Kootenay National Park Or The Land Of Ice And Fire (Experiencing Nature’s Game Of Contrasts)

BY  Sibashree Jan 17, 2025

The next location we planned to cover during a USA tour was New Orleans. This time, we discovered how a city with a rich culture cares so much about children.  Along with its heritage, architecture, and a culture that feels like a warm embrace, the kid-friendly activities also make this Louisiana city a popular tourist destination.  However, this time as I pen the things to do in New Orleans with kids, my heart feels heavy. A deadly terror attack on Bourbon Street and the police shoot-out following that have taken the lives of at least 14 people on 2nd January 2025.  Still, the city is on the mend, and everyone is hoping high for the stability of the tourism economy of the city. It’s difficult, considering the city has yet to recover in tourism and finances since the COVID-19 days fully.  Apologies for the grim start! However, as travelers, you cannot disassociate so easily, especially when you have just visited a place. Nevertheless, it’s time for some cheer, and shifting focus to the best things to do in New Orleans with kids can greatly help. So, let’s discuss it.  Fun Things To Do With Kids In New Orleans | Enjoying The Graceful Embrace December to January and February to May are the best times to try fun things to do with kids in New Orleans. And guess what! There are a lot of free activities awaiting your little ones here. I have discussed them in a different Tour and Travel guide.  Nevertheless, here, let’s focus on the unique things to do with kids in New Orleans.  1. Audubon Zoo Visit https://www.instagram.com/p/C4qRCaVrNPe/?img_index=1 Location: 6500 Magazine Street, New Orleans Contact Number: (504) 861-2537 Hours Open: 10 AM to 5 PM (Tuesday and Wednesday Closed) Audubon Zoo Admission: $35 for Adults and $25 for Children Audubon Zoo is one of the topmost family attractions in New Orleans. It is a wonderland of Audubon animals and birds. The place is filled with mammals, reptiles, and birds. From the majestic African Lions and Asians Elephants to the Aldabra Tortoise, you will find everything here.  However, for me, the most delightful creatures in the zoo are the Caribbean Flamingos. They are as colorful as their country of origin.  I also loved the Malayan Sun Bears. They are adorable with the cutest expressions. You will even find Malayan tigers here.  Furthermore, we thoroughly enjoyed The Dinosaurs at the Audubon Zoo section. I was not willing to visit the section at first. Yes, I know! I am in my thirties, and I still have my phobia!  Nonetheless, my kids insisted, and I had to take them to the section with 50 life-like dinosaurs growling and making moves. However, this special exhibit program has now ended.  Moreover, if you are in New Orleans for a long span or have plans of staying here, you can allow your kid to be a camper at the Audubon. They can become young experts in animals and they will love to spend some time with their favorite creatures. 2. A Day at Jackson Square | Best Things To Do In New Orleans With Kids Jackson Square gets its name from Andrew Jackson, the seventh president of the USA and a New Orleans battle hero. So, a visit to Jackson Square at the heart of the French Quarter is like taking a walk down memory lane.  Here, you will also find Pontalba Apartments and many other oldest buildings in the city. Rented places are easily available in these buildings.  As you appreciate the old-yet-young vibe of the space or recall the history of New Orleans, let your little one enjoy the jazz music, live performances, and entertainment events here.  Moreover, if you are lucky enough, you can be a part of the art festivals here.  A stone’s throw away from Jackson Square is the St. Louis Cathedral. It is the oldest cathedral church in North America, and its steeples watch over the French Quarter.  3. A Ghost Tour | Exciting Things To Do In New Orleans With Kids Well, if your little one loves Halloween and everything spooky, you can definitely take them on a family-friendly ghost tour. These tours are especially popular among adventurous children in their pre-teens.  Tour Organizers like Viator, offer Spooky Family-Friendly Ghost Tour in New Orleans in the French Quarters.  Now, these ghost tours are very much ingrained in the spirit of New Orleans. The LaLaurie Mansion or the New Orleans French Quarter was infamous for the mistreatment of slaves. Supernatural activities and the stories around them started flowing after a neighbor saw a troubling incident. The neighbor saw a lady chasing a slave girl, who jumped from the roof of the mansion as an escape.  Despite the presence of modern boutiques, quaint restaurants and a reimagined and bustling French Market, the spooky vibe simply refuses to go away!  4. Spending Time By The Mississippi River There is something special about New Orleans. And as they say, the Mississippi River is the manifestation of the heart of New Orleans. It’s welcoming and embracing, and its culture and heritage surpass the geographical boundaries.  Further, like the Mississippi River which destroys, restores and builds the banks, New Orleans believes in making a forward move even in the toughest conditions. The recent terror attacks and the means of recuperation are burning examples.  So, if you want your little one to know about the true spirit of New Orleans, allow them to sit and relax by the Mississippi River for a while.  They will love sitting on the steps and watching the boats passing in the water. It is very close to the French Quarter, but a complete contrast in its spirit.  Moreover, your little ones will be elated to have beignets here. You will find the best beignets at Café Du Monde Riverwalk (Contact Number: +1 504-218-7993) here. The coffee there was good and just the way I like it.  5. A Visit To The Louis Armstrong Park  Location: 835 N. Rampart St, New Orleans Hours Open: 8 AM to 6 PM Entry Fee: Entry is Free for a Walk in the Park A visit to Louis Armstrong Park is not ideal for very young children. However, kids in their teens or growing up years with an interest in Jazz music will love this place. It is very close to the French Quarter, and inside the park, you will find Congo Square.  Congo Square is the place where slaves used to unite during the 1800s. Furthermore, your kids will love looking at the ducks in the pond of Louis Armstrong Park.  Moreover, the Mahalia Jackson Theater inside Louis Armstrong Park is a popular place to visit for artists and music lovers. It gets its name from Mahalia Jackson, a gospel singer of New Orleans.  Also read Why Include Whale Watching In Your LA Itinerary. Traveling On A Budget: Tips For Affordable Adventures. From Cocktails To Kickflips: Must-Try Activities In San Diego.

BY  Sibashree Feb 16, 2026

Split is a port city on the beautiful Adriatic Sea. It has delightful beaches in Croatia and a vibrant nightlife. However, it is the ancient heart of the city that attracts me the most.  It’s great that I reached Split in November and spent weeks getting to know the Dalmatian region and the city’s history.  The Mediterranean climate of Split is blissful, and that’s what makes it a year-round attraction. However, it is one of the best family vacation spots if you are planning something for the summer.  Also, if you are a history buff like me, you can plan an off-season trip and avoid the crowd.  As I chose November for my Split Croatia trip, I got the chance to soak up the never-ending stories.  Did you know that Split was the place where Emperor Diocletian retired from his throne? He was the only Roman emperor who voluntarily retired from his throne. Also, Split was the place where Julius Nepos, another Roman Emperor, was killed by his soldiers in 480 AD. Thus, Split saw the final nail in the coffin of the Western Roman Empire.  Nikola Tesla, the legendary inventor, studied in Split.  Split has been used as the backdrop of many Hollywood movies and TV series, including the magnanimous Game of Thrones. Split is the actual place where Daenerys kept her three dragons.  So, overall, Split has history, intrigue, natural abundance, and a happening nightlife. Here is more about the best things to do in Split Croatia, in 2026, and exploring the old and new Dalmatian regions.  How Many Days Are Enough To Explore Split?  If you only want to explore the city of Split, a budget of 2-4 days will be enough for you. However, Split opens your path to the vast Dalmatian coast area.  So, if you are planning to also explore the Dalmatian area, it will take at least 3-4 days more.  Then, spend a day or two getting to know about the local culture, food, and history. Overall, 6-7 days is a reasonable duration to spend in Split, Croatia.  Also, Split Croatia is just a ferry ride away from Dubrovnik. There are many exciting things to do in Dubrovnik.  Also, Dubrovnik is the Croatian gateway to the beautiful Kotor, Montenegro. If you want to explore all of it together, you will need at least 10-15 days. Having said that, let’s get into the discussion on the things to do in Split Croatia.  What Are The Best Things To Do In Split Croatia?  Do you want to get lost in the Old Town, or do you want to just eat, drink, and party? Split is the place that caters to all types of travelers.  However, if you want to try the best things do in Split Croatia as the locals do, here is your ultimate checklist.  1. Exploring The Dalmatian Coast And Even Beyond  Dubrovnik, Split, Sibenik, and Zadar. These are the four major cities that make the Dalmatian Coast what it is.  There are many smaller towns in between. However, these are the most populous and accessible. Split, again, has the highest population among them. Also, I used Split as the base for my journey on the Dalmatian Coast. The city airport has modern amenities, and it gets many connecting flights to other Dalmatian cities. So, this is the best way to enjoy a day, cherishing the Adriatic region. However, you can also choose Zagreb, the inland capital of Croatia, as your base, and then take a bus to Split and the Dalmatian coast.  2. Visiting Diocletian’s Palace  Diocletian, an enlightened Roman emperor, ruled from 284 to 305 AD. The seat of his voluntary retirement or abdication was his palace in Split.  Diocletian’s Palace is an intriguing combination of a military fortress, an imperial accommodation, a fortified town, and gardens.  You can still listen to the cry of the while marble palace for the retired emperor.  A DIY tour of the palace is free. However, you can also be a part of a small group tour and have an in-depth idea about the past of the palace and Split.  Also, if you want, you can plan a stay at the Diocletian’s Palace. However, there is always a large queue of tourists who want to stay here. So, book in advance.  Moreover, here are the most noteworthy spots I visited in the Diocletian’s Palace Complex.  • The Cybele Temple Or The Cathedral Treasury Split I came across the Cybele Temple or the Cathedral Treasury as I just entered the complex. This complex also functions as a museum.  Inside the museum, I saw some really intriguing Catholic relics and artifacts from the Roman era. So, the museum at the entrance sets the perfect mood for the things you can expect throughout the tour of the palace.  It is also the time when you will choose the tours you want to take. The amount you pay will depend on the number of tours you take.  • Saint Dominus Bell Tower Now, this part is a little difficult as I had to climb almost 200 steep steps to reach the top of the bell tower. The narrow passageways once again reminded me why I needed to take my fitness sessions more seriously.  Finally, after climbing upward through a tight space, the tower culminates in an “open-air metal staircase.”  The view from here is amazing.  • Saint Dominus Cathedral The Saint Dominus Cathedral is just below the cathedral. It is the second-oldest among the Catholic cathedrals that are still being used.  Furthermore, the Catholic iconography and the soaring dome inside really humbled me. The building may not be massive, but it has an impressive architecture.  • The Temple Of Jupiter I love Greco-Roman architecture and always look for historical things to do whenever I visit a new destination. So, I had to stop by the Temple of Jupiter.  Dedicated to the Greek God, Jupiter, the temple also tells the tales of human resilience. It was destroyed three times and then reconstructed.  The final version was built during 81-96, in the time of Emperor Domitian.  Furthermore, the granite sphinx outside the temple is headless and this is a 3000-year-old statue, which was beheaded in the 4th century by the enraged local Christians. After the temple visit, I took the Pusti Me Da Prodjem or the Let Me Pass alley. 3. Exploring The Old Town  The Diocletian’s Palace is in a fortified town. The alleys here still exude the old-world charm.  The only modern elements are the internet cafes, stray cats, and ice cream shops here. I especially loved walking the alleyways at night with the moonlight bathing the streets.  The activity was simple, but the sense of adventure and romance I had was matchless. It was the perfect TheLowDownUnder Travel vibe.  4. Walking The Riva The harbor and the Riva are just outside the Old Town and temple walls. This section is very wakable, and it is the place to explore the shops, local restaurants, and cafes.  You can call it the living room of the city, and it is the most prominent place in Split. Moreover, you can have all types of seafood and cuisine at the restaurants here.  I loved the English-only menus and authentic Croatian cuisine here. You can also try the seafood, fresh burgers, and pizzas.  Moreover, I loved watching people here and how they got involved in animated conversations after a dose of cigarettes, booze, or just good food.  Overall, with music playing in the background, Riva is all about camaraderie, great energy, and sharing vibes.  5. Eating, Drinking, And Partying In Split  Do you love authentic Croatian food? Try the top-rated restaurants in Split, such as Duje, DeListes or Konoba Matejusta.  Furthermore, I loved the cuttlefish risotto at DeListes and black truffle carbonara. The best thing about these restaurants is that the menus change regularly because the dishes are made using fresh and locally-sourced ingredients only.  Also, they always do not accept reservations, and you may have to pay only in cash.  Moreover, I came across many excellent bars in the Old Town. O’Hara’s Irish Pub was a discovery there, and a local lady advised me to pay a visit to Trogir.  Also, Marvlvs Libray Jazz Bar, Charlie’s Bar, and Crew Bar are some of the places to enjoy the party vibe of Croatia.  6. Visiting A Museum With such a rich culture, Split has no dearth of options when it comes to museums. I visited the following museums here.  • Mestrovic Gallery This museum celebrates Mestrovic, the famous Croatian artist and sculptor. It is a place to learn about his life and work.  • Split Ethnographic Museum It is a wonderful display of the Croatian home objects and clothing.  • Game Of Thrones Museum  This museum has the most authentic costumes and props used in the iconic TV series. Also, some parts of the TV series were shot here. 7. Getting Aerobic At Marjan Park The Marjan Park, with its network of forested trails, extends into the ocean. It was an experience to climb the Telegrin Peak, the highest point of the park.  From the peak, I loved the views in the surroundings. If you don’t want to walk, you can also take a bike to reach the peak.  In fact, you walk for four hours and still do not see every corner of the park. So, getting the rental immediately after reaching the park is the best thing you can do.  Moreover, I don’t want you to repeat the mistake I made. So, you must bring your swimsuit here as you will find the Kasjuni Beach, Plaza Jezinak, and Kupaliste Bene here. 8. A Day Trip In The Dalmatia Historic Region Split is more alluring for the quintessential Croatian experience because of its accessibility and central location.  Furthermore, you can start exploring the historic region of Dalmatia from Split. So, take a short bus ride and explore the following regions.  • Trogir I took the Flix bus and reached Trogir to soak in its medieval vibe. Time stands still here, and it feels like a journey to the fairyland.  • Kills Fortress Visiting the Kills Fortress feels nothing short of an investigation project. In Game of Thrones, it was the Meeren.  The views from the fortress are breathtaking.  • Solin And Salona  You can experience Solin, which is a modern city, and it surrounds Salona. Salona is the place where Emperor Diocletian was born.  Furthermore, it is an ancient Roman City, probably even older than Pompeii. It has a large cemetery, a large bathhouse, and a massive amphitheater.  Other places you can visit during the day trip are the Plitvice Lakes National Park, Krka National Park, or the Blue Cave. Even Mostar in Bosnia and Herzegovina can be a part of your Split Croatia itinerary.  9. Hopping A Ferry Croatia has more than a thousand islands. Some of them are unpopulated. However, you can explore the other islands by ferry.  I used the ferryhopper.com app to plan my ferry route and schedule the ride. I took a ticket for a visit to Hvar.  You can even take a ferry ride to Mediterranean islands such as Korkula and Vis.  However, when planning a ferry ride, you have to check the weather conditions first. Adriatic is unpredictable.  10. Making Good Memories In Split Croatia Split Croatia harbors most of the historical wonders and flows here. So, I listened to endless stories and learned many lessons here.  Furthermore, the Mediterranean climate here is very seductive, and in every nook of Split, there is a sense of discovery.  People are warm, the beaches are gorgeous, and the food is great.  So, plan a visit to this city of Roman history and culture soon! 

BY  Sibashree Nov 12, 2025

There are three instances I clearly remember from our trip to the Great Barrier Island, New Zealand. The best thing about the Great Barrier Island wildlife tours is that they begin even before you board the ferry.  Here, I will start with some fun moments we had while exploring the wildlife of Great Barrier Island, then gradually discuss the details. So, let’s examine the rugged, predator-free paradise in New Zealand's Hauraki Gulf.  My Great Barrier Island Wildlife Tours: Some Stories That Have Stayed With Me With around 60% of the Great Barrier Island being a conservation area, the Aotea Great Barrier Island in New Zealand shines with sustainability certificates and its commitment to preserving the indigenous flora and the rare and endemic fauna of the island.  1. The Biosecurity Check  We were about to board the ferry to the Great Barrier Island. The Auckland Regional Council and the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) people did thorough biosecurity checks of our bags, and we had to clean our boots. Thus, they make a visitor part of the island's conservation effort.  This check is mandatory, and this is the reason the pāteke and kākā are thriving on the island. 2. The Dark Sky Sanctuary And The Great Barrier Island Wildlife Tours  Great Barrier Island’s designation as a Dark Sky Sanctuary has enhanced the wildlife tour experiences. We went out to see the Milky Way at night, and we stood quietly and listened to the sound of silence.  Suddenly, we were startled by the more-pork cry of the Ruru birds. Also, we saw the black petrels or Tākoketai coming back to their burrows.  3. Did I See A Chevron Skink? Did I Not? See, Chevron Skink also feels like a mythical species. These nocturnal species are the masters of camouflage. So, honestly, we did not see them with our naked eyes.  However, we could listen to the squeaks and grunts of the Chevron Skinks. It was thrilling knowing that we were walking through their only habitat in the world, which is protected by sanctuaries like Glenfern.  Why Is Aotea Great Barrier Island A Paradise For Wildlife Tours?  Afar, a US-based travel media brand, has named Aotea Great Barrier Island one of the top 25 off-the-beaten-track destinations in the world.  Aotea, Great Barrier Island in the Hauraki Gulf, is a designated dark sky sanctuary. So, it is ideal for spotting and listening to the nocturnal birds and animals.  Furthermore, the Department of Conservation (DOC) maintains 60% conservation land on the Aotea Great Barrier Island. As a result, it is the island of Firsts" and "Lasts.” It means that the island has birds such as North Island kākā and pāteke (brown teal), which are found nowhere else in the world.  In addition, the "Predator-Free" Secret of the Island is truly special. In the absence of stoats, possums, weasels, or deer, the rare and endemic species here have been able to thrive.  Along with all these endeavors, the Great Barrier Island has been successful in community-led conservation efforts, maintaining biodiversity and species protection. Here are the details.  1. Aotea Great Barrier Island Environmental Trust “The principle activities of the Trust are in protecting, enhancing, developing and maintaining habitats for New Zealand native and endemic species on Aotea Great Barrier Island, with a particular focus on pest management…” Founded in 2002, this trust has been an advocate for conservation policies, has coordinated many conservation efforts, and earned funding for local conservation projects.  2. Aotea Conservation Park  The 2,000-hectare Aotea Conservation Park with walking tracks, DOC huts, and campsites makes the island an ideal destination for exploring the wildlife.  3. Marine Conservation  The Aotea Great Barrier Environmental Trust’s Tai Timu Tai Pari” or “Sea Change” initiative aims to protect the marine ecosystem of the Hauraki Gulf. Furthermore, the Department of Conservation (DOC) has proposed to build a large marine conservation area in the northeast corner of the island.  In addition, beach clean-ups and educational programs have been effective local endeavors to preserve the marine life of the island.  4. Biodiversity And Species Protection  The island is a critical nesting ground for the black petrels. The Department of Conservation takes care of the nesting ground.  Furthermore, around 60% of the pāteke population in New Zealand is present on the Great Barrier Island. These birds are frequently spotted in places such as Kaitoke Wetlands.  You can visit the Kaitoke Wetlands just before dusk. Park at the end of the road, walk the flat boardwalk, and wait quietly by the main pond. You will almost certainly see and hear the rare pāteke (brown teal) as they come out to feed. Chevron skink, 13 different types of lizards, banded rail, and North Island Kaka are some other native species that exist on the Great Barrier Island.  What Are The Must-See Wildlife Attractions On The Aotea Great Barrier Island In New Zealand?  The Glenfern Sanctuary, Aotea Track, Kaitoke Hot Springs, and the coastal areas are ideal for spotting the unique and rich wildlife of the Great Barrier Island, New Zealand.  1. The Pāteke (Brown Teal) Pāteke is one of the rarest ducks in the world. The Great Barrier Island is a stronghold for these ducks, and you will find them in the Kaitoke Wetlands.  The Department of Conservation and Predator Free NZ Trust are two important bodies taking care of the conservation efforts to protect these birds. Habitat management and predator control are two main elements of protecting the Pāteke birds.  Now, you understand why biosecurity is so crucial for these adorable ducks on the Great Barrier Island.  2. The Black Petrel (Takoketai) This seabird breeds only on the Great Barrier and Little Barrier islands. They nest in burrows high in the mountains. The Glenfern Sanctuary protects a key colony of these birds.  However, the main breeding colony on Aotea is at Mount Hobson/Hirakimata. According to the Department of Conservation, around 900-1000 pairs of birds stay there.  These birds are featured on the IUCN Red List as a vulnerable species. Furthermore, they are identified as “Nationally Vulnerable” in New Zealand.  Moreover, there has been a conservation monitoring going on since 1995 to assess the population of these birds and how they are declining.  3. The Chevron Skink (Niho Taniwha) This large, rare lizard is found only on the Great Barrier and Little Barrier. It is almost like a mythical animal, and spotting it is very unlikely.  However, they mostly stay in the Stream-side forests. It is listed as nationally vulnerable by the Threat Classification System of the Department of Conservation.  The sightings of these lizards are so important that DOC asks you to report to the local office or call at +64 9 429 0044 whenever you spot one.  4. The North Island Kākā It is a large, intelligent, and noisy native parrot. It is famous for the loud "screech" and "chatter. I saw a few of them high in the forest canopy along the Mt Hobson track.  The Glenfern Sanctuary is another spot where you will find these parrots. The Great Barrier Island is an important habitat for these birds as it offers a predator-free environment.  5. Dolphins And Marine Life Aotea’s location on the edge of the Hauraki Gulf Marine Park, the national park of the sea, makes it rich in marine life. The Hauraki Gulf and the Great Barrier Island were both formed due to massive volcanic activity at the end of the Ice Age.  In 1769, James Cook named the island because of how it protected the Hauraki Gulf.  The water of the Hauraki Gulf Marine Park has 22 species of marine mammals. Bottlenose and common dolphins are often seen from the ferry or playing in bays like Okupu (Blind Bay) and Whangaparapara Harbour. You may even spot Bryde's whales there.  Furthermore, seabirds are important members of the Marine Park. Black petrels are, of course, the most common among them.  Coastal camping is the best outdoor experience if you want to explore the marine life of the Great Barrier Island, New Zealand. Here are some popular coastal campsites.  Akapoua Bay Campsite Near Port Fitzroy, Ideal for Spotting Pohutukawa Trees and Fishing Awana Beach Campsite, Ideal for Surfers Harataonga Campsite, Great for Swimming and Snorkeling Medlands Beach Campsite, Surfing and Picnic Spot  The Green Campsite at Whangaparapara Harbour, Ideal for a Serene Walk and as a Secluded Retreat Whangapoua Campsite, a Popular Surf-Break.  A Guide To Aotea Great Barrier Island Wildlife Tours: Species, Sanctuaries, And Different Types Of Wildlife Tours  During the wildlife tours, our primary concern was how to spot native birds on Great Barrier Island. Little did we know that we would hear them before actually seeing them flapping their wings.  We heard the screeching call of kākā as we were hiking through the Mount Hobson Track. Then, we saw a cloud of birds passing over our heads.  Nevertheless, it’s not just about the birds. Aotea, Great Barrier Island in New Zealand, is home to endless endemic species.  1. Specialist Day Tours & Sanctuary Visits The Glenfern Sanctuary of the Great Barrier Island is a haven for the endangered and rare species. It is an 83-acre regional park, and it functions as the “gateway to the 240-hectare Kotuku Peninsula of the north-west coastline of the Great Barrier Island.” Furthermore, the Glenfern Sanctuary Trust is committed to the preservation of the endangered flora and fauna and their habitats as you walk through the 2km loop track through a native bush to spot the birds and native species.  The black petrels and the ancient Kauri trees are the biggest highlights of this tour. The sanctuary remains open 7 days a week and from sunrise to sunset.  Moreover, you must hike through the Sanctuary and Loop Track to explore nature, wildlife, and the unique culture of the Great Barrier Island.  Sanctuary And Loop Track The Glefern Loop Track is one of the easiest Great Barrier Island hiking tracks. Here, you will have to walk along the Aotea stream and through the remnants of an ancient native bush.  The bush is protected by the Queen Elizabeth II National Trust of New Zealand, and it is rich in bird life. So, here, you will spot black petrels, Kaka, and Pāteke.  You can contact the regional office at 09 4290 091 to know about the further details.  2. The All-Inclusive Multi-Day Guided Walk If you want a more immersive wildlife experience, you must choose the all-inclusive multi-day guided walks. MoaTours and Go Great Barrier Island Tourism are two such services taking care of your accommodation, food, expert guides, and transport.  They focus on the best tracks, like the Aotea Track, Mt Hobson, and Kaitoke Wetlands. Furthermore, the guides are flora and fauna experts. For example, you can try the “Let’s Go Wild,” “The Aotea Track” package of the Great Barrier Island. Two of the main highlights of this tour are the wetlands and the unique wildlife.  It is a 3-day hiking experience, and the charge per person (adults) will be $541 (Standard Route) or $596 (The Windy Canyon Route).  MoaTours, on the other hand, organizes a 5-day Great Barrier Island small group tour, covering areas such as the Medlands Beach and Tryphena Harbour. The charges will be   $4,390 NZD for solo travelers and $3,890 NZD for twin travelers.  3. Self-Guided Great Barrier Island Wildlife Tours  The self-guided tours to explore the wildlife of the Great Barrier Island are ideal for an independent traveler. For example, you can go for the Glefern Sanctuary self-guided walks and learn about the biodiversity of the sanctuary, its conservation efforts, and more.  You can contact Steve, the manager of the sanctuary, at 0210826670 to be a part of these tours.  Furthermore, you can create your own Great Barrier Island wildlife tours by planning a visit to the Kaitoke Wetlands, Mt Hobson (Hirakimata) Track, Medlands Beach & Onetangi, and Windy Canyon.  How To Spot Native Birds On Great Barrier Island? A DIY Guide For Wildlife Tours  I have already mentioned the Glefern Sanctuary self-guided walks. Along with that, you can visit any of these areas for a perfect wildlife exploration on the Great Barrier Island.  1. Kaitoke Wetlands The Glefern Sanctuary offers a guided tour to the Kaitoke Hot Springs, located on the Mount Hobson Track. You can access the track from the Whangaparapara Road.  Furthermore, you will find a series of geothermal pools on the Kaitoke Hot Springs track. This area, maintained by the Department of Conservation (DoC), is a treasure hub for native birds.  Here, we had to walk through an easy boardwalk and gravel road to encounter pāteke and spotless crakes. And thanks to the new Kai swing bridge here, the route has now become wheelchair and buggy accessible.  Even when we were swimming in the geothermal pools, we could listen to the calls of the pātekes.  2. Mt Hobson (Hirakimata) Track The Peach Tree Track to Mount Hobson is the best route for spotting native birds and the wildlife of the Great Barrier Island. The route passes through regenerating forests, and these forests are home to a lot of native bird species, such as: Kākā Tūī: Tomtit (Miromiro) North Island Robin (Pītoitoi) Black Petrel (Takoketai) You can spot these birds in the dense native bush. Also, you can see them in large numbers near the high slopes and close to the summit. In addition, the 360-degree view of the island is a bonus you will love to count on.  3. Medlands Beach & Onetangi Medlands Beach and Onetangi are famous for coastal and nearshore wildlife like the paradise shelducks and little blue penguins.  Furthermore, wekas are common in these locations, and these are chosen as the reintroduction programs of the North Island brown kiwi.  4. Windy Canyon On the Windy Canyon hiking route, you will find conservation centers such as the Kiwi Park Queenstown. Here, you will find native species such as tuatara and Kiwi.  Furthermore, throughout the route, you will listen to the buzzing cicadas.  The Best Tips For Spotting The Birds On The Great Barrier Island  Dawn and dusk are the best hours of the day for spotting birds on the Great Barrier Island. “Dawn Chorus” is a real experience on the Great Barrier Island.  Once you reach the spot, be patient and wait quietly, as patience is a virtue for bird watching.  Keep your ears open. You'll hear the tūī's "click-whirr-gurgle" and the kākā's "screech" before you see them. Going nocturnal is a great trick for watching the native birds of the Great Barrier Island. That is why being a Dark Sky Sanctuary is crucial for the Aotea Great Barrier Island.  Carry a red-light torch and be alert about the "more-pork" call of the Ruru to spot the birds in the dark.  Talk to the staff of the hotel or the owner of the homestay you are staying in. They will have the best local tips about birdwatching on the Great Barrier Island.  How To Plan The Great Barrier Island Wildlife Tours?  There are three main aspects of planning Great Barrier Island wildlife tours. 1. How To Reach The Great Barrier Island? You can take a Barrier Air flight from Auckland to reach the Great Barrier Island in 45 minutes. You can even take the SeaLink ferry and complete a journey of 4.5 hours to reach the Great Barrier Island.  2. How To Move Around The Great Barrier Island? Renting a car or a bike is the most convenient option to move around the island. Furthermore, kayaking is an excellent way to explore the bays, caves, and diverse marine life of the island.  3. What Is The Best Time To Visit The Great Barrier Island Wildlife? From September to November, or the spring season, is the ideal time to visit the wildlife of Great Barrier Island. This is the nesting season for most birds on the island.  So, these months are the best for listening to the chorus of the dawn and the dusk.  Being A Responsible Tourist To Protect The Wildlife Of The Great Barrier Island Biosecurity is the most important aspect of the Great Barrier Island wildlife tours. The wildlife of the island is thriving as it is maintained as a sanctuary. So, by cooperating with the biosecurity checks at the DoC-approved facilities and cleaning stations, we have to be a part of the conservation effort.  The 3C policy of the biosecurity checks on the Great Barrier Island is: Check Clean Check We have to check our bags, gear, and shoes for pests (rats, mice, insects) and seeds before they leave the mainland.  Your Great Barrier Adventure Awaits The Aotea Great Barrier Island is a nature lover’s dream, with every nook awaiting a surprise with the native birds and their playful chirps. Furthermore, the Glenfern Sanctuary, Mount Hobson Track, and the wetlands on the Great Barrier Island, New Zealand, are a stronghold for rare and endemic birds and animals.  So, the birds are calling. Are you ready to answer?