South Africa Blog

The Pilanesberg National Park is the fourth largest in South Africa. This malaria-free park is perched on the eroded vestiges of an alkaline volcanic crater – one of only three such craters in the world. Game viewing in the Pilanesberg is superb and there are excellent Game Lodges within the reserve. The lodges range from 4 to 5 star and cater for either small, intimate groups (couples) with the emphasis on personal service, luxury and a unique game viewing experience. (Tshukudu Game Lodge). Or for larger groups there is KwaMaritane or Bakubung Bush Lodge.

Video of Giraffe taken at Tshukudu in the Pilanesberg.

Tshukudu Lodge, “Place of the Rhino” in the Pilanesberg, offers 6 newly refurbished luxury cottages and 2 newly refurbished standard cabins nestled on an isolated rocky outcrop in the heart of a 55 000 hectare, malaria free, wildlife paradise. One of the highlights in the rooms at Tshukudu for any couple looking for a romantic beak is the in-room large volume bath with magnifcent views over the waterhole – watch the wildlife walk by as you sip champagne in the bath … (see photo below), very romantic and a really unique experience.

A game drive or walk is a must. The rangers at Tshukudu share their intimate knowledge of the animals with you and make every effort to ensure that you get to see as much of the wildlife as possible, including the Big 5. When you just want to take it easy, view the game as it visits the waterhole from the privacy of your own balcony or from the comfort of the Nest area. Or just relax in the sun around the sheltered rock pool ….

Related Pages:
Tshukudu Lodge
Pilanesberg Hotels & Lodges
South Africa Wildlife

South Africa Elephant Back Safaris : Elephants, the largest land animals in the world, inspire a feeling of awe and respect in most people. Weighing up to 6 tons (11 000lb) and reaching speeds of up to 40km/hr, this monster of the animal kingdom has an impressive presence.

Whilst the majority of people will never have the opportunity to come close or even touch these animals, many South African game reserves offer the once in a lifetime chance to do an Elephant Back Safari. Imagine yourself, perched 6ft in the air on the back of a 6 ton elephant, slowly making your way through open velds or dense forests. It’s a safari like no other. As such, Elephant Back Safari’s in South Africa are growing in popularity.

Game viewing on elephant back provides you with the unique opportunity of getting really close to wildlife that you could normally only view from far off. The smell of the elephants overpowers that of people so that other animals like rhino, giraffe and buck etc will not be scared off by the scent of people nearby. As such you’re able to get close up to extraordinary wildlife. An elephant back safari at most game reserves is usually a well catered for event including meals and of course, the elephant ride. The elephants are prepared with a comfortable saddle and you’ll be seated behind an experienced elephant handler. An elephant back safari will usually last around an hour and 30 minutes. Granted, your initial few minutes on the back of this monstrous animal will be endured with more than a little apprehension, but rest assured that as the safari begins and you become accustomed to the rhythmic and calm movements of the elephant, the experience that follows will be incredible.

Many game reserves in South Africa also provide the unique and enjoyable opportunity to walk along with the elephants as you move through the velds and forests. Being surrounded by these enormous animals and moving along with them during the safari is a sobering experience and one that is not easily forgotten. The elephant sanctuary near the Magaliesberg Mountains offers the opportunity of spending an entire day out with these animals and taking part in activities like elephant walks, elephant back safari rides, feeding and brushing the elephants and much more.

A South African elephant back safari is a truly wonderful experience. Being immersed so deeply in nature and interacting with such powerful creatures is deeply rewarding and satisfying and is an opportunity that should not be missed.

Related Links:
South Africa Outdoor Activities
Game Viewing in South Africa
South Africa Travel

Madikwe River Lodge is thrilled to announce that their head ranger, Ignatius Bogatsu, was recently awarded with the prestigious “Madikwe Guide of the Year” Trophy. More than 50 enthusiastic contestants from the Madikwe Game Reserve participated in this national competition. What made it different was the fact that it was the guides who voted amongst themselves to choose the winner. Unanimously, Ignatius came out tops!

In addition to this prestigious award, Madikwe River Lodge took it upon themselves to nominate Ignatius for the ‘Best Tourist Guide in the North West Province’ and here, he took first honours at an official ceremony recently held in Bloemfontein. He will now participate in the final for the ‘Best Guide in South Africa’, which will be held during this year’s Indaba. As one of the nine finalists, he stands a chance of winning R40 000 and a holiday in Europe.

Good luck Ignatius!
(Source: Three Cities Hotels)

Related Links:
Madikwe River Lodge
Madikwe Game Reserve and Lodges
South Africa Game Reserves and Lodges