Five Books For Teaching Kids About Our World
Parents, parent-figures, and role models of all kinds play a vital role as stewards of the next generation, especially when it comes to teaching kids about caring for endangered species and the planet.
Shaping their values and attitudes towards the world around them is both a responsibility and a huge gift: it's the unique opportunity to instill a sense of empathy, duty, and wonder for the natural world.
Here are five of our favorite books for teaching kids about our world.
Written by Zoë Tucker, illustrated by Zoe PersicoAll around the forest, animals are worried about their home. Nearby, giants have been chopping down trees in the forest to make space for roads, factories and large houses. The smoke and pollution is destroying the habitat of the animals and its beauty though. The animals turn to Greta for help.Greta is a brave girl who fights for what is right. She takes a stand and sits, day after day, with a sign simply saying "STOP." The giants pay her no attention but one day, a boy brings hope by joining her. After that, other animals big and small, and children young and old, join Greta. Together, they’re a voice so huge and powerful that the giants eventually begin to listen.This story, inspired by the life of Greta Thunberg, is for very young children and features gloriously rich pictures. The beautiful full-page immersive spreads for children to explore are enhanced by carefully crafted brief text.Appropriately for the age group, there is a happy ending for the forest and Greta in this story, so children can enjoy a tale of hope and positivity and friendship. For those feeling inspired though, there are ideas at the end of the story for how to get more involved in campaigning too. Summary credits here.
Written and illustrated by Brendan Wenzel Beginning with two cats, one black and one white, a chain of animals appears before the reader, linked together by at least one common trait. From simple colors and shapes to more complex and abstract associations, each unexpected encounter celebrates the magnificent diversity of our world—and ultimately paints a story of connection. Brendan Wenzel’s joyous, rhythmic text and exuberant art encourage readers to delight in nature’s infinite differences and to look for—and marvel at—its gorgeous similarities. It all starts with a simple “Hello.” The book includes an afterword from author Brendan Wenzel about the importance of conservation and protecting the wildlife on our planet, and a glossary of the animals featured in the book and a notation on their status (Near Threatened, Vulnerable, Endangered, or Critically Endangered). Summary credits here.
by Adam Rex, illustrated by Laura ParkIf you could have any superpower, what would it be? Well, what if the answer was: ALL OF THEM! When a bird narrowly escapes the clutches of a hungry cat, a nearby crab admires the bird’s ability to fly, while the bird admits a longtime yearning for claws. And, just like that, they team up. Pretty soon, the team includes every animal in the forest who’s ever wanted someone else’s special trait. But how will these animals stop humans from destroying the forest for a megamall? It’s going to take claws, wings, and Congress together to be truly Unstoppable! Unstoppable provides a timely lesson on the glories of diversity and the power of working together. Summary credits here.
Written by Chelsea Clinton, illustrated by Gianna MarinoFrom the author of the #1 New York Times bestseller “She Persisted,” comes a beautiful book about the animals who share our planet–and what we can do to help them survive. Did you know that blue whales are the largest animals in the world? Or that sea otters wash their paws after every meal? The world is filled with millions of animal species, and all of them are unique and special. Many are on the path to extinction. In this book, Chelsea Clinton introduces young readers to a selection of endangered animals, sharing what makes them special, and also what threatens them. Taking readers through the course of a day, Don’t Let Them Disappear talks about rhinos, tigers, whales, pandas and more, and provides helpful tips on what we all can do to help prevent these animals from disappearing from our world entirely. With warm and engaging art by Gianna Marino, this book is the perfect read for animal lovers and anyone who cares about our planet. Summary credits here.
Written and illustrated by Kunal Kundu Introducing the magnificent crumpled paper art by debut author Kunal Kundu, Wildlife on Paper brings to life animal species at risk from all around the world while teaching kids how cool and unique each animal is. From the Peary caribou in Northwest Canada to the Galapagos Penguin in Ecuador, the Royal Bengal Tiger in India to the Hawksbill Sea Turtle in Australia, this book celebrates the rich diversity of wildlife on almost every continent. Each of the sixteen exquisitely handcrafted paper sculptures come with interesting trivia and facts about where the animal lives and how it survives in its habitat and interacts with nature. Also included is a map of where each creature lives on the globe, plus a list of helpful resources and the author’s favorite nature conservation organizations.Sure to be a favorite for kids and adults alike, Wildlife on Paper opens the world wide as you marvel at the gorgeous crumpled paper art journey through the ocean, forest, desert, and more to learn about the diversity of animals and their incredible characteristics. (Please note: the artist creates his sculptures sourced from eco-friendly paper companies that plant a tree for every ream of paper sold.) Summary credits here.
De-Influencing Safari
OMG, just touched down in the heart of Africa for the most epic adventure everrr! 🦁 Can't even deal with how fierce I look in my safari gear, serving looks for the gram while these majestic creatures do their thing in the background. 📸 #SafariChic #BlessedAndGrinding 🌍*
If Internet-famous captions* like this make you want to bolt in the opposite direction, well… you’re in good company.
Join us as we talk about what really goes down on safari.
Spoiler alert: there are very few flowy white dresses in the bush. 😉
*This is an AI-generated caption. No feelings were hurt in the making of this post.
Mother Nature will do what She wants.
Safaris often take place in remote and sometimes harsh environments where weather conditions can be unpredictable. Extreme heat and freezing nights can impact your comfort and experience.
If a sudden rainstorm hits, you’ll be glad you’ve got your moisture-wicking layers. Opt for lightweight, breathable fabrics in neutral colors, thick socks, and good, waterproof boots.
Have you been working out?
Depending on the type of safari, activities such as game drives, walking safaris, or hiking may require a certain level of physical fitness. Long hours spent in vehicles or walking through rough terrain can be tiring, especially for those unaccustomed to such activities.
It can be exhausting. But by the end of the day, you’ll look every bit like the explorer you are.
You’re in their territory.
Being so close to wild animals poses inherent risks. While our professional guides prioritize safety, there's always a potential for encounters with dangerous animals. Following safety protocols and listening to the instructions of your guide is crucial.
This is not a situation for your cute wedge heels.
There are a few health risks.
Safaris may take place in regions where certain diseases are prevalent, such as malaria or other mosquito-borne illnesses. It's essential to take appropriate precautions, such as vaccinations and anti-malarial medication, and to be vigilant about personal hygiene and food safety.
Remember those tsetse flies we mentioned? They’re relentless, and their bites hurt. Insect bites and thorny vegetation are two ways for an infection to spread if you’re not careful. As for tummy troubles? We have a lot of experience with that, too. It’s why we always recommend bringing along trusted digestion medicines.
Sometimes, you just have to wait.
While safaris offer incredible opportunities to see wildlife up close, there's no guarantee of spotting every animal on your wish list. Some animals may be elusive or only active during specific times of the day, requiring patience and luck.
There are times when you feel like you’re doing a lot of waiting. But it’s like we tell our kids – sometimes it’s good to be bored. Cultivate that curiosity, observe everything around you. Can you hear the wind whispering through the grasslands? The scent of the earth after a rainstorm? (That’s called petrichor, by the way.) How does it feel to be truly present, connected to the rhythm of nature in a way that transcends the ordinary?
On safari, surrounded by the sights and sounds of the wild, you'll discover a profound sense of awe and reverence for the wonders of the natural world.
This is an experience that gets you deep in the soul, and rarely leaves after it’s over.
So allow yourself to venture outside of your comfort zone and be a traveler, not a tourist. Get in touch with the team at SafariSmiths Travel today… It’s time to plan your adventure.
Unforgettable Fairways 🏌️♀️
Don’t settle for ordinary when you can tee off at some of the world's most legendary golf courses.
Lush greens, luxurious amenities, and breathtaking fairways. SafariSmiths Travel is delighted to introduce the golfer's paradise, where the finest accommodations, gourmet dining, impeccable service, and unforgettable rounds await.
A SafariSmiths Travel golf experience redefines luxury, where every little detail is tailored to make you feel like a VIP. From lavish accommodations at world-class lodges and resorts with breathtaking views of the greens to exquisite dining, every element is carefully curated to ensure a memorable stay.
From the iconic Pebble Beach to the historic St. Andrews, these courses aren't your average fairways. They're like stepping into a golfer’s heaven – for example, on an African luxury golf course, you’ll often embrace the breathtaking landscapes surrounding them. From golden savannahs to rugged coastlines and mountains as backdrops, the scenery itself becomes an integral part of the golfing experience. Crocodiles on the green? You bet. Wildlife may also make appearances, offering an unparalleled blend of golf and safari.
Beyond the Green
While you’ll likely want to center your golf trip around, well, golf – these destinations also offer a wealth of leisure activities beyond the fairways. Enjoy serene spa retreats, where you can relax and rejuvenate. Whether you’re looking for more adventure and want to head out on safari or just soak up the sun at pristine beaches – your choices are as endless as the locations.
After playing a round on a legendary course, head to the clubhouse or renowned restaurants to indulge in a feast fit for a Tiger. This experience is as much about the food as it is about the game. SafariSmiths Travel has personally tested many lodges, locations, and courses so that we can ensure your trip is seamless, fun, and hassle-free.
Conservation and Sustainability
Luxury golf trips often intertwine their opulence with a commitment to environmental conservation and sustainability. Many of these courses are designed to harmonize with the surrounding landscapes, embracing eco-friendly practices that minimize their ecological footprint. By booking your trip with verified travel advisors like SafariSmiths Travel, you can rest assured that you’re contributing to the preservation of the earth’s natural beauty.
These exclusive experiences promise golf enthusiasts a journey of a lifetime. You’ll create cherished memories, a tick off your bucket list, and maybe a stroke or two off your handicap. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a budding aficionado, treating yourself to a luxurious golf escapade is an absolute must.
See you at the 19th hole!
Designing Adventure
Choosing the right travel advisor is key to building your dream getaway.
Let’s pretend you’re building a house. Your first step would not, hopefully, be to hammer into some 2x4s without a plan.
No, you’d probably first meet with an architect, right? You’d find out if your dream home is feasible on the lot you’re looking at, and you’d make sure that your styles align.
Your architect offers essential guidance, navigating what would be a daunting and overwhelming task on your own. They consider every aspect of a home’s design, from structural integrity to aesthetic appeal.
Just like your architect works with you to bring your vision to life, working with an experienced travel advisor can transform your dream trip into a reality.
Instead of wading through the endless pages of Internet information on flights, accommodations, transportations, and activities on your own, why not enlist an expert?
Your time is the most valuable asset that you have.
Planning a trip without the assistance of a travel agency can lead to frustration and disappointment (not to mention — unnecessary drama in the group chat!).
Travel advisors take into account all of the factors that contribute to a fantastic travel experience. They have access to exclusive deals, insider tips, and industry connections that the average traveler may not be aware of.
Whether you’re seeking adventure in the Serengeti, relaxation on a coastal island, or immersion in a new culture, SafariSmiths Travel has the knowledge, experience, and resources to design a bespoke itinerary tailored entirely to you, for you.
From booking flights and accommodations to arranging tours and activities, SafariSmiths Travel handles everything.
What will you do with all that freed up real estate in your brain? 🤯
Check out what SafariSmiths Travel can offer for your perfect trip, and let’s get started.
Luxury and Purpose
Explore the world, mindfully.
Travel, when done well, can be a transformative, immersive experience. It enriches our lives – and in some cases, profoundly reshapes – our perspectives.
But traveling with purpose goes far beyond personal growth. It involves making conscious choices that benefit the places we visit, leaving them just a little bit better than we find them. From conservation efforts to hotel design and exhibitions of turning ocean-clogging trash into reclaimed art, regenerative travel is the new “luxury.” Many of SafariSmiths Travel destinations link up with nonprofit foundations to support programs ranging from clinic building to wildlife education.
Socially responsible travel requires a shift in the way we think about travel, asking us to make conscious choices that benefit local communities and help ecosystems shine. As tempting as it might be to stand in line for hours at a popular city museum, we encourage you to skip the “touristy” places and instead support local merchants, artisans, and chefs. Share meals with local residents and learn about the projects that enhance their community’s well-being.
By spreading tourism dollars around to smaller communities, we can ensure that our adventures do not come at the expense of the planet and its inhabitants. The kids will forge lifelong connections, learning the difference between being a tourist and a traveler.
SafariSmiths Travel is dedicated to providing the ultimate luxurious travel experience while ensuring a meaningful, positive impact on the environment and the communities we visit.
How you travel matters. And we promise: it’s so much more than a vacation.
Craft as a Love Language
As integral parts of many African cultures, beadwork and weaving work are crafts passed down through generations, serving as a way to preserve and express cultural identity and heritage.
In many African societies, beadwork is the language of their legacies - every color, pattern, and design tells a story about who they are and where they come from. Harnessing materials sourced directly from their surroundings, such as vibrant seeds, earthy clay, or sustainable fibers, these women transform these natural resources into exquisite creations.
Commonly used in cultural celebrations and ceremonies like weddings, funerals, and other rites of passage, beadwork and woven textiles symbolize social status, belonging, and transition. Women also work in collective production, which fosters community development and engagement. They preserve traditional practices and values while also adapting to change in their communities, telling the stories and reflecting the dynamic nature of African societies.
African women harness a diverse array of natural resources and use many different techniques to incorporate them into their beadwork and traditional weaving:
Plant Fibers: Women gather fibers from plants such as sisal, baobab, or banana trees, which they then spin into yarn or thread for weaving. These fibers are often sturdy and flexible, making them ideal for creating durable textiles.
Dyeing Techniques: Natural dyes derived from plants, roots, bark, and even insects are used to color threads and fabrics. Women skillfully extract pigments from sources like indigo, hibiscus, or onion skins, creating a spectrum of vibrant hues that reflect the rich biodiversity of their environments.
Seed Beads and Shells: Seeds from various plants are collected and crafted into beads, adding texture and dimension to their designs. Additionally, shells sourced from coastal regions are polished and drilled to create intricately patterned adornments, infusing their work with a touch of coastal charm.
Clay and Earth Pigments: In regions abundant in clay deposits, women mold and fire clay beads, pendants, and ornaments, incorporating them into their jewelry and textile designs. They also mix earth pigments with natural binders to create paints for embellishing fabrics with traditional motifs and patterns.
Recycled Materials: In an environmentally conscious approach, women repurpose materials such as glass beads from discarded bottles or metal scraps from old utensils, infusing their creations with a spirit of sustainability while reducing waste.
Through their craftsmanship, these entrepreneurs are not only preserving cultural heritage but are also paving paths towards economic equality. By selling their handcrafted goods locally or globally, they infuse much-needed income into their households and villages, helping to alleviate poverty and creating opportunities for their communities to thrive.
Sylvia Omina - Omina Otsieno Designs
Entrepreneur Sylvia Omina, owner of Omina Otsieno Jewelry, creates beautiful handmade jewelry made from the strong, woven fibers from the banana plant. Her operation begins with harvesting the banana plants and extracting the fibers from the stems, a process that has opened opportunities for women weavers in Busia, Kenya, as well as banana farmers across the country. Omina Otsieno also collaborates with artisans in Nairobi to create brass accessories, used to finish the jewelry.
“Sylvia is acting on the economic inequality that plagues those living in rural areas while resources surround them in abundance. Her aim is to leverage crafts, fashion and design skills available in the villages to create art and products that will bring economic prosperity to those in need.
Through the work of her brand, Sylvia is focused on three main areas of sustainable development, which include gender equality, industry, innovation, and infrastructure and Sustainable Citie and Communities. She hopes that Omina Otsieno will become one of the most Inspiring sustainable brands in Africa and the world.”
By harnessing these natural resources and employing traditional techniques passed down through generations, African women infuse their beadwork and weaving with a profound connection to their environment and cultural heritage. Moreover, the utilization of locally sourced materials enhances the economic sustainability of their communities while preserving the ecological balance of their surroundings.
Sylvia is just one example of so many in the region and across Africa. In this dance between tradition and innovation, African women are weaving a tapestry of resilience, resourcefulness, and empowerment that enriches both their lives and the world around them.
To be a traveler —rather than a tourist— is to fully immerse yourself in the rich, vibrant cultures of the destinations you visit. Did you know that you can add a visit to a local village to your safari?
Have a budding scientist, philanthropist, or humanitarian in the family? Nurture that curiosity with the trip of a lifetime. We would love to help you plan yours, and to spark some inspiration for you as well.
The warm fuzzies on safari
If you’re hoping to see cute baby animals while on safari in Africa,
when’s the best time to go?
Do you find babies stinky, loud, and sticky? Or cute, cuddly, and adorable? Maybe a little of both, if we’re being real?
There’s just something about fuzzy baby animals that makes even the hardest of hearts soften. Awww.
So when you’re planning a safari, when’s the best time to see baby animals in their natural habitat?
in Kenya by Kyle Smith, SafariSmiths Travel
The best time to go on an African safari to see baby animals can vary, depending on the location and the specific species you're interested in observing.
Generally speaking — in many African safari destinations such as the Serengeti in Tanzania or the Masai Mara in Kenya, the best time to see baby animals is during the dry season, which typically falls between June and October.
During this time, vegetation is sparse and water sources become limited, forcing animals to gather around remaining waterholes and rivers. This concentration of wildlife increases the chances of encountering newborns, as many species time their births to coincide with the abundance of food and water.
It’s quite amazing to think about their natural instinct, isn’t it?
for survival and socialization while strengthening their bond with their mothers. Photographed in Tanzania by Kyle Smith, SafariSmiths Travel
Predators are often more active during this time, which can lead to sightings of young animals with their mothers as they navigate the challenges of survival.
Birthing seasons and peak viewing times are different for many species, though, and it's essential to research the specific locations and species you're interested in observing. Factors like weather patterns and local environmental conditions can also influence animal behavior and the timing of births.
At SafariSmiths Travel, we can provide valuable insights into the best times and places for wildlife viewing. The opportunity to observe and appreciate the adorable, relatable antics of baby animals… Best Mother’s Day gift ever?
On Safari: The Ultimate Family Vacation
The perfect multigenerational getaway to unplug, explore, and connect.
Imagine standing on the vast plains of the Serengeti, your family gathered around as a majestic herd of elephants strolls by, or watching your children light up as they spot their first lion in the wild. A safari is more than just a vacation — it’s a once-in-a-lifetime journey that brings families closer together, offering adventure, education, and unforgettable memories.
Here’s why a safari is the ultimate family getaway — and how SafariSmiths Travel can craft this extraordinary experience for you.
Uniting All Ages in Adventure
Safaris are uniquely suited to multigenerational families. From curious toddlers to adventurous grandparents, there’s something for everyone. Picture grandparents sharing tales under the starlit sky while children learn from expert guides about conservation and African wildlife. The experience fosters meaningful connections across generations, creating bonds that deepen over shared wonder.
Educational and Transformational
Few vacations offer the immersive learning opportunities of a safari. Guided by knowledgeable experts, families can explore ecosystems, wildlife behavior, and local cultures. Children and adults alike leave with a greater appreciation for the natural world. This kind of education, paired with breathtaking scenery, makes the experience both fun and transformative.
Luxury Meets Family-Friendly Design
Gone are the days when safaris were rugged, adults-only adventures. Modern luxury camps and lodges cater to families with spacious accommodations, child-friendly menus, and curated activities like wildlife tracking or stargazing. SafariSmiths Travel ensures every aspect of your trip is tailored to your family’s needs, blending luxury and comfort with thrilling exploration.
How SafariSmiths Travel Can Help
SafariSmiths Travel takes the stress out of planning a safari, offering fully customized itineraries that balance adventure, relaxation, and family bonding. Whether you dream of traversing the Okavango Delta by boat or spotting the Big Five in Kruger National Park, SafariSmiths leverages deep expertise and exclusive partnerships to create an unforgettable, seamless experience.
They handle every detail—flights, accommodations, and even private guides—leaving you free to focus on what matters most: sharing an extraordinary journey with your loved ones. Their dedication to luxury and their passion for Africa ensure your safari will be as awe-inspiring as it is hassle-free.
Make Memories That Last a Lifetime
A family safari is more than a vacation; it’s a celebration of connection, discovery, and shared wonder. Let SafariSmiths Travel help you craft the ultimate family adventure—an unforgettable experience that will inspire stories for years to come.
Ready to embark on this journey of a lifetime? Contact SafariSmiths Travel today, and let Africa’s magic create your next family memory.
Exploring the Okavango Delta
The Okavango Delta, located in north-western Botswana, is renowned for its incredible wildlife. It’s home to some of the most sought-after species, including elephants, lions, leopards, buffalos, giraffes, hippos, crocodiles, and many species of antelope. The delta is also a birdwatcher's paradise, with over 450 species recorded in the area.
Nestled in the heart of Botswana lies one of the world's most extraordinary natural wonders: the Okavango Delta is a labyrinth of waterways, floodplains, and islands, forming an oasis in the Kalahari Desert. Known for its unparalleled biodiversity and stunning landscapes, the Okavango Delta is a premier safari destination that offers a truly unique and immersive wildlife experience.
A Unique Ecosystem
The Okavango Delta is truly a unique safari destination. Each year, floodwaters from the Angolan highlands surge into the delta, creating a lush, verdant paradise that teems with life. This seasonal flooding supports a rich tapestry of habitats, from permanent marshes and seasonally flooded grasslands to dense forests and palm-fringed islands. The result is a dynamic and ever-changing landscape that provides a haven for an astonishing array of wildlife.
The delta's diverse habitats are home to an impressive variety of animals. Visitors can expect to encounter elephants, lions, leopards, and buffalo — the iconic Big Five — alongside a myriad of other species. Hippos and crocodiles patrol the waterways, while giraffes and zebras roam the plains. Birdwatchers will be in paradise, with over 400 species recorded, including the rare African skimmer and the striking Pel’s fishing owl.
Safari Experiences
A safari in the Okavango Delta is an adventure like no other. Traditional game drives are complemented by unique experiences such as mokoro (dugout canoe) excursions and walking safaris. Gliding silently through the waterways in a mokoro offers a tranquil and intimate perspective on the delta's wildlife, while walking safaris provide the thrill of exploring the bush on foot, guided by expert trackers.
For those seeking luxury, the delta boasts some of Africa's most exclusive safari lodges and camps. These accommodations blend seamlessly with the environment, offering guests comfort and elegance while minimizing their ecological footprint. Whether you choose a tented camp or a luxurious lodge, the focus is always on providing an authentic and immersive wilderness experience.
Conservation and Community
The Okavango Delta is not only a natural wonder but also a model of successful conservation and community involvement. Botswana's commitment to sustainable tourism ensures that the delta remains a pristine wilderness, protected for future generations. Local communities play a crucial role in conservation efforts, with many initiatives aimed at promoting sustainable livelihoods and preserving the unique cultural heritage of the region.
Plan Your Adventure with SafariSmiths Travel
Visiting the Okavango Delta is a journey into the wild heart of Africa. Whether you're a seasoned safari-goer or a first-time visitor, SafariSmiths Travel promises to deliver an unforgettable experience. The best time to visit is during the dry season (May to October), when wildlife congregates around the dwindling water sources, making for spectacular game viewing. However, the wet season (November to April) offers its own charm, with lush landscapes, newborn animals, and fewer tourists.
In the Okavango Delta, nature reigns supreme. It's a place where the rhythm of the wild sets the pace of life, and every day brings new discoveries. For an unparalleled safari adventure, there is no place quite like the Okavango Delta.
A Battle of Epic Proportions
As I headed out on a game drive in South Africa’s Kruger National Park, I had no clue that — as far as wildlife photographers go — I was about to have an absolute dream day.
All images taken by Kyle Smith, wildlife photographer and SafariSmiths Travel co-founder, with a Sony AR7 IV camera and a Sony 200-600mm lens. All images copyrighted; do not reuse without explicit permission.
The golden African sun hung low over the horizon, casting long shadows across the savanna. I adjusted my camera lens as I sat quietly in the safari vehicle, parked near a solitary acacia tree in Kruger National Park. This park is one of my favorite places on earth, a haven of raw and untamed beauty where nature dramatically plays out its battles in the scorching heat.
We’d been sitting in the safari vehicle for a while, capturing shots of zebra and wildebeest milling around. It was late afternoon when our guide received a call about some activity nearby. Soon afterward a majestic lion emerged, its ribs visible even through his regal, muscular form. The lion moved with purpose, dragging a freshly killed buffalo carcass toward the base of the acacia tree. Careful not to make noise, I leaned into my camera with excitement. I knew I was about to witness something extraordinary.
As the lion began to feed, I captured the scene through my lens, the quiet click of the camera punctuating the silence. The tranquility was short-lived. From the distant plains came the eerie cackle of hyenas and a chill sent down my spine even in the scorching heat. I had a feeling a confrontation was coming. I scanned the horizon and saw the telltale shapes of hyenas approaching, their numbers growing with each passing moment.
The lion paused its feast, lifting its massive head to glare at the advancing pack. The hyenas circled closer, their laughter echoing through the air, a sound that was both sinister and mocking. I knew the lion would not give up its prize easily, but I also understood the cunning and persistence of hyenas. This was going to be a battle of wills.
The first skirmish began as a handful of hyenas darted forward, snapping at the lion’s haunches. With a thunderous roar, the lion swiped its massive paw, sending one hyena sprawling. The rest of the pack retreated momentarily, regrouping just out of reach. The lion stood over the carcass, its body a shield, daring the hyenas to come closer.
My camera clicked away, capturing the raw intensity of the standoff. The sun dipped lower, painting the sky in hues of red and orange. The battle entered its second hour, with neither side willing to concede. The hyenas were relentless, attacking in waves, their numbers giving them confidence. The lion, though powerful, was beginning to tire. Each defense took a toll, and I could see the strain in his eyes.
The hours dragged on, the battle unrelenting and the atmosphere growing even more charged.
As the sixth hour approached, the balance of power began to shift. The lion, exhausted and wounded, stood panting heavily. The hyenas sensed their opportunity and doubled down. I held my breath, unsure if the lion could hold out much longer. The final confrontation was brutal, a frenzy of growls, snapping, and swipes of terrible claws.
In the end, the lion's strength prevailed. With one last, mighty roar, it charged the hyenas with a ferocity that finally broke their resolve. The pack scattered into the setting sun, their defeat evident in their retreating forms. The lion, victorious but battered, collapsed beside the carcass, too tired to eat but unwilling to leave his prize.
I lowered my camera, the memory card full of images that told a story of survival, resilience, and the relentless struggle of life in the wild.
We packed up our gear and our guide quietly started the vehicle. As we drove away, I looked in reverence at the lion who had defended its meal with such extraordinary courage. I felt a profound respect for the creature's spirit. I knew that this epic battle would be a story I would tell for the rest of my life.
A few weeks later, I’d posted a few of the photos on my Instagram account (@kylesafarismith — give me a follow!). They got a lot of attention with the wildlife photographer crowd, and eventually I received a call from The Daily Mail. They did a great feature on my adventure — you can check it out here.
While we can’t guarantee an epic battle of the beasts with every game drive, we can guarantee something special every time you head into that horizon. If you’re ready for a life-changing adventure that you’ll remember forever, give us a call. We would love to accompany you on your journey.