September
25
2009
By Greg Sacks
Please don't ask me what the best trip I've ever taken is—I'll only let you down. I am constantly asked this question, having worked in the travel industry for years, and I find it a paralyzing exercise, causing my mind to swim. I disappoint my audience every time.
So let me suggest a different tack. In my humble opinion, to best capture the insights and experience of a seasoned traveler, you are better off asking "what is the trip you most want to go on now?" Humility aside, and on the assumption you might be interested, here's my list:
The Omo Valley, Ethiopia
My friend Sandor Carter is a private guide in Africa, and whenever we cross paths on safari or in some strange corner of the world, he regales me with stories from his many adventures. Of all of his trips I am most envious of his work in Ethiopia, where he hires fixers and boats and pilots to explore deep into this picturesque and remote valley.
The Lencois Maranhenses, Brazil
This is a trip to be done in the north of Brazil in August, when the giant dunes of the Lencois Maranhenses National Park trap rainwater from the months earlier and are soon lapped by crystal blue lagoons. You can explore the area by sailboat, 4x4, small airplane or on foot. It's like a giant fantasy playground, and can be easily paired with a visit to the lazy kite surfing beach town of Jericoacoara.
Apu Ausangate, Peru
In the southeast cordillera of Peru's Andes Mountains lies Apu Ausangate. At 6,380 meters it towers over the altiplano and is a spiritual epicenter for the neighboring communities—the highest sacred mountain in the Cusco region. Our friend Roger Valencia has set up a lodge to lodge trek and is quietly introducing adventurous visitors to this unexplored corner of Peru.
Loango National Park, Gabon
I've been fascinated by this part of Africa for years now, ever since I heard an insider call it the next "Costa Rica". It was the climax of Michael Fay's "Megatransect"—a journey on foot through Africa's last uncharted wilderness which was sponsored by National Geographic. Loango National Park played a starring role, I've been long cultivating a relationship with Africa's Eden who are doing great work there. Can't wait to go.
Bushman Initiation Hunt, Bostwana
Ralph Bousfield has been in the Kalahari as long as he can remember, and enjoys a privileged relationship with the dwindling San Bushman communities of the region. Every now and then he will guide a special itinerary that coincides with the Bushmen's initiation rituals—a truly unique opportunity to observe their fabled trance dances and hunting skills. This is the real deal, not your average tourist fodder. Few experiences are this precious, and I am ready to sign up.
The Selous Project, Tanzania
Walking in the bush is much more engaging than a game drive. Without a vehicular exoskeleton to protect and distract, you become one with the bush and all of its inhabitants. Your senses become heightened to hallucinogenic levels, and you connect with your surroundings in a much deeper and more meaningful way. There is no better place to walk then in the Selous, where safari pioneer Colin Bell has set up an incredible camp in Southern Tanzania called Lukula, blending old world stylings with new world service. It's the perfect base for an extended walking expedition, and the guiding is second to none.
Greg Sacks is a Trufflepig partner and trip planner who'd be happy to personally test any of the above travel destinations on your behalf. If you like what you read, give him a shout at greg@trufflepig.com, or see more of it here.