Travel Africa 102

The rise and impact of gorilla tourism
Tracking mountain gorillas is often ranked as the ultimate wildlife experience. It may also be the most expensive. Yet, is there a better example of how tourism can drive conservation and sustain communities? In this 12-page feature to mark 30 years of gorilla tourism in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Sue Watt looks at how your visits are transforming the plight of the greatest ape, and you share your own experiences and recommendations.

Kenya: Meru National Park
Wildlife photographer Will Burrard-Lucas recently visited Meru. When considering a little-visited reserve, it’s natural to need some reassurance, so we asked him for his insight.

Tanzania: Lake Natron
Complementing your safari by giving yourself a bold change of scene or shift in activity will greatly enhance your experience. Sarah Kingdom dons her hiking boots to find out what northern Tanzania has to offer.

Botswana: Lines of sight
On foot, by 4×4, in the air, and on the water: if you’re looking to spot wildlife, coming at it from different angles makes for a fresh outlook. By James Draven

Namibia: Add some oomph!
Outdoor-lover Maria Kamau encourages readers to add some more energetic activities to add to your itinerary, to give a different perspective on the country.

South Africa: The Waterberg
Iain Wallace enjoys one of his best ever safaris at Lapalala Wilderness, while Carrie Hampton looks at the wider Waterberg Biosphere Reserve. Should this lesser-known region of northern South Africa be on your safari agenda?

Rediscovering Zimbabwe
Philip Briggs and Ariadne van Zandbergen spent six weeks driving around Zimbabwe. They offer their 10 highlights and discuss what it is actually like to travel around right now.

Remembering Leopards
A selection of the stunning images from the new book that celebrates this most coveted big cat, with comments from the photographers.

Zambia: Kasanka National Park
Diminutive it may be, but Kasanka is a little gem. Its big draw is the spectacle of the bat migration, but beyond that it promises several notable surprises, says Sarah Kingdom.

Why Malawi?
It may not a big-hitting safari destination nor an obvious beach escape, yet Malawi packs an over-riding punch, with plenty to keep you stimulated, rewarded and relaxed, says Phil Clisby.