I tried to whittle this down to fifteen favorite wildlife images or special moments, but sixteen was the best that I could muster.
Hoanib Skeleton Coast Camp in Namibia is the most stunning lodge that I have visited in all of my adventures across Southern Africa in no small part because of the the surreal landscape of undulating sand dunes, punctuated by rocky hills, and sustained by a riverbed that flows once a year bringing life to this dusty, dry desert. The giraffe, elephants, and lions seem incongruous with the habitat, but they have adapted to their harsh environs which is perhaps why animal viewing here is thrilling.
A friend recently proposed the question, “Does going on safari aid conservation?” Protecting the land and all the species that inhabit the land is critically important to ensure this incredible resource is available for the generations of local community members and tourists. I believe sustainable wildlife tourism is a critical component to ensuring this happens.
Every safari is different and what animals you see can be influenced by the time of year, weather conditions, sheer luck, and the incredible skill of the ranger and tracker. This latest trip to Phinda Private Game Reserve was replete with incredible predator sightings, including lions.
As our airplane flies low over the Zambezi River I count numerous elephants and hippos grazing along the verdant banks and wallowing in the cool river current. We circle back to land on the dusty, dirt runway and as the plane doors open, I am blasted by a hot breeze that offers little relief. From the airstrip, it is a short drive to the river where we board a boat for Sausage Tree Camp where I will be spending the next three nights.
Once you have booked your safari, in addition to obsessing over what to pack, chances are you will start considering what type of photography equipment you need. Now that you have a camera and a lens here are my safari photography tips from one amateur to another.