Honouring Our Rangers on World Ranger Day Every year on 31 July, the world observes World Ranger Day, celebrating those who dedicate their lives to safeguarding our planet's natural treasures and commemorating rangers killed or injured on
duty. Video Credit: Lulu in Africa “Our Anti-Poaching Units walk the line daily, standing between beauty and brutality, giving hope a chance to breathe. Each patrol is more than routine, it's a silent
vow of protection, a stand against extinction, and belief in a future where rhinos roam free without fear. This is not just conservation. This is courage in uniform.” – Lulu in Africa
At Amakhala Game Reserve, this commemoration is deeply personal. This World Ranger Day we paid tribute to our Anti-Poaching rangers who risk their lives protecting South Africa's iconic wildlife. Their dedication ensures future generations may witness our spectacular natural heritage. This World Ranger Day – and every day - we stand with those who walk the line so the wild may endure.
We also thank and salute our generous sponsors: African Rhino
Conservation Collaboration, Chipembere Rhino Foundation, Amakhala Foundation, World Wildlife, Wildlife Protection Solutions, Helping Rhinos, Dancing for Rhinos, Global Conservation Force and the TCU Rhino Initiative. Your commitment empowers our rangers to continue this vital
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World Rhino Day on September 22 celebrates all five rhino species: Black, white, greater one-horned, Sumatran and Javan. It unites NGOs, zoos, sanctuaries and citizens globally to raise awareness and
funds for these threatened species, all under pressure from illegal horn trade. At Amakhala Game Reserve, protecting rhinos is a collaborative effort. Our anti-poaching and ecology teams work tirelessly on the frontlines, supported by a dedicated maintenance crew who keep vital systems running behind the scenes. You can hear their voices in this short
film. Video Credit: Lulu in Africa We're thrilled to announce a new white rhino calf, first spotted on 24 August 2025. Estimated just a day old then, this bull calf marks a conservation milestone. His five-year-old mother - whose own
mother was born on Amakhala 13 years ago - is raising her first calf and bonding beautifully. Guests can already spot the pair on game drives. This birth confirms Amakhala's exceptional white rhino breeding success and
unwavering conservation commitment. Last year, 420 rhinos were killed in South Africa. We lost another 103 in early 2025. With only 6,000 black rhinos remaining, each individual is vital for species survival. Being close to a black rhino, rarely seen browsing Albany thickets, is a privilege. It's heartbreaking anyone would harm such iconic animals. We're honoured to help undo the damage done.
Recently our Rhino Monitor noticed behavioural changes in one black rhino, necessitating a wellness check. Natural pressure from a dominant bull likely caused this stress, reducing nutritional intake. The
Ikhala Vet Clinic team conducted examinations that revealed low albumin levels. After treatment, his condition improved.
We're grateful to Dr. Emily, Courtney and Molly from Ikhala Vet Clinic, Alex Soulé from Nyathi Chopper Services, the Amakhala Game Reserve ecology department team and the Amakhala Anti-Poaching Unit for
their support and continuous wildlife protection efforts.
Photo Credit: Lulu in Africa Meet Indigo – Amakhala’s New Anti-Poaching Pup Meet Indigo, the newest member of our Anti-Poaching Unit (APU)! At just 12 weeks old, this spirited Bluetick puppy is settling into her new home and beginning training to protect our rhino and
wildlife. Her name holds special meaning: Indigo, a deep blue with purple touches, represents trust, loyalty, protection and strength. Bluetick hounds are renowned for exceptional cold-scent tracking skills, stamina, ability to cover large distances at high speed and capacity to work in packs. Once trained, Indigo's speed and remarkable nose will give ground APU teams an advantage in tracking and apprehending illegal
activities like poaching and trespassing, strengthening the APU’s ability to respond rapidly and protect our future natural heritage, especially species that are vulnerable to poaching. Indigo works closely with handler Elode Minnie, following strict training schedules to learn tracking fundamentals. She'll start with basic obedience, progressing to short tracks with food rewards. Eventually, human decoys will replace
food rewards, indicating operational readiness. While fully operational K9s typically reach readiness around 2 years old, with proper training, Indigo could be operational between 1 and 1.5 years old. Indigo will gradually explore the reserve through practice tracks, exposing her to wildlife obstacles she'll encounter operationally. Vehicle patrols and scent training across Amakhala will familiarise her with working environments and varying weather conditions. While her work is serious, Indigo's loving nature brings smiles to APU rangers' faces during training, building team relationships. For rangers, a natural-born sniffer adds a powerful new dimension to Amakhala’s anti-poaching capabilities. Her journey is just beginning, but Indigo is already becoming a trusted guardian of the wild. Her journey is possible thanks to generous support from Chipembere Rhino Foundation, who sponsored her purchase, veterinary care, food, insurance and training equipment. Photo: Credit: Lulu in Africa Amakhala Guided Day Safaris Step into the wild heart of Africa with an Amakhala Guided Day Safari - an adventure across the breathtaking Eastern Cape landscapes. From the Amakhala Day Safari Welcome Centre, expert rangers lead thrilling game drives searching for Africa's iconic wildlife: lion, elephant, cheetah, giraffe and rhino. Choose a half-day safari featuring a 3-hour game drive and delicious 2-course lunch with local beverages, or a full-day safari with a second afternoon drive. It is the ultimate blend of adventure and comfort, perfect for families, couples or small groups.
Need help booking? Contact Natasha at daysafaris@amakhala.co.za or +27 (0)83 990
5451, or visit https://www.amakhala.co.za/activities/day-safaris . If you have an Activitar account, you can also book directly online HERE.
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With Gratitude: Thank You to Our Sponsors African Rhino Conservation Collaboration (ARCC) plays a major role in combatting poaching through regional funding. Through ARCC's fixed wing plane and drone,
Amakhala covers all reserve areas by air, creating safer zones and deterring poachers. ARCC assists with Earth Ranger and Smart apps, and funding to Indalo contributes towards data analysts and road cameras, monitoring criminal activity and providing early warning
systems. The Amakhala Foundation provides funding for wide-ranging resources securing the reserve and assisting the APU, including gate cameras,
APU training, dog handler training, first aid training, and tactical gear purchases. The Foundation also supports the ecological department's vegetation rehabilitation project and oversees Sidbury Primary School operations. To both sponsors, we send huge thanks for past, present and future support. Without them, Amakhala could not make the progress it does. |
The Amakhala Foundation launched
eye care outreach sessions in June, partnering with Davies Optometrists from Grahamstown. A total of 88 Reserve employees, pensioners and community members received eye tests over 2 days. Fifty pairs of spectacles were prescribed and issued, either at low cost or paid for by the Foundation for pensioners and unemployed individuals. Some were referred for further consultations. For many Amakhala people, this has been life-changing! On September 5th, Arbor Day was celebrated at the Amakhala Conservation Centre with 30 learners from local primary schools participating in an environmental programme. This year's focus was on the
important role of trees as habitats, and deforestation's detrimental effects. Facilitators used interactive games, and learners painted bottles in which they planted Spekboom to take home. The programme was repeated on September 12th for another group. Amakhala Game Reserve Lodge News
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A powerful presence welcomes the new season at Bush
Lodge. This majestic male lion, resting proudly in front of the lodge, reminds us of the wild beauty that surrounds us every day. As the bush quietly shifts into spring, the lodge remains the perfect place to experience these unforgettable moments up close. A season of unforgettable sightings and new adventures has just begun, offering guests incredible opportunities to witness Africa's most iconic wildlife in their natural habitat. The proximity of such magnificent creatures to our
accommodation creates truly magical safari experiences that will remain with you long after returning home. Photo Credit: Jono Pledger // More Info Bukela Game Lodge at Amakhala Game Reserve wins Haute Grandeur Global Hotel Award 2025! We're thrilled to announce this prestigious achievement! This award celebrates excellence in luxury hospitality, and we're proud that our commitment to creating unforgettable safari experiences has been acknowledged on a global stage. From immersive wildlife safaris to exceptional service and comfort, Bukela
continues to set the standard for 5-star safari stays. This international recognition reflects our dedication to providing world-class accommodation, outstanding cuisine, and personalised service. Thank you to our guests for being part of this journey—we look forward to welcoming you again soon! // More Info Elephants! These majestic megaherbivores have been spending much of the last few months around Woodbury Manor. Elephants need as much as 150-300 kg of plant matter per day, which requires a
lot of time eating. The thickets around the Manor are a rich source of plants and trees, with some species such as the Cabbage Tree (Cussonia spicata) being a particular favourite. It's very special having these amazing animals right on our doorstep, their gentle presence creates unforgettable moments and provide guests with incredible
viewing opportunities from the comfort of their accommodation. Photo Credit: Nico Nel HillsNek is proud to reach a
milestone with its 700th TripAdvisor review—what an incredible achievement! From the very beginning, we've maintained our 5-star Badge of Excellence, committed to delivering exceptional guest experiences. As one reviewer recently said: "An unexpected delight! We certainly weren't expecting a game experience that topped the best of Kruger. From game viewing, our guide Nicky's knowledge, environmental programs, majestic plains, vast variety of birds and game - everything was spectacular. The
accommodation was magnificent, and the food felt like top-class restaurant dining every meal!" We look forward to welcoming you and surpassing your expectations! // More Info We're excited to share bright news from Safari
Lodge! In line with our dedication to sustainability and Fair-Trade Tourism commitment, we've recently installed brand-new solar panels. This important step reduces our reliance on non-renewable energy, lowers our carbon footprint, and helps protect the beautiful environment we call home. By harnessing the power of the sun, we are not only reducing emissions but also ensuring that our guests have a lighter impact on the planet. The Lodge has saved almost 22% on electricity as well! Together,
we can create meaningful change, one sunrise at a time. // More Info Recently, Induli Lodge guests have had
unforgettable encounters with elephants! These gentle giants have been right on our doorstep, grazing in the thickets around the lodge. Their presence provides an intimate reminder of the deep connection between nature and this truly special place. As each day unfolds, our guests enjoy these magnificent creatures from the comfort of the deck, surrounded by tranquillity and authentic bush sounds. Induli is where luxury meets the untamed spirit of Africa, offering unparalleled wildlife encounters
in elegant comfort and sophisticated wilderness accommodation. It's an experience that lingers a lifetime. Photo Credit: Lulu in Africa // More Info At Hlosi Game Lodge, the wildlife
experience is unforgettable, but it's our team that is really the heart of your safari. From guides with unmatched knowledge and passion, to staff who anticipate every need with warmth and care, every moment of your stay is crafted to be effortless and memorable. Whether you’re tracking the Big Five on safari or relaxing at the lodge, our team ensures your experience is seamless, personal and extraordinary. At Hlosi, it’s not just the bush that captivates, it’s the heart and dedication of our team that makes your safari truly special. // More Info Woodbury Lodge & Tented CampSpring brings multitudes of natural wonders! Migratory birds have been returning, with the first swallows, swifts and birds of prey already enjoying the freedom of our skies. These are typically species
that wintered elsewhere in Africa, while those traveling from as far as Europe and Asia will take longer to return. Spring flowers are also beginning to carpet Amakhala Game Reserve's grasslands, adding vibrant colour splashes to the landscape. This extends to Woodbury Lodge and Tented Camp gardens, curated to showcase indigenous species such as aloes and spekboom, creating spectacular seasonal displays. Photo Credit: Nico Nel & Rob Smith Leeuwenbosch Country HouseIt’s been full steam ahead with our 2025 veterinary groups! We are lucky to host these groups from the UK and USA between May to September each year providing accommodation, meals, and drives, while they
learn about our unique animals. The students enjoyed every moment of their two-week visits, during which we showed them not only our wildlife and beautiful reserves, but also projects we work closely with, like the Isipho orphanage and free vet clinics arranged for surrounding communities: an incredible eye-opener and opportunity to give back using their university talents. // More Info Quatermain's 1920’s Safari Camp Now and again at Quatermain's
1920's Safari Camp we enjoy receiving extra special visitors! Being an unfenced camp, our guests stay right among wildlife, so amazing sightings are not limited to game drives.
This stately elephant bull strolled calmly into camp's centre just after brunch to have a look around, giving guests quite a thrill as they watched from the safety of the boma. Camp owner and professional trails guide, Riaan Brand, kept an appraising eye on his behaviour throughout, but this wonderful
pachyderm was a real gentleman, and after looking around, was soon on his way again, leaving behind unforgettable memories. // More Info |
Spotted on Amakhala Game Reserve To celebrate our wildlife, we share some of the amazing images captured by both our Amakhala Rangers and guests who visit Amakhala Game Reserve. To have your images considered for inclusion, please email your photograph taken on the Reserve, with your name and surname to sandra@amakhala.co.za. Photographs supplied by About Leonies World, a guest visiting Amakhala Game Reserve. Image credits: About Leonies World |
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