Safari operator Cottar's Safaris will launch Tracks for Tomorrow in October, a privately guided, hands-on conservation experience for teens and their families. This five-day experience will be held at Cottar's 1920s Camp in Kenya's exclusive Olderkesi Conservancy in the Masai Mara.
Blending hands-on learning with real-world conservation, the focus of this new experience is to immerse young people in Africa's ecosystems while nurturing a deep respect for nature. It is hosted by Doug Nagi, who has been designated a Gold-level guide by the Kenya Professional Safari Guides Association, the group's top ranking. Nagi is also a certified ethnobotanist, astronomer and conservation expert. Teens participating in the program will explore biodiversity, sustainability and cultural heritage through a variety of educational and adventure-based activities.
Teens and their families will get a chance to learn about the world's fastest land animals at the Mara Cheetah Education Centre or learn about the majestic eagles, owls and vultures of the Mara at the Raptor Adventure Centre. They will also participate in hands-on reforestation efforts and will discover the edible plants and insects of the region with Cottar's Safaris' expert forager.
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The experience includes biodiversity workshops as well as some time at the camp's Maasai Warrior School, where they will learn the skills and traditions of the Masai people, one of Africa's most iconic cultures. Other activities include night safaris, bush walks, stargazing and guided tours with conservationists, where teens will learn about wildlife protection, anti-poaching efforts and the challenges of balancing tourism with conservation. Each day will end with a group discussion or reflection session, where families can share their learnings, connect them to sustainability and consider how to apply these lessons back home.
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The experience will actively encourage teens to think critically about sustainability by setting tasks and challenges, such as designing an eco-friendly camp or developing ideas to reduce the carbon footprint of their travel.
Cottar's Safaris' four-night Tracks for Tomorrow experience is available from $14,180, based on a family of four in a new two-bedroom family tent.