1. The Black Mambas: Safeguarding Wildlife Through Education and Community Engagement

Established in 2013, the Black Mambas represent a pioneering force in wildlife conservation within South Africa. Comprised entirely of women, this group, numbering around 30 members, shuns firearms in favour of education as they patrol numerous reserves and national parks across the country. Their primary objective is the removal of poaching snares and traps, crucial steps in safeguarding endangered species like rhinos, pangolins, and elephants. Through vigilant monitoring, community outreach, and educational endeavors, the Black Mambas are leaving a substantial mark in the ongoing battle against poaching.


2. Dr. Jane Goodall: A Lifetime Devoted to Chimpanzee Conservation

Dr. Jane Goodall stands as an icon in the conservation arena, renowned for her expertise in chimpanzee studies and unwavering commitment to their preservation. Since founding the Jane Goodall Institute and launching the Roots and Shoots program in 1991, she has inspired countless individuals across over 140 countries to become stewards of the environment and champions for wildlife.


3. Sylvia Earle: Leading the Charge for Ocean Conservation

Renowned as ‘Her Deepness,’ Sylvia Earle has blazed trails as a marine biologist and advocate for ocean preservation, earning accolades such as Time Magazine's 'Hero for the Planet.' Serving as the first female chief scientist of the US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, she has dedicated her career to exploring and safeguarding Earth's oceans. Through her nonprofit foundation, Mission Blue, she collaborates with over 200 ocean conservation groups to advocate for marine ecosystem preservation.


4. Beverly Joubert: Safeguarding Wildlife Through Photography and Advocacy

Beverly Joubert, an esteemed National Geographic Explorer-in-Residence, has dedicated over three decades to capturing the beauty of wildlife through photography and advancing conservation efforts. Alongside her husband, Dereck Joubert, she co-founded initiatives like the Big Cat Initiative and Rhinos Without Borders, aimed at protecting endangered species and their habitats. Through their organization, Great Plains, they promote conservation tourism across Zimbabwe, Botswana, and Kenya, raising awareness about conservation challenges and the importance of preserving wildlife.


5. Birute Galdikas: A Lifelong Advocate for Orangutan Conservation

Canadian scientist Birute Galdikas has dedicated her life to orangutan research and conservation, following in the footsteps of pioneers like Dian Fossey and Jane Goodall. Through the Orangutan Foundation International, which she established in 1986, she continues to study and protect these endangered primates, serving as a leading voice in orangutan conservation efforts.


6. Christine Amour-Levar: Empowering Women and Environmental Protection

Christine Amour-Levar, co-founder of Women on a Mission and founder of Her Planet Earth, leads a diverse coalition of women committed to empowering marginalized communities and preserving the environment. Through partnerships with organizations focused on climate change and women's rights, they are effecting tangible change worldwide. Their self-funded expeditions, including ventures in Sri Lanka, Greenland, Namibia, and the Swiss Alps, have raised over $2.5 million to support meaningful initiatives for women, demonstrating the transformative power of women in driving positive change.


At Lightfoot Travel, we advocate for sustainable tourism practices that contribute to the preservation of the destinations we sell and enhance the overall luxury travel experience for our guests through cultural and environmental preservation and responsible tourism practices. Reach out to one of our expert travel consultants if you would like to organise a tailor-made holiday with conservation and sustainable practices at the forefront.


Main photograph: Beverly Joubert

Suggested Itineraries

Brazil’s Wonderful Wildlife and Waterfalls

Iguazu Falls Pantanal Rio de Janeiro São Paulo Brazil South America

  • Explore the colonial heart and modern art scene of Sao Paulo

  • Witness the power of the mighty Iguazu Falls

  • Discover the flora, fauna and birdlife of the Pantanal

  • See panoramic views of Rio de Janeiro from Corcovado and Sugarloaf Mountain

  • Relax on Ipanema Beach before exploring Rio’s thriving nightlife

ideal length 10 nights

Luxury Amazon Adventure

Peruvian Amazon Lima

  • Enjoy a private guided tour of Lima’s main sights and attractions
  • Cruise through the Amazon aboard the luxury boat, Aria Amazon
  • Observe the exotic birds and wildlife that live along the Amazon
  • Go swimming, canoeing or kayaking in the Amazon and its tributaries
  • Enjoy skiff excursions to meet the communities that live along the Amazon
ideal length 10 nights

Southern Australia: Wine & Wildlife

South Australia Australia Australasia

  • Enjoy a gourmet walking tour through Adelaide Central Market

  • Experience the incredible food and wine culture of the Barossa Valley on a private guided tour

  • Stay at the base of the Elder Range, one of the most beautiful locations in the outback

  • Explore endemic wildlife and ancient rock art in the Flinders Ranges

  • Watch wild kangaroos and other wildlife on Kangaroo Island

ideal length 8 nights
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