2024 End of Year Cheer
A Wonderful Year in Review
As we close the chapter on 2024, we are grateful for all the incredible experiences we've shared together. To our wonderful Wild Earth Explorers, thank you for choosing to journey with us. Your adventurous spirit, curiosity, and love for our planet inspire everything we do. Together, we’ve explored breathtaking destinations, forged lasting friendships, and created memories that remind us of the profound beauty and resilience of nature. This year has deepened our appreciation for the remarkable wildlife and pristine landscapes that continue to leave us in awe. None of it would be possible without your trust, enthusiasm, and commitment to adventure.
Here’s a look back at some unforgettable moments we shared in 2024:
In India, the snowy peaks of the Himalayas revealed their secrets as we encountered the elusive snow leopard in its natural habitat. We explored remote villages with towering monasteries, and shared incredible wildlife encounters with Ibex, Tibetan wolves, Urial, blue sheep and golden eagles. Central India and Rajasthan brought us thrilling close-ups of Bengal Tigers, Gaur (Indian bison), leopards and wild dogs (Dhole), many species of deer, monkeys and colourful birds —truly a Jungle Book adventure.
Scotland enchanted us with its rich history and dramatic island landscapes. From the puffins of Shetland to the dolphins, Minke whales and huge numbers of sea birds of the Hebrides, nature’s charm was on full display. Highlights included the unforgettable pageantry of the Edinburgh Tattoo, a private tour of an ancient viking dig site, hikes to stunning bird cliffs and witnessing the spectacular outer island landscapes.
In the Solomon Islands and Vanuatu, we explored vibrant coral reefs and WWII wrecks, where sharks and manta rays glided gracefully around us. Witnessing the fiery glow of an active volcano against the night sky was nothing short of magical.
Fiji and Tonga delivered oceanic wonder at its finest. Diving with bull sharks in Beqa and snorkeling over Fiji’s rainbow reefs filled us with awe, while life-changing encounters with Humpback Whales in Tonga left our hearts full.
Indonesia offered a 3-week adventure into the heart of the Coral Triangle, blending world-class diving, cultural exploration, and unmatched natural beauty. Its vibrant reefs dazzled with colorful coral gardens, dramatic walls covered in countless turtles, and bizarre critters hiding in the volcanic sand. We marvelled at rare cuscus, black-crested macaques, and adorable spectral tarsiers in the jungle. The lush rice terraces and cascading waterfalls of Sidemen valley provided a serene and unforgettable finale to our trip.
As we look to the year ahead, we carry with us the joy, inspiration, and sense of wonder that these adventures bring. Thank you for being part of this incredible journey. We wish you and your loved ones a holiday season filled with love and laughter, and a 2025 filled with exploration, connection, and discovery.
With love and gratitude,
The Wild Earth Expeditions Team
PHOTO CREDIT © Thomas Baechtold, Sabine Templeton & Ian Schwieger