Going on a game drive while on safari is one of the most exhilarating experiences you can have when travelling through Africa. Heading out with the wind in your hair in search for wildlife in their natural habitat, finding some of the iconic species after searching the landscape, gives you the thrill you so rightly deserve. Then getting the opportunity, to spend time with these animals as they go on with their lives, allowing you a brief window into the natural world, makes the bumpy roads and all the dust more than worthwhile.
Welcome to the desert
When travelling to Namibia’s Northwest, you can head out in search of desert-adapted animals, such as elephants, lions, and rhinos. With smaller populations, larger unfenced areas, and the rough desert terrain, your search becomes an adventure and the rewards ten times better. One of the most iconic species to search for is the Black rhino, a rare and endangered species protected and monitored by the Save the Rhino Trust.
The heart of rhino territory
To arrive at Camp Doros in Damaraland nestled in the heart of rhino territory, you travel through harsh but beautiful terrain. The primary goal while staying at the camp is to head out with Conservancy Rhino Rangers, an initiative started by the Save the Rhino Trust to empower communities to protect their natural heritage. In your room, you’ll find a complimentary pair of CL Companion 10x30 for the duration of your stay. That evening you meet around the fire where your guide briefs you on your activity for the next day, warmly recommending that you take your binoculars with you.
How to find the elusive Black rhino
After an early breakfast, you head out by vehicle after communicating with the Rhino Rangers via radio. The rangers have ventured out before sunrise in search of fresh footprints of rhinos which like to visit water points during the night. You head in their general direction, enjoying the views and possible sightings of other wildlife, while the rangers are following the rhino on foot until they position themselves in a way they can record the sighting of the rhino. Once they are ready, they call via radio and the excitement begins.
Tracking on foot
With your binoculars over your shoulder, you depart on foot and follow your guide into the wilderness in the direction of the Rhino Rangers. Depending on the position of the rhino, this can be a short brisk walk or a long enjoyable hike. You now become a part of the conservation team. The Rangers position you to comfortably observe the rhino as it goes about its daily routine, without disturbing it. As you stand there in silence with nothing but the sound of chirping birds in your ears, you revel in being in such proximity of these majestic beasts. You witness lots of precious details up close, such as an ear twitching, a nose grunting, legs moving,…
Back at camp, you may discuss your sighting with the Rangers and learn more about the conservation work they do. While you spend the rest of the day relaxing and taking in the peace of this beautiful wilderness, your heart overflows with joy and gratitude for what you were lucky enough to experience: life-enriching precious moments that you will cherish forever.
About the author:
Jason Nott
Jason Nott, born in Namibia, comes from a well-known family of “nature conservators” who have been involved in development issues in Namibia for decades. One of his greatest influences as a child was his godfather, Flip Stander, who now runs the Desert Lion Conservation Foundation. After graduating in Travel and Tourism Management, he started managing a remote game lodge in Namibia. During that time, he developed excellent relationships with local communities in the country’s northwest. Today, he and his guests are welcome to visit these fascinating communities. “One of my greatest pleasures is sharing the wonders of the country I love with visitors,” he says, “and guiding is my tool for doing this.” Jason has a passion for wildlife and its protection, and a strong belief that this is best achieved through the development of communities. He is a phenomenally knowledgeable birder, wildlife expert, and wonderful traveling companion. In addition to being a guide, he also helps run the Conservation Travel Foundation , which is involved in funding humanitarian and conservation initiatives around the country.
