Back in the day when I first started traveling to Africa, I did a lot of volunteer work with reputable organizations like Wildlife Act, Africa Impact, GVI, GoEco, and ME to WE. These experiences provided me with a unique and enriching perspective on the challenges and successes of conservation efforts on the African continent.

Myself and teams would jump in a vehicle and spend days in the African bush where we would track newly translocated animals such as cheetah, wild dogs, lions and elephants by using telemetry devices to record their behaviors, research, and upload data. I also spent time with several anti-poaching units where I learned how they live on a daily basis, and the many challenges they face as they protect Africa's wildlife and communities. These experiences really left a lasting impact on me and shaped my connection to wildlife conservation.

Throughout the years I've continued to build relationships with a variety of wildlife organizations, and I like to contribute to their conservation efforts by combining conservation opportunities into safari trips.

Headed to Africa is all about bringing together like-minded adventurers to travel with me on customized safaris that dive into wildlife conservation. These safaris are curated by expert specialist guides and conservationists.

Why I choose Private Guides:

An experienced and knowledgeable guide can make or break your safari experience. They need to know what you would like to get out of the trip. Often they're able to think ahead and predict where the animal may go next and will get you in the best position for filming and photography. They also have an in-depth knowledge about wildlife, culture-history within the area, and can keep you safe. Together you can customize your daily safari itinerary to suit your needs and interests.

The Benefit of Adding Conservation Elements with Safari:

I'd like everyone to experience what it's like adding in some conservation elements to their safari, because when you participate in something like a (responsible) rhino notching or dehorning, an elephant or lion collaring, and meet with the conservation-ground teams and local communities, you'll get a much better understanding of the wildlife and ecosystems that you're photographing, as well as the great conservation work that is being done. On these trips, a portion of each person's safari costs goes directly to the organizations visited, which means, each person has contributed and left a lasting impact on the preservation of wildlife.

Why not join me in Africa next year? I'm always looking for good travel companions!

“There is something about safari life that makes you forget all your sorrows and feel as if you had drunk half a bottle of champagne — bubbling over with heartfelt gratitude for being alive!” Karen Blixon

Spotlight on Conservation Nonprofit: Mara Elephant Project

Tips and Facts About the African Bush:

• My favorite bush shoes Velskoens; very practical. You can get away with just two pairs of shoes, (less weight for your small duffle bag)!

• Lions are nocturnal animals and need plenty of rest to help them hunt and get through their days. A few great places I've seen lots of lions: Tanzania; the Serengeti and Selous. Kenya; The Masai Mara. South Africa; Kruger National Park. Botswana: The Okavango Delta.

• Some African animals have already gone extinct. Here are two: The Cape-lion in South Africa was hunted to extinction by Dutch and English settlers. The last cape lion was killed in 1858. The bluebuck was also hunted to extinction by settlers by the beginning of the 18th century.

Stay adventurous and jump in a safari vehicle with me!

Lisa

lisa@headedtoafrica.com