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<item> <title>International Leopard Day in Khwai Private Reservehttps://www.a2asafaris.com/africa/blog/international-leopard-day-khwai-private-reserve<div class="body text-field" property="content:encoded"><p>May 3<sup>rd</sup> marks International Leopard Day and one of the best places to see leopard conservation in action is Khwai Private Reserve (KPR) in Botswana’s Okavango Delta. Leopards are among the numerous predators found in the exclusive reserve and our team on the ground works hard to keep them safe.</p>
<p>The leopard (Panthera pardus) is a remarkably adaptable big cat, with the eight subspecies occurring across sub-Saharan and northeast Africa, Central Asia, India and China. The habitats they live in vary hugely from mountains to jungles and even cities – they have the widest geographic range of any big cat (Guynup, 2024). </p>
<p>They’re solitary and elusive creatures, making them one of the most enthralling sightings for safari-goers. Despite being so enigmatic and indeed the most resilient of the big cats, their populations are unfortunately decreasing, and they’re currently classed as Vulnerable by the IUCN. In fact, the IUCN believe they may now be extinct in 26 countries that they were once found in. The primary threats they face are loss of habitat, human-wildlife conflict, trophy hunting and poaching. As one of the top predators in their habitat, leopards are vital to their ecosystems. Their predation keeps herbivore populations in check – particularly antelopes, preventing overgrazing which in turn allows vegetation to thrive and supports the overall health of the ecosystem.</p>
<p><figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img fetchpriority="high" decoding="async" width="1024" height="681" src="https://naturalselection.travel/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Blog-category-1024-x-681px_0002_Bots_Sable-Alley_Mink-Jaeger_L4_Leopard-4.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-30825" srcset="https://naturalselection.travel/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Blog-category-1024-x-681px_0002_Bots_Sable-Alley_Mink-Jaeger_L4_Leopard-4.jpg 1024w, https://naturalselection.travel/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Blog-category-1024-x-681px_0002_Bots_Sable-Alley_Mink-Jaeger_L4_Leopard-4-300x200.jpg 300w, https://naturalselection.travel/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Blog-category-1024-x-681px_0002_Bots_Sable-Alley_Mink-Jaeger_L4_Leopard-4-768x511.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure></p>
<p>The plight of the leopard isn’t immediately obvious to guests in Khwai Private Reserve though, until they begin to engage with the conservation efforts that are underway.</p>
<p>Our work with the leopards here began in 2017 with our Leopard Habituation Project. This project was necessary because the reserve had previously been used for hunting, so the wildlife required some reassurance that no one was going to try to shoot them anymore. Our team needed to habituate them to the presence of humans and safari vehicles ensuring they no longer considered either a threat.</p>
<p>“During the transition from hunting safaris to photographic safaris, many of the animals on the concession were skittish,” recalls Gofiwa Thebenala, the reserve’s Head Ranger. “To address this, it was agreed that the rangers would focus on habituating leopards and other wildlife, but with most of the focus on the leopards. All resident leopards are now successfully habituated and comfortable around guests.”</p>
<p>For those who visit KPR and spend time in one of the lodges here: Tuludi, Sable Alley, Little Sable, Skybeds and Elephant Pan, the predator action is a huge draw, however the high predator numbers pose a threat to the reserve’s leopards. With the lion population increasing, the leopards are being crowded into a concentrated area, where normally they’d have more space. Alas, there’s nothing we can do about this situation beyond monitoring.</p>
<p>Another threat to the reserve’s leopards is snares. Thus far no leopards have been caught in snares, but other species have, and our team must be particularly alert in looking for snares during the grass cutting season when community members come in to cut grass in the reserve.</p>
<p><figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" width="1024" height="681" src="https://naturalselection.travel/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Blog-category-1024-x-681px_0005_Bots_North-Island_James-Ramsay_L4_Leopard-13.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-30826" srcset="https://naturalselection.travel/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Blog-category-1024-x-681px_0005_Bots_North-Island_James-Ramsay_L4_Leopard-13.jpg 1024w, https://naturalselection.travel/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Blog-category-1024-x-681px_0005_Bots_North-Island_James-Ramsay_L4_Leopard-13-300x200.jpg 300w, https://naturalselection.travel/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Blog-category-1024-x-681px_0005_Bots_North-Island_James-Ramsay_L4_Leopard-13-768x511.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure></p>
<p>Being aware of these threats allows us to mitigate them as much as possible, taking care of Khwai Private Reserve’s leopard population. We currently have 11 leopards in the concession, each of whom is well habituated – particularly the females, and they all have their own territories. Closest to Little Sable is the female Acacia and her two cubs, while Mathata and her cub can be found in the Sable Alley area. In the region around Tuludi, you might see Nicky and her two cubs or Khuhle and her cub. The presiding male meanwhile is called Rra Tsebe and he could be seen virtually anywhere!</p>
<p>“Nicky is also affectionately referred to as Mosadimogolo which means ‘old lady’,” notes Gofiwa. “She’s the oldest leopard on the concession and was one of the first to be habituated when the photographic safaris began in 2017. At the onset of her habituation, she had a male cub named Nicolas who’s now left the reserve. Khuhle is another cub of Nicky’s from 2019. She’s also well habituated and currently has a cub of her own. Two years ago, Nicky had two more cubs named Bella and Rra Dijo who can still be seen near Tuludi with their mother and are very happy with guests around.”</p>
<p><figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" width="1024" height="681" src="https://naturalselection.travel/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Blog-category-1024-x-681px_0000_Bots_Tuludi_Anja-Hanke_L4_Leopard22.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-30827" srcset="https://naturalselection.travel/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Blog-category-1024-x-681px_0000_Bots_Tuludi_Anja-Hanke_L4_Leopard22.jpg 1024w, https://naturalselection.travel/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Blog-category-1024-x-681px_0000_Bots_Tuludi_Anja-Hanke_L4_Leopard22-300x200.jpg 300w, https://naturalselection.travel/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Blog-category-1024-x-681px_0000_Bots_Tuludi_Anja-Hanke_L4_Leopard22-768x511.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure></p>
<p>A very high percentage of visitors to the reserve see the leopards, and many become so invested in the individuals that they’re keen to take things a step further with the Khwai Private Reserve Ranger Experience.</p>
<p>“We take pride in the fact that guests visiting Khwai Private Reserve have a high chance of spotting leopards during their stay,” smiles the head guide. “While it is possible for some guests to leave without seeing a leopard, we estimate that 9 out of 10 guests will see them. The Ranger Experience is the best way to get involved and have first-hand experience on how we habituate the leopards.”</p>
<p>The Ranger Experience allows guests to help a specialist team track, capture data and patrol. The experience begins before dawn and guests will spend up to 6 hours tracking and identifying a variety of predators including leopards. If time allows there’ll also be the opportunity to check in on some of the reserve’s conservation projects along the way. This work all goes towards building a bigger picture of the reserve’s predators and informs the team on how best to manage and protect them. For leopards sightings before other guests have even woken from their slumber – this is the activity for you.</p>
<p><figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="681" src="https://naturalselection.travel/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Blog-category-1024-x-681px_0004_KPR_JK_Ranger-Activity8.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-30828" srcset="https://naturalselection.travel/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Blog-category-1024-x-681px_0004_KPR_JK_Ranger-Activity8.jpg 1024w, https://naturalselection.travel/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Blog-category-1024-x-681px_0004_KPR_JK_Ranger-Activity8-300x200.jpg 300w, https://naturalselection.travel/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Blog-category-1024-x-681px_0004_KPR_JK_Ranger-Activity8-768x511.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure></p>
<p>The post <a href="https://naturalselection.travel/international-leopard-day-in-khwai-private-reserve/">International Leopard Day in Khwai Private Reserve</a> appeared first on <a href="https://naturalselection.travel">Natural Selection</a>.</p>
</div>Fri, 02 May 2025 11:48:14 +0000Anonymous4019 at https://www.a2asafaris.com/africaInternational Hyena Dayhttps://www.a2asafaris.com/africa/blog/international-hyena-day<div class="body text-field" property="content:encoded"><p>Today’s International Hyena Day and it’s time to appreciate their value.</p>
<p>Disney might have us believe that hyenas are brainless, cackling lunatics salivating over their next meal and doing no good whatsoever, but they actually contribute significantly to their environment, and bear with us, but they’re really quite sweet!</p>
<p><figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="681" src="https://naturalselection.travel/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Blog-category-1024-x-681px_0000_Bots_Sable-Alley_Hyena-2.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-30657" srcset="https://naturalselection.travel/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Blog-category-1024-x-681px_0000_Bots_Sable-Alley_Hyena-2.jpg 1024w, https://naturalselection.travel/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Blog-category-1024-x-681px_0000_Bots_Sable-Alley_Hyena-2-300x200.jpg 300w, https://naturalselection.travel/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Blog-category-1024-x-681px_0000_Bots_Sable-Alley_Hyena-2-768x511.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure></p>
<p>There are three species of hyena in the subfamily Hyaenidae, these are the spotted hyena (Crocuta crocuta), the striped hyena (Hyaena hyaena) and the brown hyena (Hyaena brunnea). They also have a close cousin in the aardwolf (Proteles cristata). We’re fortunate enough to have three of them in the areas we operate, the exception being the striped which occurs elsewhere in Africa and beyond.</p>
<p>It’s likely to be the spotted hyena that first springs to mind for most people. They’re particularly known for their vocalisations which sound like laughter and most often occur with excitement of stress. These are the largest of the species and have a distinctive spotted coat. Those hoping for a spotted sighting would do well to visit our Khwai Private Reserve lodges in Botswana: Tuludi, Sable Alley, Little Sable, Elephant Pan or Skybeds. However, a healthy African wild dog population also tends to be a good indicator of their presence – the dogs are such effective hunters that they attract the attentions of hyenas and vultures who look to benefit from a successful hunt.</p>
<p><figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="681" src="https://naturalselection.travel/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Blog-category-1024-x-681px_0001_Bots_Sable-Alley_Hyena-1.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-30658" srcset="https://naturalselection.travel/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Blog-category-1024-x-681px_0001_Bots_Sable-Alley_Hyena-1.jpg 1024w, https://naturalselection.travel/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Blog-category-1024-x-681px_0001_Bots_Sable-Alley_Hyena-1-300x200.jpg 300w, https://naturalselection.travel/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Blog-category-1024-x-681px_0001_Bots_Sable-Alley_Hyena-1-768x511.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure></p>
<p>The brown hyena is a more solitary creature. They’re shaggy and endearingly shy, quiet animals. Spend time with a brown hyena and you’re sure to develop a soft spot for them. While their spotted associates are thriving, these delightful animals are unfortunately classed as Near Threatened but our guests are still in with a good chance of seeing them. The Makgadikgadi Pans in Botswana are particularly good for brown hyenas, so booking a room at Jack’s Camp, San Camp or Camp Kalahari would be a good move. Alternatively, you could swap salt pans for sand dunes and head to Namibia. Hoanib Valley Camp, Kwessi Dunes and sometimes even Shipwreck Lodge can prove fruitful for brown hyena sightings.</p>
<p><figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="681" src="https://naturalselection.travel/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Blog-category-1024-x-681px_0005_17-Makgadikgadi-Brown-hyena.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-30659" srcset="https://naturalselection.travel/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Blog-category-1024-x-681px_0005_17-Makgadikgadi-Brown-hyena.jpg 1024w, https://naturalselection.travel/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Blog-category-1024-x-681px_0005_17-Makgadikgadi-Brown-hyena-300x200.jpg 300w, https://naturalselection.travel/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Blog-category-1024-x-681px_0005_17-Makgadikgadi-Brown-hyena-768x511.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure></p>
<p>Smaller and more timid than their close relatives, the aardwolf is vulnerable to larger predators and thus is cautious. Its name translates as ‘earth wolf’ in Afrikaans and they feed primarily on termites. The aardwolf is even trickier to find than its brown cousin, but once again we can help, because they’re frequently sighted from Tawana, our lodge in Botswana’s Moremi Game Reserve as well as in the Makgadikgadi Pans.</p>
<p><figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="681" src="https://naturalselection.travel/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Blog-category-1024-x-681px_0002_Bots_Okavango-Delta_Chris-Schmid_L2_Aardwolf-1.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-30660" srcset="https://naturalselection.travel/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Blog-category-1024-x-681px_0002_Bots_Okavango-Delta_Chris-Schmid_L2_Aardwolf-1.jpg 1024w, https://naturalselection.travel/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Blog-category-1024-x-681px_0002_Bots_Okavango-Delta_Chris-Schmid_L2_Aardwolf-1-300x200.jpg 300w, https://naturalselection.travel/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Blog-category-1024-x-681px_0002_Bots_Okavango-Delta_Chris-Schmid_L2_Aardwolf-1-768x511.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure></p>
<p>The Hyaenidae are sometimes painted as nothing but scavengers who are damaging to the ecosystems they live in. Far from being pests in these areas though, Hyaenidae make a positive impact on their environment. For starters, they provide a very efficient cleaning service. They’re absolutely brilliant at clearing the ecosystem of carcasses or infirm animals. In doing so, they help to recycle nutrients and stop disease spreading. They also hate waste – while other predators pick and choose what they consume, the hyenas eat everything except the hair. All this bone they’ve eaten creates calcium compounds in their stools providing further nutrition for other animals who can’t eat bones themselves but can devour hyaena poo! Aardwolves meanwhile keep termite populations in check, thus protecting agricultural land from the damage they incur.</p>
<p>So if you’re lucky enough to find yourself at a hyena sighting, take a moment to appreciate the good they’re doing – they’re integral threads within Mother Nature’s rich tapestry.</p>
<p><figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="681" src="https://naturalselection.travel/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Blog-category-1024-x-681px_0004_21-Makgadikgadi-Brown-hyena.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-30661" srcset="https://naturalselection.travel/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Blog-category-1024-x-681px_0004_21-Makgadikgadi-Brown-hyena.jpg 1024w, https://naturalselection.travel/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Blog-category-1024-x-681px_0004_21-Makgadikgadi-Brown-hyena-300x200.jpg 300w, https://naturalselection.travel/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Blog-category-1024-x-681px_0004_21-Makgadikgadi-Brown-hyena-768x511.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure></p>
<p>The post <a href="https://naturalselection.travel/international-hyena-day/">International Hyena Day</a> appeared first on <a href="https://naturalselection.travel">Natural Selection</a>.</p>
</div>Fri, 25 Apr 2025 10:28:39 +0000Anonymous4016 at https://www.a2asafaris.com/africaEarth Day – Our power, our planethttps://www.a2asafaris.com/africa/blog/earth-day-%E2%80%93-our-power-our-planet<div class="body text-field" property="content:encoded"><p>We’re committed to conserving and protecting Africa’s last great wild places and as part of that vision we keep our own carbon footprint to a minimum, ensuring we tread lightly in our endeavours and draw on renewable energy throughout our operations.</p>
<p><figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="681" src="https://naturalselection.travel/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Blog-category-1024-x-681px_0002_43-Kwessi-Dunes-Sundowners.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-30514" srcset="https://naturalselection.travel/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Blog-category-1024-x-681px_0002_43-Kwessi-Dunes-Sundowners.jpg 1024w, https://naturalselection.travel/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Blog-category-1024-x-681px_0002_43-Kwessi-Dunes-Sundowners-300x200.jpg 300w, https://naturalselection.travel/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Blog-category-1024-x-681px_0002_43-Kwessi-Dunes-Sundowners-768x511.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure></p>
<p>This ambition is not without its challenges of course, particularly when operating in some of the world’s most remote corners. Many of the sustainability strategies we invoke are practical, such as deploying as few supply runs as possible to and from our camps – something we achieve simply through solid management, or make use of natural resources, like the solar energy that every one of our lodges runs on. With 27 lodges in our portfolio, having them all powered by solar is no small feat, and one that we’re justifiably proud of. We’ve also introduced a remote system that can track our solar power generation across the company. There are other approaches we’d like to incorporate, but are, as yet unable due to the nature of the areas we work in. A good example of this is the electric safari vehicle – perhaps the only green car that’s not considered unlucky! You might have seen them being utilised in other areas, but the rough terrain and water that we need our game drive vehicles to negotiate makes them impractical for us in their current guise. We are, however keeping a close eye on their advancement and are busily trialling a fuel additive in the game drive and support vehicles across our Namibian lodges that reduces fuel emissions.</p>
<p>We reduce waste in the lodges in a variety of ways, including repurposing materials at every opportunity (Tawana’s floors are fashioned from recycled cork), using glass crushers and meticulously managing the sewage processing systems. This year we’ll be trialling a system whereby waste from Mokolwane is taken to Maun where it’s fed to maggots which are, in turn, fed to chickens. Tawana meanwhile is soon to have a biogas digester installed which will produce methane for cooking.</p>
<p><figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="681" src="https://naturalselection.travel/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Blog-category-1024-x-681px_0001_BOTS_Tawana_Dook_L4_Bathroom5.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-30515" srcset="https://naturalselection.travel/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Blog-category-1024-x-681px_0001_BOTS_Tawana_Dook_L4_Bathroom5.jpg 1024w, https://naturalselection.travel/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Blog-category-1024-x-681px_0001_BOTS_Tawana_Dook_L4_Bathroom5-300x200.jpg 300w, https://naturalselection.travel/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Blog-category-1024-x-681px_0001_BOTS_Tawana_Dook_L4_Bathroom5-768x511.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure></p>
<p>Our reach extends beyond our lodges and into the community. We’ve installed solar energy in Gweta Hospital’s operating theatre, laboratory and pharmacy and are unrolling the technology across the whole hospital. We’ve also solar powered the village’s water supply, ensuring that this is now reliable.</p>
<p>Over on South Africa’s Wild Coast meanwhile, we have a carbon project at GweGwe Beach Lodge in Mkambati Nature Reserve. The Mkambati Land Trust represents 6,600 rural families who own 18,000 hectares of uninhabited grassland at the heart of the country’s Eastern Cape. 7,400 hectares of this land is within Mkambati. Various contributing factors have led to the grasslands deteriorating, but a Pre-Scoping Study has concluded that correct management over the next 30 years would sequester around 600,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide in soils. Carbon credits would be generated from this sequestration and to achieve it the Mkambati reserve needs to be expanded to 15,000 hectares – this is phase one of the project. Next, we’ll introduce regenerative agriculture and sustainable land management principles before extending the project to eight other areas within the Wild Coast. More than 80% of the carbon credit income stream generated will go to the local communities.</p>
<p>We’re all about giving back to the Earth, and more often than not, this is most effectively done by using the planet’s own great gifts.</p>
<p><figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="681" src="https://naturalselection.travel/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Blog-category-1024-x-681px_0000_Indland-from-MNR.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-30516" srcset="https://naturalselection.travel/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Blog-category-1024-x-681px_0000_Indland-from-MNR.jpg 1024w, https://naturalselection.travel/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Blog-category-1024-x-681px_0000_Indland-from-MNR-300x200.jpg 300w, https://naturalselection.travel/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Blog-category-1024-x-681px_0000_Indland-from-MNR-768x511.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure></p>
<p>The post <a href="https://naturalselection.travel/earth-day-our-power-our-planet/">Earth Day – Our power, our planet</a> appeared first on <a href="https://naturalselection.travel">Natural Selection</a>.</p>
</div>Tue, 22 Apr 2025 11:27:32 +0000Anonymous4014 at https://www.a2asafaris.com/africaHow we help the African Elephanthttps://www.a2asafaris.com/africa/blog/how-we-help-the-african-elephant<div class="body text-field" property="content:encoded"><p>There are actually two elephants in Africa: the African Forest Elephant (Loxodonta cyclotis) found in the rainforests of West and Central Africa, and the more familiar African Savanna Elephant (Loxodonta africana) which is found throughout sub-Saharan Africa. These giant pachyderms are perhaps the continent’s most iconic species, and yet both populations are in decline with the Forest Elephant classified as Critically Endangered by the IUCN and the Savanna as Endangered.</p>
<p>It is the African Savanna Elephant that occurs in the areas we operate, so that’s the species our own conservation efforts focus upon.</p>
<p>The Savanna Elephant is the largest species of elephant, and anyone who’s seen one will attest that they really are as enormous as your childhood imagination led you to believe. They’re also crucial to the ecosystems in which they exist, serving as very efficient gardeners and ensuring that tree density is kept under control so that other flora and fauna can thrive in the savanna and woodland they inhabit.</p>
<p><figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="681" src="https://naturalselection.travel/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Blog-category-1024-x-681px_0003_Bots_Tuludi_Anja-Hanke_L4_Elephant1.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-30389" srcset="https://naturalselection.travel/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Blog-category-1024-x-681px_0003_Bots_Tuludi_Anja-Hanke_L4_Elephant1.jpg 1024w, https://naturalselection.travel/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Blog-category-1024-x-681px_0003_Bots_Tuludi_Anja-Hanke_L4_Elephant1-300x200.jpg 300w, https://naturalselection.travel/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Blog-category-1024-x-681px_0003_Bots_Tuludi_Anja-Hanke_L4_Elephant1-768x511.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure></p>
<p>Savanna elephants face numerous threats, many of which stem from escalating human–elephant conflict. One of the most well-known is the illegal ivory trade. Despite a global CITES ban on the sale of elephant ivory since 1990, demand persists — and tens of thousands of elephants are still poached each year to supply it (WWF, n.d.).</p>
<p>However, the threat to elephants extends beyond ivory. As human populations expand, elephants increasingly find themselves in close proximity to villages and farmland. Their sheer size makes them capable of significant damage — from trampling crops to destroying infrastructure — often just by following their natural movements. Many of their traditional migratory routes now intersect with human settlements, turning everyday journeys into dangerous encounters for both people and elephants. These conflicts not only heighten tension but also make elephants vulnerable to retaliatory killings.</p>
<p>We are addressing elephant conservation with a multi-faceted approach:</p>
<p><strong>Youth Education Projects</strong></p>
<p>A crucial component of conservation is education, and we work with a number of like-minded partners to deliver engaging education that teaches young people living near wildlife areas about the value and conservation of the wildlife and habitats around them.</p>
<p>Lessons In Conservation is one such organisation operating in Botswana, raising awareness about conservation in rural communities across Africa. We also work with Elephants for Africa on an Environmental Club which sheds light on the relevance of the wildlife that passes through the local village to Meno a Kwena.</p>
<p>Another partner of ours, Wild Shots Outreach, takes a slightly different approach and uses photography to not only progress children’s potential but also encourage appreciation of the wildlife local to them. Coaching Conservation meanwhile, use sport to get the message across to kids in wildlife adjacent areas, and we support their work through funding and access.</p>
<p>Over in Namibia, the world of conservation is opened up by our partner KEEP programme which is designed and implemented by the Giraffe Conservation Foundation and connects children from urban primary schools with nature, nurturing an interest in the environment.</p>
<p><figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="681" src="https://naturalselection.travel/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Blog-category-1024-x-681px_0002_IMG_5299.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-30390" srcset="https://naturalselection.travel/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Blog-category-1024-x-681px_0002_IMG_5299.jpg 1024w, https://naturalselection.travel/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Blog-category-1024-x-681px_0002_IMG_5299-300x200.jpg 300w, https://naturalselection.travel/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Blog-category-1024-x-681px_0002_IMG_5299-768x511.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure></p>
<p><strong>Human-Wildlife Conflict Mitigation</strong></p>
<p>When humans and elephants compete for space and resources, conflict between the two is inevitable. Because of this, we’ve funded the Botswana Predator Conservation (BPC) BioBoundary Project which investigates the efficacy of plant-based airborne elephant repellents to help protect crops and infrastructure.</p>
<p>Humans and elephants themselves are kept safe through our Elephant Express buses. We work with EcoExist and the Okavango Community Trust to run these buses, with insurance sponsored by SATIB and the Botswana Insurance Company. The three buses provide safe transportation for school children and clinic patients through an elephant corridor.</p>
<p>Further to this we work alongside Elephants for Africa to collar and monitor elephants, and also to help communities elephant proof their livelihoods. We’re also partners on the Living with Wildlife Strategy Workshops in Moreomaoto Village.</p>
<p><figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="681" src="https://naturalselection.travel/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Blog-category-1024-x-681px_0001_BUS-Edit.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-30391" srcset="https://naturalselection.travel/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Blog-category-1024-x-681px_0001_BUS-Edit.jpg 1024w, https://naturalselection.travel/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Blog-category-1024-x-681px_0001_BUS-Edit-300x200.jpg 300w, https://naturalselection.travel/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Blog-category-1024-x-681px_0001_BUS-Edit-768x511.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure></p>
<p><strong>Anti-Poaching</strong></p>
<p>The fight against poaching is ongoing, and we’re well equipped to deal with it. Concern for the wildlife in Khwai Private Reserve led us to ensure rangers in the Khwai Private Reserve Anti-Poaching team are fully equipped. Radios, tablets, drones and even motorbikes help the ranger team to be as effective on the ground as possible and we’ve invested heavily in their training too so they’re prepared at all times.</p>
<p>The status of a species is always evolving, and by supporting organizations and individuals who share our values, we remain ready to meet the changing conservation needs of the African Savanna elephant.</p>
<p><figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="681" src="https://naturalselection.travel/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Blog-category-1024-x-681px_0000_Scott-Ramsay-Photos-Khwai-73.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-30392" srcset="https://naturalselection.travel/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Blog-category-1024-x-681px_0000_Scott-Ramsay-Photos-Khwai-73.jpg 1024w, https://naturalselection.travel/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Blog-category-1024-x-681px_0000_Scott-Ramsay-Photos-Khwai-73-300x200.jpg 300w, https://naturalselection.travel/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Blog-category-1024-x-681px_0000_Scott-Ramsay-Photos-Khwai-73-768x511.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure></p>
<p>The post <a href="https://naturalselection.travel/how-we-help-the-african-elephant/">How we help the African Elephant</a> appeared first on <a href="https://naturalselection.travel">Natural Selection</a>.</p>
</div>Thu, 10 Apr 2025 08:54:30 +0000Anonymous4012 at https://www.a2asafaris.com/africaInternational Zebra Day – Where To See Themhttps://www.a2asafaris.com/africa/blog/international-zebra-day-%E2%80%93-where-to-see-them<div class="body text-field" property="content:encoded"><p>Our brand is synonymous with zebras – we’re so fond of these stripy equids we even put one on a bicycle for our logo and we have no shortage of options for those looking to spend time with a zebra or indeed, a thousand of them. Their appearance is so remarkable that you’d struggle to invent these extraordinary creatures, however it’s not their monochrome looks that capture the imagination in real life, it’s the noise they make.</p>
<p>“As stunning as they are, the noise is incredible and so unlike a horse,” agrees Private Guide and Head of Sales Peter Allison. “When they gather at Meno a Kwena right in front of the camp there’s a chorus of thousands emitting an almost whistling sound.”</p>
<p><figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="681" src="https://naturalselection.travel/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Blog-category-1024-x-681px_0002_BOTS_Meno-a-Kwena_Martin-Harvey_L4_zebra_015.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-14208" srcset="https://naturalselection.travel/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Blog-category-1024-x-681px_0002_BOTS_Meno-a-Kwena_Martin-Harvey_L4_zebra_015.jpg 1024w, https://naturalselection.travel/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Blog-category-1024-x-681px_0002_BOTS_Meno-a-Kwena_Martin-Harvey_L4_zebra_015-300x200.jpg 300w, https://naturalselection.travel/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Blog-category-1024-x-681px_0002_BOTS_Meno-a-Kwena_Martin-Harvey_L4_zebra_015-768x511.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure></p>
<p>One of our flagship conservation projects is the Makgadikgadi Large Mammal Migration Conservation Initiative. Prior to the 1960s the area of north-eastern Botswana around the Makgadikgadi National Park and the Kalahari Desert held the longest and possibly the largest migration of zebra and wildebeest in Africa. Unfortunately land use changes brought extensive fencing to the area and cut short this historic migration. Astonishingly though, the migration has re-emerged over the last decade and we’ve committed significant funds to reopening these migration corridors so that the animals’ movement can continue undeterred. We work on a multifaceted conservation program, addressing wildlife and cattle movements, waterhole usage, human-wildlife conflict zoning and conflict mitigation efforts. We work alongside local communities and all stakeholders to develop land use plans that benefit all and allow this epic migration to flourish.</p>
<p>A happy by-product of this project are the incredible zebra sightings that our guests can enjoy from our Makgadikgadi properties.</p>
<p><figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="681" src="https://naturalselection.travel/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Blog-category-1024-x-681px_0001_01-Zebra-migration.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-14209" srcset="https://naturalselection.travel/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Blog-category-1024-x-681px_0001_01-Zebra-migration.jpg 1024w, https://naturalselection.travel/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Blog-category-1024-x-681px_0001_01-Zebra-migration-300x200.jpg 300w, https://naturalselection.travel/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Blog-category-1024-x-681px_0001_01-Zebra-migration-768x511.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure></p>
<p>Certainly Meno a Kwena is one of the best places to see zebra them. The clifftop position means that most of the camp, including the rooms overlook the river below and it’s here that they arrive to drink in April and then remain until around September. The floating hide at the water’s edge offers a water level view of the zebra as they flow up and down the hillside to quench their thirst. There’s a liquidity to the sight of so many of these equids as they stream past one another almost as one creature.</p>
<p>The most famous zebra sightings are in Kenya’s Masai Mara of course, and second only to that is this annual pilgrimage. The zebras travel through Northern Botswana and from as far away as Namibia to the Makgadikgadi Pans where they can be seen from roughly December through to March. “It’s amazing to see them in such huge numbers in a dead flat environment,” notes Peter. It’s not only their surroundings that might surprise you, “as pretty as they are they’re actually quite violent animals,” he adds. “The males fight within their bachelor groups to see who can take on a dominant stallion. They do this using donkey kicks, rearing chop-downs and biting. Biting is actually their main weapon and they usually bite one another underneath the chin.”</p>
<p><figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="681" src="https://naturalselection.travel/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Blog-category-1024-x-681px_0000_08-Zebra-migration.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-14210" srcset="https://naturalselection.travel/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Blog-category-1024-x-681px_0000_08-Zebra-migration.jpg 1024w, https://naturalselection.travel/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Blog-category-1024-x-681px_0000_08-Zebra-migration-300x200.jpg 300w, https://naturalselection.travel/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Blog-category-1024-x-681px_0000_08-Zebra-migration-768x511.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure></p>
<p>The zebras that migrate benefit from protein rich grasses from the mineral laden Pans and thus weigh around 20 percent more than their non-travelling cousins in the Okavango Delta. If you’re keen to see these more slimline individuals, or indeed any zebra outside the migration season, Khwai Private Reserve and the Okavango Uncharted lodges of Duke’s Camp and Duke’s East are excellent for year round zebra sightings.</p>
<p>Those who are travelling to Namibia also stand a good chance of seeing these striped delights. The Plains zebra is the most widespread and the familiar species at our Etosha Heights Private Reserve properties, but at Hoanib Valley Camp and Kwessi Dunes you might just come across the much rarer Hartman’s zebra which sports narrower stripes that don’t meet beneath the belly.</p>
<p>Should your time in the company of zebras leave you keen to support their conservation, you can do this with a donation to the <a href="https://www.naturalselectionfoundation.org/conservation/makgadikgadi-large-mammal-mitigation-conservation-initiative/">Natural Selection Foundation</a></p>
<p><figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="681" src="https://naturalselection.travel/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Blog-category-1024-x-681px_0003_BOTS_Elephant-Pan_Tom-Frew_L4_Zebra-1.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-14211" srcset="https://naturalselection.travel/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Blog-category-1024-x-681px_0003_BOTS_Elephant-Pan_Tom-Frew_L4_Zebra-1.jpg 1024w, https://naturalselection.travel/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Blog-category-1024-x-681px_0003_BOTS_Elephant-Pan_Tom-Frew_L4_Zebra-1-300x200.jpg 300w, https://naturalselection.travel/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Blog-category-1024-x-681px_0003_BOTS_Elephant-Pan_Tom-Frew_L4_Zebra-1-768x511.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure></p>
<p>The post <a href="https://naturalselection.travel/international-zebra-day-where-to-see-them/">International Zebra Day – Where To See Them</a> appeared first on <a href="https://naturalselection.travel">Natural Selection</a>.</p>
</div>Thu, 30 Jan 2025 08:52:14 +0000Anonymous3992 at https://www.a2asafaris.com/africaMeet Ketji, our Community Outreach Officer for Namibiahttps://www.a2asafaris.com/africa/blog/meet-ketji-our-community-outreach-officer-namibia<div class="body text-field" property="content:encoded"><p>When guests travel to Africa it tends to be because they want to see the wildlife, but upon their return it’s often the people who they remember. It’s not only conservation work that we undertake, we’re also committed to supporting the local communities and one man who’s very involved in this is our Namibian Community Outreach Officer who’s widely known as Ketji. “My full name is Jermain Ketji,” he explains. “But I prefer to be known by my last name Ketji and that’s how everyone knows me. I was born in Grootfontein, a recently established town that’s a main business hub and supports the nearby farming community both commercial and communal.”</p>
<p><figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="681" src="https://naturalselection.travel/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Blog-category-1024-x-681px_0004_WhatsApp-Image-2024-11-25-at-09.10.01.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-13706" srcset="https://naturalselection.travel/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Blog-category-1024-x-681px_0004_WhatsApp-Image-2024-11-25-at-09.10.01.jpg 1024w, https://naturalselection.travel/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Blog-category-1024-x-681px_0004_WhatsApp-Image-2024-11-25-at-09.10.01-300x200.jpg 300w, https://naturalselection.travel/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Blog-category-1024-x-681px_0004_WhatsApp-Image-2024-11-25-at-09.10.01-768x511.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure></p>
<p>From day one, community has been a core component of life for Ketji. “I grew up with a strong rural rooted upbringing which was very common,” he tells us. “Working parents in towns would send their children to grandparents in the village until they reach school age.” This practice familiarised the young children with the adults’ daily chores and they learnt to contribute to the household. “My interest was mostly in goat herding,” notes Ketji. “It provided an opportunity to be out in the bush which meant the chance to enjoy the different treats that nature has to offer.”</p>
<p>The young Namibian also learnt from the older generations who guided him through the traditional herding practices. “I was so fascinated by the bush skills of the herders,” he nods. “The way they were able to find their way around and use the native plants to treat different ailments – it’s as though they were the pharmacists and everyone would order different plants from them on a daily basis. Throughout my schooling I would spend all my holidays and weekends back at the village and get straight back into my chores.”</p>
<p><figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="681" src="https://naturalselection.travel/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Blog-category-1024-x-681px_0002_5.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-13707" srcset="https://naturalselection.travel/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Blog-category-1024-x-681px_0002_5.jpg 1024w, https://naturalselection.travel/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Blog-category-1024-x-681px_0002_5-300x200.jpg 300w, https://naturalselection.travel/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Blog-category-1024-x-681px_0002_5-768x511.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure></p>
<p>This sense of community has stayed with Ketji right through to the present day as has the love of nature that his days out herding instilled. “It connected and tied my soul and spirit to nature. Throughout my life I have only wanted jobs that involved travelling to remote rural areas. It is a connection I have been fortunate to grow and strengthen over the years as I learnt more about conservation, tourism and how they can be used to develop and empower rural communities.”</p>
<p>Today, home for Ketji is Namibia’s capital Windhoek where he lives alone and continues to travel frequently in his role for us. Ketji had already spent 16 years working in tourism and outreach prior to joining Natural Selection three years ago. In this previous role he undertook guiding, lodge management, concession management and served on the boards of lodges as well as a non-profit. Ketji’s role with us as Community Outreach Officer for Namibia sees him ensure that the local communities benefit fully from Natural Selection’s ecotourism endeavours and it’s a model that he wholeheartedly believes in.</p>
<p><figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="681" src="https://naturalselection.travel/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Blog-category-1024-x-681px_0000_Namibia_WarmquelleVillage5_AntonCrone_L4.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-13708" srcset="https://naturalselection.travel/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Blog-category-1024-x-681px_0000_Namibia_WarmquelleVillage5_AntonCrone_L4.jpg 1024w, https://naturalselection.travel/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Blog-category-1024-x-681px_0000_Namibia_WarmquelleVillage5_AntonCrone_L4-300x200.jpg 300w, https://naturalselection.travel/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Blog-category-1024-x-681px_0000_Namibia_WarmquelleVillage5_AntonCrone_L4-768x511.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure></p>
<p>“I am passionate about people and their harmonious existence in nature,” he enthuses. “Over the years I have seen tremendous transformation of people and landscapes due to sustainable eco-tourism concepts. If done well and centred on people, I believe that community outreach is the best form of development. It should be done by the people, for the people, with serious passion and conviction from all involved.”</p>
<p>Ketji’s days are spent acting as liaison between conservancy and community partners on a range of different initiatives through Namibia. “We concentrate our efforts on impact through education,” he notes. “We’re currently sponsoring 20 learners from two high schools to help aid their chances of qualifying for tertiary education. In addition to this we recently built a kindergarten for a rural community in the Sesfontein area, the Otjikondavirongo Conservancy.”</p>
<p><figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="681" src="https://naturalselection.travel/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Blog-category-1024-x-681px_0001_IMG-20230725-WA0001.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-13709" srcset="https://naturalselection.travel/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Blog-category-1024-x-681px_0001_IMG-20230725-WA0001.jpg 1024w, https://naturalselection.travel/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Blog-category-1024-x-681px_0001_IMG-20230725-WA0001-300x200.jpg 300w, https://naturalselection.travel/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Blog-category-1024-x-681px_0001_IMG-20230725-WA0001-768x511.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure></p>
<p>Our community champion won’t be drawn on a favourite amongst the projects we run, but does have a favourite aspect of the job. “I really enjoy interacting with people and learning more about cultures, customs and traditions – I treasure unity in diversity.” As has been the case since he was a boy spending his school holidays herding goats, Ketji also places immense value upon being amongst nature’s spoils, “breathtaking, spectacular views, fantastic sightings, serenity and the solitude that only Mother Nature can provide.” He will also concede that resource mobilisation is the most challenging part of his role.</p>
<p>With such an involved job it’s natural that Ketji needs some downtime, and when he’s not working on our projects he can be found out running or camping in Namibia’s unspoilt landscapes.</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://naturalselection.travel/meet-ketji-our-community-outreach-officer-for-namibia/">Meet Ketji, our Community Outreach Officer for Namibia</a> appeared first on <a href="https://naturalselection.travel">Natural Selection</a>.</p>
</div><div class="field-tags" rel="dc:subject"><div class="field-label">Tags: </div><a href="/africa/blog/tags/people" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">People</a></div>Tue, 07 Jan 2025 10:25:26 +0000Anonymous3987 at https://www.a2asafaris.com/africaKeeping Cool in the Bushhttps://www.a2asafaris.com/africa/blog/keeping-cool-the-bush<div class="body text-field" property="content:encoded"><p>The action heats up quickly on safari, and so do the temperatures. This is particularly true in Botswana where the summer months of October, November and December can see the mercury rising well into the forties, making staying cool a necessity. “But why travel during the Summer if it’s so stifling?” we hear you cry; the answer is simple, the game viewing is nothing short of spectacular.</p>
<p><figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="681" src="https://naturalselection.travel/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Blog-category-1024-x-681px_0002_Layer-2.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-13645" srcset="https://naturalselection.travel/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Blog-category-1024-x-681px_0002_Layer-2.jpg 1024w, https://naturalselection.travel/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Blog-category-1024-x-681px_0002_Layer-2-300x200.jpg 300w, https://naturalselection.travel/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Blog-category-1024-x-681px_0002_Layer-2-768x511.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure></p>
<p>As the temperatures soar, the water availability depletes and the animals find themselves forced to gather together around the remaining water sources. This presents guests with the opportunity to see great diversity of species in one place and it also provides predators with somewhat of a buffet. Expect action to ensue. It’s not only the wildlife watching that’s top notch during the summer months, so too are the sunsets which conjure some extraordinary opportunities for keen photographers.</p>
<p>Fortunately we’ve spent many a moon sweating in the bush, so when it came to establishing camps of our own we were determined that our guests should remain cool and serene during their stay with barely a bead of sweat in sight.</p>
<p>What better way to escape the heat than with a dip in the pool? We can’t think of any and that’s why all of our camps have swimming pools and those who are lucky enough to check in at North Island Okavango, Tawana, Tuludi, Jack’s Camp, Jack’s Private Camp or the family suite at Duke’s or Duke’s East will get their very own private plunge pool to take a paddle in.</p>
<p><figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="681" src="https://naturalselection.travel/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Blog-category-1024-x-681px_0000_04-Meno-a-Kwena-Elephant.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-13646" srcset="https://naturalselection.travel/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Blog-category-1024-x-681px_0000_04-Meno-a-Kwena-Elephant.jpg 1024w, https://naturalselection.travel/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Blog-category-1024-x-681px_0000_04-Meno-a-Kwena-Elephant-300x200.jpg 300w, https://naturalselection.travel/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Blog-category-1024-x-681px_0000_04-Meno-a-Kwena-Elephant-768x511.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure></p>
<p>We’ve also installed some rather marvellous over bed cooling systems that create your very own uber-comfortable microclimate at Jack’s Camp, Jack’s Private Camp and Duke’s East. Tawana, North Island Okavango, Tuludi, Sable Alley and Thamo Telele meanwhile all have air conditioning in place to zap the heat away. Those who like things a little more old school though will be pleased to hear that all our lodges have ceiling or floor fans in the rooms.</p>
<p>In case you’re still nervous about getting a bit hot under the collar, we spoke to some of our safari-seasoned team members to glean their top tips on dodging the summer heat in Botswana.</p>
<p>“Drink water, drink more water, put some ice in the water, drink it, eat the ice, then do it again. You can’t drink too much so drink some more,” deadpans our Head of Sales and Private Guide Peter Allison. “Take a kikoi, wet it, wring it out, lie under it – the evaporation gives a sensual chill. Drink more water. Bush pools are freezing, even in the greatest heat. Get in! Then nap outside so the breeze reaches you. Are you drinking water?”</p>
<p><figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="681" src="https://naturalselection.travel/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Blog-category-1024-x-681px_0001_Layer-1.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-13647" srcset="https://naturalselection.travel/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Blog-category-1024-x-681px_0001_Layer-1.jpg 1024w, https://naturalselection.travel/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Blog-category-1024-x-681px_0001_Layer-1-300x200.jpg 300w, https://naturalselection.travel/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Blog-category-1024-x-681px_0001_Layer-1-768x511.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure></p>
<p>Private Guide and Sales Rep Kyle MacIntyre takes the kikoi trick a step further, “wet the kikoi and your shirt in the sink before you go on game drive,” he advises. “You’ll be cool for the entire drive. I also recommend getting into the swimming pool before you get into the vehicle so your whole body’s cool.”</p>
<p>“You’ll need to keep wetting that kikoi or it’ll be dry in about two seconds,” grins our Communications Manager Jules Hadley. “Dress in light clothing, always use the fans and air con, stay hydrated with ice water (or cold beer) and always wear a hat.”</p>
<p>So there you have it, the tried and tested methods that’ll make you the coolest cat in the bush this summer.</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://naturalselection.travel/keeping-cool-in-the-bush/">Keeping Cool in the Bush</a> appeared first on <a href="https://naturalselection.travel">Natural Selection</a>.</p>
</div>Tue, 17 Dec 2024 13:13:17 +0000Anonymous3981 at https://www.a2asafaris.com/africaWorld Wildlife Conservation Day and International Cheetah Dayhttps://www.a2asafaris.com/africa/blog/world-wildlife-conservation-day-and-international-cheetah-day<div class="body text-field" property="content:encoded"><p>In the world of conservation, life’s always busy, but today really takes the biscuit, marking both World Wildlife Conservation Day and International Cheetah Day.</p>
<p>Conservation is in our DNA and pumps intuitively through every aspect of our business. 1.5% of every guest’s stay with us is committed to regional conservation and community outreach initiatives.</p>
<p><figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="681" src="https://naturalselection.travel/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Blog-category-1024-x-681px_0004_Bots_Mokolwane_James-Ramsay_L4_Cheetah-3.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-13429" srcset="https://naturalselection.travel/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Blog-category-1024-x-681px_0004_Bots_Mokolwane_James-Ramsay_L4_Cheetah-3.jpg 1024w, https://naturalselection.travel/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Blog-category-1024-x-681px_0004_Bots_Mokolwane_James-Ramsay_L4_Cheetah-3-300x200.jpg 300w, https://naturalselection.travel/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Blog-category-1024-x-681px_0004_Bots_Mokolwane_James-Ramsay_L4_Cheetah-3-768x511.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure></p>
<p>We’re custodians of more than 1,600,000 hectares of land and we work tirelessly to expand wildlife areas. We work on the human-wildlife dynamic through anti-poaching initiatives, conservation education and conflict mitigation on the ground. Since 2016, we and our operational partners have committed funds to over 150 wildlife conservation and community outreach projects.</p>
<p>Naturally enough, cheetah figure in our conservation portfolio thanks to our cheetah release initiative in Etosha Heights Private Reserve. The cheetah (Acinonyx jubatus) is classed as Vulnerable by the IUCN and there’s a push underway to have this status altered to Endangered due to declining populations globally. Historically these lithe felines patrolled Africa, Asia and Europe, but nowadays their numbers are believed to be around the 7000 mark, with most individuals found in sub-Saharan Africa.</p>
<p><figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="681" src="https://naturalselection.travel/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Blog-category-1024-x-681px_0000_george-turner-Mapula-Lodge-Cheetah-in-the-grass5.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-13428" srcset="https://naturalselection.travel/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Blog-category-1024-x-681px_0000_george-turner-Mapula-Lodge-Cheetah-in-the-grass5.jpg 1024w, https://naturalselection.travel/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Blog-category-1024-x-681px_0000_george-turner-Mapula-Lodge-Cheetah-in-the-grass5-300x200.jpg 300w, https://naturalselection.travel/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Blog-category-1024-x-681px_0000_george-turner-Mapula-Lodge-Cheetah-in-the-grass5-768x511.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure></p>
<p>It’s in Namibia that the largest free-roaming population can be found and it’s here that our cheetah conservation takes place. One component of cheetah conservation is the mitigation of farmer-cheetah conflict, and it’s in this area that Etosha Heights Private Reserve has proved itself to be enormously beneficial in safeguarding cheetah. This is one of the largest private reserves in Namibia. It extends to around 60,000 hectares and shares a northern boundary with Etosha National Park. The reserve is also well known for exemplary wildlife management and fruitful conservation efforts so it was quickly identified as an ideal location for cheetah conservation.</p>
<p><figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="681" src="https://naturalselection.travel/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Blog-category-1024-x-681px_0002_Cheetah-release_EH-4-c-GCF.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-13430" srcset="https://naturalselection.travel/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Blog-category-1024-x-681px_0002_Cheetah-release_EH-4-c-GCF.jpg 1024w, https://naturalselection.travel/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Blog-category-1024-x-681px_0002_Cheetah-release_EH-4-c-GCF-300x200.jpg 300w, https://naturalselection.travel/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Blog-category-1024-x-681px_0002_Cheetah-release_EH-4-c-GCF-768x511.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure></p>
<p>What is one of our top goals in sustainability? – reducing the use of fossil fuel on game drives. Electric vehicles that can handle rough terrain, water crossings, and long distances through wilderness areas are not readily available but we are continually looking to technological advances and hope that electric game drive vehicles will soon find their way into our fleet.</p>
<p>We don’t rest on our recycled laurels, but rather evolve continuously, striving for sustainability through everything we do.</p>
<p>This well-managed conservation landscape has enabled us to support the release of four cheetah who were rescued from Kalahari farmland where they were a threat to livestock, making the farmers a threat to the cheetahs. This release was co-facilitated with the Cheetah Conservation Foundation (CCF) who rescued the cheetah, the Namibia University of Science and Technology (NUST), Giraffe Conservation Foundation (GCF), Etosha Heights Private Reserve and Ministry of Environment, Forestry and Tourism.</p>
<p>These animals now form part of our ongoing long-term conservation research programme at Etosha Heights and Etosha National Park who collect the data on interactions between predators and their prey. This collaboration between NUST’s BRC, GCF, Etosha Heights and others demonstrates the efficacy of an interdisciplinary conservation approach that might just prove to be key in securing a bright future for the cheetah.</p>
<p><figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="681" src="https://naturalselection.travel/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Blog-category-1024-x-681px_0001_CheetahreleaseMH1.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-13431" srcset="https://naturalselection.travel/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Blog-category-1024-x-681px_0001_CheetahreleaseMH1.jpg 1024w, https://naturalselection.travel/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Blog-category-1024-x-681px_0001_CheetahreleaseMH1-300x200.jpg 300w, https://naturalselection.travel/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Blog-category-1024-x-681px_0001_CheetahreleaseMH1-768x511.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure></p>
<p>The post <a href="https://naturalselection.travel/world-wildlife-conservation-day-and-international-cheetah-day/">World Wildlife Conservation Day and International Cheetah Day</a> appeared first on <a href="https://naturalselection.travel">Natural Selection</a>.</p>
</div>Fri, 29 Nov 2024 08:20:19 +0000Anonymous3979 at https://www.a2asafaris.com/africaSustainability and Natural Selectionhttps://www.a2asafaris.com/africa/blog/sustainability-and-natural-selection<div class="body text-field" property="content:encoded"><p>At Natural Selection, sustainability is woven into our DNA. As we celebrate World Sustainability Day, we reaffirm our commitment to environmentally conscious tourism practices that benefit our communities, conservation efforts, and the environment.</p>
<p>Each of our lodges embodies sustainable tourism principles, from design to daily operations. We prioritise meaningful impact over external validation, focusing on continuous improvement and alignment with sustainability principles.</p>
<p>Our comprehensive internal sustainability document aligns with global and local sustainability standards, and regular internal audits and training sessions ensure our staff and partners are equipped to implement our sustainability expectations. We strive for seamless integration of sustainable principles, minimising our environmental footprint and maximising our positive impact.</p>
<p><figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="681" src="https://naturalselection.travel/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Blog-category-1024-x-681px_0002_IMG-20240314-WA0038.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-13420" srcset="https://naturalselection.travel/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Blog-category-1024-x-681px_0002_IMG-20240314-WA0038.jpg 1024w, https://naturalselection.travel/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Blog-category-1024-x-681px_0002_IMG-20240314-WA0038-300x200.jpg 300w, https://naturalselection.travel/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Blog-category-1024-x-681px_0002_IMG-20240314-WA0038-768x511.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure></p>
<p>Our lodges embody the principles of sustainable tourism such as running on solar power and reducing waste through varying programmes that are specific to each lodge and its needs. We repurpose materials across the camps wherever possible, utilize glass crushers, bailers, recycling plants, carefully handle oils and fuel and manage the delicate balance of sewage processing systems – a job we don’t receive many applicants for but an important one!</p>
<p><figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="681" src="https://naturalselection.travel/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Blog-category-1024-x-681px_0000_pexels-nadiye-odabasi-3668408-14172754.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-13421" srcset="https://naturalselection.travel/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Blog-category-1024-x-681px_0000_pexels-nadiye-odabasi-3668408-14172754.jpg 1024w, https://naturalselection.travel/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Blog-category-1024-x-681px_0000_pexels-nadiye-odabasi-3668408-14172754-300x200.jpg 300w, https://naturalselection.travel/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Blog-category-1024-x-681px_0000_pexels-nadiye-odabasi-3668408-14172754-768x511.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure></p>
<p>We also have some exciting new innovations currently underway. Over at Mokolwane we are trialling a food waste project which involves leftovers being transported from the camp to Maun. Once in Maun the waste is fed to maggots which then provide nourishment for chickens. Over at Tawana meanwhile, we’re looking at another food waste solution and are working on the installation of a biogas digester. The digester would then produce methane which could be repurposed for cooking. Should this project prove successful we hope to roll out the concept through our other lodges.</p>
<p><figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="681" src="https://naturalselection.travel/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Blog-category-1024-x-681px_0001_BOTS_Tawana_Dook_L4_Staff3.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-13422" srcset="https://naturalselection.travel/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Blog-category-1024-x-681px_0001_BOTS_Tawana_Dook_L4_Staff3.jpg 1024w, https://naturalselection.travel/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Blog-category-1024-x-681px_0001_BOTS_Tawana_Dook_L4_Staff3-300x200.jpg 300w, https://naturalselection.travel/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Blog-category-1024-x-681px_0001_BOTS_Tawana_Dook_L4_Staff3-768x511.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure></p>
<p>What is one of our top goals in sustainability? – reducing the use of fossil fuel on game drives. Electric vehicles that can handle rough terrain, water crossings, and long distances through wilderness areas are not readily available but we are continually looking to technological advances and hope that electric game drive vehicles will soon find their way into our fleet.</p>
<p>We don’t rest on our recycled laurels, but rather evolve continuously, striving for sustainability through everything we do.</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://naturalselection.travel/sustainability-and-natural-selection/">Sustainability and Natural Selection</a> appeared first on <a href="https://naturalselection.travel">Natural Selection</a>.</p>
</div>Fri, 29 Nov 2024 08:16:03 +0000Anonymous3969 at https://www.a2asafaris.com/africaWhere to go in 2025: A month-by-month guidehttps://www.a2asafaris.com/africa/blog/where-to-go-2025-a-month-month-guide<div class="body text-field" property="content:encoded"><p><a href="https://www.a2asafaris.com/journeys/destinations/india" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="/africa/sites/default/files/images/IMG_4590.jpg" /></a></p>
<p>Looking for inspiration to kick off your 2025 travel plans? We’ve put together a month-by-month guide featuring our top destination recommendation for every season and interest. Whether you’re dreaming of tracking big cats on safari in India, Botswana or Brazil, or planning the perfect family escape, each of these trips has the potential to make 2025 your best year in travel yet!</p>
<p><a href="https://www.a2asafaris.com/journeys/destinations/arctic" target="_self"><img alt="" src="/africa/sites/default/files/images/NorthernLights.jpg" /></a></p>
<p><strong>January - Lapland | Illuminate Your Winter with the Northern Lights</strong></p>
<p>A rare opportunity awaits this winter as experts predict one of the strongest Aurora Borealis displays in more than ten years, thanks to a peak in the solar cycle. The frosted landscapes of Finnish Lapland, set almost entirely above <a href="https://www.a2asafaris.com/journeys/destinations/arctic">the Arctic</a> Circle, are an ideal homebase to witness this once-in-a-decade phenomenon. Travellers can complement their photography practice with activities like snowmobile rides, husky sledding, an introduction to Sami culture, and snowshoeing in search of arctic foxes and reindeer. Start the new year in style with a stay in a snow hotel, a geodescent dome or snuggled up next to the fireplace in your remote wood cabin as you watch for the dazzling light display to begin.</p>
<p><a href="https://www.a2asafaris.com/africa/destinations/rwanda" target="_self"><img alt="" src="/africa/sites/default/files/images/gorilla2.jpg" /></a></p>
<p><strong>February - Rwanda | Gorilla Trekking and UNESCO Forests</strong></p>
<p>With less than 1100 mountain gorillas left in the world, it’s no wonder the rare experience of spotting them in the wild tops travellers’ wish lists. We can’t help but favour <a href="https://www.a2asafaris.com/africa/destinations/rwanda">Rwanda</a> for this experience thanks to the country’s commitment to conservation and sustainable travel. New for 2025, Wilderness Safaris just unveiled the ultra-luxury Bisate Reserve, set against the dramatic backdrop of Volcanoes National Park with views of all six of the Virunga’s dormant volcanoes. Reflecting the unique bird's nest style of its sister property, each of the four villas boast a private deck, cosy fireplace and private hot tubs. Take advantage of the short dry season between December and mid-February to visit outside of the peak season. You can also add chimpanzee trekking to your itinerary with a visit to the Nyungwe Forest. Recently named Rwanda’s first UNESCO World Heritage site, the region is one of Africa’s oldest forests—dating back to the last ice age, and housing an enviable diversity of wildlife.</p>
<p><a href="https://www.a2asafaris.com/africa/destinations/ethiopia" target="_self"><img alt="" src="/africa/sites/default/files/images/JCP_1223(1).JPG" /></a></p>
<p><strong>March - Ethiopia | Early Christianity and Endemic Wildlife</strong></p>
<p><a href="https://www.a2asafaris.com/africa/destinations/ethiopia">Ethiopia</a> enjoys a dry, mild climate from October through March, which is ideal for outdoor pursuits. Marvel at the the rock-hewn churches of Lalibela, the castles of Gondar, the cave churches of Gheralta or the ancient kingdom of Axum where many believe the Ark of the Covenant sits. Go trekking through the Simien Mountains in search of bleeding-heart monkeys and gelada baboons, or visit the otherworldly landscapes of the Danakil Depression—a desert plain dotted with sulfur springs, volcanoes, geysers, acidic pools, vast salt pans, and a kaleidoscope of colourful mineral-laden lakes.</p>
<p><a href="https://www.a2asafaris.com/journeys/destinations/bolivia" target="_self"><img alt="" src="/africa/sites/default/files/images/Mountain%20home-Ramaditas.jpg" /></a></p>
<p><strong>April - Argentina, Chile, Bolivia | South America’s High Altitude Deserts</strong></p>
<p>Set off on an unprecedented overland journey through the high-altitude deserts of Argentina, Chile, and Bolivia, where we’ve discovered a remote yet luxurious <a href="https://www.a2asafaris.com/journeys/destinations/bolivia">lodge-to-lodge route</a>. Think high-altitude wineries, technicolor hills and lagoons, the Salvador Dali Desert and never-ending landscapes that inspired artists like James Turrell. The perfect blend of adventure and refinement, you’ll travel with a private guide and driver in a 4x4 vehicle, staying at remote Explora lodges, run in collaboration with local families, en route. Great for night sky and geology enthusiasts, as well as off-the-beaten-path adventure seekers.</p>
<p><a href="https://www.a2asafaris.com/africa/destinations/botswana" target="_self"><img alt="" src="/africa/sites/default/files/images/Okavango8-Photocredit-JoseCortes(2).jpg" /></a></p>
<p><strong>May - Botswana | Intimate Safaris in Big Cat Kingdom</strong></p>
<p><a href="https://www.a2asafaris.com/africa/destinations/botswana">Botswana</a>’s remote landscapes have recently taken center stage thanks to the 2024 release of Netflix’s new <em>Living with Leopards </em>documentary and BBC’s <em>Big Cats 24/7</em> - both centered on Botswana’s infamous cast of predators in the Okavango Delta. Check out the filming locations for yourself at the Mokolwane Camp, or stay at the brand new Mokete, North Island or Tawana Camps, for the optimal mix of luxury and wildlife viewing. For family or friend groups, consider one of Botswana’s private lodges, where you can enjoy personalized safaris and explore the wild in comfort and privacy.</p>
<p><a href="https://www.a2asafaris.com/journeys/destinations/peru" target="_self"><img alt="" src="/africa/sites/default/files/images/Tres%20Chimbadas%20Lake%20by%20Carlos%20Gonzales%20(1)(1).jpg" /></a></p>
<p><strong>June - Peru | A Family Adventure Inspired by Paddington Bear</strong></p>
<p>Many families are considering a journey to <a href="https://www.a2asafaris.com/journeys/destinations/peru">Peru</a> in 2025, inspired by Paddington bear's latest adventure in search of his Aunt Lucy. From the lush Amazon rainforest to the enigmatic ruins of Machu Picchu, the country offers immersive learning and adventure for all ages. Peru’s southern altiplano has recently stepped into the spotlight thanks to new luxury properties—including the country’s first safari-style camp—popping up around the impressive Colca Canyon and nearby colonial settlement and culinary hotspot of Arequipa.</p>
<p><a href="https://www.a2asafaris.com/africa/destinations/namibia" target="_self"><img alt="" src="/africa/sites/default/files/images/48025538458_7abe673b68_h.jpg" /></a></p>
<p><strong>July - Namibia | Martian Landscapes and Desert-Adapted Wildlife</strong></p>
<p>The middle of dry season, July in <a href="https://www.a2asafaris.com/africa/destinations/namibia">Namibia</a> means mild days and cool nights, perfect for exploring the country’s majestic red dunes, skeletal coastlines, and wildlife-rich landscapes of Etosha National Park and Hoanib. Far from crowds, savour a tranquil escape with world-class stargazing and safari opportunities that bring you face-to-face with desert-adapted elephants, lions, and rhinos in their untouched habitat.</p>
<p><a href="https://www.a2asafaris.com/africa/destinations/kenya" target="_self"><img alt="" src="/africa/sites/default/files/images/GreatPlains-Kenya-MaraPlainsCamp-31.jpg" /></a></p>
<p><strong>August - Kenya | Rediscover Out of Africa in Style</strong></p>
<p>Since the recent release of <em>Mufasa: The Lion King</em>, a new generation of families have their hearts set on visiting Simba’s real-life Pride Lands. <a href="https://www.a2asafaris.com/africa/destinations/kenya">Kenya</a>’s Ndare Ngare forest and Hell’s Gate are just a few locations that inspired the film. To see the full cast of characters, stay at a lodge in or around wildlife-rich Masai Mara. Elder generations may also appreciate reliving scenes from Out of Africa—40 years after the film first introduced Kenya’s landscapes to the world—by flying in a classic biplane from the film or visiting Blixen’s former coffee estate—now an upscale suburb of Nairobi.</p>
<p><a href="https://www.a2asafaris.com/journeys/destinations/brazil" target="_self"><img alt="" src="/africa/sites/default/files/images/Jaguar(1).jpg" /></a></p>
<p><strong>September - Brazil | Peak wildlife sightings in the Pantanal</strong></p>
<p>Visiting <a href="https://www.a2asafaris.com/journeys/destinations/brazil">Brazil</a> in September allows you to skip the peak season crowds, while still enjoying ideal weather conditions to explore the country’s diverse ecosystems and vibrant culture. It's the end of the dry season in the Pantanal, the world’s largest tropical wetland, making wildlife sightings more frequent and accessible, with animals gathering near water sources. From spotting jaguars and capybaras, to monkeys and tropical birds—a water-based wildlife safari in Brazil belongs on any wildlife lover’s bucket list.</p>
<p><a href="https://www.a2asafaris.com/journeys/destinations/bhutan"><img alt="" src="/africa/sites/default/files/images/Bhutan.jpg" /></a></p>
<p><strong>October - Bhutan | Autumn Festivals in the Himalayas</strong></p>
<p>In October, embark on a journey into <a href="https://www.a2asafaris.com/journeys/destinations/bhutan">Bhutan</a>’s lush autumn, where the mountains are cloaked in vibrant foliage and the atmosphere brims with cultural festivities. Witness the grand Thimphu Tsechu festival, featuring traditional dances, and the sacred unveiling of the Thongdrel tapestry—believed to cleanse onlookers of their sins. Later in the month, observe the arrival of the black crane migration, a revered event in this mystical kingdom. A2A’s new Bhutan journeys showcase the best of the mountain kingdom’s beauty and heritage, set against the magical backdrop of the Himalayas. </p>
<p><a href="https://www.a2asafaris.com/journeys/destinations/india" target="_self"><img alt="" src="/africa/sites/default/files/images/Tiger%20in%20Ranthambore%20NP-PhotoCredit-A2ASafaris(1).JPG" /></a></p>
<p><strong>November - India | Tiger Safaris and Timeless Heritage</strong></p>
<p>Don’t let the year escape you without the rare privilege of spotting Bengal tigers in <a href="https://www.a2asafaris.com/journeys/destinations/india">India</a>’s expansive, protected wilderness. In November, dry, comfortable days create the ideal setting for a private safari adventure through one of India’s renowned tiger reserves. Extend your journey to the palatial forts of Rajasthan, the iconic Taj Mahal, and the bustling bazaars of Delhi. If history is more your jam, add the world’s largest museum to your itinerary, which is set to open in 2025. At twice the size of the Louvre, the Yuge Yugeen Bharat museum will span five millennia of Indian history and heritage.</p>
<p><a href="https://www.a2asafaris.com/journeys/destinations/antarctica" target="_self"><img alt="" src="/africa/sites/default/files/images/A21_MAG15-CA_2019-20__KPearson%20(127)(1).jpg" /></a></p>
<p><strong>December - Antarctica | Witnessing New Beginnings in an Icy Frontier</strong></p>
<p>End the year with a journey to <a href="https://www.a2asafaris.com/journeys/destinations/antarctica">Antarctica</a>, where the frozen continent is a flurry of wildlife activity. Penguin nesting season starts to give way to the chirping of a new generation of chicks being born. You’ll also see seals basking on the melting ice, and whales arriving to feed in the nutrient-rich waters. The 24-hour sun provides ample time to take in the pristine beauty of the icy landscapes while witnessing an unforgettable display of nature’s resilience.</p>
<p><span style="font-size:10px;">Photo Credits: Tambopata Research Center, Mara Plains Camp, Explora, A21</span></p>
</div>Tue, 19 Nov 2024 09:29:29 +0000editor3975 at https://www.a2asafaris.com/africa