
When Margaret and Mike arrived at Thanda Safari twelve years ago, they met a field guide of German descent who had just started working as a guide on the reserve: Me!
And Bheki (Nbumvo), a very experienced tracker, had just started working with me, and he still does today.
Margaret and Mike enjoyed their 2013 safari very much before they returned to their home in Australia. Over the next 12 years, they followed my wildlife photography career on social media, and from time to time we exchanged messages about their intention to return to Thanda someday.
To Bheki’s and my great pleasure, they arrived last week for a four-night stay at Thanda Safari Lodge, together with their daughter Hallie and her husband Michael.

Using the Green Mamba II, we embarked on many game drives on the reserve, enjoyed morning cappuccino from the bush barista (=me), and ended the days with a Zululand pineapple gin & tonics as the sun set. And one of these drinks stops was even interrupted by large White Rhino bull, which led to a speedy retreat onto the vehicle.


I took many pictures during their stay, which they received as a reminder of all we had seen and done. A few of these images are published with this story.

This return visit after 4367 days was very special for Bheki and me. Thanks again to Margaret, Hallie, Mike, and Michael for their friendship. We will certainly continue to stay in touch!

#amazingwildlife #africansafari #safarigetaway #christiansperkaphotography #big5 #gamereserve #wildlifephotography #learnphotography
