May 2025

May has come to an end and summer has officially disappeared with it. Our sunrise is currently at 6:52 and setting at 17:31. Our Temperatures averaging at highs of 23’C (73’F) and lows of 6’C (42’F). There has been no rain during May, but instead, windy days carrying in cold fronts.

Some say that it has been one of the colder Mays over the past few years. As we head out for morning drives there is evidence to show that this may be true. Seeing everybody wrapped up from head to toe in whatever layers that have been packed for the trip. It would definitely be a good idea to pack those fluffy socks and a pair of gloves.

Despite the weather being cooler, the game viewing has been incredible, making us forget about those cold fingers and toes. We have had some beautiful leopard sightings this month along with an abundance of lion sightings. And much to our surprise, we have had a couple of good Wild dog sightings too.

The game drives over the past few weeks have been an excellent reminder that taking moments to be completely still and soak up all that the bush is telling you. The guineafowls are telling you that they see some form of danger, and on one occasion they made us aware of a leopard in the area, it was definitely worth listening to what they had to say. On another occasion we could hear the jackals calling and decided to find them to see what they are calling about, and they led us right to the lions. Sometimes it’s so rewarding to sit back, even close your eyes if you’d like, let the breeze brush over you, and just listen to the conversations of the bush. The low grumbling of the elephants as they check in on each other. The Plovers complaining about intruders. The insects croaking on about the weather. The Impalas snorting at each other as they size each other up for the rutting season.

As good as this month has been for Safaris it has also come and gone with a heart-breaking event. For those who have visited us and had the privilege of finding the Ashia cheetah on safari, you will know how special of a cheetah she was. It is it with great sadness that we share that Ashia has passed on. Nature may be beautiful, but it is not always kind. We are still not entirely sure how it happened, but we assume that her life was taken by hyenas. Cheetahs unfortunately are not built for strength and sadly, often fall victim to larger predators. Ashia has made an impact on many. She raised two successful litters in Madikwe and we will never forget how incredible of a mother she was and how fearless she was.

Until Next Time!

The Mateya Team