Neil’s Wilderness Update – The Sigurwana Tree and Rock Trails

We recently launched the tree and rock trails hikes at Sigurwana…… trees have always been fascinating. I like how they keep changing throughout the year, from being fully leaved, to being naked, showing their skeleton and skin. I love to find majestic trees and sign them up with South Africa’s collection of champion trees.

The rocks……what is so fascinating about them? They can be covered in lichen, bright yellow and orange colours. It is not only rock art e.g. Bushman paintings on rock surfaces in caves. But the rocks themselves are artistic, having fallen from high Kranzes many thousands of years ago, they now have formed fascinating structures.

How does nature arrange these so beautifully? Some portray faces with a likeness toa variety of animals, birds and reptiles. And human faces, we even have a structure resembling the Arc de Triumph.

We have a great deal to show you on these hikes, we have recently made the hikes, led by a knowledgeable guide, available to groups at any time of the year, minimum of four people. May I invite you to ask for more details.

What’s been happening on the mountain

By: Peter

As winter settles in, the air on the mountain has turned crisp, especially in the evenings, and the bush is starting to take on its dry-season palette. We know the coming months will promise golden grasses, quiet mornings, and clear, starlit skies. The shorter, and colder days, do not necessarily mean that game viewing has declined. In fact we have had wonderful sightings of most of our game, especially on Tolo where the game is coming out onto the open fields in the late morning, enjoying the warm sun after a cold night.

There has also been quite a bit of leopard activity recently. Tracks have been spotted (excuse the pun) on several trails, and just last week, David from our Tolo team had a close encounter with one on the road, a reminder of how wild and alive this place truly is.

And finally, Swallow’s Rest, the beautiful new home of Liesel and Neil, is nearly complete!
Nestled in a peaceful spot with sweeping views, it’s something that simply must be experienced. We’ll soon be launching a special offer for all our past guests to return to the lodge, with a memorable dinner hosted by Liesel and Neil at Swallow’s Rest as part of the experience.

More details coming soon!

The Formation of The Western Soutpansberg Nature Reserve

By: Neil

The journey has begun…. EWT (Endangered Wildlife Trust) has done a magnificent job in registering our Nature Reserve, now setting their sights on 50,000 hectares by 2030……the vison goes further, a horseshoe shape traversing from Northern Kruger National Park in the East to the Tuli Block in the West.

As a retired businessman, I am still writing about business management, I recently presented my thoughts at a presentation for members of the WSNR association on what enhancing developments Lodge owners could embark on, collectively.

Our lodges on the Soutpansberg need to put ourselves on the map…… show the world …the pearls of ecotourism and hospitality we have on the mountain, and it’s surrounds.

The four entities, each one a growing business of its own. These are 1)marketing, 2) skills training, 3) deliveries / supply chain 4)Operational Support Utility to include Road maintenance, Bush clearance for firebreaks and bush encroachment, and gardening and landscaping services. The above could start from humble beginnings….with view to what could be achieved in 10 years.

Now for the interesting part the four businesses are owned by a holding company. It will have a striking name; the shareholding will present an opportunity for investment by Lodge owners and staff. This is a subject all on its own and I’m only just introducing this. So please look out for developments in this project.

From the Kitchen

It seems like Chef Lesedi always has a new trick up his sleeve in the kitchen. His creativity never disappoints our guests, and he wants to share his culinary genius with the rest of us. This month he shares his Turkish egg breakfast recipe.

Method

Make the Seasoned Yoghurt:
In a bowl, combine the yoghurt, garlic powder, olive oil, lemon juice, chilli flakes, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until smooth and set aside.

Prepare the Chilli Butter:
Melt the butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Add the chilli flakes and let it gently infuse for a few minutes. Remove from heat.

Poach the Egg:
Poach one egg to your liking.

Assemble:
Spread the seasoned yoghurt on a plate (get creative with it). Place the poached egg on top. Drizzle with warm chilli butter. Sprinkle with dukkah and garnish with fresh dill.

Serve:
Enjoy with a toasted slice of ciabatta.

Disclaimer: This dish will always taste better on location at Sigurwana Lodge. Book now!

Upcoming Events At Sigurwana

1) The Annual Sigurwana Birding Weekend

24/10/2025 – 26/10/2025

Join us for a special weekend dedicated to spotting and photographing the rich birdlife of the Soutpansberg. Guided by renowned birding expert Sampson Mulaudzi, this is a must for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts alike.

2) Nature Awareness Weekend With Braam Van Wyk

21/11/2025 – 23/11/2025

Discover the unique flora of the Soutpansberg with acclaimed botanist Braam van Wyk as your guide during this immersive nature-focused weekend. As a special bonus, guests will also enjoy an evening of guided stargazing beneath our crystal-clear mountain skies.

If you would like any additional info about these upcoming events please click the button below.