FIVE THINGS YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT THE WORLD’S MOST TRAFFICKED ANIMALBy Amy Attenborough - Londolozi Ranger

One of the things I love most about guiding is watching guests react to an animal seen for the first time,

especially one whose appearance is somewhere between an artichoke and a small dog covered in giant toenails! For those who don’t know it, I’d like to introduce the pangolin.

There are eight pangolin species in total, four found in Africa and four in Asia. Two of the Asian species are already endangered and the others are all rapidly declining. The astonishing and little-known reason for this is that the pangolin is the most trafficked animal on the planet.

Conservative estimates state that 10,000 pangolins are trafficked annually. In parts of Asia, pangolin scales are believed to treat medical ailments, while eating the meat confers high social status. Because demand is so high, the price of pangolins has followed suit.

While not the most beautiful or charismatic of African species, the pangolin needs our protection, particularly now as the market is looking to African populations to replace dwindling Asian ones. No one would miss a species they didn’t know anything about, so here are five of my top facts about the pangolin:

1) Despite their reptilian appearance, pangolins are mammals.2) The pangolin got its name from a Malay word meaning ‘roll up’. 3) When rolled up, a pangolin’s scales are virtually impenetrable,

protecting their face and belly. Sadly, this practice makes them easy for humans to capture!

4) Insectivorous pangolins have a long, sticky tongue that in some species is longer than their entire body.

5) It is believed that pangolins eat over 70 million insects a year, mostly ants and termites.

To read the full story, and many other great stories from Londolozi in South Africa, please visit blog.londolozi.com

6 Phone 1300 363 302 or ask your Travel Agent

THEPANGOLIN

© Colin Bell

© Amy Attenborough© Amy Attenborough

© Amy Attenborough

© Amy Attenborough

Dedicated to protecting Africa’s last unspoilt pockets, Great Plains’ passion for the wilderness shines through in each of their

secluded properties, from the open, airy nature of guest suites down to the infectious enthusiasm of their expert guides. On this page we feature authentic Mara Expedition Camp in the celebrated Masai Mara and exclusive ol Donyo Lodge in the south east – offering two very different, yet entirely unforgettable experiences of the Kenyan bush.

MARA EXPEDITION CAMPThis seasonal riverside camp in the Masai Mara sees the annual wildebeest migration pass literally in front of it. Five canvas-clad guest tents recall the heady days of early African exploration, their interiors a charming collection of brass chandeliers, leather chairs and campaign chests. While adventurous in atmosphere, the camp ensures guests want for nothing, with hot running water and flushing toilets in ensuites, sumptuous meals and the option to hot air balloon over the

reserve. Daily game drives across prime predator territory regularly uncover leopard, lion and cheetah, amongst plentiful plains game.

OL DONYO LODGEIn the shadow of the Chyulu Hills, ol Donyo Lodge is set upon a vast private ranch between Tsavo East and Amboseli national parks, where elephant bulls whose tusks brush the ground are sometimes seen. Eight standalone pool suites designed for indoor-outdoor living nestle amid thick woodland. All have roof terraces where romantic “star beds” can be set up for sleep beneath velvet skies. Aside from game drives, guests can enjoy night safaris, hiking, horseback riding, fly camping and opportunities to participate in community and conservation programs.

We suggest combining both properties for a well-rounded perspective of Kenya. Contact our Africa consultants on 1300 363 302 or ask your travel agent.

CLASSIC KENYA

7www.africanwildlifesafaris.com.au | www.naturalfocussafaris.com.au

8 Phone 1300 363 302 or ask your Travel Agent88 PhPhononee 13130000 336363 330202 oorr asaskk yoyourur TTraravevell AgAgenentt8 Phone 1300 363 302 or ask your Travel Agent

DISCOVER AFRICA’S WONDEROne of Africa’s largest premier hotel operators, Sun

International are represented by four exemplary properties in South Africa, known as The SunLux Collection. Dominating Cape Town’s historic Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, Table Bay is the portfolio’s prestigious flagship. This palatial five-star hotel sets the standard in service, cuisine and luxury, with five grand restaurants and sweeping views of the harbour all the way to notorious Robben Island.

The conclusion of many a Garden Route journey, cosmopolitan Port Elizabeth is home to The Boardwalk Hotel, whose pretty Victorian façade and classical gardens blend seamlessly into the coastal city’s charming beachfront. From here, visit Addo Elephant, third largest national park in the country, or wander the enchanting indigenous forests of Tsitsikamma.

For the excitement of a Big 5 safari in an extraordinary setting, head to The Palace of the Lost City, built at the edge of Pilanesberg National Park where an abundance of wildlife reside. This sprawling complex rises out of the bushveld, and contains a world-famous golf course, a huge water park with a wave pool and a host of dining and entertainment options.

Cool and contemporary, The Maslow provides respite from urban Johannesburg. Situated in the upscale neighbourhood of Sandton, this convenient hotel is a comfortable base from which to explore sites of Johannesburg such as the inspiring Apartheid Museum and the Soweto township.

For a personalised travel itinerary, contact our South Africa specialists or ask your travel agent.

DULINI– UNSPOILT & WILDOccupying a pristine corner of the Sabi Sand

Private Game Reserve in South Africa, this trio of exquisite riverside properties provides some of the country’s finest accommodation, cuisine and guides. Dulini Lodge is a sophisticated 6-suite sanctuary on the banks of the Mabrak River. Classic River Lodge offers 6 suites with private plunge pools by the seasonal Sand River, whilst intimate 4-suite Leadwood Lodge at the confluence of the Mabrak and Sand is the perfect choice for a group of friends or family.

What sets the Dulini Collection apart is privileged unencumbered access to the reserve’s prolific Western Sector. Encompassing swathes of unspoilt wilderness north and south of the Sand River, this terrain incorporates a diversity of habitats, sustaining an abundance of wildlife.

A further distinction is this: a Western sector Sabi Sand traversing rule states that lodge vehicles must spend the first hour of a game drive on their own property. However, an alliance with the Savanna Private Game Reserve to the south means that Dulini Collection game drive vehicles may travel from north to south without heeding this restriction. A real bonus if you happen to track down an elusive leopard slinking across the border early on a game drive!

Contact our Africa specialists today to find out more about the Dulini experience.

www.africanwildlifesafaris.com.au | www.naturalfocussafaris.com.au 9

THE SAVUTE CHANNEL

What Lies In Store?

10 Phone 1300 363 302 or ask your Travel Agent

currently have cubs! This puts the leopard concentration at one of the highest anywhere in Africa. The area is also an elephant hotspot, and even wild dog have made a bit of a comeback.

We’ve also had sightings of smaller creatures such as jackal, porcupine, African wild cat, genet and even a caracal in the last week. Bird-viewing is great too - storks have moved in, while eagles and vultures are finding ample meat to feed on.

The question remains – how far will the channel push this year? One thing is for sure though – if you get the opportunity in the next few months, come see this wonder of nature.”

Wilderness Safaris operates 3 wonderful camps with privileged access to the Savute. Enjoy substantial savings on accommodation when you travel between October and March or plan for later in 2017. While no one can predict when the channel may change, at the very least we can assure that you’ll enjoy Wilderness Safaris’ outstanding hospitality. To make a booking, call our Africa specialists on 1300 363 302 or ask your travel agent.

Botswana’s mysterious Savute Channel feeds a marsh of the same name. Almost a decade after reaching peak

volume, the Savute is drying up again. Here is an extract from a recent report by Wilderness Safaris’ Environmental Ecologist Nic Proust on conditions around the channel:

“The Savute is producing amazing gameviewing right now. We know from history that it is extremely rare to see it like this. Unlike previous years where game could drink anywhere along this 80km channel, they are now restricted to 10km of water all within the Wilderness concession.

Some 3,000 buffalo are using this channel, with one herd of over a thousand. Zebras are here by the hundred as well as all sorts of antelope including somewhat rare roan antelope and the odd sable.

Following the buffalo, the DumaTau lion pride now numbers 18 including three small cubs, while leopard-viewing is something to behold. In an area of just 1,000ha, we have recorded 10 different individuals – including five adult females, three of them which

A TALE OF TWO DESERTSNamibia is a country of blinding white saltpans, apricot-

hued dunes and sun-bleached plains. To the south lies the ancient Namib, while the Kalahari forms the arid interior. Silence often cloaks this harsh land, but the wilderness is astoundingly alive, sheltering some 4,000 plant, 650 bird and 80 large mammal species. Discover this diversity with Wilderness Safaris, one of Namibia’s oldest safari operators with seven unique properties across four captivating regions.

Stylish Little Kulala and Kulala Desert Lodge occupy the private Kulala Wilderness Reserve, offering unrivalled access to the dramatic dunes of Sossusvlei and haunting Dead Vlei.

Desert Rhino, Damaraland and Doro Nawas all nestle in habitat harbouring Africa’s last remaining free ranging rhinos. From these camps, track desert-adapted wildlife and star-gaze. There’s also the opportunity to inspect Stone Age rock art at World Heritage-listed Twyfelfontein from Damaraland and Doro Nawas.

Superb Hoanib Skeleton Coast Camp in the exclusive Palmwag Concession is gateway to the seal-strewn Skeleton Coast as well as to one of the remotest corners of the Kaokoveld.

Glamorous Serra Cafema is Wilderness Safaris’ northernmost property, promising authentic Himba cultural experiences, seasonal crocodile cruises on the Kunene River and a chance to watch iconic Atlantic fog roll into the valley.

Combine Wilderness camps with properties in wildlife-rich Etosha National Park for the most comprehensive overview of Namibia. Have a fly-in safari itinerary custom made for you by calling 1300 363 302 or ask your travel agent.

www.africanwildlifesafaris.com.au | www.naturalfocussafaris.com.au 11

Long before the car was invented, early explorers such as David Livingstone traversed Africa on foot - risky without a good guide!

These days, walking safaris with a reputable operator are simply exciting opportunities to stretch your legs and feel the African soil beneath your feet. With 16 lodges in key wilderness areas – seven which offer walks, Sanctuary Retreats provides unsurpassed luxury in outstanding natural settings. Their impeccable safety record and wildlife tracking expertise guarantee a memorable experience.

WHERE YOU CAN PARTICIPATEBotswana’s Okavango Delta is truly diverse, ideally explored on foot, by vehicle and dugout canoe (mokoro). For different perspectives of the landscape, combine Sanctuary Chief ’s, Baines’ and Stanley’s Camps. The latter two occupy private concessions that permit walking while Stanley’s habituated elephants allow close observation.

Track lion and leopard from Sanctuary Puku Ridge Camp in Zambia’s prolific South Luangwa National Park, birthplace of walking safaris.

To visit Victoria Falls, include Sussi & Chuma in your Zambian itinerary - it’s also the only property that offers guided walks in Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park.

Vehicle-based gameviewing in Kenya’s famed Masai Mara often means smaller inhabitants are overlooked. Learn how to identify birds by song at Sanctuary Olonana on informative strolls. Also in East Africa, Tanzania’s Sanctuary Swala is a rare camp in Tarangire National Park where rambles are possible. Uganda’s atmospheric Sanctuary Gorilla Forest Camp provides access to the mountain gorillas of the dramatic Bwindi Impenetrable Forest – an encounter of a lifetime!

South Africa’s malaria-free Madikwe Game Reserve is home to Sanctuary Makanyane, where you can uncover the ‘Big 5’ away from the noise and dust of 4WDs.

For a tailor-made safari and to take a walk on the wild side, call our experts on 1300 363 302.

12 Phone 1300 363 302 or ask your Travel Agent

TAKE A WALK ONTHE WILD SIDESanctuary Retreats

Famously compared to heaven by Mark Twain, Mauritius combines flawless beaches with warm Creole culture and mouth-watering

cuisine inspired by the French, Chinese, Indians and Africans – a reflection of the island’s diverse history. Discover this Indian Ocean jewel with Beachcomber Resorts, a pioneer of Mauritian hospitality and culinary excellence, with eight properties in gorgeous settings along the country’s picturesque coastline.

When nothing but the best will do, choose exquisite Royal Palm in Grand Baie, fringed by a glittering stretch of sand. Its three acclaimed restaurants are headed by top French chef Michel de Matteis.

Set in a picturesque seaside village, dreamy Trou aux Biches offers dining experiences that showcase Mauritian heritage and romantic suites designed for absolute privacy.

On the exclusive Le Morne Peninsula, luxurious Dinarobin and Le Paradis sit side-by-side, enjoying sweeping views of iconic

Le Morne Brabant Mountain. Electric buggies whisk guests to shared facilities including eight restaurants, a golf course and water sports centre.

In the unspoilt south, Shandrani provides access to three stunning beaches and the famous Ile aux Aigrettes reserve - the best choice for an active holiday.

Le Mauricia, Le Cannonier and Le Victoria are Beachcomber’s four-star options. Located on Mauritius’ sheltered west coast, all three are simple and laid-back yet exceedingly comfortable, appealing to travellers of all ages.

For a tropical island getaway or a relaxing end to an African safari, look no further than the island paradise of Mauritius. We recommend incorporating one Beachcomber property into a short stay or combining two on an extended visit. Call us on 1300 363 302 to design your dream holiday.

MAURITIUSJEWEL OF THE INDIAN OCEAN

www.africanwildlifesafaris.com.au | www.naturalfocussafaris.com.au 13

“Mauritius is so much more than just idyllic beaches. Influenced by French, Asian and Creole flavours, the island is full of gastronomic surprises. Try the crispy groper at Royal Palm – it’s delicious! Beachcomber Hotels offers something for everyone from the romance of Trou aux Biches to golf at beautiful Paradis!”

Elise Thomas, AWS Africa Travel Specialist t

An African safari offers some of the greatest photographic opportunities to travellers – from

vast, epic landscapes and vibrant people to amazing wildlife. If taking incredible photos is your focus, here are a few photography safaris of note:

Luxurious Londolozi in South Africa’s exclusive Sabi Sand Game Reserve will provide a private Land Rover, dedicated ranger/tracker team and expert tutor, as well as access to their innovative studio where you can edit your images and even print them out onto canvas!

Acclaimed wildlife filmmakers Dereck and Beverley Joubert’s outstanding Great Plains camps in Botswana and Kenya not only boast a huge cast of characters to photograph, but can supply purpose-built vehicles. Guests are also treated to high-tech in-room gadgets such as Canon lenses and Swarovski binoculars.

A favourite with National Geographic and the BBC, Zambia’s Kaingo Camp has a fleet of vehicles equipped with essentials such as camera rests and dust covers, while five perfectly positioned viewing hides promise stunning close-ups of South Luangwa’s rich diversity of wildlife.

Our consultants have travelled the length and breadth of Africa and they know exactly which lodges offer the most comprehensive facilities to capture your best shots. Contact us on 1300 363 302 for more information.

Behind the Lens

Earlier this year, our graphic designer and veteran safari-goer David Kneale visited exquisite Earth

Lodge in South Africa’s Sabi Sabi Private Game Reserve. Whilst there, David enjoyed a specialised Photography Safari – read about his experience below.

What did you think of Earth Lodge?Images of Earth Lodge don’t do it justice – it’s a truly beautiful lodge made of rammed earth, set in one of the most awesome wildlife areas in South Africa.

How did your Photography Safari compare to other safaris you’ve been on? I was accompanied by a Photographic Guide – a professional photographer who gave me plenty of helpful tips on getting the most out of my camera. As well as looking at different shooting techniques, we also sat down at the end of the trip and went through some really valuable post-production ideas. Throughout my stay I had use of a custom-built vehicle with cut-out side panels, fixed camera mounts and a swivel seat. It was hard to get used to a normal game drive vehicle after that experience!

Tell us about your photographs on this trip Sabi Sabi is heaven for big cats – I had countless close-up encounters with leopard and lion plus there were plenty of elephant, hyena and plains game. Another bonus at Sabi Sabi is being able to hire quality equipment too.

Can photographers of any level take part?Absolutely! The facilities are designed to make wildlife photography accessible for all levels – whether you’re a beginner or a pro.

PHOTOSAFARIS

14 Phone 1300 363 302 or ask your Travel Agent

UNTAMED AFRICAThe spiritual birthplace of the walking safari, South

Luangwa National Park is Zambia’s crown jewel and one of the most authentic safari destinations in southern Africa. Discover its magic with The Bushcamp Company, the only operator in South Luangwa’s untouched southern sector. Best known for their award-winning flagship, Mfuwe Lodge, famous for a local elephant herd who regularly wander through the lobby, they also offer six intimate bush camps taking no more than 8 guests in total, providing a touch a class in totally wild surrounds.

AWS clients and seasoned Africa travellers Tony and Fiona Fox were very impressed with The Bushcamp Company on their recent safari to Zambia. This is what they had to say:

“Zambia offers the pioneer-style accommodation mixed perfectly with modern comforts and good old-fashioned personal service. In fact the food at the bush camps was probably the best we have ever had on safari in Africa! We enjoyed the diversity and behavioural viewing of wildlife (2 leopards up a tree this time) without having to share it with too many others. The ability to walk and game drive in the park adds to a truly wild and exclusive safari experience”.

Walking safaris are unsurprisingly the order of the day at all the bush camps with day and night game drives also on offer. To best appreciate the rich beauty of the South Luangwa, we recommend combining two or more camps during your stay. Call our consultants on 1300 363 302 or ask your travel agent.

www.africanwildlifesafaris.com.au | www.naturalfocussafaris.com.au 15

16 Phone 1300 363 302 or ask your Travel Agent

MESMERISING MOROCCOFrom Hilltop Kasbahs to Opulent Riads

In June AWS founders Steve and Sara Cameron visited Morocco and were

completely captivated by the architecture, the vibrant souks, the spices, the opulent riads and the delicious mint tea.

“We flew into Casablanca and headed straight out to the High Atlas Mountains, where orange and ochre Berber houses cling to the hillsides and the river valleys are green and lush with walnut, cherry and apple trees fed by irrigation channels. When we reached Imlil at the end of a long valley we had to continue on foot, our bags loaded onto a mule, for the short 15 minute walk up to our kasbah.

The historic Kasbah de Toubkal is surrounded by a majestic backdrop of mountains, including snow-capped Jebel Toubkal (4,165m) the highest mountain in north Africa. It has been beautifully restored and offers warm and friendly Berber hospitality, ensuite rooms, delicious, healthy meals and rooftop patios perfect for taking in the absolutely stunning views, or dinner under the stars.

These mountains are perfect for trekking and the kasbah offers daily guided walks exploring the surrounding villages and discovering the traditional Berber culture. Or you can head further afield, as we did, on an overnight trek with mules to carry your bags and comfy accommodation in a private camp or the kasbah’s own private lodge.

Leaving the mountains behind we drove to the ‘Rose Red City’ of Marrakech, just 45 minutes away. We stayed at one of the many beautifully restored riads the city is famous for - old courtyard houses with inner gardens, tranquil pools and rose-petal filled fountains. Behind the heavy front door at the edge of the medina, Riad El Fenn is a heady mix of Arab architecture and modern chic, with jewel rich colours and serious, contemporary art works. Yet it has a relaxing, laid back atmosphere.

We visited other riads too and were enchanted by the perfect gem of moorish architecture which is Riad Kniza, and the seductive Villa des Orangers. We also splurged on dinner at the famous La Maison Arabe restaurant, sitting by a pool in a courtyard oasis surrounded by arabic arches and flickering candles.

Our guide was an incredible repository of knowledge who led us through the labyrinth of the medina, and explained the history and architecture of the city. At the mysterious Saadian Tombs and stunning El Badi Palace we marvelled at domes and arches decorated in colourful zelije tiles and intricately carved wood or plaster. We visited the Koutoubia Mosque, the fascinating Ben Youssef Quaranic school and the Lezama synagogue in the Jewish quarter built in 1492. We wandered the famous Majorelle gardens, created by French painter Jacques Majorelle and later bought by Yves Saint Laurent who set up a museum to display his outstanding collection of Berber jewellery, clothing and antiques.

It was hard to leave all this and head for Europe, but luckily we were bound for Andalusia in Spain where the Moors left their amazing heritage in the forts, palaces and mosques of Cordoba, Granada and Seville.”

For more information please contact our experienced consultants on 1300 363 302.

17www.africanwildlifesafaris.com.au | www.naturalfocussafaris.com.au