Travel_LeisureIndiaSouthAsia-January_2017

TRAVEL + LEISURE / JANUARY 2017 73

PANTANAL, BRAZIL |

Close encounters

with Jaguars

The Pantanal holds the

world’s highest density of

wild jaguars, stay in the

heart of this region for

amazing sightings.

Unlike in other areas,

jaguars here are active

during the day, off ering

excellent chances to see

these elusive cats in the

wild. Along the way, also

expect to see giant river

otters, anteaters, tapir,

capybaras, hyacinth

macaw, and the world’s

largest stork, the jabiru.

The Oceanic Society

organises a nine-day

expedition, guided by

award-winning nature

photographer Pete

Oxford, that ends at

South Wild Pantanal

Lodge where more than

300 bird species have

been recorded. Expedition

dates: July 16-26, 2017.

oceanicsociety.org

ADDED BENEFIT You will be

staying at the only hotel that’s

inside the Iguassu National Park,

so you’ll also be just a short

walk from the incredible falls—

allowing you to visit the falls at

dawn and dusk when other

visitors have vacated the park.

CUBA | Sea Turtles, Coral reefs and Culture

See two sides of Cuba—art and science. Join a group to explore the

coastal wildlife and valleys–snorkel, dive, see nesting sea turtles,

rare birds and visit organic farms. Embrace Cuban culture with

tours of historic Havana, live jazz performances, authentic Cuban

food, and visits to museums and markets. Meet and learn from

Cuban marine biologists and conservationists. This programme is

off ered with SEE Turtles, Cuba Marine Research & Conservation

Program, and Altruvistas. altruvistas.com

HARDCORE VALUE An impressive lineup of Cuban insiders will

entertain and enlighten all along the way. On the coast, biologist

Dr Julia Azanza will guide the group through the fragile sea turtle

nesting site visits.

FROM TOP: HELMUT CORNELI/ALAMY; LAURA ROMIN & LARRY DALTON/ALAMY; FRANS LANTING STUDIO/ALAMY; FRANS LANTING STUDIO/ALAMY

TRAVEL + LEISURE / JANUARY 2017 75