The Road Back to Africa

By Andrea Bogard

In August 2019, as a very new hunter, I had an opportunity to journey to Africa. Seeking both plains game and adventure, I touched down in Namibia with no idea what to expect from the next three weeks. The experience was both illuminating and life-changing. Come with me as I take you down two paths. First, that life-transforming excursion and second, the road that is taking me back.

Andrea in Africa

My hunting journey began somewhat abruptly in fall 2017. Born of a desire to have a hobby outside of being wife/mom/business owner, I decided going on a pheasant hunt in South Dakota seemed like a good option. As a life-long shotgunner and clays instructor, pheasants seemed like a functional target.

Fast forward to summer 2019. I had an opportunity to go to Africa with a client to photograph his safari. He was planning to take an elephant in addition to a well-rounded selection of plains game. I was looking to harvest a few animals of my own, but was equally (if not more) excited about seeing Africa through my camera lens.

This is Africa

My first impression of Africa was that it must be absorbed, not consumed. Some places you can actively take in the sights, sounds and people. Not Africa. It is an experience to be soaked in; to sit with; to allow to wash over your soul and senses in entirety.

While the hunting was exciting and all I hoped, the ability to capture Africa through my camera was the true trophy for me. It gave me the medium to etch the emotions I was feeling into imagery I could share with others. When words seemed insufficient, I could translate my emotions to film and speak them.

A visit to a Himba Village to deliver meat demonstrated this perfectly. I had no words to express what I was seeing and feeling, but pray the magnitude of the experience came through in moments captured.

The Road Back

Upon returning home in 2019, I had dreams and a tentative plan of going back. As is frequently the case, life had other plans. Since then: COVID happened and my businesses took a huge (but temporary) hit from the fall-out. I started writing about guns, ballistics, shooting, reloading, conservation and worldwide hunting. I got divorced and started a new life at 39. I started homeschooling my sons.

The road back, while winding, has been a great journey!

I am currently planning a trip back in 2026. I am looking for others to share this adventure with! Whether Africa is a yearly excursion or a once in a lifetime adventure, let’s talk! I have a fabulous trip planned that will bring a whole new perspective to the Dark Continent. Contact me for more information and to go “On Safari With Andi!”