After two years of restricted travel caused by the pandemic, it is no wonder that many of us are now itching to start travelling again. Travel and Safari experts, Go2Africa reveal that one of the biggest trends for travelling in 2022 and beyond is to make up for lost time and ticking once-in-a-lifetime trips off their bucket list. In fact, Google searches for “once in a lifetime holidays” has seen an enormous 9900% uplift in the last month alone.
By analysing Google trend data, Go2Africa reveal the top bucket list destinations, as visited and documented by wildlife and all-around travelling guru, David Attenborough, across his impressive career history.
Africa safari
When did Attenborough visit: the TV series “Africa” aired in 2013, showing Attenborough’s journey through the continent. The series took four years to film across 27 countries.
Why you should visit too: An African safari is truly a magical experience. Unfortunately, our way of living means the animals we see tend to be in captivity, and while some zoos do work hard in conservation and protecting endangered species, nothing can beat seeing animals in their natural habitat. By going on a safari, you are also contributing to the preservation of both the land and the animals themselves. Most reputable tour operators also provide eco-friendly and conscious lodging and activities on their tours, meaning you can enjoy your holiday knowing you’re doing your bit for the prolonged protection of the animals.
The beauty of an African safari is that you could either focus a specific country and spend your holiday exploring as much of the country as possible, or you can visit multiple countries on your safari getaway. As neighbouring countries, Tanzania and Kenya are particularly ideal for combining activities on one safari. Kenya is known for its Big 5 viewing possibility which can be then combined with the coral reefs of Zanzibar and the savannah destinations of the Serengeti.
Madagascar
When did Attenborough visit: Sir David Attenborough presented a series that aired back in 1961 called “Zoo Quest to Madagascar. More recently, Attenborough presented a series that aired back in 2011. The production team spent eighteen months travelling the island, finding the rarest species.
Why you should visit too: Despite being the fourth largest island in the world, Madagascar is little known, with fewer than 30,000 visitors annually. However, the island is known fondly as the “Galapagos of the Indian Ocean” as it boasts wildlife and plant species that cannot be found anywhere else in the world. If wildlife spotting is your thing, then not only can you spot lemurs in their natural habitat, but Madagascar is also known for its incredible marine life. As Madagascar is close to their migration route, whales can be seen from the coast. However, if action and adventure are your holiday preference, then there’s ample opportunity to take part in water sports, such as surfing or kayaking.
Zambia
When did Attenborough visit: most recently, Attenborough presented the 2015 documentary titled “The Hunt.” Spanningfrom the Arctic to Africa, the documentary presents the reality of how the animal kingdom predators take their prey.
Why you should visit too: Part of the popular series was filmed in Zambia’s National Park, South Luangwa, which boasts wildlife spotting opportunities, such as zebras, giraffes, and buffalo. If animal spotting isn’t for you, then Zambia also boasts natural attractions that are breath-taking to witness, such as Victoria Falls. Despite more remote reserves, Zambia in generally is incredibly well connected, making it the perfect base to travel further across Africa.
Antarctica
When did Attenborough visit: originally Attenborough visited back in 1993.
Why you should visit too: Antarctica is home to a variety of wildlife, making it the perfect trip for enthusiasts. From king penguins to blue whales, the landscape homes a variety of incredible animals that you would otherwise never get to see in its natural habitat. Antarctica also has one of the last remaining pristine ecosystems in the world, meaning there has been no human influence.
The effects of global warming are unavoidable when visiting Antarctica and a tour guide will be able to give you in-depth information about the changes that have developed in recent decades. Many say after their trip to Antarctica, they return home with a deeper understanding of the climate crisis and take steps to reduce their carbon footprint.
