When you live in Africa, love the smell of nature and its strong call, and perhaps even more importantly, understand the natural cycles; you see the death of wildlife as part of the natural order. The strong conquer the weak, the old give space to the young. When you look at a magnificent animal and predator die in an area which is desperately (and successfully) trying to rehabilitate natural corridors of flora and fauna over a previously devastated land, no one would think less of you for shedding a tear.
At the end of August, we said goodbye to Bellini, a prime female cheetah at the Samara Private Game Reserve near the historic town of Graaff Reinet in the Karoo. Thanks to the determination and foresight of an expatriate couple, Samara has reclaimed over 70000 acres of overgrazed farmland which has been rehabilitated to natural Karoo bush. This area of the Karoo was part of an extensive migration route which saw the traverse of millions of springbok. Black wildebeest, zebra, oryx, eland, blesbok, Cape lion, rhino, and the iconic cheetah have been reintroduced. In the case of the cheetah, and before its reintroduction, the last wild one had been shot out 125 years before.
Bellini arrived at Samara in December 2011 from Waterkloof Game reserve in the Waterberg. She was six years nine months at the time. She was part of a metapopulation program with Endangered Wildlife Trust where cheetahs are exchanged between game reserves to strengthen the gene pool. She duly produced two cubs in the winter of July 2012. Sadly, both died within a few days due to exposure to the bad weather.
Whether people attributed certain anthropomorphic qualities to her, Bellini seemed to decline physically and mentally after this. In February 2013 her condition was very poor, and she was darted to examine her more closely. Several of her teeth were broken off, and others were worn right down. She was given antibiotics and vitamin supplements and was assisted in feeding in the natural bush for a few weeks. Despite a slow recovery, she produced a further cub in June 2013 near the Karoo Lodge on the bank of the Milk River. Unfortunately, she abandoned the cub, and her condition worsened. She was given assisted feeding every second day.
A decision was made to capture her on Monday 19th August and place her in the Samara cheetah boma. Very sadly, when a team went to capture her, she was found dead. She had died the previous day.Bellini, in her prime, was a big, proud cat that epitomised the renewal of life over the plains and mountain ridges of the Great Karoo. She will be missed but her female cub, Nala, is her legacy.
Bellini. RIP
Amakhala Hlosi Lodge
Rates from R5 920.00 per person
Experience the ultimate Eastern Cape safari at Hlosi Game Lodge in the Amakhala Game Reserve. This upmarket safari lodge seamlessly blends authentic African hospitality with luxurious amenities.
Indulge in thrilling game drives guided by experienced rangers, and immerse yourself in breathtaking landscapes—the perfect destination for a romantic bush safari escape or a delightful family getaway.
Kariega River Lodge
Rates from R9 200.00 per person
Experience the magic of the Eastern Cape Wilderness at Kariega River Lodge. Nestled along the serene banks of the Bushman's River, this enchanting destination offers tranquillity and luxury.
Immerse yourself in the captivating beauty of the reserve, embark on thrilling game drives, and indulge in exquisite culinary delights while enjoying panoramic views of the river and wilderness.
Kariega Main Lodge
Rates from R7 300.00 per person
Located on a scenic hilltop on the eastern side of Kariega Reserve, Kariega Main Lodge offers a serene and welcoming environment to immerse yourself in the beauty of the African bush.
With stunning views, harmonious blending with nature, abundant birdlife, and renowned "Big Five" safaris, this malaria-free sanctuary promises an unforgettable adventure for families and nature enthusiasts.
Amakhala Leeuwenbosch Country House
Rates from R3 830.00 per person
Leeuwenbosch Country House and Amakhala Game Reserve offer an enchanting experience. Nestled in the beautiful Amakhala Game Reserve, the colonial-style retreat of Leeuwenbosch Country House provides exceptional guesthouse accommodation surrounded by indigenous gardens.
Explore the reserve's abundant wildlife on an unforgettable safari, immersing yourself in the captivating beauty of this remarkable destination.
Amakhala Bush Lodge
Rates from R6 750.00 per person
Experience the majestic wildlife of Amakhala Private Game Reserve at Bush Lodge. Relax on your private deck or take a dip in your private plunge pool while immersing yourself in the beauty of the Eastern Cape and South Africa bushveld.
Embark on thrilling game drives in open 4x4 safari vehicles and gather around the fire pit in the evening to share stories and witness the stunning sunset over the reserve from this stunning safari lodge.
Amakhala Safari Lodge
Rates from R6 080.00 per person
Amakhala Safari Lodge, situated in the scenic Amakhala Game Reserve, is a breathtaking sanctuary that offers an immersive and holistic safari experience. With its impeccable design and meticulous attention to detail, this safari lodge provides a perfect haven for rejuvenating your soul and immersing yourself in the magnificent wildlife of the Eastern Cape.
From the air-conditioned safari huts to the serene surroundings, every aspect of this retreat is crafted to ensure an unforgettable stay.
Shamwari Sindile
Rates from R16 260.00 per person
Shamwari Sindile: A luxurious retreat in the heart of the private Shamwari Game Reserve. Immerse yourself in untouched wilderness, surrounded by breathtaking views of the Bushman's River and the vast plains of the Eastern Cape.
Disconnect from the outside world and reconnect with nature. Embark on thrilling game drives, indulge in spa treatments, and create cherished memories at Sindile Safari Lodge.
Kwandwe Melton Manor
Rates from R79 800.00 exclusive use
Kwandwe family-friendly "Melton Manor" with sweeping views of the river and mountains in three different directions, Melton Manor is a whimsical mix of old and new, a contemporary frontier farmhouse with a modern touch.
Kwandwe Private Game Reserve offers guests a luxurious "Big 5" safari experience.