How could we describe South Africa without mentioning the diversity of its landscapes, the richness of its history and culture, and the wide reach of its biodiversity?
In addition to its varied panoramic views, each one more magnificent than the last, its immense natural reserves are a place of protection and flourishment for a large number of wild species.
 In addition to these natural attractions, the country’s rich history can be explored in places like the Apartheid Museum or Robben Island. Multiculturalism is now one of the country’s greatest assets, and the hard-won shift from a regime that supported of racial segregation to today’s diverse democracy is still fresh in everyone’s mind.
 South Africa’s history marked us profoundly and we remain captivated by the beauty of the landscapes and the opportunity to observe so many animals in their natural environments, from elephants to big cats to many varieties of antelopes, birds and reptiles!
(For greater viewing comfort, double-click on the gallery to open it in full screen mode)
Cape Town
Post-apartheid
Rainbow Nation
A bridge
through the stars
Cape Agulhas
In full flight
Sardine run
Do not feed !
Rare leopard
Breathless
Family of meerkats
Elephants of the Addo
Horn of plenty?
Elephants
and biodiversity
Sanctuaries
and natural reserves
Dangers of the bush
Ostriches on the alert
Lioness
on the lookout
Hippo island
Kgalagadi lion
Olifants River
Mapungubwe
National Park
The Mapungubwe addresses the challenges of nature reserves
Mapungubwe National Park is the South African section of a transnational conservation area
that also extends to Botswana and Zimbabwe, a zone where the wide variety of animals
living along the Limpopo and Shashe Rivers can move freely between these three countries.
It is also of great archaeological interest as it contains
the ancient capital of the Kingdom of Mapungubwe,
which was established there in the 12th century.
However, this exceptional place has long been the subject of a very controversial debate.
Although the park officially opened in 2004, a biologist first discovered
the ecological importance of this area in 1920 and tried to turn it into a nature reserve.
However, the presence of farms in the region and other agricultural interests
prompted the government to oppose the idea for many years.
Today, tourism is the main factor behind the area’s development,
which compensates for the economic "losses" linked to the end of land use for farming.
The continued presence of certain farms in the reserve could also pave
the way for human inclusion in protected areas, an alternative to completely dissociating them.
Mapungubwe National Park is the South African section of a transnational conservation area
that also extends to Botswana and Zimbabwe, a zone where the wide variety of animals
living along the Limpopo and Shashe Rivers can move freely between these three countries.
It is also of great archaeological interest as it contains
the ancient capital of the Kingdom of Mapungubwe,
which was established there in the 12th century.
However, this exceptional place has long been the subject of a very controversial debate.
Although the park officially opened in 2004, a biologist first discovered
the ecological importance of this area in 1920 and tried to turn it into a nature reserve.
However, the presence of farms in the region and other agricultural interests
prompted the government to oppose the idea for many years.
Today, tourism is the main factor behind the area’s development,
which compensates for the economic "losses" linked to the end of land use for farming.
The continued presence of certain farms in the reserve could also pave
the way for human inclusion in protected areas, an alternative to completely dissociating them.
Mapungubwe National Park
Herd of free elephants
Seeing a herd of freely moving elephants is a magnificent sight.
At the head of the herd is the matriarch, the oldest and most experienced female.
The rest of the herd is made up of other females and their children.
Sometimes a male will make up the rear,
having temporarily integrated himself into the group.
Social life within a herd is particularly developed
and the links between the different animals are very strong.
In addition to their proven intelligence,
many studies also mention the elephants’ frequent expressions
of empathy and solidarity.
After observing this wide variety of behaviours
and learning about their lifestyle,
it is easy to respect these majestic animals
and push for their preservation in their environment.
Seeing a herd of freely moving elephants is a magnificent sight.
At the head of the herd is the matriarch, the oldest and most experienced female.
The rest of the herd is made up of other females and their children.
Sometimes a male will make up the rear,
having temporarily integrated himself into the group.
Social life within a herd is particularly developed
and the links between the different animals are very strong.
In addition to their proven intelligence,
many studies also mention the elephants’ frequent expressions
of empathy and solidarity.
After observing this wide variety of behaviours
and learning about their lifestyle,
it is easy to respect these majestic animals
and push for their preservation in their environment.
Elephants crossing the Olifants River - Kruger National Park
The lion's rest
How lucky it is to have lions come and lay down a few steps away from you!
The fact you’re not expecting them only makes the moment more exciting!
How lucky it is to have lions come and lay down a few steps away from you!
The fact you’re not expecting them only makes the moment more exciting!
Young male lion - Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park
The hippopotamus, a placid animal?
Pictured like this, it's hard to believe that the hippopotamus is one of the most dangerous animals in Africa.
While it spends most of its time in the water (these turtles are even using them as a kind of island!),
the hippopotamus can be very aggressive when it feels threatened. It's then able to charge at nearly 30km/h.
It is incredibly well adapted to the water and only leaves the river at nightfall
to graze the grass around the banks or in the surrounding plains.
Staying in the water, which is about the same temperature as his body,
helps hippopotamuses save energy and protect themselves from high heats at the same time.
This is necessary, as they eat very little for something of their weight
and its skin is very thin and subject to heavy water loss from evaporation.
Pictured like this, it's hard to believe that the hippopotamus is one of the most dangerous animals in Africa.
While it spends most of its time in the water (these turtles are even using them as a kind of island!),
the hippopotamus can be very aggressive when it feels threatened. It's then able to charge at nearly 30km/h.
It is incredibly well adapted to the water and only leaves the river at nightfall
to graze the grass around the banks or in the surrounding plains.
Staying in the water, which is about the same temperature as his body,
helps hippopotamuses save energy and protect themselves from high heats at the same time.
This is necessary, as they eat very little for something of their weight
and its skin is very thin and subject to heavy water loss from evaporation.
Hippopotamus with angulate tortoises - Kruger National Park
Lioness on the lookout
On the lookout under the tall grass near a waterhole,
the lioness waits for any animal nearby
that isn’t paying her attention.
Lionesses hunt in groups of three or four
so they can circle their prey
and increase their chances of success.
After on, on average
three quarters of all attacks end up failing!
This is also the reason why the lionesses are the ones
who hunt most of the time, since the males,
who are larger and more visible, are less effective.
On the lookout under the tall grass near a waterhole,
the lioness waits for any animal nearby
that isn’t paying her attention.
Lionesses hunt in groups of three or four
so they can circle their prey
and increase their chances of success.
After on, on average
three quarters of all attacks end up failing!
This is also the reason why the lionesses are the ones
who hunt most of the time, since the males,
who are larger and more visible, are less effective.
Kruger National Park
Ostriches on the alert
While unable to fly, ostriches can however reach speeds of 70km/h in case of danger.
This speed, as well the power of their kicks, makes them less vulnerable to other species.
After an incubation period of about forty days, the parents or other adults look after the young.
Very vigilant, this couple took over an hour to approach the waterhole.
While unable to fly, ostriches can however reach speeds of 70km/h in case of danger.
This speed, as well the power of their kicks, makes them less vulnerable to other species.
After an incubation period of about forty days, the parents or other adults look after the young.
Very vigilant, this couple took over an hour to approach the waterhole.
Couple of ostriches and chicks - Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park
Facing the dangers
However, only 15% of the young reach their first birthday.
Despite the adults' skittishness and attempts to defend them,
this time around none will survive the lions' attack!
However, only 15% of the young reach their first birthday.
Despite the adults' skittishness and attempts to defend them,
this time around none will survive the lions' attack!
Ostrich killed by a lion - Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park
Sanctuaries and natural reserves
Every year, thousands of people come to discover the magnificent landscapes
and incredible biodiversity of the South African nature reserves.
These huge parks represent 6% of the country's total territory and are mainly managed
by the South African National Parks (SANP), which strives to promote ecotourism.
This concept combines discovering nature with respecting the environment and local cultures.
However, it is surprising to see in this same country "sanctuaries" or "orphanages"
which, despite their names, are nothing more than money-making schemes.
The possibility of riding elephants or petting lions in captivity
contrasts sharply with the respect for nature that comes spontaneously
with wild environments.
But some places know how to cover their tracks,
and it can be easy to mix them up with more legitimate institutions.
So how can we make the choice between these establishments,
real conservation sites and private reserves?
Every year, thousands of people come to discover the magnificent landscapes
and incredible biodiversity of the South African nature reserves.
These huge parks represent 6% of the country's total territory and are mainly managed
by the South African National Parks (SANP), which strives to promote ecotourism.
This concept combines discovering nature with respecting the environment and local cultures.
However, it is surprising to see in this same country "sanctuaries" or "orphanages"
which, despite their names, are nothing more than money-making schemes.
The possibility of riding elephants or petting lions in captivity
contrasts sharply with the respect for nature that comes spontaneously
with wild environments.
But some places know how to cover their tracks,
and it can be easy to mix them up with more legitimate institutions.
So how can we make the choice between these establishments,
real conservation sites and private reserves?
Giraffe at sunrise - Hluhluwe Umfolozi Park
Animals in danger, threatened environment....
Elephants have been poached for many years now for their ivory,
and everyone now agrees that they urgently need to be protected.
Species preservation is important not just because it helps protect iconic animals,
but also because it helps maintain an entire region’s ecosystem,
since each species has an impact on its environment
and a role to play in its food chain.
For example, elephants help protect open spaces
thanks to their constant migration and feeding.
By uprooting bushes, they contribute to grass growth,
which is the food source for many species.
Similarly, during periods of drought,
elephants are able to locate water under dry river beds
and dig more than a metre deep to reach it,
giving other animals free access to it.
When a species disappears, every other part
of its environment is left impoverished and vulnerable.
Elephants have been poached for many years now for their ivory,
and everyone now agrees that they urgently need to be protected.
Species preservation is important not just because it helps protect iconic animals,
but also because it helps maintain an entire region’s ecosystem,
since each species has an impact on its environment
and a role to play in its food chain.
For example, elephants help protect open spaces
thanks to their constant migration and feeding.
By uprooting bushes, they contribute to grass growth,
which is the food source for many species.
Similarly, during periods of drought,
elephants are able to locate water under dry river beds
and dig more than a metre deep to reach it,
giving other animals free access to it.
When a species disappears, every other part
of its environment is left impoverished and vulnerable.
Horde of elephants - Kruger National Park
Horn of plenty?
Although South Africa is home to barely 20 000 rhinoceroses,
the country still holds 80% of the world’s rhinoceros population.
The majority are white rhinoceroses,
as the very rare black rhinoceros is currently in critical danger of extinction.
Even though only 13 rhinoceroses were poached in South Africa in 2007,
illegal trade picked up again in 2009 following strong demand from Asian markets,
resulting in the deaths of 1,215 rhinoceroses in 2014.
So long as medicinal properties are falsely attributed to its horn,
will the many protective measures in place be enough to save this species from extinction?
Although South Africa is home to barely 20 000 rhinoceroses,
the country still holds 80% of the world’s rhinoceros population.
The majority are white rhinoceroses,
as the very rare black rhinoceros is currently in critical danger of extinction.
Even though only 13 rhinoceroses were poached in South Africa in 2007,
illegal trade picked up again in 2009 following strong demand from Asian markets,
resulting in the deaths of 1,215 rhinoceroses in 2014.
So long as medicinal properties are falsely attributed to its horn,
will the many protective measures in place be enough to save this species from extinction?
White rhinoceros - Hluhluwe Umfolozi Park
The Addo Elephant National Park
The Addo Elephant National Park was created in 1931
to save the last 11 elephants
that lived there at the time.
Today, the park now has a population of more than 600 elephants!
Despite this success, other problems have now arisen within these conservation attempts.
At a growth rate of about 7% per year, the elephants are now concentrated in too small an area,
creating a strong pressure on their environment and the plant life.
The desire to expand the park, which has already tripled in size since its creation,
is also impacting the surrounding populations. As farms are being taken over
and people are being pushed off the land, township populations are growing larger and larger,
which is increasing the precariousness in the region.
Other very delicate techniques must therefore be considered, such as contraception,
animal transfer and even individualized slaughter of elephants.
To overcome such challenges and enable both the protection of the environment
and the country's social development, it is necessary to get communities directly involved in the project
so that they, too, can benefit from conservationism!
The Addo Elephant National Park was created in 1931
to save the last 11 elephants
that lived there at the time.
Today, the park now has a population of more than 600 elephants!
Despite this success, other problems have now arisen within these conservation attempts.
At a growth rate of about 7% per year, the elephants are now concentrated in too small an area,
creating a strong pressure on their environment and the plant life.
The desire to expand the park, which has already tripled in size since its creation,
is also impacting the surrounding populations. As farms are being taken over
and people are being pushed off the land, township populations are growing larger and larger,
which is increasing the precariousness in the region.
Other very delicate techniques must therefore be considered, such as contraception,
animal transfer and even individualized slaughter of elephants.
To overcome such challenges and enable both the protection of the environment
and the country's social development, it is necessary to get communities directly involved in the project
so that they, too, can benefit from conservationism!
Male elephant - Addo Elephant National Park
Family of meerkats
Always lively, in groups and on the alert,
meerkats are ready to jump into their nearby burrows
at the slightest sign of danger!
Always lively, in groups and on the alert,
meerkats are ready to jump into their nearby burrows
at the slightest sign of danger!
Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park
Breathless
And suddenly, after months of searching,
we found ourselves alone at daybreak,
facing a female leopard and her cub!
Particularly stealthy,
leopards generally spend
most of the days hidden in trees or tall grass.
But when you happen to cross their path,
time stands still.
And suddenly, after months of searching,
we found ourselves alone at daybreak,
facing a female leopard and her cub!
Particularly stealthy,
leopards generally spend
most of the days hidden in trees or tall grass.
But when you happen to cross their path,
time stands still.
Female leopard protecting it's cub - Pilanesberg National Park
Rare leopard
At a weight of up to 90 kg,
leopard males weigh much more than the females.
They live alone in a space that is distinctly their own.
Males will let two or three females into their territory,
but won’t encroach on the territory of another male.
Despite their solitary hunting techniques,
their power allows them to capture a very wide variety of prey,
from rodents to different gazelles or even wildebeests.
However, they also tend to attack farmers' livestock,
which means they are often hunted or poisoned
when they live outside nature reserves.
At a weight of up to 90 kg,
leopard males weigh much more than the females.
They live alone in a space that is distinctly their own.
Males will let two or three females into their territory,
but won’t encroach on the territory of another male.
Despite their solitary hunting techniques,
their power allows them to capture a very wide variety of prey,
from rodents to different gazelles or even wildebeests.
However, they also tend to attack farmers' livestock,
which means they are often hunted or poisoned
when they live outside nature reserves.
Kruger National Park
Do not feed, observe!
Baboons, as well as Vervet monkeys, are among the few wild mammals
still frequently found outside South African nature reserves.
However, with their natural habitat shrinking
and nearby human presence growing,
it is more and more common to see these animals stealing food
from homes or cars and acting aggressive towards humans.
This is why you must not give them food, even in some touristic places
where they can seem peaceful or practically tamed!
A monkey that is not intimidated by humans and that has identified them
as a source of food can become really dangerous
and will eventually have to be killed.
In general, it is prohibited to feed any wild animal because the consequences,
which most people don’t know about, are often severe for the species and their ecosystem.
As a result, it’s best you follow these instructions,
no matter how much you want the baboons to come closer.
Baboons, as well as Vervet monkeys, are among the few wild mammals
still frequently found outside South African nature reserves.
However, with their natural habitat shrinking
and nearby human presence growing,
it is more and more common to see these animals stealing food
from homes or cars and acting aggressive towards humans.
This is why you must not give them food, even in some touristic places
where they can seem peaceful or practically tamed!
A monkey that is not intimidated by humans and that has identified them
as a source of food can become really dangerous
and will eventually have to be killed.
In general, it is prohibited to feed any wild animal because the consequences,
which most people don’t know about, are often severe for the species and their ecosystem.
As a result, we recommend that you follow these instructions,
no matter how much you want the baboons to come closer.
Little baboon on its mother - Kruger National Park
Sardine Run on the Wild Coast!
From early June to late July, marine life enthusiasts
know to keep an eye out for common dolphins
along the shores of the Wild Coast.
Watching them, you’re sure to witness
an incredible phenomenon: the sardine run!
Billions of sardines migrate in schools northward
along the east coast of South Africa,
attracting a wide variety of predators with them!
Thanks to their elaborate hunting techniques, hundreds,
sometimes even thousands of common dolphins gather the sardines
into compact schools trapped under the surface of the water.
In a real feeding frenzy, multiple varieties of sharks, dolphins, oceanic birds
and even Bryde’s whales gather around this feast.
This is the perfect opportunity to observe a rare and breathtaking natural phenomenon
– as well as the chance to approach many different shark species
without having to bait them with food.
From early June to late July, marine life enthusiasts
know to keep an eye out for common dolphins
along the shores of the Wild Coast.
Watching them, you’re sure to witness
an incredible phenomenon: the sardine run!
Billions of sardines migrate in schools northward
along the east coast of South Africa,
attracting a wide variety of predators with them!
Thanks to their elaborate hunting techniques, hundreds,
sometimes even thousands of common dolphins gather the sardines
into compact schools trapped under the surface of the water.
In a real feeding frenzy, multiple varieties of sharks, dolphins, oceanic birds
and even Bryde’s whales gather around this feast.
This is the perfect opportunity to observe a rare and breathtaking natural phenomenon
– as well as the chance to approach many different shark species
without having to bait them with food.
Common dolphin - Port Saint Johns
De début juin à fin juillet, la présence des dauphins communs est particulièrement attendue
le long du littoral de la Wild Coast, par les passionnés de vie sous-marine.
Car ce sont les acteurs clés pour l'observation d'un phénomène incroyable: le sardine run!
Ce sont en effet des milliards de sardines qui migrent en banc vers le nord,
le long de la côte Est d'Afrique du Sud,
entraînant avec eux une grande variété de prédateurs!
Des centaines, parfois même des milliers de dauphins communs, grâce à leurs techniques de chasse élaborées,
rassemblent alors les sardines en bancs compacts coincés sous la surface de l'eau.
Dans une véritable frénésie alimentaire, de multiples variétés de requins, de dauphins
et d'oiseaux océaniques se regroupent autour de ce festin, lorsqu'il ne s'agit pas également des baleines de Bryde.
L'occasion rêvée pour observer un phénomène naturel rare et époustouflant...
et approcher de nombreuses espèces de requins sans avoir à les attirer par de la nourriture.
In full flight
After spending several months in Antarctica to feed,
humpback whales begin a long migration to warmer waters in winter
to reproduce and give birth.
Some of them follow the eastern coasts of South Africa,
occasionally even going as far as the Comoros or Madagascar.
As a result, in addition to the great bustle caused by sardine migration,
you can also find these huge mammals by the hundreds
only a few metres from the coast.
As if trying to copy birds, these 13- or 14-metre-long animals that weigh nearly 30 tons
jump out of the water during a type of jousting between males meant to seduce females.
Could they also be trying to communicate, or just having fun?
There may be many reasons that we simply don’t know about.
In any case, this show is captivating but should be observed
with the necessary precautions to respect these animals.
Otherwise, we might intrude on this essential stage of whale reproduction.
After spending several months in Antarctica to feed,
humpback whales begin a long migration to warmer waters in winter
to reproduce and give birth.
Some of them follow the eastern coasts of South Africa,
occasionally even going as far as the Comoros or Madagascar.
As a result, in addition to the great bustle caused by sardine migration,
you can also find these huge mammals by the hundreds
only a few metres from the coast.
As if trying to copy birds, these 13- or 14-metre-long animals that weigh nearly 30 tons
jump out of the water during a type of jousting between males meant to seduce females.
Could they also be trying to communicate, or just having fun?
There may be many reasons that we simply don’t know about.
In any case, this show is captivating but should be observed
with the necessary precautions to respect these animals.
Otherwise, we might intrude on this essential stage of whale reproduction.
Humpback whale breaching - Port Saint Johns
De début juin à fin juillet, la présence des dauphins communs est particulièrement attendue
le long du littoral de la Wild Coast, par les passionnés de vie sous-marine.
Car ce sont les acteurs clés pour l'observation d'un phénomène incroyable: le sardine run!
Ce sont en effet des milliards de sardines qui migrent en banc vers le nord,
le long de la côte Est d'Afrique du Sud,
entraînant avec eux une grande variété de prédateurs!
Des centaines, parfois même des milliers de dauphins communs, grâce à leurs techniques de chasse élaborées,
rassemblent alors les sardines en bancs compacts coincés sous la surface de l'eau.
Dans une véritable frénésie alimentaire, de multiples variétés de requins, de dauphins
et d'oiseaux océaniques se regroupent autour de ce festin, lorsqu'il ne s'agit pas également des baleines de Bryde.
L'occasion rêvée pour observer un phénomène naturel rare et époustouflant...
et approcher de nombreuses espèces de requins sans avoir à les attirer par de la nourriture.
The meeting of two oceans
The Indian and Atlantic Oceans meet at Cape Agulhas,
the southern tip of the African continent.
The combination of these warm and cold currents makes it place of high marine activity;
however, it also makes the sea rough, the cause of many shipwrecks on the reefs of this rugged coastline.
The Indian and Atlantic Oceans meet at Cape Agulhas,
the southern tip of the African continent.
The combination of these warm and cold currents makes it place of high marine activity;
however, it also makes the sea rough, the cause of many shipwrecks on the reefs of this rugged coastline.
Meisho Maru wreck - Cape Agulhas
De début juin à fin juillet, la présence des dauphins communs est particulièrement attendue
le long du littoral de la Wild Coast, par les passionnés de vie sous-marine.
Car ce sont les acteurs clés pour l'observation d'un phénomène incroyable: le sardine run!
Ce sont en effet des milliards de sardines qui migrent en banc vers le nord,
le long de la côte Est d'Afrique du Sud,
entraînant avec eux une grande variété de prédateurs!
Des centaines, parfois même des milliers de dauphins communs, grâce à leurs techniques de chasse élaborées,
rassemblent alors les sardines en bancs compacts coincés sous la surface de l'eau.
Dans une véritable frénésie alimentaire, de multiples variétés de requins, de dauphins
et d'oiseaux océaniques se regroupent autour de ce festin, lorsqu'il ne s'agit pas également des baleines de Bryde.
L'occasion rêvée pour observer un phénomène naturel rare et époustouflant...
et approcher de nombreuses espèces de requins sans avoir à les attirer par de la nourriture.
A bridge through the stars
Earth hour...
Earth hour...
Cederberg Nature Reserve
De début juin à fin juillet, la présence des dauphins communs est particulièrement attendue
le long du littoral de la Wild Coast, par les passionnés de vie sous-marine.
Car ce sont les acteurs clés pour l'observation d'un phénomène incroyable: le sardine run!
Ce sont en effet des milliards de sardines qui migrent en banc vers le nord,
le long de la côte Est d'Afrique du Sud,
entraînant avec eux une grande variété de prédateurs!
Des centaines, parfois même des milliers de dauphins communs, grâce à leurs techniques de chasse élaborées,
rassemblent alors les sardines en bancs compacts coincés sous la surface de l'eau.
Dans une véritable frénésie alimentaire, de multiples variétés de requins, de dauphins
et d'oiseaux océaniques se regroupent autour de ce festin, lorsqu'il ne s'agit pas également des baleines de Bryde.
L'occasion rêvée pour observer un phénomène naturel rare et époustouflant...
et approcher de nombreuses espèces de requins sans avoir à les attirer par de la nourriture.
Rainbow Nation
In addition to the richness and variety of South African landscapes,
there is great ethnic diversity as well. 11 official languages are enshrined in the Constitution,
the most common of which are Zulu, Xhosa, Afrikaans and English.
The population is particularly welcoming to travellers
and despite some still very marked biases in people's minds,
interracial conflicts are gradually diminishing.
The challenge now is to reduce social inequalities
in a country with high rates of unemployment and poor wealth distribution,
while preserving the authenticity and beauty of the landscapes
and lifestyles of this rainbow nation.
In addition to the richness and variety of South African landscapes,
there is great ethnic diversity as well. 11 official languages are enshrined in the Constitution,
the most common of which are Zulu, Xhosa, Afrikaans and English.
The population is particularly welcoming to travellers
and despite some still very marked biases in people's minds,
interracial conflicts are gradually diminishing.
The challenge now is to reduce social inequalities
in a country with high rates of unemployment and poor wealth distribution,
while preserving the authenticity and beauty of the landscapes
and lifestyles of this rainbow nation.
Village of rondavels along the Wild Coast
De début juin à fin juillet, la présence des dauphins communs est particulièrement attendue
le long du littoral de la Wild Coast, par les passionnés de vie sous-marine.
Car ce sont les acteurs clés pour l'observation d'un phénomène incroyable: le sardine run!
Ce sont en effet des milliards de sardines qui migrent en banc vers le nord,
le long de la côte Est d'Afrique du Sud,
entraînant avec eux une grande variété de prédateurs!
Des centaines, parfois même des milliers de dauphins communs, grâce à leurs techniques de chasse élaborées,
rassemblent alors les sardines en bancs compacts coincés sous la surface de l'eau.
Dans une véritable frénésie alimentaire, de multiples variétés de requins, de dauphins
et d'oiseaux océaniques se regroupent autour de ce festin, lorsqu'il ne s'agit pas également des baleines de Bryde.
L'occasion rêvée pour observer un phénomène naturel rare et époustouflant...
et approcher de nombreuses espèces de requins sans avoir à les attirer par de la nourriture.
Post-apartheid
It was only in 1991 that Apartheid, the policy of racial segregation
established in South Africa in 1948, was finally abolished.
Although people of black, mixed-race and Indian descent made up
the vast majority of the South African population,
these groups suffered great injustices under Apartheid,
which favoured the white minority.
This regime eventually forced thousands of people to revolt.
Resistance was meant to be peaceful, but repression was severe and violent,
just like during the student demonstrations on June 16, 1976 in the township of Soweto,
where many schoolchildren were killed. Decades of fighting and ever-increasing pressure
led to the release in 1990 of Nelson Mandela, the leader of the anti-Apartheid struggle
who had been emprisoned for 27 years for his political ideals!
In collaboration with President Frederik de Klerk, Mandela was able to do the impossible
by easing tensions and ending Apartheid in a peaceful way,
an act that earned both of them the Nobel Peace Prize in 1993.
Since then, the country has been trying to ease tensions
and gradually overcome deep-rooted inequalities in its society.
It was only in 1991 that Apartheid, the policy of racial segregation
established in South Africa in 1948, was finally abolished.
Although people of black, mixed-race and Indian descent made up
the vast majority of the South African population,
these groups suffered great injustices under Apartheid,
which favoured the white minority.
This regime eventually forced thousands of people to revolt.
Resistance was meant to be peaceful, but repression was severe and violent,
just like during the student demonstrations on June 16, 1976 in the township of Soweto,
where many schoolchildren were killed. Decades of fighting and ever-increasing pressure
led to the release in 1990 of Nelson Mandela, the leader of the anti-Apartheid struggle
who had been emprisoned for 27 years for his political ideals!
In collaboration with President Frederik de Klerk, Mandela was able to do the impossible
by easing tensions and ending Apartheid in a peaceful way,
an act that earned both of them the Nobel Peace Prize in 1993.
Since then, the country has been trying to ease tensions
and gradually overcome deep-rooted inequalities in its society.
Hector Pieterson Memorial, killed at the age of 13 at the students' demonstrations of June 16, 1976 - Soweto
De début juin à fin juillet, la présence des dauphins communs est particulièrement attendue
le long du littoral de la Wild Coast, par les passionnés de vie sous-marine.
Car ce sont les acteurs clés pour l'observation d'un phénomène incroyable: le sardine run!
Ce sont en effet des milliards de sardines qui migrent en banc vers le nord,
le long de la côte Est d'Afrique du Sud,
entraînant avec eux une grande variété de prédateurs!
Des centaines, parfois même des milliers de dauphins communs, grâce à leurs techniques de chasse élaborées,
rassemblent alors les sardines en bancs compacts coincés sous la surface de l'eau.
Dans une véritable frénésie alimentaire, de multiples variétés de requins, de dauphins
et d'oiseaux océaniques se regroupent autour de ce festin, lorsqu'il ne s'agit pas également des baleines de Bryde.
L'occasion rêvée pour observer un phénomène naturel rare et époustouflant...
et approcher de nombreuses espèces de requins sans avoir à les attirer par de la nourriture.
Cape Town, the oldest city in South Africa
A magnificent city wedged between the Atlantic Ocean and Table Mountain,
Cape Town, the historic cradle of South Africa, not to be missed!
Cape Town has a diverse, cosmopolitan population,
and you can feel the presence of nature everywhere you look.
It’s only a few kilometres trek south to the Cape of Good Hope
with its countless attractions, while in the east the Mediterranean climate
offers a surprising landscape composed of many vineyards.
The contrast between the rich neighbourhoods
and the surrounding impoverished townships recalls the country’s ever-present past.
Robben Island, where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned for 18 years,
sits not too far off in the distance.
A magnificent city wedged between the Atlantic Ocean and Table Mountain,
Cape Town, the historic cradle of South Africa, is a must see on your trip!
Cape Town has a diverse, cosmopolitan population,
and you can feel the presence of nature everywhere you look.
It’s only a few kilometres trek south to the Cape of Good Hope
with its countless attractions, while in the east the Mediterranean climate
offers a surprising landscape composed of many vineyards.
The contrast between the rich neighbourhoods
and the surrounding impoverished townships recalls the country’s ever-present past.
Robben Island, where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned for 18 years,
sits not too far off in the distance.
Cape Town by night, from the top of Lion's Head
Mapungubwe National Park is the South African section of a transnational conservation area that also extends to Botswana and Zimbabwe, a zone where the wide variety of animals living along the Limpopo and Shashe Rivers can move freely between these three countries.
It is also of great archaeological interest as it contains the ancient capital of the Kingdom of Mapungubwe, which was established there in the 12th century.
However, this exceptional place has long been the subject of a very controversial debate. Although the park officially opened in 2004, a biologist first discovered the ecological importance of this area in 1920 and tried to turn it into a nature reserve. However, the presence of farms in the region and other agricultural interests prompted the government to oppose the idea for many years.
Today, tourism is the main factor behind the area’s development, which compensates for the economic “losses” linked to the end of land use for farming.
The continued presence of certain farms in the reserve could also pave the way for human inclusion in protected areas, an alternative to completely dissociating them.
Seeing a herd of freely moving elephants is a magnificent sight.
At the head of the herd is the matriarch, the oldest and most experienced female. The rest of the herd is made up of other females and their children. Sometimes a male will make up the rear, having temporarily integrated himself into the group.Â
Social life within a herd is particularly developed and the links between the different animals are very strong. In addition to their proven intelligence, many studies also mention the elephants’ frequent expressions of empathy and solidarity.
After observing this wide variety of behaviours and learning about their lifestyle, it is easy to respect these majestic animals and push for their preservation in their environment.
How lucky it is to have lions come and lay down a few steps away from you! The fact you’re not expecting them only makes the moment more exciting!
Pictured like this, it’s hard to believe that the hippopotamus is one of the most dangerous animals in Africa.
While it spends most of its time in the water (these turtles are even using them as a kind of island!), the hippopotamus can be very aggressive when it feels threatened. It’s then able to charge at nearly 30Â km/h.
It is incredibly well adapted to the water and only leaves the river at nightfall to graze the grass around the banks or in the surrounding plains.
Staying in the water, which is about the same temperature as his body, helps hippopotamuses save energy and protect themselves from high heats at the same time. This is necessary, as they eat very little for something of their weight and its skin is very thin and subject to heavy water loss from evaporation.
On the lookout under the tall grass near a waterhole, the lioness waits for any animal nearby that isn’t paying her attention.
Lionesses hunt in groups of three or four so they can circle their prey and increase their chances of success. After on, on average three quarters of all attacks end up failing!
This is also the reason why the lionesses are the ones who hunt most of the time, since the males, who are larger and more visible, are less effective.
While unable to fly, ostriches can however reach speeds of 70km/h in case of danger. This speed, as well the power of their kicks, makes them less vulnerable to other species.
After an incubation period of about forty days, the parents or other adults look after the young.
Very vigilant, this couple took over an hour to approach the waterhole.
… However, only 15%Â of the young reach their first birthday. Despite the adults’ skittishness and attempts to defend them, this time around none will survive the lions’Â attack!
Every year, thousands of people come to discover the magnificent landscapes and incredible biodiversity of the South African nature reserves.
These huge parks represent 6% of the country’s total territory and are mainly managed by the South African National Parks (SANP), which strives to promote ecotourism. This concept combines discovering nature with respecting the environment and local cultures.
However, it is surprising to see in this same country « sanctuaries » or « orphanages » which, despite their names, are nothing more than money-making schemes… The possibility of riding elephants or petting lions in captivity contrasts sharply with the respect for nature that comes spontaneously with wild environments.
But some places know how to cover their tracks, and it can be easy to mix them up with more legitimate institutions. So how can we make the choice between these establishments, real conservation sites and private reserves?
Elephants have been poached for many years now for their ivory, and everyone now agrees that they urgently need to be protected.
Species preservation is important not just because it helps protect iconic animals, but also because it helps maintain an entire region’s ecosystem since each species has an impact on its environment and a role to play in its food chain.
For example, elephants help protect open spaces thanks to their constant migration and feeding. By uprooting bushes, they contribute to grass growth, which is the food source for many species.
Similarly, during periods of drought, elephants are able to locate water under dry river beds and dig more than a metre deep to reach it, giving other animals free access to it.
When a species disappears, every other part of its environment is left impoverished and vulnerable.
Although South Africa is home to barely 20 000 rhinoceroses, the country still holds 80% of the world’s rhinoceros population.
The majority are white rhinoceroses, as the very rare black rhinoceros is currently in critical danger of extinction.
Even though only 13 rhinoceroses were poached in South Africa in 2007, illegal trade picked up again in 2009 following strong demand from Asian markets, resulting in the deaths of 1,215Â rhinoceroses in 2014.
So long as medicinal properties are falsely attributed to its horn, will the many protective measures in place be enough to save this species from extinction?
The Addo Elephant National Park was created in 1931 to save the last 11 elephants that lived there at the time. Today, the park now has a population of more than 600Â elephants!
Despite this success, other problems have now arisen within these conservation attempts.
At a growth rate of about 7% per year, the elephants are now concentrated in too small an area, creating a strong pressure on their environment and the plant life.
The desire to expand the park, which has already tripled in size since its creation, is also impacting the surrounding populations. As farms are being taken over and people are being pushed off the land, township populations are growing larger and larger, which is increasing the precariousness in the region.
Other very delicate techniques must therefore be considered, such as contraception, animal transfer and even individualized slaughter of elephants.
To overcome such challenges and enable both the protection of the environment and the country’s social development, it is necessary to get communities directly involved in the project so that they, too, can benefit from conservationism!
Always lively, in groups and on the alert, meerkats are ready to jump into their nearby burrows at the slightest sign of danger!
And suddenly, after months of searching, we found ourselves alone at daybreak, facing a female leopard and her cub!
Particularly stealthy, leopards generally spend most of the days hidden in trees or tall grass.
But when you happen to cross their path, time stands still…
At a weight of up to 90 kg, leopard males weigh much more than the females. They live alone in a space that is distinctly their own. Males will let two or three females into their territory, but won’t encroach on the territory of another male.
Despite their solitary hunting techniques, their power allows them to capture a very wide variety of prey, from rodents to different gazelles or even wildebeests.
However, they also tend to attack farmers’ livestock, which means they are often hunted or poisoned when they live outside nature reserves….
Baboons, as well as Vervet monkeys, are among the few wild mammals still frequently found outside South African nature reserves. However, with their natural habitat shrinking and nearby human presence growing, it is more and more common to see these animals stealing food from homes or cars and acting aggressive towards humans.
This is why you must not give them food, even in some touristic places where they can seem peaceful or practically tamed! A monkey that is not intimidated by humans and that has identified them as a source of food can become really dangerous and will eventually have to be killed.
In general, it is prohibited to feed any wild animal because the consequences, which most people don’t know about, are often severe for the species and their ecosystem.
As a result, it’s best you follow these instructions, no matter how much you want the baboons to come closer.
From early June to late July, marine life enthusiasts know to keep an eye out for common dolphins along the shores of the Wild Coast. Watching them, you’re sure to witness an incredible phenomenon: the sardine run!
Billions of sardines migrate in schools northward along the east coast of South Africa, attracting a wide variety of predators with them!
Thanks to their elaborate hunting techniques, hundreds, sometimes even thousands of common dolphins gather the sardines into compact schools trapped under the surface of the water.
In a real feeding frenzy, multiple varieties of sharks, dolphins, oceanic birds and even Bryde’s whales gather around this feast.
This is the perfect opportunity to observe a rare and breathtaking natural phenomenon – as well as the chance to approach many different shark species without having to bait them with food.
After spending several months in Antarctica to feed, humpback whales begin a long migration to warmer waters in winter to reproduce and give birth. Some of them follow the eastern coasts of South Africa, occasionally even going as far as the Comoros or Madagascar.
As a result, in addition to the great bustle caused by sardine migration, you can also find these huge mammals by the hundreds only a few metres from the coast.
As if trying to copy birds, these 13- or 14-metre-long animals that weigh nearly 30 tons jump out of the water during a type of jousting between males meant to seduce females. Could they also be trying to communicate, or just having fun? There may be many other reasons that we simply don’t know about.
In any case, this show is captivating but should be observed with the necessary precautions to respect these animals. Otherwise, we might intrude on this essential stage of whale reproduction.
The Indian and Atlantic Oceans meet at Cape Agulhas, the southern tip of the African continent.
The combination of these warm and cold currents makes it place of high marine activity; however, it also makes the sea rough, the cause of many shipwrecks on the reefs of this rugged coastline.
In addition to the richness and variety of South African landscapes, there is great ethnic diversity as well. 11 official languages are enshrined in the Constitution, the most common of which are Zulu, Xhosa, Afrikaans and English.
The population is particularly welcoming to travellers and despite some still very marked biases in people’s minds, interracial conflicts are gradually diminishing.
The challenge now is to reduce social inequalities in a country with high rates of unemployment and poor wealth distribution, while preserving the authenticity and beauty of the landscapes and lifestyles of this rainbow nation.
It was only in 1991 that Apartheid, the policy of racial segregation established in South Africa in 1948, was finally abolished.
Although people of black, mixed-race and Indian descent made up the vast majority of the South African population, these groups suffered great injustices under Apartheid, which favoured the white minority. This regime eventually forced thousands of people to revolt.
Resistance was meant to be peaceful, but repression was severe and violent, just like during the student demonstrations on June 16, 1976 in the township of Soweto, where many schoolchildren were killed. Decades of fighting and ever-increasing pressure led to the release in 1990 of Nelson Mandela, the leader of the anti-Apartheid struggle who had been emprisoned for 27 years for his political ideals!
In collaboration with President Frederik de Klerk, Mandela was able to do the impossible by easing tensions and ending Apartheid in a peaceful way, an act that earned both of them the Nobel Peace Prize in 1993.
Since then, the country has been trying to ease tensions and gradually overcome deep-rooted inequalities in its society.
A magnificent city wedged between the Atlantic Ocean and Table Mountain, Cape Town, the historic cradle of South Africa, not to be missed!
Cape Town has a diverse, cosmopolitan population, and you can feel the presence of nature everywhere you look. It’s only a few kilometres trek south to the Cape of Good Hope with its countless attractions, while in the east the Mediterranean climate offers a surprising landscape composed of many vineyards.
The contrast between the rich neighbourhoods and the surrounding impoverished townships recalls the country’s ever-present past. Robben Island, where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned for 18 years, sits not too far off in the distance.