The Wilds are a world of extremes. While you may be tempted to only fight monsters or go on a quest to find orangutans, extreme temperatures are just as dangerous and can drain a party’s resources. Nevertheless, the Wilds offer the chance to live in a fantastical world, where civilization is only held together by a few brave souls. Here are a few tips on travelling into the wilds.
Adventures in the Atacama Desert
Experience the extreme landscapes of Chile’s Atacama Desert during an adventure with an outdoor guide. Explore the Valley of the Moon, where turquoise lagoons and salt flats meet a backdrop of giant sand dunes. Or take a bike tour through the valley’s red rock terrain. Whatever your interest, you’re sure to find an adventure that’s right for you. Some companies offer bespoke experiences that let you spend more time exploring the desert than you’d like to.
The Atacama Desert is one of the world’s driest deserts, but it does not lack for life. Specially adapted mammal species live in the area, including Darwin’s leaf-eared mouse and the South American gray fox. Other animals such as the guanaco, vicuna, and viscacha graze in grassy areas. Sea lions are also common along the coast.
Exploring Loango National Park in Gabon
Exploring Loango National Park in Gabon is a great way to discover some of the African country’s most interesting wildlife. There is over 175 km of beach and you’ll also see the rare Damara tern and African skimmers. This central African country is on the west coast of Africa, an hour’s flight from neighboring Sao Tome and Principe. The country’s border countries are Republic of Congo, Equatorial Guinea, and Cameroon.
A visit to this equatorial park will transport you back in time, to a world where nature rules and the rhythms of life are primal and unadulterated. This country’s tourism industry is still relatively undeveloped, which means that it offers pristine wilderness and abundant wildlife. The vast forests cover 70 percent of the country’s land area, and the coastline is predominantly wild. Many species of birds and animals can be seen in this region, including elephants, gorillas, and leopards.
Exploring the rainforest to see orangutans
One of the best ways to get close to orangutans is by boat. A private boat can bring you to feeding stations where the orangutans swing from tree to tree. There is a ranger on board to announce when feeding is taking place. Guests will get a close-up look at the orangutans as they swing past them. You can also go on a placement with a conservation group or volunteer to help with orangutan research.
In addition to orangutans, you’ll also have the chance to see other wildlife in the area. During an orangutan safari, you’ll have the opportunity to see numerous species of birds, proboscis monkeys, and other wildlife. These animals live in unprotected forests, so it’s important to wear comfortable shoes and dress warmly. Be sure to wear protective clothing to avoid sunburn and mosquito bites, since orangutans are nocturnal.
