Serengeti’s impalas reveal a dark secret
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From our CEO – Simon Espley
Today I am a proud man. Three of our safari experts have been recognised by the prestigious Condé Nast Traveler as 2026 Top Travel Specialists. This elite crew of travel aficionados are the flag-bearers of our industry, so vital in raising standards and service levels.
As is the case with all of our safari experts, Christian, Stef and Ramona have lived and worked in Africa for most of their lives and craft experiential African safaris, with love.
Travel in Africa is about knowing what, when and where to go and with whom – for the ultimate safari experience. A few weeks too early/late or a few kilometres off course, and you could miss the Greatest Show on Earth. And wouldn’t that be a pity?
OUR MISSION is to offer a more conscious and meaningful way to travel. It’s for curious, passionate explorers who seek responsible ways to enjoy Africa’s extraordinary biodiversity and meet her people.
Through our mix of tailor-made safaris, conservation journalism and bespoke donations, we shine a spotlight on authentic Africa to foster celebration and understanding.
Our business practices are aligned with our ethics, and we work continuously to have a positive impact on Africa, our home.
In the face of AI slop, algorithmic abuse, and paid campaigns clogging our screens, we need all the help we can get on our chosen path: authentic, original stories and safaris. Thank you, Condé Nast, for recognising our efforts!
Simon Espley – CEO, Africa Geographic
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From our Editor – Taryn van Jaarsveld
Leopards are famously adaptable, slipping through forests, deserts and city edges across Africa. But in South Africa’s Cape Floristic Region, they’ve taken adaptation to another level.
The leopards of the Cape are smaller, tougher and genetically distinct from other African leopards. A new whole-genome study reveals that Cape leopards have been isolated for around 20,000 years, evolving in a rugged landscape where prey is smaller and scattered. The result? A unique lineage of leopard shaped by mountains, fynbos and survival in one of Africa’s most extraordinary ecosystems.
This week, we examine a new Serengeti study showing that impalas living near large, high-infrastructure lodges carry higher stress levels. The lesson is clear: lodge choice matters (we can help with that!). In landscapes built on wildlife movement, low-footprint camps, careful placement and strong environmental planning are essential.
We also tackle a classic safari debate: When visiting Victoria Falls, which side is best, Zimbabwe or Zambia? And of course, our Photographer of the Year weekly gallery returns with another spectacular collection of images from the continent.
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
OUR PHOTO PICKS
Our choice of photos for Week 3 of Photographer of the Year 2026. You can win a safari to Nyungwe NP, Rwanda
A recent study finds Serengeti impalas are more stressed near higher-occupancy lodges
Travel Desk – 2 African safari ideas
Victoria Falls & Chobe – 7 days
This safari visits two of Africa’s most popular safari meccas: the iconic Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe and Chobe, Botswana’s most popular national park. Enjoy an activity every day, from river cruises to game drives, a helicopter flight over Victoria Falls and, for the more adventurous, bungee jumping and river rafting – and so much more!
South Luangwa, Victoria Falls & Lake Malawi safari – 13 days
Explore the majesty of the mighty Zambezi River and Victoria Falls, and then head into the heart of the raw wilderness of South Luangwa National Park, Zambia – the birthplace of walking safaris and one of Africa’s leopard hotspots. Your last stop is Nankoma Island on Lake Malawi, where you’ll enjoy sun-soaked adventure and ultimate relaxation.
Still dreaming of the ultimate African safari escape? Browse our safari ideas here. Or click here to plan your safari.
Our safari guests say…
Our safari guest Todd from the USA went on a dream East Africa safari to Rwanda and Kenya:
Outstanding East Africa experience!
“AG organised an outstanding East African experience for me, my wife, and two friends. They set us up with great guides, lovely accommodations, and most importantly, incredible natural history experiences. Seamless travel. And when we wanted to make a last-minute change, they were right there to accommodate us in a timely manner. 6/5 rating!”
WATCH
This 10-minute documentary from the Greater Serengeti Conservation Society reveals the urgent challenges impacting one of Africa’s most iconic ecosystems: including population growth, climate change, and the vital role of the Mara River. Watch now to see what’s at stake and how we can make a difference. (09:42) Click here to watch.
Cover image: Enjoying the waters of the Zambezi in Devil’s Pool during the low-water season at Victoria Falls. © Chundukwa River Lodge
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