“Explore. Dream. Discover.
Twenty years from now, you will be more disappointed by the things you didn’t do than by the ones you did. So, throw off the bowlines. Sail away from the safe harbor. Catch the trade winds in your sails.” -Mark Twain
You have the opportunity to do just that in 2012! Discover exciting destinations and inspiring eco-tourism experiences with fellow members, donors and friends of Columbus Zoo and Aquarium.
We work closely with professional tour operators to provide high quality tours to both traditional and unique destinations. Our close friendships with conservation partners around the world mean your itinerary will likely include sights and adventures that few other travelers will ever experience. What’s more, our group tours are limited in size to ensure your comfort and give you the most personal and enhanced experience possible.
Travel with the Zoo and return with memories that will last a lifetime!
Travel opportunities for 2012 include:
Exclusive Safari to Kenya – June 10-22, 2012
Escorted by an expert from Columbus Zoo and Aquarium
Travel to Kenya, regarded by many as the “jewel of East Africa” to experience exceptional wildlife viewing and exploration of this magnificent country. Your journey begins and ends in Nairobi. In between, enjoy the sites
and sounds of Nairobi National Park, Karen Blixen House, Samburu Reserve, the Chimpanzee Sanctuary, Lake Nakuru National Park, the Maasai Mara and Northern Serengeti. While on safari, watch for the big five – lions, leopards, elephants, buffalos and rhinos, not to mention the myriad bird species and more!
Exclusive Safari to Rwanda – June 20-30, 2012
Escorted by Dale Schmidt, President and CEO, Columbus Zoo and Aquarium
in conjunction with Charlene Jendry and Jeff Ramsey, Founding Members, Partners In Conservation
Discover Rwanda and immerse yourself in a verdant world of emerald hills, lush tropical rainforest and the habitat of the most majestic of creatures--the mountain gorilla. Visit Nairobi, Volcanoes National Park--home to an estimated one-half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas; Kigali, and Kinigi. In Gisenyi, see firsthand how Partners In Conservation, supported by Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, makes a difference in the lives of both the wildlife and people of Rwanda.
Southern Florida for Teens - July 16-23, 2012
Escorted by the Zoo’s Education Director Danielle Ross and Volunteer Coordinator Ginger Earley
Florida isn’t just for beach lovers and golfers; it’s for wildlife enthusiasts, too! Enjoy 8 days discovering the myriad species of animals who call the Sunshine State home. From the tropical hardwood and mangrove forests of Everglades National Park to the living models of Florida’s marine ecosystems at the Smithsonian Marine Station, and from Mote Marine Laboratory, a leader in marine research, to Myakka River State park, this trip is replete with myriad educational and wildlife experiences. A highlight is sure to be the two nights you’ll spend at the Tampa Zoo sleeping in the cool Africa tunnel. Tour the Zoo and enjoy up-close experiences with orangutans and tigers. Visit Busch Gardens’ Edge of Africa exhibit, bordering the 65-acre Serengeti Plain, and last, but not least, take a journey to the bays, beaches, coral reef and ocean at the Florida Aquarium.