Written by Isaiah Banda
Spring Awakens the Bushveld
September has arrived, and with it comes the renewal of the African bush. The long, crisp winter days are giving way to warmer air, longer light, and the promise of change. At Mabula, spring is a season of transformation, subtle at first, but quickly noticeable.
Fresh green shoots push through the soil, migratory birds return, and animals seem to move with newfound energy. The first rains of spring are nothing short of magical. Even before a single drop falls, the air shifts. Clouds gather on the horizon, heavy with promise, and the scent of damp earth drifts across the land.
Then, the first raindrop touches the soil, and the bushveld stirs. For September we had 4mm which is not much, however a good sign that there is much rain on the sky that is waiting to pour down.
Within minutes, the dry earth darkens, seeds swell and split, and tender green shoots emerge. Vachellia and marula trees push out delicate new leaves almost overnight, transforming the muted tones of winter into vibrant shades of green. Rain triggers a spectacular chain reaction.
Termites erupt in synchronized flights, dragonflies skim the new puddles, and dung beetles tumble clumsily through the air. Frogs break into chorus, leopard tortoises emerge from burrows to drink, and suddenly the bush hums with energy.
Birdlife responds instantly. Bee-eaters swoop, rollers flash their brilliant colours, swallows descend on erupting termites, and francolins forage along damp tracks. Every corner of Mabula is alive with sound and movement, each creature seizing the opportunity that spring rains provide.
One of the greatest joys of spring is the return of our migratory birds. Birds of prey and Woodland Kingfishers, with their piercing calls, are among the most celebrated arrivals. These travellers, crossing continents to breed here, add colours and vitality to the bush.
Their presence not only enriches our skies but also serves as an early-warning system for predators moving stealthily below. Spring belongs as much to the trees as it does to the animals.
Vachellia’s and Senegalias brighten the bush with soft yellow flowers, the weeping boer bean bursts into vivid red blossoms alive with birdlife, and the sausage tree unfurls large maroon flowers pollinated by bats at night.
Each tree adds its own character, reminding us how quickly the bushveld can transform from khaki winter tones to a vibrant spring tapestry. Herbivores quickly take advantage of the new season.
Zebras and Elands gather on open plains to graze fresh shoots, zebras move across the crests, and elephants relish the abundance of food along the gullies and waterholes. With grazers spreading out, predators adjust, lions patrol further afield, cheetahs shadow prey movements, and wild dogs take to the open crests, using the soft ground to hunt at speed.
From a single drop of rain to the satisfaction of a predator’s full belly, the rains ripple through every level of the ecosystem, connecting all life at Mabula. We were very fortunate this week to enjoy beautiful sightings of the elusive eland on Cussonia Plain. These magnificent antelopes are often shy and quick to move away when approached, making every encounter a special privilege.
The sheer size and elegance of the eland make them remarkable to observe. As the largest antelope species in Africa, they carry an impressive presence on the open plains. Their calm yet cautious nature adds to the magic of seeing them in their natural habitat.
For both guides and guests, spotting the eland is always a highlight. The sighting on Cussonia Plain reminded us of the quiet treasures the reserve holds, moments that cannot be planned, only appreciated when nature chooses to reveal them.
The three young males at Lake Kyle have been a true highlight on the reserve. Each day, they continue to grow stronger, both in size and confidence. Their physical development has been remarkable, with their manes starting to fill out and their presence becoming more commanding with every sighting. Watching their progress is like witnessing nature’s story unfold in real time.
Equally fascinating has been their hunting behavior. The coalition has been honing its skills and refining its hunting patterns across the reserve. Working together as a unit, they have shown increasing coordination, strength, and patience, essential traits for survival as they move toward full maturity. For guides and guests alike, it is an incredible opportunity to observe lions at such a pivotal stage of their lives, where every hunt is both a lesson and a spectacle.
These young males have truly spoiled us with unforgettable moments. From roaring at dawn to staking their claim around Lake Kyle, their presence has become a signature part of the Mabula experience. For guests, it is a rare privilege to follow their journey from adolescence to dominance, while for guides it serves as a daily reminder of the resilience and power of nature. Their story is still being written, and each encounter leaves us eager to see what their future holds.
A new chapter for Mabula for newly introduced cheetahs on the reserve
September was a month filled with excitement and anticipation at Mabula Game Reserve, as we proudly welcomed a coalition of two male cheetahs and two females. For weeks, guests, guides, and conservation staff alike eagerly awaited the day these graceful predators would leave the safety of the boma and step out into the reserve to begin their new lives on the reserve.
The initial days were filled with careful observation. After spending several weeks in the boma, the cheetahs became accustomed to the sights, sounds, and scents of Mabula. This period of acclimatization is vital in giving them a chance to settle before facing the challenges of the wild. Then came the moment everyone had been waiting for, the release.
As the gates opened, the cheetahs cautiously but confidently took their first steps into the reserve, their amber eyes fixed on the wide, open plains. Since their release, it has been fascinating to follow their movements. The male coalition wasted no time establishing themselves, taking control of the central to southern regions of the reserve. Their bond is strong, moving side by side, marking territory, and displaying the confidence typical of male coalitions.
Together, they are a formidable force, their teamwork increasing their chances of success while hunting. The two females, on the other hand, have shown very different patterns. One has chosen to utilize the northern and central sections of the reserve, while the other seems content patrolling the central heartland.
Their independence is crucial, as female cheetahs are solitary by nature, and the space Mabula provides allows them the freedom to carve out their own territories without undue competition. Perhaps the most thrilling news of all is that both females have already adapted well, hunting successfully and showing signs of good health.
This gives us hope that the future holds something truly special, the possibility of cheetah cubs being born at Mabula. The thought of tiny spotted bundles hidden safely in the grass is enough to stir the imagination of every conservationist, guest, and guide on the reserve. Every sighting of the cheetahs feels like a gift.
Guests on safari have been treated to unforgettable moments, the coalition moving in perfect unison across the plains, a female crossing the road in front of the safari vehicle, or the unmistakable burst of speed as a cheetah locks onto its target. These moments are not only thrilling but also a reminder of the importance of conservation efforts that make it possible for these predators to thrive once more in the reserve and across the continent.
The introduction of new genes on the reserve is more than just an exciting event; it is a symbol of hope and renewal. Cheetahs are vulnerable in the wild, with populations under pressure from habitat loss, conflict with humans, and competition from other predators.
By giving them a protected home at Mabula, we are not only enriching the reserve’s biodiversity but also contributing to the broader effort of ensuring that future generations will continue to witness these magnificent cats in their natural habitat. As we watch them settle into their new territories, one thing is certain, this is just the beginning of an incredible journey.
The first female, named Q, at two years old, a nod to her status as the Queen of Mabula. The brothers, Isago – meaning “future” in Setswana, and Katlego – meaning “success”) also two years old, come from rare and valuable genetic lines, being among the few descendants of the first cheetah litter born in Pilanesberg National Park.
The second female, Otsile, whose name means “behold,” brings unique genetics from the Northern Cape, playing a vital role in strengthening Mabula Private Game Reserve’s genetic pool. Now four years old and having previously had a litter, she will adapt very well on the reserve.
We invite all our guests, friends, and supporters to share in the excitement and keep their eyes on the horizon, for before long, we may be welcoming the next generation of cheetahs born right here on Mabula.
Mabula Trainee Field Guides Shine Bright.
On the 2nd of August 2025, our Mabula Trainee Field Guides sat for their FGASA NQF2 exam, a milestone moment after months of hard work, dedication, and training.
The results were released in the first week of September, bringing us incredible news: our trainee guides not only passed but achieved an outstanding average of over 90%. This remarkable result far surpassed the FGASA benchmark of 75%, making it one of the highest achievements recorded. The joy and excitement among trainees were beyond measure, their hard work paid off, however the journey didn’t stop there.
They went on to prepare for the practical evaluations, the final step in achieving the full FGASA NQF2 Field Guide qualification. A special word of thanks goes to Assessor Pioneer Moyo, who generously made time in his busy schedule to evaluate our trainees and officially deem them competent. And I am happy to report back that they excelled on their practical evaluation and have now fully acquired their FGASA NQF 2 and CATHSETTA NQF2 Qualifications.
This accomplishment is particularly close to our hearts because these five young trainees were carefully selected from the Bela Bela community, and Mabula Game Lodge proudly sponsored their training in full. From learning about nature and wildlife, hosting skills, 4×4 driving, and first aid, to all the essential competencies required for guiding, they have been equipped with a solid foundation to launch their careers.
Our deepest appreciation goes to Head Guide and Trainer, Piet Mogotlane, whose tireless efforts and commitment ensured that every trainee received the guidance, support, and mentorship they needed to succeed. This intake has been a 100% success story, especially meaningful when compared to the challenges faced by the previous group during the Covid-19 pandemic.
We are immensely proud of our trainees for their achievements and the way they have represented Mabula. Their success is a shining example of what investment in young people can achieve. With this momentum, Mabula looks forward to welcoming and training another five young individuals from the community, empowering them with the skills and opportunities to build bright futures in guiding. Congratulations to our trainee guides, you have made Mabula proud.
Celebrating Our Roots, Our Culture, and Our Wild Spaces this Heritage Month at Mabula.
September is not only about spring, but it is also Heritage Month in South Africa, a time to celebrate the diversity of our cultures, traditions, and stories, as well as the natural heritage we are privileged to protect here at Mabula.
The sounds of birds at dawn, the footprints of wildlife in the soil, and the breathtaking beauty of our landscapes are just as much part of our heritage as the languages, music, and customs of our people. Heritage Month is a reminder that our past, present, and future are interconnected through the richness of both culture and nature.
Here at Mabula, we are proud to celebrate this special time by embracing the traditions that make our team, our lodge and our country unique. Throughout the day on the 24th of September, our staff dressed in their beautiful traditional attire, showcasing the vibrant colours, textures, and styles of South Africa’s many cultures.
This not only reflects our diversity but also highlights the unity we share as one Mabula family. For our guests, it was an opportunity to experience the warmth, authenticity, and pride of our team in a truly special way. To further honor this celebration, we hosted a Best Dressed Staff Competition, where creativity, cultural pride, and presentation was celebrated. A prize was awarded to the winner, but more importantly, the competition was a joyful reminder of the deep value of heritage in our everyday lives. We have rour staff members winning the competition and will share the prize.
It is a chance for staff to shine, express themselves, and take pride in where they come from, while inspiring guests with the beauty of South Africa’s traditions.
For Mabula, Heritage Month is more than a celebration; it is a promise to uphold and protect both our cultural and natural heritage. For our guests, it is a chance to connect more deeply with the spirit of Mabula through its people, stories, and wildlife.
And for our staff, it is a moment of pride, reflection, and belonging, knowing that they are part of something greater. Together, we carry forward the legacy of our past while building a future filled with respect, diversity, and unity.
When the African sky becomes the evening’s main course.
No day at Mabula is complete without pausing for the golden hour. As the sun sinks low, the bushveld glows in warm shades of orange and pink, and the world seems to slow down.
Our guides prepare special sundowner stops where guests can enjoy a refreshing drink, listen to the evening chorus of birds, and watch the silhouettes of acacia trees dance against the fading light. It is a moment of stillness and beauty, one that captures the very soul of Mabula.
Just as magical are the mornings, when the first rays of sunlight spill across the reserve, painting the skies in soft pastels. Guests are invited to step out of the vehicle and enjoy a steaming cup of coffee or hot chocolate while the bush awakens around them.
The air is crisp, the sounds of the dawn chorus echo across the plains, and the excitement of what the day may bring hangs in the air. These morning coffee stops are not just a break but a celebration of a new beginning in the wild. Together, the sunrise and sunset experiences define life at Mabula.
They are timeless rituals where nature, people, and heritage meet. Whether raising a glass to the end of the day or sharing a warm drink to welcome a new one, these moments linger long after guests have left. It is here, in the glow of morning and the warmth of dusk, that the magic of Mabula truly shines.
From Isaiah Banda & Mabula family.
Safari Greetings.
Photo Contributions – Isaiah Banda, Mabula Guides, Kelly, Nicoline and JD.
