With a conservation mission to restore the Kalahari Desert to itself, the land at Tswalu is being converted from cattle farms to a place teeming with wildlife. And, Tswalu delivered exceptional wildlife moments as if they were safari norm, instead of the exception. But the remarkable did not stop at wildlife sightings, but extended to the food, nothing is too much service, and range of activities.
I have written about Phinda Private Game Reserve extensively on my blog because it is one of my go to destinations in South Africa. The game viewing is excellent, the guiding is superb, and being an & Beyond property, the service is warm and friendly
I tried to whittle this down to fifteen favorite wildlife images or special moments, but sixteen was the best that I could muster.
Hoanib Skeleton Coast Camp in Namibia is the most stunning lodge that I have visited in all of my adventures across Southern Africa in no small part because of the the surreal landscape of undulating sand dunes, punctuated by rocky hills, and sustained by a riverbed that flows once a year bringing life to this dusty, dry desert. The giraffe, elephants, and lions seem incongruous with the habitat, but they have adapted to their harsh environs which is perhaps why animal viewing here is thrilling.
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.