How Environmental Threats Have Affected the Maasai Culture

On June 30, 2010, In Uncategorized, By Sandy Salle

The vast landscapes, vibrant wildlife, and fascinating history of Kenya and northern Tanzania are just a few elements that give these two regions their remarkable energy and exceptional character. But, above all, the most riveting and extraordinary inhabitants of Kenya and Tanzania are the Maasai people.

Adorned with gorgeous red robes and dangling jewelry, the Maasai people of eastern Africa are characterized by their immense intelligence and respect for their ancestors as well as nature. Every aspect in their life complements their beliefs, values, and respect for nature. Everything from the homes they live in to their occupations, and the God they worship to the semi-nomadic and pastoral lifestyle they live, are all harmonious with their core beliefs.

Although the Maasai continue to uphold many of their ancestral traditions and beliefs, they cannot help but adapt to some of the modern changes that occur in society around them. Some of the greatest impacts on the Maasai lifestyle have come in the form of environmental threats. Due to these current threats, many wildlife conservation efforts have been put into place. Over the years, these efforts have shaped past Maasai traditions into more modern customs.

Below is a comparison between the Maasai’s traditional lifestyle and the lifestyle they have adapted due to modern influences.

Traditionally vs. Today:

Traditionally, the Maasai are semi-nomadic and pastoral and do not believe in farming. They believe that farming goes against nature and is a destructive element to their pristine surroundings.

Their subsistence and core beliefs are based around their pastoral lifestyle as cattle herders. Warriors, or male Maasai, spend hours and even days, herding their cattle in search of food and water.

The Maasai’s livestock is a huge source of income for the Maasai people as cattle and other livestock are exchanged for money, social bonding, or other livestock. When a goat or cow is given to one individual from another or one family to another, it symbolizes a form of social bonding.

Today, due to many threats to the land in which the Maasai occupy, many of the Maasai have been forced into areas that are not large enough to raise and keep livestock. Threats to these areas include overgrazing, diversion of natural water supply, land sales to non-Maasai, poaching, deforestation, and human / wildlife conflict.

Because the Maasai have limited land, they must use their land plots for farming—an occupation that goes against their beliefs and often yields very little positive outcome.

In an effort to help the Maasai adapt to the changes around them, the Maasai Wilderness Conservation Trust has devised educational programs to teach the Maasai about sustainable agricultural practices. These educational programs also provide individuals with primary, secondary, and tertiary education, and work to educate over 300 students per year. These educational programs were established with the hope and conviction that students will use this knowledge and understanding to the advantage of the local community, and therefore shape its future.

Traditionally vs. Today

Traditionally, the boys in the tribe are required to pass through a rite of passage into manhood. Once they cross the threshold, they will be considered a warrior and granted the honor of protecting the Maasai people and land, and be in charge of herding the cattle. In order to cross into manhood, a Maasai boy must kill a lion with only a spear—a risky feat.

Today, wildlife conservation laws prohibit the Maasai from killing lions as the lion population is drastically decreasing due to overgrazing, diversion of natural water supply, poaching, deforestation, and human / wildlife conflict.

Aside from the rite of passage into manhood, the Maasai have killed lions that enter their farms in search of food and water. These killings have added to the decrease in lion population and have increased human / wildlife conflict.

Because of the decrease in lion and other predator populations, the Maasai Wilderness Conservation Trust has established the predator compensation fund. This fund works to provide compensation to farmers who have lost their livestock due to residential predators. This compensation greatly helps to discourage farmers from killing these predators and from further endangering their population.

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The Tashinga Initiative: Challenging Zimbabwe’s Socio-Economic Climate

On May 31, 2010, In Sustainable Tourism, Uncategorized, Zimbabwe, By Sandy Salle

No one can predict the future of Zimbabwe’s socio-economic climate, but that doesn’t mean its future should unravel without guidance.

Today, Zimbabwe is home to an abundance of cultural and wildlife diversity, as well as a wealth of natural resources. And inside this glorious wildlife haven lays two noble World Heritage Sites: the Mana Pools, and one of the seven natural wonders of the world, Victoria Falls.

Unfortunately, Zimbabwe’s natural wealth is slowly being destroyed as a result of its crippled financial structure and colonial governed past. Because of the poor economic climate, the local people of Zimbabwe are driven to utilize the natural resources of the land in unsustainable practices. This results in deforestation, endangered wildlife, and lack of water supply. As this vicious cycle continues, natural resources become much less abundant, and scarce.

In an effort to stop this brutal cyclical pattern from depleting the natural riches of Zimbabwe, The Tashinga Initiative was established.

The Tashinga Initiative—Tashinga translated to mean “we have been on a journey of endeavor, and despite the difficulties, we have won through”—is a highly proactive organization. It was established to help conserve the fragile eco-systems of the Zambezi River Valley and the wildlife that occupy them, as well as the area’s World Heritage Sites, and legendary communities.

With a 5-year intervention plan, the Tashinga Initiative is working hard to restore roads, build bridges, develop infrastructure, increase the use of solar power, train and equip rangers, encourage the development of eco-tourism companies, and produce documentaries. The final, big picture of the Initiative is to develop a solid, sustainable foundation for the Parks and Wildlife Management Authority and help them to influence the locals with socio-economic responsible practices.

Lending support to the Parks and Wildlife Management Authority of Zimbabwe, The Tashinga Initiative’s vision for the future is to establish effective wildlife protection units, spread awareness and environmental training skills, and monitor the parks that run through the Zambezi River Valley.

The efforts put forth by The Tashinga Initiative and the Wildlife Management Authority of Zimbabwe focus on three primary areas: conservation, management, and protection.

What makes The Tashinga Initiative different from other donations and philanthropic organizations?

The Tashinga Initiative has done extensive research on past donation practices (both by governments and by individuals) and has carefully analyzed the inefficient results of these efforts to understand the reasoning behind why past donations haven’t had the powerful impact needed in Zimbabwe. Past donations have been a way for the Tashinga Initiative to recognize what hasn’t worked, and establish a model based on remedies to past failures. They’ve taken their efforts one step further than providing donations and have built a model that Zimbabwe can follow in order to see a great return on energy and financial investment.

Below is a list of scenarios that illustrate what Zimbabwe will eventually become with The Tashinga Initiative, and what it could become without The Tashinga Initiative:

Zimbabwe WITHOUT wildlife protection units: Poachers will continue to kill rhinos and elephants for commercial sales, which will eventually lead to the extinction of these regale creatures. Poaching has increased more than 900% since 2001. Can you imagine how much more it will increase in the next five years if it’s not stopped?

Zimbabwe with wildlife protection units: Rhino and elephant population will steady increase with black rhino numbers rising from a mere 450 individuals to thousands. Former poachers will find more sustainable means of making a living, helping the local economy to grow and sustain itself.

Zimbabwe WITHOUT sustainability awareness and environmentally responsible skills: The locals will continue to turn to unsustainable living practices as there is no other alternative. Deforestation will rise, natural resources will be depleted, and human / animal conflict will increase, all resulting in economic turmoil and the extinction of wildlife.

Zimbabwe with sustainability awareness and environmentally responsible skills: The Tashinga Initiative spreads awareness and training to locals who live in rural environments, teaching them how to utilize the land in sustainable practices and how to conserve their use.  These programs educate locals on natural resource management and practices that are not only beneficial to the community but also to the environment in which they live.

The Tashinga Initiative warmly welcomes donations worldwide.

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Save a South African Owl with a Glass of Avondale Wine

On May 7, 2010, In African Wildlife, Cape Winelands, South Africa, Sustainable Tourism, Uncategorized, By Sandy Salle
owls

Image from Avondale Wine website

Autumn at the Avondale Wine Estate in the sprawling countryside of Cape Town, South Africa, signifies a time for wine tasting, rejuvenation, and owl, falcon, and heron observation. It’s a time when the vines prepare for winter hibernation, deep red wines are flowing, and the countryside is blanketed with deep red and amber flora. But one of the most spectacular elements of autumn at Avondale is dusk time.

owls

Image and caption from Avondale Wines website: "Blue Crane chick that had 'bent leg syndrome'. He spent a week in a sling before he could stand alone but he is doing very well although he is still a bit wobbly."

As dusk sets in at the Avondale Wine Estate, some of Mother Nature’s most magnificent creatures rise to the occasion. Hooting with poise and grace, the owls are the perfect symphony to soak in as you enjoy a glass of Avondale’s rich Owl House Cabernet Sauvignon 2003. Thanks to the estate’s organic compost program and earth-responsible vineyard practices, owls and other birds of prey visit Avondale for its mineral rich land.

owls

Image from Avondale Wines website

Often seen as the moon slowly climbs up the Klein Drakenstein Mountains, the elusive night owl and other captivating species of owls perform their musical nighttime hoots. But, many times, the trip to Avondale can be a dangerous journey. Many birds reach the outskirts of the area wounded and in need of rehabilitation.

In an effort to help conserve the owl species of southern Africa, Avondale has teamed up with the Witzenberg Wildlife Rescue and Rehab Centre. They have also made agreements with Financial Mail and Diners Club Choice subscribers, to donate a portion of the wine sale proceedings to help save the owls and other birds of prey species.

owls

Image from Avondale Wines website

Today, there is a man-made sanctuary designed to provide owls and other bird species, such as barn owls, spotted eagle owls, falcons, and cranes, with a safe haven to rehabilitate–before venturing back out into the wild.

So, whether you’re thinking about taking your honeymoon to South Africa or taking a group trip to South Africa, Avondale Wine Estate is the place to go for a delicious wine and delightful experience. Not to mention each time that you enjoy a glass of Owl House Cabernet, you’re contributing to the rescue and rehabilitation of the adorable feathered creatures of southern Africa.

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The Vision of One Man Resurrects One of Earth’s Most Precious Regions – Gorongosa

On May 5, 2010, In Mozambique, Sustainable Tourism, Uncategorized, By Sandy Salle

Gorongosa conservationAt the southern tip of Mozambique’s Great Rift Valley lies one of the world’s most buried treasures. Known years ago as the earth’s most wildlife-dense and unspoiled region, Gorongosa National Park was once bubbling over with grunting hippos, regal lions, gentle elephants, striking birds, playful wild dog, and leaping antelope. But after a destructive, 16-year civil dispute that began in the 1970s, Gorongosa began to shift into a pit of darkness.  Just how much destruction did this civil unrest do to Gorongosa?

  • The Cape buffalo population went from 13,000 to 15.
  • The wildebeest population went from 6,400 to 1.
  • The hippo went from 3,500 to 44.
  • The zebra went from 3,300 to 12.
  • The black and white rhino population fell to 0.

A place that once was known for its endless amount of animals was down to less than 100 individual creatures. By the late 1970s and early 80s, Gorongosa laid to rest its reputation as one of Africa’s most beloved and stunning wildlife regions—only to begin resuscitating its claim to fame, again, in 2005.

Gorongosa conservationWith nearly 2,500 square miles of lush grasslands and widespread floodplains, elephants, birds, lions, and antelope are now reclaiming Gorongosa has their protected home. Today, the river is abundant with active birds and Nile crocodiles, and the grasslands are swarming with joyful herds of zebra and Cape buffalo.

But how did Gorongosa reestablish its wildlife population and fragile eco-systems after nearly 20 years of barren savanna? It took the powerful vision of one man who had the hope and conviction that Gorongosa could restore its past reputation as Africa’s prime wildlife region. This businessman-turned-philanthropist, is none other than Greg Carr.

gorongosa conservationGorongosa National Park’s uplifting transformation:
Breaking free from the norm, in every possible way, Greg Carr is raising the bar for individual conservation contributions, not only in Africa, but also nationwide. With a $40 million, 30-year-pledge to bring life back to Mozambique’s Gorongosa National Park, Carr’s epic contribution to Gorongosa’s conservation is one of the largest individual efforts ever seen in Africa—in both financial and time contribution.

Greg Carr, also known as Gorongosa’s father of conservation, fell in love with the area years ago and established the Carr Foundation in 2005.

For five years (and counting) Greg Carr is managing to do a complete 360-degree-turnaround with Gorongosa. He is not simply throwing in money and waiting to see what everyone will do with it. He’s taking advice, working with the locals for a better Gorongosa, and lending a hand.

gorongosa conservationBelow are merely a few specific efforts Carr is implementing to help conserve Gorongosa and bring it back to its once thriving state:

  • Employing over 100 game scouts: Carr’s decision to hire game scouts has not only helped to prevent poachers from entering the Park, but it has also benefited the hired game scouts, who are locals, bring money into their community. The direct and highly-effective efforts put forth by the game scouts have enabled animals to breed and increase in population, and they are now not as timid toward humans as they were before Carr’s first arrival to the Park.
  • Introducing new animals to the Park: With a little help from South Africa, the Carr Foundation was able to relocate buffalo, wildebeest, elephant, and hippos from Kruger National Park to Gorongosa. Now, Gorongosa has a strong wildlife base for breeding.
  • Working to increase eco-tourism companies: Bringing in eco-tourism companies can be difficult when there are too few animals for safari tours to operate. This is why Carr is working hard to bring in animals from South Africa. Through an effort to increase eco-tourism companies in the area, Carr hopes to attract thousands of tourists a year, without taking away from Gorongosa’s authenticity and exclusivity. The outcome of more eco-tourism companies is a more sustainable local environment, economy, and community. Today, Gorongosa’s yearly tourist count is roughly 8,000, but those involved in increasing eco-tourism efforts in the Park predict that in 10 years, tourist population will reach 100,000 annually.
  • Providing community members with a financial stake in Gorongosa conservation: In order to drastically reduce human / wildlife conflict, and encourage support for the Carr Foundation and their epic efforts, Carr is providing an incentive to the locals. Allowing nearby communities to have a financial stake in the Park’s conservation efforts, Carr hopes to drastically reduce tension between humans and wildlife and increase community participation in helping Gorongosa thrive. Merely a year after first establishing the Carr Foundation, locals were warming up to Carr’s efforts as he hired many of them to be guide visitors around the land, build tree nurseries, and replant vital flora. He also hired more than 100 locals to be game scouts around the Park.

gorongosa conservation

But Gorongosa isn’t completely in the clear. In order to seal its revitalized state into a permanent way of life, conservation models need to be put in places and strictly enforced to eliminate human / wildlife conflict, bring economic stability to the local population, help sustain fragile eco-systems, and restore and protect wildlife.

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Travel Contest: The Blog Hop is On!

On May 3, 2010, In Uncategorized, By Sandy Salle

HERE YOU GO… YOUR BLOG HOP TRAVEL CONTEST PLAY CARDS!

PLAYING THE BLOG HOP?
You’ll find the answer to the question for my blog by clicking on the correct post below.

    Witness a Natural Wonder of the World: The Great Migration
    The Forest Elephant vs. The African Elephant
    Safari Photography: Capture the Soul of Africa
    Tanzania Honeymoon Safari: A Seamless Marriage of Relaxation and Adventure
    5 Unique Ways to Make Your African Safari Adventure Last a Lifetime
    3 Tips for Surviving in the African Savannah — Alone

THANKS TO THE BLOG HOP SPONSORS
Complete your Blog Hop play card for a chance to win one of these great prizes!

*A FEW DETAILS.

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Get Ready For The World-Renowned South African Cheese Festival

On April 19, 2010, In Uncategorized, By Sandy Salle
South Africa Cheese Festival

Images taken from www.cheesefestival.co.za/

Can you smell it? The South African Cheese Festival is almost here! Beginning on Saturday, April 24 and ending on Tuesday, April 27, you’ll be able to experience the festival of a lifetime.

Whether you’re on a South African honeymoon or a South African family vacation, the Cheese Festival has something exciting for everyone—no matter their age.

From renowned cheese makers to food connoisseurs, and prestigious wine makers to fabulous live bands, the South African Cheese Festival is an event that savors everything wonderful and delightfully tasty in life.

The festival grounds will feature eight different areas of interest including . . .

  • The Cheese Emporium: From soft to hard and strong to mild, the Cheese Emporium is choc-full of irresistible cheese textures, flavors, and smells. Your palette will delight in the mere sight of the wide spectrum of rich cheeses to savor. And what’s better to compliment your cheese tasting frenzy than a glass of dessert wine, a slice of cured meat, or a delectable piece of chocolate?
  • South Africa Cheese Festival

    Images taken from www.cheesefestival.co.za/

    The Cheese Market: Housing cheeses made from traditional aging methods, as well as an assortment of savory cured meats, The Cheese Market celebrates an irresistible fusion of salty and savory flavors. Purchase from a variety of earthy cheeses and meats and enjoy them in the market square.

  • The Mall: Abundant with a variety of nuts, olives, homemade preserves, bread, toppings, and wine, you’re sure to find your basket filling up in no time with delightful goodies. Purchase an olive tree or taste these delectable fruits in all their glory–from olive pastes to olive oils, and tapenades to olive jams.
  • The Cooking Pot: Learn from the world-famous culinary and wine masters themselves, and meet international entertainment and travel icons at The Cooking Pot. From names such as Soli Philander, Beyers Truter, and the food editors from Sarie & Sarie Kos Magazine, you’ll discover something new and exciting around every corner.
  • South Africa Cheese Festival

    Images taken from www.cheesefestival.co.za/

    The Kids: Rest assured knowing your little ones are under safe watch and having the time of their lives in the Cheese Festival’s kids area while you enjoy stress-free shopping and tasting experiences. Equipped with  jumping castles, face painting, color competitions, and more, the Kids area is the simplest way to put a smile on your child’s face.

  • Renault & Kia Milk Factory: Before you drop your little ones off at The Kids station, awe-inspire them with a visit to the Renault & Kia Milk Factory. Here, the whole family can learn how milk is created in a step by step process from cows, sheep, or goats, as well as learn how to make butter and cottage cheese the old-fashioned way.
  • Gourmet Lane & Ladismith Cheese Music Gazebo: When you’re all cheesed out, relish in the delightful flavors of fresh oysters, marinated herrings, and savory sauces, all while enjoying the eclectic sounds of the band BRAWOU!
  • Dairy Square & Music Spot: At the Diary Square & Music Spot, you can enjoy your recent purchases at a quaint picnic table with the soft sounds of the festival in the air and a delectable beer in your glass.
South Africa Cheese Festival

Images taken from www.cheesefestival.co.za/

If you’re a cheese-tasting fanatic, you’ll be happy to know that (nearly) every cheese you can imagine will be featured at the festival. With 70% of the festival grounds reserved for cheese exhibitors, 15% for wine, beverage, and spirits exhibitors, and the other 15% for cheese-complementing product exhibitors, cheese takes center stage.

And after an exciting day (or weekend for the cheese die-hards) at the glorious cheese festival, extend your trip with a visit to the culturally rich Cape Town, the rolling vineyards of Paarl, or the quaint villages of Franschoek.

Have you experienced a cheese festival? Tell us about it in our comments section.

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Travel Contest: Win Prizes Doing The Blog Hop

On April 13, 2010, In Uncategorized, By Sandy Salle

I’m a member of the Global Bloggers Network and next week, we’re kicking off an amazing 3-week travel contest that you’ll want to play.

Win Great Prizes

It’s Easy to Play

  1. Download your Blog Hop play card. You can download your card at this blog on Monday, May, 3 2010.
  2. Click on the links in your play card and go to all 6 blogs to answer the 6 questions on the card.
  3. Hit submit and you’ll qualify to win.

That’s all there is to it.

  • The winners will be selected at random using Random.org and announced on May 11, 2010.
  • Global Bloggers Network members and their families do not qualify for the contest.
  • You must answer all 5 questions to win.
  • The contest will run for 3 weeks; each week will feature a new set of questions. You can play once in each week of the contest for 3 chances to win.
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Ol Donyo Wuas: Arguably Africa’s Most Authentic Lodge

On March 19, 2010, In African Safari Tours, Sustainable Tourism, Uncategorized, By Sandy Salle

Photos taken from Oldonyowuas.com

Built more than 20-years ago, Ol Donyo Wuas has established itself as one of eastern Africa’s first bush lodges, and has been recognized as a symbol of authenticity and tradition ever since. As one of a handful of lodges located on the smooth slopes of the Chyulu Hills National Park, this quaint lodge offers guests an experience far from touristy hot-spots and large groups of travelers.

With traditional wildlife migration routes, a crystal clear view of Mount Kilimanjaro, and vast Kenyan plains crossing the path of this legendary lodge, guests are immersed in their natural surroundings and can relish in the privacy and tranquility of the lodge and its neighboring areas.

Photos taken from Oldonyowuas.com

Although this Kenyan gem continues to inspire the construction of other luxurious lodges, nothing compares to Ol Donyo Wuas’ superior location, ambiance, service, food, activities, accommodations, and its measurable influence on the local economy, people, and environment.

Beginning in the 1980s, founder Richard Bonham’s vision for cultural awareness, sustainable tourism, and luxury came to fruition with the creation of the Ol Donyo Wuas. Today, thanks to Bonham’s brilliant vision and dedication, the local Maasai people, as well as the visitors to the area, continue to see great benefits to the economy, environment, and local lifestyles.

As one of the few bush lodges to stay true to its historical roots for more than two decades, Ol Donyo Wuas’ continues to forge relationships with locals and integrate new conservation projects into the local community.

Photos taken from Oldonyowuas.com

What do you get from visiting Ol Donyo Wuas?

  • A sense of growth: Although the adventurous activities, surreal dining experiences, comforting ambiance, and intimate setting at the Ol Donyo Wuas are unforgettable, the trips to the local Maasai villages invoke a sense of cultural growth within visitors to the area. The ability to interact with the Maasai people and learn about their lifestyle, traditions, and community efforts is one of the most fulfilling experiences to be had in Kenya.
  • Memories that will last forever: Teeming with indigenous wildlife and the Big Five, Ol Donyo Wuas’ neighboring areas are the premier location for 4X4 game drives and walking safaris, which are included in the lodge’s all-inclusive rate. Also included in the rate are night drives, horseback safaris, mountain biking, fly camping, rooftop star beds, bush breakfasts, Maasai visits, and more.
  • The feeling of accomplishment: As a sustainable bush lodge and longtime partner with The Maasailand Preservation Trust, Ol Donyo Wuas contributes to the preservation of the local economy, community, and environment. And when you stay at Ol Donyo Wuas, you are also participating in these conservation efforts.

    Photos taken from Oldonyowuas.com

  • A new understanding for the environment: While participating in safari excursions throughout your stay, you’ll discover everything from insects and reptiles, to the Big Five and other larger animals. When you’re not taking part in a game drive or walking safari, you can learn about indigenous plants used for medicinal purposes from the Maasai people during a Maasai cultural visit.

The Maasai people also receive great benefits from your stay such as a thriving environment, a fulfilling lifestyle, a sustainable economy, and a rich learning experience.

Did you find this post useful? Let us know in our comments section.

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Ol Donyo Wuas: Arguably Africa's Most Authentic Lodge

On March 19, 2010, In African Safari Tours, Sustainable Tourism, Uncategorized, By Sandy Salle

Photos taken from Oldonyowuas.com

Built more than 20-years ago, Ol Donyo Wuas has established itself as one of eastern Africa’s first bush lodges, and has been recognized as a symbol of authenticity and tradition ever since. As one of a handful of lodges located on the smooth slopes of the Chyulu Hills National Park, this quaint lodge offers guests an experience far from touristy hot-spots and large groups of travelers.

With traditional wildlife migration routes, a crystal clear view of Mount Kilimanjaro, and vast Kenyan plains crossing the path of this legendary lodge, guests are immersed in their natural surroundings and can relish in the privacy and tranquility of the lodge and its neighboring areas.

Photos taken from Oldonyowuas.com

Although this Kenyan gem continues to inspire the construction of other luxurious lodges, nothing compares to Ol Donyo Wuas’ superior location, ambiance, service, food, activities, accommodations, and its measurable influence on the local economy, people, and environment.

Beginning in the 1980s, founder Richard Bonham’s vision for cultural awareness, sustainable tourism, and luxury came to fruition with the creation of the Ol Donyo Wuas. Today, thanks to Bonham’s brilliant vision and dedication, the local Maasai people, as well as the visitors to the area, continue to see great benefits to the economy, environment, and local lifestyles.

As one of the few bush lodges to stay true to its historical roots for more than two decades, Ol Donyo Wuas’ continues to forge relationships with locals and integrate new conservation projects into the local community.

Photos taken from Oldonyowuas.com

What do you get from visiting Ol Donyo Wuas?

  • A sense of growth: Although the adventurous activities, surreal dining experiences, comforting ambiance, and intimate setting at the Ol Donyo Wuas are unforgettable, the trips to the local Maasai villages invoke a sense of cultural growth within visitors to the area. The ability to interact with the Maasai people and learn about their lifestyle, traditions, and community efforts is one of the most fulfilling experiences to be had in Kenya.
  • Memories that will last forever: Teeming with indigenous wildlife and the Big Five, Ol Donyo Wuas’ neighboring areas are the premier location for 4X4 game drives and walking safaris, which are included in the lodge’s all-inclusive rate. Also included in the rate are night drives, horseback safaris, mountain biking, fly camping, rooftop star beds, bush breakfasts, Maasai visits, and more.
  • The feeling of accomplishment: As a sustainable bush lodge and longtime partner with The Maasailand Preservation Trust, Ol Donyo Wuas contributes to the preservation of the local economy, community, and environment. And when you stay at Ol Donyo Wuas, you are also participating in these conservation efforts.

    Photos taken from Oldonyowuas.com

  • A new understanding for the environment: While participating in safari excursions throughout your stay, you’ll discover everything from insects and reptiles, to the Big Five and other larger animals. When you’re not taking part in a game drive or walking safari, you can learn about indigenous plants used for medicinal purposes from the Maasai people during a Maasai cultural visit.

The Maasai people also receive great benefits from your stay such as a thriving environment, a fulfilling lifestyle, a sustainable economy, and a rich learning experience.

Did you find this post useful? Let us know in our comments section.

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5 Unique Ways to Make Your African Safari Vacation Last a Lifetime

On March 3, 2010, In Uncategorized, By Sandy Salle

An African safari vacation is something you will remember for the rest of your life. But wouldn’t it be nice to have tangible memories of everything you experienced while on your African safari vacation?

Here are a few unique projects you can do to help preserve all of your African safari memories—no matter how small they may seem at the time:

Lunch at La Colombe Restaurant

1. The written word: Prior to your African safari vacation, you’ll already have your perfectly planned safari itinerary prepared, outlining each day’s activities and destinations. Before leaving for Africa, purchase a journal and breakdown your itinerary into categories. You could break them down into countries you will be visiting, lodges or camps you’ll be staying in, or types of destinations you’re headed to—whether it’s urban or rural, historical or cultural, or on the coast. There’s no right or wrong way to create your journal. It’s yours.

Then, create detailed sections within each category. For example, if you’re going to Cape Winelands for three days, designate three separate sections of your journal for each day you spend in Cape Winelands. Within each section, create your very own subcategories such as Where I had breakfast, Most exciting adventure of the day, Most beautiful thing I saw today, Favorite wine I tasted today, Favorite food I tasted today, etc. The possibilities are endless!

This allows you to leisurely capture every moment of your day without having to struggle through all the day’s events, trying to get them down into words. This also ensures you don’t forget to write down some of the greatest parts of the day.

African safari vacation2. The perfect coffee table book: Scrap booking is a wonderful way to capture your adventures into a fun-filled read after returning home from your African safari vacation. While you are in Africa, collect tourist pamphlets and hotel cards, save your itineraries, and keep two or three money bills to put into your scrap book. Any authentic keepsakes you can find that would fit into a scrap book are perfect.

When you return home, purchase stickers related to your adventures, construction paper to use as the background of your scrap book pages, write small notes or funny quotes you remember from your trip and paste them next to photos you took, use different shaped scissors to cut your photo edges with, and paste photos throughout the book. Burn the edges of paper that you write mini notes on or burn the edges of construction paper to give your scrap book a worn look. Have fun!

Once you are finished with your scrap book, you can place it on your living room coffee table and present it to guests. This form of memory preservation is not only fun to create, but it’s also an engaging work of art.

3. Preservation of individual moments in time: Although photographing is an obvious form of memory preservation, there are a variety of unique ways to organize your photos and share them with others. You could create an album for each country you visited, make animal and bird albums, or create a slideshow that you can put onto a CD and send to family and friends. Remember to write up notes associated with each photograph and paste them into the album.

4. Split seconds of excitement: In order to simultaneously capture the sounds and sights of Africa, you’ll need to invest in a mini video camera. A Flip video is a small, handheld video camera with excellent picture and sound, that enables you to take it anywhere and everywhere during your African safari vacation. Its sleek build makes it easily accessible for those split second captures of a lion killing a zebra, or a hyena stalking its prey.

And when you go back to edit your video, you can select single images to make into photos.

5. Artistic interpretations: This may not be appealing to some, which is completely understandable, but drawing allows you to express the emotions you feel at that particular moment. Drawings don’t have to be the work of artistic masterminds such as Monet or Michelangelo, they are your own personal feelings toward what you are experiencing or seeing that day. Perhaps a drawing means more to you than a photographic image, because they are your own interpretation of what you see and feel. If you are going to be drawing on your trip, don’t forget to pack all of your artistic materials. Don’t get crazy though. Some pencils and paper will do just fine. Maybe even some soft pastels.

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