International Wildlife Day 2017
International Wildlife Day – 6 wild retreats to get closer to Mother Nature
World Wildlife Day is celebrated internationally on 3 March to celebrate and raise awareness of the world’s wild fauna and flora. In honour of this special day, Booking.com, the global leader in connecting travellers with the most incredible places to stay, is presenting some of the world’s most beautiful places to stay in the heart of nature across the globe.
Based on thousands of endorsements from previous travellers for the best places in the world for wildlife, these six destinations are perfect to marvel the beauty of nature and relax. Try to stay disconnected from any electronic devices to minimise noise and distraction, get a pair of binoculars and discover how much joy a stay among the world’s wild fauna and flora can bring.
Halls Gap, Australia
Halls Gap is located in Victoria, Australia and is the gateway into Grampians National Park. Celebrate World Wildlife Day by exploring the local eco-systems and learn about the diverse array of native plants and animals, some of which are unique to the area.
Bordering with the Grampians National Park, the eco-friendly Boroka Downs is an adult only retreat offering bungalows with a fireplace and BBQ facilities. A hiking backpack containing binoculars, maps and wildlife reference books is provided to all guests.
Drake Bay, Costa Rica
With its tropical climate and outstanding flora and fauna, Drake Bay in Costa Rica is an explorer’s dreamland and an ideal destination to educate yourself on the world’s wildlife.
Set on Drake Bay, the Copa De Arbol Beach & Rainforest Resort is an eco-friendly resort accessible by boat. This beautiful gem has a jungle setting surrounded by wildlife and tropical plants. Each cabin is constructed from recycled teak, cypress and Melina wood and features a terrace looking the surrounding rainforest.
Yellowstone National Park, Montana, United States of America
With nearly 3,500 square miles of wilderness, the world’s first national park has a greater number and variety of plants and wild animals live there than anywhere else in the 48 contiguous states.
Situated on the north entrance of Yellowstone National Park and just 90-metres away from the Yellowstone River, the Dreamcatcher Tipi Hotel offers luxurious tipis overlooking the mountains. Each tent features organic bath products and is decorated with beautiful rugs and chandeliers. Rafting, fishing and hiking are only some of the activities travelers can enjoy during their stay.
Welgevonden Game Reserve, South Africa
The rich and diverse Waterberg region offers an amazing variety of unspoilt, natural habitats with the savanna areas consisting of rolling grasslands and a semi-evergreen forest.
Located inside the Welgevonden Game Reserve and featuring beautiful suites with private terraces and plunge pools surrounded by lush plants, the Clifftop Exclusive Safari Hideaway organizes elephant safaris and horse riding trips. All suites are decorated with hand-made organic fabrics, while the guests can enjoy the beautiful views over Welgevonden Game Reserve and Sterkstroom River from their bathtub.
Estosadok, Russia
Estosadok is mountain village surrounded by the beautiful Russian wilderness, including some of the most unique and diverse flora and fauna in the world.
Set 100-metres away from Rosa Khutor Ski Complex, the Cultural and Ethnographic Centre Moya Rossiya Hotel is composed of 11 unique buildings representing different regions of Russia. Mainly endorsed for wildlife, downhill skiing and relaxation, the family friendly destination of Estosadok is a perfect choice for travelers who want to experience a beautiful alpine scenery.
Imatra, Finland
With Finland’s remote north-eastern European location comes flora and fauna as varied and exclusive as the location. It’s a great location for unplugging and appreciated the wild natural wonders this part of the world has to offer.
Situated near the Kruununpuisto Park, the oldest nature park in Finland, the Rantasipi Imatran Valtionhotelli is set in an elegant castle by the River Vuoksi. Nature lovers can visit the magnificent Imatrankoski rapids, which are considered to be part of the National landscapes of Finland, enjoy a cruise on the River Vuoksi or discover the islands on Lake Saimaa.
