6 Reasons to Visit East Africa during the Green Season

Lanky legs and large, curious eyes are some of the characteristics that make wildebeest calves so endearing. Unlike the adults that grunt, snort and trundle across the Serengeti in droves, heads down, one hoof step at a time. Despite not being the most beautiful of animals, the sheer number of wildebeest has long been a drawcard to the Serengeti, particularly during the peak safari season of July to October.  However, many travellers don’t realise that the Great Migration is not limited to those four months. The wildebeest move vaguely circularly, constantly following the rains and flourishing grass. You may have a better safari experience during the green season (November to May). Here are some compelling reasons to visit East Africa when the region is transformed into a lush, vibrant landscape. 

1. Ideal conditions for photography and bird watching
While there isn’t a single best time for wildlife photography in Tanzania, the vibrant landscapes and nearly constant billowing clouds during the green season create ideal atmospheric conditions. Whether you aim to capture wildlife against dramatic backdrops or take rich, moody landscape shots, this time of year is perfect. The green season offers incredible photographic opportunities, from newborn calves skipping across the plains to rain-soaked sunsets.

The green season isn’t just about mammals — it’s also a birder’s paradise. Certain parks host up to 500 bird species, and up to 200 migratory bird species flock to East Africa during this time, filling the skies and wetlands with vibrant colours and melodic calls. The parks of Nyerere and Ruaha see a spike in bird populations, with many species showing off their breeding plumage. Migratory birds like the Caspian lapwing, European bee-eater,  pallid harrier and lesser kestrel are among those that can be spotted. Even if you’re not a dedicated birdwatcher, the sheer variety and beauty of the birds are captivating.

2. Witness calving and predator interactions
While safari-goers often aim for the dry season, believing wildlife is easier to spot near scarce water sources, the green season brings a unique magic. With abundant food and water, many animals give birth during this time.  In the Ngorongoro Conservation Area and southern Serengeti, over 80% of female wildebeest give birth between late January and mid-March, with about 8,000 calves born daily. The abundance of life draws predators, and wildlife activity can be particularly dynamic.

You might witness a majestic black-maned lion in full stalk mode, his front shoulders low to the ground as he moves stealthily across the plain, causing zebras and wildebeest to scatter if they catch sight of him. Or, take in the captivating sight of flocks of pink flamingos congregating on the shimmering waters of the Empakaai Crater, their distinct nasal honking filling the air. The lush landscape also draws large troops of baboons, from big-fanged males who confidently strut past your game vehicle to bumbling babies that topple over their limbs. 

3. Positive community impact
Tourism is a vital source of income for many communities across East Africa, creating jobs and fuelling local economies. In the green season, when fewer tourists visit, money spent on accommodation, guides, and local goods supports these communities directly. This steady flow of income during off-peak months helps sustain livelihoods that depend on tourism year-round and fosters a more sustainable and balanced approach to tourism.

4. Wildlife and habitat protection
Travelling in the green season helps mitigate the environmental pressures that can impact wildlife and ecosystems during peak periods. Many of East Africa’s most popular safari destinations experience intense visitor numbers during popular travel periods, putting pressure on wildlife, habitats, and local resources. By visiting during the green season, you can enjoy a more intimate experience and support community development initiatives, from education and healthcare to conservation programs that benefit the region’s people and wildlife.

5. Flexibility and better rates
Finding last-minute availability during the high season can be a struggle. But travelling during the green season could provide you with more flexibility. Accommodation that might be fully booked in peak season is more accessible, allowing for a broader range of choices to customise your itinerary. Whether it’s a luxury lodge in Northern Tanzania or a private guide in the Serengeti, you have more freedom to craft your ideal safari experience.

While cost isn’t always a determining factor, many safari lodges offer substantial discounts during the green season. This means you can enjoy luxury for less or extend your stay for longer, and these savings don’t compromise the quality of the experience.

6. Fewer visitors allow for more intimate experiences
Peak season in the Serengeti and Masai Mara can conjure images of groups of game vehicles filled with eager tourists descending on kill sights or crowding at the riverbanks in the hope of seeing wildebeest river crossing. While witnessing the river crossings, which occur during peak season, can be enthralling, there’s also the reality of seeing crocodiles feast during the frenetic rush. However, the green season provides a more tranquil experience with fewer visitors. You might find you’re on the only game vehicle watching a lion, leopard, or cheetah on the prowl. You could also enjoy a more meaningful interaction with local communities, who will have more time to engage with visitors during this time.

 Happy travelling,

The Leopard Team

P.S. We’d love to share more with you as you consider the pros and cons of a fly-in versus a drive-in safari or which season (whether green or not) will suit you best. Click the ‘Start Planning Here’ button (top right) if you’d like us to help you ​​design a personalised East African safari itinerary tailored perfectly to your preferences.

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Life-Changing Holidays: Adventures from Madagascar to the Okavango Delta

Travel has a unique way of transforming us, taking us out of our comfort zones, opening our eyes to new worlds, and offering the kind of reflection that can change the course of our lives. For those seeking more than just a break from routine, those longing for a journey of self-discovery and personal growth, life-changing holidays offer experiences that will stay with you long after you’ve returned home. Our mission at Leopard is to create life changing holidays that our clients love so much that they will eagerly recommend us to others. 

Discovering Madagascar: A World Apart
Madagascar feels like a different planet. This island nation off the southeast coast of Africa is a place where nature has evolved in isolation for millions of years, creating landscapes and species found nowhere else on earth. From the towering baobab trees and lemur-filled rainforests to the surreal rock formations of Tsingy de Bemaraha, Madagascar offers a striking, unfiltered connection with nature.

Madagascar is a destination I dreamed of visiting for many years. I imagined trekking through dense jungles, encountering lemurs for the first time and discovering the incredible reptiles and invertebrates that inhabit the island. I love the natural world and Madagascar gave me many opportunities to connect to nature. A particularly moving moment for me was listening to the haunting call of the Indri Indri in the rainforest. It was so moving and to me, felt mournful… as if the lemurs were mourning the loss of their natural habitat which is unfortunately happening really quickly. 

But what was really life changing for me about Madagascar were my encounters with the local people. Their lives are tough and most Malagasy live in unbelievable poverty. We stopped at three village schools to deliver books, pens and other supplies which were joyfully received. When I arrived back in Johannesburg, I realised how much I have to be grateful for. Our infrastructure is not perfect but it is much better than Malagasy people have to contend with, and I am grateful to live where I do. 

Hiking in the Drakensberg Mountains: Growth through Discomfort
If you’re looking to challenge yourself physically while immersing yourself in breathtaking scenery, hiking in the Drakensberg Mountains is a must. Nestled in the heart of South Africa, the Drakensberg is a mountain range that stretches for over 1,000 kilometers, offering rugged cliffs, dramatic peaks, and lush valleys. The range is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, renowned for its stunning landscapes and its rich cultural history, as ancient San rock art can be found scattered throughout the area.

Whether you’re hiking the challenging mNweni circuit, like I recently did, or exploring gentler paths that wind through the foothills, the Drakensberg offers a chance to reconnect with yourself and the natural world. The sheer beauty of the landscape, the sense of accomplishment after reaching new heights, and the quiet reflection you’ll find in the mountains, makes hiking in the Drakensberg a deeply transformative experience.

I hiked the mNweni circuit in the northern Drakensberg with a group of experienced Kiwi trampers (hikers) including my 74 year old mom. We had the mountains to ourselves which is a real privilege and a very different experience from hiking some of the busier mountain ranges in Europe.

It was a holiday that not only tested our endurance but also our ability to cope with discomfort. Discomfort such as very hot temperatures in the day, cold nights, lack of water, basic food, uncomfortable but sensationally beautiful campsites. The hardest part for me was not showering for 4 days! I also realised how essential water is to daily life, and how difficult it is to live without water on demand. Despite this physical discomfort, I felt a sense of peace and clarity which came from being immersed in these rugged mountains for 4 days with no cellphone reception.

Walking Safari in the Okavango Delta and Hwange: Nature at Your Feet
For those who want to experience the wild in its rawest form, a walking safari is unlike any other. While safari game drives offer the thrill of seeing animals from a vehicle, walking safaris offer something even more intimate: the chance to explore the bush on foot. Accompanied by experienced guides, you’ll learn to read the landscape, track animals, and listen to the sounds of the wild in a way that makes you feel part of the ecosystem rather than a spectator. The heightened awareness and connection with nature make each encounter more meaningful. This kind of immersive, up-close experience leaves a lasting impression, deepening your respect for the animals and the environment around you.

I visited the Okavango Delta in October, one of the hottest months to visit, but with very rewarding wildlife sightings. The only way to cool down was to take a dip in the shallow channels formed by the seasonal flooding. I was scared about potentially encountering a hidden crocodile in these waters, but since I was with experienced guides, I trusted them and plunged, fully clothed, into the water! It felt great to have overcome my fear and to cool off in this unique way. 

On the same trip, I visited Hwange where I had a few more incredible encounters with wildlife while on foot. After arriving at “The Rocks” to begin our walk, our expert tracker and guide searched the ground for information on animals that had recently passed by. They picked up fresh leopard footprints and began tracking. It was seriously impressive to watch the tracker and guide at work, and their expertise was evident to us all. The air was tense with anticipation as we quietly moved through the bush, paying close attention to fresh prints, broken twigs or alarm calls from other animals and birds. Excitement built when we came across the mark of the leopard’s tail in the sand. This meant that she had taken a break to lie down and we could get closer! Leopards are one of Africa’s most powerful predators and are masters of camouflage, and we were all excited to potentially see one on foot. Sadly this time, the leopard headed into a rocky area making it impossible to continue tracking her. We had come so close but luckily our consolation prize was observing a family of elephant from on top of a rocky outcrop. 

Whether you’re traversing Madagascar’s otherworldly landscapes, pushing your limits in the Drakensberg Mountains, or walking side by side with nature in Botswana and Zimbabwe, these life-changing holidays offer more than just a holiday, they provide an opportunity to reconnect with nature, rediscover yourself, and return home with a renewed sense of purpose. 

The beauty of travel lies not just in the places you visit, but in how those places transform you. These destinations promise to do just that: inspire, challenge, and ultimately, change your life in ways you never expected!

Happy Travelling,
Diana 

P.S. Contact us for help planning your next next life changing holiday in Africa. 

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Unveiling Cape Town’s Secret Spots: From Wine Valleys to Kelp Forests

As summer approaches in the southern hemisphere, Cape Town bursts into life. Situated at the foot of Table Mountain and along the ocean, the city is perfect for summer exploration. While popular attractions like the V&A Waterfront, Kirstenbosch Gardens, Camps Bay, Boulders Beach, Table Mountain Aerial Cableway and the increasingly popular Lion’s Head hike are must-sees, there are also off-the-beaten-track finds that are well worth adding to your itinerary. Here are some we recommend:

Visit these lesser-known wine valleys
While the Franschhoek and Stellenbosch wine valleys are renowned for producing fine wines, the Bottelary Hills Wine Valley (adjacent to Stellenbosch) has some gems too. This valley is tucked away and perhaps overlooked, although it is well worth visiting. Visit Louisvale for exquisite food, wine and views, where you’ll experience the feeling of being situated in a spectacular hidden valley that faces the Stellenbosch mountains. Asara Wine Estate and Hotel also provides magnificent dining and views, while Jordan Wine Estate is perfect for sipping wine outside, overlooking the lake, or enjoying fine dining inside. If you want a family-friendly destination, Hazendal Wine Estate offers good food, a Russian High Tea Experience (this must be pre-booked), a nine-hole golf course and an indoor edutainment centre for children.

 Learn to cook a local meal
Join a local guide for a fascinating cultural tour of the Bo-Kaap (which means Above Cape). The area, famous for its brightly-coloured houses, used to be referred to as the Malay Quarter. It began as a settlement for slaves who were brought from Malaysia, Indonesia, and various regions of Africa to work for Dutch immigrant families. The Malay and Indonesian influences made their way into local cooking and this developed into what is known as Cape Malay cooking. The food includes meals, such as biryani and bobotie (considered a classic South African dish).

After enjoying a guided tour of the area, with time to pose in front of the vibrant buildings, you can take part in a Cape Malay cooking lesson, in the home of one of the residents. Or, if you prefer not to cook, you can still enjoy authentic local cuisine at Faeeza’s Home Kitchen.

Snorkel with a marine biologist in the Great African Seaforest
Join marine biologist Mike Barron on a guided snorkel or scuba dive and learn about the unique ecosystem of False Bay, and its kelp forest (highlighted in the Netflix documentary My Octopus Teacher). 

After a briefing, once in the water, you can help record data for a marine research conservation project, by counting fish and elasmobranchs (such as the little shysharks and pyjama sharks). You’ll gain a deeper understanding of the ocean and the unique character of Cape Town’s kelp forests, which are tranquil and awe-inspiring. (If your children are over seven and are confident swimmers, they may accompany you).

Visit wine estates by helicopter
While the wine route that you’ll visit is not necessarily all off the beaten track, your transport via helicopter with a private guide does set it apart. Wine Flies helicopter tours will take you and your group (up to six people) to wine regions like Durbanville, Stellenbosch, Franschhoek and Constantia depending on your chosen itinerary.  Your tour will include having a knowledgeable local wine guide, cellar tours, wine tastings, a light lunch, your private helicopter and gorgeous scenery. 

Enjoy sustainable foraging in inter-tidal pools
Join the Veld and Sea team for a half-day, hands-on workshop exploring the edible treasures of the Atlantic coastline. You’ll discover how to harvest local seaweeds and molluscs sustainably and join interactive cooking demonstrations over an open fire. The workshop concludes with a delectable multi-course, coastal-inspired lunch using seasonal ingredients (from the garden and local farms) paired with botanical drinks in the Veld and Sea Glasshouse.

Veld and Sea’s founder, Roushana Gray shares her “passion for the edible landscape through immersive educational experiences, connection and creativity” and she invites you to “discover the rich offerings of the intertidal zone by foraging in rock pools, learning how to sustainably harvest and incorporate the coastal landscape of Cape Town into your cooking while enjoying a wildly delicious summertime adventure!”

Happy Travelling,
The Leopard Team

P.S. Looking for even more hidden gems in Cape Town? We’d love to help you tailor the perfect itinerary that balances iconic Cape Town destinations with lesser-known wonders.

A Roaring Success: Recap of Leopard’s 5th Birthday Celebration

Earlier this month, clients, friends and business partners joined us at my home in Johannesburg to celebrate our 5th birthday. It was a gorgeous spring day and it was such a pleasure and an honour to mark this significant milestone surrounded by our favourite people. Not everyone could be there, since most of our clients live far from Africa. But we remembered all of our valued clients as we celebrated our resilience and success in this 5 year journey. 

I told Leopard’s origin story at the party, and would like to retell it here. In August 2019, I left my well-paid corporate job to start a travel company. Everyone will remember that in April 2020 the world shut down at the start of the Covid-19 pandemic. Tourism came to a grinding halt as people could’nt travel into or out of South Africa (and most other countries) for months on end. We survived by the skin of our teeth, and am thankful we did. I am grateful to the locals, my friends and especially the French expats living in Johannesburg, who booked their regional travel through Leopard during this tough time. 

Now in 2024, I am very proud to say Leopard is a thriving business. The entire Leopard team was present so we could celebrate our joint success (except for Marlene who is permanently based in France). Jess, Daphnée, Helen, Elise, Hailey-Rose, Marlene, Caitlin, Pilar and JJ, thank you so much for the incredible work you do every day to ensure that our clients have the holiday of their lifetime. You make every day a lot of fun, and my job so much easier.

Leopard offered holidays to South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe and Mozambique when it started in 2019. We have now expanded to 15 countries in southern and eastern Africa, offering a wide variety of holidays. These range from trekking to see gorillas or chimps, photographing the Great Migration, searching for lemurs in Madagascar, doing a walking safari in Zambia, or relaxing on some of the world’s most beautiful beaches in the Seychelles, Zanzibar, Mauritius or the Bazaruto Archipelago. It’s really quite something to take some time to look back at where we started and see how far we have come, with over 1,100 clients having travelled with us to date. Cheers to the next 5 years (and many more after that) of planning exquisite African holidays for our valued clients! 

True to our company values, we used the services of many small businesses to help make the party a success. A special thank you to all of them for their amazing energy and contributions:

Maskandi Band – Qadasi & Maqhinga, 072 566 4159  
Lamb spit braai – Sloane’s Butchery
Salads and desserts – Christine Serre 063 032 3010
Photography – Ant McDonald
Bread – Linden Loaves
Cheese – Fabienne 084 911 2398
Hand crafted sugar spoons – Kayz Woodwork 067 464 0402
Gifts – Honest Chocolate

Happy travelling,
Diana

For more photos, visit our Facebook albums here and here.

A journey through paradise: discovering Africa’s islands

“You gather the idea that Mauritius was made first, and then heaven, and that heaven was copied after Mauritius.” – Mark Twain, “Following the Equator” (1897).

While Mauritius is undeniably heavenly, so is each of Africa’s Indian Ocean islands highlighted below. Each offers a diverse and enchanting array of experiences. Each has a unique charm. From the luxurious beaches of Mauritius and Seychelles to the cultural richness of Zanzibar, the biodiversity of Madagascar, and the tranquil beauty of the Bazaruto Islands, we love helping you plan unforgettable moments in Africa.

Mauritius
Mauritius is a favourite of both honeymoon couples and families. The island’s natural beauty is well known, from the iconic Le Morne Brabant mountain to the multicoloured dunes of Chamarel’s Seven Coloured Earths. 

The warm, crystal-clear waters are perfect to dive or snorkel in, while hiking trails through the Black River Gorges National Park lead you to waterfalls, beautiful views and encounters with rare bird species, like the pink pigeon or Mauritius parakeet.

Beyond its landscapes, Mauritius is a melting pot of culture with Indian, African, Chinese, and French influences. This blend is reflected in the island’s diverse cuisine, where flavours of curry, seafood, and French pastries coexist harmoniously. One of the stops on a tour of the island’s verdant tea plantations takes you to Bois Cheri tea factory, the oldest tea producer in Mauritius. Here, you can visit the Bois Cheri Museum, have lunch and sample teas, including black and green teas, to those flavoured with coconut or cardamom.

Whatever you choose to do, from unwinding on the beach, watching dolphins glide by from the bow of a boat, quad biking, ziplining near waterfalls at La Vallée des Couleurs, or playing golf on courses like Ile aux Cerfs and Paradis Golf Club, Mauritius offers something for everyone. 

Seychelles

With 115 islands scattered across the Indian Ocean, Seychelles is an immaculate tropical paradise offering luxurious seclusion. Anse Source d’Argent, on La Digue, is often hailed as one of the world’s most beautiful beaches with its iconic granite boulders and soft, powdery sand. Mahé also has gorgeous beaches such as Anse Royale and Petite Anse.

Seychelles is also a sanctuary for wildlife, home to rare species found nowhere else on Earth. The Aldabra Atoll, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is inhabited by giant tortoises. At the same time, the Vallée de Mai on Praslin Island harbours the famous Coco de Mer palm with its enormous, suggestively shaped seeds. Scuba diving around the outer islands will give you the opportunity to encounter sharks, rays, and dolphins.

For travellers seeking luxurious seclusion, Seychelles offers an array of exclusive resorts where privacy is paramount. Whether you stay in a beachfront villa or a private island retreat, the focus is on personalised service and serene surroundings, making Seychelles an ideal destination for honeymooners. 

Zanzibar

Zanzibar, off the coast of Tanzania, is also known as the “Spice Island” and is steeped in history and cultural richness. The archipelago off the coast of Tanzania offers a unique blend of African, Arab, and Persian influences, most vividly experienced in Stone Town. Wandering through the narrow streets, you’ll encounter ancient mosques, bustling markets, and the famous Zanzibari doors with intricate carvings. 

Zanzibar’s beaches, such as those in Nungwi and Kendwa, are equally captivating, with their ivory-coloured sands and azure waters. The island’s surrounding ocean invites you to snorkel, scuba dive, or enjoy a sailing trip on a traditional dhow. (There’s also excellent diving and snorkelling off the coast of nearby Mnemba Island).

There’s also no shortage of activities, from spice tours to the turtle sanctuary, exploring the mangrove forests in kayaks near Chwaka Bay or visiting Kizimkazi in southern Zanzibar, a prime location for dolphin encounters. The food is also delicious, with coconut-infused seafood stews and freshly caught, spiced grilled fish being a few of the many options.

Zanzibar offers an enriching blend of relaxation, culture, and adventure, making it a versatile destination and the perfect add-on to a safari in the Serengeti.

Madagascar
Madagascar stands out for its extraordinary biodiversity and unique landscapes. The island is home to species found nowhere else on Earth, including lemurs, the fossa and unique chameleon species. 

If you visit the eastern coastal strip, you’ll find the island of Île Sainte-Marie, and the biodiverse Masoala National Park, which opens onto warm, coral-rich waters. We suggest spending a week or more at Masoala Forest Lodge. This lodge provides a unique and immersive natural experience and is the perfect place to enjoy the forest, walk to search out lemurs and go snorkelling and kayaking. You can drive to Andasibe from Tana, but you’ll need to fly from Tana to Ile Sainte Marie or Masoala.

If you want a more luxurious experience of Madagascar, its northern islands (like Nosy Be) are better suited. You can enjoy pristine beaches, luxurious resorts and excellent diving, surrounded by Madagascar’s unique wildlife and culture.

Bazaruto Islands
The Bazaruto Archipelago, off the coast of Mozambique, provides a retreat from the hustle and bustle of more commercialised islands and is ideal for families or a romantic getaway.

From the nearby Vilanculos and on Bazaruto Island, you can enjoy activities like sailing on a traditional dhow, horse riding or taking a boat to secluded beaches where you can picnic and swim. In the right season you could even watch turtles lay eggs or hatchlings scuttle to the ocean.

The islands are relatively undeveloped, offering a peaceful retreat where you can disconnect from the world and immerse yourself in nature. This unspoiled haven has warm waters, coral reefs brimming with colourful fish, serene beaches, inland freshwater lakes, and towering dunes. The Bazaruto Archipelago is also perfect for water-based activities such as snorkelling, diving, and deep-sea fishing. 

Whether you visit Mauritius, Seychelles, Zanzibar, Madagascar, or Bazaruto, Africa’s Indian Ocean islands offer diverse experiences, each with its beauty and appeal. With our expertise and on-the-ground knowledge, we can work with you to develop a bespoke, tailor-made itinerary that will fulfil your island holiday desires.

Happy island hopping,
The Leopard Team

P.S. Here are some of our brand new videos about these Indian Ocean Islands and how they compare. 

7 Thrilling and Luxurious Honeymoon Activities in Southern Africa

A luxurious honeymoon in Africa offers more than just exotic cuisine and fine wine in beautiful settings. Africa’s richness spans incredible wildlife, vibrant cultures, and landscapes and beaches that beckon. From unwinding with gourmet meals and cultural experiences to embarking on thrilling adventures, a honeymoon in Africa can be as tranquil or exhilarating as you desire.

Imagine coming face to face with a family of mountain gorillas and feeling an extraordinary connection as you observe them in their natural habitat. Picture yourself tracking cheetah on foot or snorkelling with whale sharks in warm, tropical waters. Beyond wildlife, the possibilities for honeymoon adventures under the African sun are endless. Try skydiving and sidecar trips or ocean escapades, hot-air balloon rides, and bungee jumping.

Here are seven activities that range from gentle excitement to adrenaline-fuelled adventure, ensuring unforgettable memories on your African honeymoon.

1. Zip lining

Cape Canopy Tours, situated in the Hottentots Holland Nature Reserve near Cape Town, provides a wonderful half-day out in nature. You’ll zip between mountain peaks, where eagles soar, in a spectacularly beautiful setting. Cape fynbos clings to the mountainside and the sound of the river below carries through the canyon. It’s a wonderful way to enjoy the mountain together.

Safety tip: Helmet, gloves and harnesses are all provided, all you need to do is follow the instructor’s safety guidelines.

2. Snorkelling with whale sharks

Slipping off the side of the boat into the warm Indian Ocean with your partner and seeing the spotted back of a whale shark shimmering in the sunlight can fill you with a sense of awe and wonder. Their colossal, yet graceful, bodies move with calm purpose and they exude an air of tranquillity. 

There are various places off the coast of Africa where you could encounter these gentle filter-feeders.  These include Tofo or the Bazaruto Archipelago in Mozambique, Nosy Be island off the coast of Madagascar and Mafia Island (about a 30-minute flight south of Zanzibar), off the coast of Tanzania.

Safety tip: Stay close to your guide and avoid touching the whale sharks.

3. Walking safari

What we love about walking safaris is the immersive experience in nature, feeling the ground under your boots, noticing a bird as it flits from tree to tree and watching and listening carefully to everything in your surroundings. You feel at one with nature, as your guide leads you to what could possibly be an extraordinary experience. You’ll leave with a sense of wonder and gratitude for having an experience of this kind in the wild.

Safety tips: 

• Walk in a single file behind your armed tracker.
• Keep quiet so that the tracker can listen to the surrounding sounds (and so you don’t carelessly frighten away animals).
• Always go with experienced guides, who are familiar with the area and its animals and follow the instructions your guide shares with you.

4. Helicopter flight over Victoria Falls

Imagine soaring high above one of the world’s most breathtaking natural wonders, as a helicopter whisks you away on an unforgettable aerial adventure over Victoria Falls, which separates Zimbabwe and Zambia. From this unrivalled vantage point you’ll witness the beauty of the cascading waters that stretch nearly two kilometres wide. As the helicopter cuts through the air, you may catch a glimpse of rainbow-hued mist beneath. It’s an intimate and wondrous experience that can leave you and your partner feeling like National Geographic adventurers.

Safety tip: Wear your seatbelt and the headset that’s provided. Helicopters are noisy, so to be able to communicate with your pilot and fellow passengers you’ll need to have your headset on.

5. Shark cage diving

While shark cage diving can sound scary, if you keep your body inside the cage you’re quite safe. South Africa’s sharks have been featured on many documentary programmes and there are a number of operators near Cape Town as well as in Mossel Bay and Algoa Bay. 

This thrilling experience will see you kit up with wetsuits and head out on the boat into deeper water. From Gansbaai you’ll head towards the underwater channel known as ‘Shark Alley,’ a stretch of water between Dyer Island and Geyser Rock, home to massive colonies of Cape fur seals. Similarly in False Bay you’ll head towards Seal Island where there’s a greater chance of encountering sharks.

While this isn’t everyone’s idea of a romantic outing, you and your new husband, or wife, will have plenty of exciting stories to recount.

Safety tip: Keep your body parts within the cage at all times and follow the instructions of the professionals on board.

6. Hot-air balloon flight

For those that don’t need that level of adventure, a hot-air balloon ride is an incredibly romantic and less adrenaline-fuelled way of taking in the world from above.The perfect honeymoon adventure. Whether you chose to drift serenely over the towering dunes of Sossusvlei, in Namibia, or the vast plains of the Serengeti during the Great Migration it’ll be an experience to remember.

You’ll lift off at sunrise and float gently, gaining altitude above the land as it awakes. Watch as the rising sun casts a golden glow over red dunes or illuminates the spectacle of wildebeest and zebra herds below. This is a unique and intimate perspective that few get to experience.

Safety tips: 

• Pay attention to the pilot’s safety briefing and explanation on the proper procedures for boarding and landing.
• Keep your arms and hands inside the basket at all times and avoid leaning over the edge.

7. Gorilla trekking

Whether you choose to trek to see mountain gorillas in the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park, Uganda; Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda or seek an encounter with western lowland gorillas in Odzala National Park in the Congo it’ll be an experience that will stay with you indefinitely. 

Once you’ve found a gorilla family, you’ll have up to an hour to spend watching the gorillas interact, play, and forage among the dense foliage. It’s awe-inspiring to be in the presence of an imposing silverback watching protectively over his family. Seeing fluffy black baby gorillas tumble and play, or cling to their mothers as they stare at you in curiosity, is also something you’ll never forget.

Safety tip: Maintain a 7-metre distance and avoid direct eye contact to prevent stressing them.

Leopard’s founder and director Diana Granoux had this to say about her encounter with gorillas, “What makes the experience so unique is that you are transported to another world as you become part of the gorilla family for a short time. You are there on their terms. They can always choose to walk away, and they walk MUCH faster through the forest than humans can. I think a gorilla trek is the perfect compliment to a traditional African safari where you will see our other iconic fauna – lion, elephant, leopard, rhino – but always from behind a physical barrier because these animals are just too dangerous to get close to on foot. I cannot find the right words to describe the experience of seeing the gorillas in such close proximity, except perhaps awe-inspiring.” You can read her full account here.

Happy travelling,
The Leopard Team

P.S. Whatever your tolerance for excitement is, we always recommend skilled tour operators with exemplary safety track records.

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Heroes of the Wild: Celebrating World Ranger Day with Inspiring Stories

World Ranger Day falls on 31 July each year, both honouring rangers who have been injured or killed in the line of duty and celebrating the ongoing efforts of rangers to protect Earth’s natural treasures. Below are some inspiring stories from four exceptional rangers who dedicate their lives to conservation. Diana has personally been guided by three, while the fourth, Precious Malapane works as both a ranger and a trainer at the K9 Unit of the Southern African Wildlife College, work supported by Leopard.

You’ll read about experiences as diverse as being part of The Ruaha Carnivore Project (RCP) to help protect lions and other wildlife in Tanzania to gorilla trekking in the rainforests of Rwanda, protecting lemurs in Madagascar, to working with dogs to track poachers in South Africa.

Hamza Visram: Head Guide and Guide Trainer, Elewana Collection, Tanzania 

What is the best part of your job as a guide? 
“Sharing my knowledge of the environment and its creatures with guests and guides.”

What is one challenge that you face as a guide? 
“Making every guest happy because you encounter people with different interests.”

Do you have a positive conservation story you can share? 
“In the Ruaha National Park in southern Tanzania, there are still very remote areas. One such place is Usangu Expedition Camp, on the edge of the wetlands, where I worked for a season.

This area was severely affected by poaching, particularly fishing in the Ruaha River and game meat poaching. The poaching drove animals away to the point that if they heard or saw a vehicle, they would run. We set up camera traps and managed to collar one lioness and three big male lions to track their movements and interactions. This conservation project was highly productive, helping us understand the lions’ movements and territory overlaps. We involved guests in setting up the camera traps, and at the end of their stay, we retrieved the photos together.

Previously, the source of the Ruaha River was being farmed for rice, which reduced the drinking water available for animals during the dry season. Now, it has been rewilded. If you visit, you’ll see herds of sable antelope, roan antelope, topi, and eland, in numbers similar to the migration in the Serengeti. It’s an amazing place.”

What is the funniest question a guest has asked you? 
“I was once asked if elephants eat meat.”

Jean Marie Twambaze: Tour Guide, Rwanda 

What is the best part of your job as a guide? 
“I take travellers to different parks in Rwanda, such as Volcanoes, Akagera and Nyungwe National Parks. I love meeting people from different cultures, showing them the best of Rwanda and sharing my country’s conservation success stories. I love learning from people of different cultures too.”

Do you have a positive conservation story you can share?
“Yes, seeing the mountain gorilla population rise due to conservation efforts (by both the government and its partners) and seeing communities around parks developing and changing their mindset towards wildlife and parks. The communities’ involvement is just amazing.”

What is one challenge that you face as a guide?
“Guiding is fun but can be challenging sometimes. I try to set the correct expectations and this helps. However, I meet visitors who arrive with incorrect information and some of them are unwilling to adapt to have realistic expectations. Managing that situation can be challenging, but I always try to turn it into a positive experience.”

What is the funniest or strangest question a guest has asked you?
 “Mountain gorilla babies are so cute and everyone would love to touch them, but of course this is not allowed. A traveller once asked if she could help a mother gorilla babysit her baby. That was both funny and strange.”

Herina Randrianarisoa: Guide in Ranomafana National Park, Madagascar 

What is the best part of your job as a guide? 
“My favourite part of guiding is sharing Madagascar’s rich fauna and flora with the world.”

Do you have a positive conservation story you can share? 
“The forest (and its creatures) needs to be protected because there are many benefits to protecting it.” An example of this was that earlier this year, critically endangered greater bamboo lemurs were moved from Ivato to Ranomafana National Park, to help protect them and ensure their survival.

What is one challenge that you face as a ranger? 
“The COVID-19 pandemic between 2020 and 2022 was the most challenging period for me.”

What is the funniest or strangest question a guest has asked you? 
“A guest once asked, ‘Have you seen a lemur meeting before?”

Precious Malapane: K9 Unit Deployment Manager and Trainer, Southern African Wildlife College 

What is the best part of your job as a ranger?
 “Being the eyes and ears of nature and working with K9s to protect wildlife.

In the past, when we came across tracks of suspects, we had to follow them visually, which took much longer. Now, we can use the dogs to find suspects, sometimes before the end of the day. When we find suspects, we give them the run of their life. We chase them, and they drop their backpacks as they flee.

To explain further, first, the line dogs go with a ranger and follow the tracks. When we’re about an hour behind the suspect, we call in the helicopter with the pack dogs – up to six dogs can fit in the helicopter at a time. The pack dogs then run free and chase down the suspect while we keep an eye on them from the helicopter. It’s a Big 5 game area, and by keeping the helicopter close, we can deter other animals from interfering with the dogs. When the dogs catch up to the suspect, we land, take charge of the situation, and make the arrest.”

Do you have a positive conservation story you can share? 
“Using K9s has reduced violent confrontations with poachers, saving lives on both sides. A life cannot be bought, it’s something that God gives and once it’s taken you can’t get it back. Using the dogs has helped protect both the rangers and the suspects’ lives.”

What is one challenge that you face as a ranger?
“Facing gender biases and dangerous wildlife encounters are significant challenges. As a woman, some men make you feel like you don’t know what you’re doing. We need support from the male rangers. The only thing that makes us different is our body structure. We can do the same hours and cover the same kilometres without a problem. 

Another challenge is that we do get charged by animals. I was with a training group and a dog and we were charged by a bull elephant. I managed to communicate with the elephant with body language, raising my hands and shouting. Thankfully, he moved on and fortunately no one was harmed in these incidents.”

What is the funniest or strangest moment you’ve experienced while working with the dogs? 
“Training puppies can be funny. When you start training them at six months old, they speak a different language to us. But, when the dog understands what you want, it’s like a light switch coming on.”

The ranger and guides interviewed here are only a tiny representation of all those doing critical work to protect Africa’s incredible natural treasures. You can support rangers and conservation efforts in a number of ways: by visiting the areas, by donating, volunteering, or spreading the word. 

Happy travelling,
The Leopard Team

P.S.  We’d love to hear your thoughts on this newsletter. Share your feedback or questions with us!

P.S. When you travel with Leopard, a portion of your travel spend directly supports the K9 Dog Unit’s vital work. However, regardless of your travel destination in Africa, your visit helps support local economies and, when visiting conservation areas, the wildlife too.

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Unforgettable South African Journeys with the Leopard Team

Once a month for the next few months, you’ll hear from the vibrant women who make up the Leopard team, about their favourite holiday experiences in Africa. I hope that you’ll get to know the team a bit better through these personal accounts and also appreciate their passion for Africa and its diversity. Each Leopardess has her special interests and we draw on each of these to help plan absolutely detailed and tailor-made trips to Africa for our clients.
– Diana

Here’s Elise’s account of a few of her travel highlights in South Africa. 

When Diana asked me to write about my favourite African travel memory, it was tricky to narrow it down to one experience. As a result, I’ve summarised some highlights of one of my favourite African destinations. My own country, South Africa.

Perhaps you know parts of South Africa well, or perhaps you’ve never visited. However much, or little, of this –  the southernmost part of our large and beautiful continent – you’ve experienced, I hope my adventures will inspire you to explore and enjoy more of this vibrant and diverse country.

My favourite South African safari experience
For travellers from outside the continent, the desire to see a muscular lion – with jaws that can rival a steel gin trap and a mane that would make even Jennifer Aniston’s hairstylist jealous – comes as no surprise. Depictions of lions in literature and art date back thousands of years, across cultures. The oldest cave paintings of lions, painted between 13,000 and 30,000 BC, were discovered in the Chauvet Cave and Lascaux in France’s Ardèche region and lions are depicted on vases in Iran, excavated near Lake Urmia, around 2,600 BC.

Although I’ve had the privilege of numerous lion sightings on safari and know why the lion is regarded as the king of the beasts, my favourite big cat has always been the leopard. This has nothing to do with the Leopard brand, but it is a happy coincidence. My appreciation for these elusive creatures, with lithe bodies and a distinctive coat, began with a school project on leopards I did when I was 11.

This brings me to my favourite safari experience. It took place in the  Sabi Sand Private Game Reserve, which shares unfenced borders with the world-renowned Kruger National Park. The area is known for its leopard sightings and although sightings are never guaranteed, it’s where I saw my first leopard. 

When we encountered the large male he was lying in a clearing below a tree, having scoffed the best part of an impala. The remainder of his dinner was wedged in a fork between branches above. He was panting heavily from the effort of it all – and probably from how hard his digestive system was working. After a few minutes, he got up and sauntered past our vehicle – a whisker’s breadth away. Then almost effortlessly, he hoisted his recently expanded frame up the tree trunk and back to his kill. The memory of watching him as night fell, with the nocturnal sounds of the bush filling our ears, is something I’ll always cherish.

My favourite South African seaside experiences
I’m an ocean lover. To me there’s nothing more relaxing than the sound of lapping waves, the smell of salt in the air and a view over the seemingly endlessly blue. My dad passed his love of the seaside on to me. We enjoyed family holidays along South Africa’s coastline, as well as in Greece, however, it’s in South Africa that my love of the ocean was born and continues to this day. 

As a child, we’d escape the Cape’s winters and visit KwaZulu-Natal and the northern parts of South Africa’s Wild Coast on holiday where we could enjoy the subtropical warmth of the air and mild temperature of the ocean. In summer, we’d head to Cape Town’s Clifton Fourth Beach. Here, I learned to love the icy yet refreshing water amid cries from hawkers selling ice cream and cool drinks, shouting, ‘water for your daughter,’ ‘ice to make you nice,’ and ‘a lolly to keep you jolly.’

This love of family time at the sea has been passed on to my daughters and we continue to explore South Africa’s coastline together, particularly in and around Cape Town. No matter how long I’ve lived here, there always seems to be a new cove or tidal pool waiting to be discovered. We’ve visited Instagrammable destinations further afield on the Cape West Coast too, like Port Owen’s marina or Kraalbaai, in the West Coast National Park. On a recent trip with my husband along the Garden Route, we spent time kayaking through Thesen Island’s waterways, in Knysna. Another first.

However, my most thrilling African marine experience has to be freediving the Sardine Run off the coast of Port St Johns, in the Eastern Cape. 

While slipping off the side of an inflatable rubber duck into the middle of the ocean heaving with marine life is not everyone’s cup of tea, it was mine. I’ve been fortunate enough to do so on more than one occasion, swimming with super pods of dolphins that stream by in what seems like a perpetual parade. We also had close encounters with humpback whales and watched from beneath the water in wonder as Cape gannets dropped from the sky to dive bomb tightly corralled bait balls of sardines.

If you prefer shallow calm water free of large predators, South Africa has more than its fair share of these. For instance, the famous penguin beach, Boulders, which was recently voted the second best beach in the world in the BeachAtlas Golden Beach Award 2024, is one of my favourite too and is certainly worth a visit.  – Elise (Travel Journalist, Content Strategist & Copywriter)

There are so many reasons to explore the wonders of South Africa – from its pristine beaches to being surrounded by nature in the bush. 

Discover vibrant cities and explore Winelands that boast world-class wines and cuisine. Immerse yourself in cultural experiences where you can meet people who practise ancient traditions passed down through generations, or take a cooking class to learn how to make local dishes. There are also exquisite lodges and hotels where you can soak up the scenery and experience the very best service.

We’d love to help you experience the finest that Africa has to offer by sharing our local knowledge and helping you craft the perfect tailor-made itinerary.

Happy travelling,
The Leopard Team

From Zimbabwe’s Kariba Dam to Mana Pools by canoe

Once a month for the next few months, you’ll hear from some of the vibrant women who make up the Leopard team, about their favourite holiday experiences in Africa. I hope that you’ll get to know the team a bit better through these personal accounts and also appreciate their passion for Africa and its diversity. Each Leopardess has her own special interests and we draw on each of these in order to help plan absolutely detailed and tailor-made trips to Africa for our clients.
– Diana

Here’s Helen’s account:
Africa is such a magnificent continent and it has so much to offer, that when Diana asked me to write about my favourite African destination, it was quite difficult. After running through all the incredible experiences I’ve had in Africa and beautiful places that I’ve visited,  I’ve settled on a destination situated at the roof of Zimbabwe: The Zambezi River and Mana Pools National Park. My father was the head of research at the Kariba Fisheries Institute and he embodied a profound and genuine love for nature, which he instilled into his daughters. His work gave us the opportunity to visit places that were not for the faint hearted. 

In November 1981, our farewell gift, before we left Zimbabwe for South Africa, was to join a group of young survival students accompanied by a Selous Scout, on a canoe trip down the Zambezi River from the Kariba Dam wall to Mana Pools. (The Selous Scouts was a unit of the Rhodesian Army that operated during the Rhodesian Bush War from 1973 until 1980 when the country was reconstituted as Zimbabwe.)

Dad had arranged for a tin boat with an outboard motor to assist the canoeists. We started our trip by following a footpath that  led  down the steep gorge from Kariba to the Zambezi River that had been carved out by elephants over many years. Although it was morning, it was already hot. I was not concerned about the heat, I was filled with nervous anticipation as we were completely immersed in the wild. 

The nights were spent in the open on the sandy bank of the Zambezi River. I lay in my sleeping bag on the first night, looking up and I was awestruck at the vastness of the African sky. The stars shimmering in the deep black were dancing to the song of the bush, to the rustle of the wind in the trees, to the water lapping on the shore, to the crickets chirping, to a distant hoot of an owl and even to the buzz of mosquitoes.

As we made our way down the great Zambezi River the following day, we began counting the crocodiles and hippos. The banks were alive with animals. On arrival in Mana Pools, we disembarked and set up camp on the riverbank. I remember thinking, “Wow!”! This is what the Garden of Eden must have looked like. The bush was teaming with animals, from a little dung beetle rolling his dung ball to the majestic, wrinkly, grey, giants, the elephants. The vegetation was pristine, and the only pathways were those made by the animals. Not many humans had passed through there due to the bush war. 

Our group of students was encouraged to forage for food on the land as this was part of the group’s survival training. We set off to scour the land for our dinner. We walked over the ridge formed by the riverbank and froze in our tracks. There were two round ears above the grass line. We spotted another pair and another. The Selous scout checked the direction of the wind and quickly got his gun ready. Crouching lower he gestured with his hands for us to be very quiet and retreat to the riverbank. We had stumbled upon a pride of lions. They are such magnificent, powerful beasts and command respect. We needed to get out of their territory as we didn’t want to be their dinner!

That night we all slept lightly. I thought I would be clever and place my sleeping bag near the campfire. I withdrew very fast as I heard and saw a few scorpions scuttling towards me. The heat of the fire had disturbed them and with their stings curled above their heads, they were hot footing it to my sleeping bag. My choice was lions or scorpions. I decided on neither and chose Dad!

While wild camping and travelling down the mighty Zambezi by canoe is not everyone’s idea of fun, I highly recommend visiting the floodplains of Mana pools. It is a tranquil sanctuary that offers an exquisite blend of adventure and relaxation. It’s a  place where you can fully immerse yourself in nature and leave the troubles of the world behind. 

Today you have the option of staying in comfort, in one of the lodges, while still being able to immerse yourself in the wonderful wild of Mana Pools. Another benefit is that you won’t have to hunt for your food or fend off hungry predators. The lodges offer a luxurious experience where you can enjoy the sites and experiences of the wild in safety. – Helen du Toit (Leopard’s Finance and Operations Manager)

Happy travels,
The Leopard Team

P.S. If you’d like to experience the wonder of Mana Pools, reply to this email. We’d love to help you plan your next African getaway.

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