Whether it is Paddington and deepest, darkest Peru, or Mowgli the man cub and the forests of central India, the jungle calls to us from childhood. When you stay in its heart, the jungle is forced to begin relinquishing its secrets, revealing its colourful birdlife, the intertwined relationships of its species, and the fascinating traditions of the indigenous people who call the forests their home.
Journeysmiths’ jungle retreats are heaven on Earth for bird watchers. The Cristalino Jungle Lodge and Mashpi Lodge are two of the very best birding sites in Latin America, and the Sukaku Rainforest Lodge occupies a similarly vibrant birding utopia in Borneo. For tiger watching, you can do no better than Sher Bagh, India’s first luxury tented camp, and if it is primates you have your eye on, venture forth to Congo’s Ngaga Camp or Bisate Lodge in Rwanda.
One thing all of our jungle retreats share is that the wildlife comes to you. Yes, you should discover the forests on canopy bridges and trails, but be prepared for the fact that some of the most exciting wildlife encounters might well be on your own terrace.