In Swahili, safari means “journey” or “expedition.” A trip to watch wild animals, especially in Africa, is called a safari. On modern safaris, shooting is done with cameras.

In March of 2024, I joined Mario’s Botswana trip, which took us to camps in the Okavango Delta and the Kalahari Desert. In thinking of how to describe the experience, discussion of the gorgeous lodging and gracious staff seems so inadequate.

Exploring the Atacama Desert in Northern Chile
We did our research as we prepared to travel to Chile and explore the Atacama Desert. We learned that nothing could have prepared us to spend 5 days hiking in a region that is used by NASA to test instruments for future mission to Mars.

Our return visit to Refugio Amazonas Lodge and the Tambopata Research Center was highly rewarding and reminded us of how much we love spending time birding….

Along the Way of the Tau through Tuscany and Umbria, from Florence to Spoleto
October 2023
There is something genuinely special about breaking bread with friends after a challenging day on the trail. What made this experience

Mondo Verde Expeditions
November 2-18. 2023 – Photos by Bob Gress
My last PhotoBlast was about Patagonia’s pumas and guanacos. Wild animals like these are sometimes referred to as “Charismatic Megafauna.” Tourism can develop around big, wild animals with compelling charm.

Mondo Verde Expeditions
November 2-18. 2023
Photos by Bob Gress / Birds in Focus
With Mondo Verde Expeditions, we explored the Patagonia region of southern Chile including Chiloé Island, Tierre del Fuego, Strait of Magellan, Estancia Laguna Amarga and Torres del Paine National Park.

May 2023 by Marcello and Stephanie.
Lima – Cusco.
“After learning how to make the traditional Pisco Sour, we did a cooking class with the executive chef of a 5-star hotel.”

February 2023 by Matt and Donna
Lima – Cusco – Tambopata
Research Center – Manu Road – Colca Canyon. “Truly remarkable…we will be forever grateful…I don’t know what else to say.”