Rothschild Safaris’ reaction to the recent lifting of the elephant hunting ban in Botswana.

Like the rest of the world, we are reeling with the recent news that elephant hunting will resume in Botswana. As a company that loves elephants (and all animals, for that matter), we are ardently invested in Botswana’s state of affairs, so we are keeping our eyes and ears close to the ground. We long for the safekeeping and existence of all elephants in Botswana and across the entire continent.

The reality is that much of what is being reported in the United States and abroad has not been discussed in Botswana. The government is still in the process of determining how best to implement their decision to control the elephant population. We also know that through the decades, Botswana has had periods where hunting elephants was legal and stretches where it was illegal. As recently as 2013, hunting elephants was legal in Botswana. It is a complicated situation that Botswana faces, and we are monitoring every move from both the government and conservationists.

What it all means for your Safari…

In the meantime, we want to assure you that Botswana is still an incredibly safe and beautiful country and that is not going to change despite the recent news. The Okavango Delta is one of the largest true wildernesses remaining on the African continent and is far removed from civilization’s heavy footprint. Across Africa, hunting typically only occurs in areas that are easily accessible by foot or in designated areas far away from where photographic safaris happen. Most safari camps are in deep wilderness where plane flights are necessary to reach their locations.

No matter how things unfold in Botswana, photographic and culturally sensitive safaris will remain a lifeline for thousands of citizens employed in this industry.  By choosing a safari to Botswana, you contribute to their quality of life. Without tourism, hunting will look even more desirable to desperate communities. Rothschild Safaris will continue to support these everyday people through our business practices that are true to our philosophy of working with conservation-minded partners and sustainable properties. People and wildlife co-existing in a positive relationship is our way forward and we hope you will join us for the journey.


Images via © Harshil Gudka – unsplash.com, © Richard Jacobs – unsplash.com, © Isabella Jusková – unsplash.com, ©  Felix M. Dorn – unsplash.com

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