Stolen moments in time, breathtaking and dramatic sunsets, contrasting landscapes framed by endless skies, warm tropical waters teeming with colourful fish and huge predators staring into your soul. This is what Africa has to offer – and more. These 16 iconic images of Africa represent the best of each safari destination on this delicate continent.
Why we love this leopard image: Leopards are elusive cats and spotting them is rare. They’re found throughout southern Africa while on safari. Leopards spend their time suspended in trees, where they stash their kill for safekeeping from prying scavengers. A leopard in a tree? Now that’s iconic!
Why we love this rhino calf image: This calf looks so innocent and naive. It’s a sharp image of a rather prehistoric looking animal. Rhino are critically endangered and there’s plenty of poaching for use of the horn. It’s a beautiful thing seeing a young and healthy rhino calf in the wild!
Why we love this elephant in the sunset image: Africa has some of the most breathtaking sunsets in the world. And what makes a sunset better than one of the big five strolling across the horizon?
Why we love this baobab image: Baobabs are synonymous with Botswana, Kruger and the African savannah. They’re shrouded in mystery, superstition and folk lore. The entire tree is actually used for food, beverages and medicine.
Why we love this lantern lined boma area: This is what you will experience when you going on safari in Africa. Boma areas (a communal area with a central firepit) are centred around a firepit and guests normally relax here after dinner. Depending on the lodge, there are often candles, lanterns and fairy lights hanging from trees. Each lodge will have their own style of boma but one thing is constant – there’s a roaring fire, pristine night skies and the sounds of the wild.
We why we love this dolphin photo: It’s a classic underwater photo taken in the warm waters of Mozambique. Mozambique is the ideal African destination to swim with dolphins. It’s just not tropical Africa without swimming with dolphins!
Why we love this photo of an elephant herd in the sunset: Just like the previous photo, this snapshot is representative of everything that is Africa. Those open plains with breeding herds of elephants crossing the horizon and that lemon colour sky certainly sets the standard in terms of scenery! Find these plains while on safari in the Masai Mara in Kenya, the “Jewel of Africa”.
Why we love this photo of an African fish eagle: The call of the fish eagle is synonymous with Africa. This raptor is found in abundance throughout southern Africa. The waters of Botswana’s Okavango Delta are teeming with these eagles. These eagles swoop down to catch fish with their talons – this photo truly is a moment caught in time.
Why we love this photo of a gorilla: A pensive moment shared with a primate. Gorilla trekking in Uganda is something to consider if you’re looking for a different type of safari in a remote, uncommercial country in Africa.
Why we love this photo of Mt. Kilimanjaro: Arid savannah with Africa’s tallest mountain in the background. What’s not to love? Umbrella thorn trees with a frosty snow-capped mountain as the backdrop deliver a timelessly classic image of Africa.
Why we love this image of Pearl Valley Golf Estate: Golf in South Africa is a growing sport and there are plenty of world-renowned golf courses along the Garden Route of South Africa and in Cape Town. This image of Pearl Valley highlights the natural beauty of the vineyards and mountains of the winelands which hug the golf course.
Why we love this image of Sossusvlei in Namibia: Famous for its red sand dunes and blood red sunsets, this area of Namibia is beautifully prehistoric. This photo certainly highlights the natural terracotta colours of Namibia and the lone dead tree reminds us of the harshness of the Namibian landscape.
Why we love this tropical photo: This photo just represents the tropical side of Africa. The idyllic islands surrounded by turquoise waters peppered with traditional dhows, yachts and postcard perfect beaches are all part of the African scenery.
Why we love this photo of the VA Waterfront in Cape Town: Cape Town is one of Africa’s most beautiful cities. The “Mother City” is home to Table Mountain, which stands proudly over the city. This powerful image shows off the mountain in all its glory and highlights the peaceful and luxurious area of the VA Waterfront.
Why we love this photo of zebra: The incredible colours of the vegetation against the bright sunset are greatly contrasted by the stark black and white stripes of the zebra.
