Information in this article has been updated for accuracy, including the recognition of World Female Ranger Week (the piece previously stated World Female Ranger Day). Tourism Update has reached out to Intrepid Travel for comment and will be publishing a follow-up ahead of World Female Ranger Week on June 23.
In the run-up to World Female Ranger Week, running from June 23-30, Intrepid Travel, the world's largest adventure travel company and a leader in responsible tourism, is putting the spotlight on its ongoing partnership with the Black Mambas, South Africa's renowned all-female anti-poaching unit.
This collaboration is a testament to the power of women in conservation and the positive impact they have on their communities.
The Black Mambas have been at the forefront of protecting wildlife and empowering women in their communities since 2013, fearlessly patrolling the Greater Kruger National Park.
Their efforts have led to a significant reduction in poaching incidents and empowered women in the region to take on leadership roles in conservation.
The Intrepid Foundation, the not-for-profit arm of Intrepid Travel, has raised over $15.5 million for communities around the world since 2002, including partnerships with organisations like Helping Rhinos (which supports the Black Mambas) and the Victoria Falls Wildlife Trust, to curb rhino poaching, assist with female empowerment and education, as well as wildlife protection and community development.
Intrepid Travel's partnership with the Black Mambas exemplifies how the B Corp Certified organisation's initiatives, a key part of its 2030 strategy, can drive real change, explained Darrell Wade, Chairman and Co-Founder of Intrepid Travel.
“Through the Intrepid Foundation, we're not only supporting the critical conservation work of these courageous women rangers but also helping to empower communities and showcase how tourism can be an immense force for good when done right. The Black Mambas are an inspiration, and we're honoured to amplify their story and mission as part of our commitment to make travel a source of positive transformation in the world.”
Meet the Black Mambas
Intrepid Travel offers travellers a unique opportunity to visit the Black Mambas at their headquarters and join them on patrol.
This immersive experience is available on three of Intrepid Travel's South African itineraries, allowing travellers to witness first hand the Black Mambas' dedication and passion for their work.
Intrepid Travel's partnership with the Black Mambas is part of the company's broader commitment to responsible tourism and supporting local initiatives that empower women and promote conservation. This aligns with Intrepid's 2030 strategy, which includes a global ambition to double its customer base to 600 000 and contribute 1% of revenue to purpose initiatives.
Clinton Els, Regional GM for Africa and the Middle East at Intrepid Travel, said that by supporting the work of the Black Mambas and sharing their story, Intrepid Travel can inspire more travellers to make a positive impact on the places they visit.
“Intrepid's support for the Black Mambas through the Intrepid Foundation gets to the heart of our approach in southern Africa by using the power of tourism to uplift local communities, protect wildlife, and provide economic opportunities.
“As we work towards the ambitious goals in our 2030 strategy, partnerships like this will be crucial in demonstrating that responsible travel can enrich both the traveller and the places they visit. By introducing our customers to the Black Mambas' important work, we aim to foster a deeper connection to the region and inspire more people to explore Africa in a way that leaves a positive legacy,” concluded Els.
