Wake up with the sun and you are in for a wild ride—literally!
At Bothongo Rhino and Lion Nature Reserve, every morning is a fresh adventure, and field guide Didi Mahlo is your ultimate insider to the magic of South Africa’s bush. For Didi, this isn’t just a job—it’s a calling: part teacher, part wildlife whisperer, part thrill-seeker, all rolled into one.
Just outside Johannesburg, Bothongo gives you all the wow-factor of a full-on safari without the marathon road trip. Lions, rhinos, cheetahs, vultures, wild dogs, buffalo…basically, if it walks, runs, or roars, it could be around the next corner. Perfect for families, thrill-chasers, and anyone who wants a taste of the wild, the reserve makes it easy to swap city streets for dusty trails and come home with stories you won’t stop talking about.
Didi tells it all!
Now we have our fearless field guide, Didi, who’s seen it all, heard it all, and experienced it all in the wild. She’s the one who knows every twist, roar, and rustle at the reserve—and she’s here to give us a behind-the-scenes look at a day in her life. Here’s what she had to say about her typical day at Bothongo:
“Being a field guide is not just about showing guests animals. It’s about helping them feel the connection between themselves and the natural world. When someone leaves the reserve with a new sense of respect and wonder for nature, that’s when I know I have done my job,” said Didi.
Didi’s wild days at Bothongo
For Didi, the day kicks off long before the first guests arrive. She starts by checking vehicles, mapping out routes, and greeting the sunrise as it spills across the grasslands. Every detail counts— from making sure the safari vehicles are safe to ensuring guests are comfortable—so that every game drive is not just fun, but full of memorable moments and fascinating discoveries.
Here’s what she had to say about all this:
“There’s no such thing as an ordinary day out here. One drive you might be surrounded by grazing impalas, the next you could spot a lion resting under an acacia tree. Every sighting, every sound, every moment is unique,” said Didi.
More Than Guides: The wild heroes of Bothongo
At Bothongo, field guides do way more than lead safaris. They are the reserve’s eyes, ears, and sometimes even its superheroes. They watch the animals closely, track changes in the environment, and pitch in with conservation efforts whenever needed. From spotting unusual behaviors to lending a hand with veld work, these guides are on the frontlines, keeping the delicate balance of the ecosystem in check while sharing their passion for the wild with every visitor.
“Part of our responsibility is to educate guests, especially children, about respecting nature. When people understand how interconnected everything is, they are more likely to protect it,” said Didi.
Sharing SA’s wild wonders safely
Safety is always front and center at Bothongo. Before each game drive, guests get a quick briefing on how to enjoy the wild responsibly. Field guides make sure vehicles are in tip-top shape, first-aid kits are on hand, and a safe distance is kept from every animal encounter. That way, visitors get all the thrill of the safari—without compromising on safety or respect for the wildlife.
For Didi, the real reward isn’t just the wildlife—it’s getting to share the story of South Africa with every visitor who steps onto the reserve.
“I love seeing international guests experience our country through fresh eyes. Their wonder reminds me of how special this place really is. We live in one of the most beautiful and diverse environments on Earth. It’s an honour to share that every day,” said Didi.
Lessons from the wild with Didi
At the heart of it all is a profound respect for nature. For Didi, witnessing wildlife in its natural rhythm—whether it’s elephants sharing silent conversations or rhinos fiercely guarding their young—is a daily reminder of just how beautifully the wild takes care of itself.
“Nature knows how to look after itself. Our role is simply to observe, to learn, and to help others appreciate that balance,” said Didi.
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