Traveling with Cheesemans’ Ecology Safaris is more than just exploring breathtaking landscapes and encountering incredible wildlife — it’s an opportunity to make a lasting impact. One of the most meaningful ways our travelers contribute to conservation is through citizen science, a powerful tool that allows nature enthusiasts to participate in real-world research and data collection.
From tracking wildlife populations to documenting biodiversity and contributing to global databases, citizen science empowers travelers to support conservation efforts while deepening their connection with the natural world.
Citizen science involves volunteers — often non-professional scientists — assisting experts in gathering and analyzing data to help answer real-world research questions. On Cheesemans’ safaris, guests can have opportunities to help in documenting species, recording environmental data, and sharing observations that directly contribute to global conservation initiatives.
By participating in these projects, Cheesemans’ travelers actively help researchers monitor endangered species, track climate trends, and protect vulnerable ecosystems.
At Cheesemans’, we design our itineraries to not only have amazing wildlife encounters but, when possible, to connect to local conservation and provide exciting opportunities to take part in meaningful citizen science projects. Here’s how you can get involved during your safari:
Imagine spotting a rare bird in flight or identifying an elusive predator in the wild — and knowing your observation contributes to global conservation. Cheesemans’ Ecology Safaris empowers travelers to turn memorable wildlife encounters into meaningful data by using trusted apps like iNaturalist, eBird, and Marine Debris Tracker.
Many of our expeditions provide opportunities to record wildlife sightings using specialized apps such as:
🌟 PRO TIP: Besides uploading to platforms like HappyWhale, Cheesemans’ offers Google Photo Sharing for all trips, making it easy for you to exchange wildlife photos and videos with your travelmates. Sharing these visuals not only enhances your memories but also directly supports conservation efforts.
Your camera isn’t just for memories — it’s a powerful conservation tool. By capturing detailed photos of wildlife, Cheesemans’ guests contribute to research projects tracking species populations, habitat changes, and environmental shifts. Whether it’s big cats, marine mammals, or delicate ecosystems, your photos play a crucial role in scientific discovery.
Your camera can be a powerful tool for conservation. Guests frequently capture valuable images that contribute to critical research projects like:
🌟 PRO TIP: Cheesemans’ offers Google Photo Sharing for all trips, making it easy for you to exchange wildlife photos and videos with your travelmates. Sharing these visuals not only enhances your memories but also directly supports conservation efforts.
Your Cheesemans’ safari extends beyond your adventure — it’s a direct contribution to global conservation. Through partnerships with organizations like Happywhale, IAATO, and Serengeti Watch, travelers actively support impactful research, wildlife protection, and sustainable tourism. Engaging with these groups offers an inspiring way to expand your impact worldwide.
Our guests may have opportunities to engage with these impactful organizations during their safari:
🌟 PRO TIP: After your safari, continue supporting these organizations by sharing your data, making donations, or volunteering to extend your impact.
Imagine your wildlife sighting helping scientists protect endangered species or shape conservation strategies. Citizen science empowers travelers to turn memorable safari experiences into impactful contributions. By collecting data, capturing photos, and sharing observations, Cheesemans’ guests play a vital role in preserving ecosystems for generations to come.
✅ Directly Contribute to Wildlife Conservation: Your data helps scientists create strategies to protect endangered species.
✅ Deepen Your Understanding of Ecosystems: Engaging in hands-on research enriches your appreciation for the natural world.
✅ Become a Conservation Advocate: Equipped with new knowledge and experiences, you’ll return home inspired to continue supporting conservation efforts.
Every observation, photo, and data entry contributes to a greater understanding of our planet’s ecosystems — and every contribution makes a difference.
Preparing for a citizen science safari ensures you maximize both your experience and your impact. From downloading essential apps like iNaturalist to packing the right gear, a few simple steps will help you contribute valuable data to conservation efforts while enhancing your understanding of the natural world.
Ready to participate in citizen science on your next Cheesemans’ expedition? Here’s how to get started:
🌟 PRO TIP: Before your trip, visit Cheesemans’ detailed packing guide for gear suggestions tailored to your destination.
Your conservation impact doesn’t have to end when your safari concludes. By continuing to submit observations, supporting conservation groups, or inspiring others with your experience, you can stay involved long after your trip — ensuring your efforts continue to support wildlife protection worldwide.
Here’s how you can stay involved:
🌟 PRO TIP: Use Cheesemans’ Google Photo Sharing platform to reconnect with your travelmates, exchange additional observations, and celebrate the impact your group made together.
At Cheesemans’ Ecology Safaris, we believe that travel should be a force for good. By participating in citizen science initiatives, you’ll play an active role in protecting the world’s most incredible ecosystems while experiencing them firsthand.
🌍 Explore our upcoming citizen science-focused trips and start planning your next adventure today!
Visit our trips page to explore eco-friendly safari adventures and get expert packing tips.
With Cheesemans’ Ecology Safaris, your wildlife safari will be an unforgettable, conservation-focused journey. Take the first step toward your dream adventure today!
So, take the leap—explore, learn, and make a difference. Your next unforgettable journey with Cheesemans’ Ecology Safaris awaits!
“Every aspect of the trip was well thought out, from the accommodations, the guide (Scott) and the itinerary. The food was excellent, the sightings (both animals and Aurora) were amazing and the participants were congenial and got along well.”
-Steve Gorfien
In the heart of Arctic Norway, where icy fjords slice through dramatic coastlines and the Aurora Borealis dances across the sky, Cheesemans’ Ecology Safaris offers an unforgettable winter expedition. Guests embark on a small-ship adventure, cruising through pristine waters in search of orcas and humpbacks, while immersing themselves in the stark beauty of Norway’s frozen wilderness.
This journey is more than just wildlife viewing—it’s an exploration of Arctic culture, photography, and thrilling winter activities that leave travelers with memories etched in frost and fire.
Guests embarked on a well-equipped, small expedition ship designed for intimate encounters with Arctic wildlife. With just 12 passengers, the vessel offered unmatched flexibility to navigate hidden inlets and linger during prime wildlife encounters.
From the spacious observation deck, guests marveled at misty whale blows rising from the water, and as daylight faded, the ship’s heated lounge provided a warm, relaxing space for reviewing photographs or sharing stories over dinner prepared by the onboard French chef.
The waters off northern Norway are renowned for hosting massive gatherings of herring, attracting pods of orcas and humpback whales that feast in spectacular fashion.
Each day, guests ventured out in sturdy Zodiacs to explore the fjords. With Scott Davis guiding the experience, the group had front-row seats to nature’s drama. Whales surfaced just meters away, their sleek dorsal fins slicing through the water. At times, guests witnessed cooperative hunting—a remarkable behavior where orcas worked together to corral herring into tight balls before surging in to feed.
As the golden Arctic light illuminated the snowy peaks, photographers captured breathtaking images of whale tails rising from the icy water.
One of the most magical elements of this journey was the opportunity to witness the Aurora Borealis in all its glory. With flexible itineraries and clear night skies, the group positioned itself in prime locations to watch the green, purple, and pink hues swirl above the frozen landscape.
Guided by Scott Davis, guests learned expert tips for photographing the Northern Lights, capturing mesmerizing images of this fleeting yet unforgettable display.
For those seeking even more Arctic adventure, this journey offered a thrilling mix of winter activities and cultural experiences. Guests soared across snow-covered landscapes on an exhilarating dogsledding adventure, with eager huskies leading the way. On another outing, they geared up for a heart-pounding snowmobile tour, racing across frozen terrain as icy air whipped past their faces.
Between these adrenaline-fueled excursions, guests had the opportunity to explore remote coastal villages nestled among the fjords. Visits to these small fishing communities provided a glimpse into Norway’s rich Arctic heritage. A memorable stop at a local island museum revealed the resilience and traditions of those who call this frozen landscape home, with artifacts and stories painting a vivid picture of Arctic life.
Evenings often ended with a visit to a traditional Arctic sauna, where the warmth of the steam and the soft glow of candles created a soothing contrast to the day’s cold-weather exploration. Sampling local cuisine added another layer to the cultural experience, with hearty stews and warm pastries providing comfort in the chilly air.
If this taste of Norway’s frozen beauty has left you inspired, consider joining Cheesemans’ upcoming expedition to the breathtaking Lofoten Islands. Known for their dramatic peaks, vibrant fishing villages, and striking coastal scenery, the Lofoten Islands provide unmatched opportunities for Arctic wildlife photography, cultural immersion, and outdoor adventure.
