Week in Pics : A Mix of Species

    Week in Pics : A Mix of Species

    Welcome to the Week in Pictures, our time to showcase the exquisite images taken during the week. This week, we’ve seen an increase in wildlife visiting camps in an effort to seek out water sources. Lion dynamics are shifting and they’re not the only members of the big five we’re seeing at the moment. Bolshy buffalo, sleek leopards and emotive pachyderms casually stroll through the reserves in search of water and food sources. And there we sit in our game viewers, watching the world unfold and carefully observe our mild mannered, yet tough species forging their way in their natural environment. 

    Our “sister” Klaserie camps, Africa on Foot and nThambo Tree Camp, have enjoyed an increase in lion sightings recently. The Mbiri males returned to their hallowed ground, and this week the Hercules Pride appeared to be elusive. The highlight of the week was the sighting of an unknown male leopard  (quite a hefty bruser) quietly enjoying his duiker meal in the safety of a tree. There was a leopardess in close encounters and the two eventually sauntered off into the thickets while our photographer listened to a series of grunts, which we speculate was the sound of them mating. In conjunction with our outstanding leopard sightings, we’ve had the elephant herds frequenting the splash pool at both camps. An absolute highlight for guests!

    Ranger Mike with Elephant Leopard on the Prowl Partial Eclipse Moon Buffalo Cow nThambo nThambo Lioness Mbiri Males nThambo

    Ivory Wilderness Riversong Camp – another one of our camps in the Klaserie, has had an abundance of wild dog sightings and the elephants are filtering down to the river on a regular basis. Phenomenal sightings from both the camp and while out on game drive. Our Botswana camps, Tuskers Bush Camp and Xobega Island Camp continue to tick over with a wealth of sightings.

    Umkumbe Safari Lodge have, yet again, inundated us with reports of big cat sightings. The leopard viewing on their traverse continues to deliver unusual and frequent encounters with our mottled cats. Little Bush’s female cub conducted a well-executed kill of an impala and it seems she has practicing her skills to perfect the art of taking of down quarry. A couple days after her impala meal, she heartbreakingly removed a barn owl chick from its nest. In terms of lions, the Tsalala males have made another appearance. White Dam and Mxabene, our commonly spotted leopards, were also seen. Other sightings included a cheetah just relaxing, elephant calves feeding and inquisitive hyena cub.

    White Dam Umkumbe

    Ezulwini Game Lodges have had their fair share of big cat sightings, and the lion pride dynamics are shifting at a rapid rate. The Machaton males have made their mark, much to the disappointment of the Mohlabetsi coalition that has dwindled in numbers to 5. The Mohlabetsi males and even the Kudyela Pride flee upon the arrival of the heavyweight Machatons! With the heavy presence of lions, there are always scavengers hiding in the wings, as a result the sightings of hyena have been prolific.

    Hyena Ezulwini Gmae Lodges Macahton Male Ezulwini Sunset Ezulwini Game Lodges

    National Women’s Day in South Africa : Meet Melita the Chef from nThambo

    National Women’s Day in South Africa : Meet Melita the Chef from nThambo

    Today, August 9th, is National Women’s Day in South Africa and is declared a public holiday. Today is the day we commemorate the 1956 march held by women to petition against an ancient apartheid law that required all persons of colour to carry a ‘pass’. This pass was cruelly and unfairly given to non-whites to restrict their freedom of movement and was forced upon certain sectors of society under the “Urban Areas Act”. Today, we celebrate the strong women of the world – those who stand up for their rights, have courage in their convictions, speak out against abuse, live their truth, share their maternal instincts, love their partners and family unconditionally, support communities, forge ahead with careers and provide pillars of matriarchal strength to younger generations. This is a day to honour of your place in the world.

    Melita nThambo Tree Camp Womens Day nThambo Tree Camp Melita in the nThambo Kitchen

    Today we spend time with one of our leading women at nThambo Tree Camp – our head chef Melita. Let’s find out and what it means to be a strong, successful career woman that is also a matriarch of her family.

    What is your role at nThambo Tree Camp and how long have you worked at the camp? 

    I am head chef and manage the staff in the kitchen (2 other ladies). Each day, I ensure that all the food is fully stocked and  food preparation is done early in the morning. I then prepare and head up the meals. Sometimes I come up with new menu ideas. I have worked here since October 2014. 

    What do you enjoy about your job?  

    Cooking has been a passion since I was a young girl cooking for family at home. I love cooking a roast and a traditional braai. The food we cook here is very different to our traditional food at home; and its been a great challenge to learn new recipes. 

    What does it mean to be a successful, strong woman? 

    It means to have the power to be the best and keep growing. I want to empower my daughter. I am a single parent and would like to bring up my daughter as though she has both parents. At work I try make everything perfect in the kitchen each day and strive to keep the guests happy. We work well as a team, which makes this successful. 

    How often do you work?

    I work similar shifts to game rangers and other people at camp. I work for 3 weeks then I take 1 week off.  

    Where do you stay and where are your “roots”?

    I live at nThambo Tree Camp but home is in a place called Hluvukani, which is 2 – 3 hours from camp. 

    What languages do you speak?  

    Shangaan is my first language and English is my second. 

    How many children do you have? 

    I have 1 daughter aged 15, and I take care of 5 immediate family members at home. I see them when I am during my leave period. I don’t have a husband so it’s up to me to take care of everyone. 

    Do you help your community and support others that need your help?

    I am putting away money and saving to put my daughter through tertiary education. Any food I buy or am given, I share with my immediate community. Sometimes I use my own money to buy food for others. 

    To all the women out there – the Sun Destinations team wishes you a happy National Women’s Day 2017!

    Melita Cooking at nThambo Women's Day nThambo Tree Camp nThambo Tree Camp Women's Day

     nThambo Women sDay nThambo Womens Day - Chef Melita Head Chef nThambo Melita nThambo August Womens Day

    Relief Camp Manager Photographs Elephant at Pool in Camp

    Relief Camp Manager Photographs Elephant at Pool in Camp

    Elephant with Guests

    We’re in the full swing of winter in the bushveld, which means our lush velvet vegetation has now become arid and crunchy. During the winter, water sources dwindle which means wildlife congregates at waterholes and tend seek out any available water sources. Elephants love water and will only soak up water from pristine sources, hence their attraction to lodge swimming pools. At Africa on Foot and nThambo Tree Camp in the Klaserie Private Nature Reserve, the splash pools seem to be a hit with our grey giants. Both the camps are open, which means wildlife is free to roam throughout. Rangers ensure the safety of guests at all times, and they’re warned against approaching wildlife. Photos taken are always under the guidance of a ranger standing guard. Respect of wildlife and its space in the natural world is first and foremost with our highly qualified guides!

    Liryn de Jager, the relief manager for the two Klaserie camps, spent time observing the pachyderms at the Africa on Foot splash pool together with guests. Liryn has a deep connection to the bushveld and has been associated with Africa on Foot for over 7 years. She keeps coming back for more, and much like the elephants she has returned to her old stomping ground.

    “He came knocking, unhurriedly, and then entered the confines of Africa on Foot where he was watched closely by staff and the newly arrived guests to this piece of bushveld paradise.This majestic elephant bull is a regular visitor to camp and isn’t perturbed at all by man-made obstacles or spectators. He has a certain routine that seems comforting and reassuring to people like relief manager Liryn”

    Here is Liryn’s account of an elephant in camp at Africa on Foot :

    “Despite their size and sometimes volatile outbursts, I don’t have to wonder why these animals are also described as gentle giants. Especially this one – he is so unassuming and moves about nonchalantly. First he stops at the swimming pool, tests the water with the tip of his trunk, measures out a few scoops and then lets the refreshment dribble into his mouth. After a few repetitions, he gets rid of an irritating scratch in his eye and then swings his trunk over one tusk or just carefully places it at the edge of the pool and gets some shut-eye.

    Forty winks later and he starts lumbering around, nibbling on the last bit of greenery on the trees around the pool. He calculatingly steps over the rope around the lawn, then decides some landscaping is in order and promptly removes this hindrance.

    The lantern at the entrance to the Hardekool chalet is inspected with curiosity but found to be of not much interest in the end. Instead a slow walk is taken around to the other side where the rope near the kitchen is also done away with without too much trouble.

    And then he decides enough is enough and saunters away through the shrubbery. Tomorrow is another day.”

    Elephant up Close Elephant in Africa on Foot Camp Ranger with Elephant

    Elephant Africa on Foot Elephant in the Bushveld Foot of an Elephant Elephant Bull Checking Lanterns Mouth of an Elephant Elephant at Africa on Foot Splash Pool Elephant in Camp - Africa on Foot Elephant in Camp

    UPDATE : Machaton Male Lions STILL Causing Havoc in the Balule

    UPDATE : Machaton Male Lions STILL Causing Havoc in the Balule

    The 3 Machaton male lions have entered into Mohlabetsi turf with an arsenal of attitude and brazen bravado. Looks wise, they’re a powerhouse of all the lion stereotypes – heavyset, cascading manes and a strut that oozes confidence. The Mohlabetsi male lions were initially 8 lions strong and appeared to dominate the Balule area around Ezulwini. Recently, they dwindled to 6 and they’re regularly spotted while out on game drive with Ezulwini Game Lodges. The Machaton males entered Mohlabetsi turf and terrorised the large Mohlabetsi male; and with that the dynamics of the area shifted almost immediately. The male walked away relatively unscathed, but did have a number of deep scratches. Having put the fear of God in the coalition of 6, they now flee when confronted.  This dramatic event unfolded about 2 weeks ago.

    MAchaton Male Lion Balule

    Circa 1 week ago, our ranger and photographer Kevin MacLaughlin was on assignment in the Balule and sent us a detailed version of lion events that unfolded during the course of the week. He spotted the Machatons relaxing on the side of the road. Two of them were gaining their much needed sleep in order to conserve energy for their nocturnal patrols; while the third male was mating with a female. Clearly sowing his wild oats to sire cubs in order to continue the bloodline.

    The Machatons have not only wreaked havoc with the Mohlabetsi boys. It appears that even the Kudyela Pride (they are a split-off from the Olifants West mega pride) are exiting swiftly when they get wind of the Machaton mayhem. Kevin says they saw the pride of females and sub-adults on the move while he was staying at River Lodge.

    Kudyela Pride Kudyela Pride Sub-adult Male Kudyela Pride Balule

    Despite the Kudyelas keeping a low profile when the Machatons approach, a few of the females were spotted mating with the Machatons! One of the Machatons tried to mate again with the same female that he had success with previously, but now she refused his advances and he certainly wasn’t taking no for answer!

    Machaton and Lioness Machaton and Lioness Mating Machaton trying to Mate

    That same morning a lone lioness was spotted close to the perimeter of River Lodge, just strolling down the road. Ahead of her the road was littered with lion tracks, which indicates she may well have been lagging behind a pride. Unfortunately, she moved off into the thickets and rangers lost visual.

    These incredible lion sightings and dramatic events took place during the course of last week while out on drive with Ezulwini Game Lodges. Today, we have just herd news from a neighbouring lodge that a body of a badly decomposed male lion was discovered. Speculation is that it’s “Blondie” from the Mohlabetsi male, but this is yet to be confirmed. The lodge reported that the remaining 5 Mohlabetsi males are in good health, but are still on the run from the Machaton boys. It’s always heartbreaking when a lion passes away, and this can quickly create a shift in behaviour from prides within the area. 

    Lone Lioness Lone Lioness in Balule

    Week in Pics : Lions are Causing an Uproar!

    Week in Pics : Lions are Causing an Uproar!

    It’s that time of the week again, when we showcase the eccentric and unpredictable way of the wild. Our photographers and rangers head out into the bushveld with little expectation, but filled with hope. The expanse of land in our reserves means that wildlife roams free, and it’s up to us to track and observe their movements. Sometimes we’re lucky, and other times luck fails us. Don’t get us wrong, we always have sightings of wildlife but it’s our predators that are elusive. Chances are that you’ll spot birds such as lilac-breasted rollers and southern yellow-billed hornbills; and plenty of plains game. This week there seems to be a central theme running throughout. Lion dynamics are shifting and seem quite unstable at the moment. Old-timers, newcomers, brazen boys and ageing lionesses. It’s all a mixed bag at the moment. It’s safe to say that our lions are causing an uproar!

    This week in pics we’re going to celebrate the blended family dynamics of our lions, and showcase the exceptional images of our other sightings.

    Here’s a brief update from camps : 

    Ezulwini Game Lodges are enjoying plenty of lion sightings at the moment, with the focus being on the sub-adult male lions that have entered Mohlabetsi territory. The three young males we believe are the Machaton males, and they certainly have swag and power. There are seven Mohlabetsi males, and they flee when they hear the Machaton boys approaching.

    The Klaserie camps, Africa on Foot and nThambo Tree Camp, have noticed that the Ross Pride Breakaway lionesses have been in the company of the Sumtra male lion. While this has been happening, the Hercules sub-adults have also been spotted together with two lionesses. Coupled with that, there appeared to be a coalition of two other lionesses on the outskirts of where the Hercules males were spotted.

    Another key sighting was that of the lions of Ivory Wilderness Riversong Camp. This time it wasn’t Duma with the spectacular mane, but rather the Dundee Pride sub-adult male. Umkumbe in the Sabi Sand have enjoyed regular sightings of the Tsalala young males.

    In between the lion sightings, there has been wild dog activity, leopards on the prowl and plenty of plains game just enjoying an abundant life in the thickets.

    Sunsets at Ezulwini

    Elephants Sunset Ezulwini

    Ezulwini Male LionsZebra Africa on Foot Giraffe at nThambo Tree Camp Vultures at Umkumbe

    Hyena Africa on Foot Ross Pride Breakaway Lioness Tsalala Lions Umkumbe Vulture Africa on Foot

    Tuskers Bush Camp : African Wild Dog Pup Sighting!

    Tuskers Bush Camp : African Wild Dog Pup Sighting!

    Warwick Hendry, an avid writer and photographer is currently based at our camps in Botswana. When he sent through his recent update, we were delighted and somewhat green with envy. This was the sighting of a lifetime! 

    Here is his blog :

    During a recent transfer from Tuskers Bush Camp to Xobega Island, a group of guests and I were treated to the African Wild Dog sighting of a lifetime.

    The day started out normally enough: en route to Moremi Game Reserve, we had the usual elephant encounters, along with zebra, giraffe and other plains game. The drive was pleasant as always, but relatively uneventful in the grand scheme of things.

    Then we had a chance encounter with another Wildside Africa vehicle, making the return trip from Moremi. As is customary, the two guides paused for a bit of friendly banter and to exchange information on the morning’s sightings.

    Needless to say, our group received far better information than we gave. As we drove off, our guide informed me that we’d been given a golden tip-off. There was an active dog den ahead, not far off our planned route to the Island.

    Wild Dog Pups at Tuskers Wild Dog Pups Den

    We made our way through the game reserve and followed the directions easily enough. Just as the day was beginning to warm up around mid morning, we rounded a bend, pulled into a copse of rain trees, and there they all were.

    Scattered about in all the available patches of shade around an old termite mound were the better part of a large pack of African wild dogs. They sprawled lazily, entirely unconcerned the presence of our vehicle parked a respectful distance away.

    With fewer than 6500 dogs remaining in the wild, this encounter was special enough in itself that excitement levels in the vehicle rose dramatically. Shutters clicked away as we sat and watched and waited – hoping that despite the heat and the indolence of the supine dogs, we might yet catch a glimpse of the pups we knew were hidden within the safety of the den.

    And then there was movement! A dog suddenly emerged from the surrounding bush at a trot, or perhaps more of a waddle. Its belly was distended with what we could only assume was the remains of a very recent meal.

    After giving us a few wary glances, the dog made straight for the den, where it was greeted by a chorus of high-pitched yipping and mewling. For the moment we had to content ourselves with hearing the pups as they were fed on freshly regurgitated chunks of meat underground.

    At length the returned hunter emerged, followed, to our delight, by first one, then two, then an absolute flood of pups. By the time they’d all clambered out into the light, we counted sixteen of them, roughly six weeks old.

    Wild Dog Puppy Alpha Wild Dog Male Wild Dog Adults

    What we witnessed over the next few minutes will remain with me as long as I live. The pups were greeted in turn by the chief den guard of the morning. He seemed to check on each of them quite carefully as they passed.

    As we looked on, the other members of the hunting party returned one by one. As they came up they were swarmed by the pups, clamouring for food. One by one they offered up the contents of their stomachs to the hungry, yipping little mouths and the meals were quickly devoured.

    Wild dog are unique in that their digestive systems do not kick into gear until they stop moving. This means that a dog is able to return to the den with a stomach full of food, which can be shared with young or injured members of the pack – as long as it doesn’t stop for a rest along the way.

    It is one thing to know about this behavior and quite another to witness it. As we looked on enthralled, the pups ate and played and yipped and romped around the den area under the watchful eyes of their mother and the other members of their large pack.

    At a certain point the den guard seemed to decide that the proceedings were becoming unnecessarily, and possibly dangerously, loud. He stood, moved a little closer to the unruly youngsters, and emitted a single sharp bark.

    The pups quieted themselves at once and ran for the protection of their mother, where they were received with reassuring licks and sniffings. Just seeing them was special enough, but I found this interaction extraordinary for the fact that it gave us a glimpse into the complex social organisation of these amazing animals. 

    As they were shepherded back to the den and we pulled out to continue our drive to the island, we knew we’d witnessed something incredible, something not many people are ever lucky enough to see. But that’s the way it is out here – you just never know what you might find around the next corner.

    Wild Dog Mothering Wild Dogs Pups Playing

    Breakfast at the Bush Bar : Our Version of a Danish Hygge

    Breakfast at the Bush Bar : Our Version of a Danish Hygge

    The natural soft hazy light of a typical Kruger morning gently complements the blinding turquoise of the sky. While the sun slowly emerges from the horizon, the diurnal creatures begin to rustle and our team works hard at creating the perfect setting for a breakfast at the Bush Bar. Nothing brings people together like classic, simple cuisine served in an outdoor setting. It’s cosy, comfortable, rustic and the ideal atmosphere for forming tight friendships. The Danish have a word for this, and it’s called “Hygge”. The Danes are rated as one of the happiest nations in the world and we firmly believe it’s because of the Hygge concept. Our breakfast at the Bush Bar, Our bush braais, sundowner stops at the bush bar, breakfasts in the ‘veld and campfires in the boma – #TheSafariLifestyle epitomises Hygge!

    According to Wikipedia (often a questionable source, but in this case quite accurate), Hygge  (pronounced Hoogah) is a Norwegian word which can be described as a “quality of cosiness and comfortable conviviality that engenders a feeling of contentment or well-being”. Although the word is Nordic in origin, it has become a Danish concept that helps the Danes cope with long, dark winters. Hygge symbolises togetherness with a spontaneous social flow. 

    Bush Bar Breakfast Africa on Foot Luan at the Bush Bar

    The team at Africa on Foot decided to surprise guests with a quaint bush breakfast. Prior to their arrival, platters of cold meats and snacks were set up in the bar area. A selection of teas, coffees, fruits and baked goods were all there for the taking.

    After plenty of laughter and carefully selecting their meal of choice, some of the guests wandered over to the boma area to sit and chat. Other guests pulled up a chair at the bar and chatted to rangers about their recent sightings. If you’re staying at Africa on Foot for a a few nights, expect a few special moments in the bushveld!

    As South Africans, Hygge comes naturally to our nation and thus the concept completely resonates with us, and in fact we have something similar we refer to as “the spirit of  ubuntu”. Ubuntu is about community, virtue, humility and values. A coming together of cultures.  There are plenty of social moments on safari – Hygge, Ubuntu, togetherness –  a recipe for a happier life!

    Africa on Foot Bush Bar Bush Bar Breakfasts Bush Bar Guest Group Breakfast Table at Bush Bar Ranger Serving Drinks at Bush Bar Cold Breakfast in the Bush Bush Bar Surprise Breakfast Bush Bar Visitors Eating at the Bush Bar Bush Bar Breakfast Klaserie Bushveld Dining in Klaserie Breakfast Dining at Bush Bar Waiting for Breakfast

    Week in Pics : Birds and Beasts

    Week in Pics : Birds and Beasts

    As fast as tumbleweed in the desert, the weeks seem to be rolling by. Soon we will be caught up the flurry of the festive season, which is why we take time to pause and reflect on Fridays. Friday is the day when we celebrate the sightings of the week and showcase our top images from each camp. This week, we’re taken aback at the wealth of big cat sightings at each camp. Powerful tawny lions and rosette patterned leopards provided us with unusual sightings, proving that predator behaviour can never be predicted. And in amongst the chaos, our friendly birds provided the calm.

    Africa on Foot and nThambo Tree Camp

    Lion pride dynamics are shifting in the Klaserie! The lion pride dynamics in the Klaserie are complex, intricate and fascinating. Just when we think there’s a common thread weaving its way through our sightings, we’re thrown a curveball. Daily we’re confirming lion IDs and piecing together the mysterious lion puzzle. Trying to predict the plot of the Klaserie lions is like watching an intellectual arthouse movie that you never wanted to see in the first place. The only difference is that we’re actually fascinated and interested in the dynamics! 

    Here is the summary : 1. The Sumatra male has been seen a few times with the Ross Pride Breakaway lionesses. 2. Two lionesses have been seen with the Mbiri males. 3. AND NOW …Two sub-adult Hercules male lions have been seen with two lionesses and in close proximity, we spotted another two lionesses patrolling their turf.

    Kori BustardLioness Klaserie

    Lioness Klaserie

    Giraffe Klaserie

    nThambo Zebra

     

    Umkumbe Safari Lodge

    Umkumbe has also experienced a shift in big cat dynamics, especially when it came to dominant male Mxabene and White Dam’s sub-adult male cub. Guest Pedro Torres Taborda sent through a video of the unique series of events that took place on our traverse a couple of days ago. Mxabene the dominant male leopard in our area very boldly stole a kill from White Dam’s male cub. The growing cub became quite submissive when confronted by this Sabi Sand legend, but still remained in the area in the hopes of retrieving its kill. In other big cat news, the Tsalala young male lions were also spotted. Not a bad week for big cats in Sabi Sand !

    Mxabene the Leopard Tsalala Male Lions

    Ezulwini Game Lodges

    Apart from the apparent wealth of elephant sightings this week, a highlight has been the shift in lion pride dynamics within our traverse. The 7 Mohlabetsi male lions are a dominant and powerful force that we assumed could not be taken down. Enter the Machaton male lions! The Machaton’s were 4 members strong, but the Ezulwini team only spotted 3 of them. And what were they doing? Driving the Mohlabetsi males out! When the Mohlabetsi see the Machaton, they tend to flee. Interesting times ahead for the lion prides of the Balule Nature Reserve.

    Elephant Dust Bath Ezulwini

    Ivory Wilderness Riversong Camp

    This secluded and intimate luxury lodge continues to impress us with their big five sightings. From bovids to leopards and minute kingfishers; Warren Howson has a knack of seeking out astonishing moments in the bushveld. The two most memorable moments at camp included the sighting of a majestic leopardess called Naima, who has just birthed two cubs. The baboons have been harassing her with nightly calls.  Another highlight was during our bush trails walk, a breeding herd of elephants was spotted trundling through the vegetation. There is nothing better than observing plains game and herds of giants while on foot.

    Zebra and Giraffe Ivory Wilderness

    Tuskers Bush Camp and Xobega Island Camp

    Two social media influencers, Ben and Nicole, have just enjoyed a self-drive adventure through Botswana. They stayed at both of our camps and were blown away by the abundance of elephant sightings in front of camp at Tuskers. Their water safari to Xobega proved to be equally as enthralling, with sightings of hippo and other water-dwelling beasts. However, the highlight of the week has to be the discovery of the African wild dog’s den. The pups appeared to be old enough to emerge from their burrow, but the adults were still co-operatively guarding and protecting their young. Warwick Hendry was lucky enough to see the entire pack and will update us shortly with the ins and outs of the sighting.

    Wild Dog Pup Tuskers

    Botswana Self-Drive : Nicole and Ben Get Adventurous

    Botswana Self-Drive : Nicole and Ben Get Adventurous

    Nicole Eddy and Ben Brown are two major social influencers that were given an opportunity to explore two of our camps, Tuskers Bush Camp and Xobega Island Camp in Botswana. Nicole and Ben are more than just influencers. They’re die-hard explorers with heart, grit, humour and intelligence. The wild is theirs to share via photos, videos and anything digital. Both of them have a heavy social media presence, just like the Kardashians. However, they’re a cut above and we prefer Ben and Nicole’s way of life anyway. 

    Male African Buffalo

    Mekoro in Botswana

    Lions from Tuskers Okavango Delta Sunset Okavango Delta Waters

    An adventure requires three key elements – exploration, open-mindedness and an acceptance of the unexpected. Ben and Nicole took their Land Rover and self-drove from Maun to Tuskers Bush Camp in the Kwatale Conservancy. It is here where they spent hours around the “Bush TV”, a local term for a campfire in a boma area. This is the place where guests swap stories and enjoy a few beverages under the canopy of darkness above.

    Elephants arrived in their droves to the pan in front of camp, clearly delighting their onlookers. And let’s face it, Nicole did want to see “ELIIIPHAAAANTS” (See beginning part of their vlog at the end of this post). After their rustic and enjoyable stay in a place that focusses on land safaris, they made their way to the crystal clear waters of the Okavango Delta.

    The drive from Tuskers to Xobega is about 6 hours, and guests are able to traverse the rugged terrain of he Moremi Game Reserve.  Waterholes heaving with predator activity are dotted throughout this expansive reserve, and there’s plenty of game viewing en route to your water safari paradise.

    Okavango Delta Lily

    At some point in their journey, their trusty Land Rover broke down. A rather unusual thing to happen. At least their spirit didn’t falter during the mechanical mayhem. After all, the unexpected is all part of the journey! After a rather arduous start, their journey onwards proved to be nothing short of spectacular!

    When they eventually arrived at the boat station, and after a gentle trip on a mekoro, they were escorted to the private island via boat. Whisked away by the whirring engine of the motorboat, they sped across the open waters of the Delta. Fresh air beating their bodies and the calming effect of this world heritage site left them smiling for days. Hippos, crocs and a plethora of wildlife observed the visitors to their habitat with curiosity.

    Yet again, nights were spent around the campfire while the honking of hippos could be heard over the crackling of the fire. At Xobega Ben and Nicole experienced sunset cruises and a relaxed, authentic way of living.

    Observing wildlife, laughing with locals, living simply, being surrounded by the rawness of nature and sampling local delicacies were all just part and parcel of Nicole and Ben’s self-drive African adventure. Scroll down to watch Ben’s video of their African safari in Botswana.

    Instagram handles : @mrbenbrown and @nicoleeddy

    Elephants Tuskers Elephant and Calf Tuskers Xobega Hippo Malachite Kingfisher Giraffe at Tuskers Bush Camp

     

    The Thieving Life of Mxabene the Leopard

    The Thieving Life of Mxabene the Leopard

    Respect your elders, even if they displace you from your meal and bully you into submission. That seems to be the perfect narration for the recent sequence of events to have unfolded on the Umkumbe traverse. Mxabene is a dominant, powerful male leopard that patrols his turf with pride and vigour. Male leopards tend to occupy quite a large territory that overlaps with a number of female’s territories. In this case, White Dam the ever graceful leopardess we’ve come to know and love, is often spotted in Max’s area. White Dam has two sub-adult cubs that we know of, the male being the one we spot on a regular basis – the one who is the fallen hero of this story. Old enough to conduct expertly conducted kills on his own, but slightly naive and lacking street smarts, White Dam’s male cub is forging his way on new turf and finding his feet. However, dominant leader Max is the ultimate opportunist and decided to steal a kill from this youngin’ !

    The cub took down an impala, dragged it into a tree for safekeeping and decided to find the perfect position to devour his meaty meal. Ranger Nadia Bester says that his choice of tree wasn’t ideal (located on top of a termite mound), making for an uncomfortable position. Somewhat unbalanced and possibly vulnerable, Max sensed that it was time to emerge from the thickets and use the situation to his advantage. Max approached and stole the kill while the cub immediately became submissive. The cub, however, decided to stand his ground and waited patiently in the hopes of getting his kill back.

    When leopards become of age, they will remain on the periphery of their mother’s territory, where their presence is mildly tolerated. They might even conduct kills with their mother from time to time, while they learn how to ward off leopard thieves, gain street smarts and identify enemies. We can already see from these photos that this cub is trying to establish its own territory. Notice the cheek rubbing on the shrubbery – a key identifier in territorial markings. They actually transfer their scent from their cheeks onto the shrubbery. They will also claw areas to claim territory and visuals for enemies.

    Better luck next time, youngster – keep trying and growing in confidence!

    White Dam Male Cub White Dam Male Cub White Dam Male Cub and Mxabene Leopard on Kill White Dam Male Cub Kill White Dam Cub White Dam Male CubMxabene with his Kill Mxabene Impala Kill Mxabene with Prey Mxabene in Thickets Mxabene on Prowl