A Life of Storytelling and Exploration

Thank you for visiting my corner of the safari and travel landscape. I am a safari designer, tour leader and guide, journalist, travel writer and photographer with a passion (in the true sense of the word) for telling stories that reveal the rich tapestry of Africa. A journey that has taken me from the heart of bustling newsrooms to the vast wild and open spaces of Southern and east Africa, capturing the continent's spirit through words, film, and photographs.

My career began during one of the most transformative periods in South African history. As a young journalist, I covered Nelson Mandela's release, the political transition of the early 1990s, and South Africa's first democratic elections. These formative years shaped my approach to both guiding and storytelling.

I have reported on conflicts in Somalia, genocide and resurrection in Rwanda and Mozambique, explored the Okavango Delta, and guided travellers through the diverse landscapes of the continent. Today, I merge my love for travel and storytelling by offering curated, personalized safari experiences and producing documentaries and articles that highlight Africa's beauty, complexity, and resilience.

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Angus

My Journey

My professional path has been as diverse as the continent that raised me. After years in broadcast journalism – covering political, environmental, and cultural stories – I transitioned into a career as a private safari guide. This shift was born out of a desire to offer people firsthand experiences of the places I have come to know and love.

Through African Storybook Media, I have produced television documentaries, written for leading travel publications, and created digital content aimed at promoting African tourism and conservation. I am fortunate to have worked alongside passionate conservationists, artists, and fellow journalists, all committed to preserving and showcasing the beauty of Africa.

Beyond my work behind the camera and pen, I design bespoke itineraries for safari-goers looking to experience all aspects of sub-Saharan Africa. Partnering with respected partners with experience and expertise in certain regions, I create journeys that immerse travellers in the extraordinary landscapes and rich biodiversity of the region.

Awards and Recognition

My work has been recognized with several prestigious awards, including:

    • CNN Africa Journalist of the Year Award (2006) – Winner in the Sport category for excellence in journalism.
    • International Travel Writer of the Year Nominee (2015) – The only African nominee in this global category.
    • Radio Documentary Nominations – Twice nominated for coverage on Somalia and South Africa’s democratic elections.
    • Photojournalism Commendations – Recognized for contributions to visual storytelling.

These accolades reflect not only my commitment to the craft but also the power of African stories to inspire and inform global audiences.

African Storybook

Through magazine and newspaper articles and social media blog-posts and video documentaries, African Storybook has historically been Angus’ trading name, his gateway into the heart of African stories and travel. Started in 2008, African Storybook is Angus Begg.

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Let’s embark on a journey to uncover the stories of Africa and curated European walking destinations. One adventure at a time.

Burchells zebra, Rietvlei Nature Reserve, outside Pretoria