Here is a list is of books to either get you inspired before you set off on your trip or to read mid-journey with a sun-downer!
Cry of Kalahari – Mark and Delia Owens
An account of Mark and Delia Owens who sold everything they owned and left for the Kalahari in 1974. They spent the next seven years living in a remote camp, conducting research on the behaviour of Black Maned Lion and Hyena.
Botswana Time – Will Randell
A light hearted and uplifting tale of a British teacher working in a small rural school in Kasane, Northern Botswana, who soon finds himself head coach of the schools’ football team Kasane Kudus!
A Long Walk to Freedom – Nelson Mandela
The iconic autobiography of Nelson Mandela. Described by The Sunday Times as the tale of an epic life; a story of hardship, resilience and ultimate triumph.
The Lost World of the Kalahari – Sir Laurens Van Der Post
In the late fifties, Van Der Post led an expedition into the Kalahari in search of the San Bushman. This book offers a last glimpse into the life of this remarkable tribe.
The Big Cat Man – Jonathon Scott
The autobiography of wildlife photographer and presenter Jonathon Scott, who has spent much of his career in the Maasai Mara. There are of course stunning photographs and illustrations throughout.
The Scamble for Africa – Thomas Pakenham
A thorough account of the colonisation and exploration of Africa during the 19th century.
The Challenge for Africa – Wangari Maathai
Author, and Nobel Peace Prize Laureate, Wangari Maathi is deemed one of Africa’s most positive and far sighted thinkers, this book celebrates the potential of human spirit and that change is always possible.
Don’t Run Whatever You Do – Peter Allison
A collection of short stories from a professional safari guide – humorous tales of both animals and tourists that Peter Allison has encountered during his time as a guide in Botswana.
I Dreamed of Africa – Kuki Gallmann
The memoirs of Kuki Gallmann who raised her family in Kenya in the 1970’s evoking wonderful descriptions of African landscape and wildlife.
Africa – Altered States, Ordinary Miracles – Richard Dowden
Leading African affairs journalist, Richard Dowden, has spent the last 30 years living in, and learning about, Africa. He reports on real Africans and the reality of life on the continent.
Get in touch if you have any other suggestions to add to the list!
Jessica has an interest for sustainable tourism, and is particularly passionate about Southern Africa and all it has to offer. She is currently overlanding across 10 countries in the bottom half of the continent, and creating these resources en-route, to help others plan their own African adventures.