OUR WEEKLY NEWSLETTER
Visit BBC’s Nsefu Kingdom + elephant breakthrough
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From our CEO – Simon Espley
NOW IS THE TIME: Shape up or ship out
Now that the CITES CoP20 in Samarkand, Uzbekistan, has slammed the door on Southern Africa’s doomed strategy to monetise ivory and rhino horn, it’s surely time for the sustainable wildlife industries to take a good, hard look at themselves.
The world no longer accepts the blunt ‘use it or lose it’ mantra, the fake claims of scientific methods and community benefits and the bullying of those of us who challenge their claims with probing questions. Decision-makers have made it clear that the primary focus on money does not cut it in wildlife conservation. That glossing over illegal and immoral practices has to stop if this once-proud industry is to rise from its self-imposed exile. They see through the thin veneer to the systemic flaws and credibility failures of a conservation model that is failing us all.
Where are the principled leaders who will step up in an industry so critical to protecting our biodiversity? Who will exorcise the morally bankrupt operators in their midst? Who will win back those, like me, who truly believe in sustainable wildlife use when conducted legally, ethically, and with science as the cornerstone? Will the respected farmers and landowners take their industry by the throat and turn it around, or is the rot so deep that the industry will never meet its potential? Time will tell. This Daily Maverick article makes for an excellent read on the matter.
On the same tack, thanks to all who provided feedback on my previous editorial and on our recent article about the Botswana elephant-hunting industry. One respected doyen of the tourism industry dropped me this message:
“We never had enough big old gentleman elephant bulls to satisfy this quota. And the impact of the over-extraction is now evident when one travels around Botswana. Sure, there are the occasional older bulls that have survived by keeping away from the hunting areas, and there are plenty of 30-something bulls around, but we are missing those grand old gents who are no longer around at scale to guide and mentor the greater herd.“ Enough said.
Simon Espley – CEO, Africa Geographic
Click below to listen to this editorial
From our Editor – Taryn van Jaarsveld
Leopards of the Western Cape are famously difficult to study. But new camera-trap findings from the Cape Leopard Trust show these predators are holding their ground in the Boland mountains. Over five months, camera trap images confirmed at least 38 individual leopards in the Boland, including breeding females.
Leopard detections at 72% of the 90 paired camera stations point to a stable, wide-ranging population in a landscape where the species has long persisted under pressure. The data will now be used to calculate density and compare trends with the region’s earlier surveys. So far, the positive trend shows that landowner co-operation and addressing illegal activity that threatens biodiversity in the Boland are paying off. And while researchers crunch the data, the leopards keep charting their own maps across the mountains, leaving a few glimpses in their path.
This week, we also unpack the latest data on Africa’s forest elephants – the most accurate representation of actual populations yet. We also revisit the enduring allure of South Luangwa and Nsefu with a comprehensive guide to visiting this incredible safari destination that has inspired the BBC’s Kingdom series.
Yours in wild adventure,
Did you know? Your African safari choice makes a difference
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
SOUTH LUANGWA
Your guide to South Luangwa and Nsefu, Zambia: walking safaris, game drives, predators, top camps, and Luangwa River magicbulls
FOREST ELEPHANTS
Clearer numbers, urgent threats: what the latest data reveal about Africa’s forest elephants, and their Critically Endangered status
Travel Desk – 2 African safari ideas
Best of Zambia – 13 days – from US$13,700pps
The Big 5, leopards galore and iconic landscapes: this safari focuses on two of Africa’s premier leopard locations, renowned for their relaxed spotted cats. From iconic elephants to giant baobab trees on wide, sandy riverbeds and cable-car river crossings to epic scenic flights, this safari has it all for those who seek an exclusive journey of discovery and adventure.
Ultimate South Luangwa – 8 days – from US$9,950pps
Discover the untamed beauty of South Luangwa National Park, Zambia – a renowned leopard stronghold and the birthplace of walking safaris. Embark on expertly guided bush walks and game drives, spend a night under the stars in a secluded sleepout, and refine your photographic skills in one of Africa’s finest hides. An authentic safari experience that reconnects you with the wild at its most raw and real.
Still dreaming of the ultimate African safari escape? Browse our safaris ideas here. Or click here to plan your safari.
Your conservation impact…
Thank you for making a difference.
Your safari booking has directly supported the Ingwe Research Program’s Road Ecology Project – with a US$13,620 donation. Ingwe identifies leopard roadkill hotspots and safe wildlife crossings to protect vulnerable wildlife.
Your contribution will help fund the project’s final data-collection phase, scheduled for January–April 2026. This crucial field survey will provide the data needed to implement long-term mitigation measures and reduce wildlife-vehicle collisions. Support from Africa Geographic guests has arrived at the perfect moment, giving the project the stability it needs to move into its next phase.
You can make an even greater impact by joining and donating via our Spots on the Line campaign, which funds fieldwork, camera traps, and data analysis that save leopards.
When you travel with us, you’re not just exploring Africa’s wild places – you’re helping protect them. Check out some of our safari ideas here.
WATCH – AFRICAN SAFARI INSPIRATION:
A wild dog hunt, a pregnant hyena caught in the chaos, and a lion waiting to steal the moment. South Luangwa’s Nsefu delivers raw, gripping drama in the BBC’s Kingdom. (03:06) Click here to watch
Safely huddled in its mother’s frame, a milk-drunk young lion cub peers out with wide-eyed curiosity. South Luangwa National Park, Zambia. © Roderick Jongschaap
Photographer of the Year 2025 finalist
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