The incident underscores the dangers of wildlife tourism as two tourists were trampled to death by a protective elephant while on a guided safari.
Tragic Elephant Encounter Claims Lives of Two Tourists in Zambia

Tragic Elephant Encounter Claims Lives of Two Tourists in Zambia
A female elephant charged and killed a British pensioner and her New Zealand companion during a safari in South Luangwa National Park.
In a devastating event at South Luangwa National Park in Zambia, a female elephant attacked and killed two female tourists—one from Britain and the other from New Zealand. The unfortunate incident occurred when the tourists were part of a guided safari group, walking in the park, when the elephant, with a calf nearby, charged at them at high speed. Local police chief Robertson Mweemba confirmed that attempts by their tour guides to deter the animal by firing shots were unsuccessful, resulting in the fatalities on-site.
The two tourists had been enjoying a four-day stay at the Big Lagoon Camp, situated approximately 600 kilometers (370 miles) from the Zambian capital, Lusaka. Female elephants are known for their protectiveness over their young, prompting Zambian authorities to advise visitors to exercise extreme caution in areas with wildlife. This incident adds to a worrying trend as two American tourists also lost their lives to elephant attacks in Zambia last year, highlighting the inherent risks associated with wildlife tourism.
Authorities urge greater awareness and precaution among tourists engaging in safari adventures, as tragic encounters with wildlife are becoming alarmingly common in the region. The elephant attack has drawn significant attention, reigniting discussions about the balance between wildlife conservation and tourist safety in Zambia.