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Keep Your Distance - on Walking Safaris

4/1/2020


 While we struggle with social distancing from humans at home Calvet Nkomo, head guide at Somalisa Camp in Zimbabwe, has learned how to keep his distance from wildlife while walking in Hwange National Park through decades of expert guiding experience.


Born in Halisupi, Zimbabwe, Nkomo was raised by his grandparents and, as he grew, the African name Ndalaboy – "big boy" fit him.

A warm, welcoming, and larger-than-life spirit who smiles broadly and enjoys singing traditional songs, Nkomo, 54, has been guiding since 1995 and is intimately familiar with the prides of lions roaming Hwange. "I know them by name and consider them family," he says, noting in particular Cecil's pride. Cecil was Africa's true "Lion King" that, after being tracked by collar and extensively researched, became a tourist attraction. An American big-game hunter killed Cecil in 2015, a big blow to conservation and Hwange National Park visitors alike. Travelers now visit to see Cecil's decedents, who roam the park in abundance.




According to Nkomo, there are three "zones" of distance guides must recognize when leading guests to view game, such as lion, on walking safaris:

 

 

  • For best viewing, stick to a "comfort zone" of not less than 70 meters (230 feet) for big game such as lion, leopard, and buffalo, or 50 meters (164 feet) for a bull elephant – assuming cover is available. A little far? "Not really," Nkomo says with a big laugh. "That is what good eyesight and optics are for."
     
  • The "escape zone" is from 25-50 meters (82-164 feet), at which point animals will begin moving or even bolt away from curious guests. "That's too close for good viewing. Your presence may be disturbing to animals, but you'll be safe."
     
  • Guides always walk in open areas to avoid surprising game unwittingly.  Guests don't need to be concerned, but guides are always aware of the "attack zone," which is a distance to wildlife of less than 25 meters (up to 82 feet). "I've never come this close," says Nkomo, "there is no reason to approach wildlife this closely."
     
  • Mr. Nkomo's sage advice is apropos during this unprecedented time as we diligently observe "zones of distance" on our walking safaris to the shops, or other public places.


4/1/2020
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