Holidaymakers enjoying a Tanzania safari are more likely to spot an elephant now than 30 years ago, with the population steadily rising.

According to researchers in the country, the ban on trading ivory has seen the world's largest land mammal flourish in both Tanzania and Botswana – but more can still be done.

"Elephant populations have been increasing in Botswana and Tanzania since the late 1980s, when protection measures stopped the ivory trade," says Curtice Griffin of the department of natural resources conservation.

In order to keep track of the elephant population, scientists are now fitting them with satellite devices, which allow them to establish where the herds go and how to keep them away from humans and farms.

Mr Griffin said that elephants were also an important part of both Botswana and Tanzania's economy as they encourage eco-tourists to visit these countries.

"Although having elephants near your village can be risky, they bring in tourists who bring in revenue," he said adding that this is "especially important in arid regions where there are few other sources of income".

"When communities realise they can earn money from tourists coming to see the elephants, they are much less likely to harm them when conflict occurs."

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