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American Press
03-07-2025
- Business
- American Press
George E. Williams
It is with profound sadness we announce the death of George E. Williams. His family knew him as 'Bud,' professionally he was known as Junior Williams. Born in Hodge, La. on May 22, 1930, he was the beloved son of Ruben Daniel Williams and Ophelia Ferguson Williams. His family moved to Lake Charles in 1944, where he graduated from LaGrange High School in 1947. He went to work for Augenstein Construction Co., Inc. as a timekeeper and was the youngest employee at the time, thus he was named Junior. He later purchased the company, employing hundreds of construction workers over the years. Junior was also part owner of Sulphur Electric Co., Inc. and Buyer's Enterprises, Inc. In 1981, Junior founded West-Cal Construction Co., Inc. and diligently managed it until he began retirement in 1986. Bud enjoyed hunting and fishing, especially during his many trips to the Coastal Club with his friend, Bill King. His trophy room included many prized mounts from his adventures in the marshes of Southwest Louisiana and an African Safari. While Junior was a well-respected business owner in the community, his greatest accomplishment was his family. He conducted business and life with the utmost integrity, always placing his family first. Junior was appointed to the Board of the Lake Charles Port Commission, wherein he served as Treasurer for six years. He was a member of the Lake Charles chapter of Rotary International. Additionally, he was a member of the Lake Charles Country Club, The City Club of Lake Charles, and The Pioneer Club. George is survived by his wife of nearly 75 years, Ramona A. Williams; his sons, Ron Williams and wife, Kim, Dr. Ray Williams, and wife, Monica; his daughters, Susie Williams and husband, Bob Waggener, and Phyllis Foster and husband, Dr. Bill Foster. Affectionately known as 'PePaw,' he leaves a proud legacy for his grandchildren, Chris McGee and wife, Jessica, Joel D. McGee, Bryan Williams and wife, Anna, Kyle Williams and wife, Liz, Lindsey Perry and husband, Brooks, William Foster and wife, Ann, Angie Kinsel and husband, Scott, Amber Williams, Ricky Williams, Brittnei Boutte and husband, Marcus, Brooke Mouton, Josh Mouton and Emily Mouton, along with 19 great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Ruben Daniel Williams and Ophelia Ferguson Williams, and his brothers, Gilbert Williams and Carl Williams. Bud's funeral service will be held at 2 p.m. on Sunday, July 6, 2025 in the Johnson Funeral Home of Lake Charles Chapel, with the Rev. Don Barrett presiding. Burial will follow in Consolata Cemetery under the direction of Johnson Funeral Home. Visitation will be from 4 p.m. until 7 p.m. on Saturday evening, resuming on Sunday from 12 p.m. until the start of the service at 2 p.m. Pallbearers are Dr. Ray Williams, Chris McGee, Joel McGee, Bryan Williams, Kyle Williams, and William Foster. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to Samaritan's Purse, P.O. Box 3000, Boone, NC 28607. try/donate-online Words of comfort to the family may be expressed at
Time of India
02-07-2025
- Business
- Time of India
Gorewada Zoo to launch African Safari with 22 species in 18 months
Nagpur: A thrilling new chapter awaits wildlife enthusiasts as the Balasaheb Thackeray Gorewada International Zoological Park prepares to unveil its African Safari in the next 18 months. On Tuesday, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between FDCM Gorewada Zoo Limited and the National Buildings Construction Corporation (NBCC-India) in the presence of chief minister Devendra Fadnavis and forest minister Ganesh Naik in Mumbai. This landmark agreement paves the way for a transformative addition to Nagpur's tourism landscape. This ambitious project, part of the zoo's Phase-II expansion, follows the successful inauguration of the Indian Safari on January 26, 2021. Under the Phase-II safari, African fauna such as giraffe, zebra, gemsbok, blue wildebeest, lion, cheetah, white rhinoceros, and hippopotamus, among 22 animals, will be exhibited in different enclosers. The MoU signing ceremony, held at the Vidhan Bhavan's committee hall in Mumbai, saw NBCC's chairman and managing director KPM Swami, executive director Pravin Doiphode, FDCM Gorewada Zoo Limited's CEO Chandrasekaran Bala, and Maharashtra Forest Development Corporation's managing director Naresh Zhurmure formalise the agreement. Additional chief secretary of the forest department, Milind Mhaiskar, and CM's additional chief secretary, Vikas Kharge, were also present. The project, with a total sanctioned budget of Rs517.76 crore via a govt resolution dated October 14, 2024, and approved on May 19, 2025, will develop a 63-hectare African Safari, a Safari Plaza, and an enhanced entrance gate, with completion targeted within 18 months from the MoU's signing. The African Safari will be developed within the zoo, featuring around 22 African species. The African species to be featured include free-ranging herbivores and moated carnivore exhibits, set in an open savannah habitat. Additionally, an African Kopje Walk will offer visitors a unique, walk-through experience with themed enclosures, showcasing the rich biodiversity of African ecosystems. Out of the total project cost, approximately Rs285 crore has been earmarked for the safari, hospital, quarantine facility, and safari plaza. The remaining amount has been approved for other works. Once completed, the African Safari will establish Nagpur as a significant tourism hub, promoting environmental awareness and biodiversity conservation. Project Highlights - Phase-2 Initiative: Builds on the Indian Safari's success with an African-themed expansion - Investment: Rs517.76 crore allocated for the safari, plaza, entrance gate, and other works - Initially, Rs285 crore to be spent on the safari, entrance plaza, quarantine facility and hospital - African Safari to be developed on 63 hectares - Completion expected within 18 months - To promote biodiversity and environmental education - Construction will be carried out by NBCC, a national-level organisation Featured Animals - Free-Ranging Herbivores: Ostrich, Hippopotamus, Impala, Gemsbok, Common Eland, Blue Wildebeest, Giraffe, Burchell's Zebra, Kudu - Moated Island Exhibits: Spotted Hyena, White Rhinoceros, Patas Monkey, Red River Hog, African Lion, Chimpanzee, Hamadryas Baboon, Cheetah - Kopje Walk Species: Ring-Tailed Lemur, Vervet Monkey, Meerkat, Klipspringer, Naked Mole Rat, Serval, African Wild Dog, Barbary Sheep, Southern Ground Hornbill, Banded Mongoose, Rock Hyrax Get the latest lifestyle updates on Times of India, along with Doctor's Day 2025 , messages and quotes!
Indian Express
01-07-2025
- Business
- Indian Express
‘African Safari' to open soon at Nagpur's Gorewada Zoo
A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between Maharashtra Forest Development Corporation (FDCM), Gorewada Zoo Limited, Nagpur, and the National Building Construction Corporation NBCC – India for the development of an African Safari at the Balasaheb Thackeray Gorewada International Zoological Park, formerly known as Gorewada Zoo in Nagpur. The MoU was signed in presence of Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Forest Minister Ganesh Naik on Tuesday in Mumbai. A formal signing ceremony was held in the Committee Hall of Vidhan Bhavan. K.P.M. Swamy, Chairman and Managing Director of NBCC, along with Pravin Doiphode, Executive Director, Naresh Zhurmure, Managing Director of the Maharashtra Forest Development Corporation, and Chandrasekaran Bala, CEO of FDCM Gorewada Zoo Limited, were present. Under this project, the African Safari will be developed on approximately 63 hectares of land within the Gorewada Zoo and will include around 22 African species. This project, estimated to cost around Rs 285 crore, aims to be completed within 18 months. Once the African Safari is completed, Nagpur's zoo is expected to become a significant tourism hub, promoting environmental awareness and biodiversity conservation. The African Safari at Gorewada will feature a diverse range of animals, offering visitors a chance to observe both island-dwelling and free-roaming species. On the Mottled Island Exhibit, visitors can see Spotted hyenas, White rhinoceroses, Patas monkeys, Red River hogs, African lions, chimpanzees, Hamadryas baboons, and cheetahs. In the open safari areas, animals such as ostriches, hippopotamuses, impalas, gemsboks, Common elands, Blue wildebeests, giraffes, Burchell's zebras, and kudus will roam freely, providing an immersive wildlife experience. Balasaheb Thackeray Gorewada International Zoological Park, known earlier as the Gorewada Zoo, is envisioned to be the largest zoological park in India with international components.
Hans India
01-07-2025
- Business
- Hans India
Maha govt signs MoU for hydropower project and safari plaza, to generate 300 jobs
Mumbai: The Maharashtra government, on Tuesday, signed two MoUs, one in the energy sector and another in forest sector, in the presence of Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis. The state Water Resources Department signed an MoU with Shree Tatysaheb Kore Warana Cooperative Navshakti Nirman Sanstha in Warananagar for the 240 MW Tillari Pumped Storage hydropower (PSH) Project. This entails an investment of Rs 1,000 crore and generate 300 jobs. The Chief Minister's Office in a post on its official X account said, "Powering Progress. Fueling a Green Future. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis presided over the MoU signing an exchange between the Maharashtra government's Water Resources Department and Shree Tatysaheb Kore Warana Cooperative Navshakti Nirman Sanstha in Warananagar for the 240 MW Tillari Pumped Storage Project. As the 16th MoU under Maharashtra's renewable push, this partnership further accelerates the state's journey toward a greener and energy-secure future. Minister Radhakrishna Vikhe Patil, MLA Vinay Kore and other senior officials were present." According to the state Water Resources Department, the PSH project ensures stable support during peak loads providing an uninterrupted power supply and it allows for the integration of variable renewable energy sources without grid disruptions. Such projects also have a lower carbon footprint when compared to fossil fuel-based plants, the department said. Meanwhile, the MoU was also signed between Forest Development Corporation of Maharashtra (FDCM) Gorewada Zoo Limited, Nagpur and National Buildings Construction Corporation (NBCC) for the development of the African Safari, Safari Plaza, and associated works under Phase-2 of the Balasaheb Thackeray Gorewada International Zoological Park in Nagpur. The Chief Minister's Office in a post said, "CM Devendra Fadnavis presided over the MoU signing and exchange between the FDCM Gorewada Zoo Limited, Nagpur and NBCC for the development of the African Safari, Safari Plaza, and associated works under Phase-2 of the Balasaheb Thackeray Gorewada International Zoological Park in Nagpur. State Forest Minister Ganesh Naik and other senior officials were present." According to the Forest department sources, FDCM Gorewada Zoo (FGZ), located in Nagpur, is a pivotal wildlife conservation and education centre. Under its umbrella, the facility includes the Balasaheb Thackeray Gorewada International Zoological Park, a rescue centre, and the Wildlife Research and Training Centre. FGZ is dedicated to promoting biodiversity, providing recreational opportunities, and enhancing public awareness of environmental issues. It also features a conservation breeding programme for endangered species. FDCM Gorewada Zoo plays a vital role in fostering a culture of conservation and advancing wildlife preservation in the region.
Forbes
06-05-2025
- Forbes
7 Best African Safaris for Unforgettable Wildlife Trips
Giraffes and Mount Kilimanjaro in Amboseli National Park getty An African safari is a bucket-list experience that will create lasting memories for a lifetime. But, not all safaris are the same. Most are in East or Southern Africa, but where and when you go can affect the type of trip you plan. Most importantly, if you try and coordinate a trip yourself, it can mean you may not get to see what you were hoping to experience. And the cost can vary based on destination, type of accommodation and the company you choose. According to Go2Africa's latest State of Safari report for 2024, there are some surprising trends that demonstrate how the continent's fortunes are improving when it comes to overseas interest. More families are taking multi-generational trips and booking farther in advance and spending more to create the most memorable journey. Dennis Pinto (far right) with his family on safari Micato Safaris This sentiment is something echoed by luxury safari provider Micato Safaris. Owner Dennis Pinto says that customers often mention the 'peace of mind' of their trip being the most valuable benefit for multi-generational travelers. His itineraries include everything from tips to internal bush flights and accommodations. 'Seamless stress-free travel is a valued luxury,' says Pinto. Having a dedicated safari director to assure every detail is perfectly executed allows families to spend their time to truly reconnect rather than worry about logistics.' And in a trend that has continued after the pandemic, those looking to truly splurge are buying out exclusive-use safari villas and camps, like Ol Jogi, Segera Retreat, Arijiju, and Cheetah Plains, all of which offer families total privacy and extraordinary access to wildlife at their leisure. A private plunge pool at Arijiju in Kenya Arijiju Recent data from shows that interest in African destinations is trending heavily among U.S. travelers. Searches for Kenya are up 40% year over year; Cape Town is up 70%; and Johannesburg is up a whopping 90% compared to this time last year. Namibia, Rwanda, Tanzania and Zambia have also shown major spikes, according to in the past year. Another trend is the increase in multi-destination trips, where travelers seek to combine parks and lodges into one longer visit. Pinto says multi-country safaris are up 21% in the past year, and Rwanda, popular for gorilla trekking, has grown by 18%. Micato sells a popular 17-day safari that visits four countries Lone African elephant walking through the savanna grassland in the Masai Mara National Reserve Kenya. getty Traditionally, July is the busiest travel time for safaris, but the report found that the high season is extending to include June, September and October, too. And the most interest from travelers tends to be to Kenya, Tanzania and South Africa. But, there are other meaningful safari experiences to enjoy. A common myth is that these summer months are better for animal viewing, but instead, they are considered the high season because they coincide with the northern hemisphere's school holidays, notes Pinto. He suggests that seasoned travelers would actually do better in the 'quieter season,' when rates are lower, but animal viewing is still strong. Zebra at sunset in the Serengeti National Park. getty 'The savannahs are lush and full of life, temperatures are mild, and the skies at sunrise and sunset are breathtakingly vivid,' says Pinto. 'It's also a remarkable time for wildlife: wildebeest, zebra, and antelope are calving, and predators—lion, leopard, and cheetah—are particularly active. Elephants and rhinos are plentiful, and many of our guests are surprised by the sheer variety of birdlife, with everything from dazzling migratory species to iconic African raptors on display.' Experts like Victoria Boomgarden of Elan Travel caution that with an increase in less experienced providers entering the safari space (as well as anyone that tries to book such a complicated trip on their own), it is possible to travel a long distance and be met with a trip that is not up to your expectations or interests. This is why an expert is key, says Boomgarden, who often recommends Micato to clients. Watching elephants in the savannah of Tarangire National Park in Tanzania getty 'Traveling in Africa can be daunting for the uninitiated, where language, customs and cultural norms are distinct from our own,' says Boomgarden, who says this is why an expert planner is key. 'And some forego Africa for these reasons.' According to Micato's Pinto, East Africa is ideal for first time safari-goers. This region 'often reflects the safari of their imaginations and what they envision from popular culture, especially the literary and cinematic versions of 'Out of Africa.'' Herd of elephants crossing the bush getty There are some important considerations to keep in mind that can help decide where you want to go. Pinto points out, for example, that walking safaris are a memorable experience that give an entirely new perspective on the destination, but they're only permitted in private conservancies or concessions, not in national parks. This is the type of detail that is easy to overlook without engaging an expert. No matter where travelers choose to go, these are some of the can't miss African safari destinations worth considering. Serengeti National Park (Tanzania) Wildebeest crossing the Mara River during the Great Migration in Tanzania. getty This is the quintessential starting-point safaris for the wide range of accommodation options, safari providers and ease of flights to reach them. It is in these two regions where you will experience a wide range of animals as well as some of the most spectacular Great Migration crossings of wildebeest moving between the Serengeti and the Masai Mara. Three hot air balloons drift over the plains of The Serengeti National Park at dawn. getty You can find everything from budget trips with shared safari vehicles where travelers stand and peer through a roof window to spot animals to luxury jeeps, like those that Micato Safaris uses that come stocked with supplies and never have more than 4-6 passengers per vehicle (all with 'window' views and part of the same group, never strangers). Masai Mara National Reserve (Kenya) Kenya Airways Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner airplane at New York JFK airport getty From the U.S., Kenya Airways has nonstop flights from New York JFK to Nairobi, and all three major alliances can connect travelers from major U.S. airports to East Africa via a European or Middle Eastern hub in one stop. Miles and points collectors will find these two destinations easier than some smaller countries when it comes to redeeming for a free flight. Marriott Bonvoy members also have two safari camps where they can earn and redeem points: JW Marriott Masai Mara and the JW Marriott Serengeti Lodge, set to open in 2026. A luxury tented accommodation at Mara Plains Camp. Great Plains Great Plains has several of its luxury Relais & Chateaux-rated lodges in the reserve, too. This includes Mara Plains Camp, which offers access to 40,000 hectares of private conservancy land on top of the Masai Mara Reserve. Opened in 2024, the 100% solar-powered Mara Toto Tree Camp has four perfectly positioned tree canopy tented suites. Families might also be interested in the youth programs available at many safari lodges. For example, Great Plains offers a young explorer's program in Kenya, Botswana and Zimbabwe that pairs families with special guides and gives kids explorer packs with activity books with stickers and hints to help spot animal tracks. Some lodges even offer pizza making and cookie baking classes. Chobe National Park (Botswana) Tourists watching an elephant crossing a river in the Chobe National Park in Botswana. getty This is the go-to spot for watching elephant herds, often congregating near the Chobe River, especially during the dry season between May and October. It is home to the largest elephant population in the world. Water levels can be low, which makes it easier to spot other animals, too, like crocodiles, hippos and buffalo. While Botswana is hugely popular with safaris, it is common within many private reserves to rarely see another game drive vehicle. Zarafa Camp, part of Great Plains, is one of those accommodations where the game drives cover terrain between Chope National Park and the Okavango Delta. Guests in the four tented suites can even travel on the property's own pontoon to discover the floating islands in front of the camp. Zarafa Camp in Botswana, part of Great Plains' portfolio. Great Plains Micato safari director Steven Lake recommends some destinations over others for those that want a more relaxing drive through the bush. Botswana, for example has bumpier roads and is less ideal for families than Kruger National Park. He suggests that Botswana is a more active destination for travelers, especially when compared to the traditional East African trip. Kasane's airport in northeast Botswana (at the confluence of four countries: Namibia, Botswana, Zambia and Zimbabwe) is the gateway to this park. Kruger National Park (South Africa) Tourists on an open safari vehicle viewing lions in Kruger National Park getty This park in northwestern South Africa is one of the most visited parks for a safari because of it is easy to access from Johannesburg and has numerous accommodation options and price points. It is also a hit with families or older travelers because the driving through the park is less bumpy. A common criticism, however, is that some parts of the park are close to suburban areas, and it is possible to see things like fences or even power lines in the district. This is not ideal for those hoping to take that perfect Instagram shot. Leopard male sitting on a termite hill in Sabi Sands Game Reserve in the Greater Kruger Region in South Africa getty The private reserve of Sabi Sands is a particular favorite of Boomgarden who says that Singita Boulders has spectacular cottage suites, ideal for families. She also suggests Singita Lebombo Lodge saying that it is 'fabulous for honeymooners as it is the only private concession in a remote and tranquil corner of the park and amazing game viewing.' The Kruger National Park is also very popular for family safaris, as there are numerous game lodges that cater to younger kids without long journey times to reach it once in the country. Nonstop flights to Johannesburg and Cape Town are available on Delta and United from the U.S. Protea Hotels, one of Marriott Bonvoy's brands, has a hotel just outside the park's gates that offers wallet-friendly rates, even when paying with points. Okavango Delta (Botswana) Aerial view of an elephant crossing the water in the Okavango Delta. getty For those that have done a traditional safari, the delta offers a unique experience that focuses on being on the water. The marshy surroundings of where the Okavango River seasonally floods the plains to create a lush landscape is unlike what you will experience elsewhere. Popular experiences involve traveling by speed boat or using traditional dugout canoes, known as mokoros, to paddle through the wetlands and spot everything from elephants and crocodiles to birds and hippos. The best time to visit is in late summer and early fall when the flood waters rise. Aerial view of a group of African elephants in the Okavango Delta getty This is best for those that have had other safari experiences because it does not involve the game drives that have become synonymous with most safaris. There is also the Moremi Game Reserve in the same area where antelope and lions are easy to spot during the high season. These still use the traditional game drive vehicle, but the size and quality varies based on the safari operator. Great Plains' private reserve includes some incredible luxury camps like Sitatunga Private Island, which has only a handful of thatched villas and a two-bedroom suite. The design of this property blends modern style with African chic and will appeal to younger, design-conscious travelers. A staff person waves from Sitatunga Private Island's private dock. Great Plains Another perk is that this property, like many others within the Great Plains portfolio, is a Relais & Chateaux approved destination, where the culinary training is rigorous. Guests will find it comparable to a Parisian restaurant, but with the impressive service of locals who may have never had a glass of wine, dined on western cuisine or even laid a formal table before. This level of detail is a favorite of foodie travelers who seek out Great Plains camps and lodges for this reason. Guests of any Great Plains property can participate in its conservation efforts, which span environmental and humane projects. One that families may find most interesting is how they help support and fund anti-poaching programs and rescue endangered rhinos from vulnerable areas to relocate them to safer ground. Getting to the delta is harder with the closest airport being Maun, Botswana. It is possible to drive the five hours from the airport or take a bush flight and helicopter or travel by boat. The journey is interesting nonetheless as the area is home to more than 500 bird species alone. Victoria Falls (Zimbabwe and Zambia) Victoria Falls at sunrise getty The world's largest continuous sheet of water plummets from the heights of the Zambezi River into the curving canyons below. This is one of the most dramatic sights in Africa and known as Mosi-oa-Tunya, which means "the smoke that thunders" in the local Lozi language. The pool at the beautiful Royal Livingstone Hotel on the Zambian side. getty The river and falls divide Zimbabwe and Zambia with a bridge between them. The Zimbabwean side requires a visa on arrival fee for American travelers, but is also home to the larger swatch of the falls. The Zambian side is visa-free for Americans and features several up-close sections of the falls. One of the most famous places to stay is The Royal Livingstone, part of the Anantara group and Minor family of hospitality brands, which gives guests private access to the falls before the park officially opens and after it closes. Giraffe and baboons roam the grounds of this luxury hotel that also features a riverfront spa and swimming pool. Many travelers find this to be an ideal way to break up a safari experience with a few days of rest and relaxation. A tented accommodation at Mpala Jema in Zimbabwe Great Plains On the Zimbabwean side, the recently overhauled Mpala Jena camp (and opening in August, Mpala Jena Private Villas) is a short boat ride upstream away from the falls. It offers both land-based and boat-led safaris to spot different types of wildlife. Livingstone, Zambia and Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe each has their own airport, and they are connected to many major African cities as well as Nelspruit in Kruger National Park. This adds convenience that those that want to visit multiple parks. Hwange National Park (Zimbabwe) Dazzle of zebras drinking with a good water reflection in Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe getty If you want to see elephants, this is the place to come, especially during the northern summer and early fall months. Walking safaris are also available here as well as within Mana Pools National Park, where expert guides lead you safely through the bush for a completely different perspective than going by vehicle. This park is not visited by as many tourists as other parks, which makes it better for those that want to secure excellent photos of animals without other vehicles in shot. The best gifts to bring home is photography, and many local brands help guests to improve their own skills. For example, Great Plains Conservation provides high-tech cameras in each accommodation of their luxury lodges that they can take out and use each day. Micato Safaris even hosts an annual contest that awards exciting prizes to customers that submit their safari photos. Etosha National Park (Namibia) Wild animals congregate around a waterhole in Etosha National Park getty The salt pan that stretches across the park and is famous for its water holes that attract animals is stunning. All of the traditional animals are here, too, like elephants, lions and rhinos. For those that have traveled on safari before, many appreciate the fact that you can self-drive through the park, which is not allowed in other destinations. The best time to visit is between May and October for the most active wildlife. Not far from here are the sand dunes at Sossusvlei within the Namib-Naukluft National Park. Here, you will experience a different type of animal sighting, including oryx, springbok, desert elephants and a variety of bird life. Helping Those In Need Along TheWay Children in Micato's AmericaShare program Micato Safaris Another key trend that safari brands like Micato say is becoming more important is supporting those in need. Micato, which sells both set or personalized itineraries, has its own nonprofit, AmericaShare, which supports women and children in need as well as improving their environment. For every safari it sells, they send a child all the way through school. Pinto says that many customers traveling to less fortunate parts of the world have a deep desire to give back. And some clients even go a step further by joining the school sponsorship program to fund a student's education through high school and, in some cases, all the way through university. Great Plains is a key supporter of protecting endangered rhino in southern Africa and preventing criminal poaching. getty Dereck Joubert, CEO of Great Plains, is particularly proud of his organization's anti-poaching efforts that have helped reduce crime and help slow the number of endangered species in the area. He says that he is particularly proud of his female rangers that are leading the charge to protect wildlife in places like Botswana and Zimbabwe. Choosing Where To Go The top safari across Africa will depend on what wildlife you hope to see, when you can go and your budget. This not the kind of trip to plan yourself without the expertise of a travel advisor or safari expert if you want to maximize your time and comfort. Three lioness resting together on a mound in the Masai Mara. getty And it is important to know that the 'big five' sightings (lions, leopards, rhinos, elephants and African buffalo) are never a guarantee. The same goes for the Great Migration, which typically refers to the wildebeest moving in large herds between the Serengeti and Masai Mara. There are plenty of other animals to explore, and animals are constantly migrating based on the season and weather. Boomgarden says, 'whether visiting a Masai village or tracking elusive wildlife seen nowhere else in the world, Africa constantly presents itself as an exotic and wondrous destination. You and your family will remember it forever.' Micato Safaris organizes a lot of multi-generational trips, a growing trend in adventure travel Micato Safaris When asked what is something not to miss when on safari, Pinto says that it is staying in a luxury safari tented camp, something his curated trips offer at least once along the way. After all, he adds, 'glamping wasn't just perfected in Africa, it was invented here.'
