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Magical Liuwa photo diary + Zakouma’s thriving lions + honeymoon safari
Make some room, Big Five – there’s a new star in South Africa’s wildlife scene, and it’s a tiny amphibian with a big story. The newly discovered Cederberg dainty frog (Cacosternum cederbergense) has been hiding in plain sight for decades, mistaken for years for its distant cousin, the Karoo dainty frog. But after years of research, including many road trips through the Cederberg mountains, scientists have officially confirmed it’s an entirely new species. Even more exciting? It’s the first frog to be exclusively found in these mountains. This little frog can be distinguished from its close relatives by heart-shaped bumps on its hands, the lack of a dark streak from the eye to the iris, and its low-pitched call.
This discovery is a big conservation win, highlighting the significance of the Cederberg’s unique biodiversity. Amphibians such as frogs play vital roles in their ecosystems and are important indicators of environmental health. The discovery of Cacosternum cederbergense is a reminder of how important it is to protect Africa’s natural heritage and the creatures that call it home from habitat destruction.
This week, we look into why the lions of Zakouma NP, Chad, seem to be developing fussier appetites and why their prides are getting bigger. Also, check out the second part of Izak Smit’s Zambian photo travel diary, which showcases the wide open spaces and magnificent lions of Liuwa Plain NP.
Taryn van Jaarsveld – Editor
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!
Story 1
https://africageographic.com/stories/travel-diary-our-liuwa-plain-safari/
LIUWA PLAIN
Photo travel diary: Liuwa Plain NP is another Zambian hidden gem, where thunderstorms transform plains into lush landscapes dense with wildlife
Story 2
https://africageographic.com/stories/changing-tastes-zakoumas-lions/
CHANGING TASTES
Improved management in Zakouma, Chad, has led to healthier prey populations. Lions now favour larger species & prides are getting bigger
TRAVEL DESK:
Care to be tempted by two unforgettable safaris? Check out the luxurious honeymoon safari below, or our enticing exploration of Botswana’s vast ecosystems and Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe. Let our experts start planning your safari today
Honeymoon bliss – South Africa – from Winelands to wildlife – 8 days – from ZAR207,580 per couple
This safari is an intimate and romantic honeymoon adventure, blending the elegance of Cape Town with the wild allure of Sabi Sands in Greater Kruger. Start off exploring Cape Town’s vibrant culture, stunning beaches, and acclaimed wine routes. Then move on to a Big 5 adventure in Sabi Sands in lavish luxury whilst enjoying thrilling game drives and bush walks, encountering Africa’s iconic wildlife and creating memories that will last a lifetime.
Desert & delta – Botswana & Zimbabwe – 11 days – from US$5,795pps
This bumper safari is about water – or the lack thereof.
Embark on a safari filled with adventure that will take you from the majestic Victoria Falls to the watery wilderness of the Okavango Delta, and from Chobe NP and the predator-rich northern Botswana floodplains to the remote Central Kalahari and desolate salt pans. The wildlife that thrives in these landscapes is as astonishing as it is varied. Look forward to 11 days of safari splendour.
Or in search of something completely different? Check out a variety of safari ideas here
What our safari clients say
We love hearing happy tales from our clients. Gail and Roy spent four weeks exploring Namibia, and Rocco went on an unforgettable safari to Uganda and Kenya in search of chimps, gorillas and shoebills:
“This was an epic trip to Namibia over four weeks. From initial planning through to ongoing support, Christian from Africa Geographic was outstanding. Every day, there were highlights, but our favourites included Fish River Canyon, kayaking near seals, driving over dunes near Walvis Bay, rafting in the Kunene River and incredible game viewing in Etosha. Our driver/guide was excellent, as were all accommodations.” – Gail
“My trip to Uganda and Kenya was one of my best experiences so far. The planning went smoothly – everything was arranged exactly as I had imagined. The accommodations were excellent and met all my expectations. The diversity of landscapes and wildlife was impressive, with new highlights every day. Overall, this was my best trip yet – perfectly organised and unforgettable.” – Rocco
Want to join our safari tribe and have safari experiences like these? Get in touch, and let’s start planning your unique African safari!
WATCH: Is October the best safari month? Many of our safari experts view October as the best time to safari in Africa. With predators easy to spot at waterholes in southern Africa, fewer crowds at Mara River wildebeest crossings and warm weather at the beach, there are plenty of reasons to start planning next year’s October safari now. (02:00) Click here to watch
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