RAW WILD
 

Tshukudu Bush Lodge and Private Game Reserve 

(Nthombi, female Cheetah drinking at the water whole - Tshukudu Private Game Park by Raw Wild)

Raw Wild had a two night stay at Tshukudu Bush Lodge in September 2017. This was the perfect getaway from the hustle and bustle of Johannesburg City. Situated just outside Hoedspruit town, Tshukudu have their own private game reserve with a Lodge and two smaller bush camps. 

The bush camp is a small self-catering camp. The chalets have been designed so that when sitting on the patio enjoying nature you cannot see one another. The rooms are basic but comfortable with your own bathroom. For meal times you can choose to socialize with the other guests in the large boma, where a fire is prepared for you each evening. The coals are laid out for you to braai/ barbecue. Each guest group have their own fridge and cupboard in the large communal kitchen, all utensils and kitchenware are supplied. 

Included in the price are the unique morning walks and afternoon game drives. The knowledgeable Tshukudu guides share information and fables about the Forna and flora as well as small animals you see on the way. We were lucky enough to see a lot of big game on foot, including white rhino. The afternoon game drives are when you see a lot of game, the lion pride are collared so easily tracked. We were impressed by the respect that the guides have for the wild animals, once there are too many cars at a sighting, they discuss which vehicles will stay and some leave so that the animals are not disturbed. 

Nthombi, the female Cheetah that freely roams Tshukudu Bush Camp was hand reared after being rejected by her mother for being the runt. Tshukudu managed to hand rear her successfully back into the wild. Nthombi hunts for herself and has lived in Tshukudu game reserve her entire life. Due to being hand reared she is tame around humans. There is no reason for guests to be fearful although it is suggested not to run in the camp as she thinks this is a game and may run after you. Guests are allowed to take photo's with her, when she is in the mood of course. The staff at Tshukudu have successfully hand reared many different species from injury back into the wild, to name a few; caracal, serval and bush babies. Tshukudu Bush Camp was a memorable stay for us, a place we look forward to enjoying again. 

(Fruit Bat - taken in the Tshukudu bush Camp by Raw Wild)