With our 'Safari' pattern we are paying a small tribute to African wildlife, its diversity, richness, colors, and markings.

The word 'safari' originates from the Arabic word 'safara' which means 'a journey'. The Arabic word was later adopted by the Swahili of East Africa and adapted to become the Swahili word 'safariya' which means 'journey' or 'kusafiri' which means 'to travel'.

Today, traditional dictionary definitions of 'safari' still often include a component of hunting:

"...an expedition to observe or hunt animals in their natural habitat, especially in East Africa." and "A trip into any undeveloped area to see, photograph or hunt wild animals in their own environment."

Forget the old concept of a wildlife safari as a hunting trip - that outdated usage is history! 

A more modern definition of safari is, simply: A safari (from Swahili) is an overland journey to observe wild animals, especially in eastern or southern Africa. (Wikipedia) 

Safari now refers to an adventure or expedition into the wilds of Africa - with no hunting involved. An African safari typically provides revenue for local conservation projects and game parks, helping to protect habitats and wildlife, rather than taking them out. African safaris also play an important role in creating awareness about wildlife conservation, as well as benefiting local communities. 

In particular, Africa's wildlife tourism industry "usually generates $29 billion a year and employs 3.6 million people" according to Bloomberg (2020).

You can take trips into the wilderness anywhere, but you can only truly go on safari in Africa. 

Today African safaris are holiday trips primarily aimed at watching and photographing wildlife in the bush, for fun.