This is a popular activity that we like to save for the afternoons when temperatures are starting to cool, and so more animals have emerged from the shelter of the forest.

We are lucky to have 2 vehicles which are perfectly equipped to explore the forests, fields, lakes and swamps of this vibrant wilderness. Both vehicles have comfortable, raised, outdoor seating and great suspension for negotiating this rugged terrain. The fact that the seating is outdoors means that you have 360° views all around. It also means that there is nothing blocking your view above, which is important, as you never know when a toco toucan might be swooping past, or when a family of howler monkeys might be feeding on leaves in the forest canopy.

We try to gain the trust of the animals by being quiet and making no abrupt movements when moving among them and have noticed that they are becoming more accepting of our presence. Although this is a slow process, it is very rewarding as it enables us to spend more time with the animals in order to witness and record their behaviours.

In the dry season, animals become more visible, as there is less foliage, and water is found in more open areas. This is also the winter period, when the days are shorter, which means that some sightings occur at night with our spotlight when we are returning back to the lodge at the end of our drive having had a relaxing sundowner at a memorable spot in our reserve.