SAFARI STORIES

Tucked away in a pristine private reserve, Abelana Safari Camp offers an intimate, immersive experience. Abelana Game Reserve is situated between Hoedspruit and Phalaborwa and forms part of the Greater Kruger Biosphere. This 15,000 hectare reserve is home to the Big5, and some of the most beautiful landscapes in the region. Abelana Safari Camp - First Impressions Tented camps embody the raw, unfiltered essence of a true safari. There are no walls to separate you from the wilderness, no barriers to dampen the sounds of the bush. The gentle rustling of leaves, distant lion roars and the crips night air are all part of the experience. A tented camp like Abelana Safari Camp transports you back to the golden era of exploration where nature dictates the pace of life. Arriving at the Reserve Gate, we were welcomed with big smiles by John, our then guide and now friend. The drive from the gate in an open 4x4 to the Camp is approximately 30 minutes - with stops en-route if there is wildlife to view. My first impression of the reserve was that of a pristine wilderness region. Which these days are few and far between. With only two lodges traversing 15,000 hectares the vehicle density is extremely low and it shows. Now, Big5 chasers will argue that a low vehicle density equals less sightings and its time that we put that myth to bed - Abelana Safari Camp takes an old school approach to game drives - they hire exceptional guides and trackers that know the bush intimately and rely on their skills to find the wildlife - not on radios or other vehicles. In fact one of my highlights of our short stay at Abelana was that in two game drives we only ever saw one other vehicle and that was in passing. This is our kind of safari experience. As we pulled up to Abelana Safari Camp the warmth and hospitality of the camp staff radiated through their smiles. Marge whisked us into the main tent for a refreshing welcome drink, safety briefing and camp orientation, setting the relaxed tone for camp life and the adventure ahead.

Welcome to the fascinating world of the cheetah, the embodiment of speed and grace in the animal kingdom. These remarkable creatures have captivated humans for centuries, not only for their breathtaking agility but also for their unique behaviors and physical characteristics. As the fastest land animals, cheetahs possess a myriad of intriguing qualities that go beyond their well-known velocity. In this blog, we delve into 13 Speedy Cheetah Facts, shedding light on their biology, lifestyle, and the challenges they face in the wild. Prepare to be amazed by these extraordinary beings, whose existence adds a layer of wonder to our understanding of nature's marvels.

Martin and I had the pleasure of being invited to the brand new Tanda Tula in the heart of the Timbavati. Tanda Tula holds a very special place in both our hearts, Martin having guided there for many years and I having had some of my most memorable safari experiences while staying here with guests and clients over the years. 

The Honey Badger, often hailed as one of the most fearless animals in the wild, is a creature that commands both respect and fascination. Known scientifically as Mellivora capensis , this small yet formidable mammal has captured the imagination of wildlife enthusiasts and researchers alike with its remarkable resilience, intelligence, and sheer tenacity. Join us as we uncover the secrets of this incredible animal, revealing why it has earned its reputation as one of nature's most indomitable survivors., often hailed as one of the most fearless animals in the wild, is a creature that commands both respect and fascination. This small and formidable mammal has captured the imagination of wildlife enthusiasts and researchers alike with its remarkable resilience, intelligence, and sheer tenacity.

Welcome to Madagascar's Coastal Wonderland  Imagine a place where the ocean kisses the sky, where golden sands meet lush greenery, and where the tranquility of nature envelops you in its serene embrace. Welcome to Madagascar, a coastal wonderland that promises an idyllic escape from the mundane. This island nation, nestled in the Indian Ocean, boasts some of the most breathtaking beaches in the world. Each shoreline tells its own story, each wave sings a unique melody, and every sunset paints a new masterpiece. Madagascar is not just a destination; it’s a dream come true for beach lovers and adventurers alike.