SALM TEAM 
Every sunrise at Bothongo Rhino and Lion Nature Reserve brings a new adventure, a new discovery, and a renewed appreciation for South Africa’s wild beauty. For field guide Didi Mahlo, life at the reserve is more than a job, it’s a calling that blends education, conservation, and the thrill of connecting people to nature.
“Being a field guide is not just about showing guests animals,” says Didi. “It’s about helping them feel the connection between themselves and the natural world. When someone leaves the reserve with a new sense of respect and wonder for nature, that’s when I know I’ve done my job.”
Nestled just outside Johannesburg, Bothongo Rhino and Lion Nature Reserve offers visitors a “nearer-far-away” experience – the essence of the bush without the long journey. Home to an array of wildlife, including lions, rhino, vultures, wild dogs, cheetah, buffalo and more, the reserve provides an accessible, family-friendly escape into nature where education and adventure meet.
For Didi, a typical day begins long before guests arrive. Vehicles are checked, routes are planned, and the first rays of sun illuminate the grasslands. Every detail matters, from vehicle safety to guest comfort, ensuring that each game drive is both enjoyable and informative.
“There’s no such thing as an ordinary day out here,” Didi shares. “One drive you might be surrounded by grazing impalas, the next you could spot a lion resting under an acacia tree. Every sighting, every sound, every moment is unique.”
Field guides at Bothongo play an integral role beyond leading tours. They act as the eyes and ears of the reserve, observing animal behaviour, noting environmental changes, and assisting in conservation efforts. From identifying unusual patterns to helping with veld work, guides are on the frontline of preserving the delicate balance that sustains the ecosystem.
“Part of our responsibility is to educate guests, especially children, about respecting nature,” Didi adds. “When people understand how interconnected everything is, they’re more likely to protect it.”
Safety remains a top priority for field guides at the reserve. Before each drive, guests are briefed on best practices to ensure a respectful and secure wildlife experience. Field guides maintain vehicles, carry first aid kits, and keep a safe distance from animals, allowing for unforgettable, yet responsible, encounters.
What makes the role truly rewarding, Didi says, is the opportunity to share South Africa’s story with the world. “I love seeing international guests experience our country through fresh eyes. Their wonder reminds me of how special this place really is. We live in one of the most beautiful and diverse environments on Earth. It’s an honour to share that every day.”
At the heart of it all is a deep respect for nature. For Didi, watching wildlife in its natural habitat, from elephants communicating silently to rhinos protecting their young, is a daily reminder of how effortlessly the wild maintains its own rhythm. “Nature knows how to look after itself,” Didi reflects. “Our role is simply to observe, to learn, and to help others appreciate that balance.”
Bothongo Rhino and Lion Nature Reserve continues to be one of Gauteng’s leading wildlife destinations, offering guests the chance to reconnect with nature just a short drive from the city. With passionate guides like Didi leading the way, each visit promises not just an adventure, but an experience that stays with you long after you’ve left.
For more information, visit https://www.rhinolion.co.za/ or the Bothongo Rhino & Lion Nature Reserve’s Facebook or Instagram pages.
