Ranger Profiles

We look forward to introducing you to our Field Guides and Trackers who will be responsible for all your game viewing activities:

Meet the Team

Sam Mathebula

Tracker

Sam Mathebula

I was born in the Klaserie Nature Reserve, (a stone's throw away from Thornybush) I am 44 years young and a father to a son and two daughters.

At a very young age I had a keen interest in animals and at the young age of 19 I decided to attend a tracking academy. I obtained my level 2 tracking qualification, and got my first job as a tracker soon after I graduated.

I went on to obtain my level 3 and 4 tracking qualification over the next few years in various Nature Reserves. I am only one year away from obtaining the ultimate tracking qualification of becoming a Master Tracker.

Sam looks forward to welcoming you at Shumbalala with his warm friendly smile where you can experience his great skills out in the natural habitat of the big 5

Victor Swan

Field Guide

Victor Swan

I was born in Zimbabwe and was practically bush raised by my Shona friend Sixpence. As youngsters we were inseparable and he taught me volumes about the bush and it’s laws.
Stalking game whilst on fishing trips in the Zambezi valley with my father was an exciting way to pass the time while waiting for the fish to bite. My love and passion for the wild was born here.
Later in life I assisted my family on their farm in the lowveld and the luxurious Motlala lodge was born. Here I was responsible for guiding private guests for the Belgian owner and businessman from Europe. Exploring the Klaserie river and surrounds, was nothing less than a dream come true for me.
My move to Shumbalala was the final feather in my cap. The Thornybush reserve has a reputation for the professional manner in which it is operated and the ethics amongst the guides legendary! Teaming with game the reserve fills my senses and completes my journey. I love the Elephants and buffaloes the most, having bred buffalo for a living during my tenure at Motlala their interaction and herd hierarchy intrigues me.
I am able to live my dream here at Shumbalala working alongside my colleagues and peers chasing the dream of promoting, protecting and show casing what South Africa and indeed Africa has to offer.