Wilderness Mombo newsletter – April 2025

With the rising waters, birdlife has exploded – wattled cranes, herons, and kingfishers are everywhere. The saying goes, “A bird in the hand is worth two in the bush”, and we’re happy to see them flourish in their natural habitat.  

The Delta waters have also brought the semi-aquatic red lechwe, and many elephants, closer to our usually more typically dry land-experiences area. Early risers can even hear the grunts of hippos nearby!  

A friendly reminder: More water means more mosquitoes and bugs – please always use insect repellent, and cover up in the evenings.  

The construction of Mombo’s new wellness centre is taking shape beautifully. Slated to open in early June, we can’t wait for guests to indulge in its relaxing offerings. 

Pssst… we’re especially excited about drinking smoothies in the new lounge!

Phefo, granddaughter of the legendary Legadima, has given birth to two adorable cubs. These first few weeks are a fraught time for the mother, who has to keep her tiny, vulnerable offspring safe from the countless threats in this wild area – but it is an exciting milestone for Mombo, and we’ve captured some precious moments of her nurturing them.  

Swipe through the heartwarming pictures.

Our revamped high tea and breakfast set-ups are the talk of the camp. With even more delectable treats, and an enhanced, elegant presentation, guests are raving about the offering.  

Feast your eyes.

A few of our team members – some for the very first time – recently enjoyed a 5-minute scenic helicopter flight over Chief’s Island, where Mombo is situated. The aerial view of animals crossing the floodplains was breathtaking, and now we can enthusiastically, and with authority, recommend this experience to guests. 

Wilderness Mombo’s accomplished sommelier Alfred’s wine tastings are a consistent guest favourite. His expertise and passion, particularly for food and wine pairings, create unforgettable experiences – just ask these smiling guests! 

The Sadie Palladius 2020 is a masterclass in expressing South Africa’s Swartland wine-growing region’s diverse soils and old vines. The complexity and balance of this 8-varietal blend of white grapes delivers layered aromas and flavours – stone fruit, citrus, herbs, and saline minerality – in heavenly harmony. Eben Sadie’s legendary reputation as a hands-off, thoughtful viticulturist and winemaker sings of sustainability, authenticity, and craftsmanship – perfectly aligning with our own ethos as a conservation tourism company. It’s a white wine that has evolved beautifully over time, showing increasing complexity and depth – all the more appealing when you appreciate wines that tell a story with age.

I opened the last bottle in our cellar recently, and it was close to life-changing.