The bush is a vast and intricate tapestry, rich with diverse perspectives and stories waiting to be discovered. While some see it as a haven of untamed beauty or a sanctuary for wildlife, there’s a deeper, more profound way to experience this natural wonder—through the ancient art of tracking. Tracking isn’t just about following spoor; it’s about reading subtle signs left by animals, predicting their movements, and connecting deeply with the rhythm of the wild.

The tracking team, joined by the head trainer of the Tracker Academy, Innocent Ngwenya and his new recruits.

The incredible talent of Londolozi’s trackers never fails to amaze me. Their understanding of the bush transcends identifying tracks and signs—it’s an innate connection to the world around them. Geshom Mathebula, the tracker I’m privileged to work with daily, exemplifies this connection. Gesh doesn’t just see the bush; he feels it. Every step he takes and every gesture he shares tells a story, blending the technical skill of tracking with an almost spiritual wisdom.

Geshom “Gesh” Mathebula in action; doing what he loves.

Spending up to eight hours a day together over a six-week work cycle, Gesh has become more than a colleague; he’s a brother. His patience, observation, and respect for nature have shaped my own journey in the bush. Beyond my personal growth, it’s a joy to witness how he shares his knowledge with guests. Gesh has a rare ability to ignite curiosity and wonder in everyone he meets, leaving them with a newfound appreciation for the intricate world around us.

After spending up to eight hours a day together throughout a full six-week cycle, Gesh is my partner who I can safely say has become my brother.

Recently, after a “tracking mission” with guests over morning coffee at a waterhole, I reflected on the lessons tracking offers—not just in the bush but for life. Tracking teaches principles that resonate far beyond the wilderness. Together, Gesh and I often discuss these lessons, unpacking their meaning to share them with our guests.

Gesh and our guests looked around a waterhole and identified some of the animals that would have come down for a drink of water.

But what exactly are those principles?

Gesh making use of the Tracker Manual as a reference for the tracks being identified around the waterhole.

The Principles of Tracking

The Patience of a Tracker

Tracking requires patience. Animals move at their own pace, driven by instinct and the rhythms of the wild. To follow them, a tracker must slow down, wait, and observe. In today’s fast-paced world, patience is a rare but invaluable virtue. It allows us to approach challenges thoughtfully, finding lasting solutions rather than quick fixes. Just as a tracker waits for the perfect moment to move, we too can learn to pause, reflect, and act with wisdom.

Our guest, Alan, explores tracks around the waterhole under Gesh’s guidance.

A skilled tracker notices what others overlook—the bend of a blade of grass, a faint trail of mud, or the subtlest imprint in the soil. This heightened awareness teaches us to see the details in our own lives. By becoming more observant, we can improve relationships, enhance our work, and find joy in small moments. It’s a call to mindfulness, encouraging us to live fully in the present.

A teacher at heart. Gehsom mid explanation of Buffalo tracks around the water’s edge.

The Importance of Adaptability

Nature is unpredictable. Weather changes, animals alter their paths, and the bush shifts constantly. Trackers must adapt, reading the signs and adjusting their course. This adaptability is a critical life skill. Challenges in life often require us to pivot and embrace new paths.

As Gesh always says, “When you feel stuck or lost, go back to the last track, take a moment, and try again.”

Learning from Every Step

For Gesh, tracking is a continuous learning process. Every step, every mistake, reveals new insights. This mindset of lifelong learning is invaluable. By approaching life with curiosity and openness, we can turn every experience into an opportunity for growth. Embracing this philosophy of lifelong learning keeps us engaged, motivated, and open to new possibilities.

A day of discovery around the waterhole: special moments shared with special people.

Tracking is not just a solitary pursuit. Traditionally, it has been a skill passed down through generations, with experienced trackers sharing their knowledge with novices. Furthermore, it has now become far more accessible through the likes of the Tracker Academy which offers the opportunity to really pursue the ancient art of tracking. This sense of community and mentorship is something that we can bring into our own lives. By sharing our experiences and knowledge, we contribute to the growth and development of others. This mindset fosters a sense of connection and builds stronger, more supportive communities.

Gesh and guests dive into the intricacies of the subtle signs animals leave behind.

The ancient art of tracking offers more than a way to follow animals; it provides a framework for thoughtful living. By embodying these philosophies, we can navigate life’s paths with wisdom and grace. Sharing the art of tracking strengthens the bond between Gesh and me while deepening our connection with our guests. It’s deeply rewarding to watch others realize they are part of something so much bigger—a vast, interconnected web of life.

So, as we walk through life, may we do so with the awareness of a tracker, always attuned to the signs around us and the lessons they offer.