Jetsettersblog

Conservancy Safaris launched its new safari circuit operated in five conservancies in the Kunene region of Namibia, on the south west coast of Africa.

While on safari, guests get to share the world of the Himba and Herero people.

This tourism initiative is supported by the IRNDC and WWF and the local people have done much to protect the region with the long term goal of conservation.

The new safari experience is 100 percent owned by the local Himba/Herero communities, which signals an exciting new business model for the safari industry.

“Conservancy Safaris appeals to the discerning traveler who wants to make his or her ecological footprint count by taking part in one of the most successful community conservation initiatives in Africa,” said Russell Vinjevold, CEO of Conservancy Safaris.

“Our guests are looking to avoid a pre-packaged holiday and seek a real African experience.

“The combination of exceptional quality, wildlife, and authentic cultural interaction combine to create a totally new Southern Africa safari experience.”

The extensive partnering during the product development process and the local empowerment through the safari experience has created an open environment in which the local community is thrilled to share their world with travelers.

Activities include exploring these remote areas both on foot and in vehicles; searching for desert adapted lions and elephants; joining wildlife releases; rhino tracking; visit local traditional leaders and villagers and participating in their everyday activities and celebrations.

The participating conservancies are Puros, Orupembe, Sanitatas, Okonjombo and Marienfluss. When Conservancy Safaris’ grows and accumulates wealth, it is the conservancies, not outsiders, who are the beneficiaries.

A registered trust structure ensures that maximum income goes to the conservancies. The Conservancy Safaris’ business model builds on Namibia’s community-based natural resource management successes, linking conservation to economic and social development.

For wildlife and the environment to be protected meaningful benefits have to be generated for the people and local capacity has to be built.

Conservancy Safaris presents an array of routes and options, including a mix of high quality bush camping with some lodge nights. A main goal of all Conservancy Safaris’ tours is to help offset the cost of living with wildlife for these isolated communities.

These are the people who have lions and elephants in their backyard. For them wildlife is not a recreational focus but harsh reality that affects their survival. Conservancy Safaris never compromises on safety, quality or comfort.

For more information, visit www.kcs-namibia.com.na