THIS WEEK - Africa Geographic

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First epic photos + Mara coexistence

The other way to enjoy gorilla encounters…

The tourism industry’s stellar gorilla trekking permit system generates significant revenue to fund gorilla conservation efforts – long may this last. One result of this strategy is that our perception of gorillas is based on a one-hour close encounter with a habituated gorilla group. Thankfully, rules such as wearing a mask and not approaching closer than 7m keep the gorillas safe from disease. BUT there is another way to observe gorillas.

In the central portion of Congo-Brazzaville’s Odzala-Kokoua National Park, gorilla watching is from elevated covered treehouses that overlook baïs. A baï is a swampy clearing in the forest where wildlife gathers to drink and ingest mineral-rich soil. This is the best way to observe secretive species such as forest elephants, forest buffaloes, bongos, western lowland gorillas and many bird species. One such baï is a 3-minute stroll from Camp Imbalanga (you can come and go as you please).

Once the western lowland gorillas arrive, your encounter is not time-limited – your sighting could last hours or minutes. You can remain in your treehouse for as long as daylight permits. These unhabituated gorillas visit regularly, sometimes resulting in multiple encounters in one sitting. Of course, no masks are required, as this is not a close encounter.

Note that this form of gorilla watching isn’t possible near any other lodges in this vast park. And there is no strenuous trekking involved. FIND OUT MORE about watching western lowland gorillas and book your spot in that treehouse near Camp Imbalanga.

Thanks for reading.

Simon Espley – CEO, Africa Geographic

From our Editor – Taryn van Jaarsveld

For years, conservationists swore Nigeria-Cameroon chimpanzees still roamed Ise Conservation Area in Nigeria. But the sceptics weren’t convinced. Now, thanks to a well-placed camera trap, the chimps have finally broken their cover – swinging, snacking, and proving they’re very much still around.

This tiny rainforest patch, battered by deforestation and marijuana farms, is their last refuge. With fewer than 25 individuals left in Ise and only a few thousand left in the wild, the chimps are a rare genetic treasure. Conservationists are celebrating, and locals are rallying behind the cause. The message is clear: if we protect their home, they might just stick around.

The AG office is abuzz this week, as Photographer of the Year is finally here and we’ve just voted on our first batch of entries. Don’t miss this epic gallery! And we also look at new perspectives on the coexistence of Maasai herders and wildlife in the Mara. Check it out below.

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/photographer-of-the-year-2025-weekly-selection-week-1/
PIONEERING PICS
Photographer of the Year 2025 is here! Enter for a chance to win a safari to incredible Odzala-Kokoua National Park, Congo-Brazzaville

Story 2
https://africageographic.com/stories/livestock-wildlife-and-the-future-of-the-maasai-mara/
COEXISTENCE IN MARA
Do cattle in the Maasai Mara harm wildlife or land? Recent studies challenge exclusion policies and call for a new conservation approach

TRAVEL DESK:

Our safari picks of the week

Africa’s ultimate primate safari – 8 days – from US$5,905pps

Join an eight-day primate quest to meet some of the most iconic apes and monkey species of East and Central Africa. From the critically endangered Grauer’s gorilla in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and the fabled mountain gorillas in the Virungas to the charismatic golden monkeys and primal pant-hooting chimpanzees of Nyungwe (Rwanda), this safari is a celebration of all things primate. And, of course, the spectacular scenery and enthralling birding are bonuses!

Classic Tanzania: bush & beach safari – 10 days – from US$6,910pps

Discover Tanzania’s popular northern safari circuit, including Ngorongoro Crater and Serengeti NP, and the idyllic serene beaches of Zanzibar. This safari offers you a seamless introduction to the wonders of a Tanzanian bush and island retreat. Immerse yourself in these iconic locations whilst exploring diverse landscapes and rich culture.

Still searching for that handcrafted experiential safari? Browse our ready-made safari ideas OR click here for free safari planning.

Hwange’s lion watchers

Deep in Hwange, the Long Shield Guardians stand between lions and community livelihoods. These local heroes use GPS collars, WhatsApp alerts, and daily patrols to keep villages safe from roaming predators – stopping human-wildlife conflict before it starts. Their game-changing ‘Mobile Boma’ concept protects cattle, boosts food security, and reduces lion killings. The result? Thriving crops, safer communities, and a future where people and predators coexist.
Support the guardians of the wild – learn more and donate today!

WATCH: Drunk elephants? Not really… But seeing the odd behaviour of these elephants, we wouldn’t blame you for thinking they are. Stumbling around and acting a bit clumsy, these elephants gave their onlookers in MalaMala Game Reserve quite a show. (01:26) Click here to watch

For more videos celebrating Africa, check out our videos here

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