1. Africa Update
Explore the Masai Mara with "Gnu Guru" - Dr Richard Estes
During the peak migration season of the
Masai Mara (July to Sept), guests
at Governor's Camps will have the privilage of interacting with Dr
Richard Estes - reknowned animal behaviourist. He is the author of 2
authoritative guide books (see our recommended reading) and will be
conducting daily lectures and slide show presentations as well as
field interpretation. See also:
Governors Camp
Good
news for whale watchers
The International Whaling Commission has voted against
Japan's proposal to expand whale hunting quotas. The movement was
supported by whaling nations Norway and Iceland, but opposed by
South Africa and other western nations. The vote was expected to be
close, so this is indeed a relief for countries like our own where
whale watching has become an important sector of ecotourism.
Kruger-to-Canyon
Biosphere Reserve
This month marked the launch of SA's fourth biosphere reserve. The
concept aims to integrate people, conservation and development with
the outcome of a sustainable managed ecosystem between the Kruger
National Park and the Blyde River Canyon. It is hoped that the
2.4 million hectare biosphere will bring added economic benefits and
job creation to the region.
2. Have Your Say
Feedback on last month's
Radio Collaring article: 70% of our
voters felt that radio-tracking collared animals on game drives
ruins the game experience, 30% felt it was unethical and 0% felt it
was acceptable.
3. New on ecoAfrica.com
Lalibela
Game Reserve - Eastern Cape,
South Africa
This big 5 private game reserve's location in the Eastern Cape means
it is not only malaria free, but spans 5 ecosystems, resulting in a
breath-taking diversity of flora and fauna. Each of the 3 small
camps offers something unique - from a children's safari program at
Mark's Camp to tree-top accommodation.
Kalahari
Safaris - Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park,
South Africa
Mile upon mile of rolling sand dunes, solitary
trees and scattered grasses. The Kalahari
Gemsbok National Park forms Africa's first transfrontier park with
the Gemsbok National Park in Botswana, facilitating the seasonal
migration of wildlife. These safaris offer a choice of accommodation
& can include a trip to Augrabies Falls.
5 day Kalahari & Augrabies Safari
4. Traveller Feedback
“This
was the most amazing trip of my life! I'll never forget the African
sky, animal noises at night, the smell of the bush and the African
sunrise and sunset. I fell in love with Africa, its people and
wildlife! I hope to return next year, so I will be in touch with
ecoAfrica again. Everything was perfect, the tour guide was great,
the accommodations and the whole organization of the trip!”
Victoria Chamara (USA) -
5 day Kruger Park Bushveld Safari
5. Recommended reading
The Safari Companion
- Dr Richard Estes
The Behavior Guide to African Mammals
- Dr Richard Estes
