Mark Smith's Nature Tours emphasize ecology, conservation, cultural and historical highlights, flora, photography and enjoying birds! Most tours are co-led by fine naturalists from the host country, and each is researched personally, then designed to maximize natural, cultural and geographic diversity. Reduced overhead keeps prices very competitive. Mark's keen interest in nature as a boy led him to study biology at Oregon State University and build his own tour business.

For over 25 years, Mark has guided travelers to Central and South America, Asia, Africa, Madagascar, Australia and Europe. He has led many tours for The Nature Conservancy, Portland Audubon, Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI) and Elderhostel. He is co-author of Birds of Oregon and has conducted research for The National Science Foundation, the Department of Fish and Wildlife, The Nature Conservancy, and the National Marine Fisheries Service in Alaska.

As owner, director, and usually guide, Mark provides informed, personalized attention before and during each journey. His wide knowledge and contagious enthusiasm have kept travelers returning year after year. Eighty percent of travelers are returnees, many having been on 10 tours or more. Read our traveler's feedback.

Lodgings are always comfortable, often spectacular, with attached bathrooms. Transport is by van or small bus. Group size is kept small, usually 6 to 14. Please join us as we explore a variety of spectacular destinations.

Latest News from Mark Smith Nature Tours:

Dear Traveler,

Year 2007 was fabulous, with wonderful sightings and adventures. In 2008 I will be having a lighter schedule with more domestic tours, and in addition to the tours featured in this catalogue am leading some private trips for families. In 2009 I have a more diverse schedule, with Marc Egger and Lelis Navarette guiding tours also, including Brazil, Panama, Ecuador and Galapagos.

Closer to home, the spring Texas, Arizona and Oregon trips are each carefully timed for peak spring birds and flowers, before the deserts get hot. Each offers great solitude, leisurely walks and varied wildlife. A few spaces remain on each of these spring jaunts.

For 20 years our Kenya groups have visited Sabaki Village on the Indian Ocean where traveler Marlene Anderson has established the non-profit Imani Project, which includes sister school connections, orphan placement and sponsorship, and health education and clinics. Last summer six volunteers joined Marlene at Sabaki, and we plan to send volunteers this summer; we're hoping that the troubles calm. To learn more, visit Imaniproject.org or call 503-349-2596.

With excellent guides in many countries we can often customize and guide itineraries for individuals, groups, and families. For a preview, trip photos for many tours are posted throughout the website. My tours are consistently competitive with similar high-content tours, with service more personalized than larger companies. Many travelers are returnees, some having been on over 10 tours.

Your referrals are my best advertising and I appreciate all the addresses I'm sent. Let me know if you would like more catalogs to disperse.

Our travels to the world's wild places support parkside communities, providing the economic basis for maintaining parks and protecting species. These explorations in Earth's most beautiful landscapes enrich our lives. I feel lucky to participate in such adventures. Thank you for all the support and friendship.

Best Wishes,

Mark J. Smith
February 2008