We arrive just in time when a big elephant family is approaching the waterhole and enjoying a mud bath. The mother and leader of the herd does not give the family much time. A short time later they all have to leave the water, and the journey continues.

In the first days of December, Rhulani Safari Lodge was invited for the fourth year in a row by the World Luxury Hotel Awards to the annual Gala Ceremony. And for the fourth time in a row we were handed over a trophy in the highest possible category: “Best Luxury Bush Lodge - Global Winner”.

Today we are at the “Lion Boma” in the very north of the reserve. Here we find the three female cheetahs who are getting used to the new environment. After many failed attempts, the hope of the reserve to finally build up a cheetah population rests on these three beautiful cats.

Three days ago was the World Cheetah Day. This is an ideal moment to visit our three female cheetahs. They are located in the north of Madikwe Reserve in a boma and will soon be released. How is the adaptation process going, and what are the chances of a successful life for them in freedom?

Often we find lone bulls or small bachelor groups of buffalo. These males have adopted the nickname of “dagga boys”. Here we find three of them on our way back to the lodge, at night. Just on the road. Because of the missing light not a great video, but for us on the vehicle a special experience.

The monthly statistics about animal sightings remained very stable last November. Many beautiful encounters offered our guests a memorable safari. An absolute highlight was the lion couple on honeymoon, right next to our vehicles. Here is our November update from the bush.

Have you ever dreamed of becoming a ranger? In Episode 9 Rhulani Safari Lodge Field Guide Alasdair tells us more about the impala rutting season.

South Africa is generally known for its large ostrich farms. In the north-west, in the Big 5 Reserve of Madikwe, there is also a small number of ostriches living and resisting the threats of dangerous predators. Watch an ostrich male wandering through the savannah.

Tsholofelo Moagi has recently joined Rhulani’s Field Guide team. This giant man knows Madikwe like the back of his hand. Where does Tsholofelo come from? What does he like about his new job, what are his dreams? Get to know our fourth ranger a bit better.

Would you like to buy a small souvenir from your safari? In Rhulani we have a small curio shop. But if you want to see a larger selection of African wood carvings, take a look at the souvenir shop at Wonedrboom Gate.