For many travelers, the allure of an African safari has long been tied to the Big Five: lions, leopards, elephants, rhinoceroses, and Cape buffaloes. These iconic animals have captured imaginations through documentaries and travel brochures, making them the centerpiece of many safari adventures. However, a new trend is emerging among travelers, particularly those returning for a second or third trip to Africa. These seasoned visitors are seeking experiences that delve deeper into the continent’s vast biodiversity, offering encounters with lesser-known but equally captivating wildlife.
Jim Holden, president of Holden Safaris, notes that while many first-time visitors focus on the wildlife popularized by television programs, repeat travelers often express curiosity about the broader ecological tapestry of Africa. This shift has prompted safari operators to rethink and expand their offerings. Sherwin Banda, president of African Travel, highlights the growing demand for unique wildlife experiences, such as observing meerkat colonies in Botswana’s Makgadikgadi Salt Pans, marveling at the vibrant pink flamingos at Tanzania’s Lake Manyara, or joining nocturnal game drives to spot elusive creatures under the African night sky.
Among the most sought-after and elusive animals is the pangolin, often called “Africa’s panda” because of its critically endangered status. Its shy, nocturnal nature and low population density make it an extraordinary sighting. Pangolins are poached for their scales, which are used in traditional medicine, and their meat, considered a delicacy in some cultures. As a result, they have become a symbol of conservation efforts and a prized subject for wildlife enthusiasts. Wendy Panaino, an ecologist at South Africa’s Tswalu Kalahari Reserve, describes the pangolin as exceptionally challenging to track, underscoring the rarity of even a brief encounter with one.
For Toby Jermyn, founder of Pangolin Photo Safaris, the pangolin serves as a metaphor for the broader philosophy of moving beyond the Big Five. His company’s name reflects this ethos, aiming to spark conversations and curiosity among guests about the diversity of Africa’s wildlife. Pangolin Photo Safaris, based in Botswana’s Chobe region, offers immersive experiences that blend wildlife exploration with photography. Guests are provided with professional-grade cameras and receive personalized guidance from expert photo hosts, encouraging them to engage deeply with the animals and their habitats.
This emphasis on connection rather than checklist tourism transforms how visitors perceive wildlife. Jermyn recounts how animals often overlooked on traditional safaris such as monitor lizards or baboons become compelling subjects for photography. Guests learn to appreciate the subtleties of light and movement, creating memorable images while fostering a deeper appreciation for their environment.
Conservation remains a cornerstone of these expanded safari experiences. Pangolin Photo Safaris’ Guardian program promotes ethical wildlife viewing through a free, 15-minute online course. Guests are encouraged to complete it before their trip, ensuring they understand the importance of preserving fragile ecosystems and respecting the creatures they encounter.
The rise of safaris that go beyond the Big Five signifies a broader evolution in how travelers experience Africa. By embracing its less-celebrated wildlife and fostering ethical tourism, these adventures offer not just breathtaking memories but also a chance to contribute to the continent’s ongoing conservation efforts. For those willing to look beyond the obvious, Africa reveals a rich and intricate story waiting to be discovered.
