1 January 2026
December 2025 at Tomo Safari Lodge
December at Tomo felt like the right way to end the year — busy, full, and rewarding in all the ways that matter.
One of the highlights was our staff Christmas party. Owners, staff, and friends all together, letting our hair down after a long year. It was relaxed, loud in the right places, and full of laughs. A well-deserved celebration for a team that puts in the work day in and day out, often long before sunrise and long after dark. Seeing everyone together outside of the usual routine was a reminder of what makes this place work — the people.
Out on the reserve, sightings have been everything we’ve come to expect from Tomo, and then some. We’ve spent a lot of time with elephants this month, many of them fully enjoying the water — swimming, splashing, and cooling off in the dams and flowing rivers. The lion pride has been hanging around Tomo regularly, keeping us busy and providing some solid game viewing, while leopard sightings have been frequent and rewarding, often catching us by surprise when we least expect it.
This time of year is always special because of the newborns. Seeing young animals taking their first uncertain steps in a landscape that’s now green and full of life never gets old. It’s a reminder of just how closely everything in the bush is tied to the seasons and the rain.
And rain is something we’ve had plenty of. The drive rivers are flowing again, the dams are full, and the bush has completely shifted. Out here, rain is never something we complain about — it’s not guaranteed, and after a long, dry winter the land really needed it. The vegetation is responding beautifully, with grasses thickening up and trees pushing out fresh growth, giving the bush a proper chance to recover.
As December draws to a close, we’re already looking ahead to 2026 with a lot of excitement. The foundation has been set by good rains, strong wildlife movement, and a team that continues to give everything they have. If this month is anything to go by, there’s a lot to look forward to in the year ahead.
– Gareth Williams
1 December 2025
November 2025 at Tomo Safari Lodge
Rain season has launched itself in properly, and it’s been one of the strongest openings we’ve seen in years. The impact is immediate — roads give way to softness, dust turns to dark earth, and the bush shifts from surviving to rebuilding. The recovery has been fast, green, and loud. You can see it, smell it, and more importantly, you can feel it.
Baby season is here too. This month we saw our first newborn Impala — a tiny calf, all legs and instinct, wobbling into a very big world. Night drives followed the same theme: plenty of new Bush Baby sightings, multiple little ones clinging to branches or peeking from treetops, blinking back at our lights while the adults moved overhead. Birds are nesting seriously now — repairs, reinforcements, fresh builds everywhere you look. It’s one of those periods where you realize the reserve is running on a different clock, and we’re lucky enough to observe it.
The biggest headline of the month has been the Ngati Pride. They’ve been unstoppable — hunting well, eating well, and moving like a unit again. Where they used to splinter often, they now operate like a pride that rediscovered its system. We’ve watched them take down everything from buffalo, to a fully grown male giraffe. Their 6 cubs, born earlier this year, are growing fast — and incredibly, all 6 have made it this far into the season. Out here, that’s a real victory.
Spotted Hyena have been active as always — cruising their routes, scavenging cleanly, and laughing at the night in ways only they can.
We’ve also noticed a clear shift in leopard movement this month. Twin Spot has moved north — and yes, I mean she, our iconic female leopard. With the lions pushing hard through what used to be her core area, it makes sense. Since she moved, two new males have moved into the traverse from different directions. We’ve identified them separately, but it’s still unclear who will settle in long-term. As always though, territories breathe and change — I wouldn’t be surprised if she drifts back once the cubs are older and the pride starts shifting range again.
Elephants have delivered their own updates too: Ezulwini has been seen, but we’ve heard he has since continued further north. On our side of the traverse, Old Lefty remains the unmistakable bull — easily recognized with only a left tusk, and comfortably one of the most memorable elephants our guests ever encounter.
Of course, none of this happens without the team behind the steering wheel, radios, camera traps, ID kits, tracking routes and logbooks:
James, Piet, Jaundre, and Tanya — identified separately, but operating as a unit. Together we make a formidable team, always sharper together than apart.
And that’s what November felt like at Tomo Safari Lodge. Rebuilt land, rebuilt rhythm, rebuilt pride.
– Gareth Williams
1 November 2025
October 2025 at Tomo Safari Lodge
It’s been an exciting month here at Tomo — and a busy one for our resident predators.
The Ngati pride has been spending plenty of time around the lodge, and the cubs have grown into confident, playful little lions. They’ve been making regular kills and are clearly becoming a formidable pride. We’ve even seen them take down giraffe and attempt larger prey, which has been incredible to witness.
Another highlight was seeing Ezulwini back in our area. He usually moves north toward the Olifants River during the driest months, then circles his way back as the first rains arrive. It’s always a great feeling having him around again — he’s an unmistakable presence.
I managed to take a bit of leave this month to visit family and friends, and as much as I enjoyed the break, it reminded me how much I miss the bush when I’m away. There’s nothing quite like waking up here.
Leopard sightings have been fantastic lately, though there hasn’t been much sign of TwinSpot. I think he’s settling into a new territory nearby, and we’re starting to get a clearer idea of where that might be.
We also had our first proper rain of the season — just enough to green everything up again. The dust has settled, the air smells fresh, and the landscape feels alive. We might not be ready for the mud, but it does make for some fun 4×4 driving.
While I was away, guides Tanya and Jaundré and trackers Piet and James kept things running smoothly and brought back some incredible stories. Jaundré had some amazing elephant sightings and massive herds of buffalo, and Tanya witnessed something truly wild — lions attempting to take on a rhino. That’s a first for us, and one for the books.
It’s been a month full of energy and change — cubs growing up, the bush transforming, and the team thriving. With the rains arriving, we’re ready to see what the next few weeks bring.
– Gareth Williams
1 October 2025
September 2025 at Tomo Safari Lodge
We had our first rain this month, and it was such an exciting moment. The smell of the bush after the drops hit the dry earth is something you can’t forget. Soon the bush is going to change into a green paradise, and we can all feel that summer is on its way.
TwinSpot gave us a scare this month. For two weeks we didn’t see him, after a big male pushed into part of his territory. There were a few fights, and we didn’t know how things would turn out. Then one evening he was back, lying high in a marula tree, looking fat, healthy and strong. In true TwinSpot style, he showed himself beautifully for our guests.
The Ngati pride has been busy. Their new cubs are still so small and so playful – very entertaining to watch as they learn their place in the pride. The two-year-old female, who grew up mostly on her own, has really come alive since the cubs arrived. She now has younger siblings to play with and it’s been wonderful to watch. The pride has also been successful hunters this month, taking down buffalo, giraffe, wildebeest and nyala. When an elephant passed away, the lions fed for days, joined by hyenas and plenty of vultures. It was an incredible sighting and a reminder of how full of life this reserve is.
Camp has been full and our guides have been working hard every day. Tracking, finding animals, and sharing it all with guests – it’s been busy, but with sightings like these it’s worth every moment.
We’ve also welcomed two new trackers to our team – James and Piet. James has many years of experience and follows in the footsteps of his father, who was also a tracker. Piet grew up in the bush and has a natural intuition for animals and their behaviour. Together, they’ve already made a huge difference, and with their help tracking has been smoother and more rewarding for everyone.
September has given us a lot to celebrate – the first rains, exciting lion activity, and the return of TwinSpot. We can’t wait to see how the bush changes in the weeks to come.
– Gareth Williams
1 September 2025
August 2025 at Tomo Safari Lodge
August has been another brilliant month here at Tomo. The more time we spend out in the bush, the more it feels like the land is opening up to us. Sightings have been on another level, and a big part of that is thanks to the new trackers we’ve added to the team. Their eyes in the bush are incredible, and it’s really made finding animals so much easier. On top of that, Tanya and Jaundré, who’ve fitted right in and already added so much energy to the camp.
The Ngati pride is looking as strong as ever, and we can now confirm five new cubs. We haven’t been spending too much time with them — keeping our distance so the mothers aren’t stressed — but whenever we’ve had a sighting, the cubs are healthy and playful. The pride seems to be working better as a unit, and they’ve been feeding well on warthog and wildebeest. It’s been great to watch them thriving.
Leopard sightings have kept us on our toes. Twin Spot has had to deal with an unknown male pushing into his territory. He’s not yet on our ID kit, but we’re keeping a close eye on him. One sighting in particular will be hard to forget: the two males were locked in a standoff when the Ngati pride arrived. Both leopards shot up trees to the highest branches, and while they watched from above, the lions settled underneath and started mating. Bush drama at its best.
We also had an incredible cheetah sightings this month. Watching him chase an impala at full speed was something else — the power and pace is just insane to see in person, even if the hunt didn’t end successfully this time.
The dry season is in full swing now, and the bush is showing it. Water is low, but that’s brought some amazing sightings. Ezulwini, our resident tusker, wandered right into bush breakfast one morning, which was a real treat. Buffalo herds have also been everywhere, moving in huge numbers and filling the landscape with dust and energy.
Things at camp have been just as busy. The new gym and spa are nearly finished, and the views of the Drakensberg mountains from there are unbelievable. We can’t wait for guests to make the most of it.
And while it’s still dry, spring is here. Flowers are starting to show, migratory birds are coming back, and the trees are beginning to turn. The days are heating up quickly too — summer is on the way.
– Gareth Williams
1 August 2025
July 2025 at Tomo Safari Lodge
We’ve had a few unforgettable months at Tomo, but July feels like one for the books — a mix of rare sightings, new beginnings, and non-stop activity both in the bush and around camp.
Let’s start with the big news:
Ngati Pride just got a little bigger.
A few days ago, we spotted one of the lionesses close to the dry riverbed just below the lodge — and with her, three tiny cubs. For now, the sighting has been closed to give her space and to avoid unnecessary stress. In these early weeks, lionesses are extremely protective, and any human presence — even at a respectful distance — can impact their behaviour. As guides, it’s a privilege to see something like this, but it comes with responsibility. We’re hopeful that in the weeks to come, she’ll begin to introduce the cubs to the pride, and eventually, to us again.
Elsewhere in the reserve, leopards have been stealing the spotlight.
One day this month, we had seven different leopard sightings — all in a single day. That’s not just rare, it’s near-unheard of. These elusive cats often stay out of view, so seeing even one is a gift; seeing that many in one day felt like a once-in-a-career moment. From relaxed males resting in trees to younger leopards slipping through thickets, it was a reminder of just how alive and diverse this part of the Greater Kruger really is.
Beyond those standout moments, the bush continues to deliver.
Elephant bulls have been around regularly, Ezulwini among them. The Ngati males are keeping a close watch on the pride. General game has been fantastic, especially around waterholes as the dry season tightens its grip. The mornings are crisp, the light is golden, and tracking on foot has been a real highlight for our guests.
Back at camp, things haven’t slowed down either.
The lodge has been full almost all year — a good problem to have. We’re also building a small spa and gym for our guests, which has added another layer of activity to an already full schedule. It’s been a “full-on” time in every sense, but there’s a real energy about it all.
And before signing off, a moment of thanks —
July 31st marked World Ranger Day, and I just want to acknowledge the people who make all of this possible.
To Tanya and Jaundre, thank you — it’s a privilege to guide alongside you.
To our trackers, who move with quiet confidence and read the bush like a book — thank you.
To our Warden and the entire Anti-Poaching Unit, your constant work behind the scenes makes everything we do out here possible. Your presence protects not just wildlife, but a way of life.
As we head into August, we’ll be keeping a close watch on the riverbed, hoping to see those little cubs again.
Until then,
– Gareth Williams
1 July 2025
June 2025 at Tomo Safari Lodge
June has been anything but quiet. The bush is always changing, but this month it felt like the wildlife around Tomo had something to prove — new animals arriving, old rivals colliding, and tension building around every waterhole and thicket.
Herds of buffalo have been pushing through the area — scattered and alert, always moving, with the dust rising behind them as they pass through. We’ve had some incredible moments sitting with them, engines off, just watching as the energy shifts through the group — birds trailing behind, oxpeckers calling, and every now and then, the sudden focus as something catches their attention.
The Ngati pride gave us the runaround early in the month — moving off Tomo and crossing into the neighbouring reserve. Their absence didn’t go unnoticed, though, and it left a gap that didn’t stay open for long. That space was quickly claimed by a male cheetah, who gave us one of the most entertaining sightings we’ve had in a while. After taking down an impala, he found himself having to defend the kill — not just from one rival, but two. A leopard and a wild dog both tried their luck, but the cheetah held his ground. Watching him stomp his front feet, arch his back and take on both threats was pure theatre — bold and defiant.
And the leopard tension hasn’t stopped there.
A new male has been working his way into the territory, and he’s giving Twin Spot a proper challenge. We’ve seen tracks and scat, even a few vocal stand-offs — but no ID yet for the newcomer. These are interesting times at Tomo. It’s never simple with leopards, and we’ll be keeping a close watch to see how this unfolds — who stays, who moves off, and what that means for sightings around the lodge.
One morning this month, we stopped in our tracks for something totally unexpected — a male ostrich, striding confidently across the open area not far from camp. At first glance it felt like a strange sighting to get excited about, but this was a first for Tomo. And it’s a milestone. What we’re seeing is animals expanding, moving out of Kruger into the Greater Kruger landscape and finding new homes. That’s what these private reserves are all about — space, flow, and long-term conservation. And sometimes, it looks like an ostrich.
We’ve also had the kinds of sightings that make you slow down — kudu bulls in morning light, giraffes browsing silently near camp, the stillness of a young elephant pausing to watch you. One leopard sighting had us sitting quietly for nearly an hour, just watching him stretched out in the branches above us, legs dangling, totally relaxed.
If June was anything to go by, July will keep us tracking, watching, and always adjusting to what the bush throws our way — exactly how we like it out here.
– Gareth Williams
1 June 2025
May 2025 at Tomo Safari Lodge
May has arrived with a shift in tempo. The bush has quietened slightly—the buzz of insects fading, the last of the summer green giving way to golden tones and crisp mornings. With the dry season now set in, everything begins to move with more purpose.
Animal patterns are changing with the dry season. Water becomes a central focus, and we’re already seeing how this draws wildlife closer to the permanent sources. Game paths are well-worn now, and it’s fascinating to watch how predictable the movements become. Elephants arrive in the late afternoon. Buffalo in tight formation. Even the impala seem to pause longer at the water’s edge, knowing they’re not alone.
Ezulwini, a well-known tusker bull—easily identified by his impressive ivory and slow, deliberate movements—has been spending a lot of time around Tomo again. “Ezulwini” means heaven in Zulu, and his presence seems to bring a calm weight to the landscape. He’s an older bull, with tusks that curve just wide enough to brush the ground. Watching him feed, drink, or simply stand in the late light is a privilege we never take for granted.
The Ngati lion pride, brought down a zebra earlier in the month, and more recently, a young wildebeest. It’s no small feat—these larger kills feed the entire pride and keep the cubs growing strong. We’ve been tracking them as they move between territories, often passing the camp during the night. Their calls, deep and resonant, carry for kilometres—reminding us that we’re firmly part of their landscape, not the other way around.
Wild dog pack have been seen regularly in recent weeks, moving swiftly and with purpose through the reserve. With denning season approaching, we’re watching closely for signs that they might choose this area to raise their next litter. If they do settle here, it would be an extraordinary opportunity.
African wild dogs typically den between May and July, with females giving birth to litters of up to 20 pups—some of the largest of any carnivore. Once denning begins, the pack becomes incredibly protective, and movements become centered around the den. Their social structure is complex, cooperative, and deeply bonded—every pack member plays a role in rearing the pups, from feeding to guarding.
To see a den site would not just be exciting—it would be a rare and profound glimpse into one of the most endangered carnivores’ most vulnerable and important life stages.
Even the snakes made an appearance, a warm spell mid-month saw a few more reptiles than usual—most notably a massive black mamba, easily over two metres, weaving its way through one of the drainage lines near camp. Like many of our sightings, it was a reminder that every layer of this ecosystem is active—even the ones we rarely see.
Tomo itself remains a quiet sanctuary, set along the dry riverbed with access to a permanent dam and vast surrounding bush, it’s a place that draws both people and wildlife for the same reason: space, stillness, and presence. We’ve had guests sitting in silence for hours, just watching giraffe bend to drink, or elephants come and go in shifting herds. There’s no need to rush here. The bush speaks in its own time.
As we head into winter, the visibility opens up and the light becomes softer. The animals are easier to find, the stories easier to follow. And still, no two days are the same.
See you out here,
– Gareth Williams
1 May 2025
April 2025 at Tomo Safari Lodge
April has brought with it a quiet shift in rhythm. The humidity of summer has finally let go, giving way to crisp mornings, golden afternoons, and the kind of light that makes everything feel a little more cinematic. The marula trees have lost their fruit, the bush is thinning, and there’s a rustle in the air that says winter is on its way.
The cooler evenings are starting to nudge us toward the fireside, while the days are still warm enough for comfortable drives without the weight of heavy jackets. The landscape is changing colour—subtle amber tones creeping through the foliage, making the sunsets feel deeper, richer, and longer.
And with the shift in seasons has come an incredible run of sightings.
One of the highlights this month has been the hyena den. We’ve been fortunate to witness a new litter of cubs—tiny, charcoal-furred creatures with oversized ears and endless curiosity. They’re still shy, darting behind their mother at the first sign of movement, but each day they seem a little bolder. With any luck, we’ll be able to capture some great footage as they grow into their mischief.
Leopard sightings continue to impress. It’s not unusual for us to see three different individuals in a single week—sometimes even in a single drive. Their grace never gets old, and watching them move through the golden grass with effortless precision is something that always stops us in our tracks.
Our resident lion cubs are thriving. They’ve reached that charming in-between stage—brimming with attitude and a bit too eager to join the adults, even if they’re not quite ready for the responsibilities of pride life. It’s a joy to watch them learning through play, mimicking the adults with clumsy pounces and serious expressions that don’t quite land.
The African wild cat we’ve been following is still making appearances. She’s recovered from an eye injury, and although she now hunts with one eye, she’s shown incredible resilience. More and more, she seems to trust our presence, allowing us rare glimpses into her quiet, solitary world.
Ezulwini, our long-time elephant companion, remains a steady presence—calm, powerful, and majestic in the way only elephants can be. Watching him appear silently between the trees still sends a shiver down the spine, no matter how many times we’ve seen it.
The bush feels alive in a different way now—slower, more deliberate, but no less magical. The noise of summer has faded, leaving space to hear the quiet things: the whisper of wind in dry grass, the distant call of jackals at dusk, the low rumbles between elephants when they think no one is listening.
This is Tomo in April—still wild, still full of surprises, and as always, a place where we’re grateful to spend our days.
– Gareth Williams
1 April 2025
March 2025 at Tomo Safari Lodge
Grass Has Changed Colour. The seasons are changing. The rains have slowed down, and the evenings are cooler. Winter is fast approaching, and this is when the magic starts in the bush. As the vegetation thins, animals gather at the waterholes, and the sunsets become sharper.
We’ve had to work hard this season to deliver the best sightings—good rains mean the animals are more scattered—but thankfully, Tomo delivers. We’ve had some incredible sightings, including phenomenal wild dog activity. Watching them move with precision, energy, and teamwork never gets old.
A new young female leopard, Mwedzi, has been showing up. She’s still a little nervous around vehicles, but we’re giving her space and time, hoping she will soon offer us the same spectacular sightings as Twin Spot.
One of the standout surprises this month has been the sheer number of butterflies. They are everywhere—flashes of colour in all shapes and sizes, putting on a show for anyone who appreciates the smaller details of the bush.
We’ve also had the return of the great Ezulwini for the dry season. His presence is always a highlight—his sheer size and impressive tusks are worth every second of a sighting.
The lion cubs are growing fast, and the pride is thriving. The zebra herd continues to grow, and birding has been fantastic. The changing season has brought some remarkable sightings, from migratory species passing through to raptors taking advantage of the thinning bush.
Another exciting addition to our sightings has been an African Wild Cat that we are starting to see more frequently. She’s been entertaining to watch—stalking through the grass, pouncing on mice, and showing off the skills.
With the bush constantly shifting and surprising us, each drive brings a new story. From the quiet moments to the adrenaline-filled sightings, it’s a privilege to share it all with those who join us out here.
– Gareth & Josh
1 March 2025
February 2025 at Tomo Safari Lodge
February has been a month of transformation at Tomo. With the rains settling in, the landscape has become lush and vibrant, setting the stage for remarkable wildlife sightings, abundant fresh vegetation, and bursts of colour across the reserve.
Leopards Stealing the Show
Leopard activity has been outstanding. Gareth observed a young male confidently navigating the bush, eventually disappearing into the sunset—one of those rare and unforgettable moments. A female leopard and her cub were spotted in a tree with a fresh kill, while Twin Spot has made several appearances, much to the delight of our guests.
Buffalo, Elephants & a Crocodile Sighting
Buffalo herds have been moving through in their hundreds, taking advantage of the fresh grazing. Elephants remain a regular sight, though with water and food available everywhere, they’ve spread out more than usual. This has allowed the bush to recover while still offering incredible elephant sightings throughout the month.
Another exciting moment—a crocodile was spotted in the Molobetsi River. While crocodiles aren’t unheard of at Tomo, it was still an impressive sighting. We’ve also seen hippos in N’tomo Dam, and the pod of 13 is still holding strong in the river. With the water levels high, they’ve been making the most of the season, offering some fantastic viewing opportunities.
Snake Sightings – Up Close & Personal
This month also brought some incredible snake encounters. A large python with a fresh hare kill was an exciting find in the bush. Closer to home, we had an unexpected visitor—a black mamba that made its way to the house. Fortunately, it was quickly and safely removed by the local snake handler.
The Lion Cubs & the Growing Pride
The lion cubs are thriving—one with a lighter coat and the other darker. Their playful nature has led to some of the cutest sightings of the month, and it won’t be long before they get their names. The rest of the pride has been active, making several large kills and keeping us busy tracking them.
February in Bloom & Marula Season
It’s not just the wildlife that’s been thriving—everywhere you look, tiny splashes of color have appeared. The rains have brought out wild basil, devil’s thorn, and flame lilies, brightening the green landscape. The knobthorn acacias are covered in fresh growth, attracting giraffes, while the ground is dotted with delicate yellow, white, and purple flowers.
This time of year also marks the arrival of marula season. The trees are now heavy with their golden fruit, drawing in elephants, baboons, and other animals eager to feast on the sweet reward. It’s always fascinating to watch wildlife gather around marula trees, taking full advantage of nature’s bounty.
A Big Thank You
February has been a fantastic month, made even more special by the incredible guests who’ve shared these moments with us. Thank you to everyone who visited—we look forward to welcoming you back. And for those arriving in March, prepare for an unforgettable experience.
– Gareth & Josh
1 February 2025
January 2025 at Tomo Safari Lodge
– Gareth & Josh
30 December 2024
December 2024 at Tomo Safari Lodge
December has flown by in the blink of an eye, and what a month it’s been!
Josh arrived at Tomo this month and has hit the ground running. It feels like he’s been part of the team forever—fitting in like a house on fire. Guests have loved his passion and stories, and it’s been great having his fresh energy around the lodge.
The highlight of the month has to be meeting the newest members of the Ngati Pride. The lion cubs are absolutely adorable, and we managed to capture some priceless moments of them climbing all over their dad as he tried (and failed) to enjoy a peaceful nap. It’s been a privilege to watch these little ones thrive in the wild.
The rains have done wonders for the bush—it’s lush, green, and teeming with life. The Big 5 have been out in force this month, with some truly memorable sightings. The buffalo have also been hanging around the lodge more often, adding their unique charm to the mix.
One of the surprises this month has been spotting some new hyenas at one of our dams. They seem to have moved into the area, which is very exciting as we often catch them on the trail camera.
The birdlife has been spectacular too, with so many species out and about. It’s the kind of month where you look up at the sky or into the trees and feel like you’re in the middle of a living masterpiece.
Christmas came and went, bringing festive vibes to the lodge. Guests could feel the holiday spirit in the air, and it gave the whole month an extra spark of joy.
Now, as we look ahead to 2025, Josh and I are filled with anticipation for what’s to come. If this month is any indication, the new year promises more adventures, surprises, and unforgettable moments in the heart of the bush.
Here’s to closing out 2024 on a high and stepping into 2025 with excitement and gratitude.
– Gareth & Josh
30 November 2024
November 2024 in the wild with Gareth
The first rains are here, and wow, what a difference! With over 100mm falling this month, the bush has come alive in every shade of green. The dams are filling, the air smells like fresh rain, and the animals are absolutely loving it. Even though the lodge was closed for two weeks for some big renovations (which look amazing, by the way), I couldn’t sit still. I spent my time out in the bush, checking up on all the animals. We’ve spotted two more lionesses showing signs of lactating, which means… more cubs! That makes four sets now, and the two older ones are doing so well—they’re growing up way too fast. Our lion sightings have been incredible, with the whole pride thriving in this lush new world.
We’ve also started seeing a new male leopard hanging around the dry riverbed. He’s huge and looks like he’s got some serious character. I’m looking forward to figuring out his movements and seeing what he gets up to. And then there’s TwinSpot—what can I say? Everyone’s favourite leopard has been putting on a show this month.
We’re all keeping an eye out for the first impala babies—they should be here any day now with the next rains. There’s nothing better than seeing them wobbling around on their skinny little legs for the first time. Finally, some exciting news—Joshua has joined the Tomo team as a guide! He’s already hit the ground running, and I can’t wait to see what adventures we’ll get up to together. November has been full of energy, new beginnings, and incredible sightings. Here’s to the green season bringing even more magic our way! Bring on December 2024.
– Gareth Williams
31 October 2024
October 2024 in the wild with Gareth
What a first month it’s been here at Tomo Safari Lodge! The landscape itself is breathtaking, and there’s something new around every corner. It’s a place shaped by nature’s most resilient giants, and the rich diversity of wildlife is incredible. The predator count here is especially impressive—there’s an energy in the air that makes every drive unforgettable. One of the highlights has been the frequent spotting of TwinSpot, one of our resident male leopards. He’s a real show-off for the camera and has been incredibly active lately. Watching him is thrilling enough, however he has been spotted mating and the possibility of cubs is very exciting.
The Ngati pride of lions has had a strong month as well, thriving, with massive herds of buffalo hanging around Tomo. They’ve been blessed with two sets of cubs! The older cubs are starting to explore with the pride, and they are endlessly entertaining—watching their little antics is the kind of joy only the bush can bring. Our elephant encounters have been equally memorable. Ezulwini, our massive bull elephant, is a frequent visitor. He’s almost a celebrity around here, known for his calm demeanor and curiosity about people. It’s one thing to see an elephant, but to be in the presence of such a massive, gentle bull is a humbling experience. The dry season is slowly coming to an end, and we’re all feeling the anticipation for the first rains. The heat has been intense, and the sound of thunder rumbling in the distance has everyone looking toward the skies, waiting for the downpour to arrive. It’s an exciting time to be in the bush—new life and fresh scenes await, and I can’t wait to see what the rains bring.
Each day at Tomo is an adventure, and I’m already counting down to the next chapter in this incredible journey. If you’re thinking of visiting, be ready for the unexpected—you never know what you might see on any given drive!