A friend recently proposed the question, “Does going on safari aid conservation?” Protecting the land and all the species that inhabit the land is critically important to ensure this incredible resource is available for the generations of local community members and tourists. I believe sustainable wildlife tourism is a critical component to ensuring this happens.
Every safari is different and what animals you see can be influenced by the time of year, weather conditions, sheer luck, and the incredible skill of the ranger and tracker. This latest trip to Phinda Private Game Reserve was replete with incredible predator sightings, including lions.
As our airplane flies low over the Zambezi River I count numerous elephants and hippos grazing along the verdant banks and wallowing in the cool river current. We circle back to land on the dusty, dirt runway and as the plane doors open, I am blasted by a hot breeze that offers little relief. From the airstrip, it is a short drive to the river where we board a boat for Sausage Tree Camp where I will be spending the next three nights.
Two years ago I moved to South Africa. I never expected to live here, but I know I am where I am meant to be. Happy South African two year anniversary to me!
This was one of those weekend where a planed getaway to the lower Drakensberg quickly morphed into a series of unfortunate events. Sometimes even a seasoned traveller needs to be reminded that sometimes nothing goes according to plan and you have to let go of all expectations in order to enjoy the moment. Once I did that, this weekend turned into exactly what I needed.
Living in South Africa means that I have plenty of opportunities to experience long haul flights and I have developed several coping mechanisms to survive 15 plus hours in coach. What are your techniques for surviving long haul flights?