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Of glorians and other mysteries
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From our CEO – Simon Espley
A new word for me:
So, today I learned the term for what is an ongoing daily delight: nature tapping me on the shoulder to remind me about life’s mysteries; often unexplained, always totally awesome.
“Glorians” are ordinary, often overlooked presences in nature and everyday life that reveal our interconnectedness with the world, as popularised by environmental activist and writer Terry Tempest Williams. They could be the scent of blossoms drifting in the air or elephants pushing over a tree to reach new leaves in the crown.
This morning, while mulling over business challenges in the safari industry caused by global uncertainties, and fuelled by a mug of pressed coffee, my thoughts were interrupted.
Recently, every morning just after sunrise, a squadron of Cape glossy and Burchell’s starlings streak overhead like Exocet missiles, their wingbeats reverberating in the air, destination unknown. Today, though, they interrupted their flight path to descend on a flowering mountain aloe in our garden; the yellow-orange flowers a beacon in the drab winter landscape. It’s a chilly morning, and the starlings have an energy budget to top up after a long night. About 50 birds harvested the nectar, waiting in nearby trees to take their turn, clambering on the head of flowers and bickering loudly. Then, all of a sudden, they were gone.
Speaking of amazing natural events, we still have a few bednights left to experience the Okavango Delta floods during the prime safari season this year (or next). Check out this amazing itinerary and contact my team to craft your own safari. Or, why not treat your friends and family members to this safari and earn up to $1,000?
Simon Espley – CEO, Africa Geographic
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Or, listen to all Simon’s past editorials here
From our Editor – Taryn van Jaarsveld
How many large mammals are still waiting to be discovered? More than you might think. Scientists have just described only the fifth new African monkey species discovered in the past 75 years: a shy, canopy-dwelling colobus from the forests of the DRC with striking pink-orange lips. Known locally as the Likweli, it had eluded science despite living within reach of nearby villages. In interviews across 52 communities, people in only eight had ever seen it. Living high in the canopy, this elusive monkey is more often heard than seen, announcing its presence with a deep, resonant roar. Like all colobus monkeys, it lacks thumbs, but this is no handicap. Instead, the absence of thumbs allows these agile primates to move more efficiently through the treetops without their hands catching on branches. Researchers also hope to uncover the purpose of its remarkable pink-orange lips and what other secrets this mysterious primate still holds.
This week, we reveal where you’re most likely to tick off all of the Big 5 on a single safari, with our expert guide to Africa’s top Big 5 destinations. We also journey to Kenya’s spectacular Samburu, where rare wildlife, rich culture and the iconic Samburu Special Five make this one of East Africa’s most rewarding safari destinations.
Our stories this week
DISCOVER SAMBURU
Samburu – an arid land steeped in rich tradition, where people, livestock, and wildlife thrive side by side, sharing precious resources.
BIG 5 – ONE SAFARI
Can you really see all the Big 5 on one safari? We’ve ranked the best places to see all five iconic species in a single trip.
Travel Desk – 2 African safari ideas
Family safari to Maasai Mara, Amboseli & Samburu – 9 days
Three iconic parks, unforgettable wildlife and family fun for all. This safari combines Kenya’s three most iconic wildlife destinations, from the Great Migration and Big Five of the Maasai Mara to Amboseli’s giant tuskers and Samburu’s unique Special Five. Packed with family-friendly activities, exceptional wildlife and time to simply relax together, it’s an adventure everyone will remember.
MalaMala & Madikwe Big 5 safari – 9 days
An exclusive journey in search of the Big Five and much more. Track the Big Five across two of Africa’s finest wildlife destinations, MalaMala and Madikwe, where contrasting landscapes deliver vastly different safari experiences. Expect exceptional game viewing, from near-guaranteed leopards to brown hyenas and gemsbok, while staying at two exclusive lodges renowned for their privacy, heritage and outstanding guiding.
Still dreaming of the ultimate African safari escape? Browse our safari ideas here. Or click here to plan your safari.
YOUR SAFARI – YOUR IMPACT
Every Africa Geographic safari helps protect the people who protect Africa’s wildlife.
Thanks to travellers who book with us, we’ve donated to the Southern African Conservation Trust’s Shepherd’s Shield programme. A portion of every safari booking funds carefully selected conservation initiatives that protect wildlife, support frontline conservation teams and deliver practical solutions where they’re needed most.
Our donation helps provide specialist accident and medical insurance for Animal Protection Unit rangers and elephant shepherds working on the frontline. These teams respond to human-wildlife conflict, remove snares and protect both wildlife and neighbouring communities.
Book an Africa Geographic safari and help us continue funding conservation that counts. You can also support the Shepherd’s Shield programme directly here and help protect the people who protect Africa’s wildlife.
Plan your dream African safari with us – and travel knowing your safari funds conservation that counts.
We’ve been nominated as Africa’s Leading Tour Operator AND as Africa’s Leading Luxury Safari Company in the 2026 World Travel Awards, and we’d love your support.
By voting for Africa Geographic, you’re backing a more conscious and meaningful way to travel: one that celebrates Africa’s extraordinary biodiversity, connects travellers with authentic experiences, and contributes to conservation on the ground. Voting closes today, 17 July, at midnight!
How to vote:
1. Register here.
2. Complete the short sign-up form and check your inbox to activate your account.
3. Once registered, head to the Africa voting page here.
4. Scroll down to the following categories, click on them, and vote for Africa Geographic:
- Africa’s Leading Tour Operator 2026
- Africa’s Leading Luxury Safari Company 2026
Every vote genuinely helps, and we’re incredibly grateful for your support!
WATCH
Journey into the rainforests of Congo-Brazzaville’s Odzala-Kokoua National Park. Here, forest walks, river safaris and the remarkable Imbalanga Baï offer unforgettable encounters with western lowland gorillas, forest elephants, bongos and other elusive rainforest wildlife. This short film showcases one of Africa’s greatest wildernesses and our sister company, Ukuri. Click here to watch. (06:50)
Cover image: Like brushstrokes on a living canvas, a dazzle of Grévy’s zebras gathers to eat supplementary food provided in the midst of drought, forming a monochrome masterpiece. Samburu National Reserve, Kenya. © Janis Hurley
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