Countless people dream of experiencing an African expedition, why not try an American expedition for wildlife watching near your home (and at a reduced price). You can witness zebras and giraffes roaming vast grasslands from an open-air vehicle, thanks to a few US safari parks. Explore a self-guided journey across South Dakota to encounter buffalo, or opt for a prime spot in the Great Smoky Mountains to witness elk in their natural habitat. Here are some of the most extraordinary American expeditions, whether you wish to spot bobcats, moose, or bighorn sheep on your own or with a guide.
Wildlife Reserve Exploration
Embark on an adventure to Safari West, a 400-acre wildlife reserve located near Sonoma, widely recognized for its vineyards. Cheetahs, gazelles, wildebeest, and giraffes are granted the freedom to roam, with aims of preservation and propagation. While on safari in an open-air vehicle, visitors may catch a glimpse of lemurs and flamingos. Additionally, visitors have the option to spend the night in an elevated safari-style tent.
Encounter with Moose
In Maine, you can find the second-largest moose population in the United States, surpassed only by Alaska. Maine is home to approximately 70,000 moose, with the best time to observe them being in the spring when they emerge to lick salt off the roads. Enroll in a guided expedition with Maine Moose Watching Tours in Greenville or the New England Outdoor Center in Millinocket to witness these colossal creatures.
American Serengeti Exploration
Lamar Valley is dubbed the “American Serengeti” due to its profusion of wildlife, including wolves, bison, elk, bighorn sheep, coyotes, and foxes. Xanterra Parks & Resorts conduct photo safaris and guided excursions during twilight, the prime time for wildlife spotting.
Observing Wolves
The finest location in the United States to observe timberwolves is northeastern Minnesota, as it harbors all but about 75 of the continental United States’ timberwolf population. Head to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW) or Voyageurs National Park if you wish to spot wolves. The BWCAW spans 1.2 million acres in northeast Minnesota’s Superior National Forest and boasts over 1,000 lakes, rivers, and streams. Self-guided tours of Voyageurs National Park, accessible only by watercraft or canoe, are also available for wolf enthusiasts.
Buffalo Exploration via Jeep
Explore Custer State Park to witness the park’s 71,000 acres, which host a variety of species such as buffalo, pronghorns, and elk. Guests can join a guided expedition in an open-air jeep or traverse the 18-mile Wildlife Loop Road independently.
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