Take a walk on the wild side with National Geographic
National Geographic has been on the forefront of culture, history, and exploration for over 130 years; it was only a matter of time before they made their foray into travel. Since the publication of their first magazine in 1888, their pictures and words have provided inspiration for those seeking to expand their understanding of the world. Now they are teaming up with various travel companies to offer their insights & experiences to everyone.
Any National Geographic tour you do, you’re supporting the National Geographic Society’s researchers and explorers who are working around the clock to “preserve species and ecosystems, protect cultures, and advance understanding of our planet and its inhabitants.” Their mission extends to the National Geographic Journeys in partnership with G Adventures by providing small – group tours to get you together with other like-minded people. By encouraging a ‘hands on’ approach to exploration and an opportunity to connect with local experts, they have focused on itineraries that will take you away from the everyday side of tourism and instead give you a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Imagine hopping in an open-air jeep with an expert while you track the “big 5” through Kruger National Park. As your jeep slowly stalks the wildlife through the open plains, your heart is pounding as you prep your camera to start snapping at a seconds’ notice.
Afterwards, you are one of the few that gets to meet with one of the researchers from the Big Cats Initiative who will enlighten you about what they are doing there to help aid the cheetahs from extinction. And you get the added benefit of knowing that just by being where you are, having the experience you’re having, that you are helping to fund that and other similar projects.
Have you always dreamed of seeing Asia? Then what about exploring the Dambulla Cave Temple in Sri Lanka? Listed as a UNESCO world heritage, it’s just one of the places that National Geographic Journeys with G Adventures can take you. Afterwards, you can meet with some nearby locals who will tell you about their lives in their thriving agricultural village. Pictured is the beautiful Sigiriya Rock also a must see in Sri Lanka.
We’ve highlighted both of the above itineraries because both South Africa and Sri Lanka are now visa-free for New Zealand passport holders. Only an ETA is needed for Sri Lanka and the fee has been waived until the end of January 2020. There’s plenty to choose from though and you’re not limited to touring, so let your imagination run wild and let us know how we can help to make your dream a reality!