As we have now completed the two brand-new river suites, we have a total of 7 suites, and as a consequence we need two game drivers. We will hence also have two ranger teams work at the same time, which will now improve sightings numbers and the quality even more. Not that there was a lack of sightings for a long while, and in recent times sightings have been nothing short of spectacular, but having two teams makes it all the more exciting as the two teams can work in two different sections of the huge 36,000 acre reserve, and this additional knowledge about wildlife movement will definitely make things easier and even more consistent.
But let’s introduce two of our ranger teams! Jonathan, ranger, and Uyai, our tracker.
Jonathan joined us a few months ago, from a very different part of South Africa, and he is delighted to now be working in the “lowveld”, which is the Kruger Park area. Everyone knows that is first price, and that is where every ranger’s career should really go. Competition is high, of course, and as a result only the best make it. And Jonathan is one of those! He is very knowledgeable, tracks very well, has a great feel for the bush and he is a great entertainer. Well, if one truly loves and enjoys what one does, then it is easy to be in good spirits and that comes across. Jonathan is planning on working several years at the Vuyani Safari Lodge, one of South Africa’s premiere safari lodges, and on one of the most exciting and diverse game reserves in the country. You’ll meet Jonathan at the lodge, and you’ll be in good hands with him, there’s no doubt there.
Uyai, our tracker, joined several months ago, and he is a treasure trove of sheer experience and knowledge. He was tracking on this reserve already before anyone even knew it existed, and he claims he can “smell any animal” before even spotting it. Well, given his track record (literally and proverbially meant), one is inclined to believe him. Lions, elephants, rhinos, leopards, cheetahs, he tracks and finds them all, even if it takes hours. Uyai is originally from Zimbabwe, and after being a hunting tracker for about 15 years of his life, he crossed into safari tracking, which he much prefers. The skills are similar, but hunting tracking means that he is not afraid of getting close to animals. And I mean that, I have seen Uyai stand still in front of a huge lion, as little as 10 yards away, and remaining calm. That takes courage and also experience.Uyai also has many incredible stories of his life. Ask him how he saved his previous boss’ life who was being attacked by a leopard! Uyai is quite the legend, and once you have heard these stories, you definitely know you’ll be safe with him!
