INTRODUCTION
CONSERVATION SAFARI SYMBIOSIS
The Conservation Safari project participants are involved in and enjoy their experience in a variety of ways…
PRICE FOR 2 WEEKS CONSERVATION SAFARI
GREEN SEASON (December to March) - US$1500
MIGRATION SEASON (April to June & November) - US$1950
HIGH 'N' DRY SEASON (July to October) - US$2500
CONSERVATION SAFARI ACTIVITIES
*Please note it is advisable you overnight in Maun at the end of your Okavango trip in case of delays returning from the delta safari.
*Contact us for further enquiries about the Okavango Delta options - Contact us
BACKGROUND
Botswana is an increasingly popular safari destination for visitors from all over the developed world and regionally. This landlocked country lies within the Kalahari Sandbelt boasting some of the most productive untouched wildlife viewing in Africa. The country’s social stability and general good governance record creates an environment conducive to safety and security conscious travellers visiting Africa for their wildlife safaris.
Botswana has all the positive ingredients necessary to develop as a sustainable, environmentally aware country in a world desperately coming to terms with natural resource degradation and its impact on climate change, social disorder and unrealistic sustainable economic growth
The Meno A Kwena Water for Life Projects has identified, through many years experience in Africa, the growing importance for safari tourism to take more responsibility for wildlife and habitat conservation. We are leading the way in sustainable natural resource development and management in marginal tourism areas, including increasingly threatened boundaries of protected wildlife sanctuaries. It is vital that communities and governments are involved and supported so that responsible environmental policies are implemented and enforced.
CONSERVATION SAFARIS OUTLINE
LOCATION
Operations are based out of Meno A Kwena Tented Camp - Central Botswana, on the western boundary of Makgadikgadi Pans National Park just 1.5 hours drive from Maun. We are ideally located on the lower reaches of the Okavango Delta drainage system that flows into the Kalahari. Nxai Pan National Park and Central Kalahari Game Reserve are accessible all year round from camp.
GPS CO-ORDINATES -
S20:19:454 / E24:19:231
WILDLIFE & HABITATS
General water-dependant and desert-adapted wildlife, including Southern Africa’s largest zebra and wildebeest migration. The region is mostly semi arid except along the Boteti River. Resident wildlife includes elephant, hippo, crocodile, lion, leopard, wild dogs, cheetah, hyaena and a wide variety of antelope and springbok
PEOPLE
Batswana are generally pastoralists, peace-loving and conservative, with strong traditional ties, as they come to grips with rapid conventional western society development
PROJECT DURATION
Two weeks (14 nights). See below conservation safari dates. Participants wishing to stay longer may book additional length of stay in advance
ACCOMMODATION
POWER & CHARGING EQUIPMENT
There is limited solar power in camp for charging camera batteries. It is recommended you bring at least two spare fully charged camera batteries, contact your photo dealer for information about solar charging systems specific to your equipment. Limited solar and bio fuel lighting is provided in camp. We highly recommend head torches or lamps as the best and safest form of personal lighting
SAFARI & CAMP TASKS
General safari camp tasks involve cooking, housekeeping, and maintenance
MEALS
Participants will be required to shop for their supplies in Maun before going to camp. Our representitive will assist you with this on arrival.
Below is a brief example of the recommended meals participants may provide for themselves. Storage and refrigeration is provided
HOUSEKEEPING
The camp is fully serviced by locally trained and employed staff
GENERAL CAMP & EQUIPMENT MAINTENANCE
The conservationists will be expected to carry out camp and project equipment repairs, maintenance and developments from time to time as part of their conservation involvement
SAFETY & SECURITY
Security awareness is paramount at all times, particularly as we don’t want to encourage it in a country with a good safety and security record. It is the responsibility of all conservationists at all times to take care of their personal belongings, project equipment and supplies. It is advisable to hold minimal cash in camp and to keep all ID and travel documents on you or in sight at all times
A safety briefing will be carried out on arrival at camp
HEALTH
Contact your local GP regarding health issues in Southern Africa. We are in a malaria area otherwise a relatively low health risk region
All tourism and conservation activities are carried out with sustainable operations that minimise negative impact on the environment and wildlife
FIRE CONTROL
We maintain two fire fighting units at camp that require regular training and maintenance. In the event of fire outbreaks we drop everything to fight them. The boundary patrols will also reduce the threat of uncontrolled fires
BOUNDARY PATROLS
This is the primary activity of our conservationist scheme that includes daily 4X4 vehicle patrols along the national park boundary fence on both the wildlife and farming sections. The task includes repairing wildlife damage to the fence, holes dug under the fence by lions, hyaenas etc. We provide the vehicle, driver and tools required for this project
Our presence reduces human/wildlife conflict that protects livestock from predators, hence predators from farmers and reduces elephant damage to farming property
The daily patrols cover an area of approximately one hundred kilometres of national park boundary. Picnic lunches and drinking water are provided. Conservationists are very likely to see a wide range of wildlife during the patrols that adds to the experience
Patrols are always in satellite or mobile phone contact with base camp for emergencies
In the event patrols are necessary further afield we supply a basic mobile camp that includes hanging canvas tents, bedrolls with bedding etc
WILDLIFE REINTRODUCTION
Prior to fences and the drying up of the Boteti in the early 90s there were numerous species of particular antelope that existed naturally and are now no longer in the area. It is our intention through our Water for Life Projects to re-introduce some or all of these species to the Boteti River area. There are numerous game ranches in Botswana reporting over stocking of various antelope, particularly impala, and the fact there are limited markets for the sale of their wildlife stock
We will reintroduce herds of impala and wildebeest while researching relocation of other species - roan antelope, bushbuck, lechwe, waterbuck, etc. Water for Life Projects is sourcing funding for the capture, transport and release of these animals through conservationist involvement and donations. Conservationists will be involved with this project should they be in the field at the time. After the antelope have been relocated and released, conservationists will be involved in the monitoring of their activity within the area to create valuable data for conservation projects elsewhere in Botswana
Not only does this project create a market for wildlife species’ re-introduction back into former natural habitats, it helps to stimulate and recreate natural ecosystems. This initiative solves predator / livestock conflicts through a reduction in predator dependence on cattle and other domestic animals when the zebra migrate from the Boteti River for their wet season breeding range in the saltpans a hundred km away
Tourism potential increases employment opportunities and benefits for rural communities, ultimately securing the future of the national park, preserving the natural wildlife which is Africa’s top tourist attraction
INVADER PLANT CONTROL
Due to high concentrations of livestock on wildlife protected area boundaries there are unsustainable levels of invader plant species that require removal and control and removal of these invaders forms an important part of our conservation efforts
WILDLIFE CORRIDOR RESEARCH & DATA COLLECTION
The ultimate goal of our projects is to better understand the potential for improved sustainable wildlife and environment management and development
The conservationists collect data on the environmental issues in potential wildlife corridor areas between national parks and reserves and on their boundaries. This involves researching data previously collected in past study projects in the region and elsewhere
All aspects of our projects are monitored, recorded and filed so that we can start creating a manual of our activities for use in similar projects elsewhere with human/wildlife conflicts that threaten our environment
The key is foreign conservationists sharing their developed world knowledge with local developing world citizens so both cultures have a better understanding of global environmental issues, challenges and solutions
ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION
Conservationists get involved at Moreomaoto Village Primary School to educate children on environmental awareness. This involves showing DVD films that have wildlife and environmental association that at the same time are entertaining for them to digest. The school project includes sports, traditional music and dance, theatre and guided safaris into the national parks. The children are invited from time to time to perform at the camp to guests and at the same time exposed to tourism activities. This project includes attending traditional meetings (Kgotlas) and other social events
We are proposing the construction of a theatre / environmental museum at the school for the development of the entertainment project. We plan to start this project in 2013 with funds raised from the conservationist participation
COMPUTER & INTERNET TRAINING
The new library and social centre construction recently completed in 2011 at Moreomaoto Village provides computer and internet access to the villagers. Conservationists participate in computer and web training to maximise environmental awareness information technology benefits to the community
SUSTAINABLE VEGETABLE FARMING
We are encouraging local farmers to develop and produce vegetables and fruits for the tourism industry as well as other markets. Conservationists take part in training and development projects for sustainable arable agricultural practises. This includes the protection of crops and other property from damage by wildlife
SUSTAINABLE ARTS & CRAFTS PRODUCTION
There is limited arts and crafts production in the area that needs to be encouraged with new modern ideas that are sustainable including recycling and solid waste reducing. Those conservationists with a passion for creativity have this option to participate while involved in the projects and afterwards with a view to sourcing markets abroad
SUSTAINABLE TOURISM TRAINING
Tourism has to be the most difficult industry for rural cattle farmers to understand and accept, it goes against the grain of their culture, unless it is explained and presented to them with that in mind. Conservationists assist with these projects that will encourage more communities to diversify into safari tourism activities
SUSTAINABLE WASTE MANAGEMENT
To educate on health and safety threats from littering through improved solid waste management and recycling that provides additional and alternative incomes from material resources
CULTURAL HORSE BACK TRAILS DEVELOPMENT & MANAGEMENT
The boundaries of all wildlife sanctuaries, including Makgadikgadi Pans National Park, are threatened by increasing human and livestock encroachment. Our Conservation Safaris concept, designed to reduce human/wildlife conflicts, includes this new cultural Horseback Trails Project. The idea is to offer participants an exciting opportunity and to experience the scenic Boteti River on horseback while actively being involved in conservation along the boundary of Makgadikgadi Pans National Park. We recruit local residents and their horses that are trained for activities involving sustainable tourism. The cultural horseback trails activities include livestock wrangling of stray animals back to the safety of their cattle post enclosures and making sure they are secured and protected during the night when most wild predators are active. The concept provides the community with employment opportunities, educating them in improved animal husbandry practices, while proper security of their livestock reduces the need for farmers to kill stock raiding predators.
Conservationists require horseback riding experience and knowledge. Conservationists with veterinary experience and interests are of great value to this project
This project will develop in the future, expanding our conservation presence further afield from Meno A Kwena, along the boundary towards the saltpans and their incredibly unique scenery of open grasslands and vast expanses of salt flats! These long distance patrol trails will be accompanied by light weight camping gear and supplies for up to a week away from base camp. We will update regarding these developments
In support of the horse trails, canoes and walking trails are carried out for fence patrols. Rod fishing in the river provides camp with fresh fish
DONATIONS & SPONSORSHIP
We appreciate any donations and sponsorship from our conservation participants and elsewhere. Contact us for further information and our payment and banking details - Contact us
CONSERVATION SAFARI PROJECT INCOME
Conservation Safari participants play a crucial role as a direct result of the income generated by them to finance our projects while rewarding them with an experience of a lifetime. The success of this tourism concept is completed by the awareness generated internationally, educating developed countries to the reality that conservation is not a priority in developing countries
Income from conservation safaris to reduce human/wildlife conflict allows us to relieve some of government’s responsibilities so they focus on more pressing investment priorities, ultimately issues that put pressure on our natural resources
We propose that, particularly students who don’t have the financial resources to participate in our two week Conservation Safari, to use our information material and create a fundraising project at home, generating important awareness while raising the necessary travel and/or project funds. Please contact us for further suggestions regarding fundraising
See booking conditions below for all reservations for our projects that accommodate up to six (6) conservationists for two (2) weeks at a time
INCLUDED IN RATES
Maun Airport pick-up & drop off, transportation to & from camp & during your involvement in our projects
Tented accommodation, bedding, towels & set menu plan meals for the duration of your participation
Laundry facilities for own use
Project orientation on arrival
Entry fees into Makgadikgadi & Nxai Pans National Parks
Guided walks, canoeing and vehicle safaris when space available
When available, locally based researchers give talks on their study projects in the country
NOT INCLUDED IN RATES
Flights
Visa costs
Travel (including personal belongings) & Health insurance
Beverages & alcohol
Transport other than between Maun and camp and related to our projects
Participants to purchase their own food & drinks supplies on arrival
SAFARI CONSERVATIONIST REQUIREMENTS & BENEFITS
RESPONSIBILITY
Our projects expect all conservationists to maintain a high level of environmental and social awareness and safety during their stay
Our age requirement is 18 to 60 year olds. A minimum average physical fitness is required and any dietary, health and medical specifics to be advised on making a booking
PRELIMINARY RESEARCH
It is advisable to research the country and its people prior to arrival in Botswana so that you have a good understanding of the issues here to support your involvement in our projects. Your input is greatly appreciated
BOOKING CONDITIONS
Please follow our booking system and conditions to avoid placement disappointments that may arise from misunderstanding or delayed confirmation of your reservation. Please book well in advance to secure a placement that suits your travelling dates
Email booking requests only, on receipt of your request we will email you availability and a list of details we will require from you to complete the booking system. We will hold provisional bookings for up to two weeks unless we receive other booking requests for the same dates, in which case we will notify you that a 20% deposit is required to confirm the reservation. The full balance payment is due in our account no less than six weeks prior to arrival date
TRAVEL DOCUMENTS, IMMIGRATION & CUSTOMS
It is the responsibility of all visitors to Botswana to be sure their travel and ID documents are in order before departing your country of origin. When arriving in Botswana you will apply for a holiday visa for the number of days you wish to stay in the country. Please note that you are not permitted to work in Botswana without a work permit so do not state this when filling in the immigration forms as the authorities will delay or possibly refuse entry.
HEALTH & TRAVEL INSURANCE
Be sure that your health and travel insurance cover is valid and accepted in Botswana, especially for emergency evacuation by air to hospitals in Botswana and or South Africa
CONTACT US
Email us: reservations@menoakwena.com
Phone us: (+267) 6860981 / 6861634 / 713 26085
Skype: David.Dugmore Botswana
SUMMARY
Botswana is a young developing country. At independence from its British Protectorate status in 1966 Botswana had no infrastructure, no government, no currency, no economy - except for vast expanses of wide-open wilderness, wildlife, a small peaceful and gentle population of under a million people who lived in relative harmony. There were just twenty kilometres of paved roads until 1970 in a country the size of France, or Texas!
It is our belief at Meno A Kwena that safari operators who are in the business of utilizing wildlife for tourism must do everything possible, to nurture and involve the people of Botswana, if we are to secure their natural resources as they develop into a modern, environmentally aware and sustainable society.
Tourism in Africa has vast potential to lead the world in innovative tourism that embraces the concept of biodiversity, creating sustainable growth and economies to provide security to wildlife and people.
