iSimangaliso | St. Lucia South Africa

iSimangaliso was previously known as the St. Lucia Wetlands, however it was renamed in 2007 to its current name. Although it has been renamed, many of the signs and local references still note the St. Lucia South Africa name.

The iSimangaliso Wetland Park is a highlight of South Africa featuring a collection of ecosystems. The varying ecosystems includes beaches, wetlands, coral reefs, lakes, woodlands, coastal forests, grasslands, and swamps. The varying habitats make it easy for St. Lucia South Africa to be home to an abundance and diverse collection of wildlife.

The post iSimangaliso appeared first on Seven Natural Wonders.

7 Natural Wonders of Africa: Serengeti Migration

The Serengeti is not one of the 7 natural wonders of Africa, but it is home to the migration which was officially declared as one of the Seven Natural Wonders of Africa on February 11, 2013 in Arusha, Tanzania. The migration is a shared wonder between the countries of Tanzania and Kenya. The majority of the migration is experienced on the Tanzanian side.

Serengeti

The name Serengeti comes from the Swahili word meaning “endless plains.” For some this conjures up an image of nothing but grass lands, however the it is so much more. These endless plains stretch over 12,000 squares miles (30,000 sq km) and feature a variety of habitats that include the expected grasslands along with kopjes, swamps, riverine forests, woodlands and hills.

The various habitats are what provide an opportunity for the Serengeti to be home to around 70 larger mammals and over 500 species of birds. The abundant and varying wildlife is what attracts visitors to this wonder of nature from Africa.

The Kenyan and Tanzanian governments have leveraged national parks, conservation areas, and game reserves to establish official protection over 80% of the endless plains affectionately known as the Serengeti. The national park in Tanzania goes by the same name, whereas the national park in Kenya is known as the Masai Mara.

Serengeti Wildlife

The migration is the hallmark of the Serengeti featuring over 1.2 million wildebeest, over 800,000 zebra, and hundreds of thousands of gazelles, impalas, and other wildlife. The heart of the migration is the wildebeest and the zebra.

The Serengeti is also home to 6 of the Big Seven, which include the lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, hippo and the crocodile. The only one of the Big Seven missing is the mountain gorilla. Some of the other wildlife calling the endless plains home include: cheetah, hyena, giraffe, eland, Thomson gazelle, impala, baboon, and the warthog. There are also hundreds of species of birds making this the complete Safari experience.

The migration is what attracts many people. One of the highlights occurs during the months of January and February when the wildebeests are giving birth. This is a short and concise window where all of the wildebeests give birth within a 2 to 3 week period. A second highlight occurs sometime during the months of September or October. This is another concise 2 to 3 week period where the wildebeests and zebras cross the Mara River into Kenya.

Crossing the more River is exciting for an couple of reasons. First, it is an amazing sight to see 1 million wildebeests crossing the river in a given moment. However this is also a challenging crossing as crocodiles wait to feast on these animals as they enter the water. Witnessing a crocodile capture and kill one of the wildebeest is an exciting encounter with nature.

The post Serengeti appeared first on Seven Natural Wonders.

7 Natural Wonders of Africa: Nile River

The Nile River was officially declared as one of the 7 Natural Wonders of Africa February 11, 2013 in Arusha, Tanzania. Votes were cast by experts from around the world who noted the key statistical significance. The Nile River is the longest river in the world stretching 4,132 miles (6,650 km) while crossing 10 countries in northern Africa.

Nile River

The Nile River is located in northern Africa spanning across 10 countries that include Uganda, Ethiopia, Sudan, South Sudan, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda, Burundi and ending in Egypt as it feeds into the Mediterranean Sea.

The Nile River is the longest river in the world beating out the Amazon by 155 Feet. The Nile is considered to have two sources of which one originates in Uganda and the other in Ethiopia. Upon receiving the official recognition as a natural wonder, Uganda Minister of Tourism declared the source as a protected area. Uganda is also home to Murchison Falls which is an incredible waterfall on the Nile. The tremendous Nile River forces its way between narrow canyon walls to create the thunderous Murchison Falls.

Much of the Nile River meanders through the Sahara Desert as it makes its way north towards the Mediterranean. The Nile starts with two sources in the south and finishes with two branches as it splits as it completes the journey in Egypt. The west branch is known as Rosetta whereas the east is called Damietta. This area is known as the Nile Delta.

Where is the Nile River

The Nile River is located in northern Africa. The river originates in Uganda and Ethiopia as two different sources and then it meanders through nine countries where it ends in the Mediterranean Sea. The mouth of the river at the Mediterranean Sea is located in Egypt. The mouth of the river is often the first place think of when they envision the Nile River.

Best way to see and experience the Nile River

The best way to experience the Nile River depends on your interest. One of the most popular ways is to take a river cruise. There are more adventurous ways to engage the Nile such as river rafting, kayaking, and canoeing. Uganda features activities near the source that include bungee jumping out over the water.

Nile River Wildlife

Most people think of crocodiles when it comes to the Nile River, and they are there. The Nile crocodile is one of the largest crocodiles in Africa reaching around 20 feet. When travelers look to see the Big 7, the Nile crocodile is usually the ideal sighting. The river is certainly home to fish, but more importantly it is home to another one of the Big 7 with the along with the hippopotamus.

Elephants, buffalo, wildebeest, gazelle and other wildlife will use the Nile as a source of water. When some of these animals make their way to the river’s edge, they can easily become victim to the crocodile. Murchison Falls National Park is home to 76 mammal species and around 450 species of birds.

Endangered Species of Africa

There are 100s of critically endangered species on every continent around the world. The wildlife, fauna and flora are much of what makes the various wonders of nature special. The endangered species of Africa are one of Seven Natural Wonder’s greatest concerns. Take a moment and glance at some of the critically endangered wildlife.

The post Nile River appeared first on Seven Natural Wonders.

• Six major landforms
• Four river systems
• Expands over 7,546 square miles (19,804 Sq km)

Kakadu National Park

Kakadu National Park is located in the Northern Territory of Australia. The area encompasses 7,646 square miles (19,804 sq km) which represents about a 1/3 of the entire Tasmanian island. The name comes from the Aborigine’s word ‘Gagadju.” The word was misunderstood leading to the accidental name of Kakadu.

Wildlife and nature are abundant throughout the varying ecosystems of Kakadu National Park. Approximately 60 different mammal species call Kakadu home followed by over 280 species of birds, over 50 freshwater species, and over 10,000 different insects. All of these creates can be found within the 1600 to 1700 different species of plants making Kakadu National Park an eclectic nature experience.

Kakadu National Park lies within the tropics just south of the equator. There are two primary seasons which include the dry season and the rainy season. Dry season includes the months of April, May and September. October through December are the primary dry season months and feature magnificent thunderstorms – this region records more lightning strikes per year than any other place on earth. On the flip-side, the rainy season is described as monsoonal.

Winner Announcement

Be one of the first to know who the winners our for the new 7 wonders of nature. Announced on the Travel Tracker first before any other place. Fun travel app even if with a whole variety of bucket list ideas even if you are not tracking the natural wonders.

Best Ways to Experience Kakadu National Park

More on Kakadu National Park it is declared a natural or notable wonder.

Best Times to Explore Kakadu National Park

More on Kakadu National Park as it is declared a natural or notable wonder.

Kakadu National Park Photography Tips

More on photography tips for Kakadu National Park as it is declared a natural or notable wonder.

Kakadu National Park Travel Tips

More on travel tips for Kakadu National Park as it is declared a natural or notable wonder.

Endangered Species

There are 100s of critically endangered species on every continent around the world. The wildlife, fauna and flora are much of what makes the wonders of nature special. Endangered Species is one of Seven Natural Wonder’s greatest concerns. Take a moment and glance at some of the critically endangered wildlife.

The post Kakadu National Park appeared first on Seven Natural Wonders.

• Considered one of the wettest inhabited places on the earth
• Recognized as a world heritage site
• Runs a length of 15 kilometers

Milford Sound

The fjord known as Milford Sound is located in the south west part of New Zealand’s South Island. Milford Sound extends 15 kilometers inland from the mouth of the fjord. The mouth of the fjord is Dale Point and connects to the Tasman Sea. Milford Sound is the most frequented wonder of nature throughout all of New Zealand.

Milford Sound is surrounded by amazing rock faces that reach peaks over four thousand feet. Some of the famous peaks include The Elephant with a peak of 4,977 feet (1,517 meters) and The Lion which reaches a peak of 4,272 feet (1,203 meters).

The wildlife of Milford Sound includes penguins, seals, dolphins, numerous birds, and some times whales. The scenery is spectacular with lush rain forests hugging the cliffs. Lady Bowen Falls and Stirling Falls are two falls that can be experienced year round, however because of the rainfall numerous temporary falls are often enjoyed as well.

Winner Announcement

Be one of the first to know who the winners our for the new 7 wonders of nature. Announced on the Travel Tracker first before any other place. Fun travel app even if with a whole variety of bucket list ideas even if you are not tracking the natural wonders.

Best Ways to Experience Milford Sound

More on Milford Sound it is declared a natural or notable wonder.

Best Times to Explore Milford Sound

More on Milford Sound as it is declared a natural or notable wonder.

Milford Sound Photography Tips

More on photography tips for Milford Sound as it is declared a natural or notable wonder.

Milford Sound Travel Tips

More on travel tips for Milford Sound as it is declared a natural or notable wonder.

Endangered Species

There are 100s of critically endangered species on every continent around the world. The wildlife, fauna and flora are much of what makes the wonders of nature special. Endangered Species is one of Seven Natural Wonder’s greatest concerns. Take a moment and glance at some of the critically endangered wildlife.

The post Milford Sound appeared first on Seven Natural Wonders.

• Largest sand island in the world
• Measures 75 miles (120 km) long and 15 miles (24 km) wide
• Declared a world heritage site in 1992

Fraser Island

Fraser Island is Australia’s sixth largest island, but it is the largest sand island in the world. The island is located near the southern coast of Queensland. The ecosystem of the island includes mangrove forests, eucalyptus forests, peat swamps, coastal heaths and of course sand dunes. The volcanic bedrock serves as an excellent net to catch the sand and sediment carried in the waters along the shore. Accordingly, the island is growing every year.

Fraser Island is the largest sand island in the world. The length measures 75 miles (120 km) while the width is 15 miles (24 km). The island lies off the coast of Australia and is separated by the Great Sandy Strait. The island has over 100 freshwater lakes.

Fraser Island is home to a variety of birds, reptiles, amphibians and mammals. The saltwater crocodile can be found on Fraser Island periodically, but it is not a permanent resident.

Winner Announcement

Be one of the first to know who the winners our for the new 7 wonders of nature. Announced on the Travel Tracker first before any other place. Fun travel app even if with a whole variety of bucket list ideas even if you are not tracking the natural wonders.

Best Ways to See and Experience Fraser Island

More on Fraser Island it is declared a natural or notable wonder.

Fraser Island Photography Tips

More on photography tips for Fraser Island as it is declared a natural or notable wonder.

Fraaser Island Travel Tips

More on travel tips for Fraser Island as it is declared a natural or notable wonder.

Endangered Species

There are 100s of critically endangered species on every continent around the world. The wildlife, fauna and flora are much of what makes the wonders of nature special. Endangered Species is one of Seven Natural Wonder’s greatest concerns. Take a moment and glance at some of the critically endangered wildlife.

The post Fraser Island appeared first on Seven Natural Wonders.

• Largest salt flat in the world
• Encompasses 4,086 square miles (10,582 sq km)
• Accounts for 50 to 70% of world’s lithium reserves

Salar de Uyuni

Salar de Uyuni is a salt flat located in the Potosi and Oruro departments of southwest Bolivia. Salar is a Spanish word translating into “salt flat,” and Uyuni is Spanish for “enclosure.” As part of the Andes, the Salar is located at 11,995 feet (3,656 m) above sea level. Created from the transformation of several lakes, the salt crust of the Salar de Uyuni has no more than three feet (1 m) in altitude variation.

Statistically speaking, Salar de Uyuni is the largest salt flat in the world accounting for 4,086 square miles (10,582 sq km). The crust is comprised of salt and covers a sea of brine that ranges from 7 to 66 feet (2 to 20 m) deep. Collectively, the Salar de Uyuni accounts for between 50 to 70% of the world’s lithium reserves.

There is limited wildlife or vegetation in the area. There are about 80 species of birds found in the area with the highlight being three different species of flamingos that visit during the month of November.

Winner Announcement

Be one of the first to know who the winners our for the new 7 wonders of nature. Announced on the Travel Tracker first before any other place. Fun travel app even if with a whole variety of bucket list ideas even if you are not tracking the natural wonders.

Best Ways to Experience Salar de Uyuni

More on Salar de Uyuni as it is declared a natural or notable wonder.

Endangered Species

There are 100s of critically endangered species on every continent around the world. The wildlife, fauna and flora are much of what makes the wonders of nature special. Endangered Species is one of Seven Natural Wonder’s greatest concerns. Take a moment and glance at some of the critically endangered wildlife.

The post Salar de Uyuni appeared first on Seven Natural Wonders.

Al-Hasa Oasis

Al-Hasa Oasis is the largest natural oasis in Saudi Arabia and all of Asia. The oasis is located just over 40 miles (65 km) west of the Arabian Gulf.

Statistically speaking, the oasis accounts for 30,000 acres (12,000 hectares). Al-Hasa is one of the largest oasis in the world, and it is the largest in all of Asia making it a valuable candidate as one of the seven natural wonders of Asia. There are over 60 artesian springs that feed the oasis along with a large underground aquifer as well. Collectively, these provide water and irrigation to over 3 million date palms as well as the million residents of the area.

Winner Announcement

Be one of the first to know who the winners are for the new 7 wonders of nature. Announced on the Travel Tracker first before any other place. Fun travel app even if with a whole variety of bucket list ideas even if you are not tracking the natural wonders.

Best Ways to See and Experience Al-Hasa Oasis

More on Al-Hasa Oasis as it is declared a natural or notable wonder.

Endangered Species

There are 100s of critically endangered species on every continent around the world. The wildlife, fauna and flora are much of what makes the wonders of nature special. Endangered Species is one of Seven Natural Wonder’s greatest concerns. Take a moment and glance at some of the critically endangered wildlife.

The post Al-Hasa Oasis appeared first on Seven Natural Wonders.

• Are both a national park and a biological marine reserve
• Most noted for unique and endemic wildlife
• 3,040 square miles of land over 17,000 square miles of ocean
• Recognized as a World Heritage site

Galapagos Islands

The Galapagos Islands are located off the coast of Ecuador and account for one of the provinces of Ecuador. In addition to being a province of the country, the islands are also a national park and marine wildlife reserve. The area designated as the marine wildlife reserve is the second largest designated area only behind the Great Barrier Reef. UNESCO declared the Galapagos Islands as a World Heritage site in 1978.

The Galapagos Islands gained their greatest recognition following the observations and publication of the Origin of Species by Charles Darwin. More importantly, the Galapagos Islands are notable for the unique and endemic species. The majority of wildlife and fauna have been introduced to the island as compared to native and endemic species. There are over 700 species of plants introduced to the islands as compared to approximately 500 native and endemic species.

The unique and intriguing wildlife is what draws most visitors to the islands. Exploring the islands and witnessing this wildlife makes for a spectacular encounter with nature. Some of the most unique and amazing creatures include the following: Marine Iguanas, Galapagos Tortoises, Galapagos Sea Lions, Galapagos Penguins and the Blue Footed Booby top the list for many people.

Best way to see the Galapagos Islands

More will follow on the Galapagos Islands as they are declared an official or notable wonder of South America.

The post Galapagos Islands appeared first on Seven Natural Wonders.

7 Natural Wonders of Africa: Okavango Delta

The Okavango Deltas was officially declared as one of the 7 Natural Wonders of Africa February 11, 2013 in Arusha, Tanzania. Votes were cast by experts from around the world who noted the key statistical significance, uniqueness and splendor. Although there are two inland deltas in Africa that rival and possibly surpass Okavango Delta in size, they have been diminished with poaching and war. Okavango Delta is a protected area with an investment to protect the wildlife and her uniqueness for all to experience.

Okavango Delta

The Okavango Delta is argued as the world’s largest inland delta. The delta is created from the rains the fill the Okavango River which is delivered to the basin of the Kalahari Desert. This is caused from the rainy season that occurs between January and February. The waters begin filling the delta in March and rising to the peak months of July and August.

The majority of water is lost to evaporation and transpiration. Plants and transpiration account for 60% of the water lost followed by evaporation with 36%. The delta is extremely flat with less that 7 feet (2 meters) of elevation change. Every year the delta features 11 cubic kilometers, or 11,000,000,000,000 liters, of water flow. Visit our Okavango Delta Resource page to learn more about the delta and options for exploring this wonder of nature.

Where is the Okavango Delta

The Okavango Delta is located in the southern part of Africa in the country of Botswana. Botswana is found north of South Africa, south of Zambia, southwest of Zimbabwe, and east of Namibia. The Okavango Delta is located in the northern part of Botswana nestled in the basin of the Kalahari. The delta is just southwest of Chobe National Park.

Okavango Delta Wildlife

The Okavango Delta is an amazing home to a variety of wildlife. Some of the wildlife are seasonal following the rains while others call the area home year round. For visitors, safari goers and nature lovers it is a wildlife haven. Some of the wildlife that may be experienced include: giraffe, buffalo, hippos, rhinos, lions, and a variety of antelope. The historical Big 5 along with 6 of Africa’s Big 7 can all be experienced in the Okavango Delta.

Those fascinated with predators will be glad to know that the delta is home to lion, cheetah, leopard, hyena, wild dogs, and crocodiles. Some of the more sought after creatures you may find include both the the black and white rhinos, ostrich, hippo and the elephant.

The Okavango Delta is also a sanctuary for over 400 species of birds making this a great destination for bird watchers as well. Some of the birds that may be encountered include the ostrich, African Fish Eagle, Crested Crane, Lilac-Breasted Roller, among many other amazing birds.

Best way to see and experience Okavango Delta

Visitors to the Okavango Delta usually have one thing in mind and this viewing and experiencing wildlife. One unique way to experience delta and view game is taking a hot air balloon ride over the basin. However, the greatest way to see the most wildlife comes from taking a safari game drive through the park. Another option is to take one of the canoe type options through the channels of the delta. Each of these provide unique and engaging ways to experience the wildlife of Okavango Delta. Visit our Resources page for more information.

Endangered Species of Africa

There are 100s of critically endangered species on every continent around the world. The wildlife, fauna and flora are much of what makes the various wonders of nature special. The endangered species of Africa are one of Seven Natural Wonder’s greatest concerns. Take a moment and glance at some of the critically endangered wildlife.

The post Okavango Delta appeared first on Seven Natural Wonders.