How to Choose a Wildlife Tour

Wildlife tours are fabulous ways to learn more about nature without getting eaten by something that lives in it. They are offered in a wide variety, from whales to wallabies, with polar bears in between. Some common sense, research, available money and your firm desires will help you choose a wildlife tour that’s right for you. Here’s how.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Decide what type of wildlife you’d like to see and how much money you’re willing to spend to see them. If you’re bent on seeing elephants and have a lot of cash, you may want to pick a safari in Africa. If you’re kind of broke, visit the San Diego Zoo.

2. Figure out how much walking you want to do and how close you want to be to the animals. Some tours will allow you to walk or drive your own car and get up close and personal while others keep you far away in a guided bus.

3. Ask yourself if you’d rather listen to a narrator tell you all about the animals or you’d rather learn about them on your own. Narrators can be helpful and knowledgeable, but they can also be highly annoying if they crack lots of dumb jokes.

4. Start your research, which can be done through word of mouth, at tourist centers, travel agents or online and book the tour.

Tips & Warnings

• Bring your camera. Include a zoom lens if you’re picking a bus tour that keeps you far from the action.
• Follow the tour rules as they exist for a purpose. They are usually not to restrict you but to keep you safe.
• Remember wild animals are called “wild” for a reason. Keep your distance and don't try to pet them.