Malaria-free safari spots + AI giraffe IDs + cheetah tracking safari
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From our Editor – Taryn van Jaarsveld
Researchers in South Africa have uncovered something remarkable: animal tracks preserved in rock that date back about 3 million years. These are the first recorded Pliocene vertebrate tracks described from southern Africa. The prints come from the Wankoe Formation in the Western Cape, a band of ancient inland dunes, now cemented, that has rarely revealed any fossils. But careful searching changed that. The team has now found raised trackways from a variety of animals. The discoveries hint at a far richer fossil story in this region, with the chance to link these traces to well-known body fossils from sites like Langebaanweg. The work also raises a tantalising possibility. With more exploration, researchers may one day find early hominin tracks here too – a new “holy grail” for the research team…
This week, we bring you a handy guide to South Africa’s best malaria-free safari destinations, and take a look at the AI photo-ID tech helping giraffe numbers rebound. Read on for some lekker insights.
Yours in wild adventure,
Taryn van Jaarsveld – Africa Geographic Editor
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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
MALARIA-FREE SAFARIS
Want to head on safari while avoiding the risk of malaria? Here’s our round-up of the best malaria-free safari destinations in South Africa
AI + GIRAFFES
AI photo ID is turning giraffe snapshots into real-time population data – sharpening surveys and strengthening conservation
Travel Desk – 2 African safari ideas
Cheetah conservation safari – 7 days – from ZAR135,000pps
This safari is all about cheetahs. Experience luxury in malaria-free Big 5 reserves in South Africa’s Eastern Cape and Great Karoo while tracking cheetahs and discovering inspiring rewilding success stories. Enjoy family-friendly activities, authentic farmhouse-style lodges, and meaningful travel with purpose.
Malaria-free Big 5 safari in South Africa – 9 days – from ZAR138,000pps
Discover two of South Africa’s most spectacular malaria-free reserves on a classic Big Five safari. Start in Marataba within Marakele National Park with guided game drives, bush walks and riverside relaxation. Then, continue on to community-owned Madikwe Game Reserve, known for its thriving wildlife, expert guiding, seamless transfers and luxurious, family-friendly lodges. This safari is ideal for families and first-time safari goers.
Still dreaming of the ultimate African safari escape? Browse our safaris ideas here. Or click here to plan your safari.
Our safari guests say…
AG safari guests Robbert from the Netherlands and Susan from the USA went on a specialist photographic safari to the Maasai Mara:
“Excellent tour operator. The communication with Christian during booking was excellent. Everything I wanted to do was discussed and added to the itinerary. At the destination, everything was taken care of, so I could enjoy my holiday.” – Robbert, Netherlands
“Excellence of Oltepesi, Maasai Mara. I have been on 3 African safaris this year. This one through Africa Geographic at Oltepesi Tented Safari Camp, Maasai Mara, was BY FAR the best. I was attracted to this safari, knowing of the work of award-winning photographer Arnfinn Johansen, and that it is specific to serious photographers. I was told to prepare to be on the road for 13 hours a day, often waiting long periods of time to achieve just the right shot. And, indeed, it was exactly that! Knowing the terrain like the back of his hand, our driver John… found a leopard in the tree that awakened and began a hunt. He also found a lioness bringing a kill to her playful cubs, as well as several other hunts. We experienced the joyful reunion of two sister lionesses and cubs. Throughout, Arnfinn was readily available to share his valuable expertise. He has set the tone for the lodge, and his respect for the Maasai people is obvious. The staff is treated as family and those at the lodge are considered guests in their home. Importantly, the camp engages in philanthropic support of the local Maasai village. This African expedition has my unqualified, strongest possible recommendation.” – Susan, USA
WATCH – AFRICAN SAFARI INSPIRATION:
Meet Rahima Njaidi, winner of the 2025 Tusk Award for Conservation in Africa. Her community-led approach to forest protection, land rights and gender equality is reshaping the future of Tanzania’s forests. (04:51) Click here to watch
Cover photo: Tracking wild cheetahs on foot in the malaria-free Karoo. On a cheetah conservation safari, travellers learn about the species’ successful reintroduction and protection. Samara Karoo Reserve, South Africa. © Plains Camp
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