This is a copy of our weekly email newsletter. Subscribe here to receive the newsletter.
THE Zanzibar to-do list + miombo, elephants & carbon markets
Are humans capable of SUSTAINABLY harvesting a commons or state-owned resource?
This lengthy report on the destruction of the Southern Cape forests in South Africa by European superpowers in premodern history is hardly easy to read, but it is an interesting case study of how rubbish we are as a species at reining in greed and waste when a natural ‘resource’ is there for the taking.
Some of the harvesting strategies described in the report make no sense – but that was then. These days, we have learned our lessons and do things differently. All extraction of hardwood, minerals, free-ranging wildlife and fish (to name a few) is based on scientifically determined quotas, transparency and fair compensation for local people. Right?
Simon Espley – CEO, Africa Geographic
From our Editor – Taryn van Jaarsveld
The lion may be king of the beasts, but one rival reigns supreme when it comes to inspiring fear: humans. Did you know that wildlife fear the human super-predator more than anything else? A study in Greater Kruger revealed that 95% of species ran more from humans than they did from lions. Using speaker systems to broadcast human voices, lion growls, dogs barking, gunshots and bird calls, researchers recorded the reactions of 19 mammals. The findings are striking – animals fled and abandoned waterholes 40% faster when hearing humans, compared to lions. This fear isn’t merely about survival; it triggers cascading ecological effects, influencing everything from animal behaviour to plant life.
This is a double-edged sword. A fear of humans could deter animals from venturing into conflict-prone areas. But, it complicates tourism-dependent conservation efforts: human presence can disrupt ecosystems. How do we ensure our legacy is one of preservation and not devastation?
Planning a trip to Zanzibar? We’ve put together the ultimate Zanzibar to-do list for your safari. Plus, Africa’s miombo woodlands are amazing at carbon sequestration – we explore why we should be conserving them. Check out these stories below.
DID YOU KNOW?
We donate a portion of the revenue from every safari sold to carefully selected conservation projects that make a significant difference at ground level. YOUR safari choice does make a difference – thank you!
Story 1
https://africageographic.com/stories/zanzibar-the-ultimate-to-do-list/
ZANZIBAR TO-DO LIST
Discover Zanzibar for an unforgettable island escape: idyllic beaches, vibrant culture, rich history, thrilling adventures, & must-see sites
Story 2
https://africageographic.com/stories/elephants-carbon-markets-and-the-conservation-of-miombo-woodlands/
MIOMBO & ELEPHANTS
Discover the link between carbon markets & elephants: and how protecting Africa’s miombo woodlands benefits both climate & wildlife
TRAVEL DESK:
Dreaming of your bucket-list Botswana or Vic Falls safari? Or how about a true bush & beach classic safari to Tanzania? Check out the epic safaris below, or let our travel team help you plan your dream safari
Discover Tanzania’s popular northern safari circuit, including Ngorongoro Crater and Serengeti National Park, and the idyllic serene beaches of Zanzibar. This safari offers you a seamless introduction to the wonders of a Tanzanian bush and island retreat. Immerse yourself in these iconic locations whilst exploring diverse landscapes and rich culture. This classic driving safari takes you to the heart of it all, with the added pleasure of staying in time-honoured luxury camps.
Feeling inspired and wanting more? Explore more of our safari ideas here
What our safari clients say
Vanessa and Thomas Kress from the Netherlands recently spent 11 days exploring Malawi with AG. They enjoyed the wildlife and landscapes of Majete, Liwonde and Nkhotakota, and spent time relaxing on the beaches of Lake Malawi at Senga. They loved their safari so much that they have already booked their next AG safari to Rwanda! Here’s what they had to say about their experience:
Best of Malawi in 8 days – “What an incredible trip! We are experienced travellers of Southern African and wanted to see something new. We chose Malawi on the recommendation of AG and it was certainly no disappointment. We visited 3 parks, met interesting people, learned a lot about Malawi and experienced some wonders of nature – such as a boat trip on the Shire River. It was well worth it! Thank you AG for looking after us during the whole trip! We surely will book again.” – Vanessa Kress
Want to join our safari tribe and have safari experiences like these? Get in touch, and let’s start planning your unique African safari!
WATCH: Across Africa, on the boundaries of nature reserves where protected areas meet human settlements, human-elephant conflict is on the rise. Elephant Shepherd Units pioneered by Elephants Alive are the first line of action in peacefully dissolving human-elephant conflict. Safeguarding wandering elephants and fostering coexistence with communities, the Elephant Shepherds are the connection between animal and human. Mediating interactions with skill, understanding and knowledge, they educate communities living with elephants on a daily basis. Learn more about the Elephant Shepherds. (01:32) Click here to watch
For more videos celebrating Africa, check out our videos here
To comment on this story: Login (or sign up) to our app here - it's a troll-free safe place 🙂.
