December 2025

Summer is here!

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Summer is here!

It's that time of the year where we have received a substantial amount of rain, and the terrain is transforming dramatically from its brown/yellow hues back to the green and colourful wonderland that we are seeing out on game drives at the moment. It is truly one of the most beautiful times of the year.
Wildflowers are blooming which usually starts in December with our first good rains and transforms the bush into the incredibly vibrant landscape that we are lucky enough to enjoy in summer. There are several different species of wildflowers which bloom in different areas across the reserve, and it is a joy to point these beauties out to our guests as we trundle along on game drive.
One of the most striking flowers, and one of my personal favourites, is the lion’s eye (Tricliceras laceratum), a vibrant orange flower that usually appears directly after rain and stands out amongst the greenery which makes it an easy one for us to spot while out on safari.
It’s not always just about the beauty of the flower but what that flower may attract. The hibiscus family which has over 50 different species would be a great one to mention too, specifically the wild hibiscus (Hibiscus engleri) with its large yellow petals that draw in a number of different butterfly and bird species.
Over 4 500 plant species thrive in the Lowveld, with a many of them occurring right here on Singita.
This time of year, would also have to be a favourite for many avid photographers because of the lush green landscape and all of the photographic opportunities that we do not get in winter, such as all the insects, flowers and migratory birds that have returned after spending winter in different areas.
It’s a time of year that I would definitely recommend for a safari!
By Andrew Taylor
Field Guide