Meet our Rangers
We look forward to introducing you to our Field Guides and Trackers who will be responsible for all your game viewing activities.
Bryce Mitchell
Field Guide
Pietermaritzburg may be my birthplace, but my weekends were spent exploring a farm just outside Ladysmith. This instilled in me a deep love for the outdoors, which became the foundation for my future career.
After graduating high school (matriculating), my path became clear. I eagerly pursued a course in Marine and Terrestrial Guiding, which perfectly combined my love for the ocean and the land. The program spanned across the beautiful Zululand and St. Lucia coastal areas.
Always seeking to grow as a guide, I took a bold step and moved to the Lowveld. This opened doors to further education, allowing me to attain the prestigious NQF 4 – Field Guide and Full Trails qualifications.
With over 8 years of guiding experience, 5 of which have been spent in the Hoedspruit area, I have a deep understanding of the local ecosystem. I'm currently working towards my Professional Field Guide Qualification, demonstrating my dedication to continuous learning.
Bush walks are my absolute favourite. I'm fascinated by the intricate details of the bush, the smaller creatures that often go unnoticed. Every day on foot is a new adventure, filled with unique discoveries.
Sam Mathebula
Tracker
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
Emilio van Dyk
Field Guide
Originally from Durban, South Africa, Emilio is a passionate and knowledgeable field guide with a lifelong fascination for biodiversity. Fuelled by both formal education and years of hands-on experience, he holds both Safari and Trails guide qualifications, solidifying his expertise in leading unforgettable adventures in the wilderness.
Emilio's passion for the natural world runs deep. It began with a fascination for reptiles, particularly snakes, leading him to safely handle venomous species and actively search for them in his youth. This early curiosity extended to animal tracks and signs. Devouring books on the subject, Emilio relished deciphering the stories left behind, from house pets to elusive wildlife. This initial spark ignited a broader passion for the interconnected web of the natural world. Today, he finds wonder and intrigue in every aspect of the ecosystem.
Emilio's knowledge is vast, encompassing animal behaviour, track and sign identification, birding, botany, geology, astronomy, and ecology. He thrives on sharing his immersive experiences and fostering a deep appreciation for the natural wonders surrounding him.
Tony Hlongwane
Tracker
Born in Acornhoek and raised in the neighbouring town of Lilydale, I developed a profound connection to the natural world from a young age. A lifelong fascination with animals and the allure of the bush, where I would spend countless hours immersed in the symphony of bird calls, ignited my passion for tracking.
I honed my skills through rigorous training at the renowned Londolozi, where I successfully completed the Track and Sign course. The thrill of following the subtle clues left behind by animals, and the ultimate satisfaction of locating them, is what drives my work. Today, I am dedicated to utilizing my expertise to provide exceptional tracking experiences.
Victor Swan
Field Guide
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.
Fumani Mkhbela
Tracker
Born and raised in the rural village of Makrepeni, I developed an innate connection to the African bush from a tender age. My father, a seasoned tracker, instilled in me a profound respect for the natural world. During his time off, I accompanied him on countless expeditions, learning the intricate language of the bush, from the behaviour of birds to the subtle signs left by animals.
My passion for tracking was further ignited during weekends spent exploring the surrounding areas with my loyal canine companions. These experiences honed my observational skills and deepened my understanding of animal behaviour.
Formalizing my expertise, I underwent rigorous training at the Tracker Academy School. This education equipped me with the technical knowledge and practical skills necessary to excel in my profession.
Today, I am a dedicated tracker with a particular specialization in tracking the elusive big cats. My ability to follow animal trails, even in challenging terrain like tall grass, is a testament to my years of experience and unwavering commitment to the craft.
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