Savannah Elephant (Loxodonta africana)

The landscapes of Damaraland are incredibly beautiful, and when you encounter a group of desert elephants in the soft hues of sunrise, it takes your breath away. This is shot by the the dried up Huab river.

This group was so pleasant, friendly and harmonious, even with two very young calves.

They regularly visit wells to quench their thirst, and the previous morning I witnessed how they all gathered around the nearby village and its well. The calves barely reached to the water by standing on their hind legs and stretching their trunks to the limit to get to the water.

The people of the village were all watching from a safe distance to keep the elephants feeling safe. This group visits here several times a week, yet the villagers were still not jaded by their presence, but rejoiced in their beauty, grace and peace.

Elevation: 399 meters

Last updated on 5 June 2022