South Africa's West Coast National Park is open for Wildflower Season 2024! The wildflower season in South Africa's Cape region, typically occurs between August and September each year, when the otherwise arid landscape is transformed into a vibrant tapestry of bright, blooming flowers. This natural spectacle attracts visitors eager to witness the kaleidoscope of colours and diverse plant species unique to the Cape Floral Kingdom.
The West Coast National Park has announced the seasonal opening of the Postberg section of the park, welcoming visitors from 1 August to 30 September to enjoy the vibrant blooms – viewed daily between 9:00 to 17:00. Day trippers from Cape Town flock there over the weekends to enjoy this stunning natural display. The park also offers a "Spring Flowers" guide, a new birding booklet, and a children's bingo activity to keep them engaged.
Conservationists recently celebrated a decade of progress in expanding protected areas within the Succulent Karoo biome in Namaqualand, in South Africa's Northern Cape, under the Northern Cape Land Project. This initiative, a collaboration between Wilderness Foundation Africa (WFA) and WWF South Africa's Leslie Hill Succulent Karoo Trust (LHSKT), has successfully established 5 new nature reserves and one protected environment through stewardship agreements with landowners. These agreements allow landowners to retain ownership while committing to conservation-friendly practices, securing critical biodiversity in the region.
Francois van der Merwe, chair of the LHSKT, emphasised the significant threats facing the Succulent Karoo, including a potential 40% decrease in rainfall due to climate change, as well as challenges from plant poaching and mining. He stressed the urgent need to secure ecological corridors in the region. The celebration took place in Kamieskroon, the gateway to world-renowned Namaqua National Park, known for its breathtaking floral splendour each springtime.
Meanwhile, South Africa's first desert botanical garden has officially opened at the Sendelingsdrift Rest Camp in the |Ai-|Ais/Richtersveld Transfrontier Park. The |Ai-|Ais/Richtersveld Transfrontier Park is a rugged, cross-border conservation area between South Africa and Namibia, known for its dramatic mountain desert landscapes, including lava mountains, sandy plains, and unique flora like the distinctive "half mens" plants (tall succulents with a single stem topped by a cluster of leaves that always face north with a silhouette that looks like a human). This is one of the driest regions in southern Africa, relying on morning fog to sustain its diverse wildlife and supporting 30% of South Africa’s succulent plant species.
Developed by South African National Parks (SANParks) botanist Pieter van Wyk, the Richtersveld Desert Botanical Garden features 24 themed floral beds highlighting the region's unique desert flora. This garden, a collaboration between SANParks and the South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI), enhances the visitor experience at the camp, which offers access to rugged 4x4 trails and river paddling in one of southern Africa's largest and driest mountain desert parks.
Guests at Skukuza Golf Club in South Africa's Kruger National Park recently witnessed an extraordinary wildlife encounter when a group of predators converged on the final green to share an impala kill. The scene, which perfectly illustrates the untamed nature of the course, involved two lions, a crocodile, and a pack of hyenas feasting just meters from the clubhouse. Initially, the lions were seen hunting and killing an impala within clear view of the club’s restaurant. After the lions had eaten their fill, a crocodile and hyenas moved in to finish off the remains.
Skukuza Golf Club humorously commented on Facebook about the predators "cleaning up after themselves," adding a light-hearted note to the dramatic event. Skukuza Golf Club lies alongside Skukuza Rest Camp inside the Kruger National Park, the park's largest rest camp and administrative headquarters. The golf course is unique as it is unfenced, allowing animals to freely roam the area, offering golfers an extraordinary experience of playing amidst Africa's wildlife. Encounters with animals like baboons, impalas and elephants are commonplace. The event was documented in videos shared on YouTube and social media, highlighting the unique experience of a golf course in the heart of Kruger National Park.
The NamibRand Nature Reserve in southern Namibia has been named Africa’s first Wilderness Quiet Park by Quiet Parks International (QPI), a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving endangered quiet locations.
Covering 188,980 hectares of the Namib Desert, NamibRand is the largest private nature reserve in southern Africa and shares borders with the Namib-Naukluft National Park and the Namib Sand Sea World Heritage Site. This recognition highlights the reserve's commitment to protecting its natural soundscape and wilderness character, promoting awareness of natural sounds, and fostering a deeper connection to nature. Field recordist Edward Alant, who captured the serene sounds of NamibRand, praised the reserve's efforts to maintain the integrity of its natural ecosystem.
In addition to this distinction, this area is also renowned for its exceptional stargazing opportunities, NamibRand having been designated as a Gold Tier International Dark Sky Reserve in 2012.
See our blog post on the Namib Desert Animals who call this region home.
Zinave National Park in Mozambique has undergone a remarkable transformation over the past decade, thanks to the efforts of the Peace Parks Foundation and Conservation International. Once devastated by civil war, which decimated its wildlife, the park is now teeming with life after the reintroduction of over 2,400 animals, including elephants, rhinos, giraffes, and lions. The efforts in the park are part of a broader vision to extend the Great Limpopo Transfrontier Park, linking five national parks across South Africa, Mozambique, and Zimbabwe.
The ambitious project aims to provide vast, interconnected landscapes where wildlife can move and thrive, while also bringing economic benefits to local communities through eco-tourism and conservation initiatives. Central to the success of this endeavour is the implementation of advanced anti-poaching technologies like EarthRanger, which allows real-time monitoring of wildlife and rangers. Despite these advancements, challenges remain, particularly in balancing the needs of local communities with conservation efforts. Programs like Herding for Health, which promotes sustainable livestock grazing, have been introduced to mitigate conflicts between wildlife and communities. The return of predators such as lions to Zinave has marked a significant milestone, making it Mozambique’s first "Big Five" park and setting the stage for the development of tourism led by local communities. The park is now a hidden gem, off the beaten track and offering a rare, unspoiled experience for those intrepid adventurers who venture there.
This new 11-Day Southern Tanzania Safari - Nyerere & Mafia Island is a unique Southern Tanzania Bush & Beach Safari that takes you on a safari deep into the remote Nyerere National Park for spectacular wildlife encounters, before heading to the balmy East Africa coastline to visit the hidden gem of Mafia Island Marine Park.
Mafia Island is located in the Indian Ocean, about 160 kilometres (100 miles) south of Dar es Salaam, Tanzania's largest city, and roughly 25 kilometres (16 miles) off the coast of the mainland near the Rufiji River Delta. It is part of the Mafia Archipelago and lies north of the larger island of Zanzibar. This tranquil island offers a perfect escape for nature lovers, with its pristine beaches, lush mangroves, and the protected Mafia Island Marine Park, making it an ideal spot for snorkelling, diving, and eco-tourism. As Tanzania's first marine park, Mafia Island Marine Park boasts a protected area that includes vibrant coral reefs, mangroves, and seagrass beds. This underwater paradise is teeming with life, with the possibility of encounters with whale sharks, dolphins, turtles, and a host of colourful fish, especially in the clear waters of Chole Bay.
The park’s beautiful secluded beaches, such as Utende Beach, provide a serene retreat, making it a perfect destination for travellers seeking to soak up the sun amidst tranquillity and natural beauty. In addition to its natural attractions, Mafia Island offers a rich cultural experience, with influences from Arab, Portuguese, and German periods. The island’s small villages, such as Kilindoni, offer a glimpse into everyday life on Mafia, with its local markets and harbour. Visitors can step back in time watching the building of traditional wooden dhows. Dhow boats have been used for over a thousand years along the Swahili trade routes, with their origins tracing back to at least the 8th or 9th century. Traders sailed along the coasts of the Arabian Peninsula, East Africa, and India, facilitating trade across the Indian Ocean.
This combination of pristine marine environments and cultural heritage makes Mafia Island a compelling destination for those looking to explore more off-the-beaten-path compared to the busier holiday island of Zanzibar.
Our new Southern Africa Beach & Bush offerings include this 7-Day Beach & Bush Safari: Kruger & Mozambique – Santa Maria that spends three thrilling days on a wildlife Safari in South Africa's legendary Timbavati Private Reserve - which shares an unfenced border with the Kruger National Park - before jetting off to Mozambique for three blissful days on the beaches of the stunning Machangulo Peninsula in southern Mozambique.
The Machangulo Peninsula is an emerging beach destination known for its untouched beauty and diverse natural landscapes. Located just across Maputo Bay from Mozambique’s capital city, Maputo, this peninsula is part of a larger ecosystem that includes Inhaca Island, the Santa Maria Channel, and the Maputo Elephant Reserve. It boasts pristine, often deserted beaches with clear warm tropical waters rich with marine life – vibrant coral reefs teeming with hosts of colourful fish, eels, sea turtles, and many other fascinating sea creatures. It is an ideal spot for snorkelling, diving, and other water-based activities.
Beaches are fringed with impressive dune systems and reserves around Machangulo Peninsula, including the Maputo Elephant Reserve, which features diverse ecosystems of coastal forests, mangroves and wetlands, where visitors can find elephants, hippos, crocodiles, antelopes, and a variety of bird species in a unique blend of coastal and bush environments. There is a host of activities on offer, from deep-sea fishing, kayaking and dune boarding, to cultural visits and traditional villages.
Machangulo Peninsula offers a remote getaway that is only accessible by boat from Maputo or 4x4 vehicles. It is a true coastal gem in southern Mozambique perfect for adventure and relaxation.
In 2024, global demand for air travel has shown an 18% increase in international arrivals year-to-date, largely fuelled by post-pandemic economic stabilisation and the resurgence of outbound travel from China and other Asia-Pacific markets. Africa has also emerged as a key driver of this growth as travellers discover the wealth of destinations on offer. Airline Groups are significantly increasing seat capacity in Sub-Saharan Africa, with a 10% rise in the first half of 2024 and a further 7% increase planned for the peak travel months.
Airlink, southern Africa's independent regional airline, saw a 26% increase in available seats year-over-year. Since attaining independence from South African Airways in 2020, Airlink has rapidly extended its operations, developing a network of over 30 flights throughout southern Africa.
Meanwhile, Qatar Airways has taken advantage of Airlink's strong position in southern Africa. Qatar recently acquired a 25% stake in Airlink, marking a significant expansion of its African operations. This investment enhances the two airlines' code-sharing partnership and allows them to align their loyalty programs. Badr Mohammed Al-Meer, Qatar Airways Group CEO, emphasised the importance of Africa to the company's future, stating that the investment demonstrates confidence in both Airlink and the continent's potential. The move complements Qatar's recent addition of 9 new African routes, underscoring its commitment to playing a key role in Africa's economic development and aviation sector growth.
Etihad Airways, one of the flag carriers of the United Arab Emirates, will resume flights to Nairobi, Kenya, which halted in 2020 due to COVID. From 15 December 2024, the airline will offer 4 non-stop flights per week between Abu Dhabi Zayed International Airport (AUH) and Nairobi Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO). Lena Havia, Etihad’s Vice-President Network and Scheduling expressed excitement about the resumption of the flights, marking the airline's return to this key African destination just in time for the European winter season. Nairobi is fast becoming a flight hub for safari destinations in East Africa.
Lufthansa has confirmed the expansion of its South African operations, with the introduction of new flights from Munich in time for the European winter months. From 3 September, the airline will offer 3 weekly, year-round flights between Johannesburg and Munich on an Airbus A350-900, marking the return of a route last served in 2005. Additionally, seasonal flights between Cape Town and Munich will start in November. The new services complement Lufthansa's existing Johannesburg-Frankfurt route, offering more direct flight options from Germany to South Africa.
Singapore Airlines is also set to increase its flight capacity to Johannesburg for peak season. From 1 December 2024 to October 2025, the airline will add 3 extra weekly flights between Singapore Changi Airport and Johannesburg, bringing the total to 10 flights weekly. This expansion reflects Singapore Airline's confidence in the South African market and aims to boost tourism and trade between Singapore and South Africa.
Air Zimbabwe, Zimbabwe's national carrier has resumed daily flights between Harare and Johannesburg, strengthening connections between these key southern African cities. The route, served by an Embraer ERJ 145 aircraft, reflects the airline's efforts to re-establish its regional presence and optimise operations. This move means that travellers have more options for connecting flights within the region, which is enjoying a surge in tourism numbers.
Botswana's flagship carrier, Air Botswana, has announced the launch dates of its new routes connecting Botswana and South Africa. 1 October will see the start of a service between Botswana's capital city, Gaborone, and Durban. There will be 3 weekly flights. On 1 November additional routes will be added – all with 3 weekly flights available:
Maun, often considered the gateway to the Okavango Delta, provides access to one of Africa's most pristine and diverse ecosystems, renowned for its lush wetlands and abundant wildlife. The new Maun-Cape Town route offers the chance to combine one of Africa's premier safari destinations with the wonders of a Cape Town city break.
Kasane is located at the northern tip of Botswana and is a gateway to the Chobe National Park, renowned for its large elephant herds and diverse wildlife. This charming town offers travellers unique safari experiences along the Chobe River, with opportunities to explore the nearby borders of Namibia, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. The new routes allow for a combination with a Cape Town city break, or a Kruger National Park Safari from Mpumulanga.
Ethiopian Airlines recently unveiled its new Silver Lounge in Ethiopia's capital city, at Addis Ababa Bole International Airport, designed exclusively for ShebaMiles Silver members. The 810-square-metre facility can accommodate up to 200 guests and offers a serene environment with amenities including dining areas with buffet service, comfortable seating, a smoking room, a children's corner, and ample storage. This new lounge complements existing facilities for Cloud Nine, ShebaMiles Platinum, and Star Alliance Gold members. CEO Mesfin Tasew highlighted that the Silver Lounge reflects the airline's commitment to enhancing the travel experience and reinforcing its status as a major African player.
Ethiopian Airlines has also just signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Satarem America Inc. to produce and use Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) in Ethiopia, marking a significant step toward sustainable aviation. The agreement, finalised on 3 August 2024, involves Satarem producing SAF locally, which Ethiopian Airlines will purchase to replace its traditional jet fuel. This partnership is expected to significantly reduce the airline's carbon footprint and support global climate change efforts.
Meanwhile, the Ethiopian Airlines Group has been looking to the future growth of travel in Africa, announcing plans for the development of a Mega Airport City in Abusera, Bishoftu, located 40 km from Addis Ababa, capital city of Ethiopia. This state-of-the-art facility, set to begin its first phase in 2029, will serve 60 million passengers annually and eventually accommodate 110 million, quadrupling the current capacity of Addis Ababa Bole International Airport.
The Zambian government is also planning for the future expansion of travel in Africa, launching a major initiative to upgrade all provincial airports. The project will modernise infrastructure, enhance safety, and improve regional connectivity. It will involve upgrading facilities, expanding runways, and installing advanced navigation and security systems to boost efficiency and capacity for both passenger and cargo traffic. This effort is part of a broader strategy to boost tourism and make air travel more accessible and reliable across Zambia.
Zambia is a hidden gem in Southern Africa, often overshadowed by its more popular neighbours. Known for spectacular unspoiled natural beauty and diverse wildlife, Zambia offers an exceptional safari experience with highlights including wild South Luangwa National Park, Kafue and one side of Victoria Falls. Zambia provides thrilling adventures for the intrepid traveller with less crowded destinations than the more popular Safari options, offering visitors superb game-viewing with an exclusive and 'real-Africa' experience.
Edie, a 1.5-year-old cheetah cub born in captivity at the Wild Cat Conservation Centre in Sydney, Australia, has been relocated to Africa. This historic initiative is part of a broader international collaboration to enhance genetic diversity within the African cheetah population. Edie has undergone a phased adaptation to her new environment in the 6,000-hectare Mziki Private Game Reserve near Pilanesberg National Park in South Africa. The Reserve offers an ideal setting free from major predators like lions and hyenas. "Welcoming Edie is a surreal and amazing moment for us," says Philip Pallamar, Director of Mziki. "She's not just our first predator on the reserve; she represents the beginning of a new chapter in our conservation efforts."
Edie's reintroduction to the wild was carried out in stages. First, she received physical fitness training, changes to her diet to feed on tough intact carcasses rather than soft butchered meat, and predatory skill improvement at the Wild Cat Conservation Centre in Australia. "Cheetahs have innate predatory skills that need time to be honed, and they need to learn how often to hunt, rather than wasting time and energy hunting too often,” explains Tony King, Conservation and Reintroduction Coordinator for The Aspinall Foundation who was involved in the project. When Edie arrived in Africa, she was gradually adjusted to her new habitat by being introduced to increasingly large enclosures. This practice has allowed her to build strength, hone her reflexes and get a feel for this new wilderness.
A groundbreaking partnership between African Parks and the Tikki Hywood Foundation is making significant strides in the conservation of Africa’s critically endangered pangolin species. In Matusadona National Park, Zimbabwe, the collaboration focuses on rescuing, rehabilitating, and reintroducing pangolins into their natural habitat. Among the recent successes are two pangolins, Mbeu and Impi, who were saved from the illegal wildlife trade, nursed back to health, and released into the park. The Matusadona Pangolin Monitoring Programme, supported by the Pangolin Crisis Fund, plays a vital role in tracking these animals post-release, ensuring they adapt well to the wild. The efforts are paying off, with 11 successful pangolin releases recorded so far.
Pangolins, often dubbed the world’s most trafficked mammal, face immense threats due to the high demand for their scales and meat in traditional medicine. The partnership, which began in 2019, leverages Tikki Hywood Foundation's specialised species knowledge and African Parks' operational capacity to protect and rehabilitate these vulnerable creatures. The park's diverse landscape has proven ideal for reintroducing pangolins into habitats similar to their origins. Additionally, community engagement and environmental education efforts have fostered increased trust and cooperation between local communities and conservationists, further enhancing pangolin protection.
Many people have never heard of them, but the red colobus monkey is Africa's most endangered primate. Found in tropical forests from Senegal in West Africa to the Zanzibar archipelago in East Africa, these adorable monkeys have trademark hairstyles and distinctive coloured coats. There are 17 species, weighing between 5kg and 12kg, known for their daring, long-distance jumps between trees to find food that other monkeys struggle to process, such as leaves and unripe fruit.
These creatures are the focus of a significant conservation effort under the International Union for the Conservation of Nature’s (IUCN) Red Colobus Conservation Action Plan. The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species classifies all red colobus species as threatened. Their large, noisy social groups and lack of flight response make them easy targets for hunters. They are also particularly vulnerable to forest loss as they rely heavily on the forest's oldest and tallest trees. From 2021 to 2026, the Action Plan prioritises the protection of the red colobus as these creatures act as an early warning indicator of forest degradation. Evidence from many sites shows that red colobus are among the first mammals to disappear from a hunted forest, well before the better-known species like gorilla, chimpanzee, and elephant. It follows that their conservation is crucial for maintaining the health of the African tropical forests as a whole.
The protection of the endemic Zanzibar red colobus was a key impetus in the creation of Zanzibar’s only national park, Jozani–Chwaka Bay National Park, protecting large areas of indigenous forest on Tanzania's Zanzibar Island. It covers approximately 50 square kilometres famous for its rich biodiversity, featuring a mix of coastal forest, mangroves, and swamp habitats that are home to the red colobus monkeys, various bird species, butterflies, and the rare Zanzibar leopard. Visitors can explore walking trails that wind through the lush vegetation to view the animals and learn about conservation efforts.
Charlie, the beloved African elephant who spent decades in captivity at South Africa's Pretoria National Zoo, has finally been relocated to the Shambala Private Game Reserve in South Africa's Limpopo Province. This marks a significant milestone in elephant conservation after years of campaigning by activists.
Charlie’s journey began in Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe, where he was captured as a young elephant in 1982 and brought to South Africa. Following years of performances in a travelling Circus and two decades at the Zoo, Charlie's story garnered widespread public attention, leading to a petition with over 42,000 signatures demanding his release. His freedom and successful relocation is a major victory for animal welfare in South Africa. Now at Shambala, Charlie will undergo rehabilitation in a spacious, species-appropriate habitat. It is hoped that he will integrate into the reserve’s elephant herd.
A recent study by the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign and South Africa's University of Pretoria aims to advance elephant conservation strategies by facilitating more elephant movement corridors across vast regions to prevent genetic isolation and enhance gene flow among elephant populations. This represents a move away from fortress conservation where elephants are restricted to fenced-in reserves.
The study integrates genetic data from elephant dung samples with GPS tracking data, to draw up a comprehensive map, covering an area that includes 7 southern African countries, of landscape corridors that could allow elephant movement between reserves while minimising the risks associated with crossing densely populated areas.
The research studies landscape factors like steep slopes, barren areas, and densely populated human settlements, and combines it with genetic data to understand how elephants move around. While small-scale studies have been conducted, this is the first to cover such a large area. The study revealed that the least suitable habitats, such as the Makgadikgadi salt pans in Botswana and areas far from water, deter elephant movement, while intermediate habitats are more tolerable. By identifying key routes that elephants can use, the research offers insights into how to protect large elephant populations to ensure gene flow and reduce human-elephant conflicts.
Tanzania Deputy Minister of Natural Resources and Tourism, Danstan Kitandula, visited the East Usambara Mountains Conservation Fund (EAMCEF) on 3 August 2024, to highlight the potential for beekeeping to play a role in environmental conservation and economic growth. He emphasised the importance of beekeeping in reducing deforestation by generating income for communities through honey and beeswax production and boosting the pollination of crops.
The visit included an inspection of a beekeeping project in Mkwakwani Village, Korogwe District, which aims to curb deforestation by reducing the community's reliance on cutting the forest to produce charcoal to sell. EAMCEF Executive Director Francis Sabuni explained that the fund supports eco-friendly projects with annual grants to local beekeepers and other local environmental initiatives. Beekeepers have reported improved livelihoods, with honey production rising from 115 litres in 2022 to 160 litres in 2023, despite challenges posed by climate change. The Korogwe District Commissioner pledged ongoing support for these environmental protection efforts.
Another notable beekeeping project in Kenya aims to keep elephants at bay. The Elephants and Bees Project, initiated by the NGO Save the Elephants focuses on using beehive fences to mitigate human-elephant conflict in farming communities near Tsavo National Park. The beehive fences are constructed using a series of beehives connected by wires, forming a protective barrier around crops. When elephants attempt to enter the fields, they trigger the wires, disturbing the bees and causing the elephants to retreat. Honey production for the local community is an added benefit of this project.
Lamu County, Kenya, has launched the Lamu Blue Carbon Project, a pioneering initiative aimed at restoring 4,000 hectares of mangrove forests along the country's coast. Part of the larger Go Blue project by UNEP and UN-Habitat, this community-led effort will engage local residents in efforts to preserve the mangroves. The carbon dioxide absorbed by these trees will be calculated and converted into carbon credits for sale on global markets. The project is expected to generate over $600,000 annually for the community, providing a significant boost to local livelihoods.
Lamu County holds 65% of Kenya's mangroves. The initiative is projected to sequester over 50,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalents annually, contributing to global climate goals.
On 2 August 2024, the Okavango Delta floodwaters reached the town of Maun, Botswana!
The arrival of the flood waters is a much-anticipated event for locals each year. The passage of the water is closely monitored, and there is celebration and relief for the dusty town situated on the banks of the Tamalakane River which lies dry until the waters finally arrive. The annual floodwaters originate from rains in the highlands of neighbouring Angola, filling the river system and bringing renewed life to the Delta each year. The arrival of the floods in Maun, which lies south of the delta, is significant for locals and wildlife alike. The arrival of floodwaters in 2024 is later than usual. Typically, the floodwaters reach Maun between June and July, but this can vary from year to year due to rainfall patterns, the rate of water flow through the Okavango River system, and the overall volume of water. The later arrival in 2024 can be attributed to lower-than-average rainfall in the region which has put strain on the seasonal dynamics of the Okavango Delta.
From 1 October 2024, Zanzibar will require all incoming travellers onto the island to possess valid Inbound Travel Insurance which provides coverage for the full duration of their stay. What's more, this insurance must be purchased online through the Zanzibar Insurance Corporation (ZIC).
The three-month insurance plan, costing $44, provides immediate support for medical emergencies and other unforeseen events, ensuring that all travellers have adequate coverage during their visit. A Zanzibar Advisory stated that travellers are advised to purchase the insurance as soon as they book their trip, with policy documents sent via email upon purchase. It is important to note that international insurance policies will not be accepted, as the coverage must be issued by ZIC, a Tanzanian-registered entity.
This month, a good watch: RHINO MAN – A Tribute to Courageous Rangers and the Fight to Save South Africa's Rhinos
RHINO MAN is an award-winning documentary that sheds light on the relentless battle against rhino poaching in South Africa, focusing on the courageous rangers who risk everything to protect these majestic animals. The film follows the story of Anton Mzimba, head ranger of South Africa's Timbavati Private Nature Reserve that shares unfenced borders with the Kruger National Park, who dedicated his life to safeguarding rhinos from poaching syndicates. Mzimba's journey is one of extraordinary bravery, facing dangerous working conditions, long separations from his family, and constant threats to his life as he led his team in this critical conservation effort.
Tragically, on 26 July 2022, near the end of filming, Anton Mzimba was killed in his home, an event that has not yet seen justice, with no arrests or charges made. His death, believed to be linked to retaliation from corrupt rangers who had been expelled from reserves, underscores the perilous world in which these conservation heroes operate. Alongside Mzimba’s story, the film also follows Ruben de Kock, a legendary trainer at the Southern African Wildlife College, as he and his wife, Marianne, guide a group of candidates through a gruelling ranger selection process. Together, these narratives highlight the urgency of inspiring and preparing the next generation of rangers to continue the fight against poaching, driven by love, dedication, and a commitment to ensuring a future where rhinos and other endangered species can thrive.
RHINO MAN was released on Vimeo on Demand on 26 July, commemorating the anniversary of Anton Mzimba's untimely death. View the Trailer here.
Tours to Timbavati Nature Reserve
The Namaqualand Flower Festival is an annual event to celebrate the blooming of the region's dramatic springtime flowers with a festive weekend gathering with activities for the whole family. Namaqualand Flower Festival 2024 is set to be a vibrant gathering celebrating tradition, nature, and creativity in one of the world's biodiversity hotspots. Attendees will enjoy a weekend of camping under the stars, dancing, singing, and exploring the unique flora of the Namaqua wilderness. There is a trail run and visitors can even showcase their talents at an open mic session. With activities ranging from star gazing to swimming in rock pools or visiting ancient San rock art, the event promises a joyful, community-driven experience in the heart of South Africa’s floral wonderland.
Enkutatash celebrated all over Ethiopia on September 11th in the Gregorian calendar, marks the Ethiopian New Year and the end of the rainy season. The celebration is rooted in the tradition of the Queen of Sheba's return to Ethiopia, where she was welcomed with jewels. The holiday’s name "Enkutatash" means "gift of jewels." Festivities include children wearing new clothes, dancing, and exchanging paintings for bread or money, while torches light up the streets on New Year's Eve as people sing, dance, and jump over coals to symbolise the transition to a new year. Though not solely a religious event, Enkutatash is also a time for exchanging modern New Year greetings and cards, blending tradition with contemporary customs.
Ethiopia follows the Julian calendar, which features 12 months of 30 days each, and an additional month of 5 days (6 in leap years), earning it the nickname "the country with 13 months of sunshine."
The Bayimba International Festival of Music and Arts takes place on Lunkulu Island in Uganda's portion of Lake Victoria. Lake Victoria is the largest lake in Africa and the world's second-largest freshwater lake by surface area, bordered by Uganda, Tanzania and Kenya, it is known for its diverse biodiversity and crucial role in the livelihoods of millions of people.
Organised by the Bayimba Centre for Visual and Performing Arts, this festival showcases top artists from Uganda and East Africa, featuring a rich array of music, dance, performance, and storytelling with a mission to uplift and celebrate the arts of the region. Located just 40km from Uganda's capital city, Kampala, the festival offers locals and visitors alike, a vibrant mix of music, dance, film, fashion, photography, theatre, and visual arts.
The Kalahari Augrabies Extreme Marathon (KAEM) is a gruelling 250km self-sufficient foot race held over 7 days and 6 stages in the harsh Kalahari Desert in the north of South Africa, known as the "Big Daddy" of extreme trail running events. For those seeking a slightly less demanding challenge, the KAEM Ultra offers a 160km supported race over 5 days and 4 stages.
Both races test athletes' endurance through extreme temperatures and diverse terrains, including desert sands, rugged landscapes, and tranquil vineyards along South Africa's mighty Orange River. Starting and finishing at Augrabies Falls National Park, KAEM is renowned not only for its physical demands but also for the camaraderie and life-changing experiences it fosters among participants, creating lasting bonds amidst the breathtaking and unspoilt beauty of the Kalahari Desert.
The Zambezi River Challenge is an adventurous multi-day race that combines kayaking, white-water rafting, mountain biking, and running, set against the stunning backdrop of the Zambezi River. Participants will paddle over 100 kilometres in traditional dugout canoes and inflatable kayaks, navigating through the breathtaking scenery of Victoria Falls, encountering wildlife like hippos, crocodiles, and elephants, and camping under the stars on the riverbanks. This challenge begins in Livingstone, the Zambia side of Victoria Falls, and features unforgiving rapids and harsh conditions, culminating in the exhilarating experience of rafting through the treacherous Batoka Gorge, situated below the mighty Victoria Falls and renowned for its world-class white-water rapids.
The inaugural All African Independent Film Festival (AAIFF) will kick off on 13 September 2024 at the French Institute in the capital city of Kigali, in Rwanda. This landmark event will feature over 25 independent films from across Africa, including features, documentaries, and shorts, showcasing both emerging and established filmmakers. The festival will include panel discussions with industry experts, workshops for aspiring filmmakers, and an awards ceremony honouring top achievements in various categories. Highlights from the Official Selection include Nigerian dramatic features like Mami Wata, and compelling documentaries such as Girls: Women Too Early from Italy, along with several dramatic shorts and student films. The AAIFF aims to celebrate African cinema, foster industry collaboration, and provide a platform for innovative storytelling.
The annual Darling Wildflower Festival will take place on the weekend of 20 to 22 September in the quaint town of Darling, just one hour drive north of Cape Town. The festival offers a vibrant celebration of nature and the springtime blooming of carpets of vibrant flowers in the region. Visitors can enjoy a landscaped wildflower exhibition, guided walks by the Darling Wildflower Society, and access to seasonal wildflower reserves. The festival features a spacious outdoor market with diverse food, drink, and local produce, along with tractor rides, vintage car displays, and tastings of award-winning wines and craft beers. Music and entertainment add to the festive atmosphere, while a village shuttle bus ensures easy access to all the attractions.
Meanwhile in other exciting flora news, from 21 September South Africa’s award-winning floral exhibit from the renowned RHS Chelsea Flower Show in London will be showcased on home soil. The exhibit will be on display in the village of Stanford, a three-hour drive from Cape Town. The breathtaking display won gold and multiple prestigious awards at the Chelsea Flower Show, and features an exquisite design by renowned landscape artist, Leon Kluge, highlighting the country’s stunning proteas. Grootbos Private Nature Reserve, in collaboration with Kluge, will present a full-sized replica of this acclaimed display for locals and visitors alike to enjoy, celebrating the nation’s floral heritage and recent triumph.
Fynbos is the name given to the Cape's remarkable array of flora including proteas, ericas, and restios. The Cape Floral Region is one of the world's six floral kingdoms and is celebrated for its extraordinary biodiversity and ecological importance.
21 September marks the culmination of the Wildlife Ranger Challenge, the world's largest celebration of solidarity and support for Africa's game rangers that takes place from June to September.
More than 100 teams of rangers spanning the African continent compete each year in a series of challenges starting in June. This culminates in a 21km race across some of the most beautiful protected areas in Africa on September 21, carrying 22kg of gear. The event unites participants and supporters to raise vital funds and awareness for conservation efforts. This initiative highlights the crucial and challenging roles that Africa's game rangers play, from conservationists to community leaders. Follow the campaign on social media at Tusk_org and donate.
The second major event in Ethiopia that takes place in September is the Meskel festival, held annually in Addis Ababa, capital city. Meskel is a vibrant celebration marking the discovery of the True Cross of Christ. According to Ethiopian tradition Queen Eleni (Saint Helena), the mother of Roman Emperor Constantine, found the True Cross in the 4th century, guided by a divine vision that led her to the site in Ethiopia where it was buried.
Recognized by UNESCO as part of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, this centuries-old festival features the lighting of massive bonfires called Demera, vibrant dances, and colourful ceremonies. Thousands of Orthodox Christians gather in Addis Ababa's Meskel Square, and across the country, to participate in this joyous event. Activities include the burning of a conical bonfire, chanting, rhythmic dancing, and the display of yellow Meskel wildflowers traditionally associated with this celebration. The festival not only commemorates the historical discovery by Queen Eleni (Saint Helena) but has also become an annual celebration of communal unity and national pride.
The Hermanus Whale Festival will be held on the weekend of 27 to 29 September 2024 in Hermanus, a charming town 80 kilometres from Cape Town. The festival is a unique celebration of the majestic Whales who visit the sheltered bays of South Africa's Cape Coast in springtime each year.
As the world’s only eco-marine festival, Hermanus Whale Festival highlights the importance of living in harmony with these majestic creatures. The festival offers a host of activities for the whole family, including live music, street parades, artisan markets, a 10km fun run, nature walks, a Classic Car Show and children’s entertainment. The festival coincides with peak whale-watching season, allowing visitors to witness these majestic creatures up close. This is the 33rd edition of this iconic festival attracting between 75,000 and 130,000 attendees annually. It combines family fun with a strong focus on marine conservation and environmental awareness.
The Concours d'Elegance, now in its 52nd year, is a prestigious vintage car and motorcycle show in Nairobi, the capital city of Kenya, drawing global enthusiasts to admire the elegant vehicles on display. Entrants dress up to the nines for the occasion. The event also includes live bands, parades and entertainment for children. The field is limited to 70 cars and 40 motorcycles. Past winners include a 1928 Chevrolet, 1928 Ford, 1926 Fiat, and a 1934 Alvis Firefly, while motorcycles include a 1941 Indian Scout, a 1937 Moto Guzzi, and a 1930 Ivory Calthorpe. In addition to vintage cars, old machinery is displayed in the Heritage Collection section.
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