Go Safari

07/09/2024

The pictures do not do the lodge justice, it is much nicer than pictures can express!

05/09/2024

03/09/2024

How amazing is this!

This rhino is not in any danger -- actually, the rhino is giving them a place to rest. When you see a swarm of honey bees on an object they are quite calm and not a threat. They do this usually when their colony grows too large. So, groups split up ( another one, 2 or even 3 groups) to find and establish a new nesting hive/s.

Text: Crying Buffalo.
Photo credit: Pintrest.com

03/09/2024

02/09/2024

Driving around in the greater Kruger National Park, you will find a lot of old, dry trees stood tall and weathered, their twisted branches reaching toward the sky like skeletal fingers. These ancient sentinels had witnessed countless seasons, from the fierce summer sun to the heavy rains that would carve new paths through the bush.
Each tree bore the marks of time—cracked bark, hollowed trunks, and limbs worn smooth by the passage of animals.

Elephants would often stop by, using the rough bark to scratch their backs, while leopards found the gnarled branches perfect for lounging in the midday heat. The trees were a refuge for many, offering shelter to nesting birds and a home to industrious termites who built towering mounds at their base.

The old dry trees remained, a testament to resilience and the cycle of life in Kruger National Park. They had seen the land transformed time and time again, always standing as silent witnesses to the ever-changing story of the wilderness. And so, they continued to stand, watching over the park as they had for generations, their branches whispering ancient secrets to the wind.

30/08/2024

Community nest spiders, also known as social spiders, in the Greater Kruger National Park are a fascinating species that exhibit cooperative behavior. These spiders live in large colonies, often creating massive communal webs that can span several meters. The webs are primarily used for trapping prey, which the colony members collectively share.

Unlike most spiders that are solitary, community nest spiders work together in hunting, web maintenance, and caring for the young, demonstrating a high level of social organization.
The Greater Kruger area provides an ideal habitat for these spiders due to its diverse insect population, which serves as a food source.

Pictures taken in the Balule Game Reserve, whilst on game drive, our game ranger stopped to tell us more about these interesting creatures.

Contact [email protected] if you have any questions about going on a safari 😄

19/08/2024

19/08/2024

📍Etosha National Park, Namibia🇳🇦

16/08/2024

The Blyde River Canyon, the third deepest in the world after the Grand Canyon and Fish River Canyon, spans 26 km with some of the most precipitous cliffs on Earth. It starts at Bourke's Luck Potholes, meets the Ohrigstad River Canyon at the Swadini Dam, and reaches a depth of 1,478m where it exits the reserve. Mariepskop, at 1,994m, is the highest point in the reserve.

The Three Rondavels are three round, grass-covered peaks resembling traditional African homesteads, named after Chief Maripi’s three troublesome wives. Nearby, Mapjaneng, a flat-topped peak, honors the chief, while the Thabaneng hill, known as the "sundial," indicates the time of day by its shadow.

Please contact [email protected] to plan your dream safari to South Africa and visit the Blyde River Canyon on the way to the world-famous Greater Kruger National Park.

16/08/2024

So embarrassing..... shame 🫠

15/08/2024

Black rhino silhouette taken by one of our amazing Save the Rhino Ambassadors Lara Jackson - Wildlife 🦏📸

14/08/2024

You made us proud

Our champion is back on SA soil! Tatjana Smith arrives home to a crowd of support here at OR Tambo! 🇿🇦🇿🇦🇿🇦🇿🇦

14/08/2024

13/08/2024

Kalahari

📸: Solly Levi Photography

13/08/2024

12/08/2024

World Elephant Day is an international event on the 12 August dedicated to the preservation and protection of the world's Elephants.

12/08/2024

On high alert (literally) 🦒

08/08/2024

Little sad 😞

07/08/2024

NEW POACHING STATS RELEASED: 229 rhinos illegally killed in South Africa in the first six months of 2024.

Last week, the South African Government shared an update, showing a small drop in rhino poaching compared to the same period in 2023, when 231 rhinos were poached.

Whilst these latest numbers highlight ongoing concerns for rhinos across the country, the Department for Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment also noted the impact of dehorning operations in Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park, which has been heavily targeted by organised criminal networks in recent years.

Since April this year, more than 1,000 rhinos have been dehorned in Hluhluwe-iMfolozi. This intense operation has been a major factor in reducing poaching incidents in May and June 2024, when 21 and 22 rhinos were lost respectively, compared to 42 and 34 illegally killed during these months in 2023.

Our CEO, Dr Jo Shaw, shared, “We will continue to collaborate with our partners in South Africa to tackle transnational organised crime and support rangers on the ground to help South Africa continue the recovery of these important rhino populations.”

As we progress into the second half of 2024 and beyond, our commitment to supporting rhino conservation efforts in South Africa remains unwavering. Alongside our partners, we will continue to do all we can to protect rhinos in South Africa. Thank you for your ongoing support.

📸 Jason Savage Photography

06/08/2024

"A few tips for flower watching on South Africa's West Coast."
1. Timing: The wildflower season typically occurs from August to September. However, the peak blooming period can vary slightly depending on the rainfall and temperature patterns of the year.
2. Best Viewing Spots: Popular areas within the park for viewing wildflowers include Postberg, Seeberg, and Mooimaak. Postberg, which is only open to the public during the wildflower season, is particularly renowned for its stunning displays.
3. Floral Diversity: The park is home to a diverse range of flowers, including daisies, lilies, and the rare blue pincushion. The variety of species and colors creates a breathtaking mosaic across the landscape.
4. Photography Tips: Early morning or late afternoon light provides the best conditions for photography, with softer light enhancing the colors of the flowers. A macro lens can help capture the intricate details of individual blooms.
5. Visitor Tips: To avoid crowds, visit during weekdays. Bring water, sunscreen, and comfortable walking shoes, as you might spend a lot of time exploring on foot.
6. Conservation: Stay on designated paths to help protect the delicate flowers and their habitats. Follow Park guidelines to ensure the preservation of this natural wonder for future generations.
7. Weather Conditions: Be prepared for variable weather. Even though it’s generally mild during the season, coastal weather can change rapidly, so layers and a waterproof jacket are advisable.
8. Guided Tours: Consider joining a guided tour for a more informative experience. Guides can provide insights into the various species and the ecological significance of the wildflower season.

06/08/2024

02/08/2024

02/08/2024

A few short interesting facts of an elephant herd:

Matriarchal Structure: Elephant herds are typically led by a matriarch, usually the oldest and most experienced female. She guides the herd to water sources, food, and safe areas.

Social Bonds: Elephants form strong social bonds within their herds. They show emotions like joy, grief, and empathy, often comforting each other in distress.

Communication: Elephants communicate through a variety of vocalizations, including trumpets, grumbles, and low-frequency rumbles that can travel over long distances.

Cooperative Care: Female elephants, known as cows, work together to care for and protect the calves. This cooperative care helps ensure the survival and well-being of the young.

Memory and Navigation: Elephants have excellent memories, which help them remember locations of waterholes and migratory routes, sometimes even decades later.

These facts highlight the intelligence, social complexity, and strong familial ties within elephant herds.

01/08/2024

This World Ranger Day, Save the Elephants salutes the brave men and women who risk their lives to protect elephants and other wildlife, even in the toughest conditions. Particularly in parts of West and Central Africa, where our Elephant Crisis Fund (ECF) supports, these heroes face immense challenges in the face of political unrest and the threat of jihadist and other militant groups.

Tragically, the consequences can be dire. Many rangers and their colleagues have lost their lives in the line of duty. Recently, ECF partner African Parks reported the heartbreaking loss of five rangers and seven members of the Benin Armed Forces, killed by an unidentified armed group in W National Park, Benin. This is a stark reminder of the dangers faced by many rangers on a regular basis.

However, with our donors' support, the ECF is able to fund essential training, field equipment, vehicles and surveillance planes to help keep rangers safe.

📸 Irene Galera/African Parks

01/08/2024

South Africa is ranked third among Africa's most child-friendly destinations, while Namibia is fourth. When planning a family vacation, it's important to consider factors like timing, travel logistics, and safety. South Africa offers beaches, vibrant cities, relaxing resorts, and Big 5 safari parks like Kruger National Park, making it ideal for families. Many safari lodges and camps are tailored for children, with knowledgeable guides and activities designed for safety and enjoyment.

Namibia, ranked fourth, offers adventure and unique experiences, especially at Etosha National Park, where families can see elephants, lions, and giraffes. Kid-friendly accommodations include swimming pools and interactive conservation activities. Africa's diverse landscapes inspire children to connect with nature and explore its wonders.

Contact us to help you plan an unforgettable family holiday [email protected]
www.gosafari.co.za WhatsApp +27828009964

31/07/2024

Thailand was ranked No.1 and South Africa No.6 as the best countries to visit in 2024 by CEOWORLD Magazine. The rankings were based on the opinions of over 295,000 readers, the highest participation in the magazine's history.

12/03/2024

Ellie is having an afternoon nap, spend a few days in the Kruger Park
HAVE YOU BEEN? Contact us to make your dreams come true, link in Bio

17/02/2024

Did you know eight species of pangolins are found on two continents. They range from Vulnerable to Critically Endangered. They are the only mammals wholly-covered in scales and they use those scales to protect themselves from predators in the wild.
The animals are trafficked mainly for their scales which are believed to treat a variety of health conditions in traditional Chinese medicine and as a luxury food in Vietnam & China. In Africa, pangolins are sold as a form of bushmeat, for ritual or spiritual purposes, and use in traditional African medicine.
Go Safari

26/01/2024

Come and visit us at Our Africa Travel and find out what we can do for you.

18/01/2024

That was a great year end function organised by Mandy Watson....thank you!!