At Morukuru Family Madikwe, our safaris are journeys of discovery, connection, and storytelling. Our field guides are at the heart of every experience – these amazing individuals live and breathe the African bush, and their purpose in life is to share it with you. Allow us to introduce you to some of the guides who make every moment at Morukuru Family Madikwe magical.

Dean Pieters

Following in his father’s footsteps, who was also a guide, Dean’s adoration for the bush began at an early age. “I spent many hours in the bush growing up, either on horseback trails or joining my father on game drives,” he recalls. But his moment of no return came during a school holiday when he fearlessly approached two large rhinos at the airstrip near their home at just 13 years old. “I was in a lot of trouble for that, but it was this experience that cemented my passion. It was such a thrill – I just had to have more!” Dean joined Morukuru Family Madikwe three years ago. His guiding approach focuses on using all the senses to connect deeply with the wild: “Touch everything, smell everything, and listen to what mother nature has to say.” He believes this leads to a lifelong bond between guests and the wild. Always fascinated by birds, Dean shares an incredible fact about one of Madikwe’s regular species: the African Hoopoe. “Their chicks can produce a foul-smelling fluid to deter predators entering their nest – an extraordinary defence!”

“Madikwe has a special way of drawing you in – it’s a harsh environment filled with wonder and behaviours you’ll only see here. What makes this place truly amazing is the way it tells its own stories, untold to humans… and it’s our job as guides to read, understand, and share them.”

Andre Jansen

With 12 years of guiding experience, Andre joined Morukuru Family in April 2023, bringing a wealth of bush knowledge and an unshakeable love for animals, big and small. His adoration for the natural world began on childhood holidays to the Kruger National Park, where close encounters with Africa’s wildlife sparked a lifelong fascination. But it was a serendipitous encounter with a yellow-billed duck that truly ignited his curiosity. This moment led him down a path of birdwatching that eventually expanded to an understanding of the intricate interplay between species. When it comes to animal behaviour, Andre leads with patience and respect. His guiding philosophy is simple but profound: “We must respect their rite of passage. Never rush.” His top tip for safari-goers? “Don’t bring a softshell jacket – I 100% guarantee it’ll be ripped by a buffalo thorn tree!” Offering guests a nugget of cultural knowledge, Andre explains the origin of ‘Morukuru,’ which is the name for the Tamboti tree in Setswana. The Tamboti tree’s fruit often jumps around on the ground, earning it its nickname, the ‘Jumping Bean Tree’. The jumping is actually caused by the larvae of a small grey moth from the Pyralidae family.

“The true magic of Madikwe is the smell of mud, the dust on your face, and the sound of thunder mingling with the rumbling of elephants.”

Jacques Grobler

Jacques’ guiding journey also began in the Kruger National Park, where his uncle served as a park warden. But it was a profound moment during his field guide studies that solidified his career path. Sitting by the Selati River, he watched the newly flowing water after a rainstorm. “That moment,” Jacques recalls, “made me realise the incredible power and beauty of nature.” At Madikwe Game Reserve, Jacques’ guiding philosophy revolves around slowing down and appreciating the detailed stories the land has to offer – he loves sharing the ancient history of Madikwe with guests. “This land has seen volcanoes shape its original bones, oceans flood its plains, and human activities change its face,” he explains, revealing that Madikwe’s geological diversity paved the way for the incredibly diverse plant and animal life we see today. His pro tip for guests? Spend time processing what you see and “try to look beyond what’s in front of you.”

“Madikwe is more than lions. It’s a reserve of diversity – from the smaller plants to massive herds – it’s all connected.”

These passionate guides ensure your Morukuru Family Madikwe experience is a journey filled with learning, connection, and moments you’ll cherish forever. From their deep understanding of Madikwe’s intricate ecosystems to the touching personal stories they share, they’re the true keepers of the bush. Stay tuned for part 2 to meet even more of Morukuru Family Madikwe’s guides!