One of the key people within the Green Safaris organization is Rosalind Hine who holds the position as business development manager. It was quickly apparent that Roz is deeply invested in African tourism especially in Zambia.
During our brief discussion about her and her role at Green Safaris she emphasized her love for the African bush and iterated that affordable African safari tours are within reach for just about anyone that is willing to jump on an overseas flight
Thank you Roz for your insights and all that you do to make affordable African safari tours available to any adventure traveller
Why Should Overseas Visitors Come to Zambia?
RJZ: Let’s keep it concise. Why should overseas visitors choose Zambia?
RH: Zambia offers three remarkable national parks. South Luangwa and Lower Zambezi are well-known, but Kafue is a hidden gem. Having sold Zambia for 15 years, I can confidently say the game density and low vehicle presence enhance the safari experience. It’s like an undiscovered jewel. Busanga Plains in Northern Kafue mirrors the Mara in size, but with only four lodges. While it lacks migration, the immersion in Africa’s wild brush, paired with luxurious lodges and Victoria Falls nearby, creates a unique, untouched feel. Plus, Lake Malawi is just a short flight away, perfect for beach relaxation after a safari. Zambia offers affordable African safari tours compared to neighbouring countries.
What Problems Does Green Safaris Solve?
RJZ: What problems does Green Safaris address for tourists or retailers like me?
RH: Green Safaris focuses on sustainability. Initially a foundation, the need to support nearby communities became clear. In Zambia, rain is seasonal, leaving communities water-insecure. We capture and store rainwater for up to eight months, ensuring food and water security without damming rivers. Travelers automatically contribute to sustainability by booking with us, though community involvement is optional.
Additionally, planning Zambian safaris was complex and costly. Green Safaris simplified this with “Wings and Wheels,” offering free flights for stays over four nights. This package covers airport taxes and meet-and-greet services. We also introduced lodge manager WhatsApp groups to enhance guest experiences across properties. By streamlining logistics, we make Zambia a more attractive and affordable African safari tour destination.
Personal Connection to Travel
RJZ: Where are you based, and why do you love African travel?
RH: I live in White River and work remotely, like the rest of our team. I have worked in tourism since I was 19 and exclusively travel Africa. The continent’s spiritual connection, remote locations, and vibrant communities captivate me. I have explored Southern Africa extensively, including Zambia, Botswana, and Malawi, and share this passion with my children. Zambia remains my favourite, especially Busanga Plains, which I discovered in 2021. It’s awe-inspiring, reinforcing why I love selling Green Safaris.
Future of Tourism in Zambia
RJZ: How do you see Zambia’s tourism sector evolving over the next 5-20 years?
RH: Some Southern African destinations are hitting price ceilings. Zambia, however, remains underexplored and must be actively marketed. Our familiarization trips introduce agents to Zambia’s offerings. With African Parks managing Kafue, balance is crucial to prevent over-tourism. Community development around parks is essential to combat poaching, which threatens even protected areas. Increasing awareness and community involvement will shape Zambia’s sustainable tourism growth.
Memorable Experiences
RJZ: Share a standout experience from your career.
RH: In Lower Zambezi, I once had lunch on a sandbank, organized as a surprise. My family swam while we dined in the water. This remains my favourite memory, and even now, my children recall it fondly. We recreated this in July; it remains just as magical.
Career Journey
RJZ: How did you get to where you are today?
RH: After high school, I could not afford university, so I trained in hotel management. I transitioned to tourism through an in-house tour operator. Preferring planning over hotel hours, I moved into reservations, met my husband (a ranger), and managed lodges. After a stint in the UK, I returned to Africa, managing tours. Post-COVID, we opened a retail agency, and I rejoined Green Safaris in 2021. Now, I sell Zambia—the country I love.
Interested in finding out more about great deals to Zambia, please feel free to email me: rael@wildsunsets.travel or check out some of our specials at www.wildsunsets.travel