Michael Runkel Photographs

21/04/2026

In 2018 I visited the north of Chad where the is a lot of old artillery lying around in the sand from the war between Libya and Chad. Which lasted more than 20 years. We were stuck in the sand and by chance I found this little rocket somewhere lying around. I was able to pick it up....since the dangerous parts were removed....fortunately!

08/09/2025

30/07/2025

Here is a link to the Blaue Couch show from yesterday where talk about my travels from the last decades:

Das ist das wichtigste Anliegen des Nürnbergers, der seit 39 Jahren die Welt bereist. Er gilt als zweitmeistgereister Mensch der Welt, hat Dutzende Pässe. Runkel war beim selbsternannten Herrscher des Universums, hat Menschen im Erdbebengebiet gerettet, Gorillas getroffen und nie das Staunen verle...

14/04/2025

Step inside a world shaped by wind, snow, and ancient tradition.

The Nenets people of the Yamal Peninsula call these cone-shaped tents chums home. Made from reindeer hides stretched over wooden poles, chums are perfectly adapted to the harsh Arctic climate. They're warm, portable, and steeped in centuries of nomadic wisdom.

Inside, life revolves around family, fire, and the sacred bond with nature. These structures aren't just shelters—they're symbols of resilience, heritage, and a way of life that thrives where few dare to live.

Would you spend a night in a chum under the northern lights?

14/03/2025

🌍 Adventure Through Eastern Central African Republic 🇨🇫

Journeying through the remote and untouched landscapes of Eastern CAR is a true adventure! 🌿 From vast savannas to dense rainforests, this region is home to incredible wildlife, breathtaking scenery, and rich local cultures. 🦓🌳🌍✨ Unfortunately most is gone and very little infrastructure is left.

Would you travel off the beaten path to discover hidden gems like this? Let me know in the comments! ⬇️

13/03/2025

Meeting local princesses in the Emir palace of Kano, Nigeria.

05/03/2025

The Breathtaking Interior of the Gidan Rumfa Palace, Kano

Step into the heart of history and royalty at Gidan Rumfa, the grand palace of the Emir of Kano. Built in the 15th century, this architectural masterpiece blends traditional Hausa motifs, intricate geometric patterns, and vibrant colors, creating an interior that exudes both regality and cultural heritage.

From the elaborately designed ceilings to the beautifully hand-carved doors, every corner of the palace reflects the rich artistry of Hausa-Fulani craftsmanship. The palace serves as the seat of Kano's emirate, symbolizing both tradition and leadership.

Visiting Gidan Rumfa is like stepping into a living museum where history, culture, and elegance meet in perfect harmony.

Have you seen this magnificent palace in person? Share your thoughts!

02/03/2025

The Dying Pits of Kano are a historical and cultural treasure, yet they are slowly fading into obscurity. These pits, where traditional fabric dyeing has been practiced for centuries, are central to Kano’s rich textile heritage. Artisans use age-old techniques to create the famous deep indigo fabrics, a craft passed down through generations.

However, this industry faces challenges. Modernization, reduced patronage, and environmental concerns threaten its survival. Many young people are moving away from the trade, leaving fewer skilled dyers to carry on the legacy. Without intervention, this iconic tradition may disappear.

Preserving Kano’s dying pits is not just about culture; it's about sustaining livelihoods and celebrating African craftsmanship. Let’s support local artisans and keep this heritage alive!

28/02/2025

Discover Dzanga-Sangha National Park: A Hidden Gem in the Central African Rainforest

Nestled deep in the lush forests of the Central African Republic, Dzanga-Sangha National Park is a biodiversity hotspot teeming with incredible wildlife. This untouched paradise is part of the larger Sangha Trinational UNESCO World Heritage Site, which spans across CAR, Cameroon, and the Republic of Congo. It is one of the last strongholds of Africa’s most elusive and fascinating creatures, including forest elephants, lowland gorillas, bongo antelopes, and chimpanzees.

One of the park’s most magical sites is Dzanga Bai, also known as the "Village of Elephants." This wide, swampy forest clearing attracts hundreds of forest elephants daily, offering an unparalleled wildlife spectacle. Unlike their larger savanna cousins, forest elephants are smaller, have straighter tusks, and are uniquely adapted to dense rainforests. Dzanga Bai provides a rare opportunity to observe their social interactions, from playful calves to massive bulls, in their natural habitat.

Beyond the wildlife, Dzanga-Sangha is home to the Ba’Aka people, one of the last hunter-gatherer communities in Africa. Their deep knowledge of the forest and traditions provide a unique cultural experience for visitors, from learning traditional hunting techniques to tracking gorillas.

For adventurous travelers and conservation enthusiasts, Dzanga-Sangha offers pristine landscapes, world-class wildlife encounters, and a chance to contribute to crucial conservation efforts. Whether you’re watching elephants in the misty clearing, trekking through dense jungles to find gorillas, or immersing yourself in the rich Ba’Aka culture, this hidden gem is a once-in-a-lifetime destination.

Would you add Dzanga-Sangha to your bucket list? Let us know in the comments!

11/02/2025

🌟 Qutub Minar: A Marvel of Indo-Islamic Architecture 🇮🇳✨

Standing tall at 72.5 meters, Qutub Minar is the world's tallest brick minaret and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built in the 12th century by Qutb-ud-din Aibak, this stunning monument in Delhi is a testament to India's rich history and architectural brilliance.

Have you visited this iconic landmark yet? Share your experience in the comments! 📸🏛️