July 2026
Luke Ovendale, Viva Safaris’ Head Guide and Tremisana Lodge Manager, has created a group for our guides on which he posts various articles on wildlife. The plan is to keep our guides up to date with wildlife news as well as providing useful information on animal behaviour that the guides may share with our guests. The reviews on Viva Safaris under TripAdvisor leave no doubt in my mind that Viva’s guides are brilliant at what they do. Thank you, Luke and all our guides for your commitment to Viva Safaris.
In his most recent post, Luke drew our attention to the sad plight of the elephants at Mozambique’s Gorongosa Park (https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.abe7389). After 15 years of the civil war that took place from 1977 to 1992, scientists established that roughly a third of female elephants were born tuskless. Today, roughly 66% of calves born are females that in adulthood have no or small tusks. This probably is a genetic survival response : in an environment where elephants were being shot for their ivory, having no ivory offers an obvious survival advantage.
From time to time, we have sightings of a big tusker in the Balule Nature Reserve. He is nicknamed Ezulwini and some of our guests have been fortunate to see him.
This month, our Kruger guides have had regular sightings of another big tusker that frequents the Orpen – Satara road in Kruger Park. 
GAME VIEWING REPORTS FROM OUR GUIDES
BNR = Balule Nature Reserve
KNP = Kruger National Park
To conserve the rhinos, we do not indicate where we enjoyed sightings of these magnificent animals .
LUKE, Head Guide, sent the following:
Monthly report July 2026
It’s great to be back in the bushveld again after spending some time with family and friends during my scheduled long leave. The feeling of being surrounded by so many different flora and fauna is a huge privilege, especially when you can experience it on foot along the Olifants River. The air is dry and the Olifants River is beginning to shrink in size, rocks that were underwater during summer are now visible. The lack of rain also means the water in the river is far clearer, as the sediments have a chance to settle. This allows us to see more than just the hippos and crocodiles but also the occasional fish swimming in the shallows.
Lionesses on Tremisana property relaxing in the shade. Spotted on route back to Tremisana after morning bushwalk. BNR
The month’s highlights have mainly during the morning bushwalks for me, specially two encounters.
Leopard on morning bushwalk
The bush has thinned out since the summer months, which when walking can be both advantage and disadvantage. The advantage is that you can see things from far away and the disadvantage being it’s harder to find cover when you trying to be stealthy on an approach.
This morning in particular my guests and I were very happy to be able to see deeper into the bush, as a leopard in the thickets is very difficult to spot. We had been down to the river already and enjoyed a few great hippo sightings as well as three large Nile crocodiles.
We walked back up towards our cruiser through a valley with a drainage line that runs through the middle. This drainage line still has water in some parts especially in the holes dug by the elephants. This means other animals like impalas like to enjoy the shade of the large trees and benefit from the water as the day warms up.
At first, we saw the impalas down in the drainage line enjoying some water, we moved on heading up the opposite hill. Then from behind us we heard the wonderful alarm sound made by impala when they spot a predator. We turned around instantly and began walking back toward the impala, they had moved onto the other hill opposite us. They continued to sound the alarm and look in the same direction, and so we followed their eyes and did the same.
One of the guests spotted the leopard’s tail moving up the hill not far from the impala, we all began to scan the hill. The leopard walked slowly up towards the north with his tail up showing the white near its tip. They say when a leopard walks with the tail up, it comes in peace. The impalas weren’t taking any chances and continued to raise the alarm.
The sighting didn’t last long but it was very exciting, once we lost the visual, we continued to walk back to the vehicle with an amazing encounter locked in our memories.
Black rhino during morning bushwalk
The black rhino, as we’ve mentioned before, is an encounter not to be taken lightly, you need to make sure your mind is completely focused in the moment. We had just moved off from a close encounter with a breeding herd of elephants and made our way up to a termite mound perfectly positioned to scan around us.
From the termite mound we enjoyed a beautiful view and started taking a closer look at the termites and what role they play in the environment. As is often the case one of the guests had spotted a large shape in the distance – it was a black rhino. I gathered the group together and reiterated the importance of being quiet and sticking together.
Black Rhino spotted during morning bushwalk, slowly moving towards the west along the slope. BNR
There is no need to take unnecessary risks on bush walks, it puts your guests in danger as well as the animal, it’s therefore vital that one finds the safest place to view the animal. We moved onto a hill overlooking the valley in which the black rhino was walking, he didn’t even know we were there. He continued slowly moving and feeding completely oblivious to our presence, just the way it should be.
Once we had all enjoyed his presence and picture were taken we left him in peace and moved off on our merry way towards the Olifants River.
A great month for sightings once again in Balule Nature Reserve, nature continues to gift us with magical moments
Buffalo herd moving slowly towards a waterhole on Rome 1 property, on route back from morning bushwalk. BNR
Two young elephants sharing a moment together on Rome 1 property during a sundowner drive. BNR
CHARL sent the following:
Young Elephant close to the vehicle BNR
Beautiful sundowner spot BNR.
White rhino bull BNR
Giraffe bull close and personal to the vehicle BNR
Buffalo bull hiding Marc’s Camp
RAYMOND sent the following:
Rome 4 waterhole BNR
BNR
H1-4 KNP
South of Tremisana Dam BNR
ANDY sent the following:
Giraffes spotted on the H7 close to Orpen Camp, KNP
Leopard spotted on Marula Road, BNR
Elephant spotted on the H7 KNP
ROCKY sent the following:
Secretary bird KNP
Leopard KNP
Big tusker elephant S106 KNP
H7 KNP
Hyena on S12 KNP
Breeding herd of elephants H7 KNP
QUINTON sent the following:
Spotted Hyena seen at Tremisana BNR
Elephant bull seen at Tremisana BNR
Nyala Ewes welcome at Marc’s Camp
Nyala bull seen at Masango Camp
VICTOR sent the following:
Buffalo bull Rome 4 BNR
Lioness south of Tremisana dam BNR
Herd of Elephants Marula Road BNR
Male leopard Marula Road BNR
KHYLE sent the following:
Lion pride on the move Tremisana property, Sundowner Drive. BNR
Leopard with an impala kill on Marula road, Sundowner Drive BNR
Wild Dogs hunting on Marula Road, Bushwalk BNR
WHIAN sent the following:
Leopard Sunset Maroela Road BNR
Leopard Sundowner Sable Road BNR
Giraffe Bushwalk Olifants River BNR
Leopard at sunset, Bushwalk Sable Road BNR
NHLANLHA sent the following:
H7 KNP
H7 KNP
H7 KNP
H7 KNP
SMILEY sent the following:
7 July: Elephant Rome 3 BNR
16 July: Two lionesses Campfire BNR
20 July: Leopard on Marula Road Sunset Drive BNR
20 July: Buffalos on Marula Road BNR
JOHN sent the following:
H7 KNP
H7 KNP
H7 KNP
NEWS FROM OUR LODGES
TREMISANA
NYARAI, Office Manager, reports :
July 2026
I am writing this while sitting outside in the winter sunshine. There is a chilly breeze blowing, but the warmth of the sun makes every minute worthwhile. Moments like these remind me how fortunate I am to work in such a beautiful place. I often think that city life would never have given me this same sense of peace and calm.
Life has a way of placing us exactly where we need to be, even when we don’t realise it at the time. The exciting part is when one finds out the reason why.
Looking back, being here has become an important part of my healing journey and personal growth. If the rush of everyday life has left you feeling tired or overwhelmed, a few days in the bush may be just what you need.
One of the things we love most at Tremisana is creating an experience that suits each guest. Whether you are looking for the excitement of a game drive celebrating a honeymoon or simply want to spend a quiet afternoon by the pool with a good book, we are happy to make it possible. We listen to our guests and do our best to ensure they leave with memories that last a lifetime.
July has been a busy month, especially at the beginning and again towards the end. We welcomed many wonderful guests and shared plenty of memorable moments together. The Soccer World Cup matches brought great excitement to the Lapa, where victory dances, broken hearts, laughter, and late nights reminded us why sport has such a special way of bringing people together.
Out in the bush, the excitement never fades. Every game drive is different, and that is what makes each one so special. No matter how many times you head out, you can never predict what nature has in store. From general game to unforgettable Big Five sightings, every drive offers something unique.
A few photos received from our awesome guests.
Lions from Bart who was traveling with his sons:
Zebras from Anneliese and Yelle who were celebrating their honeymoon:
It is hard to believe how quickly July has come to an end. As we look ahead, we are preparing for August, which has traditionally been one of our busiest months. We are excited for what lies ahead and look forward to welcoming many more guests to experience the beauty of the bush.
KATEKANI, MARC’S TREEHOUSES, MASANGO AND DUMELA
CHARL, Manager of Southern Camps, reports:
This month has been incredibly busy for me, filled with numerous drives and walks. The Building Team has also been hard at work, completing projects like the new tents at Marcs Camp and removing the kitchen floor to make way for the new floor for the hotel school we planning to open.
One unexpected delight has been the presence of a pack of wild dogs hanging around between Marcs Camp and the main road. We often spot them moving between the properties, especially in the early morning on our way to Kruger. They travel along the road between the properties, creating a unique sight.
Wild Dogs on the road
However, the presence of these wild dogs has made game viewing quite scarce. We suspect the alpha female is heavily pregnant and searching for a safe place to give birth, free from predators. Marcs Treehouse Camp is lion-free, which seems to be an ideal location for her. While it’s great for us to have sightings, it’s unfortunate that the dogs’ efficient hunting skills mean they’ll need to teach their puppies to hunt, which is currently killing a lot of game on our property.
Wild Dogs at Marc’s Camp
As a result, game sightings on bush walks have been limited. Occasionally, we do spot a Nyala or a Buffalo Bull grazing in the bush.
It’s quite surprising that the current dry conditions have arrived, especially after the heavy rainfall we experienced during the floods in early January. I had hoped for good grazing for the animals throughout the winter, but unfortunately, that’s not the case.
CHEETAH INN HOSPITALITY PROJECT
We have screeded the entire kitchen floor in anticipation of the student chef traffic we will have once the project starts. Thanks to our full-time carpenters, Given and Martin, for having made 22 work desks.
MARULA BOMA
We have upgraded the solar power grid throughout the property and have added solar powered air conditioners and geysers to the 5 rooms and entertainment area.
KEEPING OUR GUIDES BUSY
The one day this month that we had few clients was not seen by Luke as a day of rest.
He worked with Raymond, Smiley, Whian, Khyle and Elvis to fix roads, clean the waterhole in front of the Tremisana Lapa and collect any litter.
NEWS FOR OUR TRAVEL PARTNERS
As expected, the authorities are taking their time to fix the tar road to Orpen entrance gate. A section was washed away some 3 months ago after a massive cloudburst in the area.
It took the Minister of Transport over 3 months to come and inspect the damage. It has now been agreed that a temporary bypass will be constructed. I am not holding my breath in excited anticipation that anything will happen anytime soon. One simply must adjust one’s expectations to the dictates of “Africa Time”.
This has resulted in all vehicles having to take a detour through Acornhoek. It adds another 20 minutes or so to the trip. On the positive side, our guests get to have a cultural experience in that they see parts of the township. About 50% of Viva’s staff come from Acornhoek.
I recall an interesting staff meeting held about 25 years ago. I asked whether anyone knew the origin of the name “ Acornhoek “. I was shocked to find that not one of our staff had any idea, including the “oldies”.
I have never seen an oak tree in Acornhoek. They are certainly not indigenous to the Lowveld.
The name originates from the Afrikaans word for squirrel, “eekhoring”. Tree Squirrels are common throughout the area. Naturally, the English settlers managed to corrupt the word “Eekhoringhoek” to “Acornhoek”. Those of our readers that know about the Anglo-Zulu war will be amazed to know that the town Gingindlovu (literally meaning “swallower of the elephant” in isiZulu) was corrupted to “Gin, Gin I love you”. Marvellous stuff !
Thanks to those of our travel agents who contacted me to applaud the very reasonable 2027 tariffs. Some were surprised that the average increase to our packages was only around 5%. Perhaps I have made an error as the fluctuating fuel price increases are not going to keep costs down. I hope that this infernal war comes to a speedy end.
I have just read that the inflation rate in SA is now 5% and food inflation is down to 3%. Lies, disgraceful and shameless lies !!
I had a long chat with Delina Mnisi (Mama D as she is affectionately known), who last month completed 30 years of service at Tremisana Lodge. She advises that the taxi transport costs to her home in Acornhoek have risen by at least 6% and that the increase in food costs is roughly the same. She, along with all the Viva staff, is appreciative that salaries across the board have been adjusted upwards by 6% effective 1 July 2026.
News on our Cheetah Inn Hospitality Project (intended to train 22 unemployable people in housekeeping and cooking) is that Donald Mahlako is working rapidly to have the project accredited. Thanks also to Charl, who is keeping an eye on developments.
We hope to have our first intake on 1 September.
WORK EXPERIENCE FOR SCHOLARS
This year we have hosted 2 young school-going learners who are interested in exploring possibilities in the tour operator and lodge business.
Nkateko Macevele is the son of Stanford, Manager of the Olifants River Catchment and Daniel Buccimazza is the son of Costi, honorary Italian Consul.
Nkateko came in April and Daniel in July.
Both boys shadowed our guides. Despite having to wake up before dawn to make coffee for guests going on the Bush Walk or the Sunrise Drive, they informed me that they loved the experience and intend to follow careers in Tourism.
NEW TRACKER
We welcome Khyle Jansen van Rensburg as a trainee tracker. Khyle has completed his academic studies at Bushwise Academy and will complete 6 months of practical work.
EXTENSION OF TRAVERSING
I wish to thank Dr Org Prinsloo for extending our traversing on his beautiful riverfront properties, Rome 3 and Rome 4, until 2028.
Thanks also to the Britz family for their continued support of Viva Safaris and for allowing traversing on their wonderful Rome 1 property.
VIVA SAFARIS WILDLIFE VIDEOS
We don’t include videos in the newsletters, but there are some very exciting videos that can be viewed on our Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/vivasafaris
REVIEWS
The recent reviews posted on various platforms have been amazing. I cannot recall any time in the last 35 years that we have had so many 5 star reviews. Now that I am very much into my sunset years, it is so gratifying and so fulfilling to know that Viva Safaris continues to provide exceptionally affordable and obviously well-supported safari products. This is made possible only because of the monumental efforts made by our staff.
They are clearly very happy – our staff turnover in the last 2 years is zero. The number of applications I receive for all levels of employment from gardeners to camp managers is staggering.
Thank you, each and every one of you, for making this old man’s job so easy.
The following reviews were posted in July 2026:
“Amazing” from TripAdvisor
Julia F
I knew nothing about anything, and had originally intended to just pass through on my way elsewhere, but when I saw a fully handheld safari experience at these prices, I changed my plans.
I wanted everything plug and play and safe. Figuring out how to book an experience and what is actually part of the experience can be confusing, but not here. Also traveling solo I preferred more people around.
This price point is truly amazing for the variety of services they provide.
5 days was jam packed, and it’s worth knowing you can say no and do nothing instead. Just let them know do the staff can sleep in too.
I also hadn’t realized they have a full time person fielding requests, and they can arrange, with advance notice, visits to places like the rehabilitation center, or upgrade you to a true luxury version. So if you’d like to upgrade the experience they can add on a few different things for a fee. In retrospect I think I would have added an inside Kruger luxury day in the middle. I booked in a way that being able to communicate wasn’t obvious, so do reach out to them directly if you want to make tweaks.
There is a watering hole at the lodge which had hyenas and elephants come to hang out. The pool is lovely and actually swimmable in winter (unlike an airport hotel I had stayed in just prior). The lodge rooms serve their purpose and are a definite upgrade from budget properties, but not as nice as the common areas. Also to note: I experienced no mosquitos in winter.
The starry dinner the first night was an especially impressive perk.
By day 4 I was fatigued of game drives and was going to skip a long day at Kruger, and yet that was the drive we witnessed lions fighting over a lioness and then roaming the street between vehicles looking for her. So it’s good to maintain an adventure mindset.
Getting there: The drive from Johannesburg is quite long, and I wouldn’t recommend it after 24 hours of flying (stay one day in Joburg and refresh first), but I was rested enough that I quite enjoyed it, including seeing the regular countryside. All of the drivers are happy to answer any questions you might have. There is also a pickup at a local airport if you prefer to do that. I loved the drive back through the sites.
Lastly, I have a tendency to be careless with my valuables, and not only was nothing touched, I also dropped some credit cards in a game vehicle and the staff found them and cut them up for me. Staff is very responsive and protective of guests. What you really have to worry about are the vervet monkeys that will grab things out of your hands if you aren’t careful.
My impression is this experience would be expected to normally cost 1k more and to get a more upgraded experience would be at least 2k more, keep in mind that they do offer those upgraded options. .
“Outstanding!” from SafariBookings
Barbara R, USA
I will review Viva Safaris and Tremisana Lodge together. To quote Smiley (Viva Guide), WOW! Besides seeing all the animals in the setting in which God intended, the guides really made all the difference to us. They were funny, accommodating, professional, and soooo knowledgeable about the animals and the plants in the area. We learned quite a bit about what would kill or heal us. : ) The ladies that cooked for us were so nice and friendly. The food was delicious and there was always plenty to eat. The accommodations are not considered 5 star, but we didn’t plan to spend several days in the bush in lush accommodations. It was clean, well maintained, daily cleaning service, nice pool area (even though a tad chilly when we were there). You spend very little time in your room. Wi-fi is currently only available in the Lapa (dining area). But again, we all need to unplug when you are in Africa. I wouldn’t plan on working any at all while there.
We felt safe at Tremisana because there is a tall electric fence completely around it. There are monkeys everywhere at the lodge which keeps things interesting. They make for some interesting hi-jinks. Just be sure and keep the door to your room closed.
We had no complaints with our stay. So much so that we are going back in 2027. We have had people ask us why we aren’t going to a different area. When you have had the experience we had this year, why would we?
Special thanks to Smiley, V, Andy and Raymond.
“Viva Safaris and Kruger” from TripAdvisor
Fone66, UK
We arrived in Winter July 2026 and stayed at Tremisana lodge for a night before moving to Marc’s tree houses for 4 nights. This was a bespoke trip that Viva Safari’s arranged around our flights to and from Cape Town
The team are very welcoming and do their best to listen and help. Anita was looking after us at Marc’s treehouse lodge and was lovely. We needed the hot water bottles and extra blankets as its cold at this time of year.
The safaris are a mix of bush walks with guides, sunrise drives and sunset drives. We had 2 days in Kruger and visited Moholoholo animal rehabilitation centre which was very interesting. Our guides Rocky were very experienced and we had amazing animal encounters facilitated by our guides.
We were amazed to see impala and other animals walking casually around Marc’s camp.
We would certainly recommend Viva Safaris
“Our Safari Was AMAZING! The Perfect “Big 5″ Experience!” from TripAdvisor
Phoebe W
Our 4-day/3-night safari with Viva Safaris exceeded every expectation we had and was truly one of our most memorable travel experiences. From the moment we were picked up until our final transfer, everything was seamless, well-organized, and thoughtfully planned. Booking directly was easy thanks to Pattie, whose communication was outstanding, and both Solly 1 and Solly 2 made our transfers smooth and stress-free.
We spent our first night at Tremisana Safari Lodge in the Balule Nature Reserve, followed by two unforgettable nights at Katekani Tented Lodge. Each lodge offered something special, and together they created the perfect safari experience.
From the moment we arrived at Tremisana, Luke and his incredible team made us feel genuinely welcome. The lodge was spotless, our guest room was comfortable with a lovely patio overlooking the reserve, and the gardens were absolutely beautiful—even in winter! Ed and Ny kept everything running smoothly, Mama D and her kitchen and housekeeping team took wonderful care of us, and every meal was delicious. As a vegetarian, I was especially grateful that every meal throughout the trip was thoughtfully prepared and fully accommodated.
The safari experiences at Tremisana were simply magical. Our welcome bush barbecue beneath a magnificent Marula tree was the perfect introduction to the African bush. On our first sundowner drive with Luke and Raymond, we were thrilled to see zebras, giraffes, elephants, a chameleon, and even a leopard! The following morning, Luke led an unforgettable sunrise bush walk along the Olifants River where we encountered hippos, crocodiles, and elephants while learning so much about the bush from him. Later, another sundowner drive brought us to the river at sunset, where we watched crocodiles and were thrilled to spot an elephant crossing the river with a gorgeous sunset as a backdrop, and to top it off we spotted a rhino on the way back to the lodge! Every drive was filled with incredible wildlife, fascinating information, and genuine enthusiasm from our guides.
We also had a full day guided drive in Kruger National Park with Rocky and it was the perfect finale. We completed sightings of the Big Five, including Cape buffalo and an unforgettable lioness with her cubs, along with elephants, giraffes, zebras, monkeys, hyenas with pups, and countless other magnificent animals. Combined with some of the most breathtaking sunsets we’ve ever seen, it was a day we’ll never forget.
Katekani Lodge elevated our safari experience. The two nights of accommodations balanced rustic safari charm with tented luxury. Our room, with two tented walls, was beautifully appointed with an incredibly comfortable bed, an amazing shower with excellent water pressure, and every detail was immaculately clean. It became the perfect “home base” to return to after each day’s adventures.
Charl, the manager and Salphina, our chef, were exceptional. Charl’s warmth, professionalism, and genuine hospitality made every meal and every conversation a highlight of our stay. Salphina’s food was absolutely phenomenal—some of the best we enjoyed during our time in South Africa—and each evening we returned to a beautifully prepared table and such gracious, attentive service. It was clear how much Charl and Salphina care about creating an exceptional guest experience, and they succeeded in every way.
What made this safari so special wasn’t just the incredible wildlife – it was the people. Every member of the team, from the office staff to the guides, housekeepers, chefs, and drivers, was friendly, welcoming, knowledgeable, and passionate about sharing this remarkable place. We truly could not be happier with our experience, cannot recommend them highly enough, and we are already looking forward to coming back another time!
Phoebe
“Excellent value for money” from SafariBookings
Neil and Alison, Australia
Just returned from a safari holiday to South Africa. We chose Viva Safaris for two reasons. Good reviews and Patti Landau!! Her excellent communication skills in answering all the information we requested and her warm personality gave us the confidence to go ahead.
Viva safaris is a well organised operation with an outstanding team.
The guides, kitchen staff and drivers were a pleasure to interact with and made the holiday so much more fun and enjoyable.
The only downside was the shower fittings and maybe some suitable accommodation for couples at Tremisana. The rooms are quite cramped with a double and two single beds !!
We will never forget Tremisana and Pumusa and take this opportunity to thank each and every one at Viva Safaris ( Patti, Ed, Rocky, Smiley,Andy and kitchen team at Tremisana) ( George, Nellie, Sanzo and Zakiel at Pumusa) for doing an awesome job. Though we did not get to see lions and leopards we did see an amazing array of animals. An incredible experience on the whole!!
Hope to be back one day soon to do it all again and hopefully see two of the big five we missed out on !!!
“Special rustic African safari experience!” from TripAdvisor
Tara M, UK
I had an amazing experience at Tremisana lodge, the lodges were beautiful, very rustic and such a lovely African experience, the rangers were amazing, so attentive and ensured I had the best experience, I want to especially mention Raymond and Rocky who went above and beyond, sharing their knowledge and humour and made the trip so special.
The food was amazing, I loved that it was home made African food, all the staff knew our names and would always greet you with a smile.
The game drives were well organised and there were so many included which was lovely.
The rooms were clean and beds were made daily which I was not expecting so that was a lovely surprise!
Can’t wait to come back and would definitely recommend to my friends and family, thank you all!
“Phenomenal Experience!!” from GetYourGuide
Carmel T, Australia
An absolutely amazing and authentic African experience! Ed & the team at Tremisana go above and beyond to ensure you have a fantastic stay.
The guides are incredibly knowledgeable and work hard to get you close to the wildlife—I even saw 4 of the Big Five on the 1st night then ticked off the 5th on one of the safaris.
The chalets are clean, comfortable, and really warm on chilly nights. The home-cooked African meals were delicious, and it was so special watching monkeys and elephants right from the dining area. A family of warthogs and hyena also visited while we were eating our meals.
Exceptional value for money! If you want a true, rustic safari without the glitzy resort feel, Tremisana is the place. A truly memorable trip. I am already planning my return.
Thank you to the wonderful staff for all your care and attention.
Until next month,
With kind regards,
Piero
General Manager
Viva Safaris
