A mountain gorilla photographed during the Great Apes of Uganda trip that included Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, home to approximately half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas. CARLENE WRIGHT / COURTESY FAVORITE TRAVEL
A travel advisor with the team at Preferred Travel of Naples recently had the opportunity to participate in National Geographic Expeditions’ gorilla and chimpanzee trekking adventure last month.
Carlene Wright, a travel consultant with Preferred Travel for the past six years, joined The Great Apes of Uganda for the ultimate adventure experience. The trip embarked on a journey of a lifetime in the lush hills of Uganda to meet chimpanzees and mountain gorillas in the wild.
Ms. Wright traveled with a small group of 10 travelers who were joined by the tour director and their drivers, and when walking in the woods, each traveler had a porter to help them. The chimpanzee trek began in Kibale National Park and continued as the group traveled to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, which is home to roughly half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas. Ms Wright says she will never forget sitting among the gentle giants and having the chance to observe one of the planet’s most endangered creatures up close.
Park rangers led the way as travelers hiked through thick jungles at altitudes ranging up to 10,000 feet. To understand the environment and the great apes, National Geographic experts held various lectures and information to make the adventure even more memorable.
“Besides the incredible experience of seeing great apes in their habitats, the accommodations were amazing,” said Ms. Wright. “We stayed in amazing lodges, bungalows and a hilltop eco-lodge, all with spectacular views. The trip is one I strongly recommend.”
“Now that the world is open to travel again, everyone can plan their once-in-a-lifetime trip,” said Olga Placeres, owner and president of Preferred Travel. “Many of our advisors have traveled this summer and enjoyed the most exciting adventures and are bringing great ideas and first-hand knowledge to better serve their clients. Whether our clients want a relaxing week on a luxury cruise or a trip to see the great apes, we’re excited to help make their bucket list trips a reality.”
With over 35 years of experience and a team of 60 travel advisors, Preferred Travel assists domestic and international travel clients with locations to serve their clients in Naples and Bonita Springs. Offices are located at 5811 Pelican Bay Boulevard, Suite 201 in Naples and 3960 Via Del Rey in the Vanderbilt Office Park in Bonita Springs. Customers are welcomed by appointment and walk in.
Founded in 1984, Preferred Travel of Naples, Inc. features a team of knowledgeable and experienced travel advisors who provide worldwide travel services to clients. For information call 239-261-1177, toll-free 800-523-3716 or visit www.preferrednaples.com. ¦
