Step into the untamed world of Mabalingwe, a haven that reveals itself as much more than just a tranquil getaway. Beyond the familiar sights, Mabalingwe has unveiled an array of extraordinary encounters over the past seven (7) months.
The thrill of the unknown lurks around every corner, offering the possibility of stumbling upon a remarkable sighting. That was the case for a few of our guests, homeowners, and staff as they got to experience thrilling moments of spotting some of our elusive predators and the tender moment of new life.
As you meander through the Waterberg bushveld's twisted trails, an adventure awaits. Join us on this journey into the heart of Mabalingwe, where the wild things are, and the rarest of sightings await…
Croc out of water
Imagine taking a night drive through the bushveld in the middle of February. The vast darkness conceals secrets and stories in every shadow. Suddenly, you catch a glimpse of movement by the dam's edge! It feels like time stands still for a moment as the guests watch this ancient predator emerge, moving stealthily forward. Watch the full video here.
Another big reptile encountered
The bushveld truly never sleeps. One night, as some of our staff were making their way back home, they had an extraordinary encounter with one of South Africa's largest snakes. A Southern African Rock Python was slowly crossing the road, heading into the dark bushes nearby. This majestic creature was spotted near Elephant Lodge in early April. Our staff patiently waited, ensuring the python crossed safely and undisturbed, adding yet another unforgettable moment to the Mabalingwe adventure. Watch the full video here.
Serval vs. Puff Adder
Sian Clark and his group heard the birds going hysterical in the nearby trees. Little did they know, they were about to witness an incredible scene straight out of a wildlife documentary. A loud thumping sound revealed a dramatic showdown as a serval takes on a venomous puff adder! This heart-stopping moment, captured on camera, is a stark reminder of the raw power and unpredictability of nature. Watch the full video here.
(Warning: contains strong language)
Steve Dunn’s bush camera
Steve Dunn’s bush camera captures will leave you speechless! The elusive leopard, often shrouded in mystery, has been caught on camera prowling at a waterhole in Itaga. But the surprises don’t end there! Alongside these majestic cats, the camera also recorded the rare sight of a brown hyena pack and a majestic elephant herd, showcasing the incredible biodiversity of the reserve.
Otter near the WP Wessels dam
An extraordinary sighting has sparked excitement in the Mabalingwe community. One of our staff members encountered an African clawless otter near the serene waters of the WP Wessels Dam. These shy creatures are seldom seen, making this encounter a truly special moment for our team and a testament to the diverse wildlife of our reserve. Watch the full video here.
A perfect day for a perfect arrival
World Giraffe Day took on a whole new meaning at Mabalingwe. On 21 June, a precious new life entered our world as a baby giraffe was born. We are incredibly grateful to the owner of Idwala 23 for sharing this heartwarming moment with us. Witnessing the birth of a new animal is a privilege, and we're thrilled to share this joyous occasion with you. These are the moments that make Mabalingwe truly extraordinary. Watch the full video here.
Elephants on the move
Our majestic elephants have been quite the explorers lately! These gentle giants have been venturing beyond their usual territories, making unexpected appearances at both the Mabalingwe Caravan Park and several homeowners' properties. They were spotted quenching their thirst at one of the houses' pools in Cyverfontein while also exploring house 123, leaving homeowners with an unforgettable encounter.
Birding highlights
Last but not least, our guests experienced some remarkable bird sightings during their visit to Mabalingwe. Charnelle du Toit and other guests spotted a rare yellow morph of the Crimson-breasted Shrike. This bird is known for its bright red breast feathers, but this particular one had vibrant yellow feathers due to an excess of yellow pigment.
Stefan Els and his girlfriend were returning to their
self-catering unit after an afternoon drive when Kaylin excitedly shouted, "Stop, there's a very blue kingfisher!" Sure enough, they saw a bright blue Half-collared Kingfisher perched peacefully amid the trees.
As we reflect on these incredible encounters, we're reminded that the bushveld is a realm of endless wonder, full of surprises that can leave us in awe. Each creature plays a vital role in the delicate balance of this ecosystem. While these encounters can be exciting, we remind our guests to maintain a safe distance, respecting the wildness of these animals and the space they inhabit. As we continue to explore and appreciate the beauty of the bushveld, let us do so with respect for the bush and its inhabitants.
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