2026. Andean Bear and New World Primates: Stories of Co-existence in Colombia!
Andean Bear
&
New World Primate Discovery
Stories of Human / Wildlife Co-existence in Colombia:
February 01 - 11, 2026
Andean Bear and
New World Primate Discovery
Stories of Human / Wildlife Co-existence in Colombia
11 Days - 10 Nights
February 01 - 11, 2025
$7672 pp / double occupancy (ex flights)
$355 Single Supplement
From the Andean Plateau to the edge of the Amazon, Colombian communities are working together to protect wildlife as diverse as the Spectacled bear, Pygmy monkeys, and Andean condors. This is a very special opportunity to see, experience (and photograph) wildlife / human coexistence
10% of your ticket cost is a tax-deductible donation in your name to the
Alaska Wildlife Alliance
Professional naturalist guide
Comfortable vehicle and all lodging and meals included.
The Experience
★ The Andean or Spectacled Bear: we will learn about South America’s Vulnerable high altitude bear (the only bear in South America) from the people who protect and study it and who are dedicated to saving the remaining Colombian population.
★ Conservation is a “Family Project”: Colombia is at the forefront of the community-based conservation movement. We will meet, stay with, and learn about how family and community groups have turned their land into vital oases for birds and wildlife, including a wide range of wild primates.
★ Explore the high Páramo and the Edge of the Amazon Rainforest! We will seek out the flora and fauna of two of the most biodiverse regions of the 3rd most biodiverse country on Earth, Colombia. Our guide is a passionate ecologist and naturalist with a deep love of wildlife and nature and the desire to share all he knows with us!
★ Discover the Wild Monkeys of the Colombian rain forest, including tiny Western Pygmy Marmoset, the amazingly furry Saki, the big-eyed Spinx’ Night monkeys, and more!
★ Make a Difference on Two Continents: 10% of your trip cost goes directly to The Alaska Wildlife Alliance to support their vital work, and your visit directly supports wildlife and habitat conservation and community well-being programs in Colombia.
The Highlights
Introducing
The Magical Family Projects of Colombia
I fell in love with Colombia the first time I visited in 2023. It was not the flowers everywhere that captured my heart. It wasn't the myriad of colorful birds or the treasury of jewel-toned hummingbirds, or the precious wild spider monkey catching moths in the roof rafters above our dinner table on my first night. It wasn't even how the neon Blue Morpho butterfly glowed as it suddenly appeared from the thick, dark forest and crossed our mountain trail, hanging for just a moment, right in front of me. No, it was the warm welcome and stories of the people who are so proud of their nature, determined to protect it, and eager to share it with us.
In the last two decades, Colombia has again become the magical place of Gabriel Garcia Marquez. Listen to the names of its regions: Amazon, Orinoco, LLanos, Andes - they are the stuff of stories and mystery - and miracles. The flora and fauna in Colombia’s 13 eco-regions, ranging from arid desert to mangrove forests, grassland plains to rain forests, alpine mountains, and river valleys between, make Colombia the 3rd most biodiverse nation on Earth – and as research progresses, it may turn out to be 2nd or even 1st. And the people are stepping up to protect it.
Oh - and yes, Colombia is safe. I would not invite you if it were otherwise.
The Heartbeat of Human / Wildlife Co-existence and Well-being
The Yellow-purple Cyrtochilum, found only in the cloud forests of Colombi and Venezuela. Image ©Rene Montero
According to a research paper first published in 2024, 551 mammal species could be found in Colombia; however, by April 2025, the number was 553! Among them are 63 endemic species found nowhere else on Earth. Researchers in 2016 listed 1900 bird species; today, there are 2000 verified. Will the amphibian count stay at 800 or the reptile count at 500? Only the ongoing research will tell! How many will we find? I can’t wait.
Studying and protecting this astounding array of life and the habitats that support it would be an impossible task – if the Colombian government and the people weren’t both behind the effort. For years, the infamous 'troubles" kept industrial development at bay, allowing wildlife to flourish. Today, the government is actively protecting land, not by throwing people off it, but by encouraging practices that enhance the people's well-being and protect the environment, including sustainable eco-tourism.
We will visit and stay in some of the many "Family Projects” scattered throughout Colombia, including when we are in Andean Bear country and when we are looking for Colombia’s fabulous monkeys!
These “Family Projects” are the heartbeat of the co-existence between wildlife conservation and human well-being. Individual families and communities are turning their lands into wildlife refuges – many while still growing crops, grazing livestock, and welcoming tourists and researchers alike. Survival of species like the Andean bear and the Colombian black-handed titi monkey may depend on these family and community projects. I am betting they and the people will win this fight.
Join me – and experience the magic of Colombia, it is unforgettable.
Detailed Itinerary
Your Itinerary for Andean Bear and New World Primate: Stories of Co-existance
Andean or Spectacled Bear because of the white glasses-like circles sometimes surrounding its eyes, taking it easy in high in Chingaza Natural Park. Image: ©Ivan Rochas
A tiny Pygmy Marmoset monkey watching. Image ©Rene Montero
Day 1 (Sunday, February 01, 2026)
Welcome to Colombia!
Arrival in Bogotá – Welcome to Colombia's Mammal Heartland.
Upon arrival at Bogotá’s El Dorado International Airport, we will be warmly received and transferred to Hotel Movich Buró 26, a comfortable base to begin our journey.
Nestled at 2,600 meters above sea level on the Andean plateau, Bogotá lies near several key ecosystems that host important mammals. Colombia holds one of the world’s highest mammal diversities, and we are very excited for the remarkable encounters to come!
Although today is reserved for rest and orientation, our first evening allows time to meet our group, review the adventure ahead, and enjoy a welcome dinner featuring local cuisine.
Welcome dinner
Accommodation: Hotel Movich Buró 26
Day 2: (Monday, February 02, 2026)
Flight to Puerto Asis, Journey to El Portal del Sol - A Local Conservation Haven
After an early flight to Villagarzón, we travel by private transfer to El Portal del Sol, a 50-hectare (123.5 acres), family-owned reserve in the Amazonian foothills. This inspiring site is the result of years of dedication by a local family working to legally declare their land a private nature reserve. Their commitment supports the protection of critical habitats for at least six primate species and a rich assemblage of amphibians and birds. During our stay, we will not only explore the reserve’s biodiverse forests but also share time with the family, learning firsthand about their conservation efforts, successes, and ongoing challenges in safeguarding this vital ecosystem. At
At this reserve, we will be able to see a great variety of birds, amphibians, mammals, and plants. Some interesting species are: Herps: Boana cinerascens (Rough-skinned Green Tree Frog), Teratohyla midas (Santa Cecilia Glass Frog), Micrurus surinamensis (Aquatic Coralsnake), Boa constrictor (Boa Constrictor), Genus Rhinella (Beaked Toads), Ameerega bilinguis (Ecuador Poison Frog), Oreobates quixensis (Common Big-headed Frog), Dendropsophus manonegra (Florencia Tree Frog), Genus Hyalinobatrachium, Phyllomedusa vaillantii (White- lined Leaf Frog), Dendropsophus bifurcus (Upper Amazon Tree Frog)
Mammals: Cebuella pygmaea (Western Pygmy Marmoset), Pithecia milleri (Miller's Saki), Saguinus fuscus (Lesson’s Saddle-back Tamarind), Aotusvociferans (Spix's Night Monkey), Cheracebus medemi (Colombian Black-handed Titi)
Genus Peropteryx (Dog-like Bats), Cyttarops alecto (Short-eared Bat), Genus Marmosa (Mouse Opossums), Genus Oecomys (Arboreal Rice Rats), Cheracebus medemi(Colombian Black-handed Titi)Birds: https://ebird.org/barchart?r=L7895345
Family of three curious little Spinx’ Night Monkeys peaking from their tree home in Putumayo, Colombia. Image: ©Eric Losh
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Portal del Sol
Day 3 (Tuesday, February 03)
El Portal del Sol - Exploring Primate Diversity and Nocturnal Life.
We will spend our day immersed in the rich forest of El Portal del Sol, focusing on locating the diverse primate communities that inhabit this biodiverse transition zone.
The Ecuador Poison Frog, found only in Colombia and Ecuador! Image: ©Dirk Ercken
These forests, shaped by the convergence of Andean and Amazonian ecosystems, offer vital habitat for arboreal mammals and a host of other species. In the evening, we will set out again under the cover of darkness for a nocturnal walk, uncovering the hidden world of amphibians and other elusive creatures that emerge after sunset. These night explorations offer insight into the often overlooked dimensions of tropical biodiversity.
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Portal del Sol
Day 4 (Wednesday, February 04)
El Portal del Sol - our Final Immersion
Our final full day in the reserve offers a chance to revisit key areas in search of species we may have missed or to improve upon previous sightings. This extended exploration allows for a deeper appreciation of the forest’s ecological complexity and the intricate behaviours of its inhabitants.
The diversity of microhabitats within the reserve supports a high density of mammal activity, making each walk a new opportunity. Optional night excursions provide further chances to experience the vibrant nocturnal life, contributing to a comprehensive understanding of this remarkable ecosystem.
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Portal del Sol
The Dendropsophus bifurcus or Upper Amazon Tree Frog is one of the little beauties we will look for at El Porto del Sol. Image: ©Jhwhverdonk
Day 5 (Thursday, February 5 )
Flight from Puerto Asis to Bogota, then Overland Transfer to the Highlands of Eastern Cordillera
From the Amazon Foothills to the Andean Bear Highlands!
This morning, we depart El Portal delSol and transfer to Puerto Asís for our flight back to Bogotá. From there, a private vehicle takes us into the highlands of the Eastern Cordillera, arriving in Guasca, a strategic location near the known range of the Andean Bear.
We will spend the next three nights at Café de la Huerta, a welcoming, family-owned lodge nestled on the western slopes of the range, at a higher elevation than the Bogotá savannah.
After our arrival, we will dedicate the rest of the day to rest and acclimatization as we prepare for an exciting chapter focused on one of South America’s most iconic mammals.
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Cafe de la Huerta
A Crab-eating fox studies his surrounding. The little canid found in the savannahs and wetlands of Colombia really does eat crabs! Image: ©Rene Montero
Day 6: (Friday, February 06)
In Search of the Andean Bear! Culture, Conflict and Conservation
Magnificent Black-tailed Trainbearer hummingbird. Image: ©Rene Montero
At first light, we head to the high altitude forests and páramos of Pantano de Martos, probably the most promising region in Colombia for observing the elusive Andean Bear. This vital ecosystem, part of the Eastern Cordillera’s western flank, shelters this charismatic species amidst a landscape shaped by both nature and human activity. For the next two days, our explorations will be guided by a revered local naturalist, often called the “bear whisperer”, whose decades of fieldwork and deep knowledge offer profound insights into the bear’s ecology, behaviour, and the challenges it faces among the local communities. We return in the afternoon to Café de la Huerta for rest and reflection
In the following days, we will have the opportunity to spot different wildlife in the Paramo and sub-paramo ecosystem. Some species are:
Birds: Silvery-throated Spinetail (E), Green-bearded Helmetcrest (E), Bogota Rail (E), Brown-breasted Parakeet (E), Blue-backed Conebill, Hooded Mountain-tanager, Smoky Bush-tyrant, White-chinned Thistletail, Black-headed Hemispingus, Hummingbirds: Amethyst-throated Sunangel, Long-tailed Sylph, Black-tailed Trainbearer, Green-tailed Trainbearer, Tyrian Metaltail, Glowing Puffleg, Coppery-bellied Puffleg (NE), Shining Sunbeam, Blue-throated Starfrontlet (NE), Sword-billed Hummingbird, Great Saphirewing, Purple-backed Thornbill.
Mammals: Spectacled Bear (Tremarctos ornatus), Paramo White-tailed Deer (Odocoileus virginianus goudotii).
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Cafe de la Huerta
Day 7, (Saturday, February 07)
Final Day in Martos Territory. We return to the mist-laced highlands of Pantano de Martos for a second full day of field exploration, continuing our search for the Andean Bear. With its mosaic of high Andean forest and páramo, this ecosystem plays a critical role in water regulation and biodiversity conservation. Our time here deepens both our observational opportunities and our understanding of the bear’s habitat use, diet, and the conservation pressures it faces. As we walk through these vital corridors, we reflect on the complex relationships between wildlife and rural communities. In the afternoon, we transfer back to Café de la Huerta for our final night at this location.
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Cafe de la Huerta
Day 8: (Sunday, February 08)
Into the Heart of Chingaza – Regeneration in Bear Country.
This morning, we will transfer from Guasca to Chingaza National Natural Park, one of the strongholds of Andean Bear conservation in Colombia. Our destination is Reserva Ecopalacio, a family-owned property nestled within the National Natural Park high-altitude ecosystem, vital for both biodiversity and water supply. Once used for cattle grazing, this land is now being transformed through the vision of its owners, who are embracing regenerative tourism and community-led conservation. Over the next two nights, we will explore the rugged terrain of Chingaza and learn how local traditions and wildlife protection are beginning to coexist.
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: Reserva Ecopalacio
Another lazy day in the Paramo. With no predators other than humans, the shy Andean bears have little to worry about. Image: ©Ivan Rochas
Day 9 (Monday, February 09)
Field Exploration in Chingaza’s Páramo Landscapes.
Today, we venture into the high Andean wilderness of Chingaza National Natural Park and the surrounding páramo grasslands near Reserva Ecopalacio. This expansive protected area is critical for the survival of the Andean Bear and serves as a vital watershed for millions in central Colombia. As we navigate its misty ridges and montane forests, we search for signs of bear presence while observing the broader ecological dynamics of this unique biome. The day's exploration offers a powerful window into the fragile balance between species conservation and traditional land use.
In the afternoon, we return to Ecopalacio for the overnight.
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: TBD (included.)
Day 10: (Tuesday, February 10)
Final Insights from the Páramo – Return to Bogotá & Farewell Dinner
Final Insights from the Páramo – Return to Bogotá & Farewell Dinner. Our final morning at ReservaEcopalacio offers one last chance to explore the surrounding landscape and absorb the essence of this transformative conservation effort. We will spend time with our hosts, hearing personal accounts of their journey from traditional cattleranching to stewardship of one of Colombia’s most threatened ecosystems. Their story exemplifies the power of community-based conservation and sustainable tourism in protecting the Andean Bear’s habitat. In the afternoon, we leave the highpáramos behind and descend toward Bogotá, reflecting on the remarkable landscapes and conservation efforts we have witnessed.
Upon arrival at Hotel Movich, we gather for our farewell dinner, a chance to share stories, highlights, and final reflections from our journey through Colombia’s wild heartlands.
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight at HotelMovich Buró 26.
Day 11 (Wednesday, February 11)
Departure – Farewell to Colombia.
After breakfast, we will transfer by hotel shuttle from Hotel Movich to El Dorado International Airport for outbound flights. As we part ways, we carry with us unforgettable memories of Colombia’s wild landscapes, rare mammals, and the inspiring conservation stories that gave this journey its deeper meaning. End of services. Note: The Hotel shuttle leaves every 30 minutes.
Breakfast Only
The Pale-napped Brush Finch does not migrate, but is only found in the tropical or subtropical montane forests of Colombia, Peru, Ecuador, and Venezuela. Image: ©Rene Montero
Accommodations
El Portal del Sol, Villagarźon
This lovely lodge at the edge of the Amazon rainforest is in the middle of a 50-hectare (123.5-acre) family-owned nature reserve protecting primates, a plethora of herbs (frogs and toads!), and fabulous birds. The lodge’s 9 rooms all include a private bathroom and most offer a fabulous vista to enjoy, as well as lush gardens and WiFi. Meals are from their agro-sustainable gardens, energy is from renewables, and solid and liquid waste are all responsibly disposed of.
The family offers massage (head, hands, feet, back, or full body) and the grounds offer peace and serenity; however, there are no glass or screens in the windows. The graceful mosquito netting surrounding the bed adds to the romance of the setting.
Cafe (and Lodge) de la Huerta
The Lodge features twenty rooms, all uniquely decorated and united by a sense of coziness and warmth. Each has a private bathroom, and most with a fireplace. Established in 1987 by a tourist who arrived with $10.00 in his pocket, fell in love with the region, and never left, it began as a Café in his kitchen. Today, the café is well-known for its gourmet cuisine - with vegetarians and vegans welcome! Free WiFi.
Website Facebook Instagram @cafelahuerta
Reserva Ecopalacio, Chingaza National Park
Instagram @reservaecopalacio Facebook
This private reserve is owned by 9 siblings whose family has lived on this land for over 200 years. The reserve is over 2,000 hectares, half is part of Chingaza Natural Park. Due to land use restrictions, the family is now dedicated to conservation and the promotion of eco-tourism. Their vision is not of mass tourism, but in sharing the region's magic through special experiences: Bird watching, orchid watching, hiking, etc., assisted by environmental interpreters and guides.
What to Expect
What to Expect on Your Andean Bear and New World Monkey
Discovery Tour
The Florencia Tree frog, dendropsophus manonegra, is endemic to Colombia - we will search for it in El Portal del Sol! Image: ©Dirk Erchen
Included
✓ Airport Transfers arriving and departing
✓ Domestic flights as described in the itinerary
✓ Accommodations based on double occupancy (single occupancy available with supplemental cost)
✓ Breakfast at hotels or boxed breakfast, depending on activity
✓ All meals beginning with dinner on Day 1 and ending at Breakfast on Day 11
✓ All entrance fees and permits to natural reserves and local communities as per itinerary
✓ Full-time Professional Naturalist Guide
✓ Tour Leader
Excluded
x International Flights
x Gratuities / tips
x Laundry
x Single Supplement
x Alcoholic beverages
x Phone calls or wifi fees
x Visa Fees if applicable
x Hotel incidentals and items of a personal nature
x Comprehensive Travel Insurance
x Activities or services not included in the itinerary
Is this Trip Right For Me?
Theme: Andean Bear and New World Primate Discovery: Stories of Human / Wildlife Co-existence in Colombia
Trip Duration: February 1 - 11, 2026
Trip Type: Small Group.
Max: 9 guests + Professional Leader + Destination: Wildlife leader
Service Level: Comfortable but basic and rustic in some areas
Activity level: Moderate, some walking, hiking.
Best For: Adults
Age Requirements: 18+ years
In Colombia, you never know who is watching! This is a family of Medem’s Titi Monkeys. Image: ©Eric Losh
Travel Notes
► Activity Level: Moderate. Some hiking and walking at elevation or on mountain trails.
► Weather and Temperature Changes : We will be in two different weather systems: In Puerto Asis (southern Colombia), the temperature will fluctuate between 72 and 87°F, with humidity. In the Páramo (Chingaza, northern Colombia), temperatures will be cool, 45-64°F during the day and dropping as low as 40°F at night. There is little to no humidity, but these high altitudes can be windy.
► Health: From the CDC - Travel To Colombia Vaccination Recommendations Destination: Wildlife requests full COVID vaccine for the protection of all participants. There are no vaccine requirements; however, Colombia recommends the Yellow Fever vaccine
► Visa Requirement: State Department, Washington. No VISA requirements for US visitors staying less than 90 days. Passport: 6-month Validity and 1 open page
❖ Additional Resource for Health and Visa Questions: Passport Health USA
Please Note: Destination: Wildlife is not connected in any way, nor does it endorse or indemnify information on the site.
► Drinking water: Purified water is available (sold) at all lodges and will be supplied (included) in the vehicle.
Water is becoming a scarce commodity in much of the world, and vast regions are experiencing desertification due to misuse and the effects of climate change. Please be aware that you may be charged for drinking water in lodges and other public places. Although the fee remains reasonable, it is a good reminder of how precious clean drinking water is to all life. Please bring a refillable personal container for daytime use.
► Single-Use Plastics: The policy at Destination: Wildlife is to Ban or Limit Single-Use Plastics on our tours, as possible. That includes beverage bottles, plastic bags, containers, single-use straws, etc. There will be clean drinking water available in the vehicle. Please bring your own refillable water container.
► Group Size: 9 guests, including your host from Destination: Wildlife, and a professional guide (bird specialist)
► Packing: Pack as lightly as possible in one soft-sided bag plus your carry-on. A packing list will be provided.
► Recommended Equipment: binoculars, camera, short lens, long lens, personal, reusable water bottle or canteen, insect repellent, and sunscreen. A walking stick can be useful.
► Travel insurance: ** Travel insurance is mandatory ** for all international travel. Ask us about the best policy for your needs.
Travel Insurance
For all Destination: Wildlife tours, guests must have a minimum level of travel insurance coverage for medical emergencies. We highly recommend comprehensive travel protection for your tour. If you decide against Travel insurance, you must sign a waiver of release before departure. Travel insurance may cover you for cancellation due to illness, lost bags, missed flights, and other unexpected occurrences. Please see our cancellation policy
Important note: Most travel insurance does not cover preexisting conditions unless purchased within 14 days (of the initial deposit and 7 days for some carriers). A pre-existing condition can be anything from an allergy to a back problem to a heart issue. We highly recommend purchasing your travel insurance immediately after making a deposit. Additionally, if your job, business, or the condition of a family member may cause you to cancel after your deposit, ask about specific plans to help protect your investment.
Please contact us if you need assistance.
Terms and Conditions
Your deposit holds your spot. We strongly recommend Travel insurance.
Due to the nature of our tours, no refunds are available once a tour has started or for any package, accommodation, meals, or other services included. We understand that sometimes, even the most eagerly anticipated plans may need to be canceled. We strongly recommend that every traveler purchase travel insurance. Cancellation Policy.
Cancellation: More than 120 Days
Forfeiture of 10% of trip fees, including extensions, plus any specified donations to the sponsor, and any non-refundable train/airfare. *
Cancellation 120 to 90 Days
Forfeiture of 50% of trip fees, including extensions, plus any specified donations to the sponsor, and any non-refundable train/airfare.*
Cancellation 90 or Less
Forfeiture of 100% of trip fees, including extensions, plus any specified donations to the sponsor, and any non-refundable train/airfare.*
*Where another guest fills the space, a portion of your fees may be eligible for an additional partial refund, subject to Destination: Wildlife's sole and exclusive discretion.
Making a Difference
How Your Trip Makes A Difference
We will keep our eyes open for the Silvery-throated Spinetail, one of Colombia’s endemic birds, found only in a small region in Colombia. Image Rene Montero
How Your Trip Helps Biodiversity and People in Colombia
As with all of the Destination: Wildlife tours, this one is an Unforgettable Journey that Does Good at the destination, and at home. In Colombia, we will be staying in locally owned accommodations and will be visiting “Family projects.” These family-owned, designed, and operated conservation projects protect land, water, and species all over Colombia. Some have government help, some not yet, but all are vital to the preservation of Colombia’s biodiversity and the socio-economic well-being of its people. Read about Colombia’s “family projects” above. Additionally, our tour host is Jaguarundi, a company that supports wildlife and environmental research and conservation through responsible tourism.
How Your Trip Helps Alaska
Destination: Wildlife will donate 10% of your (double occupancy) tour cost in your name to The Alaska Wildlife Alliance
In Their Own Words:
Alaska is one of the few places on Earth where wildlife roam wild lands. The state is home to a unique and spectacular array of aquatic and terrestrial wildlife species, and our constitution recognizes that fish, forests, wildlife, grasslands, and other replenishable resources belong to Alaskans and are to be maintained in perpetuity.
Founded in 1978, Alaska Wildlife Alliance (AWA) is not only the oldest Alaska-based grassroots organization working to conserve our wildlife, but we’re also the only statewide, Alaska-founded 501(c)3 nonprofit dedicated solely to the protection of Alaska’s wildlife. As such, we are uniquely placed to serve as a voice for the state’s wildlife, safeguard their abundance, biodiversity, and habitat, and advocate for science-based, ethical wildlife management.
Our Mission
Alaska Wildlife Alliance is committed to the protection of Alaska’s wildlife for its intrinsic value, as well as for the benefit of present and future generations of Alaskans. We advocate for healthy ecosystems, scientifically and ethically managed to protect our wildlife in an increasingly dynamic world.
The Work
Voices for Wildlife
Alaska’s wildlife doesn’t have a voice in the decision-making processes that directly affect them. We engage with the public to rally a collective voice for wildlife, bringing the interests of species to the management table. The Alaska Wildlife Alliance can also be your voice for promoting an ethical, ecosystem approach to wildlife management, ensuring that wildlife populations are sustainably managed for future generations to enjoy. Together, it is our responsibility to be the voices for wildlife and influence favorable decisions.
The Goals: Promote Ethical Management Practices, Encourage Public Participation in the Decision-Making Process, Establish Representation on the Alaska Board of Game, Protect Habitat
Endangered Species Recovery
We establish robust, grassroots strategies to recover Alaska’s Threatened and Endangered Species, focusing on a few species at a time to ensure we’re successful. Learn more about these projects below, and donate to help us support the species that need it most.
Climate Adaptation
Developing a novel, frontline adaptation program in Alaska that sustains biodiversity in a rapidly changing climate.
Note From Destination: Wildlife
Alaska is a huge state with huge stories. Spread across 586,412 sq miles, its diverse ecoregions include Boreal and Rainforest, Coastal wetlands, Karst Caves, Sea ice, Tundra, and more, each home to an even more amazing, rare, wonderful, and vital array of land, air and marine wildlife, and a passionate, hardy population living lives which are, by continental standards, challenging at best.
I was first introduced to the Alaska Wildlife Alliance through their work protecting Alaska’s endangered species through habitat protection. Wilderness and harsh conditions have not stopped special interests from pursuing Alaska’s natural richness, mostly to its detriment and possible destruction. Alaska Wilderness Alliance is a bulwark of tireless common sense, science, law, and perseverance in the fight to preserve this unique, vital, beautiful state and the land and marine species that depend on it. Their ongoing projects include the fight to stop the Mulchatna grizzly bear slaughter (191 shot by the State of Alaska since 2022) and wolves.
Reviews
Reviews for Destination: Wildlife
Read more reviews for Destination: Wildlife’s Unforgettable Journeys that Do Good!
Liz G, New York State
Southern Spain Birding and Culture, 2025
The GBT [Grassland Bird Trust] trips are a sparkling jewel that lights up our year. Each day was totally different and totally wonderful. Nacho was amazing -full of knowledge, tireless, sensitive to individuals’ needs and skills. I constantly marveled at his vocabulary. He totally understood our humor, and I felt he liked our group a lot. I feel we get very personal attention with Destination Wildlife, and the group size is terrific.
Isabella, K, Illinois
Winter Wolf Watching and Learning in Yellowstone, 2025
On a scale of 1 to 10
10, I’ve already been bragging to everyone.
What was your favorite part of the trip?
..my heart’s/soul’s desire was to visually experience a Wolf in the wild, simply being Wolf, and this trip afforded me that.
Is there anything Destination: Wildlife could have done to improve your experience?
For me, the trip, as a whole, was perfect. From the L&C in Bozeman (best beds ever!!) and all points in between. I can find no fault. I must say, the people that made up the group, less included, were the best 💖 What a fortunate stroke of serendipity as a group’s makeup can easily make or break a trip.
Cara was magnificent, I couldn't imagine a better guide!! How fortunate we were! Exceeded expectations.
Roberta R., New York
Southern Colombia Birding and Culture, 2024
Exceed - Roger was amazing… talented, professional, passionate about his work, skilled, kind, helpful in every way, and a good sense of humor.
Cathy H., Maryland
Southern Colombia Birding and Culture, 2024
It was a 10+. Communication was great. I feel taken care of on your trips.
Kathy R., New York
Birding and Safari in Namibia, 2023
We were so impressed with Destination Wildlife's meticulous organizational skills as well as the wonderful choice of lodges. Marc (the guide) more than exceeded our expectations. What was your favorite part of the trip? Seeing new birds for the first time with all of our new friends on the trip.
John C., Connecticut
Birding and Safari in Namibia, 2023
[What was your favorite moment?] I am at a loss, as the whole trip was filled with so many memorable moments. One just has to go and see, and they’ll understand. The guides were more than expected and so knowledgeable in so many other areas. Roberta, Les, and Destination Wildlife met my expectations 100%. The whole experience for me was a 10.
Kate S, New York state
Birding in Costa Rica
10, it was an amazing trip (Please rate from 1- worst to 10 – best)
Liz and Alan G, New York state:
Birding Costa Rica and Private Sail Cruise 2021
We are in awe of the care that you took to make our trip successful. The attention to detail and your ready availability when things didn’t go as planned. Your excitement as our trip progressed and the supervision to the very end to make sure everything turned out alright. Thank you for all that you do. Liz & Alan
Noreen Q, New York State
Exploring Women’s Winter Wolf Trek
The trip was fabulous and couldn't have been much better. My one suggestion is around the Zoom call. I was impressed that you did a Zoom call rather than just sending a gear list - it is an example of how much personal attention you devoted to us.
