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THE Big-5 guide + Lake Mburo + pro photo safari
Try this method to REBOOT your appreciation of Africa’s awesomeness when you are next on safari. Come game drive time, leave the camera and mobile phone back at camp. Separation anxiety is a real thing, but it will pass as you enjoy the theatre of the wild. Your senses will swell with a sense of purpose as you engage them more fully to extract the nuances of every natural signal that enters your personal space. You see, when we use our recording devices we deactivate most of these senses to focus purely on the mission to create a digital confirmation of real life. We outsource the experience to a device and focus instead on the device settings and lens view. Compare the wild celebrations of previous New Year’s Eve parties when that clock struck midnight to the current version: mute creatures pointing cell phones in the air. Get my point? Savour the moments on that game drive and think about a revamped relationship with your recording device – make it subservient to your appreciation and enjoyment of life.
Thanks to all who shared last week’s story about two more giant elephants – super tuskers – killed by trophy hunters. The article caused quite a stir on social media: there has been a slew of debate and we are proud to have triggered that essential process. Some important people have taken notice and we hope that wise decisions are being made. Thanks also to those who sent us additional information about the hunting parties involved – all useful info has been forwarded to relevant organisations. KEEP SHARING the article! A luta continua
Simon Espley – CEO, Africa Geographic
From our Editor – Taryn van Jaarsveld
How do plants survive droughts in arid areas? Well, in the semi-desert of the Karoo, South Africa, the hero of our story is none other than a tiny tortoise.
Did you know that the diminutive Karoo dwarf tortoise plays an essential role in the survival of plants in the Karoo? At 11cm long, the tortoise is one of the world’s smallest. Researchers have just found that the tortoises plays a vital part in helping plants to survive drought by dispersing seeds to suitable microsites for germination. The tortoise locates and eats rare plants, and passes viable seeds through its digestive tract. As an added bonus, the tortoise’s preferred habitat of ample shade and run-off water happens to be the ideal habitat for germination. And that is how this tiny, highly endangered tortoise packs a huge punch, highlighting the broad role that understudied species can play in a landscape.
Talking about dynamite in small packages, don’t miss our story on Lake Mburo, Uganda’s smallest national park – which offers ample wildlife and diverse habitats. And if you’re on a quest to see the Big 5 on safari, check out the essential tips and ready-made safaris in our second story below.
Story 1
https://africageographic.com/stories/lake-mburo-national-park/
LAKE MBURO
Uganda’s smallest national park offers ample natural diversity – from lakes to savannah, giraffes to leopards, and birding
Story 2
https://africageographic.com/travel/experiences/big-5-safari
BIG 5 SAFARI
Seeing lions, leopards, elephants, buffalos & rhinos on safari is always a special experience. Here are our tips on how and where to spot them
TRAVEL DESK:
Maasai Mara specialist photographic safari – Kenya – 9 days – from US$7,255pps
Fancy a guided photographic safari in the Maasai Mara? Join award-winning photographer Arnfinn Johansen on this exclusive safari for four guests in Maasai Mara, Kenya. Highlights include guided game drives by an experienced Maasai guide in a modified photographic vehicle, and accommodation at Oltepesi Tented Safari Camp.
Or looking for something different? Our experts are ready to design your unique African Safari experience.
Trip Report
Olivier Billon and family went on a South African safari with AG. From Greater Kruger to Cape Town, the Billons had a whirlwind taste of the best South Africa has to offer. Olivier says:
“We had a marvellous family trip during the Christmas holidays. AG tailor-made a perfect trip for us. The choice of lodges in the Kruger area was very good and well sequenced – and we met very professional and smiling staff everywhere. The accommodation in Cape Town was very comfortable and well located. The communication with AG’s travel experts was very fluid and efficient. We highly recommend AG!”
Want to experience the best of South Africa? Check out this iconic bush & beach safari
WATCH: Not for the faint hearted. A rhino stuck in a muddy waterhole attracts the attention of hungry lions… But will a passing elephant be able to help? These tourists witnessed hours of wildlife action at Aus waterhole in Etosha National Park. (02:58) Click here to watch
For more videos celebrating Africa, check out our videos here
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