Zambia through the Eyes of Wildlife Filmmaker Hannah Stitfall

By Hannah Stitfall

If you've ever dreamed of a true African safari, Zambia during the dry season is a must for any wildlife lover. It is a place that I have always dreamed of visiting as a wildlife filmmaker. Incredibly, I was offered the chance to go earlier this year, a real pinch-me moment! So last October, I set off with Dusty Boots Travel to embark on a two-week African Safari adventure of a lifetime!

A country full of breathtaking landscapes and unparalleled wildlife, Zambia is also incredibly diverse, with 72 different languages spoken up and down the country, a result of the rich cultural diversity found here. Zambia truly encompasses every part of Africa’s immense beauty, and my first safari here during the dry season was nothing short of extraordinary!

When is the best time to visit Zambia?

The dry season in Zambia runs from around May to October, and it is the best time to visit for several reasons.

First, the weather is generally mild and pleasant, with warm days and cooler nights, making it comfortable for days full of safari activities. However, I must add that this year has seen the dryest and hottest dry season in 200 years, with most days the temperature hitting just shy of 40 degrees.

However, during the dry season, the lack of rain means there is hardly any vegetation for the wildlife to hide in, making it much easier to spot it. Plus, as the water sources dry up, animals tend to congregate around remaining rivers, lakes, and waterholes, looking for a drink, which provides incredible game-viewing opportunities.

What is a Typical Day like on a Photography Safari?

Rhiann, our tour guide from Dusty Boots, had organised an incredible itinerary for some other photographers and me. Over the 2 weeks, we visited four different camps: Chiawa Safaris, Puku Ridge Lodge, Tena Tena camp run by Robin Pope Safaris, and lastly, Mwamba camp run by Shenton Safaris.

It was a jam-packed itinerary. Each day, we were up around 4:30 am/5 am for our first game drive, which usually finished at around 11 am. Then we would head back to camp to offload our footage, shower, eat, and try to sleep a little before returning again at around 3 pm for the afternoon evening game drive, returning to camp at around 7 pm. This was our itinerary every day for the two weeks, and whilst a little intense, it was well worth it for the wildlife sightings!

Why is the Luangwa Valley so special?

Throughout the trip, we travelled up Luangwa Valley, also known as the “Valley of the Leopards”. It is home to impressive populations of big cats, hippos, elephants, zebras, buffalo, and over 400 bird species.

The Luangwa River is the lifeblood of this ecosystem. In the dry season, it becomes a hub of animal activity, attracting thirsty wildlife from miles around.

The dry season is also a fantastic time for birdwatching, as many migratory species pass through Zambia. South Luangwa is a bird lover’s paradise, with visitors able to spot countless species including the incredible carmine bee-eaters, which, it’s safe to say, have now become my favourite birds!

We had the most incredible wildlife encounters, including lion kills, lion cubs, and elephants. I think there were only two or three game drives during which we didn’t see a leopard! However, for me personally, the most special thing was seeing wild African dogs!

What are African Wild Dogs?

Also known as painted wolves, they are one of Africa’s most unique and most endangered predators and one I hoped we might see. However, Wild Dogs can travel up to 30 miles daily in search of food, making finding them quite tricky. We were incredibly lucky, though, to see them not only once but twice! And the second time, there were puppies!

They are known for their striking fur patterns that almost resemble a black, brown, white, and yellow patchwork coat. Each dog’s fur pattern is as unique as a fingerprint, providing them with excellent camouflage. They are highly social animals that live and hunt in packs led by an alpha pair, and their close-knit social structure is central to their survival.

Unfortunately, their population has declined dramatically due to habitat loss, human- wildlife conflict and disease, making them one of Africa’s most endangered carnivores. Conservation efforts are now crucial to protect these fascinating animals and ensure their survival in the wild, which is why seeing them was even more special.

What equipment should you take on a Safari?

On this trip, I took two cameras with me so I wouldn't miss any shots by having to switch lenses as and when the action commenced.

I had one with a long lens (180-600mm) for when the wildlife was far away and the other lens a bit shorter (70-200mm) for when the wildlife would come very close to the vehicle. I found this setup worked really well most of the time, apart from when the wildlife would walk directly next to the vehicle (which happened a lot!).

I was also armed with my Craghoppers NosiLife range for the trip, which I pretty much lived in for the two weeks! I would always wear one of the shirts on the game drives and the trousers, as being by a river in Africa there were a lot of biting insects. Thankfully, the gear kept them at bay throughout the trip, and so I only had to apply mosquito repellent to my hands, neck and face!

Overall, I can’t recommend Zambia in the dry season enough for any wildlife photographer, filmmaker or anyone who wants to experience an incredible African wildlife safari. It’s safe to say that I will definitely be back one day, and I already cannot wait!

What to Pack For a Day Hike

With Autumn lurking in, we are entering the favourite hiking season! It’s time to breathe in the fresh mountain air and feel the absence of pavement underfoot.

But being unprepared when hiking can dampen spirits - not one of us likes to be caught out in the rain without a waterproof jacket or stuck walking miles with wet socks. To make sure you have the most enjoyable short or full-day hike, we’ve prepared a list of the equipment you’ll need to pack and take along with you – some essential, some optional.

And so, in this guide, you’ll find a comprehensive list of what to pack for a hike, along with some tips and advice on why. Bear in mind that every hike is different, so we’d invite you to keep an open mind and think about what, within this list, is suitable for your hike.

Hiking Checklist

What do you need to bring to a hike? There’s a long list of options depending on how long the hike is, how many days the hike is, what season it is, where you’re going, etc. What we’re going to include in our list is aimed at those shorter hikes, 12-hour hikes or less. Here is our hiking checklist:

Depending on the conditions and environment, you may also want to take a camera or sun cream.

How to Pack a Hiking Bag

Now that you know what to take with you, it’s time to move it all into your trusty backpack. Wondering how to pack a hiking bag in the most efficient way possible? There’s an art to maximising space and minimising time spent rummaging around for hard-to-reach accessories.

Follow these simple steps for packing a rucksack on a trek.

  1. Line the inside of your rucksack with a dry bag for waterproof protection.
  2. Start with packing the items you think you’re least likely to need. Put your spare clothes at the bottom of your bag – you shouldn’t need them, but they’re good for emergencies.
  3. On top of your spare clothes, put in anything that you are likely to need but don’t need super-fast access to. This includes your snacks, optional accessories like your camera and first aid kit, and warm layers (including hat, gloves and scarf).
  4. At the top of your bag, you’ll want anything you need quick access to. Your waterproofs should be on top – if the weather takes a nasty turn, it's best to be prepared for quick protection.
  5. If your rucksack has exterior pockets, use these for smaller accessories, such as your maps, sun cream, and any non-valuable personal items. Also, side pockets are a great place to keep your water bottles for easy access.

Top tip: A dry bag in your rucksack will protect your belongings from the rain and be a lifesaver if your bag falls into water. Pack your dry bag with all the belongings you need to protect, and your hiking essentials will stay dry, keeping you warm when the weather takes a turn. Check out our outdoor accessories range for hardy dry bags, rucksacks and more.

Tips For Packing A Backpack

If you think about packing a rucksack from the bottom up, you’ll be in great shape

Happy hiking!

An Insight into Carnivore Conservation: An Interview with Derek van der Merwe

Meet Derek van der Merwe, who manages the Carnivore Conservation Program at the Endangered Wildlife Trust (EWT). Derek shares his journey, the mission of EWT, and how we can all contribute to wildlife conservation.

Tell us a bit about yourself and how you came into this role.

I’ve always had a deep passion for wildlife and conservation. Growing up in Haenertsburg, South Africa, I was fortunate to be surrounded by diverse ecosystems and rich wildlife, often visiting Kruger National Park with my family. After studying Wildlife Management, I joined EWT fourteen years ago. My role has evolved over time, but the core focus remains on protecting our endangered carnivores, including African Wild Dogs, Cheetahs, Lions, and Leopards, and fostering coexistence between humans and wildlife.

What is the Endangered Wildlife Trust?

The Endangered Wildlife Trust is a leading conservation organization based in South Africa dedicated to preserving biodiversity. We focus on protecting endangered species and their habitats through various programs. Our work involves research, advocacy, and on-the-ground conservation efforts, ensuring that wildlife can thrive in harmony with people. The EWT’s Carnivore Conservation Programme is particularly vital, aiming to improve the conservation status of Africa’s threatened large carnivores through innovative strategies and collaborative projects.

How long has the Endangered Wildlife Trust been around?

EWT was founded in 1973, which means we’ve been dedicated to conservation for over 50 years. Our long-standing presence has allowed us to build extensive partnerships and develop effective strategies for protecting wildlife across the region.

How did they come about?

The Trust was established by a group of passionate conservationists who recognized the urgent need to address the declining populations of many species in South Africa. They sought to create an organization that could take action to protect these species and their habitats. Over the years, EWT has adapted to the changing conservation landscape, but our mission to safeguard wildlife has remained consistent.

Craghoppers has been proudly supporting EWT in collaboration with the Kevin Richardson Foundation.

What is your typical day managing the Carnivore Conservation Programme?

My day varies significantly, which keeps it exciting. Essentially, I manage a team of very passionate conservationists who are always getting into trouble conserving carnivores. This has significantly contributed to my receding hairline and stress levels!

Typically, my day starts with coordinating fieldwork, such as monitoring carnivore populations or assessing human-wildlife conflict in the areas where we work. A significant aspect of my work is the Carnivore Range Expansion, which assists partner reserves in Southern Africa in conserving and managing threatened populations. We focus on restoring and stabilizing carnivore guilds, aligning with the global push for Trophic Rewilding, an ecological strategy that uses species reintroductions to enhance ecosystem resilience.

Do you see an end to the poisoning and killing of wildlife?

While it’s difficult to envision a complete end to these practices, I believe we can make significant progress. Education and community engagement are crucial. By working closely with communities, we can develop alternative solutions that minimize conflict and reduce the need for harmful practices like poisoning and killing. Our goal is to create a culture of respect and understanding towards wildlife.

How are you helping to safeguard the future of these endangered species?

We focus on a multifaceted approach: conducting research to understand species’ needs, implementing conservation actions, and promoting coexistence strategies. We are also concentrating a lot of efforts on detecting and removing snares in the Greater Kruger area. The focal point of these efforts has been Letaba Ranch, a sprawling 42,000-hectare provincial reserve that has become a hotspot for illegal wildlife activities.

Of the 1906 snares removed in the last year, a concerning 1,211 were still set and untriggered, highlighting the potential harm they posed to wildlife. Removing these “live” snares has undoubtedly contributed to a tangible reduction in wildlife loss and spared countless animals from suffering associated with entanglement. Our team’s ongoing presence has led to a noticeable reduction in illegal activities, marked by fewer incidents of poisoning and snaring, thereby fostering a safer environment for wildlife.

How can anyone help?

There are many ways individuals can contribute to conservation efforts. Supporting organizations like EWT through donations or volunteering is invaluable. Additionally, spreading awareness about wildlife issues, reducing your ecological footprint, and advocating for sustainable practices in your community can make a significant difference. Every small action counts, whether it is educating others, participating in local conservation efforts, or simply being an informed advocate for wildlife.

Derek’s insights highlight the importance of community involvement and collaborative efforts in conservation. Together, we can work towards a future where endangered species thrive alongside human communities. If you’d like to support the Endangered Wildlife Trust, visit their website About – Endangered Wildlife Trust for more information on how to get involved.

Pack like a Pro

If you are like us, you use every opportunity to get back on the road and explore the world. So, let’s run through a crash course in packing and steal our holiday packing hack.

Step 1: Pick the right pack for the trip

It’s no different than choosing the right car to drive on an off-road trail, picking the right pack to travel with is key. When travelling, too much bag is just that, too much bag. There are enough variables to holiday travel that you don’t need to be wrestling your bag in the middle of it.

Our recommendations:

Global Travel Bag 30L for long weekends. The perfect carry-on bag.

Global Travel Bag Roller (44L) for 1-2+ week trips: it fits in the overhead but is more than durable enough to check.

Mountain Duffel 70L for the journeys that you need to be ready for anything. Fill it up and send it off to your final destination.

Step 2: Have a system.

Before discovering Topo, I dreaded packing. I never knew how things would fit, and if I had to pull something out at the airport, it would be a total yard sale. The PackFast™ System and Pack Bags are now my guiding light. Most of my trips take around two weeks, so the Global Travel Bag Roller is the hub of my system.

Working in layers, the base of my bag is pants and shoes. As a big proponent of versatility, I like packing Craghoppers Convertible pants. These pants that convert to shorts in a pull of a zipper are a practical space saver. Toss a Pack Cube on top of that with t-shirts and wovens in it. Regardless of the season, bringing a cosy layer is always a good idea. The Craghoppers CompressLite jacket is my default. As the name suggests, this impressively warm jacket is super-light and super-compressible. It packs small and is ready to wear straight from its own stuff sack. The puffer jacket can be stuffed into the bag’s pocket. Add enough socks and underwear to last you a year, and you’re ready for that two-week trip to anywhere.

Step 3: Pair your bags

We are huge fans of one-bag travel. But, with such a wide range of fantastic Topo Designs travel bags, there are just some other bags we can’t leave home without…

The Global Travel Bag 30L has three ways to carry it: crossbody, backpack and a pass-through sleeve for roller bags. Personally, I think this bag is optimized as a backpack and pairs well with a Mountain Cross Bag that fits under your seat. The Mountain Utility Tote is a great partner if you like having more of a dump bag while on a flight or going full streamline with the Mountain Cross Bag.

The Global Travel Bag Roller and Global Briefcase are the definition of having your travel kit dialled. It feels like travelling with a Transformer, with the seemingly endless ways to configure this kit. The other option is pairing your Roller Bag with a Rover Pack Classic.

The Rover Pack’s PackFast™ Loops allow you to attach it to the front of the Roller Bag. Inspired by how pilots carry their luggage, this is an airport travel pro move.

Holiday travel, and travel in general, usually comes with its ups and downs (planes, am I right?), but your bags should be the one thing you can count on. Be safe out there, and don’t forget this "holiday packing hack".

This article, written by Adam Concannon, was originally posted on Topodesigns.com and has been modified.

Into the Bear Forests of Slovenia

By Hannah Stitfall

Slovenia, a small but incredibly diverse and beautiful country in Central Europe, is one of my favourite wildlife filming destinations on the continent.

With a very small human population of just over 2 million people, there’s plenty of space for nature and some of the most magnificent wildlife species: wolves, lynxes, wild cats, red squirrels and pine martens can all be found here.

The country has preserved many of its forests and is, in fact, one of the most forested countries in Europe, with over half of its landmass covered with trees. It is a true and untamed paradise for any wilderness lover or outdoor enthusiast.

In addition to the woodlands, the country is home to a striking variety of other landscapes, too, from the rugged peaks of the Julian Alps to sweeping meadows and vast lakes. Slovenia’s wilderness should be on any outdoor adventurer’s list!

Where to find the European Brown Bear

I have travelled here a few times now to film one of the most iconic species not only in Europe, but the entire world – the European brown bear!

They can be found within the pristine forests of the Notranjska region, part of the expansive Dinaric Alps and one of the most extensive and wild mountainous areas in Europe. These dense mixed forests, filled with fir, birch, and spruce trees, are the perfect habitat for brown bears.

Despite being Europe’s largest carnivore, the majority (around 80%) of a brown bear’s diet consists of tree nuts, fruits, grasses, plants and berries, of which these forests are plentiful. Here, you will find one of the largest populations of brown bears in Europe, which is part of the larger Dinaric-Pindos bear population extending through the Balkans. That makes this one of the best places in Europe to film these incredible creatures.

Bear photo hides

Each time I go here, I travel to the Slovenian Bears photo hides.

Despite the bear’s size (adult males can reach up to 355kg in weight and some up to 2.2 metres when stood on their hind legs) and formidable reputation, brown bears are actually incredibly shy and reserved creatures. At the first sense of human presence, they’ll run back into the safety of the forests.

That is why the team on the ground has established a network of photography hides throughout the mountainous forests. This ensures that the bears are not disturbed and also gives the photographers the best chance to see them. Of course, this is a wild population, so nothing is ever guaranteed, making the bear sightings even more special!

Photographing bear cubs

On my most recent trip, I spent nearly two weeks in Slovenia. I wanted to give myself plenty of time, as I travelled during the best time of the year to film cubs!

A female brown bear will give birth to litters of usually between two to three cubs whilst hidden away in a den deep in the forest, between January and February. The cubs will stay in the safety of the den until spring, when they take their first steps outside, always right by their mother’s side. The cubs will then stay with their mothers for between one and a half to two and half years before they head off into the wildness on their own. During this time, the mother will teach them everything they need to know about the wilds so they can go and raise their own families.

Despite it being the best time of year to film the bear cubs, as I mentioned, nothing is ever guaranteed, which I’m always fully aware of every time I go on a trip like this one.

On my first day, after 6 hours in the hide, I saw nothing, not even an adult bear. So you can imagine my sheer elation when, on the second day of my trip, a mother with two tiny cubs appeared!

They stayed in front of the hide for a good 40 minutes, which meant I managed to get some lovely photographs and footage of the cubs, particularly one of them who had darker fur and was quite the character! Throughout the rest of my trip, I was very fortunate with sightings and had three good days with cubs, so I was very lucky indeed!

What to wear for a wildlife filming trip in hot European weather?

Each day, I spent about 6 hours in the photography hides at a time. It was an incredibly hot time of year, reaching 40 degrees on some days, which can be quite tiring, but you have to stay alert at all times.

For this trip, I was armed with my Craghoppers NosiLife range, as being in wooden hides in the thick forests during summer meant there were lots of mosquitoes! Thankfully, I didn’t get bitten once, thanks to my gear, which was also very comfortable and breathable to wear on those scorching hot days! I will definitely be taking it on other wildlife filming trips when heading to warmer climates!

How to plan a trip to Slovenia’s Bear forests

The dense and vast forests of Slovenia are a must for any wildlife enthusiasts and filmmakers eager to hopefully see these magnificent animals. It is like stepping into another world, and feels like some of the last true remaining wildernesses in Europe.

For anyone planning a trip there, I would highly recommend Slovenian Bears. Their team is fantastic; they put wildlife first while giving photographers a glimpse into the lives of these highly elusive creatures, promoting conservation and respect for nature.

I already can’t wait to go back again. Filming European brown bears is exhilarating enough, but having the opportunity to film tiny cubs is any wildlife filmmaker’s dream.

Thank you, Craghoppers, for kitting me out in the NosiLife range, too, as it made those 6-hour hide stints all the more comfortable!

About the author: Hannah is a wildlife filmmaker and TV presenter. Her work can be seen on BBC Earth and in her new book, Wild Treasures.

Questions and Answers with Jandre Germishuzien

We caught up with Jandre Germishuzien, the photographer in our latest video, ‘Behind the lens: Capturing Namibia’s majestic beauty’, to ask him a few questions about his career and some of his favourite achievements to date.

Introduction, who are you and what do you do?

I’m Jandre Germishuzien, a passionate landscape and wildlife photographer and the owner of Go Gravel Photo Safaris. My journey revolves around capturing the raw beauty of nature and sharing it with the world.

As a photographer, I specialize in bringing to life the stunning landscapes and incredible wildlife that many only dream of seeing. Whether it’s a sunset over a savannah or a lion in its natural habitat, my goal is to tell the stories of these remarkable scenes through my lens.

Owning Go Gravel Photo Safaris allows me to combine my love for photography and adventure. I organize and lead photo safaris, guiding fellow enthusiasts through some of the most beautiful and untamed places in Africa. These trips are not just about taking pictures; they’re about experiencing the wild in its purest form, learning new techniques, and creating unforgettable memories.

Every photo safari is an opportunity to connect with nature, improve your photography skills, and meet amazing people who share the same passion.

How did you become a wildlife photographer?

My journey to becoming a photographer has been quite an adventure. It all started as a hobby —something I loved doing in my free time. I initially worked in a corporate environment and even owned a business for a couple of years. Then came a turning point: I had the chance to guide a small group of people around Namibia.

Initially, I thought this trip would be a one-time escape from the daily grind, a chance to unwind and enjoy the beauty of nature. But while I was out there, surrounded by the stunning landscapes and incredible wildlife, it hit me. Being out in nature, capturing those moments through my camera, was what I truly wanted to do with my life.

That trip was a revelation. It made me realize that photography wasn’t just a hobby—it was my passion and calling. So, I made a bold decision. I sold my business and decided to actively pursue photography full-time. It was a leap of faith, but I knew it was the right choice. Since then, I’ve dedicated myself to capturing the beauty of the world and sharing it with others.

What is the most rewarding thing about your job?

The most rewarding part of my job is seeing Namibia through the eyes and lenses of my clients. Witnessing their reactions and emotions as they experience the beauty of Africa reignites my own love for Namibia every time. Every tour I lead is an adventure and an experience, not just for my clients, but for me as well.

Yes, the photos we capture are incredible and speak volumes, but there’s something more profound about being in Africa. This place does something to your soul. It has a way of grounding you and making you appreciate life on a deeper level. Breaking away into nature helps me stay connected to what truly matters.

Which piece of work are you most proud of?

The body of work I’m most proud of has to be my collection of aerial images. I discovered aerial photography later in my career, and it’s been an exhilarating way to capture the world. The aerial perspective lets you see things in a way that few people can describe. You only truly grasp the vastness and complexity of a landscape when you see it from above.

Aerial photos tell a story that precedes humankind. They give you that “wow” moment when you see the intricacies of a landscape and how an ecosystem comes to life. This perspective has made me appreciate nature even more than I thought possible. It’s a powerful realization that everything below me existed long before I did and will continue to change and thrive long after I’m gone.

What advice could you give to a young photographer looking to follow in your footsteps?

My advice to young photographers is simple: find a mentor, never give up, and don’t get caught up in the idea that equipment is everything. Some of my favourite images were taken on older model cameras. Looking back, I used to chase the latest camera and lens trends, but the reality is that when you’re starting out, you need to make do with what you have.

Stay humble and take every opportunity to broaden your knowledge and connections. The journey is just as important as the destination. Every photo shoot, every interaction, and every piece of feedback is a chance to learn and grow. Keep pushing forward and remain passionate about your craft. One day, all your hard work will pay off.

What is one piece of kit you couldn’t live without?

When it comes to photography, my absolute essentials are my telephoto lens and a sturdy tripod. Our landscapes are vast and expansive, so having the reach of a telephoto lens allows me to capture the intricate details from a distance. And when I’m spending hours at one location, especially during different light phases, a tripod is a must for ensuring sharp and consistent compositions.

As for my wardrobe, I swear by my Nosi Life pants and shirts. These pieces are lifesavers, especially in harsh climates where sun protection is crucial. The fabric is unbelievably breathable, keeping me comfortable even in the most challenging conditions. Plus, the integrated lens cloths are a game-changer for any photographer, ensuring my lenses stay clean and ready for that perfect shot.

Shop Jandre’s kit – Nosilife

What do you love about the great outdoors?

What I love most about the outdoors is the thrill of exploring new, untouched places. Nature always has something fresh to offer, keeping life exciting and dynamic.

Escaping the typical 9-5 grind is a real luxury. Out here, I can live in the moment without the usual distractions. It’s a chance to clear my mind, recharge, and appreciate the world around me.

In the peacefulness of nature, I find a lot of clarity. It’s a place where I can reset and rediscover what truly matters, overall time spent outdoors has gives me the opportunity to lead a more fulfilling life.

What is your favourite thing about Namibia?

My favourite thing about Namibia is how untouched it is. The country is filled with vast, expansive desert landscapes but also hidden rivers and estuaries that remain unseen by the masses. The pristine beauty of the country makes it a photographer’s dream.

What also makes Namibia truly special is its ever-changing landscapes. No two places look the same, and your entire perception of an area can shift dramatically within minutes as you travel. One moment you might be surrounded by towering sand dunes, and the next you could find yourself surrounded by grasslands. This constant variation keeps every journey exciting and offers endless opportunities for capturing stunning, unique photos.

Ambassadors Ross & Lyndsey Couper

Husband and wife team Ross & Lyndsey Couper are a dynamic duo permanently based at Singita Sabi Sands. They make an amazing team and some of their extensive talents lie in photography and design, marketing and field guiding. In their spare time, they enjoy hiking off-the-beaten-track destinations, running marathons, and capturing beautiful scenes wherever they go. Read more about them here:

Ross Couper

Meet Ross Couper, a well-known South African wildlife photographer who is the resident photographer for Singita Game Reserve.

Ross's remarkable ability to capture the essence of Africa's diverse wildlife has earned him worldwide attention, and his images have become a testament to the breathtaking beauty and untamed spirit of the African wilderness.

Ross's dedication to his art goes beyond merely the technical skill of his camera; it is fuelled by a profound love and respect for the wildlife he photographs. He spends countless hours observing their behaviors, understanding their habitats, and patiently waiting for that perfect moment that reveals their true essence.

Its authenticity and emotional depth characterize Ross Couper's photographic style. His keen eye for detail allows him to capture the intimate moments of wildlife in their natural habitats, conveying their raw beauty and inherent grace.

Ross aims to connect viewers and wildlife through his lens, inspiring a collective commitment to protecting these vulnerable species and their habitats.

Ambassador Zee Ndaba

Zee is the first black woman Level 4 Mountain Guide leading hikes amongst the Drakensberg mountains' gigantic peaks and big-sky landscapes and one of the most sought-after mountain guides in South Africa. She has been roaming the Drakensberg mountains since she was a child and has taken hikers into the mountains since 2006.

"The Drakensberg is my catwalk," Zee says and giggles as she leads the way on one of the hiking trips, which can take from 45 minutes to 14 days. Her sunny personality and sense of humor are exactly what one needs to keep you going regardless of weather conditions.

When lost in the kind of fog where you can't see your hand in front of you, Zee is the right person to lead you out of trouble. It's confirmed by the fact that Zee has been hired by many foreign teams coming to the Drakensberg, including BBC journalists, or the Mission Impossible movie crew!

Zee is also the founder of the Nkanyezi Youth Camps – the initiative that helps young people in the Bergville area develop various life skills through hiking and camping experiences in the Drakensberg.

Ambassador Jandré Germishuizen

Jandré is a wildlife and landscape photographer with a keen eye for capturing the beauty and mystery of the natural world. He is also the owner of Go Gravel Photo Safaris, a company that specializes in providing unique and immersive photographic experiences for clients of all skill levels.

Born and raised in South Africa, Jandré developed a passion for photography and exploration at a young age. After moving to Namibia, he spent countless hours exploring the remote corners of the country, honing his skills and developing an intimate understanding of the local wildlife and landscapes.

Through Go Gravel Photo Safaris, Jandré has helped countless photographers from around the world discover the magic of Africa's wildlife and landscapes. From exciting game drives to off-the-beaten-path hiking and camping adventures, his trips are designed to provide unique and unforgettable experiences for photographers of all skill levels.

Whether he is behind the camera or guiding a group of clients, Jandré's passion for wild places and photography shines through in everything he does.

Ambassador Kevin Richardson

Wildlife conservationist, filmmaker and Lion Whisperer are just some of the words used to describe Kevin. His mission is to highlight the status of the Africa’s most iconic predator, the Lion, through his own work in the media as well as alongside fellow campaigners, researchers and scientists.

It is his unique relationship with the Lions that has captivated the imaginaation of people worldwide. Subduing the animals through love, understanding and trust to develop personal bonds with them rather than breaking their spirit.

The Kevin Richardson Wildlife Sanctuary provides a self-sustaining sanctuary for the purposes of wild species preservation. bring awareness to the rapid decline of large carnivores in Africa due to habitat loss, human-predator conflict, the illegal bush meat trade, unscrupulous hunting, disease, and illegal trade.