Join us for the trip of a lifetime as we travel to far-away places to see cranes in their native habitats. You will travel with staff and leaders of the International Crane Foundation, who will ensure your experience is unforgettable – and answer all of your questions along the way. You and fellow Craniacs will have an opportunity to fully immerse yourself in the culture and history of the varied locales while observing cranes and other wildlife. Our trips are what bucket lists are made of, so they fill up quickly.
For more information, please contact Karen Becker at 608-356-9462 ext. 156
Here is just a sampling of our past travels:
Mongolia
Journey through Mongolia’s vast open landscapes, where you will travel by four-wheel-drive vehicle across the steppes to a traditional “ger” camp and tented campsites – viewing birds, wildlife and plants along the way. Learn how the International Crane Foundation has helped to launch programs that will ensure the future of the Vulnerable White-naped Crane and the four other crane species native to the country. Nyambayar Batbayar, International Crane Foundation Research Associate and Director of the Wildlife Science and Conservation Center of Mongolia, will join the group, lending expert interpretation on the natural and cultural significance of the area.
The Cloud Kingdom of Bhutan
Choose to follow cranes, and you will likely find yourself in a remarkable landscape – Bhutan is just such a destination! Deep valleys and towering mountain passes provide the backdrop for views of more than 100 species of birds, including the Endangered white-bellied heron. The Black-necked Crane Festival at the beautiful temple monastery in the Phobjikha Valley provides a splendid taste of the culture of Bhutan, with traditional music and costumed dance.
China, South Korea and Japan
On this amazing journey, you will visit Poyang Lake, China, where nearly all Critically Endangered Siberian Cranes winter. Your trip continues to South Korea, where more than half of the mainland Red-crowned Cranes winter and more than two-thirds of the world’s White-naped Cranes rest during migration or winter. You will conclude your wildlife explorations on beautiful Hokkaido, Japan, where as many as 1,500 Red-crowned Cranes dance on the stunning snowy landscape. Throughout your journey, you will have the opportunity to see firsthand the International Crane Foundation’s local conservation projects and to meet our dedicated partners.