This June and July we’ve had some really fun safaris through Zimbabwe, Namibia and Botswana. These are all wonderful countries with experiences that complement what so many of you have experienced here in East Africa. We enjoyed time floating above the desert dunes of Namibia’s Sossusvlei and watching desert lions, cheetahs, and elephants who’ve adapted to one of the harshest environments on the continent.

The dunes around Sossusvlei

Zimbabwe is a country that is home to not only the world famous Victoria Falls but also the equally impressive, and much more remote, Gonarezhou National Park. Greater than 1 million acres, this is one of the true wilderness locations left on the African continent. We went on a walking safari with Shackleton & Selous Fellow Ant Kaschula, and stayed in his private camp along the Runde River, where we had four days of superb bush walking and some of the finest elephant viewing available. One evening while sipping our drinks by the campfire, a very relaxed bull foraged within 15m; his insouciance captivating us, and providing a surreal vision in the full moon’s glow. Gonarezhou is very much a destination for those wanting to feel the rich beauty of Africa up close.

In May, Steph and I followed the equator around to Ecuador for a voyage through the wildlife mecca that is the Galapagos Islands. Charles Darwin visited the archipelago in 1835 and brought the world’s attention to one of the most fascinating destinations on our planet; one that remains so to this day. The Galapagos is well protected and thoughtfully managed; with a great boat and guide, and the right itinerary, you can spend 10-14 fun-filled days enjoying the splendid diversity of life that inspired Darwin himself.

Personal highlights included the marine iguanas and the abundance of turtles we swam with during our many snorkeling sessions. The sheer proximity of so many large reptiles, not to mention the fish and birds all around, makes these islands truly unique, and provides a constant reminder of why these volcanic isles have become so popular to visit.

Our entire expedition was meticulously put together with our Shackleton & Selous Fellow Macarena Iturralde, based down in Quito, Ecuador & was also guided by our S&S Fellow Jonathan Green.

Photos courtesy of Jonathan Green.

One of the privileges of being part of a global travel community, is the opportunity to visit some truly outstanding destinations around the world.

In November, several Fellows of our Shackleton & Selous Society chose India to convene for our annual meet up. The chance to explore the rich history of Delhi, the colorful temples and forts of Jaipur and the wildlife of Ranthambore, left us with a positive and powerful impression of this country’s diversity. Mandip & Anita Singh were delightful hosts, providing insights and connections that personalized the experience for all of us.

Perhaps my lasting impression of India is the spectacular color which greets you at every turn; the Amber fort, the ivory palaces, the people and their countless combinations and shades of dress. A really pleasing assault on the visual senses!

Mandip Singh takes us through India

Jaipur’s finest hotel

Ranthambore’s biggest cat

Asian elephant in Jaipur

I am very pleased to announce the inaugural “Invitational Journey” of The Shackleton & Selous Society. Fellow Kristjan Edwards will guide a small group of intrepid S&S Travelers along an inspirational path that will include light trekking, elephant-back polo, tiger tracking, and unparalleled personal insight into the local culture and wildlife.

Stephanie or I will join this trip as well, as Nepal has always been on our list of places to get to. I can’t imagine a better introduction to the country, it’s people, and it’s wildlife than what Kristjan has to offer.

If you would like more details about this journey to Nepal please don’t hesitate to get in touch with me – the ten day itinerary begins in Kathmandu on March 5th, 2015.

The Shackleton & Selous Society is the first network of individual leaders to the world’s wild places. Our website is invitation-only: let me know if you would like to become an S&S Traveler and I will happily give you access.