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    Disney and Make-A-Wish® Celebrate Long Standing Relationship

    The Walt Disney Company and Make-A-Wish celebrated World Wish Day on Saturday, April 29, a date that marks the anniversary of the wish that inspired the founding of Make-A-Wish in 1980. Since the first official wish – which was granted at Disneyland® Resort – Disney and Make-A-Wish have worked together to help grant 150,000 wishes globally, delivering joy when it is needed most to wish kids and their families.
    Over the past 43 years, Disney has become the biggest wish granter in the world for Make-A-Wish, bringing the life-changing impact of a wish to children facing critical illnesses and their families.
    “Disney and Make-A-Wish are a perfect match – we’re both in the business of creating happiness,” said Josh D’Amaro, Chairman of Disney Parks Experiences and Products, and Make-A-Wish America Board Member. “We also understand the transformative impact we can make on the lives of wish kids and their families. We’re thrilled to honor the history of Make-A-Wish and Disney together and look forward to creating special moments for many years to come.”
    As part of this year’s World Wish Day celebration, Disney unveiled special, first-of-its-kind windows on Main Street, U.S.A. at Disneyland Park, dedicated to Make-A-Wish and all the wish kids of the world.
    Main Street, U.S.A. windows historically have been dedicated to people who have made significant contributions to Disney over the past century. The windows, the first ever dedicated to a nonprofit, represent the unique and special relationship Disney and Make-A-Wish have developed throughout the years. The three windows include a center window dedicated to Make-A-Wish and all the wish kids past, present and future; and side windows honoring Chris Greicius, whose wish inspired the creation of Make-A-Wish, and Frank ‘Bopsy’ Salazar, who made the first official wish granted by Make-A-Wish (and the first Disney wish).ADVERTISEMENT“World Wish Day presents an opportunity to bring together the global community of supporters that makes wishes possible, and Disney has been one of our most committed and impactful supporters from the very beginning,” said Make-A-Wish America President and CEO, Leslie Motter. “It’s a testament to the passion and generosity of cast members past and present that we have reached the point where our wish families are being recognized with their very own, dedicated windows at Disneyland Resort.”
    The three windows are located above the redesigned and rededicated Wish Lounge, where wish families can relax privately during their visit to Disneyland. Walt Disney Imagineering worked with story artists and animators at Walt Disney Animation Studios to bring to life this incredible wish lounge inspired by the artistic style and characters from Disney Animation’s upcoming animated film, “Wish.”
    Disney also announced this weekend that Mikayla, a talented 16-year-old from Florida who ‘lives and breathes theater,’ will be Disney’s official 150,000th wish. Mikayla and her family were surprised with the news on World Wish Day at Disney’s Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World Resort, where she was Grand Marshal of the Disney “Festival of Fantasy” Parade. After the parade, Disney had another surprise for Mikayla unique to this very special occasion marking this historic milestone of our 150,000th wish – an exclusive opportunity to stay in the famous Cinderella Castle Suite. She will return to the park later this year for a special celebration to fulfill her wish, which is to perform on stage at Disney.
    Disney also celebrated World Wish Day around the world, with several other Disney Parks hosting wish kids and their families, reminding us that wishes do come true:
    On Saturday, April 15, Shanghai Disney Resort hosted a charity concert that benefited its local Make-A-Wish affiliate.Hong Kong Disneyland hosted a World Wish Day celebration party, where 10-year-old wish kid Javis’ wish to play the drums onstage was fulfilled.Disneyland Paris held Wish Weekend, hosting 88 wish kids and their families at the theme park for a weekend full of wish granting.Across The Walt Disney Company, there were more celebrations in honor of wish kids:
    ESPN helped to enhance Kyle’s wish to announce the first-round draft pick for his favorite team – the New York Jets – at the NFL Draft in Kansas City. Kyle also was able to visit the sets of ESPN’s NFL Live and College GameDay shows.In Los Angeles, four wish kids were welcomed to Marvel Studios’ Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 World Premiere, walking the red carpet, meeting the stars and getting a first look at the eagerly awaited third film in the trilogy.Pixar shared Addie’s wish on World Wish Day 2023. Addie’s wish to be a voice actor was granted with her visit to the Pixar campus.The Walt Disney Company works with Make-A-Wish to grant wishes ranging from theme park and resort vacations, cruises, and shopping sprees, to studio visits, talent meet-and-greets, sports-themed experiences and more. Many Disney cast members are also wish-granting volunteers, parents of wish kids, or wish alumni themselves. To learn more about the longstanding relationship between Disney and Make-A-Wish, visit wish.org/Disney.

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    Global Travel & Tourism Catapults into 2023 Says WTTC

    The World Travel & Tourism Council’s (WTTC) 2023 Economic Impact Research (EIR) today shows the Travel & Tourism sector is closing in on its 2019 peak, recovering by more than 95%.
    In 2023, the sector is forecast to reach $9.5TN, just 5% below 2019 pre-pandemic levels when travel was at its highest. 34 countries have already exceeded 2019 levels.
    According to the research conducted by WTTC in collaboration with Oxford Economics, the global tourism body also forecasts that the sector will recover to 95% of the 2019 job level.
    A look back on last yearLast year, despite the economic and geopolitical difficulties, the Travel & Tourism sector’s recovery continued at pace, growing 22% year-on-year to reach $7.7TN.
    This recovery represented 7.6% of the global economy in 2022, the highest sector contribution since 2019, although its global GDP is still 22.9% behind its 2019 peak.
    In 2021 the global sector grew 24.7% year-on-year, and last year it grew a further 22% to reach a GDP contribution of $7.7TN.
    The research shows that the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and prolonged travel restrictions imposed by a number of countries such as China had a significant impact on the global recovery.
    But the recent decision by the Chinese government to reopen its borders from January will propel the sector and see it recover to pre-pandemic levels next year.
    From a pre-pandemic high of more than 334MN, the COVID-19 pandemic ravaged employment in the sector which saw losses of more than 70MN to bring the total number employed in 2020 to just 264MN.
    Following the recovery of 11MN jobs in 2021, the sector created 21.6MN new jobs in 2022 to reach more than 295MN globally – one in 11 jobs worldwide.
    Spending from overseas visitors grew by a record 82% to reach $1.1TN in 2022, showing that international travel is firmly back on track.
    Julia Simpson, WTTC President & CEO, said: “The Travel & Tourism sector continues to recover at pace, demonstrating the resilience of the sector and the enduring desire to travel.
    “By the end of the year, the sector’s contribution will be within touching distance of the 2019 peak. We expect 2024 to exceed 2019.
    “The recovery will speed up this year as Chinese travellers re-enter the market and over the next 10 years, Travel & Tourism will continue to grow as a sector.”
    What does the next decade look like?The global tourism body is forecasting that the sector will grow its GDP contribution to $15.5TN by 2033 representing 11.6% of the global economy and will employ 430MN people around the world, with almost 12% of the working population employed in the sector.
    The latest EIR also reveals that 34 of the 185 countries analysed in the EIR have now recovered to pre-pandemic levels in terms of GDP contribution.
    WTTC forecasts that by the end of 2023, nearly half of the 185 countries will have either fully recovered to pre-pandemic levels or be within 95% of full recovery.
    For more information, please visit wttc.org

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    Central German airports witness surge in demand for tourist flights during Q1 2023

    The Central German airports continued to register increasing demand during the first three months of this year, particularly for tourist flights.Far more passengers were recorded at Dres-den and Leipzig/Halle Airports than in the previous year. The demand for flights to Spain, Egypt and Turkey was particularly high.
    The recovery in passenger numbers from the consequences of the pandemic continued at the Central German airports during the first quarter of this year. Overall, 415,793 passengers passed through Leipzig/Halle and Dresden Airports – 96.5 percent more than in the comparative period in 2022. The number of aircraft movements rose by 4.8 percent to a total figure of 22,695 take-offs and landings.
    The number of passengers using Dresden Airport rose to a figure of 146,228 between January and March. This represents an increase of about 100 percent compared to the same period in the previous year. The number of aircraft movements increased by about 18 percent to a figure of 3,898 during the first three months of the year.
    Passenger numbers at Leipzig/Halle Airport increased by more than 95 percent to a figure of 269,565 during the first quarter. The number of aircraft movements grew by 2.4 percent to a figure of 18,797 take-offs and landings from January until March compared to the previous year.
    Viewed in terms of the situation prior to the pandemic, the Central German airports had reached roughly 57 percent of the passenger numbers recorded in 2019 by March 2023. This development also reflects the ongoing restricted number of flights available and the German national situation, which is below the European average.ADVERTISEMENT

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    Quito, the city surrounded by 17 volcanoes

    Ecuador has a total of 44 volcanoes, 17 of which are found near the capital, making Quito the ideal destination for adventure and nature lovers.
    Exploring the many volcanoes in and around Quito allows people to connect with nature, discover wild trails and admire the region’s remarkable biodiversity.AntisanaKnown as Quito’s shy volcano, Antisana lies a mere 50 kilometres from the capital and, as one of Ecuador’s tallest volcanoes, often hides behind a vail of clouds, to go undetected and live up to its nickname. Antisana’s many ecosystems, from forests and marshlands to alpine meadows, are home to a wide variety of flora and fauna.One of the main attractions of Antisana National Park is the home of Alexander von Humboldt, one of the most important researchers in the world of science. Other ideal activities in the area include bird watching, hiking and wildlife observation.SincholaguaThe village of Píntag is the gateway to the Eastern Andes. This location offers views of both Antisana and Sincholagua. Sincholagua is sacred for the indigenous populations of the region and is considered to be one of the most beautiful mountains of the Andes.Located 45 kilometres to the east of Quito, it is easily recognised by its perfect cone shape. This area is home to a great variety of fauna and flora species, including the spectacled bear, the Andean condor and the Páramo wolf, also known as the Andean fox. Hosting a section of the Inca Trail and being in close proximity to Cotopaxi, makes Sincholagua a popular destination, especially during the colder months when its snow-capped peak can be seen from all around.

    CotopaxiCotopaxi is one of the region’s most iconic and most active volcanoes. Situated about 50 kilometres to the south of the capital, it the second highest volcano in Ecuador, reaching an altitude of 5,000 metres above sea level.Pululahua Geobotanical ReservePululahua Geobotanical Reserve is a 3,383-hectar natural sanctuary which is home to scores of different animal, plant and insect species. It is one of only a few inhabited volcano craters in the world, where a small population once found fertile land perfect for agriculture.Cayambe-CocaCayambe-Coca is one of the most biodiverse protected areas in Ecuador, a unique place surrounded by the breath taking landscapes of bordering peaks: Cerro Puntas and Reventador volcano. The area offers hot springs, trekking trails, climbing walls, the possibility to see wildlife like spectacled bears, mountain tapirs, Páramo wolves, Páramo lagoons popular for trout fishing , rivers perfect for rafting and many more activities.
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    Indianapolis Zoo Launches $1 Million Saving Species Challenge

    The Indianapolis Zoological Society announced a bold grant program to reverse the decline of an animal species heading toward extinction.The Indianapolis Zoo Saving Species Challenge will award a $1 million grant to one organization that can develop and execute a plan that will have a measurable and sustainable impact on the survival of an animal species.
    Field conservationists from around the world are invited to apply and present a plan to identify an animal species that is currently designated as threatened (Critically Endangered, Endangered, Vulnerable or Extinct in the wild) by the International Union for Conservation of Nature’s (IUCN) Red List and create a program that would lead to an improvement in the species’ status.
    “The Indianapolis Zoo searched for a big idea to make a real difference and support field conservationists to make a measurable change in the future of a species,” said Michael W. Wells, Trustee and Chair of the Indianapolis Zoo’s Conservation Committee. “Our ability to measure the outcome by using the International Union for Conservation of Nature’s Red List will allow us to objectively assess the results of our investment.”
    The grant has a two-stage application process. Pre-applications must be submitted by June 4, 2023, and then the organizations selected need to submit a full application by Dec. 3, 2023. Complete information on eligibility and application procedures can be found at IndianapolisZoo.com under the Conservation tab.
    “We know that reversing the decline of a species takes time. If we trust the science and stay focused, we will save species. This challenge will serve as a model for other conservation organizations to follow,” said Dr. Rob Shumaker, President & CEO of the Indianapolis Zoo. “The Indianapolis Zoo Saving Species Challenge is visionary and will focus attention on achieving significant impact on the survival of a species. I am excited to see the Indianapolis Zoo continue to set the bar high on how Zoos, Aquariums and Botanical Gardens can advance conservation action and catalyze real and positive change for species,” said Jon Paul Rodriguez, Chair, IUCN Species Survival Commission.ADVERTISEMENTA Jury of international animal conservation experts will choose the winner of the Indianapolis Zoo Saving Species Challenge. The winner will have five years to activate the program and show progress. The Zoo will announce the winner February 2024. Click here for free-use media assets.

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    Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park Celebrates 25 Years Showcasing the Magic of Nature

    On Earth Day, April 22, 1998, Walt Disney World Resort invited guests to discover a one-of-a-kind theme park where they could be inspired by the magic of the natural world. The opening of Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park introduced a whole new way to appreciate, enjoy and interact with animals while also delivering incredible new stories that celebrated our relationship with the environment.. The fourth Walt Disney World theme park was also Disney’s largest, spreading over 500 acres and adding a new draw to Central Florida as a top tourist destination in the world.
    “Disney’s Animal Kingdom, like the world itself, will evolve and grow. It’s truly a living thing.”
    – Roy E. Disney at the park’s official dedication ceremony on April 21, 1998
    An Entirely New Kind of Theme Park
    Disney’s Animal Kingdom combined Walt Disney’s love of animals, both real and imaginary, with exciting attractions, spectacular stage shows and entertaining characters.ADVERTISEMENTTrue, there were – and are – breathtaking animal encounters, from an African safari adventure to a meandering, mystical trail that leads guests on an exciting search for tigers, to live shows highlighting animal behaviors and beauty – and so much more. But this park was also a way for Disney to inspire people with the spectacular breadth and beauty of nature and animals through the power of entertainment and attractions, including a hysterical 3D journey into the world of insects (It’s Tough to Be a Bug!), a larger-than-life musical celebrating the circle of life (Festival of the Lion King), and encounters with beloved characters.
    Everything in Disney’s Animal Kingdom takes inspiration from nature and the animal world. For example, the park icon – the towering Tree of Life – features 337 sculpted animals in its trunk. Similarly, building architecture, light poles, benches and countless other elements feature animal designs that range from subtle to dramatic. Nowhere else are animals so richly and creatively celebrated.
    Over the last 25 years, the park has continually evolved with new attractions, entertainment and even entirely new lands such as Asia and Pandora – The World of Avatar, giving guests new reasons to visit Disney’s Animal Kingdom and all of Central Florida again and again.
    Expansions introduced new wild adventures that send guests swirling on a whirling white-water raft ride (Kali River Rapids), rocketing on a runaway-train adventure (Expedition Everest – Legend of the Forbidden Mountain), diving into another stellar musical stage show (Finding Nemo: The Big Blue…and Beyond!), taking flight on a banshee (Avatar Flight of Passage) and exploring a bioluminescent rainforest (Na’vi River Journey).
    More than 5,000 cast members at Disney’s Animal Kingdom continue the park’s mission today, from scientists and animal care experts, to critical frontline cast members who work in operations, entertainment, merchandise, food and beverage and guest services. They are among the 75,000 cast members who are the heart of Walt Disney World.
    Celebrating the Park’s 25th Anniversary and Earth Day
    In celebration of the park’s milestone anniversary and Earth Day, guests will have the opportunity to enjoy new limited-time sweet and savory treats, specialty merchandise and a character sighting. Visitors can dig into tempting treats such as the Colossal Elephant Roll, a jumbo cinnamon bun with banana caramel, milk chocolate crispy pearls, and 25th anniversary logo available at Isle of Java and Kusafiri Bakery on April 22 only; and the 25th Anniversary Alive with Magic Cupcake Vanilla cake featuring chocolate toffee mousse, chocolate buttercream, white chocolate crispy pearls, and an Alive with Magic 25th anniversary chocolate logo. Taking the magic of the celebration home is easy with commemorative items like the 25th anniversary mini Loungefly backpack, special pins, shirts, a tumbler and more.
    There will be more surprises on April 22 when the park officially turns 25. And, just in time for the festivities, Moana will begin greeting guests at Discovery Island Character Landing for the first time that day.
    Helping the Animals It Celebrates
    Over the past 25 years, Disney has made significant contributions to the preservation and wellbeing of animals not only at the theme park, but also around the community, state and globe.
    “At Disney, we believe building a brighter, more sustainable future starts with imagining what’s possible. Through our conservation and sustainability programs, we take tangible actions to inspire change around the globe,” says Dr. Mark Penning, vice president, Animals, Science and Environment, Disney Parks. “I’m proud of our animal care cast members who are the most passionate conservationists I know and who put their hearts into taking care of the animals at Walt Disney World every day.”
    As an accredited institution of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), Disney’s Animal Kingdom has also collaborated with other AZA members to help increase populations of endangered and extinct in the wild species, such as the Guam rail and Guam kingfisher birds. Following AZA Species Survival Plans, the park has welcomed a variety of animals from endangered species into the world, including Sumatran tigers, western lowland gorillas, African elephants, cotton-top tamarins and okapi to name just a few. In fact, Disney’s Animal Nutrition Center has served as a model kitchen for a number of other AZA-accredited facilities who have adopted many of the nutritional diets developed specifically for the animals here at Disney’s Animal Kingdom.
    Today, 45 animals that have been at Disney’s Animal Kingdom since opening day or before still reside at the park.
    The Disney Conservation Fund
    Disney’s Animal Kingdom and the Disney Conservation Fund are deeply rooted in Walt Disney’s passion and the respect he displayed for animals and nature throughout his life. Together, they are engaged in research and conservation efforts involving at-risk animal populations and species.
    Through the generous support of Disney’s Animal Kingdom guests, the Disney Conservation Fund has worked with leading conservation organizations around the world to stabilize and increase populations of at-risk animals, including butterflies, corals, monkeys and sea turtles. Since its creation in 1995, the Disney Conservation Fund has directed $125 million and the expertise of dedicated Disney teams to support organizations working with communities to save wildlife, inspire action and protect the planet.
    For more information on how Disney cares for animals and helps protect species in the wild, visit DisneyAnimals.com. And seasons one and two of “Magic of Disney’s Animal Kingdom,” streaming on Disney+, give viewers unprecedented access to some of the most rare and beautiful creatures on the planet and a chance to meet the animal care experts who have formed remarkable bonds with the park’s thousands of animals.
    Guests can visit DisneyWorld.com/AnimalKingdom for more information about planning their visit to Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park.

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    Cruzeiro Safaris Offers luxury vacations to the most popular wildlife national parks in Kenya

    Cruzeiro Safaris Kenya Offers Professional Safari Vacations in Kenya to the most popular wildlife national parks and Luxury Accommodations in Nairobi, Masai Mara, Samburu, Amboseli, Tsavo, Lake Nakuru, Nyeri Aberdares, Nanyuki and around Mount Kenya.Cruzeiro Safaris also helps last minute traveler and transit travelers book short day tours and trips in Nairobi.
    Are there any destinations in the world which can evoke such powerful imagery as Kenya, one of East Africa’s premier destinations?Indeed, the acacia-dotted savannahs of Kenya re inhabited by classic African animals, from towering elephants and prancing gazelles to prides of lions and stalking leopards. The country also plays host to the annual migration, the largest single movement of heard animals on the planet. However, what makes Kenya truly stand out as a travel destination is the vast palette of landscapes that comprise this visually stunning country. While the flaunted image of the savannah of Maasai Mara perhaps the single key selling point for Kenya’s tourist industry, intrepid travelers can also explore the barren expanses of the Rift valley, the glacial ridges of Mt. Kenya and the beaches of the Swahili coast.
    This rich diversity of quintessential African environments present opportunity for hiking, trekking, diving sailing and so much more But to simply focus on Kenya’s wildlife and nature is to ignore the people that make this country so dynamic. Kenya is a thriving multicultural country with a wide cross-section of everything that is classic and contemporary Africa. Everyday life brings together traditional tribes and urban families, ancient customs and modern sensibilities. And, while much of the East Africa has suffered from bitter feud between divided ethnic groups, Kenya has usually been regarded as an island of stability in a trouble region. Kenya may be a somewhat more intimidating destination that it once was, but remains one of the undisputed highlights of Africa. Check your inhibition, ignore the hype, bring your sense of adventure and get ready for some truly inspiring and life-changing travel.
    Planning a trip to Kenya is a pleasure in itself: the country is so versatile that it’s virtually a blank canvas, catering equally for the thrill-seekers and sun-seekers, budget backpackers and high-end rollers, those who like it tough and those who just want to get going. Whatever you do here, you’ll discover that it’s very straightforward to sort yourself out of the ground and advance plans are very necessary.
    When to go to Kenya: The main tourist season is January, February and March, when the weather is hottest and driest. At this time, the animals in the wildlife parks tend to congregate more around the watercourses, making them easy to spot. However, the parks can get crowded and rates for accommodation soar –also make sure you avoid Christmas and Easter unless you want to pay much higher prices. From June to October, the annual wildebeest migration takes place, with thousands of animals streaming into the Maasai Mara National reserve from Serengeti. During the long rains (the low season April to May) things are much quieter.ADVERTISEMENTTransit Travelers and Travelers with a stopover in Nairobi are also not left behind, book a half or full day tour in Nairobi and visit many places. This trip comes with Free airport transfers from Jomo Kenyatta International Airport or Wilson Airport.
    Itineraries and Classic RoutesClassic routes put you face to face with the continent’s most charismatic creatures. Safari njema – have a good trip!
    Departing from Nairobi, Kenyas capital city one can enjoy the Nairobi city tours at any point where low or high season. Our first port of call is Maasai Mara National Reserve between July and October, the Maasai Mara plays host to the annual wildebeest migration, which offers a definitive slice of safari Africa. Even if you can’t time your visit to coincide with this epic event, the Mara is still worth visiting as the famous national park in Kenya. The northern trails leads to Samburu National Reserve , a dusty, red, desert habitat that shelters’ species of animals not found elsewhere in Kenya. The safari trail continues down to Amboseli National Park, which is regarded as one of the best places in Africa to get up close and personal with the heads of grazing elephants.
    In search of the big fiveThe ultimate goal of any safari-gore is to spot the Big Five, namely lion, leopard, rhino, buffalo and elephant. While you’re going to have to put in a lot of hours to spot them all-particularly the elusive leopard – this itinerary will have you ticking them off the list in no time. Start your search at Lake Nakuru National park, an alkaline lake in the Rift Valley, which is home to many thousands of pink flamingos and pelicans. This vitally important national park also protects the country’s largest population of endangered black rhinos, as well as large herds of buffalo. From lake Nakuru, your next stop is the obligatory Maasai Mara National Reserve which is veritable lion country, With a little luck you can spot leopards lounging in trees, and cheetahs prowling around the savannahs, from Maasai Mara head south to Naivasha and visit the Hells gate National park swim in the hot water sulfuric swimming pool belonging to the geothermal energy plant. Then head south to the Amboseli national park for a wildlife drive through Kilimanjaro court. Against a back drop of Africa’s tallest peak, you will see dozens of elephants. From Amboseli it’s straight forward drive to the Tsavo West National Park and Tsavo East National Park. Kenya’s largest wildlife parks. As they are relatively undeveloped. Tsavo East and West are where you can truly have a wildlife experience. From here you can head down to the highway to ancient Swahili port of Mombasa where you can either fly straight home or start a whole new journey exploring the Kenyan coast. Indeed, its’ just a short trip south west to the Mwaluganje Elephant Sanctuary a small but important reserve that protects elephants migratory routes, and on to the densely forested Shimba Hills National reserve home to the rare antelope.
    Sun, Surf and SwahiliWhether you’re interest in exploring the remaining vestiges of Swahili culture, or simply kicking it on the beach for days on end, don’t miss the chance to explore Kenya’s sun-drenched coast. From the coastal getaway of Mombasa City, the first stop head south is Tiwi beach, a tranquil white-sand paradise that is popular with independents travelers. Just down the road, you can head on to the package holiday destination of Diani beach for a taste of the more full-on rest experience. Near the Tanzania Border are the Funzi and Wasini islands provide a dose of real, unspoilt coastal life and also afford easy access to the excellent Kisite Marine National Park. Here you can spot the Dolphins each other it’s a wonderful complement to Kenya’s terrestrial wildlife destinations.
    Back to the coastal trail make a quick stop in the charming town of Kilifi before pressing on to the Arabuko Sokoke Forest Reserve on the largest remaining tracts of indigenous coastal forest in East Africa. Further north are the Gede ruins and ancient Swahili City that dates back to the 13th century. Another historic town along the Swahili coast is Malindi, a 14th century trading post that is now one of the country’s leading beach destinations for Italian holiday makers. Your itinerary can end its peaks at the wonderful Lamu archipelago a veritable tropical paradise and Swahili heritage gem. One can take up the Summer Package staying in Mombasa and travelling to the Tsavo Park and back.
    Roads Less Travelled: Desert FrontiersThis unbeaten trail winds through the harsh and barren landscapes around Lake Turkana, which dominates the northwest corner of the country. The Eastern getaway to this region is the small town of Isiolo, Just north of Mt Kenya. There are several good national parks and wildlife reserve in this area. One can plough through straight to the desert route and head up the rough road to Marsabit the dusty tribal centre of this remote area which boasts a fine national park. Assuming you are not tempted to hope over the border to Ethiopia at Moyale, a real wild frontier, take the western loop to Turkana via North Horr heading for the tiny lake side settlement of Loiyangalani a base for trips into even more remote parts of the country. From here the trail leads through again passing all kinds of scenic zones and the stopover towns of South Horr and Baragoi. It’s worth stopping for a couple of days in Maralal to replenish supplies and sample the joys of camel-trekking. Your could end your trip here but for the full effect, head up to the other side of Turkana, passing though the lush western area around marich to reach sweltering Lodwar and the lovely lake shore Springs.

    When is the best time to spot animals?When you visit Kenya’s parks and reserves, you’ll be spending a lot of time craning your neck and keeping watchful eyes out for animals and birds. There are a few telltale signs to note, as we as a few things you can do to maximize your chances of spotting the Big Five. Most are just common sense.
    The best time to view wildlife to between 6.30am and 9.30am and from 3.30am to 6.30 pm. Cruzeiro Safaris makes sure they you during these timings. Wildlife drives in the mid of the day are unlikely to turn up much, (although there are popular parks such as Amboseli and Maasai Mara), animals are actually changing their normal hunting habits to avoid the tourist. When the tourists head back to the lodges for lunch, the carnivores go out hunting – in peace. In wooded country, agitated and noisy monkeys or baboons are often a sign that there’s a big cat (probably a leopard) around. Vultures circling are not necessarily an indication of a kill below. But if they are gathering in trees and seem to be watching something, you can reasonably assume they are waiting their turn for a go at a carcass.
    One final note – taking longer safari is great, but endless long days peering out of a sunroof, on bumpy roads, in the heat, eating the same food stuck with the same people can take its toll quicker than you might think. Any animal you see on the first day will be exciting, though sooner or later most travelers will experience safari fatigue, that jaded feeling of ‘not another zebra, I wanna see a freaking leopard’. If this happens a few cultural activities and afternoon’s relaxations or even just a quick swim can do wonders for keeping things fresh. Or just take an air package especially for single travelers.
    Nairobi and around highlights, Transit and Stop over Tours:Spotting wildlife in the most incongruous of surroundings at the Nairobi National Park, Tangling tongues with the rubber-necked ungulate at Giraffe centre, Broadening your appreciation of all things cultural and environmental at the National Museum, Surveying the Landscape from the grand heights of the Kenyatta Conference centre, making the most essential foodie pilgrimage to the Carnivore and dancing it off at the Simba salon. Striking out for some proper exercise, walking through the incredibly scenic Ngong Hills, Visit the 2. And half hour away park to the Lake Nakuru national park.
    Does One have more than 24 hours stopover in Nairobi then book a fast last minute safari tour to the Masai mara for 1 night / 2 days
    Cruzeiro Safaris Also Offers Instant Online Bookings for Half – day tours and full day tours in Nairobi.Nairobi Day Tours, Nairobi National Park, Animal Orphanage, Giraffe Center, Karen Blixen, Safari Cat Show, Musuems, City Tours, Amboseli Day trip, Lake nakuru day Trip, Airport Transfers in Nairobi, Nairobi Airport Transfers from Airport to Hotels, Mombasa City Tours, Kenya Safari Packages by Road , Nairobi National Park Tours with Option
    Nairobi National Park Guided Tour Morning or AfternoonKindly indicate your preferred departure timeMorning Tour : starts at 6am – 11amAfternoon Tour: Starts at 1.30pm – 6.30pm
    The Nairobi National Park Tour is one of the most popular tours in Nairobi. A must visit for everyone and a top attraction in the world near a city. This tour starts early morning at 6am to 11am. Visit the Nairobi National Park and embark on a long game viewing drive around the park. It was established in 1946, 114 kms (44 sq miles) of pristine savanna with a large stock of migratory game and lies between the Nairobi-Mombasa railway and the garden suburb of Langata. It is open on its south-east perimeter and here the Kitengela Conservation Area allows a corridor for the natural migration of the game which takes place with the seasonal rains.
    Please note the morning tour takes 5 hours and the afternoon takes 4 hours from pick up to drop off.
    Cost Includes:
    Game viewing drive in Safari 4×4 wheel Drives for the Ultimate Safari ExperienceTransport pick up and drop off from hotel / AirportSafari Driver guide entry feesPlease note PARK ENTRY FEES for travellers are NOT INCLUDED in this OPTIONNOT INCLUDED
    Park Entry Fees of USD40 Adult and USD20 Child (Low Season MARCH to JUNE) and USD60 Adult and USD20 Adult (High Season JULY to FEBRUARY)Park entry fees are paid by Credit Card or Mobile money at the Park Gate in the morning ( NO cash is accepted)Food and Drinks – However, Carry your own Drinking water with a NON-PLASTIC Vessel. The Kenyan Government has banned single use of plastic bottles.OTHER NAIROBI NATIONAL PARK TOURS WITH OPTIONSPrices for Below Tours In Nairobi are for Non- Kenyan CitizensNairobi National park Tour Including Park fees (Non-Kenyans) – (6am to 11am) – Transport in Safari minivanNairobi National Park Tour Morning (6am – 11am) Transport in 4×4 Wheel DrivesNairobi National Park, Elephant Orphanage and Lunch at Carnivore or Tamarind – (6am – 2pm)Elephants Orphanage, Giraffe Center , Lunch at carnivore and Nairobi National Park ( 10am – 6.30pm) – Transport in 4×4 wheel DrivesNairobi National Park Tour Afternoon (1.30pm – 6pm) Transport in Safari MinivanNairobi National Park Tour and Giraffe center (6am – 1pm) POPULAR (in 4×4 Wheel Drives)Nairobi National Park, Elephant Orphanage, Giraffe Center and Lunch at Carnivore (6am – 3pm) – Transport in 4×4 wheel drivesNairobi National Park, Giraffe center, Lunch, Karen Blixen Musuem (6am to 5pm)Lake Nakuru National Park Day Trip – Transport in Safari MinivansLake Nakuru National Park Tour Day Trip – Transport in 4x4wheel drivesLake Naivasha Tour with Crescent island – Day Trip
    IMPORTANT INFORMATION SINGLE / SOLO TRAVELERPlease check on our main website https://www.cruzeiro-safaris.com if we have a departure that you can join, then book and pay we shall honor your booking. However, if there is no tour to join on your date PLEASE do NOT book and pay. Please note there will be NO Refund.
    Cost Includes:
    Game viewing drive,Transport pick up and drop off from hotel / AirportLunch where applicable/ mentioned in the tour packageEntry to Giraffe centre with applicable packageSafari Driver guidePlease note PARK ENTRY FEES are INCLUDED in ALL options for NON-KENYAN CITIZEN.Not IncludedHowever, Carry your own Drinking water with a NON-PLASTIC Vessel. The Kenyan Government has banned single use of plastic bottles and Papers.

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    TREETOP TRAIL TO TAKE MINNESOTA ZOO TO NEW HEIGHTS

    In just 100 days, guests at the Minnesota Zoo will be able to reach new heights when the Treetop Trail, the world’s longest elevated pedestrian loop, officially opens.Beginning Friday, July 28, 2023, the 1.25-mile Treetop Trail will bring guests up to 32 feet above the ground and provide them with an immersive and accessible naturistic journey.This opening date of the Zoo’s new pathway to nature appropriately coincides with World Nature Conservation Day. As a worldwide leader in wildlife conservation, the Minnesota Zoo created the Treetop Trail to give guests year-round access to hundreds of acres of hardwood forest, ponds and marshes, and the diverse wildlife that call Minnesota home. The Treetop Trail will provide new perspectives of many Zoo animals, including tigers, moose, bison, and of course, a bird’s eye view for bird watchers during each of Minnesota’s four seasons.
    The Minnesota Zoo opened 45 years ago in 1978 with a mission to connect people, animals, and the natural world to save wildlife. The Treetop Trail will reinforce the Zoo’s reputation as a trusted nature destination and is an evolution of the role that zoos play around the globe.
    “The Treetop Trail marks a new chapter for the Minnesota Zoo,” said Minnesota Zoo Director and Foundation President John Frawley. “As we look ahead to the Zoo’s next 45 years, the Treetop Trail is a major step in furthering connections to nature and animals in an accessible and immersive way.”
    Integrating into the Zoo’s original monorail track which was retired in 2013, the Treetop Trail is the ultimate reuse construction project. The Zoo contracted with award-winning Snow Kreilich Architects; engineering firm Buro Happold (known for its work on the High Line in New York City); and construction partner, PCL. Together, they have been committed to minimizing disruptions to the Zoo’s animals and guests before, during, and after construction.
    The entrance to the Treetop Trail will feature the Zoo’s new animal ambassador habitat. Here, guests will be greeted by several species native to Minnesota including the Treetop Trail ambassador – a North American porcupine named Quillber.ADVERTISEMENTPlanning for the Minnesota Zoo Treetop Trail began in June 2018 and a ceremonial groundbreaking was held in April 2022. “Thanks to the full support from our Boards, legislative and government champions, as well as the philanthropic community, we have secured $39 million in public and private partnership to support this transformational project,” said Frawley.
    The Minnesota Zoo would like to express profound gratitude to the following for their support of the Treetop Trail: State of Minnesota, K.A.H.R. Foundation, Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community, Target, Best Buy Foundation, Hubbard Broadcasting Foundation, and hundreds of individual donors.
    To learn more about the Minnesota Zoo’s Treetop Trail, please visit mnzoo.org/treetoptrail.

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