Jess215

Hi all
Anyone here have an opinion on CC Africa's involvement in Indian "safaris"?
I'll post this over on the Asia board, too, but I KNOW you guys and there is always valuable info here - not just the usual "you can't just go and hope to see a tiger."
Thanks
Jess

Marija

We stayed at the CCAfrica camp in Bandhavgarh and thought it was great. I think CCAfrica's experience and reputation in running well managed safari camps will help draw people into Indian safaris, resulting in better wildlife conservation.

For more info on our experience see:
http://www.fodors.com/forums/threads...p;tid=35110964

HariS

Hi! I went to Baghvan lodge in Pench NP. Had a wonderful trip - all National park rules apply ..... but, your guide is very professional and fantastic. The CCA India lodge for the indoor stuff can match the best in Africa for ambience, warmth, hospitality and atmosphere.

HariS

http://www.fodors.com/forums/threads...p;tid=35089463

That's the link to a report i made back then!

Jess215

Just a quick thank you for the replies so far- exactly the kind of info I am seeking.
Jess

Tanky

I truly believe the CC Africa\African conservation model is the only one that can save the Tiger.

However, I was recently at Bandhavgarh (at a non-CC Africa lodge) and there is enormous resentment and cynicism against there setup.

Personally, I think the 'guides' are terrified this might mean some imposition of higher standards - there didn't seem to be any standards of any kind while I was there.

Is my first ever sighting of a wild tiger burned into my mind? Yes, but unforunately not the tiger - the 30 car pile up, shouted arguments, huge dust clouds, vehicles crashing into each other, into trees and ditches, 'guides' shouting at the tiger to get it's attention etc I was truly amazed - or more accurately appalled.

I was told that the CC Africa model was against the 'Indian way'. As the 'Indian Way' seems to contain equal measures of corruption, bureaucracy and bribery I came away with the view that the tiger is doomed - it's just a money spinning gimmick even to those that work the tourist trade.

Maybe Dave Varty is right - the only safe home for the wild tiger is in Africa... and I say that with a heavy heart. That being said when I return to India it will be to a CC Africa\Taj lodge and damn the expense.

Tanky

I would also add the best thing that could happen was that the current non-tourist areas of the national parks are given over to private concessions run by private companies.

It would take many years to make these financially viable but it's the only way foward...but it's not the 'Indian way'.

Kavey

"As the 'Indian Way' seems to contain equal measures of corruption, bureaucracy and bribery I came away with the view that the tiger is doomed - it's just a money spinning gimmick even to those that work the tourist trade. "

Unfortunately, I fear that your assessment may be correct. Although I was born in England, my parents were born in India and I've visited many times throughout my life. I've always found the lack of concern for wildlife shocking. I can understand it more amongst those who struggle to feed their family and perhaps don't have what they perceive to be the luxury of worrying about the survival of animals. I find it harder to digest amongst my own middle-class family who are loving, liberal, open-minded, aware... and yet seem to be surprised at my interest in India's animals.

Kavey

Sorry, posted before I finished.

So if one adds together the problems of corruption and obstructive bureaucracy with the general lack of concern in the population at large it doesn't add to a hopeful situation for the tiger (and other endangered wildlife).

CCAfrica's efforts are absolutely to be welcomed in that they are doing their best to introduce very high standards of guiding (which are centred around the wellbeing of the wildlife even before the desires of the guest) and principles of conservation into their camps too.

HariS

Kavey,

I think it's only a matter of what people are exposed to growing up and access to wilderness areas. Down South over here - we have lots of places to go to and hence the awareness is definitely much higher! Most people i know, are very much interested in wildlife.

I remember your previous posts that your family is based from New Delhi? Unfortunately, i can't see eye to eye with most things in that city. Don't go there anymore unless i absolutely have to!

Hari

sniktawk

I hope that CC Africa can do something to turn around the appaling state of the Tiger, it is possible. But given the nature of India, as pointed out by others. highly unlikely.

Nevertheless I wish them all of the luck in the world. If it takes limiting Tiger viewing to the rich then that is how it will have to be.

Kavey

I have some family in Delhi but more in UP and some in Jaipur. Certainly not in areas where there is much wilderness but this is my point. In India the awareness seems to be only amongst those that live in close proximity to the wildlife.

I don't have any game parks near me but I have the awareness through education and reading. I wish there was same amongst my family and other educated Indians at the least.

Ericka

We just got back from Ranthambhore Park (the CC Africa lodges were too far out of the way for us). Stayed at Aman-i-khas and had some great tiger sitings and loved the park, too. I suggest you give it a read so you know what the different options are.

http://fodors.com/forums/threadselect.jsp?fid=27

If the link doesn't work, search for Aman-i-Khas on the Asia forum.

Jess215

This is mostly sad news but with some hope. I continue to be happily amazed, though, at the information and insight I find on this forum.
Tx,
J