The cradle to the most spectacular and awe-inspiring wildlife and landscapes, Africa is home to some of the most concentrated efforts of conservation in the world. Since there is no better way to enjoy the environmental and ecological wonder of Africa than by experiencing the magnificence of the continent first hand, I embarked on a safari experience of my own. Here are a few of my favorite photos of native wildlife:

 

Many things threaten the wildlife of Africa but poaching ranks among the primary concerns. According to the American Wildlife Foundation, at current poaching rates, elephants, rhinos and other iconic african wildlife will be gone within our lifetime. In 2011, there were 13 large-scale seizures of ivory and over 23 tons of ivory confiscated. This is equivalent to at least 2,500 elephants.

Poaching is an economic and social challenge.In Africa and around the world, it is deeply important that we understand the cultural economic and political framework to protect flora, fauna, and ecology for future generations.