More and more people are choosing to travel responsibly, and this positive shift has given rise to sustainable tourism and conservation projects worldwide. One such pioneer is the Samara Karoo Reserve. Started in 1997 as a passion project by Mark and Sarah Tompkins, this conservation undertaking has successfully restored 67000 acres of land that once barely had a blade of glass. Today, the reserve boasts the reintroduction of many Indigenous species such as cheetah, elephant, black rhinoceros, lion, and herds of eland, hartebeest, and springbok that had gone locally extinct.
Discover The Magic of a Walking Safari
The reserve has recently launched the Exclusive Cheetah Trail, a three-night, four-day walking safari that promises travelers an intimate journey to explore the reserve’s most remote and untouched areas. Accompanied by expert guides, travelers get to explore the vast 27,000-hectare reserve on foot and have a chance to encounter the big five (Leopard, Giraffe, Rhino, Elephant, Buffalo, and Lion), various antelope species, and over 225 bird species along with the continent’s most endangered big cat, the Cheetah.
This walking safari is designed to enable travelers to go beyond mere observation and understand the intricate ecosystems, the importance of preserving them, and develop a deeper and more meaningful connection with the wildlife. The trail reveals insights into Karoo’s fascinating geology and distinct biomes. Guests also have the opportunity to learn how to interpret the landscape by spotting animal tracks and gaining knowledge on identifying indigenous flora and fauna. The trail includes stops at ancient cave paintings, offering a historical perspective on the region and connecting guests to the land’s cultural roots.
A Commitment to Sustainable Tourism and Conservation
Samara Karoo Reserve offers accommodations that blend well with nature. Guests get to stay at Plains Camp, the reserve’s new off-grid eco-camp from where the expedition begins and concludes. Situated about 53 kilometers from Graaff-Reinet and a 2.5-hour drive from Port Elizabeth, this eco-conscious camp provides four luxurious walk-in tents with en-suite bathrooms, a communal dining area, and a plunge pool. The camp’s sustainable design allows guests to enjoy luxury accommodations that are aligned with Samara’s conservation efforts.
Samara Karoo Reserve’s focus on sustainable tourism is evident in its approach to the Exclusive Cheetah Trail. By keeping group sizes small and promoting low-impact activities like walking safaris, the reserve minimizes its ecological footprint. This adventure not only offers an extraordinary experience but also contributes to essential conservation efforts, particularly in protecting South Africa’s endangered cheetah population.
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