Our weekly conservation newsletter
First photos 
+ East vs Southern Africa safari + Kunene fights poaching
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From our CEO – Simon Espley
Greater Kruger wildlife conservation needs more female influence. There, I said it. Any rolling eyeballs?
Not long ago, the late Sharon Haussmann (former Balule Private Nature Reserve chairperson and CEO of GKEPF) and I used to meet over coffee (often on a game drive) to discuss issues, face up to realities and frustrations, and share much-needed data and advice. I miss those days, and I miss her. Hopefully, Dr Marisa Coetzee, her successor at GKEPF and also a strong lady, will lead the team to even greater heights.
Over the years, I have met many women who have had a huge impact across the African conservation space. Brave, resilient warriors who have risen to the top despite glass ceilings and corporate bullies. We desperately need more of them to balance out the current testosterone-infused domination in this region. Of course, we need a wide range of mindsets, skills, and personality types, and adding more women to these critical leadership roles will bring us closer to what is required in this complex, amazing ecosystem.
Simon Espley – CEO, Africa Geographic
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From our Editor – Taryn van Jaarsveld
Baobabs aren’t supposed to fall. They’re living water towers with bark thick enough to shrug off drought, fire and the occasional elephant. Some have stood for over 2,000 years. Civilisations have come and gone. The baobab stayed put. Until… Meet the mango stem-borer, a fruit-tree pest from Asia that has recently discovered the hospitality of baobabs (albeit in the Middle East). In Oman, where just over 100 baobabs grow, researchers found six giants already killed and a dozen more infested.
Their soft, water-rich trunks packed with nutrients make baobabs perfect nurseries for hungry larvae. The beetle hasn’t reached mainland Africa. But it is already present on islands such as Madagascar, which is home to six native baobab species. Plus, the beetle can fly 14 kilometres in a night, and shipping containers are the equivalent of first-class tickets for bugs. Scientists are now proactively developing control strategies to ensure the beetle doesn’t gain a foothold elsewhere.
In happier news, it’s our favourite time of year. Our first Photographer of the Year 2026 entries have landed. And yes, there’s a Nyungwe safari up for grabs. We also weigh up East versus Southern Africa safaris (which is best?) and dive into how tourism in Namibia’s Kunene is powering renewed anti-poaching patrols across vast communal conservancies.
Did you know? Your African safari choice makes a difference
We donate a portion of the revenue from every safari sold to carefully selected conservation projects that make a significant difference at ground level. YOUR African safari choice does make a difference – thank you!
Our stories this week
FIRST PHOTOS
Our first Photographer of the Year 2026 entries are in! Check out our favourites and enter to win a trip to Nyungwe
EAST VS SOUTHERN AFRICA
We compare safari experiences in East vs Southern Africa. Each offers unique species & landscapes. Which is best? Read our advice
TOURISM VS POACHING
Tourism in Namibia’s Kunene is powering renewed anti-poaching patrols, protecting wildlife across vast communal conservancies
Travel Desk – 2 African safari ideas
Ruaha and Mafia Island bush and beach – 8 days
Discover two of Tanzania’s extraordinary and contrasting destinations. The wild beauty of Ruaha National Park, where ancient baobabs tower over elephant herds and prowling predators, to the turquoise waters of Mafia Island, a barefoot hideaway of coral gardens and castaway calm. This classic safari-and-sea combination captures the true spirit of Africa: untamed, soulful, and unforgettable
Maasai Mara specialist photographic safari, Kenya – 9 days
Fancy a guided photographic safari in Kenya’s Maasai Mara? Join award-winning photographer Arnfinn Johansen on this exclusive safari for four guests. Highlights include guided game drives with an experienced Maasai guide in a modified photographic vehicle, and accommodation at Oltepesi Tented Safari Camp. Departure Dates: 20-28 November 2026
Still dreaming of the ultimate African safari escape? Browse our safaris ideas here. Or click here to plan your safari.
Our safari guests say…
AG safari guest Chrys and Tissa from Australia went on a dream Kenya safari to the Maasai Mara:
“Fantastic safari. The trip to Kenya was planned and executed to perfection by Christian and Africa Geographic. Enkewa Camp in Maasai Mara exceeded all our expectations. Comfortable and clean. Excellent food and service. Game viewing was superb. The camp manager, Nando, went over and above the call of duty to make our stay comfortable and special. Many thanks to him, Nico, Caleb, Joseph and all the staff. I’d love to go back.”
WATCH
Hoedspruit’s leopards are masters of survival – but roads and shrinking wild spaces are taking a toll. Seven were killed in one year, most on the R40 highway. Learn about Ingwe’s work and our Spots on the Line campaign to help keep them alive. (02:04) Click here to watch
Cover image: On the edge of the plains, a lone cheetah watches the tide of wildebeest arriving. The time of plenty has arrived. Maasai Mara National Reserve, Kenya. © Liz Hart
Photographer of the Year 2025 Top 109 entry
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