INDIA AWAITS The thrill of India at first hand with Toby Sinclair IN THIS ISSUE BRAZIL UNBOUND Where to experience the best wildlife and birds in Brazil GOING SOLO It needn’t cost the earth to explore the world as a single traveller AUTUMN 2025
xplore ETHE WORLD CONTENTS AUTUMN 2025 4 8 10 INDIA AWAITS 14 AUTUMN INSPIRATION SMALL IS BEAUTIFUL BRAZIL UNBOUND The thrill of India at first hand with Toby Sinclair Our autumn shortlist of inspirational tours Getting to remoter places on smaller expedition ships Where to see the best wildlife and birds in Brazil
INTRODUCTION Thank you for your overwhelming response to our first issue. Your enthusiasm and stories remind us why we do this—connecting people with the natural world in meaningful ways. This edition arrives as the conservation world mourns Dr Jane Goodall, whose pioneering work with chimpanzees transformed how we understand and protect wildlife. Her belief that every individual can make a difference continues to guide our work at Wildfoot Travel. Our commitment to exceptional experiences is built on firsthand knowledge. This quarter, our team is journeying to Papua New Guinea, crossing the Antarctic Circle, and tracking polar bears in Churchill, Canada—research expeditions that ensure we can provide you with the most current, expert guidance. In this issue, discover new destinations, meet working conservationists, and explore the places that inspire us. We also look forward to seeing you at events throughout 2026, starting with the Manchester and London Destinations shows. Thank you for being part of the Wildfoot Travel community. With gratitude, Jay Turner, Commercial Director Wildfoot Travel Jay Turner Commercial Director, Wildfoot Travel DEAR FRIENDS, Welcome to the second edition of Wild Horizons! 17 182023 GOING SOLO SOUTH PACIFIC SVALBARD EXPEDITION NEWS & EVENTS It needn’t cost the Earth to travel solo Journeys of discovery in Polynesia & Melanesia Lesia Moskal’s polar adventures in Svalbard Where we are exhibiting and forthcoming trips
INTERVIEW The thrill of India at first hand with Toby Sinclair. A compelling mixture of rich heritage and the raw drama of the nature reserves INDIA AWAITS What has been your most memorable experience in India? Since I started working in Nepal’s Chitwan National Park in 1976, I’ve been incredibly privileged to visit many of India’s protected areas. I was once walking in Satpura National Park—still one of my favourite parks— with Swedish guests when we realised a pack of dhole (Asiatic wild dogs; image on page 6) had formed an arc on two sides of us. We had walked too close to a den site, but it was completely safe. It was fabulous to watch one the jungle’s most fascinating animals at close quarters and at eye level. What places would you recommend for the first time visitor? I would combine some of India’s amazing history with wildlife as the perfect introduction. Starting from Delhi, one would head east to Dudhwa National Park on the border with Nepal—a park that combines grasslands,woodlands, and wetlands. Wildlife includes one-horned rhino, tiger, the occasional leopard, five species of deer, and almost 500 bird species. From there, route south and then eastwards via the historic city of Lucknow, then onwards to the Chambal River Sanctuary, home to Toby Sinclair, a seasoned traveller and conservationist with &Beyond, has spent decades exploring the wild heart of India. From the tiger-rich jungles of Central India to the birdfilled wetlands of Bharatpur, his journeys reflect a deep reverence for the country’s biodiversity and cultural heritage. With a background in wildlife filmmaking and eco-tourism, Sinclair brings stories to life - bridging science, history, and immersive experience. Wildfoot is delighted to share some of his personal insights and travel recommendations... Toby Sinclair Private Guide & Historian 4 | Wild Horizons Magazine - Autumn 2025 www.wildfoottravel.com
otters, jackal, jungle cat, fish eating crocodilians, Gangetic river dolphins, and large numbers of migratory birds. The last stop before returning to Delhi would be Agra, the city of the Taj Mahal, which is only an hour away from Chambal. After a short stay in Agra, return to Delhi and depart home. The reintroduction of the onehorned rhinoceros is one of India’s great conservation successes; numbers have risen in Kaziranga from 300 to over 3,000 in the last 60 years. In the 1980s, some were successfully moved to Dudhwa, where they now have a viable breeding population. For those revisiting and seeking off the trodden path, what in particular is currently exciting you that’s quite unique? One of the most exciting of the new experiences is to explore the oak, rhododendron, bamboo, and subtropical forests between 1,800 to 2,500 metres along the Singalila Ridge, which divides the Darjeeling area of West Bengal from Nepal. Red pandas are the highlight here. Many Himalayan bird species nest here, along with local migrants. Mammals include barking deer, martens, and leopard. Tigers are an essential ingredient on any itinerary. Away from Ranthambhore National Park, which can be very busy, are there other places at the moment where sightings are exceptional? Tiger sightings fluctuate slightly year to year in many parks. Luckily, India’s parks remain wild. Tigers tend to have a two-year breeding 5 “...everything I love about India: its mystery, its majesty, and its ability to humble and inspire.” © Varun Mathur © Varun Mathur © Varun Mathur Contact us on 01625 581122 |
cycle, so the frequency of sightings in one park can change year on year. If recent years Satpura/Bori, Tadoba, Bandhavgarh, Pench, Kanha, Panna, and Dudhwa have all had a good cycle of sightings with remarkably successful breeding females. Recently, there has been significant tiger relocation out of better-known parks and Tiger Reserves to populate smaller reserves and Wildlife Sanctuaries. This not only reflects the success of Project Tiger and an increase in tiger numbers, but will hopefully provide new opportunities for watching wild tigers. Eco-Tourism is redefining travel. What initiatives have you been involved with? I was part of a team that Established the Eco-Tourism Society of India and was a founding Vice-President. We soon realised we need to be more focused and the name changed to The Responsible-Tourism Society of India. Our emphasis was on responsibility and partnership with local communities, and not on economics. We ran, and still run, training programmes in partnership with State Governments, and lobby governments for sensible ways to manage the impact of tourism. Are there other areas of India that reflect your inherent belief of landscapes that have shaped India’s rich history and culture? I love the deserted cities of Hampi in the Deccan, Gaur on the banks of the Ganges in West Bengal, and Mandu in Madhya Pradesh. They all highlight the fabulous wealth and architectural grandeur of different dynasties in varied regions. Hampi was deserted after the kingdom was defeated in battle in 1565. It is the place I know best and always love exploring —the 41km2 landscape of palaces, secular buildings, temples, irrigations schemes in an area of flat valleys divided by granite hills and punctuated by massive boulders. INDIA AWAITS continued 6 Whether you are visiting India for the first time or are a seasoned explorer. We have a trip for you! © Varun Mathur © Varun Mathur | Wild Horizons Magazine - Autumn 2025 www.wildfoottravel.com — WANT TO KNOW MORE? Click this box
WHERE TO STAY - Tented Camps & Luxury Lodges Tucked beside the lesser-known Satpura Tiger Reserve, Bori Safari Lodge offers a soulful immersion into central India’s wild heart. This intimate retreat blends contemporary comfort with rustic charm, featuring airy rooms, local textiles, and verandas that overlook teak forests and farmland. Days begin with slow sunrises and end with fireside tales under starlit skies. Guests explore by jeep, on foot, or canoe, encountering sloth bears, leopards, and the elusive tiger. Village walks, farm-fresh meals, and conversations with naturalists create lasting connections. Bori is more than a lodge—it is a gateway to India’s quieter wilderness, where conservation meets community and luxury is understated. A rare gem for travellers who seek authenticity and a sense of place. Bagh Villas is a sanctuary of stillness and style, nestled beside the wild heart of Kanha. Here, luxury is lightfooted—with canvas walls, teak finishes, and open skies. Wake to birdsong, wander through sal forests, and return to candlelit calm. The lodge blends thoughtful design with wilderness immersion, offering comfort without excess. It is a place where nature leads, serenity follows, and every moment feels quietly alive. Central India’s Quiet Conservation Escape Bori Safari Lodge, Satpura Tiger Reserve Elegance at Nature’s Edge Bagh Villas, Kahna Tiger Reserve Set in the magnificent Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve (TATR), world-renowned for its tiger safaris, the beautiful Bamboo Forest Safari Lodge offers a luxurious home from which to explore the wonders of this region. With three styles of accommodation—bungalows, villas and chalets—each retreat is as special as the next. Activities include jeep safaris in search of tiger sightings, nature walks, birding tours, bush glamping, nighttime trails, local village visits, astronomy sessions and young naturalist programmes. Lakeside Jungle Luxury Bamboo Forest Safari Lodge, Tadoba 7 Contact us on 01625 581122 |
INSPIRATIONAL IDEAS & NEW EXPERIENCES With leaves on the ground and days getting shorter, be inspired with ideas for exciting adventures! AUTUMN INSPIRATION — IN-DEPTH TANZANIA SAFARI 11 Days | Year Round | From £6,180pp Your adventure begins at the foot of Mount Meru before heading into the wildlife-rich Tarangire National Park. Explore the breathtaking Ngorongoro Crater and walk through the legendary Olduvai Gorge, where human history was born. The grand finale unfolds in the vast Serengeti with the chance to witness the Great Migration at the Mara River (July–October). — EPIC FALKLANDS, SOUTH GEORGIA & ANTARCTICA 20 Days | 16 January 2027 | From £17,656pp Journey to the end of the Earth with an epic expedition to Antarctica aboard a small, modern vessel. Experience towering icebergs, vast penguin colonies, and some of the planet’s most pristine wilderness up close. Photography enthusiasts can take the opportunity to join a dedicated small group led by a professional photographer (small supplement applies)—the perfect way to capture the drama and beauty of polar wildlife. Limited space—book early! 8 Experience the Ultimate Tanzania Safari. Embark on an extraordinary journey through the country’s most iconic landscapes. Explorers required aboard Ocean Victory | Wild Horizons Magazine - Autumn 2025 www.wildfoottravel.com — WANT TO KNOW MORE? Click this box — WANT TO KNOW MORE? Click this box
— COSTA RICA & THE PANAMA CANAL 8 Days | Nov- Apr | From £4,829pp Sailing the Panama Canal is the unforgettable centrepiece of this fabulous cruise. Aboard National Geographic Quest, discover the vibrant tropical worlds of Costa Rica and Panama: snorkel colourful coral reefs, kayak along hidden shorelines, and trek into lush rainforests filled with monkeys and colourful birdlife. 9 — DEEP WATER DELTA & KALAHARI SANDS 10 Days | Year Round | From £6,188pp single supplement from ONLY £1,137 A compact and comprehensive itinerary, starting at the mighty Victoria Falls and taking in Botswana’s spectacular northern reserves—including Chobe, the Okavango Delta, and Nxai Pan National Park. An unforgettable journey through wildlife and scenery at its most breathtaking. — WANT TO KNOW MORE? Click this box — GALAPAGOS - WEST & CENTRAL ISLANDS 10 Days | Year Round | From £6,099pp Join the experts aboard Reina Silvia Voyager, a comfortable and nimble catamaran, to discover the fascinating diversity of fauna and wildlife on the western and central islands of the Galapagos. Sleeping up to 16 guests (12 on average), this smaller vessel offers activities galore—including hiking, snorkelling, zodiac excursions, and the services of a National Park Guide. © Bill Gozansky / Alamy Contact us on 01625 581122 | — WANT TO KNOW MORE? Click this box — WANT TO KNOW MORE? Click this box
Consider the advantages of exploring in smaller expedition vessels. Luxury expedition ships, with fewer than 200 guests, offer unmatched access to remote corners of the globe that larger vessels simply can’t reach. From the ice-fringed fjords of Greenland to the biodiverse coasts of Costa Rica and Nicaragua, these nimble ships slip into secluded bays, hidden coves, and off-the-map anchorages with ease. Onboard, the experience is equally refined. With a high crew-to-guest ratio, service feels personal and intuitive. Expert-led excursions— whether tracking wildlife in Madagascar or kayaking through mangrove-lined estuaries—are engaging and uncrowded, allowing deeper connection with nature and culture. The atmosphere is relaxed yet elegant, blending five-star comfort with the thrill of discovery. Smaller ships foster a sense of camaraderie. Guests dine together, share sightings, and swap stories, creating a community of curious, likeminded travellers. And with sustainability increasingly at the forefront, many expedition vessels are designed to tread lightly— minimising environmental impact. For those seeking rare experiences in far-flung places, small luxury ships offer the perfect balance of adventure and sophistication. They don’t just take you away— they take you deeper. rue CWORLDWIDE EXPEDITION CRUISES Big adventures, small footprints: the elegance of expedition cruising in smaller vessels SMALL IS BEAUTIFUL — THE MIGHTY MEKONG aboard Aqua Mekong (40 passengers) 3-7 nights from £3,721pp 10 | Wild Horizons Magazine - Autumn 2025 Aqua Mekong is an intimate sanctuary afloat—just 20 designer suites, each a haven of teak, silk, and floorto-ceiling river views. This boutique vessel glides through Southeast Asia’s soul, offering curated cultural encounters and five-star indulgence. With private guides, gourmet cuisine, and cinematic landscapes, it’s luxury redefined on one of the world’s most storied rivers. www.wildfoottravel.com — WANT TO KNOW MORE? Click this box
Join an experienced expedition team of history, wildlife, and Arctic experts as you sail through the fabled Northwest Passage on this epic voyage of discovery. This legendary route from the Canadian Arctic to Greenland follows the paths of historic explorers such as Franklin, Amundsen and Larsen. Enjoy thrilling Zodiac cruises to get up close to the stunning natural surroundings; visit traditional villages and towns to meet local Indigenous communities who call this remote wilderness home; and search for Arctic wildlife including whales, walrus, musk ox and the elusive narwhal. We also hope for sightings of the “Kings of the Arctic”— polar bears. — NORTHWEST PASSAGE aboard Greg Mortimer, AE Expeditions (130 passengers) 16 Days from £15,996pp Sail into the soul of the Great Bear Rainforest aboard Island Solitude, an 82-foot expedition sloop built for intimate wilderness journeys. With just 12 guests, kayak silent fjords in search of spirit bears, then hike ancient trails with Indigenous guides. Purpose-built for coastal exploration, this eco-efficient yacht offers ensuite comfort and unrivalled access to British Columbia’s wild heart—a voyage of quiet wonder, deep connection, and untamed beauty. — THE GREAT BEAR FOREST aboard Island Solitude (12 passengers) 8 days from £6,686pp 11 Contact us on 01625 581122 | — WANT TO KNOW MORE? Click this box — WANT TO KNOW MORE? Click this box
12 Tasmania’s south coast is a wild, windswept wonderland of dramatic cliffs, pristine beaches, and ancient forests. From the rugged beauty of Recherche Bay to the remote reaches of Southwest National Park, the landscape is raw and untamed. Towering dolerite sea stacks rise from turquoise waters, while secluded coves invite quiet reflection. Visit the many inlets, spotting wallabies, wombats, and rare birds along the way. Offshore, marine life thrives—dolphins, seals, and migrating whales often make an appearance. With its blend of elemental grandeur and ecological richness, this stretch of Tasmania offers a truly unforgettable encounter with nature at its purest. — TASMANIA’S WILD BEAUTY aboard Coral Discoverer (72 passengers) 11 days from £4,457pp Embark on an unforgettable 8-day voyage aboard Wilderness Discoverer, a boutique expedition ship exploring Alaska’s wild coast. With just 76 guests, exclusivity meets adventure as you kayak through glacial fjords, hike remote trails, and spot breaching whales and brown bears. Expert naturalists guide each encounter, while onboard comforts include locally inspired cuisine and panoramic views. From Misty Fjords to Glacier Bay, this journey blends rugged beauty with refined exploration—Alaska at its most immersive and exclusive. — TAILS BENEATH ICEBOUND PEAKS aboard Wilderness Discoverer (76 passengers) , 8-14 nights from £3,411pp WORLDWIDE EXPEDITION CRUISES | Wild Horizons Magazine - Autumn 2025 www.wildfoottravel.com — WANT TO KNOW MORE? Click this box — WANT TO KNOW MORE? Click this box
13 Raja Ampat, an ethereal archipelago in Indonesia’s West Papua, is a sanctuary of marine biodiversity and untouched beauty. Its turquoise waters cradle over 1,500 islands, where limestone karsts rise dramatically and coral gardens teem with life. Revered by divers, it offers kaleidoscopic reefs, manta rays, and rare species in crystalline depths. Above water, jungle-cloaked islets and secluded beaches evoke a primal serenity. Local communities preserve ancient traditions, adding cultural depth to this ecological wonder. Raja Ampat is not just a destination—it’s a living Eden, where nature whispers in every wave and the horizon feels infinite, wild, and exquisitely remote. Aboard elegant expedition yachts or bespoke phinisi schooners, travellers glide through these aquamarine waters. — WITHIN A LIVING EDEN aboard Heritage Adventurer(146 passengers) 18 days from £9,517pp Contact us on 01625 581122 | — WANT TO KNOW MORE? Click this box
14 The Pantanal is the world’s largest tropical wetland and one of Brazil’s most accessible wildlife havens. Its open landscapes and seasonal floodplains create ideal conditions for spotting jaguars, capybaras, caimans, and over 650 bird species—including the iconic hyacinth macaw. Unlike the dense Amazon, the Pantanal offers clear sightlines and abundant fauna, making it a favourite among photographers and naturalists. Eco-lodges and boat safaris provide immersive access to this biodiverse mosaic of water, grassland, and forest. THE PANTANAL | Wild Horizons Magazine - Autumn 2025 www.wildfoottravel.com — WANT TO KNOW MORE? Click this box
BRAZIL UNBOUND 15 DESTINATION Where to see the best wildlife and birds in Brazil AMAZON RAINFOREST The Amazon rainforest is Brazil’s beating ecological heart and the planet’s largest tropical forest. It harbours unparalleled biodiversity—from pink river dolphins and sloths to poison dart frogs and hundreds of bird species. Its dense canopy and labyrinthine waterways offer both mystery and majesty, with Indigenous cultures and rare wildlife coexisting in fragile harmony. River cruises, canopy walks, and guided treks reveal a living tapestry of evolution, resilience, and natural wonder. Brazil’s vast and varied landscapes—from the Amazon rainforest and Pantanal wetlands to the Atlantic Forest and Cerrado savannahs—make it one of the richest wildlife destinations on Earth. Home to over 1,800 bird species and countless endemic mammals, reptiles, and amphibians, it offers a sensory feast for nature lovers and seasoned birders alike. From the electric-blue hyacinth macaw soaring over open plains to the elusive jaguar prowling riverbanks, Brazil’s biodiversity is both dazzling and profound. ATLANTIC FOREST The Atlantic Forest, which stretches along the coastline of Brazil, is a lush, endangered habitat rich in species found nowhere else on Earth. Despite centuries of deforestation, pockets remain near Rio and São Paulo, sheltering golden lion tamarins, colourful toucans, and rare orchids. Its misty hills and forested trails offer a quieter, more intimate wildlife experience—ideal for conservation-focused travellers and birdwatchers. CERRADO SAVANNAH Brazil’s Cerrado is a vast tropical savannah of striking contrasts, harbouring distinctive flora and extraordinary fauna not found anywhere else. Often overlooked, it hosts anteaters, maned wolves, and over 10,000 plant species. Its dry forests and grasslands pulse with seasonal colour, especially during the rainy season (October– March). The Cerrado’s ecological importance rivals that of the Amazon, yet it remains one of Brazil’s most threatened ecosystems. where to stay Contact us on 01625 581122 |
BRAZILIAN ECO-RETREATS WHERE TO STAY Exclusive escapes at nature’s most dramatic locations Cristalino Lodge is a secluded luxury ecolodge in Brazil’s southern Amazon, nestled within 11,000 hectares of pristine rainforest. It offers immersive wildlife experiences, canopy towers, river excursions, and guided rainforest hikes. Casa Caiman offers rare adventures in Brazil’s Pantanal, where jaguar tracking, sunset canoeing, and starlit safaris unfold amid vast wetlands. Luxury meets conservation in a private reserve alive with macaws, anteaters, and the pulse of nature. Pousada Trijunção is a remote eco-retreat in Brazil’s Cerrado, where guests track maned wolves, kayak through wetlands, and stargaze under vast skies—immersed in one of South America’s most biodiverse and endangered savannah ecosystems. Cristalino Lodge Amazon Rainforest Casa Caiman Pantanal Wetlands Pousada Trijunção Cerrado Savannah Pousada Tutabel offers barefoot elegance on Brazil’s Bahia coast, with golden beaches, and immersive nature and culture. Excursions venture into a nearby stretch of Atlantic Rainforest, which is protected by the hotel’s owners. Pousada Tutabel Atlantic Forests 16 © Felipe Castellari © Edson Endrigo | Wild Horizons Magazine - Autumn 2025 www.wildfoottravel.com
Solo travel is no longer a niche—it’s a growing trend among discerning travellers seeking flexibility and personal discovery. For many, the cost of travelling alone—especially single supplements—has been a longstanding barrier. Specialists like PONANT EXPLORATIONS, the international cruise line, are changing all that. Many of their voyages are offered with no single supplement, making high-end exploration more accessible to the solo traveller. Whether sailing through the Marquesas or diving off Madagascar, lone explorers enjoy the same elegance and adventure without extra cost. The benefits of travelling solo are profound. You set your own pace, follow your interests, and engage more deeply with your surroundings. On smaller vessels—typically up to 200 guests—solo travellers find connection without crowding. Expert-led excursions and Zodiac outings foster natural camaraderie with fellow single travellers, while private cabins offer space for reflection. Cultural immersion is central to PONANT’s ethos. Solo guests can join guided visits to remote communities, attend onboard lectures, or simply absorb the rhythms of life in places few tourists reach. For those drawn to the sea, scuba and snorkelling programmes offer access to pristine reefs, with expert instructors and equipment included. Sustainability is key. Across Ponant’s fleet—hybridelectric or conventionally powered—rigorous environmental standards and innovative technologies ensure each voyage treads lightly, delivering savings for both planet and pocket. For solo travellers seeking freedom, meaning, and value—along with exclusive offers—Wildfoot Travel presents a rare opportunity: luxury on your own terms, with the world at your feet and no single‐supplement surcharge. GOING SOLO TRAVEL TRENDS With Wildfoot Travel, it needn’t cost the earth to explore the world as a single traveller! 17 Contact us on 01625 581122 | — SEE OUR CURRENT NO SINGLE SUPPLEMENT LIST OF ITINERARIES. ( Correct at time of going to press). Click this box © PONANT/Daniel Ernst
CWORLDWIDE EXPEDITION CRUISES Experience coral wonders, volcanic horizons, and cultures woven from ocean. Purpose-built for navigating shallow lagoons and remote archipelagos, M/S Paul Gauguin sails effortlessly through French Polynesia, the Cook Islands, and beyond—bringing guests closer to the heart of paradise. Each itinerary is a curated blend of cultural immersion and natural wonder. From the emerald peaks of Moorea to the pink-sand beaches of Tikehau, travellers encounter landscapes that inspired Gauguin’s art and still stir the soul. Onboard, the experience is equally evocative: Polynesian hosts known as Les Gauguines share local traditions through dance, storytelling, and crafts, while gourmet dining and spacious suites offer indulgence with ever-changing horizons. Cabins aboard M/S Paul Gauguin blend island elegance with oceanfront comfort. Most feature private balconies, panoramic windows, and Polynesian touches. With attentive service and plush amenities, each space becomes a serene retreat—perfect for unwinding after sun-drenched island discoveries. rue 18 SOUTH PACIFIC Redefining luxury exploration in the South Pacific, PAUL GAUGUIN Cruises (part of PONANT EXPLORATIONS) offers elegant voyages aboard M/S Paul Gauguin and PONANT’s Explorers vessel, Le Jacques Cartier. M/S Paul Gauguin | Wild Horizons Magazine - Autumn 2025 © Stirling Design International www.wildfoottravel.com
Aboard the Le Jacques Cartier, which will be cruising in the Pacific from 2026, elegance meets expedition. This sleek, eco-conscious vessel offers a refined gateway to the Pacific’s most remote wonders. With just 92 staterooms, it’s intimate yet indulgent—each suite a sanctuary of French sophistication, many with private balconies for framing the endless blue. The ship’s cutting-edge design includes a panoramic underwater lounge and bar, the Blue Eye, where guests can sip champagne while immersed in the rhythms of the sea. On Le Jacques Cartier, every voyage embraces the style of true expedition. Guests enjoy twice‐daily Zodiac landings led by expert naturalists, bringing remote coastlines and wildlife encounters vividly to life. Onboard, daily briefings and an informal lecture programme deepen understanding, blending discovery with comfort—ensuring that each day unfolds with new perspectives and unforgettable encounters. 19 Le Jacques Cartier A Diver’s Perspective In the Pacific, scuba diving reveals a vivid world beneath the waves. From the coral gardens of French Polynesia to the volcanic seascapes of Papua New Guinea, divers encounter manta rays, reef sharks, and kaleidoscopic schools of fish. Warm waters and exceptional visibility make each descent feel cinematic. Whether exploring WWII wrecks in Micronesia or drifting through soft coral forests in Fiji, the experience is both meditative and exhilarating. PONANT’s dive excursions are curated with precision and care, ensuring safety, sustainability, and awe. Contact us on 01625 581122 | © Jerome de la Fosse © StudioPONANT/Margaux Coupez © StudioPONANT/Laure Patrico © StudioPONANT/Juliette Leclerq — WANT TO KNOW MORE? Click this box
20 SVALBARD DESTINATION My journey to the edge of the world involved a 7-night expedition cruise aboard the 50-passenger M/S Quest touring the northern coast of this Arctic archipelago. Located halfway between mainland Norway and the North Pole, Svalbard offers an otherworldly landscape of glaciers, jagged peaks, and frozen fjords. I arrived from Norway’s capital, Oslo, to Longyearbyen—the northernmost town with a commercial airport— where colourful houses dot the tundra and reindeer roam freely. Adventure here is elemental. In summer, the midnight sun bathes the land in golden light, perfect for hiking across mossy valleys or kayaking past calving glaciers. Winter transforms the terrain into a polar wonderland, ideal for dog sledding, snowmobiling, and chasing the ethereal northern lights. During the course of my expedition cruise, I was treated to numerous wildlife encounters—polar bears, Arctic foxes, walruses, and seabird colonies, all of which thrive in this fragile ecosystem. Adding to the Lesia Moskal travelled to Svalbard aboard M/S Quest in 2025 If you want to learn more about the sights and experiences of this wonderful voyage around the coast of Svalbard, why not give Lesia a call on 01625 581122. An Arctic archipelago of polar bears, midnight sun, and glacial silence, Svalbard is where the map fades and the magic begins. Here, Longyearbyen hums with frontier spirit, while fjords and frozen tundra stretch toward the North Pole. An Arctic frontier of glacial majesty, midnight sun, and rare encounters with the wild. © Niklas Nilsson | Wild Horizons Magazine - Autumn 2025 www.wildfoottravel.com
21 richness of the experience, Svalbard’s raw history is mirrored in its abandoned whaling stations, but today it’s a beacon for scientific research and sustainable tourism. The expertly guided excursions off-ship ensured both safety and respect for the environment, with strict rules to protect both visitors and wildlife. I was overwhelmed by the sense of isolation and felt a deep connection to nature. I cried when I saw my first glacier, and towards the end of the cruise, I was a humbled spectator to a gathering of over 100 walruses wallowing on a beach—literally feet from our group on the shoreline. I feel privileged to have experienced this extraordinary voyage, the camaraderie I shared with my fellow explorers, and I cannot wait to tell our readers more about my polar adventures. — ABOUT M/S QUEST © Ulrich Kuhn M/S Quest epitomises the small, expedition vessel. Designated Ice Class 1B, she is ideal for polar expedition cruising. Her modest dimensions mean that she can venture where many larger vessels simply cannot go. This intimate vessel carries up to 50 passengers across 24 cabins—single, twin, and triple berth—all with sea views and private facilities. Onboard facilities include a 270o panorama lounge (where briefings take place), dining room, bar, and library. The ship operates primarily in Arctic regions, including Svalbard and Greenland. Known for their warmth and professionalism, the crew-topassenger ratio is excellent, with up to 35 crew members on board. Five Zodiacs ensure flexible landings, and the polar guides on M/S Quest are always on hand to share their knowledge and experience. Regular briefings and informal lectures are expertly delivered, enriching this once-in-a-lifetime experience. You really feel part of the expedition. Passengers are also welcome on the bridge, fostering a sense of deeper engagement. © Johnny Van Vilet © Bjorn Johansson Contact us on 01625 581122 | — SVALBARD ADVENTURE aboard m/v Quest (50 passengers) 9 Days from £5,419pp Click this box for further details
Rising from the ashes of a devastating 2019 fire, Fair Isle Bird Observatory has triumphantly reopened following a remarkable £10 million rebuild. For 77 years, this legendary Shetland outpost has been Britain's premier seabird and migration research station, recording over 395 species and fighting to save threatened birds like the Red-Listed Arctic Skua. Your Stay Saves Lives Every booking at the newly rebuilt Observatory directly supports vital conservation research. The comfortable accommodation offers spectacular sea views, exceptional meals, and the chance to observe bird ringing demonstrations. Home to one of the UK's largest Puffin colonies along with Great and Arctic Skuas and Gannets. Scotland's only Demonstration and Research Marine Protected Area, Fair Isle offers an extraordinary escape where your holiday helps protect Britain's most threatened seabirds. CONSERVATION REBORN at Fair Isle Bird Observatory Join Fair Isle’s wildlife experts. Book directly for an amazing experience Open May-October www.fairislebirdobs.co.uk At Villa Retreats, every generation finds their perfect escape. Space to spread out, privacy to reconnect, and moments that matter. Your days, your way: Family BBQs under the stars | Guided bike tours | Coastal walks | Picnic beach days Padel, tennis, or golf | Poolside relaxation Villa Retreats – Where families come together. 0800 988 5586 villaretreats.com Imagine… a retreat with something for the whole family.
In November, Mike travels across the Antarctic Circle aboard the majestic Greg Mortimer. Its cutting-edge design and expert guides ensure an unforgettable voyage into the White Continent’s icy vastness. Here, towering glaciers, penguin colonies, and sculpted icebergs await. Breaking The Ice Antarctica Simon will be travelling to Papua New Guinea, discovering its unique biodiversity, vibrant tribal cultures, and iconic birds of paradise— while also sampling life beneath the waves in the Coral Triangle, home to the highest diversity of tropical fish and coral in the world The Coral Triangle Papua New Guinea Sheena will be visiting Churchill, Manitoba—Canada’s polar bear capital—where tundra meets Hudson Bay and wildlife roams free. Each autumn, majestic bears gather near town, offering rare, thrilling encounters in a starkly beautiful subarctic wilderness. The Tundra Titans Churchill, Canada Read about our journeys in future issues of Wild Horizons magazine 23 Your Front Row Seat to the World’s Greatest Destinations Join our expert‐led webinars throughout the year for insights and top tips. Our India webinar is now available—a deep dive for first-timers and repeat adventurers alike. Missed it? Just click the link below: ...MEANWHILE THE TEAM WILL BE TRAVELLING TO Contact us on 01625 581122 | — VIEW INDIA WEBINAR Click this box eaking NEWS WILDFOOT TRAVEL FACE TO FACE WITH THE EXPERTS
SIMON ROWLAND Managing Director LESIA MOSKAL Travel Designer SHEENA OGLEY Senior Travel Designer MIKE GARDINER Senior Travel Designer JAMES TURNER Commercial Director Our team don’t just curate remarkable itineraries - we share the life-changing experiences that have shaped our own adventures. OUR PASSION, YOUR PERFECT ADVENTURE THE TEAM WILDFOOT Travel, Travel House, 133 Gravel Lane, Wilmslow, England SK9 6EG, UK Email: info@wildfoottravel.com Reservations: 01625 58 11 22 From outside UK: +44 1625 58 11 43 Freephone US: +1 877 7692466 wildfoottravel.com WHERE TO MEET US DESTINATIONS SHOW 15 - 18 January 2026 Manchester Central DESTINATIONS SHOW 29 January -2 February 2026 London Olympia PHOTO & VIDEO SHOW 14 - 17 March 2026 Birmingham NEC GLOBAL BIRD FAIR 10 - 12 July 2026 Rutland Water
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy NjE5ODQ=