One of the highlights of any safari is taking a game drive with an experienced field guide, who not only points out animals, but also gives you interesting facts about the fauna and flora of the area.

This is just one of the exceptional experiences you’ll get to enjoy at Waterside Lodge, under the auspices of experienced field guide Enock Themba.

Enock Themba was born and raised in the Mpumalanga bushveld. He grew up in a local village near Hazyview, just a few kilometres from the vast Kruger National Park and its surrounding private game reserves.

With 11 brothers and 1 sister his childhood was filled with youthful adventures, but it was only much later that he discovered his true passion for the bush.

Starting Out

At the age of 24, Enock started his career as a game guide at Ulu-Lapa Game Lodge and soon realised that this was where his true passion lay. He moved on to the Lion Sands, gathering experience and qualifications along the way, he eventually made his way to Waterside Lodge in 2016.

Here, he and his tracker Freddy Sibuyi, are a formidable team with an overwhelming passion for the bush, wildlife and showing guests the true meaning of hospitality.

The Reviews Say it All

Here’s what some of our guests have to say about this dynamic duo:

“Our field guide Enock and tracker Freddy were awesome – their knowledge was enviable, and they knew how to put us at ease.” Nilam3 (TripAdvisor)

“The safari drives were incredible! Seeing the field guide and tracker (Enock and Freddy) work together was fascinating.” – Hike98 (TripAdvisor)

On the home front, Enock is married to Bongi, who is a member of Waterside’s housekeeping team. They have 4 children and their son, Doctor, is currently employed as a tracker at Sabi Sabi. He’s got his eyes firmly set on following his father’s example by becoming a qualified field guide.

Adventures in the Bush

Despite his many years in the field, Enock never grows tired of his daily bush adventurers and has no intention of retiring any time soon. Of his many memories, there is one that stands out in particular.

One day he and his guests were discussing how rare it was to witness a leopard kill, only to be rewarded with the sight of a leopard taking down an impala around the next corner.

With 25 years of exciting experiences under his belt, Enock has a wealth of knowledge and folklore to share with guests, which he does with great abandon and enthusiasm.

Get your share of exceptional hospitality and unforgettable experiences when you check in at Waterside Lodge – get in touch today to book your safari at Thornybush!