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Elephants from space + Is this the best Kruger reserve?
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From our Editor – Taryn van Jaarsveld
When a bird tells a giraffe there’s a lion nearby, does the giraffe believe it?
It turns out that giraffes are good at deciding which warnings deserve their attention. Red-billed oxpeckers spend much of their time perched on large mammals, feeding on ticks and sounding the alarm when something disturbs them. But how seriously do giraffes take these warnings?
In a new study, researchers played recordings of lion roars, oxpecker alarm calls and dove calls to free-ranging giraffes. The giraffes responded to both the lions and oxpeckers, but barely reacted to the doves. Lion calls also prompted greater vigilance, suggesting that giraffes distinguish between an indirect warning and the sound of a dangerous predator. The birds provide a useful early-warning service, but when a lion starts roaring, that’s when giraffes pay attention!
Also this week, we explore a fascinating new approach to counting Botswana’s elephants from space. Could satellites and artificial intelligence transform the way we monitor elephant populations? And for those planning their next safari, we’re exploring Greater Kruger’s top private reserves, from Sabi Sand’s famous leopard sightings to Timbavati’s diverse landscapes, helping you discover what sets each reserve apart.
Did you know?
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 safari choice does make a difference – thank you!
Our stories this week
GREATER KRUGER RESERVES
Explore Greater Kruger’s top private reserves, from Sabi Sand to Timbavati. Find the perfect fit for your next safari
ELEPHANTS FROM SPACE
Scientists tested satellites and AI to count Botswana’s elephants, revealing both the technology’s potential and its current limitations
LAST CHANCE TO VOTE FOR AFRICA GEOGAPHIC!
Africa Geographic was named Africa’s Leading Luxury Safari Company 2026. Now, we have been nominated as the World’s Leading Luxury Safari Company 2026.
You know what we bring to safari: decades of expertise, exceptional journeys, trusted relationships and a deep commitment to Africa. It’s time to take that recognition to the world stage.
Vote for Africa Geographic as the World’s Leading Luxury Safari Company 2026 here.
Voting closes 9 November 2026.
Travel Desk – 2 African safari ideas
Kruger, Cape Town & Winelands – 11 days
An iconic luxury bush, beach, city and vineyards safari. This elegant South African journey combines Big Five game viewing in Thornybush Private Nature Reserve with the vibrant energy of Cape Town and the scenic beauty of the Cape Winelands. From intimate wildlife encounters to coastal adventures, world-class dining and historic wine estates, enjoy the perfect blend of wilderness, culture and indulgence.
Botswana wildlife safari & Victoria Falls – 9 days
This iconic safari combines the wildlife riches of Khwai in the eastern reaches of the Okavango Delta and Chobe National Park in Botswana, with the awe-inspiring majesty of Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe. First, you’ll visit Khwai to get your predator fix, then move on to Chobe to witness massive herds of elephants and other wildlife along the banks of the Chobe River. And last but not least, witness the mighty Zambezi River plunge into the misty gorges below at iconic Victoria Falls.
Still dreaming of the ultimate African safari escape? Browse our safari ideas here. Or click here to plan your safari.
OUR SAFARI GUESTS SAY…
AG safari guests Claire and Christine from Australia, together with eight friends, travelled to South Luangwa in search of African wild dogs. Both shared their experience:
Claire: “We found two packs of wild dogs to follow, along with other wildlife, including four prides of lions. Our guides were truly brilliant. The camp was a delight. Our booking process was easy and professional thanks to Stefan and Wayne.” Read Claire’s full review
Christine: “Our trip was so much more than just the wild dogs we had hoped to see, with incredibly rich sightings of many species of animals and birds. Excellent accommodation and hospitality at Nkonzi Bush Camp and the support of two excellent guides, Jabes and Wilson, provided depth and context for everything we saw. A very memorable experience.” Read Christine’s full review
Explore our private group safari ideas
WATCH
For decades, Big Life Foundation has worked alongside Maasai communities to protect the elephants, iconic tuskers and other wildlife of Kenya’s Amboseli ecosystem. But growing development, fencing and habitat fragmentation now threaten vital wildlife corridors. This beautifully filmed short documentary explores how community-led conservation, including long-term land leases, is helping keep these migration routes open while supporting local livelihoods. (05:56) Click here to watch
Cover image: Two hyena cubs creep out of their den, near Balule Satellite Camp, to meet their mother in the early morning light. Kruger National Park, South Africa. © Charmaine Joubert
Photographer of the Year 2022 entry
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