Open Heart Safari

04/09/2018

Join us to meet Hammer Simwinga in person!

A place to explore, discover, create, & play!

15/01/2018

If going to Africa with a conscious, slowed-down, open hearted spirit speaks to you, please join us for Open Heart Safari 2018!

This trip is special. We combine environmental activism, conservation and yoga with safari adventures in one of the last remaining undeveloped wilderness in Africa. We spend time with local people, village chiefs and NGOs. We learn about village life, we learn about what conservation activists are working on and we get to learn about habitats and indigenous wisdom and cultural history. All that, along with exceptional wildlife. It’s our eighth trip to Zambia- we truly feel invited to know people, their families and their lives.

Led by a husband-wife team, this trip is not your usual safari. We have organized this trip as a labor of love - for amazing wildlife, for indigenous culture, and for conservation. Each year that we return, we are warmly welcomed. You will be too!

We are hosting a slide show at our Oakland home on Wednesday January 23 from 7-8:30 pm. Come and learn more about the trip and to learn more about what makes Zambia the best place to travel to in Africa.

About the trip: We travel to Zambia, with an optional extension to Botswana.

Trip Dates: June 26 - July 11, 2018 (extension from July 11-15)

Our itinerary in Zambia includes visits to three amazing parks: South Luangwa National Park, the Mukungule Conservancy and Kafue National Park. In addition, you will spend time with villagers and visit Zambia's first community managed nature conservancy. You will get to learn about traditional healing methods, climate change, sustainable agriculture and more.You will get to spend time with villagers, tribal elders, and environmental activists. You’ll have the chance to volunteer and help with habitat restoration and conservation projects. To deepen the experience, we do meditation and yoga, we have group circles and we often begin our days with poetry.

The optional extension from July 11-15 includes Victoria Falls and Chobe National Park, Botswana. Chobe is home to one of the largest elephant herds in the world!

To learn more, go to http://openheartsafari.com

RSVP to [email protected] for the Oakland slide show location!

05/12/2017

If going to Africa has been on your bucket list, join us for "Open Heart Safari". Led by a husband-wife team, this trip is not your usual safari. We organized this trip as a labor of love - for indigenous culture, for conservation and for wildlife.

On our trip, you will go to remote areas, see lots of amazing wildlife and experience the wonders and wilds of Africa. In addition, you will have the chance to spend time in the first community-managed nature conservancy in Zambia. You will get to spend time with villagers, tribal elders, and environmental activists. To deepen the experience, we do meditation and yoga, we have group circles and we often begin our days with poetry.

We travel to Zambia, with an optional extension to Botswana.

The trip takes place from June 26 - July 11, 2018

We travel to South Luangwa National Park, the Mukungule Conservancy and Kafue National Park and to Lusaka, the capital of Zambia

The optional extension from July 11-15 includes Victoria Falls and Chobe National Park, Botswana.

To learn more, go to https://openheartsafari.com

22/06/2017

We managed to sight the elusive shoebill in the Bangwelu wetlands in Zambia.

14/06/2017

Here are some photos of community priorities as they work on creating a nature conservancy in Mukungule. More to come!

01/06/2017

Trying to teach geography to children in Zambia. How good is your geography? Where's Zambia?

04/03/2017

We are honored to have Swaziland's only environmental interest attorney at the showing of Unfair Game on Monday March 6th. The event is at 6 pm at 2120 University Ave, Berkeley. Join us! Thuli is a Goldman Environmental Award winner and an amazing human rights advocate. http://www.goldmanprize.org/recipient/thuli-makama/

Rural poverty-stricken communities depend heavily on the environment for their most basic needs. The environment is an integral part of their lives, historically providing building materials, medicinal plants, food and firewood. Indigenous knowledge and practices are centered on ensuring the conserv...

27/02/2017

How close can you get to wildlife on Open Heart Safari? Very close!

22/02/2017

There is so much beauty and awe in Africa. Your heart opens naturally. Here's a lovely testimonial from a traveler who said we should re-name the trip, Full-Heart Safari. Yes!

"The Open Heart Safari trip to Zambia and Botswana far surpassed any thoughts I had of what the trip might be like. I expected to love seeing the animals, but the connections and experiences Tom was able to create with the people of these countries was life changing. For me, I have renamed the trip Full Heart Safari. It was eye-opening and heart-opening and amazing in every possible way. Although I was ambivalent about traveling in a group, I am completely convinced that any trip I could have planned on my own would not have had the depth, richness, or fun I experienced going with Open Heart Safari. Many thanks to Tom and Laura for truly providing a once in a lifetime opportunity. I feel incredibly grateful, and I don’t say that in a light way.

I am open to Zambia trip number 2."

--Geri D

21/02/2017

Here's a great testimonial from Justine, who traveled on Open Heart Safari in 2016. She was part of the group that spent five days living in a village in Zimbabwe. Our Open Heart Safari trip last July was truly an exceptional and amazing experience. Every piece of the trip exceeded any expectations I may have had. Every day I thought: wow, the last day was so awesome, what could this day hold? … and there was some other awesome thing.

Tom helped us break through the tourist veil to engage in a more authentic way. For us that made the trip unforgettable. We came away with a sense of a place and its people. We got out of the insulating comforts of posh hotels and fine dining, to go where the locals live and hang out – that’s how we like to experience new places. The friendships we forged in Zimbabwe continue to grow as we share news about our lives across the miles between us. I can’t let go of the idea of repeating this, going into the village and seeing people again.

--Justine R., Golden, CO

20/02/2017

We want to share testimonials from people that have traveled with Open Heart Safari so you can get an intimate sense of the experience. This is from Lizanne Avon, OHS 2016. My trip to Zambia was everything I dreamed of, and more. I am so grateful to Tom and Laura for pouring their energies, talents and hearts into constructing a thoughtful itinerary of unforgettable and profound experiences. Imagine going from a day of awesome safari adventures -- getting up close to majestic animals in nature -- to a day of genuine exchanges with incredible resilient local people, learning about the challenges they face, sharing a traditional meal of nshima eaten with your fingers, and finding yourself singing and dancing joyfully together. I loved that we often felt less like tourists than visitors on a cultural exchange. The whole trip unfolded in a magical, organic way, under the caring and competent guidance of Tom and Laura. Our total immersion in these environments would not have been possible without Tom’s extensive connections, insights, and knowledge of Zambia. Add in Laura’s enthusiasm, sense of fun, compassion and thoughtfulness, and you have the perfect guides for a rich, life-changing journey.

It’s hard to single out just a few things to praise. What stands out, however, is the sense of genuine connection made on many levels: connections within our group of good-hearted travel companions; connections through our interactions with inspiring local activists and community members who welcomed us warmly; and connections with nature itself, the awesome animals we encountered, the amazingly beautiful landscapes we entered, the breathtaking sunsets we witnessed.

I loved waking up to the morning sounds of the African bush. Even having to get up in the wee hours before dawn became surprisingly easy for a non-morning person! I awakened with excitement, eagerly anticipating the adventures the day would hold.

I loved the chance to communally reflect on our experiences in group discussions. I wasn’t sure initially about the circles, but now I’m a big believer. And after experiencing the same thrilling sights of nature, I discovered that sharing our sense of awe, amazement and delight made those feelings resonate all the more deeply.

This trip truly opened my heart and mind and touched me deeply like no other. It feels transformational in a way I can’t yet fully express. I know I'll continue to be affected by Open Heart Safari as I integrate these profound experiences into my own life. I feel so much gratitude to you Tom and Laura for organizing and facilitating such an amazing trip, the trip of a lifetime.

18/02/2017

If you want to know more about Open Heart Safari, check out this testimonial: Traveling with Open Heart Safari is more than a vacation. I had thought about an African safari for a while, but this was the first one I learned about that made me feel excited enough to dedicate a good chunk of savings. The trip ended up surpassing my expectations - I loved this itinerary. I thoroughly enjoyed all the parts that originally attracted me, including the day and night wildlife viewing (in jeeps and on foot) with great guides, including Tom who brought several books along about the plants, birds and animals we would be seeing. Interactions with citizens of Zambia – such as a chief of a tribe, University PhDs who were experts on conservation and the environment, and youth and adult leaders from a township – and staying in national parks that were less crowded and in smaller, non-corporate accommodations were also pluses. Thank you Tom for your great planning and good humor, and to Laura and my fellow travelers for making this an amazing trip which created memories I will cherish for a long time. After seeing how essential a community waterbore is to having access to clean water, I am inspired to raise funds with my fellow travelers and alumni of OHS to build a waterbore in one of the communities we visited in Zambia You are cordially invited to join us in supporting this worthy project!

09/02/2017

If you're thinking of joining us for our June 2017 trip to Zambia, come to our February 9 event in Oakland or comment here. I promise you'll see REAL lions when you travel with us. Remember we have a special trip discount if you sign up by February 21.

26/01/2017

Ready to make your vacation plans for Zambia? Just think how great it will be to see elephants and lions up close (and safe). Here's some good news at last ...http://news.nationalgeographic.com/2016/12/wildlife-watch-china-legal-ivory-market-african-elephants/

23/01/2017

Yes, there will be a black-African managed nature conservancy in Zambia. Learn more on January 29 at our next event in Oakland. http://mukunguleconservancy.weebly.com

19/01/2017

We're excited to be participating in a community project led by this amazing visionary. Do you want to join us in documenting the development of Zambia's first community managed nature conservancy?

Through the wildlife clubs, villagers opened small general stores and grinding mills, offering employment to millers, mechanics and bookkeepers. The program also assisted subsistence farmers with seed loans, transportation and technical assistance to help them grow protein-rich crops with better yie...

20/11/2016

We’re all looking for some light in dark times. Here’s an opportunity to be around some kind-hearted people. Some of the folk who came on our Zambia trip this summer had their hearts opened and were inspired to do something in solidarity with the impoverished communities we visited. They are organizing a fundraiser to provide clean drinking water to one of those communities. [ 452 more words ]

http://openheartsafari.com/zambia-water-project-fundraiser-sat-afternoon-dec-3/

We’re all looking for some light in dark times. Here’s an opportunity to be around some kind-hearted people. Some of the folk who came on our Zambia trip this summer had their hearts opened and wer...

30/11/2015

Lots of local Open Heart Safari events happening, starting with tomorrow night, December 1, in San Francisco! Have you heard that we're doing TWO trips next year?! Zambia! and Zimbabwe! Come learn more. Email us for info.

27/10/2015

Tales from the bush, Kafue National Park, Zambia It’s true that I was riding in an open jeep at 2 am chasing after lions. And it’s true that it was a moonless night with a clear view of the Milky Way and the brightest stars I’d ever seen. And it’s true that we saw them – two huge male lions with bulging bellies moving swiftly down the road “patrolling” as they headed into the northern part of their territory. [ 633 more words. ]

http://openheartsafari.com/its-2-am-and-lions-are-calling/

Tales from the bush, Kafue National Park, Zambia It’s true that I was riding in an open jeep at 2 am chasing after lions. And it’s true that it was a moonless night with a clear view of the Milky W...

05/07/2015

We'll be starting Open Heart Safari 2015 on July 13. Here's the first anticipatory post as I get in the midnset to be on the watch for elephants, hippos, baboons and more... all within easy distance of my hut. Yes, there are no fences around national parks in Zambia. That means you can count on seeing wildlife in your camp without even paying an entrance fee! [ 405 more words. ]

http://openheartsafari.com/what-really-happens-on-safari/

We'll be starting Open Heart Safari 2015 on July 13. Here's the first anticipatory post as I get in the midnset to be on the watch for elephants, hippos, baboons and more... all within easy distanc...

27/03/2015

Tips to help you prepare for a safari http://wp.me/p3JM9d-jG

Watch your toes! In fact, the best way to prepare for going on safari is to get very good at paying attention. Imagine looking out at a field of golden grass. Three foot tall grass as far as the eye can see. You’re in a jeep and your guide is tracking lions by following soft prints on the sandy road. He stops to get a better look at something in the distance.

05/02/2015

Another Oakland Presentation Coming Feb. 18, & Announcing February Discount http://wp.me/p3JM9d-hA

For anyone who couldn't make our January presentation in Oakland, we're doing it again. WHEN: Wednesday, February 18, 7-8:30 pm WHERE: Glenview neighborhood of Oakland RSVP to [email protected] for location As always, bring friends, and pass the word to anyone else who might be interested. Light refreshments will be served. NEXT YEAR’S TRIP Open Heart Safari to Zambia: July 18-31, 2015… [ 416 more words. ]

30/01/2015

Appreciation for Open Heart Safari 2014 http://wp.me/p3JM9d-gT

I finally got around to putting up testimonials from participant's on last summer's trips. You can read them all here. Here are some high points: "A spiritual journey in Africa." --Sheila O. "I still have a hard time finding words that are powerful and profound enough to describe my experience, though the phrases 'life changing' and 'soul touching' frequently appear…. I can't imagine myself traveling any other way after this amazing experience." [ 626 more words. ]

31/12/2014

Open Heart Safari presentations: Oakland Jan. 7; SF Jan. 13 http://wp.me/p3JM9d-fB

We invite you to join us for pictures and sounds of African wildlife, and tales of our travels in Zambia and Botswana. Help us celebrate our amazing 2014 Open Heart Safari, and hear about our plans for 2015. Light refreshments will be served. Bring friends, and pass the word to anyone else who might be interested. All are welcome, but please let us know if you plan to attend. [ 431 more words. ]

12/12/2014

Holiday Party–December 18 http://wp.me/p3JM9d-fw

Come celebrate with us at our first ever official annual Open Heart Safari holiday party! Bring your friends, and pass the word. Candle lighting, music, pictures, stories, improv games, sounds of the bush, refreshments …. Thursday, December 18: 7-9:30 pm. 3392 Adeline St.—look for the red metal door. Berkeley, CA 94703 No charge for admission. Feel free to bring refreshments or games or chanukiahs (nothing required except a festive spirit—or your best attempt). [ 30 more words. ]

15/10/2014

Open Heart Safari 2014 was a powerful and profound experience. http://wp.me/p3JM9d-fg

Two months after returning home from our third Open Heart Safari to Zambia, I am still – in the words of one our participants – “struggling to find words powerful and profound enough to describe the experience.” Of course, the wildlife viewing was spectacular. Even when we didn’t have our binoculars out, like the afternoon we came up on a gorgeous large male leopard relaxing in the shade, as we were lazily returning from a soak in a natural warm spring. [ 853 more words. ]

16/09/2014

Join Us at Pt. Reyes Seashore, Sat. Sept. 27 http://wp.me/p3JM9d-f6

Open Heart Safari presents: Open Heart Safari – Pt. Reyes National Seashore. Enjoy one of California’s wild and beautiful places with an open heart. Offered by Open Heart Safari leaders Tom Bennigson and Laura Paradise, the day is designed to help you slow down and touch into a place of reverence and awe in the presence of wildlife and the natural landscape. [ 91 more words. ]

15/08/2014

More from the poo sorters.

13/08/2014

Lessons from the bush. #2. One animal's waste is another's feast. Here's a baboon picking berries and seeds out of elephant poo. A symbiotic relationship. Yum!

12/08/2014

When was the last time you watched a leopard hunting? I saw this one pop out of a thicket fast on the heels of an impala!