I subscribe to the Panthera newsletter and there was a recent article about the sighting on camera trap of a West African lioness and three new cubs which "sparks hope for the recovery of a population perilously close to extinction in Senegal's Niokolo-Kuba National Park". These West African Lions are critically endangered but since 2011 the populations in Senegal has doubled from 10-15 individuals to 30. The goal is to reach 100 lions by 2030.

Happy memories!

This reminds me of a long-ago tale in South Luangwa. Ask Tony about the time he drove me out of Island Bush Camp and chose the perfect place to have a cold drink and stretch our legs....

Hiring a porter is a big help. I'd also recommend gardening gloves to protect your hands from nettles or getting scratched if you need to hold on to a branch. Whatever the challenges, nothing can prepare you for the first time you hear the sound of a silverback beating its chest or catching your first glimpse of a gorilla - awesome in every sense of the word.

I agree Paul, I had great porters on both treks and you are definitely making a difference to the community by hiring them.