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Archive for the 'Adventure Destinations' Category

EcoCamp at Torres del Paine National Park in Chile’s Patagonia.

Monday, March 8th, 2010

Ecocamp is an environmentally friendly place to stay when visiting southern Chile’s rugged Torres del Paine National Park. This camp provides a comfortable home base made of several geodesic dome tents at in which to explore the surrounding wilderness park which offers world-class mountain vistas and where it’s possible to view wildlife such as the llama-like guanacos, puma, condors and rare birds like the ostrich-like Lessor Rhea.

The domes tents are big enough to comfortably walk around in, has its own bathroom, heated with low-emission wood stove and electricity is generated by solar panels and micro hydro turbine. These tents, echo the early dome-like dwellings of the nomadic Kawesqar tribe, an ancient native people who lived in the area. The dome shape helps maintain stability in high winds, which are common in Patagonia. The tents are linked together by boardwalks and have wooden floors, beds, round windows for amazing views. There is a common-area tents for meals, chilling out, and socializing.

The camp is deep inside the often windy park along dirt roads and in a valley surrounded by awe-inspiring granite mountain peaks, glaciers and azure lakes. In the summer months (end of September through end of March) you can get up to 17 hours of daylight, so you will have lots of time to explore the park. This camp in Chile’s Patagonia is as about as far south as you want to get, but if you want to get even closer to the end of the world then you will need to make complicated travel plans that will eventually get you about 300-400 miles further south in Argentina’s Tierra del Fuego.

Details on the various options to book a trip are on the EcoCamp’s website

Biodiversity Touring in Panama’s Rainforests

Thursday, January 21st, 2010

Panama is the ultimate destination in the America’s for diversity of wildlife. Panama is a natural land bridge connecting two continents and is home to many species from South American as well as North and Central America. About 29% of Panama’s land area is protected in 14 national parks, more then a dozen forest reserves and 10 wildlife refuges. Birdwatchers have long flocked to Panama’s some 1,000 species of birds. It is also home to over 220 mammals and 354 reptiles and amphibians. There are hundreds of islands and miles of protected coral reef, sheltering an amazing diversity of marine life.

Frank Gehry, the famous architect of Guggenheim museum and other renowned buildings, is blending art and science in his latest creation in Panama, the Bridge of Life Museum of Biodiversity. It is nearing completion and was planned to open in 2010 but it maybe a bit longer before the doors open due to a variety of reasons. More info here.

Panama is becoming one of the most exciting ecotourism destinations in the Americas and there are now several exciting ecotourist possibilities you may want to consider. For most of us with limited time and desire to rough it in unfamiliar rainforest, you will want to join a tour group of some sort.

The Panama Family Adventure has a 8 day package deal reasonably priced and geared for a couple traveling with children that want a relaxed easy eco-tour of top rainforest locations as well as some time to do some tropical chilling out.

Another fascinating adventure could be the Rainforest Awakenings, on their 8 day “youth rites of passage retreat” where you get intensive close up study of the tropical ecosystem. Hiking through the rainforest,a community service day where you can help build a water catchment system for a nearby community. Also go snorkeling and discuss the tropical reef ecology, and also hike along with a Ngobe tribal member to a sacred waterfall.

If you’d rather avoid the tour groups and want to strike out on your own you may consider the 400 acre Mount Totumas Cloud Forest Preserve, started in 2008, which borders La Amistad National Park. Their website states: “The cloud forest habitats of western Panama and neighboring Costa Rica are rich in endemic species. The site provides a great potential for studies of the local biodiversity, birdwatching, orchid photography and other related areas of natural history interest.” There is a three bedroom home with off-the-grid electricity (that is available for rent to the public) They also state “Visitors to the Reserve should be prepared for an isolated wilderness “retreat” experience. The site and home is at the top of a valley bordering an immense national park.” They also have a blog and it states they are actively seeking skilled carpenters, plumbers, ecologists with cloud forest knowledge and organic and conventional gardeners, and trail designers. Check out these great photos on their flicker photo site.

Days are hot, nights much cooler; temperatures range from 90 °F during the daytime to 70 °F in the evening practically year-round. Humidity is always high at about 80 percent. The rainy season takes place between October and November, and the best months to visit are mid-December and late March. Temperatures vary according to geography. The climate is less tropical at higher elevations. In mountain areas the average annual temperature ranges from 10ºC to 19ºC

North East Scotland

Monday, June 8th, 2009

NEScotland We’ll pack up our woolies, just in case, and head off for a seven day tour of North East Scotland. The itinerary will be flexible, just the way we like it. It will provide for lots of exploration including Findhorn Bay, with a stop at The Findhorn Foundation spiritual and environmental community.

Also a visit to the Whale and Dolphin Conservation Society, the Moray Firth from both land and sea, a workshop lead by a local artisan, and a ride to the summit of Cairngorm Mountain (after ample treks, of course). These are just a few of the highlights of this tour. Brought to us from our friends at ecoscape.org who put out a truly fine and informative publication.

For full Booking Information, CLICK: http://www.ecoescape.org/tours/wild-places-in-northeast-Scotland.php

Delphi Mountain Resort, County Galway, Ireland

Monday, June 8th, 2009

Delphi Delphi Mountain Resort
I’ll just say this, if you’re a greatgreentraveler in Ireland and you can’t find what you’re looking for here, you have simply got to rethink your needs!

In a beautiful setting within 400 acres of the Connemara forest, sheltered between Killary Harbour and the Bundorragha River, the location is ideal for all types of mountain, forest, and surf activities. Alternatively, the spa in the resort is available for an organic seaweed wrap if what you’re looking for is to just lay back and relax.

Meals are prepared with organic ingredients locally sourced; variety of room types and suites available. Educational resources furnished to the community and visitors.

For Full Booking Information, CLICK: http://delphimountainresort.com

Thanks to Catherine Mack and a suggestion that if you’re traveling through Ireland an excellent resource is her book, Ecoescape Ireland: The handbook to responsible escapism: A travel Guide to the greenest places in Ireland

Bathhurst Inlet Lodge

Friday, May 22nd, 2009

Bathurstinletaerial This is perhaps the first ever “ecolodge.” Bathhurst Inlet Lodge, located on the Central Arctic Coast in Nunavut is the perfect place for greatgreentravelers to immerse themselves in the virtually untouched beauty of our land while supporting the people who live there.

During the brief summer season the area is rich with life. Over 80 species of birds are present, with more migratory sightings. An abundance of mammals like muskox, caribou, and barrenground grizzlies roam. Wildflowers come out by the thousands to celebrate the sun! The arctic land is host to vast geological wonders and awe inspiring views of waterfalls, gorges, canyons, and eskers.

The lodge is co-owned by the Warner family and the Kingaunmuit people, the indigenous Inuit residents of Bathurst Inlet. The history of this lodge is long and exciting, culminating in its present state of partnership. After your long and eventful day on the tundra you’ll be treated to a great meal and to story sharing.

Departures are out of Yellowknife. There are five 1-week programs scheduled beginning June 26-July 02 through July 20-26. Reservations are still being accepted, I just checked.

For reservations and full booking information, CLICK: www.bathurstinletlodge.com/

Kapawi Ecolodge & Reserve

Friday, May 1st, 2009

Kapawi
Photo courtesy & ©: www.jaymsramirez.com

Your visit to Kapawi Ecolodge and Reserve will transport you to a time and place so remarkable, so utterly unlike any other you have experienced. Deep, deep, in the Ecuadorian rainforest, accessible only by plane is this wonder of confluence where ancient life and tradition gently lights your evening path with solar power.

This is the home of the Achuar, the last indigenous people of the area, some 6,000 in population now living in 64 communities throughout their two million acres of nearly pristine land in the Amazon.

A partnership was formed in 1996 between Canodros, an Ecuadorian tourism operator and the Achuar with the shared goal of bringing economic stability and sustainability while conserving the natural state of the rainforest. The Kapawi project was planned and its successful execution over time has resulted in the full transference of management and ownership to the Achuar people as of January 1, 2008.

This trip helps support the Achuar people and helps to preserve their land.

For full information on the lodge, activities, and 20 available bungalows, CLICK: http://www.kapawi.com/index.htm

The Lodge at Pico Bonito

Thursday, April 16th, 2009

Pico Bonito Located on Honduras’ Caribbean coast, nestled within the lush rain forest of the Pico Bonito National Park (the responsibility of the National Park Foundation, a non-profit ngo), The Lodge at Pico Bonito has become a must-do destination for those of us who love 4 Star luxury in and of the green.

In this protected space you are offered activities as diverse as birding where you can sight over 200 species, a walk through the butterfly sanctuary, try kayaking the Rio Cangreja, go horseback riding, rafting, hiking, mountain biking, climbing, or, perhaps just relax in your hammock and take in the luxurious backdrop of the Nombre De Dios Mountains.

There are just too many choices to make! Not to worry, all of the sustainable alternatives have been worked out for you. Just sit back, breathe deeply, and think about how happy you are to be there – then get moving!

For information and reservations: CLICK: http://www.picobonito.com/PB_files/lodge.html

PERU – Hiking the Inca Trail

Wednesday, April 15th, 2009

Inca Trail This is classified as a “high altitude, moderate / strenuous hiking holiday”. Indeed! You’ll be traveling not only through time, but through several climatic and ecological zones as well on your way to reach Machu Picchu. You’ll ascend to altitudes of roughly 4,200 meters as your local guides lead you from camp to camp. The high-attitude wilderness is home to spectacular views along with many species of Andean birds and flora that you will have the opportunity to view.

Duration is 4-5 days excluding flights. Private treks can be arranged. As always, you will be contributing to the local economy through this vacation.

Daily departures except in the month of February. This trail hike should be booked 2-3 months in advance and at least 4 months in advance if you wish to travel between peak months of June and September. Prices vary depending on your departure location and number of people in the traveling party. From our friends at ResponsibleTravel. For full information and complete itinerary, CLICK:

http://www.responsibletravel.com/Trip/Trip100755.htm

Dolphin Coast Trail – Portugal

Tuesday, April 14th, 2009

Horses On Beach Your ride takes you along the Costa Azul, encompassing the southern stretch of Portugal’s west coast. During your trip you’ll experience dolphins frolicking at the mouth of the Rio Sado, miles of deserted beaches dotted with an occasional fishing village or lagoon, the coastal mountains of Grandola, and the heart of the country. You’ll enjoy the history and culture of the local people you meet while traveling through these varied landscapes.
Unicorn Trails offers this exceptional vacation to riders who have the knowledge and ability to walk, trot, and canter. The duration is 8 days and 7 nights. Your trip begins at Lisbon Airport. Cost is dependent on the time of year you choose to travel.
CLICK: http://www.unicorntrails.com/europe/portugal/dolphincoasttrail/

The Great Turtle Race 09

Tuesday, April 14th, 2009

leatherback-turtle To raise awareness and support for protection of leatherback sea turtles and the world’s oceans, National Geographic is hosting an interactive website to follow the journey south of eleven of these turtles.

These magnificent creatures are now heading out of the cold Canadian Atlantic to their breeding areas in warm Caribbean waters. The race will feature a daily updated map for each turtle, guest bloggers including marine scientists, surfers, swimmers, and conservationists. To keep up, CLICK: www.GreatTurtleRace.org