On fairly short notice we were informed by Parks Management that a collar was due to be replaced by one of the Cheetah females and we could give support. Of course, we said “yes”. So the safari routine was converted into a long, exciting and magical day for all of us, with a lot of new things to learn about conservation and the touch of a fascinating wild cat.

It was an emergency situation. Savannah, the cheetah female, was spotted with a pretty bad looking injury to her right front foot. A call to Rhulani and sure, we will help. Supporting the preservation of the cheetahs in the Madikwe Reserve is a matter close to our hearts. Together with the veterinarian, the park ecologist and all our guests on the vehicle we set off and searched for Savannah.

As part of our way back to normal Rhulani Safari Lodge conducted our fist conservation activity after the pandemic for the protection of the animals. A young rhinoceros had its ears notched and was given the name “Bianca”. It was an unforgettable day for the guests present.

For our recent guests Marco Strimer and his wife Sabine from Switzerland, the stay was an unforgettable experience. In addition to the usual safari program, a “rhino notching” was organised, which is an important conservation work to protect the rhinos. We thank John Pickering and his wife Suzie for their support and for making this interview with Marco.

Rhulani Safari Lodge gives occasional support to urgent animal conservation needs in the Madikwe Game Reserve. Early this week, in connection with the management of the wild dogs, which is the animal that is characteristic of the park, a collar from the “alpha male” had to be replaced. This was a special experience for our guests.

Rhulani’s recent guest, Mr. John Pickering, supported one of our urgently needed conservation activities, a “Cheetah collaring”. Read the amazing article about this event, which got an unforgettable experience for John and his family.

The “Madikwe Rhino Walk” took place for the fifth time last Sunday. It was a day to raise awareness of these wonderful but critically endangered animals, and to give an insight into the activities of the reserve to protect our rhinos.

An unusual activity in connection with Madikwe’s extensive wild dog project provided an unforgettable day for Rhulani’s guests. Three female and five male wild dogs have been relocated to a larger boma. The capture of the animals, the move, the medical care and the release at the new place took the whole day.

All Madikwe visitors must pay a “Conservation Levy” for each day of their stay. Why is this additional fee necessary and what is the money used for?

Today is the International Mandela Day. At Rhulani Safari Lodge we celebrate this day to honour the legacy of Nelson Mandela, South Africa’s former President, and his values, through volunteering and community work at the “Andries Moseki Crèche in Lekgophung. We are building a new roof for the school.