WildlifeAreas, Melbourne

Catch a wave against the backdrop of ancient pink granite at Cape Woolamai, Phillip Island's highest point and one of Victoria's most popular surfing beaches. The region was recently declared a National Surfing Reserve in recognition of its rich surfing heritage and pristine natural environment. Walk along the golden, sweeping beaches at any time of the year. Follow one of the four coastal walking track loops at Cape Woolamai and stop at viewing platforms to take in breathtaking views of the Pinnacles. Take advantage of the wildness of Bass Strait and surf one of the best beach breaks in the country. Rewind the calendar and enjoy holidays like they used to be. Base yourself in Newhaven, hire bikes to enjoy the leisurely cycle from the tourist road down to the beach and let the kids swim in the patrolled waters. Or witness the magical dusk descent of the short-tailed shearwaters (mutton birds) as they return from a day of fishing to the place they call home between late September and mid-April. https://www.visitmelbourne.com/regions/Phillip-Island/Things-to-do/Nature-and-wildlife/Beaches-and-coastlines/Cape-Woolamai

Monarto Zoological Park is an 1000 hectare open range zoological park and natural wilderness sanctuary, combined in a centre for conservation and enjoyment of wildlife and nature. Traveling through African and Asian wildlife habitat areas, where herds of exotic, grassland dwelling animals like giraffe, cheetah, zebra, antelope and ostrich can be seen at close proximity. Endangered species, including the Przewalski’s or Mongolian wild horse and the Scimitar oryx, are important features of the Park. http://www.murrayriver.com.au/monarto-zoo-975/

At the multiple award-winning Billabong Zoo you can get up-close and personal to Australian and exotic animals. You can pat, stroke, feed, hold, hear and see over 80 species of mammals, reptiles and birds. They care for over 200 animals in this friendly 10 acre Koala and Wildlife Park. Enjoy their much loved Zoo Talks throughout the day. All free as they are included in the admission price. Learn about their passion for conservation as Ambassadors for Wildlife and their world-renowned koala breeding programme. Book one-on-one Up-Close personal encounters with some very special animals: cheetahs, snow leopards, koalas, red pandas, meerkats, snakes. Enjoy the playground and picnic areas set in beautiful lush gardens with tranquil koi ponds. Delicious hot food, snacks, ice-cream, coffee and drinks at the great Zoo Cafe. Souvenirs and retail therapy in the popular Zoo Shop. https://portmacquarieinfo.com.au/see-do/billabong-zoo

Explore this iconic Gold Coast Wildlife Sanctuary. Immerse yourself into the wonder and natural beauty of 27 hectares of Currumbin rainforest, wandering through open animal enclosures, feeding kangaroos and cuddling koalas along the way. Experience the wild lorikeet feeding, free flight bird shows and Aboriginal performances. Test your physical ability on the TreeTops Challenge High Ropes Course, an exhilarating 90 challenge canopy ropes course and see the wonderful vets in action within the Wildlife Hospital precinct. With a huge outdoor themed playground, Wild Island, there is plenty of entertainment for kids to enjoy as they tour the sanctuary on a miniature train. Lost Valley a new exotic precinct features five hectares of stunning rainforest, Lost Valley takes you on a journey through the ancient supercontinent Gondwana. Explore a forgotten world and get up close and personal with some of the world's most unique and distinctive flora and wildlife including friendly Lemurs, Cotton-top tamarins, Red pandas, Capybaras along with free-flying birds and exotic reptiles. https://www.destinationgoldcoast.com/places-to-see/currumbin/attractions/currumbin-wildlife-sanctuary

Only 12km from Brisbane City, Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary is the world’s first and largest koala sanctuary with 130 koalas. Hold a koala, hand feed kangaroos and meet a large variety of Australian wildlife in beautiful, natural settings. Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary opened in 1927 as a safe refuge for sick, injured, and oprhaned koalas, at a time when the species was being culled for the fur trade. Founder, Claude Reid, recognised something had to be done to help protect one of Australia's most iconic species. Today, Lone Pine remains as a destination for local and international guests to not only see native Australian animals, but to also connect and learn, and to leave feeling inspired to make small, positive changes in their daily lives to help protect their own native wildlife and habitats. https://koala.net/en-au/

Alice Springs Desert Park is a breathtaking window into the heart of Australia's desert environment. It's like stepping into a living storybook where the plants, animals, and people of the arid regions come alive. If you're exploring the Red Centre, this place is a definite must-see. As you wander through three recreated desert habitats, you'll quickly realize that the desert is far from barren: it's teeming with life. The park shares the rich stories of the desert through fascinating interpretative displays, cultural presentations, and engaging guide-led activities. Don't pass up the chance to witness the Nature Theatre show. Here, majestic birds of prey and other animals showcase their incredible survival skills right at the base of the stunning MacDonnell Ranges. It's a spectacle that will leave you in awe. Make sure to visit the Nocturnal House too. It's a unique experience where your eyes will gradually adjust to the dim light, allowing you to observe rare and endangered mammals in their natural setting. Keep an eye out for the adorable bilby, the endangered mala, and the intriguing thorny devil. For an unforgettable nighttime adventure, join the Nocturnal Tour. With a knowledgeable guide, you'll step into a predator-proof enclosure nestled in the foothills of the ranges. Here, you can get up close with nocturnal creatures like the bilby, mala, echidna, and brush-tailed bettongs. It's a rare opportunity to see these animals in action under the starry desert sky. Alice Springs itself is a gateway to other wonders of the Outback. Just a short drive away, you can explore the stunning landscapes of the West MacDonnell Ranges or visit the historic Telegraph Station. The town also offers a range of cultural experiences, from art galleries to local markets, where you can immerse yourself in the vibrant spirit of the region.

The Kiwi Birdlife Park is a wildlife sanctuary found in the heart of Queenstown. Park holds and displays over 20 species of native NZ wildlife in 5 acre, all of which are part of nationally managed programmes. In this Birdlife Park you can meet Brown Teal, Kea, Blue Duck, New Zealand Falcon and other species of birds. Kiwi Birdlife Park’s Kiwi Houses reverse the clock so park visitors can see, by day, these amazing birds in a naturalistic night-time setting. Also discover a world of fun bee facts and products at the Honey Bee Centre. With an indoor transparent beehive, you will get to see the incredible world of bees. Learn about the importance of bees in agriculture and things you can do to help bee populations! https://www.kiwibird.co.nz/

The Australian Butterfly Sanctuary has been in operation for over 20 years and is the largest butterfly flight aviary in Australia. More than one million guests have enjoyed the Australian Butterfly Sanctuary since its inception. Come experience why the Australian Butterfly Sanctuary has been such a long lasting success. The aviary at the Australian Butterfly Sanctuary has been designed to recreate the butterfly's natural tropical habitat. Enjoy the tranquility of the flowing fresh water streams, complete with waterfalls and surrounded by exotic tropical plants and flowers. This is the perfect natural haven for the spectacular butterflies. As you wander along the large paths that snake through the aviary take time to appreciate the vast variety of Lepidoptera (species of butterflies and moths). The Australian Butterfly Sanctuary is also home to the world’s largest moth – the Hercules Moth. The Hercules Moth is endemic to Tropical North Queensland Australia and is a majestic creature of the jungle that really has to be seen to be believed! The Australian Butterfly Sanctuary is an all weather activity, perfect for rainy days typical of the tropics. For guests that want to gain a greater appreciation for butterflies 30 minute complimentary tours are conducted every 15 minutes, providing visitors with a greater understanding of the butterflies life cycle and behaviour. https://www.cairnsattractions.com.au/explore/wildlife-parks/australian-butterfly-sanctuary.432.html

Ambury Farm Park is nestled in the southern suburbs, gracing the shores of Manukau Harbour. As you stroll through the open pastures, you'll be greeted by a charming array of farm animals. It's a delightful way to connect with nature and experience the pastoral lifestyle. But the park isn't just about the animals; it's also a vital habitat for shorebirds, offering birdwatchers a real treat. The coastline showcases stunning basalt lava flows, a testament to the area's volcanic history. For those interested in geology, these natural formations are a must-see. Don't forget to bring your camera to capture the breathtaking landscapes and unforgettable moments.

Paradise Valley Springs is Rotorua's must-see wildlife park where visitors of all ages can interact closely with a range of New Zealand’s wild animals, native birds, farm animals and trout, as well as view and get up close to a large pride of African Lions. The wildlife park is set amongst beautifully maintained New Zealand native bush, offering easy walking along flat accessible walkways in all types of weather. You can hand-feed animals that are found wild around the country such as Deer, Goats, Tahr and Wallabies. Visit the Kea, New Zealand’s infamous and comical alpine parrot in their walk-through aviary. Stroll through the waterbird wetland for great views of native and introduced waterfowl, and look out for the different native birds living wild around the park. Pat and feed the very sociable farm animals - alpacas, donkey, emus, sheep and more. Hundreds of Rainbow and Brown trout can be fed in the natural stream as well as in the spring-fed display pools, and viewed at eye level through an underwater window below their pool. Spot some of the large native long-finned eels lazing in their pools. Drink straight from the cool waters of the freshwater spring, or purchase some of their bottled ‘Paradise Pure’ to take away with you. Take the elevated treetops to walk in a secluded area, putting you up near the canopy of the trees. In a separate area of the park, there is also a pride of African Lions that can be seen all day in an enclosure that allows visitors to get very close to these wild animals. Lion pride feeding is at 2.30pm, followed by kea and possum feeding at 3pm every day. 10-15 minutes drive from central Rotorua. Open every day of the year including all public holidays. https://www.rotoruanz.com/visit/see-and-do/leisure-wildlife-parks/paradise-valley-springs-wildlife-park

While staying at Mount Tutu Eco-Sanctuary, a 16-acre nature park, feed the unique Mount Tutu Sheep which are a closed flock of Heritage Sheep. The preservation of heritage flocks is considered to be very important. Mount Tutu Sheep, unique to Mount Tutu Eco-Sanctuary, are characterised by their majestic horns and piebald markings. They have been selectively bred over 18 years. The lambs look like little panda bears, and are equally as cuddly! Get up close and personal with these special sheep! https://www.newzealand.com/au/plan/business/mount-tutu-eco-sanctuary-3123383/

The Port Moresby Nature Park is a haven of greenery and lawns spread over 30 acres, boasting two kilometres of boardwalk threading beneath a jungle canopy, plus excellent wildlife exhibits, plant collections, and cultural demonstrations. You may find yourself passing by a wedding, a friendly soccer match and a class trip all in one single visit to the park. Bring a picnic to enjoy in the large grounds, under a 'haus-win' with a barbecue area. Or rest a while in the Park’s well-appointed and popular café before browsing the souvenir shop as you leave. Port Moresby Nature Park is open 365 days a year! https://www.papuanewguinea.travel/port-moresby-nature-park

Experience a wildlife adventure with elephants, crocodiles, lions and many more. You will never forget this! Eat breakfast like a king, start the most important meal of the day with our adorable orangutan at their playground. Or take a short Elephant Expedition with Revitalization Treatment Spa! Spend a night at the Zoo, its offers a fantastic experience exploring the zoo after dark! It is the next best thing to do while on the island besides gazing at dramatic sunset on the beach. https://www.bali-zoo.com/

Bali Bird Park plays a key role in protecting and conserving Indonesia’s endangered wildlife. It accommodate more than 40 species of protected Indonesian birds in the park. Bali Bird Park is divided into regions that recreate the natural habitats of its birds, complete with indigenous plant life. So come with us on a magical journey across the Indonesian archipelago, Latin America, Africa and Australia. Travel from the deep misty jungle of Sumatra to Far East Indonesia and Papua to discover the native birds from these remote regions and venture to other tropical continents too. Walk side-by side with cassowaries, crested-cranes, storks and pelicans and many more birds as they wander freely through the park. Also explore a stunning collection of nocturnal owls live quietly in a specially-adapted traditional Toraja house, which you can't mis as you enter the park. Make sure you see the Barred Eagle Owl with its side-ways pointing ear tufts. http://www.balibirdpark.com/

Bako National Park, established in 1957, is your gateway to experiencing the enchanting forests and wildlife of Sarawak. Nestled at the northern tip of the Muara Tebas peninsula, this park may only span 27 square kilometers, but it's a treasure trove of natural wonders. Within its boundaries, you'll find an impressive array of vegetation: from swamp forests and scrubby padang plants to mangroves, dipterocarp forests, and even delicate cliffside greenery. It's like a living botanical encyclopedia showcasing nearly every type of vegetation Borneo has to offer. The park isn't just about plants. Its coastline is dotted with charming bays, hidden coves, and inviting beaches. And for those who love a good trek, Bako boasts an assortment of well-marked trails. Whether you're in the mood for a leisurely stroll or an intense full-day hike, there's something for every adventurer. Wildlife enthusiasts will be thrilled, as spotting animals here is almost guaranteed. Long-tailed macaques and silver leaf monkeys are regulars, while wild boars often make appearances around the park's headquarters. Keep an eye out for squirrels and monitor lizards, too. The real showstopper, however, is the rare and quirky proboscis monkey. For a chance to see them, hit the trails like Telok Paku and Telok Delima in the late afternoon. A quiet walk with attentive listening will increase your chances of encountering these fascinating creatures. If you're planning a visit, consider staying overnight at the park's basic but comfortable accommodations. This way, you can enjoy the serene beauty of the park at dawn, when the animals are most active and the forest is alive with sound.

As dusk falls, the shutters open at the Night Safari, welcoming you into a world of nocturnal creatures and their dimly-lit habitats. Opened in 1994 and located next to the Singapore Zoo, the Night Safari is the world’s first safari park for nocturnal animals. This wildlife park is spread across seven distinct habitats, each home to its own array of fascinating creatures. Your eyes will take a while to adjust to the darkness here, but once they do, you’ll be greeted by over 2,500 resident animals from over 130 species – including many indigenous to the region, such as the endangered Asian elephant, Malayan tapir and Malayan tiger. The animals live in 35 hectares of dense rainforest. Friendlier creatures such as deer roam freely in the park while fiercer ones like leopards are kept behind barriers. For those who prefer exploring the park on wheels, a 35-minute tram ride with live commentary takes you across seven geographical zones of the world, from the rugged Himalayan Foothills to the swampy banks of Equatorial Africa. http://www.visitsingapore.com/see-do-singapore/nature-wildlife/fun-with-animals/night-safari/

Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park - is a national park in Quang Binh province in central Vietnam with an area of 885 km². The National Park has the oldest karst mountains in Asia, which has formed about 400 million years ago. There are hundreds of caves, underground rivers and long underground passages with stalactites and stalagmites. In 2005 the park has been discovered a new species of gecko. The park has about 300 caves and caverns with a total length of 70 km. British and Vietnamese scientists have examined 20 km. There are many underground rivers, streams and waterfalls in the park. Phong Nha - Ke Bang included on the UNESCO World Heritage List. Serious exploration of the caves began only in the 1990s when it first Cavers forced deep into Phong Nha Cave, one of the longest cave systems in the world. Paradise Cave was discovered in 2005, and in 2009 a team found the world's largest cave - the Son Doong. In 2015, the public was given access to two cave systems. Serious exploration of the caves began only in the 1990s when it first Cavers forced deep into Phong Nha Cave, one of the longest cave systems in the world. Paradise Cave was discovered in 2005, and in 2009 a team found the world's largest cave - the Son Doong. In 2015, the public was given access to two cave systems. https://www.vietnamsite.nl/phongnhakeeng.htm

Hangzhou Safari Park is an incredible destination that combines the thrill of a zoo with the adventure of a safari. This place is home to a stunning variety of exotic animals. Lions and Siberian tigers are the undeniable stars of the show, and don't forget the quirky hippos. But if you're in the mood for a good laugh, head over to The Naughty Monkey Cage. Watching those cheeky monkeys meticulously groom every inch of themselves is pure comedy gold. You have a couple of options to explore the park: hop on the safari train for a leisurely ride or opt for the freedom of driving your own car through the park. At various stops, you'll encounter zookeepers in action: some feeding mulberry bushes to camels, others tossing apples to brown bears, and even a few providing live chickens for cheetahs to tussle over. It's a fascinating glimpse into the daily lives of these animals. Throughout the day, you can catch exciting circus, bird, and elephant shows. They add an extra layer of entertainment to your visit. If you're planning a trip to Hangzhou, this safari park is a must-see attraction that promises a day filled with wonder and amusement. Plus, don't miss the chance to try local street food nearby. It's a delicious way to round off your adventure!

Fukushimagata Wetlands is a vast nature reserve stretching over 193 hectares. It is home to a number of endangered species of animals and plants and is listed on Japan’s 100 greatest natural environments. The park is a paradise for bird and plant lovers. In spring, the carpet of rapeseed flowers is impressive. Indulge yourself in the vivid yellow colour and scent of the flowers while listening to birds singing. In summer, giant pink lotus flowers are in bloom. The rarely seen Euryale ferox, a massive lotus with two-metre leaves and thorns, can be found here. In winter, the snowy scene of the wetlands with migratory swans is a favourite. Along with flocks of swans, the greatest concentration of Eastern Taiga Bean geese, a recognised national natural treasure, resides here. Fukushimagata Wetlands is also designated as a wildlife sanctuary for the Japanese white crucian carp. https://enjoyniigata.com/en/spot/7405#

Nestled in the heart of Waikiki, the Honolulu Zoo sprawls across 42 lush tropical acres, offering a captivating experience for animal lovers and adventure seekers alike. Imagine exploring a world where nearly 1,000 exotic animals call home. From the mighty Komodo Dragons to playful orangutans and majestic elephants, this zoo has it all. As you wander through, you'll find an impressive array of primates, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and African wildlife, each exhibit a new discovery waiting to be made. The Children's Zoo is a must-visit, especially if you're traveling with little ones. It's a place where kids can interact with friendly animals and learn about the wonders of wildlife. Don't miss the African Savannah exhibit, where you can feel the thrill of being on a safari without leaving the island. And when your feet need a break, the playground offers a perfect spot for the kids to burn off some energy while you relax. Feeling peckish? The zoo's snack bar has you covered with tasty treats to keep you fueled for more exploration. Whether you're a local or a traveler, the Honolulu Zoo promises an unforgettable day surrounded by nature's wonders. Remember to bring your camera, because you'll want to capture every moment of this wild adventure in Waikiki.

Nestled 820 kilometers west of Antananarivo, the Tsingy stands as a breathtaking wonder of Madagascar. This awe-inspiring landscape, with its jagged limestone formations, was the first of the island's treasures to be recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It shares this prestigious status with the nearby Bemaraha National Park, which joined the list in 1997. When you visit, you'll find yourself marveling at the sharp spikes and intricate formations that make the Tsingy so unique. Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1990, the Tsingy occupies a portion of the limestone plateau within the Bemaraha National Park. The area is renowned for its extraordinary network of rifts, crevasses, and limestone blocks carved into sharp blades. It's a landscape that feels almost otherworldly, a true testament to the raw beauty of nature. For the adventurous traveler, the Tsingy offers a chance to explore a labyrinth of rugged paths and natural bridges. The park is home to a rich diversity of wildlife, including several species of lemurs, unique to Madagascar. Don't forget your camera; the views here are nothing short of spectacular, providing endless opportunities for stunning photographs. Whether you're a nature enthusiast or simply seeking an unforgettable experience, the Tsingy promises a journey filled with wonder and discovery.

The beautiful Boulders Beach is one of Cape Town’s most visited beaches and the only place in the world where you get close to African Penguins. Cape Town definitely has no shortage of amazing beaches, but Boulders Beach in False Bay offers something extra special – a colony of African Penguins in all their smartly dresses, waddling glory, right under your nose. In fact, it’s the only place in the world where you can get close to African Penguins. In 1982 a couple of these little crowd-pleasers settled on the soft white sand between the large granite boulders that protect the beach from wind and large, stormy waves, and currently the population is estimated between 2,000 and 3,000 birds. Sadly the African Penguin has been classified as an endangered species, due to things like overfishing, habitat destruction, pollution, and irresponsible tourism activities, and the Boulders Beach colony has also felt the effect, with numbers dwindling over the last couple of years. Boulders Beach isn’t just a great place for penguins, it’s also a popular family-friendly swimming beach where kids can climb over the boulders, explore the rock pools, or swim in the cool, clear False Bay water. It’s also a great place for a leisurely picnic. Due to the R65 conservation fee, the beach is rarely packed. http://www.capetown.travel/visitors/see-do/top-attractions/boulders/headline-boulders-beach

Croc City Crocodile & Reptile Park is fast becoming one of the most exciting attractions in South Africa, where visitors take part in thrilling activities such as holding a baby crocodile, touching exotic snakes and getting up close and personal with a tarantula! Croc City was founded by Anton and Marietjie Lötter over a decade ago; the couple have been there for more than 16 years. The entrepreneurial duo soon discovered a huge tourist market for their industry and one of the founders and co-owner of the reptilian refuge Marietjie Lötter explained that the origin of the animals in the Park and their facilities are exclusively for the benefit of visitors. Croc City Crocodile & Reptile Park’s first Nile Crocodile Zip Line – A revolution for Africa – is turning heads as the brave of heart gear up to brave the new Croc City FlyOver! Built by Chimp and Zee, the Croc City FlyOver is an adrenaline-fuelled opportunity to fly or zip over crocodiles as they watch from below! https://www.croccity.co.za/

The Cradle of Humankind World Heritage Site is an area of outstanding universal value. Its complex of fossil-bearing caves contains a superbly preserved record of the stages in the evolution of humankind over the past 4-million years. It's the world's richest early hominin site and is home to around 40% of the world's known human-ancestor fossils. The area is also home to a diversity of birds, animals and plants, some of which are rare or endangered. http://www.thecradleofhumankind.net/

The Bedouin tribes have a long tradition of hunting with birds of prey, and falconry remains a popular sport today. The Kalba Bird of Prey Centre has free-flying demonstrations, along with aviaries housing owls, eagles, buzzards, vultures and, of course, falcons. Using live demonstration and displays, the centre introduces visitors to a host of native raptor species, highlighting the region’s wildlife landscape. For a family experience, take your children for some edutainment on Sharjah wildlife. Learn about the importance of resident raptors like the falcon, the national bird of the UAE, and migrating wild raptors, like the Barn owl, Short toad snake eagle, Greater spotted eagle and Lappet-faced vulture. The centre is located in the Khor Kalba nature reserve, one of them don’t miss places to visit in Sharjah. After a visit to the centre, take a walk around to experience the pleasant weather in Kalba. With a variety of terrains and wildlife, Kalba is among the most famous national parks in Sharjah. https://www.visitsharjah.com/activities/wildlife/kalba-birds-of-prey-centre/

On the floor of the Great Rift Valley, surrounded by wooded and bushy grassland, lies the beautiful Lake Nakuru National Park. Visitors can enjoy the wide ecological diversity and varied habitats that range from Lake Nakuru itself to the surrounding escarpment and picturesque ridges. Lake Nakuru National Park is ideal for bird watching, hiking, picnic and game drives. Flamingo (Greater and Lesser) and other water birds including a variety of terrestrial birds numbering about 450 species in total. Mammals: 56 different species including white rhinos,waterbuck etc. View-points: Lion hill, Baboon cliff and Out of Africa Hills: Enasoit, Honeymoon, Lion hill ridge etc Waterfalls: Makalia. Unique vegetation: About 550 different plant species including the unique and biggest euphorbia forest in Africa, Picturesque landscape and yellow acacia woodlands. http://www.kws.go.ke/lake-nakuru-national-park

Sir Bani Yas Island is a hidden gem in the Arabian Gulf, where the Arabian Wildlife Park sprawls across more than half of the island. It's like stepping into a real-life safari with over 10,000 animals roaming freely. You can get up close with the island's giraffes from a unique viewing platform crafted entirely from recycled materials. It's a refreshing reminder of the island's commitment to sustainability. For those seeking adventure, hop into a specially designed 4x4 for a thrilling Nature & Wildlife Drive. Expert guides accompany you, sharing fascinating insights about the wildlife. If you're up for a longer exploration, consider booking a three-hour tour. You'll encounter majestic Arabian Oryx, graceful gazelles, towering giraffes, and even some of the island’s more elusive residents like hyenas and cheetahs. Sir Bani Yas Island isn't just about wildlife. It offers a rich cultural history too, with archaeological sites dating back to the Bronze Age. The island's lush greenery and serene beaches make it a perfect escape. Whether you're a wildlife enthusiast or a history buff, there's something for everyone to enjoy.

Center-stage of many surprises, the 3,000 square kilometer salt lake is an unbeatable sight. Home to Andean birds and a large lithium reserve, its thick crust forms heaps that crackle at sundown when temperatures drop quickly. The Atacama Salt Flat is one of the main attractions of the Los Flamencos National Reserve. Be amazed by the large number of long-legged birds that nest and feed in its “watery eyes”, like those of the Chaxa Lagoon. Keep your eyes wide open to try to spot the differences between the Andean, Chilean and James flamingos. https://chile.travel/en/where-to-go/north-and-the-atacama-desert/san-pedro-atacama/atacama-salt-flats

Get up before dawn to enjoy the show just as the sun rises, with the craters of El Tatio as the main attraction. Located 4,200 meters above sea level, its fumaroles (smoke from the geysers) create amazing white steam columns which are at their best between 6 and 7 in the morning. On your morning outing see how the local endemic wildlife (viscachas, vicunas, nandues) and other birds leave their hiding spots, looking for their breakfast among the yaretas (fern like plants) and giant cacti. Tired? Finish your day in the healing hot springs that the destination offers. https://chile.travel/en/where-to-go/north-and-the-atacama-desert/san-pedro-atacama/el-tatio-geyser

In the enormity of the desert, you’ll find lagoons, salt flats, and mountains that are intertwined with the landscape. Together they create magical sights! The Los Flamencos National Reserve invites you to enjoy the beauty of the landscape around it. The diverse climatic conditions of its seven areas will surprise you as you become one with your surroundings. You can see its variety of flora and fauna where flamingos take center stage. Walk along the trails around the spectacular altiplanic lagoons, discover the Chaxa Tourist Center and see how the sun sets behind Moon Valley (Valle de la Luna). https://chile.travel/en/intereses-destacados/national-parks-and-reserves/los-flamencos-national-reserve

At the 200-acre Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, jaws drop in awe-even those of longtime Alaskans who've studied grizzlies and other animals up close. AWCC's mission is to preserve Alaska’s wildlife through conservation, research, education and quality animal care. The center, which opened to the public in 1993, also educates visitors about Alaska's wildlife. Coyotes peer out from behind the brush while a bald eagle swoops in on the salmon remains left by a grizzly bear. Wood Bison plod through 65 acres of tidal flat terrain, as part of a program that will one day restore the species to the Alaskan wilderness. Animals that cannot be released into the wild are given a permanent home at the center. Come be a part of these exciting programs and watch these animals display their natural, “wild”, behaviour. Set on the shores of Turnagain Arm, surrounded by mountains and hanging glaciers, the center is the perfect setting to learn about Alaskan wildlife. The animals are located in different areas grouped around several road loops. Perhaps the best way to view the facility is to first drive around to get your bearings, then park by the gift shop and walk. Each habitat area has a sign explaining the history and habits of the particular animals. https://www.alaska.org/detail/alaska-wildlife-conservation-center

Nestled in northern Sudan, Dinder National Park is a true gem for nature enthusiasts. Established as a protected area in 1935, this park stretches along the banks of the Dinder River, from which it takes its name, and also features the Rahad River weaving through its lush landscapes. Covering an impressive 7,182 square kilometers, it shares the honor of being listed as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve with another of Sudan's national parks. This recognition highlights its ecological significance and commitment to conservation. Dinder National Park is a paradise for bird watchers, earning its place as an important Ramsar site. The park is perched at the intersection of two remarkable vegetation zones: the Ethiopian Highlands and the Sudanese Sahara. This unique location gifts it with a diverse ecosystem. Visitors can explore a variety of landscapes, from meadows and riparian forests to acacia woodlands and open savannah grasslands. Whether you're a seasoned bird enthusiast or just someone who loves to wander in nature, Dinder offers an unforgettable experience. The park is home to an array of wildlife, including gazelles, lions, and a myriad of bird species. Don't forget to pack your binoculars and a camera to capture the breathtaking moments that await you in this natural wonderland.

Walk among old growth coast redwoods, cooling their roots in the freshwater of Redwood Creek and lifting their crowns to reach the sun and fog. Federally protected as a National Monument since 1908, this primeval forest is both refuge and laboratory, revealing our relationship with the living landscape. Muir Woods National Monument is world renowned for its old-growth coastal redwoods, attracting over one million visitors each year. With the park’s popularity come pressures on a fragile ecosystem representing more than 380 different plants and animals. The incredible diversity of flora and fauna at Muir Woods can be daunting sometimes, elusive at other times. The redwoods themselves dominate the scene, but the Steller's jay often steals the show. Ladybugs clustering by the thousands on ancient horsetail ferns boggle the imagination, while the slimy banana slug is able to disgust and fascinate all at once. Plants adapt to low light levels on the forest floor, while whole plant and animal communities bustle in the canopy above our heads. https://www.nps.gov/muwo/index.htm