Cultural & community

Rural Africans live in our remote areas and among wild animals - carrying the cost to lives and livelihoods. Africa's wild places are in better shape than most worldwide because of the positive impact of her rural people, and we have much to learn from them.

A brief and informative visit to a village bordering one of the African Parks protected areas will add immeasurably to your understanding of how special these protected areas are. Depending on which park you visit, community projects focus on wildlife-friendly farming activities such as bee-keeping, fish farming and indigenous tree nurseries. And there are conservation education centres. Some community centres offer entertaining dancing and singing. Depending on your timing, you could also witness a ritualistic ceremony or celebration - if community members permit your presence. These events are not staged or created as tourism experiences; authenticity is important.

The cultural visits and exchanges maintain the highest degree of responsibility and respect for local people. Your camp manager will arrange the visit on request, and your guide will accompany you. In many cases, your guide comes from a nearby village.