Happy May from Tanda Tula – Safari Life in the Heart of Timbavati
Another month has flown by here in the heart of the Timbavati Private Nature Reserve, and it’s hard to believe how lush the bush has become—especially considering how dry it was just weeks ago! Although we only received 20mm of rain this April, the significant downpour at the end of March worked wonders. More than four weeks later, we still have water seeping along the seep-lines and a healthy grass cover blanketing the reserve. This greenery should see the wildlife through the dry winter months ahead.
Thanks to milder autumn temperatures, the grass has held its colour longer than usual, and the abundance of vegetation around Tanda Tula safari camp led to some spectacular wildlife sightings throughout the month.
Despite the bush’s green flush, the later sunrise and crisper mornings brought on a distinct autumnal atmosphere. April truly is the Goldilocks month in the Kruger region—neither too hot nor too cold, but just right!
An Abundance of Wildlife in Timbavati
After a drier March that saw fewer nomadic species such as zebra, elephants, buffalo, and giraffe, April brought a reversal of fortunes. With vegetation flourishing across the central Kruger region, the **Timbavati safari** experience was full of plains game and large herbivores.
Elephants returned in large numbers, with family groups of 40–60 regularly seen—and even a few gatherings exceeding 120 individuals! Late mornings often brought incredible sightings of these gentle giants swimming in the waterholes near Tanda Tula.
Zebra herds also moved through in force, with gatherings of 40–50 individuals gracing the savannah.
It wasn’t just the zebras—we also had excellent sightings of wildebeest, rutting impalas, and healthy numbers of giraffe. A particular highlight was a herd of 18 giraffes intently watching a pride of lions from a safe distance.
With such rich biodiversity, every game drive in the Timbavati offered something special, from the largest elephants to the smallest mongoose.
New Life in the Lion Kingdom
No Kruger safari is complete without its apex predators—and this month, the Sark Breakaway Pride took centre stage once again. The pride introduced three new cubs, bringing their total to 18 members.
Their mother kept them hidden for much of the month but eventually brought them to two kills—one a large buffalo taken down by the pride, and another a wildebeest caught solo by the lioness.
We were also introduced to three new cubs from both the Mayambula and Giraffe Prides. The Sark Breakaways dominated our traversing area throughout April, continuing their habit of hunting during the day. Their kills included kudu, wildebeest (including one just outside camp!), zebra, and impala. Sadly, there was also evidence they had taken down an aardvark.
The Vuyela males made a stronger appearance this month, with four of the five males being seen at once. It’s still unclear whether all five are accounted for, but their roars were heard more frequently across the reserve.
In contrast, the Birmingham Breakaway males in the west—while still impressive—have a ways to go before reaching the stature of the Vuyelas.
The River Pride remained active in the eastern section, and all nine members were present throughout the month. With the sub-adults gaining more hunting experience, their outlook appears increasingly positive.
Our Elusive Leopards of the Timbavati
With April’s thick vegetation, leopard sightings were a bit more challenging. The Dzindza female remained our most frequently spotted cat, often seen resting in Marula trees or along dry riverbeds.
The Nyeleti female kept her cub hidden to the north, and we feared the worst after recent floods—but thankfully, one cub survived. Nyeleti was seen near camp several times, suggesting she may move the cub into our area soon.
Further west, the Nkaya Dam female and her daughter Rhulani were seen regularly, and the Sunset femal* also revealed a new cub when spotted with a kill.
Fast and Fierce – Cheetahs and Wild Dogs
We had four sightings of two male cheetahs this month. Our relaxed Xiwumu male was seen hunting in the eastern woodlands—capturing an impala in a thrilling moment witnessed by Ginger.
Later, a more cautious male was seen in the same area but quickly fled, possibly due to scent from lions or other cheetahs. Meanwhile, reports confirmed the young female cheetah from last month is still roaming northern Timbavati.
Wild dog sightings were limited this month. Our resident pack only spent a week in the area before heading north into Umbabat and eventually east into **Kruger National Park**—a surprising route. However, a smaller pack of four wild dogs provided some incredible moments, feeding on impala kills at a more leisurely pace than usual.
Buffalo Herds Return
As green grass returned to the Timbavati, so did the buffalo. By late April, large herds were being seen daily. One herd even settled between the Giraffe and Sark Breakaway Prides, only moving when the lions took notice.
Looking Ahead on safari
As we edge closer to winter, temperatures will drop and the bush will begin to dry out. But with new lion cubs in three of our four resident prides and abundant general game, there’s much to look forward to on safari at **Tanda Tula in Timbavati**.
We hope you’ve enjoyed this month’s selection of Kruger safari sightings and stories. For more daily updates, be sure to follow us on our social media platforms.
Until next time,
Cheers,
Chad
