Ngwenya Lodge

25
Mar
2025
The Circle of Life: Seasonal Changes in the African Bush

The Circle of Life: Seasonal Changes in the African Bush

There’s something truly magical about the African bush, the way it transforms with the changing seasons, shifting from lush and green to golden and dry, each phase bringing new life and unique wildlife encounters. At Ngwenya Lodge, perched on the edge of the Kruger National Park, guests have a front-row seat to nature’s incredible cycle. No matter when you visit, the bushveld offers unforgettable moments, each season telling its own story of survival, renewal, and change.

Summer: A Time of Abundance and New Beginnings

The African summer, from November to March, is a season of life and vibrancy. The first summer rains turn the landscape from dry and dusty to a lush paradise. The bush bursts into a vivid green, rivers swell with water, and flowers bloom, creating a stunning backdrop for your safari experience at Ngwenya Lodge. This is also the time when the baby boom happens. Many animals, including impalas, zebras, and wildebeests, give birth during the rainy season, as the abundant vegetation provides plenty of food for nursing mothers and growing young. It’s an incredible sight to see a wobbly impala calf take its first steps or witness elephant herds nurturing their playful little ones.

The summer months also bring an influx of migratory birds. Species like the European bee-eater and the striking Woodland kingfisher return to the region, adding bright flashes of colour and melodic calls to the bush. Birdwatchers at Ngwenya Lodge can enjoy some of the best birding opportunities during this season. With warmer temperatures and occasional thunderstorms rolling over the landscape, summer safaris offer a sensory overload; deep, earthy scents after the rain, dramatic skies, and the sight of animals thriving in their season of plenty.

Autumn: The Bush Settles into Balance

As April and May arrive, the bush starts to shift. The intense greens of summer begin to mellow, and the first hints of gold and brown appear in the landscape. The rains begin to subside, and waterholes remain full, but the excess of summer starts to taper off.

Autumn is a wonderful time to visit Ngwenya Lodge, as the cooler temperatures make game drives more comfortable, and wildlife viewing is still excellent. Predators become more active, taking advantage of the still-young and inexperienced prey from the summer birthing season. Lions, leopards, and cheetahs are often spotted as they fine-tune their hunting skills. The bush is still thick, offering plenty of shelter for animals, but as the season progresses, visibility improves, making it easier to spot wildlife moving through the trees and grasslands. It’s a transitional period, a time of balance before the challenges of the dry winter set in.

Winter: Survival in the Harshest Season

From June to August, the African bush undergoes its most dramatic transformation. The once-lush landscape becomes dry and sparse, and water sources begin to dwindle. The golden grasses are trampled down, and trees shed their leaves, exposing the raw beauty of the land. While it may seem like a time of hardship, winter is actually one of the best seasons for wildlife viewing at Ngwenya Lodge. With less vegetation to provide cover, animals become easier to spot, and they congregate around the remaining water sources, making game drives incredibly rewarding.

Predators thrive during this season. Lions, hyenas, and leopards take advantage of the weakened state of prey animals struggling to find food. If you’re lucky, you might witness an intense chase or the stealthy movements of a leopard as it stalks through the dry bush. With cooler temperatures, winter safaris at Ngwenya Lodge are crisp and refreshing. There’s something special about wrapping up in a warm jacket, sipping on a hot coffee at sunrise, and watching the African bush come alive in the golden morning light.

Spring: The Rebirth of the Bush

As September and October roll in, the bush prepares for the return of the rains. Temperatures rise, and the landscape remains dry and dusty, but a shift is on the horizon. The first storms of the season begin to break the dryness, and with each shower, a hint of green emerges. This is a season of change and anticipation. Animals that have endured the hardships of winter now prepare for the abundance ahead. The first impala lambs are born, and migratory birds start returning. As food becomes more available, the bush hums with renewed energy.

Spring is also a great time to see dramatic animal interactions. Dominant males, from antelope to lions, assert their strength as they prepare for the new season of mating and reproduction. At Ngwenya Lodge, you can witness these power plays unfold, adding to the excitement of your safari experience.

Every Season is Special at Ngwenya Lodge

The African bush is constantly changing, offering something unique in every season. Whether you visit Ngwenya Lodge in the lush summer, the balanced autumn, the raw winter, or the renewing spring, you’ll witness the incredible cycle of life in one of the world’s most spectacular natural settings.No matter when you choose to book your stay, Ngwenya Lodge offers a front-row seat to nature’s grand performance, a show filled with beauty, drama, and the endless wonder of the wild.

Posted by Ngwenya Marketing in Kruger National Park, Ngwenya Lodge, Ngwenya Sightings, Wildlife, 0 comments
28
Feb
2025
The Benefits of a Spa Day for Body and Mind

The Benefits of a Spa Day for Body and Mind

Life’s daily demands can be overwhelming, making it essential to take time to recharge. A spa day offers the perfect escape, allowing both body and mind to relax, rejuvenate, and heal. Whether you indulge in a deep tissue massage, a calming facial, or a revitalising body treatment, the benefits of a spa experience extend far beyond simple relaxation.

Mbali Day Spa at Ngwenya Lodge offers guests the ultimate African pampering experience. Nestled along the serene Crocodile River, with the breathtaking sounds and sights of the Kruger as a backdrop, it is the ideal setting to de-stress, recharge, and prioritise self-care.

Stress Relief and Mental Clarity

One of the most significant benefits of a spa day is stress reduction. The soothing environment, calming scents, and skilled hands of a therapist work together to ease tension and clear the mind. Massages, in particular, help release endorphins, the body’s natural ‘feel-good’ hormones, while reducing cortisol levels, the stress hormone. This not only enhances relaxation but also improves mood and overall mental well-being.

The tranquil surroundings of the Kruger enhance this effect, providing a peaceful retreat where you can fully immerse yourself in the moment. Whether you opt for a specially crafted massage or a luxurious facial, every treatment is designed to promote serenity and balance.

Physical Rejuvenation and Pain Relief

A spa day is not just about feeling good mentally, it also provides numerous physical benefits. Massage therapy is known to alleviate muscle tension, improve circulation, and reduce inflammation. For those who experience chronic pain, a professional massage can offer lasting relief by targeting specific problem areas and releasing tight muscles.

Hydrotherapy treatments, body scrubs, and wraps also work wonders by detoxifying the skin, boosting circulation, and leaving you with a healthy, radiant glow. Guests can enjoy treatments tailored to their needs, whether it’s relieving built-up tension from daily stresses or simply pampering the body for ultimate relaxation.

A Boost for Your Immune System

Believe it or not, a visit to the spa can help strengthen your immune system. The relaxation achieved through massage and other treatments helps to reduce stress-related inflammation, which can compromise immune function. Additionally, the improved circulation that results from spa therapies aids in better oxygen and nutrient distribution throughout the body, helping to keep you healthy and resilient.

Better Sleep and Increased Energy

A good night’s sleep is crucial for overall well-being, yet many people struggle with insomnia or poor-quality rest. Spa treatments, particularly massages, promote relaxation and help regulate sleep patterns by decreasing stress and improving circulation. The deep sense of calm experienced after a spa day often leads to better sleep, leaving you feeling more refreshed and energised.

A visit to the spa is an opportunity to reset both mind and body. Whether you choose to enjoy a solo treatment for some well-deserved ‘me-time’, book a couples’ massage to reconnect with a loved one, or surprise someone special with a rejuvenating gift, the benefits of a spa day will leave you feeling completely revitalised.

Reconnect with Yourself and Loved Ones

In the hustle and bustle of daily life, it’s easy to neglect self-care and personal connections. A spa day offers the perfect opportunity to slow down, unwind, and truly be present. Whether you’re enjoying a peaceful moment alone or sharing the experience with a partner or friend, it’s a chance to reset and reconnect.

At Mbali Day Spa, you can immerse yourself in a world of luxury and tranquillity. From soothing massages to indulgent facials, every treatment is designed to enhance relaxation and well-being. Treat yourself, or someone special, to a day of ultimate pampering and experience the profound benefits of self-care.

Posted by Ngwenya Marketing in Ngwenya Lodge, 0 comments
19
Feb
2025
Celebrate Love in the Heart of the Wild: Why Ngwenya Lodge is the Ideal Spot for Your Wedding

Celebrate Love in the Heart of the Wild: Why Ngwenya Lodge is the Ideal Spot for Your Wedding

When it comes to one of the most significant days of your life, choosing the right venue is paramount. A place where love, nature, and timeless beauty come together seamlessly can transform a wedding into an unforgettable experience. Ngwenya Lodge, nestled in the heart of the Kruger National Park, offers all of this and more. With its breathtaking backdrop of the Crocodile River and the lush, evergreen riverine habitat, it’s no surprise that Ngwenya Lodge is becoming one of the most sought-after wedding destinations for couples looking to say “I do” in 2025.

A Serene and Scenic Setting for Your Big Day

Ngwenya Lodge offers a picturesque setting for couples looking for a wedding venue that combines beauty and tranquility. The breathtaking views of the Crocodile River and the lush riverine habitat provide a natural backdrop that creates the perfect atmosphere for your ceremony. Whether you’re exchanging vows under the shade of trees, on a scenic game-viewing deck, or along the river’s edge, the serene environment sets the stage for an intimate and unforgettable celebration of love..

Perfect for Game Lovers and Nature Enthusiasts

For couples who appreciate wildlife and the thrill of adventure, Ngwenya Lodge offers an unparalleled wedding experience. Located within the world-renowned Kruger National Park, the lodge provides extraordinary game-viewing opportunities. Your guests can enjoy the beauty of African wildlife from the comfort of their chalets or while visiting the game-viewing hides. Whether it’s witnessing the majestic big cats hunting or elephants grazing by the river, Ngwenya Lodge brings nature’s wonders right to your doorstep, enhancing the romance and excitement of your special day.

Comfortable and Luxurious Accommodation

At Ngwenya Lodge, both the couple and their guests are guaranteed a luxurious and relaxing stay. The lodge offers various accommodation options, including River View Chalets that provide magnificent views of the floodplain, perfect for spotting wildlife. The Dam View Chalets offer a peaceful escape with views of the freshwater dams, while the Bush View Chalets are nestled within the bushveld for a more intimate and secluded experience. Every chalet is designed with comfort in mind, ensuring that your stay is as memorable as your wedding day.

Onsite Amenities for Your Convenience and Enjoyment

Ngwenya Lodge goes above and beyond to ensure that every guest has a comfortable and enjoyable stay. With a range of amenities such as tennis courts, mini-golf, multiple swimming pools, and a spa, guests can unwind or stay active throughout their visit. Families with children will love the trampolines and jungle gyms, while adults can indulge in a relaxing massage or spa treatment. The Le Fera Restaurant and Bar offer delicious dining options, and with additional conveniences like Wi-Fi, an ATM, and babysitting services, everything you need for a stress-free wedding experience is right at your fingertips.

Evenings to Remember

After your wedding ceremony, the evening at Ngwenya Lodge becomes an unforgettable experience. The sounds of hippos calling from the river below create a magical atmosphere as the African sky changes from golden hues to a starlit canvas. Whether you choose to celebrate under the stars or enjoy a quiet moment with loved ones, the lodge offers an incredible setting for memorable post-wedding moments. The combination of nature’s beauty, tranquil ambiance, and world-class service ensures that your wedding celebration extends into the perfect night.

If you are dreaming of a wedding that blends romance, adventure, and nature, Ngwenya Lodge offers an unparalleled setting for your celebration. From the beautiful riverside views and game-viewing opportunities to the luxurious accommodation and exceptional amenities, it’s a place where every moment feels special. In 2025, let Ngwenya Lodge be the place where your “happily ever after” begins.

 

Posted by Ngwenya Marketing in Kruger National Park, Ngwenya Lodge, 0 comments
21
Oct
2024
Exploring Ngwenya Lodge’s Game Viewing Hides: A Wildlife Lover’s Dream

Exploring Ngwenya Lodge’s Game Viewing Hides: A Wildlife Lover’s Dream

Exploring Ngwenya Lodge’s Game Viewing Hides: A Wildlife Lover’s Dream

Ngwenya Lodge is known for its spectacular wildlife experiences, and one of the highlights of any stay is the chance to visit the resort’s well-placed game-viewing hides. These hides provide guests with an intimate, uninterrupted view of the wildlife along the Crocodile River, which borders the iconic Kruger National Park. Each hide offers a unique vantage point, making it easy to spot some of South Africa’s most beloved animals in their natural habitat. Let’s take a closer look at the different hides available at Ngwenya Lodge and what you can expect from each one.

Crocodile Sandbank Hide

Located just south of the restaurant and viewing deck, the Crocodile Sandbank hide offers one of the most picturesque views of the Crocodile River. A guided handrail leads you through dense vegetation, making for an exciting walk to this hide, which is nestled on the perimeter of the lodge’s grounds. From here, visitors can enjoy sweeping views into the Kruger National Park and watch as the river winds its way through the landscape.

This spot is a prime location for spotting large game. It’s not unusual to see elephants slowly making their way to the riverbanks for a drink or a swim. As the name suggests, crocodiles are also common sightings here, basking in the sun along the sandbanks. If you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of the elusive lion, either lounging in the distance or prowling the edges of the river in search of prey.

Top Sightings:

  • Elephants
  • Crocodiles
  • Lions

Elephant Crossing Hide

To the north of the restaurant and perched on stilts is the Elephant Crossing hide, a birdwatcher’s paradise. Elevated to give visitors a fantastic view over the reed banks and floodplains of the Crocodile River, this hide is well-suited for those who appreciate both big game and the quieter beauty of birdlife.

The surrounding vegetation here is thick, creating the perfect environment for bird species to thrive. If you’ve brought your binoculars, prepare to spot a variety of birds flitting between the trees and across the riverbanks. Of course, the hide lives up to its name – elephants often make an appearance, crossing the river or grazing along its shores. Keep an eye out for waterbucks too, which frequently visit the area in small herds.

Top Sightings:

  • Elephants
  • Waterbucks
  • Bird Species

Lion’s Crossing Hide

For guests looking to venture a little farther south, Lion’s Crossing is the southernmost game-viewing hide on the property. A short flight of stairs takes you down to this protected hide, where you’ll be treated to a magnificent view of the Crocodile River. The shallow pools and rocky outcrops in this section of the river create small, scenic rapids, making it an ideal watering spot for many animals.

This hide is especially known for hippopotamuses lounging in the water or along the riverbanks. You’ll also spot a variety of antelope species coming to the water for a drink, and, of course, the ever-present elephants are frequently sighted here as well. This is one of the most serene and picturesque hides, perfect for taking in the calm of the river while waiting for the wildlife to appear.

Top Sightings:

  • Elephants
  • Hippopotamuses
  • Antelope Species

The Ngwenya Experience

Whether you’re an avid birder, a photography enthusiast, or simply someone looking to unwind and soak in nature’s beauty, the hides at Ngwenya Lodge offer something for everyone. With each hide offering its own unique view and selection of wildlife, no two visits are ever the same. So pack your camera, bring your binoculars, and prepare for an unforgettable experience as you witness some of South Africa’s most iconic animals up close.

Tips for Your Visit:

  • Be sure to visit each hide at different times of the day for the best variety of wildlife sightings.
  • Bring water, sun protection, and a camera to capture your wildlife encounters.
  • Keep noise to a minimum to avoid disturbing the animals – they’re more likely to approach if it’s peaceful.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as you may need to walk short distances to reach some of the hides.

At Ngwenya, nature is just a few steps away from your front door, and these hides offer a truly immersive way to connect with the wild beauty of the Crocodile River.

Posted by Ngwenya Marketing in Environmental Conservation, Kruger National Park, Ngwenya Lodge, Ngwenya Sightings, 0 comments
24
Jul
2024
5 Reasons to Go on a Kruger Safari During Winter

5 Reasons to Go on a Kruger Safari During Winter

The shorter days and cooler temperatures of winter are known to dampen our spirits, making it the perfect time to plan an invigorating getaway. For locals and international travellers alike, the Kruger National Park offers a world-class winter safari experience. With its diverse wildlife, beautiful landscapes, and unique seasonal advantages, the Kruger provides a refreshing, wintery escape from daily life. Here are five compelling reasons to visit the Kruger during the coldest months of the year:

Mild Weather Conditions

One of the biggest advantages of visiting the Kruger National Park in winter is the mild and comfortable weather. Unlike the scorching heat of summer, winter temperatures are more moderate, making outdoor activities increasingly enjoyable. While daytime temperatures generally hover around a pleasant 20-25°C, the evenings can get chilly – making them perfect for cosying up around a campfire. The mild weather also enhances your safari experience by making it more pleasant to explore the park’s vast landscapes. You can spend longer periods outside making it ideal for game drives and bush walks.

Superb Wildlife Viewing

Winter is the dry season in the Kruger, which means vegetation is less dense and animals are easier to spot. Water sources often become scarce, drawing wildlife to the remaining waterholes and rivers in the park. This provides excellent opportunities for viewing a wide range of animals, including the renowned Big Five. The sparse foliage allows for clearer and unobstructed views, making it a prime time for wildlife photography. Whether you’re an amateur or a professional photographer, winter safaris in the Kruger promise breathtaking shots.

Fewer Bugs

One of the less glamorous aspects of a summer safari is dealing with bugs, particularly mosquitoes. In winter, the insect population decreases a lot, reducing general irritation as well as the risk of mosquito-borne illnesses such as malaria. This makes winter an ideal time for families with young children and those who are particularly sensitive to insect bites. During the colder months, you can enjoy your safari without the constant buzzing and biting, allowing you to focus on the incredible wildlife and scenery of the park. This also means fewer pests during your outdoor meals and more comfortable evenings spent under the stars.

Tranquil Atmosphere

Winter is considered the off-peak season for many safari destinations, including Kruger National Park. This means fewer tourists, less crowded viewpoints, and an overall more tranquil and intimate safari experience. The quieter environment also provides a more intimate connection with nature while boosting the overall serenity of your visit. It’s the perfect time for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and immerse themselves in the wilderness. Fewer guests also mean fewer vehicles on the roads, resulting in a more relaxed pace and more opportunities to linger at sightings without feeling rushed.

Unique Experiences

Winter safaris offer unique experiences that you won’t find during any of the other seasons. Animals are generally more active during the day in winter and you can witness fascinating behaviours such as large herds of elephants congregating around water sources or predators on the hunt. Additionally, the winter months are also ideal for night drives, where you can observe nocturnal animals under the star-studded African sky. The crisp, clear winter nights provide the perfect backdrop for stargazing, and the Milky Way is often visible in glorious detail.

A winter safari in the Kruger National Park is a remarkable adventure that combines mild weather, optimal wildlife viewing, fewer insects, a tranquil atmosphere, and unique experiences. Whether you’re a seasoned safari-goer or a first-time visitor, the Kruger in winter offers an unforgettable experience that will leave you refreshed and inspired. So, pack your bags, grab your binoculars, and head to Kruger this winter for an extraordinary safari adventure. 

Posted by Ngwenya Marketing in Ngwenya Lodge, Wildlife, 0 comments
27
Nov
2023
Ngwenya Wildlife Photography Competition Winners

Ngwenya Wildlife Photography Competition Winners

We would like to extend a big shout-out and heaps of thanks to everyone who participated in the Ngwenya Wildlife Photography Competition! Your enthusiasm and undeniable talent transformed this competition into an extraordinary celebration of the awe-inspiring moments captured in the Kruger.

The inspiration behind this competition sprouted from the remarkable wildlife photos shared by our guests on social media. Witnessing the beauty of the Kruger National Park and Ngwenya Lodge through your lenses motivated us to create this opportunity for your photographic masterpieces to shine. The response to the competition was nothing short of incredible, and we are truly humbled by the wealth of creativity and passion displayed in each submission.

Without further ado, let’s give a virtual round of applause to our monthly winners!

March: Zahn Kruger

April: Vivienne Ruiter

May: Marijke Claassen

June: Zahn Kruger

July: Jackie Boshoff

August: Jordan Scorgie

September: Francois Smit

October: Daniélle Van Romburgh

November: Chris Rossouw

A sincere thank you to every participant for generously sharing your photos with us; it is your passion and enthusiasm that made this competition something special. Continue to capture and share your Ngwenya and Kruger moments, as we eagerly look forward to sharing them with the entire Ngwenya Lodge community!

Submit your photos to us via email or WeTransfer:

myholiday@ngwenya.co.za | WeTransfer

Posted by WSC_Dev in Kruger National Park, Ngwenya Lodge, 0 comments
05
Jun
2023
Ngwenya Lodge Gives a Hoot

Ngwenya Lodge Gives a Hoot

We love that we so often get to fall asleep to the sound of owls hooting, here at Ngwenya Lodge. This time, however, the hooting was a little too close to home…

Barn Owl found in a unit at Ngwenya Lodge

This beautiful little guy, a Barn Owl, somehow found his way into one of the units, where he was discovered by our housekeeping team. We’re not sure just ‘hoo’ was more surprised…

The housekeeping team enlisted the help of the maintenance team, who carefully and calmly, manoeuvred him into a corner where they could safely gather him up. They then duly removed him back to the great outdoors and left him in the fork of a large branch, in a dense, shady tree away from any populated areas.

Barn Owl in the bush

Interestingly enough, Barn Owls don’t actually hoot! They make a harsh, eerie-sounding shriek. This, combined with their somewhat spooky appearance, especially in flight, and their fondness for abandoned buildings, is what has led to the nickname ‘ghost owl’.

Barn owls are one of the most widely spread species of birds and are the most widely distributed owl in the world. Western Barn Owl breeding pairs are monogamous and mate for life. They are nocturnal predators, usually setting off to hunt just after sunset and returning to roost just before sunrise. The owl’s facial disk helps to channel sound to its ears, which are located on either side of the face, and they can zone in on sounds with extreme accuracy. Another remarkable adaptation is their silent flight, thanks to specialised feathers that muffle the sound of their wingbeats. This silent flight enables them to surprise their prey, making them highly efficient hunters.

Barn Owl hunting at night

In addition to the threat of loss of habitat which owls face, through deforestation and land conservation for agriculture, owls are at risk from pesticides and rodenticides, as these chemicals can accumulate in their prey and affect their reproductive success; or often kill the owls outright through secondary poisoning. Unfortunately, over the course of time, Western Barn Owls have been linked to unfounded beliefs in a tragic manner. They are believed to represent death and are seen as bearers of misfortune for humans, often associated with practices like witchcraft. It is widely believed that if a Western Barn Owl is spotted resting on a house’s roof, a family member will die the next day. These baseless superstitions and the subsequent bias against Western Barn Owls have resulted in their senseless and cruel killing by some humans.

The African Scops-Owl is the smallest Southern African owl, and is smaller than a dove

Fortunately, more enlightened folk hold these magnificent birds in high regard and understand and appreciate their role in the ecosystem.

Rats and mice are notorious for destroying crops and can cause ill health to humans through the zoonotic diseases they carry. As predators of rats and mice in both rural and suburban areas, Western Barn Owls have an important role to play.

Owls play a vital role in maintaining the delicate balance of the Greater Kruger Park Lodge ecosystem. As top predators, they help regulate populations of small mammals and birds, preventing unchecked growth and potential imbalances. By controlling rodent populations, owls indirectly contribute to the health of the region’s vegetation, as excessive plant consumption by rodents can disrupt the ecosystem extensively.

Pel’s Fishing Owl, another local resident considered one of the Kruger birds Big 6

We wish you many happy hoot spots on your next visit to Ngwenya Lodge, but hopefully not in the lounge!

Posted by WSC_Dev in Kruger National Park, Ngwenya Lodge, Ngwenya Sightings, Wildlife, 0 comments
28
Feb
2023
Ngwenya Wildlife Photography Competition

Ngwenya Wildlife Photography Competition

Ngwenya Lodge is full of awe-inspiring pulchritude that provides an extra frisson of grandeur to every guest that drives past our welcome wall into their home-away-from home.  And the greatest source of all this magnificence is the abundant wildlife that occurs on the boundary of our unbeaten location. Being situated on the southern boundary of one of the biggest and best-known wildlife sanctuaries in the world – the Kruger National Park – has provided our guests with an unmatched game-viewing and birding experience without even having to leave the Resort gates, so guests never miss an opportunity to capture and share in these special game-viewing experiences.

We have seen all of your photos of herds of elephants with their calves in tow, crocodiles sunning themselves down along the riverbanks and the eagle dominating the sky with its majestic wingspan, and we thought we’d just have a bit of fun with all of you and host a photo competition on our Facebook page where you get to share your best and favourite wildlife photos with us for a chance of being featured as our Facebook cover photo for an entire month!

All you need to do is submit your favourite top-quality high-resolution photographic masterpieces to us at myholiday@ngwenya.co.za or via WeTransfer and we’ll choose the best ones to feature on our page for every month in 2023! Who doesn’t love bragging rights?

Competition Rules:

  1. Poor quality photos and videos will be disqualified.

Take note:

– Images submitted must be in high-resolution only.

– Images submitted must be above 1MB in size; any images below that size will not be accepted.

– Images and videos submitted which are pixellated or blurry will not be accepted.

– Images and videos submitted via Facebook or Instagram will not be considered. Please email or WeTransfer all submissions.

  1. Imagery submitted should only reflect wildlife and holidays at Ngwenya Lodge and the Kruger National Park; no photos of other holidays or at other game and wildlife facilities will be accepted.
  2. By entering this competition, the participant warrants that the submissions do not violate any copyright, nor the rights of any third person.
  3. By entering this competition, the participant agrees to give Ngwenya Lodge, as well as all affiliate companies, unrestricted access to make use of the submissions for marketing purposes, even if they are not the winning entries.
  4. Ngwenya Lodge reserves the right to cancel this competition at any time, if deemed necessary.
  5. The judges’ decision is final.

Sounds pretty simple, right? So start scrolling through your camera rolls and show us your best captures. We can’t wait to see them:

myholiday@ngwenya.co.za | WeTransfer

Posted by WSC_Dev in Kruger National Park, Ngwenya Lodge, Ngwenya Sightings, Wildlife
02
Jun
2022
Hear the Kruger Call

Hear the Kruger Call

Hear the Kruger call: the shrill cry of a fish eagle gliding over the floodplains; the rumbling sound of a lion as dusk settles in; the thundering hooves of a buffalo herd fleeing into the undergrowth from a predator. These are all nature’s melodies. These are all sounds that resonate in our souls, and that which we know to be synonymous with an authentic bushveld experience. But, there is so much more to the songs and calls of the wild than this. From communication to foraging, wildlife have evolved their own languages into a range of patterns and frequencies across the spectrum of species (many of which humans do not yet fully understand).

Ngwenya delves into the intricacies of wildlife communication:

Hyena

Hyenas are highly intellectual creatures that operate in large clans. These clans have social structure and a range of rules regarding their territory, hierarchy, the hunt and protection. Naturally, this means they require complex communication to uphold their system; one of the widest ranges in communication found in mammals, as a matter-of-fact. The most well-known of the hyena’s sounds is probably the hoot-laugh and giggling, which has dubbed the species with the name “laughing hyena”. While humans associate loud laughter with joy and relaxation, to hyena’s it actually signals distress and tension. The other most prominent call is the whoop which is a loud call that ranges in pitch. The whoop is used to communicate when out of visual range and can actually distinguish hyenas from one another. It is believed that these calls can signal the sex, age and status of the hyena to others. Scientists continue to study the vocalisations of hyenas, with growling being the most obscure. Hyenas are believed to use growling and body language in different combinations to communicate different meaning, the intricacies of which are still being uncovered.

Coucal

The coucal is one of 27 species of the genus Centropus, though you may be more familiar with the term cuckoo. Many of these medium-to-large birds are named for the sounds they make, or the birdsong they imitate. The two species most prominently found in the Kruger National Park are the Burchell’s Coucal and the Black Coucal. Coucal’s are widely known for the gurgling sound that accompanies their song, which many associate with a babbling brook. In fact, their local name in Kenya translates to “The Water Bottle Bird”. Their birdsong not only imitates water but has been closely studied and revealed to be linked to periods of downpour. Coucal’s will often sing before or after rain, when humidity is at an all-time high. Coucals, and birds in general, are able to produce their melodies due to an organ that only they possess: the syrinx. This vocal organ is found at the base of the trachea and produces sound when air is forced through it. The membranes of the syrinx walls vibrate when this happens; causing an oscillating effect that produces intricate birdsong.

Elephant

Elephants are known to have some of the most complex language systems amongst all wildlife. They are able to produce a range of idiosyncratic sounds, ranging from vibrations and rumbling to barks and snorts. Elephants mostly communicate using a low rumble which is produced at such a low frequency that it is seldom heard by human ears. The low rumble can be heard or felt as vibrations, by other elephants, up-to 10km away! This form of communication travels as vibrations with sound pressures reaching 117 decibels. The receptors of an elephants’ feet, known as Pacinian corpuscles, are highly sensitive and share a direct link to the somatosensory cortex of the brain, which is responsible for processing touch. The PC receptors are localised around the edges of the foot; elephants have been documented pressing their feet more firmly onto the ground to enlarge the surface area of contact so that they can hear better!

While this explains how elephants can hear one another, how exactly do they vocalise? Until recent studies conducted by the University of Vienna, scientists weren’t sure if elephant’s communicated through electrical impulses, known as AMC or active muscular contraction, or by the MEAD or myoelastic-aerodynamic method. Domestic cats use AMC to purr, while humans communicate via the MEAD method. While it is difficult to test for AMC, as it requires muscle contractions produced by brain signals, Christian Herbst at UV was able to test MEAD. His team obtained a deceased elephant’s larynx, which they connected to an airflow system. In this way, they could move air over the vocal cords of the larynx, which in turn mimicked the low rumblings and thus put the debate to rest on how elephants vocalise.

This is just three species’ ways of communicating and vocalising, but every wild animal has its own language to communicate with one another, ward off danger or to simply add a sweet song to the chorus of the bush. Wildlife also make use of a number of tools to effectively communicate that surpass sound, and these intricacies will continue to interest scholars and enthusiasts alike. All we have to do is pause and listen to the sounds of the Kruger.

Posted by WSC_Dev in Kruger National Park, Ngwenya Lodge, Ngwenya Sightings, Wildlife
21
Apr
2022
Winter Warmer Drinks

Winter Warmer Drinks

There is nothing better than curling up with a steaming hot drink to ward off those winter blues! Here are some of our favourite winter drinks. Try them on your next winter breakaway!

Slow-Cooker Hot Chocolate

This recipe is perfect for a family of chocoholics.

Ingredients

  • 1l milk
  • 300ml double cream
  • 200g dark chocolate, chopped
  • 100g milk chocolate, chopped
  • scorched marshmallows or mini marshmallows, to serve
  • softly whipped cream, to serve
  • grated chocolate, to serve

Method

  1. Pour the milk and double cream into the slow cooker. Add the dark chocolate and milk chocolate, then cover and cook on low for 2 hrs, stirring halfway through cooking.
  2. Remove the lid and stir again, then continue to cook for a further 15-20 mins. Ladle into mugs and top with the marshmallows, dollops of cream and grated chocolate.

Tip: Add 25ml of your favourite liqueur or spirit to each mug for a warming kick.

Recipe adapted from www.bbcgoodfood.com

Caramel and Apple Hot Toddy

This is the perfect winter drink – a delicious balance of fruity sweetness and spicy cinnamon with a kick for extra punch!

Ingredients

  • 2/3 cup (150g) caster sugar
  • 2/3 cup (165ml) apple juice
  • 4 cinnamon quills
  • 2/3 cup (165ml) apple brandy
  • 4 star anise pods
  • Ground cinnamon, to dust

Method

  1. Place sugar in a medium heavy-based saucepan over high heat with 1 tbs of water. Cook, swirling pan, for 5-6 minutes or until a golden caramel-like texture forms. Using a metal spoon (and being mindful of the steam), stir in 2 cups (500ml) water and swirl pan until caramel and water are combined. Stir in apple juice, star anise pods and cinnamon quills, then stir in the liqueur.
  2. Divide among glasses and dust with cinnamon to serve.

Recipe adapted from www.delicious.com.au

Sweet-and-Spicy Mulled Wine

This sweet and spicy mulled wine recipe is guaranteed to warm up your whole body! This traditional holiday drink made of red wine and spices can even be zooshed up a bit with a dash of brandy for those really cold nights.

Ingredients

  • 2 (750-mL) bottles full-bodied dry red wine
  • ½ cup black peppercorns
  • ⅓ cup granulated sugar
  • 4 orange peel strips (from 1 orange)
  • 1 (2cm) piece fresh ginger, peeled and sliced
  • 3 cinnamon stick, plus more for garnish
  • 2 whole star anise
  • Orange slices

Method

  1. Stir together wine, peppercorns, sugar, orange peel, ginger, cinnamon stick, and star anise in a large saucepan. Bring to a simmer over high. Remove from heat; cover and let stand for 30 minutes.
  2. Taste, add more sugar or honey to taste. Strain and discard solids.
  3. Pour evenly into 8 glasses and garnish with orange slices and cinnamon sticks. Serve warm.

Recipe adapted from www.realsimple.com

Posted by WSC_Dev in Ngwenya Lodge, 0 comments