Blog

Planning your lens requirements can sometimes be a daunting task, especially if travelling from another country. There is nothing more frustrating than going on a few game drives and finding you have the wrong equipment. We have put together this document to help you get a better idea of what to bring along, and to make sure you get the most out of your experience with us. Shumbalala Game Lodge in the Thornybush Nature Reserve is an amazing place to enjoy your Wildlife Photography, however, the correct lens choices will make a big difference to your Safari.

Michael Tucker is a Professional Wildlife photographer and tutor. He is the owner of www.big5photos.com and runs successful Wildlife Photo safaris in Thornybush and other reserves in Africa. Keen to have him around on your next Photo Safari at Shumbalala? Ask us how.

We can say, without a doubt, that it is our staff that makes Shumbalala Game Lodge the special place that it is.

Meet Edward & Danielle Reynolds - our dynamic Field Guide and Hostess couple:

This year is our 20th anniversary, we would like to introduce you to the people who make Shumbalala Game Lodge what it is.

Vic and Jeandra have been with Shumbalala since 2007, here is their story.

My name is Danielle Reynolds, and I am the Guest Relations Manager at Shumbalala Game Lodge.

I have always had a deep passion for the African bush and its diversity, and Shumbalala has been home to me since I was a little girl when my grandfather took ownership of the lodge in 1999.

When I was 16 years old I started helping out at the lodge during holidays (under the guidance of my parents who are still managing Shumbalala Game Lodge). In 2016 I started working permanently at the lodge. A year later I met my future husband who was appointed Field Ranger at Shumbalala, and so began the makings of a true bushveld love story. This year was when we decided to start a new journey in the tourism industry, which was hijacked by Covid-19 pausing our plans. Nevertheless, it allowed us time to learn and grow in other aspects of our lives which we are grateful for.

Covid compelled us to restructure at Shumbalala Game Lodge and family pulls together when in need. As of 1 December 2020, we will be back at the newly renovated Shumbalala. Home once again!
I look forward to showcasing my strong points which also allow me to live out my passions, which are people, wildlife, and good food - all of which Shumbalala offers to the highest of standards. Our food is exquisite, the game drives spectacular, and the privilege of being able to serve our guests again as a team allows us to share our passions and to create memories with you as our valued guest!

Our family, most of whom are involved in the successful managing of Shumbalala Game Lodge are all big food lovers – my best memories are of family time spent in the kitchen or around the fire. That is where my interest in the running of the kitchen came into play. Designing recipes, menus, and picking only the best ingredients for our guests is what we do best. In the kitchen, we have a lot of fun putting together delicious meals. My job doesn't feel like work, it feels like adventure and passion.

One of my favorite recipes is the Frozen Lemon Meringue.
I always believe that you feast with all your senses, therefore tasty food needs to look beautiful and leave you wanting more.