, and to the communities

surrounding the parks and the wildlife they protect.

www.wildernesstravel.com 9

Comfortable

Unbelievable! I could never

have imagined that such

delicious meals and gorgeous

lodging would be found in the

wild. It was more than I could

have ever dreamed of—and

the best trip of my life! Carole O., Berkeley CA

Our exclusive mobile camps are

remote and rustic without sacrificing

comfort or romance. They offer large

walk-in tents, hot water showers,

elegant dining beneath a canopy

of stars, and the incomparable ‘Out

of Africa’ thrill of being on safari.


Guidesour expert

Karibu—welcome to Africa! Our team of safari guides is

simply the best in the business. Trained to the highest

standards, legendary for their ability to spot wildlife,

and utterly unmatched in their talent for sharing the

intricacies of the bush, our safari guides also bring the

incomparable warmth of an African welcome to your

journey. You will be amazed at how much you learn on

safari, how much fun you have in their company, and

how deeply you experience these epic destinations

thanks to their incomparable skills. Meet some of these

extraordinary leaders here; the full list is on our web site.

Stanley Dube grew up on the edge

of Hwange National Park, where his

natural affinity for wildlife began at an

early age, and has been a WT guide in

Botswana for more than 15 years. Known

for his eagle-like vision, his favorite part

of safari is “to track and find the elusive

wild dogs.”

Martin Meyer knows his native South

Africa and all of southern Africa as few

others do. Responsible for establishing

exciting new safari routes and finding special

locations, Martin has also led photo safaris

in Botswana and Namibia, guided scuba trips

in Zanzibar, and is the wildly popular leader

of our South Africa adventures.

Samia Asindamu has summited Kili

more than 120 times—and is still counting!

A professional mountain guide since 1993,

his training includes Advanced Technical

Climbing and Wilderness First Aid Response,

and he won the Kilimanjaro Summit Race (he

ran up the entire mountain in just 18 hours!).


Mzee Justice Mangyangi has been a professional guide since

1994 and is also an incredible

conservationist in his home country

of Tanzania. “Mzee” means “revered

elder” in Swahili, and to us, that

translates to a wonderful combination

of charm, humor, and a wealth

of knowledge.

Orlando Petrus Haraseb is a former

soccer star and was

captain of Namibia’s

national soccer team, but

his current claim to fame

is being one of the best

guides in the world—and he

has the 2015 International

Wanderlust Guide of

the Year Silver Award to

prove it.

Our Trip Leaders took

the time to explain and

show us things that they

were proud of and found

unique to their country.

I felt they were sharing

special secrets and stories

that only we as their

guests were being told. Ruarri T., Thunder Bay Ontario, Canada


Safari a day on

EARLY MORNING Imagine waking up

at dawn to the roar of a nearby lion, and

watching the morning glow of the sun

paint the plains pink. After enjoying your

cup of coffee or tea, prepare for the day

and head out to search for big game as

the sun—and the animals—begin to rise.

LATE EVENING Enjoy sharing stories

by the campfire beneath the starlit sky,

and on many safaris, set out on a night

game drive to see nocturnal animals

on the prowl. Senses are sharpened

with the darkness and the spellbinding

sounds of the African night. Back

at camp, return to the comfort of

your chalet or tent to dream of the

adventures tomorrow holds. EVENING As darkness unfolds, return to the welcome of your camp

or lodge with time to wash up and change, then savor a delicious

three-course meal as you share tales of the day’s highlights.

Every journey is different in its own wonderful way, but

here is a taste of what to expect when you join us for

adventure in Africa.


MORNING For the next several hours, you’re on the hunt!

Your guide is incredible at spotting game and sharing

the fascinating intricacies of how the species interact.

You’ll be amazed at how much you’ll learn! Your thrilling

encounters with wildlife may include elephants, zebras,

hippos, giraffes, and the big predators including lions with

their cubs, cheetahs, and leopards. And for your ‘Out of

Africa’ moment? Savor a mid-morning tea and coffee

break with your guide in the shade of an acacia tree.

EARLY AFTERNOON Return

to camp for a delicious and

freshly prepared meal featuring

salads, soups, and hearty

fare–you’ll be delighted with

the variety. Midday for humans

and wildlife alike is for relaxing.

As the animals retreat to the

shade and the bush becomes

quiet, you can kick back with a

book or journal in hand.

LATE AFTERNOON Time for a new game

drive or walk to new exciting encounters.

The whole feel of the bush changes as

shadows lengthen and the predators set

out once again. Herds of graceful impala or

zebra graze on the open grasslands, while

baboons watch from their perches in nearby

trees. Elephants gather at watering holes,

their babies splashing in the mud. And as

the sun sets, your guide will find the perfect

spot for you to enjoy the delightful African

custom of sundowners—a cold beer or a

very British gin and tonic to be savored as

evening comes to the bush.


Groupdepartures


Discover the world of safari in the company of like-minded travelers—our groups are just 8 to 15 guests, the perfect size for sharing the experience. Our journeys are renowned for the camaraderie you’ll enjoy with your group and expert leader on thrilling game drives, exciting game walks, on night drives, and during authentic cultural encounters. At day’s end, savor golden sunsets and sundowners together, and share tales and laughter around the fire under a star-filled sky.

Travel With Kindred Spirits

Thank you for planning such an amazing

safari—from beginning to end, it was perfect

in every way. We will treasure our memories

from this trip for the rest of our lives.

departures


Serengeti Wildlife Safari

An incredible

adventure! The private

camps were

wonderful and the

guides superb.Leo and Christine S., Wayzata MN

Tanzania is a vast and spectacular haven for wildlife.

With more than 35 years of experience in this magical

realm, we’re delighted to bring you the quintessential

safari adventure. Our exclusive private tented camps

are set right among elephants gathered by the hundreds,

lions and hyenas calling in the night, and the herds of

the Great Migration in the Serengeti. Join us for exciting

game walks, night game drives, cultural encounters with

the Masai, bush breakfasts, champagne lunches, and

sunset sundowners—no one else brings you this close to

the action, and in such comfort!

THE ULTIMATE SAFARI EXPERIENCE: TARANGIRE, NGORONGORO

CRATER, AND THE SERENGETI DAYS 1-5 In baobab-strewn Tarangire,

watch vast herds of elephants as they graze near the permanent waters

of the Tarangire River. Our private camp, set in the territory of one

of Tarangire’s largest prides of lion, is the perfect place for game walks, night

drives, an optional sleepover in a “fly camp,” and visits

with the Masai. DAYS 6-8 Search for game across

lush Lake Manyara National Park, home to troops

of baboons, and in Ngorongoro Crater’s renowned

landscape, you’ll marvel at the number of zebras,

wildebeests, lions, and cheetahs that roam here—and

you may even see the rare black rhino! DAYS 9-13

Round out your journey on the savannas of the

Serengeti as you witness migrating animals play out

a battle of life and death with their predators across

the endless plains.

TRIP COST from $8195

DATES Jan 11-23, 2016 Jan 29-Feb 10Feb 16-28Mar 10-22 Jun 18-30Jul 15-27 Aug 7-19 Sep 10-22 Dec 23 -Jan 4, 2017 Jan 15-27, 2017Feb 5-17Feb 23-Mar 7

Special Offer! $500 discount per person for the first six sign-ups on most of our 2016 group safaris. Call us for details.

17

Extend Your Adventure: Gorilla Tracking!Your Tanzania safari wouldn’t be complete without the ultimate gorilla tracking safari! In the spectacular montane forests of Rwanda’s Parc des Volcans National Park, savor the exhilarating experience of tracking and observing the magnificent clans of mountain gorillas.

Highlights• Exclusive activities:

off-road travel, night drives, walking safaris, Masai encounters

• Secluded private camps, uncrowded game viewing, spacious tents, candle-lit dinners, and star-filled nights

• Witness the Great Migration in the Serengeti, massive elephant herds in Tarangire, and stunning Ngorongoro Crater

More Extensions• Masai Mara National Reserve • Zanzibar

Questions? 1.800.368.2794 or email [email protected]


WT’s route is far better than the

ones used by most trekkers. We were

the only group at many campsites

and felt like we were the only people

on that magnificent mountain.Trenholm W., Charleston SC

Highlights• Climb to the summit of

Africa’s highest mountain on uncrowded trails—and with no retracing of steps!

• Crucial extra days for maximum acclimatization

• Led by top guides with specialized high altitude training and the most experience on the mountain

• Includes park fees ($1450) and porter tips ($325)

Extensions• Ngorongoro Crater and

Serengeti Safari • Gorilla Tracking in Rwanda’s

Parc des Volcans • Zanzibar

Climb Kilimanjaro! If you’re going to climb Kili, you want do it right! We’ve

perfected the climb to the celebrated “snows of

Kilimanjaro” via the Lemosho-Crater Camp Route, a

beautiful, uncrowded trail on Kili’s remote southwest

flanks. With seven days on the ascent for maximum

acclimatization, our route offers the greatest chance of

summit success—plus a short summit day to view the sunrise

on top of Kilimanjaro (not the grueling 9-hour climb in the

dark required on other routes!). Our camps have the

finest amenities on the mountain, and for extra security,

we always carry oxygen and a Gamow bag. Our legendary,

highly trained Kili guides and wonderful crew will make

your climb an unforgettable experience.

TREK TO AFRICA’S HIGHEST MOUNTAIN DAYS 1-2 From our private camp at

6,500 feet on Mt. Meru (14,900’), set within Arusha National Park, enjoy a warm-up

hike through lush cedar and podocarpus forests. The hike is a great way to

acclimatize for Kili. DAYS 3-11 From the Lemosho trailhead,

climb through forests, heath, and moorland zones to Shira

Plateau, with glorious views of Kili’s glaciated face. Ascend

through alpine desert zones to Crater Camp (18,500’), then

make a short and dramatic climb to Uhuru Peak (19,340’),

Kili’s summit. Descend via the Mweka Route, and by late

afternoon on Day 11, you’re back at our lodge for a well-

deserved hot shower and festive victory celebration.


DATES Feb 17-27, 2016 Mar 15-25 Jul 4-14Aug 16-26Sep 1-11Dec 16-26Dec 22 -Jan 1, 2017Jan 7-17, 2017Feb 3-13

For a detailed itinerary: 1.800.368.2794 or email [email protected] 19

Highlights• Specialist guides offer

photo tips and assist in setting up the best shots during the day’s ideal light

• Only 4 people per vehicle—plenty of room and window seats for all!

• Exquisite tented camps with full amenities and amazing access to wildlife

Extensions• Gorilla Tracking in Rwanda’s

Parc des Volcans • Ngorongoro Crater Safari• Zanzibar

Masai Mara: The Ultimate Migration Safari Have you always dreamed of seeing—and photographing—

the Great Migration in all its grandeur? Our superb new

safari, timed for the height of the Great Migration in

Kenya’s Masai Mara, is geared for avid photographers and

paced for optimal opportunities to photograph its

phenomenal wonders: wildebeests crossing wild rivers full

of hungry crocs, lions on the prowl in golden savannas,

fiery sunsets, and red-robed Masai guarding their herds.

Carefully selected permanent tented camps offer stylish

lodging in sublime settings—and gorgeous views right

from your tent!

A PHOTOGRAPHER’S DREAM JOURNEY DAYS 1-4 Dramatic photo

ops are in every direction in the heart of the Masai Mara—lions stalking

wildebeests and solitary leopards surveying from their perches in acacia

trees. An optional balloon safari is an unforgettable experience here. DAYS 5-7

In Mara Ngenche, an intimate camp set at the convergence of the Mara’s

two main rivers, witness the thrill of herds crossing rivers and learn about

the Masai culture from our expert guides. DAYS 8-11

Enjoy uncrowded access to abundant wildlife and

wonderful game walks, night drives, and other activities

not permitted within the Mara reserve itself at Naboisho

Camp in the private Mara Naboisho Conservancy.


DATES Jul 17-27, 2016Aug 14-24 Sep 11-21


For more details on our Africa trips, visit www.wildernesstravel.com/trips/africa20

This is one of those experiences one will

never forget. The beauty of Uganda and its

people, along with the extraordinary

viewing of primates and other wildlife,

couldn’t have been better. Many, many thanks.Joseph B., Portsmouth RI

Highlights• Thrilling up-close

encounters with chimpanzees and endangered mountain gorillas

• Phenomenal game viewing safari by land and water in the legendary Great Rift Valley

• Comfortable lodges set in serene forests with superb access to the wildlife


Parc des Volcans• Masai Mara National Reserve

Mountain Gorilla Safari With its mystical forests sheltering half the world’s

population of magnificent mountain gorillas, its

sun-dappled savannas brimming with wildlife,

and the enchanting snow-capped Ruwenzori

Mountains, Uganda truly has it all! On this epic

adventure in the “Pearl of Africa,” we’ve paired

two unforgettable experiences—a thrilling big game

safari and the rare opportunity to observe mountain

gorillas up-close. You’ll also track chimpanzees on

foot, and enjoy wonderful sightings of elephants,

lions, and leopards—and the largest concentration

of hippos in the world!

GORILLAS, CHIMPS, AND A BIG GAME SAFARI DAYS 1-3 Head to

Kibale Forest National Park, where you’ll track bands of chimpanzees

as they scamper in the treetops. DAYS 4-6 Queen Elizabeth National

Park teems with wildlife and some 500 avian species. Safari by 4WD

vehicle and boat on the Kazinga Channel, with its huge population

of hippos—up to 30,000! DAYS 7-9 Enjoy the

spine-tingling experience of coming face-to-face

with mountain gorillas in Bwindi National Park.

With two full days here, you’re virtually assured

of encounters with these elusive creatures.

DAYS 10-11 Options in Entebbe include a visit to

Ngamba Island’s Chimpanzee Sanctuary.


DATES Jan 9-19, 2016 Feb 20-Mar 1Jul 5-15Aug 2-12Jan 9-19, 2017Feb 20-Mar 2

Questions? 1.800.368.2794 21

Highlights• Hikes in five national parks

and reserves, fascinating night walks, and special early morning walks for birders

• Private dinner with a wildlife researcher

• Extra local guides at each park for avid photographers and easier hiking optionsExtension

• Ankarana and Amber Mountain National Parks

• The Seychelles Islands

Madagascar: Off the Beaten Path Watching lemurs leap from tree to tree or dance across

your footpath are some of the delights awaiting you in

Madagascar. With our superb Trip Leader Vy Raharinosy

to help unlock the island’s secrets, hike fantastic trails

in a dazzling array of wildlife reserves and search for

endemic species found nowhere else on earth. Explore the

magical cloud forest of Ranomafana, the surreal limestone

landscapes of Isalo, Kirindy Forest, with its amazing nocturnal

creatures, and world-famous Andisabe (Perinet), home

of the black-and-white Indri indri, the largest species of

lemur. If you’re a nature lover, this trip is a must!

WHERE NATURAL HISTORY ABOUNDS WITHOUT LIMITS DAYS 1-6

Explore Antananarivo, with lunch in a private home, visit artisan workshops

in Antsirabe, then head to Ranomafana’s rainforest, home to the rare golden

bamboo lemur. DAYS 7-10 Community-run Anja Reserve is the ideal place to get

eye-to-eye with ring-tailed lemurs, and we’ll hike in the dramatic canyons of

Isalo before exploring Zombitse-Vohibasia National Park, with fantastic birding.

DAYS 11-13 Enjoy a Malagasy sundowner in the photogenic Avenue of

the Baobabs, then head to remote Kirindy Forest, the best

place for night walks with nocturnal species such as the

rare Coquerel’s giant mouse-lemur. DAYS 14-16 Hike in the

lush montane landscapes of Andisabe, a world brimming

with ferns, orchids, fantastic birdlife, and colorful reptiles.


DATES Apr 24-May 9, 2016Sep 4-19 Sep 25-Oct 10Oct 16-31

Magical MadagascarExplore renowned Andisabe (Perinet), Berenty, with its ring-tailed and sifaka lemurs, and spectacular landscapes of the Ankarana and Amber National Parks. May 15-27, Jul 3-15, Sep 4-16, Sep 25-Oct 7, 2016. From $4695.


An absolutely amazing safari.

Everyone should get the

opportunity to

go on a trip like this! Julia V., St. Louis MO

Highlights• Experience an

incredible walking safari in an unspoiled African wilderness

• Excellent leopard sightings and predator-prey interactions

• Night drives allow us to get closer to fascinating nocturnal creatures

• Private Journey available— call us!

Extensions• Johannesburg • Lake Malawi: Pumulani Beach

Lodge • Lower Zambezi Canoe and

Walking Safari • Victoria Falls

Zambia Walking Safari Zambia, birthplace of the legendary walking safari, is

remote and untamed, and we’ve created an adventure

that’s the perfect match for its wonders. With consummate

safari guide Jason Alfonsi, set out on foot to explore the

incredible sights, sounds, and scents of the African bush

firsthand. Seeing big game this way is a whole different

experience, and 3,500-square-mile South Luangwa

National Park is as wild as it gets, with welcoming lodges

and mobile camps ensuring total comfort along the way.

Bush walks, night game viewing, 4WD safaris by open

vehicle, and magenta sunsets over an unspoiled African

wilderness—if you’re looking for excitement, it’s all here!

WALK ON THE WILD SIDE IN UNTOUCHED AFRICA DAYS 1-2 A charter

flight brings you to Nkwali Camp, a lovely lodge on the banks of the Luangwa

River. Evening game drives reveal the nocturnal world of leopards, lions, genets,

and hyenas. DAYS 3-6 Exciting bush walks at sunrise offer the chance to see

elephants, waterbucks, zebras, and with luck, the full

complement of predators. DAYS 7-10 From Tena Tena Camp,

set along the Luangwa River, head out on bush walks

and game drives along stunning oxbow lakes and in ebony

forests, then raise your sundowner cocktail to Zambia’s

wonders as elephants and hippos bathe in the river nearby.


DATES Jun 20-29, 2016 Jul 10-19Aug 16-25Sep 1-10


Highlights• Enjoy open vehicles, canoes,

game drives, night drives, game walks—the freedom of safari in southern Africa!

• Your safari directly supports community-based tourism organizations in Zimbabwe

• One of our lodges won best new safari property at the 2016 Safari Awards!

Extensions• Mana Pools • Victoria Falls

Zimbabwe! After years of flying below the radar, Zimbabwe is the new

hot safari destination. Our exciting—and active—adventure

brings you to an extraordinary array of environments

overlooked by many travelers, with phenomenal wildlife

experiences throughout. From our exclusive lodge set high

above Batoka Gorge to our gorgeous tented camps in the

famed elephant refuge of Hwange as well as Zambezi National

Park, explore the realm of lions, hippos, cheetahs, and more.

Savor special lantern-lit dinners under the stars, sundowners

aboard a vintage railway car, visits with local schoolkids

(you’ll even learn a few words of their click language), game

drives with the flexibility to get out and hike, and canoeing

on the great Zambezi. This is adventure Zimbabwe style!

THRILLING SAFARI AND SPECTACULAR LODGES DAYS 1-2 From your

lodge perched high the above Zambezi’s Batoka Gorge, watch black eagles

soar on the evening thermals and hike the mile-long trail facing magnificent

Victoria Falls. DAYS 3-5 A charter flight gives you a bird’s-eye view of Hwange,

home to over 40,000 elephants, and in the game-rich Ngamo Plains, you’ll

enjoy game drives, walks, and the unique “look up” blind, where you’ll have

water-level views of wildlife as they come to drink. DAYS 6-7 Ride aboard a

vintage railway car to dreamy Nehimba Lodge, wrapped around

a waterhole that is very popular with elephants! DAYS 8-10 On

the banks of the upper Zambezi, search for hippos, crocs, and

buffalo, as well as a myriad of birdlife, canoe around Siansimba

islands, and delight in an elegant brunch out in the bush.


DATES Jul 11-20, 2016Aug 3-12Sep 22-Oct 1

Make it a Private Journey!You pick the dates and your best mates, and we’ll immerse you in the wild wonder of Zimbabwe with exciting game drives, walking safaris, and up-close elephant encounters. Call us for details.

Questions? 1.800.368.279424

Highlights• Our Trip Leader Orlando

Haraseb, a top recipient of the International Wanderlust Guide of the Year Awards

• Wonderful cultural visits in the remote Himba villages in Damaraland

• Climb some of the world’s highest free-standing dunes in Sossusvlei

Extensions• Shumbalala Game Lodge,

South Africa• Cape Town

Namibia Expedition Otherworldly landscapes surround you in Namibia, where

a sea of sand mountains turns red at sunrise, the lone

tracks of desert elephants trace across salt pans, and

6,000-year-old rock carvings adorn flat-topped sandstone

peaks. Under the deep blue skies of this photogenic country,

you’ll track cheetahs and leopards, climb the dunes of the

Namib Desert, and meet traditional Himba nomads. For a

grand finale to your diverse adventure, hike across the wilds

of NamibRand Nature Reserve amid majestic mountain

ranges, orange dunes, and wondrous desert silence.

ETOSHA, HIMBA TRIBES, SOSSUSVLEI DUNES, AND A DESERT HIKE

DAYS 1-5 At delightful Okonjima Bush Camp, enjoy up-close encounters

with cheetahs and radio-track leopards with a specialist, then head to the

salt pans and savannas of Etosha National Park, where elephants, lions,

giraffes, elands, gemsboks, zebras, and rhinos abound. DAYS 6-10 Explore

the table-topped mountains of Damaraland, visit a remote Himba settlement,

and walk the trail at Twyfelfontein to view the most incredible San rock

etchings in Africa. In the heart of magical Namib-Naukluft

National Park, climb the shimmering dunes at sunrise and

sunset, capturing the colors of Sossusvlei in perfect light.

DAYS 11-14 Hike across the private NamibRand Nature

Reserve as your specialist guide brings the immense diversity

of the desert world to life, and sleep under the open sky

beneath a brilliant canopy of stars.


DATES May 6-19, 2016 May 20-Jun 2Jul 1-14Jul 19-Aug 1Aug 12-25Sep 9-22

We have loved all our WT trips,

but this one stands above them

all. Fantastic itinerary and our

guides were the best ever—it

doesn’t get any better than this!Jeannee S., Milwaukee WI

For more details on our Africa trips, visit www.wildernesstravel.com/trips/africa 25

Highlights• Go behind the scenes

at AfriCat for close encounters with cheetahs and leopards, including our special “Vet Check” Departure

• Exclusive safari—just 6 participants—with expert tracker and naturalist safari guide Jason Nott

• Meet with field staff of Save the Rhino Trust, responsible for saving Namibia’s black rhinos from extinction

Extensions• Sossusvlei Dunes• Cape Town

In the Realm of the Desert Lion In the desert folds of Namibia lies the most extraordinary

story of wildlife conservation. On our spectacular and

utterly unique safari, you’ll have incredible behind-the-scenes

access to conservation projects that protect wildlife

including endangered black rhinos and the world’s largest

population of free-roaming cheetahs. And, you’ll have

the exclusive experience of tracking magnificent desert

lions, which exist nowhere else on earth, alongside renowned

conservationist Dr. Flip Stander. This the safari of a lifetime!

A THRILLING CONSERVATION SAFARI DAYS 1-3 In Okonjima, visit the

AfriCat Foundation, the largest cheetah and leopard rescue-and-release

program in the world. Search for leopards and track cheetahs on foot. Our

special “Vet Check” departure offers the exclusive opportunity to witness

(and assist!) in the annual check-up of big cats. DAYS 4-6

At lovely Desert Rhino Camp, enjoy an insider’s look at the

extraordinary work being done to ensure the survival of

the black rhino, and search ephemeral riverbeds for desert

elephants. DAYS 7-12 From our mobile camp in the heart

of the Kunene, search for desert lions with the chance to

meet (and even track with) Dr. Flip Stander, whose work has

been critical in ensuring the survival of this unique species.


DATES May 18-29, 2016 Jun 20-Jul 3* Sep 3-14May 14-25, 2017 Jun 23-Jul 6*Sep 3-14, 2017 *AfriCat Annual Vet Check Departure

WT Expedition: Khaudum,Bushmanland, and the CapriviJoin acclaimed Trip Leader Orlando Haraseb to journey with hunter- gatherers and explore hidden game parks of Namibia’s northeast frontier. June 18-27, 2016. From $6195.

26

Botswana Wildlife SafariSpecial Seasonal ExpeditionsKalahari Explorer: Witness the unique desert wildlife of

Botswana’s Central Kalahari Reserve during the optimal

game viewing season. Includes Okavango Delta and Chobe

National Park. Apr 10-23, 2016, Apr 9-22, 2017. From $8195.

Okavango Explorer: The lush paradise of the Okavango

teems with wildlife when waters are at their highest.

Your unforgettable days here reveal a full spectrum of

predators and prey—along with wonderful birding—by

boat and mokoro (canoe). Includes Chobe National Park.

Jun 26-Jul 9, Aug 21-Sep 3, 2016. From $8495.

Kalahari San Tribe Expedition: Only offered every

two to five years! Immerse yourself in the heart of

Botswana, with incredible cultural encounters with the

San tribes, the skilled hunter-gatherers of the Kalahari.

Includes Moremi Game Reserve, Okavango Delta, and

Central Kalahari Game Reserve.

Mar 4-20, 2016. From $11,495.

For a Detailed Itinerary: 1.800.368.2794 or email [email protected] 27

Sprawled across golden savannas, woodlands, and shifting

Kalahari sands that cradle the incredible Okavango Delta,

Botswana is a geological Eden brimming with wildlife.

We’ve paired the best places to see animals—from vast herds

of elephants to prides of lions—with welcoming lodges and

exclusive private mobile camps. Enjoy game viewing by 4WD

vehicle, riverboat, and, a Botswana specialty, mokoro (dugout

canoe), cap off your nights by the fire, gazing at the sparkling

stars and listening to the distant roars of the wild.

MOREMI GAME RESERVE, THE OKAVANGO DELTA, AND CHOBE NATIONAL

PARK DAYS 1-3 Moremi is an exquisite mosaic of mopane scrub and wetlands.

Search for tsessebes, Burchell’s zebras, and track predators including wild dogs

and spotted hyenas before you return to our special camp, set near secret pools

and open grasslands with no one else around—except maybe vervet monkeys in

the trees! DAYS 4-5 Welcoming Xugana Lodge is the base for your explorations

in the Okavango Delta, with its amazing array of birdlife and unique animals

including the semi-aquatic lechwe and sitatunga antelopes. DAYS 6-10 A private

charter flight whisks you to Chobe National Park, a legendary

elephant refuge with abounding wildlife from elegant gemsboks

to sleeping crocodiles. Unforgettable moments here include

golden-red sunsets along the Chobe River, thousands of elephants

browsing in thick acacia woodlands, buffalo herds on open

plains, and the cry of the African fish eagle piercing the air.


DATES May 22-31, 2016Jun 12-21Jul 17-26Sep 4-13Sep 18-27

Botswana Wildlife Safari

Highlights• Ruggedly comfortable

mobile camping (you’ll even have your own tent steward)

• Thrilling boat excursions and game viewing in the Okavango Delta, a World Heritage Site

• Fantastic photo opportunities by 4WD vehicle—every seat is a window seat!

Extensions• Victoria Falls • Cape Town • Cape Winelands • Johannesburg

An extraordinary trip.

The tent camping

experience and the

lodges were outstanding!John M., Alexandria VA

Questions? 1.800.368.2794 28

Every single piece of the trip went like

clockwork. The food was excellent, the

wildlife viewing a once-in-a-lifetime

experience, the guides phenomenal.

A stupendous trip.Suzanne S., Sperryville VA

Highlights• Fall asleep to the distant

calls of animals in the African night

• Enjoy our safari guide’s incredible knowledge of and passion for Africa’s wildlife and cultures

• Diverse landscapes, from savannas and woodlands to riverine glades and the Okavango’s jewel-like lagoons

Extensions• Cape Town • Sossusvlei Dunes • Mozambique

Botswana, South Africa, and Victoria Falls Want to see an amazing array of southern Africa’s iconic

wildlife in great comfort? On our adventure in three different

countries and diverse ecosystems, you’ll experience the

thrill of Big Five encounters in South Africa’s famed Greater

Kruger National Park and neighboring Timbavati, a private

game reserve. Then it’s on to Zambia for game viewing

along the Zambezi River and stunning views of thundering

Victoria Falls. Your grand finale is epic wildlife viewing in

the savannas of Botswana’s Chobe National Park and the

Okavango Delta. Exhilarating game viewing by day, candlelit

dinners at stylish safari camps and lodges by night, and the

expertise of our safari guide extraordinaire—this is what

safari is all about.

ADVENTURES IN SOUTHERN AFRICA DAYS 1-3 On golden savannas

surrounding our elegant camp, head off road in open-sided vehicles for close

views of the Big Five, and enjoy optional bush walks and night drives. DAYS 4-6

Stroll near the crashing waters of Victoria Falls, and search for wildlife along

the banks of the Zambezi during a sunset cruise (with a sundowner in hand, of

course!). DAYS 7-8 Predators and their prey abound in the game-rich Savuti

region of Chobe, and you’ll savor unparalleled elephant

viewing, with animals numbering in the thousands! DAYS 9-11

At remote Xugana Lodge, set on a private island in the

Okavango Delta, game view by mokoro (canoe) in lily–filled

lagoons and enjoy crimson sunsets over the water.


DATES May 23-Jun 2, 2016 Jun 15-25Jul 6-16


Highlights• Up-close game viewing,

including the famous Timbavati white lions and the Big Five in Greater Kruger National Park

• Enjoy oyster tasting in a harbor village along the Garden Route

• Superb accommodations, including Phantom Forest and Montusi Mountain Lodge

Extensions• Victoria Falls • Shumbalala Game Lodge • Cape Town • Mozambique

Great Hikes and Game Parks of South Africa We’ve combined the very best hikes of South Africa and a

world-class safari in its phenomenal game parks for the

perfect active adventure. Exhilarating hikes bring you

through phantom fern forests and along the coast of the

spectacular Garden Route to “hanging spear” waterfalls

and ancient Bushman rock paintings in the craggy

Drakensberg Mountains of Zulu country. Our thrilling safari

explores one of the most exclusive private reserves in

the world, Timbavati, part of renowned Greater Kruger

National Park. You’ll head out on foot and by open vehicle

for incredible sightings of lions, leopards, elephants,

rhinos, and buffalos—the legendary Big Five—as well as

cheetahs, zebras, and the elusive wild dog.

HIKING THE GARDEN ROUTE AND DRAKENSBERG MOUNTAINS, SAFARI IN

GREATER KRUGER DAYS 1-3 Hike in Afromontane forests and along towering

bluffs, beaches, and bays of the Tsitsikamma Coast. DAYS 4-6 In the Drakensberg,

hikes from our mountain lodge lead to fantastic rock formations,

stunning gorges, and ancient rock art. DAYS 7-10 In Timbavati,

experience exceptional game viewing by 4WD vehicle and

on foot. Our deluxe lodge is set near a waterhole attracting

members of the Big Five—an unforgettable safari experience.


DATES Mar 5-14, 2016 May 7-16Jul 23-Aug 1Oct 1-10



I’m extremely happy with your Private Journeys— it’s the perfect way to travel! You have the privacy of your own group with the invaluable itineraries of WT. The logistics were impeccable and the guides terrific.


Privatejourneys

Our Private Journeys are delightfully flexible—your dates, your group, customized to your special interests. Want to sip your way through Cape Town’s Winelands or bungee jump at Victoria Falls on your honeymoon? Perhaps a hot air balloon ride above Namibia at sunrise or celebrating a birthday, graduation, or anniversary with a lantern-lit dinner in the bush is more your style. We plan each trip down to the last detail, and can transform those milestone events into unforgettable memories with your family, friends, or just that special someone.

It’s Your Adventure


Highlights• Track the Big Five along the

spectacular Ngorongoro Crater floor, see the elephant herds of Tarangire

• Explore the legendary Serengeti with your private guide

• Enjoy exclusive camps and lodges with the most uncrowded game viewing in Tanzania, and opportunities to follow migratory herds

Extensions• Gorilla tracking in Rwanda’s

Parc des Volcans • Zanzibar

Tanzania Private Journey Prowling lions, hyenas calling in the night, massive

herds of elephants, and shimmering stars

overhead—the mystique and wonder of Tanzania

await you! To bring you wildlife encounters in the

most legendary settings, we’ve combined three

world-renowned sanctuaries—Tarangire National

Park, with migrating wildlife drawn by the permanent

waters of the Tarangire River, spectacular

Ngorongoro Crater, and the mythical Serengeti,

where the earth’s greatest gathering of terrestrial

wildlife roams freely on golden savannas.

TARANGIRE NATIONAL PARK, NGORONGORO, AND THE

SERENGETI DAYS 1-4 In Tarangire National Park, watch as elephant

herds gather to drink from the perennial waters of the Tarangire

River, while wildebeests, zebras, buffalos, and gazelles crowd the

lagoons. Unique activities include bush walks and night drives. DAY 5

On Ngorongoro Crater’s grassy floor lives Africa’s largest permanent

concentration of wildlife—a great place for observing lions and even

endangered black rhinos! At our private camp, enjoy a Masai dance

performance and a unique opportunity to attend

an olpul (Masai feast). DAYS 6-9 Explore the

Serengeti by 4WD vehicle from your own private

camp in a secluded section of the park, far from

the lodges and other park facilities.


DATES June to October, December to March

Questions? 1.800.368.2794 33

Highlights• Enjoy thrilling

encounters with mountain gorillas in Bwindi National Park

• Track chimpanzees on foot in Kibale Forest National Park

• Phenomenal game viewing in Queen Elizabeth National Park

• Your own private safari guide and vehicle


Parc des Volcans • Masai Mara National Reserve

Observing the gorillas

in their natural habitat was a

life-changing experience.Melinda C., Tucson AZ

Uganda Private Journey With its wide-open plains dotted with grazing herds and

its mist-shrouded forests shadowed by great mountains,

Uganda is an absolutely gorgeous setting for a safari. With

your own guide and private vehicle, enjoy a fantastic big

game safari, with wildlife viewing by boat and the rare

opportunity to track chimpanzees and mountain gorillas

on foot! To observe these endangered creatures up-close

in the wild is one of the world’s most unforgettable

experiences—the excitement of coming within a few feet

of them is simply surreal.

CHIMPANZEE TRACKING, QUEEN ELIZABETH NATIONAL PARK, AND

MOUNTAIN GORILLAS DAYS 1-3 Venture through Kibale National Park,

home to 13 primate species. Here you’ll track bands of chimpanzees as they

play, feed, and scamper across the treetop canopy. DAYS 4-5 Queen Elizabeth

National Park supports a wonderful diversity of wildlife, all with the stunning

backdrop of the Ruwenzoris, Africa’s fabled “Mountains of the Moon.” Game

view in the park’s lake-dotted savannas, and boat in the Kazinga Channel, with

its large concentrations of hippos, elephants, and lions. DAYS 6-8 A World

Heritage Site, Bwindi National Park is one of the most

biologically diverse areas on Earth. Among the 11 resident

primate species are magnificent mountain gorillas, and

you’ll enjoy the incomparable experience of tracking, then

quietly observing, the clans that reside here.


DATES June to September, December to February


Extensions• Cape Winelands • Johannesburg • Okavango Delta Safari

South Africa Private Journey Discover the splendor and diversity of South Africa, often

called “a world in one country.” From glorious Cape Town,

an enchanting base for exploring the Cape’s striking

landscapes, you’ll journey to the Cape of Good Hope, then

experience the wildlife wonders of South Africa at two

exclusive private game reserves for the ultimate in big

game viewing—and a chance to encounter lions, leopards,

elephants, rhinos, buffalos, and cheetahs at close range in

a mosaic of spectacular habitats.

BEAUTIFUL CAPE TOWN AND A CLASSIC WILDLIFE SAFARI DAYS 1-3

Cape Town’s celebrated setting offers many delightful options including

Table Mountain, the Cape of Good Hope, Robben Island, and wine tasting in

the famed Winelands. DAYS 4-6 In the wooded savannas of Timbavati Private

Game Reserve, track lions, elephants, giraffes, zebras, and other wildlife—the

birdwatching here is also amazing. Because you are on private land, not in a

national park, enjoy off-road safaris and night drives. DAYS 7-10 Thornybush

and Londolozi Private Game Reserves are extraordinary gamelands adjacent

to renowned Greater Kruger National Park. The Big Five roam freely here,

and on early morning and late afternoon game drives,

enjoy the solitary splendor far from lodges and camps as

you search for leopards, cheetahs, and other animals with

your private guide and driver.


DATES January to December

Highlights• Choice of full-day private

guided tours including wine tasting, Table Mountain, shark diving, and Cape Town’s marvelous dining options

• Expert ranger-trackers, off-road safari exploration, optional game walks

• Optional upgrade to award-winning properties of your choice


Highlights• Game viewing in search

of the Big Five in world-famous Greater Kruger National Park

• Enjoy the spectacle of hundreds of elephants bathing in the Chobe River at sunset

• Delightful accommodations from Cape Town to Botswana, including game lodges, tented camps, and a hotel set right near Victoria Falls

Extensions• Cape Winelands • Johannesburg • Okavango Delta Safari

Discover the captivating beauty and unlimited adventure

of South Africa, Victoria Falls, and Botswana. In South

Africa, journey to some of Cape Town’s renowned

landscapes and outstanding wineries, then head to an

exclusive private game reserve for superb game

viewing and a chance to encounter amazing wildlife

from your delightful lodge. At Victoria Falls, experience

the majesty of one of the world’s natural wonders,

where optional activities abound. Your safari ends with

a flourish in Botswana’s legendary Chobe National Park,

with its massive herds of elephants, along with buffalos,

zebras, giraffes, kudus, hippos, crocs, wild dogs, and over

450 species of birds.

CAPE TOWN TO BOTSWANA DAYS 1-3 In Cape Town, visit historic Robben

Island, Table Mountain, the National Botanical Gardens at Kirstenbosch, or

tour centuries-old wine estates, with their beautiful Cape Dutch architecture.

DAYS 4-6 Enjoy leopard viewing and track lions, buffalos, rhinos, and elephants

on game drives in a private conservancy in Greater Kruger National Park.

DAYS 7-8 Marvel at the splendor of mile-wide Victoria Falls, where your options

include a helicopter ride over the falls and bungee jumping!

DAYS 9-11 Elephants reign supreme in Chobe National Park,

and you’ll see huge herds of buffalos, wildebeests, and the

Big Five in abundance.



A flawless trip. It could not have

better met our expectations of a

dream vacation. Jim B., Carrollton TX

South Africa, Botswana, and Victoria Falls Private Journey


Highlights• Enjoy nature walks, mokoro

excursions, and thrilling 4WD game drives

• At intimate tented camps, enjoy highly personalized service, superb cuisine, and have the chance to walk among semi-habituated elephants

• Optional activities are tailored to your interests to make this an unforgettable journey

Extensions• Cape Town • Johannesburg

Botswana and Victoria Falls Private Journey Considered the ultimate paradise for safari-goers,

Botswana has everything from countless herds of

grazing animals—and their prowling predators—to

bubbly pods of hippos and brightly-colored birds

painting the sky. This journey brings you through

the game-rich floodplains of the Okavango Delta

to Chobe National Park, one of Africa’s legendary

game reserves. By day, enjoy game viewing by

open vehicle, riverboat, and mokoro (canoe), and

by night unwind in intimate safari camps right in

the heart of game country. Your fitting finale is the

world-famous natural wonder of Victoria Falls.

THE OKAVANGO DELTA, CHOBE’S ELEPHANT KINGDOM, AND

VICTORIA FALLS DAYS 1-3 With your expert naturalist guides,

scan the landscapes of the Okavango Delta for sitatungas, red

lechwes, and an abundance of birds, including the rare Pel’s fishing

owl. DAYS 4-6 Chobe National Park and the Linyanti Game Reserve

(an exclusive private reserve on Chobe’s western edge) are the places

to see spectacular concentrations of elephants.

DAYS 7-8 The huge Zambezi River stretches a mile

wide where it creates Victoria Falls, and you can

enjoy many exciting adventure options here.




Highlights• Climb one of the world’s

highest free-standing dunes in Sossusvlei and walk among prehistoric rock art at the World Heritage Site of Twyfelfontein

• Take a scenic flight along the Skeleton Coast viewing shipwrecks, seal colonies, and dunes

• Enjoy fantastic lodges and camps with access to astonishing parks

Extensions• NamibRand Nature Reserve• Skeleton Coast• Serra Cafema• Desert Rhino Camp• Okonjima Bush Camp

I love WT! You have the best guides

and such special places to stay.

Thank you for creating adventures

that expand one’s knowledge while

making it all enjoyable and fun. Nancy D., Little Rock AR

Namibia Private Journey Namibia is an ageless land, a world of desert-adapted

animals and infinite blue skies, where space and silence

contribute to a feeling of antiquity, solitude, and wilderness.

During this journey, explore the amazing dunescapes of

Sossusvlei and the mountains of Damaraland, see a

heritage of rock art created during the Stone Age, and

witness an amazing array of wildlife at Etosha National

Park, the greatest wildlife sanctuary in all Namibia. You’ll

be joined by your own private guide and driver for part of

your journey and also have the chance to meet the Himba,

the nomadic pastoralists who have been little influenced

by the modern world. Experience this magnificent and

memorable country in a very personal way!

SOSSUSVLEI DUNES, DAMARALAND, AND ETOSHA NATIONAL PARK

DAYS 1-3 With the soft light of sunrise, gaze at the famous red Sossusvlei dunes,

watching the fantastic colors and shadows accentuate their towering shapes and

curves. DAYS 4-5 Enjoy an amazing bird’s-eye view of the great dune sea that

stretches to the Skeleton Coast as you fly to Damaraland. Explore Twyfelfontein,

a World Heritage Site, with some 2,500 prehistoric engravings, and during game

drives, search for elusive desert-adapted elephants. DAYS 6-8

Etosha’s habitats include grassland, woodland, and savanna,

premium settings for premium setting for seeing lions, giraffe,

and with luck the endangered black rhino.


DATES April to November

Delve deep into Africa’s heritage, history, and iconic landmarks with these fascinating journeys. You’ll explore remote villages, experience cultures in an authentic, meaningful way, take part in unique festivals, and wander through local markets and entrancing landscapes that beckon you into a world like no other.

Experience Other Worlds

Culturaljourneys


Highlights• Kumasi, the heart of the

vibrant Ashanti culture, known for its colorful handicrafts and elaborate funerary rites

• Elmina Castle, fetish priests of Taneka, the Tamberma and Somba people, with their castles of clay

• Each departure features the Akwasidae Festival in Ghana and Egun Mask festival in Benin

Tribal Ghana, Togo, and Benin Thriving traditional cultures, renowned art forms, and

a dazzling ethnic mosaic are the golden gems of tribal

West Africa. Our fantastic cultural odyssey to the lost

tribal worlds of Ghana, Togo, and Benin is woven together by

fascinating festivals and village visits. Meet unforgettable

people including the Tamberma, whose fairytale clay

castles are spectacular examples of uniquely African

architecture, and in the heart of voodoo country along

the coast, witness trance-dances and learn about the

awesome power the voodoo spirits still hold over people.

ROYAL FESTIVALS, MASK DANCES, VOODOO SPIRITS, CASTLES OF

CLAY DAYS 1-3 Along Ghana’s palm-fringed coast, explore Elmina Castle,

the first European slave-trading post in sub-Saharan Africa. DAYS 4-5 Wander

through the bustling markets of Kumasi, spiritual center of the flourishing

Ashanti Kingdom. DAYS 6-9 In northern Benin, marvel at tribal architecture

of adobe clay, hike to an ancient Taneka village, with its fetish priests, and see

the encampments of Fulani herders. DAYS 10-15 Near Lomé,

Togo’s capital, meet traditional healers at a “voodoo hospital”,

visit a fetish market and glass bead workshop, and watch a

real voodoo ceremony accompanied by hypnotic rhythm of

chanting and drums.


DATES Feb 13-27, 2016Oct 29-Nov 12Feb 8-22, 2017

Did you know?LeapingStone, a wonderful non-profit that builds and upgrades schools in West Africa, was founded by WT Adventurer Natalie Huberman after she joined our trip to this region.


Highlights• Tribal villages of the Dorze,

known for their weaving, and the Karo, with their body painting

• Spectacular festivals on each trip: Timkat (January) or Meskel (September)

• Private charter flight avoids two days of driving—more time for exploration!

Extension• Harar

Ethiopia is truly a world unto itself, from its

Orthodox Christian heritage, revealed in stunning

rock-hewn churches, to its unique animistic tribes.

We’ve created an adventure that takes in the full

sweep of this fabled land. You’ll discover intriguing

places including Axum, Ethiopia’s ancient holy city

and a World Heritage Site, and encounter indigenous

tribal people such as the Mursi, with their striking

clay lip plates. Each trip is timed for a unique

festival—Timkat, the famed Epiphany celebration

with is procession of the sacred Tabot or Meskel,

with its bonfires and carpets of meskel daisies—

profound cultural experiences of an ancient land.

TRIBES OF THE OMO VALLEY AND SPECTACULAR FESTIVALS

DAYS 1-6 After exploring Addis, fly to Axum, where the original Ark

of the Covenant is said to reside. Lalibela’s astounding rock churches

and Gondar’s towering medieval castles offer a further glimpse into

Ethiopia’s history. DAYS 7-9 In the Rift Valley savannas, visit the

fantastic tribal country of the Omo Valley. DAYS 10-12 Visit the

Karo, who excel in body painting, and watch one

of their traditional dances. Meet the Mursi people

and hike to a Bume village. DAYS 13-15 Back in Addis,

witness the Timkat Festival’s lively processions of

Orthodox priests in vividly hued gowns (or on the

September departure, the dancing, feasting, and

massive bonfires of Meskel).


DATES Jan 7-21, 2016*Jan 12-26*Sep 12-26** Jan 6-20, 2017* Jan 11-25 * Jan 17-31 * * Timkat Festival**Meskel Festival

My third trip with WT and it

certainly won’t be my last. The

itinerary was fascinating, our Trip

Leader delightful, and the WT

office wonderfully responsive.Sandra C., New York NY

Lost Worlds of Ethiopia


Highlights• Explore stunning pyramids

at Nuri and Meroe, both World Heritage Sites

• Traditional dance performances, open-air markets, local specialties from lemon-laced kabobs to sweet ginger coffee

• Accommodations include a charming guest house and a safari-style tent camp steps away from archaeological sites

Extension• Egypt

Expedition to Sudan Imagine approaching historical sites that are as dramatic

as they are unknown, just as explorers did long ago. In

Sudan’s arid landscapes, our cultural and archaelogical

journey brings you to the confluence of the Blue Nile and

White Nile for a private sunset cruise, then overland by

4WD vehicle to grand and seldom-visited monuments,

from the painted tombs of Napata to the breathtaking

Pyramids of Meroe. Along the way, enjoy desert picnics,

visits to chai houses to sip cinnamon tea, hidden

Nubian villages, a mystical Sufi dance, and an optional

camel ride in the desert.

THE NILE VALLEY, NUBIAN DESERT, AND PYRAMIDS OF MEROE

DAYS 1-5 After exploring Khartoum’s historic sites, head to the red sandstone

mountain of Jebel Barkal, sacred to the Nubians since the time of the New

Kingdom (1500 BC). You’ll cross the Nile to reach the pyramids at Napata,

with their multicolored hieroglyphics, and the pyramids of Nuri, burial place of

21 Kushite kings, before enjoying a traditional Nubian dance performance.

DAYS 6-7 Crossing the volcanic Bayuda Desert, visit Bisharin nomads roaming

with their camels, and reach spellbinding Meroe, with its 40 mysterious pyramids

perched on a hilltop. You can ride a camel (or walk) to explore

this astonishing World Heritage Site and savor amazing

pyramid views right from the veranda of your safari-style

tent at our camp. DAYS 8-9 Round out your adventure at the

temples of Naga and Mussawarat, and watch the spinning of

the Sufi whirling dervishes at sunset at the Tomb of Ahmed

al-Nil as chanting and music fill the air.

Lost Worlds of Ethiopia


DATES Jan 7-15, 2016Feb 5-13Oct 28-Nov 5Nov 11-19Jan 5-13, 2017Feb 9-17


Make it a Private JourneyFabled casbahs, medieval medinas, royal cities, golden dunes, red-rock

canyons—and all at your own pace, with your own group. Our Private

Journey reveals this wondrous land and its vibrant heritage. Discover

remarkable Fez, delight in the warm welcome of Berber nomad families

in the Atlas Mountains, and savor the scent of spices and sizzling

lamb kebabs from the markets of Marrakesh. Stay in elegant riads—

mansions turned boutique hotels with tiled courtyards and lovely

rooftop gardens. Choose your dates and we’ll customize the itinerary

to your interests—you’ll have your own private guide and driver!

From $3795.

This trip was so well thought out with an

itinerary that captures the spirit of the

country. Everything I had hoped for, and it

had been on my list for years!

Cindy B., St. Louis MO


Morocco: Camels to CasbahsFrom imperial cities with labyrinthine souks to the

awesome grandeur of the Sahara, our cultural journey

perfectly captures the sensuous beauty of Morocco.

Explore the graceful city of Fez, suspended in a medieval

dream, and cross the High Atlas Mountains, meeting

Berber nomad families along the way. Then it’s off

into the silent world of the Sahara by camel, foot, or

vehicle. With the horizon as your guide, slip into the

timeless beauty of this stunning desert realm. At

journey’s end, discover the soul of Morocco in seaside

Essaouira and vibrant Marrakesh.

FEZ, MARRAKESH, ESSAOUIRA, AND THE GOLDEN DUNES OF THE

SAHARA DAYS 1-4 From Casablanca, head to Rabat’s picturesque Oudaya

Kasbah, explore the Roman ruins of Volubulis, then enter magical Fez, with

its honeycomb of twisting alleys of Arabic-Moorish architecture. DAYS 5-8

Cross the Atlas Mountains, descend to Erfoud, then venture into the

Sahara as you make your way to the famed dunes of Erg Chebbi.

DAYS 9-11 Meet friendly Berber families in the red-rock canyons of the

Todra and Dades Gorges, and visit the mud-brick citadel of Ait Ben Haddou.

DAY 12 In the charming walled city of Essaouira,

explore the medina, artisan workshops, and the tiny

harbor where fishing boats are still built the traditional

way. DAYS 13-14 Your explorations of Marrakesh

include the souks, where everything from pottery and

fabrics to silver and spices are on display and artisans

are on every corner.


DATES Feb 27-Mar 11, 2016 Mar 19-Apr 1Apr 9-22 Sep 4-17Sep 18-Oct 1Oct 16-29 Nov 13-26

Highlights• Enjoy your lovely tented

camp in the golden Sahara, savoring the desert and watching the sunset and the brilliant night sky

• Explore the hill town of Moulay Idriss, the fabulous ruins of Volubulis, and the vibrant markets in Marrakesh

• Meet the Berbers of the High Atlas Mountains, who greet you with a warm welcome

1.800.368.279444

NAMIBIA

UGANDA

RWANDA

ZAMBIA

ZIMBABWE

BOTSWANA

SOUTH AFRICA

AFRICA

BWINDI IMPENETRABLE NATIONAL PARK

KIBALE FORESTNATIONAL PARK

SOUTH LUANGWA NATIONAL PARK

PARC DES VOLCANS

ETOSHA NATIONAL PARK

SKELETON COAST NATIONAL PARK

NAMIB-NAUKLUFT NATIONAL PARK

QUEEN ELIZABETH NATIONAL PARK

CHOBE NATIONAL PARK

CENTRAL KALAHARI GAME RESERVE

OKAVANGO DELTA NATIONAL PARK

MOREMI NATIONAL PARK

Johannesburg

Cape Town

Victoria FallsHarare

Maun

Lusaka

Windhoek

Kampala/Entebbe

Caprivi Strip

Kigali

Livingstone

Swakopmund

Durban


TANZANIA

KENYA

MADAGASCAR

SAMBURU NATIONAL PARK

LAKE MANYARANATIONAL PARK

SERENGETI NATIONAL PARK

MT. KILIMANJARO NATIONAL PARK

TARANGIRECONSERVATION AREA

Africa’s stunningISALO

NATIONAL PARK

HWANGENATIONAL PARK

ANKARANA NATIONAL PARK

ParksZAMBEZI

NATIONAL PARK

GREATER KRUGER, LONDOLOZI & MALA MALA

MASAI MARA NATIONAL PARK

NGORONGORO NATIONAL PARK

There is so much to experience on this magnificent

continent. Whether this is your first safari or if safaris

have become a lifelong passion (as they do for

many!), we have created the most varied program

imaginable, from the classics done right (think

exclusive camps and special access) to magnificently

remote adventures. Hebu kwenda—let’s go!

ANDISABE (PERINET)NATIONAL PARK

SELOUSNATIONAL PARK

Arusha

Nairobi

Kigali

Durban

Antananarivo

Dar Es Salaam

Zanzibar


Givingback

This trip was way beyond expectations. I started missing Africa and the whole experience even before I left! Valerie D., Prescott AZ

Making a Difference Africa is a dream destination, but it is also a fragile one.

Wilderness Travel is committed to preserving the continent’s

wildlife and cultural heritage. We support—and our guests

have visited—the projects of leading conservationists including

Jane Goodall, elephant expert Iain Douglas-Hamilton, and

cheetah expert Laurie Marker. An award-winning reforestation

project on the slopes of Kilimanjaro was founded by our Trip

Leader Sebastian Chuwa and is restoring the ecosystem as

well as providing employment for village women. We have

funded anti-poaching camps in Namibia and our special

conservation safaris support, and give you exclusive access

to, projects like Africat’s annual “Vet Check” of the big cats

and Dr. Flip Stander’s extraordinary work with desert lions.

Educating the next generation is also of critical importance,

and we are honored to support schools throughout Africa.

Your safari with us supports this work.

Brochure edited by: Barbara Banks Written by: Dena Bartolome, Kirstina BoltonPhoto Editor: Brian McGillowayEditorial Assistants: Shannon Hastings, Pam ShandrickNew Trip Development: Barbara BanksDesigned by: Krystie Bonzelet-NettelmanProduced by: Bonzelet Graphic Design, Novato, CA

47www.wildernesstravel.com

Experience counts! We have been bringing adventurers on safari for almost

four decades, and our team of Africa Specialists is phenomenal. We believe

in expertise, not call centers staffed with salespeople. Our team knows every

detail of our safaris: the unique features of our hand-picked lodges and

exclusive camps, the best season of travel, the wildlife you will see in each

region, and how to prepare for your adventure. They will help you choose—or

create—the perfect safari for you. They know these regions, and our leaders,

personally, and collectively have over 55 years of collective safari experience.

You will find that their knowledge is unmatched, and their enthusiasm for

sharing the wonders of safari make your trip planning a delight.

Our Africa Specialists

PAGE DESTINATION # OF DAYS

TRIPLEVEL

COSTFROM

2016JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC 2017

JAN

GROUP DEPARTURES

16 Serengeti Wildlife Safari 13 2+ $8195 11,29 16 10 18 15 7 10 23 15

18 Climb Kilimanjaro! 11 7 $6195 17 15 4 16 1 16,22 7

19 Masai Mara: Ultimate Migration Safari 11 2+ $7995 17 14 11

20 Mountain Gorilla Safari 11 3+ $6495 9 20 5 2 9

21 Madagascar: Off the Beaten Path 16 2+ $5495 24 4,25 16

21 Magical Madagascar 13 2+ $4695 15 3 4,25

22 Zambia Walking Safari 10 3 $6195 20 10 16 1

23 Zimbabwe! 10 2+ $5195 11 3 22

24 Namibia Expedition 14 3 $6595 6,20 1,19 12 9

25 In the Realm of the Desert Lion 12-14 2+ $6895 18 20 3

25 Namibia: Khaudum & the Caprivi 10 2+ $6195 18

26 Botswana Wildlife Safari 10 2 $7095 22 12 17 4,18

26 Botswana: Kalahari Explorer 14 2 $8195 10

26 Botswana: Okavango Explorer 14 2 $8495 26 21

26 Kalahari San Tribe Expedition 17 2 $11495 4

28 Botswana, South Africa & Victoria Falls 11 2+ $7995 23 15 6

29 Great Hikes & Game Parks of South Africa 10 2+ $5395 5 7 23 1

PRIVATE JOURNEYS

23 Zimbabwe & Victoria Falls 9 2+ $4895 g g g g g

32 Tanzania 9 2 $6795 g g g g g g g g g

33 Uganda 8 3+ $4695 g g

34 South Africa 10 2 $4795 g g g g g g g g g g g g g

35 South Africa, Botswana & Victoria Falls 11 2 $5995 g g g g g g g g g g g g g

36 Botswana & Victoria Falls 8 2 $5595 g g g g g g g g g g g g g

37 Namibia 8 2 $4295 g g g g g g g g

42 Morocco 9 2 $3795 g g g

CULTURAL SAFARIS

39 Tribal Ghana, Togo & Benin 15 3 $5995 13 29

40 Lost Worlds of Ethiopia 15 2 $7395 7,12 12 6,11,17

41 Expedition to Sudan 9 1+ $5295 7 5 28 11 5

42 Morocco: Camels to Casbahs 14 2+ $4695 27 19 9 4,18 16 13

web Morocco: The High Atlas Trek 15 4 $3995 30

Wilderness Travel Trip Calendar

Numbers in calendar months indicate starting date of trip. For Private Journeys, a g indicates which month is best for traveling.For trip level descriptions, please see our website at www.wildernesstravel.com

Left to right: Lisa Laferte, Jeffi Norris, Barbara Wright

Wilderness Travel1102 Ninth Street Berkeley, CA 94710-1211 1-800-368-2794

[email protected]

Our renowned program

includes phenomenal

wildlife safaris, fascinating

cultural journeys,

exclusive camps, and

unique itineraries. With

small group departures

and a full program of

Private Journeys that

you can customize, we

have the widest range

of safaris, and the most

intriguing adventures

to choose from. Contact

our Africa Specialists,

and let us share the

thrilling world of safari

with you.

Special Offer! $500 discount per person

for the first six sign ups

on most of our 2016 group

safaris. See our website, or

call us for details.

Come Experience the Wonders of Africa!

african safaris - wilderness travel · 2016-01-25 · others do. responsible for establishing...

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