On a recent visit to Pilanesberg National Park, my family and I had the opportunity to join She-fari Safari for an afternoon game drive. Led by Debbie Fendick, She-fari is an all-female safari company offering guided experiences across South Africa.
Debbie’s story is an inspiring one—once a successful investment banker, she left the corporate world over 13 years ago to pursue her passion in the African bush.
Today, she stands among a select few private guides with permission to operate in Pilanesberg using an open safari vehicle—a testament to her expertise and reputation.
From the moment we set off, Debbie’s love for the park was obvious. Her deep knowledge of Pilanesberg’s landscape and wildlife offered fascinating insights, even for seasoned safari-goers. Accompanying her was Tatum, She-fari’s skilled tracker. Together, their expertise was evident from the outset.
Not long into the drive, we received word of a small pride of lions resting in the distance. A great sighting, but with little activity and poor visibility, we opted to explore more of Pilanesberg’s diverse wildlife. Along the way, we encountered elephants, rhinos, giraffes, crocodiles, hippos, and vast herds of zebras and wildebeest.
As the sun dipped lower, Debbie suggested we return to the lions, predicting they’d become more active as dusk approached. She was right. When we arrived, we witnessed a lioness stealthily stalking a herd of zebras—an electrifying moment. While the hunt didn’t unfold, what happened next was one of the coolest encounters I’ve ever had on safari.
A second lioness suddenly emerged, engaging in an audacious game of cat and mouse with a massive white rhino. It was like watching a wildlife documentary unfold in real-time—an incredible display of raw nature, only cut short as nightfall settled over the park.
More than just a safari company, She-fari is a movement—a celebration of women in the wild, breaking barriers in the industry. With passion, expertise, and a trailblazing spirit, Debbie and Tatum are redefining what it means to experience the African bush.
For those looking to explore Pilanesberg, Kruger, or Sabi Sands alongside a highly experienced and knowledgeable team, She-fari Safari is an excellent choice!