Discover the world’s oddest animal adventures

Intrepid explorers and animals lovers alike know that spotting wildlife or stumbling upon a magnificent creature in its natural habitat is a big proponent of travel. And while all sights are spectacular in their own right, in the animal kingdom, some are more unusual than others. These trips prove just that.

Play with puppies at the Golden Retriever Festival in Alva, Scotland

Arguably a contender for the world’s most adorable festival, the Golden Retriever Festival in Scotland is a must for anyone who loves dogs. Every summer, owners and their happy pups congregate in the small town of Alva to participate in all manner of dog show events, including for the titles of best puppy and best in show. Mainly though, it’s a time for owners, canines and dog lovers to celebrate the gorgeous breed that is the golden retriever. Have a race around the fields with the puppies or watch them bound around happily while tucking into a slice of cake. If you’re visiting with your pooch, the Three Bedroom House is pet-friendly and conveniently nearby.

Soak up the views with snow monkeys in Yamanouchi, Japan

Japan might have islands home to colonies of rabbits, ones ruled by cats but the monkey spas are possibly even more unusual. Deep in the mountains of Nagano lies Jigokudani Monkey Park, where resident wild Japanese macaques (snow monkeys) are known to flock to. The area is unique for its onsens and it’s here where you’re likely to find these pale-hued primates. Lazily basking in the bubbling water, monkeys rest their head languidly on the ledge or drift through the water, while thick snow falls overhead. It’s a magical shot, so plan your trip in the winter time and head up the mountain early morning when the area is at its most quiet and serene. And while you can’t take a dip with the monkeys, you can enjoy your own hot-spring bath at Daymaruya Ryokan.

Paddle with platypus in Forrest, Australia

Renowned for their distinctive beak, platypus are trickier to spot than you might think. However, if you head to Forrest and nearby Lake Elizabeth in Australia you’re likely to catch a glimpse of this elusive animal. Wandering around the lake is an option but the best view is on the lake itself. Paddle out early in the morning or at dusk when the bashful platypus pokes its head above water and bask in the still, quiet ceremony of this rarely-seen animal. Stay along the coast at Castaways Apollo Bay, which is about a 40-minute drive away.

Feed the monkeys at The Monkey Buffet Festival in Lopburi, Thailand

There is nothing quite like Thailand’s Monkey Buffet Festival. True to its name, this annual celebration revolves around a behemoth-sized banquet that’s laid out for the approximately 3,000 monkeys living around the ancient temple of Phra Prang Sam Yot. Multiple tonnes of fruits, vegetables, sweets and more bizarrely coca-cola, are offered in their honour, prepared especially by loving locals and chefs. The festival is said to have originated from the tales of a heroic monkey that rescued a bride-to-be from a many-headed demon, who later founded Lopburi. As a result, monkeys are a symbol of prosperity and are loved and revered by the community, so join in with the feeding as monkeys scamper all around. Retreat from the festivities at any moment to the restful Tempo Lopburi.

Spot golden jellyfish in Eil Malk, Palau

Deep in the Pacific Ocean, the island nation of Palau is home to an unusual and sparkly natural phenomenon. Known as Jellyfish Lake, it’s here where you’ll find thousands of glittering gold and moon jellyfish. A constellation of colour, these gold-flecked jellyfish float through the water, weaving a star-studded underwater canvas in their wake. They spend much of the day on the move following the sun’s arc, drifting through the water in blissful harmony. Spotting them can be tricky and while snorkeling along the surface was once permitted, these days, you’ll have to catch a view from the lakeside due to conservation efforts. It’s a spectacular sight when managed so stay nearby at the Ocean Star Hotel to give yourself the best chance.

Safari at sunset with fruit bats in Kasanka National Park, Zambia

For those in search of an eerier but magnificent sight, heading out on safari for fruit bats is an excellent option. Every year towards the end of October, around 10 million fruit bats migrate from the Democratic Republic of Congo to Zambia’s Kasanka National Park. In the day they roost in the treetops, while at sundown they take to the skies. Like a great rippling shadow sketched across the sky, the silhouettes of the bats against the crushed orange horizon is a striking and alluring view. A visit to Zambia at this time of the year means the beginning of Emerald season, where the greenery is in full bloom, so be sure to stay somewhere that keeps you close to the wilds – Track and Trail River Camp sits just at the border of South Luangwa National Park.

Wander with Alpacas in Bray, Ireland

If fluffy animals and hiking sounds like a perfect pairing, then make sure to include alpaca walking on your next trip to Ireland. In County Wicklow, tours are organised where you’re partnered with your own furry alpaca on a wonderfully scenic jaunt through the Wicklow countryside. These amicable creatures will plod along next to you, perfectly happy to stop for a photo at any moment. Better yet, when you get back to the alpaca farm you’ll be greeted with flutes of prosecco and bowls of fresh strawberries. Enjoy your glass before a short drive to the sleek Claremont apartment in Bray.