PETA member Alicemarie O’Neill hadn’t done anything like this in her 70 years. But when she perused PETA’s year-end fundraising auction and spotted the Botswana wildlife safari that had been generously donated by Vegan Safari Africa, she suddenly found herself hitting “Bid.” One surprising win and a few short months later, she was heading out on what would be “the trip of a lifetime.”
If Vegan Safari Africa sounds familiar, it might be because it was one of five tour companies to win one of PETA’s first Animal-Friendly African Safaris Awards. PETA established the recognition to make it easy for conscientious travelers to find safari operators who are verified to have no association with trophy hunting; who offer wildlife viewing in protected reserves and national parks; and who maintain a respectful distance from wild animals, guiding small groups at specific times of the day to minimize stress. The winners offer lodging that is free from animal skins and “trophies” as well as cruelty-free toiletries and linens and unbelievable vegan meals.
Of course, as Alicemarie discovered, everything was unbelievable: the picturesque scenery, the safe, comfortable animals who returned her curiosity, and the feeling of interconnectedness with other species.
Whether you’re considering your own African wildlife adventure or just like seeing stunning images of majestic animals thriving in their natural environment, we hope you’ll enjoy these excerpts and photos from “the most unlikely Safari-er” and her Vegan Safari Africa travel blog.
“We took a thrilling helicopter ride into the bush. Our camp for the next two nights is on the lake across from a whole herd of hippopotamuses. They laze in the sun by day, gab and swim by night. They have a low, rumbling roar that sounds like deep belly laughs. Their communications cause us laughter of our own deep into the night.
We have a gourmet vegan chef on safari with us. MG is our chef throughout. He has also cooked for Prince Harry during his Botswana visit. So, we have a “royal” chef serving extraordinary meals. His helpers, Precious and Mpho, build a roaring fire. It shines brilliantly as night falls and the air chills. MG cooks gourmet meals over this fire. It boggles the mind.
Joseph, our brilliant guide, knows the sandy, unmarked roads. And has keen vision, pointing out animals hiding or feeding in the bush.
The last three days of safari are spent in the Moremi Game Reserve, situated on the eastern side of the Okavango Delta. The reserve is a no-hunt, no-kill reserve. The “no-hunt, no-kill” policy may be the impetus behind the animals’ “tolerance” of the safari visitors. We pose no threat.
Consequently, it often felt like they viewed us as we viewed them. In other words, we humans were the ‘show’ every bit as much as the observers. It was a powerful lesson about the unity of nature: We are all connected and share this extraordinary planet.
One of the greatest lessons of the safari was the importance of all animals (including humans) living in harmony. Safari is a rare gift we can give ourselves. A gift that enriches our life and keeps on giving. If not for PETA, I would not have gone. I am forever grateful!”
If you’re interested in planning your own animal-friendly African wildlife safari, visit VeganSafariAfrica.com
