South Africa Archives - Eckart Mayer Photography

Silver grass in endless plains

Beautifully illuminated grass always makes a nice photo motif. Combine it with the reddish gravel soil of the Northern Cape area, the resulting contrast makes it stand out even more. (Augrabies National Park, South Africa, April 2011 - Image ID: 201104-ZA-10)

Lonely Quiver Tree

One of the few trees that survive in the dry and sunny climate of the Northern Cape is the Quiver Tree. Due to their unique shape they make a perfect model for every photographer. (Augrabies National Park, South Africa, April 2011 - Image ID: 201104-ZA-08)

Yellow flowers in Augrabies National Park

In some areas, fresh grass, shrubs and flowers add some colour to the otherwise rather rocky landscape. (Augrabies National Park, South Africa, April 2011 - Image ID: 201104-ZA-09)

Powerful Augrabies waterfall

Another attempt to catch the unbrindled power of the water masses falling down into the valley. After heavy rain, the river carried a lot of sediments, making the colour quite similar to the surrounding rocks. (Augrabies National Park, South Africa, April 2011 - Image ID: 201104-ZA-12)

Rock split by the powers of nature

A number of well-signed hiking trails allow visitors to explore the wild beauty of this remote area. Even large rocks crack into huge pieces due to the permanent exposure to sun, heat, cold, wind etc., creating amazing pieces of natural art (Augrabies National Park, South Africa, April 2011 - Image ID: 201104-ZA-07)

Augrabies Falls on the edge

In this case, a single photo doesn't really do justice to the power of the Oranje River dropping down into the ravine below the Augrabies Falls. A video clip shows it much better, but nothing beats the live experience. (Augrabies National Park, South Africa, April 2011 - Image ID: 201104-ZA-11)

Oranje River after passing the Augrabies Falls

After its 60 meters drop of the Augrabies Falls, the Oranje River makes its way through the vast plateau of the Northern Cape. Steep and colourful rock walls on both sides make it a spectacular view. (Augrabies National Park, South Africa, April 2011 - Image ID: 201104-ZA-04)

Dassie blossom lookout

This cute dassie seems to have its eyes firmly fixed on the yellow blossom of the nearby shrub. Whilst pretty close to the edge of the ravine, it seems inaccessible without risking its life. (Augrabies National Park, South Africa, April 2011 - Image ID: 201104-ZA-03)

Augrabies Falls with plenty of water

One needs to plan ahead, or be just lucky, to see the Oranje River dropping down the ravine with so much water. The sound of the roaring water can already be heard when approaching the Augrabies Falls. (Augrabies National Park, South Africa, April 2011 - Image ID: 201104-ZA-06)

Tuft of grass hideaway

Even in this very dry area of the Northern Cape, there is plenty of vegetation that manages to survive in this environment. And next to it, a mouse seems to have recently settled into its new home. (Augrabies National Park, South Africa, April 2011 - Image ID: 201104-ZA-01)

Three subwaterfalls dropping into the rocky ravine

Three smaller falls drops into the colourful ravine, just below the main part of the Augrabies Falls. (Augrabies National Park, South Africa, April 2011 - Image ID: 201104-ZA-05)

Tuft of grass in evening back-lighting

Another one of the many tufts of grass in the Northern Cape Region, this time beautifully illuminated by the warm late afternoon sun. (Augrabies National Park, South Africa, April 2011 - Image ID: 201104-ZA-02)

Siesta time

Shortly before our departure from South Africa, we revisited the lion breeding and conservation center. Once again, the youngsters were the main attraction, like this cub taking a short rest. (Ukuthula Conservation Center, South Africa, December 2012 - Image ID 201212-SA-17)

Angry elephants

Even though the ranger had stopped the game drive vehicle some time ago, the elephants clearly didn't enjoy our presence. This mother and its calf quickly approached and challenged us, before following the rest of the herd. (Sabi-Sabi Game Reserve, South Africa, December 2012 - Image ID 201212-SA-07)

Little paw

Just adorable: the paw from this lion cub is still small, but will grow together with its owner, and become a dangerous hunting weapon in the future. (Ukuthula Conservation Center, South Africa, December 2012 - Image ID 201212-SA-18)

Trouble ahead

Despite of having enjoyed a relaxing bath in the mud, these two rhinos seem to have an issue with each other. Standing head to head, their feet properly aligned and ready to attack indicantes some trouble ahead. (Sabi-Sabi Game Reserve, South Africa, December 2012 - Image ID 201212-SA-16)

Mudbath, together!

After a hot and dry day out in the bush, these two rhinos are having a blast, enjoying a rejuvenating mudbath together. Animal spa at its'best! (Sabi-Sabi Game Reserve, South Africa, December 2012 - Image ID 201212-SA-14)

Rhino outdoor spa

A group of rhinos wraps up a hot day in their animal spa. The refreshing mudbath also protects their skin against sun and insects. Collective happiness! (Sabi-Sabi Game Reserve, South Africa, December 2012 - Image ID 201212-SA-15)

Here I come

During a guided walk with two lions, we had the chance for close encounters with these still young predators. They ran around, disappeared in the high grass and bushes, or up on a tree, just to suddenly and quickly reappear. A quite unusual and somehow scary experience, for adults only. (Ukuthula Conservation Center, South Africa, December 2012 - Image ID 201212-SA-20)

Wrong species

Well, this tiger didn't really fit into the lion research and conservation center. However, walking through the high grass, this majestic animal was so beautiful that I had to take a few photos. (Ukuthula Conservation Center, South Africa, December 2012 - Image ID 201212-SA-19)

Lions don't climb trees !?

Whilst not as agile in climbing as leopards, lions can very well make a move up a tree. This one just quickly jumped up, took a look around and then came down as quickly as it went up. (Ukuthula Conservation Center, South Africa, December 2012 - Image ID 201212-SA-21)

Lion King

Impressive and beautiful at the same time: encounters with large male lions tends to create goosebumps. Especially when you have a chance to look him directly into the eyes, even from a safe distance. (Sabi-Sabi Game Reserve, South Africa, December 2012 - Image ID 201212-SA-08)

Deceptive tranquility

Looking at the pack of lions resting in the grass creates an impression of peace and tranquility. However, I was glad to sit in an offroad vehicle rather than "walking into them" by accident. (Sabi-Sabi Game Reserve, South Africa, December 2012 - Image ID 201212-SA-10)

The look

The golden fur was nicely shining in the afternoon sun whilst we observed a pack of lions resting in the high green grass. This lioness gave us quite a penetrating view. Hungry? (Sabi-Sabi Game Reserve, South Africa, December 2012 - Image ID 201212-SA-09

What a treat !

This buffalo seems to have the time of his life, or at least of the day. Cooling down in the refresting water of a small pond creates this special "Wow". An complimentary tooth-cleaning on top wouldn't hurt... (Sabi-Sabi Game Reserve, South Africa, December 2012 - Image ID 201212-SA-12)

Instead of soccer...

Whilst high-paid superstars play for glory, these two dung beetles struggle in their fight against gravity. Absolutely fun and impressive to watch how they manage to push the much bigger sphere in any terrain. (Sabi-Sabi Game Reserve, South Africa, December 2012 - Image ID 201212-SA-11)

Male buffalo rear view...

I somehow couldn't resist to take this photo. Not sure if this rear-view image of a huge buffalo would require a "nudity - warning"? (Sabi-Sabi Game Reserve, South Africa, December 2012 - Image ID 201212-SA-13)

Two horns

Guarded game reserves offer good protection for the endangered rhinos from poaching. Observing these huge herbivores feeding on the juicy grass is quite relaxing. The low-standing late-afternoon sun provided a beautiful warm light. (Sabi-Sabi Game Reserve, South Africa, December 2012 - Image ID 201212-SA-01)

Single-eyed leopard

Not sure what caused this leopard to loose its sight on the right eye. For predators, such injuries make it a lot more difficult to hunt successfully and to survive. (Sabi-Sabi Game Reserve, South Africa, December 2012 - Image ID 201212-SA-06)

Mother and child rearview

Even from behind, rhinos look as impressive as they are. These two were happily grazing, and didn't do me the favor to turn around. (Sabi-Sabi Game Reserve, South Africa, December 2012 - Image ID 201212-SA-05)

Grey Lourie

A fascinating feather-crown on its head makes this parrot-like bird a rather interesting sight. (Sabi-Sabi Game Reserve, South Africa, December 2012 - Image ID 201212-SA-04)

Sabi Sabi Evening Sky

Sunsets in Africa tend to be spectacularly beautiful. This one in the bushveld and forests of the game reserve made no exception. (Sabi-Sabi Game Reserve, South Africa, December 2012 - Image ID 201212-SA-02)

Southern Yellow-billed Hornbill

Bird-watching requires patience, or a certain amount of luck. In this case, it was the 2nd option that provided me with this unexpected photo opportunity. (Sabi-Sabi Game Reserve, South Africa, December 2012 - Image ID 201212-SA-03)

Family outing

Good news for all fans of the black swan series: there are a few more pics available, taken a month later. Carefully guarded the youngster explore their pond and improve their swimming skills. (Centurion, South Africa, November 2012 - Image ID 201211-SA-01)

Hide and Seek

Threesome

Apart from the black swan family, other animals also call the small pond their home, and sometimes they get pretty close to each other. Yet, all very peaceful and relaxed. (Centurion, South Africa, November 2012 - Image ID 201211-SA-03)

Proud parent

Good news for all fans of the black swan couple: more family members are underway! Carefully protected by their parents, only the white feathers are clear evidence of their presence. (South Africa, Centurion, October 2012 - Image ID 201210-SA-06)

Swan Silhouette

The main attraction of the lake: Black swans are always an attractive photo model. This one perfectly posed in front of the bicolored light reflections of the lake. (South Africa, Centurion, October 2012 - Image ID 201210-SA-05)

Paddling circle

Swiming back towards me, this duck paddles in a small circle of greyish blue, a reflection from the sky above us. (South Africa, Centurion, October 2012 - Image ID 201210-SA-04)

201210-SA-03-i

Another abstract view of the standing water in a small lake, backlight by the low-standing afternoon sun. Just two colours, yet quite mesmerising. (South Africa, Centurion, October 2012 - Image ID 201210-SA-03)

Ducktales

Luckily, the small lake also host a number of regular tenants, such as these two ducks that enjoy their later afternoon swim in the warming sun. (South Africa, Centurion, October 2012 - Image ID 201210-SA-02)

Water clouds

Even though it doesn't look like: this is water in a small lake, backlight by the low-standing afternoon sun. I love the impression of a constant flow, whilst at the same time being a very relaxing and tranquil scene. (South Africa, Centurion, October 2012 - Image ID 201210-SA-01)

Golden Gate Highlands mountain range glowing red at sunset

Time to say good-bye to the Golden Gate Highlands. On the drive back to our lodge, the National Park once again spoiled us with a breathtaking scenery and spectacular sunset colours. (South Africa, August 2012 - Image ID 201208-SA-11)

Last rays of sunset illuminating snowy sandstone peaks

Just in time to still capture the last sunbeams of the day. The warm light strongly contrasts with the cold weather and the peaks of the Golden Gate Highlands National Park, still covered with snow. (South Africa, August 2012 - Image ID 201208-SA-12)

Two-coloured sandstone cliffs in Golden Gate Highlands National

Very similar to the previous photo, just a slightly different perspective without the tree. Personally, I prefer this one, since it ensures full focus on the dramatic rugged sandstone formations in red and orange colours. (South Africa, August 2012 - Image ID 201208-SA-10)

Two-tone sandstone cliffs with tree and clouds

"Above us only sky" wouldn't properly describe this view, standing right at the bottom of the sandstone cliffs in Golden Gate Highlands. The small tree and the sky add some additional colours to the final composition. (South Africa, August 2012 - Image ID 201208-SA-09)

Cresent moon behind bushland mountain range

No, this moon has not been photoshop'ed into the image, it was really there! Whilst the sun was already warming up the area, the moon still had a quick view on us before disappearing behind the horizon. (South Africa, August 2012 - Image ID 201208-SA-08)

Golden stairway to heaven

The final stage of a beautiful day hike on small paths through the golden grasslands in the evening winter sun. As beautiful as it gets, with amazing views of snow-covered peaks and yellow-to-red sandstone formations. (South Africa, August 2012 - Image ID 201208-SA-07)

Lonely snowman in the golden grasslands

Unfortunately, not a lasting sculpture in this breathtaking landscape of the Golden Gate Highlands National Park. Build with the last remaining stains of snow, this cool representative of its species is doomed to melt away. (South Africa, August 2012 - Image ID 201208-SA-05)

Grassland valley in the snow-covered Golden Gate Highlands

The contrasting colours of the golden-brown grass, the bright white snow, and the deep blue sky were perfect ingredients for an extended photo session in this very peaceful and quiet place. (South Africa, August 2012 - Image ID 201208-SA-06)

Triple horizon landscape in Golden Gate Highlands National Park

Amazing contrasts and colours accompany us during our journeys and hikes in this not so well-known national park. Vast grasslands and pitoresque sandstone formations provide an ever-changing and beautiful scenery. (South Africa, August 2012 - Image ID 201208-SA-04)

Stunning sandstone formations and snow-covered peaks

One could easily fill an entire photo book with images of the different sandstone formations from the Golden Gate Highlands National Park. Add some snow, and different weather/light conditions, it's a true photographers paradise. (South Africa, August 2012 - Image ID 201208-SA-03)

Golden sunset light illuminating sandstone arch

One of my personal favourites from this unique location! An amphit theater like cave, open on one side, facing the snow covered mountains. And the timing was just right for the warm golden light at sunset. (South Africa, August 2012 - Image ID 201208-SA-02)

Snowy footsteps leading towards the mountain range

The two pitches of snow almost look as if they were footsteps, showing hikers their way towards the red-coloured mountain range in the background. (South Africa, August 2012 - Image ID 201208-SA-01)

Calm Atlantic blue

No matter where the beach may be located, I always found it extremely relaxing to just sit down, and watch the waves rolling onto the shore. This day, the water off the village of Paternoster was very calm, when intense back-lighting by the sun created this special atmosphere. (Paternoster, South Africa, April 2012 - Image ID 201204-ZA-22)

Lion Cub Explorer

Encounter at the "Ukutula Conservation Center", best known for its lion breeding program. And as small and cute as this lion cub may be: even as a baby it is not comparable to a domestic cat... (Ukutula Conservation Center, South Africa, May 2012 - Image ID: 201205-ZA-01)

Evening atmosphere above the rooftops of Paternoster (photo pain

The typical, Dutch-inspired houses of the Cape Province in front of the intensely colored evening sky of the Atlantic. (Paternoster, South Africa, April 2012 - Image ID: 201204-ZA-21)

Threatening sunset over the rooftops of Paternoster

Dramatic, wildly romantic evening atmosphere above the typical houses of Paternoster in the Western Cape Province. (Paternoster, South Africa, April 2012 - Image ID: 201204-ZA-20)

Shades of orange: Street light and evening sky

Colour spectacle on the beach of Paternoster: the light of the old street lamp perfectly matches the intense red-orange-yellow evening sky, from which a downpour discharges on the right. (Paternoster, South Africa, April 2012 - Image ID: 201204-ZA-19)

Sunset over the rooftops of Paternoster

The typical Cape Dutch houses of the Cape Province in front of the intensely colored evening sky of the Atlantic (Paternoster, South Africa, April 2012 - Image ID: 201204-ZA-18)

Cave and rock landscape Cederberg

Of all the cave and rock formations I've seen on my travels, the Cederberg Wilderness Area was something very special, like a huge adventure playground. (Cederberg Wilderness Area, South Africa, April 2012 - Image ID: 201204-ZA-17)

Cape Town's mountains and bays from above (Photo painting)

The return flight along the coast with views of Table Mountain, Signal Hill, Camps Bay, Clifton Bay and Cape Town unfortunately was far too short, but breathtaking. This time as an artistic photo painting. (Cape Town, South Africa, April 2012 - Image ID: 201204-ZA-16)

Cape Town Seapoint and surroundings from above (Photo painting)

The flight along the coast with views of Table Mountain, Signal Hill, Sea Point, the bays and the long mountain range is spectacular, in this version as a photo painting variant. (Cape Town, South Africa, April 2012 - Image ID: 201204-ZA-15)

Cape Town Stadium from above (Photo painting)

For the 2010 World Cup, the "Cape Town Stadium" was built at the foot of Signal Hill, which is at least as spectacular from the air as seen from the ground, especially in such weather. Here as an artistic photo painting version. (Cape Town, South Africa, April 2012 - Image ID: 201204-ZA-14)

Table Mountain and Cape Town Harbour from above (photo painting)

From the air, the wild beauty of the surroundings of Cape Town becomes really clear. Here the harbour and Table Mountain on a cloudless day, here as an artistic variant. (Cape Town, South Africa, April 2012 - Image ID: 201204-ZA-13)

Cape Town's mountains and bays from above

The return flight along the coast with views of Table Mountain, Signal Hill, Camps Bay, Clifton Bay and Cape Town is unfortunately far too short, but breathtaking. (Cape Town, South Africa, April 2012 - Image ID: 201204-ZA-12)

Cape Town Seapoint and surroundings from above

The flight along the coast overlooking Table Mountain, Signal Hill, Sea Point, the bays and the long mountain range is spectacular. (Cape Town, South Africa, April 2012 - Image ID: 201204-ZA-11)

Cape Town Stadium from above

Nach Englisch  For the 2010 World Cup, the "Cape Town Stadium" was built at the foot of Signal Hill, which is at least as spectacular from the air as seen from the ground, especially in such weather. (Cape Town, South Africa, April 2012 - Image ID: 201204-ZA-10)

Table Mountain and Cape Town harbour from above

From the air, the wild beauty of the surroundings of Cape Town becomes really clear. Here the harbour and Table Mountain on a cloudless day. (Cape Town, South Africa, April 2012 - Image ID: 201204-ZA-09)

Blue Hour with views of Cape Town and Table Mountain

Especially after sunset, a magical atmosphere develops with breathtaking views of Cape Town and Table Mountain. (Bloubergstrand, South Africa, April 2012 - Image ID: 201204-ZA-08)

A crab's view of Table Mountain and Signal Hill

The top of Signal Hill still glows in the evening sun, while the stony shore on the other side of the bay is already in the dark (Bloubergstrand, South Africa, April 2012 - Image ID: 201204-ZA-07)

White towel on red sand waves

Before using it for its actual purpose, this towel first had to stand for a few photos model. (Paternoster, South Africa, April 2012 - Image ID: 201204-ZA-06)

Dramatic evening vibe on the beach at Hout Bay

Despite the menacingly dark sky over the mountains around Hout Bay, the evening was just too tempting for a walk on the beach. (Hout Bay, South Africa, April 2012 - Image ID: 201204-ZA-05)

Rusted ship wall with two ropes

Discovery walk in the harbour of Hout Bay: well-coloured arrangement with orange dew in front of a rusted ship wall... (Hout Bay, South Africa, April 2012 - Image ID: 201204-ZA-04)

Weathered wooden fishing boat with orange dew

Discovery walk in the harbor of Hout Bay. Quite banal things become natural paintings on closer inspection... (Hout Bay, South Africa, April 2012 - Image ID: 201204-ZA-03)

Yellow metal door with rusted lock

Discovery walk in the harbor of Hout Bay. And suddenly a rusted padlock becomes a small work of art... (Hout Bay, South Africa, April 2012 - Image ID: 201204-ZA-02)

Bollards with colorful ropes in the harbor of Hout Bay

Discovery walk in the harbour of Hout Bay near Cape Town. What I particularly liked about this motif was the colors and the clear traces of time. (Hout Bay, South Africa, April 2012 - Image ID: 201204-ZA-01)

Ostrich on the Beach

Quite an unsual sighting on the rocky shores near Cape Point. (Cape Peninsula, South Africa, February 2012 - Image ID: 201202-ZA-18)

Mussel and Shell Arrangement on the Rock

Like most children, exploring beaches has always fascinated me. There is so much to discover when you give yourself some time, and look carefully. Just the variety of shells in the Cape Town area is amazing. (Cape Peninsula, South Africa, February 2012 - Image ID: 201202-ZA-017)

Pink Hat on the Rocks

Lost pink hat on a beach near Cape Town, discovered during a hike on the rocky shores. (Cape Town, South Africa, February 2012 - Image ID: 201202-ZA-16)

Crimson Bottlebrush Color Explosion

A piece of natural art with very intense colors. (Cape Town, South Africa, February 2012 - Image ID: 201202-ZA-15)

People behind the scenes

Whenever you visit a game reserve, wildlife obviously is the main attraction. However, it is important to appreciate all those people who make our stay a memorable one. Each of them contributes to this special experience. Apart from a friendly smile and "thank you", an appropriate tip is highly recommended. (Entabeni Game Reserve, South Africa, February 2012 - Image ID: 201202-ZA-014)

Pied Kingfischer

Whilst I am not a professional nor passionate bird-watcher, taking this picture of a Pied Kingfisher felt quite special. (Entabeni Game Reserve, South Africa, February 2012 - Image ID: 201202-ZA-13)

Herd of Elephant Approaching

No matter how many encounters, meeting these majestic animals in their natural habitat always remains a highlight that words can hardly describe. (Entabeni Game Reserve, South Africa, February 2012 - Image ID: 201202-ZA-12)

Gnu Teenager Portrait

Gnu teenager with its very unique hairstyle (Entabeni Game Reserve, South Africa, February 2012 - Image ID: 201202-ZA-11)

Hippo Exiting Swimming Pool

Expect the unexpected! On safaris, great moments can happen anytime. One morning we discovered an unusual pool visitor; a professional when it comes to swimming and diving. Not so great for the service team, they had a massive cleaning to do before reopening the pool. (Entabeni Game Reserve, South Africa, February 2012 - Image ID: 201202-ZA-10)

Zebra Motherhood!

Providing a healthy breakfast for her little ones, whilst being on constant watch for potential danger (Entabeni Game Reserve, South Africa, February 2012 - Image ID: 201202-ZA-09)

Elephant enjoying fresh long grass

"Tea-Time": a fresh grass afternoon snack, apparently delicious (Entabeni Game Reserve, South Africa, February 2012 - Image ID: 201202-ZA-08)

Elephant's telescope

An elephant's trunk: probably one of the most amazing and versatile "tools" in animal kingdom? (Entabeni Game Reserve, South Africa, February 2012 - Image ID: 201202-ZA-07)

A perfect place to relax - just not 100% ready yet

What a wonderful spot to enjoy the stunning landscape, with an immanent chance for a sudden spectacular game view at any time. (Entabeni Game Reserve, South Africa, February 2012 - Image ID: 201202-ZA-06)

Impala youngster drinking mother's milk

As peaceful as this scene may look, mother Impala must stay on high alert for potential predators while her little one enjoys breakfast. (Entabeni Game Reserve, South Africa, February 2012 - Image ID: 201202-ZA-05)

Wildebeest (Gnu) Workout

Pure joy: young Wildebeest exploring its' surroundings and the passion for speed. Which might be needed soon, when it has to escape from one of the many predators around... (Entabeni Game Reserve, South Africa, February 2012 - Image ID: 201202-ZA-04)

Graceful Beauty on the Rocks

It doesn't always have to be one of the Big Five. Observing the graceful elegance of antelopes is also quite fulfilling, especially when the roam around in such an amazing landscape. (Entabeni Game Reserve, South Africa, February 2012 - Image ID: 201202-ZA-03)

Zebra Toddler Afternoon

Zebra toddler enjoying the beautiful afternoon sun in the grasslands (Entabeni Game Reserve, South Africa, February 2012 - Image ID: 201202-ZA-02)

Small stream between red boulders

The spectacular and diverse landscape of the Entabeni Game Reserve provides a great habitat for a wide range of animal species, and makes every tour a visual experience. (Entabeni Game Reserve, South Africa, February 2012 - Image ID: 201202-ZA-01)

Weaverbird in Action!

I find it equally beautiful and fascinating to observe this master-builder whilst constructing and continuously "renovating" it home, made entirely from natural resources. We were lucky to host these amazing birds in our garden whilst living in South Africa. (Centurion, South Africa, January 2012 - Image ID: 201201-ZA-03)

Hadeda Ibis Wake-Up Call

As beautiful as it may be, this bird can be really annoying when it makes a lot of noise very early in the morning, sitting just on top of your bedroom on the roof. Especially since they are rather social birds, usually coming in large groups! (Centurion, South Africa, January 2012 - Image ID: 201201-ZA-02)

Massive Flash over Centurion

During summer season, heavy thunderstorms frequently create spectacular effects on the Highveld, e.g. in Pretoria area - better to watch them from a safe indoor place... (Centurion, South Africa, January 2012 - Image ID: 201201-ZA-01)

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