If tourism is responsible for an eighth of all new jobs created in South Africa, then sound environmental policies should be in place to protect the natural resources which attract eco-tourists to the country. At the Ka'Ingo Private Game Farm we recognize the importance of tourism to conservation efforts and job creation. As such we practice strict environmental protection to ensure that eco-tourism can be sustained without harming the valuable resources of South Africa.
The economical link to the eco-system cannot be ignored and if we wish to benefit from the beauty of the country, we should take steps to protect the habitat of the fauna and flora. At Ka'Ingo Private Game Farm we ensure this by sound conservation management that includes:
- Strategic placement of waterholes.
- Prevention of overgrazing.
- Rehabilitation of areas where overgrazing has taken place.
- Limiting roads and vehicles on the private game farm.
- Gate control.
- Limiting the number of guests accommodated at one time.
- Minimizing erosion.
- Prohibition of game hunting.
- Only introducing animals to the private game farm which belong to the area or previously lived in the larger Waterberg biosphere.
Rehabilitation of the land
As part of the larger malaria free Waterberg biosphere, we take pride in uplifting communities while preserving the very source of income - nature. The Zorgvliet Portfolio acquired the 8 700 hectare private game farm in 2002 and has since then been committed to rehabilitating the outstretched area of grasslands, mountains, valleys and rivers. As part of this commitment to rehabilitation and preservation, we have implemented controlled fires to remove dead matter and to clear the land of any weed infestation.
Environmental impact of buildings limited
The policy of conservation is also extended to buildings at Ka'Ingo. Before any structure is erected, we obtain environmental impact studies by reputable ecologists. We have a future outlook and thus only build structures which promote harmony with nature and bring an aesthetic value to the area.
Habitat preservation
As one of only a few Big Five privately owned reserves in Limpopo, which are open to eco-tourism we see it as vitally important to protect the 35 animal species roaming the area. Ka'Ingo is home to more than 4 000 animals. It is also known as a birdwatcher's paradise as many of the 350 bird species found in the region have made Ka'Ingo their home. The diverse plant life is protected to ensure that the habitat of the animals and the birds are never compromised for economical gain.
Conservation policy
Our farming policy has two legs, that of preserving natural life in the area and intensive efforts through programmes to re-introduce rare animals to the area. This for instance, includes the sable, buffalo, and cheetah to name but a few. Not only do we introduce these animals, but also promote breeding programs to ensure that their numbers grow.
Our passion for conservation is to the benefit of guests of the private game farm, as they have the privilege of enjoying unsurpassed beauty and wildlife experiences while still having opulence and comfort at our luxurious lodges. Contact us through the central reservations number to enjoy truly spectacular wildlife viewing and luxury lodging at Ka'Ingo less than three hours drive from Johannesburg.
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