Your ranger and tracker are huddled together in whispered conversation. It's dawn, and a telltale footprint on the moist road's surface has sparked their hushed exchange. In the early morning light, they work together to steer the game drive vehicle off-road, as is allowed for Big Five, cheetah and wild dog sightings.

Through subtle nods and gestures, your tracker guides your ranger to manoeuvre the vehicle with precision, leaving minimal impact on the environment. Remarkably, this partnership leads to the discovery of a cheetah, gracefully perched atop a termite mound, surveying the landscape.
Interpreting the natural world is an age-old skill, now a vital tool in conservation.

Our rangers and trackers bridge the gap between the hidden wonders of nature and the curious adventurers. They demonstrate their mastery by following the faintest clues into unchartered territories, where the reward is a once-in-a-lifetime sighting.

True Companions

Our safari teams, consisting of a ranger and tracker per safari vehicle, are more than mere bush experts; they are passionate nature enthusiasts. They are intimately connected to nature, and their expertise is your compass in the wild, making them invaluable companions throughout your stay.

Our Shangaan trackers are an integral part of the Sabi Sabi safari experience and are intimately familiar with the nuances of the bush. They are adept at reading and interpreting subtle signs and able to predict where an animal is by thinking many steps ahead and then working backwards, narrowing down its possible location. 

The angle of tracks (called ‘spoor’), placement of droppings, position of misplaced stones, bruised vegetation, trampled grass, alarm calls and even specks of blood create a timeline in the mind of a highly experienced tracker.

Beyond Animal Sightings

 Equipped with a wealth of knowledge and years of experience, our rangers are living encyclopaedias of the African bush. Their ability to identify birds by their calls, track elusive game, and provide an array of information about all the living creatures on our reserve is remarkable. 

But their expertise is not limited to the Big Five only. They provide a glimpse into a broader perspective, ensuring you grasp the intricacies of the ecosystem, from the flora and insects to fauna, weaving together the interconnectedness of nature.

A Lasting Bond and a Personal Connection

Together, our rangers and trackers form formidable teams, their deep respect for nature allowing them to get up close to wild animals. Their relationship is one of trust and respect – not only for the vast array of fauna and flora, but with each other. 

This is more than a friendship – it is a bond and camaraderie, honed over many game drives, where they each bring out the best in the other. Sabi Sabi holds a well-deserved reputation for hosting some of the finest rangers and trackers in South Africa, and while a rigorous recruitment process and in-house training sets them apart, it’ s their ability to connect with guests that truly distinguishes them.

Your final game drive is usually bittersweet. It's hard to believe that what started as just your ranger and tracker, now feel like lifelong friends. Their love for nature is infectious, their insights enlightening, and their presence enriching.

In their company, you'll discover the beauty and wisdom of the natural world, forging a connection that lingers long after you leave.