Conservation and Community News

Wilderness Conservation Partners with Helicopter Horizons

In an exciting new partnership, Wilderness Safaris has teamed with Helicopter Horizons to support conservation efforts in Botswana. For every scenic flight booked, 5% of the flight time will be dedicated to wildlife monitoring in remote areas, such as the Linyanti Wildlife Reserve. This partnership significantly boosts the ability to track and protect vulnerable wildlife, especially in regions that are otherwise difficult to access.

Philippa, Rhino Poaching Survivor, Welcomes New Calf

Philippa, a rhino who was rescued from poachers in 2016, has given birth to her second calf near Jabulani Safari Lodge in the Greater Kruger National Park, South Africa. This is a testament to her resilience and healing after the brutal attack that left her severely injured and orphaned. Since her recovery, Philippa has become a beacon of hope, showing that with care and protection, rhinos can heal and thrive in the wild. Philippa's journey is a poignant reminder of the importance of conservation efforts in the region, and we are delighted to see her family grow.

Tswalu Expands

Tswalu Private Game Reserve has expanded its reserve by nearly 10,000 acres, providing more space for endangered species, such as the desert black rhino and African wild dog. The expanded area gives these species the room they need to thrive and will contribute to healthier, more sustainable populations. The addition also enhances the guest experience with insider access to Tswalu Foundation's groundbreaking research, such as tracking pangolins and studying cheetah predation patterns.

Investing in Africa's Future Chefs

Singita's Community Culinary Schools have been empowering aspiring chefs in remote African communities since 2007. The program offers internationally accredited training, providing young talents with the skills to succeed in the tourism industry. This initiative not only helps fill a critical gap in Africa's hospitality sector but also opens life-changing opportunities for young people in South Africa, Tanzania, and Rwanda.

The MAA Trust Scholarship Programme

The Maa Trust Scholarship Programme has made a lasting impact on the Maasai Mara community in Kenya. This year alone, the program has supported 79 scholarship recipients, empowering them to overcome obstacles and pursue education. One of the standout stories is that of Trizah Nampaso, who graduated with a Diploma in Supply Chain Management from Mount Kenya University after joining the scholarship program in 2018. Her success story highlights the transformative power of education and the ripple effect it has on an entire community.

Bushtops Safari Camps and Education

Thanks to the generosity of Bushtop's guests in Kenya and Tanzania, a dining program has been launched at Nkoilale School, providing hot lunches to 700 students. Additionally, a new kitchen, storage space, office, and serving area have been built, ensuring the sustainability of this essential program.

Bushtops has also completed major improvements at Bisalala School near Serengeti Bushtops Camp, piping water from a nearby village, adding 10 new washrooms, renovating classrooms, installing 100+ desks, and providing school supplies.

In celebration of 15 years of sponsoring education, Bushtops Safari Camps is proud to report that it has supported 250 children through their schooling. One of the first students they sponsored, Helen Kamakia, now works at Mara Bushtops and plays a crucial role in overseeing its sponsorship program to assist future generations.