Did you know over 30 million people travel to Africa each year – around 10% of global tourism? It’s a powerful reminder of how travel fuels economic growth and job creation, a truth made even clearer during the pandemic when the industry came to a standstill.
On November 25th, 2020, we launched World Safari Day to shine a light on why safaris matter – not just for travelers, but for the future of conservation. A safari can spark a deep love for nature, but it also plays a real role in protecting Africa’s natural heritage and supporting the communities who live alongside it. When done right, safari travel brings jobs, opportunities, and pride to local areas – ensuring Africa remains wild for generations to come.
Can Booking a Safari Contribute to Conservation?
Absolutely! And here’s how.
When you book a safari with African Bush Camps, you’re doing more than planning a dream trip. You’re helping to fuel an entire ecosystem of positive impact. According to the African Development Bank, over 20 million people in Africa work in tourism. That includes guides, trackers, chefs, camp staff, artisans, drivers, and countless others whose livelihoods depend on a thriving travel industry.
Tourism also encourages governments to protect and preserve key wildlife areas, often leading to better infrastructure, increased anti-poaching efforts, and long-term conservation planning. On a community level, safaris can foster pride in local culture and traditions, creating opportunities for cultural exchange and economic upliftment.
And then there’s the awareness factor: seeing Africa up close has a way of shifting perspectives. Travelers often leave with a deeper respect for nature – and a desire to protect it. Therefore, it is important to us that safari operators take an active role in supporting sustainable travel and maintaining the places where they operate.
How You Can Celebrate World Safari Day
There are countless ways to celebrate World Safari Day, whether you’re planning your next safari adventure or honoring the day from the comfort of home. Here are a few ideas to make a meaningful impact:
Support a Conservation Project That Matters to You
Many conservation efforts rely on the generosity of people who care. You can make a difference by donating your time, resources, or funds to a project that aligns with your values. Whether it’s wildlife protection, habitat restoration, or community education, your contribution will directly support the conservation of Africa.
For World Safari Day in 2024, we partnered with African Jacquard who donated 20% of their revenue from their Safari Collection to African Bush Camps Foundation.
Raise Awareness
Spreading the word is one of the simplest yet most powerful ways to support conservation. Public awareness is crucial in the fight to protect wildlife, and social media can help amplify your message. Share facts about conservation, tell the story of a species in need, or even spread the word about World Safari Day itself. Your posts could inspire others to get involved – and when the message spreads, change follows.
Make Small Changes for a Big Impact
Conservation starts with mindful choices in your everyday life. From reducing plastic waste to cutting down on your carbon footprint, small lifestyle adjustments can make a real difference. Recycle more, consume less, and choose eco-friendly products whenever possible. Even in the digital age, our personal habits can have a lasting effect on the environment. Make this World Safari Day the start of lasting, positive changes.
“World Safari Day supports responsible safari travel and encourages enthusiastic explorers to choose to travel to Africa,” says Beks Ndlovu. “It’s another reason for us to remind ourselves and our fellow safari operators to continue doing what we do best, give back to communities, and add value to conservation initiatives and the causes that help to make a positive difference in the lives of those impacted by the industry.”