Motswari at Fifty: A Family, A Wilderness, A Legacy.

A Golden Anniversary in the Timbavati

In 2026, Motswari Private Game Reserve celebrates fifty years of life in the African bush. To mark the milestone, a commemorative coffee table book — Fifty Years of Motswari — takes readers beyond the safari experience into the extraordinary people, wildlife, and events that have shaped one of Africa’s most enduring conservation stories.

More than a history of a lodge, the book is a celebration of the Timbavati and Umbabat wilderness, which has inspired generations of conservationists, guides, trackers, staff, and guests. Richly illustrated with historical accounts, spectacular wildlife photography, chef’s recipes, and personal stories spanning five decades, it traces Motswari’s journey from humble rondavels in 1976 to one of South Africa’s most respected family‑owned safari lodges.

Motswari’s story is inseparable from the evolution of wildlife tourism in the Greater Kruger. It mirrors the transformation of safari travel itself — from rustic beginnings to a celebrated wilderness destination. At its heart are generations of people: three generations of the Geiger family, multi‑generational staff, and families and friends who return year after year.

Readers will meet conservation pioneer Paul Geiger, whose leadership contributed to the removal of fences between Timbavati/Umbabat and Kruger National Park, restoring free movement to wildlife across a vast ecosystem. They will encounter the artistic vision of his daughter, Marion Geiger, who has guided Motswari since 1980. Her paintings, creative direction, and deep connection to the wilderness have shaped the lodge’s distinctive identity. The cover artwork for Fifty Years of Motswari is one of Marion’s paintings — a fitting introduction to a book inspired by the wildlife and landscape that have defined both her life and her art.

“Fifty years is a remarkable achievement in any industry,” says Neil Markovitz, CEO of Newmark Hotels & Reserves. “This book documents an important chapter in the history of Motswari and the Geiger family. It captures the dedication, resilience and passion that have guided the property over the years.”

Legends and Legacies: The book reveals the legend of the white lion, whose rare descendants still roam Motswari’s concession today. It uncovers the stories behind Java, Geiger’s Camp, Paul’s Hideaway, Giraffe’s Nest, and African Retreat & Walking Safaris — each a chapter in the lodge’s evolving identity.

It also tells the story of Rhino Disharmony, the conservation charity co‑founded by Marion Geiger and Fabrice Orengo de Lamazière, which harnesses art and creativity to inspire action for rhino conservation.

“Every place has a story, but few places have been shaped by the same family, staff and conservation values for half a century,” says Marion Geiger. “This book honours the people who came before us, the wildlife that continues to inspire us, and the responsibility we carry to protect this wilderness for future generations.”

“Survivorship is about restoring dignity and quality of life, not only treating the disease.” — Marion Geiger

The publication coincides with Motswari’s golden anniversary year and serves as both tribute and commitment. After fifty years, Motswari remains what it has always been: a place united by people, guided by conservation, and defined by lasting connections.

Fifty Years of Motswari will be available through Motswari Private Game Reserve and selected partners from July 2026.