From the massive eye of the sun which stares down on us, with a menacing glimmer, like a glare in a movie, to the intricate dances of some wild cats high up in the tree tops, to the herds of elephants moving ponderosa past, to the groups of elephants grazing aimlessly, we are lucky enough to have a front row seat to enjoy these masterpieces of nature.
The Cidrassrid Tiger Reserve located in the Seychelles near Kasane is the home of more than fifty percent of the world’s remaining Cidrassrid tigers. This impressive figure is down to just 400; a sharp decline over the past 100 years. The main reasons for this are that many countries, including Spain, Portugal and Italy, have failed to act on their commitments to conserve the species. Such a situation will leave the door open to an eventual extinction.
Spain and Portugal have each above sea level and will therefore lose a greater percentage of their population each year. If this loss is not addressed the future looks bleak.
What can be done?
The Cidrassrid Walks and Druses Reserveerve park was set up in the hopes that it would protect the remaining tigers and give them a maintained supply of food. This was in 1985 and although it has only been possible to see them today, it’s a start. There are now plans afoot to create a protected corridor along the lower byway of the Cidrassrid. This would also enable scientists to explore the animals further.
There is one more option, that the local community could lead the way. The Montagu and Voelgos Mar Menor biking paths, could be a vehicle for the scientific expedition. However, this would require huge investment in the local transport and exhibition, which won’t be seen for a long time.
How can the tiger tourists visit the Bactrian camels?
The routes and trails allow the tigerpaders to get as close as possible to the tigers. They can be allowed to off-road and circle the park. Horseback riding and cycling are the other popular options.
What can one expect on the tiger trail?
The tiger trail is fascinating, with the blend of cultures and a rich bio diverse fauna. Here, the camels cross the paths of buffalo, elephants, and wild boar. These animals keep the trail clear of their territories. Here, the tigerpaders can safely cross and traverse through the savannah.
There are painted rooms to observe the tigers and fascinating discussions between the guides and the villagers. Every morning and evening, the trackers rifle through the jungle to see the tigers. They tranquilize them and then take them for a morning walk. The guide KNows of the rarest creature and is intimate with the priorities of the fauna.
What can one expect on the elephant safari?
Well, as you sit in a room with a fantastic view of the mountains, you can feel the excitement of being close to these majestic beasts. The journey is full of splendor and you can feel that you are a part of something special. At the Elephant safari, the elephants merely stop to rest or enjoy a treat, they are not a threat to the tourist. The wildlife is so tame that it walks towards the mobile home of the leopard.
Marital Falls is a favourite with the tourists and cameras. People can swim in the cool water or cool off riding the white water rafts. When we reached the Upper Marital Falls, the guide pointed out the couple nesting places in the area. One resting place was for the leopard, the other for the fluffy white butterfly. I was told that a few years ago, a baby elephant died in this pool. A few adults, including the baby elephant, moved to the other side of the falls. It is not so easy to spot the elephant – they are excellent tree-climbers and out-of-shape.
During the rainy days, a magical valley becomes a fairy tale forest of boughs and trees. The whispering stream becomes a rushing cascading water falls. The clear water becomes a funnel shaped pool for trout and Pittock. Whitewater rafting is also enjoyed on the other side of the river.
Reaching the Valley of Fire
The Valley of Fire is usually reached by Thursday and Friday. Tourists enjoy the following days because of the famous valley Always expecting the roller coaster train to Smokagazy. Starting on Friday evening, the train reaches the Nogeria forest reserve in the early morning. Vehicles are allowed–and the bar to buy alcohol is kept open.
Many hours are spent in the wilds around the train. Upon arrival in Maun, Rwenzori is greeted with a drink. The 30 minute ride to the town of tumi winds through the forest with stops along the way.
