Lockdown sees virtual safaris take off

 

Working with andBeyond, WildEarth offer personalised game rides to visitors. They are broadcast twice a day. They capture the scenes on camera and then share the videos on their social media pages or alternatively sell them to broadcasters. Visitors can ask their guides questions in real time. 

Since lockdown the safaris have grown in popularity. The CEO of WildEarth says that the number of virtual visitors on the safari tripled in March. Initially most visitors were from the USA, but recently there have also been a lot of South African visitors. A recent sunset drive through the Ngala Private game reserve drew 11300 viewers on a single drive. 

And according to those that know the animals are easier to find now that they don’t have to hide from the many tourists who once crowded them out. The company is also doing their bit for a country in lockdown. Every morning for 45 minutes they host children who want to learn more about wild animals. The expert guides will answer only the questions of children.

Other South African game reserves also offer similar safaris all hosted by game rangers who know their business.