Culture Spotlight: The San Tribe’s Bushmen

An African Safari vacation is not just about the sightseeing and game-viewing—it’s about experiencing a unique culture completely separate from your own. One of the most intriguing and unique cultures in all of Africa is the San Tribe’s Bushmen. The emotional and spiritual fulfillment of immersing yourself in this unique culture cannot be matched by any other experience.

Known as hunters and gatherers, the people of this culture were the earliest settlers in the Kalahari Desert region. There is an estimated 85,000 indigenous Bushmen alive today, according to National Geographic magazine. The Bushmen’s legendary history dates back tens of thousands of years ago. In fact, according to several genetic studies, all of humankind can be traced back to these people.

Enjoy an interactive walk with them through the villages, as they share with you their extensive knowledge about survival and the secrets of the land. Hear them interact through a unique language, which consists of various “click” sounds. This rare insight into the intriguing San Tribe allows you to learn about their effective hunting skills and crafting skills. Discover how to make an authentic bow and arrow from natural resources, and understand which wild plants are edible and which ones aren’t.

The tribe’s immense respect for nature is illustrated through their lifestyle choices. They do not cultivate crops, or keep cattle or any other animals. Their knowledge about plants is so extensive, that they know which ones to eat for nutritional purposes, and which ones to use for medicinal purposes. The act of going out together to gather plants is a huge social activity for the community.

Another way they show this respect for nature is through their hunting traditions. When they kill an animal for food they use every part of the animal, wasting nothing. The tribesmen usually hunt zebra, lion, antelope, and other wild game, and use the meat for food, and the hides for blankets.

While on a Botswana family safari, or honeymoon safari prepare to be bewildered by the Bushmen’s legendary history as you spend time with them in a local village opening your mind to an exceptional and diverse culture. Understanding the Bushmen’s deep respect for nature is not only enlightening, but humbling, as well. Contact Hills of Africa Travel today at (877) 845-4802, to help you plan the trip of a lifetime.

The Best of Wilderness Safaris’ Botswana Excursions—Part II

Wilderness Safaris is one of our favorite suppliers in Botswana, offering a large variety of exciting game-viewing experiences and wild safari excursions. In addition to the safaris mentioned in the post before this one, they offer:

The Green Desert Expedition:

Enjoy the magic of the Kalahari Desert, as our expert guides uncover the geology, anthropology, and archeology of the land.

Explore Deception Valley’s legendary rivers in the Kalahari Desert. This expedition takes place during Kalahari Desert’s prime time, when a large variety of animals travel to the area for its abundant water supply. Deception Valley, located on the Kalahari Game Reserve, offers fantastic game-viewing. Frequent visitors to the land include the brown hyaena, meerkat, gemsbok, springbok, and the great black-maned Kalahari lion.

As you travel along the Kalahari Desert on this adventurous expedition, the saltpans of Makgadikgadi are worth stopping at to observe flamingos, wildebeest, and zebras drinking from the water filled saltpans with their young. This large breeding ground is one of the greatest areas to view animals migrating from all over.

The Okavango Delta is another stop on this exciting expedition and offers a stunning view of flourishing wildlife, crystal blue waterways, and breathtaking backdrops.

The Migration Routes:

Explore the magnificent islands of Botswana on walking expeditions, while taking in the spectacular scenery and fresh air. Discover the migration patterns of the animals and follow their patterns when you decide to take your next Botswana safari vacation! The changing of the Kalahari Desert from dry season to rainy season creates a diverse population of animals coming and going during these seasonal changes throughout the year. Follow elephant herds as they travel to the Linyanti concession, or follow a zebra migration to Savuti. The possibilities are endless . . .

Safari for All Seasons:

If you’re looking for an African safari trip filled with adventures and spectacular game viewing, Safari for All Seasons is the perfect safari package for you. During this safari, you travel to three different countries, each full of new and exciting explorations. The wildlife and scenery vary between countries, providing you with a well-rounded experience of Africa, and a new realization of life.

Bring your African safari vacation to life as you travel through South Africa’s various ecosystems to explore budding plants, animals giving birth, vibrant colors in all directions, magnificent scenery, galloping antelope, viscous game, and so much more.

Let Hills of Africa Travel create for you, a spectacular safari itinerary with Wilderness Safaris. Experience the perfect African family safari, or honeymoon safari in the diverse lands of Africa. To learn more about these amazing safari opportunities, contact us today at (877) 845-4802.