From First Discoveries to the Best of the Best

As it happened, in late June, five talented finalists selected from across South Africa descended upon Klaserie Drift Amani for that very event. Accompanied by a panel of esteemed industry judges and invited guests, our newest lodge quickly buzzed with excitement as everyone arrived. Strangers became acquainted, old friends reunited, and the competition began with a short game drive followed by a special sundowner in the bush. Gathered beneath the fading light with delicious snacks and drinks in hand, guests were already exchanging stories of the incredible wildlife they had seen so far.

Over the days that followed, each contestant was put through their paces in a series of guiding-related challenges – from tracking and shooting, to bird identification, hosting, and the all-important guided game drives and walks. Despite a sprinkle of rain, the Klaserie certainly didn't disappoint. Mating lions, huge herds of elephants, and even one incredible sighting involving a leopard with a kill, a pack of excited wild dogs, and a clan of marauding hyena! It felt as though the Greater Kruger itself had decided to put on a show in celebration.

Back at the lodge, the experience continued. Inspiring fireside stories, invigorating team-building games, and plenty of much-needed time to recharge by the pool as elephants casually drifted past. For six memorable days, we were delighted to join the SGOTY family in celebrating those whose life's work mirrors our own: sharing this breathtaking wilderness with the world.

Yet while Safari Guide of the Year celebrates the very best in the profession, it also serves as a reminder that every guide's journey has to begin somewhere. For many young South Africans, even experiencing a safari for the first time remains out of reach. For that reason, we chose a particularly meaningful way to honour Youth Day this year by sponsoring 16 excited Scouts from Seeds of Light on their very first safari.

Accompanied by their Scout leaders, the group spent three nights at Koru Camp – a nonprofit, educational safari camp established to create access to nature for local communities. Each day, they delighted in wild game drives, hands-on activities, and moments of discovery designed to build confidence, deepen knowledge, and inspire a lasting appreciation for the bush. As a final treat, Guides James and Khutso arrived to share their own guiding journeys and gift each Scout a special "ranger kit" filled with goodies. The huge smiles and animated stories showed just how much this trip meant to each participant – something we couldn’t achieve without the support and generosity of our guests.

Although these two events appeared very different, they were connected by the same purpose: inspiring a passion for the wild. Today's curious young explorer could become tomorrow's exceptional guide, conservationist, or environmental leader. At Klaserie Drift, we believe every experience in the bush has the power to change the way we see the natural world – and we're proud to play a small part in nurturing a deeper connection with Africa's wilderness. Overall, this month has been both a privilege and a powerful reminder that conservation is about more than protecting wildlife. It is about inspiring people to care for it too.