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Twelve months of Cookson Adventures

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Twelve months of Cookson Adventures

Twelve months of

For the truly curious.

Adventure and luxury. We believe you can have both. Since 2009, we’ve dared to be different, exploring the unknown to provide our clients with irreplaceable memories. Anyone can travel, but not everyone knows how to explore. It’s why Henry founded Cookson Adventures - to elevate adventure and deliver something new. Inject adventure into your calendar with twelve months of Cookson experiences, whether it’s diving to shipwrecks in the world’s most advanced submersibles or searching for polar bears aboard a private yacht in the Arctic.

Adventures simply created because we believe memories only become unforgettable when you venture beyond the extraordinary.

Contents

WHY EXPLORE WITH COOKSON? We live and breathe adventure

ADVENTURE MAP Twelve months of Cookson Adventures JANUARY Deep in Gabonese rainforests Gabon, Central Africa FEBUARY Rituals of a tribe forgotten by time Papua New Guinea, Oceania APRIL The Pacific’s ‘superhighway’ Revillagigedo Archipelago, Mexico MAY A land ripe for exhilaration Utah, United States of America JUNE Svalbard’s captivating fjords Svalbard, Norway JULY The dazzling shores of Tonga Kingdom of Tonga, Oceania MARCH The world’s aquarium Baja California Sur, Mexico

AUGUST Foraging bears & Alaska’s medley of landscapes Alaska, North America SEPTEMBER Untapped adventure in Russia’s restless peninsula Kamchatka, Russia

OCTOBER Monks, mountains & meditation Bhutan, Southeast Asia NOVEMBER Diver’s paradise Republic of Palau, Oceania DECEMBER An evolutionary tale Galápagos Islands, Ecuador

102

Why explore with Cookson? WE L I VE AND BR E ATHE ADVENTUR E For us adventure is more than a passion, it is a state of mind born from our founder Henry Cookson who set out to explore the extraordinary. Before founding Cookson Adventures, Henry swapped the rat race for the remarkable. From winning a race to the Magnetic North Pole to a record-breaking kite-skiing expedition crossing 1,100 miles to the Pole of Inaccessibility. Spurred on to explore further, Henry then learned and perfected his trade as a guide through the wild and expansive terrains of Alaska and Africa. E XP E R I ENCE S SHAP ED BY YOU Our experiences begin with you, and we want to know it all – your likes and dislikes, your interests and passions. Starting with a blank sheet of paper we believe in creating unique adventures based entirely around you for incomparable journeys designed to challenge the most seasoned of travellers. G I V I NG BACK TO THE P L ANE T Our adventures are driven by our love for this remarkable world and the wonders to be found in its remotest corners. From tagging sharks alongside scientists in the Pacific Ocean to rehoming 250 juvenile tortoises in the Galápagos Islands, we design itineraries that give back to the planet. Conservation runs as a key thread through each of our adventures. What began with Henry now continues with Cookson Adventures.

Clockwise from left: Conservation is at our core: a Cookson client has funded groundbreaking orca research in Antarctica | Within reaching distance, scuba diving in the Bahamas | Exploring the Antarctic in Cookson style, with a helicopter, submersible and private yacht

E XP E R T KNOWL EDGE We know it takes a team of world-renowned experts to satisfy a truly curious mind. Connecting you with leaders in their field, explore alongside archaeologists, astronomers, anthropologists and marine biologists, and see what can be achieved when people come together. Whether it’s being the first to take a submersible to Antarctica or spotting schools of blue whales in the Pacific, together with our network of experts, we outsmart obstacles and turn boundaries into new opportunities. F I ND I NG THE NEW In every corner of our magnificent planet there are always new things to discover, and new ways to discover them. Fueled by an appetite to seek these out, it is a passion and curiosity that never ceases to inspire. Every day, our travel specialists go in search of something different, gaining access to the world’s most elusive locations to shape the most exclusive of experiences. A DECADE OF E XP E R I ENCE Year after year, our knowledge becomes broader and deeper, and more doors are opened to us. It’s how, for over a decade, we continue to give our clients encounters unlike anything they’ve experienced before – ones filled with world firsts, remarkable sights and all that’s needed to create long-treasured memories.

Clockwise from left: We organised for our client to support a project that reintroduced 250 juvenile giant tortoises into locations they have been absent from for over 200 years | Exploring the largest cave system in the world, Son Doong in Vietnam | Henry Cookson in Alaska

An adventure for every month of the year

SVALBARD JUNE

Watch polar bears and the Arctic’s most iconic wildlife from a private yacht.

ALASKA AUGUST

Chase the salmon run alongside grizzly bears and coastal wolves in North America.

KAMCHATKA SEPTEMBER

Voyage around Russia’s volcano-rich peninsula.

UTAH MAY

Pump adrenaline through your veins in nature’s playground.

BHUTAN OCTOBER

BAJA CALIFORNIA SUR MARCH

Visit the happiest country in the world and step into serenity.

Embark on a voyage where close wildlife encounters are guaranteed.

REVILLAGIGEDO ARCHIPELAGO APRIL

Shark conservation with scientists in Mexico’s unspoilt islands.

REPUBLIC OF PALAU NOVEMBER

A little-known archipelago with some of the world’s best dive sites.

GALÁPAGOS ISLANDS DECEMBER

PAPUA NEW GUINEA FEBRUARY

Draw the year to a close in one of the world’s greatest natural wonders.

Venture into the jungle and meet a tribe hidden from the outside world.

GABON JANUARY

Search the rainforest for troops of lowland gorillas with our primate researchers.

Adventures are designed for people with a curiosity and thirst for exploring without sacrificing the highest levels of comfort. — LUXURY TRAVEL MAGAZINE

KINGDOM OF TONGA JULY

Whales and water sports in the Friendly Islands.

Deep in Gabonese rainforests January I N GABON , CENT RA L AF R I CA

J ANUARY

Gabon CENT RA L AF R I CA

On the west coast of Central Africa, deep in Gabonese rainforests, around a quarter of Africa’s gorilla population take shelter. Listen to the sounds of nearby mandrills and hornbills as our primate researchers lead you through jungle to some of the largest troops of lowland gorillas to walk the earth. With an adventure that puts conservation at its core, you can collaborate with our team to help stop the rapid decline of these gentle and critically endangered creatures and protect their unique ecosystem. This nation has only recently opened up to tourism, meaning our expertise is invaluable in coordinating the ultimate jungle experience with guaranteed comfort. Sink into Gabon’s culture with mask making and native facial painting, before exploring white sand beaches where elephants play metres away from breaching humpback whales. Gabon is a country of contrasts. Mangroves and savannahs, lagoons and mountains. With a private yacht as your base, fly by helicopter over some of the oldest human settlements on earth and take in the beauty of a land carpeted in rainforest and enigmatic African wildlife. And just an overnight sail from Gabon lie the exquisite volcanic islands of São Tomé and Príncipe which have been dubbed the ‘African Galápagos’, with more endemic species per square mile than anywhere else on earth.

Previous image: A herd of roaming elephants deep in a rainforest Clockwise from left: Twisted vines and branches act as a playground for primates | A western lowland gorilla playfully shows its strength

GOR I L L A CONS E RVAT I ON During the last 20 years, the population of western lowland gorillas has been halved due to the detrimental bushmeat trade. You can visit gorilla orphanages and watch footage from jungle camera traps with local researchers. NAT I ONA L PARK S Over 10 per cent of the country has been turned into protected national parks, which includes the largest intact part of tropical forests in Africa. Here you can find thousands of species of plants that simply can’t be found anywhere else in the world. L I VE L Y B E ACHE S A sprawling national park extends all the way to a beach in Gabon, which means elephants, buffalos, hippos and gorillas have been seen on occasion along the coastline. You can also see green, olive ridley and hawksbill turtles, and the largest leatherback population in the world on Gabon’s beaches. GAME DR I VE S Wake up before sunrise and explore the region’s savannahs, lagoons and white sand roads in a modified 4x4 and discover what was once home to some of the world’s oldest human settlements. CANYON CAMP I NG Sleep under the stars and wake up to uninterrupted views of Gabon’s vast red rock canyons. We can build a bespoke camp for your group with all the luxurious amenities available. I S L AND HOP P I NG Sail overnight to one of Africa’s least visited countries, São Tomé and Príncipe. These tropical islands have been compared to the Seychelles twenty years ago.

Clockwise from left: The needle-shaped Pico Cão Grande on São Tomé Island | A young lowland gorilla curiously peers through the trees | Exploring the wilderness during an early morning game drive

Clockwise from left: A wave crashes against the rocks of São Tomé Island | Hippos were once found surfing the waves along Gabon’s beaches | Foraging mandrills | Find breaching humpback whales metres away from elephants on Gabon’s beaches

Rituals of a tribe forgotten by time February I N PAPUA NEW GU I NE A , OCE AN I A

F E BRUARY

Papua New Guinea OCE AN I A

Papua New Guinea, which occupies the eastern half of New Guinea, is one of the least explored countries in the world. Impenetrable forest and smouldering volcanoes make nature a fortress in this tropical land. Here you can interact with communities that have lived in isolation for thousands of years; faces pierced with feathers and bones, and tribes practicing rituals forgotten by time. Watch as birds of paradise flit between the trees with their magnificent plumage and crocodiles skulk in the muddy mangroves. Only a handful of people have been privileged enough to visit the Kaningara tribe. In a land largely untouched by tourism, you can take part in their rarely-seen coming of age ceremonies. Make your way through the rainforest by helicopter, boat and on foot, accompanied by a leading documentary producer, a researcher and local tribesmen. All before arriving at a village, where you will uncover the traditions of one of the world’s most remote tribes. Due to our existing relationship with the Kaningara tribe, the tribal chief has extended to us a special invitation for upcoming celebrations.

Previous image: As the morning mist rises over the forested lowlands, explore a land largely untouched by tourism Clockwise from left: The smoking Tavurvur volcano in Rabaul | A palm-tree shaded hut where the community regularly gather

WI TNE S S A COM I NG OF AGE CE R EMONY Follow tribespeople into the heart of Papua New Guinea’s jungle and embark on an expedition that will reveal the intimate rituals of a tribe forgotten by time. TAM I I S L ANDS Explore the tiny islands of Tami, a beautiful region made up of four coral atolls. There is excellent diving around these islands, with wrecks of Second World War aircraft scattered along the seabed. B I OLOG I CA L D I VE R S I T Y Discover the biological diversity of this unique region. Papua New Guinea is said to be home to over five per cent of the world’s total number of animal species within just one per cent of the world’s land area. DUGOUT CANOE S , RAF T I NG & KAYAK I NG Paddle between the jungle mangroves in indigenous wooden canoes to a jungle camp that will be built especially for you. Grasp a sense of the region’s endless rapids as you kayak or raft through its wilderness. Start high in the mountains on a small tributary and journey past open grasslands where farmers have settled before racing down a number of white-water rivers. CL I MB I NG & AB S E I L I NG There are plenty of opportunities to climb or abseil in Papua New Guinea with its mainland bisected by a large mountain range. CAV I NG Boasting a number of chambers, cascading waterfalls and underground streams, this country’s deep cave system is perfect for exploration J UNGL E T R E KK I NG Let our nature guides lead the way as you venture across unspoilt mountains, rivers and through marsupial-filled rainforest. This country’s isolation and spectacular geography create the ultimate setting for jungle trekking.

Clockwise from left: Guests aboard a private yacht admire the Lusancay Islands in complete privacy - image courtesy of True North Adventure Cruises | A tribal boy paddles in a traditional canoe in Melanesia | Decorated crocodile skulls cerebrate the Kaningara tribe’s spirit animal | A perched cendrawasih parades its plumage

Clockwise from left: Arrive in style on board a private plane, flown into Papua New Guinea’s verdant highlands | The Huli community in Tari are known for their woven wigs, decorated with bundles of multi-coloured feathers | The gorgeous Tami Islands are a dream for snorkellers

The world’s aquarium March I N BA J A CA L I FORN I A SUR , ME X I CO

MARCH

Baja California Sur ME X I CO

Such is the abundance of marine life in The Sea of Cortez, that it was once described by Jacques Cousteau as the ‘world’s aquarium’. Let us show you its wonders with an incredible voyage around the Baja Peninsula. Search for playful seals, whale sharks or pods of inquisitive bottlenose dolphins with our experts and see this natural aquarium as Cousteau saw it. On land find an untamed and almost mystical landscape. The rugged desert contrasts with the crystal blue sea, providing a full roster of activities for you to enjoy. Kayak through the mangroves or snorkel along the thriving coral reefs in search of octopuses and sea turtles; and find out how this peninsula’s rich topography was designed for adventure. Close wildlife encounters are guaranteed, whether it’s playful manta rays or looming grey whales. Stroll through 16th-century colonial streets for ‘Baja Med’ cuisine and a fascinating culture that mixes mainland Mexican with indigenous traditions. With the Sea of Cortez and the Pacific Ocean lapping at its shores, the Baja Peninsula has become known for its fresh seafood. Whether it’s fish tacos at a street market stall or a six-course tasting menu overlooking stunning vineyards, Baja offers enough for you to try something new every day.

Previous image: The glorious coastline of Cabo San Lucas Right: The colonial town of Loreto and its golden coastline lie sandwiched between the Sea of Cortez and Sierra de la Giganta

WHA L E WATCH I NG Search Baja’s waters for marine mammals, including humpback whales, enormous blue whales - the world’s biggest animal - and friendly grey whales. D I V I NG Dive at Cabo Pulmo alongside schooling hammerhead, silky and bull sharks. Here you can take part in shark conservation projects at the only living reef on the western coastline of North America. WHA L E SHARK S These friendly giants are the biggest fish in the ocean, populating all tropical seas and noted for their polka dot white spots and large white bellies. At certain times of the year, there is also an opportunity to swim with gatherings of over 30 whale sharks. B I RDWATCH I NG Search for the black storm petrel that appears to walk on water or the wide-eyed pygmy owl that sits perched on aged trees. Bird watching in Baja is a relatively new activity, which means you can avoid crowds with our expert twitchers. R EMOT E F I SH I NG V I L L AGE S Explore the rugged coastline and visit Bahia de las Animas, a remote fishing community named ‘The Bay of Souls’. The methods of these fishermen have changed little over the last hundred years.

Clockwise from left: A diver is dwarfed by a school of fish | The distinctive rock arch of Cabo San Lucas marks where the Pacific Ocean becomes the Gulf of California | Baja California is often dubbed Mexico’s playground for whales

SNORK E L WI TH S E A L I ONS Sail to Los Islotes and be greeted by hundreds of sea lions beckoning you to come and play. Snorkel alongside them and watch how quickly they dart through the waters. H I K I NG & HOR S E - R I D I NG Hike or horse ride along the mountains and coastlines of Baja and explore the true wilderness with your family and local ranchers. We can expertly map out routes for you that will pass through creeks and canyons. You can also visit a local ranch and help cowboys feed and herd their cattle. DUNE BUGG I E S Race dune buggies across Baja’s desert-like peninsula. These custom-built vehicles are perfectly adapted to off-road exploration. DE E P S E A F I SH I NG Baja’s waters are renowned for their deep-sea fishing, so spend the day on a specialist vessel angling for marlin, dorado, wahoo, yellowfin tuna and more.

Clockwise from left: Whale sharks are the largest fish in the ocean and can grow up to 20 metres long | Race dune buggies across Baja’s desert- like peninsula | Dive in a submersible and discover abundant waters | Snorkel alongside the gregarious sea lion colony at Los Islotes | Hike or horse rise alongside our nature guides | Flocks of brown pelicans are a frequent sight along Baja’s coastline

The Pacific’s ‘superhighway’ April I N THE R EV I L L AG I GEDO ARCH I P E L AGO , ME X I CO

AP R I L

Revillagigedo Archipelago ME X I CO Over 250 miles south from the shores of Baja California lies the Revillagigedo Archipelago, four little-known islands of volcanic origin and exquisite underwater activity. Together Socorro, Clarion, San Benedicto and Roca Partida are known as the ‘superhighway’ of the Pacific Ocean, with some of the water’s most majestic creatures riding its currents. Most visitors here spend their time beneath the waves, visiting dive sites that are just as rewarding as they are demanding. Manta ray cleaning stations attract mass migrations in the month of April, meaning you can observe these inquisitive giants and the tangerine-orange Clarion angelfish that eagerly wait to clean them, alongside leatherback turtles and whistling bottlenose dolphins. We are offering an opportunity to explore these rarely visited islands with researchers and help conserve the high number of shark species that feed here. Sail overnight aboard a private yacht to Socorro and be joined by a team of leading scientists on a separate vessel. Spend days measuring sharks using lasers, tagging and releasing, and collating media from underwater cameras. Monitoring the movements and behavioural patterns of sharks like the impressive hammerhead will help these scientists contribute to the conservation of the precious Revillagigedo ecosystem.

Previous image: Visits from giant oceanic manta rays are just one of Socorro’s many offerings Right: A submerged mountain range in the Pacific Ocean, the Revillagigedo Archipelago has recently astonished scientists with the amount of pelagic species in its surrounding waters

SUBME R S I B L E D I VE S Search in a submersible for pods of inquisitive dolphins or graceful manta ray displays. The use of a submersible will allow those who cannot dive to discover the extraordinary marine life. SHARK CONS E RVAT I ON With expert fishermen and scientists as your guides, you will dive through the day as you help retrieve underwater receivers, complete shark surveys and manta ray research, before spending evenings shark tagging silkies, Galápagos and silver tip sharks. SCUBA D I V I NG Dive in one of the only places on the planet where you view humpback whales in total isolation. Other dive spots in the Revillagigedo Archipelago include lobster- covered pinnacles at El Fondeadero and the highly photographic Aquarium, where red tail triggerfish flit between the soft corals. MAR I NE B I OD I VE R S I T Y The distinct topography of this region provides nutrients and shelter for an extraordinary variety of juvenile fish and much larger mammals, such as the filter-feeding whale shark. This is also home to some of the largest aggregations of sharks and manta rays in the world.

Clockwise from left: The tangerine Clarion angelfish plays an important role in the Revillagigedo Archipelago as they pick parasites and dead skin from migrating manta rays | The squeaks and whistles of a bottlenose dolphin is a welcome sound to divers | Around this time of year large congregations of silky sharks start to stir in the water | Explore beneath the waves without getting wet in the Revillagigedo Islands | A camouflaged octopus spotted by divers

Clockwise from left: Our guests’ cameraman gets close to a silky shark | Roca Partida ranks as the smallest of the Revillagigedo islands | Juvenile whitetip sharks and a moray eel

A land ripe for exhilaration May I N UTAH , UN I T ED S TAT E S OF AME R I CA

MAY

Utah UN I T ED S TAT E S OF AME R I CA

Southern Utah is often hailed as one of America’s most captivating landscapes. It’s also ripe for an exhilarating set of experiences, so let us lead you across its arid deserts and guide you through its narrow canyons with an action-packed itinerary. This is one of Cookson’s favourite playgrounds for high-octane fun; a land defined by its carved-out canyons and blissfully red, sun-soaked desert. With vast experience of Utah’s potential for adventure, we can tailor an itinerary to match interests for the entire group, choreographing each day to each guest. No two travellers are alike and our experts know how to create itineraries that explore all that this stunning state has to offer. With either a sophisticated resort or a specially built camp as your base – such as the one we once built for an unforgettable stag party – be whisked by private plane or helicopter to the shores of Lake Powell, America’s second largest reservoir. Here you can marvel at the magnitude of Utah during a helicopter tour, hike and horse ride, or take to the lake with a number of thrilling boating and water sports.

Previous image: Red-rock canyons provide shade from the spring’s heat Right: Tower Butte’s reflection was admired from our lake-side camp

HE L I COP T E R S I GHT S E E I NG Enjoy helicopter tours of Tower Butte or the Grand Canyon in nearby Arizona, before stopping off at scenic lunch spots that have been prepared before your arrival. HOR S E BACK R I D I NG Discover the spires and famous canyons of the Colorado Plateau by horseback, an old Western tradition that will take you back to the roots of Utah. J E T - S K I I NG Jet-ski across the meandering passageways of Lake Powell for a different perspective of this beautiful man-made lake. CANYON H I K I NG Visit Bryce Canyon National Park, which is known for crimson-coloured and spire-shaped rock formations called ‘hoodoos’. Hike through this otherworldly setting and discover a landscape formed 30-40 million years ago. NAVA JO GU I DE Explore the red-stone canyons with a Native American Navajo guide and listen to their flute music. They have been taught to live in harmony with Mother Earth for hundreds of years and perform age-old rituals. ATVs ATVs, or all-terrain task vehicles, are an exhilarating method of transport when crossing Utah’s diverse range of terrain. Race across the countryside and stop off at beauty spots that have been selected by an expert guide. RAP P E L L I NG Southern Utah is covered in narrow canyons that slash through the crust of the earth, formed by years of wind and water erosion. Regardless of ability, we can take you on a variety of hikes across this region and rappels that will lead you deep into the ground. PADD L E - BOARD I NG An activity for all ages and skill levels, paddle- boarding is perfect for finding quiet and secluded spots in Utah’s vast bodies of water.

Clockwise from left: With jet-skis at the ready, our client’s lake-side camp served as the perfect base for a weekend of water sports | Narrow canyons slash through the crust of the earth, which provides plenty of abseiling opportunities | Come rain or shine, race against friends in ATVs | Meander across Lake Powell on a jet-ski | Our clients enjoyed a scenic lunch set-up near Tower Butte

Clockwise from left: Adrenaline will pump through your veins as you parachute above Utah’s desert | Stop midway during a helicopter tour for a memorable drink atop a butte | Dramatic canyons are sculpted by wind, water and time | Take to the skies for another perspective of this vast land | Slow the pace during a horse-ride journey with your family

Svalbard’s captivating fjords June I N SVA L BARD , NORWAY

J UNE

Svalbard NORWAY

The ever-changing fjords of Svalbard are captivating. Whether you are searching for polar bears from your yacht’s private observation deck, dining on the ice or dog-sledding across glaciers, the beauty and contrasts of this archipelago mean you can enjoy an action- packed itinerary or simply indulge in some downtime against a remarkable backdrop. Our epic adventures to the region have cemented Svalbard as one of Cookson Adventures’ favourite destinations. We have the experience and local relationships to offer you a truly unmatched experience in the Arctic Circle. Walruses, whales, seals and reindeer. Concentrations of the Arctic’s most iconic wildlife will be a frequent sight during your visit. Alongside searching for these majestic creatures with our nature experts, we can tailor your itinerary to include sea kayaking, submersible diving, premium dining experiences, polar bear tracking, and much more. In the summer months, you can enjoy the midnight sun and access to areas that are typically frozen over in the winter, meaning you can cruise with ease and guaranteed comfort around this icy archipelago.

Previous image: Listen to bellowing walruses as you sail closer to Svalbard lively shores Right: Cookson Adventures organised a surprise lunch set-up for clients after they returned from a morning spent polar bear tracking

ARCT I C WI L D L I F E Get up close with Arctic wildlife in one of Europe’s purest landscapes. Along with our nature guides you can search for free-roaming polar bears, seals and walruses. M I DN I GHT SUN In the summer months, the sun does not set on Svalbard, which means you can admire the landscape around the clock. S E A KAYAK I NG Sea kayaking is a superb way of exploring an archipelago that bursts with life, from roaring walruses to curious seals along the coastline. DOG- S L EDD I NG Engage in one of the Arctic’s oldest traditions as you are shown around Svalbard by a pack of huskies. D I N I NG ON THE I CE Be surprised by our scenic lunch set-ups and look out to uninterrupted views of calving icebergs. Cookson is renowned for adding a special touch to each of their adventures. I CE CAVE S Svalbard’s glaciers contain countless passages leading to ice caves. Equipped with a headlamp, crampons and a helmet, enter this calm and silent world and view the beautiful icicles and crystals in an array of blue hues. GL AC I E R H I K I NG Feel the crisp air on your face as you embark on a glacier hiking adventure with our guides. Most of this archipelago’s landmass is covered by these spectacular formations. POL AR B E AR T RACK I NG We have previously organised intimate polar bear encounters for our guests, which included watching a mother bear and her cubs feast on a fresh kill. SUBME R S I B L E D I VE S Avoid the cold by exploring the seabed in a submersible. Including this asset in your itinerary will add a very special element to an adventure. SNOWMOB I L I NG Roam the vast ice on snowmobiles and feel the freedom of covering large areas in a short space of time. This is often the best way to find elusive mammals that are roaming far in the distance.

Clockwise from left: Sailing through the icy fjords of Svalbard was the furthest north this private yacht had ever been | The perfect spot for an afternoon tipple | A launchpad for adventure | A pack of huskies eagerly await the race across the ice fields | Gear up for a journey across the ice in search of lone seals and roaming polar bears

Clockwise from left: We enlisted an icebreaker vessel to help make way for our client’s private yacht through the sea ice | A private observation deck means you can admire the archipelago at your own pace | Three walruses perform a balancing act on top of floating ice | A lone polar bear. In some regions of Svalbard there are more polar bears than humans

The dazzling shores of Tonga July I N K I NGDOM OF TONGA , OCE AN I A

J U L Y

Kingdom of Tonga OCE AN I A

Be greeted with ‘malo e leilei’ (hello) as you sail to the dazzling shores of the Kingdom of Tonga. Since Captain James Cook arrived in 1773 and named the archipelago the ‘Friendly Islands’, this unspoiled paradise and its inhabitants have remained as welcoming as ever. In July, calmer waters and excellent visibility provide the perfect diving conditions, with sea turtles, manta rays and spinner dolphins riding its softly lapping waves. We can organise for you to meet with our whale scientists to search for the migrating humpbacks or dive to a shipwreck in Neiafu Harbour for the bizarre-looking wobbegong shark and batfish. This tiny and unpolished archipelago is flourishing in the vast Pacific Ocean, sitting relatively untouched from the outside world. Aboard your private yacht, you can enjoy uninterrupted skyline views and a wealth of water-based activities along its craggy coastline. Government-protected marine reserves and island parks make the Kingdom of Tonga a truly pristine environment and one that is not to be missed. Explore its colourful coral gardens and lagoons for tropical fish and vibrant gorgonian fans, before venturing inland for hidden caves and freshly caught seafood as the sun dips toward the horizon.

Previous image: A humpback whale with snorkellers who can’t believe their fortune Clockwise from left: The beauty of Polynesian dance | Kite-surf across Tonga’s crystal blue waters

B LOWHOL E S Search for the whistling blowholes on Tongatapu which burst from coral reefs up to 18-metres into the air. This spectacle happens when volcanic rock allows water to forcefully blow through its crevasses and create a plume-like effect. D I V I NG With stunning reef systems, shipwrecks, drop-offs, chimneys and underwater caves, diving in Tonga is a spectacular experience. WAT E R S POR T S If you’re visiting Tonga by yacht, you can enjoy a multitude of tenders and toys in its crystal-clear waters. We will find the perfect yacht for you to ensure days filled with entertainment. CORA L R E E F S Animated with activity, the coral reefs in Tonga are teeming with fluorescent fish, inspecting the nooks and crannies of the bright soft and hard coral gardens. HUMPBACK WHA L E S This is the best time of year to view visiting humpback whales and their newborn calves. Despite being known to grow to the size of a school bus, these creatures can perform almost acrobatic moves, leaping out of the water and splashing back down with force. LOCA L MARK E T S & A COOK I NG E XP E R I ENCE Wander through the fresh produce markets and pick your ingredients for an afternoon cooking lesson. Seafood, coconuts and tropical fruits are common flavours in authentic Tongan cuisine.

Clockwise from left: The famous blowholes of the archipelago are found on Tongatapu Island | Snorkel to underwater caves, chimneys or shipwrecks | Keen scuba divers could spend most of their days underwater at Tonga

Clockwise from left: The epitome of a beach break, Tonga’s idyllic islands are a slice of paradise | A migrating humpback whale with her calf | Explore in style aboard a private yacht with an armada of toys | A peculiar-looking wobbegong shark

Foraging bears & Alaska’s medley of landscapes August I N A L AS KA , NOR TH AME R I CA

AUGUS T

Alaska NOR TH AME R I CA

For lovers of the great outdoors, few places will exhilarate like Alaska. Found in the northernmost extremity of North America, Alaska’s sheer size and medley of landscapes are enough to arouse a basic instinct to explore. Here glacial ice caps are bigger than some US states and national parks are the size of small nations. In a land bursting with spectacular sights, the summer’s salmon run provides another. Numbering in their millions, the salmon not only offer a feast for our senses, with their bright red scales and hooked jaws, but also plentiful food for bald eagles, and some of the largest gatherings of brown bears. Watch as these majestic mammals snatch salmon from raging torrents and teach their cubs how to fish. In collaboration with wildlife experts, you can track, watch and interpret Alaskan brown bears as they patrol the forest estuaries. If you choose to visit Alaska by private yacht, the neighbouring Aleutian Islands are also an incredible addition to your itinerary. This remote curve of volcanic islands is home to some of the most undisturbed wildlife on the planet, including stellar sea lions, humpback whales and sea otters.

Previous image: From a short distance away, our guests admired a mother bear and her cubs on a foraging mission Right: An Alaskan brown bear benefits from the annual glut of salmon

S E A KAYAK I NG This wild place is a kayaker’s paradise. Kayak quietly through Alaska’s inlets and approach rookeries of puffins or foraging sea otters, and explore the region’s gargantuan glaciers and lakes. A L AS KA BY A I R We highly recommend viewing this land of enormous proportions by air, whether it’s via helicopter or a Super Cub plane as it performs acrobatics in the sky. WI L DE RNE S S LODGE S Taste the real Alaska with nights spent in waterfront cabins or wood-fired lodges that are nestled deep within the pine forests. We have a number of prime locations that we would recommend for both beauty and privacy. GL AC I E R H I K I NG Of various sizes, shapes and shades of blue, Alaska’s glaciers are a sight to behold. Grasp the scale of these huge ice formations as you hike across them with our nature guide. B E AR T RACK I NG Alaska is home to some of the largest brown bears on earth, so spend your days searching for them alongside our seasoned trackers in this raw and powerful landscape. WH I T E -WAT E R RAF T I NG Regardless of age or ability, whether you’re a first-time rafter or an experienced wilderness junkie, white-water raft along Alaska’s rushing rivers for a sense of adventure. SA LMON RUN Visiting Alaska in August means you can witness one of nature’s greatest phenomena. Salmon arrive in their millions to spawn almost precisely in the original streams they were born in. WHA L E WATCH I NG Once hunted to the brink of extinction, the humpback whales in Alaska now thrive. Meet with our expert marine guides and lower microphones into the water to decipher their melodic calls. F L Y F I SH I NG Cookson Adventures has the local knowledge and contacts to find the secluded spots, away from the crowds, to fly-fish and admire the majestic mammals that may pass by.

Clockwise from left: To truly grasp the size of this mountainous land, we recommend taking to the air | Kayak along glacier lakes with just nature as your company | The world’s best fixed-wing pilots performed aerobatics for our past adventurers | What better time to enjoy fly-fishing in Alaska than during the salmon run?

Clockwise from left: Wrangell-St. Elias National Park is just one of the endless opportunities Alaska offers for adventure | Henry Cookson leads our guests’ trek through the mountains | Brown bears were a frequent sight in our recent journey through Alaska | Roasting freshly-caught salmon on our camp’s open fire was pure bliss

Untapped adventure in Russia’s restless peninsula September

I N KAMCHAT KA , RUS S I A

S E P T EMB E R

Kamchatka RUS S I A

Sense the timeless power of nature in Kamchatka. This land of primal beauty resembles Earth in the earlier chapters of its creation, with spurting geysers and erupting calderas. In September, mammoth brown bears patrol the waters for salmon in unrivalled numbers and the volcanic landscape holds an enormous untapped potential for adventure. With no roads or railways connecting to the outside world, Kamchatka is a haven for wildlife. Whether you wish to bathe in thermal hot springs or search for migrating whales alongside our marine guides, we can ensure you enjoy the very best that this remote and little-known region of Russia has to offer. This is a destination for those who can’t afford to stand still. Launch your adventure from a private yacht and enjoy a wealth of activities amongst one of the highest concentration of volcanoes in the world, plus guaranteed comfort in a region that still lacks infrastructure. Getting here can take time, but we have the logistical expertise to mitigate this significantly. Your itinerary can include bear tracking, diving to underwater smokers (where heated waters rise from cracks in the seabed), rock climbing, fly fishing, river rafting, and more. Few visitors will leave feeling anything other than awe-struck.

Previous image: Kamchatka’s volcanic landscapes bursts with energy Right: Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky is a city with a view

KAMCHAT KA BROWN B E AR S In September, these gigantic brown bears can be seen in large groups along streams that burst with salmon. Approach quietly with our seasoned tracker for intimate encounters and spectacular photography opportunities. SA LMON RUN Bears aren’t the only animal to benefit from the annual glut of salmon, which makes this time of year perfect for wildlife viewing. The salmon arrive in numbers so high that they can be heard jumping out of the water from a distance. KUR I L I S L ANDS Stretching between Kamchatka and Japan, and scattered in the Sea of Okhotsk, are the sensational Kuril Islands. Extend your adventure to this beautifully verdant and volcanic chain of islands and you will wonder why more people don’t know about this secret of the Far East. Search for sperm whales, orcas, rare birdlife, sea lions and otters, before sailing into flooded calderas and exploring the abandoned Soviet submarine bases of the Kuril Islands. F L Y F I SH I NG Avoiding crowds will not be an issue in the seldom- travelled Kamchatka Peninsula, however, we know the most beautiful and tranquil spots for an evening spent fly fishing with just your friends and family as company. S E A KAYAK I NG Kayak in whale-filled waters and who knows what you might witness along the way.

Clockwise from left: The white rocks of Iturup Island are found in the beguiling Kuril Islands | A pod of orcas in the Sea of Okhotsk | Hikers explore the active lava flow from a smoking crater

VOLCANO HE L I COP T E R TOUR S Rise above the clouds in a helicopter and look out to a carpet of white that is only punctuated by the peaks of soaring volcanoes. There are around 300 volcanoes in Kamchatka, of which 30 are active and erupt with spectacular regularity. MOUNTA I NE E R I NG With a huge selection of volcanoes comes plenty of opportunity for keen mountaineers. Venture into the wilderness with one of our mountain guides and summit an unconquered volcano. D I V I NG Dive with world-class instructors and meet the peninsula’s underwater residents, from playful sea lion colonies to curious orcas. THE RMA L HOT S P R I NGS There are over 200 thermal hot springs in Kamchatka, with some so large that they’re classified as hot lakes. National parks have worked hard to maintain the original appearance of these springs, while at the same time building log cabins that provide changing rooms and outhouses for travellers. K I T E SUR F I NG Hone your kitesurfing technique alongside an accomplished instructor. We can supply boards, suits and guidance on the best beaches in Kamchatka for surfing.

Clockwise from left: A visit to Kamchatka is not complete without a helicopter journey above geysers and smoking craters | Kamchatka’s brown bears are the largest in Eurasia | For those who dare, parachuting adds a sense of adrenaline to your adventure | Rushing rivers are a haven for rafters in Kamchatka

Monks, mountains & meditation October I N BHUTAN , SOUTHE AS T AS I A

OCTOB E R

Bhutan SOUTHE AS T AS I A

Perched amid the magnificent Himalayan mountains and tucked away from the crowds of China and India lies the Kingdom of Bhutan. Independent for centuries and rich in traditions and Buddhist spirituality, this intriguingly mysterious land is like no other. As a small nation in a rapidly modernising region, Bhutan remains deliberately undeveloped in economic terms, only opening up to a limited number of visitors in the 1970s. Yet it is often regarded as the happiest country on earth thanks to its forward-thinking approach to national wellbeing and conservation. Here native wildlife – including a growing tiger population, the elusive snow leopard and elegant black cranes – roam freely in the country’s five million glorious acres of protected land. Descend into Paro Airport, one of the most infamous flights in the world. Nearly two miles above sea level and surrounded by sharp Himalayan peaks, landing here is so difficult that until recently only eight pilots in the world were allowed to make the journey. From here you can discover the country’s splendours: its people, traditions and epic vistas. Feel the calming atmosphere of monasteries, monks and meditation and get close to Bhutan’s stunning and abundant wildlife.

Previous image: A moment of reflection for three Bhutanese monks Clockwise from left : A statue of Guru Rinpoche sits proudly on a red and gold lotus seat | According to legend, Jambay Lhakhang was built to pin down the body of a demoness who lay across the Himalaya | Perched halfway up a steep cliff face, Tiger’s Nest is one of Bhutan’s most iconic buildings and appears to rise from out of the forest below

ROYA L MANAS NAT I ONA L PARK Explore Bhutan’s first national park and hike alongside a wildlife expert in search of the highly endangered Royal Bengal tiger, the Asian elephant and clouded leopard. Meet with the head park ranger and learn about the park’s progressive conservation practices. WI TNE S S MONK R I TUA L S Visit a seventeenth-century monastery in the world’s only official Buddhist country and witness monks performing age-old blessings and rituals in a temple set high in the mountains. A N I GHT AT THE T I GE R ’ S NE S T Accompanied by His Holiness Khedrupchen Rinpoche, visit Bhutan’s most famous landmark Paro Taktsang, the Tiger’s Nest, perched on a cliff alongside a majestic crystal waterfall. In this seventeenth-century temple complex, built at the cave site where Buddhism was introduced to Bhutan, be led in private meditation. Upon returning from high in the clouds, relax with soothing massage and spa treatments. V I S I T THE I SOL AT ED V I L L AGE S OF SAK T ENG Be among a small number to visit the isolated village of Sakteng and witness a culture preserved through time. In this beautiful alpine landscape, you can meet the Brokpas people, who have their own distinctive language, dress, culture and traditions. Y E T I WI L D L I F E SANCTUARY In an area protected by royal decree by the fourth King of Bhutan, explore the Yeti Wildlife Sanctuary and discover nomadic tribes and thick forests of vibrant flowers in what was thought to be home to this mythical creature.

Clockwise from left: Overlooking the picturesque Paro Town, known for its many sacred sites and historical buildings | Monks and nuns in Bhutan, distinguished by their maroon robes, spend their days in study, prayer and meditation | Bhutan is committed to doubling the world’s wild tigers by 2022

D I NE WI TH A CONS E RVAT I ON I S T Enjoy lunch at a renowned local restaurant before meeting the founding director of the National Biodiversity Centre in Bhutan. Tour the Royal Gene Bank that he established and gain insights into Bhutan’s world-leading conservation programme. COOK WI TH A LOCA L CHE F Inspired by Chinese, Tibetan and Indian culture, Bhutanese cuisine is little known outside the country. Meet with our favourite local chef and learn how to create these lavishly decorated dishes. F E S T I VA L S At this time of year there are a number of celebratory and sacred festivals in Bhutan. One spectacular three- day event named Thimphu Tshechu is an opportunity for Buddhist followers to clean themselves of bad karma and gather with people unified by the same traditions and spiritual beliefs. A N I GHT ON A SACR ED MOUNTA I N Stay in a tented camp on the side of a sacred mountain, on possibly uncharted territory. As spirits are said to dwell on mountain peaks it is forbidden for travellers to scale them, but perch close by for a thrilling night’s adventure. E XP LOR E L AYA V I L L AGE Visit the remote Laya Village, Bhutan’s northernmost settlement, and explore its glacial lakes and semi- nomadic yak herders. H I K I NG From snowy mountains to humid jungles, Bhutan’s diverse landscapes offer a vast range of terrains. Follow our expert guide into the wilderness and discover a country with a profusion of natural beauty.

Clockwise from left: Children play in freshly-laid snow at Merak Village | A hand-held prayer wheel | Yaks in Bhutan are the main source of livelihood for high altitude residents | The country’s intricate architecture is a marvel to behold

Diver’s paradise November I N R E PUB L I C OF PA L AU , OCE AN I A

NOVEMB E R

Republic of Palau OCE AN I A

Sitting like an emerald necklace in the Pacific Ocean, the Micronesian archipelago of Palau is home to some of the most exotic creatures in the world. Its proximity to both New Guinea and the Philippines has resulted in this cluster of jungle-covered islands exhibiting a remarkable variety of endemic marine life. Here Second World War relics dot the islands, both along the seabed and deep in the jungle, and red snappers gather to spawn in their thousands with every full moon. We recommend visiting these idyllic islands aboard a private yacht so you can discover the many bays and coves with ease and unparalleled comfort. For divers in the know, Palau is often recognised as the best dive destination in the world. Discover an exhibition of exotic fish and brightly coloured coral that impresses even the most seasoned of explorers. Whether you prefer to hike through the jungle with a wildlife expert or spend days kayaking through the tropical mangroves, our experts can design an itinerary completely around you. Adding a submersible to your adventure will mean you can share a passion for diving with the entire family.

Previous image: A yacht journey through the idyllic jungle-covered islets in complete privacy Right: The mesmerising colours of a mandarinfish attract diving enthusiasts to Palau

MANTA RAY CONGR EGAT I ON The manta ray is a graceful giant, striking in its appearance and calming with its presence. Watch as these inquisitive creatures gather in large numbers, combing through the ocean for the smallest of prey by using their large fins to channel the water into their wide-open mouths. S ECOND WOR L D WAR R E L I CS Imagine a time long past as you dive to the Second World War wrecks at the bottom of Palau’s ocean. The islands witnessed a massive US attack against the Japanese imperial war fleet which left a graveyard of wrecked ships, rusty tanks and aircraft both in the jungle and below the waves. UNDE RWAT E R B I OD I VE R S I T Y The cold, nutrient-rich waters of this region result in striking underwater activity; divers are often left speechless upon their return to the water’s surface. Watch out for a pod of sperm whales breaching near your private yacht or grey reef sharks, both a common encounter in Palau. CORA L Palau’s underwater garden is a sight to behold, from the thin-leafed lettuce coral to feathery polyps that sway like palm trees blowing in the wind. Meander through the otherworldly whip corals and search closely for the smallest of Palau’s creatures, including the adorable skunk clownfish, often found cleaning itself amongst the soft coral and feeding on algae. ENDANGE R ED DUGONGS The elusive dugong has bewildered humans since its discovery. These shy and gentle creatures are said to be the inspiration behind seafaring tales of mermaids and have since become extinct in a large number of areas they used to populate. Watch out for these slow-moving drifters as they graze on the underwater grasses.

Clockwise from left: Sea caves such as this are one of the many hidden gems around Palau | Two green sea turtles take a moment to rest on the hard coral | Nudibranches, otherwise known as ‘sea slugs’, are not as soft as they look | A seagrass-grazing dugong is sadly Palau’s most endangered marine species

I N L AND CAVE S Explore hidden caves and mangrove forests as you glide silently through Palau’s Rock Islands by kayak. Among these limestone karsts and white sand beaches are a network of lagoons and tunnels to discover alongside the nation’s nature experts. BASA L T MONOL I THS No one knows their origin or purpose, but according to the legend of the Gods, large basalt monoliths were put here to support a Bai (a men’s meeting house) that held thousands of people. HE L I COP T E R S I GHT S E E I NG We suggest taking a helicopter over the archipelago’s 70 emerald islands. A bird’s-eye view will reveal the country’s spectacular topography and provide another perspective on the numerous dive sites that lie below. OF F - ROAD E XCUR S I ONS Venture on the path less travelled and explore an island by off-road driving. Waterfalls, abandoned villages, rivers and rainforest await discovery. NATUR E R E S E RVE S For nature lovers, the nature reserves offer manicured grasslands and upland forests to explore. These are also an important breeding and nesting habitat for saltwater crocodiles and amphibians.

Clockwise from left: Take the perfect photograph of Palau’s emerald islands from a helicopter | The Blue Hole dive site is where underwater photography is at its finest | Explore a Second World War seaplane at the bottom of the ocean | A diver admires the stripes of a lionfish from a safe distance | A traditional Palauan house in Koror

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