bird-watching EIGHT GREAT 25
state in the Gulf of Guinea. Its two volcanic islands, carpeted in rainforest, are home to numerous endemic species that have evolved in island isolation, including some 26 birds – such as giant sunbird, dwarf olive ibis and Principe kingfisher – found nowhere else on earth. Add to this the teeming seabird colonies, marine turtles, humpback whales and fascinating island culture and you have a wildlife destination for the true connoisseur. SELL IT: Rainbow Tours’ nine-day Sao Tome and Principe Island Escape incorporates five nights at Bom Bom Island Resort, with guided birdwatching excursions. From £1,970pp (for departures November 1–31 2014), including flights, transfers and accommodation. 020 7666 1250;
rainbowtours.co.uk
SELL IT: Naturetrek’s 22-day New
Zealand Natural History tour seeks out the best of NZ birdlife at Tiritiri Matangi, Arthur’s Pass,
Stewart Island, Dunedin and other key sites, including pelagic trips for seabirds and cetaceans. From £5,995pp. 01962 733051;
www.naturetrek.co.uk
7
SAO TOME AND PRINCIPE
For the birdwatcher in search of the unique, few destinations come more alluring than this tiny equatorial
8
FALKLAND ISLANDS Birders don’t come to the Falklands to chalk up a
record-breaking list but rather to immerse themselves in one of the world’s most memorable avian experiences. Whether wandering beaches crammed with thousands of gentoo penguins or sitting among scrawny black-browed albatross chicks as their parents sweep in with beakfuls of squid, your bird encounters here tend towards the in-your- face variety. For ardent listers, there are always such local ‘ticks’ as Cobb’s wren, striated caracara and flightless
steamer duck. For others, the likes of elephant seals and orcas ensure that a visit to these remote islands is not only for the birds.
SELL IT: Audley Travel’s nine-night Falklands tour includes two nights on Carcass Island, two nights on Sea Lion Island, two nights in Stanley and two nights in Santiago, Chile. Priced from £3,500pp it includes all transfers, and excursions to West Point and Volunteer Point.
01993 838000;
audleytravel.com
Te Gambia
Discover the smiling coast
Exotic African culture, unique & boutique hotels, friendly people and a warm welcome awaits you in The Gambia.
0845 330 4567
Gambia.co.uk/Trade
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