Steppes Traveller Magazine 2025

STEPPES TRAVELLER

Around the World in 80 Ways

Welcome

Technology, access to information and AI are transforming our world, our daily lives. So too the world of travel. Yet, whilst I’m not a luddite and embrace technology, I’m not yet ready to reimagine the travel world based on technology.

Technology has given us a plethora of virtual tours of different destinations and sites, these experiences focus on sounds and sights but can’t do much with smell, touch or taste. On a fundamental level, virtual travel is a construct that’s dictated to us. It’s arguably the most authoritarian of tours. We see the world through someone else’s lens.

Social media has changed how we behave when we travel. The desire for the picture-perfect image prevents us from looking around and fully appreciating the culture and environment of the moment. There’s a magic to listening, a joy in appreciating the landscape and an understanding in noticing the nuances of culture.

The internet has given us access to unparalleled information. But to what extent does this information cloud our judgement and fill our minds with preconceptions? It’s innate human nature to make judgements – to determine what is a threat or not – but how much

better to be open-minded; to not pack our prejudices and be curious.

This edition of our Steppes Traveller magazine focuses on inspiration and where to find it. It looks at travel beyond technology, beyond the tick box and features the value and the luxury of real experience, of immersion, of understanding and empathy; the importance of planning – speaking to real experts – and the value of insight gained through conversations with specialist guides. On how, if I may, we can see the world better. I hope you enjoy it.

Give yourself time. Travel slowly. Travel well.

Justin Wateridge Managing Director Steppes Travel

A recent photo of Justin at Yangykala Canyon in Turkmenistan

Around the World in 80 Ways

Travel Beyond the Tick Box

by Giles Cross, Editor in Chief

Influencers, especially with regard to travel, are nothing new, existing long before smartphones and social media brought the world to our fingertips.

Herodotus, the ‘Father of History’, chronicled the ancient world. Marco Polo, inspired by others, unveiled the splendours of Asia to 13th-century Europe. Explorers such as Cook, Darwin, Burton, Livingstone and Stanley ignited fascination with the natural world, charting new territories, replacing ‘Here be Lions’ with detail on a map.

The romantic vision of Byron, Ruskin and Monet captured travel’s exotic allure, whilst 20th-century writers such as Paul Theroux and Bruce Chatwin brought a personal, reflective approach to exploration. They blended adventure with introspection, creating stories that resonated deeply with their readers.

Fast forward to today and the torch has passed to modern influencers who wield cameras instead of quills, sharing snapshots and stories seeking to inspire. The spirit of travel, of exploration, of inspiration, remains timeless, the art of storytelling transcending both eras and mediums.

Inspiration lies at the centre of our mission. Our clients bring us theirs; we meet it with our own, seeking to create transformative travel experiences; holidays that take them to a different place. We are ourselves, influencers.

We’ve always believed in a certain type of travel: travel that gives as much as it takes, that protects as much as it promotes, that creates understanding and brings people together. That stirs the senses, making the heart race, that makes us citizens of the world.

Yet, with almost universal access to the internet and the new normal of our ‘socially driven days’, we find ourselves swamped with inspiration. It’s there in abundance and we’re part of it. We seek to inspire new, existing and future clients via every digital means. The internet and social media fuel our business. They inspire our clients. They bring new people to us and we’re grateful for it.

But despite our collusion, despite our gratitude, we worry about the unintended consequences of this rapid, socially driven sharing. Our concern is that travel is being reduced to a series of ‘mustsees’ and ‘must-dos’, a checklist of the popular. Glorification of photogenic hotspots drives over tourism, encouraging quick visits for social validation, cheering quickfire consumption to victory over meaningful engagement. Travel risks becoming a game of conquest, where discovery is replaced by replication and mimicry and the personal growth inherent in exploration fades.

So, more than ever, this magazine is all about travel inspiration; and, most importantly, where to find it.

In discovering our muse, we revisited the 1872 classic, ‘Around the World in 80 Days’. Not the book, but the author himself. You see, Jules Verne wasn’t much of a traveller.

He never travelled to the places he wrote about, instead inspired by the stories of others and the landscapes of the imagination. Through research, reading and creativity, Verne found himself inspired by the unknown, the unexplored and people living in far-off lands.

Verne’s model of discovery was one we could all benefit from emulating. Instead of being rushed around the world like a pebble skimmed across a pond, being tempted by the titbits of a few filtered images, his inspiration came from reading, learning and the development of a deeper understanding of a place and its people. There we found our inspiration to pass on to you.

We realised that, within these pages, we had a chance to revive a lost art: that of travelling with intention, with curiosity and patience; the chance

to provide an antidote to the quick-click, fastpaced tourism culture we so often find ourselves fighting. To show how true beauty isn’t simply found in a scenic overlook but in a conversation, a quiet street, a forgotten story; or simply in nature, in shared space, present in the wonder of the wild.

We envisioned a world where travel isn’t a sprint around the globe in 80 days but an exploration in ‘80 ways’. A mindset that encourages venturing beyond the familiar and embracing the unexpected, the untidy and unplanned.

Being traditionally allergic to lists, we consulted our Travel Experts. We spoke to our partners on the ground, we tested the knowledge of our global network of specialist guides.

And, obviously, inevitably, laughably, we developed… a list.

Not of ‘must-dos’ and ‘sees’ or boxes to tick, but of ideas. Inspirations, spread over seven legs. Ways to see the world from a new perspective, from different angles, constituent parts of wider trips. Some historical, some cultural, some in the presence of wildlife, some in the absence of almost everything; some serious and some, purely, for the sake of fun. A list to make you think, to ponder and to dream, where suggestion is merely a starting point and where cognition, conversation and consideration will, no doubt, take you somewhere different; a place where one can feel and feel alive.

Within our ‘list’ you’ll find, we hope, not only a horse of a different colour but one worth backing. One that may help you to see the world better and emerge the richer for it. To not just see, but to ‘be’.

So, join us as we guide you ‘Around the World in 80 Ways.’ Let us inspire you, and, in return, ask yourself that marvellous question from Mary Oliver’s poem, The Summer Day: “Tell me, what is it you plan to do with your one wild and precious life?”

And then tell us.

We’d love to have that conversation.

Postscript: In our enthusiasm while creating this magazine, we lost count—there are, in fact, 81 ways included. Consider it a little bonus from us to you.

Leg One Antarctica & South America

Scan the QR code to speak to our experts about anything you see in our magazine.

Antarctica

Take the Plunge

Jump, dive or cannonball into icy waters. With temperatures reaching -2°C, this is as much a mental challenge as it is a physical one. Cheered on by your fellow expeditioners, leap from the gangplank and let adrenaline take over. Submerge yourself completely for the ultimate sensory reset. You’ll rise from the water feeling more awake and alive than ever before, with a sense of achievement and euphoria, a stark contrast of the bottomless, dark waters against the pristine white icebergs makes the plunge feel otherworldly.

Chile

Paws for Thought

With an estimated one puma for every 10 square kilometres, Torres del Paine is home to one of the largest puma populations in the world with the general consensus being that the Laguna Amarga region is where sightings are most prolific. Accompanied by an expert guide, hike through Patagonia’s wilderness, learning to read the signs that a puma is nearby. Visit Estancia Cerro Guido, where ongoing research and camera traps help track these elusive predators. Nothing will get the adrenaline pumping through your veins faster than your first spot of a wild puma against the dramatic backdrop of Torres del Paine’s rugged landscape.

Peru

Tortoras on Titicaca

For centuries the Uros people have crafted boats using totora reeds harvested by hand from the shores of Lake Titicaca. The reeds are intricately woven to create boats that often resemble animals or figures from local legends. Meet with the local community, learning about their age-old boat-making techniques and witness their craftmanship in action. Enjoy a serene journey across the lake aboard one of these handmade boats.

Bolivia

High Plains Drifting

This immersive overland adventure is brimming with superlatives and otherworldly beauty. Travel in a top of the range 4×4, accompanied by a private driver and guide, staying in award winning lodges. Cross the altiplano, exploring the Atacama Desert in Chile, the vast salt flats of Uyuni in Bolivia and everything in between. Follow a section of an ancient Inca trail and traverse remote yet culturally rich landscapes peppered with volcanic mountains, tranquil lagoons and Andean wetlands.

Photo taken by Jarrod Kyte, our Product & Sustainability Director

South Georgia

Enter the Court of Kings

Home to four million penguin pairs, 50 million seabirds and five million seals, South Georgia is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. Among its rarer species, the rockhopper stands out with its distinctive appearance, but the jewel in the crown must be the nearly one million strong colony of king penguins. The sheer scale of wildlife here is overwhelming, offering an unparalleled opportunity to fully immerse yourself in the natural world, where wild majesty reigns supreme in this icy realm.

Argentina

Conquer Nature’s Superstructures

Imagine traversing a glacier stretching three miles wide, towering 70 metres above the waterline, with another 170 metres hidden beneath the surface. Perito Moreno Glacier is a colossal superstructure. Don your crampons and trek a small section of this vast glacier. Navigate jagged peaks, as eerie creaks and groans of the slowly advancing ice fill the air. Finish with a whiskey, served over chunks of glacial ice, each piece thousands of years old. A fitting end to an unforgettable adventure.

Ecuador

Rainforest Rhythms

Venture deep into the heart of the Ecuadorian rainforest, navigating its black water tributaries in a traditional dugout canoe. Slumbering caimans lie camouflaged like drifting logs, while the air buzzes with the chatter of spider monkeys and the symphony of bird calls. Guided by an expert naturalist and local guide, immerse yourself in the rhythm of the rainforest, where nature’s secrets are revealed at every turn.

Colombia

Go Out with a Bang

Tejo is a traditional Colombian throwing sport, somewhat reminiscent of bowling but far more lively. The aim is to throw a metal puck, or tejo, into the centre of a ring for six points. Around the ring are small paper pouches, called mechas, filled with gunpowder. Striking one of these will earn you three points – along with an adrenaline rush as it explodes and a string of cheers from your teammates. It’s a distinctive way to dive into local culture, connect with local communities and experience an exhilarating piece of Colombia’s traditions firsthand.

Galapagos Islands

Go Goggle Eyed

Drop anchor in the deep blue waters of the Galapagos Islands for an unforgettable marine experience. Silhouetted sharks may tease in the distance, whilst playful penguins and curious sea lions swim up for a closer look. You might even be lucky enough for a glimpse of the elusive sunfish. Watch as the graceful green Pacific turtles glide by and a fever of golden rays dart through the water.

Brazil

On the Prowl

From Araras Eco Lodge, embark on a floating safari, steering through the waterways of the Cuiaba, Piquiri and Tres Irmaos rivers in pursuit of the mighty jaguar that prowl the riverbanks. Known as the Jaguar Corridor, this region boasts the highest density of jaguar in the world, significantly boosting your chances of sightings. Beyond jaguars, the Pantanal is home to over 600 species of birds, from the harpy eagle to the blue hyacinth macaw. In addition, there are 2,000 species of butterflies and over 60 mammal species including monkeys, capybaras, tapirs and giant river otters.

Echoes in the Ice

By Roxy Dukes Americas Expert

Beyond the horizon lies a land where ice meets sky, nature is untouched and silence surrounds — Antarctica, a fragile yet formidable landscape, where ice reigns true.

It’s early morning when our ship glides into Antarctica’s frigid waters. After two days of navigating the wild, tumultuous Drake Passage, we finally reach the seventh continent. This journey, a rite of passage for all who dare to venture south, serves as a humbling tribute to the explorers of old who braved these legendary waters. Ahead of us, land slowly emerges from the mist. Snow-capped islands rise from the ice-choked sea, an unearthly sight that stirs the soul. The horizon is painted with a stunning palette of whites and blues, the scale almost incomprehensible from our vantage point. A vast, endless desert of ice, as far as the eye can see; a landscape frozen in time.

It’s spring here. The season breathes new life into the barren expanse, bringing a sense of rebirth to both land and sea. For us, the fortunate few, it’s the perfect time to witness Antarctica’s extraordinary beauty up close.

The ship’s tannoy crackles to life. The moment we’ve been waiting for. The expedition leader’s voice rings out, urging us to prepare for the adventure ahead. Like children on Christmas morning, we quickly suit up in our expedition gear, feeling the weight of our excitement as we rush to the gangway, eager to embark.

In an orderly British fashion, lines form to board the Zodiacs, our boats of passage. The engines roar to life. We journey over the glassy waters and pass towering chunks of ice, sitting silently like forgotten giants. Ahead of us, the land beckons. Today, however, land isn’t our focus. We’re the paddleboarding crew, venturing into the still waters of the bay.

Our boards slice through the frozen surface, the cold air bites at our skin. As we approach the shore, the quiet is broken by the approaching calls of gentoo penguins. Their watchful eyes follow us, an entire colony bustling with life. The penguins glide effortlessly in and out of the water, their sleek bodies diving for fish, while others scurry about, collecting pebbles to prepare for the nesting season. It’s a moment of connection, witnessing the natural rhythm of life in this remote place.

Our paddleboarding adventure ends and we’re called back to the Zodiacs. Just a short distance away, the kayakers have made an astonishing discovery. Nestled in the waters beside a colossal iceberg, a young leopard seal rests, its sinuous body curled, head lifted to observe us with a snake-like gaze. It’s a rare sight and, with such a close perspective from our boards, we can make out each black spot on its coat. This formidable hunter resting so gently, a reminder of the raw, untamed beauty which resides within this frozen wilderness.

In our Zodiacs, we venture further, meandering between icebergs. The thunderous sound of ice shifting echoes through the air; a deep, rumbling reminder of the immense power held within these frozen giants. The icebergs creak and groan, their massive bodies rolling in the water. We keep our distance.

The sheer majesty of this place leaves me in awe, its beauty almost too vast to comprehend. Everywhere I turn offers new wonders: the awe-inspiring landscape, the quiet grace of wildlife and a silence so profound it feels like the world itself is holding its breath. Here, time doesn’t just slow down, it vanishes entirely. Every scene feels like a living painting, rich with detail and emotion. I am here, lost in the spell of this extraordinary place and I know, with every fibre of my being, that I am forever bound to protect it, to ensure its magic endures for those who come after.

Roxy paddleboarding in Antarctica

Leg Two Central & North America

Scan the QR code to speak to our experts about anything you see in our magazine.

Guyana

Tame the River Wild

From the Kamarang-Uchi junction, raft eight miles downstream, navigating rapids that flow from gentle to thrilling, shaped by the varying water levels. Trek around Panacima Falls, passing termite mounds and traversing lands where jaguar, peccaries and foxes roam. Swim in the natural pools above Kamarang Falls and climb tepuis, the flat-top mountains of the region. Spend time with the Arecuna community, learning their skills in basket weaving, crafting wood skin canoes and traditional hunting.

El Salvador

Turtle Rodeo

Join ProCosta, an inspiring, female-led organisation in El Salvador, spearheading conservation of the hawksbill turtles in Jiquilisco Bay. Work alongside experts to catch, measure, weigh and tag turtles. Since 2008, the programme has tagged 500 nesting females and 400 juveniles. This handson experience allows you to play a vital role in conservation efforts, making a real impact whilst connecting unforgettably with the natural world.

Nicaragua

Downhill From Here

Hike to the summit of Cerro Negro, a journey of around an hour, before descending its slopes on an ash board. From the top, glimpse Lake Managua to the south through the heat haze, whilst the steam from neighbouring volcanoes rises skyward. Slide or surf the 728-metre volcano in under five minutes – a pure thrill for the senses.

Photo taken by Justin Wateridge, our managing director, on a recent trip

Costa Rica

Canopy Capers

Set in a prime location and only accessible by motorboat, SCP Corcovado Wilderness Lodge offers a remote rainforest experience nestled within a 170-acre private reserve, bordering Corcovado National Park. Ascend 30 metres into the Costa Rican canopy to watch the sun set over Drake Bay as spider monkeys swing between the branches below and birds return to their nests for the night.

Photo of Clare Higginson, one of our travel experts, on a recent trip.

Panama

San Blas Swimming

Sail the San Blas Archipelago in a private catamaran. Take to the crystal-clear waters to snorkel or dive among vibrant coral reefs, where marblesque conches and golden-hued starfish await. Marine life is in great abundance here and it’s not uncommon to spot sharks, stingrays, flying fish, jellyfish, lobsters and dolphins. Dine on fresh produce cooked over an open fire on desert islands and indulge in the exclusivity that comes with privately chartering a vessel in these waters.

Guatemala

Jungle Gyration

Unveil the secrets of El Mirador, the largest ancient Mayan city in Central America. Due to conservation efforts, access remains limited – reachable only by a five-day hike or helicopter tour, preserving the untouched allure of this fascinating site. Fly over the vast rainforest to reach La Danta, one of three temple pyramids and one of the largest pyramids in the world. From the temple tops, take in panoramic views of the sprawling ruins below.

Mexico

Into the Labyrinth

Mexico is home to one of the longest underground rivers on earth, reaching 153 kilometres. This labyrinth stretches between Felipe Carrillo Puerto and Playa del Carmen, on the eastern coast of the Yucatan Peninsula. Where the earth has collapsed into the waters below, deep wells of clear water provide an entrance to this surreal underworld, sacred to the Maya people. Walk through huge caverns and swim in lagoons, losing all sense of space and time.

Dominica

Bond Beneath the Waves

Swim alongside the largest toothed predator on the planet – the sperm whale. Guided by experts, listen for the distinct ‘codas’ (clicks) of the whales communicating. Spend five days searching the waters of Dominica for these majestic giants and join them beneath the waves. Beyond the ocean, hike to Titou Gorge and soak in the sulphur spring pools at Trafalgar Falls, the only twin waterfall on the island.

Belize

Unearth the Crystal Maiden

Step into Actun Tunichil Muknal, the ‘Cave of the Crystal Sepulchre’, a remarkable Mayan site. Discover the famed ‘Crystal Maiden’ - a 17-year-old whose calcified bones sparkle in crystallised splendour. Explore ceremonial pottery marked with ‘kill holes,’ once used to release spirits, and marvel at cave formations repurposed into altars. Amongst the calcified remains lies the rare ‘Monkey Pot’, one of only four such relics in Central America. The cave teems with wildlife, from bats to tropical fish, offering an immersive glimpse into both Maya ritual and the vibrant ecosystem within.

USA

The Call of the Wild

Snowshoe through the Lamar Valley in Yellowstone National Park with an expert naturalist, exploring one of the world’s most renowned destinations to see wolves. In the quieter winter months, wildlife sightings remain exceptional. Keep your eyes peeled for moose, bison, coyotes and bighorn sheep. Take a snowcoach to Old Faithful, one of the park’s 500 geysers and witness its eruption – a breathtaking spectacle against the snowy backdrop.

Baja

Grey Expectations

Spend three nights aboard an expedition yacht, snorkelling, diving and kayaking among the abundant marine life of the Sea of Cortez. Then fly to an isolated camp on the shores of San Ignacio Lagoon for intimate encounters with one of the last significant grey whale populations. Swim with whale sharks, kayak alongside pods of dolphins and orcas, and spot turtles and stingrays. Above the water, watch for over 300 bird species, including magnificent frigate birds, blue footed boobies and double-crested cormorants.

Canada

Bear Necessity

Sail into the heart of the Great Bear Rainforest in remote British Columbia, home to the native First Nations for over 10,000 years. Attracted by abundant salmon and untouched wilderness, black and grizzly bears thrive here, along with the rare spirit bear – a black bear with snow-white fur, requiring both luck and patience to spot. Onboard kayaks allow for closer exploration of estuaries and waterfalls, paddling through orca and humpback habitats. Travelling with local Gitga’at First Nation guides offers privileged insight into this extraordinary region.

Alaska

Seek the Sea Canary

Alaska’s Seward Peninsula falls along the migration route of beluga whales as they move south from the Arctic toward warmer waters and, from Cape Nome and Cape Prince of Wales, you can often spot these whales from the shore. In late spring and summer, they’re also visible at Beluga Point along Turnagain Arm, just 25 minutes from Anchorage. Belugas, often called ‘sea canaries’ for their varied calls, travel in pods of up to 25 individuals, sometimes forming larger pods of thousands.

Our Travel Inspirations

We often speak of our ‘travel heroes’; the individuals who guide, inspire and challenge us to be curious, to be resilient and to see the world from new perspectives. These aren’t just famed explorers, but also conservationists and our guides on the ground. For many of us, these individuals have shaped our own discoveries. Each one, in their own way, reflects a shared commitment to deepening our connection with the world, a commitment we too hold dear. In this piece, we celebrate these figures and their contributions to the world of travel. Some are household names; others, quiet inspirations. We hope their stories inspire you to seek your own path with the same spirit of respect, wonder and discovery.

Allie Mason Web Copywriter

My inspiration: Antonio Ripoll

In a recent interview, Pan de Azúcar Reserve ranger, Antonio Ripoll, reflected on his experience as an autistic person living in a world designed for only one type of human being: “If they don’t open the doors to a bridge for you, you build one for yourself towards the same destination.” His words resonated deeply with me, as I’d first stumbled across Antonio whilst working on a book about accessibility in the outdoors for autistic young people. Our paths converged, both believing in the power of the natural world, with its diverse species of flora and fauna, to transcend the pervasiveness of hominid monoculture and show society a better way. Antonio worked with National Geographic to promote this message in Bichero, a 2023 documentary series filmed across Argentina, Uruguay and Costa Rica. The series paired his charismatic storytelling with a specialised team behind the scenes, who ensured each episode followed sensory-friendly guidelines on sounds, visuals and pacing.

Illona Cross

Africa Expert

My inspiration: Jo Pope

Sue

Grimwood Polar & Americas Expert

My inspiration: Edward Wilson

Jo joined Robin Pope Safaris in Zambia in 1988 as the camp caterer and later became the wife of Robin, the renowned safari guide and camp owner. Jo founded Project Luangwa, one of the first charities to use tourism for community development around the park. The project supports education, water supply and female empowerment. Under her leadership, the Kawaa School Fund was established to guide local children through to university. Jo also launched an airline service to Zambia’s national parks. Now based in Lusaka, she collaborates with conservation bodies in South Luangwa and the local elephant orphanage. She remains actively involved in Project Luangwa and Proflight, sharing her extensive expertise to make travel beneficial for everyone.

I was inspired to travel, in particular to the polar regions, by Edward Wilson. Not only was he a great explorer, but also a fantastic self-taught artist with a strong affinity to wildlife. Born in my hometown, he spent much of his childhood exploring the hills around the Crippets. One hundred years later, I too have spent many happy hours watching the wildlife there and exploring the woods. He is most famous for having died with Scott, Bowers, Oates and Evans after reaching the South Pole. It was more the winter journey with Bowers and Cherry-Garrard to collect emperor penguin eggs at Cape Crozier that captured my imagination; a 60-mile trek in near total darkness with temperatures as low as -57°C. His water colours of the scenery, wildlife and camp life as well as the struggles with the weather left a lasting impression.

Katie Jones

Product & Content Executive

My inspiration: Julius Strauss

Ex-war correspondent, Julius Strauss, is an impressive individual, exemplifying resilience and positive transformation. Before emigrating to Canada, Julius spent several years as a war correspondent, an experience that left him with significant PTSD. Over time, he discovered the healing power of nature, which led him to the decision to buy Wild Bear Lodge in 2006, a remote wilderness lodge in British Columbia’s Selkirk Mountains. More recently, Julius launched Wild Bear Vets 2024 which brought six injured Ukrainian soldiers and combat medics to the lodge for a 10-day programme teaching outdoor skills, training, mentoring and recuperation. After returning to Ukraine, some of the participants have now set up their own veterans wilderness programmes to help other injured vets recuperate through nature after physical and mental trauma. Beyond his role as a lodge host and bear-viewing guide, he also spent years advocating the ban on grizzly bear hunting in British Columbia, which eventually came into effect in 2017.

Paul Craven Asia Expert

My inspiration: Freya Stark

Kate Burnell Product & Content Executive

My inspiration: Lira Valencia

Jim Davies Asia Expert

My inspiration: Lachlan Morton

For me, the true travellers and explorers are the Europeans who travelled in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, particularly in the Middle East, Central Asia and Asia. Freya Stark was one such person. She travelled in the early 1930s in what is now western Iran in the hope of finding the Castles of the Assassins, often playing a game of cat and mouse with the local rulers, even when informed that her journeys were forbidden. Accompanied by assistants and unwieldy luggage, Freya once evaded the soldiers sent to keep an eye on her using horses to move heavy canvas tents, trunks filled with equipment and clothes, and food – a task in itself. In 1934, she wrote her book ‘Castle of the Assassins’. Travel has, to some extent, become a ‘tick box’ approach and it is our intent, where possible, to slow down our journeys to allow time for deeper immersion and wider exploration.

I saw Lira Valencia on BBC’s Springwatch in June 2024. Born and raised in south London, she fell in love with nature in her grandma’s small back garden. Despite limited role models and representation, Lira studied zoology and now works as an urban wetland ranger in London, creating social media content showcasing this often-overlooked wildlife. I remember once hearing that a group of children in London had no idea what a kestrel was, not even that it was a bird and that still makes me sad. For Lira, it’s all about being outside and connecting with nature; she believes you don’t need a degree to be a conservationist or to understand the natural world. I love this. I think it is inspirational. Amidst the influence of technology and social media, Lira is reaching young, often overlooked audiences, encouraging them to appreciate the natural world and is nurturing a new generation of conservationists. “No one will protect what they don’t care about; and no one will care about what they have never experienced.” — Sir David Attenborough

Lachlan Morton is an endurance cyclist that really likes to travel on his bike. Previously, he has cycled the entire route of the Tour de France (including the road transfers), without any support and managed to complete his mammoth 5,525 kilometre journey in just 18 days. Not a man to sit still, he has just completed a 14,210 kilometre lap of Australia in 31 days with an average distance of 450 kilometres every single day. Through these amazing accomplishments he has raised over US$1,000,000 for charities, including the World Bicycle Relief which provides bicycles to people in rural areas of the world, so they have access to healthcare and education. I love cycling and I like a challenge, so I was quite proud when I completed the Milan – San Remo 200-mile in a day ride last year. While this may pale in comparison to Lachlan’s achievements, I don’t feel diminished, I feel amazed and inspired.

John Faithfull

Americas Expert

My inspiration: Ernesto ‘Che’ Guevara

Giles Cross Marketing Director

My inspiration: Anthony Bourdain

I’m obsessed with journeys and the people who’ve made them. I’ve had so many heroes: Alexander, Polo, Burton, Mungo Park, James Bruce. I was enthused by Valerie Singleton as a child, Michael Palin and William Dalrymple as a teen. But, having travelled more and witnessed the power of travel to bring people closer, it’s Anthony Bourdain who’s touched me the most. To me, he revolutionised travel by celebrating authenticity over gloss, who, travelling with his eyes and heart wide open, inspired millions to see our world differently. With his gritty yet poetic storytelling, he explored not only cuisines but the human stories behind them, diving into cultural nuances with curiosity and respect. Through shows like ‘Parts Unknown’, he ventured into overlooked corners of the world, highlighting the resilience of communities and the beauty of shared meals. His work urged viewers to embrace diversity, fostering empathy through his fearless, raw approach to global travel. His legacy is a fine one. May he rest softly.

After returning from his early 8,000-mile road trip through South America, Che famously said, “I am not the man I once was”. The man he became went on to successfully lead the Cuban revolution with the Castro brothers. Whatever your politics, his story and legacy is partly about the transformational power of travel. I love the youthful glee and wonder of ‘The Motorcycle Diaries’ and that Guevara immersed himself in countries and cultures, educating himself, listening to opinions and considering and evaluating the experience. It’s a very different and determined voice that speaks from the pages of his diaries about the Cuban campaign. Ultimately, it was the shared human experience that was important to Guevara. We all travel to discover differences, but I would suggest that shared experiences can be equally exciting and transformational, generating bonds, connections and understanding. How revolutionary will your travels be?

Charlotte Lawton

Europe, Middle East & Indian Subcontinent Expert

My inspiration: Malik Fernando

Malik Fernando is an influential figure in Sri Lanka’s travel and conservation landscape. From a family run business in tea, which donated 15% of its profit to humanitarian and conservation projects, it has diversified into hospitality and tourism, operating four hotels in Sri Lanka under the umbrella of Resplendent Ceylon. Malik’s vision reflects his wider commitment to people and the planet. The MJF Charitable Foundation and Dilmah Conservation initiative are pivotal, funding projects for vulnerable communities and pioneering sustainable practices across Sri Lanka to encourage a harmonious coexistence between humankind and nature. Malik’s passion extends to protecting Sri Lanka’s delicate wildlife, particularly elephants, whose population has halved in 60 years, due to human conflict. To address this, he has supported the Elephant Transit Home in Udawalawe National Park, aiding orphaned calves and educating the public on conservation. He has also collaborated on tracking and research efforts in Yala National Park to understand and protect elephant habitats. His properties embody his principles, featuring solar energy solutions, food waste digesters and recycled grey water systems. Amid challenging economic and political times, Malik continues to promote Sri Lanka’s tourism. Hero may be a strong word, but Malik’s efforts to protect and uplift Sri Lanka are undeniably inspiring.

Paul Bird Americas Expert

My inspiration: David Attenborough

For me, my ‘travel hero’ is David Attenborough. Not famed for being a traveller but a pioneer for the protection of the ecosystems of the planet. Growing up, his presence in numerous countries worldwide not only broadened my understanding but enhanced my passion to visit and see firsthand so many global natural wonders. From the giant tortoises of the Galapagos Islands, the gorillas in Rwanda, the migration across the savannahs of Africa, the icy waters of the Arctic, David’s presence all over the globe has captivated millions. There are few people who have shone such a bright light on the vast and diverse geography that exists on our planet.

Rachael Tallents

Worldwide

Expert

My inspiration:

Dr Jane Goodall

One of my travel heroes is Dr Jane Goodall, a pioneering scientist and conservationist. At just 26 years old she travelled to Gombe Stream National Park in Tanzania without any formal scientific training, on a quest to understand more about chimpanzees and build a deeper connection with these primates. Jane undertook her research with patience and respect, and slowly started to build trust with the chimpanzees, living with them in the forest. Her deep commitment to understanding and protecting wildlife ignited global interest in conservation and ecotourism. Jane founded the Roots & Shoots programme, a global youth-led initiative that empowers young people to engage in environmental, animal welfare and humanitarian projects. Her work has transformed how people think about travel— promoting purposeful journeys that contribute to conservation and inspire travellers to protect the planet and its diverse cultures and ecosystems.

Jarrod Kyte Product & Sustainability Director

My inspiration: Michael Palin

As a naughty, young boy I adored Monty Python. It was the characters brought to life by Michael Palin that made me laugh the hardest. From a lumberjack with a penchant for women’s clothing to an effete, tongue-tied Roman emperor, Palin’s outrageous alter-egos are comic icons recognised by millions across the world. This global recognition undoubtedly helps Michael make connections when he travels but there is something more than just celebrity that helps him make friends. He travels with a warm and modest demeanour, engaged yet unassuming, never judgemental and always ready to share a joke with the people he meets. “I always found that my travels gave me a different perspective…away from the west as a centre of the world’s ideas” he says. The notion of travelling with an open mind and a sense of humour may be cliched, however the warm embrace Michael receives in communities from Srinagar to Timbuktu, is a reminder of how such qualities can make all the difference on your travels.

Georgia Morley Travel Services Coordinator

My inspiration: Alison Wright

Alison Wright’s fierce independence and pursuit of universal human connection through photography captivates me. A fearless woman chasing her passion – an icon. From mountain peaks to war zones, Alison reaches remote corners of the world to document endangered cultures, capturing the spirit of humanity in her work with depth and compassion. She educates us. After reading her book describing her life and incredible story of survival in Laos, I wanted to reach out to her. I too, am a 5ft 2in blonde woman who solo travels with a camera. I was shy though (and not as cool) and thought: “I should travel more first.” In 2022, Alison died. It really hit me, life is fragile. I re-read her book and found that since the last time I read it I had been to a few of the places she talked about without even realising – perhaps her story inspires subconsciously as well. Her book has a foreword from the Dalai Lama with the sentence: “To make our lives meaningful takes courage.” Alison certainly did this. If I manage to live my life even half as boldly as Alison did, and with such kindness and empathy, I’d feel fulfilled. A life with meaning.

Your Ticket to The World

Better Together

Our Group Tour Collection

For our 2025 and 2026 Group Tours Programme, we’ve called on some of our favourite experts to join you, giving insight on topics such as wildlife photography, conservation and history. Tap into your spirit of adventure and join them on a trip from our Groups Collection. Some experiences are too good to be enjoyed alone.

We regularly update our Group Tour offering so, to keep abreast of what’s new, sign up for our monthly e-newsletter, follow us on social media or visit the website using the QR code shown here. Our full Group Tour Collection will launch in March 2025.

Private India Train Journey with William Dalrymple

Board the Deccan Odyssey luxury train on an eight-day private rail journey through India’s culturally rich and picturesque region of Maharashtra. Accompanied by highly acclaimed author William Dalrymple and specialist guides, gain a unique perspective and insight into India’s history and culture through a combination of daily excursions, lectures and discussions.

Start in Mumbai, before meandering through picturesque countryside and sampling some of India’s finest wines in the wine capital of Nashik. Continue to the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Ajanta and Ellora Caves before travelling to the colourful city of Kolhapur. The journey comes to a close on the golden sands of Goa, before returning to Mumbai. Travel with like-minded travellers on this exclusively chartered train, with elegantly designed interiors, world-class amenities and exceptional service.

Date: 17-24 January 2026

Price: £6,795 per person (excluding flights)

Galapagos Cruise with Galapagos Conservation Trust (GCT)

An exceptional opportunity for anybody wanting to experience the Galapagos Islands and learn more about the dynamic conservation work taking place to continue Darwin’s legacy. What’s more, this trip will help fund work to save the unique wildlife and habitat that makes a visit to the Galapagos so memorable. The voyage will be hosted by one of GCT’s team throughout, along with one of the Galapagos’ most experienced local guides.

Travel in luxury on the outstanding small ship, Natural Paradise, with berths for only 15 guests on board. Explore the islands of Isabela, Espanola, Fernandina and Floreana. Before setting sail you’ll spend a night on Santa Cruz, where you’ll learn first-hand about conservation work being carried out to protect the giant tortoises and revitalise the islands’ populations of little vermilion flycatchers, Floreana mockingbirds and Darwin’s finches.

Date: 16-25 November 2025

Price: £7,495 per person (excluding flights)

Eastern Turkey: ‘Empire of Forgotten Giants’

Home to some of the most important archaeological sites found anywhere in the world, Eastern Turkey is a fascinating melting pot of history and culture. The sites of Mount Nemrut, Gobekli Tepe and Akdamar Island are remarkable and only attract a fraction of the footfall of the other regions.

This 13-day itinerary includes the above sites, and more. Journey from Sivas to Gaziantep and sacred Sanliurfa, known as the city that changed human history and predates Stonehenge by 6,000 years. On to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Diyarbakir, the cradle of 26 different civilisations throughout its 5,000-year history and the beauty of Lake Van, before ending in Kars, close to the Armenian border. Throughout, experience larger than life landscapes and visit incredible sites in the company of real experts.

Date: 17-29 October 2025 & 17-29 April 2026

Price: £3,495 per person (excluding flights)

Sail

Southeast Alaska with Paul Goldstein

24 July - 5 August 2025

From £9,350 per person (excluding flights)

Visit Alaska’s best brown bear viewing locations on Admiralty Island and Anan Creek. Sail through Frederick Sound and Chatham Strait, core feeding areas for humpback whales. Photograph the outstanding wildlife of Alaska’s Inside Passage with the guidance of expert photographer, Paul Goldstein. With a maximum of 11 fellow travellers, discover permit-only locations that larger vessels cannot access.

Three Stans: Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan

23 August - 6 September 2025

From £3,950 per person (excluding flights)

Explore the UNESCO sites of Samarkand and Bukhara, key cities on the Silk Road. Visit Kazakhstan’s Zenkov Cathedral, one of the world’s tallest wooden buildings. Stay in a riverside yurt camp and witness the ancient tradition of eagle hunting. With a combination of local guides and expert, William Taylor, gain unrivalled insight on historical and present perspectives.

Collar Black Jaguars

September 2025 (TBC)

Price: TBC

Visit the Cerrado, the most biodiverse savannah in the world, and join researchers in the field as they attempt to collar black jaguars in order to track their movements. You can also track maned wolves as part of another ongoing conservation project. Combine the Cerrado with the Pantanal to see jaguars, giant river otters and a multitude of birds.

Eastern Turkey: ‘Empire of Forgotten Giants’

17-29 October 2025 & 17-29 April 2026

From £3,495 per person (excluding flights)

Watch as the sun sets over Mount Nemrut and discover the huge stone heads scattered on the mountain-side. Wander through the flower-filled gardens of Sanliurfa and see the sacred pool of Abraham. Visit Gobekli Tepe, an important archaeological dig, containing the world’s oldest temple. Take a boat ride across Lake Van to visit the 10th-century Armenian Cathedral.

Cruise the Galapagos Islands with the Galapagos Conservation Trust

16-25 November 2025

From £7,495 per person (excluding flights)

Hosted by Galapagos Conservation Trust throughout, visit conservation projects and meet experts in the field. Snorkel alongside penguins and sharks, and spot iguanas, boobies and finches on land. Spend a night in Santa Cruz to go behind the scenes on giant tortoise conservation. This exclusive Steppes sailing is aboard the Natural Paradise and only has 15 places available.

BEAR FACED ADVENTURE

SILK ROAD SPLENDOUR

DARWIN’S MUSE

Peru 4x4: Amazon to the Andes

17 November - 2 December 2025

From £8,595 per person (excluding flights)

In your own expedition 4×4 vehicle, follow expert guides, Paul and Marisol, over Peru’s untamed roads. Traverse mountain roads through Andean Indian villages, where local people wear traditional dress and still travel by horseback. Navigate the unpaved Mantaro River Canyon to reach a hacienda only accessible by 4×4, followed by a night at an Amazon jungle lodge. Spend three days getting lost in the colourful city of Cusco, sitting at over 3,000 metres above sea level.

Cruise the Galapagos Islands with Martha Kearney

30 November - 9 December 2025

From £7,495 per person (excluding flights)

This Steppes exclusive charter aboard the Natural Paradise is led by award-winning presenter and broadcaster, Martha Kearney. With a maximum of 15 guests onboard, there is a guide ratio of one to eight. December marks the start of the breeding season, as well as calmer seas for excellent snorkelling. Snorkel with sea lions and Galapagos penguins and learn about the biodiversity on guided walks and talks.

Private Train Journey with William Dalrymple

17-24 January 2026

From £6,795 per person (excluding flights)

Travel with like-minded people on this train journey, exclusively chartered by Steppes Travel. Hosted by William Dalrymple, one of the world’s leading authorities on Indian history and culture. The Deccan Odyssey has elegantly designed interiors, world-class amenities and exceptional service. Visit vineyards, the Ellora and Ajanta Caves, the palaces and temples of Kolhapur and vibrant Goa.

Follow the Silk Route Onboard the Golden

Eagle Train

14-27 April 2026

Estimated (TBC): From £21,495 per person (excluding flights) Board the luxurious Golden Eagle train and cross five countries. This trip is perfect for those looking to follow in the footsteps of Alexander the Great on a journey across Central Asia. Visit Samarkand and Khiva, see the world’s oldest Koran in Tashkent and enjoy a barbeque on the station platform in Bukhara.

East

Greenland

and the Spectacular Sermilik Fjords

19-28 August 2026

Price: TBC

Join an exclusive charter onboard M/S Balto, a small but spacious expedition ship with only 12 berths. Discover the raw beauty of Sermilik Fjord, surrounded by towering mountains, calving glaciers and spectacular icebergs. Spot humpback whales and fin whales in nutrient-rich waters and keep an eye out for the northern lights. Visit remote settlements, cut off from civilisation for most of the year, to learn about traditional Inuit practices and heritage.

MARVEL WITH MARTHA

Leg Three Europe

Svalbard

Pure Driven Snow

Stay at Nordenskiold Lodge, the world’s northernmost expedition lodge. Accessible only by sled or snowmobile during the winter months, it’s a remarkable place to experience true wilderness. Departing from Longyearbyen, journey through pristine glacial valleys and traverse frozen fjords, keeping watch for polar bears and other elusive wildlife in its natural habitat. This Arctic expedition is open to both adults and teens aged 16 and over, making it a perfect expedition for families seeking that memory of a lifetime.

Iceland

Off Iceland’s south coast lies the Westman Islands, known for their volcanic landscapes, vast lava fields and the world’s largest puffin colony. The islands are also one of Iceland’s key fishing hubs, with many artisan food producers. Make the journey onboard an electric ferry, for a tranquil, engine-free crossing, keeping watch for whales and seals as you go.

Puffin Paradise

Norway

A Stroll in the Midnight Sun

From late May to mid-July, the sun never dips below the horizon in Lofoten, creating endless daylight. Midnight sun hikes offer an unmatched experience, from peaceful walks along chalk-white beaches to more challenging mountain ascents. The Offersoykammen hike is short and accessible, yet rewards you with panoramic views of the archipelago. Elk, fox and stoat often make an appearance on mountain walks, with seals and otters adorning the coast. Look skyward for soaring white-tailed eagles.

Sweden

‘Heija!’

Mush a team of Alaskan or Siberian huskies through Swedish Lapland, with ideal snow conditions from December to March. Beyond dog sledding, try snowmobiling, ice sculpting, snow biking, ice fishing, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing and sledging. Move through moose, reindeer, Arctic hare and wolf habitats, with a good chance of witnessing the northern lights during your adventure.

Spain

Surfeit in San Sebastian

San Sebastian’s food scene is internationally renowned, showcasing Basque cuisine at its finest. The city boasts four restaurants with three Michelin stars and a vibrant pintxos culture – small, flavourful bites that are quintessentially local. Local products, from Cantabrian seafood to Gernika peppers shine across seasonal menus.

Portugal

Ride the Wave

Watch professional surfers ride colossal waves in Nazare, where Sebastian Steudtner surfed an 86foot wave in October 2020. The big wave season runs from October to March. Sagres at Portugal’s southern tip offers calmer waves, especially in the summer, making it ideal for beginners, allowing families to find their zen.

Italy

Coaster in the Clouds

Alpine Bob Merano 2000 is Italy’s longest alpine coaster, set in the year-round resort of Merano 2000. The 1.1 kilometre track winds through alpine forests at 1,900 metres above sea level, reaching speeds of up to 24 mph. This is a thrilling activity for families, with children over 10 riding solo. Enjoy stunning views of Ortler Mountain, the highest point in South Tyrol’s Southern Limestone Alps, from the top of the track.

Greece

Keep on Track

Pedal a railbike along the historic railway of Megara, which once connected Athens to the Peloponnese. Enjoy spectacular views of the Saronic Gulf and visit a 400 BC archaeological site, accessible only by railbike, to learn about Kar, the mythical king of Megara.

Croatia

On the Truffle Trail

The Istria region is famed for its worldclass truffles, first discovered 80 years ago in the Motovun Forest, and now the heart of the ‘hunt’. Join a local hunter and their trained dogs to uncover truffles, learning its art, origins and culinary uses. Hunt for white truffles in the winter and black in the summer, then visit a ‘konoba’ to sample these delicacies.

Eastern Turkey

Between Two Rivers

A place steeped in history, Eastern Turkey is brimming with cultural wonders waiting to be discovered. Explore Gobekli Tepe, a site which is famous for the world’s oldest known temples dating back to before 9,000 BC, rewriting our understanding of early human history. In Diyarbakir, walk along ancient Roman city walls built from huge black basalt blocks, second only to the Great Wall of China. Journey south from Van along a branch of the Silk Road to Hosap Castle, once a toll point for travellers, and connect to the storied history of this region.

Romania

Springtime Twitching

Explore the Danube Delta’s rich landscapes of marshlands, lakes and woodlands at sunrise, led by birding experts. Spring is best as migratory birds return to mate when the water levels are high. Spot pelicans gathering to feed, along with pygmy cormorants, spoonbills and glossy ibises. This haven for migratory and breeding birds offers a full day of quiet discovery amidst the diverse birdlife.

Georgia

Sip and Savour

Georgia, one of the world’s oldest winemaking homelands, is recognised by UNESCO for its traditional methods. Explore Kakheti, Georgia’s famed wine region, dotted with vineyards and historic churches. Visit Khareba Winery’s unique tunnel cellar and meet the monks of Alaverdi Monastery to sample their ‘qvevri wines’ and learn their ‘wine prayers’. Travel in October to join the harvest, experiencing Georgia’s renowned hospitality and winemaking traditions.

Beautifully Breathless

By Anna Souroullas

The cold air bites at any skin I’ve left exposed, stripping the warmth from my body and leaving me breathless. Arctic winter; there is something incredibly singular about it. Snow-covered landscapes engulfed by silence, wide open space everywhere I turn.

Before now, the wilderness had not called to me. In fact, it terrified me. It was so far out of my comfort zone, the mere thought made my heart race. My previous travels, more often than not, had taken me to the bustling cities of Southeast Asia or the familiar coastline of Cyprus, the home country of my grandparents. Whilst the cities and beaches will always have a place in my heart, I found myself craving something different.

December days in the Norwegian wilderness are short. The sun meekly peers over the horizon, waving a brief ‘hello’ before retreating to its slumber. I strap on my snowshoes, reminiscent of those used centuries ago, to distribute my weight over the snow and to move more easily through the deep powder. As I take my first step, around 7pm, I look to the inky skies. My eyes dart around taking in the unfamiliar setting, adjusting to the darkness. Only the crunch of snow underfoot disturbs the stillness of the polar night, each step echoing into the vast expanse.

It is a bizarre sensation, as if learning to walk again. I listen to my guide’s advice: shoe tips up, a wider stance and keep your knees relaxed. It takes a lot of concentration and internal berating to stop myself from trying to walk ‘normally’, almost tripping over my abnormally large ‘feet’ once or twice.

Every step feels deliberate. The rustling of my gear amplified by the quiet. The snow, illuminated by my headlamp, sparkles like a field of diamonds. There are no sounds of traffic, no distant hum of people, just us, the snow and the dark sky above. It is the type of quiet that makes you hyper-aware of every breath and every sound. I find my gaze drifting upwards, hoping for that coveted glimpse of the northern lights. Nothing yet.

We stop to catch our breath. Our guide lights a bonfire to warm us up. I feel exhausted, but exhilarated. This is my greatest challenge to date, testing my endurance and resilience. Any aches I’d felt before pale in comparison. My lungs yearn for warm air, unaccustomed to this bitter cold.

A much needed hot drink and snack refuels me, preparing me to carry on. With the bonfire extinguished the sky feels oddly darker than before, my headlamp barely piercing its veil. With aching legs, I continue to plough through the powdery snow. The welcome warmth of the fire is a distant memory as the cold starts to seep back in.

After hours of trekking, a wave of tiredness hits me, the cold stiffening of my joints a contrast to the burning in my muscles. My hope of seeing the northern lights diminishes with each step. My guide suddenly points to the horizon. A faint glimmer starts to appear. The Aurora Borealis is making itself known, growing brighter with each passing second. A wave of emotion passes through me. Standing there, in the middle of Arctic winter, surrounded by nothing, I feel small. A miniscule player in a world that is beautifully and purely innate. Yet in my insignificance, I am happy. Happy to just be present, to be there in the moment, to fulfil my role as a spectator of this spectacular display.

I realise this is my first real understanding of quiet beauty, of how still and beautiful the world can be, even in its coldest moments, weathering the harshest of climates. I have never been further from my daily life, or connected to nature in such a way that heals the mind and soul, leaving me longing to return.

The Norwegian wilderness – where I become content with my place in the world’s rhythm. In the space and the silence, I find the stillness I never knew I needed.

Why Steppes?

We strive to make exploring the world’s little-known places easier and to put the living of those ‘once in a lifetime’ moments into every trip; to make dreams become a date in the diary

Every itinerary is designed to cast aside the everyday, to conjure unique and captivating moments that few will ever experience. Some look for the experience of luxury, but we look to give you the luxury of experience.

100

We send our clients to over destinations worldwide. It’s easier to say where we don’t go.

70%

Over of our clients choose to book with us again and again. We’re proud of that.

400

Over years spent in travel. We’re keen travellers.

Voted a Conde Nast Leading Specialist Tour Operator in 2023 and 2024.

We’ve been a certified B Corp since August 2022.

‘Keep it Real’: My Inspirations

By Justin Wateridge

Travel is, by its nature, both personal and subjective and thus, how we find our inspiration to travel will be idiosyncratic.

Yet, in spite of that, marketeers, organisations and algorithms are keen to label us and assign us to cohorts. According to a survey conducted by Booking.com in the summer of 2024, 39% of global travellers use social media to gather ideas for their next trip; 35% use search engine results, 34% travel booking websites and 29% travel guide websites and apps.

Does that all sound depressingly familiar in an increasingly automated and algorithmic world? Perhaps so, but do you know what was top of the pack? Word of mouth, with 45% taking tips from friends and family for their next excursion.

I would have hoped that more than 17% would have received inspiration from tour operators but perhaps not enough people have had the benefit of the unparalleled expertise of our team. Perhaps you have not told enough friends and family about us…

Given that travel is based on our own tastes and experiences, where have I got my travel inspiration from and from where do I still derive it?

I have had a lifelong passion for travel which stems from growing up in Zambia and the fact that my father instilled in me the wonderful diversity of the world and the importance of understanding people. I saw wealth, I saw poverty. I saw ideals, I saw corruption. I saw breathtaking beauty, I saw ugliness. But, above all, I saw the ability of people to cope with not very much but to do so with ingenuity and a smile.

My mother worked for the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) there and I was lucky enough to have an insight into conservation, to be inspired by the endeavours of those working within it and to learn and understand the importance of biodiversity.

Not a bad base from which to begin, yet it was a visit to China in 1989 that really fired my travel imagination. At that time, Mao suits were still very much de rigueur, and China was a land very different from anything I had seen before. I was bitten by the difference. So much so that after university and enduring London for three years, I jumped at an opportunity to lead trips in China.

I did so for a number of years, from Yunnan to Xinjiang, along the Silk Road, through Pakistan, back in the direction of China again and into Tibet. All the time meeting people, all the time listening and gleaning information and knowledge about those special places and peoples. I am a big believer in serendipity and the unintended consequences of conversations. That has been and still is a large part of my travel inspiration.

But also from reading. Books such as Peter Fleming’s classic ‘News from Tartary’ to Peter Hopkirk’s boys-own adventures in ‘Foreign Devils on the Silk Road’, from Nien Cheng’s moving ‘Life and death in Shanghai’ to Colin Thubron’s insightful ‘Behind the Wall’.

With the exception of Sophy Roberts and Stanley Stewart, few write like that anymore. Travel writing and the travel press lack funding and resort to lists. I am not fan of lists, whether top ten or tick. Lists fail to stimulate and do not lead to creativity. They fail to inspire.

But that doesn’t mean that there is a dearth of inspiration. You just have to search for it – sometimes. And sometimes that search is closer to home than you think.

For me, it is the wonderful people that I work with. Whether the infectious enthusiasm of my team for regions of the world they love or the engaging storytelling of the guides we work with around the world, whether it’s the backstory and generosity of those I meet or the specific insight of historians or conservationists, all motivate me to want to travel, to learn, to understand and to appreciate. Travel is about people and people are inspiring.

Ultimately, as said at the outset, we all travel for different reasons and it will be those reasons that, on the whole, determine where we find our inspiration and our destination.

Where do you find your travel inspiration? Hopefully through us and by speaking to our experts but I would be interested to know more, so please do email me on inspireme@steppestravel.com.

Brought up in Zambia, educated at Oxford and having survived London, Steppes’ Justin Wateridge is no ordinary MD. Adventurer, explorer, guide and charity fundraiser, his travels have taken him to more than 100 countries. Brave, humble and deeply passionate, he is a globally recognised advocate for sustainable travel, championing its transformative power for cultural exchange, the development of empathy and the diffusion of prejudice. His love of adventure is matched only by his commitment to cultural preservation and conservation, making him the driving force behind Steppes’ commitment to travel that makes a difference, that enables people to see the world in a better way.

Scan the QR code to speak to our experts about anything you see in our magazine.

Leg Four North Africa & Middle East

Morocco

Get the Bug

Journey into the Agafay Desert, a short drive from Marrakech. Ride dune buggies across the dusty, lunar landscapes, take a sunset camel ride and enjoy an astronomy class before spending a night under canvas. Off-road adventure through villages and valleys with the striking Atlas Mountains as the backdrop.

Algeria

Footsteps in the Sand

Explore the constantly shifting landscapes of Tassili n’Ajjer National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site featuring towering dunes, rock formations, canyons and lunar-like terrains. Discover ancient rock art from 12,000 years ago, reflecting a once-fertile land. Stay a while, enjoy an off-grid wild camping experience and learn about the Tuareg, the true masters of the desert and their nomadic life

Egypt

Walk Like an Egyptian

Stroll the labyrinthine lanes and gates of Islamic Cairo, the city’s medieval heart. Visit mosques and monuments, climb ancient minarets and discover hidden Mamluk palaces, oases in a sea of urban bustle. With expert guides, explore the quiet alleys and quarters of the Khan el Khalili bazaar, meeting artisans crafting tents, glasswear, remedies, perfumes and board games, stopping regularly to enjoy the ultimate Cairene pastime, a good chat over hot mint tea.

Socotra

Wildest Swimming

Socotra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site (and the Bible’s Eden), receives only about 200 visitors weekly and remains one of the most extraordinary places on the planet. Wadi Kalisan is a deep natural pool surrounded by white cliffs, replete with numerous freshwater pools and waterfalls, ideal for an adventurous dip. Located in the southeast corner of the area is home to rolling hills, mountains and the famous dragon blood trees.

Oman

Fly Like a Bird

Experience the world’s longest zip line over water in Musandam, officially recognised as the Guinness World Record holder, spanning 1,800 metres. Fly solo or tandem, taking in the views of the dramatic coastline and surrounding mountains as you soar above the sea, seeing the wonders of Oman from a very different angle and at a very different speed.

Barefoot Through Lalish

Lalish, a serene and sacred site, is the holiest of places for the Yazidi people, whose distinct culture and beliefs set them apart in Iraq. Nestled among the majestic mountains and lush valleys, Lalish Temple embodies deep cultural and religious significance.

Steppes Traveller | 2025

Jordan

Make Like Lawrence

Traverse Wadi Rum’s unique desert terrain by camel, passing red sandstone formations, mountains, canyons and dunes shaped over millions of years. The camel’s pace amplifies the vastness and silence of the desert. End the day with optional sunset cocktails and dinner in Petra, adding a magical touch to the day.

Saudi Arabia

Sky High in Saudi

Explore Madain Saleh, the southern edge of the Nabataean Empire and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Discover a vast necropolis of over 131 tombs, with much still lying beneath layers of sand. Experience the glory of the Nabataeans’ second largest city from above by hot air balloon at sunrise, when the light casts long shadows.

Breakfast: The Most Important Meal of the Day

By Giles Cross

Staying at La Fiermontina Ocean, the exquisite ecoresort 45 minutes south of Tangier, I was invited, along with other guests, to take a traditional Moroccan breakfast in the village adjacent to the property.

I’m normally nervous of such things, often finding them contrived, sideshow affairs, far removed from the authentic encounters I perennially seek, delivering value into unseen hands, increasing distance between peoples and whitewashing the realities of inequality. Harsh preconceptions built on years of experience.

thankfully wrong in this case. Like everything else in that three-day stay, it was a delight. Simple but glorious fare: delicious tea, a wondrous chick pea soup garnished with oil and spices, harvested honey, freshly baked breads and cakes, home farmed dates and olives – the best I’ve ever tasted. We were welcomed. We were educated. We were blessed.

It felt ‘just right’. We weren’t tourists. We were guests.

From nowhere appeared a small girl, no older than six. A visitor, like us, but from another village, arriving on the off chance, accompanying her father. She saw us, smiled a smile for the ages and, without prompt or persuasion, delivered to everyone an innocent and gentle kiss. We melted in fellowship. We ate, we drank, we smiled.

Then came the icing on an already well baked cake: A story from one of the La Fiermontina founders. Although replete, we devoured her words.

She told of how they realised, early on, that their project would not be a success without the trust, support and friendship of their neighbours; neighbours who were understandingly suspicious and nervous of the ‘new people next door’.

So, they set out to deliver what they perceived the village needed, the things that would obviously make their lives better in association.

They diverted water to the village, removing the need for long treks to and from distant wells. The villagers were grateful, but the barriers remained.

They built a road from the village to the main road, making communications and connection with the outside world easier. Received with thanks, but again, no cigar; the same with the school and the gift of electricity; the same with jobs at La Fiermontina, where the ladies would clean the guest rooms and bathrooms. Well paid jobs, but the necessary bridges were not being built.

One day, a question was asked: “Could we bring guests for breakfast in the village?”

A seminal moment. Suddenly, the walls came tumbling down.

The villagers were delighted. The fact that people would want to come to their homes, to share a meal, to meet as equals and to laugh with their children levelled the field upon which real relationships could be built. Relationships that could, and would, endure, built upon the sharing of a simple, but perfect, breakfast.

Stories are always best when they’re true. For me, this was the highlight of the trip, maybe a highlight of all my trips. Not only because it was such a beautiful experience but also, and more so, because it reinforced in me my belief in the enduring value of travel: Its ability to bring people together, whoever and wherever we are. Its ability to make us richer.

Footnote

On that morning, we received the most generous of breakfasts. Every effort had been made to ensure that we had the most glorious time. There was more food than we could possibly eat. It raised concerns in me that we’d created waste.

So, I asked the question.

It raised a smile: Because we’d had a good breakfast, the children and the other villagers would also have a good breakfast. A breakfast that they’d looked forward to.

Another truth: Whenever things are done right, everyone wins.

In Your Words

“You proposed a unique travel opportunity and I took it – It was simply the most amazing travel experience of my life!”

“The logistics of our recent trip to India were exceptional – everyone was extremely helpful, attentive and courteous. Our guides and drivers were clearly a cut above many of the other jeeps we saw, who appeared to be merely going through the motions. Ours were constantly striving to find leopards and get good views – and they succeeded on many occasions. Himanshu even invited us to his home for a cooking lesson! Thanks for your professionalism and diligence in putting this trip together –it made all the difference.”

“It is always a pleasure to ‘plan’ adventures with Steppes and to travel in the knowledge that everything has been carefully thought through in advance by experts who know exactly what they are talking about and go out of their way to tailor-make each trip. Having all the ‘bits in-between’ planned in advance means that we can travel worry-free which adds to the overall pleasure of the trip. I’d give you 10/10!”

“Having been delighted customers for more than 20 years, it meant a great deal to us to plan our first post-pandemic travels with the Steppes team. As always – fantastic advice and support from the whole team and a total pleasure planning our trip with you. We needed a bit of time to feel ready to go ahead and book and really appreciated their patience and genuine understanding.”

Forest Dragon, Borneo

by Katherine Panton-Kent

“It had been a long steep trek in high humidity up Danum Valley’s Coffin Cliff trail, immersed in the primary rainforest’s lush greenery. Suddenly our guide pointed with excitement at a trunk beside the path; following his gaze, I spotted an impressive looking lizard with a prominent crest.

Our guide explained it was a Bornean angle-headed lizard, otherwise known as the forest dragon. It’s hard to describe how incredible it is to be surrounded by all the sounds of the jungle and the excitement you feel finding a wild animal you’ve never seen before. I’ve always had a soft spot for lizards, so these impressive ‘dragons’ were a real highlight for me.”

Katherine won our 2024 Photography Competition. You can take a look at the photographs from the runners up on page 106.

Leg Five Sub-Saharan Africa

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South Africa

Hold Your Breath

Join champion freediver and ocean conservationist Hanli Prinsloo for an immersive underwater journey into South Africa’s coastal kelp forests. Learn freediving techniques and explore this vibrant ecosystem in a single breath. Swim alongside Cape fur seals in their natural habitat, witnessing their playful, acrobatic nature up close. This unique adventure offers intimate marine encounters and a different view of South Africa.

Zimbabwe

Easy Tiger!

Lake Kariba, one of the world’s largest reservoirs, spans 2,000 kilometres of shoreline along the Zambia-Zimbabwe border in Matusadona National Park. Stay at Bumi Hills Safari Lodge and find abundant wildlife – hippos, crocodiles, elephants and birdlife. Enjoy the combative thrill of fishing for tiger fish (catch and release) and enjoy watching the sun set over the lake.

Namibia

Skeleton Ghosts

The Skeleton Coast, scattered with shipwrecks and whale bones, tells haunting tales of maritime misfortune. Extreme fog, hot desert winds and cold ocean currents, have led many vessels to their doom. Further south lies Kolmanskop, an abandoned town in the Namib Desert’s ‘forbidden zone’. In the early 20th century, diamond fever drew hordes of prospectors and a thriving town emerged. Today, Kolmanskop is slowly disappearing into the desert. Drive out, discover forgotten ships and forgotten towns, losing yourself in its eerie beauty.

StHelena

Ramble in the Remote

Explore the volcanic island of St Helena on foot, following rugged coastal paths, crossing moonscape into lush cloud forest and tropical valleys. Pass landmarks that whisper of Napoleon’s exile and end your journey with sundowners in the harbour, chatting to locals at the end of the world, or on a secluded beach or cliff-top vantage point to see the most spectacular sunset on earth. St Helena’s ‘Post Box Walks’ will satisfy both the casual walker and intrepid hiker, ranging from 1.5 to 16 kilometres. This series of nature trails showcases the island’s diversity, each ending with a ‘post box’ containing a stamp to use as a souvenir. Could you complete them all?

Botswana

San Survival

Walk, hunt and gather with the San Bushmen of the Kalahari, learning how they thrive in the harsh desert. Track wildlife, forage for food and master traditional fire-making skills. Experience a simpler way of life, gaining insight into the survival techniques of this resilient community.

Zambia

On Patrol

Kafue National Park, home to wild dogs, lions, leopards, cheetahs, zebras and over 20 antelope species, offers some of Zambia’s best game viewing opportunities by Jeep and on foot. Stay at Musekese Camp and meet the Musekese Conservation antipoaching team, gaining insight into their efforts to protect wildlife.

Madagascar

Wild at Heart

Take a private speedboat across the Bay of Antongil to reach the remote Masoala Forest Lodge, accessible only by boat. Masoala National Park is home to 10 species of lemur and 50% of Madagascar’s plant species. Step out on a night walk to spot the blue coua, ring-tailed mongoose, giant leaf-tailed gecko and the endemic rare red ruffed lemur.

Rwanda

Meet the Family

Journey through Volcanoes National Park, led by experienced guides, in search of mountain gorillas. Observe as they groom, play and eat. Trek through dense forests, home to forest elephants, giant forest hog, bushbuck and 200 bird species. A maximum of eight visitors are allowed per gorilla group each day. Permits are limited – book well in advance.

Kenya

Trooping with Baboons

Walk with a troop of 90-strong habituated olive baboons, the largest primates on the Savannah, accompanied by a specialist guide who knows each baboon by name. Learn about their behaviour as you walk through the bush near Shompole Wilderness Camp. A thrilling family experience.

Tanzania

Follow the Herd

Drive Tanzania’s northern circuit, either as a self-drive or guided tour. Between July and September, witness the thrilling Mara River crossings as thousands of wildebeests and zebras dodge crocodiles in a desperate dash. From Ngorongoro’s rim, enjoy stunning views of the fever tree forest, alive with elephants, leopards and buffalos. Tarangire offers sightings of dry-country antelopes like the fringe-eared oryx and long-necked gerenuk. End your journey with a relaxing Zanzibar escape.

Congo

Congo Kayaking

Paddle the Congo Basin’s waterways, spotting elephants, buffalo, monkeys, antelope and kingfishers along the riverbanks. Launch from Mboko Lodge into the Lekoli River with a private guide, passing dense rainforest, bais and swamps. Combine with gorilla trekking from Ngaga Camp to observe endangered western lowland gorillas.

Malawi

Flock to Liwonde

Liwonde River attracts flocks of birds, including roosting cormorants, making it a haven for bird watching. Away from the river, low thicket intersperses with mopane forest and gives way to grasslands, dotted with termite mounds. Liwonde is home to antelopes, elephants and reintroduced rhinos, cheetahs and lions. Managed by African Parks since 2015, Liwonde’s chilli-elephant barrier has reduced humanwildlife conflict, allowing a focus on restoring predators and restocking other reserves with its growing populations.

Mauritius

Sea Bed Saunter

What better way to explore the crystal clear waters of the Indian Ocean than walking along the seabed itself? Embark on a 30-minute underwater walk and experience the thrill of weightless exploration. Observe vibrant reefs and their inhabitants up close, hand-feeding the fish and enjoying the peaceful underwater world – all while breathing naturally through a special helmet. It’s an unforgettable way to immerse yourself in the beauty that lies beneath the surface and its thriving ecosystem.

Secrets of The Kalahari

By Chris Johnston Africa Expert

Sitting in the back of a land cruiser in northeast Botswana, I’m holding a well-worn pocket notebook. The pages are full of neatly written but seemingly random letters and numbers. Kwagga, my companion and guide, is talking fervently about these cryptic codes as if they hold the secrets to the spectacular Makgadikgadi Pans that surround us. In a way, they do.

“This,” Kwagga says, pointing at an entry, “is the cheetah sighting we had this morning.”

Flipping back a page, he adds, “This one is a fossilised cutting tool we found a few days ago.”

Each unique moment is condensed into a GPS location, date and time – an alphanumeric memory. Collectively, they help build a picture of this enormous private wildlife reserve; tiny pieces in a one million acre jigsaw.

“How many of these books do you have?” I ask.

“Lots,” he replies, “I keep them in fireproof trunks at my house.”

At the request of the owner of the legendary Jack’s Camp, where I am a guest, Kwagga is serving as a consultant, helping to discover more about the region and catalogue its undiscovered treasures. As a zoologist, palaeontologist, ethologist and wildlife guide, he could not be more at home. The Makgadikgadi Pans, part of the greater Kalahari Basin, is the bed of an ancient mega-lake in the middle of

a dry savannah and one of the largest salt flats in the world. This is a region of endless shimmering plains, broken only by small palm islands, with views so broad and distant that the horizons seem to bend into infinity.

As we step out of our vehicle and onto the pans themselves, the salt crust crunches underfoot and the wind whistles around us. At first glance this appears to be a landscape distilled into just two elements: earth and sky. Kwagga, however, is on hand to add texture.

“All modern humans originated in this part of Botswana – not East Africa as we thought. This is humanity’s homeland.”

Each year, after the rains, new layers of clay and mud reveal yet more startling evidence of human settlements in the area, dating back 200,000 years. Primitive tools and fossils are discovered, catalogued and analysed, each one adding another valuable layer of understanding.

Part of the experience here, to ensure the link with our past is not forgotten, involves joining members of the Zu/’hoasi community. Their ancestors were the original inhabitants of this

land but have faced violent ethnic discrimination over the years. Sensitively managed, on their terms, this experience is authentic and fascinating.

I learn where to find larvae that produce poison for hunting and how to use desert sage to stop bad dreams. Children often dare each other to search for scorpions, holding them in their hands (and occasionally mouths) as a sign of bravery. As fascinating as this is, the Zu/’hoasi approach to hunting proves the most intriguing. Before the hunt, they enter a trance-like state to try and merge with the mind of their prey. They believe this allows them to predict what it will do whilst being hunted, giving them the edge of predicting the future. The hunting party chases the animal to exhaustion, often over vast distances. Once killed, they pay their respects to the animals life spirit, or n|om, with a short prayer and ritual.

As best I could, I try to ask how difficult it is to maintain traditions and pass on knowledge such as this. The answer was surprising. The younger generation is at ease with balancing modernity and tradition, but the older generation struggles. I ask who in particular. “The rainmakers” I’m told. This traditional skill falls victim to climate change, with rains arriving later each year.

But when they do come, the area is transformed into an unrecognisable wetland of grasses and lakes, attracting thousands of migrating animals from the Okavango Delta: dazzling flocks of flamingo and the second largest migration of zebra and wildebeest in Africa. Hungry predators follow in their wake including the famous black-maned lions of the Kalahari.

Incredibly, this migration was only first observed by researchers as recently as 2006, after the removal of vet fences in the area. Whether this is an ancient migration route held deep in their collective memory or just a keen sense of smell for the rains, the pans remain full of surprises.

For the rest of the year however, the landscape is unforgiving; dry, rough and arid. Many animals live shorter lives here than their northern relatives in the Delta, particularly elephants. Kwagga picks up one of the (many) bleached bones lying in the sand – an elephant’s jaw.

“See here. The tough vegetation wears down their teeth much faster. As their molars erode, they are unable to feed properly.”

Older elephants often succumb to starvation, their bodies unable to endure the harsher environment. For all of its treasures, this remains an unforgiving place.

Evening falls and the sun begins to set; the tall palms on the isolated islands cast enormous shadows across the plains. Kwagga, of course, brings them alive.

“These palm islands were actually formed by elephants and the seeds in their dung as they crossed the pans during historical migrations.”

Incredible that the legacy of their slower, deliberate journeys can be seen dotted across the landscape, still shaping the environment. At first, it seems like a trick of the dying light, but looking again, I see paths of these seemingly random oases align. Another piece of the jigsaw.

For me, this is the joy of exploring somewhere so unique. From psychic hunting, ancient paths in the sand to Kwagga’s little black book – the information is all around you in this profound landscape. It is how you read it that brings it alive.

All images taken by Chris on a recent trip.

Life’s a Beach

Our Beach & Ocean Collection

Close your eyes and think about the last time you were beside the sea and, chances are, it was fun, relaxing, exhilarating, often gifting its own natural therapy. That’s why so many of the holidays we put together include at least a few days by the ocean. Whether it’s feeling the sand between your toes on an island retreat or swimming alongside hammerhead sharks in the Galapagos, the ocean is a playground that enriches our travel experiences.

South Africa

On the untouched shores of South Africa’s Eastern Cape, GweGwe Beach Lodge offers a spectacular ocean experience. Sitting amongst the rolling grasslands of the Mkambati Nature Reserve, this is one of the few places on earth where you can witness zebras grazing as dolphins surf in the waves beyond – a rare and captivating sight.

Visit between mid-June and mid-July to experience the annual sardine run, a natural spectacle that attracts dolphins, sharks and whales, which can be observed from the shore, a boat or even underwater.

Beyond the ocean, explore inland gorges, rivers and waterfalls with activities like kayaking, river swimming, paddle boarding and hiking. For those looking for a blend of wildlife, adventure and tranquillity, GweGwe is exactly what you seek.

Indonesia

Just an hour’s flight from Bali, Sumba offers an island escape into unspoilt beauty and rich culture. While its lush jungle, pristine beaches and vibrant marine life set the stage, the real magic lies in its experiences. As well as the expected water-based activities – diving, snorkelling and stand up paddleboarding – Sumba is world-renowned for surfing and offers the chance to try hydrofoiling and swimming with horses in the island’s crystal clear waters. This delivers a deep connection to these majestic animals. Embrace the island’s rich culture, from ikat fabrics and megalithic tombs to burial rituals and joining local fishermen out on the water.

Stay at the island’s flagship property, NIHI Sumba, or the equally stylish and more affordable options of Cap Karoso and The Sanubari. Supporting and empowering the local community is at the heart of Sumba’s appeal. Discover a different side of Indonesia, where every moment is both an adventure and a gateway to something different.

Morocco

Oualidia is a charming village overlooking a saltwater lagoon on Morocco’s Atlantic coast. Surrounded by salt marshes, dunes and oyster beds, this nature reserve offers a quiet escape. Stay at La Sultana Oualidia, a boutique retreat that complements a journey through Marrakech and the Atlas Mountains.

Experience the thrill of surfcasting, where you can cast your line into the waves, or try float tubing – an eco-friendly way to glide quietly across the water. The lagoon’s calm waters also make it great for kayaking, stand up paddleboarding and swimming, while the surrounding areas are perfect for horse riding, quad biking or fat biking. A birdwatcher’s paradise, Oualidia is an internationally important habitat and on a key migratory route.

Oualidia invites you to immerse yourself in its natural beauty and vibrant coastal life, creating memories that will stay with you long after you’ve left.

Nicaragua

Bordered by the Caribbean and the Pacific, Nicaragua offers a selection of diverse marine-based experiences. On the Pacific Coast, stay at Morgan’s Rock Hacienda and Ecolodge, blending private beach days with 4x4 safaris, horse riding, snorkelling and surfing. From December to March, spot pods of humpback whales migrate to breed in Nicaragua’s warm waters.

On the Caribbean side, 90 kilometres offshore, you’ll find the Corn Islands. Little Corn stands out as a jewel of the Caribbean, offering a vibrant Creole culture and superb snorkelling among coral gardens, sea turtles, rays, nurse sharks and tropical fish.

Sri Lanka

On Sri Lanka’s southern coast lies Cape Weligama, a Relais & Chateaux property just 25 kilometres from Galle’s 400-year-old UNESCO-listed fort. It’s the perfect addition to your itinerary, easily combined with Ceylon Tea Trails in the highlands.

Sail along the coastline with an expert naturalist in search of blue and sperm whales, learning about their habitat and behaviour. Keep an eye out for dolphins riding the waves and turtles along the way.

Relax in the infinity moon pool, looking out to the shores of the Indian Ocean. Indulge in a floating breakfast filled with Sri Lankan delicacies or dine atop Lookout Blue cliff with breathtaking sea views.

Leg Six Indian Subcontinent & Central / North Asia

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India

Backwater Boating

Spend a night or two on a private ‘Kettuvallam’, a traditional solar-powered houseboat, gliding along Kerala’s tranquil backwaters. Relax on deck as you pass village life – fishermen balancing on narrow canoes, women weaving, children splashing in the water. Journey through the 90 kilometre Vembanad Lake, abundant in fauna and flora. Fully staffed, with a local captain and cook, sample a menu of fresh fish and local specialties in a peaceful, low-impact travel experience.

Sri Lanka

Tuk Tuk to Tea Hills

Take a tuk-tuk ride to Lipton’s Seat for sweeping views of Sri Lanka’s tea plantations and mountains. Named after Sir Thomas Lipton, who introduced tea gardens to Ceylon in 1890, this spot offers stunning early morning vistas. Watch the mist settle over the fields, join the tea pluckers at work and enjoy a picnic amidst the picturesque estate.

Nepal

On the Honey Hunt

Trek through the Annapurna mountain range during spring or autumn, coinciding with the daring local honey harvest. Witness villagers scale steep cliffs to collect honeycombs from cliffside bee colonies. Base yourself at Landruk Lodge, set at 1,639 metres, for an ideal starting point to explore the region.

Bhutan

Tiger Trail Trekking

Hike to the Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest), perched dramatically on a cliff’s edge.The challenging four to sixhour trek rewards you with breathtaking views over Paro Valley and a chance to visit one of Bhutan’s most sacred sites. A deeper state of Zen will rarely be found.

Mongolia

Join the Hunt

Travel to Ulgii in the far west of Mongolia and join the famed, nomadic Kazakh Eagle Hunters for a hunting expedition. Meet their families and birds, and learn about the skills needed to capture, train and use eagles as hunters.

Kazakhstan

Journey Into Space

Kazakhstan has been a leader in space exploration since the 1950s, with Baikonur Cosmodrome at its centre. Once a secret missile test site, it became the Soviet space programme HQ and remains the world’s first, largest and most successful space launch facility. Technically Russian territory, visitors require advance permits for guided tours, some of which include witnessing stages of launch preparations. Spanning 90 kilometres of steppe, Baikonur hosts nine launch complexes, 34 engineering facilities as well as a space museum.

Pakistan

Suspend Your Disbelief

Hunza Valley, in northern Pakistan, is as wild as it is beautiful. Nestled along the ancient Silk Road and the famous Karakoram Highway, the valley is surrounded by seven sky-scraping 7,000 metre peaks. A network of remarkable suspension bridges connect the valley’s rugged terrain, integral to the region’s infrastructure and cultural heritage, crossing rivers and bringing people together.

Follow Like Polo

Travel by road or rail to explore the Silk Road cities of Tashkent, Samarkand, Bukhara and Khiva, each awash with UNESCO World Heritage sites. Follow the greatest land-based trading route in history, stretching from China through Central Asia to Europe and immerse yourself in this timeless cultural crossroads.

Kyrgyzstan

Catch Kok Boru

A country’s national sport gives a window into the collective psyche of its people. So what does Kok Boru say about Kyrgyzstan? Watch as two teams compete on horseback for possession of a decapitated goat, or bag of sand (ulak). Riders must grab the ‘ulak’ from the ground, using a combination of strength, balance and courage and deposit it into tyre goals (kazans). Competition is heated as men and horses jockey for position. This game will leave you with a sense of wonderment so acute, your jaw will touch the floor.

South Korea

Reach for the Sky

Board Busan’s Sky Capsule from Mipo Station near Haeundae Beach, travelling over two kilometres of elevated rail with stunning coastal and urban views. Disembark at Cheongsapo Station to visit Daritdol Skywalk, a u-shaped, glass-bottomed bridge extending 37.5 metres over the sea.

Tajikistan

Ride on the Roof

This experience isn’t for everyone, but it’s perfect for the ‘one day I’ll be fit enough’ list: high-altitude cycling across the Roof of the World. Ride through Tajikistan’s dramatic Pamirs, with peaks of over 7,000 metres. Traverse valleys, mountain passes and glacial lakes, including one formed by a meteor impact. Explore UNESCO-listed Tajik National Park, home to the longest valley glacier outside of the Polar region.

China

Chinese Walls

Take a train to Tianshui to explore the Maiji Grottoes, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Climb the Maijishan rock face using ladders and platforms to reach more than 220 Buddhist caves, containing more than 7,800 sculptures and frescoes. Discover some of the most iconic Buddhist rock carvings along the Silk Route.

Japan

A Large Pinch of Salt

Visit a sumo stable in Tokyo for a glimpse behind the scenes of Japan’s ancient sport of sumo. Spend a morning observing wrestlers train and learning about the customs, rituals and rules of this national sport.

A Journey Beyond the Clouds

By Kate Hitchen Europe, Middle East & Indian Subcontinent Expert

The towering cliffs loomed above, my destination obscured from view. The cool, damp air carried only the faint rustle of prayer flags.

Perched precariously on the edge of a cliff, 3,000 feet above the Paro Valley, the iconic Bhutanese site of Tiger’s Nest, or Taktsang Monastery, usually commands attention with its striking silhouette. Hidden in a veil of clouds, the monastery had seemingly vanished into thin air.

I prepared to start the climb, accompanied only by my guide – not another person in sight. I wondered if it was possible to have this all to myself, which added an extra layer of anticipation to what had already been building in the months leading up to my trip.

I’d promised myself that I would build my strength and fitness to prepare me for this trek, but as things often do, time crept up on me. I attempted the climb within 24 hours of landing in Bhutan and although I indulged in the breakfast of champions, my stomach hadn’t adjusted to the time zone. There I was, physically unprepared but mentally ready, in the place I had dreamed of being for so many years. The time was now, mist or no mist.

With no visible route on the sheer mountain above, the ascent felt disorienting at first. I settled into a rhythm, with only the occasional boulder interrupting my pace. The trail alternated between steep inclines and, thankfully, some brief flatter stretches. My destination remained hidden, shrouded in mist and uncertainty. Each set of 20 steps driven by the promise of the unseen monastery and the need to catch my breath.

Every now and then my guide would hand me a small parcel, neatly wrapped in greaseproof paper and tied with string, each one identical to the last. He’d giggle and say, “This will get you up there.” He was right. Each package contained a homemade energy bar, loaded with nuts and dried fruit – dense and satisfying.

I quickly realised the backpack he’d carried for hours wasn’t for his own use. It was well-stocked with fuel for me. Each time I started to falter, he’d appear, his grin as constant as the mountain mist around us. He offered parcel after parcel and a silent nod. His quiet, steady support became as vital as the air itself, moving me forward step by step towards the cafe – my newly chosen final destination.

My head told me I shouldn’t finish here, that I ought to push further. One look at his backpack, which sagged under the diminished supply of bars and I knew it wasn’t stocked for the whole journey with me.

I heard a shriek of laughter. Six women came around the corner, an unlikely group if ever there was one. Some were dressed in sensible trekking gear, others in flip-flops. They exuded a carefree energy; their chatter and laughter lifted my mood. I greeted them with a quick hello and a smile. They responded with a wave before they charged ahead, as as multiple flip-flops slapped against the imposing rocky trail. That was the moment I knew I couldn’t stop; I had to reach the monastery. There was no way I’d let myself be outpaced by flip-flops.

Kate at Tiger’s Nest

The fatigue that weighed me down, lifted. With a newfound determination, I pushed forward with barely a pause to catch my breath. I caught up with them just as I reached the cafe. The announcement of its name, painted boldly on a wooden sign, filled me with elation. I was in need of a cup of tea.

It felt surreal to hear the hum of chattering voices after the stillness of the trail. I was overwhelmed by the sight before me: a bustling hive of activity. Dozens of people were seated on wooden chairs or outside on benches, sipping tea, sharing stories and laughing. The air was thick with the energy of those who had, like me, made it that far.

I paused for a moment to take it all in. Groups of people posed for photos against a backdrop of mist and grey rock, their smiles determined despite the underwhelming view. I couldn’t resist joining them.

I could almost hear their silent wish to blow the clouds away, to reveal the magnificent Tiger’s Nest that hung above them. The mountains didn’t cooperate and the sky remained stubbornly opaque. The disappointment was palpable, but no one seemed ready to let it dampen their spirits.

I could have turned back and returned with nothing more than the memory of an obscured view, but the choice was easy. I tightened the straps on my backpack and set off again, each step now fuelled by a quiet resolve. If the mountain mist wasn’t going to part and reveal the monastery from afar, I was going to get close enough to touch it.

Eventually, the deep red of Taktsang appeared through the mist, coming in and out of view as I ventured closer. Just when it seemed within reach, I faced a steep descent before the final climb. Carefully, I made my way down the slick stone stairs and crossed a bridge over a waterfall roaring below.

I finally reached the threshold. The intricate woodwork and golden rooftops of Taktsang loomed above. My exhaustion melted away and I was met with a profound sense of peace. I stepped inside, grinning, ready to embrace what lay ahead.

Leg Seven Southeast Asia & Australasia

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Australia

Tales From the Riverbank

Stay at Silky Oaks Lodge in Queensland and float along the Mossman River on a guided adventure. Don your wetsuit and dive boots and board your ‘river sled’ (think industrial strength lilo). Gently float through shallow waters, spotting fish, freshwater turtles, water lizards and even platypus. After rainfall, the river’s flow quickens, making for a more exhilarating ride surrounded by the sounds of the jungle.

New Zealand

There and Back Again

Jet boating, an iconic adventure sport born in New Zealand, is a thrilling way to explore the South Island’s Mount Aspiring National Park. Skim through towering canyons, narrow river gorges and famous Lord of the Rings filming locations. Listen to guides share captivating Māori legends, bringing the landscapes to life in this adrenaline-fuelled experience.

Australia

Anyone for Darts?

Stay at Lizard Island and glide through the water like a fish (or James Bond) holding onto a sea dart, guided by an expert. Explore the fringing reefs of Anchor and Watsons Bays, including the famous clam gardens. Encounter diverse marine life, from potato cod and turtles to colourful staghorn corals hiding cuttlefish and anemones.

Papua New Guinea

Sepik Sailing

Cruise the Sepik River aboard True North, equipped with shallow draft expedition boats and an onboard helicopter, enabling access to remote wilderness. Witness a traditional sing-sing, visit waterside markets and see the crocodile initiation ceremony, where young men coming of age are scarified in the image of a crocodile, all while navigating one of the world’s great river systems teeming with wildlife.

Cambodia

Angkor Wattage

The UNESCO-listed Temples of Angkor were once the spiritual and political heart of the Khmer empire. Accompanied by a resident archaeologist, unearth the secrets of this vast complex, moving through the site with ease by Bluesummer, a 100% electric, solar-powered convertible. This eco-friendly car is driven by local former tuk-tuk drivers, offering a sustainable and exciting way to explore.

Vietnam Going Underground

Explore the underground tunnel network built by guerrilla fighters during the French Resistance and later used in the Vietnam War. Meet a war veteran to hear first hand stories, then crawl through a tunnel section of this hidden base to discover the ingenuity and resilience of the protagonists.

Malaysia

Going Up?

Langkawi, an enchanting island in northern Peninsular Malaysia, is famed for its lush green interior and white sand beaches. Take the SkyCab above jungle canopies and ascend alongside 550-million-year-old rock formations, covering 17,000 metres and reaching 650 metres above sea level. Enjoy 360-degree panoramic views of Langkawi and Southern Thailand. Walk the Sky Bridge, a 125-metre curved suspension bridge, offering a thrilling perspective of the surrounding landscapes.

French Polynesia

Submersible Scooting

This isn’t an experience you’d be quick to forget. Explore Bora Bora Lagoon on a two-seater electric submersible scooter. Effortlessly move underwater, spotting brightly coloured tropical fish with an experienced dive guide, breathing normally inside a glass bubble helmet. Each scooter has easy-to-use pedals and a steering wheel, making it simple for anyone to drive.

Laos

Catch the Cascade

The Bolaven Plateau, east of Pakse, is home to stunning waterfalls cutting through basalt jungles and coffee plantations. Numerous rivers carve out deep gorges, including the impressive 120-metre Tad Fane. Walk through the jungle to view multi-tiered, cascading and plunging falls, some forming rapids or inviting pools below. Laos’ waterfalls certainly make a splash.

Thailand

A Right Royal Visit

Explore the old neighbourhood along Chao Phraya River’s west bank in Bangkok and spend a morning with an aristocratic Thai family. Residents for five generations, they’ll share personal stories offering a glimpse into into Bangkok’s past and present, insight that can only be found in the memories of locals. In the evening, hop onto an e-scooter and, aided by a local guide, experience illuminated city landmarks with fewer crowds, sample street food specialties and discover hidden eateries.

Philippines

Hubble Bubble

Siquijor Island is known for its ‘witch doctors’ and traditional healing practices. Experience a unique blend of Catholicism and shamanic healing. Local healers, revered for their wisdom, offer therapies such as potion-making, herbal fumigation and even exorcism. Join a potion-making tour, where you gather ingredients from jungles and waterfalls. Healers don’t charge for their services, relying on small donations, embodying a spirit of care.

Indonesia

On Yer Bike!

Experience the thrill of fat biking through Bali’s dramatic volcanic terrain. Ride across the frozen lava fields of Mount Batur, exploring the UNESCO Global Geopark. This unique volcanic landscape features calderas, cones, craters, geothermal fumaroles and hot springs, all set around a beautiful lake.

Island Tales: Palau Uncovered

By Clare Higginson Asia & Australasia Expert

Whenever I mention this tiny island nation, it’s always met with curiosity. Nestled in the heart of the Pacific, Palau is a place few have heard of but, once discovered, leaves a lasting impression.

I travelled through Palau’s isolated islands on the Four Seasons Explorer, an 11-cabin floating hotel. With impeccably appointed accommodation and outstanding service, luxury is its middle name. And the location – nothing short of exclusive. I felt like I’d won the lottery as I jumped on board. It was time to explore the magic.

Palau is made up of more than 340 islands yet according to landmass, it’s the fourth smallest country in the world. Despite this, it has created one of the world’s largest marine protected areas in conjunction with the Palau Pledge, a reminder stamped in

your passport on arrival. Signing the pledge declares your intention to tread lightly and explore mindfully. It’s a shame we need to be reminded but I’m impressed that Palau, at the start of its tourism journey, has recognised its importance. Shouldn’t all travel be this way?

The Coral Triangle is a revered region where the world’s most biodiverse marine ecosystems thrive; Palau lies at its heart. It’s here, amidst the vibrant waters, that the future of countless marine species is nurtured.

Regrettably, the impact of climate change has not spared Palau. The famed Jellyfish Lakes, home to thousands of golden stingless jellyfish, are witnessing a concerning population decline. Warming waters, it seems, are not conducive to reproduction. The six lakes that are off-limits to tourists are faring better, which suggests that restricting access even further may be key to preserving this fragile ecosystem.

Above water, the landscape is just as spectacular. Uninhabited rock islands dotted across this ocean space create a beautiful scene, especially from a bird’s eye perspective. I became obsessed with the ever-changing blue and green hues of the sea, the islands and the sky: a true tropical paradise.

Oscar, the marine biologist on board, delivered daily presentations about the region’s biodiversity and its delicate balance. Along with a team of dive instructors, he guided interested guests on dives and snorkelling excursions for a firsthand experience of the coral reefs. The Ulong Channel site was a personal favourite.

As the current carried me through sandy channels, the colours of the reef gradually rose on either side of me. Each section seemed to belong to a distinct grouper fish, in what can only be described as a form of ‘oceanic ownership’. These steadfast guardians vigilantly defended their territories and shooed away any would-be intruders. It felt as though I had drifted through a bustling urban district, but in reality this is a spawning ground and the groupers were fiercely protecting their domain.

Amidst the ebb and flow of the current, I lost count of the sharks. They moved with quiet authority. Some patrolled the reef in small packs, others rested lazily on the sandy bottom. Their presence, both calming and awe-inspiring, reinforced my realisation of the reef’s delicate balance.

Whilst the underwater world of Palau is captivating, the islands’ rich cultural heritage and verdant inland beauty offer compelling reasons to step away from the water. The mix of matriarchal and chief-structured society stands in stark contrast to many other cultures around the world.

Four Seasons Explorer

I had the privilege of visiting one of the last remaining Bai, the traditional meeting place of the chiefs. Typically I’m not drawn to staged performances, but the sight of a group of women, led by the remarkable Wilma, dancing in full traditional regalia was unforgettable. Their movements, combined with the profound cultural significance of the setting, was one of those rare, goosebump-inducing experiences.

Fonzie, a local Palauan guide, took me on a tour of Babeldaob Island. With candid insight, he shared his perspectives on Palau’s political landscape and reflected on the nation’s 30 years of independence from the United States, while still maintaining a Compact of Free Association. We made our way along a path which followed a winding river, the distant rumble of a waterfall growing louder and louder. In another part of the world, such a breathtaking sight would have been teeming with tourists. Yet, we were alone. The team from the Four Seasons had thoughtfully prepared for our arrival and had brought chilled towels, refreshing drinks and a sumptuous lunch.

Having rained heavily the week before, the waterfall was particularly majestic. I was momentarily apprehensive before I jumped in, but my sense of adventure ultimately triumphed. As I stood beneath the thundering water, the view from below was hypnotic. The smile that followed was borne of pure exhilaration.

A few days later, my delight turned into sadness and heartbreak when I learnt of the Battle of Peleliu, one of the most harrowing battles of World War II. In 1944, over the course of two months, around 12,000 lives were lost in a brutal confrontation between US and Japanese soldiers. I could feel the weight of history. I had no idea that this tiny island had seen so much bloodshed. The island has moved on, but remembrance and reflection remain.

As I think on my journey through Palau – its crystal-clear waters, its storied history and its warm, welcoming people – I am reminded of the privilege of truly discovering a place, and of the beauty and benefit of mindful exploration. Palau may be small but its impact on my heart and my mind, has been immense.

Clare in Palau.

Join our Friends and Family Scheme

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Every person you introduce to us will receive a £500 travel voucher towards their first Steppes adventure. As a thank you, you’ll also receive a £500 travel voucher from us when they book their trip. The more people you introduce, the more vouchers you can accumulate, helping make that next dream holiday a date in the diary.

Sign up to our Friends and Family Scheme and start sharing today.

We Are Family Our Family Collection

A collection of family holidays our experts are proud to have recently put together for our clients – outstanding, tried-and-tested experiences to create enduring shared memories.

A Family Adventure Through Botswana

Travel Expert: Illona Cross

“ Exclusivity was the theme that ran throughout this family adventure, culminating in the celebration of a landmark birthday by firelight, under the stars, at a remote private camp in the heart of the Makgadikgadi Pans which they reached on quad bikes – it was a pleasure to plan this for them.”

Time of Travel: October

Also Perfect In: July & August

Family Dynamic: Two Adults & Three Children aged between 13 & 18

Length of Trip: 14 Days

Highlights from their trip:

Scan the QR code to explore even more family travel inspiration on our website.

• A mobile safari in the heart of the Okavango Delta.

• Exploring on foot and by boat during the day and camping on lantern-lit islands at night.

• Meerkat encounter in the Makgadikgadi Salt Pans.

• Exhilarating quad bike rides across the pans.

• Sleeping under a star-studded sky during a salt pan sleep out.

• Wildlife moments including a wild dog kill and spotting aardvark, leopard and lion.

A Taste of Italy and the Aegean

Travel Expert: Kate Hitchen

“I loved organising this trip. Nothing was run of the mill, with unique activities tailored to the family’s interests in farming and gardens. Focusing on nature and local cultures with a smattering of historical sites, I would definitely do something similar with my young children, who are seven and four!”

Time of Travel: June / July

Also Perfect In: April, May & October

Family Dynamic: Two Adults & Two Adult Children aged 18 & 22

Length of Trip: 15 Days

Highlights from their trip:

• A glassblowing workshop with master artisans on Murano Island.

• A performance of ‘The Barber of Seville’.

• Truffle hunting in the countryside near Florence.

• A hands-on cooking class, tailored to their family’s dietary needs.

• A day spent on Antiparos, a tiny islet in the Aegean, only reachable by boat.

• Swimming and snorkelling in the waters off the uninhabited island of Despotiko.

India Through a Child’s Eyes

Travel Expert: Charlotte Lawton

“ The success of this trip was all about the little details and the people – the guides and the characters and how it all knitted together to inspire the whole family.”

Time of Travel: October

Also Perfect In: December & February

Family Dynamic: Two Adults & Three

Children aged between 8 & 13

Length of Trip: 10 Days

Highlights from their trip:

• Staying at carefully chosen hotels, complete with dogs, Max and Maya, giving the children a chance to enjoy cuddles while away from their pets.

• A fascinating traditional block printing experience.

• Leopard spotting in Jawai.

• A village visit where the children got to play football and cricket with local children.

• Their guide Ram in Jodhpur who immediately captured the children’s attention by showing them where Batman Rising and The Jungle Book were filmed, followed by ice cream.

• Sampling streetfood.

Messing About on Boats

The sense of excitement you and your family will feel as you board your very own private boat is a memory you’ll savour for a very long time. The anticipation of the adventure is everything, especially when you know that your trip has been carefully planned by the travel experts at Steppes.

Panama in Style

Travel Expert: John Faithfull

“This was an outstanding family holiday including shared experiences that were educational, active, fun and worked for the whole family. They returned with tropical images etched into their memory and will never forget attacking a pinata hanging from a palm tree on a remote sandy coral atoll.”

Time of Travel: April

Also Perfect In: January – April

Scan the QR code to explore even more family travel inspiration on our website.

Family Dynamic: Two Adults and Four Children aged between 8 & 14

Length of Trip: 12 Days

Highlights from their trip:

• Panama City, including a visit to the canal lock gates and Casco Viejo.

• The Bayano Lake Caves; walking over rocks and wading through water pools.

• A private catamaran charter around the Guna Yala (San Blas) Islands.

• Snorkelling, paddleboarding and kayaking in coves.

• Meeting the Kuna communities to learn about their culture and traditions.

• A boat ride along the Panama Canal to Chagres River and seeing capuchin monkeys, three-toed sloths and toucans.

• The pinata on a tiny Caribbean atoll for one of the children’s birthdays.

Canada’s West Coast Adventure

Travel Expert: Roxy Dukes

“Perfect for two families, this is one of the only boats of its kind in North America. Geared towards both children and parents, the itinerary was packed with family-friendly activities, high-level cuisine and unique history lessons. The captain of over 20 years’ experience knows all the nooks and crannies, so maximised every moment.”

Time of Travel: August

Also Perfect In: June, July & August

Family Dynamic: All ages are welcome onboard, from newborns to grandparents

Length of Trip: 7 Days

Highlights from their trip:

• Sailing the fjords of the Desolation Sound aboard the Pacific Yellowfin.

• Anchoring in secluded coves.

• Water trampolining and shooting down the 40-foot inflatable slide.

• Seeing bears, eagles, orca and sea lions.

• Fishing for lunch, including Dungeness crab, prawns, oysters and salmon.

• Mountain biking and visiting remote communities on land.

Islands of Indonesia

Travel Expert: Clare Higginson

“ The underwater world is my passion and Komodo is such a special place, it is where I had my first experience with manta rays. It can get busy so nothing gives me greater pleasure than being able to put together a trip for clients that enables them to see this special region at its best, on the water, away from others.”

Time of Travel: July / August

Also Perfect In: Summer is best

Family Dynamic: Two Adults & Two Children aged 14 & 24

Length of Trip: 15 Days

Highlights from their trip:

• Cruising the remote jungle waterways of Indonesian Borneo, on a traditional houseboat, to see orangutans in the wild.

• Cycling through paddy fields and past Buddhist temples on Java.

• Private charter through Komodo: snorkelling, seeing Komodo dragons and hiking to viewpoints.

• Three of the family dived to the USS Liberty Shipwreck off Bali’s eastern shore.

• Trekking, canoeing and volcano cycling in Ubud.

Preparing to Sense the World

Tips for Neurodivergent Travellers

By Allie Mason

I have a photo album on my phone named simply, ‘The Seychelles’. It’s a digital collection of memories from my time on Mahe in 2018, taken whilst visiting a friend working in marine conservation there. The cover of the album shows a young woman, fresh out of university, with a wide smile and a terrapin clutched between her hands.

Anyone looking at this photograph, and many of the others within the album, could be forgiven for thinking I was on the trip of a lifetime. For somebody else, it would have been ideal: sugar-white sand beaches, warm turquoise waters and daytime temperatures never dropping much below 30°C. During my fortnight on Mahe, I snorkelled alongside tropical fish, hand-fed star fruit to giant tortoises and watched the sun set in shimmering shades of orange and pink over the Indian ocean.

Yet, as my poor friend was soon to discover, this vibrant island brought out the worst in me. Though I didn’t know it at the time (as I was only diagnosed two years later), I’m neurodivergent. Each neurodivergent individual’s strengths, support needs and struggles are different, but the latter manifests prominently for me in the form of sensory sensitivities.

I abhor grains of sand scraping against my skin. Hot weather wreaks havoc with my body’s temperature regulation. The transition period between swimming and drying out afterwards is my own personal hell on earth.

Despite these challenges, and in the face of my friend’s understandable confusion as to why I was so miserable in such a beautiful place, I look back on that trip fondly. I’m so grateful to her for sharing her Mahe with me: the locals’ favourite snorkelling spots, home-cooked food under the stars, scenic drives along the coastal roads encircling the island.

No single holiday or destination can be universally suited to all neurodivergent travellers. However, I’ve developed protocols allowing me to create experiences perfectly suited to my sensory sensitivities. Whether you are neurodivergent yourself, or travel with a loved one who is, I’ve put together my top tips for success below.

• Prepare a kit to take with you for mitigating sensory overwhelm; this might include noise-cancelling headphones, noise-isolating earplugs, sunglasses and a fidget toy.

• Pack items that smell like home to bring comfort in unfamiliar surroundings, like a favourite jumper or pyjama set.

• Try to fuse the familiar with the new when planning a holiday, such as staying with the same hotel chain in different countries, or returning to the same country and accommodation but incorporating a new activity.

• Choose destinations and activities that align with you or your neurodivergent loved one’s sensory preferences; for me, that looks like travelling to colder climates and prioritising wildlife experiences or cultural excursions.

• Run through your travel plans multiple times in the days leading up to departure, identifying potential pain points and pre-empting how you will address them.

Now that I know my sensory triggers and the best ways to mitigate them, I look forward to exploring new places and can travel with far more confidence than before. I hope these tips go some way to supporting you or your neurodivergent loved one to do the same.

Printed with Purpose

Printed or digital – what’s more sustainable? There’s a lot of debate around this question from varying industries, with misinformation being spread, particularly regarding the use of paper. You might wonder why we, as a B Corp focused on minimising their impact, still print a magazine each year. Here’s why.

Let’s Talk About Paper First

Contrary to common belief, making paper doesn’t mean deforestation, at least not in Europe. Think of it more like farming: trees are grown, harvested and replanted, just like any other renewable crop. Paper is also fully recyclable up to seven times and then will biodegrade naturally. It’s one of the most recycled products in the world; the European paper recycling rate is now 71% – the highest of any material.

Our printing partners work with trusted organisations like FSC for responsible forestry and the World Land Trust to balance carbon emissions, ensuring sustainability at every step.

Electronic Communication vs Paper Printing

Electronic communication can be just as impactful on the environment, if not more so, than paper-based communication. Think about the energy needed to store thousands of emails or stream endless hours of video. Nearly 80% of the world’s electricity is generated by fossil fuels and half of that powers the digital world we rely on.

Paper mills on the other hand have zero waste and many are self-sustaining, providing their own power via wind turbines. Plus the paper mills and printing presses last for many years and are fully recycled when they reach end of use.

Our focus at Steppes Travel is to travel better and that extends beyond our trips. From using carbon balanced paper

and vegetable-based inks to packaging in a starch-based compostable sleeve, we want our magazine to embody our commitment to a better future. We believe that a well-made, thoughtfully produced magazine has a light footprint when done right and adds value beyond a fleeting digital page. It’s about making a connection that lasts.

In Touch with the Tangible

Through the increasing dominance of the digital and virtual realms over our physical environment, we’re losing touch with the tangible world: experiences that once involved tactile engagement, like reading physical books, visiting shops, or even hand-writing letters, are being replaced by their digital counterparts.

Objects that once had a sense of craftsmanship, durability and personal meaning are being replaced with mass-produced, often impermanent, digital versions. For example, a vinyl record has a tactile, physical presence, while streaming music offers no physical form to connect with.

Many aspects of human memory and experience, which were once rooted in physical forms –photographs, letters, keepsakes – are now stored digitally, on technology that may eventually become obsolete.

So creating something tangible, something beautiful, something you could keep, is really important to us.

First Ladies Funding Female Guides

Booking a holiday with Steppes Travel helps to generate funds to support aspiring female guides around the world. Under the auspices of our Steppes Fund For Change, we offer bursaries to women of any age in any country in which we operate, to help them acquire the training they need to secure a career in guiding. Tourism accounts for one in four jobs globally and we hope our bursary will enable women to gain equal access to the knowledge and skills required to pursue a fulfilling and prosperous career.

Since our last update, we’re now supporting two young women in South America to pursue their dream careers. In Africa, we continue to support Esther and Maemo and also supported Silo, Shylet and Carol to conduct guiding apprenticeships in Zimbabwe.

Shortly, we’ll begin funding three young Masaai women to start their guide training in the Masai Mara, as well as supporting a scheme to help women find work as guides in Sri Lanka.

Esther on a game drive

Esther in Zambia and Maemo in Botswana

Esther Phiri and Maemo Mumsy Monageng started their guiding careers in the summer of 2023, having both successfully applied for financial support through the Steppes Fund for Female Guides. A combination of classroom training and working in the field with our partners African Bush Camps has seen them both flourish.

Esther transferred to Lolebezi in Lower Zambezi at the beginning of 2024 to continue with her second year of the programme. Her first two months focused on the geography and terrain of Lower Zambezi, learning how to prepare for safari drives and discovering the best spots for elephants and leopards. She’s quickly become a valued member of the guiding team and is developing an impressive knowledge of the Zambezi’s prolific birdlife.

Maemo is currently based at Khwai camp in Botswana where she’s been shadowing guides to gain valuable firsthand knowledge of the flora, fauna and terrain of the Okavango Delta. She’s recently been working towards sitting her exams to take clients out in a mokoro – the traditional shallow draft boat used to navigate the flooded channels of the Delta. We asked her what advice she would give to young girls looking for a career in the tourism industry. Maemo had the following thoughts.

“ I’d encourage them to focus. When they want something, they need to put their all in so they can achieve it because it won’t be a smooth ride. There will be challenges along the way that they can overcome with the right mindset and the prize in the end is worth it. No one is coming to rescue them but themselves. This means independence in all aspects. ”

Liz in Peru

In collaboration with our partners in Peru, we’re supporting Liz, a lady from the Ccorccor community near Chinchero, a small town in the Cusco region. Through the Steppes Fund for Female Guides, Liz relocated to Cusco and began her threeyear official tourism guide course on 18 March 2024, attending classes weekly. Our partners are in regular contact with Liz and say that she is thriving, achieving high grades and has just begun attending field trips.

“ In Peru, it’s mandatory to get a degree to guide anywhere – you must study the official tourism guide career to obtain a certification which will allow you to offer your services to companies and direct travellers. To complete these studies will totally change and improve Liz’s life. ”

Fernanda in Colombia

Fernanda is currently a guide in the small town of San Jose del Guaviare, but is keen to qualify for guiding international clients in other parts of Colombia. Thanks to our partners who nominated her, the Steppes Fund for Female Guides has helped Fernanda relocate to Bogota to begin a twoyear English course, alongside an internship with our partners. Gaining valuable experience in operations and logistics in conjunction with learning English will give Fernanda the opportunity to propel her career to the next level.

“ I love tourism as a career and want to continue in it. I am currently a tour guide without a second language. With the help of this course, I aim to communicate more effectively with foreign people, knowing that a second language will even improve my quality of life, allow me to take advantage of opportunities and increase my income. ”

Esther Maemo Liz Fernanda

Making Travel Better

Whilst our love for travel is the fuel that drives our engine, we’re not blind to the challenges it increasingly faces. Disharmony created by over tourism has been a regular story of late and as more people travel, there will be a greater need for us all to adapt, to ensure both travellers and hosts benefit from the experience.

It is this win-win dynamic that we continue to strive for: travel that’s not only a win for our clients but also for communities and biodiversity around the world. Travel that creates opportunity, celebrates cultural diversity, builds community and fellowship, protects and conserves and gives more than it takes. A better way of travelling that, we hope you agree, is worth fighting for. Travel that makes the world better.

Follow the Money

We’re very grateful to you, our clients, for choosing to travel with us. Without you, our philanthropic arm, the Steppes Fund For Change, would not have been able to support such a range of initiatives. Our goal each year is to donate a minimum of 1% of our revenue to causes supporting conservation, community and carbon sequestration.

In the 2023/24 financial year, you’ve helped us donate a total of £169,505 (1.4% of our revenue) to the causes outlined in our infographic.

Whilst we hope you agree these causes deserve our support, we’re soon to launch a partnership with Pinwheel which will give our clients a greater say in how these funds are distributed. We look forward to sharing more information on this in due course.

The Galapagos has been a favourite destination of Steppes’ clients for many years so we feel it’s particularly important to support community and conservation projects on the islands. We’ve recently assisted Galapagos Conservation Trust (GCT) with operating two back-to-back boat charters in the Galapagos, donating over £15,000 to the trust for each trip. In addition, Steppes donates £80 to GCT for every client we have travelling to the islands, which includes giving our clients annual membership of GCT. We have long campaigned for an increase in the Galapagos National Park entrance fee which finally happened in 2024, going from $100 to $200 USD. As visitor numbers rise, tourism to Galapagos will need even greater management and so we’re pleased to be working with a Regenerative Tourism Working Group, coordinated by GCT, to give our input on how tourism can be made more sustainable on the islands.

Collaboration

We love working with a diverse range of partners all over the world, some of whom we’ve known for over 30 years. From Cusco to Casablanca, we go to great lengths to ensure our people on the ground share our commitment to travel that not only fulfils our clients desires but also delivers positive outcomes to local communities and biodiversity. In 2024, we undertook a thorough audit of our value chain, asking our partners to complete a ‘Positive Impact Travel Questionnaire’, looking at every aspect of their business from community based initiatives and employment policies to over tourism and wildlife watching codes of conduct. This audit continues as we work closely with our key partners, learning from each other as to how to make travel better.

Carbon: Measurement and Reduction

We continue to measure the carbon footprint of the flights taken by us and our clients. While the progress being made to upscale Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) is slow, it’s imperative that we measure, reduce and mitigate the carbon we generate through our supply chain. To this end, we have recently launched a project to create a carbon baseline for accommodation, transport and activities we organise on the ground, so that we can look to further reduce our emissions where possible.

What’s it all About?

Travel has enormous potential to create positive outcomes across the world. To realise this potential, the passive concept of ‘take only photographs and leave only footprints’ needs to give way to a more proactive approach that employs travel as a means of regeneration, for economies, people and biodiversity. While we are not blind to the negative impacts that travel can have, we believe wholeheartedly that with care and consideration, travel can have a net positive effect on both travellers and the world at large.

£106,232

Breakdown of Steppes Fund For Change

£26,717

Seawilding

Steppes

I

£26,717

£6,442

Our 2024 Photography Competition Runners Up

There was a time, not so long ago, before the internet, before we knew everything and had seen it all, that our view of the world and desire to see and experience its corners near and far was inspired not by digital ‘must sees’, but by the holiday photographs of family and friends; inspired during home hosted slide shows, over peanuts, hula hoops and G‘n’Ts; much loved, wildly anticipated, fondly remembered, ‘right of passage’, homecoming events. There’s something special about a shared photograph and the tale behind it, something that transcends a screen and that can have a

profound effect on those that see it, provoking thought, sparking conversation and bolstering understanding.

In celebration of this, we launched our 2024 Photography Competition. We received some excellent entries that captured a diversity of destinations. In no particular order, below you’ll find our runners up.

We hope you enjoy them as much as we did.

Simon Roberts

“For many years I have loved watching and photographing bears – especially the closely related polar and brown – so the Brooks River in Alaska’s Katmai is a very special place. There, the grizzlies have lived closely with humans for many years allowing tourists to get close to them in a relatively safe environment, carefully managed by excellent rangers. Although there’s still quite a bit of luck involved, arriving during one of the salmon runs and when the sun is out improves your chances. At the falls, the senior bears all have their favourite hunting spots, whether below (in the’Jacuzzi’) or on the lip, waiting for one of the very many leaping salmon to come within range. There were salmon flying through the air all around this bear allowing it to take one every few minutes.”

Taken in Alaska

Patrick O’Brien

“Yellowstone National Park in winter is a magical place. Heavy snow and varied wildlife make for fantastic photographic opportunities. You can only access the interior on a snow coach from West Yellowstone, so there are very few people there. We saw these bison as we were travelling slowly through the park. We piled off to look at these amazing creatures. The snow crusted into their fur gave them a different dimension to the brown bison everyone sees in summer. They plod along slowly, stopping every now and again to hopefully paw at the ground, looking for some grass. It was an unforgettable experience, from dressing up in arctic gear, to watching bald eagles, wolves, bighorn sheep and other wildlife.”

Taken in the USA

Mark Bannister

“The moment I took this photo, my overriding feeling was of relief. We had been tracking the chimps for six hours and up until then, we had only managed fleeting glimpses of the chimpanzees. When we encountered this troop of chimpanzees on the forest floor, interacting, playing and relaxing, it was an unforgettable experience. Our trip to Uganda had been focussed on viewing gorillas, so I hadn’t given much thought to the chimpanzee experience but this encounter was definitely a highlight of our trip. What I like about this photo is that it captures the crucial role of grooming in chimpanzee society, which is essential for bonding, cleanliness but more importantly defining the group’s hierarchical structure.”

Taken in the Uganda

Mary Panton-Kent

“At the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre, our excellent guide positioned us in a perfect spot to view the wild apes emerge from their forest to feed on supplementary fruits provided by the centre. Looking at this photo, I relive the excitement, incredulity and sense of great privilege I felt when a young mother, herself a successfully rehabilitated orphan, carried her tiny infant straight up to us! I took this photo as it peered over with a seemingly pensive gaze surveying its forest home with bright young eyes.”

Taken in Borneo

Andrew Hart

“I wanted to drink in the whole experience – the silence, the stillness of the water, the scale of the mountains. Surely looking through a camera lens would diminish this experience? But I realised this was the best way to create a memory I could treasure forever and share with my loved ones. A line of gentoo penguins perched on an ice floe came into focus, stoic inhabitants of one of the most extreme environments on our planet, looking small but determined, their black forms tiny against the towering rocks. With that click of the camera, the stories I had read of human exploration and heroism that paved the way for people like me to travel to this magical place, flooded in. Some 10,000 miles away from my home, I felt I was at the end of the world.”

Taken in Antarctica

Martin Hefti

“There is a deeply felt sensation of belonging and contentment whenever I find myself amidst the smells and sounds of the African savannah, early at dawn. The mist is still hovering over the long grass in the plains and the sun slowly adds colour to the landscape all around you. This moment is as addictive as love and makes me travel to my favourite continent year after year. This picture was taken at Kasanka National Park in Zambia, where millions of straw coloured fruit bats converge. They take off in flocks of 100,000 or more to search for food and return at dawn to their resting places. It is an awe inspiring moment in smell and in sound.”

in Zambia

Tom Bown

“The young chicks in their fur coats look so amusing alongside their rather smarter elders and this one looked particularly funny in the way it behaved. Salisbury Plain is the biggest open flat space in South Georgia and to see it covered in as many as 150,000 birds was astonishing. They say South Georgia is the ‘Serengeti of the south’, which we found hard to believe before the trip. However, the overwhelming sight, sound and smell of so many penguins, elephant seals, fur seals and a plethora of birds needs to be experienced first-hand. Travelling on a smaller ship (around 100 passengers) gave the feel of an expedition and the whole holiday was a varied, educational and delightful odyssey. A trip to Antarctica really can be a lifechanging experience.”

Taken in Antartica

Taken

YOUR RECOMMENDED

Travel Inspiration

By Justin Wateridge

Here are a selection of books, podcasts and TV programmes, loosely associated with travel, that I have enjoyed in the last year and would wholeheartedly recommend.

What to Read:

WASTELAND

by Oliver Franklin-Wallis

This book is important to me and should be to all of us –as its subtitle says, ‘The dirty truth about what we throw away, where it goes and why it matters.’

MIDNIGHT’S BORDERS

by Suchitra Vijayan

I have always been fascinated by arbitrary lines and this is masterful portrait of India from the perspective of its 9,000-mile land border. This stunning work of narrative reportage shows us the forgotten people and places in the borderlands of India.

HIGH CAUCASUS

by Tom Parfitt

This book takes us on a dramatic 1,000-mile hike through the mountainous north Caucasus, passing through seven Russian republics from the Black Sea to the Caspian. What an intriguing exploration of the region’s landscapes, peoples, cultures and extremely turbulent history.

Scan the QR code to discover our team’s travel stories on our website.

What to Listen to:

What to Watch:

YOUNG WOMAN AND THE SEA

The compelling biographical story of Gertrude Erle and her fight against prejudice in her attempt to swim in the English Channel in the 1920s.

RADICAL

An inspiring teacher on the Mexican border seeks to unlock the curiosity and potential of his students.

The Best Time to Visit

JANUARY

Tanzania

SOUTHERN SERENGETI

Calving season runs from January to March, when the plains of the southern Serengeti are transformed into a wildebeest creche. While this may sound very cute, be prepared, as vulnerable calves will inevitably attract the Serengeti’s opportunistic predators. Stay at one of the fabulous mobile camps that follow the action such as Nomad’s Serengeti Safari Camp.

Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is generally blessed with great weather all year round, but the tropical climate really comes into its own during our winter months, from January to April. A trip around the Cultural Triangle, with some time to while away on the beaches in Negombo, Bentota and Tangalle, is one few will ever forget.

Iceland

FEBRUARY

A three-hour flight from the UK, Iceland is perfect for a half term family adventure. Awash with waterfalls, glaciers, geysers, sea stacks, lava fields and hot springs – aspiring geographers can learn more here on a week’s holiday than a whole term of school. February is the perfect time for seeing the northern lights alongside snow caving, snowmobiling and glacier hikes.

Chile

Chile is the longest country in the world, stretching from the harsh environment of the Atacama Desert at the top, to the dramatic peaks, fjords and windswept wilderness of Patagonia at the bottom. In between, you can find dense forests, crystal clear lakes, superb fishing and vineyards. This is a perfect time for walking, horse riding and wild swimming in Torres del Paine and other national parks.

MARCH

India

MADHYA PRADESH

Temperatures climb quickly, often reaching over 40°C in March. As the heat intensifies, water becomes scarcer, leading to drier terrain and sparse vegetation. This means March is especially favourable for spotting tigers, as they have fewer places to hide. With water sources dwindling, wildlife gathers around the few remaining waterholes, creating excellent opportunities to observe and photograph animals.

Belize

The weather in Belize in March is almost perfect, with long, sunny days and refreshing breezes at night. From the jungles of the north to the sanctuaries of the south and the marine reserves of the Caribbean Sea, Belize is a true haven for wildlife enthusiasts and a destination hard to beat for keen ornithologists.

APRIL

Nicaragua

LEON AND GRANADA

Easter in Nicaragua is known as Semana Santa and blends religious traditions with cultural celebrations. While religious processions have not been so ostentatious in recent years, visiting the cities of Granada and Leon at this time is a fun and vibrant experience, as local people organise colourful festivities to mark this auspicious date in the Catholic calendar.

Costa Rica

January to April generally has the lowest rainfall throughout the year, though showers can still be expected with such a tropical climate and provide welcome relief. This is one of the most exciting times to visit the Pacific Coast, with abundant opportunities to see wildlife, explore the jungle and relax on white sandy beaches.

Scan the QR code to browse our ‘Best Time To Visit’ calendars and start planning your journey today.

MAY

Botswana

OKAVANGO DELTA

The delta’s annual floodwaters begin to arrive from Angola in May, transforming the landscape into a network of lush, meandering channels and floodplains. While all the animals are rejuvenated by the floods, elephants are particularly animated and can be spotted in large family herds, socialising, bathing and cooling off in the water.

Birdwatching is exceptional in May, as both resident and migratory birds are abundant.

Bhutan

The country is at finest and the time to visit the exquisite Himalayan mountain kingdom. Rhododendrons begin to raise their stalks skywards and bloom to flood the steep, engrossing valleys with colour. For those interested in seeing the rare black-necked cranes, we equally recommend visiting the Phobjikha Valley between late October and mid-February.

JUNE

West Greenland DISKO BAY TO UUMMANNAQ

The three-month window for visiting Greenland starts in June and there is no better way of exploring the deep fjords, springs and caves, towering icebergs and impressive glacier faces than on a 12-berth expedition ship. Visit remote settlements, cut off from civilization for most of the year and sail the Vaigat Strait under the midnight sun, where the plankton-rich waters attract humpback, minke and pilot whales.

Madagascar

Well outside of peak season, with less rainfall and still being relatively warm, the opportunity to trek the rugged and beautiful highlands will never feel more right. The added space provided by the lack of visitors gives plenty of room to become immersed in the landscape and really get to know the playful lemur population.

The Best Time to Visit

JULY

Indonesia

THE ISLANDS OF THE FLORES

Team up with another family to charter your own private boat for a sailing adventure in Indonesia. July brings ideal sailing conditions with clear skies, lower humidity, and calm seas. Visibility in the waters around Komodo is excellent, providing fantastic opportunities for snorkelling to see manta rays, sea turtles, whale sharks and vibrant coral reefs. Komodo dragons are particularly active at this time of year.

Georgia

June to August is the high season across the country. It is the time to explore the Caucasus Mountains in the north, as it is likely to be free of snow and generally dry. The central lowlands can get very hot and humid around this time and make relaxing trips along the Black Sea coast particularly enjoyable.

Brazil PANTANAL

AUGUST

The dry conditions mean that roads and trails are more accessible, allowing for easier travel by boat, Jeep and horseback. Wildlife sightings in August are spectacular with jaguars, giant river otters, capybaras, caimans, and various bird species commonly seen along rivers and water holes. Jaguar sightings are especially frequent in August, as they often hunt near riverbanks and are more visible due to the sparse vegetation.

Alaska

Wildlife is particularly active in August. Heading into the latter half of the year, food supplies aren’t as abundant and so animals are looking to feed as much as possible to sustain them through the winter months. This is a great time for spotting brown and black bears fishing along the riverbanks on the hunt for salmon.

SEPTEMBER

Eastern Turkey

As the heat subsides, so do the crowds, which gives the opportunity to explore some of the world’s oldest and most spectacular historic sites without the distraction of others. The beauty of visiting Mount Nemrut and Gobekli Tepe in September is that it is not too late to combine eastern Turkey with the Turquoise Coast which is blissfully warm and quiet at this time of year.

Canada

The long summer days offer opportunities to enjoy the great outdoors across the country through hiking, boating, camping and fishing. The optimum time to see the bears is during the salmon spawning season, from late August to September, when they can be seen swiping the fish from the rivers and fattening up before the onset of winter.

OCTOBER

Uzbekistan

As the heat of the summer has receded, October is a favourite month for visiting Uzbekistan. Temperatures are mild – around 20-25°C making perfect conditions for visiting the sites of Samarkand, Bukhara and Khiva. The markets are all abundant with fresh produce as autumn in the Fergana Valley is time for the harvest with fruits such as pomegranates, figs and melons being particularly prolific.

Australia

In the north, the temperature and humidity start to build and the much-welcome rain returns to transform the Outback landscape into a vast spread of wildflowers. The south, however, sees the start of spring and enjoys weather that perfectly accompanies wildlife spotting excursions in the national parks and along the coast.

Scan the QR code to browse our ‘Best Time To Visit’ calendars and start planning your journey today.

NOVEMBER

Japan

The weather is mild and there is very little rainfall at this time of year in Japan. The autumn leaves are spectacular in places like Kyoto, Nara and the Japanese Alps, but draw far fewer crowds than the April cherry blossom, so another good reason to visit. Japan’s famous cuisine is renowned for the use of mushrooms and other fungi which are prolific at this time of year.

Argentina

Right on the cusp of this region’s summer and yet still too early for the crowds that are expected in just a month. The rugged edges of Patagonia’s landscapes are softened as they come into bloom and the vineyards of Mendoza sit quietly, with the stunning snowcapped Andes behind, to offer miles upon miles of blissful solitude.

DECEMBER

The Galapagos Islands

The start of the warm season provides a welcome escape to the weather back home. Albatross chicks are beginning to find their wings, boobies exercise their prolific fishing skills and giant tortoise eggs begin to hatch new life. Swimming with sea lions, in particular, can be an incredible experience this month, as water visibility improves with the dissipation of the Humboldt Current.

Republic Of Congo ODZALA

December heralds the start of the ‘short’ dry season which brings gentle rain, hazy air, and lower humidity through to February. Coming straight after the wet season expect rivers to have higher water levels, so boating activities can be extended allowing more time to explore. There may still be equatorial storms in the air which can lead to dramatic skies, perfect for photography.

Ocean Photographer of the Year 2024 Winner –

Rafael Fernández Caballero

“The image captures perhaps the most special – and craziest –moment of my life. It fills me with joy having lived this moment – and to have captured the image. The winning shot was taken in Baja California Sur, Mexico, during the Mexican sardine run. I captured the moment a Bryde’s whale took a bite from a baitball. The entire scene was incredible, from the colourful dorados surrounding the baitball to the sea lions and sardines swimming in the open ocean. The whale came out of nowhere with its mouth wide open, and the sight was nothing short of surreal. The Pacific waters were calm that day, making it a perfect opportunity to capture this once-in-a-lifetime moment.”

UK: +44 1280 460084 USA: +1(800) 272-4163 inspireme@steppestravel.com www.steppestravel.com

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