Natural | The Adventure Travel Site

Vallee de Mai Nature Reserve

Vallee De Mai Nature Reserve is a protected UNESCO world heritage site which is located in the Praslin island of Seychelles Archipelago. This tropical reserve is home to a number of distinctive plant and animal species that cannot be seen elsewhere in the world. Read on to know more.

Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve — Vallee de Mai Nature Reserve | Img by: Leila Maziz via Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 3.0 IGO

About

Located in the middle of the Praslin Island which is the second largest Island in Seychelles; the Vallee De Mai Nature Reserve is rich in biodiversity. The reserve is composed of a well- preserved palm forest that is home to the world’s rarest plants and animals in the world.

History

The park was an unspoilt virgin forest till 1930 and after the exploration and researches done by environmentalists, the forest obtained a Nature Reserve status in 1966. The reserve later, became a popular tourist destination and words about this wondrous reserve started to spread and during 1983 under Criterion (vii), (viii), (ix), and (x) the reserve obtained recognition as a UNESCO world heritage site.

Flora

The reserve is home to 6 endemic plant species that includes the flagship species of global significance as the largest seed-bearing plant in the world – their coco-de-mer. The 19.5 ha area of palm forest includes a wide range of plants that have not undergone any changes since the prehistoric times.

Fauna

The animal species that belong to the reserve include a myriad of bird species most of them being endangered species, law enforcement and penalties for harming these creatures have been made strict by the government. The reserve is also home to small amphibians and mammals such as turtles, hedgehogs, fruit bats and more.

Visiting here and accommodation options

You can visit the island by a boat or ferry which is located 40 kilometers away from Mahe. You can choose to stay at a hotel in Seychelles in the mainland of Mahe the likes of Berjaya Beau Vallon Bay Resort & Casino or you can also find accommodations in the island of Praslin itself where the reserve is located.

Fritzjames Stephen is a travel writer, who writes content based on the myriad of experiences and indulgences that the world has to offer travelers across all walks of life. Google+

Sinharaja Rainforest

Century-old trees spread their bony arms overhead while the undergrowth is cushiony soft. It’s not surprising that the Sinharaja Rainforest located in South-western Sri Lanka was declared a World Heritage Site in 1989.

When & how to get to the forest

The first step in planning a trip to Sinharaja is selecting which time of the year to visit the forest reserve. The Sinharaja Forest experiences two monsoon rain seasons a year which take place between the months of November to January and then again from May to July. Visiting the park in the remaining months is, therefore, a good idea.

Border

The mesmeric nature of this popular rainforest in Sri Lanka will be the perfect way to begin your discovery of the paradise isle. Koskulana Ganga, Gin Ganga and Kudawa Ganga beautifully border the rainforest. When the rains thrash steadily, these rivers swell delightfully.

Highlights

There will also be those who slither away or remain camouflaged while you pass by. Keep your eyes peeled if you wish to spot the hump-nosed lizard or the green pit viper, they can be friendly too! When exploring the Sinharaja Rainforest it would become evident as to why Sri Lanka is called a paradise isle.

Accommodation

There are cabins and dormitories managed by the Forest Department at the Kudawa entrance and some private eco-lodges around the forest reserve are half an hour to ten minutes away from the Kudawa entrance. Saman Villas long known as a tranquil beach retreat is a good base from which to explore the surrounding area and offers easy access to many things to do in Bentota. The Kudawa entrance to the Sinharaja nature reserve can be accessed along the Southern Expressway from Bentota.

Caleb Falcon is a travel writer who specializes in writing content based on the many exciting world adventures that await intrepid travellers. Google+

Pulau Payar Marine park Langkawi

Langkawi, also known as the Jewel of Kedah, is definitely one of the most beautiful tropical landscapes in the world, and consists of 104 islands situated off the North-West of Malaysia.

Background to Pulau Payar Marine Park

The park actually consists of four islands, which are Payar, Lembu, Kaca, and Segantang. These islands are renowned for their biodiversity, and were eventually integrated to form a unified marine sanctuary. Payar is the largest of the islands, and contains the Marine Park Centre.

Aquatic Activities

If you’re into snorkelling or scuba diving then there’s no better place in Langkawi to indulge in these activities. The best dive/snorkel site of the park is Coral Garden but unfortunately that area is currently closed to the public in order to preserve the coral.

Hiking Trails

If you do not wish to get yourself wet then the best thing for you to do would be to tackle one of the many hiking trails that are available throughout the park. This is a great way to explore the beautiful sights that the islands have to offer on the surface.

Getting to the Park

The park can easily be accessed by boat or catamaran, so if you’re residing in many of the hotels Langkawi has to offer such as Berjaya Langkawi Resort, you won’t have any trouble getting to the park.

Fritzjames Stephen is a travel writer, who writes content based on the myriad of experiences and indulgences that the world has to offer travellers across all walks of life. Google+

Minneriya Elephant Gathering

Although poachers have ruthlessly brought down the elephant population across the regions of Asia and Africa, Sri Lanka is home to some 5,000-8,000 elephants. Found in north-central Sri Lanka is the Minneriya National Park where hundreds of elephants every year travel to the banks of the reservoir constructed by King Mahasena to mate, feed, bathe and even socialize.

One of world’s biggest “gatherings”

Welcoming jeeps full of tourists from across the world, this wildlife spectacle occurs every year. Known as “The Gathering”, it offers a great chance to catch glimpses of elephants spraying muddy water onto each other, calves playing around and older elephants pulling the lush grass off the ground.

When and where?

The Minneriya National Park is found about a ten-minute drive away from the popular Habarana forest. As the water in the other sources in the park recedes during the dry season from July through early November, massive herds of elephants start to advance toward the reservoir. Many a popular travel & lifestyle magazine published online such as Cinnamon Magazine features The Gathering during the season providing enough information for enthusiastic tourists and locals.

How can you head to The Gathering?

Luckily enough, there are many safari planners and tour guides around the Minneriya Park. You can easily arrange a tailor-made safari to visit and witness The Gathering.

The plus points

Although relatively small compared to other reserves in Sri Lanka, Minneriya Park is also home to other wildlife including sambar, spotted deer, langurs and even macaques.

Auburn Silver is a travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world. Google+

Dampier Peninsular; A Must Visit Attractions

Broome, a tourist town that is situated in the Kimberley region of Australia has some of the most beautiful sights in the region, making for an ideal adventure hotspot.

Dampier Peninsula and Cape Leveque
The breathtakingly beautiful Dampier Peninsula has a length of more than two-hundred kilometres and is only accessible through Cape Leveque road. Natural coastal splendour doesn’t get much better than it does over here.

Indigenous Experiences

There are many captivating colonies of indigenous Australians present throughout this region. One can learn a great deal about their culture as well as the history of the peninsula, which includes the Sacred Heart Church, built by the indigenous locals and Phallatine monks in 1917.

Accommodation
There are many choices of places to stay available at the Dampier Peninsula. If you’re feeling really adventurous there are camping sites and bush-shelters, but if you’re looking for something more comfortable there’s nearby Cable Beach accommodation to choose from with options like Oaks Cable Beach Sanctuary.

Getting There
Making your way to the Dampier Peninsula is an adventurous task, and if you’re going to take the unsealed Camp Leveque road, you’re going to need a 4X4. Sometimes the road can be closed due to flooding so be sure to check the road conditions beforehand. Although you can get fuel along the way, getting other facilities can be quite tricky.

Caleb Falcon is a travel writer who specializes in writing content based on the many exciting world adventures that await intrepid travellers. Google+

Discovering Hanifaru Bay in Maldives

Image Credit-Shiyam ElkCloner, Dharavandhoo Thila – Manata Black Pearl, CC BY-SA 3.0

One of the most precious marine habitats in the Maldives, Hanifaru Bay has a rich marine biodiversity and offers plenty of amazing sights to be discovered. Those lucky enough to dive here will also see a wide range of marine life that swim wild and free in its waters.

Where can it be found

Image Credit-Frédéric Ducarme, Baa atoll islands, CC BY-SA 4.0

Hanifaru Bay can be found in what is known as the Baa Atoll in Maldives. While this site is part of a Biosphere Reserve it is also a Marine Protected Area. Those in search of a hotel near Hanifaru Bay from which to head to this site can consider options such as Dhigali Maldives.

The highlight at Hanifaru
The main draw at Hanifaru Bay is undoubtedly the chance to see manta rays. In fact, this site is known as one of the largest manta ray feeding destinations in the world. Little surprise that underwater photographers love coming here!

Best time for mantas

Image Credit-TANAKA Juuyoh (%u7530%u4E2D%u5341%u6D0B), Manta alfredi maldives, CC BY 2.0

When it comes to seeing mantas feeding on plankton at Hanifaru Bay, the best time to visit is the period from May to November. Literally, hundreds of mantas can be seen during this time and make for an unforgettable underwater spectacle.

Other marine inhabitants

Image Credit-Shiyam ElkCloner, Dharavandhoo Thila – Hanifaru Bay Sharks, CC BY-SA 3.0

Apart from manta rays, this underwater area is home to other species too including sting rays and whale sharks which add to the allure of Hanifaru Bay. Diving here is bound to be an experience you won’t soon forget.

Auburn Silver is a travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world. Google+

Kayaking in Tioman -Paddling Away in Paradise

Kayaking | Photo by Aaron Burden on Unsplash

Lying off the east coast of Malaysian peninsular, the stunning island of Tioman is a vacationer’s paradise with its many attractions and things to do. Kayaking is one of these.

Beginner or Pro?

It doesn’t matter as kayaking is as easy as pie! Excepting during the monsoon season which extends from late November to late February; Tioman is a haven for kayaking with its calm waters. You have the choice of either going on an adventurous kayaking expedition or just trying it out by the beach at your hotel in Tioman Island. The distances vary depending on your level of skill. But, don’t worry most of the hotels like Berjaya Tioman Resort Malaysia or even the diving centres; will have an instructor who will carefully take you through the steps of mastering kayaking. Once you’ve used to it, it’ll be quite a smooth ride as most of the kayaks available here are stable and comfortable.

Where?

For a truly memorable kayaking experience head over to the beautiful island of Pulau Renggis. This is said to be the ultimate destination for snorkelling in Tioman but kayaking is quite a breathtaking experience as well. The reason why it’s so popular is that the waters around the island are really shallow, crystal clear and teeming with fish of many colors and sizes. So if by any chance you tip and fall into the waters, you can make some new friends! LOL If you’re in luck, you’ll be able to meet some of the famous turtles who call Pulau Renggis their home like Fred and Dolly.

What to Bring

Before going on an kayaking adventure, don’t forget to take with you a pair of flippers, a mask, some snacks and of course, the kayak! 😀

Fishing anyone?

After a long day of kayaking, you’re bound to become ravenous. So why not catch your dinner while you’re on your kayaking trip? The waters surrounding Tioman has a no-angling zone but if you want to fish, you will be taken about 2 miles off-shore with kayaks and everything to fish! After all, that’s where all the big catches like giant sharks are anyways right? Just kidding! You’re the only one that’ll be hunting. However, to go kayaking in such deep waters, you must be a pro kayaker.

Catalina Forbes is a travel writer who bases her content on many thrilling escapades experienced across the world. Google+

Wild Life In Yala

Sri Lanka, the stunning tropical island has plenty of wildlife that makes safaris the most thrilling experience! From majestic leopards to giant elephants, animal lovers will find paradise here!

Yala National Park

Yala National Park located in the south east of the country is the second largest and most popular wildlife park. Designated as a wildlife sanctuary in 1990, you’ll be able to spot many animals here!

Safari jeep

Tourism Yala National Park | Img. Courtesy: [By Adbar, CC BY-SA 3.0 via Wikimedia Commons]

There are a number of safari tour providers around Yala which visitors can make use of. However, as most Yala hotels offer wildlife safaris such as WildTrails Yala, it’s best to book with them instead – to avoid any unsafe or scam tours.

Mammals

File:Sri Lankan Leopard - Yala National Park — Sri Lankan Leopard – Yala National Park | Img. Courtesy: [By Thimindu Goonatillake from Denver, USA, CC BY-SA 2.0 via Wikimedia Commons]

Yala Park is most famous for spotting elephants and leopards. You’ll see herds of Sri Lanka’s magnificent beasts in the larger open plains of the park while leopards are often harder to spot and can usually be seen resting in the shade.

Birds

Eagle in Yala National Park | Img. Courtesy: [By Schnobby, CC BY-SA 3.0 via Wikimedia Commons]

You gotta have a hawk’s eye (pun well intended) when you’re at Yala Park. From the proud peacock to the island’s national bird; the jungle fowl, bird types are diverse and colourful!

Reptiles

File:Crocodile in Yala National Park| Img. Courtesy: [By Schnobby, CC BY-SA 3.0 via Wikimedia Commons]

Yes, there are crocodiles and snakes. Plenty of them! Crocodiles can be spotted lurking the murky waters around the rivers and swamps.

Things to remember

File:Sign advising not to feed the animals | Img. Courtesy: [By Tess McBride, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service [Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons]

Avoid making loud noises when you’re inside the park, as this will scare or aggravate the wild animals, especially since you’re in their territory. Don’t feed any wild animal nor throw your thrash out of the jeep!

Caleb Falcon is a travel writer who specializes in writing content based on the many exciting world adventures that await intrepid travellers. Google+

Kung Krabaen Bay Nature Centre

Kung Krabaen, Chantaburi province, Thailand| Img. By Sean.hoyland (Own work) [Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons

Nature lovers will find themselves richly rewarded with Bangkok tourist places when they venture out of the city and into the province of Chanthaburi. The Kung Krabaen Bay Royal Development Study Centre, also known as the Kung Krabaen Bay Nature Centre, offers a stimulating experience for nature enthusiasts and conservationists. Due to its distance from central Bangkok, it is recommended to find accommodation in Chanthaburi when planning your visit. Options include resorts such as the Chatrium Golf Resort Soi Dao Chanthaburi.

Open from 6.30 am to 6 pm every day, the Kung Krabaen Nature Centre was founded in order to conduct research into Chanthaburi’s mangrove ecosystem. The most remarkable feature of this centre is the 1600 metre long trail built through the coastal area’s mangrove forest. The wooden walkway is dotted with small pavilions allowing visitors to rest or simply absorb the ambience of the towering mangroves. The curious will be happy to know that there are many information sites along the way providing details about the flora and fauna in the area. There is much to see at Kung Krabaen bay as the mangroves provide haven to a variety of aquatic organisms, such as horseshoe crabs and mudskippers. The mangrove forest is also home to many water birds, macaque monkeys and civet cats which often emerge at low tide to search for food. At the end of the walkway, a pavilion projecting out into the bay offers visitors a scenic view of the mangrove forest and the river; a marvellous parting gift!

More adventurous visitors have the option to get even closer and hire a guided kayak to travel through the mangroves. Travellers are taken through the mangrove shaded waterways, almost at eye level with the animals in the area. Lucky visitors may also get the opportunity to see traditional fish and crab capturing methods used by the locals. It must be noted, however, that kayak tours are subject to the tide and prevailing weather conditions.

Fritzjames Stephen is a travel writer, who writes content based on the myriad of experiences and indulgences that the world has to offer travellers across all walks of life. Google+

Snorkelling Trip to Khai Island

Angelique800326, Snorkel-xel-ha, CC BY-SA 3.0

Khai Islands are located about 10 km from Phuket. Comprising of three small islands; Khai Nok, Khai Nai and Khai Nui, each island is blessed with an abundant number of marine life. The sands at Khai Islands are picture perfect – almost as if popped out of a postcard, with white soft sands and clear blue water that allures you from the moment you set your feet down. The waters around each island are safe and ideal for swimming and snorkelling and the white sandy beaches are best for relaxing and basking under the warm glow of the sun.

If you’re staying at a Phuket resort, you must take a traditional long tail boat ride to the Khai Island for a snorkelling adventure. Some accommodation providers such as COMO Hotels & Resorts, offer day time excursions for those who wish to explore the beauty of marine life living within the warm tropical ocean waters. A boat ride from Phuket should take on average 45 minutes to Khai Islands. A planned tour will first take you to Khai Nui which is surrounded by the colourful reefs that are teeming with fish like eels, clownfish, giant clams and many more. After you spend a couple of hours exploring and snorkelling here, you’ll be transported to the second island known as Khai Nok. This island is the best place to buy some fresh seafood, which will then later be grilled on a BBQ, as you unwind and relax with a chilled beer or a refreshing cocktail by the side of the beach. You can also rent jet skis and go for a spin on the azure waters around the islands. Khai Nai is the largest island of the three, while Khai Nui is comparatively the smallest.

Tourists who spend the day snorkelling here are advised not to feed the fish and leave as little a mark as possible so as not to damage the natural environment and its eco system.

Intrigued by history, art and food, Lavinia Woolf is a writer who is passionate about the extraordinary and writes of the exhilarating and enchanting. Google+