A WALK IN THE WILD

THANDA SAFARI’S WONDERFUL VARIETY OF EXPERIENCES GIVES YOUR BUSH BREAK THAT LITTLE BIT EXTRA

Offering a world of wilderness and a deep commitment to Zulu culture and environmental conservation, Big Five private game reserve

Thanda, meaning love in Zulu, really has it all, and more. This 14 000-hectare reserve doesn’t stop at offering an abundance of wildlife and a luxurious lodge experience, but also has a huge focus on authentic activities for visitors who want a bit more out of their bush break.

ABOVE: Christian Sperka.

At Thanda you have the opportunity to participate in rhino monitoring – where you track rhinos on foot and learn about their behaviour, as well as rhino darting – which gives you the rare opportunity to be in close contact with these prehistoric animals. There are also cultural activities on offer, allowing you to follow in the footsteps of the Zulu people and experience a Zulu blessing under the sacred marula tree.

Then there are the walking safaris, of course, which are exhilarating, educational and enriching all at once. Thanda’s guides and trackers have extensive knowledge of flora and fauna, animal spoor and animal tracking – not to mention many personal anecdotes from their own villages, tribal elders and families. They’ll teach you about the smaller, but no less impressive, aspects and secrets of the bush. Being on foot in the bush in the domain of wild animals is one of the most exciting experiences life has to offer, and makes you feel part of the circle of life.

Last but not least, Thanda has

become a popular destination for those wanting to see the bush through a lens and capture wonderful memories and moments through photography.

Christian Sperka, the resident wildlife photographer, teaches according to his basic rules of wildlife/motion photography under the motto “Keep it Simple”. He has travelled the world photographing animals and his work has been featured in wildlife magazines and books.

If booked in advance, for guests who stay two nights or more, Thanda offers a complimentary two-hour photography lesson with Christian. You can also book a three-hour evening game drive with Christian in the Green Mamba – the ultimate photography safari vehicle – to put into practice what you have learnt. A bird photography experience is also available at Thanda; you can choose between a half-day or a full-day excursion to the nearby Mkhuze Game Reserve.

At Thanda Safari there really is something special for everyone. *

FOR MORE INFO www.thandasafari.co.za