For a long time, it was thought that children didn’t belong on safari, that they would be too young to appreciate what was around them and not grateful for such an opportunity – how backwards that seems now! Thanks to open minded programmes like ‘Young Explorer’s’ and guides like Paul Moleseng, family safari holidays have evolved.
The Young Explorers programme is available at a number of camps throughout Botswana, our favourite being Shinde, a beautiful lodge located at the heart of the northern Okavango Delta in Botswana. Shinde’s enclave exclusivity is second to none and boasts eight large safari style tents. The three newest tents are elevated on teak platforms overlook vast papyrus and reed expanses dotted with palm islands, where frequent sightings of the elusive sitatunga occur. The accommodation is spacious, and includes a lounge, dining area and private boma – all overlooking the lagoon, as well as a personal waiter/barman specifically assigned to the Shinde enclave and its guests. It could not be more perfect, and ideal spot from which to enjoy the Young Explorers programme.
Young Explorers is a specifically designed safari that offers families the opportunity to discover the wonders of Africa together. It’s a rare experience, where you and your children will learn all about wild nature, the animals, their habitat and surroundings, within a fun and unique setting, with a truly inspirational team. Programmes like this don’t create attention for themselves without great people behind them, and Paul Moleseng is one of the all time greats. Born and bred in Botswana – he is sophisticated, highly intelligent and, above all, loves the natural world with a passion. He has a brilliant way with children and is soon every Young Explorer’s best friend. Paul’s energy is driven by his own experience of discovering nature as a child growing up in Botswana’s capital Gabarone, enjoying many a school nature club camping trip into Botswana’s magnificent nature reserves. The Game Scouts who led these trips quickly became his role models on which he strives, and succeeds to be at Shinde!
Paul’s emphasis and the focus of Young Explorers is on conservation and respect for the earth whilst learning some genuine bush survival skills along the way.
