At Morukuru Family Madikwe, our field guides are storytellers, wildlife experts, conservationists, and – above all – passionate custodians of the African bush. As the heartbeat of every guest experience, they interpret the natural world and ensure each safari is as magical and personal as possible. Join us as we introduce you to a few more of our amazing guides who are behind the Morukuru magic.

Emile Nieman

“The bush cannot be forced – just slow down and go with its flow. We need to match its pace and not ours.”

Born and raised in Johannesburg, Emile spent his childhood alongside his brothers and cousins exploring a small nature reserve and camping during family holidays. Despite growing up in the city, the bush was always in his heart, urged on by his late grandfather, whose love for adventure and nature sparked Emile’s curiosity. “He wasn’t a naturalist,” Emile explains, “but he had the most incredible adoration for nature and travel – that’s what inspired me.” In his year and a half with Morukuru Family Madikwe, Emile has embraced each day as an opportunity to learn and grow. “We never know what we’re going to encounter day after day, and that’s the magic of the bush,” he says. One moment that stands out to him was his first rhino notching operation. “Seeing just how much effort goes into protecting rhinos was emotional. The dedication from the team gave me hope for the future of these beautiful animals.” Emile’s wisdom for guests? “Nature has so much more to offer than the iconic ‘Big Five.’ Yes, seeing a leopard is unforgettable, but it’s the bush state of mind that leaves a true mark on you. Being present, inhaling the moment, and appreciating the pulse of life around you.” One of Emile’s favourite animals in Madikwe Game Reserve is the Greater Honeyguide. Known for its unique relationship with humans, this bird leads people to beehives in exchange for a share of the larvae. But Emile warns, “Legend has it that if you don’t leave a treat for the Honeyguide, next time it’ll lead you straight into the jaws of a hungry leopard!”

Shane Kloeck

“Never take the common or small things for granted. It’s often when you look at these that extraordinary things happen.”

Shane’s love affair with wildlife started during his childhood, when his family would regularly go on getaways to the bush. Those holidays sowed the seeds of a journey that ultimately led him to Morukuru in 2014, where he began his guiding career with his Experiential Training as part of his Degree in Nature Conservation. Now, with over a decade of experience, Shane is an expert on Madikwe Game Reserve, and also serves as our dedicated Conservation and Sustainability Manager. Shane’s core belief when guiding is to show his guests the bigger picture. “Everything, from the tiniest insect to the largest elephant, has its place and purpose in the ecosystem,” he says. One of the most fascinating details Shane shares with his guests is that Madikwe Game Reserve is home to three different hyena species – a testament to the reserve’s diversity. “We have the spotted hyena, the rare brown hyena, and the elusive aardwolf,” he explains. “Few places provide the chance to see all three species in their natural habitat.” Despite the challenges of balancing guest expectations with the unpredictability of wildlife, Shane finds his greatest reward in the surprise and joy his guests experience every day. “The bush is full of surprises, and being immersed in it daily is its own reward.”

Armand Steyn

“We work on nature’s time, not our own. Sometimes, the best thing you can do is slow down and let the bush reveal its secrets.”

With 17 years of guiding experience, field guide and General Manager, Armand brings a deep understanding of the African bush to every guest interaction. He has been a part of Morukuru Family for six of those years and says, “After I graduated school, I wasn’t sure what industry to pursue. I decided to attend the Limpopo Field Guiding Academy where everything just clicked – this was the career for me." A vivid memory that captures the essence of the ‘magic of Madikwe’ happened for Armand during a dam-side lion sighting. “We were watching the lions when a kudu suddenly sprinted past our vehicle with a pack of wild dogs in pursuit. It raced straight into the water, followed by chaos as the lions sprang to their feet, and another kudu ran into the scene. Just as the dust settled and we thought it was over, the hyenas arrived to steal the kill. It was total multi-species mayhem – an unforgettable moment showing off Madikwe Game Reserve’s layered ecosystem.” Armand’s advice for enjoying a safari? “Quality over quantity. In the bush, we don’t rush. It’s not about seeing as much as possible. It’s important to connect with nature, understand the animals, and admire them.” Armand enjoys sharing lesser-known facts with his guests, like the quirky behaviour of the springhare, known as the ‘African Kangaroo.’ “Standing on its hind legs, it uses its tail for balance and hops quickly in erratic leaps. Truly a mesmerizing little creature when you get to watch its movements up close.” These guides are the lifeblood of your experience at Morukuru Family Madikwe, combining humour, wisdom, and expertise to create a gem of a journey into the heart of Africa. Their shared love for nature connects them, and through their stories, insights, and personal touch, they empower you to connect with the bush.