Issue 173: Whenua Hou

Hey Explorer,

This is Adventure Fix, the newsletter that helps you discover extraordinary journeys and experiences across the globe.

Here’s what we've got for you today:

• Wildlife Encounters: Floe Edge Safari

• Remote Places: Whenua Hou

• Stays: Melimoyu Lodge

Wildlife at the Floe Edge in Baffin Island

Travel to the world's edge, where the Arctic Ocean meets the ice near Pond Inlet, and discover wildlife found nowhere else.

From May to June, the floe edge—known as the "line of life"—becomes one of the most spectacular ecosystems on Earth. Here, seals, walruses, narwhals, polar bears, bowhead whales, and flocks of Arctic seabirds thrive.

This lively ecosystem comes to life in the spring as the Sun stays out longer, melting the ice and reaching algae that have been stuck under the sea-ice all winter. With this burst of solar energy, the algae wake up, kicking off a chain reaction that attracts marine life eager for a springtime feast.

Guided by local Inuit experts, journey by snowmobile and qamutik (wooden sled) to a comfortable base camp near the floe edge. Each day offers a chance to head out into the wilderness to observe wildlife, explore the stunning icy landscapes, and experience the endless daylight of the Arctic spring.

Explore more:

• At the Edge of the World: A Floe Edge Safari on Baffin Island (blog)

• Snorkeling at the Floe Edge (article)

Whenua Hou

Whenua Hou, also known as Codfish Island, is a special conservation island off New Zealand’s South Island, mainly known for protecting endangered species like the kākāpō.

Located off the coast of Stewart Island, Whenua Hou is managed by New Zealand’s Department of Conservation (DOC) and is strictly off-limits to tourists, maintaining an environment that is as close to its natural state as possible.

Only a few researchers, DOC staff, and carefully selected volunteers are allowed to visit, all under tight biosecurity measures to prevent any risks to the wildlife.

This level of protection is critical for preserving New Zealand's unique biodiversity, as the island is one of the few places where some endangered species can thrive without threats from invasive predators.

Explore more:

• Kākāpō Conservation Field Work on Whenua Hou (video)

• In search of Kākāpō – 24 hours on Whenua Hou (blog)

Melimoyu Lodge

Tucked away in the wilds of northern Patagonia, Melimoyu Lodge is the perfect spot for those craving adventure off the typical tourist path. Built from local timber by Chilean craftsmen, the lodge blends stunning architecture with a cozy, home-away-from-home atmosphere.

Surrounded by untouched temperate rainforest, jagged mountain peaks, and glacial-fed rivers and lakes, this is Patagonia at its most inspiring.

There’s no shortage of things to do at Melimoyu Lodge. Try your hand at fly fishing for brown and rainbow trout, Chinook salmon, and brook trout, or hop on a mountain bike to explore trails with great views. For a unique Patagonian experience, embrace your inner gaucho with horseback riding or head out on a hike.

Kayak through the serene Palena River and Rosselot Lake or simply unwind in our riverside hot tubs after a day of exploration.

Bird lovers can spot over 450 species, including the striking Magellanic Woodpecker, while those seeking pure relaxation can spend a day at a secluded natural hot spring.

Check availability here » 

Films: Stories from Suriname

Parenting: Do our kids regret not having a normal childhood?

Wildlife Encounters: In search of the elusive snow leopard

Unique Experiences: Running Hut to Hut in the Swiss Alps

Stories: Land of Horses

Where in the World

Wanna flex your adventure geography skills? Guess where this pic was snapped!

Stumped? No worries. The answer is at the end of this email.

I’d love to hear what you think of this issue, scroll down to the poll to let us know.

Until next time…

Keep exploring,

-Amanda

 ANSWER: Rock Islands, Palau