Safari Bring & Braai night

Last night, 30 March 2013, in the spirit of Easter SafariBoma hosted a “Meet you Neighbor” Bring and Braai for all Safari guests. This was the first time this year that we have done a Bring & Braai and it proved to be a very interesting night.  After sending out flyers to all Safari rooms to inform them of the Braai we prepared for a great evening. 

We made two delicious salads for safari guests  to enjoy as part of their meal; one potato salad and one Greek salad.   The salad was enjoyed by all and some went back for seconds and even thirds!

 Three braai’s were set up with grills, ready for guests to use and a bonfire in the middle of the boma was lit up to create a campfire atmosphere.  Walking through the Boma it was a sight of parents chatting away and children gathering over a fire roasting their marshmallows. Wayne, our Lodge Manager, even had to help a few to master the art of roasting!

 The Braai was a success with memories of campfire stories and the smell of burning charcoal and wood still lingering in our thoughts.  The event fit in perfectly in the Bush and will definitively be a favourite for staff and guests this year.

 The Braai is a way for guests to mingle and get to know each other in a truly South African way.

 So if you are at Zululand Safari Lodge during one of these organized Braai’s be sure to head down to the Boma for an unforgettable evening!

From City Madness to Serene Nature

Yesterday we drove from Pietermaritzburg to Ubizane Wildlife Reserve for four hours which proved to be well worth it! At the gate I was greeted by a friendly guard who contacted the reception to let them know I have arrived.  Leaving the gate, entering the beautiful property the first sight I had the privilege to see was the long necked giraffes, eating a few leaves while staring curiously at the new visitor. 

Reception was just as beautiful and peaceful as the rest of the reserve with small water fountains to create an ambiance of serenity whilst the friendly receptionist, Bongani, welcomed me at the front desk.  I was offered a warm towel and a warm cup of hot chocolate for refreshment after the long drive.  It was clear that I was going to be spoiled well at Ubizane - a perfect place to rest the soul from the busy, stressful life in the city. 

After checking in, I was on route to Safari Lodge where I would be staying for the evening.  The hut-shaped chalets (“rondawels”) blend in perfectly with the Zululand area and the safari theme.  The area contains a swimming pool and a bar area.  There is also a restaurant and entertainment area which looks perfect for functions where you want a fun evening in a bush environment.  I can just imagine how this area lights up with laughter and the sound of splashing water during the summer times by the pool. 

Showing me the area was the hospitable general manager, Natascha Pienaar who explained about how the animals are very relaxed and peaceful.  I was also warned not to keep windows or doors open to defer monkeys from making their way into the room for their favourite treat; sugar packets stacked next to the kettle.  Inside, the room was transformed into a magical calm space with white and brown interior design.  Making it extra special to me was the leaves and Frangipani flowers scattered on the bed and in the bathroom, reminding me of nature’s presence in every corner of Ubizane.

After unpacking and settling in I sat on the porch watching Zebra and Nyala grazing in the area.  I decided to go closer and carefully walked over, expecting them to run away with every step I make.  To my surprise the Nyala were unaware of human presence as they stood only two metres away without running.  It is something you never think you would experience in your life! I never imagined I could be standing so close to a wild animal without it being scared.  The Zebra were not as trusting of me and I suspect it was because of the young one they had in the herd that they wanted to protect.  I still can’t believe they were so close to me. 

Dinner time came at 7pm and I was surprised at Tree Lodge restaurant by a five star buffet which was filled with foods for all tastes.  Again pleasant staff members filled the area with welcoming smiles to make me feel like I’m part of their family.  The food was delicious and the staff served it with a hospitality that is hard to find in the depressing city life.  Some staff members took a few moments to get acquainted with the guests and chatted like friends would.  It looks like the type of place you make friends that always stay close to your heart. After dinner I returned to my room with an amazing star filled sky, with the milky-way brighter than ever.  It was finally time for some rest and it was the best night’s rest I have had in a really long time.

The breakfast once again made me feel like I was eating for ten people.  A buffet with continental breakfast, yogurts, fruits, eggs, bacon, and many more started my day fresh and fully nourished.  You can’t help but get out of the right side of the bed if you know what is waiting for you here!  It’s not just the food putting a smile on your face but also the staff greeting you and asking about your nights rest.  It felt like I knew everyone personally and entered the day with excitement and in good spirit.  After my breakfast I went to take a better look at the Tree lodge.  These rooms are absolutely stunning and completely original.  With the feeling of staying in a tree house, I have to say it’s very interesting and magical.  I just cannot wait for my next visit to this wonderland and will hopefully have a longer stay.

If you want to get spoiled and meet wonderful people – and animals, this is the place to come to! When you leave Ubizane it is assured that you will feel sad to leave a family and a second home-away-from-home behind.  

Impala bucks staring curiously outside Safari Lodge at Ubizane Wildlife Reserve. ©Ettione Ferreira

Ubizane's New Food & Beverage Manager

Ubizane's Family is yet again extending, this time Martin joined the Ubizane team as our Food & Beverage Manager. We recently sat down with him and got to know him a bit better:  

Martin, tell us where are you originally from?  

I was raised in Richards Bay, for a long 26 years.  

What inspired you to join the Ubizane Family? 

I am very lucky to join the Ubizane Family and it's surroundings of animals, because i like the outdoors so much! 

What do you enjoy most about your job? 

I enjoy being in the kitchen a lot, so to be a Food & Beverage Manager for a job is A for Awesome!  

What do you enjoy most about your job? 

To make awesome food that the guests love and they come back for more. 

What is the biggest Rule in the Kitchen? 

Always cook with Passion! 

Do you enjoy living in the bush?

Yes I do.  I love the people I'm working with, we are  a great hard working team!  

What is your biggest Fear? 

I'm Claustrophobic and i don't like Watermelons! 

What animal would you be for a day and why? 

I would love to be a fish, because i love the beach so much! 

If you had a Whisk and a Muffin Tray, what would you use to fight off a crafty Monkey? 

That's not fair its got no sharp edges (Hahaha) I would probably do a Mavis Ninja move with the Muffin Tray and the Whisk! 

Tell us more about yourself? 

While i Lived in the Bay, i spent a lot of time at the beach, kayaking. Otherwise in Durban every weekend partying the nights away. In my spare time I love gardening and painting. I also have O.C.D (Hahaha) 

Shirra and Stephan tie the knot at Ubizane Wildlife Reserve

As many of our social media followers will know, we have seen our fair share of weddings here at Ubizane, that being said… having a wedding disguised as a Birthday celebration was admittingly a first for the entire Ubizane Wildlife Reserve Team.  

‘Birthday guests’ started arriving in drips and drabs throughout the course of the day on Friday. After which they relaxed around Tree Lodge Pool area quenching the summer heat away with ice cold refreshments. Suspensions did however run high when the guests were informed they were going on a Game Drive, which was pretty much compulsory.

Ubizane’s magical Bush Deck once again proved to be the venue of Choice for this romantic couple to start their happily ever after together. Secluded amongst Fever Trees, the supposed ‘birthday celebration’ was kept secretive enough. However as they turned the corner and drove up to the deck, which was elegantly decorated in white Chinese lanterns, white rose petals and custom made signs which represented their love, commitment and journey together as a couple;  was the only give-away that this was not just an ordinary birthday bash, but rather the start of a loving couple’s fairytale love story. 

 

The guests expressed their utter surprise and excitement as they all hastily climbed off the Land Rovers and headed up the stairs leading up to the deck. Making their way to their seats, the guests still in amazement of the couple’s ability to keep such a major event a secret. They were greeted by elegant cones which housed popcorn. Ubizane, being a Wildlife Reserve has the best interest of the environment and its wildlife in mind at all time, doesn't allow traditional confetti. Popcorn however provided a unique compromise and a tasty snack for the birds once the ceremony was over.  

 

Ubizane’s Boma was yet again transformed into something truly spectacular; a simple but elegant look was achieved with subtle hints of white. Scattered along the table, delicate crystal gems caught the soft evening light from the remarkable night sky which was deepened by the gentle crackling of the fire. A delicious array of home styled food created a relaxing atmosphere, as the guests sat back and enjoyed each other’s company while the sounds of the African bush provide subtle background music.  

A big Congratulation goes out to Shirra and Stephen De Klerk, the entire Ubizane Wildlife Reserve wishes you nothing but good fortune and we look forward to your return for your Wedding Anniversary. 

Final Farewell to Tiban…

For those of you, who have been following our Social Pages, you might have seen that our beloved rescued Warthog, Tiban was recently released into the great big world of Ubizane; where 1200 hectares of wide open space awaited him.

But, Tiban being his usual lovable attention seeking self had other plans...  

Tiaan dropping Tiban off in the Bush 

The Pienaar family had to face the inevitable heart breaking goodbye, as they bid their final good bye to Tiban, who had since day 1 become part of the Ubizane family. Tiaan then took Tiban up to one of the dams on the reserve, and dropped him off. Overjoyed by the over-sized puddle of water, Tiban was soon wallowing in the mud, and hardly noticed Tiaan driving off. 

  

Tiban enjoying the mud at the dam

But, yet again Tiban was one step ahead of everyone else and shortly after Tiaan’s return to the Lodge; Tiban came trotting down the parking area towards the Reception area. After his usual friendly but boisterous greeting to the staff, Tiban then bee lined for the General Managers office desk, where he lay down.  After much convincing and a lot of patience, Tiaan managed to coax Tiban out from the desk and away from the lodge.  

Tiban making his way to the lodge, after he was released

Tiban on a one way mission through the lodge

In his happy place, Tiban revisited one of his favorite places, under the GM's desk

 A week later a second attempt to set Tiban free, was more successful. Whether it is because he was dropped off on the far side of the reserve, or because this time he finally realized that there is a whole wide world waiting for him.

It has been over a week since we released Tiban, and even though we miss his cheerful face and bubbly personality, and the fact that our hearts stop for a little while when we see a warthog close to the lodge. We realize that he is where he belongs, and our ultimate goal of releasing an orphan warthog back into the bush has been achieved! 

A Magical African Wedding:

Ubizane was lucky enough to host yet another magical African wedding!

A big CONGRATULATION goes out to Agata and James, who tied the knot on Ubizane’s breathtaking bush deck.   

Admittedly, Mother Nature had everyone’s nerves on edge when the heavens decided to open up and provide Agata and James with an abundance of good luck.  Fortunately enough, the rain subsided and a romantic ceremony was enjoyed by all! 

Shortly after having photos taken out in the African bush, the happy couple returned to Tree Lodge where a delectable buffet dinner was served in the boma.  

After the celebrations the newlyweds retreated to their honeymoon suite, which the Ubizane staff had romantically decorated for them. Upon arrival the couple was greeted by an ‘old school’ “Just Married” sign with dangling tins which hung across the entrance of their staircase leading into their room. 

Natal Robin Chicks of Zululand Tree Lodge:

With summer well on its way, babies seem to be popping up everywhere. The newest arrivals to join the ever growing Ubizane family are a pair of Natal Robin chicks.

This is a striking bird, with its bright orange under part, slate-blue wings and delicate twig-like legs. The well manicured garden of Zululand Tree Lodge often provides tasty nibbles for this energetic bird, or in this case a secure nest to raise its chicks in. 

Natal Robin with some tasty treats for her hungry chicks 

By chance one morning the front office staff noticed a carefully constructed nest huddled in between an Aloe at the front of Reception. To their amazement when they ambled closer to get a better look, 2 rather fragile chicks raised their shaky heads and gaped for food. 

Tree Aloe where the nest was built 

The Natal Robin generally breeds from September right through to January, but breeding tends to peaks in November. After a joint effort of constructing a nest which consists of mainly twigs, dry grass and dead leaves; 2 eggs are laid and are incubated solely by the female for 14 -15 days. 

Hungry mouths being fed 

Tracking their progress daily the entire Ubizane Wildlife Reserve’s team was truly amazed at the rapid rate at which the chicks grew, and after around 11 to 12 days one of the chicks had already left the nest. A close eye was kept on the lone chick, as it plucks up enough courage to leave the comfort zone of the nest. A heartwarming moment was shared amongst all at Ubizane, as the last chick finally left the nest for good, and ventured out into the great big world. 

Eyes just starting to open 

Wing Feather beginning to sprout

The nest was too small for both of them at 1 stage!

Last of the 2 chicks getting ready to leave the nest

Impala Lambing Season Is Upon Us!