May is the start of the traditional winter safari season; the park's roads dry up, the grass starts to die back and the light begins to develop its magical golden tones. The clean, crisp quality of the light in the early dry season is a [...]
I first knew about Mana Pools in 2004 when friends told me about a stunning, mature forest on the banks of the Zambezi River in Zimbabwe. Even then, before it had enjoyed the fame that it is enjoying these days, it was revered as a [...]
For years, beanbags were the best method of supporting a camera in a safari vehicle; in fact, they work well and are still widely used today. However, they are only as good as support that they are rested on. Beanbags are great when the vehicle [...]
I had been looking forward to this safari for months. Steve – a many times return guest of mine – was bringing a friend of his, Peter, who he had met on a previous safari. But there was a different perspective this time around; Steve [...]
The light levels were low in the very early morning as we waited for a large male lion to rouse from his sleep. We moved off to photograph elsewhere, planning to return a few minutes later and check on our lion! A line of zebra [...]
I am mid-way through a long safari with Steve and Peter. After 5 nights in the central Mfuwe area, we are now at our second camp, exploring the sights around Chichele Lodge. A full trip report will follow, but here's a summary of what we've [...]
Since the 1980s there has been talk of building a dam in the lower course of the Luangwa River to generate electricity. Each time it has been raised, the idea has been shelved, presumably on the basis that the cost-benefit analysis did not hold up [...]
Yellow baboons are found in large numbers right across the Luangwa Valley. They thrive anywhere that provides year-round forage, access to water and – crucially – safe roosting sites. They are therefore found in the largest numbers along the riverine areas where mature trees offer [...]
I love April in the Luangwa. It's the month when the temperatures begin to subside, the air dries out, the breeze develops a chill and Winter finally arrives. After 6 months of high temperatures, paired with high humidity for long periods, it's a pleasure to [...]
The pre-05.00 wake up call from the camp staff is not the most welcome sound you will ever hear! However, as your mind becomes aware of your surroundings, the sounds of the outside world start to pierce the fog of your early awakening. The dawn [...]
