Kerala 2014 - advice needed (1 Viewer)

[angusmcoatup]

Afternoon all,

I'm off to Kerala in December, from Kochi working our way south taking in Thattekad, Munnar, the backwaters and so on. Has anybody any good tips for hiring reliable drivers with decent cars? Probably spending 2 - 3 days in each area before moving on, for a total of 3 weeks.

Any other tips much appreciated.

 

[temmie]

I would ask Gireesh at the Jungle Bird Homestay in Thattekad: http://junglebirdhomestay.blogspot.be
He is a very pleasant guy and good birder, too. His main occupancy is lawyer, so once in the field, expect him to make phone calls all the time ;-)

 

[angusmcoatup]

I would ask Gireesh at the Jungle Bird Homestay in Thattekad: http://junglebirdhomestay.blogspot.be
He is a very pleasant guy and good birder, too. His main occupancy is lawyer, so once in the field, expect him to make phone calls all the time ;-)

Thanks Temmie. I'll look into contacting him.

Anyone else with good advice?

 

[Jeanie]

Kalypso Adventures should give you a fair price. We have been with them twice. We had bird guide and driver but they also do driver only.

 

[jurek]

BTW, a friend who is experienced birder is going to S India in November for 9 days and is looking to share the transport. If anybody is interested, please send me PM.

 

[Bob Philpott]

I am doing the same trip in November. The company I am using supplied the trip through Wild About Travel. I spoke to them at the bird fair and they seem very switched on.

We are getting a car and driver for 2 weeks. We have bought a package of hotels as well recommended by them and tailored to what we want. They may be able to help you with the car etc.

 

[iraqbabbler]

Try contacting Eldhose KV http://www.wildsouthindia.com/

He is a top notch professional bird guide (best of the best) and he offers birding packages which IMHO are incredibly good value for money.

He uses great (safe and professional) drivers, so you can contact him and find out

 

[angusmcoatup]

Thanks all. Will look into your tips.

 

[angusmcoatup]

In the end we booked drivers as and when needed. Some trips were easier using a tuk-tuk as its easy to stop and get out quickly plus they're a lot cheaper. We had a fantastic trip, the Keralans were easy going and helpful and the place is crammed with birds.

 

[RayRig]

Glad to know, I may be travelling to Kerala on work. I hope to spot variety of birds there.