Author: Matthew Sterne

Is Kahuzi-Biéga National Park Congo’s best-kept secret?

Situated near the picturesque Lake Kivu – reminiscent of lakes in the Swiss Alps – Kahuzi-Biéga was established in 1970 by the Belgian photographer and conservationist Adrien Deschryver, who ranks alongside Dian Fossey as one of the great protectors of the world’s endangered gorilla population. The park is named after two dormant volcanoes, Mount Kahuzi […]

The 6 best peaks to summit in Africa

1. Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania At 5 895m, Africa’s tallest mountain is also the highest freestanding peak in the world, which means that as you climb you don’t stare onto surrounding mountains but rather across the African savannah far below. Lying in Tanzania, Kilimanjaro is the most popular of the world’s seven summits (the highest mountain […]

The remarkable reimagining of Zakouma National Park

With the Sahara to the north and the fertile rainforest regions of Central Africa to the south, it was well-positioned as the primary safe haven for Central and West African wildlife, commanding near legendary status throughout Africa for its abundant wildlife and raw wilderness. Then civil and military unrest rocked the country.  From the eighties […]

Who are the Hyena Men of Nigeria?

“Seeing them perform is unforgettable,” photographer Pieter Hugo says. “It’s a huge spectacle. They beat drums to draw in the crowds, then take the muzzles off the hyenas. Next, they put their arms and even their heads between the animals’ jaws. The aim is to convince the audience they have special powers, and that the […]

The 10 Best Safari Destinations for First-timers to Africa

While internet research is handy, it’s always more efficient to talk to an expert. Safaris are highly specialised trips and our experienced team, who have been all over Africa, can break down the different options for you simply and easily. The first thing we suggest is to choose between East Africa and Southern Africa. East […]

These bush stories explain why Mana Pools is considered one of Africa’s best parks

Meaning “four” in the local Shona language, Mana refers to the park’s four large water bodies, vestiges of ancient ox-bow lakes carved out by the mighty Zambezi. As the rainy season draws to an end and the lakes begin to dry up, large herds of game enter the region in search of water and to […]

Have you heard of Africa’s ‘other’ great wildebeest migration?

There might only be 45,000 wildebeest, but with the population on the rise, you can still see a herd that stretches five kilometres. And the plains themselves are striking too. Engulfed by Zambezi floodwater for three months of the year, Liuwa has been flattened into glorious flood plains, stretching as far as the eye can […]

In Photos: Benin Voodoo Festival

Guide: The 15 types of African safaris

Just like the baobab, there are many different ways to enjoy Africa. You can go independently or with a guide, on your own or in a group. You can choose a classic wildlife safari, a holiday with the family, a romantic getaway or an exclusive once-in-a-lifetime luxury adventure. People come for different reasons – landscapes, […]