Not just a safari. Not a traditional tourist trip. Wilde Tracks is an organization that offers immersive experiences in Africa in contact with animals at risk of poaching, with proceeds going to fund African wildlife conservation projects. The model pursued by Wilde Tracks is that of ecotourism as a tool for safeguarding the territory and local communities, which means that the trips are carried out in the name of sustainability, both environmental and social.
Starting in 2026, OIPA International will join the cause and, in partnership with Wilde Tracks, will offer its members the opportunity to participate in conservation missions. To learn more, we spoke with Alessia Capurro, Director of Communications and Humanitarian Programs at Wilde Tracks.
What do your trips consist of?
Our standard itinerary lasts seven days. During the first few days, we usually patrol the savannah with the reserve rangers and remove the traps set by poachers. In the following days, we provide first aid to animals and carry out anti-poaching activities with K9 dog units. An important part of our work concerns rhino populations, which are captured and killed for their horns. To save them, the team of veterinarians we work with removes part of the horn to discourage the capture of that animal. Then, depending on where we are, we add other activities, such as those specifically aimed at the local community.
Can you explain that in more detail?
Yes, awareness-raising activities are an integral part of our work in the field. In fact, we firmly believe that conservation and community development are inextricably linked. In Tanzania, for example, we promote educational programs aimed at empowering young people on the issue of environmental protection and creating future conservation experts. In addition, we support 50 Maasai communities by supporting projects already underway and at the same time introducing our own wildlife conservation project. Furthermore, we finance micro-enterprise projects to give Maasai women the tools to build their own economic independence while respecting their culture.
Were there any moments during a trip that particularly moved you?
A woman in her 70s took part in our trip last September and was moved when she talked about it. She described it as an incredible experience. Another time, we took a group of children with disabilities who really wanted to participate. We managed to make the trip accessible for them too, and they promised to come back again in the future.
What does your program have in store for this year?
Our missions for summer 2025 are already sold out, except for the one in South Africa in July, where we still have a few places available. The practical activities that participants can take part in range from rhino dehorning and satellite tagging to fitting collars on predators and transferring elephants. There will also be visits to local schools, day and night safaris, and nature walks to discover the Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and African buffalo, ed.). We look forward to seeing you!
