PEOPLE POWER IN AFRICA
On this safari you will stay at three camps in Zambia’s South Luangwa National Park centred around Tafika Camp run by on-site owners who have spent their lives in the bush. Activities focus on walking safaris in areas devoid of roads as well as game drives, mountain biking and community visits. In the company of an expert guide, you may find yourself sidling past a sleeping elephant, waiting by a hyena den, circumnavigating a vast buffalo herd, or surprising a leopard on its kill.
Expert Africa (020 3405 6666; expertafrica.com) offers seven-night stays from £4,200, including full-board accommodation and all activities but not flights. Safaris are available from May to October during Zambia’s dry season
MEET THE ANTIPOACHING DOGS Kenya
Ol Pejeta’s canine unit was one of the first private anti-poaching dog units in Kenya. Clients learn about the work of the unit and everything it takes to look after the specially-trained canine team. As well as a tour of the kennels, visitors have the opportunity to test the animals’ skills by trying to evade the sniffer dogs. As well as being fun for guests, the exercise is a genuine training opportunity for the dogs as they practise tracking a new scent. The experience is part of an itinerary that includes stays at the Ol Pejeta Conservancy, the Masai Mara and the island of Zanzibar.
Audley Travel (01993 460591; audleytravel.com) offers a 15-day itinerary from £5,960, including accommodation, most meals and flights
BECOME ‘BUSH BUDDIES’ Africa
Wilderness Safaris’ bush buddies service is now available at its familyfriendly camps in Botswana, Zambia and Zimbabwe. This complimentary service pairs children with a highlytrained mentor by tailoring each experience to suit the children’s ages and individual interests. Daytime activities include nature walks, tracking lessons, and bird and animal-call identification while coming close to wildlife wandering near the camp. The bush buddies programme is designed for children aged 6-12.
Wilderness Safaris (enquiry@ wilderness.co.za; wilderness-safaris. com) can tailor-make a seven-night family safari – staying at two camps in Zimbabwe – from £4,650, including full-board accommodation but not flights