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Lake Gatun is not only the key to the water system of the Panama Canal, but also one of the most accessible places to watch wildlife near Panama City. Formed by the embankment of the Chagres River, this huge man-made lake is surrounded by rainforests and scattered over islands where wildlife thrives. The most popular of these is Monkey Island, where you can see white-faced capuchins, howler monkeys, and Geoffrey’s tents.
Boat tours depart from Gamboa or a nearby marina, and usually include a stop at the locks or a short jungle walk. The lake is home to crocodiles, iguanas, and a variety of birds. While it’s not a primitive environment, the sheer amount of animal activity and ease of access make it a powerful option if you have little time. Going early helps avoid both heat and boat traffic. Bring binoculars and expect close-up encounters.
The island of Socotra is a place that is unlike any other place. Isolated from the African mainland six million years ago, it feels like a scene from a sci-fi movie. The island is home to incredible and unique plants and trees that you won’t find anywhere else. Two of the most unusual are the Ancient Dragon’s Blood Tree and the Bulbs Bottle Tree. It is definitely one of the most unique places in the world!
Even though Yemen is facing conflict, people are still working hard to protect Socotra’s special environment. It became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2008. However, it is still difficult to travel there due to the political problems in the area.
In the middle of the Atacama Desert in Chile, 46 miles south of Antofagasta, you will find a very peculiar sculpture. ‘The Hand in the Desert’ by Chilean sculptor Mario Irarazabal.
Known for its art about human suffering, this massive sculpture makes you feel lonely, especially in its empty and isolated space. It is a popular place for tourists, but visitors are asked to respect it and not vandalize it, as the problem of graffiti has arisen recently.