There's something irresistible about a safari animal with a little personality. A cheeky zebra, a curious giraffe or a lion that looks like it has a story to tell. That's the magic of South African illustrator Alex Latimer, whose playful wildlife illustrations bring a fresh perspective to African gifts and souvenirs at AAFRICAA in Cape Town.

Part of AAFRICAA's in-house Hambela label, Latimer's collection transforms iconic African safari animals into colourful, contemporary designs. From children's T-shirts and art prints to greeting cards, magnets and everyday accessories, these are South African souvenirs with a sense of humour, imagination and unmistakable character.

They're the kind of gifts that make you smile — and remind you of South Africa long after you've left.

Meet Alex Latimer: The South African Illustrator Behind the Safari Animals

Cape Town-based Alex Latimer is an award-winning South African children's book author and illustrator, known for his witty storytelling, expressive characters and wonderfully imaginative drawings.

His internationally published children's books, including The Boy Who Cried Ninja, Pig and Small, Lion vs Rabbit and The Duck Never Blinks, have delighted readers with their humour, warmth and distinctive visual style.

It's this same playful approach to storytelling that makes his collaboration with AAFRICAA's Hambela label so special.

Rather than telling stories through the pages of a book, Latimer brings his characters to life through a collection of contemporary African gifts, clothing and accessories inspired by South Africa's extraordinary wildlife.

African Safari Animals with Personality

Lions, elephants, giraffes, zebras and rhinos are some of Africa's most recognisable animals. But in Alex Latimer's world, they're anything but ordinary.

His safari illustrations are full of movement, humour and character. A zebra becomes a mischievous personality, a giraffe takes on an almost human curiosity, and a lion is transformed into a playful companion rather than a conventional wildlife portrait.

It's a refreshing interpretation of African wildlife art, combining the familiarity of safari animals with the charm of contemporary illustration.

Each design has its own story to tell, turning these much-loved creatures into characters that appeal to children and adults alike.

From Safari Illustrations to Unique African Gifts

At AAFRICAA, we love finding new ways to celebrate African creativity through beautifully designed, everyday objects.

Through our Hambela label, Alex Latimer's illustrations have found their way onto some of our most popular African-inspired gifts and souvenirs.

The collection includes children's T-shirts and clothing featuring playful wildlife characters, colourful art posters and prints, greeting cards, postcards, magnets and pouches.

These aren't your typical safari souvenirs. They're thoughtful, contemporary interpretations of African wildlife, designed to be worn, displayed, shared and enjoyed.

Whether you're looking for a gift for a child, a small keepsake from Cape Town or a distinctive piece of South African illustration to take home, there's something in the collection to catch your eye.

South African Souvenirs for Children and Adults

One of the things we love most about Alex Latimer's designs is how easily they connect with people of different ages.

For children, his safari animals become friendly characters full of imagination and adventure. A colourful elephant or mischievous zebra on a T-shirt makes an everyday item feel a little more special.

For adults, the illustrations offer something different: a playful connection to South African wildlife, combined with an appreciation for contemporary art, illustration and design.

A beautifully illustrated poster can bring a little personality to a room, while a greeting card or magnet makes an easy-to-pack souvenir from Cape Town.

It's this combination of humour, creativity and practicality that makes the collection such a favourite at AAFRICAA.

Hambela by AAFRICAA: A Fresh Take on African Design

Hambela, AAFRICAA's in-house label, is all about celebrating African creativity through fresh ideas, unexpected collaborations and contemporary design.

Rather than relying on traditional representations of African wildlife and culture, Hambela works with creative talent to offer a different perspective on what African gifts and souvenirs can look like.

Alex Latimer's safari collection captures that spirit beautifully.

His designs are rooted in the animals and landscapes we associate with Africa, but his imaginative approach gives them a personality all their own.

The result is a collection that feels distinctly South African, refreshingly contemporary and full of joy.

Discover Alex Latimer's Safari Collection at AAFRICAA Cape Town

At AAFRICAA, we believe the best souvenirs are more than reminders of a place. They're objects with stories, personality and a little something unexpected.

Alex Latimer's safari illustrations capture exactly that. They bring together the wonder of African wildlife, the imagination of a talented South African illustrator and the playful spirit of our Hambela collection.

Whether you're shopping for children's gifts, looking for unique South African souvenirs or simply love beautifully illustrated objects, these are pieces designed to bring a smile.

Explore the Hambela Born to Be Wild collection online or visit AAFRICAA in Cape Town to discover Alex Latimer's playful take on African safari animals.

A little piece of South Africa, with plenty of personality.