As it turns out, the bush had even more in store.
In the sweep of the spotlight, a sudden flicker of movement. Eyes scanned the horizon—and then, a collective gasp. A leopard, sleek and silent, crept into the long grass. As we moved closer, two female kudu came into view, eyes reflecting back at us. The leopard was hunting!
Bongani, our guide, cut the engine and lowered the spotlight, ensuring we wouldn’t interfere with the delicate balance between predator and prey. We waited, breath held. Behind us, an elephant fed noisily on a bush, unaware of the silent standoff just ahead. As dawn crept in, the leopard held his position—but so did the kudu. Eventually, the rising sun tipped the odds in the prey’s favour. Alerted to the predator’s presence, the kudus sounded a sharp bark and darted into the bush.
“The leopard then turned around, stared right at us—two metres from the vehicle—as if saying ‘this is all your fault,’” laughed Eurydice, our Development Coordinator. “Then he crossed the road in front of us and walked off. It was a great lesson in how patience pays off in sightings!”
For the future guides of Ditoro Outreach, this was just one of many memorable moments during their stay. Founded in 2023 by Kutullo Shai, Ditoro was created to support local community members studying to become certified field guides.
“It is very challenging to self-study about nature and guiding when you’re based outside of the natural areas,” Kutullo shared. “So, for us to have that opportunity to visit the Greater Kruger was really amazing and helped a lot. The students all loved it. It is very motivating to see what they are learning about in real life—from the animals to even the roles of a guide such as checking your guests and vehicle. We would definitely want to be back for more.”
Over the next two days, the students explored key topics from their FGASA syllabus: animal diets, social structures, arthropod identification, camouflage techniques, and bird calls. They also practiced practical skills—like how to ethically use a spotlight and change a tyre in the bush.
Game drives delivered unforgettable sightings: a large bull elephant in musth, two curious hyenas, and even a lion and lioness at Dangeni Dam. “We stopped and watched as the hyenas kept looping in and out of the bush,” Eurydice recalled. “Two tawny eagles were perched on trees, also focused on something. Then we heard it—breaking bones. The lion was clearly munching on something. Probably what the hyenas were so agitated about!”
On their final evening, Ian, Head Guide and General Manager at Sashwa, joined the group for a talk on the night sky. Though clouds blocked the stars, he delivered a fascinating presentation on space. “Did you know Mercury is the perfect temperature to bake a cake?” he asked, to the group’s delight.
For us at Koru Camp, it was an honour to host Kutullo—who runs Ditoro in his spare time—and support the incredible journey of his students.
A final word from Kutullo:
“We shared an unforgettable experience with the dedicated Koru Camp team. For many of our newest members, it was their first time on a game drive—a moment that can change perspectives. My own first game drive at the age of 12 ignited my passion to become a guide. Today, I am honoured to be part of a journey that empowers our local communities in their pursuit of becoming field guides and ambassadors of our heritage. Remember, one small action can create a profound impact. Let us support one another and unite for a more inclusive future, where nature and communities coexist in peace and harmony.”
Photos kindly shared by Kutullo Shai from Ditoro Outreach
