South Africa releases Q1 2025 rhino poaching report!

South Africa's Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Dr. Dion George, has released the official rhino poaching statistics for the first quarter of 2025. Between 01 January and 31 March 2025, a total of 103 rhinos were poached across the country - an average of 34.33 rhinos per month. This number is consistent with the previous 12-month average of 35 rhinos per month (or 420 annually), highlighting the continued threat to South Africa's rhino population.

Dr. George emphasized the urgent need for increased anti-poaching efforts:

“The South African government remains unwavering in its fight against wildlife crime. We are enhancing ranger patrols, expanding the use of surveillance technologies, and working with both national and international law enforcement agencies. This includes the deployment of advanced tools like drones and thermal radars. Furthermore, we are collaborating with communities near protected areas to support sustainable livelihoods and reduce the drivers behind poaching.”

Rhino poaching statistics by province – Q1 2025:

• Kruger National Park (SANParks): 65 rhinos
• KwaZulu-Natal: 16 rhinos
• Limpopo: 10 rhinos
• Free State: 5 rhinos
• North West: 4 rhinos
• Mpumalanga: 3 rhinos
• Eastern Cape: 0 rhinos
• Northern Cape: 0 rhinos
• Western Cape: 0 rhinos
• Gauteng: 0 rhinos

Significant progress has been made in addressing rhino-related crime in South Africa. Between January and March 2025, 15 suspects were arrested in connection with rhino poaching activities. Additionally, five cases were finalized in court, demonstrating the government's ongoing commitment to holding perpetrators accountable and strengthening prosecution outcomes.

Malaria in Southern Africa: What travellers need to know in June!

Malaria remains a health concern in several parts of Southern Africa, even as cooler temperatures begin to set in during June. While the risk may be lower in some areas, travellers should remain informed and take appropriate precautions to stay safe. This guide provides updated information on malaria risk areas in Southern Africa, explains why June still matters for malaria awareness, and offers malaria prevention tips for travellers heading to the region during this time of year.

Malaria Risk Areas in Southern Africa:

Malaria transmission in Southern Africa is highly seasonal and region-specific. In June, many parts of the region experience cooler and drier weather, which naturally leads to a decrease in mosquito activity. However, malaria has not disappeared, and some areas remain high-risk year-round.

As of June, the following areas remain at risk:

• Mozambique: Most of the country remains a high-risk malaria zone throughout the year, including coastal and inland areas.
• Zambia: Northern and western provinces, especially areas near the Zambezi River and Luangwa Valley, continue to report cases.
• Zimbabwe: Areas such as the Zambezi Valley and the low-lying regions in the north and east are still affected.
• Namibia: Northern regions, especially the Kavango and Zambezi regions, maintain a moderate risk.
• Malawi: Malaria is present year-round across the country, with rural areas posing higher risks.
• Angola: Malaria remains endemic in most provinces, particularly in the north and northeast.
• Tanzania (Southern regions): While not always categorized with "Southern Africa," many travellers include Tanzania in their itineraries. The southern and coastal regions continue to carry a risk in June.

South Africa has a low risk overall, but Mpumalanga (Kruger National Park and surrounding areas) and parts of Limpopo still warrant caution.

Why June still matters for malaria awareness:

Although June marks the beginning of winter in much of Southern Africa, it's a transitional month, and malaria transmission does not halt overnight. Several reasons make malaria awareness essential in June:

• Residual mosquito populations can persist, especially in warm, humid microclimates like river valleys.
• Malaria can take up to 30 days to present symptoms, meaning an infection contracted in May could manifest in June.
• June is the start of the dry season, attracting tourists to safaris and outdoor destinations in regions where malaria remains a threat.
• In some countries, resistance to common antimalarial medications is an emerging concern, reinforcing the need for vigilance.

Malaria prevention tips for travellers:

Travellers heading to malaria-affected areas in Southern Africa in June should take the following preventive measures:

• Consult a healthcare provider before your trip to determine if antimalarial medication is necessary based on your itinerary.
• Use insect repellent containing DEET or picaridin, especially during dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are most active.
• Wear long sleeves and pants, preferably light-coloured clothing, to minimize exposed skin.
• Sleep under a mosquito net, especially in rural or less-developed accommodation.
• Stay in well-screened or air-conditioned rooms when possible.
• Avoid stagnant water and lush vegetation near lodgings, as these are prime mosquito breeding sites.
• Monitor for symptoms such as fever, chills, and flu-like illness during and after your trip. Seek medical attention immediately if symptoms develop—even weeks after returning.

June may bring cooler weather to parts of Southern Africa, but malaria does not take a winter holiday. Staying informed about current risk areas and taking proper precautions can ensure your travels are safe and memorable. Always consult a healthcare professional for the most up-to-date advice tailored to your destination.
Stay healthy and enjoy your Southern African adventure!

Addo Elephant National Park: Temporary power outage scheduled for 06 May 2025!

South African National Parks (SANParks) has announced a planned electricity shutdown at Addo Elephant National Park's Main Camp on 06 May 2025, from 08:00 to 17:00. The temporary power outage is necessary to connect the park's newly built family accommodation units to the electrical grid.
The power interruption will affect all accommodation units, the administration offices, reception, restaurant, and shop at the Main Camp.
While SANParks is making arrangements to ensure a smooth check-in process at reception, visitors are kindly asked to be patient with staff during this essential upgrade.

Located in South Africa's Eastern Cape, Addo Elephant National Park is renowned for its thriving elephant population and diverse wildlife. Established in 1931 to protect the region’s last remaining elephants, the park has successfully grown their numbers from just 11 to over 600. Many of Addo's elephants are naturally tuskless, a genetic trait linked to past hunting pressures.
Beyond elephants, Addo Elephant National Park is home to the Big Five - lion, leopard, rhinoceros, elephant, and buffalo - as well as various marine species, making it one of South Africa's most diverse and unique conservation areas.

South Africa: Augrabies Falls National Park sees record water flow as Orange River surges! [update #3]

update (07 June 2025): Regional Communications Manager: Arid Parks at South African National Parks, Genevieve Maasdorp, confirmed in a posting on facebook that the picnic area for day visitors at Augrabies Falls National Park remains closed until further notice. 

update (14 May 2025): The Regional Communications Manager: Arid Parks at South African National Parks, Genevieve Maasdorp, confirmed in a posting on facebook that the game viewing area are currently only open for vehicles with high ground clearance and 4x4.

update (05 May 2025): The restaurant and the shop in the Augrabies Falls National Park are open!

Augrabies Falls National Park in South Africa’s Northern Cape is currently experiencing a spectacular natural event, as the Orange River thunders over the iconic 56-metre-high falls at an extraordinary flow rate of 3,991 cubic metres per second—a dramatic increase from the usual 30 to 50 m³/s.
This surge is the result of heavy rainfall across much of South Africa, leading to significant water releases from the Vaal and Gariep Dams upstream. The powerful torrent has transformed the Augrabies Falls into a breathtaking display, drawing attention from nature lovers and photographers eager to witness this rare phenomenon.

Due to rising water levels, certain areas within Augrabies Falls National Park have been temporarily closed for safety. These include the game viewing area and the popular picnic site, which offers braai facilities and a swimming pool. Currently, only three of the park’s viewing decks remain open, while the others have been shut as a precautionary measure.

Despite the closures, Augrabies Falls National Park remains open to the public, and the falls are delivering one of their most dramatic and thunderous displays in years. Visitors are encouraged to come and witness the extraordinary power of nature, with the high-water spectacle expected to continue for several more weeks.

Etosha National Park in June!

Etosha National Park in northern Namibia is a year-round wildlife destination, but each month brings its own rhythm to the landscape and animals. June marks the official start of the dry season, offering a distinctive and rewarding experience for visitors. Here’s what you can expect in Etosha National Park in June.

Weather & Landscape:
June in Etosha National Park ushers in winter and the beginning of the dry season. Daytime temperatures are pleasantly warm, averaging between 22°C and 26°C (72°F to 79°F), while nighttime temperatures can drop significantly, often falling below 10°C (50°F). Visitors are advised to pack warm clothing for early morning game drives and evenings at the campfire.
The landscape begins its transformation during June. The grasses thin out, and the seasonal pans begin to dry, improving visibility across the open savannah. Water sources outside the park diminish, and wildlife increasingly congregates around Etosha National Park's permanent waterholes. The air is crisp and dust levels are relatively low compared to the coming months of peak dryness.

Fauna:
Etosha National Park is renowned for its diverse range of wildlife, and in June, animal viewing begins to intensify as the bush thins out. You can expect to see large herds of elephants, springbok, zebras, giraffes, and wildebeest, especially around waterholes.
Predators are also active. Lions, leopards, and spotted hyenas can be seen more frequently, taking advantage of the changing conditions to ambush prey that is easier to spot and track. Cheetahs may be seen in the open plains, especially in the eastern parts of the park.
Birdlife remains rich, with raptors such as martial eagles and pale chanting goshawks becoming more visible against the clearer skies. Although some migratory birds have already departed, resident species continue to thrive.

Animal Behavior & Sightings:
June marks a shift in animal behavior. With surface water becoming scarce outside the park, Etosha National Park's waterholes become hotspots for wildlife activity, particularly during the early morning and late afternoon.
Elephants are often seen bathing and socializing at the larger waterholes such as Okaukuejo and Halali, while black rhinos may make rare and special appearances at dusk or at night at floodlit waterholes.
Because visibility is improving, predator sightings become more frequent, especially near known water sources and game trails. Patience and timing are key - arrive early at a waterhole and wait for the wildlife to come to you.

Travel Tips:

• June is the beginning of the high season in Etosha National Park. Booking lodges and campsites well in advance is highly recommended.
• Mornings and evenings in Etosha National Park are cold. Pack layers, including a warm jacket, gloves, and a beanie for early drives. Light, breathable clothing is ideal for midday.
• Game Viewing: Focus on waterholes and open plains. The Okaukuejo, Halali, and Namutoni areas are particularly rewarding this time of year.
• The low-angle winter light provides excellent photo opportunities, especially during golden hour. Bring a telephoto lens for wildlife and a beanbag or stabilizer for shooting from your vehicle.
• Etosha National Park's roads are usually in rather good condition in June. A 2WD vehicle is generally sufficient, though a 4x4 offers better visibility and comfort.

Etosha National Park in June is a remarkable blend of pleasant weather, increasing wildlife density, and quieter park roads compared to peak season. It’s the perfect time to experience Namibia's iconic wilderness before the height of the dry season crowds arrive.

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Kruger National Park in June

June marks the beginning of the dry winter season in Kruger National Park, one of South Africa’s premier safari destinations. With cool mornings, sunny days, and increased wildlife visibility, it’s a superb time to explore the park. Here's what you can expect if you're planning a visit to Kruger National Park in June.

Weather & Landscape:
June is the start of winter in Kruger National Park, bringing cooler and drier conditions. Average daytime temperatures hover around 24°C (75°F), while early mornings and evenings can be quite chilly, sometimes dropping to around 8°C (46°F). It’s advisable to dress in layers to adapt to the wide temperature range throughout the day.
The landscape transforms significantly compared to the lush summer months. Vegetation thins out and grasses turn golden-brown, offering improved visibility for spotting wildlife. With little to no rainfall, water sources begin to dry up, concentrating animals around permanent waterholes and rivers - ideal conditions for game viewing.

Fauna:
June is excellent for observing Kruger National Park's iconic wildlife. With less dense vegetation, elephants, lions, leopards, buffalos, and rhinos are easier to spot. Large herds of elephants are often seen moving between water sources, and buffalo congregations become more noticeable on the open plains.
Predators like lions and hyenas are often found basking in the morning sun after cold nights, while leopards may be spotted more frequently due to the sparser tree cover. Birdlife remains active, with raptors like martial eagles, bateleurs, and vultures frequently seen soaring overhead.

Animal Behavior & Sightings:
Animal behavior in June adapts to the cooler, drier climate. Wildlife becomes more active during daylight hours, especially in the early morning and late afternoon. Predators take advantage of the thinner vegetation and congregated prey around watering points, leading to an increased chance of witnessing a hunt or predator interaction.
Herbivores, such as impalas, zebras, and kudus, often stick close to riverbeds and dams, making them easier to locate. It’s also a prime time to spot hippos and crocodiles as they remain close to permanent water bodies.

Travel Tips:

• Mornings and evenings in Kruger National Park are cold, but midday temperatures can be pleasantly warm.
• With long sight lines and frequent animal encounters, binoculars and cameras are essential tools for wildlife viewing.
• Permanent water sources are hotspots for animal activity in the dry season.
• June is a popular month for safaris, so camps and lodges may fill up quickly.
• Morning and evening drives are the most productive times for wildlife sightings - consider booking a guided safari for expert insights.

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Augrabies Falls National Park: Boardwalk to the main falls closed until further notice! [update]

update (02 May 2025): The viewing decks at the main falls are also closed!

South African National Parks (SANParks) has announced that the boardwalk to the main falls in the Augrabies Falls National Park in South Africa’s Northern Cape has been closed due to water on the pathway. Due to the high water levels and for safety measures it will stay closed until further notice.

Despite the closures, Augrabies Falls National Park remains open and accessible to all visitors. The park continues to offer breathtaking views of the mighty Augrabies Falls, where the Orange River plunges 56 meters into a stunning granite gorge. Known for its rugged desert landscape, quiver trees, and diverse wildlife - including klipspringers, giraffes, and even leopards - Augrabies Falls National Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers, hikers, and photographers.

Please note that several day visitor areas are currently also closed due to the high water levels.