September is Heritage Month in South Africa – a time to celebrate the diverse cultures, histories, and traditions that shape the country’s identity. At Tuningi Safari Lodge in the heart of Madikwe Game Reserve, we believe that South Africa’s natural landscapes and wildlife are just as much a part of our shared heritage as its languages, food, and music. To go on safari here is to connect with something timeless – the rhythms of nature, the stories of the land, and the creatures that have roamed it for millennia.

Our Natural Heritage

Few places capture the spirit of South Africa’s wild heritage like Madikwe. Home to all of the Big 5 – lion, leopard, rhino, elephant, and buffalo – as well as endangered species like cheetah and wild dog, this reserve is a living celebration of biodiversity.

Every sighting feels like a glimpse into a storybook of Africa’s past, present, and future. Protecting this wilderness means safeguarding it for generations to come, ensuring that future travellers will also be able to marvel at these wild treasures.

Recent Sightings at Tuningi

This Heritage Month, we’ve been privileged to share some unforgettable safari moments with our guests. Lion sightings have been especially rewarding, with playful cubs bringing joy to every game drive. Elephant herds continue to make their presence known, often gathering at the waterhole right in front of the lodge – a gentle reminder that, at Tuningi, the safari sometimes comes to you. We’ve also had thrilling sightings of cheetah on a kill and the wild dog pack of Madikwe, whose endurance and teamwork reflect the resilience of the wild.

Even the smaller encounters remind us of the richness of this heritage – from the flash of colour of a lilac-breasted roller, to the prehistoric movements of a chameleon, or the quiet dignity of a giraffe at sunset. Together, these sightings tell the story of a living, breathing ecosystem that we are honoured to protect.

The images below are courtesy of our talented guide, Andrew Taylor.

Cultural Heritage Around the Fire

Heritage is not just about what we see in the bush, but also about how we connect with each other. At Tuningi, evenings spent in the boma beneath the ancient fig tree are a celebration in themselves. Here, guests gather under a canopy of lantern light to share stories, laughter, and the warmth of South African hospitality.

The name Tuningi itself comes from this remarkable tree, which has stood as a witness to countless nights of fireside tradition. Dining in its shade reminds us that heritage is about community – about people coming together to celebrate something greater than themselves.

Celebrate South Africa on Safari

As we honour Heritage Month this September, we invite you to celebrate South Africa’s wild and cultural treasures with us at Tuningi Safari Lodge. Every game drive, every song sung around the fire, and every quiet moment watching elephants drink at the waterhole is part of the heritage we are privileged to share with our guests.

When you choose to safari in Madikwe, you are not only creating lifelong memories – you are also contributing to the protection of this extraordinary reserve and its wildlife, ensuring that South Africa’s natural heritage endures for generations to come.

Celebrate Heritage Month the Tuningi way – with stories, safaris, and the soul of the wild.

Book Your Stay

Come and enjoy the wonders of the South African bush with us! Browse our website and make use of our seamless booking platform to secure your stay. Alternatively, get in touch with our friendly reservations team directly at book@tuningi.co.za if you have any additional questions.

We look forward to welcoming you to Tuningi!