Search Results

Planning a trip to Africa or elsewhere, whether for a school, university, adult group, youth group, or organization is one of the most exciting opportunities a group can experience. But behind a successful adventure lies a lot of important preparation. Every successful trip depends on balancing safety, logistics, goals, and cost. A skilled consultant makes that balance simple and achievable. 1. Expertise Saves Time and Stress Trip leaders, teachers, senior staff and other organisers already have heavy workloads. Researching the right routes, destinations, safety standards, and providers can take months. A consultant with years of on the ground experience can shortcut that process, ensuring no important detail is missed and freeing staff to focus on their group. 2. Risk Management Comes First For any group, safeguarding and risk management are non-negotiable. A consultant familiar with standards for international travel can review or build risk assessments, ensuring compliance and safety. This not only protects participants but also gives peace of mind to parents, partners, boards, and leadership teams. 3. Tailored Itineraries Create Meaningful Experiences Not all trips are created equal. A consultant helps match objectives with the right locations and activities: Wildlife field studies for conservation students Safari and species focused activities Fund raising events for charities Field studies in ethology, ecology and geography Cultural immersion with local communities Adventure elements like multi day overlanding or kayaking This ensures the trip isn’t just a holiday, but a life enhancing experience that deeply connects participants to the country they are travelling in. 4. Avoiding Hidden Costs Transport, accommodation, catering, guides, drivers, kit and clothing, trip related fees and the unexpected extras. Without experience, budgets can quickly spiral. A consultant can identify hidden costs, recommend trusted providers, and structure a budget that delivers best value without compromising safety or quality. 5. Connections That Open Doors Perhaps the greatest value a consultant brings is their network. Years in the field mean relationships with other operators, lodge owners, local guides, field experts, conservation projects, researchers, transport providers, and community leaders and partners. These connections create authentic experiences that a travel company alone may not be able to provide. 6. Confidence in Delivery When the time comes to travel, having had a consultant’s support means trip leaders feel fully prepared. From what to pack, to cultural respect, to handling emergencies, nothing is left to chance. That confidence translates into a smoother trip and a better experience for everyone. In short:  A good consultant doesn’t just make a trip possible. They make it safe, exciting and unforgettable. If you’re considering your first or your next trip and want expert guidance from someone who has led groups for over 20 years, I’d be delighted to help. Angus John Wingfield Founder, Director and Trip Leader/ Africa Wild Trails Limited Consulting Info Webpage : https://www.africawildtrails.com/consulting Email : angus@africawildtrails.com WhatsApp : +44 (0)7932327534

I am very pleased to share some thoughts with you about something I care deeply about; partnerships in conservation focused travel. Africa Wild Trails collaborations are so much more than just working together, they are about building connections with the land, the wildlife, and the incredible people who help bring these experiences to life. When we join forces with others who share our values, we can create adventures that are not only exciting but also leave a positive mark on the world. Whilst I feel that Africa Wild Trails partners with specific wild places that give our groups so much, I want to focus on partnering with people, and in this blog, with one specific person. Africa Wild Trails is about creating authentic, immersive journeys through Africa’s most stunning wild places, while keeping conservation, community, and personal development in the forefront of our minds. Recently, we have teamed up with Haley Dahl and her wonderful company, Africa Eco Ventures. It has been amazing to work with Haley, and her love for wildlife and her thoughtful approach to sustainable travel is a great match for what we are doing. Haley Dahl: A Champion for Africa Haley’s story is truly inspiring. Having grown up in Africa, she’s spent her life exploring its hidden corners and building a deep understanding of its ecosystems which enables her to do what she does so well. Beyond her work with Africa Eco Ventures, Haley lends her expertise to a specific wildlife reserve, which gives her such a valuable insight into what conservation really needs. She’s someone who doesn’t just talk about protecting nature, she lives it. What we all admire most about Haley is her commitment to keeping things real, as well as continually connecting people and places. She personally checks out every location she recommends, making sure each experience is special and responsibly planned which matches precisely with the ethos of Africa Wild Trails. Through Africa Eco Ventures, Haley offers exclusive, custom safaris and nature based adventures in South Africa, Zambia, Botswana, and Namibia, in beautiful untouched areas where you can feel the pulse of the wild without any crowds getting in the way. Partnering To Bring Adventures to Life Working with Haley has been great for us at Africa Wild Trails. Together, we have designed trips that blend excitement, adventure, relaxation, and a genuine connection to nature. Whether it's sighting wildlife in the South African bush or soaking in the vastness of the Namibian desert, every journey is tailored to the group, making it feel personal and unique. It’s not just about the fun, there’s a bigger purpose as both of our companies care deeply about conservation, and we weave that into our trips. Travellers get to understand much more clearly the threats to nature, and the amazing conservation initiatives in place to help nature, and Haley is involved in many. Building Trust and Making Memories In travel, trust is everything, and partnering with someone as dedicated as Haley helps us deliver on that promise. Her hands on approach and honesty mean our clients can feel confident they’re getting something genuine. With her guidance, you don’t just visit Africa, you experience it in a way that stays with you for ever. Why Partnerships Matter Teaming up with Africa Eco Ventures on various trips shows how much we can achieve when we work with people who share our dreams. It’s about pooling our strengths to offer something truly special, and to create trips that thrill, inspire, and help protect Africa’s wild places for the future. For anyone who joins one of our collaborations, it’s a chance to see the world differently, and enhance your own passion for nature. Looking Ahead At the end of the day, these partnerships are about more than just travel, they’re about caring for something bigger than ourselves. It has been such a pleasure collaborating with Haley, and I look forward introducing more people from around the world to the African adventures we partner on. Ultimately, partnerships in conservation travel help us connect with the beauty of our shared world, and give us the ability to be a better voice for nature. Angus

I am far from an expert on elephant communication, but I have spent many hours over many years observing them in the wild with my groups, with friends, and on my own. There’s a quiet conversation happening in the African wilderness, one that we can’t always hear but of course, the elephants understand perfectly. These intelligent giants have one of the most complex communication systems. From deep, rumbling infrasound, to subtle gestures, taps and touches, elephants are constantly communicating with each other. Their ability to express joy, sorrow, stress, and reassurance is nothing short of amazing to us, but totally normal to them. But to truly appreciate their secret language, you need to witness it in the wild. I Once Communicated With An Elephant Many years ago, I was in Kenya with my friend Terry. We were on a reconnaissance trip for a group. One drizzly morning towards the end of our time exploring the area, we had nearly finished packing up our overnight kit when a huge bull elephant emerged from the trees. I was immediately mesmerized by him quietly walking towards us, and in no time at all, he was just a few metres away. My instincts told me to stay still. He was lumbering towards me slowly, not stressed at all, and I was clearly no threat. So I remained kneeling down by our cooler box. This was one of the biggest elephants I had ever seen, and he stopped barely three feet in front of me. His enormous trunk reached out in front of his huge crossed tusks, slowly sniffing my chest, neck, and head. As I looked up at him towering above me, I felt an absolute sense of calm. Glancing down at his huge trunk, I noticed an old healed deep wound from a snare which had very nearly severed the trunk completely. There was another mark on one of his tusks, a circular scar etched there from another snare which must have been attached for many years. As I gazed up his broad trunk, I looked him squarely in the eye, he lifted the tip of his trunk and gently tapped my head a few times before turning away. I inhaled and exhaled deeply, knowing that I had shared a moment of communication with a wild animal that I could never expected, and one I would never forget. Before he walked back into the bush, he took my bag out of the back of the truck, and opened it. One foot on the front to secure it, and another to tear it open. In reality I think that this big old bull was probably on his last set of teeth, and looking for something easy to eat when he smelt our camp, me, and my bag. However, in my wishful thinking, I like to believe he wanted to communicate with me. After all, he didn't have to come up to me, sniff me, or tap me on the head. He could have just gone straight to my bag and taken whatever he wanted. Since then I have looked to see how much elephants communicate by tapping each other gently like this. I have only seen it a few times, but an expert told me that it is quite normal and that they gently tap or caress family members, especially calves, to comfort them, and reassure them. Elephants don’t just trumpet loudly when excited or distressed, their communication is far more intricate. Infrasound: The Messages We Can’t Hear Elephants produce deep, low frequency rumbles that humans cannot hear. These infrasound can travel around 6 miles, allowing herds to stay connected across vast distances. Experts believe these calls are used to warn others of danger, coordinate movements, or even locate mates. If you’ve ever seen elephants suddenly react to something invisible, they might be responding to a distant rumbling message carried underground, or through the air. Listening Through Their Feet One of the most astonishing facts about elephants is their ability to detect vibrations through the ground. They use the sensitive pads on their feet and trunks to pick up seismic signals, helping them hear approaching herds, storms, or even distant threats. This ability makes them one of the most intuitive animals in the wild. Body Language and Touch Elephants also express themselves through physical gestures. A raised trunk can signal curiosity or greeting, while an extended ear flap might be a sign of aggression. Touch is particularly important within families, calves often rub against their mothers for comfort, and adult elephants wrap trunks around each other as a sign of affection, or tap each other for reassurance. Emotional Expression Perhaps the most remarkable aspect of elephant communication is their emotional depth. They mourn their dead, console distressed family members, and even celebrate reunions. Watching a mother gently guide her calf with her trunk, keep that baby carefully between her legs, or watch a herd huddle together in support is an unforgettable experience. Experience Elephant Conversations in the Wild Reading about the language of elephants is one thing, experiencing it in Africa is something else entirely. There’s no better way to understand these animals than by seeing them in their natural habitat, surrounded by the raw beauty of the wilderness. At Africa Wild Trails , we take you on unforgettable adventures to witness elephants in their world. Whether it’s in Botswana, Namibia, Zambia or South Africa, you’ll have the chance to watch these giants interact, communicate, and live freely. Our trips, safaris, and field studies are not just about sightseeing, they’re about understanding, conserving, and connecting with nature on a deeper level. When you travel with us, you’ll learn from expert guides, track elephants, and contribute to responsible tourism that helps protect these incredible creatures for future generations. Join Us on an Elephant Adventure Join Africa Wild Trails  for a journey to observe elephants in the wild, email Angus on angus@africawildtrails.com  or visit www.africawildtrails.com  to start planning your adventure. Angus

" At Africa Wild Trails, we’re passionate about helping people experience Africa in its truest form. Our next overland adventure for people to join is in October, and led by myself and the amazing Haley Dahl from Africa Eco Ventures, and between us, we know what it takes to create a life enhancing journeys. Join us in October for the adventure of a lifetime! " Itinerary link: https://itineraries.safariportal.app/Angus-Haley/1334548480437257537 Namibia, a far away place where vast, arid deserts meet dramatic mountain ranges, and where ancient cultures live alongside some of the most remarkable wildlife on Earth. For those of us who love adventure, this is the perfect place to experience the raw, unfiltered beauty of Africa. Overland travel in Namibia is not just a journey, it’s an immersive experience. As someone who has spent many years exploring some of Africa’s wildest areas, I can say with certainty that Namibia holds a special place in my heart. The country’s breathtaking landscapes and sense of remoteness are unmatched. An overland adventure here is not about rushing from one destination to another, it’s about slowing down, connecting with the land, and immersing yourself in its beauty. Discovering the Real Namibia In my opinion, Namibia is best experienced during an overland adventure. The endless gravel roads that stretch to the horizon, the ever changing landscapes, and the feeling of isolation all add to the sense of adventure. Overlanding allows us to reach places that are well off the beaten track, and places where you’ll feel like you’re the only people in the world. Driving through the towering dunes of Sossuusvlei at sunrise is an experience you’ll never forget. Flying above he Namib Desert in a hot air balloon, the oldest desert in the world, is just staggeringly beautiful. You’ll also encounter the rugged landscapes of Damaraland, the eerie shipwrecks of the Skeleton Coast, and wildlife rich areas such as Etosha. Each region feels like an entirely new world, and overlanding gives us the freedom to explore it at our own pace. A Wildlife Lover’s Dream Namibia offers unique opportunities for wildlife enthusiasts. Seeing desert adapted elephants in Damaraland or observing threatened species such as black rhinos is a true privilege you’ll rarely find elsewhere. Overlanding lets us experience these moments up close and personal. You can spend your days surrounded by wildlife and your evenings under a blanket of stars, listening to the sounds of the bush, whilst talking around the campfire at night about your experiences and adventures that day, feeling a renewed gentleness for nature, and a true appreciation of nature conservation. Etosha National Park, with its dramatic salt pan and abundant waterholes, is one of the best places in Africa for wildlife viewing. Overlanding gives us the flexibility to spend many hours at a single waterhole, watching animals come and go, rather than rushing through on a tight schedule. Connecting with the Culture Namibia isn’t just about wildlife and landscapes, it’s also about its people. The Himba, Herero, and San communities have deep ties to this land, and meeting them is a humbling and enriching experience. Overlanding allows you to visit remote villages and spend time learning about their traditions, something that is hard to experience during other safari type options. The Practical Benefits of Overlanding From a practical perspective, overlanding offers great value for money. You can explore Namibia’s highlights without needing to book expensive internal flights, and lodges along the way are also not too expensive if you would rather that option. A roof top tent on top of your personal Landcruiser has to be the very best option for me though. Camping beneath Namibia’s wide open skies is not only budget friendly but also one of the most magical ways to experience the country. Self drive overland adventures are particularly good due to the countries excellent infrastructure, well maintained roads, and safe environments. Joining one of our guided overland trips ensures you have expert knowledge on hand, leaving you free to enjoy the experience without worrying about logistics. A Journey of Personal Growth I’ve seen it time and time again, as people arrive in Africa with high expectations, and they leave with so much more than they ever thought was possible. Overland travel challenges you, surprises you, and inspires you. It pushes you out of your comfort zone and connects you to the natural world in ways you never thought possible. If you’re looking for an adventure that combines stunning landscapes, incredible wildlife, cultural immersion, and a sense of freedom, Namibia is the destination for you. At Africa Wild Trails, we’re passionate about helping people experience Africa in its truest form. Our overland adventure for people to join is in October is led by myself and the amazing Haley Dahl from Africa Eco Ventures, and between us, we know what it takes to create a life enhancing journeys. So why not step out of the ordinary and into the extraordinary? Namibia is waiting for you, and trust me, it’s a journey you’ll never forget... For more information about our next group overland adventure in October with Haley and myself, click this link: https://itineraries.safariportal.app/Angus-Haley/1334548480437257537email and/or email me at angus@africawildtrails.com . Let’s start planning your next great adventure! Angus Wingfield Director, Africa Wild Trails

When it comes to unforgettable adventures, Africa Wild Trails plans and delivers amazing itineraries for adult groups, youth groups and families seeking extraordinary African experiences. Founded on a passion for wildlife conservation and adventure travel, Africa Wild Trails delivers tailor-made trips that not only create lifelong memories but also deepen your connection to the natural world. Unparalleled Expertise in African Adventures With years of experience planning and leading groups, wildlife field studies, expeditions, and overland adventures across Africa, Africa Wild Trails is a trusted name in the industry. Founder Angus Wingfield and his team bring a wealth of knowledge and a deep love for Africa’s landscapes, people and wildlife. Whether you’re a family looking for an experience together, an adult group seeking adventure, or a youth group eager to learn, our expertise ensures a trip that exceeds expectations. Custom-Designed Itineraries No two groups are the same, which is why we create itineraries tailored to your needs and interests. Whether you’re passionate about wildlife conservation, keen on adrenaline-fueled activities, or simply want to unwind in Africa’s stunning wilderness, we’ve got you covered. From Big 5 safaris to hands-on conservation projects and cultural exchanges, our trips are as diverse as the continent itself. Inspiring Youth Groups Youth groups can benefit immensely from our carefully designed itineraries. These trips are not just about adventure; they’re about learning, personal growth, and working alongside local communities. Activities like wildlife monitoring, community engagement, and conservation education leave young participants with a deeper understanding of the world and their place in it. It’s an experience that creates leadership, teamwork, and a sense of responsibility toward ourselves and our planet. Thrilling Adventures for Adult Groups For adult groups, Africa Wild Trails offers experiences that blend relaxation with excitement. From game drives and walking safaris to rafting and cultural encounters, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re celebrating a milestone or simply looking to escape the ordinary, our trips provide the perfect backdrop for adventure and camaraderie. Family Adventures Africa Wild Trails offers family friendly itineraries that cater to all ages. Imagine watching your children’s faces light up as they spot their first elephant or lion on safari. Our family trips combine education with fun, making them perfect for creating a lifelong appreciation for nature. Plus, our expert guides ensure safety and engagement throughout the journey. Commitment to Conservation What sets Africa Wild Trails apart is our unwavering commitment to conservation. By joining us, you’re not just embarking on an adventure; you’re contributing to the preservation of Africa’s incredible biodiversity. Many of our trips include opportunities to engage with conservation projects, giving you a chance to make a real impact while learning from local experts. Safety and Standards You Can Trust When traveling with Africa Wild Trails, you can rest assured that your safety is our top priority. Our team adheres to the highest standards, ensuring a secure and enjoyable experience for all participants. For youth and adult groups, we recommend visiting our accreditations page to learn more about the safety measures we have in place. Testimonials from Happy Adventurers Don’t just take our word for it... Hear from those who’ve experienced the Africa Wild Trails ventures over the years. Visit our testimonials page to read more inspiring stories. Join Us for Your Next Adventure Whether you’re planning a family holiday, organizing a school trip, or gathering friends for a group adventure, Africa Wild Trails offers the perfect blend of excitement, education, and conservation. Contact us today to start planning your journey. Visit our website at www.africawildtrails.com or reach out via email at angus@africawildtrails.com. You can also WhatsApp us at +447932327534 for more information. Let Africa Wild Trails take you on an adventure you’ll never forget. Experience the thrill of the wild, connect with nature, and create memories that will last a lifetime. The adventure of your dreams is not far away!

Don’t let the endearing word ‘honey’ fool you if you come across this Badger in the wild, as they are fierce, determined, tough and intelligent animals. In fact, they are named as the world’s most fearless animal because of their tough attitude. Some say they are nasty by nature but they are not nasty, you have to be strong in nature to survive and they just going about their badgering business. One thing you could admire from them is that they are 100% courageous and don’t back down in times of stress and pressure. Their nickname “World’s Most Fearless Animal” isn’t just for show, in fact, they are even known to stand and face lions and hyenas, when every other species would run for the hills! THE LOOKS The average shoulder height of 12 inches and an average weight of 12.5 kilograms, they are mostly black, with a white or grey fur running from their head to the back. They have a stinky fluid stored in glands at the back of their tails which they secrete in defense and for marking territory. The honey badger’s skin is thick and tough around the neck and shoulders that can withstand bee stings and predator bites. They are also gifted with very strong claws, perfect for effortless digging. THE BEHAVIOUR Honey badgers are not friendly, they live mostly solitary lives and only approach other honey badgers to mate. They are primarily nocturnal, so they come out at night time but they can be active during the day depending on the activities of other predators and scarcity of food. Ideally, a Honey Badger would spend it’s day resting while curled up into a ball to protect themselves. They are territorial and invasive; they don’t care how big the opponent is as they are always ready to pick a fight to defend or invade other territories. THE DEN They use their strong claws to dig dens to rest but if they are lazy in doing so, they invade other dens such as dens of aardvarks or tunnels of foxes and would not give any care about any other species as long as they could rest. THE DIET They are omnivorous and are known to eat about anything from birds, to reptiles, to mammals, to fruits and plants. But what they really love to do is to raid beehives and eat the honey and honeybee larvae. The thick skin around the neck and shoulders I mentioned early will protect them well from the painful bee stings. It is because of this sweet tooth that they are also called the “Honey Eater of the Cape”. THE THREATS Aside from being prey for larger carnivorous animals that they are ready to fight anytime, the main threat for them is humans. They get shot by farmers because they are considered pests in the fields due to their foraging habits. They are one of the mortal enemies of beekeepers because they tend to eat all the honey in bee farms. They are also being hunted for their meat because they are considered bushmeat by other locals and because they are also used for traditional medicine. Overall, honey badgers are living organisms that have feelings, needs, and wants. Disrupting and not protecting animals whether they are beneficial to mankind or not would cause an imbalance to our ecosystem. If you want to learn more about wildlife, travelling to Africa and have a chance to encounter the extraordinary Honey Badger, send us a message at Africa Wild Trails today. We’ll tell you all about how you can plan your adventure!

We’ve all heard about Hippopotamuses, also known as “Hippos”, the giants of the African river systems… But what do you really know about this large mammal? Here are five interesting facts that will get you better acquainted with the hippo. 1. There’s often a Greek link! The name hippopotamus comes from the ancient Greek term for “river horse”, thanks mostly to the fact that these animals spend up to 16 hours a day submerged in rivers, lakes or any type of shallow water source. Given the amount of time they spend in water, it’s obvious by now that hippos love the water, and by love, they really love soaking in water and basking under the sun. So much so that these amazing mammals secrete an oily red substance that acts as a skin moistener and sunblock. 2. Hippos can outswim and outrun you Never assume that because of their enormous size they are therefore slow and cumbersome. They are extremely capable in the water, have dense leg bones which help them stay underwater, move very fast along the bottom and are able to hold their breath for up to 5 minutes. On land Hippos have been clocked running up to 30 km/h over short distances. Safe to say that you can never outrun or outswim a hippo. 3. They can be deadly Hippos are aggressive by nature and are considered very dangerous. Up to 5 meters long, 1.5 meters at the shoulder and up to 4 tons in weight, they are animals who are not to be messed with. If that’s not enough, they have a wide mouth that reveals large canine tusks that can pierce steel. Hippos attack whenever they feel that their habitat or feeding ground is threatened. Hippos will not hesitate when threatened. They are said to be the deadliest land mammal. One of the worst places you can find yourself in Africa is between a Hippo and the water 4. Hippos have large appetites Hippos in general, are herbivores. They eat up to 40kg of grass each night and can travel up to 10 kilometers whilst grazing. They will eat fruit if it’s around. Hippos have been seen eating carrion, which is most likely due to a lack of good grazing and nutritional stress. 5. Hippos are vulnerable species Back in 2006, the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) classified the hippo as a vulnerable species. This means their species are likely to become endangered unless the circumstances threatening their survival and reproduction greatly improve. They have a population between 125,000 and 150,000 with a 7 – 20% decline. Zambia and Tanzania both house the largest populations of hippos across the globe. As of 2018, there are also an estimated 50-70 hippos running around Columbia? Pablo Escobar, the notorious drug lord kept 4 of them in his private zoo back in the 80s. Since then the hippos have continued to reproduce and scatter around the area long after Escobar’s death. In conclusion, the hippo is an animal that is to be respected, just like any animal in nature. They will keep to themselves most of the time and are one of the most fascinating creatures on the planet.

Here are 5 good reasons to visit Isandlwana and Rorke's Drift: 1. Historical significance Isandlwana and Rorke's Drift are two iconic battlefields in the Anglo-Zulu War of 1879. Visiting these sites offers a chance to delve into the rich history of this conflict and its impact on both British and Zulu cultures. 2. Cultural experience: Exploring the battlefields allows you to learn about the bravery and strategies of the Zulu warriors and the determination of the British soldiers. It's an opportunity to gain insights into the traditions, customs, and stories of these two distinct cultures. 3. Architectural heritage: Rorke's Drift is famous for its small mission station and the legendary defense by a handful of British soldiers against a large Zulu force. Witnessing the remaining structures and artifacts provides a glimpse into the architectural heritage of the time. 4. Stunning landscapes: Both Isandlwana and Rorke's Drift are set in the picturesque landscapes of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. The rolling hills and lush scenery make for a visually captivating experience while reflecting on the historical events that took place. 5. Educational value: Our guided tours at these sites and surrounding key locations offer an educational experience, providing context and detailed information about the battles and the people involved. It's a chance to expand your knowledge about this critical period in British Military history, and African history. Visiting Isandlwana and Rorke's Drift offers a unique blend of historical exploration, cultural appreciation, and natural beauty, making it a worthwhile destination for history enthusiasts and travelers alike.

When we think of Africa's wild landscapes, a mental image of iconic lions, towering giraffes, and herds of elephants often comes to mind. However, beneath the surface of water bodies lies an equally awe-inspiring creature - the hippopotamus, and they possess a complex array of behaviours that make them a truly captivating species to observe. Social Structure and Group Dynamics Contrary to their lumbering appearance, hippos are social creatures that live in groups, known as pods, consisting of up to 30 individuals. These pods typically include females, their offspring, and a dominant male. The hierarchy within these groups is maintained through various forms of communication, including vocalizations, body language, and physical interactions. Dominant males use their impressive size and aggressive displays to establish their authority, often engaging in mock battles to deter potential challengers. Nocturnal Escapades Although hippos spend much of their daytime hours submerged, they are primarily nocturnal animals. As the sun sets, these massive creatures emerge from the water to embark on their nightly foraging expeditions. Hippos are herbivores, grazing on a variety of grasses and plants, sometimes covering up to six miles in a single night. Maternal Instincts and Protection While hippos are known for their size and strength, they also possess tender maternal instincts. Female hippos give birth to a single calf after a gestation period of about eight months. These calves are born in the water and are introduced to the surface for their first breath shortly after birth. The behavior of hippos is a captivating blend of social dynamics, territorial instincts, and adaptation to their watery habitat.

A lot of people these days are engaged in hiking, backpacking, kayaking, mountaineering, and many other outdoor activities available. We do it for adventure, camaraderie, challenge, our physical and mental health, for competition, fundraising, and just the desire to get out into nature. You may be able to manage a short hike or an overnight camping trip near where you live, but if you want to explore deeper, go into unfamiliar territory, for a lengthier period or run an international venture for a group, going it alone is not an option. Avoid Ego! Ego can often be detrimental in a leader for many reasons, and speaks to the persons 'self-importance' which creates: Poor decision making / Lack of empathy / Resistance to Feedback / Arrogance / Poor Team Dynamics / Ineffective Communication / Defensiveness / Inflexibility / Narcissism. While self-confidence and a healthy sense of self-worth can be beneficial for leaders, unchecked ego can be harmful and potentially very dangerous. Effective leadership often involves a balance between confidence and humility, with an absolute focus on the well-being and success of the team and individuals within the team. Knowledge & Skills Having qualifications from appropriate organisations that relate to your venture is vital. Another thing to look out for is local knowledge. Just because someone is a well-qualified leader does not mean they have good local knowledge. A venture leader with practical, technical and logistical knowledge in all aspects of the trip is a must. Should you be taking part in activities your trip leader is not qualified in, then he/she should put in place these qualified expertise for you. Planning and organizing the logistics of a trip are vital. A good trip leader should be able to create a well-structured itinerary, manage reservations, and ensure that all necessary arrangements are in place. Trip leaders should be adept at problem-solving. They may encou7km Inter issues with transportation, accommodations, health, or other unexpected challenges and should be able to handle them calmly and efficiently. Experience & Enthusiasm The more experience a venture leader has, the better. This will determine their decision-making ability for any given event during an trip or expedition. Not everything can be learned through books and often a decision is based on what they have experienced rather than what they have read is much preferred. Better to select a seasoned leader to guide you as they would know what is best for your venture. Being enthusiastic about the adventure is vital, and a passion for travel and a genuine interest in the destination can make the trip more enjoyable for the participants. A trip leader's enthusiasm can be infectious and inspire the group. High Standards What standards is your venture leader adhering to? If your venture leader is part of a small or large organisation, they should be adhering to specific standards that relate to the type of trip you are planning to undertake. If the leaders operations have not been subject to assessment by a professional organisation, then we would always suggest a reconnaissance trip to the location you plan to take the group to. This is always money very well spent. Medical Knowhow Incidents and accidents are not common, nevertheless you must have a leader who is a qualified first aider, expedition medic, or has first aiders or paramedics in place. The risks on an international venture are different and often higher than those of our daily lives. These include the weather, the terrain, travel, activities and wild animals. If an incident happens good first-aid treatment is essential. You should expect your venture leader to have further plans in place regarding an overland route to hospital and knowledge of medical centres and hospitals in the area. Caution, Communication, Teamwork A leader with a cautious attitude is someone who will be taking time to consider all the aspects of your venture and ensuring that the group is well prepared, engaging in appropriate and risk assessed activities. Taking a greater risk than normal is a part of activities and international ventures but these risks must be managed by your leader, and the leader must also be experienced enough to dynamically assess and manage new risks that occur during the venture itself. A trip leader often works with other staff members, guides, or local contacts. Being a team player and collaborating effectively with others is crucial. Effective communication is essential. A trip leader should be able to convey information clearly, provide instructions, answer questions, and handle any issues or emergencies. They should also be a good listener to understand the needs and preferences of the group. Patience Group members may have varying levels of experience and different needs. A good trip leader should be patient, compassionate, and understanding, especially when dealing with diverse groups. This goes a very long way to ensuring that everyone has the best possible experience, and never feels liken they are bring the group down, or holding things up. These trips are very often about participants personal development and leaders must always be mindful of that, whilst participants are 'appropriately challenged'. Fun What is the sense in taking part in an international venture if you are not going to have fun as well as achieving your set goals? Yes, each venture has it’s own purpose but whatever the ethos and purpose of your venture it is important to have a leader who can make it fun as well. When you consider your group will be spending many days or weeks with the leader, it’s best to avoid robotic, stern and cold leadership styles.

Focus When observing a herd of Impala on high alert, very rarely will you see any of them looking in the same direction, unless the predator is in the open. This is a classic 'safety in numbers' tactic. Wow! The Impala can leap 10 metres... For a small/medium size antelope at around 1.5 metres tall, that's a long way. They can also run at a top speed of up to 80km/h making them one of the fastest antelope in Africa. This speed is their main defence against predators. Zulu Name The name Impala comes from a Zulu word which means antelope. Herd Types Impala antelopes typically form three types of herds: nursery herds, bachelor herds, and territorial or mixed-sex herds. Nursery herds consist of females and their offspring, while bachelor herds consist of males. Territorial or mixed-sex herds include both males and females and are often organized around territories defended by dominant males. Males & Females Twice as many females than males are born every year. At the beginning of the wet season, around November, the females will all start to give birth – usually within a few days of each other. This gives the impala calves the best chance at survival, not only because there is plenty of food and water around, but also due to the sheer safety in numbers. (Tanda Tula blog) Horns Male impalas are recognized for their amazing ridged horns that can reach lengths of up to 36 inches. These horns are used in territorial displays and competitions for dominance during the mating season.

Staying hydrated while hiking or rafting on your trip to Africa is crucial due to the often intense heat and extra exertion. Here are some top tips: Drink plenty of water of course! Carry an adequate supply of water and drink regularly, even if you don't feel thirsty. Use electrolytes to replace salts: Consider electrolyte tablets, powder or drinks to replace salts lost through sweating. Hydration bladder or water bottles: Use a hydration bladder or multiple water bottles to ensure you have enough water for the duration of your hike. You must keep the tubes clean and free of bacteria. Schedule water breaks: Take short breaks to drink water regularly, especially during rest stops. Avoid sugary drinks and alcohol: Stick to water or electrolyte drinks to avoid dehydration. Start hydrated: Begin your hike well-hydrated by drinking water before you start. A up or tea or coffee in the morning isn't enough. Cover up:  Wear light, breathable clothing to reduce sweating and water loss. Monitor urine color: Check your urine color – clear or light yellow indicates proper hydration. Avoid peak heat: Plan your hike during cooler parts of the day to reduce water loss through sweating. Acclimatisation: If you're not used to the heat, acclimatise gradually to avoid dehydration and heat-related illnesses. Remember to listen to your body and adjust your hydration strategy accordingly.