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World Wildlife Day was officially declared by the United Nations General Assembly on 20th December 2013, at the convention’s 68th gathering. It was decided that the commemorative day would fall on March 3rd every year – intended to raise awareness of the world’s wild animals and plants, which are facing…

In the final commemoration of our Big Five Tree species – which in fact has turned into a magnificent ten – we look at one of Africa’s most beautiful, iconic trees, the Marula tree. The timing of this celebration couldn’t be better, with our own marula trees in full fruit…

Global news publication, Financial Times, sets out to honour and promote sustainability and improved social impact through its annual Responsible Business Education Award. The award acknowledges researchers, academic institutions and alumni who are contributing to changing how the world does business. South African teaching case, “Abelana Game Reserve: Community Partnership…

It’s blistering hot out here in the height of summer. Whatever rains arrive are a welcome respite, but quickly followed by a humidity that can only be experienced firsthand to understand.  It’s a good thing that our reserve is decorated by some of nature’s toughest trees, bringing…

With the gorgeous Lowveld heat settled over the Abelana Game Reserve, the bushveld replenished and rejuvenated by recent rainfalls, our reserve trees are dressed in greenery and summer glory.  In this article, we pay homage to a tree that grows in prolific splendour at Abelana, the Mopane Tree – one…

No one could have foreseen that Abelana Game Reserve was set to open its gates just mere weeks before the COVID-19 pandemic took the world by storm. Touching base with Ian, we took time to reflect with him on the lodge’s journey…

As we head into the lush green of spring and summer, we continue to celebrate the sturdy, silent giants of the Abelana Game Reserve – our Big Five Trees (the Baobab, Knobthorn, Tambotie, Mopane and Marula), alongside five other favourites that we can’t resist mentioning… The Knobthorn Tree The knobthorn…

As a nation, and a continent, we most certainly consider ourselves spoiled to be home to the renowned Big Five, as well as an abundance of fascinating wild animals that roam our varying landscapes. What fewer people are aware of is that we also host five more towering giants, the…

It sometimes feels that we now live in an entirely new world, with fluctuating COVID-19 regulations dictating wedding size, venue choice and layout, with social distancing practices imposed on wedding guests. What’s emerged as a result of the pandemic is an exciting new outlook on weddings (and other events), as…

Even with many nations achieving herd immunity through vaccinations, the COVID-19 pandemic has changed the way people approach their travels. Intrepid travellers have adjusted their bucket lists to include destinations offering safety and assurance. We believe that, with our wide-open spaces and scrupulous tourism and hospitality COVID-19 protocols, South Africa…

According to studies conducted by Stanford University, a minimum of four consequences of prolonged video chats have been identified, a set of symptoms commonly known as ‘Zoom Fatigue’. As more and more business and student individuals are thrust into the world of online meetings, classes and conferences, this new…

“There is no power for change greater than a community discovering what it cares about”~ Margaret J. Wheatley, Author From the moment we founded Abelana Game Reserve in 2019, we’ve aimed to partner with the growing community of Mashishimale, our vibrant neighbouring town. It’s always been our intention to build…

Photo credit: Bill Drew @billdrewmpisi When it comes to African predators, they don’t come more beautiful and mysterious than the leopard. This solitary hunter is the strongest of Africa’s big cats and can carry up to three times its own body weight, stashing…