Norfolk-based wildlife reserve Watatunga was recently awarded a prestigious Gold in the Visit England Award for Excellence 2023, in the category of Best Small Visitor Attraction.
The park is a must-visit for those looking for an authentic nature reserve that specialises in conservation. Visitors are taken on a self-drive discovery tour around the 170-acre site on electric buggies. Everyone receives a radio transmitter, and live and unscripted guide’s commentary in each buggy. The electric buggies not only reduce carbon footprint, but their quiet noise ensures guests get as up close and personal to nature as possible. This incredible way of exploring the reserve gives visitors a glimpse into the real lives of the animals as they roam freely around the grasslands, lakes and forests within the park.
Opened in August 2020, while Covid was still prevalent and born from a childhood love of wildlife and passion for conservation, Watatunga Wildlife Reserve not only has the largest collection of endangered species of deer and antelope in the UK, but it also plays a pivotal role in the future survival of endangered ungulates and bird species.
Conservation is at the very heart of the attraction and the team recently welcomed conservationists from across the globe, working to help save the critically endangered Mountain Bongo from extinction. Found in the mountain forests in Kenya, there are believed to be just 100 Mountain Bongo left in the wild, and Watatunga’s work will help maintain the widest possible genetic diversity.
The natural setting and conservation are also cleverly woven into the Reserve’s Experiences and Education platform that includes a photography course geared towards those just taking it up and keen to learn, and seasoned pros who would like to specialise in wildlife photography.
For those looking for a conservation-based staycation, Watatunga also offers a choice of luxury getaways to suit everyone. Guests can stay in the Stable Cottage, a five-star retreat set in the beautiful walled garden of the Watlington Estate, or the restored Gate Lodge that looks over one of the breeding paddocks. Major’s Lodge is a delightful single-story wooden safari lodge, newly renovated and overlooking the grassy expanses and lakes of Watatunga Wildlife Reserve. Everyone is provided with a complimentary guided tour of the reserve to learn about the animals and their conservation stories and, included with every booking, is exclusive use of the electric buggies to experience the magic of the wildlife at leisure.
Edward Pope, Watatunga Wildlife Reserve’s Founder, explains, “We believe we have the foundations of a unique safari-like experience that has the wellbeing of the animals also firmly at the centre of the visitor experience. The reserve is ideal for wildlife enthusiasts, photographers or anyone looking for a new wildlife experience. We aim to remain as sustainable with as low carbon footprint as possible, while keeping our accommodation standards high. We believe we have an authentic offering that suits everyone from relaxing stays to experience and education.”
The accommodation is fully wheelchair accessible and, for tours, a trailer is towed by the guide’s buggy. Accessible tickets and free carer admission are also available.
Watatunga Wildlife Reserve have recently begun their 2023 Guided Tour season for the general public and bookings can be made via their website. For more information go to www.watatunga.co.uk. The season runs from 1st April – 31st October, prices start at £66 off-peak for a 4-seater buggy.
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