For many guides, winter is one of the most rewarding times to be in the bush. At Chacma Bush Camp, guide Ruan Spies spends his days sharing the wilderness with guests, tracking wildlife, and uncovering the stories that unfold across the reserve. We sat down with Ruan to find out why winter holds a special place in his heart and why it might just be the best-kept secret of safari travel.
A Different Side of the Bush
According to Ruan, winter transforms the landscape in ways that many first-time safari-goers don’t expect.
“Winter is such a rewarding time for safari as the bush thins out and the trees lose their leaves, so one can see further into the bush to look for animals,” he explains.
As vegetation becomes less dense, wildlife is often easier to spot. The cooler temperatures also mean animals remain active for longer periods throughout the day, creating more opportunities for memorable sightings.
“The days are cooler, which means animals can stay active for longer, just increasing your chances for great sightings.”
For guests, this often translates into longer wildlife encounters and a greater variety of species seen during a game drive.
Wildlife on the Move
One of the most noticeable changes Ruan observes during winter is the increased activity among both predators and herbivores.
“The wildlife behaviour that stands out most during winter for me is just how active the animals are,” he says.
With temperatures remaining comfortable throughout much of the day, herbivores can spend more time feeding and less time seeking water or shade. Predators also take advantage of the cooler conditions.
“Predators like your sleepy lions tend to move around a bit more instead of just sleeping the whole day.”
For guides and guests alike, these active behaviours often result in dynamic sightings that showcase the natural rhythms of the African bush.
A Morning with Rhinos
When asked about his favourite winter safari memory, Ruan recalls a remarkable walking safari experience that highlights one of the season’s unique advantages.
As the bush becomes more open in winter, guides can often explore game paths on foot with greater visibility.
“On one of our last trails, we found a group of four sleeping rhinos having a lazy morning on one of these game paths,” he remembers.
The encounter was unforgettable.
“We could get to six metres from them without them waking up or knowing we were there.”
Moments like these remind guests just how connected they can become to nature when exploring the wilderness on foot, guided by experienced professionals who understand animal behaviour and the surrounding environment.
Keeping Guests Comfortable
While winter mornings and evenings can be chilly, safari lodges are well prepared to ensure guests remain comfortable throughout their stay.
At Chacma, thoughtful touches help guests embrace the season rather than avoid it.
“We try to provide guests with blankets for game drives and hot water bottles specifically for morning drives,” says Ruan.
The winter experience extends beyond the safari vehicle and into the dining experience as well.
“The lodge itself has a change of menu in winter where guests get to experience warmer and more comforting traditional meals of South Africa.”
From cosy fireside moments to hearty cuisine, winter safari combines adventure with comfort in a uniquely memorable way.
Sunsets, Stars, and Winter Skies
While wildlife is often the main attraction, winter’s clear skies create some of the most beautiful natural spectacles of the year.
“Winter sunsets and stargazing are more pure in my opinion,” says Ruan.
With fewer clouds and minimal atmospheric interference, visibility is often exceptional.
“There are no real clouds that can block your view. You see the sunset or the stars more clearly in these months.”
As day fades into night, guests are treated to vibrant sunsets followed by dazzling star-filled skies that stretch across the African wilderness.
Why Every Traveller Should Experience a Winter Safari
For Ruan, winter offers a completely different perspective on the bush, one that surprises many visitors.
“I would suggest guests experience safari in winter at least once, as it changes the bush completely from the summer months and essentially becomes a whole different destination.”
The combination of cooler temperatures, enhanced wildlife viewing, clear skies, and comfortable safari conditions creates an experience unlike any other season.
“Sightings are usually a bit better or longer, the days are not as hot, and there is no rain to hinder activities.”
Whether you’re a first-time safari traveller or a seasoned wildlife enthusiast, winter offers a chance to see the African bush in a new light. Through the eyes of guides like Ruan Spies, it becomes clear that winter isn’t simply another safari season; it’s one of the most rewarding times to experience the wilderness.
At Chacma, every crisp morning drive, glowing sunset, and unforgettable wildlife encounter tells a story. Winter simply makes those stories even easier to find.
