As 2025 draws to a close, we look back on a year shaped by remarkable wildlife encounters, quiet moments of connection, and the people who bring our camps to life every day. From rare predator sightings and shifting seasons in the bush to behind-the-scenes progress in conservation, community, and camp development, each lodge has its own story to tell. These reflections, shared by the individuals who live and work in these wild places, offer an honest snapshot of the year that was. Not just through standout sightings, but through the experiences, challenges, and shared pride that defined 2025 across our camps.
Camp Kuzuma
“2025 has been a remarkable year at Camp Kuzuma, with a record number of guests and an exceptional run of wildlife sightings. One of the standout moments was a series of cheetah encounters, made even more special by the fact that it has been some time since they were last seen in the area for an extended period.
We also witnessed an extraordinary wild dog hunt at the waterhole in front of the lodge, where one of the dogs even plunged into the water in pursuit of an impala. Another major highlight was a lion kill at the waterhole, which drew both lions and hyena and continued to unfold over several days.
It has truly been a year filled with unforgettable predator activity, and we are grateful to have shared these moments with our guests.”
Bea-Marie, Shareholder, Camp Kuzuma
Mankwe Tented Retreat
“This year really stood out for the beautiful wildlife sightings our guides were able to share with guests, both around camp and on full day drives. The wild dogs were a big highlight, with repeated visits to the area and some very special moments right around camp. One evening, an impala ran past our tent, followed shortly by wild dogs moving through the bush, and later that same night guests were able to witness them feeding and playing near a kill close to camp.
The early rains and spring were also incredibly beautiful. By mid-November the mopane trees were already covered in fresh, light green leaves, and the flowering trees were just stunning. What makes it all even more special is the team. Working alongside people who care deeply for each other and for the guests is a real privilege, and I believe that warmth is something everyone feels when they visit Mankwe.”
Yolande, Office Manageress, Mankwe Tented Retreat
Mogotlho Safari Lodge
“2025 was a strong year for Mogotlho, with increased occupancy, strengthened operator partnerships, and continued investment into lodge improvements. We expanded staff training, maintained excellent guest feedback, and deepened our conservation efforts through initiatives such as the Snare Sweep project in the Mababe area in collaboration with Hideaways. Guests enjoyed incredible wildlife sightings throughout the year, including lion, leopard, cheetah, wild dog, and many more.”
Annabel, Shareholder, Mogotlho Safari Lodge
Mhara River Camp
“This year’s highlights have been deeply meaningful for us. The completion of the bird hide was a major milestone, but what mattered most was the response from our guests. Consistent praise for the guiding and the quality of sightings affirmed the work being done on the concession.
Of special note this year was the increased habituation of wildlife. About three months ago, we were privileged to have a pack of wild dogs come onto the concession and set up a den site. They raised seven pups, and were with us for nearly three months. Their level of habituation allowed for exceptional encounters, with the dogs often approaching our vehicles to greet us. Lion sightings were equally strong, with three resident male lions regularly joined by females, allowing for really close-up encounters with lions.
Buffalo numbers were extraordinary. At times, we had around 1,000 buffalo on the concession in a single day, with the biggest herd being about 600, and several other herds of 100 to 200. Leopard sightings improved toward the end of the season as conditions opened up and viewing became easier.
These changes reflect a broader ecological shift. Game numbers across the concession have increased markedly, benefiting the entire northern section of Mana Pools. We remain firmly committed to preserving this wilderness, protecting its natural character, and resisting overdevelopment. What guests experience here is something rare, authentic, and impossible to recreate elsewhere.
We were also fortunate with the birding. We ended the season with a strong showing of pittas. From around the 3rd of November until the end of the season, every guest saw African Pittas. Not one person left without a good sighting, and at least 90 percent of guests obtained good photographs.
We have all benefited, and it is now home to many more animals. We are privileged to be sharing this space with them.”
Derek, Shareholder, Mhara River Camp
Bumbusi Wilderness Camp
“This year at Bumbusi has been a busy one, both in camp and out in the bush. The wild dogs have really stood out, from regular visits around camp to an incredible moment watching a pack of fourteen chasing hyenas right behind camp. We have also had lions moving through the area, including two young males seen right on the lawn, and elephants visiting often, with a baby elephant making himself quite at home between the rooms and under the mahogany trees.
On the quieter side, we have focused on improving the camp, from repairing crossings and re-thatching to upgrading the kitchen and solar, all while keeping the camp’s classic safari feel. Looking ahead, one of our big projects for next year will be upgrading the Bumbusi staff village, which we are really looking forward to.”
Matt, Camp Manager, Bumbusi Wilderness Camp
Nantwich Lodge
“This year, some of the most meaningful moments have come from the wildlife we share this place with, especially the shy leopard and her cub that have become part of our concession. Lion sightings have been incredible too, but it is the sense of connection to the land that stays with me most.
I am equally proud of the work we have done beyond sightings. Projects like keeping the Matetsi Turnoff clean, supporting the ablutions at Nantwich Gate, and building the new facility at Croc Pools are all small examples of how we try to take responsibility for the spaces around us. These are public areas, not just for our guests, and it matters that we show our commitment through action.
But if I had to choose one true highlight, it would be getting to know the team. Each person brings their own strengths, stories, and character, and learning how to bring those pieces together has been a privilege. We are far from perfect and there is still plenty of work to do, but what stands out is how committed everyone is to doing better each day.
For me, that spirit is what defines Nantwich. It is not just a lodge. It is a place where people care deeply about the wildlife, the community, and one another, and that has made this year something I am truly grateful for.”
Theunis, Lodge Manager, Nantwich Lodge
Amava River Lodge
“This year brought some truly memorable wildlife moments. Early on, we witnessed an extraordinary event when crocodiles took an elephant calf at the river, a powerful reminder of how raw and unpredictable the bush can be. Later in the year, one of our agents captured rare footage of a leopard attempting to catch an otter along the riverbank. To our knowledge, this behaviour had never been filmed in the Kruger area before, which made it a very special highlight for us.
From a broader sightings point of view, it was also a strong year, with around ninety-two percent of guests seeing lions, along with regular leopard sightings for those spending a few days in the area. As the year drew to a close, the late rains arrived and the river finally began flowing again, bringing the landscape back to life.
On the operational side, the introduction of a new six-seater photographic safari vehicle stood out. Guests have responded extremely well to it, and it has added another layer to the experience. Altogether, it was a year filled with remarkable sightings and steady progress on the ground.”
Marinus, Shareholder, Amava River Lodge
