As the summer months came to an end, we all thought that we are going to enter the dry season much sooner than usual. We could feel the temperature dropping very early in April already. We made sure the coffees and hot chocolate were ready for the early mornings. Then in the middle of April, a miracle happened. The whole of South Africa got rain. All the Dams in Madikwe filled up enough to get us a few more months into the dry season. Unfortunately, it was a little late for most of the vegetation to continue to grow, but the extra surface water will take a bit of pressure of the animals during this challenging time of year.

During April the morning safaris departed just before sunrise at 6:30 AM and the afternoon safaris at 3:30 PM after a delicious “High Tea”. After the morning game drive, guests will typically enjoy a big breakfast, followed by some “me” time or visiting Mateya’s amazing spa therapists for extra relaxation. Some guests will take advantage of the amazing book collection in the Mateya library. In the cooler months it is also easier to take advantage of the milder weather to enjoy a Bush Walk between game drives.

The female cheetah with the 3 subadult cubs has made the decision to let the 3 boys fend for themselves. This is very typical behaviour for the female when her cubs reach 18 to 24 months in the wild. Nevertheless, this is a very challenging time for a young cheetah. The fact that male Cheetah normally form a coalition with their siblings count in their favor. The three young male’s skills and experience they learned from mom over the last year and a half will be vital for their survival. We are confident that such a successful female taught those boys enough to ensure they will flourish.

More good news on the Cheetah front. Madikwe got a new Female Cheetah and seems that she might be pregnant. She is still young, but it’s very good for the genetic pool in Madikwe. The reserve will monitor her for the next couple of months and they have asked the rangers and guides to give updates on her whenever she is seen. It is always good getting new genes into a reserve, due to limited space and you do not want to go the route where in-breeding starts taking place.

We are excited to go into the cooler winter months as it normally gives us amazing game viewing due to animals congregating around water bodies and the vegetation being more open, allowing us to see further into the bush. So, bring your warm jackets and beanies to experience this amazing new season in Madikwe with us.

Until next time

The Mateya Team