Wild Expeditions is introducing an immersive learning program that will offer travelers a chance to join a comprehensive guide-training program led by professional guide and trainer Benson Siyawareva.
The experience will provide participants with a better understanding of not only the wildlife but also the complex realities of human-wildlife conflict in local rural villages. Participants will receive intensive training on wildlife tracking, including approaches on foot and with vehicles as well as comprehensive modules on trees, birds, stars, ecology and evolution. Travelers will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in rural Zimbabwean village life, gaining firsthand knowledge of the challenges faced by communities coexisting with wildlife.
“Wild Expeditions is dedicated to offering travelers the rare opportunity to delve deeper and go behind the scenes at a Zimbabwean guide-training institution,” said Chris Roche, director of Wild Expeditions. “Participants will receive firsthand training on navigating the wild, but more importantly, they will develop a profound understanding of the challenges faced by local communities. It’s one thing to discuss human-wildlife conflict, but it’s an entirely different experience to hear the roar of a lion near your hut, knowing that your crops or cattle may be at risk.”
Led by expert guides and trackers, travelers will be able track and observe large mammals on foot, coming face to face with the untamed beasts. They’ll also discover the intricacies of tree identification; delve into the world of insects, learn the art of skull identification and help unravel the mysteries hidden within the bones of Africa’s iconic creatures. And finally, they’ll be able to engage with the local community and sleep out in the maize fields.
Limited to just six guests per trip, the six-night program includes five nights at Camp Hwange and one night at Victoria Falls. There are currently just two departure dates for this program: Dec. 1 to 7 and Feb. 9 to 15. The experience is ideal for a family or small groups, but single travelers are also welcome (and the single supplement will be waived).