According to the South African Department of Environmental Affairs, at least two rhinos were poached per day in the Kruger National Park last year. Motswari is a second-generation family-owned property located in the Timbavati and Umbabat Nature Reserve, which is open to the Kruger Park. A rhino poaching incident in the area inspired Motswari owners Fabrice and wife Marion Geiger-Orengo to establish Rhino Disharmony in 2014 to raise awareness of the animals’ plight through the international language of art in all its forms.
I visited the family-owned destination partly for the local launch of virtuoso pianist Tian Jiang’s CD, Motswari Fantasy Night Symphony, an occasion that saw Marion demonstrate her artistic talents while Tian played under the stars. Tian was their first Rhino Disharmony ambassador. The event took place on a perfectly windless evening made all the more special by the location – Geiger’s Camp, a four-bedroom ‘wing’ near the main lodge that was once the exclusive domain for family and friends.
It’s an environment that creeps into your heart – not just for the incredible bushveld experience but for the staff who make you feel right at home. What sets it apart from the rest? ‘There’s no secret,’ says Fabrice proudly. ‘It’s just love and passion for art and nature, and the staff, who we are proud to call our family. This is Geiger’s Camp.’
To get there, book a bush charter from Johannesburg with Federal Air.
For bookings, visit newmarkhotels.com and to support the rhino conservation movement, visit www.facebook.com/rhinodisharmony
