I hate people who suggest books to read before we take a trip, but have often found that the right book can add immeasurably to a travel experience. A case in point is McCullough's "Path between the Seas" before a Panama Canal itinerary. So, with fear and trepidation, consider the following:

The best wildlife guide I have found (and I have a bunch) is "The Safari Companion" by Richard Estes - paper back - about $20 at Amazon. This is one that you'll take with you and read at night after the game drives, as well as using for preparation. You'll also have it for subsequent safaris (which you will take!)

For a fascinating and riveting look back at the history of South Africa think about Michener's "The Covenent". As with most of his books, it is fiction, but uses a sweeping historical panorama as a setting. It will add much to what you will see.

For insight into a more contemporary view of South Africa, Mandela's autobiography "A long walk to Freedom" is another choice.

Although I won't be with you - Africa draws us like a huge magnet - we envy your experience.

Ted, thanks!!!

I will order Estes' book this weekend. Probably will pick up Michener's book, too. Michener's niche in writing is probably the most unique. All of his that I have read have been enjoyable.

Thanks Ted...I read Michener's The Covenent years ago never realizing one day....... I met him at a book signing for Chesapeake and could barely articulate a "hello". I have the other book you mention. The way things are progressing I should be speaking swahili and doing the "Watusi" for a doc dance! :eek:

I read The Covenent when it was 1st published. A definite read. I found the most interesting section the part describing the white woman's reaction to and consequences of apartite. And I read it when apartite was still legal.
You all will find the entire book fascinating even though some things have changed - if only slightly.

Thanks for the suggestion, Ted. It is time to start the background reading, tending to details etc.

a good source for travel related books is Longitude Books

and indeed they list the Estes book as essential reading.

I should have mentioned that Estes deals exclusively with mammals. If you are an obsessive birder (I'm not) then any one of the Field guides will do. If reptiles are your thing, well...

Thanks, Ted & Leslie, for your reading suggestions. We're preparing for a winter of reading & preparation....I'm a student at this point taking it all in. - Michele

Just had lunch yesterday with a friend (also named Todd) who was at Singita last year. Says it's one of the highlights of his life. Todd was telling us the drivers took them on an afternoon drive to within 20 feet or so of a lioness stalking a herd of gazelle. The big cats seem to not be so bothered by the range rovers, so long as people aren't standing up or otherwise creating a distraction.

Then, they started to drive down a hill to a watering hole set in a valley. A bull elephant emerged from the top of the hill on the other side, waving his trunk, flapping his ears and trotting in their direction. To quote Todd, he's never seen a Range Rover back up so fast in his life. Evidently the driver & tracker give elephants all the berth they want. To quote the coast guard: Tonnage rules!

Cheers (and it's less than 4 months away now), Anne

Ted:

Do you recommend National Audubon Society Field Guide to African Wildlife in addition to Estes' book? Or, given the weight limitations, is Estes book sufficient by itself.

Again, thanks,

Marc

Good question - quick answer is to take both. Estes is a contributor to NAS - NAS has color plates and goes beyond mammals to reptiles, birds, insects etc. The value of Estes is the depth of observable behavior of animals you will be seeing. In terms of weight/value and balanced with a practical consideration of time available for reading on safari (napping will be a powerful attraction for inter-game drive breaks!)I would opt for Estes as a single source. But, again, I am not a compulsive birder - if you are, go with NAS.

Ted