When people dream of safari, they imagine the chase, the kill, the raw struggle for survival. But to witness all of that in just ten minutes? That’s something else entirely.
Let’s be upfront—these may not be the most technically perfect images from Road Runner’s three-week journey through Africa this past July. But the story they tell? It might just be the most unforgettable.
Midway through our final week in the bush, we were winding down after a long day of tracking hyenas, wild dogs, lions, leopards, and more. Spirits were high as we gathered for a “sundowner”—a cherished safari tradition of drinks and snacks in the wild as the sun dips below the horizon. Laughter echoed, stories flowed, and the golden light receded. Suddenly Craig, our driver, and Peter, our tracker, called for silence. Craig had heard something—a kill, nearby. We had a choice: stay and sip, or jump back into the vehicle and chase the unknown. No one hesitated. Drinks in hand, cameras ready, we piled in, hungry for one more thrill.
We didn’t have to go far. Within moments, the sounds came to us. We stopped abruptly, spilling drinks and raising lenses as four wild dogs launched a fierce assault on a lone hyena, trying to reclaim their impala kill. Two dogs held the carcass while the others attacked, biting the hyena’s face and hindquarters. Eventually, the hyena retreated, and the dogs returned to their prize.
The air was thick with the sounds of carnage—bones snapping, flesh tearing. A jackal crept in, hoping for scraps. Another hyena appeared, assessed the scene, and wisely backed off, choosing instead to scavenge by the dam. The wounded hyena lingered nearby, watching.
Then, the wild dogs froze. Ears perked. Eyes locked. Something was coming.
Out of nowhere, a female lion exploded onto the scene. The dogs scattered instantly. With one powerful bite, she seized the impala carcass and bounded off into the bush. No challenge from the dogs this time—she was royalty, the undisputed queen of the African bush.
We followed her, adrenaline still surging. She settled under a bush, finishing what little remained. Even wild dogs, known for their ferocity, wouldn’t dare contest her. Out here, meat is meat, and survival is everything.
We stayed until darkness swallowed the landscape, our own dinner calling us back. The entire encounter lasted less than ten minutes—but it was fast, feral, awe-inspiring, and terrifying all at once. Even our seasoned guides were stunned: “This doesn’t happen every day… or ever.”
Most of the images were shot in near darkness, at 20,000 ISO. They may not be perfect, but they capture something rare and raw. And while the entire three-week trip was extraordinary, this moment had to be shared first.
We’ve already locked in dates to return to this incredible corner of the Greater Kruger Park in South Africa. The group will be intimate—just eight guests, double occupancy. We’re taking over the entire lodge, ensuring exclusive access and unhurried sightings. With only our vehicles and two others in the area, every encounter is personal and immersive.
If you want to join us, reach out via Contact page or email: roadrunnerphotographytours@gmail.com. This trip isn’t on our website yet, but it’s coming soon—and it will fill fast. Don’t miss your chance to be part of something unforgettable.
