THIS WEEK

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Trophy hunting in Madikwe? + understanding Okavango + wild dog safari

Safaris don’t happen on Instagram

The bull elephant stood meters from us, his posture oozing curiosity and perhaps a degree of uncertainty. We were silent, relaxed and absorbed in the moment. This was inter-species communication via sentience and body language. I was doing bush time with Lizz and two close friends, all experienced in the ways of observation and enjoying each moment for what it is.

My photo (above) has attracted a few suggestions that we were ‘too close’ and ‘reckless’, etc. The de rigueur keyboard reaction to a single image that seldom captures the true essence of the experience – the Instagram safari. You will better understand the moment in our video below.

Earlier, we were trundling along a dusty winter morning bush track in an old Landy when we spotted a herd of frisky bulls jostling a hundred meters away. We switched off and watched the spectacle. One of the ellies broke off and headed our way, the others moving off to our right, still messing about. Our bull approached in that jaunty way they have, the shuffle-run that covers ground quickly, his head bobbing and trunk swinging. Yet his last few meters were all about cautious curiosity before he settled down next to us. His bright, observant eyes took us all in, scanning our vehicle and watching our every move. After several minutes of safari nirvana, he gave us a wonderful ear-clap and we respected the message by heading off.

The best safari moments happen in between photos – those moments of learning and wonderment. For our safari guests already out there, or about to head out, safari njema, good people!

Simon Espley – CEO, Africa Geographic

From our Editor – Taryn van Jaarsveld

City life is bulking up the locals – and we’re not just talking about gym bros. Did you know that some dwarf chameleons living in cities are growing bigger than their wilderness counterparts? Research reveals that African dwarf chameleons living in urban environments are not only surviving – they’re thriving. Compared to their countryside cousins, city slickers of the Bradypodion genus are longer, heavier, and in better shape overall.

Factors like abundant food, fewer predators, and a lesser need for climbing trees could be behind this growth spurt in the city dwellers. However, other studies have noted higher competition between males in other dwarf chameleon species in urban areas. Either way, it’s a fascinating peek into how some reptiles are adapting fast to our concrete jungles. So next time you spot a Bradypodion in the suburbs – that little dude might just be living his best life.

This week we share the news that trophy hunting may return to Madikwe & Pilanesberg, targeting elephant & buffalo in both parks, & rhino in Madikwe – according to a tender invitation from the North West Parks and Tourism Board. See the story below. Plus, we also share our comprehensive guide to understanding the Okavango Delta.

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!

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TRAVEL DESK: 

2 SAFARI IDEAS

OUR SAFARI GUESTS SAY…

Another 5-star review for teamAG! Seasoned AG safari guest Roger enjoyed an unforgettable Greater Kruger and Kalahari safari:

“South Africa May 2025. After last year’s visit to Timbavati Nature Reserve and Tswalu Kalahari Reserve, I was keen to repeat the experience as these two places always deliver great viewing and their staff are excellent.

Whilst in Timbavati, I heard about the white lions in Ngala, the reserve adjoining the Timbavati. I asked AG expert Christian to put together a trip including the three destinations above. The first stop was Tanda Tula, and as usual, the game viewing was excellent. Great sightings of a rhino and calf, lions bringing down a buffalo, leopards, and a first sighting of an African harrier hawk attempting to break into a hornbill nest in a tree trunk, to name a few.

Next stop was Ngala, and we saw two white lions: a female and a one-year-old cub. The final stop was Tswalu. During my visit last year, we spent a lot of time with the wild dogs but didn’t see them make a successful hunt. The priority this time was to see them hunt to conclusion. The guide made sure this was fulfilled. We saw three takedowns. Other great sightings included a black rhino with two equally long horns, caracal, aardvark, and brown hyena. Tswalu certainly delivered on this visit. I can’t wait to return.
All the connecting flights, transfers, etc. went without a hitch.

Yet another incredible experience organised by Christian. I’m looking forward to our next trip!”

Connect with us today, and check out some of our safari ideas here.

WATCH: Perhaps you have always wanted to see the Big 5 with your family, trek for mountain gorillas, or watch the drama of the Serengeti great migration, followed by sand-in-your-toes time on a white sandy beach? Or maybe you seek absolute wilderness, where it’s just you and your thoughts. Africa Geographic makes these dreams come true for you. Ask Africa Geographic to plan your next African safari. (01:06) Click here to watch

For more videos celebrating Africa, check out our videos here

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