WILDERNESS INTERNATIONAL: Protecting The Last 2.8%
For Wilderness International, it all started with the enthusiasm for forests with huge trees and their desire to preserve wild nature for future generations. Since 2008, they have made it their mission to protect wilderness areas from vanishing forever and preserve them for future generations.
Protecting the last intact habitats
Their vision is to protect the last 2.8% of our planet’s remaining intact habitats by 2050. The Wilderness International team dedicates its daily work to the legally secure purchase of ecologically valuable and acutely threatened wilderness areas around the world in order to protect them in perpetuity, engaging with local communities and governments to secure the land for generations to come.
Their headquarters are situated in Dresden, Germany, but with sister foundations in Canada and Peru, they are well placed to run the three pillars of the NGO - Protection | Education | Research - with one great goal: to protect the last unique wilderness areas forever.
Protect your own piece of rainforest
Working across areas of land in Canada & Peru, they create georeferenced aerial images using drones. Each sq. meter is then uploaded to their website and provided with specific geo coordinates to match that piece of land. These sq. meters can be purchased by individuals or companies, and those that purchase receive a personalized certificate stating the exact coordinates of the land that they are protecting.
To protect your own piece of rainforest, visit their website here.
Defense from pesky insect
Craghoppers were delighted to accompany the team on a research trip to Peru and find out firsthand more about their mission whilst kitting the team out in NosiLife clothing, meaning they were defended against the many biting insects that thrive in the Peruvian jungle.
To protect yourselves from pesky biting insects, check out our NosiLife range of clothing here.
Find out more about the fantastic work Wilderness International does via the video below.
Gifts to spark adventure
As the holiday season approaches, it's time to start filling up those stockings with gifts that your adventurous friends and family will adore!
Whatever the outdoor activity, we've curated the perfect collection of outdoor gifts to elevate their adventures.
Whether tracking wildlife on foot or bouncing over dusty roads, comfort is key on safari in remote areas. Gift lightweight, quick-drying, and easy-care clothes that block the sun's harmful rays and keep biting insects at bay. Don't let the small stuff bug your safari explorer's next adventure - keep them comfortable and protected so they can focus on spotting the Big Five.
Scrambling up switchbacks and rocky terrain demands durable gear that moves with the hikers. Surprise your favorite trailblazer with abrasion- and water-resistant hiking clothes, sun-protective shirts, and warm top layers tough enough for any trail. Wherever the trail leads, these gifts will keep up.
Jetsetters need versatile, packable gear that simplifies life on the road without sacrificing durability. Cross the durable luggage, practical accessories, and wrinkle-resistant clothes off their wishlist and make your frequent flyer’s next journey to a remote destination a breeze.
Who does not have at least one angler at home? Don't let the little things hook them on their next reel deal. Protect them from the sun during the long hours on the water with brilliant gifts like lightweight shirts and sun hats, and free their hands with gear like the hip packs loaded with attachments for tools.
Gift your outdoor daredevils with items that add an oh-so-cool factor to their exciting hobby. Our bike bags make chasing personal records more fun. Climbers will push towards new heights with our colorful chalk bags. And let kayakers pursue wilder white waters with our dry bags.
Can’t find something you like? Here is the stuff that everyone loves to receive. These funky accessories will add a great deal of functionality and a colorful touch to any outdoor gear.
Our Best Skin Protection Tips For Outdoor Lovers Like You
By Jackie Badenhorst
From bush and beach walks to epic peaks, it's hard to deny the freedom, peace, and accessibility of the great outdoors are unmatched. And to ensure you can keep doing it comfortably and safely for years to come, we wanted to explain how to protect your skin while doing what you love.
Your skin is your body's largest organ. Occupationally and recreationally, you're constantly exposing it to altitude, cold winds, low humidity, perspiration,and strong UV. We believe everyday skin protection is just as fundamental as your safety gear, choice of footwear, and even nutrition.
To explain why we believe all of this, here are our nine tips on how you can stay skin-safe. This essential guide is season-agnostic, so take action now and try to make skin protection an everyday habit, regardless of when you're reading this.
1. FIRST PRINCIPLES
External aggressors – as we call them – like harsh, cold weather, dry or hot air, ultraviolet light, pollution, smoke, and stress attack your skin every single day. Especially if you're a year-round adventurer.
These aggressors cause skin damage. Damage could be anything from dryness, redness, cracking, itchiness, or sensitivity all the way to skin cancer (and thousands of other things in between).
Your skin is the body's first line of defense and needs help repelling these aggressors. One of the principal roles of the skin is to prevent things from the outside world that might cause damage from getting into your body. For example, airborne infections, bacteria, viruses, or pollutants. That's why it's so important your skin barrier remains healthy, intact, and un-compromised at all times. For us, that comes in the form of skin protection. It isn't skin care without skin protection!
2. NEVER FORGET SUNSCREEN
The gorilla in the room and chief of all aggressors is ultraviolet light.
UV accounts for 80% of premature skin aging and 90% of melanoma skin cancers.
Here's the critical piece of science most people don't realize. UVA specifically reaches your skin every day and in equal measure throughout the year. It also accounts for 95% of the UV that reaches us on Earth. So, as long as it's light outside, UVA reaches your skin – even through clouds and glass. And even on a cold July day in a fog-covered Cape Town.
What Does UV Light Do?
UVA penetrates the deeper layers of the skin, meaning you can't see the damage. It contributes to premature skin aging and wrinkling by damaging the natural proteins under the skin's surface. These proteins keep the skin tight and robust but, when damaged, can't provide the same structural support. For a long time, it was thought that UVA couldn't cause any lasting damage other than these cosmetic changes. However, studies strongly suggest UVA enhances the development of skin cancers because the rays also cause DNA damage within specific skin cells.
As mentioned, this damage is often invisible, and it's accumulative. The concept of protecting yourself from something you can't see and which might never happen is hard to fathom, but it's the single recommendation every dermatologist worldwide would endorse. And that's especially true for somebody like you who spends so much time outside.
Visible damage, of course, is sunburn or redness. Sadly, a sun tan is also a sign of damage as your body fights to protect itself from overexposure to UV. Five burns in your lifetime doubles your risk of skin cancer. How often have you come home red-faced and blamed it on the wind or cold? That's sunburn caused by UV, and it's skin damage.
What can you do to prevent UV damage?
Given that UV is ever present, the temperature outside or time of year doesn't matter. So, for any outdoor walks or climbs – any time of year – use good sunscreen on all exposed skin before heading outside. For active individuals, we recommend choosing an SPF 50+ product with the European' UVA' kite mark (or UVA 4-5*) on the pack. The higher SPF means you're protected for longer. Reapply every two hours, and don't forget your nose, back of the neck, and ears – commonly missed spots where people can often burn.
Another factor specific to what you do is altitude. The higher you go, the closer you are to the sun, which sounds obvious because it is. But also, the air is thinner and cleaner at altitude, so less UV is filtered out. The cumulative effect of this means UV levels increase by 10% for every 1,000m you travel above sea level, according to the World Health Organisation.
This is especially important to remember if you live in Gauteng and high-elevated parts of Mpumalanga and Free State. With a relatively flat landscape, it's very easy to forget you are almost 2000 meters above sea level.
If there's snow around, light reflection plays a major role in increasing your UV exposure. UV hits you twice: once from the sun and again, as it bounces off snow and back onto you, almost doubling your exposure. For these reasons, a mountain can be one of the harshest UV environments you can find yourself in.
If you care about your health, sunscreen is a vital piece of gear for your pack.
3. IS YOUR KIT UPF?
Another way to protect the skin is by wearing a physical barrier that blocks attack, i.e., clothing. But beware – not all fabrics are created equal. For example, a white cotton t-shirt is the equivalent of SPF 5, and you could feasibly experience invisible skin damage through it.
Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF) is to fabrics what SPF is to sunscreen. It's a measure of how much UV protection the fabric provides. Denim is UPF 1,700, so it's highly protective, but I'm not sure we could persuade you to attack a summit in the middle of summer wearing your favorite Levis jeans. Look out for UPF 50+ active and climbing wear. It's a good option if you don't like putting creams or cosmetic products on your skin.
Craghoppers' gear is widely sun-protective. You can learn more about its Solar Shield technology and browse our sun protection rangehere.
4. PROTECT YOUR BONNET
It might not get hot, but your head's a sitting duck under strong sun. That's even more true for any bald men or those with a close cut on top. Wear a beanie or cap. There are breathable, lightweight, UPF 50+ variants out there. It's a whole lot better than a sunburnt head or sunstroke.
You may want to check sun protective hats and capson our website.
5. WEAR SUNGLASSES MORE OFTEN THAN YOU THINK
For the same reason that it's ideal to protect your skin from UV every day, we should probably all wear sunglasses more often than we think. When out adventuring, protecting your eyes against sunlight (including snow or ice glare) is important for your eye health. As mentioned, UV levels can be high even on a cloudy day, and overexposure can lead to painful inflammation, known as 'snow blindness.' It can also increase the likelihood of developing cataracts.
Sunglasses with UV400 protection (or those with the CE kite mark) are a critical piece of kit. Avoid low-quality lenses, which can cause more harm than good.
6. LIPS
Even if your lips don't usually need special attention, they will probably do when you're out climbing. Lips don't produce sebum, so they can quickly become dry. They also burn more easily than other areas of skin.
What's the solution? Keep an SPF lip balm in your pocket for both UV protection and moisture. Reapply constantly throughout the day.
7. SKIN PROTECTION ISN'T JUST A SUMMER THING
A little-known fact is that winter is the worst time of year for people who suffer from outbreaks.
The skin's top layer, the epidermis, is a waterproof barrier between your body and the big wide world. It's the skin layer where drying takes place. And this is key.
Healthy skin contains approximately 30% water. Each day, it loses about one pint. The dry winter season presents a problem because humidity is low both inside and out, and the water content of the epidermis tends to mirror atmospheric moisture. So, as humidity drops, water loss increases because dry air pulls moisture from the skin.
When the skin's water content drops below 10%, dryness, flaking, and itching begins. This leads to redness, cracking, and inflammation: all signs you might personally recognize of weathered winter skin.
Why does this happen?
Cells in the epidermis are held together by a lipid-rich glue made up of natural oils. Water loss (and its consequences) accelerates when the glue is weakened. Things that cause the glue to lose its grip include sun damage, over-cleansing, scrubbing, underlying medical conditions, and, of course, winter conditions.
It's also worth mentioning that the epidermis gets thinner with age, often due to the cumulative effect of sun damage. Thinner skin doesn't retain moisture as well. On top of this, natural oil production slows with age.
While dry skin is clearly not life-threatening, it's a nuisance, doesn't look great, and can give rise to complications like eczema or infections (don't forget the main role of the skin!).
To manage winter skin, we suggest the following: moisturize (even more) regularly, stick a humidifier by your bed, have warm (not hot) showers, use soap-free products because soap is drying and strips your natural oils, and drink water (see later).
8. SKIN RECOVERY
Help your skin repair and recover after a long day outside. Try to shower as soon after you're back indoors to avoid pores getting clogged from sweating. After a shower, apply a good moisturizer to re-seal and hydrate the outer barrier.
Moisturizers can do two things depending on their ingredients: form a layer to block water leaving or try to add water to the epidermis. Applying straight after a bath or shower seals in moisture while your skin is damp. Don't forget about your hands and body – they definitely won't say no to a daily layer of added moisture.
This one is more about looking and feeling better, but that doesn't make it any less important.
9. HYDRATION
Last but not least, here's a simple one. Maintain cellular moisture from the inside out and drink up.
This really is one of the best ways to keep your skin moisture levels high. Assuming you're hiking, walking, climbing, etc., you'll also be sweating, in which case, drink more than you usually would.
This is especially true during winter when more dry skin is common, and you might drink less because you're likely to be less thirsty/sweat less.
This article was originally published on Craghoppers.co.uk in collaboration with LifeJacket Skin Protection.
Going outdoors?
Check out our collection of UV-protective apparel and accessories.
It comes as no suprise that fly fishing is a favourite past time of many South Africans. After all, South Africa is home to some of the most picturesque and varied fly-fishing destinations in the world.
From the still waters of the South African highlands to its beautiful and wild, almost 3000 km long coastline, there are countless places where anglers love to cast the line. But how to find the best spot?
Whether you're a seasoned fly fisherman or a newbie eager to cast your first line, you'll love these top 5 fly fishing spots in our beautiful country, picked by our good friend and fly-fishing pro, Dylan Isaacs.
So, pack your gear and get ready to explore an angler's paradise!
1. Fish the crystal-clear waters of Sterkfontein Dam
Set in a picturesque landscape on the edge of the Drakensberg escarpment, the gin clear waters of Sterkfontein Dam boasts some of the best freshwater sight fishing in South Africa. This is the most consistent destination for small- and largemouth yellowfish sight fishing. Although it can be fished year round, the summer months are most popular.
Armed with a 5-weight rod and floating line, beetles- and hopper flies, you're are set for an unforgettable time.
2. Try saltwater fly fishing in Kosi Bay
If you prefer the beach to the mountains, head north to our border with Mozambique.
The endless beaches, reef systems, and rolling white water of the Kosi Bay area make for the perfect habitat for saltwater fly fishing.
Saltwater fly fishing is not always the easiest with wind and currents to contend with, but in the end, you may land a 2-pound Wave Garrick or get lucky with a 40kg GT.
3. Catch Tigerfish in Jozini Dam
Let's stay in the subtropical area of Kwa-Zulu Natal for a bit longer.
Located just south of the Eswatini border, the Jozini Dam is one of the only dams in South Africa that holds the ferocious Tigerfish; and the only dam where you can catch Tigerfish all year long. Perhaps not the size you're used to catching in the Zambezi or other African countries but seriously fun nonetheless! The best time to fish is in winter when the water is clearer - all the way up to the first rains toward mid/end September.
Moreover, you can easily combine your fishing trip with a safari in Pongola Game Reserve, situated right on the dam's shore.
Dylan's pro-tip: Tigerfish rip through anything that swims in their path, making them a formidable target for fly fishermen. Fish the area with sinking lines and target the fish along drop-off's and closer to the banks. Don't forget the wire as they will bite straight through your line.
4. Brave the cold water of Knysna's estuaries
At the other end of South Africa, Knysna and its surroundings are a paradise for lovers of cold-water fishing.
The cold water brought in by the Atlantic current brings different species of fish that enter our estuarine systems.
Explosive topwater takes from Garrick will get any fly fisherman's heart racing, and sight casting to a tailing Grunter will get your knees shaking.
Going fly fishing?
Check out our collection of apparel and accessories, perfect for time on the water.
You probably expected Dullstroom, the fly-fishing capital, to be the next on the list. Or the KZN Midlands - home to bigger trout waters. Yes, these are great destinations but my favorite is Rhodes, up in the highlands of the southern Drakensberg on the border with Lesotho.
You cannot go wrong with the pristine rivers surrounding Rhodes, offering the best wild trout fishing in South Africa.
Fly fishing in Rhodes in winter is a particularly wonderful experience. Cast delicate dry flies to raise fish as the snow falls all around, then go and relax at Walkerbouts and have a hearty meal next to a raging fire.
The birding is great here, too - look out for Lammergeier, Black Eagles, and others.
About Dylan
Dylan Isaacs has over 30 years of experience in fly fishing. He has run fly shops and guided from Seychelles to the Zambezi and all our local waters, including Sterkfontein Dam, van der Kloof Dam, the Orange River, the Vaal, and Kosi Bay. Recently, he started his fly-fishing tour company, Tailing Loops Fly Fishing Co.
He received his Protea colours in 2009. He has extensive knowledge of multiple fish species and is always happy to share the finer details and knowledge he has learned over the years on his fishing tours. Nothing makes him happier than seeing a client landing a great fish and smiling from ear to ear.
Don't hesitate to reach out to him and cast the line together.
Top 5 tips for bird photography from a birding pro
By Juan van den Heever
If you ever wanted to get into wildlife photography, birds are the perfect, although not the easiest, subject to learn on. Here is the most obvious reason: birds are everywhere.
Just in South Africa, you will find a large variety of species, with many beautiful ones probably hanging around your backyard.Local birding pro Juan Van den Heever took a minute out of his busy birding schedule to help you out and share a couple of his bird photography tips with fellow Outsiders.
1. Know your subject
Certain birds exhibit certain behavioral patterns that indicate what they will do next. For example, Bee-Eaters tend to fly back to the exact same perch whilst hunting for insects. Knowing this can get you an opportunity for some wonderful in-flight and landing shots. The best way to get acquainted with bird behavior is by studying a field guide such as Roberts or Beat About the Bush: Birds.
2. Exposure
Fast-flying birds, such as Kingfishers or Swifts, require a faster shutter speed to have the entire bird sharp. Increasing your ISO or lowering your F-Stop are two ways to achieve a faster shutter speed. Remember, increasing your ISO could cause noise, and lowering your F-Stop decreases your depth of field, leaving you with less room for error.
Juan conducts environmental impact assessments and specializes in birds. During his off time, he missions to wildlife destinations across the world, photographing as many bird and wildlife species as he can.
3. Know your camera
The better you know your camera, its limitations, and how to work around them, the better the result. For example, a lower-megapixel camera can be cropped less before it loses significant detail, so it might be worth considering a longer lens to get you closer to the subject. This is where the versatility of a zoom lens proves to be extremely helpful!
4. Be hidden
Bird hides are a fantastic way to observe and photograph skittish, shy, and skulking species such as Flufftails and Rails. South Africa is fortunate to have a plethora of game reserves, bird sanctuaries, and national parks that have brilliant hides! Be sure to explore them. Even for a garden setup, a compact mobile hide placed close to a feeder or bird bath can create some amazing opportunities to photograph birds up close!
5. Get in the field
Lastly, and possibly the most important tip. No amount of reading books, watching tutorials, or talking to experts can teach you as much as actually being in the field. Nature is the best classroom. So, get out there, get practicing, and enjoy!
We are sure you cannot wait to go out and put all the tips to practice. Before you do, don't forget to check our online store for outdoor clothes that are made for such activities out in the field. Our NosiLife range will protect you from unwanted elements like UV light and biting bugs, thus elevating your photographic experience.
Happy birding!
5 Steps for Beginning Fly Fishing
By Jackie Badenhorst
This is a guest article originally written by Nelson Oxley, Flylords. Images of Topo Designs co-founder Jedd Rose (and son, Finn) by Preston Hoffman, Flylords.
The hype is real once you see your fly gets eaten or your dry fly taken down by a fish of any size. Fly fishing is one of the most popular outdoor activities people take on, and the best part about it is you can do it anywhere–whether you live in a city, in a rural area, or in another country. In South Africa itself, you will find plenty of fantastic fly fishing destinations.
Fly fishing is the sport of choice for those that love combining the beauty of the outdoors with the excitement of reeling in an impressive catch. Are you ready to get immersed in the fly fishing world? Then continue reading Nelson Oxley's basic guide explaining 5 steps any beginner should approach before getting on the water.
Step 1: Hold the Fly Rod just like you shake someone's hand
As simple as this sounds, fly fishing is something that everyone is skeptical and afraid of when first trying. I get it. I see it every day.
While approaching this first step, hold the cork of your fly rod with your dominant hand. When you hold the cork, hold it as you are shaking someone’s hand, with your thumb on top of the cork. There are a few different reasons why we do this, but I will get into this further in my steps.
When you’re holding the fly rod with your dominant hand, you have your trigger finger that can always be locked down on the fly line that comes out of your reel. I believe that this is one of the most important steps in fly fishing. Your trigger finger should be locked on the fly line at all times when your flies are in the water. As there are exceptions to when you cast to allow more line to flow out of the rod tip, always keep your trigger finger locked on the line. This simply allows you to have tension in the line if a fish eats your fly through your drift. If you were to ask my clients a few of my favorite words when I’m guiding, I always say, “trigger, trigger, trigger,” this helps when a fish eats; you can set the hook properly with good tension.
Step 2: Casting
The fun part. Don’t be afraid. Go to the park, somewhere that has nice green grass that won’t mess your fly line up, something I do before I take my clients to the river. There’s a variety of different casts you can make; however, while fishing for trout, you only need two different casts to accomplish catching trout.
The Roll Cast: The roll cast is easy. Take this step by step. Most likely, I use the roll cast primarily when fishing in a small stream or wade fishing in a river. Let's say you are at the end of your drift, still on the river's right-hand side. You will know when your strike indicator or point dry fly is ready for a cast once it is parallel with your right hip. Trust me, be patient; fish still eat down there… From this point, strip your line in, not too far, just enough. Raise your rod tip up with your fly line out of the water, angle your rod tip back towards the bank, and roll your wrist where you want your flies to go. I always look where I want to cast before I make the movement. Another way to think of this is when you’re ready to cast at the end of your drift, your wrist will be open, raise the rod tip, and close the wrist through the movement of your cast.
The False Cast: When trying to get distance, streamer fishing, dry-dropper, or nymphing, strip your line in and bring your rod tip back behind you in the air. While doing this, if you don’t have a lot of the line out, your movement will be quicker back and forth. Don’t go fast; move fluidly, stopping the rod tip behind you to let the line straighten out, and push your thumb down when releasing your flies into the water. Most people use the false cast when fishing dry flies (flies that sit buoyant on top of the water surface) to dry the water off the hackle or foam. This allows for a cleaner, better presentation for those dry flies. With streamers, be more patient. Allow the line to straighten out fully behind yourself, then push the thumb down where you want your fly to go.
Step 3: The Strip
The strip is something we like to do for a few different reasons:
Line Management: When our flies are dead drifting in the river, I always like to explain that we are casting our flies into a dead drift on a clock system. If we are wade fishing, naturally, you would cast your flies upstream. If you are standing on the river's right-hand side, your drift would be clockwise. Meaning if you were to cast towards 10 or 11 o’clock, you would naturally have a line that accumulates and bunches up through your drift once you reach 12 o’clock. At this point, since we have a lot of slack in our line after we cast, and a fish eats our fly, it can be very challenging to try and get a solid hookset with a lot of slack. To minimize this, we can slowly strip our line in with our non-dominant hand below our trigger finger. When we do this, take your left hand if you’re right-hand dominant, and strip below your trigger finger down to your waist. *dead drift - also known as when you’re trying to get your flies drifting naturally down the water column
Strip the line as opposed to going for the reel when a fish eats your fly most times. For example, a lot of people struggle with keeping their trigger finger on when a fish eats a fly. Instead of going for the reel, revolution after revolution, try to strip the line in as opposed to going for the reel. In some scenarios, you’ll have a large trout who want to pull a line, which is always exhilarating. Find the happy medium of allowing the line to slide through your trigger when the fish wants to run either upstream or downstream. If you have a lot of extra line below your trigger finger and the fish wants to run, let it go through, and then get on the reel. I always like to mention enjoying the fight. Be patient. Let the rod do the work, and keep the rod tip up when you’re hooked up on a nice fish. Always keep that trigger locked and loaded…
Before re-casting, always strip your line in. Trust me; you’ll understand if you don't strip your line in if you have a lot pulled out on the surface of the water. Do yourself a favor, take your non-dominant hand, and pull the line below your trigger finger down to your waist before re-casting. Always try and keep the colored fly line out of the rod tip. This allows for a much more accurate cast and less of a fandangle while trying to manage the line once you get back into a dead drift.
We can also use a strip set when streamer fishing, something explained in my third step.
The right equipment is crucial in any activity, no less in fly fishing. Topo Designs has a wide range of accessories like this Mountain hip pack that will elevate your fly fishing experience, keeping all your gadgets organized and your hands free.
Step 4: Set, Set, Set!
The most important to some. If fishing a dry fly, a fly that sits buoyant on top of the water surface, you might have an eager trout that noses up to eat your fly. You physically will see the trout hit the fly on a water surface. Be patient as the fish eats; set your fly rod. This can be achieved by lifting your arm up in the air.
The best way to explain this step, since your thumb is on top of the cork (and hopefully your trigger finger is on the fly line), is to simply raise your thumb up in the air above your head… If you get to this step when fly fishing, don’t hesitate, and don’t drop the fly rod down. You want to keep your fly rod elevated or with a good bend in it. Don’t crank it in right away if it's pulling hard. Simply create tension with the rod by pointing your thumb up in the air and keeping the rod tip up. In most scenarios, if you dip the rod tip down, most likely it's game over. Be patient. Keep the rod up, and strip that line in.
A lot of people don’t give fly fishing patience–something I’m still trying to embrace, but anyone will tell you fly fishing isn’t just about catching fish; it’s the journey of where it takes you, the people you meet, and the things you learn while being on the water.
Step 5: Go explore!
When starting fly fishing, it can be frustrating trying to come up with good spots. The best advice is to do more research on your local area or give a local fly shop a call. This will allow you to better your awareness of local water and give you public access points to explore. Don’t forget to get a fishing permit and buy a dozen flies from your local shop.
Walking into a fly shop as a beginner can be intimidating. Any fly shop employee or guide wants to give you the knowledge and share their expertise on their local water to help you get into the sport we all love.
Anyone who chases different species of fish on the fly will tell you new exploration of different bodies of water is the most fun part about fly fishing. Fly fishing isn’t all about catching different species of fish. It’s about learning about your surroundings, adapting to what fish are eating, as well as putting your mind into a happy place. Go explore!
This article was first published on Topo Designs website. The author is a passionate fly fisherman with a lifetime of experience handed down through generations. From being a curious kid in the back of his family's backpack during weekend fly-fishing trips to exploring Colorado Rivers as a teenager, his love for the sport has grown exponentially and, eventually, made him turn his passion into the profession of a fly-fishing guide and content manager of Fly Lords magazine.
A day in the life of a photographic guide in Namibia
By Jandré Germishuizen
Being a professional photographic guide is a beautiful career path to choose. Trading four office walls for some of the most beautiful destinations is one of many perks. As romantic as it seems, it is also a demanding job with long working hours.
So, what does a typical day in the life of a photographic guide look like? Jandre Germishuizen from GoGravel Photo Safaris lets us peek behind the scenes of such a day.
Morning Routine
As a photographic guide in Namibia, my day typically starts early, way before the sun rises over the horizon.
I usually wake up before dawn and prepare my equipment, snacks, and water for the day. Morning coffee is like liquid gold for our guides. We need it to survive! A day without coffee feels like a day without sunshine. Guests even joke that if they can't quite pinpoint my exact location, they just need to follow the scent of freshly brewed coffee.
After a quick breakfast, my guests and I head out to our first game drive of the day, which is often the best opportunity to spot wildlife in action. We typically consider the direction of the sun when choosing the route to obtain the best lighting conditions for our photography.
Side note: As a wildlife photographer, I always make sure to use the right gear when I'm out in the field. One of my essential pieces of equipment is my clothing. Over the years, I've tried and tested various clothing brands, but for my Safari expedition, I always wear Craghoppers.
2. Wildlife Photography
While on our game drives, I guide my guests toward the most active wildlife areas. Namibia has various regions filled with diverse wildlife, including the Etosha National Park and Skeleton Coast, among others. Each location offers unique photography opportunities, and I always ensure to inform my guests about each area's predominant species and how to photograph them best.
I also educate my guests on wildlife behavior and the best photography techniques to capture the planned shots. Namibia is unique as it offers subject matter that frames beautifully and offers an array of striking colors. It provides some of the most breathtaking landscape backdrops, and I often guide my guests toward capturing these backgrounds in shots to present an impressive composition.
One of the funniest things about being a photographic guide is seeing the transformation of the guests over the course of the tour. Initially, everyone is polite and formal, introducing themselves and keeping a respectful distance. By the end of the tour, however, the guests become like family. They're cracking jokes, teasing one another, and generally having a great time. It's a beautiful transformation to witness and be a part of.
"My goal is to ensure that my guests capture the best possible photographs of Namibian wildlife and nature throughout their expedition."
3. Midday break
After a few hours of photographing, we take a break for lunch. It offers the chance to recharge our energy levels and hydrate, ensuring the rest of the day is productive. In between, we often use this period to explore a nearby area on foot while capturing some scenic shots of landscapes and indigenous plants.
4. Evening drives
Once we are recharged and refreshed, we head out for our evening game drives and sunset photography sessions. Evening hours offer some of the best lighting possible and provide excellent images for the classic golden hour shots. Experiencing the natural beauty of Namibia in the golden light of the sunset is truly a breathtaking sight.
After a long day filled with safari drives and wildlife photography, we head back to our lodgings, where we review and share our photos from the day. It offers a chance for guests and myself to discuss how to improve their photography and further learn from one another about the natural habitats and behaviors of the wildlife in Namibia.
Being a photographic guide in Namibia offers a fulfilling and exciting experience. Sharing the natural beauty with my guests and assisting them in capturing impressive photographs brings me a great sense of accomplishment. Knowing that the images we capture together will remain with my guests for a lifetime is one of my greatest joys in life.
All in all, being a photographic guide is a uniquely wonderful career that I’m proud to have pursued.
What are the Best Hiking Trails in Cape Town? Explore Nature's Majesty!
Cape Town, a city known for its stunning landscapes, offers a multitude of captivating hiking trails that showcase the region's natural beauty. From panoramic vistas to coastal wonders, each hike promises a memorable adventure. Join us as we explore these remarkable trails, immersing ourselves in the breathtaking scenery and experiences they offer.
1. Lion's Head: A Panoramic Journey
Embark on the iconic Lion's Head hike and prepare to be mesmerized by sweeping panoramic views of Cape Town. As you ascend this majestic peak, be captivated by the cityscape, the sparkling coastline, and the surrounding mountain ranges. The trail winds its way through fynbos-covered slopes, adding bursts of vibrant colors to your journey. Feel the rush of achievement as you reach the summit, rewarded with a 360-degree panorama that will leave you in awe.
2. Cape Point Coastal Trail: Nature's Coastal Wonderland
Immerse yourself in the wonders of Cape Point's coastal trail, where rugged cliffs meet the azure waters of the Atlantic Ocean. The path meanders along the edge of the cliffs, offering dramatic views of crashing waves against the rocky shore. Experience the salty breeze and the rhythmic sound of the ocean as you explore this picturesque coastal paradise. Keep an eye out for the diverse birdlife and the occasional sighting of dolphins or seals.
3. Table Mountain: Conquer the Iconic Peak
Prepare for an exhilarating adventure as you conquer the mighty Table Mountain. The trail takes you through a variety of terrains, from steep ascents to rocky plateaus. Traverse lush valleys adorned with colorful flora, including the unique Cape fynbos. As you ascend, you'll be treated to awe-inspiring views of the city below and the vast expanse of the Atlantic Ocean. Upon reaching the summit, be rewarded with a breathtaking panorama that stretches as far as the eye can see.
4. Silvermine Nature Reserve: Tranquil Escape
Escape to the serene beauty of Silvermine Nature Reserve, where tranquility reigns amidst lush forests and tranquil reservoirs. Wander along well-marked trails that wind through indigenous forests, offering a refreshing respite from the urban bustle. Discover hidden waterfalls, babbling streams, and abundant birdlife along the way. Immerse yourself in the sounds of nature and relish the peace and serenity of this enchanting wilderness.
To enhance your comfort and convenience during these hikes, consider reliable gear such as the Dare2Be Sprint City Lightweight Active Hoodie, the Topo Design Mountain Waist pack, the Kiwi Pro men's active trousers, and the Kiwi Pro stretch pant. Don't forget to wear a pair of NosiLife socks for added protection.
Spot the Hiker - Photo by Jackie Badenhorst.
Cape Town's hiking trails offer an immersive experience of the region's natural splendors. From the panoramic views atop Lion's Head to the coastal wonders of Cape Point, the iconic Table Mountain's challenging ascent, and the tranquil beauty of Silvermine Nature Reserve, each hike promises an unforgettable adventure.
So, lace up your hiking boots, embrace the breathtaking landscapes, and embark on a journey that will leave you with cherished memories of Cape Town's captivating beauty. With subtle enhancements from reliable gear, your hiking experience will be elevated, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the wonders of nature.
What to wear when you live with lions
By Jackie Badenhorst
This is a guest article originally posted on the NHFU website. Text by Nick Roosen, photos by Siena Crawford.
With a lot on their minds —like the subtle art of following carnivorous big cats while dodging vehicle-toppling elephants, venom-induced anaphylaxis, and cantankerous buffalo—Africa-based wildlife film-makers from the NHFU have recently turned their wardrobe choices over to legendary UK clothing company, Craghoppers, to see if their latest line of outdoor gear might be up to everything Africa and the film crew can throw at it.
If you’re someone like me, you’re decidedly groggy as you navigate the first hurdle of the day—“Now, what am I gonna wear?” At face value, it seems like a trivial question, not worthy of dedicating any more than a handful of neurons to in those wee hours. But what if this decision not only determined your level of comfort for the day but also your chances of survival? I’m thinking of you, fire departments, plunging into hellish infernos. Or you, astronauts, braving the brutal vacuum of space. Fire-proof textiles and air-tight space suits make sense for these adventurous spirits, but what about wildlife filmmakers?
Ice-locked continents, scorching deserts, and steaming jungles—these are places where people with apparently limitless patience wait to capture rare and wondrous moments. I can just imagine reading about such a job in the classifieds: “Wanted! A strapping individual, with camera experience, is prepared to operate in environments with multiple hazards, including but not limited to plagues of insects, as well as a myriad of biting, scratching, pummeling or piercing predators.” Fantastic, where do I sign?
It’s fortunate such a rare breed exists, so that those of us who prefer it, can witness lions hunting from the slightly more comfortable vantage point of our living room. And in perhaps Southern Africa’s most epic wilderness—the Okavango Delta—there lives one such team for whom wildlife film-making is not just a job description but a way of life.
Enter the Natural History Film Unit (NHFU), headed by world-renowned filmmaker Brad Bestelink. It’s thanks to Brad and his team that the breathtaking sequences that grace our screens via programs like Surviving Paradise, The Flood, and Africa's Fishing Leopards offered up by Netflix, National Geographic, and the BBC are possible.
Let me paint you a picture. When Brad’s team heads out into the bush, they know they’ll be living out of their film truck for days at a stretch. In fact, they’re so accustomed to their 2-by-5-meter home that they usually only return to camp for a few hours each week to restock and refuel before heading back to the bush to continue following their animal subjects. Think lions, leopards, cheetahs, elephants, hippos, and crocodiles—all set against the backdrop of the Okavango Delta.
The Okavango is considered to be the crescendo of a natural symphony that first begins with the thunderous roar of rain in the Angolan highlands, then transforms into a soft gurgle of rivers moving inland towards a vast oasis, and climaxes with the countless voices representing some of Africa’s most enigmatic wildlife. But to this idyllic depiction, we must add a few of the not-so-nice elements of Africa’s wilderness...
Bugs, bugs, and more bugs! In the grasslands, like forgotten land mines, lurk ticks waiting to disgorge medical maladies. Blister beetles, biting ants, and malarial mosquitoes—I could go on!
And then there’s the weather. If the Delta had an engine room, the weather would be a key driving force behind the region’s immense richness. It’s what transforms arid landscapes into a land of endless rivers and pools, fringed by rolling grasslands and leafy forests. But the climate also has a savage side.
You can start your day observing insects frozen to their morning perches and, by lunch, sit broiling in sweat under a midday sun. And when it rains, it’s a chronic deluge accompanied by sudden gusts that can topple entire trees. Against the swarms of biting insects and wild weather, the NHFU team is certainly in need of apparel that protects them from the elements.
Craghoppers! A company that is no stranger to equipping ambitious adrenalin junkies, seeking to push the bounds of their imagination and apparel. In 1975, Craghoppers outfitted an expedition team attempting to climb Everest by ascending the face of the mountain for the first time. In 2020, they were chosen as the official kit provider for the Duke of Edinburgh Award. And now, in 2023, deep in the Okavango, Craghoppers cutting edge NOSILIFE technology will face a special challenge. The NHFU crew has been geared up with Craghoppers garments featuring an EPA-approved insecticide duplicated from the chrysanthemum flower. The clothes are specially designed to repel insects, which for one NHFU cameraman, in particular, could be a real game changer.
Meet Rea. Having grown up in the bush, Rea is intensely passionate about African wildlife and sharing its unique stories. But he also suffers from allergies. A single ant bite or wasp sting could prove fatal for him. You could ask him to just change his profession. But the thing is, he simply can’t imagine devoting himself to any other purpose than wildlife filmmaking, and thanks to Craghoppers, it might be that all he needs to do is change his shirt.
So tomorrow morning, as you wipe the sleep from your eyes and stand before your wardrobe pondering the options, at some point, a team of intrepid filmmakers somewhere in the vastness of the Okavango Delta will be doing the same thing. But now the question is—is their brand-new Craghoppers kit up for the challenge?
What to pack for a Gorilla trek in Rwanda
By Jackie Badenhorst
I recently visited Rwanda for a gorilla trekking photographic expedition with Tusk Photo. To say the trip was incredible is an under statement - this experience crept into my heart as one of my most special ever.
The scenic Volcanoes National park covers 160 km2 of rainforest and encompasses five of the eight volcanoes in the Virunga Mountains, namely Karisimbi, Bisoke, Muhabura, Gahinga and Sabyinyo. It borders Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in Uganda.
This was my first trip to Rwanda and I was truly impressed with the country. Despite a tumultuous history, riddled with violence and conflict, the people have worked together to build their nation in peace. The people we met, both young and old, were friendly, full of hope and so proud of their country, they welcomed tourists with open arms.
The trip took place in the beginning of May, toward the end of the long rainy season. The park is open year-round but generally the high season would be June to September, during the dry season. We didn’t get a lot of rain when walking - a few drops now and then, although it did rain at night, making the area muddy the following day. We did however enjoy the cloud cover when trekking - this meant it wasn’t really hot and we good, even lighting conditions for photography.
We were lucky enough to enjoy 4 gorilla treks during our 5 night stay. This is another benefit of heading there during the low season - as often there are too many people vying for the 96 permits granted per day (which breaks down to groups visiting 8 of the 13 habituated groups daily). There are also golden monkey treks on offer, although we opted for an additional gorilla trek instead.
So how does the daily trek work?
You leave your lodge and arrive at the park headquarters around 6:30/7am, where you are assigned a ranger for the trek.
This is a well-run operation, with guests enjoying complimentary coffees and drinks while your driver guide arranges your trek for the day, is alotted your park ranger (who leads the trek), as well as the gorilla group you will be visiting.
The park rangers have a quick brief where they tell you about the gorilla family you will be visiting, what to expect when you find them, how to behave when around the gorilla family. From there, you drive to the area where you will begin your trek.
Experienced and knowledgeable park ranger, Daniel Niyonsaba, we really enjoyed his company.
Once you arrive at the starting point, you meet up with porters who will carry your bags during the trek if you need it. These are ex-poachers, now employed to assist tourists on a daily basis. This is a vital initiative for sustainable conservation in Africa - not only do these guys stop their poaching activities but the actually start caring for for these animals’ well-being - as the gorilla’s survival ensures them jobs and resultant food on their table.
A great group of porters
We had so many cameras that we opted to hire porters. They were really friendly, helpful guys. There were some super muddy sections where every misstep had you sinking your feet and legs into mud. The porters always had a helping hand to get you up and out. You needed to have hands free to grip and hold, so carrying stuff wouldn’t be ideal. I would recommend hiring a porter - this allowed me to take more equipment than what I would’ve otherwise, as well as extra water, a raincoat etc.
Back to the trek.. As you head off, you also practice sounds you will make when communicating with gorillas. Basically a ‘we-come-in-peace’ kind of call.
Beautiful scenery on the trek. Image by Nellie Tromp.
Trek distances vary according to your preference - generally between 3-5km. This is not far but there are some steep sections, so the entire trek could take anything from 4-5 hours. The porters chop through dense sections of vegetation - allowing you to get through with relative ease. As with anything in life, the fitter you are the more enjoyable the activity.
Eventually you meet up with trackers who spend their day with the gorilla group. Here you will leave your bag, take only the cameras you need and head in for an hour with the gorillas.
That first moment I spotted them took my breath away and filled my eyes with tears. It was incredible. I’d always heard how special it was but this far exceeded my expectations.
Obligatory selfie with the first gorilla's I saw!
We visited the Hirwa, Umubano, Kwitonda and Urwego groups.
Each group had completely different structures - some more silverbacks, some more youngsters. We found them to be extremely relaxed in our presence.
No words can do the time spent with gorilla’s any justice - you’ll need to experience this for yourself. All I can do is offer some advice on equipment you may benefit from taking along.
My essentials for the trek:
Long hiking pants with stretch - like the Craghoppers Nosilife Pro Stretch pant. Plenty stinging nettles around, watch out, the sting doesn’t last (unless like me, you lay in a stinging nettle for 10 minutes because the photographic angle is good - that night I suffered with burns and itches for hours!)
Long sleeve shirt - Like the Craghoppers Nosilife Adventure L/S or Nosilife Pro Stretch L/S - keep yourself protected from sun, insects and stinging nettles.
Gaiters - the long version that go up to your knee (these protect you from nettles and serious mud).
Overtrousers (I wore the Craghoppers waterproof over trouser - this worked really well, as my clothing beneath wasn’t covered in mud, plus they are waterproof - should you get heavy downpours. I actually saw a number of the park rangers and trackers wearing them).
Waterproof breathable rain jacket - a must - you’re in a rainforest.
Boots
Cap - it gets hot when walking, before you get into the rainforest.
Water
Cash for tips (you will tip your ranger, porter and tracker for their invaluable assistance)
Cash to buy curios at end of trek (the community set up tables with their beautiful artworks at the end of the trek), plus there is a community centre on the main road with a variety of curio to purchase (they generally accept credit cards).
Photography equipment
What did I take?
3 full frame camera bodies
16-35mm 2.8
24-70mm 2.8
70 - 200mm 2.8
400mm f4.5
iPhone
The gorillas are generally within close quarters. You should be around 7m from them but they often come closer to you due to the confined spaces you share, which is great!
By the time we found them each day, they have done their first feed for the day and were resting/grooming/playing - this was wonderful. When they get up to feed they move fast and the photography can be more challenging.
Iphone pic of a relaxed silverback.
As mentioned above, you have to leave your bag and take the cameras/lenses you want along. The 400 was only used twice for portraits, I mainly used the 70-200mm and 16-35mm. This ensured a wide variety of shots - wide to portrait. I also used my iPhone for a few videos and behind the scenes shots.
This trip is a naturalist’s dream, highly recommended. I thoroughly enjoyed the combination of physical activity, interaction with wonderful local people, plus then the awe-inspiring moments with gorillas. To me, being on foot and in close quarters with wildlife always feels like you’re truly a part of the ecosystem, as opposed to just an on-looker from a vehicle. I find it absolutely thrilling and memorable.
It is wonderful to see what a country can become with proper leadership and open-minded, proud people. Rwanda is filled with hope - coming from South Africa, I feel inspired by what they’ve achieved.
Happiest kids I've ever seen!
We visited the genocide museum and the Ellen Degeneres campus for the Dian Fossey Gorilla fund on the drive from Kigali to the National Park - both were informative and very much worth the visit. They really give you a good background on the country as a whole, and the plight of gorilla’s over the years.
If you head out, which I implore you to do, may you have as magical a time as I did. Enjoy!
The dreamteam that made our trip so special, lead by the wonderful driver guide, Sam Nayebare.
