Another Elephant Encounter in Pilanesberg
PORTUGUESE TOURIST INJURED

Pilanesberg – On Saturday 14 September 2024, a male tourist from Portugal was seriously injured in an elephant attack at Pilanesberg Nature Reserve. The incident occurred around 13:00, near Mankwe Dam, in the heart of the reserve. According to eyewitnesses, two individuals were outside their vehicle during a self-guided game drive, seemingly unaware that they were in the midst of an elephant family herd.

An adult elephant, likely a female, issued a warning, which tragically led to the attack. The injured man was rushed to a local hospital for stabilisation before being transferred to a Pretoria hospital for further treatment. Reports from North West Parks and Tourism Board chief conservation officer, Pieter Nell, confirmed that the man underwent two surgeries and remains in recovery.

“The elephants remained calm after the attack, and there was no further aggression,” said Nell, adding that the park’s elephant herds are generally known for their calm behaviour around tourists. However, this incident follows a similarly tragic event in July 2024, when a Spanish tourist was fatally charged by elephants under similar circumstances.

These unfortunate encounters serve as a stark reminder that despite all warnings, some visitors underestimate the dangers of exiting their vehicles in close proximity to wild animals. “It’s vital for tourists to remember that these animals are unpredictable and can react violently if they feel threatened,” added Nell. Pilanesberg’s officials, rangers, and guides consistently educate visitors on the importance of staying in vehicles, keeping a safe distance from animals, and respecting their space.

The North West Parks and Tourism Board urges visitors to adhere to park regulations to ensure their safety and the well-being of the wildlife. Continuing to ignore these rules not only endangers lives but could also impact the placid nature of the park’s elephant population.